Principal’s Report

Dear Fortians, Parents and Carers,

Even as Term 2 was drawing to a rapid close, nothing slowed down at the Fort. The final few weeks of Term proving to be just as busy, positive and enriching as those that preceded them. Fortians have had innumerable opportunities to engage in rich, meaningful learning as well as countless extra-curricular activities and enrichment opportunities. In the last three weeks alone, our senior geographers have embarked on field work in the Great Barrier Reef, there have been Biology excursions to the National Maritime Museum and the Museum of Human Disease. Fort Street High School was well represented at both the Regional Cross Country and Zone Athletics Carnivals and the Year 10 Charity Committee demonstrated their commitment to fairness and equity and strong sense of social justice by hosting one of the most outstanding bake sales I have ever seen. The bake sale raised funds for the Newtown Asylum Seeker Centre. It was so popular, I couldn’t even sneak a photo of the delicious cakes and sweets!

Thank you to the charity committee and Mr De Jong for leading this initiative that raised over $1000.

I also had the pleasure of watching the Mock Trial between our school and the Kings School. Our team, made up of Year 11 students Mia, Mrunmayi, Isobel, Ollie, Oliver, and Raj argued that a verbal contract was breached when a DJ failed to bring lighting equipment along with the sound for his DJ set and arrived late to a 21st, requiring additional cost from a last-minute contractor. It was a very challenging case, but that didn’t stop our articulate, eloquent and determined Fortians from arguing a convincing case and winning the Mock Trial- even more impressive was the fact that the Kings School team was very formidable and impressive. Congratulations to the Mock Trial Team, and thanks to Ms Xu and Mr Shakibaei for their leadership of this initiative.

On Friday Evening, the annual Instrumental Music Program (IMP) Winter Concert was held in the Memorial Hall and Fountain Quad. What a truly magnificent and spectacular event and showcase of student talent and community spirit. I felt incredibly fortunate to be front row centre to witness the indescribable talents of so many Fortians who made up the various ensembles that performed on the evening. It was very special to hear Lila and Matthew reflect on their nearly six years as a part of IMP and explain that, in amongst the magic of making music together, the IMP is about much more than that. Although it was an evening of many highlights, there were two that stood out for me- the very special performance of “Farewell”, an original composition which Matthew wrote himself to mark his graduation from the IMP which was conducted on the night by Kai, and the rapturous applause and enthusiastic support shown after the Training Band played their piece from their older IMP peers. It was utterly delightful. Many thanks to Dr Matthew Manchester, Ms Emily Irvine, Mr John Ockwell, Ms Kerryn Joyce, Mr Alex Pringle, Mr Mike Raper, Mr Jem Harding and Mr Stu Vandergraff and the IMP Committee for their leadership and support of this phenomenal event.

The History Faculty have continued to impress me with their innovative, creative and purposeful approach to formal assessment. All Year 11 History students across the state have to complete an Historical Investigation, which is typically presented in the form of an essay- this is not the case at the Fort. Year 11 Ancient and Modern History students engaged in a rich and meaningful process of historical investigation. They were required to conduct rigorous research, demonstrate remarkable dedication and intellectual curiosity, while skillfully formulating insightful research questions that address the overarching themes of “Who Owns The Past?” (Ancient History) and “Hero or Villain” (Modern History). It was very clear that these incredible young scholars engaged in meticulous analysis of a diverse range of sources, critically evaluated evidence, discerned varying perspectives, biases and other historiographical considerations in a sophisticated way. Their ability to synthesise complex information and present it so engagingly in the form of a museum display was a wonder to behold. Bravo Year 11 Historians and many thanks to their teachers Ms Wark, Mr Galvin, Mr O’Neill and Ms Fisher for all their efforts.

The school community will celebrate NAIDOC this Friday with a whole school assembly. NAIDOC occupies a very significant place within the national calendar, and this year is particularly special as the event is in it’s fiftieth year. I encourage all of you to embrace the celebrations, and engage with the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and Culture by attending local community events. Information regarding the events being held by the City of Sydney can be found here, or for local events please see the official NAIDOC Website.

This will be my final article for the Mercurius as I will be returning to Dulwich High School of Visual Arts and Design next Term. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the entire Fort Street High School community for making me feel very welcome during my time at this wonderful school. I have felt incredibly inspired by the brilliance I have seen from the perseverant, conscientious young scholars who comprise the student body, and from the dedicated, passionate educators who consistently pursue equity and excellence through their delivery of outstanding teaching and learning and the fostering of wellbeing and from the exemplary SASS staff who ensure that the Fort is well looked after. Similarly, I have thoroughly enjoyed meeting a number of members of the parent community- at P&C meetings, community events and celebrations- thank you for your support of your young Fortians and Fort Street High School.

It has truly been a humbling privilege to relieve as Principal of Fort Street High School, and I take with me countless happy memories of enriching experiences and meaningful connections that have been made. I hope that you feel that your school community has been well served during Ms Juliette McMurray’s tenure as Director, Educational Leadership. I know she is looking very much forward to returning to Fort Street High School next Term.

I have come to learn that at Fort Street High School, speeches and addresses are generally concluded with a quote. I would like to end this article with a reiteration of the school’s motto- faber est suae quisque fortunae. Each person is the maker of their own fortune. Lofty and aspirational sentiments that form a call to action for all Fortians to make choices today that will impact and enrich their tomorrows. I have been most impressed with the way in which the students at Fort Street High School embrace learning, opportunities, challenges and experiences so enthusiastically and with such flair; in doing so you are laying the foundations for a rewarding, meaningful and well-deserved enriching future. I wish each and every one of you every success and all the very best as you continue striving for excellence.

Have a safe and enjoyable winter school holiday.

Josh O’Neill

Senior Drama Production 2026

Ahoy Fortians!

Our Senior Drama Production of Treasure Island will be setting sail this year!

What to expect?

Adventure, drama, laughter, and lots of pirate jokes with a touch of Fort Street fun!

Who came up with this?

All jokes, script material, lighting, set designs and costumes are entirely the product of Fort Street students! Accompanied by a student band. Based on the novel by Robert Louis Stevenson.

When and where will it be?

The production will be in the Hall at 6:30pm, Thursday August 20 and Friday August 21. Don’t ye be tardy, or ye’ll be walkin’ the plank!

Where do I get tickets?

The ticketing link will be appearing on the school’s Facebook page and SRC’s Instagram soon – keep checking for updates!

Arghhhdios, mateys!

From the Year 11 Drama class

Year 10 & 11 German Film Excursion

On Friday the 12th of June the year 10 and 11 German classes went to Palace Cinemas in Leichhardt to watch Das geheime Stockwerk, or its English title The Secret Floor. 

We had an enjoyable time watching the movie with our friends and classmates while eating the snacks that we brought. Consuming media from another country in another language is an informative experience, it shows you what life is like and shows how language is used in everyday speech instead of in a textbook.

This film was interesting because of its portrayal of 1930s Germany and the rising tensions between the supporters of the Nazi party and Jewish people. The Secret Floor was a fun watch in its illustration of childhood friendship but also meaningful in how it showed the characters working through their differences and finding out about the atrocities of WW2. These topics are important to learn about in depth for everyone, but especially as students of German who may visit these places and see the impacts firsthand.

– Oliver Khong, Year 10

House Relics Backstory Competition

Year 8 & 9 German Film Festival

The German Film Festival was a wonderful experience that encouraged both Year 8 & 9 classes to apply their knowledge of the German language and culture to watching and understanding to a film. The movie we went to see was  “Die Schule der Magischen Tiere #4”, which was about a girl who moved schools for only a month and found kinship and connection with her new classmates. It was full of songs, tension and humour amongst the characters. It was engaging to discover how both similar and different the German film was compared to the typical American/British films most people generally enjoy. Overall, the German Film Festival was a entertaining way to celebrate the German Language Week with our classes.

Bella Vo Year 8

NAIDOC WEEK: Artists Statement

I chose to feature a Great White Shark in my artwork as the shark is my totem. The thought process for the snake came about when I reflected on this year’s theme for NAIDOC, which is 50 Years of Deadly. It led me to thinking about Australia 50,000 years ago and the people and animals that were there at that time. Wanambi, a snake that inspired the Dreaming Story of the rainbow serpent was there then, along with many other extreme animals. Despite this, we still managed to persevere and survive. For me, celebrating NAIDOC this year and its theme 50 Years of Deadly, means acknowledging that Aboriginal people have managed to endure and thrive for over 50,000 despite all the challenges.

The process for creating the artwork was that I first drew shape of snake with pencil, before promptly adding the patterns. Then I drew the shark. Once I was done with the outlines and patterns of the drawing, I could transfer that to the lino. I started off by carving out the shape of the snake, then carving out the shapes and patterns, particularly on the bottom of the shark, to create countershading.

As an aside, because the medium of linocut printing sees the image inverted, where I had planned to show my initials ‘EW’, has become ‘WE’, which seems pertinent for a celebration of NAIDOC.

Eddy Waddington, Biripi. 

Debating Update

Debating day – Friday 12th June

by Lachlan Latimer (Year 7)

On Friday 12th, the year 7 debating team had a fierce matchup against Canterbury girls. The topic for the debate was ‘Schools should prioritise teaching Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander languages over global languages.’

The team of four that participated in the debate were:

● 1st Speaker: Bon bon Lai

● 2nd Speaker: Sophie Kozlina

● 3rd Speaker: Jaydon Liu

● 4th Speaker: Taran Shekar

The debate was very close with both teams contributing insightful and nuanced arguments, however in the end Canterbury girls ended up with the win. The adjudicator congratulated both teams for an outstanding performance with comprehensive and well-rounded arguments. We would also like to congratulate the team for their wonderful achievement, and considering this was the first debate in the year, they did spectacularly well. We wish them all the best for their next debate!

Only a short time afterwards, the year 8 team had their clash which was also against Canterbury girls. The topic this time around was ‘That we should ban group assignments’ and some interesting and creative arguments were put forward to the adjudicator.

The team of three that participated in the debate were:

● 1st Speaker: Billy Hunter

● 2nd Speaker: Yvette Mason-Wong

● 3rd Speaker: Vihaan Prasobh

This debate was also a nail-biter with both teams very close together which made it very difficult to determine a winner. However, in the end …. won the debate and we would like to give them our utmost congratulations.

Overall, we had a massive day of debating with some interesting ideas to ponder on in the future taken away. We would like to thank both of the teams, for their creative talents; the adjudicators, for their time taken to listen to our debates; Canterbury girls, for welcoming us to debate against them and last but not least Mr Reveleigh for supervising the debates.

The debating teams will continue to compete in the Premier’s Debating Challenge for the rest of the year and we would like to wish both teams all the best.

Debating day – Thursday 18th June

by Kiyasha Chakraborty (Year 10), Sasha Anandh (Year 8) and Anjana Sanjeevan (Year 7)

Today’s first debate against Canterbury Boys was engaging and on the topic of sport. Fort Street’s Year 8 debating team was the negative speaker team, and while they lost, they had some great fun and enjoyment.

The first speaker was Yvette Mason – Wong, the second speaker, Joanna Phan, the third speaker, Jayden Wang and the fourth speaker was Billy Hunter. Their counter model was about how there were medical teams onsite to help with injuries, rules to block fatal blows, and changing the viewing times to 9:30 pm to 12 am.

We wish Year 8 all the best for their future debates!

Then, in the second debate, Fort Street’s Year Seven Debating team faced off against Canterbury Boys in an interesting debate, they argued against the topic ‘ that all that school swimming lessons should be compulsory for all year 7 and 8 students.’

Fort Street was on the negative team and provided compelling arguments regarding students prioritisation of extracurriculars, the loss of class time and the practicality of the affirmative argument to which Canterbury boys counterargued with the benefits of swimming lessons.

Fort Street successfully took the win with their compelling arguments, the adjudicator presented Fort Street’s case as strong and competitive. Both the teams were extremely well prepared and the debate was thoroughly engaging.

Congratulations to the Fort Street Year 7 Debating team!

Pickleball Win

Throughout semester 1, we have been playing the wonderful sport of pickleball during our weekly Tuesday afternoon classes at school. From the beginning of the term, we learned the basic rules, techniques, and strategies of the game, while continually improving our skills through practice and match play.

One of the most enjoyable aspects of pickleball was the opportunity to connect with others. Playing doubles and participating in class activities encouraged teamwork, communication, and sportsmanship. Each week, we worked with different classmates, allowing us to build new friendships and strengthen existing ones. The supportive and friendly environment made every lesson both enjoyable and rewarding.

A major highlight of the semester was the pickleball tournament. The competition was exciting, with many close matches that tested our skills and determination. After working hard throughout the term, Haorui (Year 9) and I were proud to win the tournament. It was a great achievement and reflected the progress we had made over the semester.

Overall, pickleball is an excellent experience that combined physical activity, teamwork, and fun. It helped us develop new skills, build meaningful connections, and grow our appreciation for sport. The lessons and memories from this semester will stay with us long after the final game.

eSafety Commissioner 

Book Talk

Diverse reading allows you to broaden your knowledge and understanding. Exploring genres is one way to read widely, but another is format. You may not think a graphic novel is an informative or educational book. However, there are many benefits to reading graphic novels.

Graphic novels are not just pictures on a page. When you read one, you are activating your visual literacy skills. Think about reading a book. You know to read from left to right, line by line, following along from one page to the next. A graphic novel requires you to actively engage with the layout of the text and images to follow the flow of the story. Some graphic novels keep the same format and are easy to read, others require more thought as the flow of information changes with each page. It is important to read, analyze and interpret images (this is visual literacy) in order to engage with advertisements, infographics, social media, and a plethora of other visuals we might encounter in daily life.

Graphic novels can help us understand complex issues and themes. They aren’t just fun pictures or quick reads. If you are feeling overwhelmed or intimidated by classic novels or a complex theme, try reading the graphic novel version. This can be a gentle way to engage instead of reading a thick or dense book. They can also support and enhance your understanding of complex topics.

Graphic novels are invaluable to education. They utilise and teach visual literacy skills, motivate reluctant readers to explore complex themes, and deepen your understanding. 

Check out the selection available at the library!

Macbeth, The Tempest, Romeo and Juliet, King Lear, The Merchant of Venice, and more Shakespeare classics

Cannon

By Lee Lai 

Cartoonist Lee Lai interweaves friendship, vulnerability and responsibility in her story about two queer second-generation Chinese friends. Cannon won the Stella Award in 2026, the first graphic novel to do so. 

llegal

By Eoin Colfer, Andrew Donkin ; art by Giovanni Rigano ; lettering by Chris Dickey.

Illegal follows the story of Ebo, trying to make his way to Europe and reunite with his sister. A fictional tale based on real life experiences, Illegal evokes powerful and poignant emotions of resilience, hope and desperation.

The Great Gatsby

By Nicki Greenberg

An artistic take on a classic, Nicki Greenburg shares her vision of The Great Gatsby. Greenburg’s version is formatted like a photo album, with each panel a ‘snapshot’ of the scene unfolding. 

Sophie’s world : a graphic novel about the history of philosophy. Vol 1, From Socrates to Galileo

Written by Vincent Zabus ; art by Nicoby ; translated by Edward Gauvin.

A visual presentation of the history of philosophy, Sophie’s World is an accessible and engaging way to delve into key philosophers. 

New in the library

We are encouraging the diversity of reading through a new reading challenge in the library. Below is an example of the reading challenge that students can now pick up from the library front desk. Mark off each challenge as you go, flip the card over to write a review of your favourite book in the challenge and hand in your completed card to the library for a surprise! They also double up as a bookmark to take with you on your reading journey. Grab one for the school holiday’s and have a go!

Careers Office

IMP Update

Debut performance at the Sydney Opera House

Henry S (Year 10) has composed a piece titled Divertimento Scherzando, which has been selected for performance at the Arts Unit Festival of Instrumental Music at the Sydney Opera House on 22 September. The work will be performed by Symphonia Jubilate’s Flauto Dolce Ensemble, with Henry conducting.

Below is a picture of Henry conducting the premiere performance of the piece at the recent Symphonia Jubilate concert.

Huge congratulations to Henry! We look forward to celebrating your conducting and composing debut at the Sydney Opera House in September.

A truly memorable IMP Winter Concert

Despite a rainy start to the day, the IMP 2026 Winter Concert on Friday 26 June was a sensational evening of music-making. The Recorder Ensemble, Big Band and Jazz Ensemble, together with the Junior and Senior Percussion groups, provided outstanding entertainment during the dinner session, while parent volunteers served up a range of winter-warming fare, including nachos, pumpkin soup, sausages and delicious desserts.

The concert’s first half featured spirited performances from Senior Percussion, Wind Orchestra, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble and Chamber Choir, before a special farewell to the largest Year 12 IMP cohort in the program’s history. The second half showcased Vocal Ensemble, Jazz Orchestra and Training Band, before the orchestras brought the evening to a memorable close. Philharmonic Orchestra delivered a powerful performance of the fourth movement of Brahms’ Symphony No. 1, while Symphony Orchestra tackled Prokofiev’s epic Montagues and Capulets from the Romeo and Juliet ballet. The evening concluded with a poignant performance of Farewell by the Fort Street Symphony Orchestra. Composed by Matthew Y (Year 12) and conducted by Kai H (Year 12), the work provided a fitting conclusion to the concert.

Fort Street Chamber Choir joins Harmoni Chamber Choir for a performance of Gjeilo’s Dreamweaver

The Fort Street Chamber Choir joined the Harmoni Chamber Choir on Saturday June 20 at Hunter Baillie Church Annandale, under the baton of Alex Pringle, for an unforgettably beautiful concert which included Ola Gjeilo’s Dreamweaver – an epic musical adventure based on the medieval Norwegian folk poem Draumkvedet. Ticket sales directly supported the Harmoni Youth Scholarship, an initiative which supports talented singers after leaving school.

ConStruct Music Composition Workshops – applications closing soon!

Applications are now open for the 2026 ConStruct Music Composition Workshops. The workshops are a statewide opportunity for Year 10, 11 and 12 music students from NSW public schools with a demonstrated interest in composition or those currently engaged in the composition process. Delivered through a hybrid model of virtual and in-person learning, the workshops provide opportunities for students to develop their composition skills, explore creative approaches to composing, and connect with other young musicians from across the state.

Led by experienced teachers and composers, participants deepen their understanding of the concepts of music through practical composition activities, analysis of repertoire, and discussions of compositional techniques. Students receive feedback on works in progress and collaborate with peers from a range of schools and musical backgrounds.

In 2026, students will work with composer-in-residence Oliver John Cameron as part of the Penrith and virtual workshop program.

Date: Thursday 23 July 2026 (Term 3 Week 1)

Cost: $20 per student
For more information: https://artsunit.nsw.edu.au/local-arts-program/construct-music-composition-workshops

P&C

P&C MEETING Updates

Wednesday 11^th June 2026

Student Representative Council Report  – William Short & Myra Santiwong

SRC continue to work on Fort Fest, updates include

• Banner Project progressing, painting and installation planned within this term
• SRC member are to volunteer – minimum one hour
• Promotion across year groups – encouraging broader engagement

Future Leaders Conference held on 22^nd May with success, it was attended by 50 NSW schools.

Year 10 SRC members facilitated leadership workshops for visiting students, with diverse topics discussed ranging from leadership and mental health.

Secretary’s Report and Previous Minutes – Lucy Liang

The Secretary confirmed apologies, no conflicts of interest, and the acceptance of previous minutes.

Principal’s Report Highlights

Relieving Principal Josh O’Neill Praised SRC and staff for conference success and noted ongoing excursions and co-curricular activities (e.g., Year 8 Medieval Day)

Acknowledgement given to staff who supported the Future Leader Conference

Treasurer’s Report – Prabhu Sivabalan:

• Strong financial position: Uniform Shop, IMP, P&C and Term Deposits all showing healthy balances.
• One term deposit is due for renewal and will be reviewed within the renewal period

Instrumental Music Program (IMP) Report – Tania Koit and Matthew Manchester:

• Recent concert at Sydney Opera House; strong student participation.
• Upcoming events: Harmony Chamber Choir (20 June), IMP Winter Concert (26 June).
• Planning for 2028 International Music Tour (pending approval and funding):
• Need for dedicated tour coordinator due to increased compliance requirements.

• Auditions and leadership position selections for next year’s ensembles will commence following Year 12 students’ retirement from the program.

General Business:

• Fort Fest – Elizabeth Kenyon

Planning underway; $2,000 in raffle prizes secured which is great news and thanks for the generous donors and handwork from committee members; merchandise and food stalls in progress; more volunteers needed – warm welcome to all parents!

• Year 12 Graduation:

Proposal to enhance event with refreshments, music, and photos.

• Outdoor Fairy Lights:

Funding approved for installation to enhance school events. The original cost is not sufficient to meet the Department of Education safety and compliance requirement and accordingly adjusted, it is also a very worthy investments including IMP Concerts, Fort Fest and Open days.

• STEM Racing Team – Mr Sherwin

Funding approved for material costs.

• School Hall Modernisation – Lucy Liang

Discussion on potential upgrades (flooring, lighting, honour boards); further consultation planned.

• Library Mural Project – Mr Sherwin

A proposal from Juliette and Vivienne for a student-centred mural project near the library entrance. A quote of had been obtained, general support given by committee members with matter deferred when more details can be presented.

• Banking Administration – Caroline Aow

Alex Ding to be added as bank account admin.

• Volunteer Requirements – Emma Pearce

Outlined compliance for volunteers at events (differing requirements for in/out of school hours).

For out-of-hours events such as Fort Fest, volunteers only require inclusion on a volunteer list.

For activities conducted during school hours such as Uniform Shops and Second-hand uniform stall, volunteers must provide their full name and date of birth.

The committee acknowledged the need to formalise these procedures for future volunteers.

• Student Safety – Sivvy Xu

Multiple theft incidents reported; school response included communication, reminders, and police liaison.

CCTV discussed but limited in effectiveness; emphasis on student responsibility and prompt reporting.

• Acknowledgement of Teacher Activities:

Appreciation extended to Mr O’Neill and Mr Sherwin for staying throughout the meeting, and detailed response to questions.

• Membership Administration:

Quorum for motions now 10 financial members due to increased membership.

Next Meeting

• Scheduled for 12^th August Wednesday, onsite and online.

Fort Fest 2026

Fort Fest 2026 needs you!

As you all know, Fort Fest is one of the highlights of our school calendar, bringing together students, families and the wider community for a day of fun, connection and fundraising.

While the event is still some time away in term 3, planning is well underway, and we’re calling on our amazing school community to help make Fort Fest 2026 the best one yet!

Volunteers needed

As an event powered entirely by volunteers, we have a number of important roles to fill. 

• Bubble soccer coordinator – manage one of the star attractions of Fort Fest and coordinate logistics, stall volunteers and ensure the activity runs smoothly on the day.

• BBQ star – love a good sausage sizzle? The BBQ star will be responsible for coordinating the evening’s BBQ operations. 

• Second stage coordinator – Help bring entertainment to life by coordinating performances, schedules and logistics for the second stage (the main stage will feature IMP performances, while the second stage will provide a platform to showcase a variety of talent and creativity from our school and the local community).

Call for donations

We are still looking for donations to help stock our stall and create exciting fundraising opportunities.

• • Raffle and auction prizes – gift vouchers, experiences, products, services or unique items that would make great prizes

• Stock now for term 3

• • Books – pre-loved books in good condition
  • Board games – complete sets ready for a new home
  • Plants – plants, seedlings, herbs or garden favourites

To volunteer, donate or find out how you can get involved, email events@fortstreetpandc.org 

Bid for beautiful portraits to support Fort Fest 2026

Milk and Honey Photography have generously donated two photography portrait packages valued at $400 each to help raise funds for Fort Fest 2026.

This is a wonderful opportunity to capture treasured memories while supporting one of our school’s biggest community events!

What’s included

Milk & Honey Photography Package, total value: $400

• 1 x family portrait photography session
• $300 credit towards prints or products from the studio

(In the event of duplicate bids, the first bid received will win).

How to bid

Simply email your highest offer to events@fortstreetpandc.org by midnight, Friday 3 July.

About Milk & Honey Photography

Milk & Honey Photography is a locally owned business situated in Leichhardt owned by husband and wife team, Anni and Matthew. They’ve been happily photographing Inner-West families for over 25 years. Their style of photography is fun and natural with heart and soul.

Find out more: https://milkandhoney.com.au/portraits/ 

The Fort Fest Committee would like to extend a huge thank you to Milk & Honey Photography for their generous support of our school community.