blue mountains grammar school weekly vol 21 … · scott peck’s opening line in his famous 1988...

Blue Mountains Grammar School Newsletter Vol 21, 10th August, 2018

FROM THE HEADMASTER

The Most Important Assets

Year 12 commenced their Trial HSC Exams this week – and we wish them well as they draw upon the

knowledge and skills gained over the duration of many hours of dedicated work. However, I always

feel this time signals the nearing of the end of a student’s formal secondary education. Over the

years, as these exams get underway and decisions have to shortly be made with UAC, I often reflect

about what is important in education, as the focus at this stage is on results that can be measured.

There is an adage which says “we value what we measure and measure what we value”. However,

not all that is worthwhile can be measured. All of us would agree that love is the most important

thing, but you cannot measure how much love a person has for another.

It is sad that for some education today is limited to a number. Talk about “evidence-based” practices

abounds, as if an education worth having is solely about academic performance.

Let me make it clear that academic performance is very important. I believe this strongly and

academic results are a key focus of our School’s culture.

However, academic results are not the sole aspect of a great and valued education. One of the best

indicators of a person’s success in life is their ability to bounce back from adversity, failure, or

disappointment – that is, resilience. The development of resilience is at least as important as

academic results. And, given the challenges facing our students due to digital disruption and

changing careers in the years ahead, perhaps resilience is in fact even more important.

Scott Peck’s opening line in his famous 1988 work, The Road Less Travelled, says, “Life is difficult”.

He states this as a matter of fact, not as a pessimist. He goes on to say that we only grow mentally

and spiritually, and experience what it means to be fully human, if we have the courage and

resilience to work through adversity. He is quite harsh on those who shy away from the tough times,

seeking ways to avoid them instead.

I hear it said quite often from colleagues within BMGS and other schools that we are seeing a

decline in resilience in the general population. Perhaps the rise in anxiety and mental illness that we

are also seeing is not a co-incidence?

An education worth having is one that focuses not just on a child’s academic performance, but on

the development of their character traits that will help them live a life of flourishing. Our camping

programs, many aspects of our curriculum, in particular our Cultures of Thinking approach, as well as

our structured wellbeing initiatives, all have a focus on developing resilience in students.

The greatest educational outcomes are achieved when the School and family are working in harmony

with each other. As parents, you can support the development of resilience. It is okay to say “no” to a

child; they value boundaries and structure. It is okay for a child to experience disappointment. It is

okay to experience failure. If your child does fail, don’t let them give up, or do the work for them,

encourage them to try again, not unlike you did when they were learning to walk and fell over many,

many times.

The reality is that resilience, like love, cannot be measured. However, this does not mean it is any

less important than academic performance. Perhaps the things we cannot measure are actually the

most important in life!

Bungawarra Working Bee – The Community Comes Together!

It was great to hear that 20 students, staff and parents participated in the Working Bee at the

School’s Outdoor Education Centre last Saturday. Although it was hard work, a lot was achieved:

Removal of the old kitchen and installation of framework for the new kitchen, including

commencing to reline the walls.

Repainting the main floor, repainting the decking and applying the first coat of paint to the

railing.

Painting the shower floor and cubicles to improve cleanliness.

Repairing a cracked water pipe in the wall behind the shower.

Replacing all the loose roofing nails on the roof.

Cutting back the blackberry bushes around the shed and commencing on a large blackberry

mass in the gully.

Removal of the dead tree near the entrance gates and splitting the wood.

This all took place in amongst pleasant conversations, a lot of laughs and a most delightful morning

tea and lunch provided by Mr Greg Broome from the School Canteen.

Staging such a day is dependent on the goodwill of members of the BMGS community. Without your

willingness to give freely of your time and expertise, it would not have been possible. Thank you to all

involved, especially our organisers of the day, our President of the P & F, Mr Duncan Barrell, our

Director of Operations, Mr Ray Lowe, and our Wild Ed teacher, Mr Parrish Robbins.

The next Working Bee, planned for Saturday 18th August, will aim at finishing the kitchen installation

and painting the kitchen floor, replacing some external guttering, applying the second coat of paint

to the veranda railing, building a new ramp into the shed plus some further work on the removal of

the blackberry and a general tidy up.

If you are able to assist, please contact Mr Ray Lowe on 4757 9017 or [email protected]

Whole School Concert – An amazing musical showcase!

Last Thursday night was a great showcase - not only of the extensive range of singing and musical

opportunities on offer at BMGS, but of the depth of talent and skill possessed by our students and

staff. It was marvellous to see so many of our students taking part in these activities.

Thank you to the many staff and students for all the time and effort given to assist with the

preparation of such an event before and on the night:

mailto:[email protected]

the Senior, Junior and Preparatory School Music staff: Mrs Debbie Smith, Mrs Julie Cooney,

Mrs Aleisha Kahn, Mr John Forbes and Mrs Linda Hall

our Music Tutors: Mrs Harding, Mrs Murray, Mrs Dugdale, Mrs Glinderman and Mr Duncan

William Hines (Year 11) for the sound

our Maintenance team for setting up Cuff Hall, and

all other staff who assisted with the organization of the students on the evening.

Thank you also to the Senior School Music Captains: Alek Meade and Miriam Cooney and the Junior

School Music Captains: Thomas Archer and Meri Tinkler-Smith and the Preparatory School Leader:

Lachlan Burgess assisted by Isabel Dolbel, who compered the proceedings with distinction.

Congratulations to the many students who put so much into making the concert such a success. All

involved can feel very proud of the standard of musical performance displayed. You gave us all a

great deal of pleasure – it was a wonderful evening.

Trevor Barman

Headmaster

FROM THE PARENTS’ AND FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION

Last weekend there was a great turnout for our first Working Bee to refurbish the Bungawarra

Outdoor Education Centre. A special thank you is extended to all those who gave up their Saturday

for this terrific project. There is, however, much still to do, and a second Working Bee is planned for

Saturday, 18th August.

If you are interested in assisting, we would love to hear from you. No skills are required; however, if

you do have a particular skill in joinery, electrical works or plumbing we would welcome your input.

We will be providing morning tea and a barbecue lunch for all our Workers – we are looking forward

to an enjoyable and productive BMGS community day. The P&F has committed $16,000 to this

upgrade, which will benefit all students, both currently and in the years to come.

If you would like to register your name, please click on the following link and complete the

registration form: http://www.bmgs.nsw.edu.au/2018-bungawarra-working-bees

D. Barrell

Chair, BMGS Parents’ and Friends’ Association

DIARY DATES

Term 3 General Meeting, Parents’ and Friends’ Association, Tuesday, 14th August, at the

Preparatory School, Valley Heights – parents from all campuses welcome!

Bungawarra Working Bee – Saturday, 18th August

2018 Annual Trivia Night – Saturday, 25th August

2018 Spring Fair – Saturday, 15th September

2018 ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT

It’s time to dust off the Tux and retrieve the ball gown from the back of the closet. Pomp and

Centenary calls for your finest threads! For all those who love a (faux!) fur stole, a top hat and tails;

this is your moment.

http://www.bmgs.nsw.edu.au/2018-bungawarra-working-bees

The Parents’ and Friends’

Association warmly invites you to our

Centenary Trivia Night on Saturday,

25th August. Let's make it the best

yet! As one of our two major

fundraisers for the year, this is

always a fun night and there are

plenty of prizes to be won, including

Winners, Runners-Up, Best Dressed

Adult/Student, Best Themed Table

and more.

Tickets are $30 p.p., $15 for

students. Tables of 8 players. Make

up your own table or take pot luck and we will find you a (hopefully) winning table.

As always, donations of fabulous prizes are gratefully received. Helpers are also needed to assist

with setting up the Hall and clearing away at the end of the evening. Please email Carole Young

([email protected]) or leave a message with Mrs. Sarah Dunstan at Senior School Reception

(02) 4757 9000 regarding donations.

Book your place via Trybooking.com.au:

https://www.trybooking.com/book/event?embed&eid=398962

Ms Carole Young

BMGS Parents’ and Friends’ Association Committee

2018 SPRING FAIR

As part our Centenary Spring

Festival, our Spring Fair is being held

on Saturday, 15thSeptember from

10:00am to 3:00pm and is rapidly

approaching - only six weeks away

and we need lots of helpers on the

day and before to make this a

success for our fantastic school

community.

Our Fair will be on the grounds of the

Senior School and will include

performances throughout the day,

rides, Side Show Alley, picnic races,

food stalls, vintage car display, cooking and 100 year theme competitions – there will be lots of

activities for all age groups and plenty of tempting stalls to find that special something to take home.

We hope you are planning to join us on this special day in the BMGS calendar and, if you are

planning on clearing out a few cupboards over the coming weeks, perhaps you might set aside some

items for our stalls.

People Power

The success of our past Fairs has been due to the wonderful Volunteer Army of parents and friends

who come along and give up an hour or two of their time. We are seeking to make up a roster so, if

you can spare an hour or two, or are happy to volunteer all day (five hours), please let us know. At

the moment, we have only a fraction of the number of volunteers that we will need on the day.



There is also help needed to set-up and clean-up on the day. Student helpers can earn service hours

for their time contributions.

There are so many ways that volunteers can help us and, as much as possible, we would like to

match you to something you enjoy, so please let us know if you are interested in a particular part of

the Fair, or if you are ‘happy to do anything’.

Stalls

The most successful stalls at each Fair are without exception the food stalls. We would be keen to

hear from any volunteers who may like to co-ordinate a stall, or form up a group to do so. We have

currently planned to run the following stalls, so if you are willing to help out you can specify which

stall appeals to you:

Cold drinks/Ice cream, Cakes, Pancakes, BBQ (including vegetarian option), Curries, Devonshire

Tea/Jams, Second hand books, Compassion project fundraiser stall, Second hand clothes, Bric-a-

brac, Side show alley, Face painting, Kid’s craft, Tatts and Tizz (temporary tattoos and hair fun),

Picnic races, Activities/displays and competitions in Coorah, Ride tickets/raffle/information/flower

shoppe.

Donations

Second Books and Recycled Clothing - These are two of the most popular stalls of the Fair and they

bring many visitors to our School. Donations of second hand books are sought and pre-loved high-

quality clothes and accessories in good condition.

White Elephant - Bric-a-brac is another favourite among our visitors, so items in good condition would

be welcome for this store.

Toys/Games - Toys, mind puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, games, balls, dolls – again, in good condition and

all pieces intact would be greatly appreciated. Please note that we are unable to accept soft toys,

unless they are unused and still with/in their original labelling/packaging.

Please take your donations to Coorah and contact Mrs. Kate Goodlet via email [email protected] if

you would like to register as a volunteer or stall co-ordinator/assistant – we look forward to hearing

from you!

Parents’ and Friends’ Association Spring Fair Committee

FROM THE ACTING DEPUTY HEAD – HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL

Raising awareness for Tourette Syndrome

Recently one of our students has been diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome. Awareness and

understanding are key in helping to support this student.

Tourette Syndrome is a neurological disorder. It is a medical condition characterised by rapid,

repetitive and involuntary muscle movements and vocalisations called tics. The cause of Tourette

Syndrome is not known and there is no known cure. TS affects 1% of the general population. TS is

not degenerative and people with TS can expect to live a normal life span. Intelligence is not affected

by TS. It is a disability.

There is hope! For some people, TS symptoms can disappear in their twenties, others experience a

marked improvement in their late teens or early twenties while others will live with TS for the rest of

their life.

There is no specific medication for TS. Treatment can help calm the symptoms - it is very individual.


Coprolalia, a vocal tic characterised by the inappropriate and involuntary uttering of obscenities or

swear words, and is surely among the most difficult symptoms that a sufferer has to endure,

affecting less than 10% of people with TS.

The presence of coprolalia symptoms is not related to one’s intelligence, character, thoughts or

beliefs. They will say things that cannot be helped and it is certainly not a choice.

It is important to remember that some people need support and understanding to cope with life

challenges and we should all be willing to assist and support each other through whatever difficult

times there may be.

Students in the Senior School will be provided with education about Tourette Syndrome as part of

the School’s commitment to support all students and develop awareness for this disorder.

Bus Pick up and Drop Off Points

Please note that buses travelling east from the School will now pick up and drop off students at

Springwood Station and no longer pick up or drop off students at Buttenshaw Park. The goal is to

have consistency so that we ensure that all students are picked up and met by parents promptly, as

well as ensuring there is safety for students.

Further east, the pickup is Blaxland bus stop which is located just east of McDonalds and the

adjacent Service Station. Travelling westbound, the drop off is at Glenbrook Tourist Information

Centre and Blaxland Station. Arrangements for Blaxland and Glenbrook will return to normal

(Glenbrook Oval) once the road works conclude. Please contact Ms Gillian Martin in Student

Reception for more information.

Year 11 and 12 Signing in and out

With the freedoms that come from being in Years 11 and 12 comes the responsibility of ensuring the

School knows your whereabouts from a duty of care perspective. With that in mind, please

familiarise yourselves with the procedures below and ensure that whenever you are leaving the

campus you have been signed out at Student Reception with the correct authorisation, and when

you return you sign back in:

Leaving early or arriving late from an appointment – a note from your parent is required, (this

can be emailed in advance to the Absences email address [email protected] if

it’s more convenient)

Lunchtime – All Year 12 students, but only Year 11 Prefects and Captains are permitted to

leave the campus at lunchtime and you must sign out and back in at Student Reception

Study Periods in the middle of the day – you are not permitted to leave the School grounds

during study periods that are in the middle of your day; you must spend that time in the LRC

Study Periods at the beginning of the school day – you must sign in at Student Reception

when you arrive to School (no additional permission is required as it is in your timetable)

Study Periods at the end of the School day – you must sign out at Student Reception when

you are leaving the campus (no additional permission is required as it is in your timetable)

A. Beitsch

FROM THE DEPUTY HEAD – HEAD OF TEACHING & LEARNING

Important Dates:

Year 12 Trial HSC examinations – Monday, 6th August to Monday, 20th August (inclusive)

HSC Practical and Performance dates – see list at end of report

Year 9 2019 online subject selections closing date – Friday, 17th August

Year 11 2019 online subject selections closing date – Friday, 25th August


Who are we? The BMGS Student Statement

Connecting Well Part 2 – Communicating Well

Last Term I began writing about our student statement and the key dispositions we want to foster in

all our students. They are focused around the idea of preparing our students for life in a complex and

digitally-powered world, with the dispositions that will help them learn, relearn and thrive in the

community.

The dispositions are based under three key concepts – learning well, connecting well and living well.

We had worked our way through learning well and started with connecting well, looking at being

collaborative. The other key quality our students need to help them connect well is to be powerful

communicators.

Our students need to be able to articulate their thoughts and ideas effectively using a wide range of

modes. Whilst we are all familiar with the power of persuasive public speaking skills, our students

also need to be effective communicators in small groups, and in a range of multimedia and digital

contexts. Essential to being an effective communicator is having good active listening skills - being

willing to listen to different people with contrasting viewpoints, and then being able to make sense of

a range of knowledge domains, as well as other people’s values, attitudes and intentions.

Our students also need to be able to communicate for a range of purposes, whether to inform or

persuade others, raise awareness of important issues or situations, or motivate or entertain others.

Central to good communication is knowing what medium is going to be most potent in each situation

or context, whether verbal, digital or written. In a digitally connected world, where we can be

speaking with a peer in Venezuela one moment and a teacher in Zambia the next – or even at the

same time - our students need to bring that flexibility, the capacity to interact and interpret meaning

and then contribute thoughtfully to our world to their everyday lives.

Qualities we seek to foster that underpin effective communication -

Articulation

Listening

Engaging

Fluent across modes

Year 12 Trial examinations and practical tasks

It is a busy time of year for our Year 12 students. Not only are they in the middle of completing their

Trial HSC examinations, and studying hard, the submission dates for practical subjects are rapidly

approaching. This is a time when all your time management and skills must come to the fore. After

nearly a year spent working on your various projects, the final haul can be particularly draining; after

all this time, the initial excitement has worn off and, sometimes, with all the other pressures, it can

seem overwhelming. Students are encouraged to take heart, to keep aiming high, and to work

through those final difficulties. Taking a moment to remember the excitement, the hopes and

dreams you had when you first took on the task, and to push through to create the most amazing

piece (or performance) you can, will help you produce a project that you can be proud of!

Dates for Practical Task completion and Performances

Languages Oral Examinations – Thursday, 9th August – Saturday, 15th September

Industrial Technology Timber Major Projects hand-in date* – Thursday, 16th August

English Extension 2 Major Works hand-in date – Friday, 24th August

Drama Projects hand-in date – Monday, 27th August

Drama Performance Examinations – Thursday, 6th – Friday, 7th September

Design and Technology Major Projects hand-in date – Thursday, 30th August

Visual Arts Bodies of Work hand-in date – Monday, 3rd September

Music Submitted Works hand-in date – Monday, 10th September

Music Performance Examinations marking period – Monday, 10th – 22nd September

* Hand-in date - Projects must be handed in to the supervising teacher on this date no later than 3:00pm. Students

must not work on their projects after this date and time.

M. Hastie

SEMESTER 1, 2018, ACADEMIC MERIT LIST FOR YEAR 11

Academic effort and achievement, in the context of enjoyable learning, are worthwhile goals for students and

should be publicly recognised.

Effort Awards Effort in a course is the most important factor in a student’s success; this is one of the most important character traits

that students will take with them into their life beyond school. This award is based on the following criteria:

A grading of straight excellents for Effort will result in the conferring of a Gold Award.

A grading of all excellents and up to 1 x very good for Effort will result in the conferring of a Silver Award.

A grading of all excellents and up to 2 x very goods for Effort will result in the conferring of a Bronze Award.

An increase of more than 0.4 in a student’s average effort rating from one semester to the next semester will

result in the conferring of an Improved Effort Award.

Year 12 Effort Awards– Semester 1, 2018 Gold Effort Awards Thomas Hort, Max Sevenoaks, Sam Baker, Zachary Franklin, Adelaide Smith, Laura Williamson,

Grace Rickard, Tara Shiels

Silver Effort Awards Liam Glinn, Emily Ampt, Jessica Dance, Miranda Pecovnik, Nicholas Van Tillburg, Claire Gillman,

William Harris, Olivia Holmdahl, Georgia Bastian

Bronze Effort Awards Georgia Clarke, Kitanni Junge, Laura Clyne, Maya Mishra, Ciaran O’Donoghue

Improved Effort Award Augustus Chen, Claire Gillman, Zachary Gale, Alexander Mungai, Liam McNair, Declan Smith,

Jude Danta, Olivia Holmdahl

Academic Achievement Awards The top place getters in each Course for Semester 1 are listed below in rank order according to the following criteria:

Number of students Number of place-getters in course

Up to 10 First place only

Up to 26 First 3

Up to 50 First 5

Over 50 First 10

These places are awarded on the Semester 1 Coursework Marks (i.e. more than just the formal assessments).

Year 12 Academic Achievement Awards – Semester 1, 2018 English Advanced Thomas Hort, Miranda Pecovnik, Jessica Dance, Alice Knight, Emily Goodlet

English Standard Elli Camilleri, Tara Shiels, Georgia Clarke, Elijah Salisbury (last three equal 2nd)

English Extension 1 Miranda Pecovnik, Adelaide Smith, Emily Ampt (last two equal 2nd)

English Extension 2 Miranda Pecovnik

General Mathematics Tara Shiels, Laura Clyne, Augustus Chen, Jessy Jones (last two equal 3rd)

Mathematics Thomas Hort, Nicholas Van Tilburg, Liam Glinn, Ciaran O’Donoghue, Jessica Dance

Mathematics Extension 1 Thomas Hort, Nicholas Van Tilburg, Liam Glinn

Mathematics Extension 2 Jonah Townes

Biology Nicholas Van Tilburg, Jessica Dance, Maya Mishra

Chemistry Nicholas Van Tilburg, Thomas Hort, Emily Goodlet, Jonah Townes (last two equal 2nd)

Physics Thomas Hort, Max Sevenoaks, Liam Glinn

Modern History William Harris, Emily Goodlet, Abbie Lucas

History Extension Emily Goodlet

Geography Zachary Franklin

Economics Zachary Franklin

Business Studies Maya Mishra, Laura Williamson, Sam Baker (last two equal 2nd)

Legal Studies Liam Glinn

French Continuers Nicholas Van Tilburg

Indonesian Heritage Speakers Jessy Jones

Design & Technology Felix van Niekerk, Jessica Prowse, Joshua Williams

Industrial Technology - Timber Emily Goodlet

Information Processes & Technology Thomas Hort, William Harris, Byron Lester

Engineering Studies Max Sevenoaks, Rowan Foster-Powell, Jonah Townes

Visual Arts Alice Hill-Butler, Alice Knight, Samantha Mai

Drama Miranda Pecovnik, Alice Knight, Emily Ampt (last two equal 2nd)

Music 1 Jessy Jones, Geraldine Weiss (last two equal 1st )

Music 2 Emily Ampt

Music Extension Emily Ampt

PDHPE Miranda Pecovnik, Zachary Franklin, Nicholas van Tilburg, Olivia Holmdahl

Community & Family Studies Olivia Holmdahl

Studies of Religion II Miranda Pecovnik, Emily Ampt, Alice Knight, Laura Williamson (last three equal 2nd)

Certificates for Semester 1, 2018 - will be issued to students via Heads of House or Tutors. I extend

my congratulations to all students.

M. Hastie

FROM THE HEAD OF ENGLISH

English study – Tuesdays/Wednesdays

A reminder to students from Years 7 to 12 that additional help with English is available in the Library

Resource Centre (LRC) after school on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Come along and get help with:

starting that next assessment task

improving your essay writing skills

editing and creative writing

G. Horne

FROM THE HEAD OF MUSIC

Whole School Concert

Congratulations to all the students and Music staff who were involved in the Whole School Concert

last Thursday evening. This was an outstanding showcase of the many and varied Music

opportunities available at BMGS. At the conclusion of the Concert, after a rousing rendition of

“BMGS” - a song especially composed by Music staff to celebrate our Centenary and featuring all of

the evening’s performers - Mr Barman acknowledged the Year 12 Musicians for their commitment

and dedication to the musical life of the School over the past six years. .

I would also like to thank Mrs Linda Hall (Music Admin) for preparing the program and the

PowerPoint; our Maintenance staff who moved all the Music equipment and instruments to and from

Cuff Hall; William Hines (Year 11) for manning the Sound desk; the Junior and Senior Music Captains

and Preparatory Leaders for compering the evening as well as the Preparatory and Junior School

staff for their support supervising students during the evening. It has been wonderful to have the

support of our Headmaster and his wife, Mr and Mrs Barman, who have attended every concert for

the last 16 years.

Education Week

Jessy Jones (Year 12) and Geraldine Weiss (Year 12) performed works from their HSC Music

program at St Hilda’s Education Week service last Sunday.

Polyphony: Renaissance to Bruckner

Byrd Consort with ‘Blue Mountains Recorder Collective’ Encore Concert, on Saturday, 18th August

2018, 2:30pm at St Finbar’s Church, Glenbrook. Entry: $10, Concession: $8 (tickets on sale at the

door).

Diary Dates:

HICES Music Festival: Sunday, 19th August to Wednesday, 22nd August

Signs and Wonders Concert: Friday, 7th September

Police Band Workshop: Tuesday, 11th September (Stage and Concert Band members)

D. Smith

FROM THE LEARNING ENRICHMENT DEPARTMENT

A reminder that I will be in the Library Resource Centre (LRC) after

school on Tuesdays this term. This after school assistance is for

homework help, however, it can also include help in organising a study

plan or just general assistance in organising your workload.

If you are interested in attending, it is a great idea to contact me on

email [email protected] so that I can prepare best for the

time spent together.

A. Michielsen

FROM THE UNIFORM SHOP

Centenary Jackets ordered prior to the holiday break are now ready for collection from the Uniform

Shop.

Fittings for Year 11, 2019 Girls’ Skirts will take place at the Uniform Shop on the following dates:

Monday, 13th and Tuesday, 14th August

Monday, 20th and Tuesday, 21st August

Monday, 27th and Tuesday, 28th August

Please inform the Uniform Shop on 4757 9004 or [email protected] if you do NOT

require a skirt, so as to expedite the ordering schedule.

There are limited numbers of pre-loved skirts available for purchase on a first come, first served

basis.

K. Arrell



HELPING FARMERS IN THE CENTRAL WEST APPEAL

NSW has recently been declared in total drought and, in many areas, the farmers are experiencing

extreme conditions unseen for many years. We all want to help our farmers get through these

incredibly hard times so the BMGS Canteen has set up a food drive which will operate until 17th

August.

We are seeking donations of:

- canned and/or non-perishable food

- toiletries and toilet paper

- dog food

- bottled water

Donations will go towards Helping Farmers in the Central West, a volunteer group based in Lithgow.

All goods received will be donated directly to farms in our local region, with the first 'donation drop' to

be given to our farmers in Capertee on 18th August 18.

As this will be a sustained support program for our farming community, the Lithgow volunteer group

will also be organising fundraising events and working bees over the coming months. If you would

like to know how to further assist them in their relief efforts, you can find them on Facebook “Helping

Farmers in the Central West”.

We look forward to seeing all those donations come rolling in.

S. Schultz

Senior School Canteen

FROM THE HEAD OF SPORT

Bus Pickup Points Term 3

All Springwood pickups will be from Springwood Station.

Due to road works at Glenbrook there is an amendment to bus pickups for Term 3. Summer sports

will be notified if this will continue through to Term 4.

EASTBOUND – The bus will pick up at Blaxland just past McDonalds/Service Station.

WESTBOUND – The bus will drop off at the Tourist Information Centre at Glenbrook and

Blaxland shops.

Presentation Evenings

As the winter season draws to a close could you please ensure that you have entered the date for

your respective Presentation Evenings into your calendar.

Hockey – Thursday, 23rd August – Coote Hall – 6:00pm start

Rugby – Friday, 24th August – Cuff Hall – 6:00pm for a 6:30pm start

Football – Wednesday, 29th August – Cuff Hall – 6:00pm for 6:30pm start

Netball – Thursday, 30th August – Coote Hall – 6:00pm for 6:30pm start

ISA Athletics

Last Friday our annual Athletics Carnival was held at Pitt Park. The day was extremely successful,

perhaps aided by the beautiful weather.

On the day, we had a number of helpers from the parent community and I would like to thank all

those who helped out for their support of the School’s sports program. I extend a special thank you

to Mrs. Kate Klein who has mastered the Meet Manager program and has run this at both the Junior

and Senior Athletics Carnivals this year.

As we were condensing the Athletics program into one day, it was very important that all the track

events were completed within the set timeframe. Mr. Costa Zakis, Mrs. Allegra Zakis and Ms Sarah

Zakis combined with the staff to ensure all track events were completed within the day. My thanks to

each of them for taking time off work to assist with the Carnival.

We now move onto the next level of competition. All students who have qualified for the BMGS

School team have been notified via email. The events that each student has qualified to compete in

are listed on the sports noticeboard near student reception. The ISA Carnival will be held on Tuesday,

11th September at Sydney Olympic Park.

All students who have been selected in the School team need to organise to hire an Athletics singlet

from the Uniform Shop over the next few weeks. Those who have a current BMGS Basketball singlet

are permitted to wear these on the day.

M. Harris

Saturday Sports Fixtures 11th August, 2018 - Round 10

Team Opponent Venue Time Court/

Field

Bus INFO

Netball First VII Oakhill Oakhill 9:15am CSC 1 Own Transport

Inter A SACS SACS 8:30am 2 Inter A

BMGS 6:15am

Lawson 6:30am

Springwood Station 6:45am

Blaxland 7:00am

Bus Return Approx. 12:00pm

Intermediate B BYE N/A

Open B Redlands HOME 9:00am 1 N/A

Junior A St Spyridon St Spyridon 10:30am 1 Junior A and B

BMGS 8:00am

Lawson 8:15am


Blaxland 8:45am


Junior B St Spyridon St Spyridon 11:45am 1

Hockey Firsts Oxley 2 Home 9:00am Hockey N/A

Juniors Oxley 5 Oxley 9:00am Hockey Juniors

BMGS 6:15am

Lawson 6:30am


Blaxland 7:00am


Girls’

Football

Firsts A SACS Home 10:00am Football

N/A Intermediate SACS Home 11:15am Football

Junior A Oxley Home 9:00am Football

Boys’

Football

Firsts CCGS CCGS 9:00am 1 All Teams

Blackheath 5.45am

BMGS 6:00am

Lawson 6:15am


Blaxland 6.45am


U15s CCGS CCGS 9:00am 2

Seconds CCGS CCGS 10:30am 1

U13s CCGS CCGS 10:15am 2

U14s BYE N/A

Boys’

Rugby

Opens CCGS CCGS 2:15pm Rugby 1 Opens

BMGS 10:45am

Lawson 11:00am


Blaxland 11:30am


U15s CCGS CCGS 12:00pm Rugby 1 13s, 14s and 15s

Blackheath 6:30am

BMGS 6:45am

Lawson 7:00am


Blaxland 7:30am


U14s CCGS CCGS 11:00am Rugby 1

U13s CCGS CCGS 10:00am Rugby 1

MATCH REPORTS: SATURDAY 4TH AUGUST

Netball

BMGS Junior A defeated St. Andrew’s Cathedral School, 53-16

The Junior As had only the minimum seven players for this game. The opposition started strongly, but

the strength in the mid-court from Mia Underwood, Olivia Harris and Ellen Glasson resulted in a great

deal of scoring opportunities. Nikki Zito added to our defence by making some leaping intercepts. Elyse

was a rock in the circle and Zoe Long and Ella Russell played their own little team game together to

ensure the score board ticked over.

J. Haines – Acting Coach

BMGS Junior B were defeated by St. Andrew’s Cathedral School, 30-14

The Junior Bs travelled to Sydney Uni to play SACS and, unfortunately, some illness meant that they had

to play with only six players. However, these girls played with determination and tenacity. The mid court

worked very hard for each other, providing lots of scoring opportunities. It’s just hard to defend with one

player down. Keeping the opposition score to only 30 points was a fantastic effort.

J. Haines – Acting Coach

BMGS Intermediate B defeated Barker College, 33-13

Fielding a full team for the first time since Round 2 gave us some flexibility with our positions. The girls

were prepared for a tough game and Barker provided this in the first quarter. Our defensive pressure

across the court increased and we were able to smother their scoring by effecting turnovers in all three

thirds. This was a great team effort in the lead up to the Finals.

J. Watts – Coach

BMGS Intermediate A were defeated by Barker College, 45-21

This was a very physical game in which we were outplayed by the competition leaders. Losing Ellie Gale

for the second half was a huge blow, but the team played on valiantly. Strong games from Phoebe

Mason, Eliza Huckel and Molly Gale were the highlights in an otherwise physical and messy game.

V. Stanton – Coach

BMGS Open B – BYE

BMGS First VII defeated Barker College, 49-46

This was a thrilling win against a very physical opposition. The Firsts stood their ground after being down

three points early in the final quarter, keeping cool heads and employing cunning court play to achieve

a 3-point win. There was outstanding play from Emma Simon and Miranda Pecovnik, who shot

extremely well in the final quarter under enormous pressure and contact from the opposition. Maia

Deluca and Marni Brown outclassed their opposition in defence, while April Foster-Powell and Eliza

Arantz controlled the mid court.

V. Stanton – Coach

Girls’ Football

BMGS Junior A were defeated by Chevalier College, 1-0

Our game this week was against Chevalier College, in Bowral. It was rather chilly as we stepped off the

warm bus and onto their school grounds. We have enjoyed playing this team in the past as our teams

are quite evenly matched. The girls continue to work well as a team, complimenting each other and

communicating well. The defenders were excellent and it was 0-0 at the end of the first half. Armed with

some refreshment and encouragement from the Intermediate As, we continued to defend well, thanks

to Clara, Taylor, Lily, Ellie and Annabella, together with our goalkeepers, Amy and Neave. The mids,

including Clodagh, Mylah and Claudia, worked well together and supported the forwards and the

defenders. Unfortunately, in the second half, Chevalier was able to score one goal against us and the

final score was 1-0. Darcy, Ana and Annabel had some good chances in the second half but were not

able to make the equaliser as we did last time.

C. van Gelderen - Coach

BMGS Intermediate A were defeated by Chevalier College, 4-0

As the Intermediate As stepped onto the field this weekend, the temperature was freezing and the wind

levels high. Coming off a loss to this team (5-0) the last time we played them, our spirits weren't very

high. In the first half, the opposition scored three quick goals that took us all by surprise and, when the

whistle blew for half time, we were all happy to have a team talk. After the break, we took to the field in

a more positive mindset and started creating chances, keeping the pressure on the opposition

throughout. Concentrating on small things in the second half really helped our overall play and we were

able to keep the ball in the other team’s half. Everyone put in an amazing effort and hopefully next time

we can play the whole game with the same intensity and skill that we played the second half. Well done,

girls.

Indigo Franklin, Intermediate player

BMGS First XI were defeated by Oakhill College, 8-0

Every team knows what they are in for when playing Oakhill College, and that is a seriously physical

game against a team that is also very skilful, very fast and great at finishing goals. There are at least

five girls in the Oakhill XI who play in the ISA team and Sydney Premier League teams, so Oakhill

provided a great opportunity to see how far we have developed as a team. I felt that during the first half

we struggled to acclimatise to the speed of the game. Yet, in the second half, we really stepped up and

had three genuine chances to score a goal. There are a couple of special mentions to make this week:

Annika Bertinat, in goal, has been such an amazing competitor. Playing goal keeper against a high

scoring team like Oakhill and never giving in was a wonderful effort that was appreciated by her team.

Ruby Hensen, up front, was absolutely relentless in her pressure on the opposition and every week

inspires her team via her physicality and second efforts to create turnovers and opportunities to attack.

We are now at the end of the season. The last two games this week are against Redlands on Thursday

and St Andrew’s on Saturday. Thank you, girls, for an inspiring season in the Top Division. Let’s finish it

off with a 70-minute effort in both games!

S. Walpole, Firsts Coach

Hockey

BMGS First XI were defeated by Central Coast Grammar School, 7-0

We travelled to Central Coast this week to play the team on top of the table. With five players out, we

knew it was going to be a tough game. A few girls found themselves in unusual positions but were able

to adapt and fill their new role. Bronte was brave enough to step into the position of goalie and played a

fabulous game. Everyone did a great job defensively marking their players, making some beautiful

tackles and hitting the ball out of the danger zone. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to set up any

offensive plays and we lost to a good side 7-0. Despite this, the girls worked hard throughout the whole

game and should be proud of their efforts.

Georgia Clark, First XI Captain

BMGS Junior XI were defeated by Central Coast Grammar School, 2-1

We had a great game this weekend, playing on Central Coast's field. Eloise continued hitting many

amazing free hits throughout the game, with Lucy trapping them. We played well, pushing the ball to the

wings and around the opposition. Amara scored our only goal, moving speedily to the post from the

wing. All players, especially Belle, Laura and Ruby, showed a developing urgency and need for the ball.

Chloe and Kaitlyn worked well with Mea-Mei as goalie to stop many hits from getting in the goal. It was

perfect weather for the game and everyone had a fun time. Though we lost 2-1, against the best team,

we played well, not letting the ball stay in CCGS's grasp for long.

Chloe Neale

Rugby

BMGS U13 were defeated by Redlands, 55-19

With several players missing through illness the BMGS side had a number of players in positions that

they had not played before. Despite their relative inexperience, the team started strongly, placing

constant pressure on the breakdown and turning over the ball on multiple occasions. Great work from

Jasper, Joel, Luka, Spencer, Ethan, Jai, Billy and Ben allowed us to dominate play. Redlands scored their

first try against the run of play to take the lead 5-0, but BMGS hit back through a runaway try to Max.

Fred slotted the conversion and we hit the lead 7-5. Redlands scored immediately to lead 10-7.

However, excellent phase football and solid defence from Asher, Henry, Dominic and Flynn placed us in

good field position and allowed Sachin to run in our second try, to retake the lead 12-10. Another

lengthy run from Max produced our third try and Redlands were worried as the lead surged to 19-12.

Sore muscles from the Athletics Carnival on Friday began to take their toll and substitutions in key

positions disrupted our continuity. Redlands made some crucial replacements that changed the game

and they went on to score seven unanswered tries to win the game 55-19. To the credit of the BMGS

players, everyone gave their best throughout the game, but we were outclassed by a stronger and larger

squad.

D. Horwood - Coach

FROM THE HEAD OF THE JUNIOR SCHOOL

As our musicians prepare for the upcoming IPSHA Performing Arts Festival at the Sydney Town Hall

on 20th August, we enjoyed joining together with other schools this week to prepare our combined

items for what promises to be a spectacular concert.

Our budding authors and illustrators took up the challenge to “Write a Book in a Day” earlier this

week and published what is sure to become a well-read narrative Car-tastrophe. Come and visit the

Library for a chance to read this latest contribution to the world of literature. Our thanks to Mrs Hilder

with assistance from Mrs Roberson for keeping our eager team of authors and illustrators on task all

day in their creative pursuit.

We also enjoyed an energetic, highly engaging African

Drumming performance this week and many children enjoyed

participating in the music making by joining in on the many

drums, whilst others enjoyed singing along in full African

rhythm.

Benefit Concert

Allegra Dunning (Year 5) - together with other BMGS members

of the Vocalocity vocal ensemble Annika Bertinat (Year 11),

Miriam Cooney (Year 11) and Aimee Grace (Year 8) - will be

singing at the Stop the Traffik Benefit Concert on Sunday, 19th

August – see flyer for further information.

N. Cockington

Student Awards

At Assembly this week the following awards were presented:

Bronze: Neil Geikie (4G)

Silver: Finley Snedden (4G)

FROM THE PARENTS’ AND FRIENDS’ ASSOCIATION

Last weekend there was a great turnout for our first Working Bee to refurbish the Bungawarra

Outdoor Education Centre. A special thank you is extended to all those who gave up their Saturday

for this terrific project. There is, however, much still to do, and a second Working Bee is planned for

Saturday, 18th August.

If you are interested in assisting, we would love to hear from you. No skills are required; however, if

you do have a particular skill in joinery, electrical works or plumbing we would welcome your input.

We will be providing morning tea and a barbecue lunch for all our Workers – we are looking forward

to an enjoyable and productive BMGS community day. The P&F has committed $16,000 to this

upgrade, which will benefit all students, both currently and in the years to come. If you would like to

register your name, please click on the following link and complete the registration form:


D. Barrell

Chair, BMGS Parents’ and Friends’ Association


DIARY DATES Please mark the following dates in your diaries:

Term 3 General Meeting, Parents’ and Friends’ Association, Tuesday, 14th August, at the Preparatory

School, Valley Heights – parents from all campuses welcome!

Bungawarra Working Bee – Saturday, 18th August

2018 Annual P & F Trivia Night – Saturday, 25th August, Cuff Hall

2018 P & F Spring Fair – Saturday, 15th September, Senior School grounds

2018 ANNUAL TRIVIA NIGHT

It’s time to dust off the Tux and retrieve the ball gown from

the back of the closet. Pomp and Centenary calls for your

finest threads! For all those who love a (faux!) fur stole, a

top hat and tails; this is your moment.

The Parents’ and Friends’ Association warmly invites you

to our Centenary Trivia Night on Saturday, 25th August.

Let's make it the best yet! As one of our two major

fundraisers for the year, this is always a fun night and

there are plenty of prizes to be won, including Winners,

Runners-Up, Best Dressed Adult/Student, Best Themed

Table and more.

Tickets are $30 p.p., $15 for students. Tables of 8 players. Make up your own table or take pot luck

and we will find you a (hopefully) winning table.

As always, donations of fabulous prizes are gratefully received. Helpers are also needed to assist

with setting up the Hall and clearing away at the end of the evening. Please email Carole Young

([email protected]) or leave a message with Mrs. Sarah Dunstan at Senior School Reception

(02) 4757 9000 regarding donations. Book your place via Trybooking.com.au:


Ms Carole Young

BMGS Parents’ and Friends’ Association Committee

2018 SPRING FAIR

As part our Centenary Spring Festival, our Spring Fair is

being held on Saturday, 15th September from 10:00am

to 3:00pm and is rapidly approaching - only six weeks

away and we need lots of helpers on the day and

before to make this a success for our fantastic school

community.

Our Fair will be on the grounds of the Senior School

and will include performances throughout the day,

rides, Side Show Alley, picnic races, food stalls, vintage

car display, cooking and 100 year theme competitions

– there will be lots of activities for all age groups and plenty of tempting stalls to find that special

something to take home. We hope you are planning to join us on this special day in the BMGS

calendar and, if you are planning on clearing out a few cupboards over the coming weeks, perhaps

you might set aside some items for our stalls.

People Power

The success of our past Fairs has been due to the wonderful Volunteer Army of parents and friends

who come along and give up an hour or two of their time. We are seeking to make up a roster so, if

you can spare an hour or two, or are happy to volunteer all day (five hours), please let us know.



At the moment, we have only a fraction of the number of volunteers that we will need on the day.

There is also help needed to set-up and clean-up on the day. Student helpers can earn service hours

for their time contributions.

There are so many ways that volunteers can help us and, as much as possible, we would like to

match you to something you enjoy, so please let us know if you are interested in a particular part of

the Fair, or if you are ‘happy to do anything’.

Stalls

The most successful stalls at each Fair are without exception the food stalls. We would be keen to

hear from any volunteers who may like to co-ordinate a stall, or form up a group to do so. We have

currently planned to run the following stalls, so if you are willing to help out you can specify which

stall appeals to you:

Cold drinks/Ice cream, Cakes, Pancakes, BBQ (including vegetarian option), Curries, Devonshire

Tea/Jams, Second hand books, Compassion project fundraiser stall, Second hand clothes, Bric-a-

Brac, Side show alley, Face painting, Kids’ Craft, Tatts’n’Tizz (temporary tattoos and hair fun), Picnic

Races, Activities/displays and competitions in Coorah, Ride tickets/raffle/information/flower

shoppe.

Donations

Second Books and Recycled Clothing - These are two of the most popular stalls of the Fair and they

bring many visitors to our School. Donations of second hand books are sought and pre-loved high-

quality clothes and accessories in good condition.

White Elephant - Bric-a-brac is another favourite among our visitors, so items in good condition would

be welcome for this store.

Toys/Games - Toys, mind puzzles, jigsaw puzzles, games, balls, dolls – again, in good condition and

all pieces intact would be greatly appreciated. Please note that we are unable to accept soft toys,

unless they are unused and still with/in their original labelling/packaging.

Please take your donations to Coorah and contact Mrs. Kate Goodlet via email [email protected] if

you would like to register as a volunteer or stall co-ordinator/assistant – we look forward to hearing

from you!

Parents’ and Friends’ Association Spring Fair Committee

FROM THE UNIFORM SHOP

Centenary Jackets ordered prior to the holiday break are now ready for collection from the Uniform

Shop.

K. Arrell

FROM THE HEAD OF THE PREPARATORY SCHOOL

After Parent-Teacher Interviews

Thank you to all the parents and guardians who took time to come into the School for a Parent-

Teacher interview last week. I would like to remind parents that if you have any concerns about your

child’s social or academic development you do not have to wait for a formal parent-teacher interview

to talk about them. Your child’s teacher is happy to arrange a meeting with you to discuss any

issues. Please contact them throughout the term, if needed, to make an appointment at a mutually

convenient time.

Jeans For Genes Day

Jeans for Genes was established in 1994 by Children’s Medical Research Institute to fund

revolutionary research that helps diagnose, understand, and find cures or treatments for conditions

affecting kids, including genetic diseases, cancer, and epilepsy.


Last Friday, the students at the Preparatory School wore their jeans to School to support this worthy

cause. The students’ donations raised a total of $77.00.

Morning Tea Munch

Morning Tea Munch was back at the Preparatory School this week. Thank you to all the parents who

made some delicious treats for the students to purchase and to those who supplied some crunchy

apples. I extend a big thank you also to Ms Kate Boyer for helping with the serving on the day.

C.A.R.E.S Bicycle Safety

On Tuesday this week our Stage 2 students visited the CARES facility for a unique experience. The

students participated in safety classes and learnt about different road rules. They then put their

learning into practice on a mini road environment complete with working traffic signals.

Vietnam Veterans’ March

The Vietnam Veterans’ March will be held this Sunday in Springwood. Information was sent home

earlier in the week with full details for those families who would like to participate.

Upcoming Events

Book Week 2019 ‘Find Your Treasure’ – The Preparatory School will be celebrating Book Week this

year with a parade and book fair on Thursday, 23rd August. Further details will be sent home nearer

the date but start thinking about which book character you will come dressed as!

Stage 2 Tennis – A tennis program will commence for students in Stage 2 on Tuesday, 14th August

and will run every Tuesday for three weeks. The ‘Tennis Hot Shots in Schools’ Program is an initiative

of Tennis Australia’s national grassroots program. It is aimed at increasing the exposure of the game

of tennis to primary schools throughout NSW through modified tennis.

P & F General Meeting – The Parents’ & Friends’ General Meeting for Term 3 will be held at the

Preparatory School on Tuesday, 14th August, commencing at 7:30pm.

A. Brace

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY – AUGUST 2018 Friday, 10th August – Year 11 Earth & Environmental Science Olympiad

Friday, 10th August – Preparatory School Red Hands Cave Excursion

Friday, 10th August – Year 1/2 Movie/Mufti Class Treat (Junior School)

Sunday, 12th August – Vietnam Veterans’ March, Springwood (Preparatory School)

Sunday, 12th August to Wednesday, 15th August – Year 10 Wild Ed Snowshoe Expedition, Snowy Mountains

Monday, 13th August to Monday, 20th August – Year 12 Trial Examinations continue

Monday, 13th August and Tuesday, 14th August – Year 11/2019 Senior Girls’ Skirt fittings

Monday, 13th August – Year 11 Biology Olympiad

Tuesday, 14th August – Junior School ICAS Mathematics Competition

Tuesday, 14th August – Parents’ & Friends’ Association Term 3 General Meeting, Preparatory School

Wednesday, 15th August – Year 11 Biological Diversity Study Day, Mt. Tomah

Wednesday, 15th August – Year 3 and Year 4 Excursion to Hyde Park Barracks; Tumbalong; Museum

Wednesday, 15th August – Year 11 Physics Olympiad

Thursday, 16th August – Year 11 First Aid Course

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