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

 
Farewell

This will be my final newsletter article in my time at CBC.  I have been fortunate to be granted renewal leave for Term 4, and as previously announced, I will be moving to Rostrevor College in 2026.

I take this opportunity to say thank you to all staff, students and wider community members for your support in my time at the College.  Whilst I will be leaving the community in a professional capacity, I look forward to remaining connected to the community as a parent and remaining close, as I will still be within the Edmund Rice Education community.

I wish all community members all the best for the remainder of this year and beyond.

Immersion Park Walk – Friday, 26 September

All CBC students will participate in the 2025 Immersion Park Walk on Friday, 26 September, as part of our commitment to raising funds for disadvantaged communities. This event explicitly addresses the College’s long-standing partnership and commitment to communities in the Philippines and provides an opportunity to raise funds in support of our commitment to the associated orphanages and charities.  The day provides an opportunity for the whole College to come together to live our College Touchstones and Values to support those in need.

Please refer to letters sent home via SEQTA for more details, or see below for the core details:

When: Friday, 26 September (Week 10, Term 3)

Where: CBC Ovals

Essentials: Students are to ensure the following:

• They wear their PE uniform and CBC broad-brimmed hat
• Bring a named bottle of water.
• Apply sunscreen (some will be made available through Heads of House).

Early Dismissal: All Students (R-12) will be dismissed at 12:45pm 

Fundraising: Please assist your son’s fundraising preparations. Donations are to be made through the QKR App. We hope each student aims to raise a minimum of $10, but we will appreciate any effort possible. 

From our previous fundraising efforts, the funds we have raised have assisted the College to:

• Buy sacks of rice, washing powder and other food items.
• Build local self-sustaining farms, fish farms and mangroves.
• Fund and assist students through school and university.
• Purchase a school Mini-Bus for San Ramon.
• Donate and engage in Santo Niño Parish’s feeding program.
• Interact with the youth in Santo Niño’s sports and mass program.

Mr Cameron Alexander
Executive Deputy Principal

 
Celebrating Learning, Music, and Faith at CBC Junior Campus

Over the past fortnight, our Junior Campus has been a vibrant hub of learning, celebration, and community connection. It has been heartening to witness our boys embracing new challenges, showcasing their talents, and celebrating important milestones in their faith and learning journeys.

On Monday 15 September 2025, we held our Student Learner Reviews, and it was truly wonderful to see so many families come along and engage with their son’s teachers. These meetings are a valuable opportunity for our boys to reflect on their achievements, set goals, and take ownership of their learning. The positive conversations that took place during these reviews highlighted the growth that each boy has made, not only academically but also in their confidence, resilience, and approach to learning. We sincerely thank our parents and carers for taking the time to be part of these discussions, as this partnership between home and school is vital in supporting every child to flourish.

Last week, the spotlight was firmly on the arts and creativity, as our students took part in the much-anticipated CBC Music Fest. This special event provided a platform for our talented musicians to perform and share their gifts with the wider CBC community. It was an absolute joy to watch our boys shine on stage, showcasing their skills, dedication, and love of music. Their performances were a testament to the hours of practice and perseverance that they have put in, and we are incredibly proud of every one of them.

In the lead-up to Music Fest on Friday 12 September, our campus was also filled with music and energy as we celebrated Music Celebration Week. Throughout the week, the boys were treated to a series of inspiring live performances from across the College, including the Junior and Senior Campus Guitar Ensembles, the rock bands, and the Concert Band. These groups performed for us at our assembly, filling the space with energy, rhythm, and joy. It was wonderful to see our students so engaged, clapping along and showing their appreciation of their peers and older role models. This week was a powerful reminder of how music can uplift, inspire, and bring people together.

On Wednesday 10 September, we also celebrated a very special moment in the faith lives of our boys. 19 of our Junior Campus boys celebrated their Confirmation and First Holy Communion at St Francis Xavier Cathedral. This was a beautiful and reverent occasion, marking an important step in their journey as young members of our Catholic community. We are incredibly proud of the way they approached their preparation and the respect and joy they showed on the day. A heartfelt thank you to Mr Simon Nardecchia and Br John for the time, care, and guidance they have given in preparing the boys for their sacraments.

As we move through this busy term, it is wonderful to pause and celebrate these moments of growth, talent, and faith that enrich our CBC community.

Mrs Alison Ronoastro
Head of Junior Campus

SAPSASA Athletics

On Monday, 8 September, the CBC Athletics team participated in the SAPSASA Trials in order to represent the North Adelaide District at the upcoming State Day.

The SA Athletics Stadium came alive with excitement as students from schools across the North Adelaide District gathered for the annual SAPSASA Athletics Carnival. The event showcased a variety of track and field events, including sprints, long-distance races, high jump, long jump, shotput, discus and relays. Young athletes gave their all, representing their schools with pride and determination.

The atmosphere was electric, with cheers from teammates, teachers, and families echoing throughout the stadium. The carnival provided a fantastic opportunity for students to challenge themselves, demonstrate their athletic skills, and enjoy friendly competition.

As a general rule of thumb for any SAPSASA event, if you finish first in your given event or have the fastest time over all heats, you will be asked to represent your district in that event at state day (against all other district event winners). 

Atticus Yao and Abuoi Deng were the two CBC athletes chosen to represent North Adelaide district in the upcoming State Day.

Below are some of the amazing results that boys achieved at trials.

Under 10

• Atticus Yao – 1^st 100m, 1^st 200m, 1^st Long Jump
• Vallen Whetstone – 3^rd 800m, 3^rd 1500m
• Nicolas Carrusca – 4^th 100m, 3^rd Long Jump

Under 11

• Lucas Kopec – 3^rd 1500m
• Owen Cossey – 2^nd Discus

 Under 12

• Abuoi Deng – 4^th 100m, 2^nd 200m, 3^rd Discus, 3^rd Long Jump
• Hendrix Whetstone – 2^nd 800m, 2^nd 1500m
• Jack Mcalpine – 3^rd 800m, 3^rd 1500m
• Christian Parisi – 2^nd Shotput

All our relay teams also managed to place 2^nd or above in the 4 x 100m.

Mrs Brink, Ms Caldinez and Mr Barbara would love to say a big ‘Congratulations on your efforts’ to all involved even if you did not get a placing, everyone tried their very best and showed great sportsmanship throughout the day.

Also a big thank you to our Senior School Helpers – Zac Hutchinson and Samuel Gebhardt.

 
Recently, mobile phones and access to distressing content online has once again been prevalent in the media and society. A significant part of the pastoral care team’s time is spent dealing with issues caused by inappropriate use of mobile phones and social media. Schools, students and parents will also face navigating the future social media restrictions for those under the age of 16, with the commencement of the Safety Amendment (Social Media Minimum Age) Act 2024, on the 10 December 2025. Therefore, any resources which will assist with parents and schools working together to combat the negative impacts of phone use will be beneficial. As a result, it is pertinent to re-visit the mobile phone policy and expectations around the use of phones by students at CBC, as well as other sources of information for parents

Phones and other devices

At CBC, the yard is a device-free zone. Designating the yard as a device-free zone will promote physical activity, social interaction, and mental well-being. This policy encourages students to engage in exercise, enjoy fresh air, and take a break from screens to support overall health. At all other times, unless with permission of the subject teacher, phones should be in lockers for Middle School students and not visible for senior students (exception Year 12s in the Year 12 Study). If students are seen on their phone, staff will confiscate and place at the Front Office until the end of the day.

Dealing with Distressing Content Online

The shooting of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk has exposed many adults as well as young people to hugely distressing footage. How to support young people (and adults) through such controversial and upsetting footage is challenging, The E-safety commission has some resources which may be useful to assist parents when dealing with distressing content online.

Under-16 Social Media Ban

Students are reminded that they should NOT be filming other students or posting content online or on social media platforms if identifiable as CBC students (in uniform, at school events for example).

The Government has further information here: https://www.esafety.gov.au/industry/regulatory-guidance#social-media-minimum-age

Governor’s Reception for Year 12 Student Leaders

On Thursday, 11 September 2025, two of our student leaders, Zack Zerella and Luca Bosio had the privilege of attending at Government House to meet with the Governor of South Australia, her Excellency Ms Frances Adamson. At the event, the Governor talked to Year 12 student leaders from a number of Catholic schools about her professional leadership journey, whilst balancing a busy family life and raising four children. Impressive indeed! The information presented was certainly inspirational for both student leaders, who both stated they are now inspired to possibly pursue career opportunities within government or the diplomatic arena. Thank you to both Zack and Luca for giving your time to represent the College so positively at this prestigious event.

Zack Zerella and Luca Bosio and Zack Zerella attend the Governor's Reception

Ms Debra Withers
Director of Students

 
Blue Week

In Week 8, our community once again came together to celebrate Blue Week, a significant initiative focused on improving men’s mental health and raising awareness about the importance of looking after ourselves and those around us. The week was organised and facilitated by our Year 12 Health and Wellbeing students, who showed leadership and creativity in planning a range of activities designed to get the College community talking about mental health, wellbeing, and social connection.

Throughout the week, students engaged in different activities that highlighted the importance of checking in with friends, maintaining healthy routines, and recognising when someone might need extra support. The week culminated with Blue Day on Friday, when staff and students wore an item of blue clothing in solidarity with the work of Beyond Blue. At recess, blue donuts were sold, with all proceeds donated directly to the organisation to continue their important work in supporting mental health services across Australia.

A central feature of the week was R U OK? Day, held on Thursday. This national initiative asks us to stop, take notice, and open conversations with those around us, particularly if they might be struggling. At school, students were encouraged to reach out to their peers, while families at home are reminded of the power of simply asking, “Are you okay?” and listening without judgment. These small conversations can make a big difference in someone’s life. For those seeking further resources, please visit:

• R U OK Day - https://www.ruok.org.au/
• Beyond Blue - https://www.beyondblue.org.au/

Blue Week provided an important reminder that our well-being is strengthened when we support one another, and it was inspiring to see our senior students take such an active role in shaping the culture of the College.

Year 7–11 Parent Teacher Interviews

Our most recent Parent Teacher Interviews saw us return to face-to-face conversations between parents, students, and teachers for Years 7–11. The feedback from both staff and families was overwhelmingly positive, with many noting how much they valued being able to sit down together and have meaningful discussions about learning and growth.

These interviews provided the opportunity for parents to hear directly about their son’s academic progress, classroom engagement, and overall wellbeing, while also giving teachers a valuable chance to better understand the perspectives and aspirations of families. Importantly, these conversations are not one-off check-ins but part of an ongoing dialogue that is central to student success.

We encourage families to continue these discussions at home, focusing not only on achievements but also on strategies for overcoming challenges and setting new goals. Together, parents and teachers play an essential role in ensuring that our boys are supported to reach their potential, and the strength of this partnership was clearly evident throughout the evening.

Year 12 Term 3 Holiday Seminars

For our Year 12 students, the countdown to the end of their schooling journey is now very real, with ONLY 13 DAYS of formal classes remaining before their final exams and assessments. These last weeks of Term 3 and the upcoming holiday break represent a pivotal period in their academic lives.

To provide the best possible preparation, we will once again be running a series of Term 3 Holiday Seminars. These sessions are carefully designed to give students a final opportunity to:

• Receive targeted feedback on their assessments
• Consolidate and extend their exam preparation strategies
• Revisit key content areas that require clarification
• Ask last-minute questions to strengthen their confidence

These seminars are not just an optional extra but a critical part of the journey toward the final exams. They allow students to make the most of the expertise of their teachers, to refine their study approaches, and to walk into their exams knowing they have done everything possible to succeed.

Attendance is strongly encouraged for all Year 12 students, as the seminars represent the last structured opportunity for feedback and guidance before the final term begins.

Holiday Seminar Timetable:

 
Immersion Park Walk

Next Friday, 26 September (Week 10, Term 3), all students will take part in the Immersion Park Walk to close the term. This important event reflects our College’s commitment to social justice and global community partnerships, with funds raised supporting our long-standing friends in the Philippines.

The day will begin with morning classes, followed by recess and the walk, with students dismissed early at 12.45pm. A reminder that students can wear their PE uniform, and should bring a CBC hat and a water bottle.

Families are encouraged to support through sponsorship or direct donations via the QKR App.

Sacraments Congratulations

We congratulate the students who recently received the Sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation at a special service led by Fr Dean Marin, with support from Fr Matthew. These milestones in faith are moments of joy for both families and the wider College community, and we keep the students in our thoughts and prayers as they continue their journey.

Thank you to Mr Nardecchia, Brother Ahern, and our staff for preparing and supporting the students so well, and to Ms Khafagi, Mr Linke, and Ms Ronoastro for providing the music that enriched this special occasion.

Students receiving the Sacraments of First Holy Communion and Confirmation

Karanja Visits CBC

Our Year 10 cohort recently had the privilege of hearing from Karanja from the Edmund Rice Foundation, who grew up in the Nairobi slums of Kenya. He shared his powerful story of resilience, faith, and education as pathways to hope, offering students a moving insight into the realities of poverty and the strength of community. We are proud to support the Edmund Rice Foundation in a number of ways, and it was inspiring to hear firsthand how our contributions continue to make a difference.

Karanja from the Edmund Rice Foundation

‘Highly Commended’ for Doco in a Day

Congratulations to TEAM DCA – Angus C, Cooper K and Dash C! We are proud to share that their short film was selected in the Highly Commended category for the national Doco in a Day competition run by Edmund Rice Foundation, celebrating powerful student storytelling for justice.

Check out their short doco below:

Rise Up! Tree Planting Event

CBC student volunteers took part in Rise Up 2025 at Wirrarninthi Parklands this week. Together with the Catholic Office for Youth and Young Adults (COYYA) and other schools, our students planted trees as a sign of hope and renewal, living out the call to care for creation. Thanks to Mr Bryant for accompanying and supporting the group.

As Pope Francis reminds us in Laudato Si’, “Nature is a magnificent book in which God speaks to us and grants us a glimpse of his infinite beauty and goodness.”

CBC Outback Immersion 2026 – Apply Now

Apply now for the inaugural CBC Outback Immersion (19–27 Sept 2026) – a unique nine-day journey of culture, story, and life in the outback.

Mr Anthony Callisto
Director of Identity and Mission

 
Music

Congratulations to all students involved in MusicFest 25. Your performances were spectacular, and your support of each other was phenomenal. Thanks also to the brilliant CBC Music Tutor Team who worked together throughout the show and afterwards to ensure the gig ran smoothly and was packed up in record time. A special shoutout to Mr Billy James for running sound. The wonderful Mr Stephen Sheehan, ably assisted by Ms Charlotte Kacic, planned the event flawlessly, and we are so grateful for their attention to detail. And to all who attended and created a true festival atmosphere – sincere thanks for supporting the CBC Music Boys.

MusicFest 2025

What’s next?

Auditions for 2026 Extension Ensembles are currently taking place in the Senior School, and all rehearsals will recommence in Term 4.

Junior College rehearsals keep on keeping on!

We wish Festival Choir and Mr Luka Poulain all the best for their performance as part of the Catholic Schools Music Festival next Tuesday evening.

We also send good wishes to Sonic Highway (or Rock Band 1) who will be guest performers at St Mary’s College Justice Day next Friday.

Photography Club

Keen observers may have noticed that many of the noticeboards around the school are now adorned with pictures taken by this group of boys, under the watchful eye of Mr Sean Carr.

Chess

Our Division 2 boys celebrated their last round two weeks ago, and were successful in all games played that night. Despite missing a team mate at the last minute, their results in this round locked them into tied third in the competition. Congratulations to Alexander, Jaz and Sze-Yong, and massive thanks to CBC’s Chess GOAT Mr Sebastian Stenchlik. 

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

Ms Alexandra Khafagi
Director of Performing Arts