From the Principal - Catherine Lockhart
Yesterday’s 30-year Founders’ Day celebrations were so special. It was the perfect day in so many ways, from having six members of the Katsumata family with us to celebrate, to the weather, the assemblies, the fabulous activities throughout the day and the way our students participated with joy and respect throughout the day. Below is an extract from the speech I gave at the assembly which I think sums up what Founders’ Day means to us.
I never had the privilege of meeting Mr and Mrs Katsumata, but I feel their presence everyday as I walk through the magnificent grounds of our school and see our staff and students living out the legacy provided to us by Mr and Mrs Katsumata. They were people of great vision; they truly cared about people and wanted to help make the world a better place. They were people of action, they saw an opportunity to make a difference, and they did not let distance, language, bureaucracy, or anything else stop them from bringing their dream to reality. They believed in the power of education and how it can transform lives and communities. They set out to create a school with intercultural understanding, empathy, and respect for others at its core.
When I first read about the school, I could not quite fathom how the school had been founded by a Japanese couple who lived in Japan but wanted to create a school in Australia to build international understanding and hope. I thought this sounds too good to be true. But it is true and the fact that we are sitting here today is because of this remarkable story that is as unique and special as the school that grew out of Mr and Mrs Katsumata’s vision.
I truly believe that if Mr and Mrs Katsumata could join us here today, they would be so happy for so many reasons. They would be amazed that over 2000 students now attend our school. They would have been so impressed with the fabulous staff members we have at our school and would have been so delighted that some of the staff from the founding years of the school are still with us today.
They would be so impressed with the respectful way our students move around the campus, attend their classes, and participate in the many opportunities the College offers. They would love to see that we have an international committee, international celebration days and strong connections with schools and groups in Thailand, France, Timor Leste and are continuing to build connections with students and educators across the globe.
They would be thrilled to know that our relationship with Gotemba Nishi high school, its staff and students is continuing to blossom, and they would be filled with joy to see their children, grandchildren, the Japanese consul General and their Japanese friends joining in the celebrations with us today. I think Mr Katsumata would have been keen to go on some of the rides and would have enjoyed the silent disco, and I think Mrs Katsumata would have been keen to join in many of the events including the face painting.
Most of all, they would have been just so happy to know that the leap of faith they took 30 years ago to create a school halfway across the world has grown into an amazing institution where thousands of students over the years have benefitted from an education that has, and continues to build bridges to a brighter future.
From the Head of Senior School - Kath O'Neill
Yesterday, Kardinia International College came together to mark a milestone that belongs to all of us: thirty years since Mr and Mrs Katsumata gave this community its beginning. Founders Day has always been a moment to reflect on that gift, but this year's 30th anniversary made it something particularly special.
The response from students in the hours since has been striking. I’ve received e-mails of thanks from across year levels, and staff have been equally warm in reflecting on what made the day so memorable. We were honoured to welcome members of the Katsumata family and other special guests, and their presence gave the celebrations a particular depth and meaning.
Our College Captains and Junior School leaders led the assembly with skill and composure, and our musicians set a tone that carried beautifully through the day. Together, as a whole school community, we took time to reflect on just what Kardinia has meant to so many people across three decades, and how far we have come since those early days. The day also brought a reminder of our enduring connection with Gotemba Nishi High School, a relationship that continues to grow and speaks to the international spirit our founders always envisioned.
What struck me most, though, was how students themselves articulated the day. One described being ‘grateful for the opportunity to connect with the College's history and to meet the Katsumata family during such an important milestone’. Another reflected that the legacy of our founders is ‘a strong school community that values learning, respect, and long-lasting friendships’. A third observed that the Katsumata family ‘believed in strengthening international connections’ and were ‘committed to an education that promoted peace and harmony’, with that dream ‘built into the school motto of wisdom, respect, and friendship’. And one simply captured the joy of it, the photobooth, the props, the scramble to change poses, and the photos kept as a reminder of a fun day well spent together.
Thirty years on, that is precisely the spirit Mr and Mrs Katsumata hoped to create.
From the Head of Junior School - Mario Chrisanthou
Founders' Day Festival
A very big thank you to all our parent volunteers, parents and staff who joined us yesterday. In what I'm sure you would all agree was a fantastic day, to celebrate the College's 30th Anniversary.
Celebrating International Family Day – Friday, May 15
On Friday, May 15, we are excited to celebrate International Family Day - a special occasion dedicated to recognising and honouring the important role families play in the lives of our children and our community.
At Kardinia International College, we know that family is at the heart of every child’s learning journey. Families provide love, support, values, culture and a sense of belonging, and this day gives us the opportunity to celebrate the many different ways families shape and strengthen our school community.
To begin the day, we warmly invite all parents and family members to join us for a special Family Breakfast from 7:45am, hosted by our wonderful staff and parents from KIC Connect. This will be a lovely opportunity to come together in a relaxed setting, enjoy breakfast, connect with other families, and start the morning with a strong sense of community and belonging.
Following breakfast, from 9:00am to 10:30am, parents will be invited into our Learning Groups to help us celebrate the diversity of families within our school. We are proud of the many cultures, traditions, languages and life experiences that make up our community and we would love for parents to be part of sharing this with our students.
We are seeking parents who may like to share a story, tradition, cultural experience, family celebration, profession, hobby, or something meaningful from their own family life. This could include reading a favourite childhood story, teaching a simple craft, sharing traditional clothing or food, speaking about family celebrations from your culture, discussing your work or life journey, or simply talking to children about what family means to you.
Children thrive when they see their families involved in their learning environment. They feel a deep sense of pride and connection when their parents and loved ones are present at school. These moments help children feel valued and supported, and they strengthen the important partnership between home and school. Please let your child’s Learning Group teacher know whether you are interested in joining us and speaking to the children.
We would love as many families as possible to be involved in this special morning.
Additionally, for families who are planning to attend The Grove from 9:00am–10:30am, we kindly ask that you let us know as soon as possible. If there is a large number of parents attending, we would be very happy to organise a bus for the morning to make transport easier for everyone. Please let your child’s Learning Group teacher know whether you will be attending. If numbers are smaller, parents will be required to arrange their own transport.
Congratulations to Our State Swimming and Diving Champions
A huge congratulations to Emily K, Alex K, Elise W and Ivy V who represented our College at the State Swimming Championships in Melbourne.
The girls did us incredibly proud, demonstrating determination, teamwork, resilience, and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the competition. Competing at a state level is a remarkable achievement in itself, and finishing in 4th place is something they should be extremely proud of.
Congratulations also to Mackenzie V represented the College at the Western Metro Primary School diving championships. Mackenzie posted a new personal best dive score from her combined 3 dives to place 1st in the region for the 9-10 girls, earning her a place in the Victorian Primary School State Championships. In the state championships Mackenzie performed her best against a strong field of competitors finishing 4th in the 9-10 year girls age group. Well done Mackenzie!
Uniform Swap This Friday
Just a reminder that this Friday, KIC Connect has organised a Uniform Swap in the JS Conference Room at 8:30am.
This is a wonderful opportunity for families to bring along any pre-loved uniforms they would like to sell, donate, or pass on to another family. It is also a great chance for parents who may be looking to purchase second-hand uniforms at an affordable price.
With children growing so quickly, this is a fantastic way to support sustainability and make use of quality uniforms that still have plenty of life left in them.
We encourage all families to come along and take advantage of this wonderful community initiative.
The Grove Pop-up Market
This Friday from 8:30am, just outside the JS Reception, The Grove Pop-Up Market will be offering green tomato chutney, zucchini relish, semi-dried tomatoes, eggs, pumpkin and lots more. It is a wonderful opportunity for families to support our staff and students by purchasing something fresh and organic.
Student Achievements
National Schools Constitutional Convention - Fin L (Year 12)
I recently had the privilege of representing Victoria at the 31st National Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra, with 112 other students from around Australia. We discussed the power of the Senate, under Section 53 of the Constitution, to block appropriation bills passed by the House. This power led to the Whitlam dismissal in 1975.
The convention was a brilliant opportunity to grow my understanding of Australia’s Constitution, and I greatly appreciated the keynote addresses we received from a number of professors. While in Canberra I also had the privilege of speaking with Her Excellency Samantha Mostyn AC, Governor-General of Australia, and had great discussions with the Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker, the Minister for Infrastructure, Catherine King, and the Treasurer, Jim Chalmers. As a group we enjoyed the spectacle of Question Time and met the Speaker, Milton Dick.
The NSCC was an incredible opportunity to learn more and speak with the people who make the decisions affecting our lives. I’d like to express my gratitude for Dr. Lockhart and the whole college for their support, National Curriculum Services, the Department of Education, and all my fellow delegates. I’d strongly encourage everyone in Year 10 and 11 this year to apply later this year for the next convention at https://ncsonline.com.au/projects/national-schools-constitutional-convention.
Sports News
Kardinia's Senior Girls proudly represented the College in the GISSA Netball Tournament held at Kardinia Park recently.
The Division 1 (coached by Danielle Williamson) team demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship, impressive skill, and excellent teamwork throughout the day to finish 3rd. It was a fantastic opportunity to compete, connect and enjoy a fun day out together. Well done to Clare A, Hollie M, Zoe P, Teagan R, Georgie P, Chloe S, Stella A and Clare E for being such positive ambassadors of our College!
The Division 2 team (coached by Jen Wood) showed great commitment and determination across six competitive games, consistently giving their best effort on court.
The tournament was particularly special as it marked the final year of GISSA netball for two Year 12 players, who led by example with their effort, leadership, and sportsmanship throughout the day.
The team finished strongly, coming away as winners of the 5th–6th playoff in Division 2, a well‑deserved result after a full day of hard work and teamwork.
Congratulations to Poppy L, Lucy B, Jess L, Liv R, Leila B, Lucy M, Molly C, Tilly O, and Claire E. The team represented Kardinia with pride, demonstrating respectful behaviour, teamwork, and a friendly spirit both on and off the court.
Well done to all players involved on an excellent day of netball!
College Production 2026
Dear students,
This year’s college production will be a musical theatre revue celebrating 30 years of Kardinia. The production will include a junior school ensemble, senior school ensemble, featured solo performers, a production pit band, music ensembles, and crew.
There will be 3 performances on the Katsumata stage:
- Thursday 13th August (evening)
- Friday 14th August (evening)
- Saturday 15th August (matinee)
Rehearsals will be rostered, with a focus in term 2 of Wednesday and Thursdays after school. In term 3 and as we approach production week, there will also be some Sunday and extra evening rehearsals (dates TBC).
The staff involved in this year’s production are as follows:
- Executive director – Matt Baron
- Producer – Kate Birley
- Director & Choreographer – Xavier McGettigan
- Musical Director – Ali Worrall
- Junior School Vocal Coach – Adam Burke
- Senior School Vocal Coaches – Sophia Katos, Adelle Gregory & Manfred Pohlenz
- Technician – Phil Houghton
- Front of House – Fiona Russell
In casting our production there will be several different processes. Audition registration or expression of interest forms are now available. You may need to complete several forms, depending on the role you are interested in.
Click on the following links to register:
Production Pit Band and Music Ensembles
The College Production is a fantastic opportunity for students to showcase their talents, make new friends and create lifelong memories. We look forward to bringing the stage to life as we celebrate 30 years of Kardinia International College.
If you have any questions, please email the producer k.birley@kardinia.vic.edu.au
Time and Space Program - Year 7 Students
Kardinia International College is delighted to offer you an opportunity to experience a lifetime memory with your child at the annual ‘Mother and Child’ Evening.
This innovative single evening program is part of some special transition events that we offer our Year 7 students, and it is happening here in our community on the evening of Tuesday 5 May.
Register Here
Mothers' Day Classic
Join Our School Team for the Mother’s Day Classic! Sunday, May 10th – Eastern Gardens
There are only 17 days to go, and the excitement is building. So many of you have already signed up, and we are truly grateful for the support. Let’s keep the momentum going and show what our school community can achieve together.
Register to Walk or Run Our school team is ready — all you need to do is jump onto the registration page and sign up for the event on Sunday, May 10. Let’s turn out in big numbers and represent our school with pride.
https://www.mothersdayclassic.com.au/fundraisers/kardiniainternationalcollege
Volunteers Needed — We Can Make a Big Difference The Geelong event needs 93 volunteers, and only 13 are confirmed so far. This is an amazing opportunity for us to step up. Volunteering is fun, social, and a great way to contribute to the community. It also counts toward CAS/IB service hours. All volunteer details and the sign‑up link are on the posters around school.
IB Students & Group Registration If you’re in IB and planning to volunteer for CAS hours, please complete the form and register as a volunteer yourself.
Volunteering for Sunday May 10th , 2026 – Fill out form
Let’s Make an Impact Together Whether you choose to run, walk, cheer, or volunteer, your involvement supports vital breast cancer research and strengthens our school community. Let’s help Geelong reach its volunteer goal and show just how powerful our collective effort can be.
Wellbeing Hub News
It is not always easy for children and teenagers to always know how to manage friendships. Learning how to make new friends and keep them involves a number of skills every young person needs to understand and develop. For some these skills will come very naturally, allowing them to easily move between different friendship groups, sharing their experiences and opening up to new people. For others, this can be much harder to navigate. Belonging to a group that is like-minded with similar interests is highly beneficial to a child’s wellbeing. Friendships are full of ups and downs and it is better for kids to learn how to manage and build their own friendships, even though as an adult carer you may be tempted to interfere.
Community Engagement and Foundation News
30th Anniversary Celebrations - Founders’ Week
As part of our 30th Anniversary celebrations, all Staff and Senior School students have received a limited‑edition commemorative badge. The badge features the College crest alongside the special 30th Anniversary mark and the years 1996–2026.
Junior School students were gifted a specially designed library bag showcasing the 30th Anniversary emblem and our emu mascot, who appears in the picture book Ripples of Kindness – The Gift That Grew. Every Junior School class enjoyed a reading of the book on Founders’ Day, and students now have the opportunity to purchase their own copy.
Founders’ Day Memento - Celebrate the Legacy That Shaped Our College
This beautifully crafted, limited‑edition publication offers families a special opportunity to explore the remarkable story of our Founders, Mr and Mrs Katsumata, whose vision and generosity shaped the Kardinia International College we know today.
Featuring stunning imagery and heartfelt storytelling, this commemorative book captures the spirit, values, and lasting influence of their extraordinary legacy.
Purchasing a copy allows your family to:
• Connect with the inspiring history behind our College
• Share in the values that continue to guide our community
• Treasure a 30th Anniversary keepsake that will be cherished for generations
Click the link to order:
https://events.humanitix.com/apr-may-2026-ripples-of-kindness-the-gift-that-grew
30th Anniversary Commemorative Paving Bricks - Preserve your family in Kardinia’s History
Orders for our 30th Anniversary Bricks are now open! In honour of the tradition established during the College’s first decade, families are once again invited to leave a lasting mark on our campus. Each commemorative brick can feature your family name or a hand‑drawn image, permanently etched into a paving brick that will become part of the College’s story.
These special 30th Anniversary bricks will be installed in a central area of the College grounds, creating a meaningful and enduring tribute to the community that has shaped Kardinia International College over the past three decades.
STEP 1 - Print off attached forms Flyers have been distributed to Highview and Junior school students this week. Additional forms will also be available from the Junior School reception.
Senior School students can print off a copy of the form via KICOnline or the Student Bulletin and submit completed forms to Student Services.
Fill out the form for an Engraved Paver or use the space for the Hand Drawn Paver.
STEP 2 - Use the link or QR code to pay for the brick. https://events.humanitix.com/30-year-anniversary-bricks
STEP 3 - Drop off the form to JS Reception or SS Student Services. *Include your name and mobile.
Community AFL Footy Tipping Competition Leaderboard
The leaders after Round 7 in the Community AFL Footy Tipping Competition, are:
- Peter P
- O’Neill’s
- Holly R
Scott S, Tania B and Scott E are only separated by the margin, with Isabelle T, Isabel W and the Drake Family behind by an average round of 0.14. It is an extremely close competition!
Fiona Russell - Community Engagement and Foundation Coordinator
From the Archives
Celebrating 30 Years - Founders Day Celebrations - The Second Decade
‘A Founders’ Day tradition of presenting Mr Yoshimaro Katsumata with a certificate of congratulations, in one form or another, was established in 1997 and continued until his passing in 2008.
Mrs Katsumata received a bouquet of flowers while Mr Katsumata received a certificate from parachutes, planes, balloons, elephants, alpacas, a staff rock band, Elvis, BABBA, and even Marilyn Monroe popping out of a cake.’
Founders’ Day Celebrations over the second decade included:
2007 – BABBA and Carnival Rides
2008 – “Kylie Minogue’, Christof! The Zimboyz, Magician, Circus Circus, ‘Don’t Forget The Lyrics’
2009 – The Oscars, Dame Edna, Austin Powers, Scared Weird Little Guys, Carpo Idiotus, Lee Harding, Pop-Eyed, Casio Brothers
2010 – Opening of Katsumata Centre, Les Misérables
2011 – Adventure Park
2012 – Hypnotist, Carnival Rides
2013 – Matt Hollywood Illusion Show, The K Factor with Peter Hellier as MC
2014 – Adventure Park
2015 – 20th Anniversary Celebrations, Carnival Rides (Founders Day combined with KIC Fest) and Onwards Concert
2016 – Circus Performances
Extract from Kardinia International College - Celebrating Twenty Years 1996-2015 P. Dowie & F. Russell
Next week: Founders’ Day Celebrations – The Third Decade
Fiona Russell - College Archivist
Community
Monash University - Partners in Parenting Online Program
Partners in Parenting is an evidence-based, online program designed to help parents and carers build skills and confidence in supporting their teenager’s mental health. More than 5,000 families across Australia and the UK have already benefitted from the program. We want to give more families in the community access to Partners in Parenting, and support parents who have concerns about their teen’s mental health. To do this, we’re conducting a research trial comparing two different versions of the program. Both versions include the same online program, providing parents with the same evidence-based parenting strategies. The program is free to join, and parents will receive e gift-vouchers for each follow-up survey they complete.
Learn more about PiP: https://p2p.partnersinparenting.com.au/
