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Inspiring Minds, Hearts and Spirits
Acting Principal's Report
Acting Principal's Report
MR SIMON MARTINO | Term 3, Week 10
Farewell and congratulations, Class of 2026
Last Friday night, we gathered as a community to celebrate the graduation of our Class of 2026. In our centenary year, it was a special reminder that we stand on the foundations laid by those before us, and that this class has added its own stones to that foundation. I am grateful for the faith, kindness and Family Spirit our Year 12s have shown at Red Bend. We wish them all the best as they prepare for the HSC and step into the next chapter of their lives. May their lives be an echo of what they have been taught here, and may they go forward responding to our Marist theme to "Transform the World with God's Love."
Thank you to our outgoing student leaders
A special thank you to our 2026 student leaders, who have led the College so beautifully this year. At every opportunity, they led with humility and service, in our Marist way of being present and putting others first. Our 2027 leaders have wonderful examples to follow, and we look forward to commissioning them in Term 4.
A term to celebrate
Congratulations to all our students on a successful Term 3. There is so much to be grateful for, from academic achievements and sporting success to our cultural and creative pursuits and the many quiet acts of kindness that shape our community every day. A special mention goes to our U14 Rugby League team, who were crowned State Champions, which is an incredible achievement. I am always impressed by the level of achievement across so many areas, and I look forward to seeing this continue in Term 4.
Diocesan Synod Update
Synod Week 2026
80 people from across our Diocese of Wilcannia-Forbes are preparing to gather at Red Bend Catholic College this week for the Diocesan Synod: Harvest of Hope. The Synod is an opportunity to pray, listen, talk, discern and celebrate with Bishop Columba and the Holy Spirit. As a College, we are grateful to be able to contribute to the Synod and look forward to seeing the outcome of the gathering. The organising committee has expressed their thanks to everyone who has participated in the processes towards this event, wherever you are! We also offer our prayers in this sacred time for our diocese. Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Pray for us.
www.wf.catholic.org.au/synod-2026/
Attendance and 2027
As a College, we are working towards 90% student attendance, and we have made some changes to our calendar to support this.
You would be aware that Term 4 this year will run for nine weeks and conclude on Friday 11 December with our annual Prize Giving. This is a deliberate change in response to parent feedback about finishing midweek and to address the lower attendance we have seen at Prize Giving in the past. We hope that finishing on a Friday will see more students at school on the final day. I appreciate your support in ensuring your children attend right up until the end of the year.
We have also changed the start of the 2027 school year to support a smoother transition for students. A staggered start allows our Year 7s to settle in and our senior students to begin their courses with focus. It also means our staff can give their full time and attention, in our Marist way of being present, to these students in those important first days. Please note the commencement dates for 2027:
Monday 1 February: Boarders in residence
Tuesday 2 February: Years 7, 11 and 12 commence
Wednesday 3 February: All other year groups commence
Other important dates for 2027:
Term 1
EXEAT: Friday 5 March- Monday 8 March
Easter: Friday 25-Monday 29 March
Last day of Term 1- Thursday 8 April
Term 2
Term 2 start date- Boarders in residence Tuesday 27 April
Classes commence- Wednesday 28 April
EXEAT: Friday 28 May- Monday 31 May
Last day of Term 2- Friday 2 July
Term 3
Term 3 start date- Boarders in residence- Monday 19 July
Classes commence- Tuesday 20 July
EXEAT: Friday 20 August- Monday 23 August
Last day of Term 3- Friday 25 September
Term 4
Term 4 start date- Boarders in residence- Monday 11 October
Classes Commence- Tuesday 12 October
Full Time Boarder EXEAT: 12 November- 15 November
Last day of Term 4- Friday 10 December
Please aim to plan your holidays during term breaks to ensure your children maximise their time at school.
I would like to thank our families for your ongoing partnership. Your support, encouragement and trust make a real difference to your children's growth and to the Family Spirit at the heart of our College. I wish everyone a safe and restful holiday break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 4.
Mary, our Good Mother, pray for us.
St Marcellin Champagnat, pray for us.
Venerable Catherine McAuley, pray for us.
May we always remember, to pray for one another.
Simon Martino
Acting Principal
Acting Deputy Principal | Mrs Trish Martin
Acting Deputy Principal | Mrs Trish Martin
Thank you to all Red Bend families for your support of the College during term three. The term ended with the celebration of our Year 12 class of 2026 and heralded the announcement of our new school leaders for 2027. Our Year 11 students completed their preliminary exams. They are looking forward to receiving results and transitioning in term four into the start of their HSC courses. We wish our Year 12 students all the best for their HSC exams which start on Tuesday 13 October.
As we conclude term 3 I have provided a few reminders for the start of next term.
Summer Uniform
Students return to school on Tuesday 13 October. It will be Day 2 of their timetable.
Students will be required to wear the summer uniform. Information about the requirements can be found in the College handbook and on the website. Please ensure your child meets all expectations regarding, uniform, jewellery and their overall personal presentation. We appreciate your support in this area.
Girls – Summer Uniform
👗 College summer dress (knee length) or College short sleeve blue shirt and navy shorts
🧦 College-approved white socks
🧥 College jumper
👞 College-approved black lace up polished leather shoes with heel (no boots, slides, flats)
Boys – Summer Uniform
🩳 College-approved grey shorts
👕 College long sleeve or short sleeve blue shirt, to remain tucked in
🧦 College-approved grey socks.
🧥 College blue jumper
👞 College-approved black lace up polished leather shoe with heel (no boots, slides, flats)
Sports Uniform
🩳 College-approved navy shorts
👕 College sky blue polo shirt
👖 College-approved tracksuit pants
🧥 College-embroidered hoodie
🧥 College all-weather jacket
🧦 College white sports socks
👟 College-approved lace up runners/joggers (no canvas or skate shoes)
🧢 College cap/hat
I hope you all have a safe and relaxing break, we look forward to welcoming our students back in Term 4.
Important College Events Term 4
13 October - First Day of Term 4
9 December - House Carnival
11 December - Thanks Giving Mass
11 December - Prize Giving Assembly
11 December - Last Day of Classes Term 4
Director of Students | Mr Adam Currey
Director of Students | Mr Adam Currey
What a great way to finish the term, farewelling our Class of 2026. Congratulations to O'Connor on winning the Spirit Cup and Basil on winning the House Cup for 2026. I wish our whole College community a wonderful break.
With Term 4 just around the corner, there are a few things for parents and students to keep in mind for our return. We start Term 4 in Summer Uniform, and information about uniform requirements is available in this Newsletter and in the Student Handbook.
Students' general appearance, as detailed on page 22 of the Student Handbook, includes the following:
No visible make-up or nail polish
No visible tattoos
Only white t-shirts may be worn under the College uniform
No facial piercings
Students may wear a single, simple necklace, wristwatch, bangle/bracelet and ring, and a single set of sleepers or studs in the ear lobes only
Hairstyles and colours are to be appropriate to a professional work environment, and hair is to be of natural tones
No haircut shorter than a number 2
Shoulder-length or longer hair must be tied back at all times, with navy or white hair accessories only
Boys are to be clean-shaven at all times
Students not meeting these requirements will be appropriately supported to do so.
Student Absences
When students are absent, parents and caregivers are asked to advise the College by phone on 6852 2000 or by email to absent@redbendcc.nsw.edu.au, outlining the dates of absence, the reason, and any curricular or co-curricular activities your child will miss.
As a College, we expect students to maintain attendance of 90% or higher. Even at 90%, a student misses around 20 school days a year. Over 13 years of schooling, that adds up to 260 days, more than a full year of school. Attendance matters, and we are here to support you and your child to maintain regular attendance. Please reach out to your child's House Coordinator if you have any concerns.
Director of Teaching and Learning | Mrs Deb Wheeldon
Director of Teaching and Learning | Mrs Deb Wheeldon
Doing the little things well!
At our last assembly, Mr Martino and Mrs Martin talked to the students about ‘doing the little things well’. Success is built upon small, repetitive tasks that can be easy to overlook. Athletes succeed not only because of their training and how they perform in a game, they do small repetitive tasks every day. They ensure their diet is on point to fuel their body, they make sure they are hydrated, they get enough sleep to recharge their bodies, they actively seek feedback and they have the mindset to learn from their mistakes.
For students at Red Bend, this means following the Red Bend Way. Being prepared for class, having all the right equipment, being on time, asking questions, seeking feedback and being polite and showing respect to everyone around you.
A habit that is starting to creep in, is many students turning up to class with only a pen, no books or uncharged lap tops. This is affecting their ability to engage in the learning activities in class. This holiday time is an ideal time to ensure that all students are prepared for class. Can you please check that all students bring a pencil case to every class that includes:
Blue, red and black pens
Pencils
Eraser
Ruler
Highlighters (multiple colours)
Glue
Scissors
Geometry set
Calculator
Having the right book is also vital to ensure all class notes are in the one spot. This will support preparation for the upcoming 7 - 10 exams which start in week 7 next term. Thank you for your support of this.
HSC Preparation
With the HSC just around the corner (starting on October 16th), Yr 12 teachers will again be offering study sessions throughout the school holidays and the exams themselves to support the students.
Please find attached the schedule: HSC Preparation 2026
Parents - tips to support your kids going through the HSC
We wish all the Year 12 students the best with their exams.
Director of Boarding | Mr Chris Douglass
Director of Boarding | Mr Chris Douglass
It’s been a packed few weeks for our boarding community, with plenty happening for our Boarders. Year 11 exams, Assessments, fishing trips, ten pin bowling, Forbes Show, Cattle Team, football presentations and dorm activities.
The highlight of week 10 was definitely the Year 12 Boarders’ Dinner. We came together to celebrate our graduating seniors during their final week, sharing a great meal and wishing them all the best as they head into their final exams next term.
We are looking forward to welcoming Boarders back to the residences from 2pm on Monday the 12th October.
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events
TERM 4
➡️ 13 October - First Day of Term 4
➡️ 13 October- HSC Begins
➡️ 6 November- Fulltime Boarder Exeat
➡️ 10 November- Student Leader Commissioning
➡️ 23 November- Yr 7-10 Exams begin
➡️ 4 December- Junior Dinner Dance
➡️ 9 December - House Carnival
➡️ 11 December - Thanksgiving Mass and Prize Giving Assembly
➡️ 11 December - Last day of classes
Year 7 Report
Year 7 Report
Term 3 has been an action-packed term for our Year Seven cohort. Many of our students have immersed themselves in the life of the school, taking on fresh challenges, discovering new interests, and continuing to build strong connections across the community.
Here is a summary of some of the amazing opportunities that have been available to our Year Seven students this term:
Here is a summary of some of the amazing opportunities that have been available to our Year Seven students this term:
Digital Citizenship: We welcomed our local Police Liaison Officer, who delivered an engaging presentation on safe device usage, online privacy, and responsible social media habits.
Academic Growth: Students participated in dedicated Study Skills sessions, gaining practical tools for time management, organisation, and study tips to set them up for ongoing success.
Student Leadership: Year 7 exercised their civic voice this term by casting their votes for our upcoming student leaders, participating thoughtfully in the democratic process of our school.
Community, Faith, and Reflection
Community, Faith, and Reflection
Assumption Mass: The cohort came together in reverence to celebrate the Feast of the Assumption, reflecting on our shared values and spiritual growth.
Vinnies Volunteer Visit: Representatives from St Vincent de Paul visited to speak about the impact of community outreach, inspiring our students to look for ways to serve and support those in need.
Father's Day Breakfast: It was wonderful to see so many fathers and carers join us bright and early for a warm breakfast to celebrate the special role they play in our students' lives.
Celebrating Science & Literature
Celebrating Science & Literature
Science Week: Hands-on experiments and discovery were the order of the week, with Year 7 having the opportunity to be involved with interactive activities that showcased the wonders of STEM.
Book Week: Creativity took center stage as students celebrated the joy of reading through literacy challenges, library events and even a karaoke competition.
Co-Curricular & Sporting Highlights
Co-Curricular & Sporting Highlights
Beyond the classroom, many of our Year 7 Seven students were involved in a wide array of extra-curricular activities:
Agricultural Pursuits: Members of the Sheep Team and Junior Judging participants represented our school with pride and honed their practical livestock skills.
Clubs & Strategy: Strategic minds met weekly in the Chess Club and the Dungeons & Dragons Club, while our Public Speaking participants developed confidence and eloquence.
Sporting Teams: Year 7 was well-represented across various school sports teams, demonstrating fantastic teamwork, sportsmanship, and grit on the field and court throughout the term.
Thank you to all the teachers, parents, and support staff who made these opportunities possible. Congratulations to Year Seven on a great Term Three and enjoy a well-deserved break.
Mrs Danielle Scott
Year 7 Coordinator
Recent Activities
Recent Activities
Class of 2026 Graduation
On Friday night, we come together as a College community to celebrate our Year 12 students at their official Graduation.
It was a wonderful opportunity to recognise how far they have come and to celebrate the young adults they have become. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of them and all they have contributed to the life of our College.
As they prepare to take their next steps beyond RBCC, we wish them every success, happiness and adventure for the future.
Congratulations, Year 12! Your RBCC journey may be coming to an end, but this is only the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
Father's day Breakfast
We celebrated Father's Day on Monday 7 September with a Breakfast & Liturgy. Over 150 fathers and fatherly figures attended to enjoy time with their young people and an egg and bacon roll.
During the Liturgy, Glenn Pereira, parent of current College Captain Gabriella and past students Georgette and Antonia, shared a reflection on his experience of being a father.
Thank you all for taking the time to be a part of this event. You can tell by the smiles on faces that it means a lot to our students.
ACE Awards
Congratulations to all of our ACE award winners for Term 3 2026.
The ACE are awarded to students for Application, Consistency and Effort. Students who apply themselves consistently by making a genuine effort in their learning. One of the most important aspects of these awards are that they recognise students who are working to achieve their personal best. These awards are not to recognise academic excellence. These awards are important to celebrate all students, particularly those who may not be recognised with Academic Excellence or Achievement.
Literacy Extension @ RBCC
Prime Minister's Spelling Bee
The Prime Minister's Spelling Bee is an online competition designed to expand students' vocabulary, expose them to challenging new words, and encourage a lifelong love of reading. In the initial round, students are given 30 random words from a Year 7–8 reading list, with just 25 seconds to spell each word. This term, 70 of our students took up the challenge, achieving outstanding results across both year groups.
An impressive fifteen students progressed to the recent State Final, where they faced another 30 words of increasing complexity. With over 100,000 students participating Australia-wide, and only the top 500 spellers in each state making the cut for the Year 7/8 division, reaching this stage was an outstanding achievement.
To progress to the National Final, students needed to place in the top three spellers in NSW. While we did not have any finalists advance to the final round, our students should be incredibly proud of their exceptional spelling skills and results, especially when put on the spot with unfamiliar and complex words.
A special mention to Ellie Bet who was our overall School Champion achieving an impressive score of 25/30 in the State Final.
Flash Fiction Writing Competition
Our annual flash fiction writing competition was again a great success with many well crafted, imaginative and engaging submissions. Developing a captivating storyline and condensing a complete narrative into a tight word limit takes skill and creativity. It was pleasing for our judging panel to read so many quality responses and to see the development in our students' writing skills.
Congratulations to our 2026 winners:
Years 7/8
Best Story - Ella Duffy
Encouragement Award - Max Hogben
Years 9/10
Best Story - Harry Lewin
Encouragement Award - Aidan McTiernan
Years 11/12
Best Story - Tara Chalk
Encouragement Award - Ashley Terry
Poetry in Action
On 10 September, students in Years 7-10 enjoyed an engaging and entertaining live theatre incursion presented by Poetry in Action, featuring presenters Rupert, Benjamin and Isabella from the Poetry in Action organisation who travelled from Sydney. The performance provided students with an exciting opportunity to experience the power of language, poetry and persuasive communication beyond the classroom.
Students in Years 7 and 8 watched The Power of Poetry, a fast-paced and humorous performance that explored how poets, from Elizabeth Barrett Browning to modern rap artists, use language, structure and sound to express emotions and communicate ideas. Through lively performances and engaging storytelling, students were encouraged to appreciate the creativity and impact of poetic expression.
Students in Years 9 and 10 experienced Words That Changed the World, a dynamic performance that brought famous speeches to life. The show explored persuasive techniques, including ethos, pathos, logos, euphemism and propaganda, helping students connect their classroom learning with real-world communication and the influence of language.
The talented performers, Rupert, Benjamin and Isabella, captivated students through their energy, humour and engaging stage presence. Their performances demonstrated how English can be brought to life through drama, voice and movement, encouraging students to think critically about how language shapes perspectives and influences audiences.
The incursion provided valuable curriculum enrichment, supporting students in developing their appreciation of poetry, persuasive language and performance while strengthening their skills as thoughtful and articulate communicators.
A sincere thank you to the Poetry in Action team and to everyone who helped make this engaging learning experience possible. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to see English come alive on stage!
Sport
Sport
Under 14s Rugby League
Congratulations to our incredible Under 14s Rugby League team, who are officially STATE CHAMPIONS!
What an achievement! Their hard work, determination, teamwork and never-give-up attitude have paid off.
We couldn’t be prouder of you, boys!
Dio Basketball
Junior Boys
Our Junior boys played a total of 3 games today. The team was made up of year 7s only, with year 8s at Retreat. The boys played against much older and taller teams. They battled through two tough games followed by a consolation game, showing plenty of heart, determination and team spirit along the way they should be commended for their never give up attitude!
Intermediate Boys
The boys played a total of 4 games today. Up against some very talented teams. Unfortunately went down in all 4 games. However, the team improved each game and demonstrated plenty of potential, excellent teamwork and great sportsmanship.
Intermediate Girls
Our girls played 4 games today in Bathurst. We drew our first game against Orange and then went down in our final 3 games. The girls displayed excellent sportsmanship and a ‘never give up’ attitude.
Overall, all students represented the College with pride and should be very proud of their performances.
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