From the Principal - Catherine Lockhart
Last week I had the privilege of attending a three-day conference with colleagues from across the globe who have all joined a project in conjunction with Melbourne University and the Council of International Schools called the New Metrics International School project.
This project is building on the amazing work the Melbourne University New Metrics team has been exploring for the last seven years ways to effectively assess and measure student competencies beyond academics.
These competencies highly align with our SPICE (Social, Personal, Intercultural, Critical and Creative Thinking and Ethical) competencies, which is why we were so keen to get involved in the project.
We will share more in the coming months as we pilot some of this work across the school. It is exciting to see our school moving in space shared with like-minded schools from across the world that recognise that our students are so much more than a number.
We want to continue to explore ways to recognise and celebrate with our students the many different ways they are good, as opposed to just what they are good at.
From the Head of Senior School - Kath O'Neill
There is a particular kind of energy that comes with the final stretch of a term, and this week Senior School has had it in abundance.
Our House Athletics Carnival today brought students together in the best possible way, competing, cheering and in many cases surprising themselves. These days matter more than the ribbons suggest. There is real value in watching your peers push themselves, in choosing to have a go, in the particular joy of a house cheer that just gets bigger and louder the longer it goes on. Staff and students alike brought genuine spirit to the day, and it showed. Congratulations to Thomson, who finished in first place for athletics, following on from their success in swimming as well.
NAPLAN has also concluded for our Year 7 and Year 9 students this week. I know these assessments can carry some weight in the household conversation, so a gentle reminder that NAPLAN is one data point among many, a useful diagnostic information for schools and for families, but never the full picture of a learner. Our students approached it with diligence and care, and we're proud of their efforts.
We saw something genuinely lovely at the Brighter Futures Festival earlier this month: families who are deeply interested in their children's education, who ask good questions, and who want to be part of the picture. That kind of engagement makes a real difference, and we don't take it for granted.
Bookings for Parent–Teacher Interviews open next week. A small note as you plan: our teachers identify where an interview is required for your child, and those are the conversations we'd encourage you to prioritise. For everything else, progressive reporting gives you real-time visibility into your child's progress; it's designed for exactly this purpose, so you don't need a special appointment to stay across how things are going.
Finally, a reminder that the last day of classes for Term 1 is Wednesday, 1 April, with Parent–Teacher Interviews concluding the term on Thursday, 2 April.
From the Head of Junior School - Mario Chrisanthou
Junior School Cross Country Carnival
Although earlier forecasts predicted dry conditions, a light drizzle on the day caused a brief moment of uncertainty. Nevertheless, we were delighted to continue and successfully proceed with our annual Cross Country Carnival. The decision proved worthwhile, as students showed tremendous enthusiasm and determination throughout the day. It was wonderful to see so many smiling faces, with children challenging themselves on the course and encouraging one another every step of the way.
In the lead-up to the Cross Country, students on the main campus prepared by completing a 0.5 km time trial each week, aiming to improve their time each session. The Grove students extended this challenge further by completing a 1 km true cross country time trial weekly, culminating in a personalised biathlon that incorporated The Grove bikes. This consistent preparation helped build both fitness and confidence across all year levels.
Across this training journey, our Upper Primary students recorded more than 700 personal best times, which was fantastic to see and a genuine reflection of their effort and perseverance leading into yesterday’s event. Their willingness to set goals and strive for improvement was a highlight in itself.
One of the standout moments of the day came when Lily Armstrong broke the Girls 12/13 age-group record by an incredible 26 seconds, completing the 2.5 km course in 9 minutes and 32 seconds. This record had stood since 2018 and was previously held by her sister, making the achievement even more special and a wonderful family milestone.
All students embraced the challenge of the day. They should feel proud of their efforts, their positive sportsmanship and the way they represented themselves and our school community. Congratulations to the Morongo House on their outstanding efforts. It was wonderful to see such pride and enthusiasm on display- a fantastic achievement from all.
Thank you to all staff and parents for their support in making the day such a success. A special thank you to Katie Anderson, Head of Sport, along with our PE teachers Mitch Hough and Scott Russell, who were instrumental in preparing students for the Cross Country in the lead-up to the event. On the day, they supported each race by riding their bikes around the course to guide, encourage and help ensure the safety of all participants.
30 Year Anniversary Gala Dinner
The College's 30 Year Anniversary milestone offers us a moment not only to reflect on how far we have come since those early days in 1996, but also to honour the enduring spirit of Wisdom, Respect and Friendship that continues to guide our community. Inspired by the remarkable legacy of Mr and Mrs Katsumata — whose vision for peace, harmony and international understanding shaped the very foundations of the College — the Gala Dinner will bring our community together in a spirit of gratitude and celebration. We look forward to sharing this special evening with you as we mark the past, embrace the present, and look ahead to the next chapter in the Kardinia story.
Tickets are priced at $135 per person, and include canapes, dinner and dancing!
Tickets are limited, don't miss out! Purchase tickets here: https://events.humanitix.com/k...
Please contact marketing@kardinia.vic.edu.au with any questions.
Outdoor Education and Experiential Learning News
We are excited to officially launch our 2026 Year 10 Experience Week!
Experience Week is a cornerstone of our Year 10 program. It is designed to move learning beyond the classroom and provide students with meaningful, real-world challenges that build independence, resilience, and confidence as they prepare for their senior years.
During this week, students will select from a range of carefully designed experiences. Each option offers a different type of stretch — whether through challenge, creativity, service, collaboration, or personal growth — but all share a common purpose: helping students grow in character and capability.
Further details about the specific experiences, costs, supervision, and timelines will be shared shortly. Sign-ups will take place from April 27 – May 2, and we strongly encourage families to begin conversations at home about which type of experience may best support your child’s growth.
Experience Week is often remembered as one of the defining moments of Year 10. We look forward to partnering with you to help make it a powerful and positive step toward the senior years.
Year 10 Experience Week Magazine 2026
Click on the image below to view the intro video:
Social Justice Committee News
A fantastic evening celebrating partnership, purpose and impact!
Kardinia International College was proud to be part of the Geelong–Viqueque Friendship Schools and Deakin University fundraiser, bringing together schools, community organisations and university partners committed to strengthening education opportunities in Timor-Leste. The event highlighted the power of collaboration and shared vision across our network.
Our students played a key role in the evening, with Hannah and Mitchell showcasing powerful work from last year’s Timor-Leste trip. Social Justice President Sara offered thoughtful and inspiring reflections during the panel discussion about the impact that Timor has had on her worldview. We were honoured to hear from keynote speaker Ornella Byak, whose story and leadership continue to inspire change. Having recently spent time with Kardinia students and staff, her impact within our community was strongly felt on the night. Another highlight of the evening was Fikki, our English translator in Viqueque, who brought incredible energy and joy by sharing Timorese musical favourites and getting the whole room singing together.
Sport News
Junior School Division Swimming
The 25 members of our Junior School Swim Team had a fantastic Day at the Bellarine & North Geelong Division Swimming Championships on Tuesday 10 March. The sun was shining bright, and the team were cheering loudly not only for themselves but other competitors showing their great sportsmanship and camaraderie.
Every student swam their best against some tough competition; with the standout performance of the day coming from our 12-year girls relay teams who dominated both the Freestyle and Medley relays with commanding wins. We wish the 11 students who have qualified through to Metro West Regionals by placing either 1st or 2nd in their individual events, or 1st in the relays, all the best as they move onto the next round of competition in 3 weeks.
RESULTS:
1st 9/10 Girls Freestyle Relay (Orella L, Zoe S, Isla P, Penny K)
1st 9/10 Girls 50m Butterfly – Orella L
2nd 9/10 Girls 50m Butterfly – Mackenzie VK
4th 9/10 Girls 50m Breaststroke – Orella L
4th 9/10 Girls 50m Backstroke – Isla P
1st 9/10 Boys 50m Breaststroke – Ezra V
2nd 9/10 Boys Freestyle Relay (Hamish T, Eli G, Xavier S, Ezra V)
4th 9/10 Boys 50m Backstroke – Eli G
2nd 11 Girls Freestyle Relay (Elise B, Georgina U, Poppy D, Mirabelle S)
2nd 11 Girls 50m Breaststroke – Elsie B
2nd 11 Girls 50m Backstroke – Elsie B
3rd 11 Girls 50m Butterfly – Georgina U
4th 11 Girls 50m Backstroke – Georgina U
3rd 11 Year Boys 50m Backstroke – Zac G
4th 11 Boys Freestyle Relay (Zac G, Remi G, Logan H, Samuel D)
1st 9-13 Girls Medley Relay (Emily K, Alexandra K, Elise W, Ivy V)
1st 12/13 Girls Freestyle Relay (Emily K, Alexandra K, Elise W, Ivy V)
1st 12/13 Girls 50m Freestyle – Ivy V
1st 12/13 Girls 50m Backstroke – Elise W
2nd 12/13 Girls 50m Breaststroke – Alexandra K
2nd 12/13 Girls 50m Butterfly – Elise W
4th 12/13 Girls 50m Freestyle – Alexandra K
4th 12/13 Girls 50m Breaststroke – Emily K
4th 12/13 Girls 50m Backstroke – Emily K
4th 12/13 Boys Freestyle Relay (Wayne Y, Patrick F, Nathan Y, Charlie A)
4th 12/13 Boys 50m Breaststroke – Wayne Y
4th 12/13 Boys 50m Butterfly – Patrick F
2026 Head of the Schoolgirls’ Regatta Report
Geelong | March 13–15, 2026
Over the weekend fifteen Kardinia students delivered a strong and inspiring performance at the 2026 Head of the Schoolgirls’ Regatta in Geelong, demonstrating determination, teamwork, and outstanding performance across all events.
Competing against over 2000 high-quality athletes, each rower rose to the challenge and represented the school with pride. Congratulations to the following students on their outstanding achievements:
Year 9 Division 3 Quad – 4th in F Final
Zoe C, Elizabeth T, Emma J, Pippa P and Violeta C
Year 9 Division 2 Quad – 3rd in B Final
Tilly O, Maddie T, Imogen K, Ella T and Jess B
Year 9 Division 1 Double – 1st in B Final
Molly C and Ella M .
Year 9 Division 1 Single – 1st in A Final
Skye Q.
Open Division 1 Single – 1st in A Final
Grace H
Open Division 1 Single – 4th in A Final
Lucy B
Students are encouraged to make contact with one of the community clubs on the Barwon to try out rowing as a sport.
Central Victorian Schools Mountain Biking
We’re very excited to share that we had two students represent our College in the Central Victorian Schools Mountain Biking competition in Creswick last week. Mia G (Year 7) rode to an outstanding 1st place, while Evan G (Year 8) narrowly missed the podium, finishing just 0.3 seconds outside of third, in the downhill riding competition.
Congratulations to you both!
Australian Kart Championship
Competing at the Australian Kart Championship in Coffs Harbour recently, Zach F (Year 12) took on elite drivers from across Australia, New Zealand and beyond in the KA3 Senior Competition. Qualifying in P1, winning Heats 1 and 2, and running in the top 3 all weekend, before securing an impressive P2 finish after leading most of the final.
An outstanding performance at the highest level of karting in Australia.
Victorian Junior Surf Lifesaving State Championship
A huge congratulations to a group of Kardinia students who competed at the Victorian Junior Surf Lifesaving State Championships in Warrnambool recently.
For the below athletes, this was their final carnival as 'juniors' (U13 age group) and conditions at Warrnambool were best described as challenging. With large surf all weekend, and horizontal rain giving way to blazing sunshine the students did a remarkable job for their clubs, some even coming home with medals.
Reuben S (Year 7) Ocean Grove SLSC
Harvey S (Year 7) Ocean Grove SLSC
Tadhg N (Year 8) Jan Juc SLSC
Lulu J (Year 8) Torquay SLSC
Trudy G (Year 8) Altona LSC
Lucy D (Year 7) Jan Juc SLSC
Charlotte E (Year 7) Ocean Grove SLSC
Trudy, (pictured) was team captain for Altona Life Saving Club and coached her peers in the March Past. Teams are judged on various factors, including timing and presentation, and for the first time ever the club achieved a placing where points were attached (6th our of 24 teams).
Congratulations Trudy, and to all who participated!
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any student sporting achievements. We love sharing and celebrating student success with the KIC community through eNews and our College social media channels.
High Performance Athletes Program
Athlete: Matthew R, Year 11
Matthew has continued to build on his recent appearance at the Open National Men’s Superbike Championship at Phillip Island. Stepping straight into the South Australian State Championships, Matthew produced an outstanding series of performances across multiple categories and disciplines.
Mac Park – South Australian State Championships Results
Supersport 300 (Yamaha R3)
Across six highly competitive races, Matthew demonstrated consistency, speed, and race craft, achieving the following results:
1st, 2nd, 1st, 1st, 1st
This dominant run included four race victories and solidified his status as a top-tier contender in the Supersport 300 class.
Moto 3 (NSF-250R)
Matthew delivered a flawless performance in the Moto 3 category, securing five consecutive wins:
1st, 1st, 1st, 1st, 1st
His clean sweep showcases exceptional control, pace, and athletic discipline.
George Carrick Memorial Lightweight Race
Capping off his success at Mac Park, Matthew also claimed 1st place in the George Carrick Memorial Lightweight Race, highlighting his versatility and competitive strength across racing classes.
Pictured: Matthew racing at Mac Park in the South Australian Championships.
Wellbeing Hub News
Harmony Week is a time to celebrate the cultural diversity that makes Australia such a vibrant and welcoming place. At Kardinia International College, it is also a great opportunity to recognise the many different backgrounds, languages and experiences that make up our school community.
One of the key messages of Harmony Week is simple but important. Everyone belongs. In a school like ours, where students come from a wide range of cultures and countries, this message is especially meaningful. Our diversity is something that makes our community stronger and more interesting.
Harmony Week gives students the chance to learn more about each other and to reflect on the importance of respect, inclusion and understanding. At our school this happens through classroom discussions and activities, and sometimes through the everyday interactions that help build friendships and connections across cultures.
At Kardinia International College, we are proud of the welcoming and supportive environment our students help create. Harmony Week is a reminder that by being open, respectful and curious about one another’s cultures and experiences, we can help ensure that everyone in our community feels valued and included.
Celebrating our differences and the things we share is an important part of what makes our school such a special place.
Australia's multicultural background has been shaped by migration since 1945, which at times has culminated into situations that have been challenging and sometimes leading to conflict due to a lack of understanding. Harmony Week reminds us to appreciate everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances.
TONIGHT! Click Here to Register
Community Engagement and Foundation News
Parent Mingle Night at Meet Me at Mary’s
Our recent Parent Mingle Night at Meet Me at Mary’s was a warm and enjoyable occasion, bringing together families from across Kindergarten to Year 12. Parents appreciated the opportunity to meet new members of our community and reconnect with familiar faces in a relaxed setting.
We extend our thanks to all who attended and contributed to the welcoming atmosphere. Events like this continue to strengthen the sense of connection that underpins our school community.
Community AFL Footy Tipping Competition Leaderboard
Following the completion of Round 1 in the Community AFL Footy Tipping Competition, the current top three participants are:
- O’Neill’s
- Swannies76
- WilsonGanz
Watch out for the Leaderboard at the end of Round 2!
PRE-ORDERS REMINDER – Ripples of Kindness: The Gift That Grew
A reminder that preorders remain open for the limited edition 30-Years Anniversary picture book, Ripples of Kindness: The Gift That Grew.
This beautifully produced publication celebrates the inspiring story of our Founders, Mr and Mrs Katsumata, and the remarkable legacy their generosity has created for Kardinia International College.
Written by Paul and Jenny Dowie, the book features illustrations contributed by Junior School students and design by Nick Kerber. The back cover includes a striking drone photograph taken on the first day of school in 2026, capturing every student and staff member on campus.
This commemorative keepsake will be treasured by current families as well as our Alumni community. Preordered copies will be available for collection at the beginning of Term 2, with distribution details to follow.
Preorder your limited-edition copy at: https://events.humanitix.com/2026-ripples-of-kindness-the-gift-that-grew
KIC Golf Day – Join Us for the Lunch and Guest Speaker Presentation
We warmly remind parents that you are most welcome to attend the Kardinia Community Foundation Golf Day lunch and presentations, even if you are not participating in the golf component of the event.
This year’s luncheon will feature a keynote address from Cameron Ling, respected AFL figure and Katsumata Circle member. Guests will also enjoy the presentation of awards, as well as the opportunity to take part in our fundraising activities, including:
- A raffle for a bottle of Penfolds Grange
- A wonderful selection of silent auction items
We encourage parents from across the College to join us for an enjoyable afternoon of connection, community, and celebration. This event is proudly sponsored by McHarry's Buslines.
Tickets available at: https://events.humanitix.com/2026-community-foundation-golf-day
Fiona Russell - Community Engagement and Foundation Coordinator
From the Archives
Celebrating 30 Years – The First Day - Senior School
‘Kardinia International College opened its doors to students on Thursday 1st February 1996. The students did not have a school uniform and so they were in casual clothes. The students were broken into three Tutor Groups with Years Seven, Eight and Nine spread between them. Some students would arrive later in the year…
On Wednesday 7th February, the secondary students went to the front beach at Torquay for a Getting to know you day.’
‘The Kindergarten started its program with introductory sessions allowing the children to settle into the new environment. Ruth (Schoefield-Smith) and Liz (Goodfellow) were joined by Anne Lambert at the end of February. The Kindergarten program was based on facilitating play. The teachers worked very hard at setting up play centres that would stimulate the children’s motivation and imaginations. The Kindergarten teachers were very skilled in knowing when to introduce new elements into the children’s environments. The children were naturally inquisitive towards nature and the natural world. This led to wonderful sharing between the students and teachers.’
Extract from Kardinia International College-The First Ten Years 1996-2005 P. Dowie
Next week: The Bridge Ceremony
Fiona Russell - College Archivist
