BAYVIEW Newsletter a ISSUE 17 Monday 26 October 2015 www.bayview.vic.edu.au
Principal’s Message Over the recent term break I had the good fortune to travel to Italy and Israel. Two vastly different cultures with amazing histories, architecture, art and landscapes. Walking down streets, through buildings, around ruins, and numerous museums really brings home the ingenuity of humankind throughout the ages, the creative potential locked deep within us all, and the struggles and hardships that people have endured, and unfortunately continue to endure, as they search to uphold their human dignity and live productive and fulfilling lives.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Principal's Message Students shine at Greater Western Regional Athletics carnival Yr 7/8 Interschool T/20 cricket Year 12 Valedictory Building “Future Leaders” Recognising ICAS distinctions
Header Photo: Bayview students fill a shoebox for children in need Bayview College students have filled 13 shoe boxes bursting with simple gifts for children from disadvantaged communities in South East Asia. The shoe boxes have been gathered and will arrive in time for Christmas giving. Operation Christmas Child is the initiative of Samaritan Purse International Relief and the concept has been operating since 1993. The shoe boxes are destined to make their way to children living in poverty in Cambodia. Students at Bayview College have been participating in the program for a number of years. They know their contribution ensures that these children feel valued and not forgotten this Christmas. Each class was encouraged to fill a shoebox together, but Caitlin Billington, 15 was able to fill 3 shoeboxes on her own.
The religious identity of each country is profound and clearly colours the secular culture of the people and its institutions. Religion and faith are viewed by many in Australia as separate and superfluous, and whilst our religious buildings are obviously present within our communities, people who choose to use their faith as their compass and guide throughout life are not as noticeable. The richness of the histories of both Israel and Italy cannot be appreciated without appreciating the richness of the faith lifes of the people ofthese countries. There were elements of the trip of course that were also confronting. Over recent weeks, as many of you would have seen, the tensions and ensuing violence have increased in Israel, particularly in Jerusalem, where we spent most of our time. Not only was the proximity and frequency of the violence unsettling, the visual presence of so many heavily armed military and police personnel was simultaneously comforting and unsettling. Central Rome is opulent, beautiful and picture postcard perfect. Juxtaposed on this is the sight of homelessness, and disabled people of all ages begging on the streets. This was incredibly confronting especially against the historical and contemporary backdrop of opulence. We are incredibly blessed to live in a country that is mostly tolerant and peaceful. We are very fortunate to raise our children in a community where they have access to many educational, social, sporting and cultural opportunities. When we leave the familiarity of our daily lives and travel we are able to reflect deeply on the important values that we hold so dear. Last week at the Valedictory Church Service for the class of 2015 I encouraged the students to “Know thyself” and understand their limitations and strengths. Socrates said “the unexamined life is not even worth living.” Through this examination of our life and the lives of others we can develop the self-control that empowers us to do exactly what we want—the right thing. And then, once we have selfknowledge, and self-control, nothing will be impossible.
Best performing Secondary School in the South West
The shoe boxes contain items including; something to love, something for school, something to wear, something special, something to play with and something for personal hygiene.
Weekend Australian “yourschool” report June 20-21 2015
All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware. Martin Buber