Kardinia eNews - Wednesday 20 May 2026

From the Head of Senior School - Kath O'Neill

Today I was privileged to attend Timor-Leste Independence Day Celebrations at Christian College, along with a group of Year 11 students who will be visiting Timor-Leste next month. The Geelong region has a close connection with the province of Viqueque, through the Geelong-Viqueque Friendship Schools group, and Kardinia has a long history of visiting the area and supporting our sister-school, Cabira Oan.

The connection that we have with Timor-Leste, and Viqueque in particular, is very special. It is one where our young people are able to work with the people of Viqueque as partners, learning with and from one another. Independence Day marks the restoration of Timor-Leste’s sovereignty on 20 May 2002, after decades of struggle, and it is a reminder of the resilience, dignity and determination of the Timorese people. For our students, this partnership offers something far deeper than travel. It is an opportunity to build understanding, to listen carefully, and to recognise how much can grow from friendship, respect and shared purpose.

From the Head of Junior School - Mario Chrisanthou

Celebrating International Mindedness and Belonging

Our International Family Breakfast was a special celebration of community and connection. It was wonderful to see students, parents and staff coming together to celebrate our school family. The morning reflected the rich diversity that makes our community so vibrant. I would especially like to thank Renee at Centrepoint, along with the staff who came in early to cook and prepare the food, and the members of KIC Connect - a special group of parents who are always willing to help and initiate events such as this.

A highlight of the morning was welcoming parents into our learning spaces. Thank you to the parents who generously shared their personal stories, experiences and cultural backgrounds with us. Their presentations offered valuable insights into the unique journeys individuals take throughout their lives, and their traditions enriched the experience for everyone present.

I look forward to the next family event.

Creative Voices: Reflecting on Childhood Through Art

We are excited to support Year 12 student Ted as he undertakes his VCE Art Creative Practice major project exploring the theme of childhood nostalgia through sculpture. Ted is inviting our Junior School community to contribute meaningful items that may help bring this artwork to life.

Families are encouraged to donate old toys, baby blankets, treasured fabrics or small items that remind them of childhood memories and special moments. These contributions will become part of a permanent artwork, celebrating the stories, emotions and connections that childhood objects can hold.

This is a wonderful opportunity for our students and families to contribute to a creative and deeply personal artistic project while supporting one of our senior students in his final year of study. Ted looks forward to sharing the completed sculpture with the community once it is finished.

Please note that donated items will become part of the final artwork and will not be able to be returned. Donations can be placed at the Junior School Reception and will be collected before the school holidays.

For any questions, please contact Ted at hartt@kardinia.vic.edu.au

Mother's Day Classic - Community Participation

Thank you to all members of the Kardinia International College community who supported this year’s Mother’s Day Classic—whether walking, running, volunteering, fundraising or donating.

The College was proud to be the top represented school at the Geelong event, with a strong presence across both participants and volunteers. It was a meaningful way to support an important cause and contribute to a positive overall result.

Donations remain open for those who wish to contribute: Support Kardinia International College - Mother's Day Classic with the current fundraising total sitting at more than $3,500!

A big congratulations to Year 4 student Zayn who participated, completing his first-ever 5km run in an impressive time of 32 minutes 28 seconds. A very special experience for Zayn, made even more memorable as he was acknowledged at the finish line by the Mayor of Geelong. Well done Zayn!

World's Greatest Shave

We would like to congratulate our Senior School students who took part in this year’s World’s Greatest Shave!

Held in Centrepoint Café at the end of Term 1, the event brought together the Senior School community, with Senior music students providing live entertainment. The festivities also included nail painting, alongside a powerful show of generosity, with a group of students choosing to shave or cut their hair to raise funds for Australians affected by blood cancer.

Combined with a recent casual clothes day fundraiser, students have raised an incredible $5,300 in support of the Leukaemia Foundation through this year’s campaign.

The World’s Greatest Shave is a national initiative that has been running for over 25 years, with more than 2 million participants helping to fund vital support services, including accommodation, transport and emotional care, as well as ongoing research into blood cancers.

A fantastic effort from all involved, and special congratulations to our organising team – Shiloh, Siena, Cooper, Johnny, Stella and Charlie – for leading such a meaningful initiative.

Sports News

GISSA AFL

A determined effort from our GISSA Intermediate Girls Football team yesterday. While they were unable to come away with a win in both pool matches, the team showed great resilience and commitment throughout. Well done to all involved!

Future Pathways and Education News

National Careers Week 2026: Connect. Create. Thrive.

Kardinia International College recently celebrated a highly successful National Careers Week Australia in the Senior School, with a range of engaging activities, excursions, incursions and opportunities designed to inspire students to explore their future pathways.

Throughout the week, our goal was to make pathways education visible, accessible and exciting for all students and our wider college community. From hands-on activities to meaningful discussions, it was wonderful to see students engaging with the many possibilities ahead of them.

Bringing Careers to Life

This year’s theme — Connect. Create. Thrive. — highlights what effective career development truly looks like. It is not something done in isolation, but rather through:

• Connecting with people, opportunities and support

• Creating individual pathways based on interests and strengths

• Thriving by building fulfilling futures, not just jobs

Students embraced this message through a variety of experiences, including:

• A “Guess the Job” lunchtime challenge, created using Study Work Grow resources

• LEGO building prompts, encouraging creativity and linking skills to future careers

• Ongoing conversations about interests, goals and possibilities

It was fantastic to see students step beyond “typical” career ideas and begin exploring the breadth of opportunities available.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

A highlight of the week was the opportunity for students to engage in real-world experiences beyond the College. A sincere thank you to Ms Yuting Zhao and Ms Hiroko Suzuki for taking a group of students to the International Careers and Study Expo in Melbourne, providing valuable exposure to global study and career opportunities.

We also extend our gratitude to Mr Trent Reuben and Mr Brendan D’Arcy for accompanying students to the Geelong Innovation Summit, where they gained insights into emerging industries, innovation and future-focused careers.

In addition, we were pleased to host an Australian Defence Force (ADF) incursion, giving students a valuable insight into careers within the defence forces and the diverse pathways available.

A thank you to Joe Madunic for supervising this opportunity, as well as leading our Senior School Work Experience Briefing for students interested in participating in placements this year. These sessions are an essential starting point, outlining the application process and requirements needed to secure placements.

We now look forward to receiving student applications and required documentation, which are critical first steps toward organising placements. Work Experience is a valuable use of time, supporting students to make informed decisions, explore career interests, and develop confidence in real-world environments.

Resources to Support Future Planning

To support ongoing conversations at school and at home, a range of updated career resources are now available for students to collect from the Study Room, including:

• University Course Guides (Deakin, RMIT and The University of Melbourne – 2027 intake)

• Early Entry Guide

• Scholarships Guide

• Entry into Medicine Guide

These guides are designed for students to take, explore and use as part of their research into potential careers, courses and areas of interest.

A Lifelong Journey

National Careers Week also serves as an important reminder that career development is a lifelong process. Whether students are just beginning to consider subject choices, exploring post-school pathways, or refining their goals, these conversations are valuable at every stage.

Importantly, this week helps shift the perception that careers guidance is a “one-off” event. Instead, it highlights the importance of ongoing, personalised support, and recognises the expertise of career practitioners who help guide these journeys.

Continuing the Conversation

One of the most powerful outcomes of the week is the way it sparks conversations — not only among students, but also with families, teachers and the broader community.

We encourage families to continue these discussions at home:

• Talk about interests, strengths and passions

• Explore different industries and pathways together

• Encourage curiosity and openness to new possibilities

As always, it is never too early — or too late — to start thinking about careers and pathways.

Thank you to our students for their enthusiasm and to our dedicated staff who supported and facilitated such a rich and engaging week. We look forward to continuing to support every student to dream big, explore widely and thrive in their future pathways.

University Open Day season is here - now is a great time to start planning visits.

Years 10 and 11 are often an ideal time to visit, as they allow students to gain insight into courses, campus environments and future pathways without the added pressures of Year 12 study load.

Open day guides and other university resources are available to students via the Future Pathways page on KICOnline for access at any time.

High-Performance Athlete Program

An update on Year 11 student, Matthew Ritter and his achievements at the Australian Superbike Championships

Matthew’s recent results come from Round 3 of the Australian Superbike Championship (ASBK), the highest level of road (circuit) racing in Australia. The ASBK features four classes: Superbike (nominally 1000cc), Supersport (600cc), Supersport 300 (300–400cc), and Junior Cup. The 2026 Championship is contested over five rounds across four states—Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland. A typical race weekend includes one practice session, two qualifying sessions, and three races per class. Matthew competes in the Supersport 300 category.

Matthew recorded his first podium results in Round 2 at Sydney Motorsport Park in late March, finishing third in two races. He then built on this success at Round 3 at The Bend in South Australia, claiming his first race win alongside two fifth-place finishes. These results saw him place second overall for the round from a field of more than 20 riders. His race win was particularly notable, achieved in wet conditions against the hometown favourite.

Theatre Studies News - THIS WEEK!

Come along and support some of our senior students in their VCE Theatre Studies production of 'Dags' - Thursday 21 and Friday 22 May. A gold coin donation at the door supports Eating Disorders Victoria. It would be great to see you there!

KICPIC (Kardinia International College Performance in Community) Production

Shifting Ground – A KICPIC Performance Event

A vibrant showcase of scenes from plays, film, television, and dance, Shifting Ground explores the many ways we experience change throughout life. Directed by Alex Joyce and Rose Harley, the production is brought to the stage by the talented members of KICPIC.

Date: Friday 29 May

Time: 5:30pm–7:00pm (includes a 10‑minute interval)

Tickets: $5, with all proceeds supporting the Bluebird Foundation Bookings: https://events.humanitix.com/shifting-ground-by-kicpic

Thank you for your support of this community‑driven creative work.

Wellbeing Hub News

As children grow, particularly during adolescence, conflict often reflects their developing independence and identity. When handled with calmness, empathy, and consistency, conflict can strengthen relationships rather than damage them. It also provides an opportunity to model respectful communication, emotional regulation, and problem-solving, helping young people build resilience and navigate relationships with confidence.

Read more here.

School TV Webinar

https://kardinia.vic.schooltv.me/webinar/understanding-anxiety-depression-part-II-ec

IDAHOBIT Day

Here at Kardinia, we strive to create a place where all our people belong. Together, we can build a world without discrimination, today and every day of the year. We stand together whether you’re part of the LGBTQIA+ community or you’re an ally.

May 17 marks the date in 1990 that homosexuality was removed from the WHO Classification of Diseases. Over three decades later, LGBTQIA+ communities still face discrimination – but every one of us can make a difference.

IDAHOBIT is coordinated by Minus18, Australia’s charity for LGBTQIA+ young people across the country. You can find out more about the day and discover information about identity and inclusion through the website www.IDAHOBIT.org.au

To celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community this IDAHOBIT Day, on Friday 22 May we students to add a touch of rainbow to your uniform. It could be colourful socks, a pride badge, a bright bracelet, anything to help raise awareness and show support!

On the day, there will also be a variety of activities, including a quiz during tutor group, a pride flag hunt, rainbow face paint, rainbow food at the canteen and karaoke at Centrepoint Cafe. Stay proud!

Community Engagement and Foundation News

Parent Trivia Night! Tickets Now Available!

Get ready for a fun night out! Join us on Thursday 30 July for our annual Parent Trivia Night at Murphys Geelong (Upstairs) from 6:30pm–9:30pm. The trivia kicks off right at 7pm, so gather your team and bring your A‑game.

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. We can’t wait to see you there!

30th Anniversary Commemorative Paving Bricks

Orders closing soon! Only 2 weeks to preserve your family’s name in the College’s history.

Join over 100 families leaving a lasting mark with a personalised brick to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the College.

Bricks can be engraved or hand‑drawn and will be installed in a central area of the College grounds.

How to order:

• Collect an order form (sent home with JS students; also available at JS Reception or SS Student Services).

• Make payment via the link or QR code: https://events.humanitix.com/30-year-anniversary-bricks

• Return your completed form with your name and mobile number before 31 May.
  
  

Something every family should cherish — the 30th Anniversary Memento Ripples of Kindness: The Gift That Grew

Does your family have their keepsake to treasure?

This beautifully crafted memento honours the people, moments and acts of kindness that shaped Kardinia International College over three remarkable decades. It’s a heartfelt celebration of community, connection and the legacy that continues to grow.

Secure your family’s copy today: https://events.humanitix.com/apr-may-2026-ripples-of-kindness-the-gift-that-grew

*This link closes at the end of May.

Community AFL Footy Tipping Competition Leaderboard

Round 10 created an upset on the leader board!

The Top 10 after Round 10 are now:

1. Scott S.
2. Holly R.
3. Tania B.
4. Katherine P.
5. Peter P.
6. Isabelle T.
7. Mark N.
8. Isabel W.
9. Scott E.
10. Simon B.

Some new tippers are moving up the board!

Fiona Russell - Community Engagement and Foundation Coordinator

From the Archives

Memories of The First Production of ‘Dags’

‘Kardinia International College’s inaugural production was a play called ‘Dags’, by Debra Oswald, an amusing look at being 16 and all it entails. ‘Dags’ presented its audience with a message about adolescence and the issues which confront our teenagers through their years at Secondary school. ‘Dags’ was a well written piece of drama with a good mix of pathos, humour and insight…

In addition to receiving a very encouraging Kudos 11 review, the cast were also invited to present a short section at the awards ceremony…

’Dags’ was the only production to receive four nominations. Furthermore, Kardinia International College won two major awards:

Best Lead- Georgia Friend

Best Support Role- Danny Goodfellow

‘Dags’ set a high standard for theatrical productions at Kardinia International College to follow.’

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

Next week: Parent Trivia Nights

Fiona Russell - College Archivist

Community

Attention Students! - Deakin Student Study

Deakin is looking for adolescents aged 12 – 17 to take part in a study examining how personal memories and experiences influence fear and anxiety. This study involves the completion of online questionnaires and attendance of a single hour-long appointment at The Health, Education and Research Building (HERB), Geelong. Participants will receive a $30 Coles/Myer giftcard at the completion of the appointment. Please follow the link to read more about the study and register your interest: https://researchsurveys.deakin.edu.au/jfe/form/SV_0eOB2wMCtRvNaCy