In this Issue
From the Principal
We have had a very successful start to the school year. The return of students has seen our beautiful grounds come alive with energy and a hive of activities. We have welcomed more than 100 new students to the College this year. Whilst most are in Prep and Year 7, we have new students at every year level of the school. If your child is beginning at Newhaven I hope they have had a positive start to the year.
A highlight of the commencement of the year was our first Full School Assembly where we inducted our 2025 student leaders in Junior, Middle and Senior Schools. We were particularly grateful to have Steve Uluru Parker conduct our Welcome to Country as well as a welcome to 2025. A highlight of the Assembly was welcoming back and acknowledging our 2024 VCE High Achievers. This included addresses given by our 2024 College Dux, Sienna Michie, and College Proxime, Finn Leary. Both girls spoke about the importance of balance and persistence in achieving their success at school.
The opening few weeks of the school year is jammed full of activities both during and after school, including a number of parent events. I would like to thank all parents and caregivers for their attendance at these school occasions. We know the key to success in a child’s education is the partnership of school and home and these events help build that connection. We also rely on parent volunteers in a number of areas to make our school the best it can be. Whether that be as part of our PFA, a parent class representative, or in some other capacity, we encourage all our parents to be involved.
Along with our new students a number of new staff have joined the College this year. We warmly welcome each of them to our Newhaven community.
Back L-R - Annie Brewin (Learning Support), Andre Hetebrueg (Year 1 Teacher), Tony Corr (Principal), Zach Walker (AFL SportsReady Trainee), Carel Fourie (Product Design Teacher), James Ryan (Head of Brass), Tove Chadwick (Junior School Art Teacher), Rebecca Burgan (Year 6 Teacher), Ryan Gingell (Year 9 Teacher). Front L-R – Casey Bartlett (Nurse), Gayle Roberts (Teacher), Elyse Jamieson (Learning Support), Nala Taylor (Learning Support), Kim Northover (Special Needs Teacher), Danae Ziolkowski (Learning Support), Aisling Fagan (Science and Food Teacher), Samuel Armer (Head of Woodwind)
In Quietness and Confidence Shall Be Our Strength
Tony Corr
Principal
Leadership and Staff
Newhaven College Leadership Team. L-R Alan Nolan (Director of Business), Cath Huther (Head of Junior School), Brett Torstonson (Head of Senior School), Karen Milkins-Hendry (Director of Learning), Tony Corr (Principal) and Ralph Arceo (Head of Middle School).
All Newhaven College staff in a nutshell!
College News
Newsletter, Socials and Website
Welcome to the first newsletter for 2025! We will be sharing all the news about events and student achievements throughout the year. There will be three newsletters per term, and the link will be sent to all parents, guardians and students via SEQTA. So keep an eye out!
Our socials are busy too, with our Facebook and Instagram pages increasing in followers every week. Be sure to follow us!
Our website is home to any information about Newhaven College you might be looking for, so remember to check it out.
We look forward to keeping you informed throughout 2025!
Steph Thornborrow & Lucy Couper
Marketing and Communications
Director of Learning Report
‘Deeply know each student. Honour and enrich their unique learning path.’
It’s been wonderful to have the energy and drive of the school body flood through the buildings after intensive and productive staff learning days in January. Meeting parents at various school functions and working with students in my own class, in Home Group, through the school musical and randomly through yard duties and classroom visits.
The start of the year offers such opportunity for change, enhancing great habits, new subjects, new connections and, of course, the important learning partnership between school and home.
In 2024 we launched ‘The Newhaven Way’ which anchors our conversations and gives us some common sense approaches to keep communication flowing and achievement levels rising.
All students in Years 5-10 self-assess their learning choices across all subject areas using the following continuum. This information goes on the report and can create powerful conversations at home and school.
Our staff value the partnerships with families as our mission aligns with yours – to support the young people in our care with skill, empathy and understanding.
Karen Milkins-Hendry
Director of Learning
Student Leaders Inducted
At our first all-school assembly for 2025, we welcomed and congratulated our 2025 Student Leadership for our Junior, Middle and Senior Schools. Our Year 12 cohort promise to provide dedicated and caring mentorship for the whole school. College Captains Gabriel di Falco and Abby Papas ran proceedings, with Grace Howlett and Isaac Savona also addressing those assembled.
During the assembly, we also welcomed back some of our 2024 high achievers. Sienna Michie and Finn Leary spoke passionately about their time at Newhaven. Sienna was 2024 Dux of School with impressive results. She reflected that once she changed her mindset to one of success, she started to see the results. Finn was awarded proxime accessit (second to dux) and thanked the school and her family for their support during VCE.
School Photos - Next Week!
Newhaven College's official School Photographs will take place next week - Wednesday 19 February, with a reserve day on Friday 21 February for absent and Prep students.
Payment envelopes have been sent home with all students. Be sure to complete and return to class or home group teachers.
All students are expected to wear full summer uniform and have their shoes polished. Long hair is to be tied up and off the face, minimal make-up and jewellery.
And practice that winning smile!
SEQTA Contact
SEQTA access for students and parents has now been completed, and all new parents should have received an email with their login information.
If not received, please check your spam folder. For assistance email our IT department:- helpdesk@newhavencol.vic.edu.au
SEQTA Parent Engage gives parents access to important information about their child’s progress which can be downloaded on any device. You will be able to view your child’s report, homework, timetable, assessments, results, comments and messages from teachers, notices, documents and attendance history.
Click Here to access SEQTA Engage Enter your username and password, if you require assistance, please contact our IT Team.
Students can click here to access SEQTA Learn. This site contains course materials, timetables, upcoming events and tasks, as well as the assessments and reports that parents can see. Our IT department can assist students with the setup.
Camps, Sports, Excursions Fund (CSEF) Application Form
A communication has now been sent out via SEQTA which will be relevant for all families who hold a current eligible concession card, containing the 2025 CSEF Application form.
For information about eligibility - please visit the website
Camps Sports and Excursions Fund APPLICATION Form 2025
The Department of Education (department) administers the CSEF to help eligible families with the costs of camps, sporting activities, excursions and incursions.
Upon successful applications - Payments are made directly to an eligible student’s school
Application Forms must be returned via email by Wednesday 4 June to:- admissions@newhavencol.vic.edu.au. Alternatively, forms are available and can be returned to Main Reception.
Bec Anderson
Admissions Officer
Japan Tour 2025 – Expression of Interest
Are you a Year 10 or 11 student ready for an unforgettable adventure? We are thrilled to propose the Japan Tour 2025, tentatively scheduled from Saturday, 13 September, to Saturday, 27 September (Term 3, Week 9 to Break Week 1).
This two-week immersive experience will take you on a journey to explore Japan’s rich culture, history, and traditions. Highlights include:
Visit our sister school, including a homestay experience with a sister school family: Connect with Japanese students, experience their school life and build lifelong memories through cultural exchange.
Cultural immersion: Discover local traditions, visit iconic landmarks and deepen your understanding of Japan’s unique culture.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award: Use this exchange program toward obtaining the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award for the Residential Project and/or Adventurous Journey components.
The approximate cost of the tour is $3,900.
Japan Tour 2025 Information Evening - Thursday 20 February
To learn more, join us at the Information Evening on Thursday, 20 February, at 7:00 pm in SS1.
Interested? Don’t miss this amazing opportunity! Send your name to Mrs Horiguchi to express your interest.
Mitsuko Horiguchi
Program Co-ordinator
College Charity Fundraiser - Tropicana!
Our Year 12 Leadership team has chosen Bali Children Foundation as the 2025 College Charity. Starting in 2002, the Bali Children Foundation (BCF) helps thousands of children to complete school, find employment and improve the lives of not only themselves but those of their families and wider communities. The foundation is currently working to expand its reach to Sumba, an island in the far east of Indonesia.
This year, we have set a fundraising target of $15,000, which if met, will allow us to provide the BCF with enough funds to complete a full renovation and refurbishment of a Balinese school. With the strength of our school community, we believe that this goal is very achievable.
We can already see the results, with our fundraising kicking off with a Tropicana theme, including a cake sale in Junior School and a Sausage Sizzle at lunchtime! We were overwhelmed by the enthusiasm with which all students participated. Thanks to your donations (nearly $2000!), we have had an incredible start to the year.
We can’t wait to share our next fundraiser with you, which will be on Thursday 13 March, with more details to be announced closer to the date. Links to donate to the BCF will also be shared soon.
College Captains
Isaac Savona, Abby Papas, Grace Howlett, Gabe Di Falco
Homework Club and Maths Support
Homework Club and Maths Support are available for students in Years 7 – 12 every Wednesday from 3.30 – 4.50pm.
There is a Late Bus Timetable that leaves promptly at 5pm which travels from the College to Inverloch with stops at Cape Woolamai, San Remo, Anderson, Wonthaggi and Inverloch.
Homework Club is supervised by English and Science teachers, whilst Maths Support has Maths teachers in attendance. Maths Support is held in Senior School SS1 and SS2, with Homework Club being held in the Senior School Student Support area and SS3 and SS4.
Wednesday Afternoon Guidelines
Students must bring enough work for the entire session.
No phones allowed.
Students completing Maths homework must sit in SS1/2.
Group work is encouraged however there must be a clear goal and the groups must be respectful of the other students’ studying.
Normal classroom behaviours apply.
A roll will be taken to monitor attendance and teachers will also note the type of work being undertaken by students who are attending.
Homework Club is not a place to view videos or films; that can be done at home. Edrolo videos are the exception.
Calculators should be charged.
We are building a culture of study and support for our students and will be ensuring Homework Club is used as a dedicated space for academic focus.
Mrs S Paterson and Mrs M Kelly
Homework Club and Maths Support Coordinators
New car parks and play area
Our wonderful maintenance team worked hard over the summer to prepare the school grounds for students' return. Gardens were been mulched, some new car parks were created at the gym and Senior School car park, plus an exit route through the top of the Senior School park. The team also created a wonderful space outside Senior School with a cross ball court and seating area. Plus some lovely indigenous trees have been planted near Senior School.
Parents and Friends Association Report
The Newhaven College Parents and Friends Association (PFA) kicked off the year in style at the Parents’ Welcome Evening!
Jo Vohland and I had a great time serving drinks and running the bottle coin toss—congratulations to all our lucky winners! A special shout-out to parent Wes Stecher, who not only scored a bottle but generously donated it back to the PFA and made a separate donation of all the change he didn’t have to use to win his bottle!
The night was a fantastic opportunity to connect with new and familiar faces, and we owe a huge thank you to Katrina Lawrence for organising such a great event and to Middle School Teacher Aaron Chaston for stepping in last minute to keep everyone entertained.
If you’re looking for a way to get involved with the PFA, we’d love to have
you! Whether you’d like to join our meetings or lend a hand at events, please
email Newhaven.pfa@gmail.com—we’d
love to hear from you!
Angel Chambers
President | Parents and Friends Association
Parents Welcome Drinks
Last Friday night we welcomed over 100 new and existing parents and guardians to the College's annual drinks at the Performing Arts Wing.
There was a wonderful atmosphere, with many joining in on the PFA coin toss to win a bottle of something delicious!
We thank Angel and Jo from the PFA who helped out at the bar with a number of College Staff. The PAW is the perfect venue for an event like this.
If you're interested in joining the Parents and Friends Association, contact Angel on newhaven.pfa@gmail.com
Junior School
Welcome to the 2025 School Year! It has been a fantastic start, and it was particularly special to see our Prep students arriving for their very first day! They have settled in beautifully, and we extend a warm welcome to our new students and families. We look forward to getting to know you and sharing many wonderful experiences together.
To start the year on a positive note, our dedicated teachers have been working hard to set clear and supportive classroom expectations. These help create an environment where every child can thrive. A positive and respectful atmosphere is key to both academic success and personal growth, and we are committed to fostering that each day.
Junior School Assembly
Our Year 4 Leadership group led this week’s assembly, confidently introducing themselves and sharing their leadership roles. They set a fantastic example for future assemblies! Next assembly, the entire Year 4 cohort will take the lead. They have started the year strong and have been excellent role models for our younger students. In the upcoming assembly, each Year 4 student will make a pledge, committing to something they will do to support and inspire the younger members of our Junior School.
Curriculum Information Evening
Parents are invited to our Curriculum Information Evening tonight, Thursday, 13 February, from 6:00pm – 7:00pm in The Collect (Middle School). This is a great opportunity to meet teachers, learn about classroom programs, and gain insights into how you can support your child’s learning at home. Year level teachers will also host presentations in their classrooms. This is a parent-only event, and we look forward to seeing as many of you as possible.
Attendance Matters
Regular attendance is crucial for learning and development. Missing just 10% of school time equates to four weeks of lost learning per year! Attending school daily helps students build confidence, strengthen friendships, and stay on track with their education. We will continue to monitor attendance and will discuss any concerns with families during parent-teacher interviews and semester reporting to ensure every student is supported.
Parent-Teacher Communication
We value our partnership with you in supporting your child’s academic and social growth. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to your child’s teacher or the school office with any questions. Open communication is key to a successful school experience.
Class Representatives
To help foster connections among families, we are seeking parent class representatives to organise at least one gathering per term. If you're interested, please email Dearne at Dearne.Young@newhavencol.vic.edu.au by Friday, 14 February.
Reading Folders
Starting next week, Junior School students will receive a decodable reading folder with passages that align with the reading and spelling skills they are learning. This initiative supports both students and parents in reinforcing literacy skills at home. Please encourage your child to engage with their reading folder and share their progress with you. Parents are also asked to fill in the reading log every night after their child completes their reading at home. More details will be provided at the Curriculum Information Session.
Rural Roads to Reading – Research Project
We are pleased to let you know that our Junior School will be involved in a longitudinal research project over the next three years called Rural Roads to Reading.
This project, which will run from 2025 – 2027, is being conducted by researchers from the School of Education at La Trobe University. The focus of the project is on understanding how schools across regional and rural Victoria are approaching the teaching of reading in the early years of primary school (Foundation-Grade 2).
The La Trobe researchers will track our 2025 Foundation student cohort through to the end of Year 2. The research team will work with our teachers to use a range of assessments that the children will complete in their classroom. Our school’s involvement in this project will provide our teachers with additional valuable data to support our children’s progress as they learn to read.
The project has been approved by the La Trobe University Human Ethics Committee.
As parents and/or guardians of students in Foundation 2025, please look out for more information about this project. You will be provided with information so that you can consider whether you wish to provide consent for your child/children to be involved in this project.
We appreciate your ongoing support and look forward to a fantastic year ahead!
Cath Huther
Head of Junior School
Preps settle into school life
Our Preps have settled in well to their first couple of weeks at school. Prep teachers Miss Charlotte Bassed and Mrs Kerryn Lynch have made all students feel welcome and comfortable in their new environment.
The Preps have been exploring the playgrounds and the library, where they borrowed their first books to enjoy at home.
A few Preppy facts and figures:
43 new Prep students
29 Preps have older siblings
4 Preps are students of alumni
5 Preps are students of current staff
Junior School Captains 2025
Junior School Captains Dallas Latham, Nate Kondarios, Peyton Rhee and Venus Herath Mudiyanselage
Sambell House Captains Mila Potter and Coco Russo
McHaffie House Captains Bridget Doig and Levi Naarden
Bass House Captains Billy Kimber and Ruby Pirouet
Clarke House Captains Georgia Evans and Austin Lynch
Performing Arts Captains Lucy Pedersen and Audrey Mantel
Wellbeing Captains Indy Van Damme and Savannah James
Merit Awards
Congratulations to the students in the following photo who were presented with their Merit Awards and recognised at Junior School Assembly.
Middle School
A Positive and Calm Start to the Year in Middle School
We’ve had a fantastic and settled start to the year in Middle School, thanks largely to the positive attitude of our students and the dedication of our staff. The energy across all year levels has been calm and focused, setting the stage for a successful year ahead.
Our Year 8 students have quickly settled into their leadership roles, understanding that they help set the tone and attitude for the Middle School. The Year 7 cohort has been fully engaged in their lessons and activities, showing enthusiasm and curiosity. Year 6 students have embraced teamwork, participating in activities as a whole grade, while our Year 5s are adjusting well to their new environment—many of them already enjoying the canteen experience!
Students are getting to know their Mentors and building connections with the new students who have joined the College. As always, we encourage positive behaviour, academic growth and regular attendance as key factors in a successful school journey.
A special moment in the first weeks of term was our whole school assembly, where our sub-school leaders were officially inducted and presented with their badges. We look forward to their contributions, voice and insights as they help shape and improve our Middle School community.
The Year 7 Transition Day was a huge success, with students participating in tenpin bowling and beach activities. It was a great opportunity for them to strengthen friendships, build teamwork skills and connect as a cohort.
We were also pleased to see such strong parent engagement at the Elephant Ed and Information Night. As outlined on the night, Elephant Ed’s workshops are evidence-based, age-appropriate, and aligned with State and National curriculum guidelines. Additionally, Elephant Ed is endorsed by the eSafety Commissioner as a Trusted eSafety Provider. We encourage parents to continue these important conversations at home.
Building strong connections between home and school is crucial to each student’s growth and development. It was wonderful to meet new parents and reconnect with familiar faces at the Meet the Mentors and Middle School Information Night and the Parents’ Welcome Drinks event.
Our first House event of the year, the Year 7 House Swimming Carnival, was an enthusiastic and closely contested competition. It was pleasing to see students proudly wearing their House polo tops and hats, demonstrating sportsmanship, participation and House spirit throughout the day. Well done to everyone!
Finally, thank you to all our parents for your ongoing support. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if there’s anything we can do to assist.
We look forward to a fantastic year ahead!
Ralph Arceo
Head of Middle School
Year 7 Transition Day
Our Year 7 cohort had a brilliant day at Cowes foreshore beach and at Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling & Entertainment Centre. Thank you to all the teachers and mentors who assisted on the day.
Middle School Student Leadership 2025
Congratulations to our Middle School Student Leaders for 2025.
Middle School Captains Indi Maloney and Lucy Thompson
Bass House Captains Abi Derham and Chinasa Okali
Clarke House Captains Isabella Lynch and Evie Hollings
McHaffie House Captains Seb Di Falco and Hunter Jansen
Sambell House Captains Annabel Schwartz and Maggie Fisher
Music Captain Charlee Pedersen
Wellbeing Captains Georgia Kesterton and Bonnie McBride
Drama Captain Ned Scott
Sports Captains Ambrose De Gooyer and Indi Keady
Senior School
A flurry of activity returned to the Senior School with the return of Year 12 students on Friday 31 January. It was a welcome return for a group of young people who have always demonstrated a sense of vibrancy, determination and purpose. On the same day, the 2025 Year 9 cohort made their first appearance at the Year Nine Environmental Centre, marking their transition from the Middle School to the Senior School.
Both groups of students experienced the transitional opening of school activities, with the Year 12 cohort being prepared for their challenging final year of schooling and the associated expectations of being the oldest and most responsible members of the Newhaven College community; and the Year 9 cohort being introduced to the different rhythm and tone of their unique Year 9 experience.
The following school day – Monday 3 February – the Senior School returned to full capacity with the return of the Year 10 and Year 11 cohorts. There was a sense of excitement in the air and it was very pleasing to see how well all four year levels settled back into the swing of school life following a very long holiday period. The sense of engagement and positivity reported by so many teachers was very pleasing and I look forward to seeing the energy and positivity of our students continue throughout this year.
Throughout the first week of school, we welcomed a number of visitors. On Wednesday evening, we welcomed many Year 12 parents to the Senior School for the Year 12 Parent Information Evening. The VCE is challenging for any student, so it's important that families understand how best to support students in their final year of schooling, which is essentially over after only eight and a half months. The Year 12 Parent Information Evening provided an opportunity to disseminate key information regarding assessments, timelines and support mechanisms and an opportunity for parents to ask questions of senior members of staff.
On Friday evening, the school hosted two very important events. The Parent Welcome Evening was a delightful way for many new parents to meet other parents also new to the school, and to mingle and chat with staff members of the College in a relaxed atmosphere. Meanwhile, in the Senior School building and the Year 9 Centre, Newhaven College welcomed our SEISA school partners for the SEISA Leadership Camp.
This week, the school has hosted an online information evening for the World Challenge trip to Borneo later this year. Interest amongst Year 10 and Year 11 families was very high and I have no doubt that any student lucky enough to go on this trip will not only be able to provide a benefit to the communities of Borneo, but learn a little bit about the world around them in both a cultural, geographical and environmental context. Built on the back of the Newhaven College trip to Cambodia last year, I have no doubt this will be the trip of a lifetime for any student lucky enough to go.
The College also held the first major House Carnival this week, with the House Swimming Carnival held on a very warm and sunny day at Korumburra Pool. The competition was fierce but ultimately it was Clarke House who emerged victorious on the day for the 6th consecutive year.
There are no less than four information evenings of one type or another occurring next week:
Monday 17 February: Year 10 Camp Parent Information Evening (via MS Teams) from 6.30pm.
Tuesday 18 February: Elephant Ed Parent Webinar on Consent (online) from 7.30pm.
Wednesday 19 February: Year 9 CityCITE Information Evening (in person) from 6.30pm at the Year 9 Environmental Centre.
Thursday 20 February: The Japan Tour Information Evening in the Senior School Building from 7.00pm.
The start of the year is always a busy time, but the variety of activities and events available to students and parents gives some insight into the exciting offerings Newhaven College provides students and their families.
Brett Torstonson
Head of Senior School
Year 9 Environmental Centre
The Year 9 students at Newhaven College have had a fantastic start to the year, marked by exciting new learning experiences and a strong sense of community.
A highlight has been the launch of Xplore, an exciting new subject at the Year 9 Environmental Centre, which focuses on environmental sustainability, Indigenous culture, and hands-on outdoor learning. As part of this launch, students were warmly welcomed to Country by Boonwurrung Elder, Uncle Steve Ulula Parker. They participated in a traditional Smoking Ceremony, followed by sessions where they learned about traditional language and Indigenous knowledge. This meaningful experience helped students connect with the land and appreciate Indigenous perspectives on environmental stewardship.
Alongside this, students have also enjoyed participating in the Community Games, which have fostered teamwork, leadership and a strong sense of belonging as they begin their Year 9 journey.
City Cite Information Night – Wednesday 19 February at 6:30 PM
We also invite all parents to attend the upcoming City Cite Information Night on Wednesday 19 February. This event will provide important details about this unique learning experience, where students immerse themselves in the city environment to develop independence and real-world skills. We encourage all families to join us for this informative evening.
With such a positive start, we look forward to a great year ahead for our Year 9 students. Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to provide enriching educational experiences.
Sam Foura
Head of Year 9
SEISA Leadership Camp
Over last weekend, at the Senior School building and the Year 9 Centre, Newhaven College welcomed we hosted more than 60 students from our SEISA school partners, who joined 21 student leaders from Newhaven College for the SEISA Leadership Camp. This is an annual event where student leadership groups are able to exchange ideas, learn new skills and forge new friendships with student leaders from the other four SEISA schools. Students also camped out at the Year 9 Centre and woke up to bird song on Saturday morning and a stunning view of the sun rising over Westernport Bay. The Camp was a thoroughly positive experience for all students and staff, and I have no doubt that every student leader left the overnight camp a better person and a better leader.
The SEISA (South Eastern Independent Schools Association) schools are Newhaven College, Beaconhills College, Gippsland Grammar and St Paul's Anglican Grammar School.
Brett Torstonson
Head of Senior School
Student Leadership Team 2025
COLLEGE CAPTAINS Gabriel de Falco, Abby Papas, Isaac Savona and Grace Howlett
SPORT Finn O’Brien & Lara Smyth
DRAMA Cecily de Gooyer
MUSIC Cecily de Gooyer & Archie Robson
VISUAL ARTS Sienna Bell
WELLBEING Lola Afford & Bailie Patton
SOCIAL JUSTICE Indigo Aurora & Joey Thompson
ENVIRONMENT & SUSTAINABILITY Thomas Scott
BASS Marley Brown & Charlotte Derham
CLARKE Jasper Cashman & Nissa Campbell Walker
MCHAFFIE Jasmine Crooks & Andrew Nowell
SAMBELL Grace Morris & Matilda Russell
Pigtail Day
Our Year 12 girls had some fun to start the school year by harking back to their first days for school, by wearing pigtails. The Year 12 cohort also received their special Year 12 rugby jumpers.
VCE Systems Engineering 2024
Over the summer, three of our 2024 VCE Systems Engineering students Fim Hindam, Tanner Mills and Santiago Leys had their folios and projects shortlisted for the 2025 VCAA Seasons of Excellence Exhibition. The students attended an interview with their work.
Fim Hindam was presented with a Commendation Award and for making it through as a National Finalist in the AUSSEF engineering fair. Fim designed and fabricated an automated self-stabilizing system for aircraft. This technology is intended for use in real planes to maintain control in critical situations, such as when a pilot becomes incapacitated. Fim even built a wind tunnel to test his invention.
Scholarships
Year 7 Academic Scholarships 2026
Newhaven College is offering Academic Scholarships for applicants entering Year 7 in 2026. Tests will be held at the College Saturday 1 March 2025. The test starts at 9am and finishes about 11:45pm including the break. The test includes a 4 x 30 minute multiple choice test and 1 x 15 minute written expression test.
Applications are now open and close Monday 24 February 2025.
Visual & Performing Arts
The start of Term 1 has been a very active one for the Music Department with around 200 students taking lessons in the Individual Tuition Program (IMT) and over 200 participating in our MusicPlus Program. Alongside this, many of our Middle and Senior School students have been busy preparing for our production of Xanadu. The show is coming together wonderfully so get your tickets before you miss out.
During November 2024 we had just under 50 students sit music exams through the Australian Music Examinations Board (AMEB), with many students receiving High Distinctions (A+). We're very proud of all students who strived for excellence in preparing for and presenting their examinations. Stay tuned for AMEB examination information for 2025. The students will be presented with their certificates at assemblies throughout Term 1.
This year we have implemented Clipboard to help with scheduling our Individual Tuition Program. Thanks to parents and students for their patience while we work through some teething problems. If you're experiencing any difficulties accessing your child's schedule, please submit a helpdesk request.
Once again, this year we have many musical ensemble options for our students. These ensemble and choir are at no extra charge. We welcome all Newhaven students to our groups regardless of experience. To see what's on, check out the MusicPlus page on the College website.
The College Big Band is seeking both bass guitar and electric guitar players. The group rehearses each Thursday afternoon from 3:30-4:45 in the Rehearsal Hall. For more information, please contact matthew.goss@newhavencol.vic.edu.au
The music team looks forward to welcoming you to our events throughout the year. Stay tuned to the newsletter for more information.
Mathew Goss
Director of Music
Xanadu!
Rehearsals are underway for the College School Production of Xanadu!
It will be hard to decide who will be having more fun when Xanadu hits the stage in May - the audience or the 50 plus cast members bringing flashy and fabulous to life! The stage musical is a retelling of the cult classic 80s film—which stars Australia’s own Olivia Newton-John—and its main purpose is to spread a little love and joy. Xanadu is vibrant, bubbly and bright bringing ‘theatrical sunshine’ in every moment with a killer, familiar score.
Xanadu is the story of the Greek muse, Kira, who descends from Mount Olympus to inspire a struggling artist in 1980 Venice Beach. To hide her demi-god status, Kira dons the perfect disguise: legwarmers, roller skates, and an Australian accent. The script sets its tongue firmly in its cheek, is peppered with comedic one-liners and is guaranteed to put a pep in your step—or, perhaps, the disco in your roller skates!
Friday 2 May, 7.30pm
Saturday 3 May, 1.30pm
Saturday 3 May, 7.30pm
Sunday 4 May, 1.30pm
Tickets on sale soon!
Art Club is back!
Art Club is back on Monday afternoons for students from Years 5 to 12.
Do you enjoy painting, drawing and creating and would like to work with like-minded arty students or a VCE art or design student working on their folio?
Then come along on Monday afternoons to SW1, then catch the late bus to get home.
Fiona Anastasi
Art Teacher
Zenith Paradox!
Years 10 & 11 students Holly Martelli, Finn Farley, Flynn Dengerink and James Cameron are Zenith Paradox!
They are performing a 45-minute set on Saturday 22 February supporting the Newhaven College Alumni band The Dropkicks.
Where: Phillip Island Boardriders Club76 Veterans Drive, Newhaven
When: Saturday 22 February 6:30 to 9:30pm
Come along and support our budding musicians!
Music Raffle Draw
At the end of Term, 2024, the draw was done for our wonderful prize hampers for the music department.
The winners were:
2nd Katie Medlar
3rd Alex Andrianopoulos
We sincerely thank all the local businesses who contributed to the prizes: A Maze N Things Holiday Park, HER.spa, Maru Koala & Animal Park, Ocean Reach Brewing, Phillip Island Vineyard & Winery, Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit, Phillip Island Nature Parks, Phillip Island Tenpin Bowling, Wildlife Coast Cruises, Penny Lane Cafe, Phillip Island RSL, San Remo Hotel-Motel, Silverwater Winery, Lily Drops, Terry White Chemist, Tyde, Women's Singing Circle and Westernport-Hotel San Remo
Sport
Newhaven Run Club!
On Tuesday we began our inaugural Newhaven Run Club. An excellent turnout of 18 people, 13 students and 5 staff were amongst the contingent. The group ranged from all ages and abilities.
Newhaven Run Club occurs every Tuesday at 7:30am, meeting at the college gymnasium.
If you are interested; you are always welcome to run/walk.
Luke Nicholson
Chemistry Teacher and Runner
House Swimming Carnival Years 7-12
The College held the first major House Carnival this week, with the Years 7-12 House Swimming Carnival held on a very warm and sunny day at Korumburra Pool. The competition was fierce but ultimately it was Clarke House who emerged victorious on the day for the 6th consecutive year.
Years 5 & 6 and Years 2-4 are also enjoying their swimming carnivals this week. Look out for updates in the next newsletter.
Junior School Sport Update: Swimming Carnivals and Upcoming Events
The swimming season is upon us, and we have some exciting events ahead for our primary age students.
Year 5-6 Swimming Carnival – Thursday 13 February
The Year 5-6 Swimming Carnival will be held at the Wonthaggi Indoor Pool. This is a fantastic opportunity for our students to showcase their skills and compete in a fun and supportive environment.
Year 2-4 Swimming Carnival – Friday 14 February
The following day, on Friday 14th February, our younger swimmers in Years 2-4 will have their own carnival, also at the Wonthaggi Indoor Pool. We can’t wait to see these students in action as they enjoy their day in the pool and cheer on their friends.
Primary District Swimming Carnival – Thursday 20 February
For those who excel in Year 3-6, the next challenge will be the Primary District Swimming Carnival, which will take place on Thursday 20th February.
Good luck to all of our swimmers in the upcoming events, and we look forward to celebrating their efforts and achievements.
Jaclyn Clark
Junior School PE and Sports Teacher
MTB Coaching Sessions
We had an incredible turn out for our ‘all ages MTB after school coaching session’ held by Tom Basterfield and Head of MTB Steve Scott on Tuesday afternoon.
Afterwards, some of our Middle School riders stayed on to help out with our junior coaching session too.
Tuesday afternoon coaching sessions will be ongoing throughout Term 1, from 3.30-4.45pm.
Please contact Steve Scott via SEQTA for more information.
Tyler surfs for a win
Congratulations to Year 11 student Tyler Duell who won the U18 Boys at the Woorangalook Victorian Koori Surfing Titles in Anglesea last weekend.
More than 140 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from across the state gathered to celebrate the annual event which brings together communities in a fun weekend of surfing and culture.
Newhaven's Surfing Academy is up and running for Term 1, contact Ben Clark for information.
Archie Receives Rod Godfrey Award
Newhaven College South Gippsland Bass swimmer Archie Smyth received the Rod Godfrey award for the highest aggregate score for a 13 and under Victorian swimmer.
Archie won four golds in all strokes for the 100 metre events for his age group and was second in the IM. He also medalled in the relays.
Australian swimmer Bowen Gough, watching on day one, was amazed at how well Archie swam.
Great work Archie!
Cowes Classic and Little Penguin Dash
It was incredible to see so many of our students and staff participate in last weekend's Cowes Classic and Little Penguin Dash!
The highest placed junior was Ayden Fawaz in 13th spot, with Finlay Cameron in 15th place overall, placing the Year 12 students in the Top 10 local competitors overall. Other successful racers were our very own Chemistry Teacher Luke Nicholson and Year 12 student Jack Briggs-Dodge.
In the Little Penguin Dash, Year 6 student Jett Fawaz came second in the U11s.
Congratulations to all participants and place-getters.
ALF SportsReady Trainee 2025
A new face can be seen around campus and sporting events.
We welcome Zach Walker into the role of AFL SportsReady Trainee for 2025. Zach has lived on Phillip Island his whole live and is an accomplished footballer, playing for Phillip Island Football Netball Club and Gippsland Power Football Club. His experience in sport will play well in his role assisting our sports staff with daily lessons, carnivals, camps and SEISA sports .Zach is going to learn as much as he can this year, while working what his next step is going to be.
Welcome Zach!
Community Links
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood
Got a bit of time next month? Time to give blood and change lives? 1 in 3 people in Wonthaggi will need blood, and they need people like you to give it. We’re rolling into town from 11 to 21 February. Don’t forget to pre-book your spot at lifeblood.com.au, on our app or on 13 14 95.
