Dear Parents and Carers,

As the 2024 school year draws to a close, I would like to thank each of you for your unwavering support of the College throughout the year. Together, we have much to celebrate and be grateful for as a vibrant and united Catholic learning community.

Congratulations to our students for their resilience and perseverance as they continue to grow on their individual learning journeys. I extend special congratulations to those in Years 7-10 who were formally recognised earlier this week at the Thanksgiving Awards Assembly. The complete list of award recipients is included later in this newsletter, however, I would like to highlight the following students who received major awards:

• • • • • Ryan Park, Keira Leadership Award – Luca Thomas
        • Stage 4 Ansto Science and Engineering Award – John Carolan
        • Kathleen McGuinness Public Speaking Award – Isaac Mitrevski
        • Fr Chris Riley Award for Leadership through Social Justice and CSL – Daniel Morozov
        • Fr Hugh Leonard Award Accelerated Studies of Religion 2 – Harrison Macdonald
        • Fr Hugh Leonard Award Accelerated Catholic Studies – Callum Da Costa
        • Reuben F Scarf Award for Commitment to consistent effort and application – Kyan Lamb
        • Allison Byrne Community Leadership Award – Nicholas Aivaliotis
        • Stage 5 Ansto Science and Engineering Award – Harrison Macdonald
        • ADF Long Tan Leadership Award – Stirling Roper
        • ADF Future Innovators Awards –  Dante Hernandez

The Thanksgiving Awards Assembly was also a meaningful reminder of the extraordinary generosity of our College community. I am deeply moved by the collective effort throughout our St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal, which resulted in significant donations of food and money to support the most vulnerable in our community. This remarkable display of compassion and solidarity reflects the true spirit of Christmas and our shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.

We also take this opportunity to bid a warm farewell to several staff members who are leaving us at the end of the year. To Mrs Katrina Sinclair, Mr Iain Scott, Mr Barry Otley and Mr Nani Meafou, whose temporary contracts are concluding, thank you for your contributions to our College. We also extend our heartfelt gratitude and best wishes to Mr Mark Jackson, who is retiring after an extraordinary 44 years of dedicated service to the ERC community.

On behalf of the entire College, I also congratulate our Deputy Principal, Mr Barry Walsh, as he now concludes his leadership tenure at the College. We sincerely thank him for his significant contributions to our Catholic learning culture and wish him every blessing in his future endeavours.

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I am thrilled to announce that the Development Application for our new Technology building has now been approved. This planned development will include a series of new specialist learning spaces including the Trade Training Centre facilities for metalwork, woodwork and construction on the ground floor, as well as theory rooms, a multi-media room, and a robotics lab on the first floor.

This approval marks a significant milestone for the College. It will now pave the way for a state-of-the-art facility that will further enhance learning, innovation, and hands-on trade experiences for our students. This will further showcase our strength in delivering exceptional Technology and Applied Science subjects. Construction is forecast to commence in early 2025.

Within this Christmas season, I wish all members of the ERC community a joyful and peaceful holiday. May this time be filled with love, hope, and the blessings of family and friends. May the birth of Jesus inspire joy and a true sense of renewal in all our lives.

Wishing you a safe, healthy, and blessed Christmas.

Yours sincerely,
Dr Gough

As we enter into the holiday period I wanted to thank all our families for their support over the past year. It is such a pleasure and a privilege to walk the journey with you and your son’s. I hope that the holidays provide an opportunity for rest, rejuvenation and connection.

From time to time young people may experience some feelings of loneliness or change in mood, Headspace have provided the following factsheet for parents to access over the holidays How to stay healthy over the holidays and from the Way Ahead 10 tips to stress less during the holidays. Additionally they have shared a link to key support services both locally and Australia wide for both students and parents, Kids Helpline and parentline.

As we enjoy the warmth of the summer and the holidays come to an end, it would be greatly appreciated if all parents/caregivers and students could be mindful that when returning to the College for 2025 it is an expectation that all students be suitably dressed in their summer uniform. Families are reminded that piercings and hair styles outside our expectations should be avoided to prevent any inconvenience to families at the start of next year. Please refer to the College uniform and expectations outlined in the student diary if you have any concerns.

Thank you to all our families for your support over the past year. I wish you and your family a very happy and holy Christmas. We look forward to welcoming the boys back in 2025 ready to engage in their learning.

A reminder that in 2025 school commences for Year 7 and 12 on Friday 31st January and for students in Years 8-11 on Monday 3rd February.

Mrs Hughes
Acting Deputy Principal

It was wonderful to see so many students rewarded for their outstanding commitment to their studies throughout Semester Two at the College End of Year Assembly on Wednesday 11 December. Congratulations to all students who received awards this semester.

Year 7          Year 8          Year 9          Year 10

Year 10 and 11 NESA Students Online Accounts

A reminder to Years 10 and 11 Parents and Carers that your sons need to activate their NESA Students Online Accounts to access their NESA HSC Minimum Standards Test results, ROSA grades, and their Record of School Achievement or Higher School Certificate when they leave school. Students have been sent instructions on how to activate their Students Online account and create their personalised pin number via their respective Pastoral Care Google Classrooms.

Please ensure your son has access to his Students Online Account before he leaves school because students’ accounts are closed on 30 June in the year after they leave school. After this date, a fee is payable to NESA to access your son’s secondary education credential.

I look forward to supporting your sons with their studies in 2025, and wish all our families a blessed Christmas, and students a well deserved restful, safe and happy holiday!

Mrs Bell
Director of Studies

On Tuesday, 3rd December, the College Jazz and Stage Bands brought Wollongong Mall to life with their lively performances, transforming the area into a hub of music and excitement. Shoppers paused and gathered as our talented students filled the air with a mix of jazz classics and popular hits, showcasing their impressive range and skill. Their dynamic performance captivated listeners of all ages, adding a festive buzz to the day. In addition to the two College bands, a Brass and Wind ensemble delivered festive Christmas carols, creating a seasonal atmosphere that delighted passers-by. Students from the Year 9 Music class also took the stage, demonstrating their growing talents and adding to the day’s vibrant line-up. An enthusiastic crowd of friends, family, and teachers cheered the students on, their support amplifying the energetic spirit of the performances and making the day even more memorable. Congratulations to our talented musicians for their outstanding performances and professionalism! Their hard work and dedication were on full display, representing the College with pride. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who came out to support our students—they truly did us proud!

See the large gallery of extra photos available here: https://photos.app.goo.gl/rpyGFSJ1zYR6C2xy9

and a video from the day here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmbIw7zfJgw

Mr Bonaccorso and Mr Haybittle

Years 7 – 11 Visual Arts Exhibition

On the 5th – 7th December, Edmund Rice College held their Annual Visual Arts Exhibition. This occasion is usually celebrated in August but this year we celebrated the achievements of our Visual Arts Students in December.

Among the work exhibited was the Year 7 Flying Machine sculptures and drawings plus their Self Portrait with Pet and Fauvist inspired landscape paintings. Year 8 took centre stage with their highly imaginative ceramic Hybrid Creatures which was accompanied by their Superhero posters which reflected their understanding of colour theory. Years 9 and 10 Visual Arts delighted the audience with their skateboard decks based on the theme Identity. They also showcased their evocative charcoal reductive drawings, lino block prints and sculptures inspired from the beginning of the year excursion to the BlueScope Steelworks.

Years 9 and 10 Photographic and Digital Media exhibited their beautiful photographs demonstrating their knowledge of shutter speeds and apertures and delighted the audience with their short Horror Films. Year 11 Visual Arts showcased their portfolio of work from the year which included their large surreal charcoal drawings inspired from their artist camp at Hazelhurst Regional Gallery plus their Cubist paintings and their own mini-Body of Work. Year 11 Ceramics exhibited their fine wheel work and hand-built forms, and Year 11 Film Studies showcased their short Commercial Trailers.

We would also like to congratulate Conor Mathie, Liam Hall and Xavier Oborn on achieving 2nd Place with their short Horror Film in the Illawarra Sunscreen Film Festival. This was a marvellous achievement and well deserved.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the Visual Arts students for their hard work and enthusiasm. It is comforting to know that the Creative Arts are valued and celebrated across all year groups. Thank you also to the wonderful Visual Arts staff, Mrs Sarah Copas, Mrs Leen Rampe, Mr Simon Tognetti and Mr Kyden Sunarya for their dedication, passion and hard work supporting our students. We look forward to a Creative 2025!

Ms Costello

Congratulations to Year 12 students who showcased their presentation prowess during a recent assessment task using a Pecha Kucha – a Japanese style of addressing an audience designed to enhance public speaking and critical analysis skills. The focus was Human Experiences and Identity, inspired by the HSC text Billy Elliot, paired with comparative texts selected by the students.
Students delivered insightful, timed presentations, reflecting on how human experiences shape personal and collective identities. The diverse range of comparative texts, including texts such as Othello and Beckham, provided an extensive range of perspectives, illustrating the universal nature of struggles, resilience, and triumph.

One highlight came from Tzar Harb’s presentation comparing Billy Elliot’s fight for self-expression with Othello’s struggle for acceptance. He eloquently explored how societal expectations and personal decisions influence identity formation. Similarly, Kiran Dhami’s comparison between Billy Elliot and Beckham drew parallels between family expectations and the pursuit of individual dreams.
Dr. Gough praised the students, stating, “It’s a delight to witness the true essence of education—students connecting deeply with literature and relating it to their own lives and the world around them. This experience not only refines their analytical skills but also nurtures empathy and self-awareness.”

The students were given an opportunity to field questions from their peers and teachers, further demonstrating their understanding of the texts. The task was a resounding success, leaving everyone inspired by the depth and creativity of the presentations.

Mrs Sinclair
English Teacher

New Computing courses in Year 9/10 and Year 11/12

In 2024, the College introduced the new ‘Computing Technology’ elective for Year 9/10 students. This course features a variety of hands-on projects, including:

• Creating a ‘retro’ game and investigating classic game gameplay
• Creating a Mechatronics Bitbox line follower/obstacle avoidance robot
• Experimenting with Virtual Reality/Augmented Reality
• Creating a User Interface for a commercial mobile phone application

Completing a variety of self-directed personal projects:

• Programming a game on a vintage TRS-80 computer (released in 1979) using BASIC
• Assembling and controlling a Robot Arm
• Using a microbit to monitor smart home systems with various sensors
• Piloting a drone through an obstacle course
• Investigate the use of drones for shark detection
• Programming a model train to detect obstacles
• Conducting Raspberry Pi-based experiments

The new ‘Software Engineering’ Year 11/12 course is also running at the College – students have carried out a range of practical projects:

• Modelling a banking application using the Python programming language
• Creating a version of the TV game show ‘Deal or No Deal’
• Experimenting with Mechatronics systems

In the HSC course, students will investigate software security techniques to enhance a given web application and develop an industrial Artificial Intelligence recognition system. They will also complete a major project, creating an eCommerce application tailored to their personal interests.

Computing Club

Computing Club will start up again in Term 1 next year – we will continue our investigation into applications in Virtual Reality, Gaming, Drones and student-interest projects. Mr Sirianni and Mr Britten have run the first eSports activity with students from Year 7 and 8 using the Oculus headsets and ‘Beat Saber’ game.

Mr Dempsey

On Thursday, 28th November 2024, Year 10 Engineering students visited HMAS Albatross, the Royal Australian Navy’s naval air station. This excursion offered a unique glimpse into the dynamic world of naval aviation and engineering operations.

The students enjoyed a visit to the facilities in conjunction with Thales Group and Boeing Defence Australia, students were able to enjoy hands on experiences with naval equipment, participating in flight simulations, and speaking directly with Thales and Navy personnel who shared their experiences and career pathways in the engineering and aviation fields.

Feedback from the day included – ‘The flight simulator was amazing and incredibly engaging. The experience was good for the amount of time that each person had to experience the simulator.’

We extend our heartfelt thanks to HMAS Albatross and the Thales Group for their hospitality and for providing such an enriching educational experience. It was truly a day to remember!

Mrs Bailey & Mr Edmondson

The final academic awards assembly of 2024 was a festive occasion, enhanced by a small ensemble of talented musicians who volunteered their time to perform beautiful Christmas carols. Their performances created a warm and joyful atmosphere, adding a touch of magic to the event. We wish to congratulate Jaxon, Aaron, Emerson, Lachlan, Harvey and Stirling for their involvement.

See photos Here.

Mr Haybittle
Music Teacher

It’s beginning to sound a lot like Christmas……. the ERC Brass & Woodwind boys are busily getting ready for upcoming performances in Wollongong Mall and around the College. Check out our recent rehearsal video to get a taste of the festive music we’ll be performing.

Mr Haybittle
Music Teacher

Kicking Goals: Creighton Meafou’s Wallabies Journey

In this episode of the Rice Bowl Podcast, hosts George and Tim sit down with Edmund Rice College’s very own Creighton Meafou, a Year 12 student with an impressive accomplishment under his belt. Creighton has recently been selected for the Under 16’s Wallabies Rugby Union team, a testament to his hard work, talent, and dedication to the sport. Listeners will gain insight into Creighton’s journey, from his early days on the rugby field to his remarkable achievement on the national stage.

The conversation delves into Creighton’s aspirations, both on and off the field, as well as the challenges he’s faced balancing schoolwork and rigorous training schedules. With George and Tim’s engaging questions, this episode highlights the determination and passion fuelling Creighton’s success. Don’t miss this inspiring discussion with one of Edmund Rice College’s rising stars!

You can listen to this episode by following this LINK.

Don’t forget to subscribe, rate and share our shows.

Mr Bonaccorso

Recently the College had the latest cohort of boys from Year 10 take on their Silver Award, Qualifying Journey. This year 18 boys had prepared themselves for the 3-day hike by attending a number of lessons prior to the trip, around navigation, emergency procedures, equipment and a making a food plan.

I felt as though the boys had adequately prepared themselves for the 30km hike in the Budawang’s National Park. However, the one thing I could not control was the weather. The preceding week had been uncomfortably hot, while the first day of our trip came in the form of rain. It started as a drizzle, during the 4 hours walk into the campsite for the first night. On arrival at Broula Brook it was raining enough for us to be quite wet, however it was not cold. The boys made their best effort to put their flys up in the rain and keep their gear dry. The rain continued right through the evening while meals were prepared and consumed. We managed to persist in the rain until the evening light had faded. It was then we all retreated to our tents or flys for a most uncomfortable night. The rain seemed to become heavier through the night, and it was still raining in the morning albeit a bit lighter.

On checking in on the boys, I was surprised with their resilience and composure. Breakfast was had, I held a team meeting with boys, options were discussed, and we decided to press on to Burrumbeet Brook camping caves for some respite from the rain. It was one of the wettest pack ups that I have experienced, we all did the best we could despite the uncomfortable conditions.

We broke camp and walked up to the Cascades and the Corang River was pumping. Today was not the day for a swim, we could hardly get any wetter. After a short while we pushed on, the track was wet, sometimes thinking you were walking up a creek. When we came across Canowrie Brook the bridge was underwater. Our shoes were already soaked so we all just ploughed through with a cheeky smile on our faces.

It was not long before we reached the dryness of the cave, the contents of the packs spilled out and the boys sorted and attempted to dry their gear. It continued to rain for the remainder of the day, with rain finally cessing after it was dark. We made use of the wet afternoon to walk out to Yurnga Lookout, the views to the east were compromised with a lot of cloud while we did have great views to the west. The boys took the opportunity to touch base with their parents as we had some reception at this point. It was back to the camping cave again for our evening meal, a warm of a campfire, reflections on the journey and a dry bed to sleep in.

We woke on the third day to no rain. Oh joy. We packed up in good time and proceeded to make our way back to the minibus. Features were ticked off, as we made it to Corang Arch, climbed over Corang Peak and passed Tinderry Lookout on our 6-hour journey. All in all, it was the best decision we had made, was to press on, the result was the boys had a legendry trip that won’t be forgotten soon. Thanks to all the boys and thanks to Mr Tognetti and Mr Sunarya for their support on the trip.

Mr Volk
Duke of Edinburgh Adventurous Journey Coordinator

As we approach the end of another school year, it is a great time to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared. This year has been filled with learning, growth, achievements, and great memories all of which is a testament to the hard work, and camaraderie of the Year 8 cohort.

From the enthusiastic participation on the sporting field to the creativity displayed in events such as Public Speaking, Debating, the da Vinci Decathalon and Chess tournaments, just to name a few, shows that 2024 has been a busy, but rewarding year! We’ve celebrated student successes, embraced challenges, and watched as the Year 8 boys have grown not just in knowledge, but in character and resilience.

As we head into the festive season, we would like to take a moment to thank all the Year 8 parents and guardians who’s continuous support doesn’t go unnoticed! Your dedication to your children’s education and well-being is the foundation of their success.

To our students, we are proud of what you have accomplished this year. You’ve shown resilience, curiosity, and compassion. You’ve embodied our College touchstones of Justice and Solidarity, Inclusive Community, Liberating Education and Gospel Spirituality. Continue to demonstrate and strive for this as we look forward to the 2025 school year. Challenge yourself to improve and build upon what you have achieved this year.

During this holiday season, we encourage everyone to take time to relax, reconnect with loved ones, and recharge for another big year in 2025. May your holidays be filled with joy, laughter and moments of peace and cherished memories.

On behalf of the Year 8 Pastoral Care Team, Joshua and myself, we wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas, and a safe and prosperous New Year. We look forward to welcoming you all back in January 2025!

Take Care and God Bless.
Mr Panozzo // Mr Crapis
Acting Year 8 Pastoral Care Coordinator // Assistant Pastoral Care Coordinator

On Thursday 14th November Dr Gough, Mr Volk and I went to the dinner hosted by Illawarra Workplace Training as Business Services student Muhemed Hassan was nominated for the Illawarra Workplace Student of the Year Award. This is a wonderful achievement even if you are not the recipient.

The Awards recognise and reward the outstanding achievements of students who will complete their HSC VET course in 2024, as well as the many local employers who impart their knowledge and skill through the provision of on-the-job training. The Awards are a great way to showcase VET in Schools and TAFE as well as other Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s), and acknowledge the fantastic work being undertaken with young people as they transition to work and further education.

Congratulations Muhemed on being nominated for Illawarra Workplace Student of the Year Award.

Mrs Schodde

Any students that are interested in participating in the NSWCCC 2024 Aquathon – please see the attached flyer.

Thursday 19th December @ Max Parker Leisure Center Revesby. Students will need to register on the CSNSW Website.

Students will need to make their own way to and from the venue for this event.

If you have any further questions please Mr Timpano know.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

Individual nominated sports for Term One – Expression of Interest registrations will open by the end of November – including softball, baseball, tennis, volleyball – 15s & 18s, cricket – 19s.

Look out for further updates via the CNSW Sport website and on the ERC TASS DAILY NOTICES.

Mr Timpano
Sports Coordinator

Please access the Careers Website: which provides the latest information to help students make decisions about their future careers and life beyond school.

• Go to erccareers.com
• Then to important information
• Click on to School Careers newsletter

Mr Cajar
Careers Advisor

Gather 2024: A free family-friendly community Christmas Carol evening will be held at ERC on Monday 16 December. BYO picnic from 5pm, entry via Mt Keira Rd, followed by carol singing from 7pm. For more information please contact Fiona 0413121383

PROCEDURES FOR PARENTS / CARERS

Parent Appointments

As a College we respectfully request that any parent wishing to discuss a matter of concern with a member of staff contacts the relevant staff member via email or via telephone through the College Office and requests an appointment. Staff members will get back to you at their earliest convenience. Parents presenting at the College Office may be asked to make an appointment and return at a mutually convenient time. For specific information about who to contact please refer to your son’s diary on pages 20 and 21.

Collecting your son from school

A reminder to all families that should a circumstance arise where you need to collect your son from school before the end of the school day we require you to come to the College Office. Students will not be permitted to walk to the carpark or the street to be collected. If they leave to attend a pre-arranged appointment we request that this is communicated to the College Office in writing via note or email. If you wish to have someone collect your son that is not currently listed on TASS then you will be required to communicate this clearly in writing, you will also receive a call to verify that you did in fact authorise this arrangement. All students arriving late or departing early are required to sign in and out through the Student Office.

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Change in Student/Family Circumstances/Contact Information/Medical Conditions

If any change has occurred/occurs in your family – separation, divorce, serious illness, the College should be notified as soon as possible. The College seeks to be supportive of families in such circumstances and such events always have a bearing on a child’s education. Likewise, a change of address, email or phone number (work, home or mobile) or emergency contact should be advised immediately.

If your son suffers from a medical condition it is vital that you inform the office of his condition and what treatment is required in an emergency. An emergency management plan must be developed for any students with serious conditions.

Please verify all information via the TASS Parent Lounge.