Issue 8 2024
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
Matthew 5:16
From the Principal
The College is still aglow from the resounding success of our production of Mary Poppins the Musical. More than 2,500 people attended over the eight performances and the feedback from our community has been overwhelmingly positive as demonstrated by the following email I received last week;
"Just wanted to reach out and congratulate you and the other directors/producers of the Mary Poppins Musical. I took two of my sons long to see the Musical on Friday night and was absolutely blown away by how good the performance was! I couldn’t believe that we were watching a school musical. The production, choreography, set design and most importantly the performances of all the kids was amazing. All of the countless hours of hard work put in by everyone involved in the Musical truly paid off. Congratulations again. Can’t wait for the next one!"
Poppins simply would not have been possible without the extraordinary efforts of all the parents, carers, staff and students who dedicated countless hours to ensuring the production's success. Your unwavering support, whether it was through helping with set design, costumes, makeup or providing backstage assistance, was instrumental in making this production a triumph. Your commitment to our students and our EAC arts program is deeply appreciated. Thank you in particular to parent volunteers Leonie Tart, Courtney Brice and Michelle Cross as well as our Directors Anouska Gammon and Lulu Miskin and staff members Mr Wayne Cross, Mrs Mechelle Anderson, Mr Tod Falvey, Mrs Chloe Burke and Mrs Nicole Wagland.
We are also immensely grateful to our generous sponsors, whose contributions made it possible for us to deliver a production of such high quality. Your support not only helped cover the costs of sets, props, and technical equipment but also allowed us to offer a truly magical experience for our audiences. Thank you to the L & R Uechtriz Foundation, McGrath Estate Agents, Morgans Financial, Northern Rivers Seafood, Raunik Design Group, the Hawkins family and Beacon Veterinary.
Of course, the stars of the show, both on stage and behind the scenes, were our students. The dedication and professionalism they each demonstrated from auditions to rehearsals and then the show season, were exemplary. Our College values of Courage, Compassion, Creativity and Citizenship were inherent in each and every performance and I am both proud and impressed.
We look forward to many more successful productions in the future and to the continued growth of our cultural program here at EAC.
Mr Robert Tobias
Principal
What's On
CALENDAR
For your personalised Calendar of Events, simply log in to Parent Lounge HERE.
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FLEXISCHOOLS APP
Canteen orders, absentee notices, important notifications and more can all be found on EAC's app, FlexiSchools which you can find out more about HERE.
WEBSITE
The EAC website is a treasure trove of valuable information including forms, publications and in depth information, all of which are available HERE
WHAT WEEK IS IT?
To help clarify our College Weeks, we've created a printable quick reference guide available HERE.
Reminder: Public Holiday on Monday 10 June 2024
This is a reminder that EAC will be closed on Monday 10 June 2024 for the King's Birthday Public Holiday.
College will resume as normal from Tuesday 11 June 2024.
Enjoy a safe long weekend.
Off The Deputy's Desk
At EAC, our ethos revolves around guiding principles: Courage, Compassion, Citizenship, and Creativity. These tenants were on show last Friday as our 2025 Year 7 cohort embarked on their first foray into Secondary school life.
Courage
The transition from Primary to Secondary is a significant milestone. Whether they were existing EAC students or newcomers, each participant displayed remarkable courage in embracing new concepts, forging new connections and navigating unfamiliar surroundings.
Compassion
To ensure a smooth transition, every new student was paired with a buddy for the day. These supportive companions provided a welcoming presence, offering guidance and empathy to their peers. Lasting friendships were formed and the invaluable skill of empathy was nurtured.
Citizenship
The pride of our established EAC students was palpable as they warmly welcomed their peers into the EAC community, reinforcing our collective commitment to excellence in education and fostering a sense of belonging among all.
Creativity
The day was a canvas for creativity, offering challenges that demanded innovative thinking and opportunities for self-expression. Hands-on activities engaged students in Japanese, Mathematics, Visual Art, HSIE, and PDHPE, igniting their passion for learning and sparking excitement for the journey ahead.
In reflection, the day was a great success with students embracing the diverse range of experiences offered. As they eagerly anticipate their next Experience Day in Term 3, we extend our thanks to our Secondary staff for their dedication in crafting engaging lessons and to our Primary staff for their terrific preparation of our Year 6 students for the transition to Secondary school.
Together, we celebrate the courage, compassion, citizenship and creativity that define the EAC experience and look forward to continued growth and success in the years to come.
Mrs Julie Fryer
Deputy Principal
Sports Report
Save the Dates: EAC Athletics Carnivals 2024
Mark your calendars! The much anticipated EAC Athletics Carnivals are just around the corner. The Primary carnival will be held on Thursday 20 June, while Secondary students will take to the field on Friday 21 June.
These events are always filled with great displays of sportsmanship and camaraderie as students compete in various track and field events. From sprints to relays, high jumps to shot puts, our athletes will demonstrate their skills and determination.
Parent and carer spectators are invited to join us in cheering on our students to achieve their personal best.
Stay tuned for further details and event schedules which will be communicated next week.
Mr Mike Ryan
Leader of Sport and Coaching
Primary Sport Star Award: Jiyaan Thacker
Jiyaan in Year 2 has such a pleasant nature, constantly smiling, offering to help, and has fun playing all sports, particularly cricket and t-ball where he has a fantastic swing. He is one of those students who could have been awarded The Star at any assembly because his attitude and behaviour is so consistent. Jiyaan always stands out as one of the most polite and kind students at EAC and what a great example he is for the younger year groups. Well done!
Mr Tony Lancashire
Primary Sport Leader and College Gym Program Manager
Primary Teams Show Skill and Determination at AFL Competition
On Friday 31 May, EAC took two Primary teams to Cavanbah, Byron Bay to compete in the Northern Rivers Region for the AFL Queensland Schools Cup. We faced Holy Family, St Carthage's, St Ambrose's, St Anthony's and Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School.
Our team was comprised of Year 4s and Year 5s, who were playing mostly against Year 6 students from other schools. This was some of our students' first time playing AFL with only four training sessions taking place leading into the competition.
I am incredibly proud of all the teams, particularly the girls who, after their first game, started to gain an understanding, were taking control of games and building their confidence moment by moment. Standout performers were Pia Darnell, Year 4 and Leilani Colreavy, Maddison Keane and Zarah Ryan, all from Year 5.
Thank you to Mr Paul Pryor and Miss Taylah Ledingham for their support at the competition and training.
Mr Tony Lancashire
Primary Sport Leader
Top of the Arts
Last week we wrapped up a near sell out season of EAC’s Mary Poppins the Musical. It was a brilliant run of 8 shows that left audiences in awe of what the students at EAC are capable of. It couldn’t have happened without a group of dedicated volunteers that I was able to thank at the final matinee.
Please see an excerpt from my speech below.
Mary by Numbers
185 hours of rehearsals (outside of learning scripts/solo singing work/flying practice and building sets)
2,354 audience members
1,350 individual pieces of costumes
A huge thank you to Leonie Tart who headed up the costume department. Leonie was assisted by Courtey Brice and a team of volunteers to ensure the costumes were spit spot. Without Leonie’s drive and dedication we really wouldn’t have had a show.
To the fly team of Daniela and Gav Payne, Marion Tait and Andrew Peart, the ninja’s Frankie and Sylvie, and our experts Max, Sam and Gee lead by the magician himself Mr Alex Frith who took the production to new heights (literally!)
The magic sets that were the work of Mechelle Anderson with our maintenance Brad, Mark, Wayne, Jamie, Trent and Paul.
Benita Mooney for being our Soundtrack assistant and DJ prior to each show and during intermission.
I want to thank our sponsors Northern Rivers Seafood, Raunik Design Group, McGrath Real Estate, Beacon Veterinary and the Hawkins Family. A special thank you Lorenna and Richard from L&R Uechtritz Foundation who generously donated to the show.
I want to thank all of the volunteers who are too numerous to mention all by name, but have been the nicest bunch of parents to work with. They are such wonderful role models in the lives of our students.
To my colleagues in the Primary Tod, Nicole, Chloe, Roxanne and our librarian Amy who have been here for every show pulling sets, doing hair and makeup I value your time, efforts and passion you put in for the greater good of our college. And to all staff who have worked Front of House, dressed as Chimney Sweeps to set the scene from the minute the audience arrive, I thank you.
Huge thanks to Ben McRae for the Poppins Parlour and for feeding the cast and crew and to our Communications Officer Viv Palmer, her husband Matt and their kids who just made anything happen.
To my wife Michelle Cross for the programs, advertising and support at every hurdle - I applaud you.
I want to highlight our student backstage crew who never get the audience applause but we just wouldn’t have a show without them: Archie, Milla, Ava, Pascale, Ted, Byron, Harrison, Lillian, Sasha and Aurelian; we are forever in your debt.
Finally to Lulu Miskin our vocal director and to Anouska Gammon our director. To work alongside such professionals who have so much to offer has been a highlight of my career. The fact that our students were able to work with you and bring your vision to life is something that they will treasure for the rest of their lives.
Thank you to the audiences who came to see the show and we hope you enjoyed the experience.
Mr Wayne Cross
Poppins Producer and Director of the Primary School
Poppins Production Photos
Relive the magic of Mary Poppins The Musical. CLICK HERE to access a selection of photographs captured by photographer Dallas Nock over several shows.
Enjoy!
Introducing Thomas Cox: Our New Music Tutor
We are excited to welcome Thomas Cox as our new private music tutor specialising in drums, guitar, bass guitar, production, and composition.
Born and raised in the United Kingdom, Tom developed a passion for music early on, teaching himself to play the guitar at age seven. Influenced by 70s, 80s, and 90s alternative, indie, punk, and progressive music, Tom's unique playing style is both versatile and distinctive. With over 20 years of experience composing, performing, and touring in bands across the Britain and Australia, Tom has been teaching music since 2017. His organic approach nurtures both passion and disciplined practice. Welcome, Tom!
CLICK HERE to find our more about EAC Private Music Tutoring program.
COUNSELLOR CORNER
The Importance of Friendships for Children and Teenagers
Friendships are essential for the healthy development of children and teenagers. They provide a sense of belonging and are crucial for social and emotional growth. Friendships can significantly boost confidence, helping young individuals feel understood and valued. They also teach vital life skills, such as managing emotions, understanding others' feelings, negotiating, cooperating, and solving problems. Additionally, having friends can reduce feelings of loneliness and stress.
Autism and Friendships
For autistic children and teenagers, friendships can be a bit more complex. While some may thrive with just one friend or a small group, others might enjoy being part of larger social circles. Autistic individuals often need additional support to develop and maintain friendships. This support can include:
- Starting and maintaining conversations
- Understanding others' thoughts and feelings
- Participating in group activities
- Reading facial expressions and body language
- Adjusting to new social situations
- Resolving social conflicts
- Finding and connecting with peers with similar interests
It's important to note that autistic children and teenagers may find social interactions tiring, even when they enjoy them. This could be due to masking, or trying to fit in with neurotypical peers, which can be exhausting. After socialising, they might need quiet time, alone time, or time with supportive family and friends where they can be themselves.
Helping Autistic Children and Teenagers Make Friends
Parents and educators can play a pivotal role in facilitating friendships for autistic children and teenagers. Here are some strategies:
- Identify Interests and Strengths: Understanding what your child enjoys and excels at can help you find groups or activities where they can meet like-minded peers. This might be through school clubs, after-school classes, or community activities related to their interests.
- Community Resources: Enrolling your child in structured group activities like chess clubs, Lego clubs, or computer coding classes can foster friendships. Groups like Girl Guides, Scouts, or martial arts classes also provide structured social environments where autistic children might thrive.
- Plan Playdates and Outings: Encourage friendships by inviting potential friends over or organising outings. For younger children, consider activities like playground trips, while for teenagers, outings to museums or aquariums can be appealing. Ensure the environment is comfortable for your child, possibly by putting away items they don't like to share or choosing neutral locations.
- Organise Activities: Planning activities that your child enjoys can help facilitate social interactions. Cooperative play or side-by-side activities like Lego building, painting, or video games can be great options depending on your child's comfort level.
- Social Media: For teenagers, online interactions can be a less stressful way to connect with peers. Online communities for autistic and neurodivergent teenagers can provide a structured and supportive environment for socialising.
- Educate Peers: Helping other children understand autism and neurodiversity can foster more supportive friendships. Teachers and parents can educate peers about the unique ways autistic children think and communicate, promoting a more inclusive and understanding environment.
By using these strategies, we can support autistic children and teenagers in building meaningful and supportive friendships, enhancing their overall well-being and happiness.
Several evidence-based programs can help autistic children and teenagers develop friendship abilities. These programs equip individuals with the skills to understand others and navigate the social world successfully and also teach the important skill of being their own best friend.
The PEERS program developed by Elizabeth Laugeson for autistic adolescents and young adults focuses on developing and maintaining friendships, conversation skills, electronic communication, appropriate use of humour, and dating etiquette. A recent study found that PEERS had moderate to large effects on social knowledge and functioning, with the largest impact on social knowledge.
Additionally, Lego-based therapy developed by Daniel Le Goff and Minecraft-based social skills as described by Dundon and Scott, leverage popular interests among autistic adolescents to teach social and friendship skills. Jennifer Cook’s books and the Social Thinkingprograms developed by Michelle Garcia Winner and Pamela Crooke also offer valuable insights and strategies for enhancing social abilities.
Recommended further reading and resources:
- https://attwoodandgarnettevents.com/category/attwood-and-garnett-blog/
- https://raisingchildren.net.au/autism/communicating-relationships/connecting/friends-peers-asd
Ms Sandra Evans
Counsellor
CHAPLAIN CHAT
Where are we to store our most precious things? Some where so they are safe, but also available? Story. We put our most precious things in story.
When I grow up I want to be a really good story teller. It is a privilege to be chaplain and among this community with the task of telling stories. My main challenge is telling the right story at the right time.
Every Thursday this year I have been in circle with Mrs Roxanne Kent doing Godly Play. It is a ritualised form of story telling that can’t begin unless the Kindy students are ready, ready to be still, ready to listen, wonder and then play. One of the stories is about the journey from slavery, through the desert, between the waters into freedom. You tap out in the sand little wooden blocks roughly cut in humanoid shapes.
This story starts with:
“This is the desert bag, and this is the desert. The desert is a dangerous dangerous place, you would only go there if you …”
Before I could go further, a young student to my right said with an unquiet voice, “No it’s not. It’s not the desert. It’s just sand.” Before I could gather myself she continued with perfect comedic timing “he probably got it from the sand pit”.
Of course you can get defensive and talk about the signifier and signified or conventions in societies around meaning and communication of experiences. But there is no need. Over time I have come to learn to trust, trust the child to be a child, the story to do its work and wondering to do its thing. And sure enough, four minutes later one of those wooden blocks fell over in the sand. She and others giggled “tee hee, face plant,” said one. Which is to say, she and they are lost in the story.
But she is right. It is just a story. But story is all we have. Story is all anyone has.
There are four stories at the heart of EAC that help communicate what we mean when we say compassion, creativity, courage, citizenship are core of our identity. I look forward to sharing those stories with you over the coming weeks, for the moment though, this we know, every person is precious and a bearer of the image of God (compassion), we are all addressed by something bigger than ourselves and are asked to respond in a way that brings life and light (creativity); in the face of ordeal and testing, we can speak with authenticity about who we are (courage); that there is a lore we live into and it is a manner that serves a good that is bigger than ourselves (citizenship).
In this task, Emmanuel, God with us, is our model. In this journey may this we know, God knows us, walks with us, loves and sustains us.
Peace to you and those you love.
Rev Richard Browning
Chaplain
SUSTAINABILITY CENTRAL
SAGE Bake Sale Fuels EAC’s World Environment Day Celebrations
On Wednesday our Sustainability Action Group @EAC (SAGE) and Senior leaders held a bake sale in conjunction with World Environment Day. The event featured an array of delicious homemade treats, with all proceeds directed towards funding Waste Warrior Vests for our intrepid Primary SRC to wear as they direct usage of the bins in Primary. The goal of this is to reduce contamination of bins and engage students in citizenship.
Over the past three years, EAC has reduced litter on the oval, planted over 200 native plants and installed solar power that now covers 50% of our energy needs. Our commitment to waste reduction is evident with the installation of a three-bin system and composting throughout the College as well as the removal of most single use plastics from the canteen.
Despite these achievements, our work is far from complete. Contamination of playground bins and high energy usage remain. We need the continued support and active participation of every student to make these changes truly impactful.
We encourage students to reflect on their daily habits and consider what more they can do to contribute to a sustainable future. Simple actions, such as properly sorting waste and being mindful of energy consumption, can make a significant difference.
For further inspiration, watch THIS VIDEO.
Ms Kate Ashdown
Leader of Curriculum (Technological and Applied Studies / Vocational Education and Training)
Library Lowdown
Book Fair Success: Celebrating Our Mary Poppins Contest Winners
We are pleased to announce the winners of our Mary Poppins Colouring Competition and Bookmark Design Contest. Congratulations to Imogen Toy and Evie Fletcher, who were our talented colouring competition winners, and to Violet Campbell-Frick, who created the winning bookmark design. Each of these creative students received a voucher to spend at our recent Book Fair.
The Book Fair was a great success, with enthusiastic participation from students, parents, and teachers. Thank you to our EAC families and staff for their support of the event. A special thank you goes out to our fabulous Library Monitors, whose dedication and hard work were instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation of the fair.
Ms Amy Quitoriano
Library Resource Centre Manager
EAC ESSENTIALS
LEAVING EARLY?
Students leaving the College campus during the school day for appointments and other commitments must have a written note, signed by a parent or carer, explaining the absence and when the student is required to report to Reception to sign out. This applies to Primary and Secondary students alike.
Students use these notes when asking to be excused from class and when questioned for walking the campus out of class time. These notes are also used by our Reception staff to ensure students are ready for collection at the correct time.
Thank you for your support in this process.
Early Learning Centre Corner
Reconciliation Week in the ELC: Embracing Bundjalung Culture
During Reconciliation Week, the Early Learning Centre (ELC) delved deeper into the rich culture of our local Bundjalung community through stories, art, and music. Our focus is on integrating Aboriginal perspectives into our daily activities, which is evident in projects such as the Dolphin Room’s camping exploration and the Whales Room’s gardening initiatives.
Every day, the children sing a special song as part of our Acknowledgement of Country:
Jingi Walla, Jingi Walla
It means welcome, it means welcome,
Bundjalung Nation, Bundjalung Nation,
Is where we are, Is where we are,
We're under Bundjalung sky, we're under Bundjalung sky,
We're on Bundjalung land, we're on Bundjalung land,
We swim in Bundjalung water, we swim in Bundjalung water,
Minbalup – happy place
We asked the children why we sing this song each day, and here are some of their responses:
Paige: “To say thank you for the Bundjalung land."
Vera: “To say thank you to the Aboriginal people for the land."
Arthur: “We show respect because they were here first.”
Scarlett: “The people walk together.”
Through these daily practices, we are fostering an environment of respect and appreciation for the Bundjalung culture, helping our children understand and value the significance of our shared history.
Ms Nicole Wilson
Director of the Early Learning Centre
Primary Pulse
Exciting Visits and Lessons in Community Resilience
To compliment their classroom learning around community resilience and emergency preparedness, Year 5 recently visited the City of Lismore to explore and engage.
Students learned how local businesses are retrofitting their buildings to withstand future flooding events and discovered various materials and innovative ideas that businesses are using to bounce back from potential natural disasters. This exploration provided valuable insights into the practical steps being taken to protect our community.
Additionally, students enjoyed a great visit to the local fire station where they learned all about the vital work done by the Rural Fire Service (RFS). The visit started with an informative session on the RFS's responsibilities and the regions which are under the command centre's care. Students learned about the different warning levels and the recommended building materials for fire-resistant homes and businesses. They were also introduced to the latest innovations that the RFS is implementing to enhance firefighting efficiency and safety.
The highlight of the trip was undoubtedly the hands-on experience with the fire trucks. Students were thrilled to see the various pieces of equipment used in real-life fire emergencies. They even got the chance to sit inside the truck and sound the horn, bringing wide smiles and excitement.
This excursion not only provided a deeper understanding of fire safety and flood resilience but also inspired some of our students to consider future careers in these fields. A big thank you to the RFS and to Steve Krieg, Mayor of Lismore, for hosting us and giving our students such memorable and educational experiences.
Mr Paul Christensen
Teacher of Year 5
3B Explores Global Celebrations with Food and Fun!
On Monday, the students of 3B engaged in an exciting research project on Celebrations from around the world. Working in groups, they created informative posters and presented their findings to the class through speeches. To enhance their presentations, students brought in traditional foods from various countries, with delights such as mochi and dumplings being popular choices. Additionally, the students devised creative games to keep their classmates entertained. For example, Archie and Anton led a fun 'trick or treat' game that was a big hit. The day was a great blend of learning, culture, and enjoyment for everyone involved.
Miss Jemma Eather
Teacher of 3B
Join the Tournament of Minds!
Attention Year 5 and Year 6 students! Are you ready to showcase your creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving skills? The Tournament of Minds (TOM) is an exciting competition that challenges students to solve complex problems across various disciplines, including STEM, Language Literature, Social Sciences, and The Arts.
The team of seven students must also participate in an unseen Spontaneous Challenge® on Tournament Day (7 or 8 September, Tweed Heads). This is your chance to work collaboratively, think critically, and demonstrate your innovative ideas.
We are holding auditions for the TOM team on Tuesday 11 June through Thursday 13 June during First Break in the Discovery Centre. If you are enthusiastic, love challenges, and enjoy working as part of a team, we encourage you to attend the auditions.
To register your interest, please email Mrs Nicole Wagland and Ms Eliza Armstrong as soon as possible.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to be part of something extraordinary!
We look forward to seeing you there and can't wait to discover the incredible talents of our Year 5 and 6 students!
Mrs Roxanne Kent
Leader of Foundational Learning (Kindergarten to Year 4)
Farewell Miss Bella, Welcome Miss Simmion!
We sadly farewell Miss Bella Wagland as she takes on a new and exciting employment opportunity. We have loved having Bella working with the children in After College Hours Care (ACHC) and Vacation Care.
We are excited to announce and welcome back Ms Simmion Kelly as she will be taking on the ACHC Coordinator role. Simmion starts on Tuesday 11 June.
If you would like to make a booking for ACHC or Vacation Care for the Winter School Holidays, please email enrolments@eac.nsw.edu.au.
Ms Nicole Wagland
Teacher of 2B
Secondary Scoop
EAC Parents Participate in SafeTalk Workshop
On Saturday 1 June, EAC parents participated in the LivingWorks SafeTalk workshop, gaining valuable insights into identifying warning signs and initiating discussions about suicide. The session covered myths and misconceptions, equipping parents and two school students with the confidence to navigate these critical conversations in the future.
For those who missed this training, the LivingWorks START online course is available for free until the end of June. This 90-minute course is open to individuals aged 15+ and those 13+ with parental permission. It teaches skills to identify people with suicidal thoughts, how to ask about their thoughts, and refer them to a caregiver for safety planning. More details can be found on the LivingWorks website.
Ms Amanda Middleton
Director of the Secondary School
EAC Reflects on National Reconciliation Week Theme: "Now More Than Ever"
Last week, Secondary embraced the 2024 National Reconciliation Week theme, Now More Than Ever. Students listened to Blackfella/Whitefella by Warumpi Band, gaining a deeper understanding of its powerful message.
During Pastoral Care classes, students reflected on the theme and brainstormed ways to foster unity within society, writing their thoughts on paper hands. These hands were then proudly displayed on the Reconciliation Tree in The Lindsay Walker Centre foyer, symbolising our commitment to reconciliation and unity.
Ms Amanda Middleton
Director of the Secondary School
Reminder: Adherence to Uniform Expectations During Cooler Mornings
As the mornings grow cooler, it is important to remember the College’s uniform expectations. Students should wear only school issued jumpers, and senior jerseys are permitted only on Fridays. If a student is unable to wear the correct uniform, please provide a note explaining the reason. Detailed information about the uniform policy is available HERE on the College website.
College Pride as Year 12 Legal Team Triumphs in Challenging SCU Mock Trial
On Thursday 23 May, our Year 12 Legal Studies students participated in a regional Interschool Mock Trial offered by Southern Cross University (SCU) for the first time this year. They were given a very complex and realistic legal brief as the prosecution representing two police officers who had performed an illegal search. They successfully integrated real cases and legislation to form very persuasive legal arguments and were incredibly nervous performing in front of an ex Magistrate in a Mock Court room at SCU.
All students worked incredibly hard and made the College very proud. In the Judge's feedback to EAC, students were told they had performed better than some of the barristers that had been before the Magistrate! They were also told some of their legal arguments were superior in sophistication and logic to some of the SCU law students' arguments who were given the same brief.
I felt incredibly proud of the students and, most importantly, they had a lot of fun. Having pushed themselves out of their comfort zone, Marlie, Charlotte, Mia, Elise and Anya felt a well deserved sense of accomplishment and I wish them a hearty congratulations.
Ms Melissa Tonnet
Teacher of Commerce, Human Science and Its Environment, and Legal Studies
Behind the Scenes: Year 9 Excursion to Gold Coast Suns Facility
Our Year 9 Human Movement and Sport Science classes recently embarked on an exciting excursion to the Gold Coast, where they participated in the Gold Coast Suns' immersive program, ‘Day in the Life.’ This unique experience provides students with a fascinating glimpse into the daily routines of elite athletes. They had the opportunity to explore behind the scenes at the Gold Coast Suns' facilities, where they were introduced to state-of-the-art equipment and cutting-edge training techniques. The students gained invaluable insights into the rigorous demands and dedication required to excel in professional sports, making this an unforgettable and educational day.
Mr Chris Lake
Leader of Walker House
Year 9 Marine Science and Year 11 Photography Excursion: A Cross-Cohort Success
Students from Year 9 Marine Science and Year 11 Photography this week embarked on a combined excursion along the scenic coastal pathway between Skennars Head and Lennox Head. These cross cohort collaborations at provide EAC students with fresh perspectives which enrich their educational experience.
Marine Science students had the opportunity to observe and study the diverse marine life along the coast. They collected data on various species and their habitats, gaining field work experience to complement their classroom learning. Simultaneously, Photography students were tasked with capturing the natural beauty of the coastline, applying their technical skills and artistic vision to document the excursion.
A highlight of the trip was when Isaac Helps, Year 9, captured THIS stunning video of a humpback whale breaching.
Overall, the excursion was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary approaches in education and the unique opportunities they provide for student growth and engagement.
Dr Justine Jacob, Teacher of Marine Studies and Science
Ms Penelope Golletly-Sainsbury, Teacher of Digital Art, English and Photography
SHAKESPEARE CARNIVAL 2024
'Things won are done; joy's soul lies in the doing' - the Bard.
Congratulations to our Year 11 Drama class who represented EAC at the Shakespeare Carnival State Finals in Sydney recently. Competing in the Physical Theatre category, EAC were up against the best from around the state. Their performance based on the madness of King Lear was noted by industry judges as being a very impressive and sophisticated piece. Excellent synchronisation with complex images and moments of contrast that highlighted both well. The trophy crown will now be on display at our school for the next 12 months and the offer of a masterclass with Sport for Jove's acclaimed artistic team and internationally renowned sponsor NIDA. Overall, it was a wonderful experience for the students and the teachers, Mr Mitchell Raguse and I.
Winners of the Physical Theatre category at the State Carnival are as follows:
- Finn Allen
- Millaa Anderson
- Emmie Asbey-Palmer
- Maya Bright
- Elly Collins
- Sascha Connolly
- Amber Ivers
- Valentina Mulé
- Ava Walheim
- Lillian Whitby
So, what's Next?
Are you interested in participating in SHAKE FEST held in Brisbane later this year? SHAKE FEST is organised by the well known theatre company Shake & Stir connecting students, schools, and industry through Shakespeare. Categories include:
- Monologue
- Duologues
- Scenes
- Dance
- Music
- Design
- Photography
- Film
Students, if you and your friends are interested in representing EAC, please email or see Mrs Mechelle Anderson or Mr Mitchell Raguse at the staffroom during recess or lunch.
Mrs Mechelle Anderson
Teacher of Creative Arts (Primary) and Drama and Visual Arts (Secondary)
Year 7 Art Students Sculpt Endangered Species with Terracotta Clay
Year 7 Visual Art students have been exploring art making using terracotta air drying clay to make pinch pots and animal sculptures. Students were tasked with choosing an animal that was either extinct, exploited or endangered, research that animal, including its habitat and then draw sketches as the groundwork for creating their sculptures. Well done Year 7 students for achieving such wonderful, expressive and skillful artworks.
Mrs Mechelle Anderson
Teacher of Creative Arts (Primary) and Drama and Visual Arts (Secondary)
Year 10 Sports Science Excursion to CrossFit Centaur
Year 10 Sports Science students recently enjoyed an engaging excursion to CrossFit Centaur. This visit provided a hands-on learning experience, allowing students to interact with various fitness equipment and deepen their understanding of both the equipment and the human body. The students participated in dynamic workouts, learning about biomechanics, muscle function, and exercise physiology. This practical approach enhanced their theoretical knowledge, making the concepts of sports science more tangible and relevant. The excursion was a great success, inspiring students to explore the field further and apply their new insights to their studies and personal fitness routines.
Ms Kellie Guest, Leader of House Brockington
Ms Ellese Morrissey, Duke of Edinburgh LEader
Northern Rivers News
Lismore Youth Forum
Date: June 19, 2024
Time: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Location: Gordon Pavilion, 144 Magellan Street, Lismore
Hosted by: Lismore Youth Network, Office for Regional Youth, and Lismore City Council
Dinner Provided
On the back end of the successful ABC Lismore Youth Takeover, it’s important we keep youth in the limelight and keep the conversation going!
Join us at the Lismore Youth Forum, a dynamic gathering designed to empower local youth to step into leadership roles and actively contribute to their community. All young people aged 12-25 years are welcome to attend. This event offers a platform for young people to be heard by government and community leaders and to explore new opportunities created by and for local young people.
Highlights:
- Advocacy: Connect with government representatives and local organisations who are part of the Lismore Youth Network. We are here to listen to your aspirations, ideas and challenges.
- Development: Gain valuable skills in advocacy, community organising, and leadership through sessions.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with other young people and community stakeholders, fostering new collaborations.
- Explore new Initiatives: Discover successful community projects led by local youth and see the impact of their contributions.
Be part of a movement that values the voice and vision of Lismore youth. This is your chance to make a difference in your community!
RSVP
To secure your place and enjoy a complimentary dinner, please RSVP by signing up here https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0844ABAA22A2FCC34-49812433-lismore or texting/calling Giane on 0484 141 526.
Let's shape the future together—see you there!
