From the Principal
Honouring sacrifice.
On Tuesday this week we held a service at the College to commemorate ANZAC Day, and yesterday I was privileged to accompany our College Captains to the dawn service at the Ringwood Memorial Clock. The proximity of Easter to ANZAC Day leads to an almost natural link in their themes of sacrifice for others: Jesus sacrifice for all of us; the diggers for their mates, nation & allies. This link is reinforced by the words inscribed in the marble floor at the centre of the Shrine of Remembrance - Greater love hath no man - an extract from an older translation of John 15:13
No one has greater love than this, to lay down ones life for ones friends"
Weve been blessed with almost 80 years since the last world war threatened Australia and over 50 years since military conscription ended. For current generations, the ANZAC sacrifice may seem like a concept from the distant past. Perhaps a more contemporary example of the spirit of sacrifice was provided in the tragic events at Bondi a fortnight ago. Much like the horrors of war, this horrific experience also highlighted some of our nations best traits through those willing to lay down their lives not only for friends but also for strangers. We keep the victims and families of those lost in this tragedy in our prayers.
Master Planning - Parent consultation
The Leadership Team is pleased to announce that have been appointed to complete the Colleges new Master Plan. The selection panel were very impressed with their understanding of education and the various features and needs for our site, as well as the extensive number of Master Plans and building projects they have completed across Victorian schools. A key strength of theirs was the consultation plan, which will involve all staff, all students and families. A consultation forum will be held from 5.30-6.30pm on Tuesday 30 April: parents & guardians who are able to attend . Those unable to attend will be able to contribute via a survey that will be emailed to families next week.
Perseverance - EISM success
Congratulations to our Senior students who contributed to EISM tennis, basketball, softball and cricket teams across Term 1. Many impressive team achievements are detailed below in the Sports report.
I encourage all students to broaden their participation in the full life of the College while improving their fitness and mental health by participating in the Term 2 offerings of AFL, soccer, volleyball netball, tackle tennis, ultimate frisbee and hockey.
Aquinas students on the International stage
Last week, a team let by Aquinas teacher Andrew Russell (Technology Learning Area Leader) and including Aquinas students Pip Wilhelmsen, Brayden Waddell, Robbie Pilato, Sophie Fegan, Zach Osborne, Cameron O'Keefe competed at the Robotics World Championships in Houston, Texas in the USA. We congratulate them on the momentous achievement of making it through to the finals and look forward to reading more about their trip in our next Lighthouse.