CONNECT
Every learner reaching their God-given potential
A NOTE FROM OUR PRINCIPAL
Atthe beginning of this term College staff were involved in a two-day staff retreat. The theme was our formation as Christians working in a Christian school and what that meant in our respective roles – whether teaching, or in one of the many non-teacher roles vital to the running of a school. All schools strive to do their best for their student cohort, but a Christian school seeks to do so in a way that doesn’t only consider the academic learning of a student, but in a way that learning is presented within a biblical framework which acknowledges God as the source of all wisdom and knowledge and that we only find true fulfilment when He is included in all aspects of our lives. Not only should our curriculum be taught within a biblical worldview, but that all aspects of school life – what is sometimes referred to as the ‘informal curriculum’ – is consistent with what we teach and is Godhonouring. I am pleased that Christian formation is an ongoing focus for our staff as we build upon what was learnt at the retreat with follow-up staff sessions throughout this term and through to the end of the year.
Jesus calls us to be a witness in our local community and to the broader world. As a Christian College, we have been considering ways to increase our involvement in mission and to encourage our students to be more missionally aware. In keeping with this aim we hosted a group of 15 Year 9 students from Indonesia earlier this month. Their twoday visit was designed to be an immersive experience as they spent most of their time with our Year 9 students. It is our hope that this small experience will be a small step towards encouraging our students to be more missionally aware and active.
As we conclude the first semester, I pray that you and your family will enjoy a safe and restful break! If you are travelling over the winter break, may you travel safely.
May God bless you abundantly!
Ken Nuridin Principal
HARMONY DAY
Atthe end of Term 1, we celebrated Harmony Day across the entire College. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a rich diversity of countries and cultures represented within our student body, and Harmony Day provides a wonderful opportunity to honour and celebrate this diversity. It also offers a moment to give thanks that, as a College and as people in Christ, we are united as one family.
Students were invited to wear cultural dress or bring an item that reflects their country of origin or family heritage, or to wear something orange. The colour orange traditionally represents social communication, meaningful dialogue, and the encouragement of mutual respect.
STAFF RETREAT
To kick off Term 2, our staff gathered for a refreshing two-day retreat at RACV Goldfields Resort in Creswick. Staff were privileged to hear from guest speakers Mark Ryan (Executive Officer – South Australia) and Jennifer Trodden (Executive Officer –Victoria/Tasmania) from Christian Schools Australia, who inspired and encouraged our team.
Across the retreat, BalCC staff shared meaningful times of worship, connection, and reflection together. A wonderful way to begin the term!
HOW LIFE HAS CHANGED
The Lower Primary classes enjoyed a beautiful sunny day at Sovereign Hill, as part of their studies during Term 2 exploring how life has changed from the olden days to today.
During the visit, students searched for gold and explored a range of historic houses, noticing the similarities and differences between homes from the past and their own homes today. They also learned about candle making and each student had the opportunity to dip their own candle to take home.
At the Education Centre, students discovered what school life was like many years ago. They learned how boys and girls dressed, the kinds of jobs people had, and what a typical school day looked like.
One of the highlights of the day was playing traditional games children once enjoyed, including quoits, cup and ball, marbles, knuckles, and spinning tops. Students even had a go at washing knickerbockers on a washboard, experiencing a small part of what daily life used to involve.
It was a full and exciting day of learning, and the students thoroughly enjoyed stepping back in time together.
RHYTHMS
During Term 1 and 2 students in Upper Primary have been focusing on reading rhythms and keeping in time as an ensemble. One of the unique instruments they have been using to focus on their timing are the Boomwhackers, which are tubes that have been cut to various lengths to create different pitches. Pictured here are the Upper Primary B students playing ‘Count on Me’ by Bruno Mars.
‘LEST
WE FORGET’
Thank you to all students and staff who took part in Anzac Day commemorations across the Ballarat region and at the College this year. Our students represented the College with pride at services in Buninyong, Ballarat, and Sebastopol, including the laying of wreaths.
At our Primary and Secondary Assemblies, we came together to reflect and honour the service and sacrifice of those who have served.
Primary students also decorated poppies for an Anzac Day installation at Stockland Wendouree shopping centre.
VALE MAX DUTHIE
1946-2026
Atthe start of Term 2 we mourned the passing of John Maxwell (Max) Duthie, a former teacher at the College who was instrumental in the early days of the College as it began to offer the VCE. In time, Max taught across all secondary year levels and in later years added teaching primary classes to his ever-growing experience.
Max’s journey to teaching started in Form 4 (Year 10) at Ballarat High School, a school he attended from 1958 to 1961. His Form 4 history teacher told him, “You should finish school, go to University, become a teacher and teach history”.
Max decided that studying science at the School of Mines Ballarat was better suited to him, so he left school at the end of Form 4 and after completing studies at SMB, worked at Bendix Mintex as a quality control officer, and then at Timken. His teaching journey began in the late 1970s when he completed a Bachelor of Arts and a Diploma of Education.
In 1981 Max began working 2 days a week at Sebastopol Technical School (later to become Sebastopol Secondary College, now Phoenix P-12 Community College) while he finished his Dip Ed. This soon became 3 days a week when another staff member left the school, and he commenced full time there in 1982.
In 2001 Max left Sebastopol Secondary College, and in the following year commenced at Ballarat Christian College where he would stay until he retired from fulltime teaching in 2013. Over the time he was at BalCC he carried out many roles - teaching, timetabling, reports coordinator and Librarian, among others. Max continued doing CRT work - first at BalCC, then to return to where his education journey began at Ballarat High School, where he did both CRT work and Year 12 exam supervision, until finally finishing up in 2023.
Some quotes from colleagues and parents both at BalCC and BHS:
“It has been a privilege to know Max for many years. I learned so much from Mr D and feel privileged to have shared an office with him 20 years ago. He was a man of wisdom, kindness and quiet strength, and I will always be grateful for the memories and the example he set. Love and prayers to the whole family at this very sad time.” Dr Trent Loader
“What a guy! Always interested in, and encouraging of our family, our children, our mission work, and our welfare. Always up for a good, thoughtful chat.” Mr Peter Bartlett
A Celebration of Life service was held for Max at York Street Church of Christ.
NEW BALCC BOARD DIRECTORS
MRS SHARON CUFF
Sharon has a multicultural heritage spanning the United Kingdom, South Africa and Asia. Sharon has been a longstanding member of the Anglican faith community, a foundation that has shaped her values of service, compassion and courage. Sharon’s children are both teachers. Sharon, Gavin and their children immigrated to Australia in 2009 and settled in Clunes soon afterwards.
Sharon holds a Bachelor of Primary Education and a Master of Education, with a dual specialisation in Student Wellbeing and Leadership & Management and currently enjoys a teaching role at one of her local schools. She loves reading, travelling, gardening and hanging out with her three dogs.
DR SUJARITHA HEWITT
Sujaritha, known to many as Suja grew up in Australia and has lived in the UK and Ireland for study and work. After returning to Australia, she moved to Ballarat with her husband and children in 2023. Feeling the call of God, they planted a church in Ballarat called City on a Hill, where they minister and love serving.
Suja is a psychiatrist working at the local hospital and holds a clinical teaching role for medical students in Ballarat. Alongside her day job, she delights in her role as a wife and mother of three wonderful children. She is often found courtside at their local basketball club, singing in a community choir and hanging out at the dog park with their lovable cavalier.
PASTOR TOBY MCINTOSH
Toby was raised in a loving atheist family and attended a Christian school in Macedon, as it was the only local school. Later, Toby became a Christian whilst studying Agricultural Science at La Trobe University.
Toby worked as an Agronomist in the West Wimmera for four years before returning to Melbourne to undertake a ministry apprenticeship and study at Ridley College and Presbyterian Theological College, where he completed a Master of Divinity. Toby is married to Michelle, and they raised four active girls in Warrnambool, where Toby served as pastor of the Presbyterian church and served on the council of King’s College. In 2019, the McIntosh family moved to Ballarat, and Toby was inducted as the minister of Ebenezer Presbyterian Church. Toby enjoys good coffee, bike riding and driving his 1965 Valiant.
Departing Board Directors
We would also like to thank our departing Board Directors for their service to BalCC. We extend our sincere thanks to Lorraine Firth for her 8 years of service and Amy Leviston for her 6 years of service.
To read more about our BalCC Governance, please visit: www.balcc.vic.edu.au/about-us#college-leadership-governance
Lorraine Firth
Amy Leviston
TheSOCCER ACADEMY
Soccer Academy program runs every Thursday lunchtime and offers Year 7-9 students the chance to develop and refine their soccer skills in a supportive and engaging setting. The sessions are led by our talented Student Wellbeing Team member, Mr Moses Kalau, who has both played soccer at a professional level and been part of a Soccer Academy. The program is overseen by Haydn Croton in collaboration with Mr Kalau, with each session designed to build technical skills, improve game awareness, and boost players’ confidence and performance.
Across Primary and Secondary we have a number of Bands and Choirs, along with Clubs (Soccer, Running, Basketball, Art, Crochet, Homework) happening during recess, lunch and after school.
Please refer to the College Calendar for dates and times.
CSA REGIONAL LEADERSHIP DAY
DuringTerm 2 selected Year 12 students attended a Christian Schools Australia (CSA) Regional Leadership Day at Victory Christian College in Bendigo.
The Student Leadership Day was an exciting opportunity for senior student leaders to gather and explore how the Biblical story forms us for a life of significant meaning and purpose. While our leadership skills are important, they must be grounded in a clear sense of who God has created us to be and oriented towards a vision of God’s future. As leaders, we have the privilege of modelling a life well lived, and a responsibility to lead others towards life- and life to the full!
Here one of our Year 12 students shares about the Leadership Day:
“Last week six year twelve students had the privilege of being selected to attend a Christian Schools Australia (CSA) Regional Leadership Day at Victory Christian College. The message focused on leadership for senior secondary students. Two speakers joined us to present a Biblical and moving message based on righteous leadership effective for us to excel with.
Discussions were had between small groups with a variety of students from four schools. We discussed and shared our thoughts to each other when answering questions given by the speaker. Although some questions were challenging and powerful we worked together to answer
with meaningful and purpose driven ideas, which we later shared to everyone. Providing confident public speaking skills and initiative for group members to share answers out loud.
We delved into some topics like self-awareness and putting yourself into other people’s place, to understand how struggles can be affecting them. A point that stayed with us after the Leadership Day was the subject a life worth living, seeing how our models of desire can affect how we reach towards the life we want rather than the life God has for us. Helping us learn how God’s plan for our leadership is more important than our own plans and visions for change while in our roles.
We looked at parts of Ecclesiastes to see what can be lost if we don’t follow God’s plan. The speaker told us; don’t be someone who wouldn’t understand the meaning and purpose about your life. As the Lord guides direction for us, our understanding will be gained from the faithfulness and blessing we see in our life. The Lord gave us, leaders a heart to pour love out of for others and to work for them. We hope we can provide our leadership clearly to the College. As we show support to younger year levels, we are becoming leaders whose purpose is to serve others out of our own love for God.”
Isabella – Year 12
STUDENT & STAFF ACHIEVEMENT
Congratulations to Year 10 student Nathan and BalCC staff member Scott Collins for their outstanding achievement as members of the City of Ballarat Municipal Brass Band, who were recently crowned D Grade Australian National Brass Champions in Brisbane.
The band achieved a clean sweep of the competition, winning all four sections — Hymn, Test, Own Choice and Stage March — securing back-to-back national titles and setting their sights on a hat-trick next year.
Nathan is a talented multi-instrumentalist who plays a range of percussion instruments,
as well as piano, guitar and ukulele, and is currently learning the cornet. At the National Championships, he primarily played timpani, along with triangle. Nathan is also actively involved in the Secondary Chapel Band, where he sings and plays instruments, and he also serves on the music team at Ebenezer Presbyterian Church.
Nathan performed alongside his father, Michael, and Scott Collins from our Maintenance team, who both played the tuba during the championship event.
We love to hear about our student and staff’s achievements, so if you would like to share information and photos of achievements, please email connect@balcc.vic.edu.au
COMMEMORATIVE JACKETS
Our Year 12 students were excited to receive their 2026 commemorative jackets at the start of Term 2. This special tradition marks the beginning of an important season as they step into their role as the senior students at BalCC. These jackets are more than just part of the uniform they symbolise community, growth, and the final chapter of their school journey. We can’t wait to see all that this cohort achieves in the year ahead, as they wear their jackets with pride.
DO IT FOR DOLLY DAY
During Term 2 our some of our Year 11 VCE VM students organised a Do It for Dolly Day, as part of their Personal Development Skills project. Students from Years 7-12 were asked to come dressed up in blue and with a gold coin to donate to Dolly’s Dream.
Do It for Dolly Day is a national Australian day of action held annually to raise awareness and funds to prevent bullying, particularly among young people. People “Go Blue” by wearing blue, hosting events, and donating to Dolly’s Dream. This initiative was part of our commitment to promoting kindness, preventing bullying, and supporting positive mental health in our College community.
MARKET
Aspart of their Humanities and Social Sciences (HASS) studies, our Year 8 students have launched their own businesses and successfully held their Market Days during Term 2, selling their products to Secondary students.
MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Mother’s Day Breakfast during Term 2. It was wonderful to see so many members of our BalCC community gather together to celebrate and acknowledge the important role that mothers and those who step into these roles play in our lives.
Guests enjoyed a delicious breakfast of muffins along with barista-made drinks, thoughtfully prepared and served by our Year 9 Micah 6:8 students in Café 6:8 with staff Mrs Sarah Inglis, Mr Mat Knights and Mr Keaghan Wray. Their enthusiasm and hospitality helped create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all who attended.
A sincere thank you to all the students and staff who assisted behind the scenes and throughout the morning. Your efforts made the event such a special occasion.
MOTHER’S DAY STALL
Abig thank you to Mrs Tania Duthie for once again coordinating our much-loved annual Mother’s Day Stall for our Primary students. With a wonderful selection of gifts to choose from, students enjoyed finding the perfect surprise for the special people in their lives. Thank you also goes to Year 8, students Sarah, Esther, and Aviela, who cheerfully assisted students throughout the stall.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
During Term 2 we celebrated our
Principal, Ken Nuridin, as he reached the milestone of his 70th birthday. Staff gathered for a morning tea while Primary students joined in a special parade to help mark the occasion.
DIORAMAS
During Term 1 our Lower Primary students explored habitats and learned about what animals need to survive in their environment. Students then used air-dried clay to create their own creatures before designing detailed habitat dioramas in shoeboxes using a variety of craft materials. Each student presented their project to the class, explaining the features of their animal and its habitat.
Class of 2006 - 20 Year Reunion
Class of 2016 - 10 Year Reunion
Class of 2021 - 5 Year Reunion
Class of 2025 - 1 Year Reunion
INDONESIAN SCHOOL VISIT
During Term 2, BalCC had the pleasure of hosting fifteen Year 9 students from BPK PENABUR School in Bogor, West Java, Indonesia for two days. BPK PENABUR is one of Indonesia’s largest Christian education networks, operating 164 Christian schools across 16 cities and five provinces since its establishment in the late 1940s.
During their visit, the students were immersed in daily life at an Australian Christian school, joining our Year 7 and Year 9 students in a range of classes including Food Technology, Design Technology, Science, Physics, English, Mathematics and Art. They also enjoyed Australian-themed lunches and had the opportunity to experience the wider BalCC community, with some students joining in a game of basketball.
A highlight of the visit was the students’ participation in Secondary Chapel, where they shared three traditional dances and songs, giving our students a glimpse into Indonesian culture and creating a meaningful cultural exchange.
The visit formed part of a School Immersion Program organised by Adonta Education, a Jakarta-based organisation that partners with schools to facilitate international school immersion experiences, homestays and educational excursions.
BPK PENABUR’s vision is to be a Christian educational institution that excels in Faith, Knowledge and Service. Through quality education grounded in Christian values, the school seeks to develop each student’s God-given potential and equip them to make a positive impact in their communities.
We were delighted to welcome the BPK PENABUR students to BalCC and trust their time with us was both enriching and memorable.
To learn more about BPK PENABUR, visit: https://bpkpenabur.or.id/sd-nasional-plus-bpk-penaburbogor?menu=beranda
A PLACE AT THE TABLE
DuringTerm 2 we were excited to announce the commencement of ‘A Place at the Table’, a partnership between BalCC VCE VM Year 11 and 12 students and The Salvation Army Ballarat. The program operates on Friday mornings, offering a nutritious breakfast in a welcoming café-style setting for people experiencing food insecurity, homelessness, mental health challenges, or related disadvantage.
More than a meal, the program creates a safe and dignified space for human connection, hospitality, and belonging.
Guests also receive take-home food hampers and can be connected with broader Salvation Army support services, including practical assistance, wellbeing support, and community connection.
Through this applied learning partnership, students develop skills in hospitality, teamwork, social awareness, and service, while contributing meaningfully to the wellbeing of the Ballarat community.
“Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.” Romans 12:13 (NIV)
STAFF VS STUDENTS
DuringTerm 2, the Kerry Hutton Centre was buzzing with excitement as our Secondary students took on staff in a fun and competitive basketball game. Both teams were cheered on by an enthusiastic crowd, with plenty of great plays and teamwork on display throughout the match.
In the end, the staff claimed the win with a final score of 36–24, but the real victory was the fantastic sense of community and fun shared by everyone involved. Well done to all players and supporters for making it such an enjoyable event!
GARDEN TO KITCHEN
It has been wonderful to see produce from our College garden making its way into Upper Primary and Year 7 and 8 Food Technology classes during Term 2. Students have been baking potatoes and making delicious soups using fresh, gardengrown ingredients, which is a fantastic way to connect learning from garden to plate!
CANBERRA CAMP
DuringTerm 2 our Upper Primary students had a fantastic and memorable Canberra Camp, filled with meaningful learning experiences, fun activities and opportunities to strengthen friendships.
Highlights included attending a moving service at the Australian War Memorial, where students had the privilege of hearing from veteran Dell Madge and asking thoughtful questions, as well as exploring Parliament House and participating in a role-play activity to experience the process of passing a bill.
Students also deepened their understanding of democracy through activities at the National Electoral Education Centre and the Museum of Australian Democracy, while handson learning continued at Questacon. Alongside the educational experiences, students enjoyed visiting the National Capital Exhibition, exploring the National Arboretum Canberra and taking part in a kite-making workshop, with the perfect windy conditions allowing everyone to successfully fly their kites high into the sky. It was a wonderful trip full of learning, discovery and special memories together.
LEGACY’S ANZAC CEREMONY
2026 marked the 94th year of Melbourne Legacy’s ANZAC Commemoration Ceremony for Students.
Secondary and Primary school students from around Victoria keep the Anzac spirit alive by commemorating the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who have served our country.
Honorary guests and dignitaries were in attendance to address the students, and the ceremony included Defence Force Cadets, school band & choir and a RAAF fly-over. Students were encouraged to honour deceased relatives by wearing medals. Thank you to Year 10 students, Luciana, Melissa and Skyla for representing BalCC at the service.
CSEN RALLY DAY
During Term 2 selected Secondary students took part in the Christian Schools Events Network (CSEN) Western Rally Day in Netball and Badminton at Cobblebank Stadium.
An amazing day of sports with 49 of our superstar athletes showing great sportsmanship and representing BalCC with Unity and Excellence.
Both the Mixed Netball teams and Badminton teams achieved an excellent result all round.
Mixed Netball
• Year 7/8 Mixed team went to the grand finals and lost by 2 points (8-10) coming 2nd overall.
• Year 9/10 Mixed team won the grand final (14-9) coming 1st overall.
• Year 11/12 Mixed Team came 1st overall (as they were the only seniors) but won all their matches in the 9/10 division.
Badminton
• One Year 7-8 Boys Team Finished 2nd Overall.
• One 7-8 Girls Team Finished 5th Overall.
• Both 9/10 Girls Team Finished 3rd and 5th Overall.
• One Year 11-12 Boys Team Finished 2nd Overall (lost grand finals by 2 points).
Thank you to Mrs Priscilla Samuels, Mr James Milesi, Mr David Hikila, Miss Hanna Williams, Miss Allison Thomas and Mr Dale Darby for all their contributions.
STORYTIME
Our Primary students participated in the 26th National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) during term 2. This annual event is organised by Australian Libraries Information Association (ALIA), where millions of participants celebrate reading, literacy and community.
The chosen text ‘Luna Roo’ is written by football veterans Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd. It captures all the intense excitement of the game, with a heartwarming message that courage and determination are a winning combination.
Kellie John from the NSS selection panel said, “We chose Luna Roo for National Simultaneous Storytime because it captures the spirit of rising to a challenge with heart and grit. Navigating nerves, tricky opponents, and unexpected hurdles reflects the kind of determination kids face every day. Written by real players, the story pulses with authenticity and energy, making it a powerful celebration of courage, self-belief, and pushing through when things get tough.”
Before & After School Senior Study Support
Year 11 & 12 Students
A quiet and productive study space is available for students studying Year 11 & 12 subjects
The College places a high priority on Excellence, in line with this we are pleased to provide our Senior Students (Studying Year 11 & 12 subjects – apart from Year 10 I&E) with a further opportunity for a quiet space to utilise for study, before and after school.
A member of the College staff will be present during these times.
What’s Provided?
• Quiet supervised study environment
• Reliable internet access
• Space to complete homework and revision
• Casual attendance welcome
Important Information
• Students must sign in and out each session
• College Values & Student Code of Conduct apply
• Students leaving without a parent must have a mobile phone
• Entry and exit via the College Admin Building
Attendance is optional — students are welcome to attend regularly or casually.
Please ensure all parent contact and medical details are up to date on Parent Lounge.
Morning Sessions
Tuesday – Thursday 8:00am – 8:40am
Afternoon Sessions
Monday – Thursday 3:30pm – 4:20pm
BalCC - M1 Building During School Term Location
BASKETBALL HOUSE
During Term 2, our 4-week Secondary House Basketball Tournament came to an exciting conclusion with a thrilling grand final between Genesis and Unity. It was a hard-fought game with multiple lead changes and a close finish, but Unity ended up the final victors with the scoreline of 39-36.
The tournament was open to all Year 7–12 students, as well as staff, and created a fantastic opportunity for the whole College community to come along and cheer on the players. It was wonderful to see strong participation across all age groups, with several lower secondary students delivering standout performances in the grand final and proving they could compete confidently alongside older players.
Thank you to all the staff and students from Unity, Genesis, and Slessor who participated in the House Basketball Tournament over the past month. Thank you to Mrs Priscilla Samuels and Mr Haydn Croton for their excellent organisation of the tournament, as well as to the staff and students who generously volunteered their time as referees, scorers, and commentators.
LEGACY PUBLIC SPEAKIING COMPETITION
This year’s Legacy Junior Public Speaking Competition was the largest regional event yet, with 21 students from seven Ballarat schools participating. BalCC was proudly represented by Year 7 students, Emma and Alishya, who delivered to a panel of adjudicators practiced speeches on themes related to Legacy and community service, with both students demonstrating impressive thought, courage, and discipline.
Students also took part in an impromptu 5-minute speaking challenge, responding to the topic: “If you ruled the world, what three
changes would you make?” Both students presented thoughtful and engaging responses. As Year 7 students, Emma and Alishya gained valuable experience and are encouraged to participate again next year.
The two winners and one runner-up are invited to compete at the State finals in September, and each state selects one representative to the National final in November. Both events will be held in Ballarat if families are interested in attending. The regional winners are also invited to read a poem at the Remembrance Day service in Ballarat in November.
ART CREATIVE PRACTICE & VIS COM
DuringTerm 2, Year 11 and 12 students studying Art Creative Practice and Visual Communication and Design took part in an excursion to the Ian Potter Centre and Melbourne Museum. As part of their studies, students have been exploring folio development, artist responses and the role of gallery spaces. At the Ian Potter Centre the students viewed the 2026 Top Arts Exhibition, which is a showcase of innovative artwork, folios, and creative practices by 43 exceptional VCE Art Making and Exhibiting and VCE Art Creative Practice students. Students also explored some of Melbourne’s iconic laneways, where they viewed a range of vibrant street art and gained an appreciation for this unique form of artistic expression.
CSEN CROSS COUNTRY
Towards the end of Term 2 selected Primary and Secondary students headed to the Christian Schools Events Network (CSEN) Cross Country event at Bundoora Park, which saw students from Christian schools across compete.
Our Secondary team achieved an excellent result, finishing 3rd overall in their division. There were also several impressive individual performances, including Esther B, who claimed 1st place in the Girls Under 14 race, and Lexi C, who finished 3rd. In the Boys Under 16 event, Cooper C secured 2nd place, while Jonah A crossed the line in 3rd place.
Congratulations to all students who competed and represented BalCC so well.
PROACTIVE POLICING
Our Year 7-12 students have been taking part in presentations from the Proactive Policing Unit.
The Proactive Policing Unit utilises age appropriate and evidence-based education programs and resources to build positive engagement between young people and police, while equipping students with the knowledge and skills to be able to take actionable steps to maintain their safety.
The 60-minute presentations are designed to be informative and interactive, and students are able to ask questions that can be answered by the officers in attendance.
Ballarat Christian College, like many Ballarat schools, has had a positive relationship with the Proactive Policing Unit for many years.
STAFF VS SECONDARY STUDENTS NETBALL
At the end of Term 2, a Staff vs Secondary Students Netball match took place in the Kerry Hutton Centre, with plenty of enthusiasm and friendly rivalry on display. Congratulations to the Secondary students, who claimed a 30–14 victory. The staff team put in a great effort and battled hard throughout the game, but the students proved too strong on the day. It was a fun event and a great example of the positive relationships between students and staff.
YEAR 11 RETREAT
In the last week of Term 2 our Year 11 students took part in a 5-day retreat at Adekate Camp in Dean, as part of their Christian Studies training. The retreat forms a major part of their study for the Christian Living course, as they engage in a series of activities, discussions and periods of silent reflection. The focus of the retreat is based around three questions: “Who am I?” “How can I discover God’s will?” and “How can I live in forgiveness?”
END OF TERM CHAPEL
We finished Term 2 with a Whole College Chapel, bringing students and staff together for a time of praise and reflection. Led by our College Captains, the Chapel featured worship from our Years 7-8 and Years 9-12 Chapel Bands, while Year 10 student, Nathan performed a solo rendition of ‘Precious Love’.
Pastors Jess and Chris Groszek from one2one Church of Christ shared a message from Galatians 5, encouraging us to practise the Fruits of the Spirit as we seek to keep in step with the Spirit in our daily lives.
The Chapel concluded with an energetic performance of ‘Phenomena’ by the Primary Band. It was a wonderful way to finish the term, and we hope all our College community have a safe, restful and enjoyable Term 2 break.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
Galatians 5: 22-25 (NIV)
PORTLAND
DuringTerm 2 our Year 9 students enjoyed a five-day coastal camp to Portland as part of the Micah 6:8 program, which complements the core curriculum and focuses on building resilience and life skills. The Year 9s took part in sunrise devotions on the beach, completed the Cape Nelson loop walk, travelled on the historic Portland cable tram, explored the Maritime Museum and enjoyed some seal watching along the coast.
The Year 9 students worked together in unfamiliar groups to achieve set goals. They explored and deepened their understanding of the local history, geography and environmental significance of the Portland area, including its volcanic landscapes, European settlement, maritime history and industrial development.
AFL PROGRAM
During Term 2 Middle and Upper Primary students have benefitted from 4 weeks of AFL coaching sponsored by the Australian Sporting Schools Program this term. AFL Victorian coach Kobi visited each week and guided our students is some energetic games, kicking and hand passing skills.
