Embedded Files
Inspiring Minds, Hearts and Spirits
Principal's Report
Principal's Report
MR STEPHEN DWYER | Term 3, Week 6
Dear Parents, Carers and Friends of our College community,
Australian Catholic Education Conference
Last week, I had the privilege of attending the 2025 Australian Catholic Education Conference hosted by the National Catholic Education Commission. The Conference gathered over 1400 Catholic educators, leaders, clergy, parents, and partners in Catholic education. With the theme “Hope, Anchored in Faith”, the sessions explored the strategic vision and mission of Catholic education and excellence in learning and wellbeing through three key areas: Faith, Excellence, and Access.
Across keynote addresses, workshops and presentations, the focus was on strengthening Catholic identity and mission, enhancing learning and wellbeing, developing leadership and governance, engaging parents and communities, and ensuring strong resourcing and advocacy for the future of Catholic education.
It was a rich and inspiring professional learning experience, affirming the collective mission we share in our Marist and Catholic context.
Feast of the Assumption of Mary
On August 15, we celebrated the Feast of the Assumption with a whole-school Mass. This feast day reminds us of Mary’s unique place in God’s plan. In Mary, we see a woman who lived her whole life trusting in God's mercy, not knowing the road ahead. She is a model for all of us; a woman of deep faith, quiet strength, and courageous “yes” to God’s call.
For us at Red Bend, Mary’s life is not just an inspiring story from the past; she is a living guide, showing us how to live with humility, compassion, and trust in God’s promises.
On this day, we also celebrated the Mercy Charism, a gift that has shaped our College. The Sisters of Mercy, inspired by their foundress Catherine McAuley, brought hope, compassion, and practical care to communities across Australia and especially here in our own Diocese and our College.
We thank the Sisters of Mercy for their continuing ministry. The Mercy Charism is not just a set of words or ideas. It is a way of living. It begins in the heart and moves into action through compassion, justice, respect, hospitality, service, and courage. These values come to life in simple but powerful ways when we support one another, especially those who are in need.
We were pleased to be able to present a donation of $1,500 to Mercy Works to support the special projects of the Sisters of Mercy.
As part of our celebration, we recognised and honoured students who embody the Mercy values through the Mercy Awards. These awards are for the quiet, consistent acts of kindness, generosity, and compassion that make our College a more welcoming and caring place.
Congratulations to the following students and to staff member Mrs Trish Martin, the recipients of the 2025 Mercy awards.
Basil House - Charlotte Baird and Ned Brown
Chisholm House - Georgia Campbell and Holly Purcival
Denis House - Aaliyah Kelly and Elizabeth Brindle
Loyola House - Ruby Arnott and Archie Higgins
MacKillop House - Andi Jones and Bernice Madhimba
McAuley House - Bobby Broad and Eliza Roylance
O'Connor House - Marshall Munn and Chloe Pryor
Xavier House - Joselyne Folau and Jackson Markwort
Mrs Karen Umbers recently returned from a pilgrimage to Timor-Leste, and shared her incredible experience with the College at this week's assembly. Mrs Umbers spent several weeks at the end of last term and during the school holidays, volunteering to help teach English to staff at ICFP (The Catholic Institute for the Formation of Teachers). She travelled to Baucau, Timor Leste with 4 other teachers from around Australia. It involved teaching 4 small group tutoring sessions/day over a 2 week period and now that she has returned, 1 hr/week online until the end of the year. I was pleased to be presented with a traditional tais as a gift on behalf of the College.
2026 Student Leadership
It is an exciting time in the life of our College as the process for selecting our student leaders for 2026 continues. On Friday 8 August, all Year 11 Students attended our Leadership Day, reflecting on leading in our Marist way by the model of servant leadership.
Future College Captains, Boarding Captains, House Captains and Liturgy Captains are currently preparing and presenting their leadership speeches. Our students and staff will then have the opportunity to cast their votes, recognising the gifts of those who have put themselves forward.
The anticipation is building as we look ahead to Week 8, when we will officially announce our new 2026 student leadership team at assembly. This is always a special milestone, not only for the selected students but also for the entire College community, as we reaffirm the importance of student leadership grounded in service, faith, and the Marist spirit.
We extend our gratitude to all candidates who have put themselves forward.
May St Marcellin Champagnat and Mary our Good Mother continue to watch over our community.
Deputy Principal | Mr Simon Martino
Deputy Principal | Mr Simon Martino
At Tuesday’s Assembly, a clear and important message was delivered to students regarding their conduct on social media. Mr Dwyer reminded students that how we present ourselves online should mirror the respect and kindness we show in person. Our digital behaviour is an extension of our character.
We also shared information about new legislation taking effect from December 10 2025, which will prohibit young people under the age of 16 from creating or maintaining accounts on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Snapchat, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
Our College Captains powerfully reinforced this message, highlighting the lasting impact of our digital footprint. They reminded students:
“It’s easy to get caught up in trends, jokes, or group chats without thinking about how it might affect someone else—or even yourself—later on. Even when something seems small or harmless, it can still make someone feel excluded, judged, or disrespected.”
In my own address, I asked students to reflect on their use of TikTok, particularly in relation to the use of the Red Bend College Crest and the posting of images in College uniform. Students were instructed to unfollow any TikTok accounts using the RBCC name or crest. Those who have created such accounts are expected to delete them immediately. If these accounts remain active, they will be reported to the relevant authorities, as they do not reflect the values of our College. Students have also been advised not to engage with these accounts. Instead, they should use TikTok’s reporting feature to flag inappropriate content.
It’s important to note that the vast majority of our students consistently do the right thing, demonstrating respectful and responsible behaviour both online and in person. Their actions reflect the values we uphold at Red Bend Catholic College, and we are proud of the positive culture they help foster.
How Families Can Support
We ask all parents and carers to partner with us in reinforcing these expectations at home.
Here are a few ways you can help:
Start the conversation: Talk openly with your child about their online activity. Ask what platforms they use and how they interact with others.
Set boundaries together: Establish clear guidelines around screen time and appropriate content. Encourage thoughtful posting and respectful engagement.
Model positive behaviour: Children often mirror adult behaviour. Demonstrating kindness and responsibility online sets a powerful example.
Stay informed: Familiarise yourself with the platforms your child uses and the new laws coming into effect.
Check your child’s social media accounts: Check what your child is viewing on their social media accounts and what messages they are sending or receiving.
At Red Bend Catholic College, we believe that student behaviour online and offline should reflect the values of our community and uphold the Red Bend Way. As our College Captains shared:
“Let’s use our platforms wisely, being kind, thoughtful, and respectful. As we all shape the culture of our school and online spaces, let’s make them positive and inclusive for everyone.”
Thank you for your continued support in guiding our students to be responsible online as we encourage them to be “Good Christians and Good Citizens”.
Director of Curriculum | Mrs Trish Martin
Director of Curriculum | Mrs Trish Martin
Year 11
Our Year 11 students will be sitting for their Yearly exams in week 9 and 10.
Their exams begin on Monday 15th September and conclude Monday 22nd September.
YEAR 11 PRELIMINARY EXAMS 2025.pdf
During a recent Year 11 meeting the students were advised that their HSC year begins term 4,
2025. For the HSC, students are required to study a minimum of 10 units. The majority of our
students study 11 units. To facilitate transitioning to the HSC, students have been asked to
nominate their course intentions in English, Mathematics and Religious Education. In addition,
over term 4, students will attend a meeting to review their Year 11 academic results, as well as
their HSC pattern of study and any post school options.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Year 11 exams.
(This information was shared with the Year 11 students during a year level meeting)
What time do I have to be at school before exams?
Line up outside the MPH, in alphabetical order in courses on the artificial turf
Normal school rules apply; students are to be in full Winter uniform
What equipment do I need to bring?
What do I do once I am in the exam room?
When directed, check that you have all of the necessary exam papers
Write your Student Number on the exam papers (students to have their Red Bend Student ID card)
If I miss an exam, what will happen?
are exceptional circumstances You will receive an estimate based on your current rank order
At home support from parents is all important. Provide encouragement and remind your child to
stay calm and to do their best. Encourage your child to eat well, to exercise and talk to them about
the importance of a good sleep. Take an interest in their exam timetable and ask them how they
did after each exam. If for some reason, an exam does not go as planned, encourage your child to
put it behind them and to focus on what is coming up.
We wish all Year 11 students the best for their yearly exams.
Director of Mission | Mr David Eyles
Director of Mission | Mr David Eyles
Year 7 Retreat Days in Week 9
Our Year 7 students will have their first high school retreat experience on Tuesday September 16 (Week 9.)
Information will go out shortly on Consent2Go - but the event will consist of a day away from school (at the Forbes Town Hall) in sports clothes on Tuesday, followed by a Year level Mass in the College chapel on Wednesday morning September 17.
All students at Red Bend Catholic College participate in annual retreats and reflection days as part of the compulsory Religious Education program of the College. These days allow students to reflect on their values, relationships, and life goals, as well as deepen their understanding of the Catholic Identity of our Community and their familiarity with our Marist Charism.
Marist Solidarity Ambassador Workshop
On Wednesday July 30, some of our Marist Solidarity ambassadors attended a virtual workshop hosted by Australian Marist Solidarity. The workshop included participants from Marist schools from across Australia.
During the workshop - various AMS projects in the Star of the Sea province were explained and the students gained insights into how the funds we raise at school are assisting students in communities in need.
Our Ambassador Team, including Max Reid, Chloe Pryor and Gabriella Pereira, collaborated with other ambassadors to discuss fundraising and awareness efforts for Marist Solidarity.
Our representatives made a wonderful contribution to this virtual gathering and were grateful for the opportunity to connect with the AMS team and other ambassadors.
Director of Boarding | Mr Chris Douglass
Director of Boarding | Mr Chris Douglass
Boarders at the Parkes Show
Recently the Boarders had an excursion to the Parkes Show. The students and supervisors had a great evening watching the events that went on including motorbikes, demolition derby and other events. There was a petting zoo, many things to look at and of course the side show rides and show bags. A great time had by all, even with the Bus having issues and a late night home.
Football Finals this weekend
Good luck to all the girls and boys involved in the "business end of the season”. Thanks to the supervisors for transporting to games and even running the water from time to time throughout the winter sports season.
Craft skills in the wood rooms with the junior girls
The junior girls have been busy making a special Fathers Day gift. We look forward to finishing them up in the coming week, ready to pass onto someone special. Good job girls.
Well done to Billy Phillips who played his debut game in the NRL on Thursday night. Billy was a Boarder from year 7-12 from Lake Cargelligo (Sophie his younger sister in Year 8). A special moment to walk through the dorms last night and see many Boarders cheering on Billy on the common room TV’s.
We have a weekly award for positive behaviour in the boarding house, and I'm proud to share with you the latest recipients.
Below: Noah Waters, Imogen Williams, Charlie Moorhouse and Indie Blacker. (Absent: Beau Jeffery)
Below: Lebron Jones, Haydn Alexander, Zoe McRae, Charlee Woodhouse and Brydee Taunton.
Below: Nate Reid, Nash McWilliam-Gibson and Hayley Barby. (Absent: Peppa Wiseman and Claire Wilkins)
Director of Students | Mr Adam Currey
Director of Students | Mr Adam Currey
As we move into the final stretch of the term, it’s important that our students finish well. A gentle reminder to please check in with your child to ensure they have the basics—books, pens, glue and other essential items. These small things make a big difference in supporting our students to live out The Red Bend Way and to be Ready to Learn each day.
Students are reminded that the winter uniform is to be worn until the end of term. We thank our families for their ongoing support in maintaining our high standards.
This term we are also placing a strong focus on attendance. If your child is absent from school, you will receive a text message requesting an explanation. We greatly appreciate your assistance in responding promptly. Please remember that an average attendance rate of 90% across 13 years of schooling equates to a full year of school missed—every day really does matter.
We also remind families that students are not permitted to use external VPNs while at the College. Students using an external VPN will be unable to access the College wi-fi. If this occurs, they must report to the ICT Office so staff can resolve the issue by removing the VPN. Students that are found to be using an external VPN will be followed up.
The use of unauthorised and outside VPN's increase risk of cyber attacks and potential bullying issues amongst our students at the College. At Red Bend keeping our students safe online is our priority.
Finally, if you have any questions or concerns regarding your child’s wellbeing, please don’t hesitate to reach out to their House Coordinator or myself. Our contact details can be found in the student handbook, or you are welcome to call the College office. Together, in partnership, we support your child’s learning and growth throughout their educational journey here at Red Bend.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
Sep 1 CCC Tennis
Sep 2 Student Leader speeches at assembly
Sep 8 Father's Day celebration at the College
Sep 9 2026 Student Leader announcements
Sep 10 DIO Rugby 10s
Sep 11 RUOK Day
Sep 13 Cattle and Sheep Teams at the Forbes Show
Sep 15 Year 11 exams start
Sep 15 Year 10 work experience starts
Awards
Awards
Principal's Acknowledgement Award
Congratulations to the following students, who received a Principal's Acknowledgement Award at assembly this week:
Charlie Spry - Achieving the bronze medal at the National Worldskills championships for Primary Industries.
Toby Morgan - Represented NSW at the National Little Athletics and National Junior Athletics as a para athlete. Toby has received confirmation of the following Australian records for his classification: 100m, 200m, 800m and Javelin.
Ace Hancock - Winning the Australian U14's Novice Title in the Amateur Boxing League in May.
House Report | O'Connor
House Report | O'Connor
News from O'Connor House
O’Connor House: Small in Age, Mighty in Spirit!
They say the “new kid on the block” takes a while to settle in… clearly, they’ve never met O’Connor House.
In our very first year at Red Bend Catholic College, we haven’t tiptoed in quietly — we have stormed through the gates in pink, proud, and positively unstoppable. From Day 1, O’Connor has been all in: leading with heart, showing up with pride, and proving that size doesn’t matter when your spirit is this big.
Let’s talk carnivals. When there’s a College event, O’Connor doesn’t just attend… we arrive like it’s showtime. Pink shirts on, voices ready, maximum effort. Athletics, Swimming, Cross Country — you name it, we’ve been there, loud and leaving a trail of pink-powered energy behind us.
But we’re not only about the cheering and chanting (though we are very, very good at that). Our O’Connor crew has been everywhere — on the sporting fields, in liturgies, at service activities, leading from the front, and yes… even perfecting the fine art of getting those handbooks signed.
And big news: we’ve welcomed a new PC teacher, Mr Ryan — Red Bend old boy, O’Connor legend-in-the-making, and already brave enough to dive headfirst into the pink powerhouse. He’s got his work cut out keeping up with us, but we reckon he’ll do just fine.
The best part? We’re only just getting started. O’Connor’s foundation is rock solid — built on participation, pride, and a sense of humour as bright as our House colour. We’ve created a community that’s supportive, spirited, and not afraid to stand out (especially when the pink socks come out).
So here’s to O’Connor: new to the College, but already unforgettable. Resilient, respectful, and ridiculously full of House pride.
Watch this space — because O’Connor isn’t just here. O’Connor is here to stay.
Charlie Taunton - Year 10
Favourite O’Connor memory so far: The swimming carnival at the start of the year because it was the first competition our house participated in. We all gave it a crack and tried our best in everything we did.
Best thing about being in O’Connor: We have great staff in our house who can have a joke with us and our house coordinator is very understanding and will do anything for us.
How would you describe O’Connor in three words? Determined, encouraging and supportive.
What are you looking forward to most for O’Connor’s future? Seeing O'Connor go on to win our first carnival, whether it be a swimming, athletics or house carnival. I think it will be very soon due to the supportive people and staff in our house are and how much we all get around each other.
Chloe Pryor - Year 11
Favourite O’Connor memory so far: Our first Athletics Carnival as a house, seeing everyone joined together, embracing our new pink house. Even if we didn't win every event, we still banded together and made it a memorable first event.
Best thing about being in O’Connor: We're a new house, so we get to start fresh and make our traditions and chants. Also, everyone is new as well, so there isn't any feeling of competition between students who have been there for a while as compared to new ones, everyone is starting from the same place and helping each other navigate as a new house.
How would you describe O’Connor in three words? Fun, friendly and growing.
What are you looking forward to most for O’Connor’s future? Seeing how it grows as time goes on, watching students develop and build a strong house spirit that'll continue.
Cooper Garratt - Year 7
Favourite O’Connor memory so far: Probably going to events like the swimming carnival and the athletics carnival and cheering on our house.
Best thing about being in O’Connor: Everyone is so kind and welcoming and everyone is really positive.
How would you describe O’Connor in three words? Strong, determined and kind.
What are you looking forward to most for O’Connor’s future? Seeing so many new people join this house and have as much fun as I’m having.
Ivy Jones - Year 7
Favourite O’Connor memory so far: Cheering at the athletics carnival.
Best thing about being in O’Connor: The O'Connor house has a great sense of community, we all respect each other and are friends.
How would you describe O’Connor in three words? Cheerful, passionate, and ambitious.
What are you looking forward to most for O’Connor’s future? Hopefully winning the next swimming or sports carnival.
Charlotte Turner - Year 9
Favourite O’Connor memory so far: Seeing the skit by the O'Connor Year 12 students, for the sports day carnival!
Best thing about being in O’Connor: I think the best thing about being in O'Connor is that it's a fresh new house with new opportunities.
How would you describe O’Connor in three words? Inclusive, fun, and intriguing!
What are you looking forward to most for O’Connor’s future? I am looking forward to the most for all of the opportunities I'll be able to participate in. I also look forward to all of the costumes that people will bring for the future carnivals we will be in!
Recent Events
Recent Events
Book Week
“Book an Adventure” was the theme for the 2025 Book Week celebrations and it was wonderful to see so many students engaged in the variety of activities on offer this year. To kick the week off, PC classes enjoyed participating in a team Lit Quiz answering a range of literature based questions covering different genres and topics. Congratulations to Xavier 4 on their perfect score, earning them a hot chips lunch last Tuesday. Adventure Scattergories, together with the Annual Spelling Bee and Trivia Quiz, saw large numbers of students from all year levels converge on the library for critical thinking, fun, friendship and teamwork. Students were also invited to participate in a Flash Fiction writing competition requiring them to complete a six sentence story from a given stimulus sentence. We were amazed at the number and quality of the competition submissions with many hours of reading spent to pick our final winners. Our Book Recommendation competition was also popular with an impressive 78 book reviews submitted for peer review.
Congratulations to all of our 2025 Book Week winners:
PC Lit Quiz - Xavier 4
Adventure Scattergories: Yenuli Epitawatta and Carissa Siju
Annual Spelling Bee: Georgia Campbell
Annual RBCC Trivia Quiz: Alice Bray and Miss Duncan
Flash Fiction Writing Competition - Junior 7/8: Aisea Folau and Book Recommendation Competition- Dom Vlores
Flash Fiction Writing Competition - Intermediate 9/10: Jaya Smith and Senior 11/12: Charlie Moorhouse
Dubbo Merino Wether Challenge
On Monday August 11, eight dedicated students from our school’s sheep team travelled to Dubbo with six Merino wethers to compete in the 2025 NSW School Merino Wether Challenge. The students involved were Mack Pengilly, Oscar Townsend, Jay Buchan, Dylan Coady, Hayley Barby, Kadence Cain, Mary Gray, and Madilyn Donnelly.
Across the three days, the wethers were assessed on restocker value, wool value, and carcass value, giving students valuable insight into the sheep and wool industry. In addition to the competition, the team participated in a variety of engaging workshops including fleece judging, Merino sheep judging, working dog demonstrations, and shearing. Students also took part in the Young Farmers Challenge and listened to industry experts during a career panel, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.
The team represented our school with great enthusiasm and pride, showing commitment and teamwork throughout the event.
A big thank you goes to Mr Lawler for driving the bus and supporting the team across the three days, and to the Agriculture staff for preparing the wethers. Congratulations to all students for their hard work and for proudly representing our school.
Mountain Bike Team hits the trails and gives back
On Sunday August17, our enthusiastic MTB (Mountain Bike) team rolled into Glenwood State Forest for a Dig Day hosted by the Orange Mountain Bike Club — and what a day it was!
Despite a frosty start (with ice still clinging to the ground at the top of the hill!), our dedicated crew — Archie Ryan, Bryce Tandy, Lenny Iyer, Will Tandy, Bodhi Lynch, and Jace Rudd — didn’t let the cold slow them down. They spent the morning carving up some of the best trails around, including fan favourites like Trail of Awesomeness, Magic Mushroom, Eye of the Wombat, Freak on a Leash, and the brand new blue-rated flow trail.
After the adrenaline rush, it was time to give back. The team rolled up their sleeves and got stuck into building a brand-new trail, learning the ropes of trail construction from the awesome Jack and his crew. It was a great hands-on experience that gave our riders a real appreciation for what goes into maintaining and building the trails they love to ride.
A massive shout-out to the supportive parents — Annie Ryan, Ronelle Karsten and her partner Cameron, and Chris and Laura Tandy — for getting the team there and cheering them on.
The next Dig Day is coming up on September 14, and we’d love to see more riders out there! It’s a fantastic way to learn, ride, and give back to the MTB community. See you on the trails!
HSC Major Project Showcase
On Thursday August 28 we celebrated our Year 12 major work projects with a showcase of their efforts. While we can't show photos of the projects until after they've been marked, we can tell you we were blown away by their creativity, dedication and innovation.
Thank you to all those who came along to celebrate with us.
DIO Athletics Carnival
The heavy rain kindly held off until the end of the day, allowing for a great day of competition at the DIO (Diocesan) Athletics Carnival in Dubbo last Thursday.
54 of our students represented the College, showing great effort, determination, and school spirit across a wide range of events. We were thrilled to take out the overall boys 14’s and 15’s age group titles for the day – a fantastic achievement from the boys.
We’re proud to announce that the following students have qualified to progress through to the NSWCCC Athletics in Sydney this September:
Lenny Iyer - 1st in 1500m and 1st 800m
Charlie Walder- 2nd 800m
Lachie Rice- 1st in High jump, discus, Long jump, triple Jump and shot put.
Alex Rice - 1st Shot put
Macey Frost -1st High Jump
Austin Smyth- Ist Shot put
Eli Bowden Boland- 1st High Jump
Archie Higgins- 1st High Jump
Isla Makin- 1st Discus
Stella Bull- 1st in 800m
Ryker Moore- 1st in 100m,200m,400m
Toby Morgan- 1st in all MC events
Tia Dunn -1st 1500m
Hannah Terry- 2nd 1500m, 2nd 200m
Special mention to:
Toby Morgan who now holds the new DIO record in the following MC events,100m, 200m, 800m, shot put, discus and long jump!
Lachie Rice wrapped up his DIO athletics career in style, finishing 1st in High jump, discus, Long jump, triple Jump and shot put.
Congratulations to all competitors on a fantastic day of athletics! Many students achieved outstanding results, with several placing 2nd in the field events and 3rd in the track events, narrowly missing out on the next level. We wish the very best of luck to those progressing through to Sydney.
Culture Class
Our students have had a fantastic time learning and connecting with culture through hands-on activities. They created traditional headbands using string bark from a gumtree, and added emu feathers to complete the look — a beautiful and meaningful expression of identity and tradition.
They also had the opportunity to learn the Magpie Dance, guided by the incredible Tyrone Robison. A massive thank you to Tyrone for generously sharing his cultural knowledge and stories with us.
And, of course, a heartfelt thank you to our wonderful parents for their continued support and contributions. Your involvement helps bring these rich experiences to life for our students.
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