Term 4, Week 3
MACQUARIE Messenger
From the
Principal
The Way - Leadership, Humility and Service
Term 4 is well underway, bringing with it the familiar sense that there is much still to accomplish, even as we move steadily towards the end of the school year. Across the School, this season is marked by both anticipation and reflection as assessments loom, milestones are celebrated, and we begin to look ahead to the opportunities of a new year. The HSC examinations will conclude on Friday 6 November, marking the culmination of 13 years of formal education for the Class of 2026. We continue to pray for our students as they navigate this significant milestone and trust that they will approach each examination with confidence, clarity and peace. At the same time, our attention turns to the Class of 2027 as they begin their Year 12 journey and enter the final chapter of their school life. Today, we commissioned our new Year 12 Captains and Prefects, recognising both the privilege and responsibility that come with leadership. Their commissioning marks the beginning of an important year of service and influence within our School community. Last week, our student leaders joined students from 34 Anglican schools across New South Wales at St Andrew’s Cathedral in Sydney for a special leadership service led by the Archbishop of Sydney, Kanishka Raffel. The service provided an opportunity to reflect on the nature of leadership and the responsibilities entrusted to young people who have been called to serve others. The Archbishop reminded those gathered that genuine leadership begins with humility. He encouraged students to acknowledge their mistakes when they occur and to have the courage to “own up to it”. While this can be difficult for all of us, our willingness to accept responsibility is often one of the clearest indicators of strength of character. He also observed that most people are remarkably willing to forgive. Mistakes are part of being human; division and conflict often deepen when our focus remains on blame rather than restoration, responsibility and growth. The Archbishop also reflected on the brokenness we see in our world and the ways in which people can be hurt by the actions of others. Yet he pointed to the profound influence of Jesus on our world and the enduring impact of Christian faith in shaping compassion, kindness, grace and service. These qualities remain essential not only for healthy relationships, but also for the development of strong character and effective leadership. “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.
From the
In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:3–5
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Principal
These words provide a compelling model for leadership. True leadership is not expressed through status or recognition, but through service, humility and a willingness to put others first. We are proud of our students across the School. Every day, many step forward and choose to care for others, even when doing so is difficult or unpopular. Such choices are marks of courage and responsibility. Our instinct may sometimes be to defend ourselves, deflect responsibility or assign blame. However, our shared humanity is revealed through our actions and choices.
Mrs Alison Mitchell PRINCIPAL
From the
Chaplain Exploring Faith and Hope with Dubbo Anglican Church It is a great delight to partner with Dubbo Anglican Church and the wonderful work they are doing. Currently, a number of our students are working through an Anglican confirmation course where Senior School students are exploring the Christian faith and the Good News in the Bible with Andrew Thornhill and me. It has been a great joy to sit with students and spend deliberate time exploring the bible and what it says. I’d like to draw your attention to an upcoming ‘Hope Explored’ course running over three consecutive Saturdays at Dubbo Anglican Church, beginning 7 November. The course is a relaxed, non-intrusive exploration of the Christian faith. Can I encourage you to seriously consider spending some deliberate time exploring the Christian faith for yourself and to ask questions. You can sign up via the attached flyer and QR code. I note also that morning tea and kids’ supervision are provided. Dubbo Anglican Church has three regular services, and anyone is welcome at any of these (no registration required). 6pm Saturdays (traditional), 8am Sunday (traditional) and 10am Sunday (family).
Romans 15:13
Rev. Tom Owen CHAPLAIN
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May the God of hope fill you with joy and peace as you trust in him
From the
Deputy Student Voice: Year 9 Focus Groups Across this week and next, students throughout Year 9 have the opportunity to meet with Mrs Mitchell and I in small focus groups to share their perspectives on life at Macquarie. These conversations provide valuable opportunities to hear what students are enjoying and understand what makes their school experience positive. A strong theme emerging from the discussions is the supportive and inclusive nature of our school community. Students have described Macquarie as a safe environment, where teachers are approachable, passionate about their subjects and willing to help. They also value the respect shown to them by staff and the opportunities to build friendships across year groups. Students have recognised the clarity of our expectations and behaviour frameworks, describing expectations as realistic, reasonable and easy to understand. It has been encouraging to hear students connect these clear expectations with a positive environment for learning. The breadth of learning and co-curricular opportunities has also featured strongly. Students appreciate elective choices such as Commerce, Child Studies, Textiles and Food Technology, alongside the academic and sporting opportunities available. Sporting carnivals, equestrian activities, netball, show opportunities and our cattle and sheep teams were all highlighted, with students recognising that there is something to suit a wide range of interests. Our learning spaces also received positive feedback, with students particularly appreciating them as welcoming spaces. Well done to Year 9 for approaching these conversations thoughtfully and contributing such insightful, detailed feedback. Student voice is an important part of understanding our school community and informing future planning. We value their contributions and look forward to continuing these conversations.
Mrs Marina Simcox DEPUTY PRINCIPAL
Head of
Junior School A sincere thank you to all the parents who attended our 2026 Early Years Information Sessions and to the many children who participated in our Prep and Kindergarten Orientation experiences this week. It has been a joy to welcome our newest families to the Macquarie community and begin building the partnerships that are so important in supporting every child's learning journey. Starting school is a significant milestone for both children and their families. Our orientation program is intentionally designed to support children as they navigate this exciting step, helping them build confidence, establish routines and become comfortable in their new environment before their first official day of school. This week, our new students had the opportunity to become familiar with their future classrooms, teachers, playgrounds and peers. These experiences help establish a sense of belonging and confidence as students begin to picture themselves as part of our School community. As we partner together in preparing children for this transition, we are reminded of God's promise:
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The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Deuteronomy 31:8 (NIV)
This verse is a wonderful reminder that as our children step into new experiences, they do not do so alone. We pray that each child feels encouraged, supported and excited about the journey ahead. To further support our incoming Kindergarten families, we are delighted to continue our Kindergarten Kickstart Webinar Series. These weekly webinars provide practical strategies and helpful insights to support a smooth start to school, covering topics such as routines, independence, social development and preparing for the Kindergarten year. Some simple ways families can support the transition to school include: Talk positively about school: Encourage conversations about the exciting opportunities that await while addressing any worries or questions. Build consistent routines: Regular bedtime, morning and mealtime routines help children feel secure and prepared. Promote independence: Encourage children to practise everyday tasks such as packing their school bag, organising belongings and managing simple responsibilities. We are looking forward to welcoming our newest students and families in 2027 and sharing in a year of learning, growth and discovery together.
Mrs Keera Job HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL
Head of
Junior School Junior School Student Leadership Earlier this week, we enjoyed hearing from our Year 5 students who have nominated for positions within the 2027 Junior School Leadership Team. It has been wonderful to see students step forward with confidence, sharing their experiences and aspirations for serving our School community. Our nominees represent a diverse range of interests and achievements across academics, sport, the arts, music and community involvement. More importantly, they have demonstrated the courage to challenge themselves and embrace opportunities for growth. Leadership opportunities encourage students to develop communication, responsibility and service while reflecting on the positive influence they can have on younger members of our School community. We congratulate all students who have nominated and thank them for their willingness to serve others. We wish each nominee the very best as the selection process continues.
Stage 3 2027 – One to One Learning As families prepare for 2027, we remind parents that all students in Years 5 to 12 are required to have their own device as part of Macquarie's One to One Learning Program. This program encourages students to take greater ownership of their learning through collaboration, creativity and access to digital resources, while enabling teachers to cater to individual learning needs. Students currently in Year 4 who will be entering Year 5 in 2027 will be required to bring a suitable device to school each day. Minimum device specifications: Screen size: 11 inches, Screen resolution: 1024 x 768, Wireless connectivity: 802.11G or N, Headphone and microphone ports, No embedded 3G/4G support, Full QWERTY keyboard, Minimum battery life of 6 hours and a Robust protective carry case Please note that iPads and Android tablets are not suitable, as they do not support Google Chrome to the level required for our learning programs. For assistance with device requirements, please contact our IT team at helpdesk@mags.nsw.edu.au.
Junior School Co-Curricular Badge Awards We look forward to celebrating our final Junior School Co-Curricular Badge Awards Assembly for the year in Week 5. Our Co-Curricular Program provides opportunities for students to explore their interests across five domains: Academic, Livestock, Service, The Arts and Representative Sport. We congratulate all students who have earned badges throughout the year. Their willingness to participate and contribute beyond the classroom is commendable. We look forward to recognising our final recipients and celebrating their achievements throughout 2026.
Head of
Senior School This week, I wish to highlight the power of Relationships in our daily life at Macquarie. I begin with the fundamental learning relationship: Teacher and Student. To mark World Teachers’ Day, our School Leaders led Year Groups through an exercise in writing simple affirmations and gratitude statements for their teachers. We then faced the logistical challenge of compiling more than 2,000 small pieces of paper into individual presentation bags. The whole day was a joy to participate in and to witness. Year Groups were eerily quiet and completely focused on recognising people who had “given” to them. The Year 12 Group were quick, collaborative and enthusiastic, determined to do the job well. All staff were touched and reflective as they read the simple, perceptive, and genuine statements of acknowledgment in student voice. One staff member commented to me, “It reminds you what we are all here for”. Well Done, Macquarie students! This week's Orientation Days demonstrated the power of new relationships. It was a significant logistical exercise, and Mrs Finlay, the incoming Year Advisor for Year 7 is to be commended. I was struck by two things. Firstly, the energy of our new Year 7 cohort, best symbolised in The Great Race as they sped from station to station, solving puzzles and challenges. New teams were forming, and they had to negotiate relationships to succeed. Secondly, at regular intervals over the two days, they reconvened at Henderson Hall, and I again noticed a comfortable, purposeful silence. They felt secure and were rapidly developing a strong sense of Macquarie as a “Learning Home”. The last aspect of Relationship I wish to pose is perhaps less comfortable to consider, but no less important. How do we guarantee a productive relationship in the often-contested ground between compliance and submission? What is the difference? I explain to students that compliance with a reasonable request is an adaptive behaviour yielding communal benefit. Examples include cooperating in a classroom so others can learn or keeping the playground tidy. Submission, on the other hand, denies individual agency and has no clear communal benefit. I encourage students to take time to think about reasoned compliance and to ask you, their parents and carers, how often you are required to demonstrate such reasoned compliance across the course of an average working day!
Mrs Lynne Fleming HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL
Head of
Wellbeing Free Parent Webinar
As part of our ongoing partnership with Wellio this year, we're continuing to support our community with proactive, consistent pastoral care. Many of our parents and staff joined the Wellio Webinar series earlier this year, and we're pleased to share the next session, running this term. Letting Go Without Losing Touch
Thursday 5 November, 7:30pm – 8:30pm AEST Supporting parents as kids push for more independence
This session will explore strategies that help you to: Understand What’s Changing for Your Child: Why wanting more freedom, privacy, and independence is a normal part of growing up. Adjust Boundaries as Kids Grow: How to shift rules and expectations in ways that still keep kids safe and supported. Stay Connected as Your Role Changes: Ways to remain involved and influential, even when your child wants more space. Can't make it live? Complete the registration and Wellio will send the recording and any supporting resources to all registrants after the session. Register Here
MrWade Wade Richardson Mr Richardson HEAD OF WELLBEING HEAD OF WELLBEING
Prayer & Praise Praise God For: Our Year 12 students as they complete their HSC examinations, that God would grant them confidence, clarity of mind, peace, and perseverance in this significant season. Our newly commissioned School Captains and Prefects, that they would lead with humility, integrity, and a genuine desire to serve others, following the example of Christ. All students and staff across our School community, that we would have the courage to take responsibility for our actions, extend forgiveness readily, and build a culture marked by kindness, grace, and respect.
Term Dates TERM 4 5 November Macquarie Cricket - First 11 (Kinross) 11 November Remembrance Day 13 November Stage 1 Sleep Over 17 November AICES 15s Girls Tennis 20 November Boarder's Day
Please Pray For:
23 November School Tour
The leadership opportunities He provides for our students and for those who willingly step forward to serve, encourage, and support others.
30 Novmeber Year 7 Production Rehersals
The example of Jesus Christ, whose life continues to inspire humility, compassion, service, and love within our School community.
3 December Year 7 Production Matinees
The many daily acts of courage, kindness, and selflessness shown by our students and staff, reflecting the character of Christ in both large and small ways
4 December Year 7 Produduction Evening Performance 9 December Presentation Days
Announcements & Updates
Introducing Our New Digital Careers Hub We are pleased to announce the launch of our new digital Careers Hub on Canvas! The Careers26 Canvas course will be the central location for all Careers-related information, including university updates, employment opportunities, upcoming events and other useful resources. Parents and students can access this information through their usual Canvas course access, making it easier to stay informed about the opportunities available.
What’s Happening in the Library There is plenty of excitement buzzing around our school library this term. We are thrilled to share that our shelves have been restocked with a fantastic selection of new books, including an incredible array of new non-fiction texts that are sure to spark curiosity and learning. Our students have also been loving the new 'Page Pals' section. This popular initiative gives friends the opportunity to borrow matching copies of the same book, allowing them to read along together and share their favourite plot twists and characters. It’s been wonderful to see so many students connecting over a shared love of reading. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled over the coming weeks – we have an exciting term competition launching very soon, and you won't want to miss it! Happy reading!
Latest News CAPA NIGHT On Wednesday, 21 October, Henderson Hall was buzzing with excitement for our annual Creative and Performing Arts Night! The evening was a vibrant celebration of student talent, featuring expressive performances from Stage 5 Drama, energetic dances from our senior students, and wonderful musical sets from the Choir and School Band. For several students, this was their very first time stepping onto the stage in front of a live audience – and every performer should be immensely proud of their effort. Alongside the stage acts, attendees were treated to an impressive gallery display of artwork and innovative Design and Technology projects. Thank you to everyone who came out to support our creative stars!
MACQUARIE LEAGUE TAG TEAMS SHINE AT REGIONAL GALA DAY On Tuesday of Week 2, Macquarie Anglican Grammar School's Under 14s and Opens League Tag teams travelled to Apex Oval to compete in the Dubbo Regional League Tag Gala Day. It was a fantastic day for MAGS, with both teams remaining undefeated throughout the competition and showcasing outstanding skill, determination, and teamwork. The Opens side started strongly with a win over Delroy College before producing a spirited comeback to secure a 2-all draw against St Johns 1. The girls then finished the day with their biggest result, defeating Dubbo Senior Campus 1 by 4 tries to 2. Our Under 14s team was equally impressive, recording convincing victories over St Johns 1, St Johns 2, and the combined Dunedoo/Mendooran side. The team displayed excellent attacking flair and defensive resilience across the day. Congratulations to all players on their efforts and the positive way they represented the school. Award Recipients Opens MVP: Sophia P. Opens Coaches Award: Lilly S. Under 14s MVP: Hannah N. Under 14s Coaches Award: Pippa W. A special thank you to Miss Darcie Urquhart and Mr Connors for managing both teams on the day.
OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD – A TRADITION OF GIVING Supporting Operation Christmas Child has been a longstanding tradition at Macquarie, and once again, our School community has embraced the spirit of giving. Through the generosity of our students and families, an incredible number of shoeboxes have been donated, filled with thoughtful gifts to bring joy and hope to children in need around the world. This initiative is a wonderful opportunity for our students to put their faith into action, demonstrating the importance of kindness, compassion and generosity. Beyond the excitement of receiving a gift, these shoeboxes can have a lasting impact on children and their communities, sharing a message of love and hope that extends well beyond Christmas.
UPSTAGE AUSTRALIA - "MAKE SOME NOISE!" On Wednesday, October 21, our Year 7 students took part in an exciting series of performing arts workshops led by UpStage Australia. Throughout the day, students rotated through three interactive sessions focused on drama, singing, and dance skills. They look forward to putting these newly honed talents into practice for their upcoming production!
STAGE 3 WHITE MASTER THE ART OF RESEARCH WITH MRS BOWEN This week, Stage 3 White headed to the library for an empowering research lesson with our Librarian, Mrs Bowen, focusing on refining guiding questions and sharpening inquiry skills. Rather than relying on basic search queries, students learned how to transform broad topics into focused "how" and "why" questions that spark deeper thinking. By generating their own thoughtful questions, students developed critical thinking skills that allowed them to analyse information rather than just collect it. Mrs Bowen introduced key digital literacy strategies, including selecting effective keywords, evaluating source reliability, and synthesising key findings from multiple resources. Thank you to Mrs Bowen for equipping Stage 3 White with essential lifelong learning skills!
PSSA STATE ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS Congratulations to Mia W., Year 6, who represented Macquarie at the PSSA State Athletics Championships last week, finishing an impressive 18th in NSW!
MAGS DUBBO (AFTER SCHOOL) CENTRE (FOR K-6) LOCATION: SCHOOL OVAL STARTS WED 11 NOV | 3:15 - 4:15PM TH | 4 SESSIONS | $ 65 AUSKICK
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