Kardinia eNews - Wednesday 03 June 2026

From the Deputy Principal - Paul Dowie

Reconciliation Week 2026

This year’s National Reconciliation Week theme was “All In.” Across the College, students and staff worked together to create a meaningful week of reflection, learning and action. The strong involvement of our community showed that we were truly all in, and the Reconciliation Action Planning Committee is grateful for the support and enthusiasm shown throughout the week.

Junior School students led a Reconciliation Week Assembly, sharing their learning about First Nations Peoples. Jenny Dowie and her Year Four reporters created a video that told the story of the endangered Bogong Moth and Mountain Pygmy-possum, and the important work of Gunaikurnai First Nations Rangers in protecting these species.

The Senior School Assembly was held on National Sorry Day. During the assembly, the Social Justice Committee presented a timeline of key moments of Aboriginal resistance to injustice. Social Justice students also helped create a poster display in the Learning Commons, offering further information about these important events. Music students performed Beds Are Burning, reinforcing themes of justice and land rights.

At both assemblies, Kristi Watts delivered a Welcome to Country, followed by student performances acknowledging and thanking Country. The community also viewed Many Cultures, One Kardinia video celebrating Kardinia's cultural diversity (click the graphic below to see the video). This video was a student-led initiative, with the senior school International Council also leading the Multicultural Day celebrations, which included fundraising for the Strong Brother Strong Sister mentoring program.

Hands-on activities included collaborative art installations; a large-scale student-created jigsaw artwork, and the Junior School Footprint installation for students in Foundation Year-Year 6, as well as a popular Bushtucker menu at Centrepoint, celebrating native ingredients.

The week concluded with staff supporting the broader Geelong community at Reconciliation in the Park, reflecting the College’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation beyond the classroom.

The theme “All In” reminds us that reconciliation calls for action from all of us, every day of the year. This week was a powerful reflection of that shared commitment and of the work we must continue together beyond National Reconciliation Week.

From the Head of Senior School - Kath O'Neill

On Friday evening, I had the pleasure of spending time with around 180 of our Year 12 students at the inaugural Year 12 Trivia Night. With some very impressive food on offer, the competition was fierce but good natured, and the room had a wonderful sense of energy throughout the evening.

A highlight for me was what happened at the end of the night. Without being asked, students stayed back to help pack up, stacking chairs, making sure rubbish found its way into bins, and folding away tables. That willingness to lend a hand late on a Friday evening was very much appreciated. It also said something important about this group: there is a strong sense of camaraderie in the Class of 2026, along with a growing readiness to contribute generously to the life of the school as well as enjoy one another’s company.

Thank you to our College Captains, Alex and Alice, who first proposed the idea and then put together the questions for such an enjoyable evening. They’ve set a precedent for future cohorts!

From the Head of Junior School - Mario Chrisanthou

Empowering Students as Changemakers

Last week, Junior School staff participated in a professional learning workshop led by our Head of Upper Primary, Izabella Haby, and Director of Innovation and Technology, Aisha Kristiansen. The session focused on the important themes of Student Agency and Student Voice, exploring how we can continue to create learning environments where students are empowered to take ownership of their learning and have their perspectives heard.

Earlier this year, Izabella and Aisha presented at Yokohama International School in Japan, sharing their work on Students as Changemakers: Designing Learning for What Matters Most. Their presentation highlighted the ways in which schools can intentionally design learning experiences that foster curiosity, purpose, leadership and authentic action.

Drawing on the insights and experiences from this international conference, Izabella and Aisha guided staff through an engaging workshop that celebrated the many ways student agency is already thriving across our Junior School. Staff reflected on current practices, shared examples of student-led learning and explored opportunities to further strengthen student voice and influence in classrooms and across the broader school community. Discussions centred on moving beyond simply listening to students, ensuring they are genuine partners in shaping learning experiences, initiatives and school culture.

The session was a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the outstanding work already taking place while continuing our commitment to ensuring every student feels empowered and valued. By nurturing student agency, voice and influence, we are helping our learners develop the confidence and skills to become active contributors and changemakers both within and beyond the school gates.

World Environment Day

On Friday 5 June we celebrate World Environment Day. Students are invited to wear casual clothes with a touch of green and bring a gold coin donation. This initiative is organised by the Planeteers Committee supporting the conservation of the critically endangered Mountain Pygmy-possum and the endangered Bogong moth.

Meet Millie - our Wellbeing Dog

You are invited to meet our Lower Primary wellbeing dog, Millie, next Thursday 11 June from 9:00-9:30 in the JS Conference Room. During this time you will be able to find out more about this pilot project and ask any questions you have. We hope to see you then. 

Welcome to Sarah Fagan

We are delighted to welcome Sarah Fagan to the Junior School team. Sarah is an experienced educator who has already worked with many of our Junior School students this year as a Casual Relief Teacher. For the remainder of this term, Sarah will be supporting students across the Junior School, and from next term she will be working with our FY students four days per week. We are excited to have Sarah join our team and look forward to the valuable contribution she will make to our learning community.

French Cake Competition

Attention Senior School Students!

Who may enter?

• Year 7 KIC Students who study French, 1-2 students per entry

• Open category: Students from other year levels, students who study other languages and staff

Themes: L’Art français/ Monuments / Le loisir (leisure) / La fraternité (brotherhood/solidarity)

Please submit your entry form to the Learning Commons (forms available at the desk). Cakes will be judged on: French culture/ originality / creativity /edibility of decorations.

Bring your cake to the Learning Commons between 8-9am and pick up at end of the school day - cakes will be on display in the LC for the whole day. Entrants must DECORATE THEIR OWN cake, using mostly edible ingredients. Winning cakes to be announced and prizes awarded at 1pm in the Learning Commons.

Sport News

Senior Girls Tennis - Victorian Schools Championships

Kardinia’s Girls Tennis team proudly represented the College at the 2026 Victorian Schools Tennis Championships, displaying outstanding sportsmanship, determination and team spirit throughout the day.

The girls began strongly with an impressive first-round victory against Ava Maria College. They then faced the highly talented team from Penleigh and Essendon Grammar, where they competed courageously against players of National standard, fighting hard to win several games against exceptional opposition.

The third round against Methodist Ladies College proved equally challenging, once again placing the girls against National-level competitors. Despite the high standard of play, the team continued to demonstrate resilience, positivity and support for one another.

In the final playoff for 5th and 6th place, Kardinia took on Ballarat Grammar. Although every match was tightly contested and hard fought, the girls produced an outstanding performance to secure a 6–0 victory.

Beyond the results, the team represented Kardinia in the true spirit of friendship, respect and enjoyment of sport. It was a wonderful day shared together through a mutual love of tennis, and the girls should be incredibly proud of both their efforts and conduct.

Congratulations to Aarya N, Aria W, Emily C, Zoe L and Esther W on a fantastic achievement.

- Danielle Williamson

SSAV Golf Championships Report

Last Monday, I had the opportunity to accompany our two qualifying golfers, Sophie Johnson (a member of our High-Performance Athlete Program) and Euan S, to the annual SSAV Golf Championships held at Lonsdale Links Golf Club, currently ranked 19th in Golf Australia’s Top 100 courses.

Following a brief warm-up, players began with an 8:30am shotgun start. Those familiar with the game will appreciate the challenge presented by a course of this calibre, with demanding drives, punishing rough, deep bunkers, and lightning-fast, undulating greens. Both Sophie and Euan rose to the occasion, demonstrating determination and composure throughout the round.

The results were as follows:

• 7th – Euan (70, even par), finishing just three strokes behind the winner
• 16th – Sophie (87)

I also spoke with Sophie’s parents, who shared some insight into her golfing journey. I hope that this may inspire other students to try the sport.

Sophie Johnson

Sophie’s interest in the sport began in Prep following a holiday spent playing mini golf. She commenced lessons at the age of six at Queens Park before following her coach to Clifton Springs, where she remains a member today. Sophie also holds membership at 13th Beach Golf Links.

She has represented Clifton Springs in junior pennant and 13th Beach in ladies’ pennant competitions. Over the years, Sophie has been involved in the Barwon Sports Academy, competed with the Geelong-based Southwestern team, and represented the Western District.

One of Sophie’s standout highlights came in 2022, when she officially opened the Vic Open at 13th Beach, hitting the first drive of the day in front of professional golfers Su Oh and Hannah Green.

Sophie is currently part of the Girls’ Golf Scholarship Program at Clifton Springs, where she continues to develop her game while also mentoring younger players. She has enjoyed numerous competition successes, although, as her parents noted, she takes particular pride in beating her dad on the course.

Sophie’s mindset and composure, developed through years of experience, continue to serve her well as she takes on the many challenges of competitive golf.

- Neil Hick

High Performance Athletes Program

Alex Brondou National Championships - an update

"I returned from the ISSF National Pistol Competition in Brisbane last week, and it was a very successful event for me. I achieved three top ten individual finishes in Australia and was also part of the Victorian Junior 10m Air Pistol Team, which won the bronze medal. Each team consisted of three shooters, with our Victorian team placing third overall nationally.

My individual results were:

• 8th – Individual Sports Pistol
• 8th – Individual Rapid Fire
• 9th – Individual Air Pistol
• 14th – Individual Standard Pistol
• 3rd – Junior Team Air Pistol

The first three days of the week were focused on training and practice at the new range. The remainder of the week consisted of competition days, where I was able to apply everything, I had learned during training under competition conditions and pressure.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the week. I had valuable time training with my teammates prior to competition and learned a great deal from both coaches and fellow athletes. Their advice, encouragement, and support helped me improve my performance throughout the event.

I also had the opportunity to watch teammates compete in their respective disciplines, as well as observe several Olympian athletes competing and winning national events, including one who set a national record. This provided a valuable opportunity to learn from athletes performing at such a high level.

My next competition will be the Tri-State Competition over the King’s Birthday long weekend, which will be held at MISC. My results there will contribute towards state team selection. Moving forward, my goal is to continue developing my performance and consistency to secure a place in the team."

Alex with Olympian Sergei Evglevski

Future Pathways and Education News

Year 8 and 9 Workshops

This week's workshops with our Year 8 and 9 cohorts were a brilliant opportunity for students to reflect on current practices, habits, interests and skill sets while also being encouraged to dream big for their futures.

The Year 8 workshop enabled students to complete the 'Study Work Grow - Career Clusters Quiz'. I enjoy seeing our tally growing and the breakdown of clusters within our groups. Students have been encouraged to talk at home about the cluster quiz results. Year 8 workshop resources: https://kiconline.kardinia.vic.edu.au/homepage/5097

The Year 9 workshop focused on the world of work, time management, resume development and preparing to apply for a first job. A reminder for students to access the excellent resume builder course via KIConline Future Pathways page: https://kiconline.kardinia.vic.edu.au/news/19632. Year 9 Workshop resources: https://kiconline.kardinia.vic.edu.au/homepage/5098

Overall, students were engaged in planning their futures, looking inward at personal skills and interests, as well as preparing for upcoming opportunities they can take advantage of.

Thank you to our team - Manfred Pohlenz, Joe Madunić and Clare Outerbridge for the planning, development and delivery of these programs for our students.

Future Pathways KIConline - https://kiconline.kardinia.vic.edu.au/homepage/2221

School Holiday Programs - https://kiconline.kardinia.vic.edu.au/homepage/7458

Kardinia Pathways Hub - https://studyworkgrow.com/education/school/kardinia-international-college/

Wellbeing Hub News

NICOTINE ADDICTION

Nicotine addiction is an emerging and complex challenge for young people, particularly with the rise of vaping and the perception that it is less harmful than traditional smoking. However, nicotine is a highly addictive substance that can impact brain development, mood and concentration. For many young people, what begins as experimentation can quickly lead to dependence, often driven by social influences, stress or curiosity.

How adults respond is critical. By taking a calm, informed and consistent approach, conversations about nicotine can become opportunities to build awareness, strengthen decision-making and support healthier choices.

Read more here.

Upcoming Webinar

Click Here to Register

Community Engagement and Foundation News

Save the Date - Term 3 Coffee Morning

Tuesday 14 July is the first day of Term 3 and the next K-12 Parent Coffee Morning. Take the time to add it to your calendar.

Parent Trivia Night!

Our annual Parent Trivia Night is on Thursday 30 July at Murphys Geelong (Upstairs) from 6:30pm–9:30pm. The trivia kicks off right at 7pm, so gather your team before tickets sell out! It’s always a great night and a full house!

Tickets: $25 per person (Food and drinks available at bar prices) 

https://events.humanitix.com/2026-ccc-trivia-night

Teams: 6–8 people Form a team ahead of time or simply join one on the night. It’s a fantastic chance to connect with other parents, catch up with familiar faces, and welcome new members of our school community.

Hosted by the College Community Council (CCC), this event is all about fun and building community spirit. Don’t miss out!

Our story— the 30th Anniversary Memento Ripples of Kindness: The Gift That Grew

Copies of the special limited-edition 30 Years Anniversary picture book 'Ripples of Kindness: The Gift That Grew' are still available between 1-30 June.

This beautiful publication shares the inspiring story of our Founders, Mr and Mrs Katsumata, and the extraordinary legacy their generosity has bestowed upon Kardinia International College.

Once purchased, books will be available for collection at the Junior School and Senior School reception from 14th June. An email will confirm your book is ready for collection.

June orders: https://events.humanitix.com/june-2026-ripples-of-kindness-the-gift-that-grew

*Please note this image is not a live link.

Fiona Russell - Community Engagement and Foundation Coordinator

From the Archives

Memories of House Music 1996 - 2005

House Music has been a much‑loved Senior School tradition since 1997, held each year on the final day of Term 2.

In its early format, each House presented two items:

• a massed choir performance featuring all students in the House, and

• a choral or instrumental piece performed by up to 20 students, often incorporating dramatic or dance elements.

The House Music plaque records the following champions:

1997 — Morongo

1998 — Cowie

1999 — Thomson / Gotemba

2000 — Morongo

2001 — Gotemba

2002 — Gotemba

2003 — Gotemba

2004 — Gotemba

2005 — Cowie

The images below capture moments from the 2005 House Music performances, showcasing the energy, creativity, and camaraderie that have long defined this event.

Next week: Memories of House Music 2006 - 2015

Fiona Russell - College Archivist

Community