The Incarnation changes everything
At the root of the holiday season, sometimes buried beneath the well-intentioned array of lights, decorations and wrapping paper, remains the single transformational moment that we celebrate.
Jesus being born.
God entering our world.
That night in Bethlehem, in a humble manger, remains so awe-inspiring, that it’s difficult to imagine it ever being forgotten or overlooked during the holidays.Â
Loving God,
Help us remember the birth of Jesus,
that we may share in the song of the angels,
the gladness of the shepherds,
and worship of the wise men.
Close the door of hate
and open the door of love all over the world.
Let kindness come with every gift
and good desires with every greeting.
Deliver us from evil by the blessing
which Christ brings,
and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.
May the Christmas morning
make us happy to be thy children,
and Christmas evening bring us to our beds
with grateful thoughts,
forgiving and forgiven,
for Jesus’ sake.
Amen
I wish you and your family all a safe, holy and merry Christmas
Long Serving Staff Members
We bid farewell to several long-serving staff members whose dedication, passion, and commitment have profoundly shaped our community.
Ms Margaret Fitzgerald has served as a Learning Support Teacher for 10 years, providing unwavering guidance to students who needed extra care and attention in their learning journey. Her patience, empathy, and expertise have transformed countless lives, ensuring that every student she worked with felt seen, supported, and capable of achieving their best.
Ms Gaby Bransby, our Director of Junior School has worked at the College for 14 years, and has been an instrumental leader, shaping the foundation of our youngest learners. Her innovative approach to education, combined with her genuine care for each child’s development, has created a nurturing and stimulating environment that inspired both students and staff. Her influence will be felt in the smiles and successes of our Junior School students for years to come.
Mr Bill Roberts, our Head of Library for an incredible 22 years, has been a custodian of knowledge and a champion of literacy within our school. Under his stewardship, the library has been more than just a repository of books; it has been a hub of learning, curiosity, and discovery. His passion for fostering a love of reading and his ability to connect students with literature and resources have left an indelible legacy.
We wish them all the best in their next endeavors, knowing they will continue to inspire and make a difference wherever their paths lead them.
Parents and Carers
Your unwavering support underpins all that we achieve at the College with your sons. Whether it’s cheering on the sidelines, helping with homework, supporting fundraisers like the Blue & Gold Ball, running our Supporter’s Groups, or simply being there for your children, your partnership with the College is invaluable – Thank you!Â
Parent AssociationÂ
Staff at ÂÜÀòÉç were treated to a wonderful surprise luncheon yesterday. The invite read…
To our wonderful Teachers and Staff,
We’re excited to invite you to a special Gratitude Lunch as a heartfelt thank-you for all that you do!
Tomorrow, Tuesday 3rd December, between the Presentation Day assemblies, we invite you to visit the staff room and enjoy a cold fresh juice and snacks, on behalf of the Parent community and the Parent Association.
It’s a small token of gratitude, to thank you for your hard work, dedication, commitment, care and enthusiasm. You make a difference every day and we appreciate you!!!
Please help yourselves to some delicious snacks and refreshments—we look forward to celebrating you!
Kind regards
Parent Community and Parent Association
On behalf of the entire staff, thank you to the Parent Association and the following parents for organising such a beautiful spread Ms Daniella Strbac, Ms Jade Stapleton and Ms Camille Owen. The staff really appreciated the beautiful food and the very thoughtful gesture – Thank you very much!
Hot off the PressÂ
Congratulations to:Â
James Birbas (Year 12) on his selection for HSC Showcase ENCORE which will be held at the Sydney Opera House on Monday 24 February 2025.
Xavier Kopsiaftis – NSW Languages 1st in Course Modern Greek
Presentation Day AwardsÂ
Yesterday we celebrated the successes of ÂÜÀòÉç College Years 5-11 students at our annual live-streamed Presentation Days in the Brother Lacey Gymnasium. On days like this, we pause to acknowledge the efforts, talents, gifts and achievements of selected students who have made remarkable gains during their 2024 learning journey. It was rewarding to see our well-deserved Junior and ÂÜÀòÉç students receive their awards in the presence of their peers, parents, carers, teachers and support staff. Thank you to all performers and bands that presented and showcased their amazing musical and artistic talents.Â
Thank you also to our special guests:Â
Ms Allegra Spender, Member for Wentworth
Dr Marjorie O’Neill, Member for Coogee
Ms Keri Spooner, Deputy Mayor of ÂÜÀòÉç
Ms Virginia Ryan, EREA NSW Board Member
Mr Patrick McClure, Advisory Council Chair
Mr Salvatore Riolo, OBU President
Mr Chris O’Sullivan (Class of 1965/66), former Secretary of the OBU Executive
Mr Chris O’Sullivan was acknowledged at the presentation recognising his 40 years of service to the College and ÂÜÀòÉç College Old Boys Union. After a record-breaking 20 years as Secretary of the OBU Executive, Chris is stepping down this year, having made invaluable contributions across multiple roles. Chris’s journey with ÂÜÀòÉç began as a student and continued as a parent, joining the P&F and later serving 30 years on the OBU Council, including two decades as Secretary. Over the years, he worked closely with many OBU Presidents and College Principals, helping shape the community we know today.Â
Congratulations to our Award Winners
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Special Community Awards
- James Zimmermann (Year 6) – Mayor of ÂÜÀòÉç Social Inclusion AwardÂ
- Luke Ibrahim (Year 9) – Ms Allegra Spender Emerging Leadership PrizeÂ
- Luca Cornelius (Year 11/ 12) – Dr Marjorie O’Neill, Member for Coogee Social Impact AwardÂ