Altitude Term 4 2022

A LTITUDE

THE PURPOSE OF SCHOOLING AND THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The Brookings Institute posed the question “What do parents see is the purpose of a P-12 School”? To answer this question, research was conducted by Rebecca Winthrop et al and their findings were published in a report “Collaborating to Transform and Improve Education Systems: A playbook for family-school engagement.” In this report, Winthrop indicated that there were four key responses from parents as to what they believe is the purpose of schooling:

• To prepare students academically for post-secondary education.

• To prepare students with workforce skills and competencies.

• To prepare students to be good citizens ready to lead political and civic lives.

• To help students gain self-knowledge, find a sense of purpose and understand their values.

I found this research closely aligned with the feedback we have received from the Moreton Bay Colleges' community and the direction we are now taking as we embark on our newly revised strategic plan for 2023 and beyond. Through our own research we have identified five Key Priorities for the Colleges. These are: Learning, Wellbeing, Sustainability, Environment and Community. The Key Priorities are all closely associated with the expected outcomes listed above.

One area of the report which particularly caught my attention was that Winthrop and her colleagues also stated that “Schools with strong family engagement are 10 times more likely to improve

References

student learning outcomes”*. There are many factors which play a part in the education of a child. The relationship between the teacher and the student being a critical one. Yet, outside of the classroom walls, parent and family members play a crucial role with respect to educational outcomes.

In another study across 200 Primary schools in Chicago (Bryk, 2010), researchers found five key areas which were drivers for schools to substantially improve students’ reading and mathematics ability. Apart from the key areas of teacher quality, school leadership and the school’s learning climate, a major factor directly linked to improved student outcomes was the level of family and community engagement.

Time and time again, researchers have shown that the importance of community engagement in education cannot be overlooked and this supports its inclusion as one of the five key priorities within our new strategic plan. From 2023 and beyond we will be sharply focused on building productive, strong, effective, and strategic relationships with our stakeholders and partners. We aim to more closely engage and connect with our alumni with the goal of further strengthening our strong sense of Moreton Bay identity, pride and belonging.

I look forward with great enthusiasm as our Colleges embark on our new strategic plan. I am excited at the prospect of collaborating with our current parents and alumni as well as creating strategic partnerships with key stakeholders so that we can build an inspiring and nurturing learning community which empowers students to be future-ready global citizens.

Bryk, A. S. (2010). Organizing schools for improvement: Lessons from Chicago. Phi Delta Kappan, 91(7), 23–30. Parents as Allies project working to build connections between schools and families. Kidsburgh. https://www.kidsburgh.org/parents-as-allies-project-working-to-build-connections-between-schools-and-families/ Queensland Government Department of Education. (2019). 2019 School opinion survey. https://qed.qld.gov.au/our-publications/reports/statistics/Documents/2019-SOS-summary-report.pdf Rayworth, M. (2021, February 15).

Varkey Foundation. (2018). Global parents’ survey. https://www.varkeyfoundation.org/media/4340/vf-parents-survey-18-single-pages-for-flipbook.pdf

*Winthrop, R., Barton, A., Ershadi, M., Zeigler, L. (2021). Collaborating to Transform and Improve Education Systems: A playbook for family-school engagement. The Brookings Institution. https://www.brookings.edu/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/Family_School_Engagement_Playbook_FINAL.pdf

Mr Richard Henry | CEO and Executive Principal Moreton Bay College and Moreton Bay Boys' College

A TIME TO CELEBRATE AT MBBC

Mr Andrew Holmes | Principal

As we approach the end of term and reflect on an incredible year, I hope you do so with a sense of pride of the achievements of our boys. Term 4 is a time to celebrate at Moreton Bay Boys’ College, and we are blessed with a vibrant and caring community that caters to the needs, hopes, and desires of boys as they grow into young men and reach their potential.

Term 4 has witnessed an array of events showcasing our boys’ achievements and engagement in College life. The Manifest was a wonderful occasion providing an opportunity for the boys to display their creativity in visual art. The Interhouse Swimming Carnival shortly followed parading an array of colour, with Nicholls demonstrating their swimming talents to be crowned champions.

The announcement of the 2023 College leaders at the Captain’s Inauguration reaffirmed a commitment to embracing the College motto, “Fide Et Integritate”, which means faith and integrity. I am confident that the incoming College leaders will be excellent role models to the boys of MBBC as they embrace an exciting year ahead.

As a proud father of a graduating student from MBBC, it was an honour to celebrate alongside other parents the achievements of the graduating class of 2022 at the Celebration of Excellence, Valedictory Dinner and the Farewell Assembly. Mrs Nicolette Watters inspirational and moving speech was a reminder of the connection, trust and relationships that exist at MBBC. We are very proud of the Class of 2022, who are to be commended for their dedication, hard work, resilience, commitment, and strength of character they have shown throughout a tumultuous year, and we have every confidence

that these fine young men will lead the way on their chosen path.

It is wonderful to see the boys continue to embrace the co-curricular activities at the College this term. Guy Di Mattina is testament to the boys that take advantage of the opportunities on offer at MBBC, and he will feature as the lead guitarist in the Lord Mayor’s Christmas Carols in the weeks ahead. Guy will have the opportunity to perform in front of 9,500 people at the Brisbane Riverstage on 10th December, which will then be broadcast on Channel 9 (Queensland) on 16 December at 7:30pm, and then again on Christmas morning.

In conclusion, what an amazing term we have had. We have much to celebrate, and as we look forward to a new chapter at MBBC celebrating its 20th birthday next year and launching the new Strategic Plan, we do so with a sense of excitement as we embrace your son’s journey, and nurture the boy he is now to the man he will become.

On behalf of the College may I wish you all a safe, happy and holy Christmas and I look forward to catching up with you in 2023.

PRINCIPAL FOR A DAY

Mr Oliver Forshaw | Acting Principal for a Day | Year 6

This year I was lucky enough to have one of my five tickets pulled out of hundreds for the student raffle to be Principal for a Day, on November 4.

As I was dropped off at school, I subconsciously headed down the hill towards my friends, to then suddenly remember my big day. My schedule was tight, and I had to be admin by 8.00am to meet Mr Holmes. After he arrived, he grabbed his famed, dark brown fedora, I put my bag in his office, and he acknowledged me with his booming English accent, “Good morning Mr. Forshaw, are you ready? It’s going to be a big day!”, then he opened his large hands and passed me a name badge reading, “Principal for a Day: Oliver Forshaw”. As I pinned it proudly onto the front pocket of my check shirt, I soon realized that this day had now officially begun. My hands now sweating and shaking at the thought of reading my prepared speech at the chapel assembly. This was now no little thing to brag about, it was the real deal!

Without any practise, I tried my best with my speech aimed at convincing the audience why we should get out of the house more, comparing it to how dogs would love to go out for more walks. I was also throwing in some jokes, which got laughs from most of the audience.

After this, all my worries had gone. We retired to Mr Holmes’ office where his assistant Mrs. Scott asked if the school’s photographer Mr. Stocks could take some professional photos of me in the Principal’s chair. “Sit in his big chair, pick up the phone and pretend you are signing a document,” “Mr. Holmes probably has a Liverpool scarf around here you can put on,” that was an instant refusal, I told him how I am a Manchester United fan and that it would burn my skin the moment it made contact with me. He was adjusting himself to get the perfect angle and placed a mic in my pocket to interview me. I felt like a real celebrity

with paparazzi taking photos of my every move.

“Well then, should we start the tour of all our classes? Have you been to the sports offices, if not don’t worry we’ll go there first?” He ushered me towards the hall and then back to the oval to watch the year 8’s play AFL with Ms. Eddings. Continuing now to C Block, I stumbled upon my fellow classmates, they were preparing their cup game to the African song Obwisana. All the boys stood and bowed as they took off their bullied panamas and would say “Hello Mr. Forshaw,” in a posh manner.

We continued to trudge through the school after the break, now mainly focusing on Secondary classes. I felt on top of my peak as I stood and watched over my older brother, now knowing I had given superiority to all little brothers in the big brother, little brother rivalry.

The tour had now concluded, I had a rendezvous set for myself and Mr. Curtis to meet. However, it wasn’t really a meeting, he just sent me away in pursuit to go around to both Year 3 and 4 classes and ask what they were accomplishing. They were asked by the acclaimed Mr. Dack to produce a new way to celebrate the diversity throughout MBBC. I was so surprised when I went around to see that some of the ideas were so fabulous they even boggled my mind as to how people this young could cherry-pick something so good with this amount of ease.

The lunch bell went, which only meant one thing…. pizza!

I waited patiently for my three friends to arrive, and sure enough, they did. Edward Carroll, Travis Germishuys, and Zak Elmaneh all followed me to the board room where a long table set with boutique cutlery and napkins, stood in front of our flabbergasted eyes. We did not think it would

be this fancy. But on the other hand, where was the pizza? It was supposed to arrive at 12.30, “it is now 12.45?!” I pointed it out to my friends. My colleagues and I sat by ourselves and pondered if it would ever come, then coming round the bend was a disheveled Pizza Hut car, now parked out front the hall. We wait for Mrs. Scott to walk in with pizza, but no, we looked back once more, and poof, it was gone! They drove off with our pizzas. The audacity. After much chasing, they came, a good half hour late mind you. We dug in. As we stuffed our faces we discussed all the world’s problems; solving world peace and world hunger. After the highly confidential, global conference, I explained to them how this was the peak of my illustrious career as Principal of MBBC.

I settled in for the rest of the afternoon by answering a couple of Mr. Holmes's questions about my experience, and what I most enjoyed about the day. My final decision as boss before it was time to go home was to have less homework for all.

So, if you were wondering, there’s a little insight into what it’s like to be the Principal for a day. Thank you MBBC for the excellent experience!

Faith and Integrity

2022 CANBERRA TRIP

Mr Shane McCarthy | Chaplain

In the last week of the September school holidays, 50 students from Years 6 to 8, along with seven staff members, set off from Brisbane Airport for a week in our nation’s capital, Canberra.

It was to be a very busy week with stops at many fun and educational locations in Canberra including, the Australian Institute of Sport, Questacon, the Royal Australian Mint, Government House, the National Portrait Gallery, and CSIRO, just to name a few.

One of our stops was to visit the Perisher Valley snowfields. When we arrived it was a rainy, overcast, horrible day, but to their credit, the boys did not let that stop them as they dove into building snowmen and starting snowball fights.

A visit to Parliament House saw our boys taking on different roles in a very rowdy parliament, that the speaker had to work hard to keep control of, as they learnt about how a bill gets passed into law in our country.

Finally, at the Australian War Memorial, we were involved in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This was a very moving and special moment for all of us as a group.

While we did have a bit of excitement having our return flight delayed for 9 hours, overall, the Canberra trip was a great time where we had lots of fun and learnt a great about our nation, its history and how it is governed.

A big thank you to all the staff members who gave up their holidays to enable this tour to be possible for the boys.

WE ALL SMILE IN THE SAME LANGUAGE

Mr Richard Curtis | Head of Primary & Mr Paul Dack | Primary Curriculum Coordinator

An exploration of diversity at MBBC through our combined Years 3 and 4 Who We Are unit.

Diversity takes many forms, and throughout the year, the boys of Years 3 and 4 have been exploring the diversity that exists within our community in our Who We Are unit. Recognising and appreciating diversity helps to develop rich and rewarding relationships between members of the community. Through understanding, comes tolerance, and for many boys, the unit provided them with opportunities to enhance and appreciate their understanding of others, and to see that open communication helps to build positive relationships.

Throughout the year, we have appreciated the diversity in cultures, heritage, languages, religions, values, and our online presence. The boys have worked within their house groups in a series of learning engagements, designed to identify, understand, and celebrate the diversity that exists in many ways within our wonderful community.

As a culminating learning experience, the boys worked in teams to respond to the challenge: How can we best recognise and celebrate the diversity that exists within the MBBC community?

Over the course of four weeks, the boys explored this idea, coming up with their own unique responses. As an added incentive, Mr Holmes announced the challenge, and would be returning to judge the groups.

It was great to not only see the boys representing their knowledge, but the learning skills that were so important for success both in this task, and that can be transferred into all other areas of learning. Their social, thinking, research, selfmanagement, and communication skills were all developed, unique to individuals and the groups they were a part of, but pivotal to the success

regardless of the directions taken.

In the end, we had two winning teams, both selected for their similar idea to celebrate diversity within the school by allowing students to have a day where they can identify and represent their own cultural heritage on a free dress day. A wonderful idea.

While these were the winning teams of the challenge, all boys did an amazing job of connecting with the task, and in the end, it was the development of understanding and tolerance that were the ultimate winners for all.

I would like to finish with the wise words of one team. While there is great diversity within the room, we all smile in the same language. A great message to take away as we conclude 2022. Thank you, boys.

STUDENT AGENCYSTUDENT VOICE

Fide Et Integritate – The importance of faith and integrity in our leadership teams.

The year was 2016, it was my second day ever at MBBC. I was a small Year 5 boy who sat on the hard floor of the hall, with my legs crossed, a straight back and laser focused eyes. I watched as Nick Thomson walked up to the lectern and begun his first address as College Captain. It took me two days and one speech at MBBC to be captivated enough to set myself a six-year goal to become the 2023 College Captain. At that point in time, I thought it was an impossible dream. However, one of the things I love most about MBBC, is that it changes people for the better. The wider community of this College changed me, and it can change you too - all it takes is an open mind; one capable of dreaming the impossible.

I am not sure if you are aware, but underneath our emblem there are three important words, our motto, “Fide Et Integritate”- in English this means “with faith and integrity.” Integrity is the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles. Faith is not only in God’s purpose, but trust in each other, in the teachers at MBBC and in ourselves. A person with great faith and integrity does what is right no matter where they are, what they are doing, or who is watching. And this is important because I believe that as the students of MBBC, we are the ones who have the greatest opportunity, through our actions, to influence the culture and spirit of our community. Throughout 2023, the Student Leadership Team has the goal to continue to invest in our culture at MBBC – to work together to create a brotherhood that trusts in each other, that possesses integrity when faced with challenges and has conviction to compete well for this College.

I am proud to attend MBBC firstly because we come together in support of other members of the College; we push for their success, and we

lift a mate up when he is down. Secondly, we understand the importance of being a man of integrity. We stay honest, even in times where lying seems like the easiest, better way out. As boys of MBBC, I am proud that we uphold the College Values and strive for excellence. In doing these things, we uphold our College motto “Fide Et Integritate.”

The hard work of our past Student Leadership Teams has helped to lay the foundation for the MBBC that we experience today. They have set us up for success. Through them a culture of belonging has been fostered; MBBC is a place where everyone is welcome, where your diversity is celebrated. Through them we have learned to be authentic – there is no need to pretend to be someone else, you can be exactly who you were born to be. Through them, we have a College that allows us to make mistakes because there is a genuine understanding that mistakes are true vehicles for learning. As a result of our Student and College Leadership Teams embodying our College motto, we have a safe place, where everyone can belong, be authentic and strive to learn how to be better people, and by extension, create a better world.

I am honoured to have been entrusted with this position of College Captain of Moreton Bay Boys’ College and promise to uphold and model the College Values and beliefs with both faith and integrity. I want to ensure that the legacy of those before me is remembered well and that my Student Leadership Team helps set up those who will walk in these shoes after us.

Lachlan Hume, 2023 College Captain

Mr Haydn Eames Primary Wellbeing Coordinator

STUDENT WELLBEING

Primary

Term 4 has been a big one. It always is. With the year coming to an end, it can be a time of fatigue, excitement for the holiday, sadness for friends moving on, but most importantly, a time to reflect.

I encourage you to speak to your boys and discuss all they have achieved this year. It is important to identify all their successes but equally mistakes they have made. The process of growing up and developing into young men is full of hurdles, and the ones that can reflect on their journey will build stronger foundations for future success.

The Year 6 boys have been working closely with the Secondary leadership team and teachers to prepare them for the transition to high school. The boys have had opportunities to ask questions, share worries, interview current high school students, and spend time in their 2023 classrooms to help create a smooth step into the upper years of MBBC.

We also welcomed the Homunculus Theatre Group to our lower years, who came to entertain the boys whilst teaching them about their emotions and ways they can show resilience through laughter.

Term 4 also continued the boys engagement with lunch time opportunities to continue their learning. I thank the amazing teachers that volunteer their time to give amazing experiences to our boys. They are lucky to have such generous and caring individuals around them.

This terms clubs have allowed the boys to watch the incredible Dude Perfect guys, showing their perseverance and skills through a range of amazing videos. Art Hub has allowed the boys a place to relax and unwind whilst crafting their art skills in a relaxing environment.

Mrs Norton creates a messy room full of boxes, glue, card, tape and straws for the boys to “smash” together anything they like in Smash Club. The boys love recycling old throw away items to build new creations.

We know boys are active. Too active sometimes. But a workout, run around or game of dodgeball always finishes the week on a high during Fitness Friday.

Thank you to all the families for your support over the year. It is always a pleasure to work with your boys and experience their journey into young men.

GIFTED AND TALENTED

Gateways

Selected students from Years 1 to 6 were nominated to attend the Term 4 Gateways programme which was focussed on a number of brain related fields, from psychology and philosophy to neuroscience. The boys were challenged to problem solve, think critically, and think creatively during the full day workshops held at MBC.

MBBC Thinkathon

During Week 6 we held the Year 3 and 4 MBBC Thinkathon. We use this competition to foster problem solving, time management and teamwork in our younger thinkers. Teams of five students from each class were selected to take part in the morning challenges which included engineering a catapult, cartography and logic problems to name a few. Well done to the team from 4B who won the very closely contested event. This classroom will proudly house the Thinkathon trophy until 2023.

Middle School Ethics Olympiad

In week 6 our team of five students competed in the Middle School Ethics Olympiad. They competed in a day of ethical discussion with teams from schools across Australia across four heats. The Ethics Olympiad is designed for students to have a creative vehicle for developing skills in communication, critical thinking and respectful discourse while dealing with contentious ethical issues. Some of the cases involved ethical issues such as citizenship at birth, environmental ethics, and the Paralympic pay parity. Despite some absences on the day, Jayden, Aiden, Maneesha, Beau and Charles had been preparing for this event for since Term 3 and should be commended for their efforts in this challenging event.

Maths Olympiad

Congratulations to the students who participated in the Maths Olympiad this year. Over three terms the boys have sat five Olympiads consisting of

a series of five mathematics problems each. Well done particularly to the following boys who achieved great results in the final Olympiad; Patrick McGarry, Matthew Lennox, Machlon Woolley, Duncan Zhang, Alex Gooderson and Marc Raleigh. Overall results will be released next term.

Matific Olympiad

Well done to the Primary boys who participated in the Matific Olympiad on Competition Island this week. Max Scott, Aman Ajula, Nicholas Gibson and Taj Shandil were standout star collectors! Certificates will be presented to all boys who took part.

AIMO Competition

The Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad (AIMO) was held during the term for invited students to take part in a four-hour paper with 10 mathematics problems. Over 2000 students across 231 schools took part. A huge congratulations to Matthew Lennox, Patrick McGarry, Sam Broekhuizen, Tim Chan and Harry Naumann for their participation in this difficult contest. Amazing effort by Harry Nauman who received a High Distinction.

Chess

Term 3 and the beginning of Term 4 saw an inhouse chess competition run in Chess Club. Congratulations to the following boys who were awarded medals for their achievements in chess.

Beginners: 1st place: Gilmat Zhang, 2nd place: Max Scott, 3rd place: Joe Wood

Novice: 1st place: Thomas Treutlein, 2nd place: Ethan Barritt, 3rd place: Will Wood

Senior: 1st place: Kingsley Deng, 2nd place: Kieran Carton-Berghoef, 3rd place: Matthew Lennox

Mrs Bree Hackett, Learning Enrichment Teacher

Mr Anthony Lewis Deputy Head of SecondaryStudent Wellbeing

STUDENT WELLBEING

Secondary

The Tomorrow Man – Years 10 and 11

Late into Term 4, the Year 10 and 11 boys were lucky enough to be visited by Paddy and Josh from The Tomorrow Man – an organisation that aims to helps young men break the mould of stereotypes of what the traditional male can be. They believe that “The tide is changing for men young and old, and the outdated stereotype is leaving some of our mates, dad, sons, uncles, teammates, workmates and brothers stranded without the tools for a healthy life.”

During the sessions, the boys were asked about some of the characteristics of a stereotypical male; what they were expected to be in the twenty-first century. From the list created by each group, the majority of them were found to be similar to the characteristics also put forward by many other schools around Australia. What was then alarming, were the statistics that came from these that demonstrated that because men are trying to live up to these stereotypes, the anxiety, depression and suicide rates amongst men (and in particular, young men) in Australia, is continuing to grow.

Therefore, the big question was “what can we do to change this”? For every person, this requires a different answer. The boys workshopped this during the second half of the session, which saw some boys open up and share some of their personal stories. This gave other boys in the room a chance to “hold space” or simply, listen, react with kindness, compassion and empathy. It gave the boys a chance to be vulnerable in a safe space. Some boys had their nails painted to break

a stereotype down, and were given the challenge to sport pink nails for the remaining time left in the term. The boys were placed in pairs and asked to share some of their personal stories – again, in a safe and caring environment.

The final activity involved telling other participants in the group why they inspired them during the session. This was a great reflective tool and a chance for boys to interact with their peers that may not necessarily be in their inner circle of closest friends.

At the end of the sessions, the boys only had praise for the workshops and took something valuable away from each one.

Year 12 Final Week Scavenger Hunt

One of the goals for the 2022 leaders was to improve school spirit and teamwork throughout the college. As a way of living by their values, the boys were invited to take part in a Scavenger Hunt around South Bank.

The day began at Manly Train Station, where the boys were loaded up with a fresh terry-towelling bucket hat, a lukewarm Powerade and some time to organise themselves into teams for the day’s challenges ahead. Upon arrival at South Bank, the boys were given their team colours – a fashionably colourful bandana – and their scavenger hunt booklet.

In teams of five or six, the boys ran their way around South Bank, looking for information on the Kurilpa and Victoria Bridges. They searched the monuments surrounding the Museum, performing forward rolls and imaginative faces at some of them, as well as sand sculptures along the beach.

Through the rainforest and friendship stones to the Epicurious Garden to gather some last-minute information before a halftime break, a drink, and another team challenge before the second phase of the hunt kicked on.

The second phase continued down the river past the Maritime Museum towards Kangaroo Point. Although there were less items to find in this section, there were a lot more steps involved – and some of those steps needed counting to complete a challenge. This section finished all the way up at Joey’s restaurant before having the sprint back before the end of the session.

Once we had all gathered together, we congratulated the winners and made our way to a local restaurant for a well-earned feed. The goal was to give the boys one final chance to complete a challenge with their school mates – this was achieved whilst still enjoying each other’s company.

MANIFEST

This year’s Manifest exhibition showcased a huge variety of creative, artistic talent at MBBC. Not only were there exceptional artworks from all year groups, but there were also performances from Secondary musicians and actors. This year the theme was Emerge, which was fitting as we were able to emerge back into having an opening night buzzing with people once again. A crowd of parents, students, staff and guests came to enjoy the sights and sounds created by our boys and young men.

Quality education in the arts is one of our strengths at MBBC, and Manifest this year is testament to what it can achieve. Visual art is valuable to help boys become men of character, build the skills of visual literacy, resilience, patience, discipline and creativity. In a world where images bombard us on a daily basis, the ability to interpret meaning through symbolism is an essential ability today. New ideas come about when two or more ideas that are previously, seemingly unrelated converge; it’s the nature of creativity. Visual art is a practice which gives students autonomy to take risks, experiment and create within a visual framework.

The colourful and visually engaging work of the Primary school students showed the viewers

how they interpreted their world, depicting plants, animals and buildings using a wide variety of media. Students from several Primary years created self portraits which included an outside display and an animated video of their drawings. Ms Angie Beighton’s passion and commitment to fostering the abilities and ideas in Primary students is clearly evident.

Secondary students showcased their artmaking skills through mediums such as painting, stencilling, ceramics, photography, drawing and printmaking. There were installations of Year 7 and Year 8 sculptures and the independence given to the students to generate their own concepts and aesthetic was shown in the variety of imagery shown in two dimensional works.

We were fortunate enough to have a former Visual Art teacher, Ms Ebony Horn attend as a guest judge. She chose winning and highly commended artworks from the categories of Lower Primary, Upper Primary, Lower Secondary and Upper Secondary.

Mr Leon Loreaux, Visual Arts Teacher

Battle of the Rock Bands

For the first time in 2022, The Bayside Boys had the opportunity to perform at the Clairvaux Mackillop College Battle of the Rock Bands, meaning these boys got to experience performing on a ‘professional stage’ in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd. Two of the students involved reflected on their experience:

“Taking part of the Clairvaux Mackillop College Battle of the Rock Bands was an opportunity I had never gotten before. My experience from this opportunity was I had the chance to compete against different schools who played different genres of music. Taking part in the event meant as a rock band we had to communicate well and listen to each other to prepare the best possible collections of song. Overall, the experience of performing at the Battle of the Rock Bands meant

I could become a better performer and learn to prepare for concerts in a different manner.”

Steven Labanne, Year 10

“Playing at the Battle of the Rock Bands was one of the best music experiences I have had this year. The massive stage was amazing, and the crowd was extremely responsive. The shear amount of adrenaline that was running through our veins when we were preforming was more than a normal amount because I ran further on stage than at the cross-country carnival. Overall, the experience was amazing and there is nothing like playing on a big stage to a big crowd.”

Guy Di Mattina, Year 9

Music Camp

In Term 4 of 2022, the QCCC Mount Tambourine Campground hosted this year’s Morton Bay and Moreton Bay Boys’ College Instrumental Music Camp. Students from both colleges who participate in the music programme attended, bringing people from as young as Year 6 to as old as Year 12. After the unfortunate postponement of the camp in Term 1, the musicians were delighted to be able to go later in the year, causing the camp to become an even more enthusiastic experience for students.

Throughout the course of the weekend, students were put into groups that were led by the everhard-working music staff, working tirelessly and closely with these allocated teachers to learn and improve on new pieces to play at next year’s concerts.

To add to the camp’s enjoyment the 2023 Music Captains hosted their own rendition of the camp’s yearly Saturday Night Activity, featuring new and improved games for the students to play. The musicians played a range of games in which they had the opportunity to win prizes, ranging from Guessing the Song to the classic drama game Nights and Cavaliers, all causing outbursts of positive feedback on the night’s entertainment.

Ultimately the 2022 Instrumental Music Camp was a resounding success, giving a nice conclusion to this year’s music programme as well as allowing for our music scholars to gain further knowledge into the pieces that are to be played in next year’s up-and-coming performances.

The Music Awards and Viva la Musica Concert

The Music Awards and Viva la Musica Concert marked the conclusion of another fantastic year in music. The students’ admirable dedication and tenacity was evident in the variety of stunning and unforgettable pieces they performed. The incredible talent that is held at the Two Colleges was showcased throughout the night, and it was great to see the smiling faces of parents and students throughout the concert.

The night featured an assortment of fantastic performances starting with the Senior Stage Band entertaining the crowd pre-concert in the foyer of the music centre. College Orchestra told the backstory of the much loved musical in Wizard of Oz: Highlights from Wicked; The Combined Strings and Concert Band played the dynamic Aztec Fire; Wind Ensemble performed the symbolic piece Russian Christmas Music; Chamber Strings impressed with Fantasia on a Theme; Chamber Percussion “Shock”ed us; Vocal Point gave us an emotional message of hope and encouragement in You Will Be Found; and Secondary Vocal Ensemble entertained all with a rousing rendition of Coldplay’s Viva la Vida. For the final performance of the evening, the combined Chorale and Secondary Vocal Ensemble took to the stage to close the evening with a performance of The Ground, accompanied by stunning videography. Overall, the night was one to remember and cherish and I certainly enjoyed seeing the hard work and many hours of practice pay off throughout every single performance. A huge thank you to all the music captains, stage crew, and music teachers who made the night possible.

What a wonderful way to end a hectic but amazing year!

Ryan Chang, MBBC Music Captain

Moreton Muster

The Moreton Muster, hosted each year at the Moreton Bay Boys’ College campus, was our final music concert for 2022, and what a great way to round out the years’ performances! Six college rock bands shared the outdoor stage to entertain a lively crowd. From Pearl Jam to Billy Joel, Madonna to Dire Straits, and The Eagles to Alice in Chains, the mix of classic rock and pop tunes truly captured the event’s “Icons” theme: a theme that was further enhanced by the presence of an icon of Australian TV and Radio – the voice of Countdown and our MC for the day, Mr Gavin Wood!

With all contemporary groups having only reformed early in Term 4 with new membership, it was amazing to see the students already able to put on such a fun concert, demonstrating not just their talent and enthusiasm, but also the dedication of the staff guiding each group – Mrs Angela Bowen, Mr Sam Nixon, Mr Cameron Burridge and Mr Dave Cox. Thank you to all staff and students involved in what has become a much anticipated annual event in the MBCs’ music calendar.

Mr Ben Langford, Director of Music – The Moreton Bay Colleges

AUSTRALIAN BUSINESS WEEK (ABW) AWARDS

This year, during Secondary School Time our Year 10 students participated in the Australian Business Week Simulation Program where they competed as six companies within the hospitality industry. Each company began with one hotel, and as they progressed, they made key decisions regarding human resources, marketing, operations, and finance.

To help our Year 10s navigate these decisions, guest speakers from our MBBC community offered their time to present on topics such as emerging marketing platforms, the marketing mix, motivating staff and more. Our generous speakers continued to give their time as mentors and judges to assist in determining the winning company. Our volunteer speakers, mentors and judges included:

• Michelle Worthington, Founder of Share Your Story

• Wayne Stewart, Co-founder and Director of Monte Rosa

• Anthony Lee, Consultant Game Designer, Producer and Director, and

• Tom Tindall, Director of Orientique Australia.

All Year 10 students received a certificate of participation as a valuable inclusion to their curriculum vitae.

The best performing companies in each category were;

• Best business report; Company One

• Best TV commercial; Company Six

• Highest share price in the simulation; Company Three

• The overall winning company, Company Five, performed consistently across all categories. Company members include Alan Cui, Benjamin Cunningham, Charlie Stevens, Lachlan Ahearn, Liam Johnson, Luke Costa, and Luke Wright Gregory.

Company Five celebrated their success when they were treated to a Business (Pizza) Lunch in the boardroom.

Thank you again to our business community volunteers for your presentations, mentorship and judging of our MBBC students during this valuable simulated real-life business experience.

Ms Julie Kearns, Business Teacher

Years 4-12 Swimming Championships

SPORT

Pipsa Rippon | Acting Head of Sport

Aquathlon

This year marked the fifth year of the Britton Shield Competition with the addition of new sports such as cross country and aquathlon. The first Britton Shield Aquathlon was held at Clayfield College at the end of October. This was the first aquathlon for any School Sports Association in Southeast Queensland. MBBC had a strong team of 18 boys ready to challenge themselves in the run – swim – run -event. The day started with an Aquathlon Skills Clinic for the boys to familiarise themselves to the new sport and what it requires in different stages - what to wear already when running in preparation for the swim, how to transition to swimming, and how to get those

trainers back on quickly after the swim to race the last run to finish.

The kids aquathlon for ages 8 to 9 included a 300m run, 100m swim, and 300m run. The distances for Primary aquathlon for ages 10 to 12 included a 600m run, 200m swim, and 600m run. The day was successful not only as an event, but for MBBC to bring home the Best Team Trophy!

Daniel Glasper winning the boys 11-years event was one of the highlights, and to follow, he has been invited to be part of the MET East Aquathlon team next year in Hervey Bay.

Mrs

Cricket

After a washed out 2021 Britton Shield Cricket Tournament, the boys were raring to go and eager to put their skills with bat and ball to the test.

We entered an U8, U10 and U12 team to play against Clayfield College and Ipswich Junior Grammar School. The day presented a great opportunity for the U8 boys to refine their skills in the provided Skill Session in conjunction with becoming more familiar with the Master Blaster format of the game.

The U10 team was full of talented crickets and there were some impressive performances from Ethan Duncan, Taane Scheib, Sam White, and Jarod Prisk throughout the day. The U10 team were undefeated in 3 fixtures and took home the trophy for their division.

The U12 team competed well throughout the day and finished with a win and a loss. The most consistent performers of the day were Oliver Foreshaw, Jackson White and Henry McConville.

Luke Howell, Health and Physical Education Teacher

Ice Hockey

I was selected as the youngest player for the Brisbane Blitz to play in the U22 Australian Junior Ice Hockey League, which returned after a COVID induced absence. Instead of having multiple weekend games around Australia, it was decided to have a Showcase Series at the Hunter Ice Skating Stadium in Newcastle over five days.

There were five teams entered and we played each team over the first two days. With two wins and two losses from this we went into the 2 v 3 qualifying game against Sydney Sabres. In a hard-fought game, we won 5-4 putting us into the semi final against the undefeated Adelaide Generals. They beat us 3-2 so we then played Melbourne Glaciers in the preliminary final. We won this game 4-1 which set up a rematch against Adelaide Generals for the gold medal.

In a very physical hard-fought game, we came out second best loosing 4-1 to Adelaide. The experience of playing with the best ice hockey players from Queensland against other teams from around Australia was amazing. Winning the silver medal was the best that Brisbane Blitz had ever done in this league. It really tested me physically to be on the ice with older and more mature boys. I´m very grateful for my supportive family, teammates and coaches and am proud of the fight we put up. This achievement is a major milestone in my ice hockey career, and I can´t wait for many more to come.

Mr

Mikko Rippon, Year 10

Sailing

Term 4 represents the start of the school sailing. This year, after a successful trip to the Australian School Nationals in Sydney in June, the students were enthusiastic to start training already in the last two weeks of Term 3. Working on the boats together to get them ready and equipped for the season, training on the water early to be better prepared for the upcoming races.

The first three weekends in Term 4 were nominated as fleet racing at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron. This means that the two-man boat with a skipper and crew compete against other boats. This is great for further developing sailing skills and gaining experience on the water. It is also a good way of testing the pairing for the upcoming Teams Racing.

The second half of the term is nominated as Teams Racing, where schools race against each other, six boats at a time, three against three. This is very tactical and requires good planning, communication, and teamwork from the sailors. It is not about crossing the finish line first, but getting your team through in a winning combination. Winning combinations can be for example 1,2,6 and 2,3,5. Sunday mornings start with the Silver Fleet races, with Gold Fleet racing in the afternoon. Placing in the Fleets is determined by the rankings from the last season. This term MBBC started with both teams in Silver Fleet, but with excellent sailing, now has one team promoted to the Gold Fleet. This not only reflects the hard work and commitment that students have put towards this sport, but also the combined efforts of the coaches, support staff, together with the parents, creating a successful sailing programme. We are looking forward to sailing season continuing in Term 1, with the goal of having a team in the Australian Schools Nationals 2023.

Mrs Pipsa Rippon, Acting Head of Sport

STAFF PROFILES

Music

Mr Ben Langford Director of

Tell us about your role at The Moreton Bay Colleges?

My role is to provide direction and organisation for all co-curricular music activities, so there is a lot of emailing, communicating, attending events / rehearsals / classes / assemblies, meeting with staff, parents and students – anything to make sure music activities run as smoothly as possible. Occasionally, I even get to direct some ensembles and teach some classes!

What is your favourite part about your role?

The ability to work with students and staff across both colleges.

Who inspires you and why?

Ahn Do – read his autobiographical The Happiest Refugee and you’ll understand why! Someone who has lived through great adversity and come out the other side with humour and an amazing outlook on life. For a similar reason, also Awer Mabil (Australian soccer player and South Sudanese refugee).

Greatest lesson you have learnt from a student?

There is always something going on in someone

else’s life that you don’t know about, so show compassion quickly and give judgement slowly.

What is your favourite book?

The Hobbit, which I have loved since Primary school. More recently Name of the Wind by Patrick Rothfuss.

A little fact about me you may not know?

My favourite movie of all time is The Princess Bride – if you’ve seen it, you’ll understand. If you haven’t, you have no right to judge me!

Year 6 Teacher

What brought you to teaching?

I have always had a passion for helping people whether that was through life saving, tutoring, or babysitting, and believe teaching was the next step. Although as a kid I always loved playing ‘schools’ and had a huge collection of stickers; another factor that led me in the direction of teaching – finally getting to use all my stickers!

What is your favourite book?

Alice in Wonderland - I just loved all the creative plots, twists, and turns throughout the series.

My favourite teaching moment?

There have been so many amazing teaching moments throughout my career. My favourite is when they have that ‘lightbulb’ moment.

My greatest hope for my students for 2022 is?

They overcome the next step of going into Secondary, and continue to rise to challenges, striving to be their best.

Hopes for me as an educator in 2022 are?

To continue to encourage my students to believe in their own abilities and be global citizens.

Which educator inspires you?

The two educators that have been my inspiration are Mr Paul Dack and Ms Larissa Guy. I had the pleasure of working beside them for two years and learnt a lot. They are both extremely talented, creating engaging and inspiring lessons that connected with their students and the learning.

Greatest lesson you have learnt from a student?

If it’s hard – try. If you fail – try again! From one of my Year 6 students that had made a huge improvement this year.

A little fact about me?

I used to compete at a high level for Surf Lifesaving Queensland racing the IRBs (Inflatable Rescue Boats).

Mrs Maddie Gerlach

Ms Stephanie Smith

Head of The Arts, Drama Teacher

What brought you to teaching?

I have a number of teachers in my family, and some of my fondest memories were made by and with past teachers. I was fortunate to experience first-hand how teachers provide foundations for young people to ‘grow into their own skin’ and become inquisitive, creative and productive members of our community.

What is your favourite book?

I prefer to read non-fiction over fiction, and plays, rather than novels. One of my favourite plays to read is Waiting for Godot; a timeless classic in which the absurdity of our humanity echoes eloquently in the rhythmic memes of Beckett’s words.

My favourite teaching moment?

This is very hard to answer as I hold many treasured memories. However, one of the best moments to experience as a teacher is when a student ‘gets it’, a ‘penny drops’ or a spark of understanding is lit. It’s in their eyes; it can’t be explained, only felt - a uniquely shared moment of growth.

My greatest hope for my students for 2022 is?

…to do more of what they love; what they feel good at and enjoy. To grow as contented, grateful,

and selfless people. To be the best they can be.

Hopes for me as an educator in 2022 are?

The last few years have taught us all about the importance of navigating change with a sense of optimism and hope. It is important to remember that the world for our young people can appear a little ‘scary’ at times; I want to ensure them that they are equipped with the skills and mindset to successfully navigate their journey through Secondary school.

Which educator inspires you?

Several. The late Sir Ken Robinson for his profoundly clear articulation of the value of Arts education. Professor Judith McLean for directing me into Drama teaching and allowing me to learn from her practise. And a little closer to home, my former teachers, Mrs Freeman, Ms Ryan, Miss Masterman, Miss Hondroudakis, Miss Parker…and many more. Current and past colleagues continue to serve as inspirational role models.

Greatest lesson you have learnt from a student?

I have lived a most fortunate life.

A little fact about me?

Candle-stick charts fascinate me, but moreover, I find the way natural patterns identified by Fibonacci so perfectly overlay bullish and bearish patterns in the market spectacularly wonderful!

P&F ASSOCIATION

This term the P&F were pleased to confirm over $50,000 raised from the various fundraising activities through out the year. That allowed them to fund the yearly ‘wish list’ from the College Leadership Team staff, delivering STEAM resources for Prep to Year 6 in the form of robotic trains, a new lighting desk for the drama and performing arts group and three new guitar amps to assist the booming music programme at the College.

A sincere thanks to the 2022 Committee: Stephen Gray (President), Gil Carter (Vice President), Gary Calford (Treasurer), Dee Kircher (Secretary) and General Committee members; Jodie Gisler, Monica Palmer, Stu Gregory, Ashley Grylls and Matthew Paige-Hanify, as well as the many dedicated volunteers who gave of their time to assist across the year.

At the recent P&F AGM we were delighted to welcome many new members to the committee. The 2023 Committee includes: Ken Gargan (President), Cath Cook (Vice President) Dee Kircher (Secretary) Gary Calford (Treasurer) and General Committee Members: Monica Palmer, Jodie Gisler, Toni Lourens, Rebecca Dale, Selina Wright and Maggie Nisbet.

We look forward to an exciting year ahead including the annual MBBC P&F Cocktail event,

this time in March to help kick off the Colleges 20th year anniversary.

Mrs Victoria Matthews, Community Development Officer

ALUMNI

Tavis Bancroft

Class of 2016

What is your profession?

An Actuary, which is statistics in finance and insurance. I am in the process of becoming professionally accredited through the AIA whilst completing my masters.

How did you get to where you are today?

After four years of tertiary study, I still did not know what professional pathway I wanted to go down. As such, I chose to do a Masters programme in Sydney as I could seemingly not get a job and could not travel due to border restrictions at the conclusion of my Undergrad Degree. In short, I got to where I am today through dumb luck and persistence, and I am pretty happy with how it is working out thus far.

What are you most thankful for from your time at MBBC?

The emphasis on being kind and being empathic to those around you. It sounds simple, but I have found it can be an easy thing to forget when you are so hyper focused on your own growth and goals. My teachers and mates throughout my decade at MBBC showed these traits every day, and I am always thankful for that.

Dan Allsopp

Class of 2016

What is your profession?

I’m a final year medical student at The University of Sydney and a Product Manager for an education company.

How did you get to where you are today?

Firstly, I decided exactly what I wanted to be when I grew up and worked backwards from there. I spent a lot of my own time learning and researching in meticulous detail how everything works, so that there were as few surprises as possible along the road. As well as this, I forced myself to find being challenged fun. I used to not enjoy life’s difficulties and instead opted for the path of least resistance, but the day you make the decision to seek out the biggest challenge and tackle it ‘just to see what happens’ is the day you’ll really start to enjoy the direction you’re headed.

What are you most thankful for from your time at MBBC?

Every teacher I had at school was a role model to me in one way or another. Not necessarily in my intention to embody all of their characteristics, but there was definitely an intention to take the best part of each of them and mould them into a complete whole in myself. I attribute my wit and capacity for zealous argument, my empathy and warmth around the patients I see, and my good sense of healthy masculinity to three different teachers respectively.

MBBC OLD BOYS’

Reunions, Reunions, Reunions!

Term 4 is traditionally when we host the Old Boys’ reunions. Due to the past couple of years events being postponed, this year we hosted a mega reunion to ensure no cohort missed out on their celebration.

2011 – 10 Year (+1)

2012 – 10 Year

2015 – 5 Year (+2)

2016 – 5 Year (+1)

2017 – 5 Year

We hosted approximately 60 people across all five cohorts, with some current and past staff members attending too.

The night was a huge success, and everyone enjoyed reconnecting long into the evening.

Save the Date!

Next year we look forward to celebrating the following events:

Saturday 5 August 2023 – Joint MBC/MBBC

Homecoming Event – 6.00pm at Waterloo Bay Hotel

All past students are invited to come and help welcome the Graduating Classes of 2022 to our ALUMNI/ ALUMNAE Community. Refer to the Old Boys’ Facebook Group for more information.

Saturday 7 October 2023 – Class of 2017, 5 Year Reunion and Class of 2013, 10 Year Reunion – 6.00pm at MBBC

Our 2017 and 2013 cohorts are invited to reconnect with each other and staff at their Reunions held onsite at MBBC. Refer to the Old Boys’ Facebook Group for more information.

Are you a past student of MBBC?

Have you joined the Facebook Group?

If not, join today to stay up to date with the latest news and events. Please note this group is for past students and staff only.

MBBC

OLD BOYS OLD BOYS’ COMMITTEE

FROM THE ARCHIVES

THE FOUNDATION UPDATE

Mrs Alex Givney | Director of Philanthropy

Generations of Moreton Bay College

On Friday 7 October the Moreton Bay Colleges’ Foundation hosted the Generations of Moreton Bay College’s afternoon tea at MBC in the Quadrangle. This annual event is an exclusive occasion to bring together and celebrate our legacy families of MBC and MBBC. Any student whose mother or grandmother was an Old Girl of Moreton Bay College is invited to be a part of the group photo and stay for afternoon tea. In 2022 our list of students has grown to 127 students across the Colleges.

Several of our long-standing past staff and valued College supporters are invited to join this special event. Our Old Girls come to reminisce on their time at the College and share memories with their own children and in some cohorts, their fellow classmates.

We look forward to continuing to celebrate our legacy families with various plans to further recognise them in 2023 and beyond.

Paving the Way

Celebrating 20 Years of Excellence in Boy's Education

2023 marks the 20th anniversary for Moreton Bay Boys’ College.

In celebration of this special milestone, we invite our community to cement their support for our College by purchasing a commemorative paver, to be added to the College’s ‘Legacy Hill’, where we proudly showcase our tradition of one generation looking after the next.

All funds raised support the 'Nature Inquiry' development; planned for 2023, this expertly

designed outdoor space encourages collaborative learning for all ages in amongst the College’s stunning natural environment.

Together, let’s continue to pave the way for the MBBC students of today and tomorrow.

Pavers will be available for purchase until Friday 24 February 2023, and laid for the College’s 20th year celebration on Friday 26 May.

You can purchase them online here

Paving the Way

It has been a big year to the Moreton Bay Colleges’ Foundation. Did you know?

$162,159 donated MBBC VBF and Giving Day total donated

Average gift $241 673 donors

The Moreton Bay Colleges’ Foundation would like to formally acknowledge the generosity of our matching donors in 2022 for our inaugural Giving Day:

• The Titman Family

• The O’Brien Family

• Richard Henry

• The Haynes/Reynolds Family

• Phillippa and David Farley

• Tania Seary (MBC Class of 1986)

• The Handley Family

• MBBC Old Boys Committee

• MBC Old Girls Association

• MBBC P&F

• MBC P&F

We hope that the wider Moreton Bay Colleges community will be able to support us for our planned activities and events in 2023 including:

• Business Breakfast - Wednesday 1 March

• Giving Day - Thursday 18 May

• Business Breakfast - Friday 8 September

• Sports Lunch - Friday 3 November

If you would like more information, please contact the Foundation office on 3906 9422 or email foundation@moretonbaycolleges.qld.edu.au

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