From the Principal - Catherine Lockhart
Last week we celebrated two notable events on our College Calendar, the Junior School and Senior School leaders’ Investitures. These are opportunities to recognise and congratulate students in their final years in the Junior and Senior Schools who have been elected by their peers to lead the College.
It is also a time to remember and celebrate what is important to us as a school and to encourage all students to find their own ways to develop, learn and demonstrate those competencies that build and grow leaders of the future.
This year in my address to the audience of each investiture, I drew on the work we have completed with The KIC Way. I asked our students to think about how they could Live Our Motto in showing wisdom, respect and friendship. How they could support our community to Grow Together, to harness each other’s strengths and look for ways to collectively make a positive difference to our school community.
I asked them to think of the concept of Global Hearts and Local Hands, having a global mindset but at the same time never losing sight of their local responsibilities and seeing how small local actions can still contribute the greater global good.
I asked them to apply the value of Kindness Creates Belonging by reminding them that kindness is not just a warm welcome, it builds trust and is the foundation of inclusion and belonging.
Finally, I asked our leaders and students to Unlock and Uplift, by valuing the potential in every person in our College and giving people the support and confidence to succeed.
I wish our leaders all the very best for their leadership journeys this year and encourage all our students to embark on their own development of these leadership attributes throughout the year.
From the Deputy Principal, Students, Staff and Community - Matt Baron
Brighter Futures Festival
In response to senior school parent feedback expressing a desire for greater connection and clearer communication about student learning pathways, we are delighted to launch the inaugural Brighter Futures Festival NEXT Tuesday 3 March 2026. Year 11 and 12 students are invited to remain on campus for Periods 5 and 6 to attend the Pathways, Careers and University Expo (until 5pm), all senior school and Year 6 families can attend from 3.30pm-8pm.
Families will gain insight into A-E subject selection, VCE, VCE VM and IB pathways, university preparation, wellbeing programs and future-ready skills.
The festival also celebrates the richness of senior school life through the Strive, Thrive and Come Alive Expo, student performances, guided tours and interactive displays.
We look forward to welcoming our community to this exciting new event as we partner together to ensure every student thrives in wellbeing, strives for excellence and comes alive with passion and purpose.
Find the program for the event here.
With sessions tailored to different year levels, along with Centrepoint Cafe refreshments and coffee, food trucks and a lively festival atmosphere, the Brighter Futures Festival promises an informative and inspiring evening as we partner together to ensure every student thrives, strives and comes alive.
Sign up for the Keynote Events and Concurrent Sessions here.
From the Head of Senior School - Kath O'Neill
Congratulations to Year 11 student, Matthew, who recently competed in the Australian Superbike Championships at Phillip Island, in the Open Mens Division. Matthew has been riding at a very high level for an extended time, making his national debut in 2024.
Our 2026 House Swimming Carnival was a fabulous day on Monday. We were incredibly fortunate with the weather, as well as the outstanding house spirit. Congratulations to Thomson, who were the victors for the tenth year in a row. The competition is getting more and more fierce, with some incredibly quick swimmers across each age group. A particular congratulations to Year 12 student Raphael, who broke records in every event in the open age group.
We’re very much looking forward to our House Athletics Carnival on Wednesday 18 March, which is the next of our compulsory senior school events.
Finally, our inaugural Brighter Futures Festival will be held on Tuesday next week, with students dismissed from classes at 12:50pm. Year 11 and 12 students are strongly encouraged to stay at school during the afternoon to participate in workshops and expos with a huge variety of post-school providers, and all other students and their families are expected back on site from 3.30pm-8pm for year-level specific sessions. Please see the program and sign-up links in Matt's article above.
From the Head of Junior School - Mario Chrisanthou
Our Future Engineers
Yesterday, I had the unexpected pleasure of spending an hour in our Kindergarten, after they found themselves short staffed when one of the educators needed to head home. I put my hand up to help, and what a rewarding hour it turned out to be.
As I sat alongside the children, I observed and I listened, and I was completely immersed in their world of creativity, curiosity, and collaboration. What struck me most was the way they naturally approached challenges. With blocks, magnets and a range of materials, they were not just playing, they were designing, testing, adjusting, and trying again. Towers were built, toppled, and rebuilt stronger. Bridges were carefully constructed with intense concentration and teamwork.
It was a powerful reminder that even at such a young age, our students are already thinking like engineers. They are problem-solvers and critical thinkers. They ask questions, explore possibilities, and persist when things don’t go to plan. These are the very skills that will serve them well into the future.
What stood out most was their resilience and joy in the process. There was no fear of failure, only excitement in trying again. It’s this mindset that we continue to nurture across our school, from our youngest learners through to our senior students.
Spending time in the kindergarten reinforced just how important these early experiences are. The foundations of creativity, collaboration, and curiosity are already being laid, and it is inspiring to see.
Our future engineers are already hard at work.
Icy Poles
A friendly reminder to all students to bring along $1 each Friday if they would like to purchase an icy pole. The funds raised go directly back to KIC Connect, supporting the purchase of more icy poles as well as contributing to wonderful events such as the Junior School Disco, Easter picnics, and other activities. This initiative is also a great opportunity for our Year 6 students to be involved in leadership and service, with a rotating group assisting each week. Thank you for your ongoing support—every dollar is reinvested into creating enjoyable experiences for our students.
KIC Connect
Thank you to all parents who generously volunteer their time at the College - we truly value your support. As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe environment for our students, all volunteers are required to complete the application process annually at the start of each year. Please ensure you submit your Working with Children Check (WWCC) using the following link: https://kardinia.csassurance.com/contracts/new?contract_template=24&token=EaQn3sxsSoEasmcp_RWR. Once submitted, our People and Culture team will be in touch to confirm your application.
Pako Festa
The Pako Festa will take place on Saturday 28 February, celebrating the rich cultural diversity of our community through a vibrant parade and festival along Pakington Street. The Junior School is proud to be involved in this exciting event, showcasing the many cultures that make up our school community. This year, Kardinia International College celebrates 30 years under the theme "Honouring the Past & Creating Bridges to the Future". All families are warmly invited to come along to support or simply enjoy the festivities together. It promises to be a wonderful celebration of community, culture, and connection.
Overseas Student Sovereign Hill Excursion
Last Sunday, a group of overseas students enjoyed a memorable visit to Sovereign Hill, where they explored Australia’s fascinating gold rush history. Accompanied by Mr Ota and Mrs Zhao, students experienced life as it was in the 1850s, walking through the historic township and gaining insight into the challenges and opportunities faced by early pioneers.
This year, we are excited to introduce a new opportunity: overseas students can now invite their Kardinia friends to join these weekend excursions. The initiative is designed to extend friendship networks, encourage meaningful connections, and create opportunities for local students to better understand and engage with our overseas student community.
We warmly welcome and encourage more Kardinia students to take part in upcoming trips and share in these enriching experiences together.
Mothers' Day Classic
We would love for you to join us on Sunday, 10 May, for the Mother’s Day Classic!
Our Community Ambassador this year is Mrs Ann‑Marie Iversen, who has created a team page, is supporting the event behind the scenes, and will be with us on the day. Several students will also be promoting the event as part of their CAS and Duke of Edinburgh programs.
We will be walking or running to raise awareness and funds for life‑changing breast and ovarian cancer research. Please note this is a community event, not a school event.
To learn more or to register, visit: https://www.mothersdayclassic....
During registration, please remember to join our team: Kardinia International College and please contact Rowena Bailey or Ann-Marie Iversen with any questions.
We are also seeking staff and student volunteers for a variety of roles to help make this our biggest year yet. Further details and meeting dates will be shared in the Bulletin.
We look forward to seeing you there. Save the date and share the love this Mother’s Day - Sunday 10 May.
High Performance Athlete Program
Grace H (Year 12) - Rowing
In preparation for competing at the Australian Rowing Championships to be held in Tasmania from 23–29 March, Grace H competed at the Nagambie Regatta recently, where she convincingly won both the Under 19 and Open School Girls 2km Single Scull events.
Grace is a valued member of the College’s High Performance Athlete Program, which supports dedicated young athletes as they balance elite training and competition with their academic studies. Through personalised learning plans, flexible assessment arrangements and ongoing staff support, the College is proud to help students pursue excellence in both their sport and their education.
Grace’s recent achievements reflect her commitment, resilience and disciplined approach to training. We congratulate her on this outstanding performance and wish her every success as she represents herself and the College at the NSW and Victorian State Championships, the Head of the Schoolgirls Regatta, and the Australian Rowing Championships in Tasmania.
Wellbeing Hub News
School TV is a resource for schools created to educate parents and support families across all areas of mental health and wellbeing so that our young people are given every opportunity to not only succeed but thrive!
Periods of change are an inevitable part of growing up. Whether it's the start of a new school year, moving between year levels, or stepping beyond the school gates for the final time, each transition presents both opportunities and challenges. These moments often require young people to use and strengthen the skills needed to manage uncertainty, adjust to new environments and build resilience. While some may embrace change with enthusiasm, others can find it unsettling and disruptive to their sense of routine and security.
Research consistently shows that transitions can be stress points, often linked to heightened anxiety, reduced academic engagement and changes in peer connections. For families, these times can also place additional pressure on communication, expectations and emotional regulation. Understanding the psychological and emotional impact of change allows parents, caregivers and educators to better support young people as they adjust.
Community Engagement and Foundation News
Community AFL Footy Tipping Competition
The 2026 AFL Community Footy Tipping competition is hosted by the CCC. 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! Click on the link below.
1st place-50%
2nd place-30%
3rd place-20%
Register your family and enter your weekly tips together! Register payment 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. It does not include the Opening Round or the Finals Series. The winners will be declared at the end of Round 24. Good luck!
Prizes will only be awarded to paid members, prior to the commencement of Round 1.
REMINDER - International Women’s Day Breakfast
The 2026 International Women’s Day Breakfast is on NEXT FRIDAY, celebrating our 30th Anniversary under the theme “Honouring the past & creating bridges to the future.”
Parents, alumni, staff, and VCE/IB students will enjoy a breakfast smorgasbord and hear from keynote speaker Dr Ashley Nesseler (Kay, 2000) alongside panel members Claire Lawrence (Class of 2000), Alex Campbell (2004), Olivia Lockhart (Class of 2021), Alice Crane (Class of 2026 College Co Captain), with Nikki Petyanszki (Class of 2001) as MC.
Event details
- Date: Friday 6 March
- Time: 7:00am–8:30am
- Venue: College Hall
- Tickets: Adults $25 | Students $20
A morning to celebrate some of our remarkable alumnae within our community, as we celebrate 30 Years!
REMINDER - Parent Mingle Night – ‘Mingle at Mary’s’
Parent Mingle Night is coming up — a relaxed evening for all K–12 Kardinia parents to connect, unwind, and meet others in our community. Enjoy a friendly night out hosted by the College Community Council (CCC) at Meet Me at Mary’s.
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/2...;
A great chance to reconnect and start the year with our vibrant parent community.
Kardinia Community Foundation Golf Day - Get Involved on and Off the Course
Our annual Golf Day on Tuesday 31 March is shaping up to be a fantastic event once again. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply keen for a fun day out, we welcome you to join as a participant https://events.humanitix.com/2026-community-foundation-golf-day
We are also seeking donations from our parent community – whether wine, vouchers, products, or services - to support our Wine Raffle and Silent Auction. Every contribution adds to the excitement of the day and more importantly, supports students through our Foundation scholarships. All donations are very much appreciated https://forms.office.com/r/PLjhMka5Ev
Fiona Russell - Community Engagement and Foundation Coordinator
From the Archives
Celebrating 30 Years – The College Motto and Logo
‘Once Kardinia International College had settled on its name, the next step was to create an emblem that would help bond the new community together. The College’s motto ‘Wisdom leads to Respect and Friendship’ gave expression to the aspirations Mr Katsumata had for his new school. The colours of royal blue, maroon and white were chosen as the official College colours. Inaugural staff member, Mrs Debbie Goodfellow, designed the Kardinia International College emblem. The Kardinia International College emblem is rich in meaning:
THE CENTRAL SYMBOL
The central symbol is that of an interrelated and interactive world, reflecting the essential international nature of the College. It symbolises an environment of growth and development with images of close interaction between East and West, Ying and Yang, a welcome space for all.
THE MOTTO
The College motto, ‘Wisdom leads to Respect and Friendship’, is the foundation for a world of harmony, peace and understanding. The whole curriculum is the foundation for preparing our students to be leaders in the world of the 21st century.
THE BRIDGE
Over-arching this world of harmony is a symbolic representation of a bridge giving images of ‘inviting in, moving forward, crossing over, a meeting place.’
WHOLENESS
This design of the emblem is such that the elements form an integrated whole. It holds together. The design has a real sense of unity and wholeness which reflects the nature of the College incorporating Kindergarten to Year 12.’
Extract from Kardinia International College-The First Ten Years 1996-2005 P. Dowie
Next week: The College Song
Fiona Russell-College Archivist
