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:
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.
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
Springwood Station 8:30am
Blaxland 8:45am
Bus Return Approx. 3:00pm
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
Springwood Station 6:45am
Blaxland 7:00am
Bus Return Approx. 1:00pm
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
Springwood Station 6:30am
Blaxland 6.45am
Bus Return Approx. 3:00pm
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
Springwood Station 11:15am
Blaxland 11:30am
Bus Return Approx. 6:30pm
U15s CCGS CCGS 12:00pm Rugby 1 13s, 14s and 15s
Blackheath 6:30am
BMGS 6:45am
Lawson 7:00am
Springwood Station 7:15am
Blaxland 7:30am
Bus Return Approx. 3:30pm
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:
http://www.bmgs.nsw.edu.au/2018-bungawarra-working-bees
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:
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, 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