Volume 11, 2024
29.7.2024
From the Principal
From the Assistant Principal
From the Dean of Ministry
From the Assistant Dean of Ministry
PACE News
Year 8 STEM Project Launch Day
Year 12 Chemistry Excursion to Sydney University
Upcoming Drama Production
Staff Spotlight: Michele Studd
Creative Fusion of Technology and Artistry
Vaughan House NEWS
USYD Physics Kickstart Programme Excursion
Pia Monti Awarded First Prize
Welcome Benedictine Exchange Program Students
Get Ready for Rosebank's 90s Trivia Night!
Unlock Your Maths Potential with Maths@Lunch!
New App Coming Soon!
SRSC News
Pathways and Partnerships News
Year 7 Vaccinations Update
🔗Community Links
From the Principal
A very warm welcome back to Term 3 at Rosebank. A particular welcome to our four Rosebank International students who come to us through our International Benedictine Exchange Program. Miriam Agus (Year 11) and Leonardo Tronci (Year 11) have travelled from Convitto Nazionale "Vittorio Emanuele II", Italy, and Henry Starkey (Year 10) and Alani Jordan (Year 11) have joined us from St. Ottilien Rhabanus Maurus Gymnasium, Germany. We hosted a special “Australian Morning Tea” on Monday as an introduction to their experience in an Australian school. Our visitors will participate in bespoke excursions and school experiences to provide them with a rich learning experience and immersion. Our sincere thanks to our host families for their investment here. We look forward to the exciting opportunities made available to our own students who travel to Italy and Germany over the Christmas Break.
For our Year 12 students, Term 3 can be a daunting time. They will experience ‘the last’ of so much of Rosebank, the last assembly, the last game, the last lesson. The HSC Trials, without a doubt, is a very challenging time for them and for you, too, as parents and carers. We have encouraged our students to trust us, dig deep, stay calm and keep going. Post-trials is a more rewarding time where exam feedback is crucial. It is essentially how our students apply the feedback that leads to later success. The more resilience our students show now the greater the reward later. The term culminates in a celebration of all achievements at the Graduation Ceremony. It is a celebration for our whole community, but in particular you, the parents and carers, the first educators, thank you for your enormous investment.
This week, we look forward to meeting our Year 10 parents as we set our students up in their courses for the HSC. Conducting interviews with families is a significant investment by our teachers and a recognition on our part of the importance of parent voice in this process. We believe our new process will lead to positive outcomes such as increased confidence in subject selections, debunking any myths about study patterns, providing more insights for the College about the courses offered, and ultimately leading to fewer changes later on once Stage 6 commences.
Congratulations to Pia Monti (Year 7 - O'Connor), who recently presented a speech on sustainability to the Canada Bay Council on Tuesday, 16 July. Pia originally delivered her speech at the Speaking for the Planet excursion earlier in the term and was approached to deliver it at other events.
Congratulations to Ronan Flaherty and Xerinn Biglang-awa, who recently attained a Certificate of Recognition from Macquarie University for having completed the Introduction to Psychology Course in 2024. Xerinn attained a Distinction. Both of these students accessed this opportunity through Rosebank College while studying for the HSC. Very impressive.
I’m looking forward to attending the Debate Final. Our teams have performed exceptionally well this year, with five teams progressing to the finals.
And one last callout for Ava Caryofyllis, our very own Rosebank student who has been nominated for a Logie under the Most Popular New Talent category. You can Vote for Ava here
The achievements of our students at Rosebank College continue to amaze me!
Ms Iris Nastasi
Principal
From the Assistant Principal
We have enjoyed a wonderful first week back for the start of Semester 2, including a special welcome for our Benedictine Exchange Program students, which admittedly was peppered with a smattering of muffled laughter at my attempt at a hearty, but limited, “Guten tag” and “Ciao”! 
I am pleased to confirm that even though neither Germany nor Italy made it through to the UEFA Cup Final, our international students were all in good spirits. The timing of this visit could not be better, as our Australian spirit is certainly going to be out on display in a sea of green and gold as the Olympics get underway and we rise to support our athletes. Hopefully for our visitors, we will continue to have some blue skies and sunshine days ahead, so that we can show off not only our beautiful Rosebank campus, but Sydney at her best.
Last week I had a chance to engage with our Year 8 students who were involved in a STEM topic called ‘Bolt to the Future’. The Sydney University electric car racing team work in collaboration with our students to examine design elements related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics to produce their own model electric cars.
Perhaps it was inspiration drawn from Oscar Piastri’s recent win in Hungary that drove the students to achieve exceptional results from their cars, as they raced against each other down the track straight in the Benedict Auditorium. There is a tremendous satisfaction that comes from watching learning in action and I thank the staff involved for creating these invaluable ‘hands on’ experiences for our students.
It is often in taking part in these types of activities that students begin to learn how their personal interests, passions and hobbies might be incorporated into a future career opportunity. For our senior students, achieving an ATAR, or admission into tertiary education are not the only roads that lead to a successful career, or a fulfilling future. Tomorrow at the Stage 6 Subject Selection Evening, we will meet with each of our Year 10 students and their parents, to discuss the patterns of senior study at Rosebank and explore together, the many pathways that are available to help these young men and women to achieve their dreams.
With just four weeks to go until our ‘90’s Nostalgia’ Trivia Night, seats are filling up fast! Purchase a ticket, or book a table of ten and join us for an entertaining evening of trivia. Don't forget our online auction is now open, with some great items up for grabs. For any additional information, please contact events@rosebank.nsw.edu.au.
Date: Saturday, 24 August 2024
Location: Rosebank College - Benedict Auditorium
Time: Doors open at 6pm, trivia starts at 7pm with the event concluding at 10pm
BYO: Bring along your choice of food and beverages
Mr Paul Hardwick
Assistant Principal
From the Dean of Ministry
Mary of the Angels of Rosebank
Next Friday, the College celebrates our patronal feast. Words such as “patronal feast” probably sound somewhat archaic in this day and age, so it may be worth spending a little time exploring what the word “patron” means. Throughout much of human history, there have been people who have been “patrons”, people who gave their support in a number of ways to an individual or group who asked for it. It could be the most basic form of asking for protection from harm or helping support a worthwhile cause. Whatever form the “patronage” took there was a reciprocal relationship established between patron and petitioner. Sometimes the relationship could be quite harsh if the petitioner did not meet their responsibilities or if the patron withdrew their protection or support without notice. In many cultures, the patron was someone of great influence, power and privilege, and the petitioners were usually those without influence, power or privilege.
Christianity has had a long tradition of honouring those women and men considered exemplary models of Christian living and so it comes as no surprise that some of these people were taken as “patrons” of various aspects of Christian and, indeed, human life. St Anthony of Padua was often called upon to help find lost things; St Jude was often considered the patron of lost causes; and St Isadore of Seville was given the responsibility of taking care of modern communications, especially the internet! The giving of names at baptism often indicated the claiming of that saint as the special patron and protector of the newly baptised. Likewise, the practice of taking a name at confirmation was to take that saint as a special role model and patron.
Mary, the Mother of Jesus, is the Christian patron above all others. She is called upon as protector, refuge, consoler, untier of knots, advocate, comforter and source of our joy. In all these aspects, Mary, as a patron, is looked upon as the one given to us by her son as a mother, and as a mother, she never abandons her children. The Mother of God as patron does one thing only - she leads us towards her Son, Jesus. Indeed, all the saints claimed as patrons do exactly the same thing. They never point to themselves and this makes our heavenly patrons different to those on earth.
The tradition of calling upon Mary under the title of “St Mary of the Angels” goes back over 800 years when St Francis of Assisi claimed Mary as patron of the newly founded Order of Little Brothers (Friars Minor), the Franciscans. Francis placed his community under the protection of Mary of the Angels. In 1867 the community of Good Samaritan Sisters opened their school at Albina Villa under the patronage of Our Lady. When the community moved to our present location in 1868 the patronage of Mary was kept. It is not entirely clear when the full title of Mary of the Angels was given, but it does seem that it was used at the dedication of the Chapel in August 1879. The patronage of the Mother of God under the title of St Mary of the Angels has remained with us. And for that we are truly grateful.
As we celebrate her feast and her patronage on Friday, 2 August, let us join in using the traditional prayer “Hail Queen of Heaven, Hail Lady of the Angels”.
Dr Paul O'Shea
Dean of Ministry
From the Assistant Dean of Ministry
Red Earth 2025 Parent Information Evening
Red Earth is an amazing experience available for Year 8 to Year 11 students. Over 100 students from the College have participated in the Red Earth Immersion Program over the past four years. Through this program, students and staff engage with First Nations Peoples and hear first-hand their experiences, wisdom and hopes for the future.
On Monday, 5 August, there will be a Parent Information Evening with a representative from Red Earth outlining the Central Australia Immersion in April 2025. Students and parents are invited to attend the ‘online’ meeting to hear about the program - register for the evening here or scan the QR code below.
Vinnies Winter Appeal 2024
James 2:14-16
‘How does it help, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but does not have works? Will faith save that person? If one of the brothers or sisters is in need of clothes and has not enough food to live on, and one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace. Keep warm and eat plenty,’ without giving them the bare necessities of lift, what good is that?’
In this passage, the writer challenges those who claim to have faith to ensure that their faith and works are inextricably linked.
Therefore, it was an absolute joy for all of us who walked into the College Chapel on Benedict Day to see the generous donations made for the St Vincent De Paul Winter Appeal.
Our faith is demonstrated by our works. As the passage of scripture clearly shows, we demonstrate that faith we profess through meeting the practical needs of our brothers and sisters in the world. Our community clearly lives out this message: we give and never meet those who our giving benefits and never hear a thank you from those we help.
On behalf of the College, I would like to say thank you for your generous donations as we seek to serve all of God’s children.
Mr Chris Hansford
Assistant Dean of Ministry
PACE News
Rosebank dominates Conference 2 Finals
On Thursday, 27 June, 17 of our 19 Term Two Representative Sport teams competed in the Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Conference 2 Finals, playing in either a grand final or third place play-off. Our teams have proven to opposition schools that Rosebank is a force to be reckoned with and, with a number of our A-grade and B-grade teams placing, it shows the depth of talent we have at Rosebank. Congratulations to all students in a Term 2 Representative Sport team, in particular the Boys Intermediate A Football (Soccer) team and Girls Intermediate Netball team, who were crowned Conference Champions in the A-Grade competition. Given the calibre of the competition, this is an incredibly difficult feat and a credit to the focussed students in these teams.
Sydney Championships Finals
The Boys Intermediate A Football (Soccer), Girls Senior Football (Soccer), Girls Intermediate Netball and Girls Senior Netball teams played in the Sydney Catholic Schools (SCS) Sydney Championships Quarter Finals in the first week of the holidays. In some closely contested games, all teams put up a valiant fight and achieved great results. The Boys Intermediate Football (Soccer), Girls Senior Football (Soccer) and Girls Intermediate Netball teams won their quarter-final and progressed to the SCS Sydney Championships semi-final played on Thursday, 25 July. 
In the semi-final, our teams came up against other top schools in the Sydney Catholic Schools competition. In an incredible performance, the Boys Intermediate Football (Soccer) team won their match to progress to the Sydney Championships Grand Final - the furthest any Rosebank Football (Soccer) team has ever gone! They drew 2-2 at full time against De La Salle, Revesby and dominated the penalties, winning 4-2 to claim their spot in the grand final. We wish them all the best as they prepare for their big game on Wednesday.
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
Congratulations to Joonyoung Kim and Stella Kolomyjec (Year 10) who have achieved the Bronze Award in the Duke of Edinburgh program. A great achievement.
Netball Umpiring Success
Congratulations to Sophia Ferrara (Year 11) and Katia Reichle (Year 9), who were awarded their National C Netball Umpiring Badge at Club Netball on Saturday, 29 June. This is a huge achievement and is a reflection of the dedication and hard work that they have put into their umpiring over the past few years.
Both students started umpiring as part of the Rosebank Netball Club Umpiring Program and worked their way up the umpiring pathway to National C Umpiring Badge. Well done, and congratulations, Sophia and Katia!
In further umpiring news, Imogen Calleja (Year 7), Abigail Neylan (Year 9), Sophie O’Driscoll (Year 8) and Holly Wylde (Year 9) were awarded their Club Netball Umpiring Badge on the first Saturday of the school holidays as part of the Rosebank Netball Club Umpiring Program. Well done, and congratulations, Imogen, Abigail, Sophie and Holly!
Ms Maryanne Di Bella & Miss Annalisa Di Bella
PACE Department
Year 8 STEM Project Launch Day
On Tuesday, 23 July, Year 8 students launched their cross-curricular STEM project, "Bolt to the Future," with an exciting day of activities. The event began with a presentation from the Sydney University Motorsport team, which showcased their impressive electric race car and sparked students' interest in automotive innovation.
The students were then divided into two groups. One group used their engineering skills to build model electric cars, considering aerodynamics and weight distribution, followed by a thrilling race-off. The second group focused on creating detailed isometric drawings of their car designs. Afterwards, the groups switched activities. Our Year 8 students are to be commended on their outstanding engagement throughout the day and the quality drawings and model cars they produced.
Moving forward, students will utilise their electric cars to deepen their understanding of fair testing in Science, explore speed and gear ratios in Maths and enhance car design skills in Technology and Applied Studies (TAS). This will culminate in a big race at the end of the term, where they will apply their newfound knowledge and skills in an exciting final competition.
Mr Dimitrios Stivaktas
Science, iSTEM and Engineering Studies Teacher
Year 12 Chemistry Excursion to Sydney University
On Tuesday, 23 July, the Year 12 Chemistry classes, accompanied by Mr Hansford and Ms Smolka, attended Kickstart Chemistry at the University of Sydney. Working in small groups with graduate students from the university, we analysed data from a range of tests, including UV-visible spectrophotometry, mass spectrometry, infrared spectroscopy and proton-NMR, which record emissions from organic particles to help chemists identify them. We have been learning about these techniques in our study of Module 8: Applying Chemical Ideas, so getting to see them in action and even running a few tests ourselves was a fantastic opportunity to consolidate our understanding in preparation for our HSC Trials!
Elizabeth Day
Year 12
Upcoming Drama Production
Support our Drama students and come along to our production of Little Girls Alone in the Woods this week.
Dates: Wednesday, 31 July and Thursday, 1 August
Time: 6:30pm
Cost: $10 per person
Location: Rosebank College, Montserrat Theatre
Buy tickets here
Family and friends are all welcome!
CAPA Department
Staff Spotlight: Michele Studd
What is your position in the College?
I am a teacher in the Diverse Learning team. I work Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.
When did you start?
I started at Rosebank at the start of this year.
Where have you come from prior to Rosebank College?
Previously, I worked at Barker College (Hornsby).
What is the first thing you noticed about Rosebank College?
The first thing I noticed about Rosebank College was the warmth and friendliness of the staff.
Describe Rosebank in three words.
Welcoming, inclusive and reflective
Best thing about your role?
The best thing about my role is the opportunity to work with staff across all faculties to support and guide our DL students in their learning.
What book are you reading right now, and what is your first memory of reading?
I am currently reading Pineapple Street by Jenny Jackson. My first memory of reading was as a child—my mum reading to me one night before going to bed. We both enjoyed this special time together.
Creative Fusion of Technology and Artistry
Class 8D embarked on an ambitious project, harnessing the power of mixed media and digital innovation to craft a stunning class artwork. Inspired by the dynamic scenes of Avengers Infinity War, each student contributed their unique touch to the masterpiece. Through the meticulous technique of rotoscoping, they transformed the familiar into the extraordinary, capturing the essence of their favourite characters in vibrant detail. This collaborative endeavour not only showcased their technical skills but also fostered a sense of unity and accomplishment among their classmates, culminating in a breath-taking visual testament to their creativity and teamwork.
Mr Jack Booker
Visual Arts and Pastoral Care Teacher
Vaughan House NEWS
Isabella has been training in and enjoying Taekwondo since Year 6. She attends Musa Taekwondo in Five Dock and, during the holidays, she graded for and obtained her first Dan Black Belt. A wonderful achievement, we are immensely proud of her. Los Angeles 2028, here she comes!
Ms Rhonda Goodenough
Vaughan House Coordinator
USYD Physics Kickstart Programme Excursion
Year 12 Physics students, accompanied by Mrs Galeb, visited the University of Sydney's School of Physics, where they were welcomed by physicist Gabriel Nguyen.
Students had the opportunity to learn about various aspects of particle behaviour through Particle Accelerators and Cloud Chambers, paving the way for future prospects in Quantum Physics.
Rosebank Physics students observed first-hand the unique characteristics of light while developing a deeper understanding of the physics involved in many wave phenomena through several practical investigations. They were inspired by the Sydney University campus and the master's students who introduced them to renowned scientists such as Einstein, Bohr and Millikan. They also explored the evolution of our understanding of the Standard Model of the atom and the Universe.
The day was very successful, and we would like to thank Ms Nastasi for providing us with such a great opportunity. It will undoubtedly benefit the students of Rosebank College in their HSC Physics course and their future as prospective physicists.
Mrs Siran Galeb
Science Coordinator
Pia Monti Awarded First Prize
The Sustainability team is proud to announce that Pia Monti, a Year 7 student, has been awarded first prize in the 2024 Speaking for the Planet speech competition. The competition, held on Wednesday, 5 June, saw young speakers from local schools present their ideas on environmental sustainability. Pia captivated the judges with her speech addressing the theme, "Journey to a Greener Future," where she discussed an innovative council initiative to plant trees across the local government area.
Mayor Michael Megna presented Pia with her certificate at the most recent Canada Bay Council meeting, held during the holidays on Tuesday, 16 July. Pia was joined by her family in this proud moment. Pia has been asked to re-present her speech for the Climate Action Burwood Canada Bay Members.
Congratulations to Pia for her dedication and passion for the environment, making Rosebank College proud!
Ms Amelia Stivaletta
Maths and Science Teacher
Welcome Benedictine Exchange Program Students
This week, we were thrilled to welcome four international exchange students through our Benedictine Exchange Program: Leonardo Tronci and Miriam Agus from Convitto Nazionale "Vittorio Emanuele II" in Italy, and Alani Jordan and Henry Starkey from St. Ottilien Rhabanus Maurus Gymnasium. These students will fully immerse themselves in life at Rosebank College, staying with our generous host families who are providing both hospitality and a local tourist experience. 
The students will be with us until the end of Week 4, and we are delighted to offer this enriching program.
Mrs Tina Carbone
Community Engagement Liaison
Get Ready for Rosebank's 90s Trivia Night!
Dust off your Walkmans, tighten those scrunchies and throw on a flannel shirt because our 90s-themed trivia night is coming on Saturday, 24 August! Get some friends together, dig out your 90s gear, and purchase your tickets here.
Our 90s Trivia Night will be an unforgettable evening filled with fun, nostalgia and 90s tunes. From iconic music and movies to unforgettable fashion, this event will take you back to the days of grunge, boy bands and classic 90s TV shows.
Online Auction: We’ve also launched our online auction with some fantastic items up for grabs, so be sure to check it out and place your bids!
For more details, check out the FAQs, which provide comprehensive information about Trivia Night and the Online Auction.
For additional information, please contact Tina Carbone, Community Engagement Liaison at pandf@rosebank.nsw.edu.au or Genevieve Darling, Events Manager at events@rosebank.nsw.edu.au.
We can't wait to see you there for a night of 90s fun!
Mrs Tina Carbone
Community Engagement Liaison
Unlock Your Maths Potential with Maths@Lunch!
Looking for extra help with Maths? Unlock Your Maths Potential with Maths@Lunch!
Whether you're struggling with algebra or geometry in any year or just need some guidance on your homework, we’ve got you covered!
Introducing our Maths@Lunch program. This program runs weekly in J204 during Break 2 on Mondays and Wednesdays offering valuable support and guidance no matter what content you’re working on in class. No need to sign up—just come along and get the help you need!
Here’s what you can expect:
- Support from senior students: get advice, tips, and tricks from students who have aced their maths courses and are eager to help you succeed.
- Guidance from teachers: our knowledgeable teachers will be on hand to assist with any tricky problems or concepts you’re grappling with.
- A friendly and collaborative environment: meet other students who are also looking to boost their maths skills and work together to solve problems and understand challenging topics.
Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to enhance your maths skills and boost your confidence. Just drop by J204 during Break 2 on Mondays and Wednesdays, and let us help you tackle those maths challenges head-on!
See you there!
Melanie Modrin
Maths Captain
New App Coming Soon!
SRSC News
Book of the Month: August
After the Flood by Kassandra Montag, 2019
Click on the cover image to borrow from the SRSC now!
Themes: post-apocalyptic, survival, family, grief, secrets, betrayal, hope
A little more than a century from now, our world has been utterly transformed. After years of slowly overtaking the continent, rising floodwaters have obliterated America's great coastal cities and then its heartland, leaving nothing but an archipelago of mountaintop colonies surrounded by a deep expanse of open water. Stubbornly independent Myra and her precocious seven-year-old daughter, Pearl, fish from their small boat, the Bird, visiting dry land only to trade for supplies and information in the few remaining outposts of civilisation. For seven years, Myra has grieved the loss of her oldest daughter, Row, who was stolen by her father after a monstrous deluge overtook their home in Nebraska. Then, in a violent confrontation with a stranger, Myra suddenly discovers that Row was last seen in a far-off encampment near the Arctic Circle. Throwing aside her usual caution, Myra and Pearl embark on a perilous voyage into the icy northern seas, hoping against hope that Row will still be there.
I love to read about women's struggles and their shows of strength and courage under traumatic and harrowing experiences. This is a soaring tale of love and desperation, of a mother’s search for a missing daughter. I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys a romping, exciting, swashbuckling story.
Mrs S Gasparinatos
Library Assistant
SRSC
Premier’s Reading Challenge Update
A reminder that the Challenge closes for student entries on Friday, 23 August. Students who have already finished their Reading Records can have their records validated by their English or ConnectEd teachers. Year 7 students who have completed the Challenge before are also asked to send Primary School details to SRSC staff on srsc@rosebank.nsw.edu.au so that Primary School accounts can be merged with your new Secondary School account.
To anyone who has not yet signed up for the Premier’s Reading Challenge, it is not too late! You may have already read enough books to qualify or be close enough to the required number (20), that just a few short reads, graphic novels or senior picture books will get you there! Don’t hesitate to ask your teachers or SRSC staff for help with getting started. Here is a refresher on the rules of the competition.
New Books
We have recently catalogued heaps of new books for you to borrow! Log into Destiny Discover to reserve one of these beauties.
Is there a book you’d like to recommend for the Library? Fill out the Google Form on the SRSC Homepage to send us your request.
Mrs Leanne Plesa & Mrs Sharon Gasparinatos
SRSC
Pathways and Partnerships News
School Recommendation Scheme for Year 12 University Entry
SRS is one way institutions make early offers of admission to Year 12 students. They do this by using criteria other than, or in addition to, the ATAR. Find out more
Free Downloadable Guides
Scholarships (& Co-op Scholarships) Guide
Employment Opportunity
Early Childhood Education and Care Casual Work Available
Croydon Tennis Centre OOSH is looking to employ two trainee educators and is keen to connect with Year 12 students who are currently studying or may be interested in studying Early Childhood Education and Care and would like to gain practical experience in an outside school hours service. View the brochure here.
Certificate III in Sport, Aquatics and Recreation School-Based Traineeship
This school-based traineeship is designed to engage young adults in the aquatic, sport and recreation industry. Students will train and work across a variety of roles, including pool lifeguarding, swim teaching, sports coaching and customer service roles. Find out more
Free Course!
Introduction to Beauty Therapy, Laser and Dermal Therapies
This Introduction to Beauty Laser and Dermal Therapies is a free introductory course for school students in Years 10, 11 or 12 seriously considering a career as a Beauty Therapist. It runs one night a week for six weeks. There are still a few vacancies in this course for the year, which starts Wednesday, 28 August. Register here.
Mrs Angela Pavicic
Pathways & Partnerships Coordinator
Year 7 Vaccinations Update
On Wednesday, 21 August, NSW Health will be on site at the College to conduct a free vaccination program for all Year 7 students. The free vaccines are for diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (dTpa) and human papillomavirus (HPV). Parents of Year 7 students are asked to refer to the instructions contained in an email sent recently from NSW Health and follow the prompts to give parental consent. If you want your child included in the vaccination program, please ensure the online consent has been granted before the end of business on Tuesday, 20 August.
Ms Rosanna Algeri
Assistant Dean of Administration (Middle School)
🔗Community Links
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