GD Championships – Sunday 26 November

The GD Champs is a bike race that commemorates George Dummer, a talented mountain biker, former Oxley student and all-round local legend from the Southern Highlands, who tragically passed away in 2020, aged 14.

The 2023 GD Champs are coming up on Sunday 26 November at Welby.

To find out more about the event:

If you’re a keen mountain biker and would like to enter:

If there are any parents or volunteers who would to help with the event or BBQ on the day, please contact meaghan.stanton@oxley.nsw.edu.au

Outback

This long-awaited expedition was a unique opportunity to explore the rugged beauty of the Australian Outback and create memories that will last a lifetime. 14 days, 80 hours of driving, 8 teachers and 88 students… what could go wrong?

Our journey began at Oxley where we gathered before setting off for the remote outback. Excitement and anticipation filled the air as we boarded the Devious Destroyer and the Road Runner… our buses for the trip.

Our first stop was Billabourie, where we set up camp for the night and the traditional hair shenanigans began. Bleach, pink hair dye, and some… questionable haircuts followed soon after. Then began our journey across the outback; little did we know what we were in for. We travelled through White Cliffs where we partook in a tour of a shearing shed at Glen Hope, then ventured to Coober Pedy, where we explored their underground living conditions. Our journey continued to Kings Canyon, where we were awed by the dramatic sandstone formations and their hidden crevices.

Next, we ventured to Uluru, where we witnessed the beauty of the iconic red rock. With the scorching heat beaming down upon us, we hiked around its base, gaining an appreciation for the spiritual significance it holds.

As our 14 days in the Outback drew to a close, a profound sense of gratitude washed over the group. Not only were we glad to be home to our beds and our families, but we had bonded as a year, made lasting memories and gained a new appreciation for the vast and diverse land that is Australia. Outback was an incredible experience, one that we will carry with us for years to come.

Issy H, Year 12

Round Square International Conference, Kenya

Round Square stands as a vibrant network of 245 schools across 50 countries, promoting global competence, character development, and confidence in students. It’s more than just a collective of educational institutions; it’s a conduit for experiences that transcend boundaries and cultures, fostering a deep-rooted understanding of the world we live in. 

At the heart of Round Square lie the six shared values known as IDEALS: internationalism, democracy, adventure, environmentalism, leadership, and service. These principles are not merely ideals to be pursued but are actively integrated into the fabric of participating schools. They shape the educational experience, as exemplified by programs like the Duke of Edinburgh, service-learning initiatives, and the leadership structures within schools. However, the potential for growth within these ideals remains, promising further enrichment for both students and the wider community. 

An insightful glimpse into the power of Round Square came through a remarkable journey to the Round Square International Conference in Kenya, with stopovers in Dubai and Singapore. This conference served as a gathering point for schools and students from diverse backgrounds and cultures, united by a shared commitment to these core values. It was a platform to put the IDEALS into action, offering days dedicated to each principle. 

The experiences shared from this expedition were nothing short of transformative. Engaging in discussions on democracy, participating in service projects at local schools, and witnessing cultural exchanges were only a few highlights. The immersion in the beauty of the Kenyan landscape during a safari, embracing the values of adventure and environmentalism, left a lasting impact on all involved. 

What sets Round Square apart is its holistic approach, amalgamating the essence of existing educational practices within member schools and elevating them to a global platform. The conferences aren’t just gatherings; they are gateways to an interconnected world, fostering friendships, understanding, and action across borders. They provide a firsthand experience of the world’s disparities and achievements, fostering a deeper appreciation for the opportunities present within local and global communities. 

The ripple effects of Round Square membership extend far beyond the conference rooms. They offer tangible possibilities for international exchanges, cultural immersion, and the opportunity to make a real, meaningful impact through service projects and environmental initiatives. Moreover, Round Square is a catalyst for personal growth, instilling crucial life skills, a sense of responsibility, and leadership qualities in students. 

The invaluable aspect of Round Square is the chance to create lasting connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds, share ideas, and develop a profound understanding of varied cultures and perspectives. This kind of exposure and engagement extend far beyond the boundaries of any one school or region, broadening horizons and nurturing a generation of globally aware and responsible citizens. 

Round Square isn’t just an organisation; it’s a conduit for a new kind of educational experience—one that’s globally conscious, culturally aware, and committed to shaping future leaders capable of understanding and tackling the challenges of an interconnected world.  

Sophia H, Sami B, Will B & Hamish S, Year 12

Year 10 – Nepal

Filled with excitement for the journey ahead, the hour-long bus ride to Sydney Airport, though full of 50 teenagers who had woken up at 4:30 am, was very amusing. Arriving at the airport made the trip finally start to feel real. After walking around the airport, we boarded the plane to set off our journey to Singapore. Eight hours later, we found ourselves in Singapore with little time to waste until our next flight. During this five and a half hour flight, most of us quickly fell asleep. Finally, we arrived in Kathmandu, Nepal!

Though getting through customs was an ordeal, it was all worth it once we made it outside and were greeted by the lovely World Horizons team. After a short bus ride to our hotel, we were greeted with khatas and fresh juice. The next day we were eager to explore, so we walked to a local shopping area which stood nearby the second largest stupa in the world. Here we learnt more about Nepali culture and had the chance to do some shopping. For the rest of the day, we relaxed at the hotel until our Welcome Dinner at the hotel, where we also celebrated Eve’s birthday.

The next day we were ready to head to our second destination. After seven hours of a long and bumpy bus ride, we finally made it to our camp at the lovely village of Jhibe Jhibe; this is where the real journey began. That night we were all overjoyed with excitement, eager to go to the schools in the morning. Going into the schools was a unique experience. The children were all so happy and kind and we got to see their culture and how they learnt. Whilst the kids weren’t fluent in English, we still made connections through games, dance, and song; it will forever be something none of us will ever forget.

After teaching at different schools for four days, each group set off on an amazing but challenging trek. We didn’t know what we were in for, but the hiking trails led by the legendary Llama were where we saw the true beauty of Nepal. We got the amazing opportunity to catch a glimpse of Shisapangma, which is a remarkable 8000-metre peak that is situated entirely within the borders of Tibet. Whilst the trek was very demanding, the views and experience was so worth it. The simplicity of life in remote villages, the genuine hospitality of the locals, and the breathtaking views of the mountains during our trek were life-altering experiences and are what made our trip so amazing.

We were left with so many amazing memories and connections. This trip really made us see our lives through an entirely different perspective and we are all so grateful for the opportunity and experience that were given. Heading back to Kathmandu, we were so sad to be leaving the community at Jhibe Jhibe but we were lucky enough to be given a beautiful Goodbye ceremony where many locals showed more of their culture and wished us well for the travels home. Back in Kathmandu we took our last chance to see the sights, learning how to shop like a local thanks to our Nepali friends Divya and Sangay. Once we reached the hotel, we were all so grateful to finally have a bed, hot shower, and a good night’s rest. Unfortunately, that also meant it was time to go home. After a good 15 hours of travel, we arrived in Sydney to be greeted by friends and family.  

Nepal was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity. We have all made connections with people from the other side of the globe, we have gained perspective from people who are not as fortunate as us and this is something we will never forget. We are all so incredibly grateful to the amazing World Horizons group who took such great care of all of us and to the Oxley teachers who experienced this amazing adventure with us – Mrs Ritchie, Ms Whiteley, Mr Marnoch, Mr Dibdin, and Mr Ayling. If you are given the opportunity to go to Nepal, do not hesitate to take it.

Ava R & Juliette J, Year 10  

Year 10 – Whitsundays

Year 9 – Rites of Passage

Year 8 – Morton National Park

Year 7 – Killalea Regional Park

Year 6 – Mount Keira Scout Camp

Year 5 – Chowder Bay

Year 4 – Tallong

Year 3 – South Coast

K-2 – Australian Wildlife Sanctuary

What to play: Skyrim

It is the 201st year of the Fourth Era… and the province of Skyrim is in chaos.

High King Torygg has been murdered by the Jarl of Winterhold, Ulfric Stormcloak, setting in motion a civil war between the empire of Tamriel and Ulric’s rebels, the Stormcloaks.

But the civil war is the least of the old kingdom’s problems, for rumours have spread across the land that dragons have returned, and the prophesised revenge of the worldeater Alduin is close.

There is one, however, who can stop the oncoming plight of the realm. A person that can steal and harness the power of dragons. Legend describes them to be the ultimate dragon slayer, and the foretold saviour of the realm.

The mages of the world call them the ‘Thu’um.’

The dragons call them ‘Dovahkiin.’

But the people of Skyrim call them…

Dragonborn.

Skyrim is probably one the most famous fantasy sandbox games ever made. A game so old that it was actually made to be fun! Want to cast a lightning storm spell and not suffer any consequences? Become the monster hunter of your dreams? Enter different planes of existence and get gifts from literal gods??? SIGN ME UP!

The cold mountains of Skyrim host many challenges and rewards fit for any hero, or sunderer of worlds, to reap. And what use is a magic war-torn realm without a menagerie of characters to choose from, such as the reptilian Argonians, the high Thalmor and the native Nords? Each race has its own unique skill set, including magic enhancement, heightened battle damage and water breathing. Additionally, in Skyrim you are not alone. Skyrim is full of characters, each with their own stories vital to the growth of your legend.

This may sound all lovely, but remember the world is full of monsters. From bloodthirsty Frost trolls to unflinching Dwemer constructs. Thankfully, there is refugee from these horrors, in the form of the nine holds of Skyrim. Each hold is unique, from the Capital of Solitude with its walls towering high, the Mage School of Winterhold shunned by outsiders, to the Dwarven stronghold of Morthal. Though at war with each other, they are generally places of safety and all of them have taverns!

The world is your oyster! Just try not to destroy it along the way.

Thomas C, Year 10

What to read: The Harry Potter Wizarding Almanac

If you are a Harry Potter fan, then you will love this brand-new release from Bloomsbury Publishing. The Harry Potter Wizarding Almanac is the only official companion to J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter novels – and it is full of 208 pages of maps, illustrations, lists, facts, and more! This book takes you on a journey from the very first novel – Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – all the way to Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows. You can explore and get lost in the wizarding world though the iconic locations, magical moments and find facts that will flourish your imagination as a reader. 

This magical companion is fully illustrated in full colour by seven artists: Peter Goes, Louise Lockhart, Weitong Mai, Levi Pinfold, Pham Quang Puc, and Tomislav Tomic. Their detail and designs will astonish you – even to the most dedicated Harry Potter fans and new readers. This book has a way of inspiring a whole new generation of readers to read the Harry Potter series. His book will sweep them away to the world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. This book is something to treasure forever. 

As Christmas is just around the corner, The Harry Potter Wizarding Almanac is a great gift for introducing someone to the Harry Potter world, a bookworm, or even yourself! Because what is better than reading a new book, flicking the pages eagerly for hours, and enjoying the world of literature? I would rate this book 10 out of 10! 

Ruby C, Year 7

What to watch: Gran Turismo

Action. Suspense. Drama. Based on the true story of Jann Mardenborough, ‘Gran Turismo’ directed by Neil Blomkamp has been ranked one of the best movies in 2023 so far. ‘Gran Turismo’ creates a magnificent plot loosely based off reality.

In this movie, Jann is a passionate gamer who spends his days playing Gran Turismo, a race car simulator game. In Tokyo, the marketing manager of Nissan, creates an advertising campaign together with the creators of Gran Turismo and launches a competition that invites gamers to try their luck in racing real cars. The winner is then selected to enter the competitive world of race car driving and compete in Formula 1 Races worldwide for Nissan in the aim of winning.

This movie was shown to Year 9 on Rites of Passage whilst in Canberra. When watching it, I was at many times literally on the edge of my seat waiting and watching to see what happened next. This movie’s plot and ideas were strategically designed and cleverly explored themes of segregation and racism to create a more meaningful viewing experience. The soundtrack was exceptional and added to the experience of watching this film.

At the end of the movie, the whole cinema started to clap, showing how much people appreciated this story. It was a captivating cinematic experience that shows a true underdog story and therefore I highly recommended this movie.

Lucy A, Year 9

The rights of a tree

On 29 October the world mourned when the famous Sycamore Gap tree was felled at a UNESCO World Heritage site in the UK. This tree was not only famous to the local people in Northumberland but worldwide. This tree held a special place in many people’s hearts, so it was a devastating shock when it was revealed that it was a deliberate act of vandalism.

Why did the felling of this tree cause so much grief? The tree was planted in the late 1800s by the last landowner before the National Trust took it over. Not only was the tree old, it had cultural value. Much photographed, it became symbolic of Hadrian’s wall and its significance. It also became a cultural icon, appearing in the 1991 movie Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves and becoming known as the Robin Hood Tree. Trees are a living link between the past, present and future and the senseless loss of a tree is destabilising. The National Trust’s site’s General Manager Andrew Poad said “We’ve been amazed and inspired by the offers of help and good wishes we’ve received from here in Northumberland, around the UK, and even from overseas. It’s clear that this tree captured the imaginations of so many people who visited, and that it held a special – and often poignant – place in many people’s hearts.”

Australians nationwide gave their condolences. Yet we have one of the highest land clearance rates in the world. On a local level, many Australians think nothing of chopping down trees in their own backyard. We have high extinction rates, yet no one really cares about habitat destruction, especially in the urban areas. We should use significant trees such as the Pin Oak at Oxley as an example of why trees are so important. The Pin Oak is so significant to the Oxley community that even this magazine is named after it. It is central to our school life. When students come from other schools for sport on the weekend, you’ll often find them in awe of the tree. Each year on Foundation Day, the Year 12 students plant a tree to celebrate their growth and development while at Oxley.

Last year, at an over 55s retirement village in Bowral, an 80-year-old Bhutanese pine tree was needlessly felled. The tree was the last in a magnificent avenue leading up to the old Annesley School for Girls. The reason for its felling was a little known rule in the Wingecarribee Council DCP allowing any tree regardless of age, heritage value or health to be removed without approval if it is within 3 metres of the foundations of a house or pool, regardless of what was there first. Each council has different rules; if the same tree was in Sydney or most other areas of NSW it would not have been allowed to be removed.

Soon there will be houses as far as the eye can see when the farmland from Burradoo to Moss Vale gets built on going all the way to the racecourse. Is it really in the Aussie spirit to look for loopholes to get rid of trees?

The landscape of the Wingecarribee was much admired by the early explorers. Standing on Mount Gingingullen in 1798, John Price described the view across some large meadows as being one of the finest in the world. In 1820, Governor Macquarie wrote that the land near Sutton Forest was magnificent, resembling a fine extensive pleasure ground in England. He only wished his family were out here to appreciate this sweet spot with him.

In 1926 Mayor HM Oxley wrote of Bowral:

Everywhere natural shade trees have been left; for, in former years, some kindred spirits must have had a secret understanding to leave unmolested wooded areas. That spirit has become infectious, until to-day it is sacrilege to uproot a tree, and all natural growth is highly prized and jealously guarded.

We who call Australia home should start realising that you don’t have to search far and wide to find a beautiful tree, it might just be waiting in your garden, one of your local parks, or even at the school you go to, ready for you to understand its value to our country. So, let’s say be inspired by the Pin Oak. Let’s realise that we can make connections with things great and small in life, whether enjoying the scent of a flower or looking up at a monumental tree.

Lucy C, Year 8

The Style Section: Spring

This month we have seen a range of new designs displayed in beautiful settings – Spring and resort wear paraded in countries like Mexico, China, and France.

This October, Valentino dazzled Paris with an unapologetically feminine Spring collection featuring neutral tones – a stark divergence from last Spring’s collection where Valentino made it clear hot pink was the new ‘it’ colour. Piccioli included embroidery that wasn’t added as an accessory but was structured and became the fabric itself, making it his most ‘exposed’ collection to date. He captured Valentino’s past ideas and modernised them, creating the same elegant feel past Valentino collections exhibited. Reminders of springtime were incorporated into embroidery with flowers spotted in 19 out of the 65 designs, as well as birds and sea animals.

Now for Australia’s very own Zimmermann Spring 2024 collection featuring delicate springtime designs containing the new October essential of flowers. All of the designs were very light and seemed fitting for the hot temperatures that are expected particularly in Australia towards the end of the year. The 3D application of these flowers was essential in Nicky Zimmermann’s designs as she said, “we want it to feel that the girls are walking, and the flowers are just around them”.  The interesting layering of lace and sheer voile added ample texture and depth to the mostly simple designs (Look 27/49). Leading the road for all Australian designers, Zimmermann’s new collection is a true notable.

Vivienne Westwood showed their upcoming spring designs in London in late October. I believe Vivienne Westwood is one of the most easily recognisable brands with their tactile fabrics, interesting textile combinations, and colourful collaborations. This season, Vivienne Westwood remained on brand displaying 53 colourful punk looks, always finding a way to integrate the late Westwood’s designs into modern collections. This collection disrupted gender norms, featuring men dressed in dresses and tights, while females wore suit jackets and ties. The look-book was shot at Shakespeare’s Globe, an extended nod to the past with modern designs.

In other news, Kim Kardashian’s brand ‘Skims’ has launched a men’s collection, partnering with athletes like Neymar Jr, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, and Nick Bosa. The collection dropped on October 26.

Another wonderful month of fashion awaits; I cannot wait to explore it in the next article!

Juliette J, Year 10

Celeb Scoop: Celebrity Divorce-ageddon

Over the last year, we have had an onslaught of celebrity breakups, divorce, and drama, and frankly, it’s getting hard to keep up. So, in classic scoop fashion, here’s the lowdown on all the key drama from this year so far, so you can catch up.

1. Shakira & Gerard Piqué – June 4, 2022

After writing and performing the official theme song for the 2010 World Cup, Shakira waka waka, eh, eh-d her way into the heart of Spanish soccer player, Gerard Piqué. In 2013, she told ELLE, “I even had lost my faith for a while… I started to think that there was no God. And suddenly I meet Gerard, and the sun comes out.” While Shakira and Piqué became ever more besotted with each other, the tabloids become engrossed in a Spanish Posh & Becks story, and for 11 years, they marinated in the bliss of their two beautiful children.

In September 2022, a few months after Piqué’s initiation of divorce proceedings, Shakira opened up for the first time about the split. “What’s also real is the disappointment to see something as sacred and as special as I thought was the relationship I had with my kids’ father and see that turned into something vulgarized and cheapened by the media… This is probably the darkest hour of my life.” Among allegations of Piqué’s infidelity, rumours have swirled about the reason for the divorce, and in Shakira’s diss track collab with DJ Bizzarap, she sings “I’m worth two 22-year-olds, you traded a Ferrari for a Twingo; you traded a Rolex for a Casio.”

2. Ariana Grande and Dalton Gomez – June 2023

Ariana Grande confirmed her relationship with real estate agent Dalton Gomez in 2020, in her collab music video with Justin Bieber for “Stuck With U”, and just 7 months later, a since-deleted post on Ariana’s Instagram announced their engagement (complete with 5-6 carat asymmetrical solitaire diamond ring, and a pearl rumoured to be Ariana’s grandfather’s). On Feb 20, 2023, Dalton and Ariana secretly separated, while Ariana was in London filming the then-unreleased movie Wicked, in which she stars as Glinda. Interestingly enough, Ethan Slater portrays Boq in the film, and it was reported to the Daily Mail that Ariana and Slater were “all over each other” at Michelle Yeoh’s Oscar’s party. Rumours began to formulate, and after photos of Ariana at Wimbledon without her wedding ring on pop up, the tabloids very quickly gathered sources surrounding the relationship. “Ariana and Dalton have been separated for months!” they say. “But Dalton’s wife was completely blindsided!” Ariana’s PR team is going to need to run some heavy-duty interference; this is the messiest celeb breakup in a decade.

3. Taylor swift and Joe Alwyn – April 9, 2023

The pair, who met at the Met Gala in 2016, have been pathologically private about their relationship (as private as can be, Swift having released a “Lover” album dedicated to Joe). Swift and Alwyn often skipped red carpet events, never shared pictures of each other to social media, and deflected questions about their relationship in interviews. However, after the release of the “Midnights” vault track, “You’re Losing Me”, Swifties began to question whether their relationship had run its course. Fans speculated that this line – “I’m the best thing at this party / And I wouldn’t marry me either / A pathological people pleaser / Who only wanted you to see her” – infers that Swift was even turned down in marriage. Entertainment Tonight revealed the split, trusted to be honest due to the historic use of Entertainment Tonight by Taylor’s PR team. Taylor bounced back swiftly with Matt Healy, lead singer of The 1975, however that was over quickly (unsurprising, given Healy’s slightly messy reputation), and her next major tabloid moment was a New York restaurant gossip sesh with close friends Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds. Fast forward a few months, and now Taylor is dating NFL star Travis Kelce, who is very quick to publicly show his adoration for the 33-year-old singer-songwriter.

Anouk H, Year 10

A Message from Mr Scott Bedingfield, Head of College

It has been incredible to see the wonderful opportunities across the College since the last edition of Pin Oak.

It has been particularly special to welcome many new families to the College during their Orientation Days and at the Pin Oak Fair last Saturday. This has been a special time in the life of the College and our community and I have no doubt everyone will make our new members of the community feel especially welcome.

I would like to take a moment to particularly thank the Parents and Friends Association, headed by P&F President Megan Moore, who have given so tirelessly to support the College in its 40^th year. Despite the rain, the Pin Oak Fair was a wonderful day for our community. We do still have a few tickets in our car raffle and I encourage you to share this with your wider networks as the funds raised in this raffle will make a difference to many people in the College.

Our Class of 2023 have concluded their HSC examinations and once again a significant number of our students have received early offers for university courses, which is testament to their hard work and sustained dedication to their studies. We look forward to sharing in their successes in the future.

Over the break, I had the wonderful opportunity to join our Year 11 students on their Outback adventure and then travel to Kenya with four students to the Round Square International Conference. This term has also seen our OLE programs in full swing. I have been delighted to hear how our students took the Oxley spirit on camps, into the city, out to the Outback and overseas where they developed their resilience and learned a little more about service. I am so grateful to all our staff who led trips over the last few weeks; their tireless efforts allow our students to thrive and grow as individuals. Our planning for the 2024 slate of activities is well underway – more information is available on our Trip and Adventures information site.

The connections our students made in Kenya with students from across the globe has confirmed the value of joining the Round Square network. Earlier this term, Oxley welcomed Mr Philip Heath (Head of Barker College) and Mr Ben George (Australasia Round Square Director) who spent time with many members of our community, including our Governors, staff, students and parents, to understand more about our Vision and Mission to see if our values are aligned with the Round Square philosophy. I am pleased to say that it was a very affirming visit and they will be shortly taking their recommendation to the Round Square Board. I look forward to sharing more about this with you at Speech Night in a few weeks.

In case you missed it, there were several important matters disclosed in my last message to the Pin Oak community, particularly regarding bell times and traffic. I will write to families again over the Christmas break but in the meantime I do encourage you to read this important information.

Staffing Announcements

In addition to the announcements made in the last edition of Pin Oak, there have been several staffing appointments made over the last few weeks and I am pleased to announce the following positions for the beginning of 2024:

• Ms Dene Patterson – Head of Academic Operations P-12. Ms Patterson is currently Head of Durack House.
• Mr Christophe Gauchat – Head of Co-Curricular P-12. Mr Gauchat’s role is currently 7-12 and in 2024 will transition to P-12.
• Mrs Lee McGuinness – Director of Curriculum 7-12. Mrs McGuinness joins us from Frensham and is currently Head of English.
• Dr Jeremy Hall – Head of Philosophy and Ethics. Dr Hall joins us from Newington College where he is the Co-Director of the Centre of Ethics and Critical Thinking and Head of Philosophy and Religious Studies.
• Mr Joshua Hurkett – Head of Senior School Sport. Mr Nathan Sievert has stepped down from this position from the beginning of 2024.
• Mrs Joanne McVean (Head of Humanities)
• Mr Justin Verco (Head of Durack House)
• Mrs Melissa Sievert (Acting Head of Dobell House) – Mrs Sievert will take on this role as Mr Kieran Staples takes leave.
• Mrs Katrine Pascoe – Head of Drama P-12. Mrs Pascoe will work closely with Mr Andrew Young (Head of Performing Arts P-12) and Mrs Renee Zink (Head of Music P-12)
• Mrs Renee Zink – Head of Music P-12
• Mrs Dani Noonan – Art Teacher P-6 and Gifted and Talented Teacher P-6
• Mrs Melissa Lamrock-George – Gifted and Talented Teacher 7-12. Mrs Lamrock-George will also continue as a Music Teacher
• Miss Georgie Ridehalgh – Junior School Teacher. Miss Ridehalgh is joining us from Knox Grammar School.
• Mr Adam Rothwell – Junior School Teacher. Mr Rothwell is joining us from PLC Sydney.
• Ms Juliet Burnham – Junior School Teacher. Ms Burnham is joining us from Bowral Public School.
• Mrs Cath Taylor – English Teacher. Mrs Taylor is an extremely experienced educator rejoining teaching after working for a not-for-profit organisation focussing on work in Nepal.

An outline of these positions as well as clear instructions on where to direct inquiries pertaining to these areas will be communicated prior to the new academic year in 2024.

I would like to thank the following staff for their service to Oxley as we farewell them at the end of 2023:

• Mrs Emma Calver – Head of Community Relations and Enrolments. Mrs Calver has made the difficult decision to finish her time at Oxley at the end of 2023. We wish her all the best for her future direction, and I have no doubt we will see her around the place in the years to come.
• Mrs Belinda McGregor – Mathematics Teacher. After a wonderful career, including 13 years at Oxley, Mrs McGregor retires at the end of 2023.
• Mr Jonathan Hunt – Junior School Teacher. After 8 years in the Stage 3 classrooms Jonathan will be departing Oxley to be able to focus on this work at University lecturing in Education.
• Mrs Kat Bevis – Junior Art Teacher – Thank you for a wonderful year at Oxley College inspiring our young artists.

Wishing everyone a safe and productive last few weeks of the school year.

Scott Bedingfield, Head of College

Together for Humanity – NSW Youth Summit

Oxley was invited to take part in the NSW Youth Summit which happily coincided with our time in Sydney on Rites of Passage. Nine of us attended including Benjamin B, Jack D, Elsie H, Ella L, Hamish M, Flynn O’B, Jude O, Bronte P and Chloe D.

This event aims to bring the best out of young leaders from across NSW, with 160 students ranging from schools from Broken Hill, the Northern Beaches, and Burradoo. In this summit, each school proposed a a short presentation on a current issue going on in their school. For Oxley, this was our ‘Burradoo Bubble’ and how we can improve diversity in our school through learning about other cultures.  

After presenting the issue to the summit, we split up into groups of schools, hoping to find a solution to our issue and present it to a panel of politicians. Our Oxley team was paired with the two Broken Hill schools, and AIA Strathfield (an Islamic school), in which we concluded for the need for open-mindedness of other cultures in schools around NSW. The panel entirely agreed with our idea, with politicians mentioning the idea of interstate exchanges between rural and urban schools to improve diversity, which we may see in the future.  

This was a fantastic opportunity, filled with plenty of enjoyment, cooperation and a few special appearances from BTN’s Amelia Mosely and Premier Chris Minns having a quick visit. We thank Ms Taylor and Mr Gauchat for allowing for this amazing opportunity, and we hope for Oxley to take part in many more Youth Summits in the future.  

Flynn O’B

To find out more about the Youth Summit:

Pin Oak Fair

Dodgem cars, fairy floss, toffee apples, face painting and baby animals – the Oxley College Pin Oak Fair had it all!

Despite it being a dull and drizzly Highlands day, the Oxley community came out in force to join in all the fun of the Fair on Saturday 4 November.

The Oxley College Pipe Band, resplendent in their new winter uniform, opened the Fair by marching through the College grounds and playing for the crowds as they arrived.

In addition to the 30 plus market stalls that were scattered throughout the grounds of the College, the P&F had many parents running other stalls including High Teas, Second-hand Ladies Clothing, Books, Lollies, the Hungry Ox BBQ and a plant stall. 

Sideshow Alley in the Junior School was great fun, with younger students having a go at Tin Can Alley and Knock ’Em Down, while also getting their faces painted and being entertained by storytellers in the big bell tent.

The Emerge Art Show held a preview on Friday evening, with works by parents Alison Fraser and Kirsten Deakin proving to be popular amongst the attendees. Scott Bedingfield, Head of College, took the opportunity to launch the book celebrating 40 years of Oxley – ‘to think, to dare, to dream’ and thanked writer Amanda Mackevicius for her efforts in producing such a comprehensive publication.

While Pin Oak Fair patrons were enjoying pots of tea and scones up on the Elvo verandah, some very brave members of the Oxley staff were fully immersing themselves in cold water as they kindly volunteered to be ‘victims’ atop the dunk tank. Students lined up, happy to part with $5 for two throws, and eagerly pitched the ball at the target, hoping to hit the bullseye and drop the teacher in the drink!  Thanks to Mr Case, Mr Bevan, Mr Dibdin, Mr Gauchat and Mrs Gauchat for being such great sports.

At midday, the Pooches of Pin Oak parade took place on the red carpet, with local vets and Oxley parents Charlie Carter and Chris Watson kindly offering their expertise to judge this event. Owners led their dressed up pooches down the ‘dog walk’ with many pets finding it challenging to walk in an Oxley shirt, tutu or hockey skirt. A diverse range of canine species was represented in the parade including oodles of poodles, border collies, dachshunds and labradors. Otto the dachshund was declared the winner of the parade, though all the participants received a pack of treats kindly donated by We Know Pets.

The donation of time and effort by Oxley families volunteering on the day contributed to the great community feeling and energy of the Pin Oak Fair. Over 280 parents signed up to volunteer or helped out on the day! Thank you for playing a part in making this event come to life.

Back when planning commenced in 2022, the P&F set out to organise an event that celebrated Oxley’s 40th birthday and enabled reconnection amongst our entire Oxley community.  Thanks to the generosity of local businesses who donated goods and the many parents and staff members who were involved on the day, I think it could be said that we achieved our goal and the Pin Oak Fair 2023 was a great success.

Mrs Megan Moore
President, Parents and Friends Association

2024 Student Leaders

2023-2024 Co-Curricular Captains         

Junior School assembly awards

Term 4 Week 3

Learning Journey
Drake F, Lily B, Sophie H, Lucas D, April S, Issy S, Henry G, Adelina R, Luca R, Grace W-S, Harry A, Sophia B, Max C, William P, Alexander S, Cassidy R.
Oxley Values
Felic C, Hannah C, Sophia B, Cassidy R, Max G, Barclay R, Aurie A, Bailey F, Tilly A, Jemima A, Charlote L, Harrison P, Eliza G, Harper A, Eden M, Maddie C, Harvey G, Anabelle L, Heidi S-H

Term 4 Week 4 Assembly

Learning Journey
Phoebe B, Harry O, Max C, Maeve R, George K, Pippa R, Ailie W, Thomas B, Harry S, Jordan P, Dulcie C,
Oxley Values
Ollie C, Joshua L, Amelia G, Caludia S, Andy C, George R, Willow D, Sienna P, Charlie H,
H, CC G.

Junior School swimming program

Over the past weeks, Junior School students had the opportunity to enhance their swimming proficiency, water awareness and safety skills as part of their PDHPE curriculum. Each year group completed a full day at Bowral Swimming Centre and developed their confidence and skills in swimming strokes, and lifesaving techniques.

Oxley out and about

Well done to Robbie A (Year 5), Eliza A (Year 4), Quinn dH (Year 5), and Cassius B (Year 5) who participated the in the Ride for Cancer Challege.

Congratulations to Fred H (Year 9) who got a bronze at All Schools in the 400m. His PB time of 50.9secs means he qualifies for nationals.

Congratulations to Lucas H (Year 5) who came 5th in the finals of the 100m with a time of 13.95s and 5th in the finals of the 200m with a time of 28.17s at the recent PSSA Athletics meet.

Graduation of the Class of 2023

Navigating the right path

They say orienteers run the country and Rory and Euan Shedden have certainly run over a lot of it during 2023 competing in a range of events. The orienteering year commenced for them in January in Tasmania at the Oceania Championships where Euan collected a silver medal in the under 12s and helped the NSW team win gold in the relay while Rory became Oceania Champion with a gold medal in the under 14 competition.

The pair then returned to NSW and over the winter focused on the state based competitions where they both won the state championships for their age groups after 15 events spread all around the state.

On the back of this success Rory was selected for the NSW squad to compete in the Australian Championships in WA in October. Spending a week living in camp with the rest of the NSW squad and competing in 7 different orienteering events over 9 days was challenging yet rewarding experience. Running against under 16s Rory ran extremely well with the highlight being the relay where he ran the first leg in complex granite and forest terrain and helped NSW to a 2^nd place ensuring NSW retained the trophy for the overall best state!

Euan ran in his U12 age group at the Australian Championships and picked up a gold medal to be crowned Australian Champion and for those who may have seen out training a lot recently he is working hard to try and make the NSW team for 2024 where the Australian Championships are at home for NSW being held in Armidale.

HSC Nominations

We have had a range of students nominated for their HSC Major Projects.

HSC Art: Joe Q has been nominated for ARTEXPRESS.

HSC Design and Technology: Lara F, Leah H, Hannah Z, Madeleine B have been nominated for SHAPE

HSC Music: Spencer L has been nominated for ENCORE

HSC Dance: Milly A has been nominated for CALLBACK

Shortlisted: Bell Shakespeare Film Festival

The Oxley student production ‘Da 3 Witches’ has been shortlisted for the 2023 Bell Shakespeare Film Festival. A huge congratulations to Oscar F, Year 12 and Rory F, Year 10 who were the directors.  Well done to those students who performed in the film: Harry K and Banjo C from Year 10 along with Cameron H and Beam D from Year 12.

Winners will be announced in late November – Good luck!

“To be nominated on a national level for this project on behalf of Oxley College is truly an honour, and I extend my gratitude to not only Ms. Pascoe for encouraging me to partake in the festival, but also the brilliant creative team which worked alongside me, (Rory F, Cameron H, Beam D, Harry K, and Banjo C) and hope that the rest of the College will join us in eagerly awaiting for the final winners to be announced in late November.” Oscar F

Tulip Time Poetry

Congratulations to the following Students who won in their age groups for the Tulip Time Poetry Competition:

• Harry O
• Hannah C
• Gabriela J
• Raphaela A

Please enjoy some poetry from Hannah C from 4A:

Spring

I sigh. It is finally Spring! It is perfect. I am lying on the grass, a breeze and the sun on my back. I love tulip time. Baby birds everywhere and so many flowers. “Woof!” Bluey barks and bounds up to me. I look up from the daisy chain I’m making. Suddenly, I see a tiny, yellow door on a nearby tree…

The door has a little ladder under it. I stare at the door curiously. Will it open? It does! All of a sudden the air around me turns stone cold and a fierce pull comes out of the tiny door. I feel myself shrinking. Taken by surprise, I try to run, only finding the force stronger than before! Bluey starts barking. I grab him just before I’m sucked into the door.

“Where am I?” I wonder aloud. It seems to be a village. The houses are queer with no chimneys, no door handles and empty veggie gardens. There are no trees or plants. I hate it here!

“You’re in Tuliptopia!” says a sad, squeaky voice.

“How can I get back to Earth?” I ask.

“You’ll have to ask Queen Violet! Only she knows.”

It is extremely dark here. I hope that Queen Violet is somewhere brighter.

“I’ll take you to her.” A furry paw takes my hand. “But before you can leave, you’ll have to give us back Spring,” the strange creature says.

“What?” I question.

“The queen will explain.”

The creature takes me to a light room in a big, lilac-coloured house.

“I found a human!” it yells.

I can see it better now. It’s a big, brown bunny with sad eyes. An even bigger white bunny, wearing a crown, comes majestically down the stairs. This bunny looks like a snow ball, round and soft.

“Now we can have our ceremony!” The big bunny cries in delight. “Rose, does the human have a flower on her?”

“Whoops, I forgot to check! Human, do you have a flower?”

“No. Why? What ceremony?” I inquire.

To my astonishment, the queen starts crying. “We need a flower for the ceremony!” She sobs. “We weren’t looking after our plants and flowers, so a magician cursed us. The curse was,

No plant shall grow

Oh no! Oh no!

Until the human comes with a flower from earth

There won’t be growth

Until this oath

Is fulfilled!!”       

“My dog might have a flower,” I suddenly remember that I threaded daisies into Bluey’s collar before I ended up in this strange place. I quickly unthread them and give them to the queen.

The queen places the daisy chain on a table in the centre of the room and starts muttering strange words. Suddenly, there is a bright flash!

We run to the window. Outside, bunnies are hopping around gardens full of trees, flowers and more plants. There are chimneys shaped like tulips and door handles the shape of daisies. It looks amazing! So many bright colours!

Suddenly, everything starts spinning and then Bluey and I are back on Earth in Corbett Gardens. Just after we land, I see the yellow door on the tree disappear, but not before a tiny magician flies out of it in a mini purple caravan!

French Day in the Junior School

All students in the Junior School celebrated French Day on Tuesday 7 November by dressing up in French style for the fashion parade, singing the songs in French that we have been practicing and doing fun French day challenges.

At the start of the day we sang the French national anthem ‘La Marseillaise’. After that we sang our songs in French that we had learnt in the French classroom. Kindergarten to Year 2 sang their bonjour song then rapped to their number song! Then Year 3 to Year 6 performed ‘C’est une belle journee’.

Right after singing our well-practiced French songs, we held the fashion parade! For French Day, every student in the junior school came to school dressed up in French style or as a French historical character. Stripy tops and jumpers were seen everywhere and almost everyone had a beret. But it wasn’t just students who dressed up and joined in, many teachers had dressed up in French clothes and most people at turning circle and The Gateway building would have heard Mr Lindsay playing ‘La Marseillaise’ on his trumpet!

For recess we each were handed a delicious French pastry with an optional strawberry! To finish off French Day, many students joined in with attempting to make an Eiffel Tower out of newspapers and duct tape.

In conclusion, Oxley’s French Day was brilliant and all students enjoyed all of its fun activities and opportunities it provided.

Heidi S-H, Year 4

SES visits Oxley

On Tuesday, the SES (State Emergency Services) came to visit Oxley College.

They talked to Year 5 about how to save someone in floods and showed us all their cool equipment in their truck. They taught us so many things including names of appliances, what to call out to someone drowning and how to hold the rope when pulling someone out of the water. Then we had a go pulling people in from the water with a rope (There was no water, it was just grass) and it was so much fun!

Overall, the visit from SES was very enjoyable and all of year 5 is very grateful for their visit.

Clementine P, Year 5

Vale Matthew Perry

The death that struck us all – “Friends” beloved star Matthew Perry was sadly found dead on Saturday 28 October in his Los Angeles home, aged just 54.

We had either gotten the news notification on our phones or had heard friends and family talk about the devastating news. Some of us had only known him from playing fan-favourite Chandler Bing on the funny TV show ‘Friends’. He brought so much of the laughter and joy on the 90s sitcom. He had also featured in other TV shows like ‘Studio 60 on the Sunset Strip’ as well as the film ‘The Whole Nine Yards.”

Perry initially aspired to a career in tennis, not acting. By the age of 13, he was a top-ranked junior tennis player in Ottawa, Canada. When Perry was 15, he and his father moved to Los Angeles, but, confronted with the steep tennis competition in LA, decided to try his hand at acting. When asked if tennis and acting were similar, Perry said “They’re both very mental games. They’re both very heavy things to be a part of.”

Though Matthew Perry’s fame had risen through ‘Friends’, he achieved so much more throughout his lifetime. He was nominated for 34 acting awards and won six. He also completely changed his Malibu home into a sober living facility called the Perry House. Perry reflected, “when I die, I don’t want ‘Friends’ to be the first thing that’s mentioned… I want helping people to be the first thing that’s mentioned, and I’m going to live the rest of my life proving that.” Though Perry had been to rehab 15 times before getting sober, he had wanted to show people how he could achieve so much more.

Maggie Wheeler, who played Chandler’s girlfriend Janice in Friends, said the joy Perry brought to “so many” in his “too short lifetime will live on”.

Klaudia K, Year 9

Support our Car Raffle

The chance to win the snazzy Suzuki Swift has been extended until the Thursday 7 December 2023.

Adventures and Trips 2024-2027

The optional Adventure trips on offer provide students and families with a chance to engage in an incredible array of domestic and overseas learning experiences. The schedule of trips from 2024 to 2027 allows families to plan ahead and make informed decisions about trip options. This planning allows consideration for budgeting and students contributing to the cost of the trips through part-time work or pocket money.

Year 10 parents will be particularly interested to make a considered choice between engaging in a trip in the October holidays or waiting until the end of the year and engaging in the end of year or mid-year trips. The options for Year 10 include Nepal ($6600 approx.), Thailand ($4500 approx.) Regional Australia ($550 approx.) or Japan at the end of the year ($6000 approx.). Students in Year 10 can also engage with work experience in the October holidays if they choose not to go on one of these optional trips.

We are delighted to be able to offer a Year 6 optional Adventure trip to Far North Queensland exploring the Great Barrier Reef ($3500 approx.) and cultural tour of Europe in 2025 ($8500 approx.). Oxley remains committed to providing the ‘distinctive trips’ that are so much a part of the fabric of the College.

OLE Week will continue to operate in the Junior and Senior School. Rites of Passage and the ultimate Oxley adventurous journey of Outback are embedded into the learning journey of all students at the College. More information on the optional Adventure Trips will be provided to families in the coming weeks in the form of information evenings and expressions of interest. Please keep an eye out for information shared through the App and on the website.

Christophe Gauchat
Director of Co-curricular

Zephyr Ensemble Performance

Prepare to be swept away by the magic of the holiday season as Zephyr Ensemble, Southern Highlands’ chamber choir, brings you the Echoes of Snow Christmas concert on November 25th.

Directed by Oxley College vocal tutor Alison Robertson, and featuring various Oxley staff, students and community members, the classical Christmas vocal, strings, and brass performances will lift the spirits and call in the Christmas season. The evening also features special guests, the Highlands Music Collective, Brass Connections and Zephyr Ensemble’s younger sibling ensemble, the Zephyrettis. This ensemble allows students at Oxley College to hone their choral skills and participate in professional music events. Event sponsor Centennial Vineyards provides the perfect backdrop for this festive celebration, with the celebration offering fine wines and light meals before the concert. 

Tickets available from www.trybooking.com/cmrdx