The Scope

The PLC Armidale College Kaleidoscope

THE

FANTASY ISSUE

Read previous issues on the PLC Armidale Website!

acknowledgement of country We acknowledge that the land on which this magazine was created is the traditional land of the Anaiwan people. We wish to pay respect to the elders past, present, and emerging.

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Front cover illustrated by Hattie Gilpin

letter from the editors WRITTEN BY HATTIE GILPIN, SERAPHINA KATTA, AND MAKENZIE ROBERTSON

Hello and welcome to the College Kaleidoscope's sixth edition - the Fantasy Issue! This issue boasts so much creativity that we almost couldn’t fit everything in, but we did, and we couldn’t be prouder of all the amazing contributions from thirty hard-working students. Working with deadlines was tough at times, with assessments to finish, musicals to perform, and COVID-19 to overcome, but our talent team persevered and came out the other side to present a magazine packed full of flair.

This issue’s theme is unlike any before it. Initially, we had worried it would be too broad, or maybe not broad enough, but ultimately decided ‘fantasy’ was such a beloved concept to the student body that many would be encouraged to participate in the Scope for the first time. This turned out to be true, as the Fantasy Issue has a record number of participants. We chose this theme in order to tap into the creativity of PLC Armidale’s students, unlocking their full potential through a broad and appealing theme. When it comes to fantasy, there is something for everyone - whether you like rewritten fairy tales, exciting mythical creatures, or the Marvel Cinematic Universe, fantasy is a genre loved by all. PLC’s most recent musical - Wicked - played an important role in the decision of the theme and the creation of the magazine itself. Students across all year groups participated in Wicked and many chose to represent this in the Scope, with Wicked art, quizzes, and even a behind-the-scenes vlog created specifically for this issue. Our team had fun interpreting ‘fantasy’ in their own creative ways, leading to a wide range of interpretive artworks, poems, and stories.

We would love to thank everyone who helped pull this issue together: from the participants submitting their own creative works to the illustrators willingly creating art for them, to our advisors Mr Clendinning and Mrs Clynch, and to anyone who featured in the Wicked vlog. We would also like to make a special mention to last year’s editors Sarah Waters and Zari Jones, as they were always keen to assist us with advice when things got tough. Without these people the Scope could not exist - the success of the magazine comes from the strength of the community supporting it.

Overall, we are super excited to share this issue with you, and we hope you enjoy reading it!

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contents 002 Acknowledgement of Country 003 Letter from the Editors

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IN THE SCHOOL

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Addie Predicts

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NEWS & OPINION

Ukraine. What & Why?

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010 THE ARTS

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Cinderella Rewritten The Little Mermaid Enemies in New York The Warlock’s Cauldron The Pivotal Peru Expedition Starlit Wings The Snail Nostalgia My Utopia Fantastical Photography Enchanted Art Wonderland Through a Keyhole

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FEATURES & HUMAN INTERESTS

Spider-Man: Summary and Review Who is the Best Spider-Man? Why Do People Like Fantasy?

Humour

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ENTERTAINMENT

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A Fantastical Word Search Evolution Pretty Star Wand DIY Wicked: a PLC Musical

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COLLEGE QUIZZES

Which Wicked Character are You? What Type of Dragon Are You? What is Your Patronus?

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Meet the Team Credits & Answers Contact Us

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The Armidale Express, 2014

addie predicts

Addie Astra has walked the halls of PLC Armidale for many years. No-one understands the needs of the PLC students like him. With so many girls away due to COVID-19 and exams, Addie has been lonely, and what better to do with his time than predict the future of each year group?

WRITTEN BY HATTIE GILPIN, SERAPHINA KATTA, AND MAKENZIE ROBERTSON (ILLUSTRATED BY HATTIE GILPIN)

year 7

year 8

This year group will be rewarded with astonishing financial successes in the near future. Maybe they will spend their newly-found riches on snacks for peer support parties.

Members in this most creative year group will soon discover a new passion.

Addie believes this year harbours a future movie star or two.

year 9 Year 9 students will be extra lucky in the coming weeks. Keep an eye out for four leaf clovers and empty spots in the 7-9 toasters.

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See page 43 for detailed image credit

in the school

year 10 The entirety of Year 10 will take up bucket drumming in Term 4 and will travel to state percussion finals with their buckets.

year 11 Year 11 will be gifted Louis the Locker Bay Lion every week for the rest of the year.

An amazing reward for an amazing effort.

year 12 Year 12 will take a surprise group gap year somewhere unique.

2023 will be a good year for them as they each find jobs that suit their talents and passions!

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ukraine. what & why?

A summary of the events in Ukraine WRITTEN BY ANONYMOUS

The context of this article is to explain the situation in Ukraine and to inform and spread awareness about the topic. Mind you, this is just a quick overview.

In October 2021, Russia began to move troops and supplies near the border of Ukraine. This created concern of a possible invasion. Later in the year, satellite imagery and social media posts showed the public that armour, missiles and other heavy weaponry had struck Ukraine.

By December, more than a hundred thousand troops were in place on the Russian-Ukrainian border. In mid-December, Russia’s foreign ministry set a rule of demands asking the United States and NATO

Tyler Hicks, 2022

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Anton Skyba, 2022

to cease any military activity in Eastern Europe and Central Asia to prevent NATO’s expansion and its allegiance with Ukraine.

Earlier this year, the US intelligence officials warned that Russia may plan to invade, and in early February, the United States President Joe Biden ordered three thousand troops to deploy to Poland and Romania — countries aligned with NATO that border Ukraine. While Russia released a statement claiming to have reduced the number of troops, reports published an increase in these troops present at the border. In late February 2022, the United States news & opinion

warned that Russia intended to invade Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin then ordered troops to Luhansk and Donetsk, regions in Eastern Ukraine partly controlled by Russian-backed separatists, claiming this served a “peacekeeping” purpose. The US responded by imposing sanctions on these regions and the Nord Stream 2 gas pipelines.

On February 24th 2022, a UN Security Council meeting was organised to dissuade Russia from attacking Ukraine.

Then, the invasion happened. Putin had declared a “special military operation” would take place to “demilitarise and denazify” Ukraine.

Many believe the reason for this was that Russia wanted Ukraine to be considered a part of their country even though Ukraine is an independent country on its own. But minutes later after Putin’s announcement, it was recorded that Ukraine was hit by missiles and airstrikes. This included the capital

John MacDougall, 2022

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Grafissimo, 2012

Kyiv, shortly followed by a large ground invasion from multiple directions. The fighting has caused over nine hundred civilian deaths and has pushed millions to flee Ukraine to neighbouring countries.

The majority of these refugees have gone to Poland, a North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) country where United States troops are assisting them, for the meantime.

Biden declared this attack “unprovoked and unjustified” and has since issued severe sanctions across Russia’s manufacturing industries. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is not recent and has been reportedly going on since August 2014. The Ukrainian Revolution was followed by Russia's annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, and due to Russia's backing for the separatist fighters of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic in war, there have been more and more casualties caused by conflict in the area.

See page 43 for detailed image credits

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cinderella rewritten A retelling of the classic fairy tale WRITTEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY ARLIE BRAGG

The clock began to ring. The first of its deep, mellow strikes ran through the palace courtyards; I knew it was time to go. I ran down the stone steps, my feet aching from toe to heel as I bounded from glass slipper to glass slipper. I heard him call out, "Wait! Where are you going?" I didn't want to answer him, let alone look at him. He was vile. I used to think that a prince couldn't be anything but perfect, but this prince was anything but perfect, and he didn't care. He didn’t listen to me, he didn’t listen to what I wanted. So I ran, with my great baby blue dress sending waves of wind rushing behind me as I tried to escape the castle, free from this prince that I once thought would treat me like a lady, not ‘Cinderella’.

Suddenly, those dastardly 'slippers’ failed me. I tripped over the toe of my glass shoes; the glass shoes that ‘sparkled like stars’ and were as ‘comfortable as a slipper’. I felt myself fly through the air, passing a few extra stairs on the way, which was a plus. I landed not so gracefully on my delicate gown, ripping it at my knees. I heard the prince again. "What is your name?" he called as he trotted down the stairs at an odd angle, his steel-bottomed boots clicking on the sandstone bricks of the stairs.

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I picked myself up from the stone, coughing and spluttering through the aftermath of falling straight on my face. I noticed one of my glass shoes had fallen off my foot, lying on its side with little to no damage. I saw it sparkle, rainbows twinkling on its crisp, sharp edges. For a split second, I contemplated turning back for it, but a moment later, the idea seemed stupid and I carried on with my escape. I limped down the last few stairs, as fast as I could, mind you. "I have to go..." I called, my face angled to hide the effects of the fall; I swear I saw him smile. "You don’t have to leave,” he said, his pace quickening as mine decreased by the second. “I will find you!”

I’m sure you know the rest. My story was written down, but not correctly, not from my point of view, not accurately. In the story that you will have read, I was gentle, kind, docile, and loved the prince. My story is seen as magical in the way that it would have been read to you. But for me, it was real, and harsh and horrid. It was unpleasant and the Prince later became King, a cruel King, to say the least. I became his Queen. I lived my life mostly in mystery. The perfect life that so many wanted was certainly not fit for me. I was Cinderella and my life was not a fairytale. the arts

the little mermaid A short story about selflessness and bravery WRITTEN BY DAISY SHEEDY (ILLUSTRATED BY HUNA MOGHADDAR AND ELLA COULTON)

12:30am aboard the Titanic The cold sea air pierces my body as I shiver. Hundreds of people are hysterically pushing their way to the lifeboats, the only way to survive.

Father pushes us forward but I stop suddenly. He senses my caution, and quietly whispers, “Don’t worry, Evelyn. I’ll be right behind you. I promise.”

“But, what if-” “That won’t happen, I promise. Look after your baby sister Lizzie for me, will you?”

Before I can say another word, the lifeboat descends with a jolt. I hold on to Lizzie tightly, as we are lowered down and down until we were are a couple of metres from the ocean. Suddenly, half the boat jerks upwards, sending Lizzie and I crashing into the ice cold water. The water feels like a thousand knives being driven into my body. I lift Lizzie out of the water. She is coughing and spluttering but, to my relief, she is still alive. Holding Lizzie high in the air, I start yelling to our boat. “HELP! PLEASE!” But the boat is moving further and further away, not hearing my pleas for help. My arms begin to ache but I don’t stop holding Lizzie. I know I have to keep my sister alive. the fantasy issue

Deep down in the Atlantic Ocean, the Little Mermaid has finally turned 16. She can now venture up to the surface. She has longed to go to the exciting and beautiful world above for as long as she can remember.

Her grandmother told her, “Remember, never go near or touch a human or you will perish.” The Little Mermaid just smiled and swam up to the surface. Her head broke the water. To her horror, she saw a large ship sinking. Many humans were scattered across the ocean near the boat, sinking into the depths.

Before she could stop herself, she swam back under the water to see the Sea Witch. Then the Little Mermaid broke the surface yet again. Her beautiful hair was shaved off; the price she had to pay to save just one human. The Little Mermaid heard soft singing. Enchanted, she quickly swims towards it. There before her was a girl holding up a baby in the air, trying to calm her with her voice. She immediately knew who to save.

The Little Mermaid disobeyed the rule of saving only one human.

Happy tears filled her eyes seeing the selfless sister alive, as she turned into seafoam the punishment for saving two innocent humans. But looking at the girl, she 011 knew it was worth it.

enemies in new york An excerpt from a short detective story WRITTEN BY ANONYMOUS

The distinct smell of tobacco floated gently around the room. A great, barrel-shaped man sat across from Jennifer. Her legs dangled off the stiff bar stool, while his feet sat firmly on the sticky, beer-stained floor. Two glasses filled with whiskey and ice condensed as they rested upon the thick, wooden table. One glass barely skimmed Jennifer's lips, and the other touched an auburn moustache multiple times. The man allowed the last of the bitter liquid to fall down his throat. “How are you, Jen? It feels like forever since we last talked.”

Jennifer inhaled slowly. “I’m well, Mr Kegg, considering I've been working on a dreadful farm for the last 6 months,” she retorted. This remark made the man burst his mouth open and let out a broad cackle, putting his hands over his ridiculously large stomach. “You'll be pleased to know we have a new mission for you: New York City. We suspect there will be an import of exotic animals coming in sometime around the 15th. We need you to go undercover and get information.”

A forced smile appeared on Jennifer's face, as her heart began to run. Her whiskey was then drunk in a gulp. ~ 012

The moonlight struck brilliantly as Jennifer walked around the lively but lonely streets of New York City.

As her shoes gently collided with the footpath, the wind nipped through the air sharply. She looked up into the sunless, dark blanket with scattered stars that covered her, and a dull ache began to form in her head. In a sudden realisation, her eyes began darting about in different directions, trying to make sense of where she was. “Can someone help me, where am I?” Jennifer mouthed the words, but no noise escaped. Bright, flashing lights deprived her of sense, and strange figures danced around her now kneeling body. The numbing and hard concrete bruised her kneecaps, her ears covered by shaking fingers.

Jennifer stood up, trying to not let the madness trickle into her now fragile mind. ~ In the vibrant café, Michael Kegg gave an innocent smile. “How have you liked New York, Jen? Haven’t been in any dark alleyways, have you?”. Jennifer turned to Michael.

Sudden flashbacks of the scene in the alleyway were conceived in her mind. How did he know? Paranoid thoughts inside her brain turned into whispers. Enemy! He was following you, Jennifer! You’re not safe! She knew now: it was a trap. the arts

the warlock’s cauldron What is the warlock cooking up?

WRITTEN BY TILLY ALMOND (ILLUSTRATED BY GRACE ROBERTSON)

A clearing deep in the forest, surrounded by the thick trunks of ancient grumpho trees reveals the warlock possessing the space above a dark stone cauldron.

The contents of the inky bowl twitch and squirm within its confinement.

Hungry, the goo swallows as its warden tosses it bit and bobs,

A string of red berries on a thorny twig, Frogs eggs pulled a foggy swamp, The brown fur plucked from a mother bear, The bark of a dragon's blood tree, And lastly, the first egg laid by a boobrie.

The warlock then stirred his creation twice reaching over the cauldron, Hot steam made his eyes water and green light flooded upwards, further skewing his vision.

The goo then began to speak in its twisted language Glob! Gupple! Gabber! Glumph!

While the warlock spoke his own: Hum tartay, Vartay, splitter, splum, Shroom!

Rise my creation, rise!

The goo began to reach up towards the canopy of the grumpho trees, stacking higher and higher and higher, forming into something unimaginable!

Something inconceivable!

Unspeakable, untold, unutterable!

From the cauldron towered a fantastical being shaped in the form of a man!

It wiggled and wobbled, struggling to find its balance, and all at once fell in a heap.

The warlock took his magical wooden spoon and scooped the green goo up holding it towards the sky, and simply placed it in his bowl.

He had made his lunch just the way he liked it. the fantasy issue

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the pivotal peru expedition A short story about a thrilling jungle journey WRITTEN BY HOLLY SHEEDY (ILLUSTRATED BY ARLIE BRAGG AND POLLY TURNBULL, PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAITLIN MUNGALL)

The orchestra of birds lured me into their melody, as the sun gleamed down from the heavens, illuminating the vast lush greenery. The Amazon River glistened my reflection back to me, as the water greeted me like an old friend. Adjusting my pith helmet, hitching my khaki knickerbockers and pulling up my straps onto my blue striped shirt, I was fully prepared for the dangers that lay beyond.

“Okay Lottie, pass over the map so we can examine it,’’ Father proclaimed, switching into his archaeologist mode. I carefully reached into my satchel and placed the ancient map onto the nearby tree stump. The frail paper was inscribed with the ancient Aztec pictographs from long ago. “Tell me everything, Father,” I asked him, as butterflies of excitement fluttered inside me.

“The legend states that Anacaona, the daughter of a Tlatoani, 014

abandoned her role in society and fled to the Amazon rainforest. She started a sanctuary for refugees and outsiders. Recently, I have unlocked some new information, that Anacaona stole the Feathered Serpent Mosaic Mask when she ran away. It was only a month ago that I found the map that leads straight to the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, where she is said to have built the temple protecting the artefact inside!” recalled my Father excitedly. I was enthralled by every word he had said, and the anticipation grew like a sunflower. I was pondering this when I felt someone or something’s presence.

Two beady mustard eyes glared back at me. My heart skipped a beat as the majestic beast held my gaze, captivating my attention until she took a step forwards, razor teeth snarling. I heard my father take a sharp intake of breath, as I looked down towards the fifty-metre drop into a raging river. The jaguar was only a few metres behind. Every part of me argued about what I was going to say next. I bellowed, “JUMP!”

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I opened my tired eyes to find myself tied with rope against a palm tree. Confusion edged across my face, as I recalled the last thing I remembered which was jumping off the cliff into the Amazon river.

“Father, where are you?” I fired at him. “Why are we here? What’s going on?’’

I heard him sigh deeply as he explained. “I'm on the other side of the tree, Lottie. After we jumped off the cliff and went to shore, we were knocked out and got brought here,’’ he responded. “Now Lottie, I haven’t been completely honest with you,’’ revealed Father. “I used to work with an old friend, William Carlton, and everything was working out perfectly, until he decided to use the artefact to receive money and fame. So, I decided that I would work alone. He hasn’t forgiven me since. This is his revenge, stealing the map and taking the treasure for himself.”

“Don't worry, I made a copy of the map on the plane and it's in my pocket,” I reassured him, fully grateful for my earlier actions. “Now grab my pocket knife in my left pocket and cut us free!’’And in no time, we were free.

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“Lottie, I am so proud of you!”’ Father said, tears in his eyes.

“We need to find the Temple before he does, so let’s go!’’ I replied determinedly.

Finding the temple took only a few hours because of our sheer will to find the artefact before William Carlton. My breath was taken away as I looked at the magnificent crumbling stone pyramid before me.

There was no time to play tourist.

Just as we took our first step, the stairs transformed into a steep slide. ‘’Aahhh!’’ I yelled, as we slid down in pitch black until we spurted out into a flame lit corridor. Quickly, we turned the handle of an aged door to find a tall, lean man, eyes glued to the antiquated artefact that was within arm’s reach.

“NO!’’ I shrieked at who I presumed was the infamous William Carlton.

“Ahh, if it isn’t the traitors who were so close to stopping my dream of being rich and famous,’’ sneered William.

“William! No, don’t do it!’’ begged my Father, as William lunged forward grabbing the mosaic artefact.

“Yes, I did it!’’ roared William madly, when suddenly the floor beneath him gave way. He flung the artefact into the air as he sunk into the earth below, never to be seen again. I jumped into the air, catching the Aztec artefact before it suffered the same fate as William. Catching my breath, I looked at my Father, knowing that this wouldn’t be the last adventure that we would face 015 together.

starlit wings A poem about winged creatures of the night WRITTEN BY SCARLETT LOXLEY (ILLUSTRATED BY HATTIE GILPIN)

The night air whispers soothingly, filling my wings, outstretched to catch a sky full of stars.

Cool and alive, the forest below dances in a thousand tongues, shifting like ranks upon ranks of soldiers marching up to the snow-capped peaks of the mountains from where I watch.

From a peak jutting out above the others, below only the moonless sky, I can see everything.

Like the spines of an ethereal creature, the mountains dwindle into the distance on either side of me, each ragged peak is more magisterial than the last.

Beyond the sea of green spread out before me lie the placid moors and beyond that, the ocean itself.

A light breeze lifts me from my promontory, and I sail ever higher, beyond the wispy cirrus clouds, the world spread like a patchwork quilt below.

The air whips my face now, whistling about my ears and across my face.

The world, a blur of primordial soup, seems to fall away.

I see rivers, valleys, deserts, lakes, towns, cities all bustling with life and flowing in movement beneath the clouds and the sky.

Only the stars above remain motionless as I wheel comfortably, bolstered along by the billowy clouds on starlit wings.

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the snail A poem on the things a snail can teach us WRITTEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY NEVADA GUIANCE

I saw her, engraving her silvery trail, a small spiral, silhouetted by sunbeams.

Proceeding at a leisurely pace, discreetly observing her surroundings.

She was at peace, thoroughly content, taking her time, lingering when appropriate, pausing to enjoy the moment.

As the sun turned vermillion, her shell glowing a sublime scarlet, she continued to draw, her lustrous path growing longer with each placid motion.

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She made me pause, reflect, and realise how there is no rush in life we set our own pace, and there is always time to stop and be mindful.

She does not race, try to keep up with the endless motion of life.

She moves placidly, savouring the last shafts of sunlight until her trail turns pearlescent underneath the crescent moon.

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nostalgia A poem on memory and emotion WRITTEN BY KAYLEE SWICK (PHOTOGRAPHED BY KAITLIN MUNGALL)

My eyes closed shut, I turn across the concrete path into dim shelves of leather-bound stories a book sits waiting, magic to be discovered...

Swaying eucalypts of humid winds dewy clouds lingering in the valleys cloudy showers wash away dull scenery green tendrils glittering with sparkling diamonds Footprints etched in the grainy, smooth sand and salty tongues lick the beach moon tucks a silvery sheen over the dunes shadows dancing in the twilight I escape from bougainvillaea-lined buildings an enchanting forest nestled within colourful petals droop over a curved brick path lined with lush silky rolls of spongy grass Emerald leaves cling to misty branches dripping with glittering crystals fresh glassy water over mossy beds rainbows reflected in wispy cascades of jewels I open my eyes to the present.

An opened book lays flat reflections of emotion-filled pages warm memories flicked through On my cheek rolls the single tear that dampens the crinkled pages thin, flaky, and tea stained crumbling at one touch, Faded and forever lost.

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my utopia A poem appreciating nature’s beauty WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHED

BY KAITLIN MUNGALL

Every day, I am alive and living but only in the blue hour do I feel alive.

When I walk on the grass, I hear an orchestra warm up, a single insect musician begins then accompanists begin on cue.

I step closer, as the music builds to a crescendo then a rest in the music.

I lift my gaze to the sky once a rich blue littered with white cotton balls; now? The yellow globe lights the heavens with colours yellow into blue into purple into the navy night sky all on a single canvas.

The cotton balls are now the colour of peaches, fuzzy and scattered.

During the working day, the flora is defined, but as the flame weakens, that definition is less.

Slowly, the colours and textures blend until a silhouette takes their place.

Mosquitoes and moths join the lively environment that only I make up, I dance to the music, the cool air gives me goosebumps but I don’t care. This is my hour.

It sounds like something out of a fairytale, sure; a utopian children’s dream about after a rainy day yet here I am, feeling like a princess that doesn’t need a prince.

In my utopia. As a realist the fantasy issue

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fantastical photography Photos from around New South Wales PHOTOGRAPHED BY CHLOE CLARK

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enchanted art A range of art from our talented artists

ILLUSTRATED BY AUDREY TIGHE, ELLA JENKINS, AND ZOE KELLY

Zoe Kelly

Ella Jenkins

Audrey Tighe

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wonderland through a keyhole An artwork based on Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland ILLUSTRATED BY DAISY DONALDSON

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spider-man: summary and review Everything you need to know!

WRITTEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY ELLA JENKINS

You all know our friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man, and for those who surprisingly don't, here's a summary. Before we get started here are some things you should know.

Firstly, his name is Peter Parker, and he is the youngest member of the Avengers, a team of super heroes from the Marvel franchise. Peter Parker is a high school student who possesses spider-like abilities due to getting bitten by a radioactive spider. He made a name for himself in New York City and became very well known as a local neighbourhood hero.

After defeating a villain called ‘the Vulture’ in Spider-Man: Homecoming, Peter discovers the true responsibilities of a hero. A few years later, when Thanos, a powerful warlord, attacked New York in search of a powerful stone, Peter helped the Avengers fend off the invaders. He was then knighted as a member of the Avengers.

Later, Thanos found all of the stones, and half of the universe, including Peter, were turned to dust with just a snap of Thanos’s fingers.

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After being snapped away for 5 years, Peter comes back to help the Avengers fight Thanos again.

Eventually, Tony - or Iron Man gains all 6 stones and snaps his fingers to kill Thanos. Tony, sadly, ends up dying after this. Peter is the first to run up to him and be by his side while he dies.

After this, Peter continued to be your friendly neighbourhood Spider-Man, doing his best to live up to Tony. To try and get rid of some stress, Peter signed up to go on a trip to Europe with his best friends Ned and MJ and the rest of his class. While they were in Europe there had been several attacks by another villain, Mysterio, so Peter had to try and balance hiding his identity while leaving his class and fighting elemental monsters. During the trip, MJ figures out that Peter is Spider-Man! But soon enough Peter defeats Mysterio and MJ confesses her feelings for Peter.

Once Peter and his friends get back from Europe, Peter notices that the news report is talking about how Spider-Man murdered Mysterio, and that's not all… they then put up a video that Mysterio had made features and human interests

before being defeated by Peter “Spider-Man's name is Peter Parker!”

This brings us into Spider-Man: No Way Home. Peter was suddenly swarmed by reporters, federal agents and normal citizens, all of whom were on Mysterio's side! But this didn’t just affect Peter, it also affected Ned and MJ. Desperate to reverse the change that Mysterio has made in their lives, Peter decides to go to someone named Doctor Strange with the hope that he could make it so that it never happened.

Strange had the amazing idea of making everyone forget who Spider-Man was, and Peter eagerly agreed to this idea.

But the spell went so wrong that it opened several rifts in the universe, though Strange stitched these shut and contained the corrupted spell in a small magical box.

Whilst Peter was trying to let him and his friends into school, his spider senses started to tingle. As he looked around he noticed that people were getting out of their cars and running for their lives.

Then Peter saw a strange man with robotic tentacles. Little did he know that this was a villain from another multiverse. After capturing the villain, Peter was told by Strange to go and find other villains from the multiverse.

After Peter had captured all of the villains, he tried to save them by somehow curing them of their cruelty. But Peter's senses start the fantasy issue

going off again. Green Goblin attacked him and hurt his aunt May, intending to kill her. May tells Peter that “with great power comes great responsibility,” and falls to the ground. Peter looks at her side - he can see the bloody wound that the Goblin has made. May's breathing stops, with Peter by her side. The only family Peter had left was gone.

Peter was forced to flee as the agents closed in. It was MJ and Ned that introduced Peter to the other Peters from different timelines. The three Peters worked together to defeat the villains, but they soon found that there was a bomb hidden in the magical box that contained the spell. The box exploded, releasing the spell. The fabric of the universe was tearing and all of the villains and heroes from other timelines started to come through.

Peter then approached Strange - he could change the spell so that everyone forgot who he was, what he meant to everyone, and what they had been through together. His relationships with MJ and Ned would all be erased, but the spell would be stopped. Peter stated that it is what has to be done, and ordered Strange to complete the spell.

Strange advised him to say his goodbyes while he could, and Peter did so, vowing to MJ and Ned that he would find them again and remind them of what they had all been through together. Spider-Man: No Way Home is my favourite movie, so I would highly recommend watching it!

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who is the best spider-man?

Answering the long-pondered question WRITTEN BY BELLA WATERS (ILLUSTRATED

BY ELLA JENKINS)

"Whatever life holds in store for me, I will never forget these words: 'with great power comes great responsibility.' This is my gift, my curse. Who am I? I'm Spider-Man.” -

Peter Parker, Spider-Man, 2002

One of the general ideas of Spider-Man is the distinction between the normal appearance and demeanour of somebody, compared to the reality of someone beneath their outward perception, meaning that someone as shy and nerdy as Peter Parker has depth of character and is not what he may seem. It's when you finally delve under the surface that you may see what is really there; something beautiful and incredible and inspiring.

People can be judgemental and superficial, but it doesn’t mean that you should change your identity to suit them.

While there’s no denying they’re for entertainment, there are also some real moral lessons buried within the Spider-Man movies. These movies taught audiences that it’s okay to need and accept help and that some secrets are better left untold, 026

for you never know who they might hurt. They taught people to always look out for the little guy, and that it does nothing to judge a book by its cover.

There is much controversy regarding which of the three Spider-Men takes out the top prize.

Each actor took on and established a different facet that made their character portrayal memorable. So, who is the best Spider-Man? Arguably, the response in question depends on your personal opinion of what makes Peter Parker, well, Peter Parker, and what makes Spider-Man, Spider-Man. Is it the brilliant, nerdy side of Peter shown

by Tobey Maguire, the confident, cool Spiderman portrayed by Andrew Garfield, or is it the modern, awkward teenager vibes we get from Tom Holland? features and human interests

It is also arguably each character’s female colleagues that influence certain favouritism - Mary Jane (MJ) played by Kirsten Dunst; Gwen Stacy by Emma Stone; and Michelle Jones (also MJ) portrayed by the iconic Zendaya.

Tom Holland’s Spider-Man is plausibly the most modernised and the most connected to other heroes, with a mentor in Tony Stark, a best friend in Ned, and a motherly figure in a young Aunt May. We are given Spider-Man in a new and technologically advanced society, in a world that’s built on power, leadership, and social connection.

Tom Holland shows endearing and youthful charisma and personality and displays a character with goals and responsibilities that helped bring Spider-Man back into the MCU.

His character continually puts others before himself and takes on heavy responsibilities.

Tobey’s Spider-Man showed real-life struggles and made mistakes that he had to learn from. His spirit and driving force are iconic to his character portrayal.

It is without a doubt that people love Spider-Man, whichever one he may be, because of his relatability, genuineness, curiosity, and both life and identity struggles. He makes a well-rounded character, without an overbearing power force.

So, who, in the end, is the best Spider-Man? Well, that’s up to you.

There’s no doubt that Andrew Garfield’s Spider-Man was bold and confident, with a desire to help all people. It almost seemed like his Spider-Man persona was a way to remove himself from the intelligent, science-loving mind of Peter Parker and into the body of a beloved superhero. It certainly showed such a stark contrast between the personalities of both sides of Andrew Garfield’s character.

Of course, there can be no going past the original Spider-Man, Tobey Maguire. It is from here that the base was created and from which new stems were grown.

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why do people like fantasy?

A deeper look into the beloved genre WRITTEN BY MAKENZIE ROBERTSON

There’s no doubt that you have read or watched at least one text that comes under the genre of fantasy. Fantasy writing holds an unrivalled, unmistakable appeal and elegance. The attraction to fantasy is often put down to viewers enjoying the ability to escape to unexplored and unknown worlds.

These captivating new worlds allow people to build the skills needed to fill the gaps between knowledge, reality and experience.

Fantasy writers have a particularly unique style of writing and there are several subgenres to accompany this style. Epic, dark, contemporary, and urban are the most popular subgenres. Different types of fantasy allow for the non-realistic elements of the story to be communicated in a variety of ways.

There are also various elements weaved into the writing which make it so special. Magic is a key element which allows authors and writers to influence and alter the events of the story in a way other genres cannot.

The element of adventure is present within most genres, however, in fantasy, it introduces audiences to settings that appear far from everyday life but are full of amazing discoveries.

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The possibilities are endless in the fantasy genre of writing: supernatural powers, mythical creatures, mystical characters, magic, castles. That’s only the beginning! Not only are there endless possibilities for what elements can be added to these pieces of writing, there are endless possibilities when it comes to how these elements are written. Each novel depicts aspects of creatures, characters, and magic differently from one another. This allows for never ending creativity when authors are writing and means readers are constantly entering unique worlds.

Fantasy characters are also unique and differ from those of other genres. The characters are always willing to pursue their dreams no matter the circumstances. They’re willing to put themselves in harm’s way if it means they can protect their friends, family, and the world in which they live. The protagonists of this genre are often flawed. They often fail horribly when trying to achieve their goals and pay the consequences for their actions.

However, this doesn’t make the audience adore them any less for these failures - it only makes them more loved as the audience follows them every step of the way. features and human interests

humour What is humour? And what makes us laugh?

WRITTEN BY SERAPHINA KATTA

So you're probably asking, "What exactly is this going to be?" Another dull piece written by another student? You're in luck, since that's precisely what it is. No, I'm joking.

This article you're reading is more than just an article; it's a…

HUMOROUS ARTICLE! Let us begin with the fundamental question, "What is humour?"

Humour is ‘the ability to be amused by something seen, heard, or thought about, sometimes causing you to smile or laugh, or the quality in something that causes such amusement,’ according to the Cambridge Dictionary. Now, what can you perceive in this definition?

It's wordy and hard to read. The Cambridge Dictionary’s definition is near, but not quite there yet. When I think of humour, I think of… Mr Minter. That's all! Mr Matthew Minter is the ultimate definition of humour!

That's some clever alliteration.

Some may disagree with this definition, but that's ok because it's neither wordy nor hard to read.

Aside from the idea of humour, what is the aim of fantasy and why does it make us laugh or relate?

Events in a fantasy operate outside the laws of the real universe and typically involve supernatural elements, like magic or magical the fantasy issue

creatures. Fantasy is a replication of our world and it satires what the world holds and we tend to laugh. It is a reaction to external or internal stimuli. Laughter can be elicited by actions such as being tickled and by hilarious stories or thoughts. It is most frequently seen as an audible manifestation of various pleasant emotions, such as pleasure, amusement, happiness, or relief.

Another reason why we might find things funny is that they are relatable. Having relatable content allows our brains to switch on these neurotransmitters called dopamine which serves as a reward for the brain, creates a sense of euphoria, and plays a pivotal role in our motivation to continue the behaviour. So, when was the last time you saw a great meme or something relevant and humorous?

Some memes are funny and may make you grin. However, while these memes are incredible, it's unclear why they're so humorous. While social media is a communication tool, memes are a technique of communicating a culturally relevant notion. A meme is a picture or video that symbolises a certain audience's thoughts and feelings. The majority of memes are captioned photographs meant to be humorous. And we love them because of their relatability.

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a fantastical word search Can you find all 13 words?

CREATED AND ILLUSTRATED

BY HUNA MOGHADDAR

AMULET

CAULDRON

CURSE

DAYDREAM

DEMON

DRAGON

DWARF

ELF

FABLE

GOBLIN

PIXIE

SORCERER

TWILIGHT

030 See page 43 for answers

entertainment

evolution Read right to left (in the same style as classic Japanese Manga)!

WRITTEN AND ILLUSTRATED BY AUDREY TIGHE

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pretty star wand diy From Usborne’s 50 Fairy Things to Make & Do WRITTEN BY LAUREN WILLIAMS (ILLUSTRATED BY HATTIE GILPIN AND LAUREN WILLIAMS

What you will need: ● Thin piece of cardboard ● Lead pencil ● Red pencil ● Scissors ● Covering film ● Glitter ● Straw ● Gift ribbon ● Sticky tape ● Sequins ● Glue

3. Draw around the outline of the curves with a red pencil to make a star. Then, cut out the star.

1. Fold a piece of thin cardboard in half. Draw a square on it and add curves inside the edges.

4. Fold the star in half. Draw a curved triangle on the fold and cut it out. Then unfold all the shapes.

2. Turn the cardboard to make a diamond shape. Draw another square over the first one. Add curves inside the new square.

5. Lay the middle pieces on the book covering the film. Draw a border around them. Then cut out the shapes.

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entertainment

6. Peel the backing paper off the shapes. Sprinkle glitter over shape, then press the other shape on top.

9. Tie the gift ribbon onto the straw, below the star. Glue the other star on top, and then glue on the sequins.

7. Tape a long piece of gift ribbon to one end of a straw. Wrap the gift ribbon tightly around and then tape it.

8. Tape the straw onto the side of the star with the pencil lines. Tape the sparkly shape over the hole.

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wicked: a plc musical PLC’s 2022 production of Wicked was stunning! Here’s some creative contributions from our talented students.

Audrey Tighe

BEHIND-THE-SCENES VLOG Watch via this link or scan the QR code below!

Gabby Cotterell and Nathea Ping Kee

Ella Jenkins

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entertainment

WICKED WORD SEARCH Rachel Mungall

DOROTHY EMERALD CITY GLINDA GUARDS NESSAROSE SHIZ WICKED

DR DILLAMOND FIYERO GOODNESS LION OZ TIN MAN WIZARD

Hattie Gilpin

Ella Coulton

BOQ ELPHABA GALINDA GREEN MORRIBLE SCARECROW VILLAGERS

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See page 43 for answers

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which wicked character are you?

Take this quiz to see which character you are from PLC’s latest musical WRITTEN BY EMILY ADAMS (ILLUSTRATED BY EMILY ADAMS, ELLA JENKINS, GRACE ROBERTSON, AND AUDREY TIGHE) WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WICKED SONG?

A) “Defying Gravity” B) “Popular” C)” Dancing Through Life” D) I don’t like music E) “Wonderful” F) “No Good Deed” G) “The Wicked Witch of the East” WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COLOUR?

A) I don’t really have a favourite B) Pink C) None of these D) Purple E) Green F) Silver G) Red WHAT DO YOU DO AT LUNCH?

A) Read B) Chill out and gossip with my friends C) Whatever I feel like at the time D) Lunch? Who says I take a break?

E) Something else F) Awkwardly hang around some random people G) Wish the day was over

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WHICH PET WOULD YOU GET?

A) Fish B) Dog C) Bearded dragon D) No pets for me please E) Frog F) Bird G) Cat

PICK AN ENSEMBLE SCENE:

A) The Ozdust Ballroom B) The Emerald City C) Trance Dance D) “No-one Mourns the Wicked” E) “Thank Goodness” F) “March of the Witch Hunters” G) “Dear Old Shiz” YOUR DREAM HOUSE WOULD LOOK LIKE:

A) A disused fortress/castle with lots of secret passageways B) A clean large-ish apartment where I can have lots of people over C) A small but cozy hut in the woods D) Wherever the powerful people are E) A huge mansion in the city F) An average house near a library G) The same/similar to the one I grew up in

college quizzes

WHAT DO YOU DO WHEN YOU HAVE A LOT OF WORK TO DO?

WHAT MAKES YOU THE MOST ANGRY?

MOSTLY A’S You’re Elphaba - you’re set on doing what’s right, but sometimes this can make other people see you as the villain. This doesn’t bother you too much, as you prefer to keep to yourself anyway.

MOSTLY B’S You’re Glinda - it can seem like you prioritise little things like popularity, but you care for your close friends and hate seeing them hurt. Having lots of connections can help you get ahead.

A) Do it, isn’t that what I’m meant to do?

B) Procrastinate C) Completely ignore it until the last possible minute D) Do it as quickly as I can E) Attempt it, but eventually give up and ask a friend for the answers F) Frantically study G) Take my time and work through it

MOSTLY C’S You’re Fiyero - more of a go-with-the-flow type of person you don’t get particularly upset when things don’t go your way, but you hate when people think they know more about you than you do, and this can push you to do reckless things.

MOSTLY E’S You’re the Wizard - you try to do good, but are misguided and easily influenced. You see the world in a unique way, and are able to charm people pretty easily.

A) Innocent people paying the price for something they didn’t do B) Trusting the wrong people C) Being stereotyped D) Other people’s mistakes E) Being threatened F) Being replaced G) Being pitied

MOSTLY D’S You’re Madame Morrible - you are drawn to power, and make the perfect second in command. You don’t try to hide your intentions and have a way of getting what you want.

MOSTLY F’S You’re Boq - people often overlook you, but you can be really funny and have a unique personality. You try desperately to be seen and that can make you seem clingy and dorky.

MOSTLY G’s You’re Nessarose - you hate being pitied or seen as different, but don’t recognise when you need help until it’s too late. This can make you seem arrogant or disrespectful, but it’s just because you want to fit in. the fantasy issue

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what type of dragon are you?

Be sure to keep track of your answers!

WRITTEN BY SCARLETT LOXLEY (ILLUSTRATED BY EMILY ADAMS, HATTIE GILPIN, ELLA JENKINS, KATE LOXLEY, AND SCARLETT LOXLEY)

WHO DO YOU SAY HI TO IN THE CORRIDOR?

A) Literally everyone.

B) About half the people who walk past?

C) 3 or 4 people maybe.

D) I don’t say hi to others but people say hi to me (I don’t even know how they know my name) E) Ehh I’m too busy I’ll say hi in class or at recess.

IF YOU WERE GIVEN AN ASSESSMENT THAT WAS DUE THE NEXT DAY YOU WOULD MOST LIKELY:

A) Do as much work as possible but know that not everyone can get things done all the time.

B) Do it AT LUNCH. C) Work on it until you fall asleep on your desk that night but hey, at least it’s done now right?

D) Ask for an extension because *cough cough* you don’t feel too well.

E) Run. CATS OR DOGS?

A) Dogs!

B) Both (do you really expect me to pick?)

C) Cats.

D) I don’t really mind.

E) Goats.

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HOW MESSY IS YOUR ROOM?

A) Not too bad. There’s heaps of plants in it though…

B) It’s messy but I know where everything is.

C) My room is uh, “creatively messy”, thanks! (Prefer not to say…)

D) My room’s actually pretty clean!

E) I don’t remember the last time my floor saw the light of day.

YOU’VE JUST DROPPED YOUR LUNCH ON THE GROUND. YOU:

A) Feed it to the birdsssss B) Wash it off (if possible) and eat it C) Go find something else D) Go pester your friends for their lunch E) *Nom* IF YOU HAD TO PICK A SPORT OR AN INSTRUMENT YOU HAD TO PLAY FOR THE REST OF YOUR LIFE IT WOULD BE:

A) A wind/strings instrument B) Running C) Piano D) Team sports are fun I guess…

E) Any sport or instrument as long as it’s out-of-the-ordinary and no one’s ever heard of it.

college quizzes

WHAT IS A SKILL YOU HAVE OR WISH YOU HAD? A) Getting paint off my uniform B) I can’t pick C) Getting good grades D) Being able to tell if someone’s ordered pizza.

E) Being able to melt into a puddle on the floor MOSTLY A’S You’re a nature dragon - you have no attention span. If you were a dragon you would probably mimic any sound you hear. Some people think you’re too enthusiastic but you just find lots of stuff fun.

MOSTLY B’S You’re a fire dragon - either really chaotic or really competitive or both. There is at least one thing you really want to do well at and if it isn’t done properly you will yell at it until it is.

MOSTLY C’S You’re a polar dragon - a dragon with floof. May come across as cold (no pun intended) and aloof (also no pun intended) but is really a super nice bean.

MOSTLY D’S You’re a water dragon - mostly pretty casual vibes.

You spend a lot of time in the sun and you may or may not think sleeping is a waste of time.

MOSTLY E’S You’re a wyrm - sees all. Knows all. Some people say this dragon never blinks but no one knows for sure.

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what is your patronus?

The Patronus Charm is a defensive spell that protects witches and wizards against dementors in the book Harry Potter. It is a very challenging and produces a magical creature specific to the one who casts it. Each individual's Patronus says a lot about their personality and who they are as a person.

WRITTEN BY INDIA SMITH AND AMELIE VAN DER WERF (ILLUSTRATED BY DAISY DONALDSON) WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE COMBINATION OF SUBJECTS?

A) Drama, music, languages B) PDHPE, technology, agriculture C) Science, maths D) English, history E) Geography, art WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE THING TO DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?

A) Listening to/playing music B) Sport C) Reading D) Hanging out with friends E) Watching TV/playing video games

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MOVIE?

A) Enola Homes B) Forrest Gump C) Hidden Figures D) Mean Girls E) Titanic

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE FESTIVITY? A) Christmas B) Easter C) New Year’s D) Your birthday E) April Fool’s Day 040

WHICH OF THESE WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOURSELF AS?

A) Loyal, strong, passionate B) Spontaneous, optimistic, gentle C) Brave, smart, curious D) Friendly, kind, outgoing E) Graceful, emotional, compassionate HOW WOULD YOU SPEND YOUR IDEAL HOLIDAY?

A) Spending time with family B) Camping/hiking C) Overseas D) Beach E) Staying at home

WHAT IS YOUR PREFERRED TYPE OF CLOTHING? A) Branded B) Sports C) Swimmers D) Casual E) PJ’s/Oodie IN A CRISIS YOU’D BE: A) Commanding B) Hopeful C) Brave D) Nervous E) Calm college quizzes

IF YOU COULD HAVE ONE OF THESE POWERS, WHAT WOULD IT BE? A) To get anything you want B) World peace C) To have all the knowledge in the world D) For everyone to be friends E) For everyone to love you

MOSTLY A’S You’re a horse - you are loyal, passionate and caring. You are an individualistic person and can also be a bit stubborn. You know what you want and how to achieve it and you always put family first.

MOSTLY B’S You’re a rabbit - you are optimistic and can see the good in every situation.

You don’t follow the crowd, you do what you want. You are peaceful and easy to be friends with. Many of your peers would describe you as a ray of sunshine.

MOSTLY C’S You’re an otter - you are extremely smart and curious about the world around you. You are also very courageous and will do anything for those you love. You are brave about the depths of water, diving completely beneath the surface. You are empathetic, very playful, and curious.

MOSTLY D’S You’re a dolphin - you are friendly and sociable! You like groups, and you are very playful. You can be extroverted and you are easily loved.

You are intelligent, quick-witted and expressive.

MOSTLY E’S You’re a swan - you are compassionate and graceful. You value friendship and are a good friend. You are dedicated to your friend group and are caring. You can be emotional, but you also can be very strong at times. You like to make others happy, especially those you love.

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meet the team This publication is produced entirely by PLC students!

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF

Hattie Gilpin Seraphina Katta Makenzie Robertson MAIN CONTRIBUTORS

Emily Adams Tilly Almond Arlie Bragg Chloe Clark Gabby Cotterell Daisy Donaldson Hattie Gilpin Nevada Guiance Ella Jenkins Seraphina Katta Zoe Kelly Scarlett Loxley

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ACCOMPANYING ILLUSTRATORS

Huna Moghaddar Kaitlin Mungall Rachel Mungall Nathea Ping Kee Makenzie Robertson Daisy Sheedy Holly Sheedy India Smith Kaylee Swick Audrey Tighe Amelie van der Werf Bella Waters Lauren Williams Smitha Yarram Lucy Young

Emily Adams Arlie Bragg Ella Coulton Daisy Donaldson Hattie Gilpin Nevada Guiance Ella Jenkins Kate Loxley Scarlett Loxley Huna Moghaddar Grace Robertson Polly Turnbull Lauren Williams

COVER ILLUSTRATOR

ADVISORS

Hattie Gilpin

Mr Mitchell Clendinning Mrs Kate Clynch

meet the team

credits & answers A Fantastical Word Search, page 030

Wicked Word Search, page 035

By The Armidale Express, 2014, Biggest Morning Tea a Success at PLC (Addie Predicts, page 006)

By Anton Skyba, 2022, Ukraine war now ‘apocalyptic’ humanitarians warn, in call for safe access (Ukraine. What & Why?, page 008)

By Tyler Hicks, 2022, Russian Forces Tighten Noose Around Important Cities in Ukraine’s East (Ukraine. What & Why?, page 008)

By Grafissimo, 2012, Ukraine Flag Pictures, Images, and Stock Photos (Ukraine. What & Why?, page 008)

By John MacDougall, 2022, The Best Way To Stop Putin’s Invasion of Ukraine (Ukraine. What & Why?, page 008)

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contact us

For enquiries, comments, and questions: thescope@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

Thank you for reading the Fantasy Issue! @thecollegekaleidoscope