Christian Brothers College Adelaide
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214 Wakefield Street
Adelaide SA 5000
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Email: enquiries@cbc.sa.edu.au
Phone: 08 8400 4200

Term 2, Week 5 - 30 May, 2025

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Term 2, Week 5 - 30 May, 2025
CBC acknowledges that we are meeting on the traditional country of the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains. We recognise and respect their cultural heritage, beliefs and relationship with the land. We acknowledge that they are of continuing importance to the Kaurna people living today.

This week's Principal's Message from Mr David Johnston

Cameron AlexanderCameron Alexander

 
Week 10 Staff Professional Learning Week – Monday 30 June–Friday 4 July

Parents are reminded that the College will hold a Staff Professional Learning Week during the final week of this term – Monday 30th June to Friday 4th of July.

Whilst there will be no classes for Reception to Year 10, during this week, there will be Year 11 and 12 mid-year exams and workshops.

During this week, all staff will be undertaking professional learning covering various Learning and Teaching measures and focusing on staff formation.

 

Catholic School Parents South Australia – Guest Speaker Event

Parenting in a Digital World: Safe, Smart, Empowered

Presented by Kirra Pendergast and Wayne Holdsworth

Date: 20 June 2025 6:00–7:30pm

Venue: Nazareth Catholic Community, Kidman Park Campus 344 Findon Road, Kidman Park

Presenters: Kirra Pendergast and Wayne Holdsworth

Details: Join Catholic School Parents South Australia for the Parent Engagement Seminar – featuring two compelling speakers with an important message for every parent.

Kirra Prendergast Founder of - Ctrl+Shft formally Safe on Social - The world's largest independent digital safety education firm will provide a powerful online presentation on the topic - Children in the Metaverse: Protecting young minds in immersive digital environments. The session will have an opportunity for Q&A and provide powerful tools to assist in navigating the environment.

Wayne Holdsworth is the founder of SmackTalk, a charity established to combat cyberbullying, sexual extortion, and youth suicide following the tragic loss of his 17-year-old son, Mac. His presentations will share his personal journey and aims to inspire others to take action against the digital threats facing today's youth.

This is a presentation that needs to be seen, needs to be addressed, and has an important message.

Registration: CESA Registration Centre - Parenting in a Digital World: Safe, Smart, Empowered

 

Mr Cameron Alexander
Executive Deputy Principal

 

 

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Alison RonoastroAlison Ronoastro

 
Numeracy PD

This term, Junior Campus staff took part in a professional learning session led by Dr Ann Rogers, a mathematics expert with a PhD in place value. Dr Rogers reminded us that place value is much more than knowing where digits go – it’s the key to understanding how numbers work and sets students up for long-term success in maths.

A major focus was the importance of students developing a deep understanding of the digits 1–9, and their number sense of 0–10. This means exploring how numbers are made, what comes before and after, and how they relate to each other – not just counting, but truly understanding numbers.

We had the chance to try a range of hands-on activities that can be used in our classrooms to bring these concepts to life and support student understanding.

Dr Rogers also shared helpful strategies for planning numeracy units. She emphasised the importance of building a strong understanding and fluency before introducing more complex problem-solving, giving students the best chance to succeed.

The day began with five teachers from different year levels working closely with Dr Rogers. Later, all Junior Campus staff joined for a collaborative session, sharing ideas and reflecting on best practice in numeracy teaching.

It was an energising day of learning, and we’re excited to bring these ideas into our classrooms to support every student’s maths journey.

 

Year 4–6 Students Inspired by Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge

On Friday 30 May, our Year 4–6 students had the exciting opportunity to attend the Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge, where they proudly cheered on the Australian Steelers in their match against The Netherlands.

Upon arrival, the students were warmly welcomed by Jayme and a fantastic team of event volunteers, who escorted them to their reserved seats. Each student received a specialised event program, filled with information about the sport, teams and some fun games and activities to enjoy throughout the day.

Before the match began, the Court Announcers and athletes gave a brief overview of the game, including the rules and what to look out for. The students were then captivated by a high-energy and action-packed match on the Show Court – cheering loudly and showing great school spirit.

After the game, students had the unique opportunity to meet some of the athletes, get their programs signed and see a wheelchair rugby chair up close, sparking lots of curiosity and admiration.

The boys thoroughly enjoyed the experience, with many walking away inspired by the athletes’ resilience, teamwork and sportsmanship. It was a fantastic day of learning, cheering and celebrating inclusive sport on a world stage.

Wheelchair Rugby World Challenge

  

Reception Transitions

Over the past two weeks, we have had the pleasure of welcoming our Mid-Year Reception students for their transition visits. They have spent their mornings with our current Reception classes, building connections with both their future classmates and teachers. These sessions have been a wonderful opportunity for the children to familiarise themselves with the school environment and begin their CBC journey with confidence and excitement.

We look forward to their next three visits, which will culminate in the special Hat and Bag Ceremony on 23rd June, as we officially welcome them into our school community.

 

EREA Leaders Day

On Thursday 29 May, our Junior Campus Values Leaders joined student leaders from St Paul’s and Rostrevor Colleges for the annual EREA Leaders Day, held at our own Christian Brothers College. The theme, 'Gaining Momentum - Be here, be heard', invited students to reflect on what it means to lead in the footsteps of Blessed Edmund Rice in a Catholic school today.

The day began with a warm welcome to all participants, followed by team-building activities that helped students connect with peers from across the three schools. Thought-provoking discussions centred around the qualities of good leaders and how leadership begins with the self but must always serve others.

A highlight of the day was the opportunity to put this into action through sandwich-making for Fred’s Van - a practical way of living out our Edmund Rice touchstone of Justice and Solidarity. Students also brainstormed fundraising ideas for 2025, demonstrating initiative and a desire to make a lasting impact.

The day concluded with a beautiful Mass in the Junior Campus chapel, followed by final prayers and reflection. Our Values Leaders returned inspired, having deepened their understanding of servant leadership in the Edmund Rice tradition.

EREA Primary Leaders Day

 

Reconciliation Week

On Wednesday 28 May, our Years 3–6 students walked to the Senior Campus to take part in a very special cultural experience led by Jack Buckskin, a proud Kaurna man and cultural educator from Kuma Kaaru Cultural Services.

As part of the gathering, Jack delivered a meaningful:

  • Welcome to Country
  • Cultural reflection, sharing insight into Kaurna traditions and connection to land
  • Smoking Ceremony, symbolising cleansing, protection and renewal

Following the ceremony, students returned to the Junior Campus via the Hurley Tunnel, walking through the cleansing smoke as part of the experience. Jack explained the cultural and spiritual significance of this ritual, helping students deepen their understanding of First Nations perspectives and the importance of acknowledging Country.

It was a powerful and respectful opportunity for our students to engage with Aboriginal culture and continue building awareness, respect and reconciliation within our community.

 

Honouring Commitments to Co-Curricular Sport

As we move into the colder months, it is important to re-emphasise the value of commitment and responsibility when it comes to co-curricular sport.

Being part of a team is not just about playing a game - it’s about showing up for your teammates, putting in the effort during training and contributing to the collective spirit and success of the group. While chilly mornings and unpredictable weather can make it harder to get out the door, your son’s consistent attendance at training and games is an important part of his development, both as a player and as a young person learning about dedication and teamwork.

We understand that there may occasionally be unavoidable circumstances, and we sincerely thank the families who continue to communicate with the College if their son is going to be absent or late to a match. This allows our staff and coaches to make necessary adjustments and ensures fairness for all involved.

We appreciate your support in reinforcing this commitment at home and helping our students understand that being part of a team means being there for each other, rain, hail or shine.

 

Promoting Respect and Inclusion at the Junior Campus

As a community committed to kindness, respect and inclusivity, we are addressing an ongoing concern around racially inappropriate language being used by some students. Despite previous conversations, these behaviours continue to impact the well-being of others and will no longer be tolerated.

From this point forward, any student who uses racially inappropriate language will be internally withdrawn from class, with a re-entry meeting required alongside a parent or caregiver.

To support ongoing education and cultural understanding, we will also be engaging external agencies to work with students and offering parent workshops soon. We thank you for your continued partnership in ensuring every child feels safe, valued and respected at CBC.

  

Uniform

A friendly reminder to please check that all of your son’s uniform items are clearly labelled with his full name.

Each day, we spend time reuniting students with misplaced uniform items left in various areas of the school. However, this becomes very difficult when items have no name or an unreadable label. Several families have recently reported missing jumpers and blazers, but without a clear name, it is almost impossible for us to return them.

We also ask that you check the uniform items you have at home to ensure your son’s name is written on them and that the items don’t accidentally belong to another student.

 

Last Chance to Order Your CBC Tea Towel!

If you haven’t yet ordered your limited-edition CBC Tea Towel as part of our fundraiser for the new Lego Wall in the Wellbeing Room, there is still time!

Orders will close on Friday 6 June, after which they will be sent off for printing. We will notify families as soon as we have a confirmed delivery date.

Don’t miss this special keepsake featuring our students’ artwork, all while supporting a wonderful addition to our Junior Campus.

 

Staff Spotlight: Ms Jenny Xiang

What inspired you to become a teacher?

I was inspired to become a teacher by the natural curiosity and enthusiasm that children bring to learning. Their genuine wonder about the world has always inspired me. Teaching gives me the opportunity to contribute to the community in a positive and meaningful way.

How do you create a positive and engaging learning environment in your classroom?

I create a positive and engaging learning environment by consistently providing positive feedback and encouragement throughout lessons. I take time to understand each student’s interests, needs, and strengths, and use this knowledge to plan learning activities that are meaningful and engaging. By building strong relationships and fostering a supportive classroom culture, I help students feel confident, valued and motivated to learn.

What do you enjoy doing outside of teaching (hobbies, sports, travel, etc.)?

Outside of teaching, I enjoy staying active and playing a variety of sports, including running, badminton, table tennis and basketball. Recently, I started learning to play tennis after being inspired by the Year 5/6 tennis team students while managing their tennis co-curricular program this year. In addition to sports, I also love singing, travelling and cooking.

What’s a fun fact about you that might surprise students or parents?

Before becoming a teacher, I had worked for over ten years at the China headquarters of several multinational companies, including Citibank, AXA Insurance and Unilever. These experiences gave me the opportunity to collaborate with colleagues from many countries around the world, allowing me to develop a deep understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity and the ways it shapes collaboration in international environments.

Are there any projects or initiatives you’re particularly excited about?

I’m particularly excited about the Running Club initiative at the Junior Campus this year. I truly enjoy running with the students, encouraging them, and cheering them on. I joined the school athletics team and started running training when I was seven years old, continuing all the way through to university. It’s been a joy to share my running techniques and experiences with the students. Running taught me valuable life lessons such as perseverance, grit and mental strength from a young age. I’m delighted to hear so much positive feedback from the boys about the Running Club – 'I feel so happy after running!', 'I hope I can run anytime!', 'Running club is pretty fun. It helps me stay fit.', 'Running club helps me run faster.', 'Running helps me with soccer.'

What is the most rewarding moment you’ve had as a teacher?

The most rewarding moment I’ve had as a teacher is witnessing students gain confidence and make progress in a particular learning area where they once struggled or faced challenges. Knowing I played a part in their growth makes the experience incredibly meaningful.

  

Teacher Spotlight: Mr Luka Poulain

What do you enjoy most about teaching your current year level or subject?

I really enjoy the variety in my teaching day, from classroom music lessons at both the Junior and Senior campuses, to one-on-one guitar lessons, to leading rock bands and choir rehearsals. It is a joy to see students gain confidence in their abilities and discover the power of getting out of their comfort zone to grow.

How do you stay motivated and inspired as a teacher?

Seeing students engage with music keeps me inspired. I also stay motivated by continuing to learn - whether that’s improving my own musicianship, discovering new teaching materials, or collaborating with colleagues. I believe learning is lifelong, and the more we learn, the more we realise how much more there is to discover.

What role do you think parents play in supporting their child’s education?

Parents play a crucial role by encouraging and valuing their child’s learning. For Music, simple things like attending performances, showing interest in what they're learning, or reminding their child to practise their instrument – makes a big difference. When parents are engaged, students feel supported and more confident to explore their creativity.

What is one lesson or skill you hope every student takes away from your class?

I want every student to know it’s okay to make mistakes, that’s part of learning and creativity. I hope they leave each lesson feeling confident to try new things and express themselves through music.

What do you enjoy doing outside of teaching (hobbies, sports, travel, etc.)?

I love playing guitar and piano, going hiking, and spending time at the beach. It’s a great way to unwind and relax.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received about teaching?

Be flexible and ready to adapt your lesson if it’s not connecting with students. Always have a backup plan and trust your instincts in the moment.

 

Mrs Alison Ronoastro
Head of Junior Campus

 

Our Junior Campus Tea Towel with Student Artwork!

If you missed the original ordering window, the good news is that orders have now reopened on QKR! and will remain open until Thursday, 6 June.

This is a wonderful keepsake featuring student artwork and a great way to support our school community. Don’t miss out!

Debra WithersDebra Withers

 
Year 12 Retreat, Fins Connect, and Reconciliation Week

Celebrating Growth, Connection, and Unity

As the year progresses, students engage with a number of events and activities intended to foster greater connection, awareness and kindness in the community. The first of these events was the ever-successful Year 12 Retreat.

 

Year 12 Retreat

The Year 12 retreat is a much-anticipated event that offers our senior students a chance to reflect on their journeys, build stronger bonds with their peers, and gain valuable insights that will guide them in their final year of school. The retreat is designed to create a supportive environment where students can share their experiences, aspirations, and challenges, enhancing a sense of community and mutual respect.

The retreat activities are carefully crafted to encourage self-discovery, teamwork, and personal growth. Workshops, outdoor adventures, and group discussions are integral parts of the program, allowing students to explore their strengths, confront their fears, and develop resilience. The serene setting of the retreat provides a perfect backdrop for contemplation and rejuvenation, ensuring that students return to their academic responsibilities with renewed vigour and clarity.

Highlights of the Retreat

  • Team-building exercises: Activities designed to enhance collaboration and communication among students.
  • Personal reflection sessions: Guided moments for students to contemplate their goals and aspirations.
  • Outdoor adventures: Challenges that foster resilience and a sense of accomplishment.
  • Group discussions: Forums for sharing experiences and fostering mutual understanding.

 

Fins Connect

Fins Connect is a pioneering student-driven initiative focused on bridging the gap between senior and middle school students and the broader community, with the intention of offering shared-support systems through a school-wide mentoring and buddy program.

The goal of the program, led by College Captain Orville Jones and Captain of Faith, Dylan Cordero, is 'To break the barrier between senior and middle school students through engaging questions and activities, ultimately making FINECTIONS.'

The program was launched last term, and after an extremely engaging smoking ceremony, students shared reflections with their buddies on the theme of Reconciliation and making CBC a better place through shared experiences of inclusivity.

The Year 12 leaders are to be congratulated on the success of this student-driven initiative, which is authentically CBC!

 

Reconciliation Week

Reconciliation Week is a significant observance that underscores our commitment to acknowledging, respecting, and celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Indigenous Australians. This week-long event is dedicated to fostering a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples and promoting a spirit of reconciliation and unity within our school community.

Throughout Reconciliation Week, students engage in a variety of activities that highlight the importance of cultural awareness, respect, and collaboration. These activities include storytelling sessions, cultural performances, and educational workshops that provide insights into Indigenous traditions, history, and contemporary issues. By participating in these events, students develop a greater appreciation for diversity and a commitment to fostering inclusive environments.

The highlight was a smoking ceremony performed by Jack Buckskin, a proud Kaurna man, who told his story and shared his culture to welcome all to Kaurna land.

Jack Buckskin performed the Smoking Ceremony for Reconciliation Week

 

Conclusion

The Year 12 Retreat, Fins Connect program, and Reconciliation Week are integral components of our school's commitment to nurturing well-rounded, informed, and empathetic individuals. These events provide our students with opportunities to grow personally and academically, build meaningful connections, and develop a profound respect for cultural diversity. As our students participate in these enriching experiences, they are better equipped to face the future with confidence, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards their communities. 

 

Ms Debra Withers
Director of Students

 

 

Anthony CallistoAnthony Callisto

 
Reconciliation Week – Bridging Now to Next

Each year, National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June) invites all Australians to reflect on how we can contribute to building respectful relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous Australians. The 2025 theme, 'Bridging Now to Next,' encourages us to carry forward the lessons of the past as we work toward a more just and united future.

To mark the week, students and staff from both campuses gathered for a College Welcome to Country, cultural reflection and Smoking Ceremony, led by Jack Buckskin, a proud Kaurna and Narungga man.

As the smoke, drawn from dried native bluebush, passed over us, we took part in a sacred act of cleansing. In that moment, we were reminded that the smoke carries a deep symbolism: it lingers on us, unites us, and leaves us all as one, even in smell.

What a powerful moment of cultural awareness and learning, and a meaningful way for our community to show respect and continue walking the journey of reconciliation together.

 

‘Wear It Yellow’ Day – Monday 2 June

As part of our commitment to Reconciliation, CBC will take part in Wear It Yellow Day.

Students and staff are encouraged to wear all or some yellow and bring a gold coin donation to support Children’s Ground, a First Nations-led organisation creating lasting change in education, health and culture for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Digital donations can be made here on the CBC 'Wear It Yellow' fundraising page.

 

Reflecting on the ‘Road Ahead’

Year 12s embraced the opportunity on the Road Ahead Retreat, spending three days across picturesque locations with a focus on connection, humility, and spiritual reflection.

Thanks to all staff who supported the Retreats – your presence and contributions make all the difference.

We hope the students continue to now ‘live the retreat’, building upon this experience in their everyday lives as they continue to grow over the course of this year, and on the road ahead.

Year 12 Retreat

 

Marian Procession

Recently, a number of our students proudly represented CBC in the 76th Annual Marian Procession - a long-standing tradition in South Australia celebrating Mary, the mother of Jesus. Thousands gathered for this special Jubilee Year event.

CBC Students Participate in the Marian Procession

 

This year, Javale M and his family had the honour of carrying the Marian banner and a mix of our CBC First 8 Rowers and Prefects played key roles in the procession, continuing CBC’s strong tradition of support at this significant event.

Javale with CBC Rowers and Prefects for the Procession

  

CBC x Vinnies Winter Sleepout

As part of our support for Vinnies and in acknowledgment of Refugee Week, CBC students in Years 7–12 are invited to register for the Vinnies Winter Sleepout on Friday 20 June (Week 8) using the link below:

This year, the event will be held across both campuses:

  • Mini Vinnies will host and participate in the Junior Campus Sleepout
  • Social Action Group will host the Senior Campus Sleepout

Information for Mini Vinnies students has already been shared, and we are now taking registrations of interest from Years 7–12 students for the Senior Campus event.

Event:

Includes a simple meal, a Vinnies guest presenter, activities, and a film, before taking on the challenge of ‘sleeping rough’ for the night.

Participation donation: $10.00 to St Vincent de Paul

Permission: An Operoo form and donation details will be sent to parents/guardians once registrations close.

Over 100,000 Australians are homeless each night. Let’s put a face to this suffering and remember that a home is a human right.  

Mr Anthony Callisto
Director of Identity and Mission

 

 

Alexandra KhafagiAlexandra Khafagi

 
Music 

A lot of things have been happening in music, and there is plenty to come before the end of the term!

Long Lunch – thanks to Cage Monkeys (AKA Rock Band 2), Jazz Combo and Sonic Highway (AKA Rock Band 1) for entertaining the crowd at the long lunch – performances were of a high standard and well received. Special thanks to Year 12 student Dion Rubino who spent hours setting up and ensuring that the sound ran smoothly.

Music Students performing at the CBC Long Lunch

 

Studio Recitals – in Week 7, students who learn instruments at school get their time to shine, performing in a welcoming environment for a live audience of parents and friends – you are all most welcome to attend.

The Junior Campus evening is Tuesday 10 June

  • 5pm - Years R–3
  • 6pm -  Years 4–6
  • Senior Campus Music Room

The Senior Campus evening is Wednesday, 11 June

  • 5pm - Years 7, 8 and 9.
  • 6:30pm - Years 10, 11 and 12.
  • Walsh Theatre

Riverlands Tour – this event is getting close! The itinerary is looking fantastic, and I know that the schools and venues we are visiting are excited to hear us. Please ensure all relevant forms are returned asap.

Please note: that the St Mary’s Rockfest planned for this term has been cancelled. We will continue to work with SMC to provide more performance and community building opportunities for our students.

 

Debating

Round 2 of SADA Debating has been occurring this week, and there have been noticeable improvements across the board. The Year 6 and 8 teams had very narrow losses on Tuesday evening, and the Year 7 team had a win!

On Wednesday night (when the debate didn’t commence until 8pm), the Year 10s spoke with confidence and authority as the negative side in the topic that the Labor Party is no longer the party of the working class. They also had an incredibly close loss.

In late-breaking news, Thursday night saw a heartbreaking one-point defeat of the Year 9 team, who again showed immense improvement from their first debate.

Huge thanks are due to Eoghan McEvoy (Year 8) and Mohamed Zaghwan (Year 10) who stepped in at late notice to replace sick team members. Coming at late notice to deliver a speech written by someone else take a lot of courage, and to bring a rebuttal into it adds another, even more nerve-wracking dimension. An extra special thank you must go to Gabriel Zaghwan (Year 6) who came along to support his big brother and ended up in the timekeeper hotseat!

 

Chess

Round 1 of Division 2 has now taken place, and there were 2 wins to Alexander Horlin-Smith as well as one to Sze-Yong Joh-Buckland.

In Round 2, our JC players (who only play one competitive game in each round) faced a much tougher opposition than in Round 1, which left them winless.

Also in Round 2, the Division 3 teams showed improvement with two wins to Gabe Tadiaman, a win and a draw to Eton Leonardo, one win each to Maxwell Steuve and Kaleb Smith, and a draw to Bentley Reid. Well done to all!

As always, questions can be sent to me at any time.

 

Ms Alexandra Khafagi
Director of Performing Arts

Open B Basketball

CBC 57 defeated Adelaide High School 15

Having to initiate the mercy rule in the first quarter – after going 20–0 up – made it challenging to continue working on our full-court pressure and quick transitions, which we’ve been focusing on at training.

Playing with only four players for most of the game and being restricted to defence in the backcourt was frustrating at times, but it gave us the opportunity to slow things down and work on our offensive structures.

Everyone played well and represented the school with pride and sportsmanship.

Best Players: Michael, Wajahat, Kahei

Ms Kat Ciabattoni
Coach

  

Open D Purple Basketball

CBC 49 defeated St Peter’s College 23

Even though the team only had four players in the first half, the boys played exceptionally well and managed to build a sizeable lead. Once our fifth player arrived, the team continued to hold that lead for the remainder of the game, finishing strong.

Best Players: Oliver, Jameel, Casey

 

CBC 49 defeated Pembroke School 18

The boys controlled the game by playing at their own pace, which ultimately led to a strong win. They steadily built their score while consistently getting stops on defence, showcasing great discipline and teamwork throughout the match.

Best Players: Luca, Casey, Steven

Mr Ed Bulner
Coach

 

Middle B Basketball

CBC 49 defeated Adelaide High School 26

The boys faced their first real challenge of the season, coming up against a team with some quality players. It was a great opportunity to see how they would respond to stronger defensive pressure.

A high defensive press proved to be the answer, allowing CBC to regain control and build a healthy lead to secure another solid win!

Best Players: Jake, Tyler, Frankie

Mr Jackson Ritter
Coach

 

Middle C Basketball

CBC 79 defeated Adelaide High School 25

A fantastic performance from the Middle Cs from start to finish. Within the first few minutes, we were already up 20–0, and it was clear we were off to a strong start. This dominance continued throughout the first and second quarters, with the score at half-time sitting at 44–6.

In the third quarter, we had to play with just four players, which made things more challenging, but we still managed to extend our lead to 68–16 by the end of the quarter. Remarkably, we finished the game with only three players on the court, yet it didn’t stop us from securing a commanding 79–25 win.

Standout performances came from Aiden and Jack, who both scored 23 points, and Max, who added another 15.

Best Players: Aiden, Jack, Max

Mr Finn Hart
Coach

 

Middle D Purple Basketball

Glenunga International High School 45 defeated CBC 18

This was a solid game against Glenunga. We kept the score close in the first half, with a strong team performance and noticeable improvement in ball movement compared to last week.

While we let the game slip a bit in the second half, it highlighted some clear areas for improvement – giving us valuable focus points heading into next week.

Best Players: Logan, Seb, Emmett

 

CBC 32 defeated Pulteney Grammar School 31

This was our best game of the season so far, with every player contributing brilliantly.

After a rocky start and trailing by 8 points in the first quarter, the team showed great resilience and fought back to lead by 6 points at the end of the third quarter.

It was a hard-fought and well-deserved win. Hopefully, we can carry this momentum into next week.

Best Players: Ryan, Seb, Logan

Mr Curtis Hefford
Coach

 

Year 7A Basketball

St Michael’s College 25 defeated CBC 24

In Round 2 of the 2025 season, the CBC Year 7As faced a strong St Michael’s side in what proved to be a nail-biting contest, ultimately falling just short in a 24–25 result. While the loss was heartbreaking, the performance was one to be proud of.

St Michael’s held the lead for most of the game, but our boys came out firing in the second half with renewed intensity and momentum. Defensively, we stayed disciplined, making it difficult for the opposition to find easy baskets. Credit to St Michael’s for shooting exceptionally well under pressure, but our defensive structures held strong throughout.

Offensively, we created plenty of scoring opportunities, moved the ball well, and showed clear improvement in teamwork compared to the first game. Unfortunately, we were unable to capitalise on several of those chances, and rebounding – on both ends – remains a key area for development moving forward.

With the scores tied in the final moments, a late foul call on a St Michael’s three-point attempt proved decisive. It was a tough and questionable decision, giving them the opportunity to take the lead in the dying seconds. While the call was disappointing, it doesn’t overshadow the grit, determination, and growth our boys showed throughout the game.

Despite the narrow loss, the team should be incredibly proud of their resilience and overall performance.

Best Players: Hayden, Liam, Chris

 

St Paul’s College 40 defeated CBC 27

Despite some strong individual offensive performances, the 7As struggled to overcome a number of careless turnovers in their loss to St Paul’s.

Tonat was aggressive driving to the basket, making some tough shots and earning trips to the free throw line, while Liam was outstanding on the boards and finished well around the basket.

The team will look to regroup and improve next week.

Best Players: Tonat, Liam, Gabe

Mr Jacob Sharp
Coach

 

Year 7B Basketball

St Michael’s College 26 defeated CBC 4

Despite a much-improved defensive performance, the 7Bs were unable to secure their first win of the season this week.

Up against a more experienced side, the boys displayed excellent teamwork and trust, executing an effective zone defence throughout the game.

They will now look to build on this foundation by focusing on rebounding and developing a more patient offensive approach in the coming weeks.

Best Players: Noah, Jared, Ollie

Mr Rishab Singh
Coach

 

 

First XVIII Football

CBC 86 defeated St Ignatius College 44

A fast-starting CBC set the tone for the day with a fierce attack on the footy from the first siren to the last.

Generating multiple repeat entries – both from clearances and through transition – CBC created plenty of scoring opportunities in the first half. The team’s structure and tempo-based style of play really stood out, and the players should be congratulated for their proactive approach.

With St Ignatius managing their first goal in the third quarter, CBC’s defensive unit showed great composure under pressure, consistently exiting the defensive 50 with control and method.

Congratulations to Lennon T, Jacob S, and Kosta F on making their First XVIII debuts over the weekend. A special mention goes to Captain Ryan P, who led from the front with four goals as a midfielder.

CBC now looks forward to its first home game next week against Westminster.

Best Players: Ryan P, Archer B, Xavier F

 

Westminster School 164 defeated CBC 42

CBC came up against a tall and physically strong Westminster outfit over the weekend.

At ground level, CBC applied solid tackling pressure throughout the day, forcing numerous repeat stoppages. The players are to be commended for their effort and determination from the first siren to the last – evident in the fact that five of CBC’s six goals came in the second half. These were the result of some excellent clearance work from the midfield.

Congratulations to Joel C on making his First XVIII debut. A special mention also goes to Xavier F, who was a pillar of strength for CBC at centre half-back all day.

CBC will take on Pembroke next week and will be looking to continue applying its brand of footy to shut down opposition sides as the season progresses.

Best Players: Xavier, Ryan, Tyler

Mr Aaron Caesarikow
Coach

 

Middle Football

Scotch College 91 defeated CBC 31

This week, the CBC boys went down in their rematch against Scotch College. Unfortunately, the Fins took to the field with only 16 players, while Scotch chose not to match numbers and played with two extra players for the entire game.

Despite the challenge, the CBC boys showed great effort and intensity, staying competitive for most of the match. In the end, fatigue set in, and Scotch College were able to pull away for the win.

Still, we are very proud of the boys’ determination and the sportsmanship they displayed throughout the game.

Best Players: Hudson, Harris, Charlie

 

Westminster School 41 defeated CBC 35

A high-pressure clash between the top two teams. Westminster got the jump on the Fins in the first quarter, taking a three-goal lead into the first break. However, the CBC boys responded strongly, fighting back to trail by just one point at half-time.

The Fins maintained the momentum in the third quarter, bringing great energy and edging ahead to lead by a point at the final break. The last quarter was a tense back-and-forth battle, with Westminster managing to kick a goal with just two minutes remaining.

CBC pushed hard in the final moments, trapping the ball in our forward 50, but unfortunately ran out of time.

A gutsy performance from the boys – there’s plenty to take away from this one, and the Fins will bounce back.

Best Players: Hudson, Axel, Will

Mr Anthony Disibio and Mr Mitchell Dickinson
Coaches

 

 

First XI Soccer

CBC 2 defeated St Ignatius College 1

Another near-perfect afternoon for a game of football – light winds, clear skies, and a clean pitch. The CBC team was eager to get underway and redeem themselves after last week’s defeat.

From the first whistle, CBC applied strong pressure, forcing St Ignatius onto the back foot. That pressure paid off early with an own goal – perhaps not the most glamorous way to score, but we’ll take it! To their credit, Ignatius responded well, fighting back and eventually finding an equaliser just before the half-time break.

The second half was a hard-fought battle, with both sides fired up and hungry for the win. It could have gone either way – until Beau slipped into top gear and launched an absolute cannonball into the back of the net. The keeper never stood a chance.

The game ended 2–1 in CBC’s favour. We’ve found our mojo again.

Best Players: Emil, Ross, Seb

 

CBC 7 defeated Immanuel College 2

It was another perfect afternoon for football – clear skies, no wind, and a clean pitch. CBC got off to a flying start, with Beau scoring in the first 55 seconds, quickly followed by Fabian with an absolutely superb finish – one of the best goals I’ve seen this season.

The game had started brilliantly, but momentum soon shifted. CBC seemed to lose focus, allowing Immanuel to sneak two goals past our keeper. With heads starting to drop, we went into the break at 2–2.

The half-time chat from the coach clearly had the desired effect, as CBC came out and dominated all over the pitch in the second half. This control led to five more goals: two more from Fabian, another from Beau, one from Aidan, and a fantastic run down the wing by Ross, finishing with a goal.

A great ending to an eventful match. Next week is the annual Intercol game against Blackfriars, who currently sit top of the ladder – potentially a preview of the finals. Well done to all players!

Best Players: Seb, Fabian, Ross

Mr Marcelo Carrusca
Coach

 

Third XI Soccer

CBC 4 defeated Blackfriars Priory School 1

A comfortable 4–1 win against Blackfriars.

The game started in dramatic fashion with only nine players on the pitch, as one teammate had slept in! Despite the setback, we hit the post within the first 30 seconds through Kham Douangphoumy, setting the tone early.

We dominated possession with confident build-up play, particularly down the right-hand side. This led to Tamim Tahiri finding space and slipping a clever ball through to Isiah Crisafi, who calmly finished to the keeper’s right just five minutes in.

Thankfully, our two missing players arrived shortly after, and the game evened up to 11 vs 11.

Five minutes later, Avenash Bockarie doubled our lead with an incredible strike from 40 metres out, finding the top corner. Blackfriars struggled to break us down, with our compact defensive shape holding firm.

Isiah had a great chance to make it three but was denied one-on-one after a well-weighted pass from Avenash. However, about 15 minutes later, Avenash took matters into his own hands again, dribbling past defenders and slotting home to complete his brace and make it 3–0.

We started the second half just as strongly, maintaining control. Blackfriars were awarded a penalty after a defensive error, but Michael Henley did well to put off the taker, who blasted it over the bar.

They did manage to pull one back after a mix-up between Samuel Jackson and Michael Henley. Still, we responded midway through the second half when Isiah Crisafi scored his second with a tidy finish, securing the 4–1 win.

Best Players: Avenash, Samuel, Tamim

Mr Kwabena Appiah-Kubi
Coach

  

Year 12 Soccer

CBC 2 drew St Ignatius College 2

The Year 12 boys turned up in huge numbers, with a bench almost large enough to field another team.

CBC played with passion and intensity against St Ignatius in a tightly contested match that ended in a 2–2 draw. The boys supported each other throughout, demonstrating strong spirit, unity, and teamwork both on and off the field.

Best Players: Luca, Christos, Pantelli

 

Blackfriars Priory School 3 defeated CBC 2

It was a strong performance from the team this week, with great numbers and plenty of energy on the field – including our goalkeeper having a run out of goals!

A highlight of the match was an excellent goal from Sam Lagana off a corner. The game was well contested, with solid bodywork from our boys and returning players showing real promise.

Unlucky not to come away with the win!

Best Players: Sam L, Sam C, Shakeb

Ms Nicolette Roberts
Coach

 

Middle A Soccer

St Ignatius College 3 defeated CBC 1

The boys lacked intensity throughout the game and were consistently second to the ball. There were issues with positioning and a noticeable lack of communication on the field.

Morale dropped early when the team learned that some of our players had been moved up to play for another side, which affected focus and effort. This is an area we’ll need to address moving forward to ensure resilience and unity across the group.

Best Players: Yaayin, Hugo, Armaan

Mr Richard Simmons
Coach

 

Middle B Soccer

CBC 8 defeated St Ignatius College 0

An outstanding performance from the boys today – they outclassed their opponents across the pitch. Week by week, they continue to show improvement, and the coaches couldn’t be more proud.

Unfortunately, a poor attitude during the game cast a shadow over an otherwise excellent performance. The boys should be proud of their football efforts, but there’s still work to do when it comes to maintaining composure and sportsmanship.

Best Players: Noah, Seb, Giuseppe

 

CBC 4 defeated Blackfriars Priory School 3

The energy during the warm-up was quite low and below the expectations Rory and I had set. We knew the boys were capable of more and had it in them to lift their performance.

Once the game began, they switched on quickly and took an early 2–0 lead. By half-time, the score was level at 2–2.

In the end, CBC came away with a 4–3 win in a very competitive match against our rival school. The boys displayed great sportsmanship throughout the game and are looking sharp and ready for Intercol.

Best Players: Manash, Leo, Kiren

Mr Charlie Campagnolo and Mr Rory Varrichio
Coaches

 

Middle C Soccer

CBC 10 defeated St Ignatius College 0

The entire team played exceptionally well today, scoring plenty of goals and limiting the opposition’s attacking opportunities throughout the match.

Despite the large scoreline, the boys displayed excellent sportsmanship and continued to apply what they’ve been learning in training. It was a great overall performance, featuring some standout individual moments and impressive passing combinations.

Best Players: Nathan, Silas, Teague

 

Glenunga International High School 1 defeated CBC 0

The team fought hard to try and find an equaliser. The defence was under consistent pressure from Glenunga but held up well, conceding only one goal thanks to some excellent saves from our goalkeeper. There were some great passages of play, but unfortunately, they didn’t result in a goal for CBC.

Overall, it wasn’t the team’s best performance this season, but the boys worked well together, supported each other, and were unlucky not to come away with a draw.

Best Players: Johnny, Alex, Lochie

Mr Luka Dobrovolski
Coach

 

Year 7B Soccer

Immanuel College 10 defeated CBC 1

A couple of early mistakes cost us a few goals and seemed to affect the boys’ confidence. There were some positive signs, though – particularly their efforts to play out from the back, even though we did concede from it. It’s definitely something to build on.

The boys responded well at the start of the second half and showed good character, which was great to see. However, we lost focus toward the end, which is something to improve moving forward.

Best Players: Otis, Abel, Gabriel

Mr Michael Saccardo and Mr Christian Lacanale
Coaches

 

Year 5 Gold Soccer

St Peter’s College 5 defeated CBC 2

It was a hard-fought contest from both teams and a great game to watch.

The boys had a strong first half, going into the break at 2–2. The second half saw an even better team performance, with some great ball movement and teamwork on display.

Unfortunately, a few late goals blew out the final score to 5–2, which didn’t reflect the quality of the performance. A commendable effort from the team overall.

Best Players: Nick, Alvaro, Nico

Mr Noah Gazzard
Coach

 

 

Open A Table Tennis

CBC 12 defeated Blackfriars Priory School 8

The last time we defeated Blackfriars was in 2021. Four years later, we’ve finally done it again. Unfortunately, Intercol is no longer held at the end of the year, which is disappointing – not just for me, but also for the players on both sides. Teamwork and camaraderie tend to peak around Intercol dates, and the timing at the end of Term 3 allowed players to develop throughout the season, influencing rankings and performances. Having Intercol in Week 3 means many players are still finding their form.

Putting the politics aside, this was by far the toughest game of the season so far – and it may well remain that way. The final score was 12–8, with CBC winning by just two games. Ethan and Archie clinched a critical doubles match in five sets, marking the first time in years CBC has won the 1&2 doubles against Blackfriars. Geon also pushed one of his singles to a fifth set. Every match was crucial to the overall result. Archie’s performance, in particular, was outstanding.

Sparsh, Szeyong, and Nikkos secured their victories with confidence, helping to build and maintain momentum. The energy throughout the match was intense and spirited, and every player conducted themselves with commendable sportsmanship. I was both ecstatic and deeply impressed with what the team achieved.

That said, there’s still work to be done. We continue to face technical challenges – minor issues such as footwork, posture, and form, which I believe can be significantly improved with focused training over the next three weeks. Our game sense has developed well and will continue to improve if players are given more opportunities to play and compete.

Incredible work by everyone on the team.

Best Players: Archie, Geon, Sparsh

 

CBC 19 defeated St Ignatius College 1

A 19–1 scoreline is highly impressive. However, I believe there is still significant room for improvement, as we could have finished several games earlier. We gave away too many sets and points unnecessarily. The team needs to refine the basics and better seize opportunities. A more dominant playing style will be essential when facing tougher opponents.

Nikkos and Tristan completed their games effortlessly, and I was highly impressed by their performances. My expectations for this team are very high, and I believe we can achieve what we’ve set out to do.

Best Players: Archie, Tristan, Nikos

Mr Aquil Azeez
Coach

 

Open B Table Tennis

Blackfriars Priory School 15 defeated CBC 5

The CBC boys played with great effort and determination. While the opposition proved too strong on the day, our boys gave it their all and should be proud of their efforts.

Best Players: Alex, Santiago, Jax

Mr Joseph Sun
Coach

 

Middle A Table Tennis

CBC 12 defeated Blackfriars Priory School 8

It was a strong team performance, with everyone playing well. The matches were closely contested, but overall, it was a great competitive experience for all involved.

Best Players: Tristan, Nicholas, Hansen

Mr Christopher Chong
Coach