Kardinia eNews - Wednesday 11 March 2026

From the Head of Senior School - Kath O'Neill

Earlier this week, we had the privilege of welcoming Ornella Byak to Kardinia International College. Ornella, the founder of BETTER Timor, spoke with both our Junior and Senior School students about her passion for improving education in Timor-Leste, and I don't think it would be an exaggeration to say she left a mark. There is something powerful about hearing someone speak with genuine conviction about a cause, and to share their lived experience and real commitment. Ornella outlined the impact that education has not only on the individual attending school, but on their family and the broader community.

Her visit connects directly to the work our Social Justice Committee has been doing this term. Last week's silent auction, raising funds for a permaculture project in Viqueque, raised a remarkable $1,871. That total doesn't happen without a community behind it, families and friends who donated items generously, and those who bid on them with equal enthusiasm. On behalf of the Committee, and on behalf of the people in Viqueque who will benefit from this project, thank you.

A reminder for families of students in Years 7 and 9 that NAPLAN testing runs Wednesday through Friday this week. Students should come to school rested and ready, and we ask that appointments and other commitments are avoided during testing sessions where possible.

Looking a little further ahead, our Senior School House Athletics Carnival takes place on Wednesday 18 March, and it is a compulsory event for all Senior School students. I know that ‘compulsory’ can sometimes feel like a bureaucratic word, so let me put it another way: we want everyone there. Not just the sprinters and the jumpers and the people who've been training all summer, but everyone who will cheer from the sidelines with more energy than anyone on the track, everyone who will run their race and smile regardless of where they finish, and everyone who will turn up for their house rather than for a ribbon. Our motto, Wisdom leads to Respect and Friendship, doesn't ask us to be the best. It asks us to show up with integrity, to support each other, and to find genuine connection in shared experience. A carnival is one of those rare days when every single one of those things is possible, regardless of your event, your ability, or your enthusiasm for running in the sun. We ask families to support us by ensuring their children are at school and ready to participate on the day. It means more than you might think, to the students standing next to them, and to the culture of the school we're all trying to build together.

From the Head of Junior School - Mario Chrisanthou

Community, Camaraderie and College Spirit on Display

Over the past week, our students have proudly represented the College at both the Combined Geelong North Primary Girls and Boys Division Swimming Competition and the Deakin District Summer Carnival, and what stood out most was not just the results, but the incredible spirit shown by our students.

Across both events, there were countless moments that reminded us what school sport is truly about. There were high fives at the end of races, encouraging words between teammates, plenty of smiles shared on the sidelines and supportive parents present. Whether students finished first or last, the support for one another never wavered.

At the swimming competition, students challenged themselves in the pool, cheering loudly for their teammates as they stepped up onto the blocks. It was wonderful to see students celebrating each other’s efforts, understanding that every race required courage and determination.

Similarly, at the Deakin District Summer Carnival, the sense of teamwork and camaraderie was unmistakable. Students competed with enthusiasm, encouraged one another between events and proudly wore their College colours. From the field to the court to the pool, the day was filled with positive energy and genuine support.

What made both events so special was the way our students embraced the true meaning of sport. It wasn’t just about winning. Students celebrated successes together and supported each other win or lose, demonstrating the values we strive to nurture every day at the College.

Moments like these remind us why school sport is so important. While winning brings excitement, there is often even greater learning in losing. Experiencing loss teaches students how to manage disappointment, reflect on their effort and develop the determination to try again. It helps them understand that improvement takes time, it takes persistence and it takes courage. Losing also builds humility and empathy, encouraging students to congratulate others and recognise the hard work of their competitors. These are powerful life lessons that extend far beyond the pool, the track or the field.

Through both victory and defeat, students develop resilience and character while the shared experience of competing and encouraging one another continues to strengthen the bonds within our community. Watching our students with such enthusiasm makes me incredibly proud to be part of this wonderful College community.

Join the Team at Centrepoint Cafe - Casual Relief Opportunities

The College's Centrepoint Café is seeking reliable casual relief staff to be join the team. This role is ideal for someone seeking flexible school hours with shifts available between 9.00am to 2.00pm Monday to Friday during school terms. Availability at short notice is highly valued to assist during periods of staff leave.

Key duties include assisting with food preparation and serving staff and students during recess and lunchtime.

Previous experience in a café, canteen or food preparation environment is preferred, but not essential. If you enjoy working in a busy, friendly environment, while providing great service, we would love to hear from you.

After appointment and prior to commencing, applicants must:

• Provide a Food Handlers certificate (free training from https://dofoodsafely.health.vic.gov.au/index.php/en/)

• Provide a valid Working with Children Check (Employee) prior to commencement.

• Be willing to undertake a National criminal history check.

If this is of interest to you, please forward your resume and a cover letter detailing your availability to employment@kardinia.vic.edu.au

Strengthening International Partnerships in Japan

Iza Haby and Aisha Kristiansen recently presented at the ReimaginED Conference at Yokohama International School about ‘Students as Changemakers-Designing Learning for What Matters Most’. This global gathering of educators focused on the future of learning.

The conference highlighted the importance of community, collaboration, and learning that responds to social, cultural, and environmental contexts. They explored new ideas, shared innovative practices, and considered how schools can better prepare students for a changing world.

While in Japan, they also learned about the history of Gotemba, the Japanese education system, and how these have shaped the development of Gotemba Nishi High School. They met with Takahiro, Ema, and Mr. Yoshihisa Katsumata, strengthening professional connections and sharing ideas. Iza and Aisha also had the opportunity to work with Gotemba Nishi students, learning with and from one another.

It was a fantastic opportunity to represent the College internationally and find new ways to connect students from both schools.

Future Pathways and Education News

Thank you to the senior students and families who visited the Pathways, Careers and University Expo at the Brighter Futures Festival. It has been wonderful to hear so many positive and motivational conversations taking place since students visited the expo. Our Year 12 pathways meetings have been proactive in nature, with students having a better sense of their direction and overall goals. A reminder for year 12 students to make their compulsory Future Pathways Advisor Appointment via the online booking link. Student bookings are to be made before school, lunchtime or during study periods. Year 12 Student Booking Link

Following the Brighter Futures Festival, many parents might be wondering how they can support their child with subject and course selection. Please be sure to visit the Future Pathways page via KICOnline with your child.

Future Pathways Resources and Pathways Hub Study Work Grow Pathways Hub.

Resources for families - Support for Families

Year 9 Morrisby date for 2026 – Wednesday 19 August Periods 1 and 2. Student log in details will be sent prior to this date. You can learn more about the Morrisby profile here: https://app.morrisby.com/practice-questions

Work Experience at Kardinia - Work Experience Information. The Work Experience Program at Kardinia International College is non-compulsory. Students in years 9 to 12 are encouraged to complete one work experience as it provides a valuable opportunity for students to gain both an understanding of what it means to be a member of the workforce and an insight into a possible future career pathway. Completing Work Experience could influence students future subject, course selections and pathway planning. Work Experience ideally takes place during school holidays in order to minimise disruption to classes.

Students are required to organise their own placement to ensure their work experience is in an industry they are interested in.

Support for subject selection and course selection Year 9 & 10 Subject Selection Resources and Bridges Curriculum information.

Currently, student bookings for pathways advisors are being prioritised for our year 12 students. Senior school students who are currently undertaking subject and course selection, are strongly encouraged to have conversations with subject teachers, tutor group teachers and Heads of House about specific subjects they should take. Subjects should be a combination of both interesting and challenging for students learning. Ensuring that learning is at the right level for individual learners is important. If students in years 9 and 10 are wanting to double check any prerequisite subjects for potential university pathways, they can access the year 9 and 10 subject selection resources linked above.

Mrs Kloe Woods - Head of Future Pathways and Education Department

Sport News

GISSA Tennis

The KIC Div2 Tennis Team proudly represented Kardinia at the recent GISSA Tennis Competition, with both the boys’ and girls’ teams delivering outstanding performances on the court.

Division 2 Girls: Jess B, Natalya K, Eva D, Matilda M, Evelyn A, Ellie R, Jess E, Fay H

Division 2 Boys: Max D, Denzil L, Jasper M, Tarun M, Elliott G

Throughout the day, our players demonstrated determination, skill and teamwork in every match.

Beyond their strong results, what stood out most was the incredible KIC spirit shown by all players. Teammates supported one another, respected their opponents, and displayed excellent sportsmanship at every stage of the competition.

Well done to all our tennis players for being fantastic ambassadors for the College and a big congratulations to Denzil and Natalya who were awarded MVPs, and Max and Fay Coaches Awards. We are proud of your effort, attitude, and commitment!

Mrs Williamson

GISSA Futsal

Last Thursday, our senior school intermediate Futsal teams participated in the GISSA championships.

The boys' team had a great day and performed well both on and off the court. Coach Mr Madunic recognised the player of the tournament as Joe C, and awarded the KIC team recognition award to Adam A.

6 games; 6 wins: Geelong Lutheran 5:3, Covenant College B 5:0, St. Ignatius B 9:1, Christian College 6:1, Semi Final St. Ignatius A 5:2, Final Iona College 2:0

The girls team also had a fantastic day, recording strong wins of 18–0 against Clonard and 9–0 against Covenant College. After a narrow 0–1 loss to Iona in the round matches, the team regrouped and came back fighting — defeating Iona 1–0 in a fantastic Grand Final match. Mathilde P was named MVP for the day, and a big thank you goes to coach Mr Verhagen for his guidance and support.

Library Services News

Senior School - Citizen Science - Pumpkin Growing Competition

Dear students and teachers, please water, feed and… bring in pumpkins for entries: Friday 20 March 2026!

Prizes for the Biggest, The Weirdest and The Best Dressed Pumpkins! Any questions? Contact: library@kardinia.vic.edu.au

Wellbeing Hub News

Peer pressure is a normal and inevitable part of growing up. From early childhood through adolescence, young people are constantly influenced by the attitudes, behaviours and expectations of those around them. As friendships become increasingly important, peers can play a powerful role in shaping how children and teenagers think, feel and act.

In today's digitally connected world, peer pressure extends far beyond the classroom or playground. Social media, messaging apps and online communities mean young people are exposed to constant comparison, instant feedback and unspoken expectations about how they should look, behave and perform. While some peer influence can be positive and motivating, it can also place significant pressure on young people to conform, take risks or prioritise acceptance over their own values and wellbeing.

Click here to read more.

Click Here to Register

Community Engagement and Foundation News

PRE-ORDERS NOW OPEN – Ripples of Kindness: The Gift That Grew

Pre-orders are now open for a special limited-edition 30 Years Anniversary picture book Ripples of Kindness: The Gift That Grew.

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

Lovingly created by Paul and Jenny Dowie, the book includes illustrations contributed by Junior School students with design by Nick Kerber. The back cover showcases a stunning drone photograph taken on the first day of school in 2026, capturing every student and staff member on campus.

This keepsake is sure to be treasured not only by current students and their families, but also by our alumni community.

Pre-ordered copies will be available for collection at the beginning of Term 2. Distribution details will be advised.

Pre-order your limited-edition copy at: https://events.humanitix.com/2026-ripples-of-kindness-the-gift-that-grew

TOMORROW - Parent Mingle Night – ‘Mingle at Mary’s’

The Parent Mingle Night is on TOMORROW NIGHT! Enjoy a social night with other K–12 Kardinia parents to connect and unwind over drinks and nibblies.

Event details

• Date: Thursday 12 March 2026

• Time: 6:30pm–9:30pm

• Venue: Meet Me at Mary’s, 66 Pakington Street, Geelong West

• Tickets: $20 per person (includes entry and nibblies)

• Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/2026-kardinia-ccc-parent-mingle-at-marys

This event is hosted by the College Community Council (CCC).

STARTS TOMORROW - Community AFL Footy Tipping Competition

A reminder to register your family before the commencement of Round 1 at:  https://events.humanitix.com/2026-ccc-family-footy-tipping-competition

The URL for the tipping and the competition code, are included on the ticket information.

The competition starts from Round 1 Thursday 12 March. It does not include the Opening Round or the Finals Series. The winners will be declared at the end of Round 24.

It is open to all K-12 Kardinia families. Entry is $10 per family and the prize money will be a percentage of all entries. The more involved, the bigger the prizes!

1st place - 50%

2nd place - 30%

3rd place - 20%

Prizes will only be awarded to paid members, prior to the commencement of Round 1. 

The 2026 AFL Community Footy Tipping competition is hosted by the CCC.

THIS MONTH - Kardinia Community Foundation Golf Day 

Our annual Golf Day on Tuesday 31 March is less than 3 weeks away!

Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply keen for a fun day out, it is a fantastic day out and we’d love to have you join us on the course. Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/2026-community-foundation-golf-day

If you cannot join us on the day, we’re also inviting contributions to support our Wine Raffle and Silent Auction. Donations of wine, vouchers, products, or services all help make the day more exciting—and most importantly, raise funds for Foundation scholarships that directly support deserving students. Thank you for your generosity and ongoing support: https://forms.office.com/r/PLjhMka5Ev

Celebrating Connection and Legacy at the 2026 International Women’s Day Breakfast

The 2026 International Women’s Day Breakfast at Kardinia International College brought our community together in a truly uplifting celebration of 30 years of learning, leadership, and legacy. With this year’s theme, Honouring the past & creating bridges to the future, the morning highlighted the strength of our history and the promise of the generations to come.

Parents, alumni, staff, and our VCE and IB students filled the room with warmth and energy as they shared a delicious breakfast smorgasbord and enjoyed musical performances from talented students. The atmosphere reflected the very best of the Kardinia spirit - supportive, vibrant, and deeply connected.

A huge thank you to our keynote speaker Dr Ashley Nesseler (Class of 2000), our wonderful MC Nikki Petyanszki (Class of 2001), and our alumnae panel - Claire Lawrence (2000), Alex Campbell (2004), and College Co Captain Alice Crane (2026), for sharing their wisdom across generations.

Fiona Russell - Community Engagement and Foundation Coordinator

From the Archives

Celebrating 30 Years – Inaugural College Staff

‘The opportunity to work at Kardinia International College attracted 430 applications, prompting strong competition for staff positions (due to) “…excitement of a new institution with new ideals and high standards of behaviour.” (GA 30.11.1995)

‘The newly appointed staff would have to work extremely hard to establish systems and procedures …The site had not been occupied for a year and required a large amount of attention. The secondary teachers would need to teach a variety of areas as well as taking on other roles….’

‘The school year began extremely well in February of 1996 with a strong sense of purpose and with high expectations. The staff had made an enormous effort in attending to a multitude of tasks over the weeks leading up to the first day.

The Inaugural College Staff 1996

Principal: Mr John Goodfellow

Business Manager: Mrs Patricia Whitford

Teaching Staff:

• Ms Debbie Bard Brucker (Art, Food, Graphics, Textiles, ESL)

• Mr Paul Dowie (Science, Computers, Environmental Studies)

• Ms Robyn Fry (English, ESL, Geography, Physical Education, Japanese)

• Mr John Goodfellow (Mathematics)
• Mrs Liz Goodfellow

• Ms Debbie Howard (Music)

• Mrs Ruth Schoefield Smith

• Mrs Jeannine Valmadre (English, Asian Studies, Librarian)

Kinder Assistant: Mrs Anne Lambert

Secretary: Mrs Sandy Hutchison

Japanese Liaison: Ms Hatsune Okuba

Caretaker: Mr Reid Simpson

Grounds-person: Mr Shaun Young

Cleaner: Mrs Glenda Kennedy

Extract from Kardinia International College-The First Ten Years 1996-2005  P. Dowie  

Next week: The First Day - Senior School

Fiona Russell - College Archivist

Community

Community Health Notice

To support families ahead of the winter season, Geelong Mobile Vaccination Services are holding some community flu vaccination clinics. In 2026, children and teens aged 2–17 will have access to a new needle‑free intranasal spray flu vaccine — the first time this option has been offered in Victoria. The flyer below includes details about clinic locations and availability for those who may be interested.

Community Holiday Workshops