Villa View – Issue 17, 18 October 2024

This week in the College calendar is, for a group of boys, a momentous occasion. Interestingly, while this importance will be broadly stated and accepted, it may not have the same emotional response from each boy, nor will its impact and relevance be immediately comprehended. I am of course referring to this being the last week of school classes for our Senior students and Thursday as the last day of timetabled lessons.

The experience of departing school life is vastly different in retrospect than it is when it is actually happening to you. When faced with the exciting promise of the tomorrow the value of today, and yesterday, dissipates in the celebration. As a Catholic community in the Augustinian tradition it is important that we are not neglectful of the value of the journey as we stand on the precipice of that exciting future. It is a time to consider our values as each boy looks to their tomorrow.

Our values, and the underlying premise of the Villanova graduate is to become men of searching and understanding, to be men of faith and wonder, to be men of reflection and deep thought and to be men with others; to value and build community.

To ready the boys for this burgeoning movement to be a man with others, it is a poignant moment to recognise what they leave behind, what Villanova strives to give each boy every day.

Firstly, we are a place of belonging, where you can grow to be yourself and participate in community across a multitude of opportunities. In so doing we are then a place where boys shape their identity. This is perhaps the most important and challenging function of one’s school days. I am careful in stating that it is shaped, not fully formed. There is so much more growth and self-understanding to come but our adolescent years are so vital to this. For us it is why wellbeing, and the constructs of our faith are so important because this must happen in an environment of safety. The environment will be at times robust, challenging and conflicts will arise, but the resolution of each and the learning that develops as a result places markers for the future about who we are, what we value, what we stand up for and what we celebrate. We both create the culture and environment while also being shaped by it.

So, I suppose that is the next element, that our Senior Villanovans experience has shaped and informed their understanding of the world and their place in it. The place that they sit now is not fixed it is variable across their lifetime and reflects their dreams, their work ethic and drive and their character. Over their time at the College they have employed these factors which have determined both their happiness and success in community and will continue to do so in the times ahead.

So, as we farewell another cohort of young men and they transition from schoolboy to Old Boy we trust that the morals and ethics shared and modelled for them remain. We hope that our common purpose, to be one with others walking life’s pathway toward truth, sees them engage with friends, create their own story, and keep the story and lessons of Christ always close to their hearts. May they live a life that celebrates the notions of Vincit Veritas – Truth Conquers.

Mr Paul Begg, Principal

In keeping with the Spirit of Reconciliation, Villanova College acknowledges the Yuggera and Turrbal peoples, as the Traditional Custodians of this land on which we stand. We pay our respects to Elders, past, present and emerging. This has always been, and always will be, a place of teaching and learning connected to country, culture and community.

Year 12 Farewell Assembly
The Senior Class of 2024 will forever be remembered as a cohort which possessed great enthusiasm for the College. At their commissioning ceremony, the Seniors proclaimed that they would ‘Seize Each Moment’ and as a group they have squeezed much into the final chapter of their Villanova journey.

Today we conducted the Year 12 Farewell Assembly and Guard of Honour, one of the significant rites of passage events in our College calendar. Students and staff affirmed the Class of 2024 for a wonderful Senior journey as the baton of leadership of the student body was passed onto our Year 11 students as our 2025 Student Leadership Executive were entrusted with our symbols of leadership as part of the Student Leadership Handover.

Year 5 student Jack Fox, spoke affirmingly of the impact our Year 12 students have had as outstanding role models, especially to our Junior School students in the areas of peer mentoring and being outstanding Big Brothers.

In acknowledging the contribution of the 2024 Student Leadership Team, we announced the Champion House for this year. Congratulations to Augustine House, captained by Luke Caffery for winning the inaugural House Cup.

In his final address to the student body as College Captain, Tiernan O’Neill shared the following poem as a wonderful tribute to Villanova College:

The clock has stopped. The bell has rung. Our time has come.
While tomorrow feels more and more like today, I can’t help but wonder how I let it all slip away.
The first day of school never felt quite real, but now my last is here; all I can do is feel.

Villanova College, you are more than just a school;
You’ve shaped my life for seven years, and for that, I thank you.
From school footy on weekends to memories made at break,
A lifelong impression remains so vivid as I lie awake.

Moments in the green and gold I’ll always long to miss,
Hold the three Vs tightly, think back and reminisce
My dearest Alma Mater, you’ve made me laugh, cry, and love,
Carn the Cats and for the nation, screaming from above.

In every step I take, in all the dreams I chase,
Your spirit will guide me, a comforting embrace.
Though paths may part, and time may flow,
In my heart, Villanova, you’ll always glow.

So here’s to the friendships and the journeys we’ve shared,
To the late-night talks and the moments that dared.
As I turn the page and embark on what’s new,
I promise to cherish the legacy of you.

Following the Student Leadership Team handover, 2025 College Captain Elect Matthew Linnell delivered his inaugural address and spoke graciously about the leadership legacy of this year’s Senior class. He stated:

‘We will miss the brotherhood, mateship, and camaraderie that you show each other. It beams great energy of love and support throughout the school. It’s inspiring the love you have for one another.

But above all else, you were the cohort that was given the ultimate challenge of pioneering our new House System. But you embraced it and took it on together. I never thought you would be able to get 1500 boys to participate in a singing competition, but it was your leadership and the exemplary role modelling you showed that inspired us all to join in.’

Following the conclusion of the Farewell Assembly, the Seniors were applauded through the Guard of Honour before handing the torch of Villanova spirit to the Year 11 students.

Next Monday sees the commencement of the External Examination Block and I wish all our Year 12 students every blessing for success in the completion of their final exams. I would like to thank all our Year 12 teachers for their dedication and unwavering support of our students in preparing them for the challenges to come.

“A bright future beckons. The onus is on us, through hard work, honesty and integrity, to reach for the stars.” – Nelson Mandela

Mr Matt Levander, Head of Senior School

Welcome, it’s such a great word, and how we want everyone to feel!

If you’ll excuse the AFL reference, we’re now midway through the final quarter; the game’s hotting up and it’s important to stay focused on all the goals you set at the start of the semester. With exams and assessments just around the corner, we need not only consistent effort but that big push towards the finish in order to achieve our best possible results. The good study habits we have [hopefully] established, and the wise use of our time can reduce stress considerably and enables us to surpass what we might otherwise achieve.

Success in exams and assessments don’t come from last-minute cramming. Instead, setting up a regular study routine will help you steadily build your knowledge and skills. Decide on a specific time each day dedicated to studying. This could be right after school, in the evening, or even early in the morning if you’re an early bird! A consistent study time is known to help you stay on track and avoid procrastination.

It can feel overwhelming when you think about all the topics you need to cover. That’s why it’s a good idea to chunk your study sessions into smaller, more manageable times. Try to have a break for 5 to 10 minutes after 30 minutes of homework or study. Use this time to move around, grab a snack, or take some deep breaths. Set small goals for each study session, such as reviewing one chapter of science or practicing five math problems. This approach will make studying feel more achievable and will help you retain the information better.

By now, you should have a clear view of the assessment calendar for the remainder of the semester. Take the time to map out all your exams, assignments, and due dates. Mark down when each task is due and work backwards to create a plan that includes planning, drafting deadlines, and final revision. A well-organised calendar will ensure you don’t leave everything to the last minute!

If you’re having difficulty understanding certain concepts or subjects, don’t hesitate to ask for help. Speaking to your teachers, asking questions in class, or forming study groups with your classmates are all ways to improve your end result. Working together and clarifying doubts will help solidify your understanding. You can also attend extra study sessions in the library or by Heads of Faculty to deepen your knowledge.

Remember, exams are an opportunity to show how much you’ve learned throughout the term. By following these tips and preparing well, academic goals and their achievement become something that just happens along the way and not a tedious slog towards the end.

I could wish you, ‘Good luck’ but effort and a bit of ‘work smarter not harder’ means that ‘luck’ isn’t really part of the equation. Above all remember that your parents, teachers, and true friends are here to support you every step of the way.

And who are our true friends? St Augustine has this to say:
“… we can talk and laugh – help each other in small ways – we enjoy doing lots of things together – reading some book, going somewhere; sometimes we can be very serious together, sometimes we can act the fool together. Sometimes when we argue with each other it is not a bitter argument but like the kind of argument you might have with yourself. In fact, sometimes the argument is the kind only friends can have when they have a disagreement, the kind that makes our usual harmony more meaningful. Each of us has something to learn from each other and each something to teach in return.”

Mr Sean O’Neill, Head of Middle School

In today’s digital age, understanding how to be a good digital citizen is more important than ever.

As Junior School Students, our boys are exploring the internet more and more, using it for schoolwork, socialising and fun. However, with great power comes great responsibility!

This week through our Focus of the Week we dive into what it means to be a digital citizen and how we can make smart choices online.

So, What is Digital Citizenship?
Digital citizenship refers to the responsible and ethical use of technology. It means being aware of your online behaviour and understanding how it affects you and others. Just like in the real world, there are rules and etiquette to follow online. Practicing good digital citizenship helps create a safe and positive online environment for everyone.

The Key Principles of Digital Citizenship

1. Respect and Kindness: Treat others online the way you want to be treated. This means being polite in your comments, avoiding mean or hurtful messages, and celebrating the achievements of your friends. Remember, the person on the other side of the screen is a real person with feelings.
2. Privacy and Security: Protecting your personal information is crucial. Never share your full name, address, phone number, or school details online. Use privacy settings on social media and be cautious about accepting friend requests from people you do not know. Your information is valuable—keep it safe!
3. Critical Thinking: Not everything you see online is true. Learn to evaluate the credibility of sources. Check facts before sharing information or spreading rumours. If you come across something that seems suspicious, ask a trusted adult for help.
4. Digital Footprint: Everything you do online leaves a trace, known as a digital footprint. This includes posts, comments, and even photos. Think carefully before you share anything, as this information can stay online forever. Future schools, employers, and even your friends might see your digital footprint, so make sure it reflects the best version of you!
5. Healthy Balance: While technology is fantastic, it is essential to balance screen time with other activities. Spend time outdoors, read books, and engage in hobbies. Too much screen time can affect your health and well-being, so remember to take breaks!

How we Deal with Online Challenges
Sometimes, you might encounter challenges online, such as cyberbullying or inappropriate content. If you ever feel uncomfortable or threatened, talk to a trusted adult immediately. They can help you navigate these situations and keep you safe. Remember, you are never alone—there are people who care and want to help!

Being a Good Digital Citizen
You have the power to make a positive impact online. Here are some simple ways to be a good digital citizen:

• Think Before You Post: Consider how your words and actions might affect others.
• Help Others: If you see someone being bullied online, report it, and support the victim.
• Spread Positivity: Share uplifting messages and support your friends.
• Stay Informed: Keep learning about digital citizenship. The more you know, the better choices you can make.

Being a good digital citizen is about respecting yourself and others in the online world. As you explore and interact online, remember the principles of kindness, respect, and safety. By doing so, you will not only protect yourself but also contribute to a positive digital community for everyone. Embrace the power of the internet, but always use it wisely!

Mr Stephen Rouhliadeff, Head of Junior School

Year 12 Finish
Our Year 12 students have now officially finished classes and are ready to start their external examinations on Monday. For many, it is the completion of eight years of study here at Villanova. For all students, though, it is the culmination of 13 years of a schooling journey that the College hopes they will look back on with great memories.

If you follow the Villanova social media platforms, you will have seen this week photographs of a number of ‘rites of passage’ for our Year 12 cohort; their farewell assembly and guard of honour walk were two of these special occasions. Initiated three years ago, our Year 5 students give out to all the Year 12 students a ‘care pack’ containing a few items they we hope will be of some benefit to them leading into their external examinations and that symbolise the support they have here as part of the Villanova College community. They also wrote them a heartfelt message of thanks for being great ‘big brothers’ and wishing them all the best for the days, months and years ahead.

I would encourage all Year 12 parents to do a quick scan of their emails over the past two weeks for important messages from Mr Astill (Director of Studies) about their son’s commitments to external examinations over the coming three weeks. Whilst we certainly have given your son all the information he requires and needs, it would be good for all parents to be familiar with his timetable and the equipment he requires to continue to support him where possible.

I would like to take the opportunity to wish our Year 12 cohort every best wish and result in their upcoming external examinations. The work that the entire group has put in over the last 12 months has placed them in a very good position to achieve excellent results come mid-December when final ATARs and statements are released.

Subject Confirmation and Stationery Lists
Over the coming weeks, parents will receive an email containing the following information with regards to their son’s subject selection for 2025 and required stationery:

• For students moving into Years 6 and 7, all subjects listed in the email are compulsory and as such stationery is required for all subjects.
• For students moving into Years 8 to 11, core subjects and elective subjects will be listed. Whilst stationery lists will contain equipment and materials for all subjects, only the stationery for core and elective subjects will be required.
• For students moving into Year 12, stationery remains the same for subjects being studied.

Please contact Mrs Kerryn Graham (Teaching and Learning Office) if you have any questions with regards to stationery packs or ordering.

Mr John Christie, Dean of Teaching and Learning

Ministries have been buzzing with activity in Term 4.  We’ve got two new bee hives installed out at Villa Park with the Green Team; the Vinnies Christmas appeal is underway; we’ve been farewelling our Ministry Leaders and Seniors of 2024; training and commissioning our Eucharistic Ministers; handing over leadership of the Ministry teams for the Year 11s to take the reins of Green Team, AFAS, Vinnies and YCS; launching the AFAS immersion for 2025; and establishing two new veggie gardens!

At this time we celebrate the contribution of the Seniors of 2024.  Our Seniors have contributed their time and energy across the last twelve months to so many great events that have contributed to a stronger community within and beyond the College.  The Mission Team have been particularly impressed by the way in which they have worked together and supported each other in their various projects and activities.  A big congratulations to Harry Bryant, who as Ministry Captain, has coordinated efforts and encouraged participation and ownership by the boys across the year.  He was led so well.  We also thank the boys who have taken on the specific roles of leading the Ministry Groups.

On Monday night we had a fantastic Ministry Dinner with our Senior students, and there was also representation from many of the groups we have connected with across the year: Vinnies, Edmund Rice Camps, Fight for Balance, Rosies, Emmanuel City Mission, Brisbane habitat, along with some of last year’s Ministry leaders.  We hope our leaders continue to find ways beyond the College gates at the end of the year to contribute and serve in the wider community.

Following are some of the updates on Ministry projects and some more of the reflections from our AFAS Immersion participants.  We still have so many stories to share of our time away in the Philippines.

Commissioning of Extraordinary Eucharistic Ministers for 2025

Fifteen students in Year 11 have undertaken the training and preparation to be Extraordinary Eucharistic Ministers for 2025 with Fr Saldie.  These students are rostered on to attend our Chapel Masses that occur each Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday morning with Mentor groups and they also distribute Communion at our College Masses.  Our gratitude to these students for taking on this very significant role of service within the Villanova community.

Rite Journey – getting our hands in the ground!
This term our Year 9s are focusing on Service in the Rite Journey and Ms Cleary’s class has taken on the challenge of taking steps to transform our community through their own garden.  Their mission has been to build three ‘no-dig’ gardens.  This has been quite challenging work.  The class had to work together as a team to haul bathtubs, soil, bricks, timber from Seventh Avenue to a little forgotten space at the back of Mendel.

The aim is to transform this forgotten space into a thriving garden that can provide ingredients for an end of year pizza party.  We are all looking forward now to seeing how the garden grows.

Two new hives at Villa Park
Exciting news from our Green Ministry team! On Friday at dusk, our Villa playing fields at Tingalpa welcomed two new colonies of bees, now thriving in two brand-new Flow Hives generously funded by our wonderful friends at Downtown Toyota. These sleek new hives join our Langstroth Hive, which was relocated to Tingalpa three months ago and is already overflowing with honey! The bees are loving the Tingalpa Wetlands, and we can’t wait to see our honey production soar!

A special thanks to Grounds Keeper Clyde for preparing the perfect spot for the hives, and to our College Beekeeper Andy, who has expertly guided Villa’s honeybee enterprise throughout 2024. Also, many thanks to our Art Department for helping prepare the Flow Hives with a bee-friendly varnish, making this a true College-wide effort!

2024 Vinnies Christmas Hamper Appeal

Our Vinnies Christmas Hamper Appeal is underway.

All 22 households have been assigned to Mentor Groups.  Week 3 and 4 is our drive for all the goods that will bring joy and festivity to households who are living below the poverty line in our own backyard. All mentor groups have a list of possible items that are required by the end of next week.

In Week 5 and 6 our  Vinnies and YAYM ministries teams will be creating the hampers and preparing them for delivery.

More stories from the Philippines…. And a launch of our 2025 AFAS immersion Program
It has been just three weeks since we returned from the AFAS immersion and on Thursday 17 October we have 37 families attending the Parent Information Evening for students interested in participating in AFAS in 2025!

There are so many more stories for the students to share.  All students prepared reflections on different aspects of the immersion and this week I’m pleased to share a few more of these.  They are great to read with a cuppa, and to share amongst your family.

A view into another world! by Thomas Hellyer
For me personally, my favourite time in the immersion so far isn’t the fun activities, but the car rides to them. I feel that looking out the window of our small, cramped van has allowed me to see things I have only heard about. From my small window into the street life of the Philippines – an outsider perspective – I have seen the true nature of life here. We have driven through a wide range of areas, with rich malls and City centre’s to slums. The streets are full of rubbish and litter – with people just sitting on the sidewalk. There is an obvious litter problem – with animals and people picking through piles of trash to find what they can, most commonly being homeless.

The streets themselves are full of vehicles. Surprisingly, the most common are motorbikes/mopeds, as they allow for high mobility through the right streets. There are an abundance of trikes and street busses packed with people, and it is common to see vans/trucks with up to 10 people sitting in the back tray. The road rules are not enforced, so there is chaos in driving, with lots of beeping and shoving in, which was something that shocked me. One of my personal biggest observations was the incredible number of feral street animals. Everywhere we drove we saw poor, malnourished dogs and cats, which struck sadness into my heart, as these adorable animals deserve to be treated or a proper life like my dog.

However despite the trash littered, tight streets and the overhanging poverty on the places we saw – I still saw that the people still smiled, still laughed, and had joy. I saw this mainly in the interactions through the bud windows, with locals happily waving at me, excited to see the boys. It went a long way and made me hopeful and inspired by their happiness in the face of their disparity and poor situation.

Planting tree, Growing the forest of tomorrow by Nick Sountas
The tree planting started with introducing ourselves to some local and some CSN students. We collected some tools that were well needed to plant trees with and headed for a mind clearing walk to the holes where we planted many trees. We all had at least one other person with us helping. Especially JB who was very nice and helping and a good mate to talk to. The little that we did we won’t see a difference until years to come but we have to start somewhere. After a long day planting tree and talking with friends, we went to a waterpark to relax the minds form a big day. All the boys had an amazing time going down the slides especially the yellow one.

For I was hungry, and you fed me by Andrew Dickie
Participating in the Feeding Program on the AFAS trip in Cebu City was a truly humbling and eye-opening experience. The program is designed to provide meals to undernourished children. Witnessing both their joy and immense amount of resilience shown by the parents and children left a deep impression on me. Seeing the impact of a meal for the kids, you could notice the hope in their eyes. This moment reshaped how I think about gratitude and how privileged we are.

As we entered the centre, and into the classrooms, the excitement and energy of the children despite their circumstances was very special. One of the sisters, who teaches the kids day to day, spoke about the program and the challenges that come with running the centre. This resonated with me deeply as this program is more than just the meal, it is about a community filled with hope and resilience. We then interacting with the kids, me and Harry noticed they were working on their spelling so we tested them, they were quite good.

It was then time to distribute the food to the kids and their parents, fish and rice. It wasn’t anything special but seeing the happiness in the kids’ faces stood out to me, they had so much respect for the people working so hard to provide them with a decent meal. When I walked past the kitchen, I noticed a poster on the wall with a quote. It read “We love, We Care, We Serve, We are One, We are Good Samaritans.” What this means to me is the love that drives the good work of the program, for the common good of all people.

In conclusion, the visit to the centre was a powerful reminder for me that an education and a meal is such a great source of hope for these vulnerable kids and their families. It made me think of past experiences like this with Emmanuel City Mission however this was something completely unique far anything like home. The experience gave me a new perspective regarding poverty and the ways to tackle it. The program gave me hope, that these kids who are full of potential, can find a way-out of extreme poverty.

Mrs Kate Garrone, Dean of Mission and Identity

This week, we had the privilege of listening to former teacher and clinical psychologist Dr Judith Locke present to our community as part of our parent wellbeing series. Judith spoke about the concept of ‘overparenting’ and how we, as well-meaning parents, micromanage our children’s lives in an attempt to protect and ensure their success. Locke compares this style of parenting to growing a bonsai tree—delicate and overly sheltered, leaving the child unable to cope with real-world challenges.

Judith explained in a frank but delicate way, that overparenting can lead to children who lack resilience, independence, and problem-solving skills. Her message is especially important for parents to hear because it highlights the long-term impact of overparenting. By constantly stepping in to solve problems or prevent discomfort, parents may be doing more harm than good.

The central message is about striking a balance between being supportive and allowing children to face difficulties, which ultimately helps them grow into more resilient adults.

I found her insights for parents so relevant in today’s fast-paced, high-pressure world. By being overly protective and managing so many aspects of our children’s lives, we unintentionally hinder their ability to cope with challenges. They will have challenges, lots of them, and that is healthy for them. Children need the opportunity to face difficulties, make mistakes, and learn from them in order to develop vital life skills like problem-solving, responsibility, and emotional resilience. These skills will help them to navigate the ever-changing world they live in.

At school, we are working to nurture resilience and self-reliance in our students, and Judith’s principles complement this effort beautifully. By sharing her advice with our College community, we can work together to support the development of well-rounded, confident, and capable young people.

Judith has released books for parents titled The Bonsai Child and The Bonsai Student. They discuss the issues with modern highly effortful parenting and detail practical strategies for parents to use with their children in either the home or school contexts. Both are available to purchase at Amazon.

It was wonderful to see so many of our parents attend the final Empowering Parenting Workshop of 2024.

Mrs Sheridan Carey, Director of Student Wellbeing

AIC Esports is on this Saturday!
On Saturday 19 October, Villanova College is hosting the third annual AIC Esports competition from 8:45am in the Hanrahan Theatre. The AIC is perhaps the only sporting organisation in Australia that has adopted an esports round, acknowledging the diversity of competitive opportunities for students in schools. There are organisations that run esports for schools, but the AIC remains the only organisation that incorporates esports into its annual calendar at this stage.

This Saturday, two teams of five – six players from each AIC school will compete against other schools in Minecraft 5 vs 5 Capture the Flag. Capture the Flag is a fast-paced live action game where teams must attack the opposition’s fort to capture their flag, whilst securing and protecting their own. The mechanics of the game within Minecraft challenges players to demonstrate a high level of combative survival skills in an agile team environment. Our two teams are well prepared, and eagerly looking forward to defending our title of Champion School from 2023!

Esports events are like no other. The event will feature exceptional lighting, camera work, streamed gameplay and sound provided by the Villanova AV crew. Admission is free and open to all. If your family members would like to see what competitive Minecraft esports looks like, or to support our own teams in action, please come along! Please note there are no canteen facilities available on the day, and our program runs from 8:45am to 1pm. You may come and go as you please.

Best wishes to our teams, thank you to our technical crew and officiating volunteers, and I look forward to reporting on the outcome of this unrivalled event in a future Villa View.

Mr Jason Lane, Director of E-Learning

Lessons and Rehearsals
As we move past the Gala Concert series, preparations begin for our 2025 ensembles.  Teachers are chasing up the final outstanding audition submissions.  Once these have been viewed, we will be communicating our ensemble lists for 2025.

There will be some change to ensemble rehearsal times for those students moving to a different group.  Please be aware that this communication will come to you and your son via email.  This time is a short adjustment period as we move toward forming our new groups.  I appreciate everyone’s patience as we prepare for another great year of music making.

Gala Concert Series
Although the weather conspired against us for both events, I would like to share that we are happy with the performances shared by our ensembles over the past two evenings of music.  We are grateful to the parents and friends who were able to join us, particularly on Tuesday evening when it seemed we would be washed off the hill into Easts Leagues Club!

Congratulations must go to all musicians for their efforts in preparing this program after festival.  I would like to share the gratitude of our music community for the effort and investment of our Senior Musicians who shared the stage for the last time with their colleagues.  Thanks must also go to our music support group for their flexibility in working around the various weather challenges that came our way.

We now look forward to our Christmas Concerts that are on the horizon in November!

Celebration of Excellence
Celebration of Excellence will be convened again in the QPAC Concert Hall on Tuesday 5 November.  We will have a number of students participating in this event as per previous years.  Students in Symphonic Band, Sinfonia String Orchestra, Big Band, and Irish Ensemble 1 will be performing during the formalities; students in Guitar Ensemble 1, Chamber Brass, and Chamber Winds will be providing some music in the foyer prior to the event.

Information regarding logistics and ticketing for this event will be distributed shortly.  Please stay across emails for this information.

Christmas Extravaganza and JS Christmas Concert
We will be hosting two Christmas Concerts this year on Tuesday 19 November.  Our Junior School Christmas Concert will be convened during Assembly time – 10:00am – in Hanrahan Theatre.  This will be final performances of our Year 5 Band and String Orchestra for 2024.  Information regarding this event will be emailed to Year 5 families a little later this month.

Our Christmas Extravaganza for all other musicians will be convened in the evening on Tuesday 19 November.  This event will be shared in Goold Hall so that we may avoid any more weather mishaps!  Ticketing and logistical information will be distributed regarding this event shortly.

Key Dates Term 3
As we look ahead across the term, please ensure we pencil the following dates into your diary:

Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers
Our fantastic Music Support Group have organised an innovative fundraiser for Villanova College.  You may have heard the buzz about our Villanova Camp Chairs and Wildcat Coolers…  the MUST HAVE items for the beach/cricket/park/fishing/BBQ/etc.

Villanova Branded Camp Chairs – $35; Wildcat Coolers – $30
All items can be purchased via TryBooking through the following link:  https://www.trybooking.com/BMEML

Purchases can be collected from the Music Office and all profits go to the Music Support Group.

Entertainment Publications Memberships
Entertainment memberships are one of the Music Support Groups main fund-raisers.  Just click on the link to purchase a membership and obtain ongoing special deals throughout the year.

Thank you all for your ongoing support of Music at Villanova College.

Mr Michael Jones, Director of Music

Director of Sport Address
As the end of 2024 approaches, we get very little time to reflect as trials and training for Term 1 2025 Sports ramp up over the next few weeks.

Swimming trials have already concluded with our Gold and Green Squads selected to continue training. All registered students in AFL, Cricket and Volleyball commence selection trials from next week (Week 4). More information in the sections below.

Congratulations to our Primary AFL team for their exceptional performances at the recent Queensland AFL Schools Competition. Coach Mr Conlan and the team made the State Final, falling agonisingly close to defending their title from 2023, going down 20-22. Well done to all boys involved.

A final message from me regarding the Strength & Conditioning facility (gym) at Villanova College. All students who attend the gym are reminded of some simple rules, so that we continue to share this space of the College in a respectful manner:

• Students must leave school bags on bag racks around the College, on the mezzanine level of Goold Hall or in the change rooms at the bottom of Goold Hall. Bags are not to be left on the floor or surrounding areas outside the gym.
• Students changing before or after gym sessions must do this on the mezzanine level of Goold Hall or in the change rooms at the bottom of Goold Hall.
• The pool area must not be accessed at any time for changing unless a staff member is on duty in the area.
• Music and noise within and around the gym area must be at an appropriate and respectful level (especially early mornings from 6:45am). This noise impacts not only the local community, but more so Villanova College staff members with offices situated around Goold Hall. This is one area that needs to be improved.
• Students attending Sport and/or gym sessions in the mornings must be changed and ready for school first bell by 8:25am. Training in the morning is never an excuse to be late for class.

Mr Shaun McLean, Director of Sport

Sport Sign-Ons
Registrations for Term 1, 2025 Sport, AFL, Cricket, Swimming and Volleyball have now closed. Students registering late need to collect a Late Registration Form from the Sports Office, have the form signed at home and return it to the Sports Office.
To keep up to date with selection trials and training schedules, please visit the Locker Room Overview page, and the individual Locker Room sport pages (e.g. Swimming page, Volleyball page, etc).

All registered students, plus those new to the College in 2025, must attend selection trials (at least one session) to be considered for AIC team selection.

Communications
Families are reminded to access all Sport information via the Villanova College website and the Villanova College App. The Locker Room Overview page provides updated information regarding training schedules and current AIC/trial draws.

Training Schedules
The Term 4 Training Schedule, for Weeks 2 and 3 only, is now available on The Locker Room Overview page of the Villanova College website.
Selection trial schedules for AFL, Cricket and Volleyball are now available on the Locker Room Overview and sport specific pages of the website.

• AFL Trials – Years 6-Open (2025) – Weeks 4 and 5, Term 4, commencing Monday 21 October.
• Cricket Trials – Years 6-Open (2025) – Week 4 only, Term 4, commencing Monday 21 October.
• Volleyball Trials – Years 7-Open (2025) – Weeks 4-6, Term 4, commencing Wednesday afternoon 23 October.

Please visit the website Locker Room for specific dates and timings for 2025 Year Level trials. Please note all trials are in 2025 Year Level – if your son is currently in Year 7, he needs to trial with the Year 8 (2025) group.

Save the dates – Sporting Tours, Camps and Clinics

• Christmas holidays 2024/2025 – Cricket Oblate Tour to Perth, Volleyball AVSC Tournament Gold Coast & Swim Camp at Tallebudgera.
• ** International Tour ** – Football & Rugby Tour to Japan – Easter 2025. Approved.
• ** International Tour ** – Basketball Tour to USA – Christmas holidays 2025/2026. Pending approval.

Sport Uniforms
Families are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Villanova College Uniform Look Book. This information is found on the College website Uniform Shop page. Opening hours for the Uniform Shop can also be found here. All students selected in AIC teams are expected to wear the correct uniform for AIC fixtures each week.

Sport Contact List
If you are requiring information about a specific Sport, in the first instance, visit the website Locker Room page. If you need further clarification, please contact the relevant Coordinator below. For any training or game absences, please contact your Sport Coordinator.

Director of Sport – Shaun McLean, smclean@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC AFL Coordinator – Matt Conlan, mconlan@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Cricket Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Swimming Coordinator – Juanita Jacobs, jjacobs@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Volleyball Coordinator – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Cross-Country Coordinator – Brian Pascoe – bpascoe@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Chess Coordinator – Kath Underhill, kunderhill@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Football Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Rugby Union Coordinator – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Golf Coordinator – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Basketball Coordinator – Contact, sportsoffice@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Rugby League Coordinator – Contact, sportsoffice@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Tennis Coordinator – Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Track & Field Coordinator – Anthony Kemp, akemp@vnc.qld.edu.au
AIC Water Polo Coordinator – Juanita Jacobs, jjacobs@vnc.qld.edu.au
Composite District Sport – Todd Kropp, tkropp@vnc.qld.edu.au
Lytton District Sport – Chris Everding, ceverding@vnc.qld.edu.au

Wet weather cancellationsIf there is any reason to cancel training sessions or weekend games, this information will be posted to the Villa App in the Notices section or emailed to the specific students and their parents. Please ensure you have downloaded the Villa App and updated your preferences and settings.

The Villa Sports Department will endeavour to cancel morning training sessions by 6am and afternoon training sessions by 1pm. If a training session is cancelled, boys are not able to be dropped off to the training venue as there will not be supervision present. Please check the Villa App and your emails regularly for these notifications.

If any AIC fixtures are cancelled, we will follow the same procedure above. Timing will be dependent on when that information becomes available.

AFL
Selection trials for all registered AFL players (Years 6-Open 2025) commence from this Monday 21 October. Please visit the Locker Room page to view the full trial schedule dates and times. All sessions are at Coorparoo AFL and transport is organised for the students one-way back to the College in the mornings and to Coorparoo in the afternoons.

Mr Brian Pascoe, AFL Coordinator for Term 4

Cricket
AIC – Villanova Cricket – save the dates:

• Week 4 of Term 4 (2025 Cricket selection trials at Little Langlands nets). The schedule for the selection trials can be found in the locker room section of the college website.
• Sunday the 27 October (Internal cricket trials at Villa Park) the schedule for the internal trials can now be found in the locker room section of the college website.
• Weeks 5-9 of Term 4. Aggregate squads weekly training at Little Langlands nets.
• Saturday 9 November. Team trials against Iona College for 7A,8A,9A,10A, 2^nd XI and 1^st XI teams.
• Wednesday 4 December. 6A, 10A, 2^nd XI and 1^st XI trials Vs Gregory Terrace.
• Sunday 8^th – Friday the 12^{th of} Oblate cricket tour to Perth, WA.

With regards to the cricket trials vs Iona (Saturday 9 November). We have planned for these trials to be conducted in the afternoon commencing at 1.30pm (except for 1^st XI which will be all day). This will involve certain teams across the College. We are aware that most club games are played in the morning. However, earlier this week I was made aware there are some afternoon zone cricket fixtures in both EDJCA and Bears planned during the season. It was suggested that boys involved in these games could request via their clubs for their games to be played in the morning on these weekends, if a clash occurs. We hope to publish our AIC Cricket season schedule soon, so our Cricket community has time to consider any further clashes that may occur.

Please email Mr Nathan Dufty, ndufty@vnc.qld.edu.au, if you have any questions regarding Villanova Cricket.

Mr Nathan Dufty, Cricket Coordinator

Swimming
Swimming trials concluded last week and our Gold and Green Squads have been selected to continue training from Week 3.
All Swimming families are reminded there is now a payment pending for your participation in our AIC Swim Squads. The costs cover pool hire and coaching.

Please visit Parent Lounge to make payment for the 2024/2025 season. Note the three different payment categories. RSVP for payments is mid-November.

Mrs Juanita Jacobs, Swimming Coordinator

Volleyball
Selection trials for all registered Volleyball players (Years 7-Open 2025) commence from this Wednesday afternoon 23 October. Please visit the Locker Room page to view the full trial schedule dates and times. Note Volleyball trials continue for three weeks, with a number of days where Goold Hall is unavailable due to College events and exams.

Mr Todd Kropp, Volleyball Coordinator

AIC Touch Football
The AIC Touch Football carnival day is this Saturday 19 October at St Laurence’s College playing fields at Runcorn. The draw and information documents are available on the Locker Room Overview page. Team lists are available on Parent Lounge. Good luck to all students on Saturday.

AIC Water Polo
The AIC Water Polo carnival day is this Sunday 20 October at Marist College Ashgrove. The draw and information documents are available on the Locker Room Overview page and the Water Polo page. Team lists are available on Parent Lounge. Good luck to all students on Sunday.

Primary AFL – State Runners Up
Our primary AFL representative team consisting of boys from Years 5-6 competed in the StreetSmarts AFL Primary Boys AFLQ State Championships held in Maroochydore from Friday 11 – Saturday 12 October. Playing against the best teams from across the State, the boys demonstrated exceptional determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the two-day event.

The tournament kicked off on Friday with an exciting atmosphere, as teams gathered to display their skill and talent. Our boys quickly found their rhythm defeating Siena Catholic Primary School by 29 points, St Mary’s Primary School by 35 points in the first two pool games before we met our archrivals, St Laurence’s College. In what was a see-sawing battle, Villa edged in front with only seconds to go, winning the match by six points. St Vincent’s Primary School was our next opponent, and again our boys stood firm, winning the match by two points.

By finishing top of our pool, we qualified for the semi-final knockout stage against Peregian State School. Villa steamrolled the opposition, winning by 32 points, setting up a rematch against St Vincent’s Primary School in the Grand Final on Saturday.

The Grand Final was a thrilling encounter! Villa edged in front in the first quarter and held the lead throughout the match until the final minute when St Vincent’s kicked a goal to put themselves in front. In a desperate tussle in the dying seconds, we fell just short, losing the match by two points.

Each player gave their all, and their growth as a team throughout the tournament was simply fantastic. Congratulations to Jude Thompson (C), Freddy Carter (VC), Angus Shand, Eli Szolomajer, Ollie Symons, Lachlan Carloss, Henry Whitbourne, Xavier Blake, Archie Danks-Freer, Will Taylor, John Schmidt, Oscar Dent, Angus Mahon, Fred McIntyre, Luca-Jay Roa, Joey Gebka, Zac Grady, and Archie Moore.

A special mention to Jude Thompson, who was adjudged Villa’s best player throughout the tournament.

Thanks to Villa Old Boys, Charlie Corrigan and Isaac Solomon for their input and support throughout the carnival and to the many parents who cheered from the sidelines.

We are incredibly proud of how each and every member of the team represented Villa.

Mr Matt Conlan, Primary AFL Coach

Strength & Conditioning
The training schedule for Weeks 2 and 3 can be viewed on the Locker Room page. This includes the schedule for S&C. The schedule for Weeks 4-9 will be available soon.

Speed & Agility Training – Years 5-8 students
The Term 4 programme is being held on Friday mornings from 11/10 to 29/11. Registrations are now closed.

The Speed & Agility Programme for Years 5-8 students will be back again in 2025.

Met East Cricket (15-19 years)
Any students wishing to trial for the 15-19 years MET East Cricket team is to please see Mr Dufty in the Sports Office. Forms are to be completed and returned to the Sports Office by no later than Wednesday 30 October.

External achievements
Reuben W (Year 10) has carried the momentum of a great AIC season through the September holidays with some outstanding tournament performances. He and his partner won the 16 and under doubles title at the State Age Championships in Rockhampton. Reuben followed this up with another doubles title and singles runner up at the Gold Coast, then won his first singles title in the 16 and underage group with a doubles runner up at Samford. He has won nine titles already this year across two age groups and is looking forward to a hot summer. Well done Reuben, an amazing achievement!

Villa Sport – humble in victory, gracious in defeat.

Derby Day for Ladies – Saturday 2 November, 2.6pm

2024 Villanova College Celebration of Excellence Evening – Tuesday 5 November, 6.30pm
In a year of innovation and change at Villanova College, Mr Paul Begg cordially invites all Villanova families to attend this major event in the College’s calendar, our 2024 Celebration of Excellence awards evening. Held at Queensland Performing Arts Centre, the awards evening will acknowledge outstanding achievement across Academic, Cultural, Service and Sporting Fields in Years 5 – 11. Join us for a memorable night of recognition while being entertained by our home-grown talented musicians. Let’s honour excellence and be inspired together!

Once the lists are confirmed, parents of award winners will be contacted on Monday 21 October. Additionally, this list will also be displayed at the College for students. Tickets are now available. At this stage the limit is 4 tickets per booking. Book your tickets at: https://qpac.com.au/whats-on/2024/villanova-college-2024-celebration-of-excellence

Doors open at 6pm. Ceremony will commence at 6:30pm and conclude around 8:30 pm. This year we are expecting a full house, so please be considerate and only book what you require. If you require additional seats, please contact Kath Underhill at kunderhill@vnc.qld.edu.au.

Students With Disability Travel Rebate
Semester 2

• Was your child included on the latest Commonwealth Census as a student with a disability requiring supplementary, substantial or extensive adjustments?
• Does your child’s Personalised Learning Plan confirm their transport needs are demonstrably different to those of their same aged peers by reason of their disability?
• Has your school’s learning support teacher assessed your child’s Travel Capability Rating as ‘semi-independent’ or more dependent?

Visit our website to see if you qualify for financial assistance to help with the cost of transport and
apply at www.schooltransport.com.au during October.

Late applications cannot be accepted after 31 October 2024.