Service Learning at Shore: Building Good Men

Woven deeply into Shore’s history is the concept that our School is committed to developing men of character who will serve at many points of need in the world. This was strongly etched into Shore’s culture soon after it was established by the many Shore graduates who lost their lives serving their country in the First World War. The proportion of those who paid the ultimate price was markedly high amongst Shore’s men. This was partly because their education had imbued them with the coupling of leadership and service and, hence, many were officers who led from the front and, thereby, put their lives in jeopardy.

This year we have given prominence and platform to Service Learning by appointing Mr Huw Blood as our inaugural Head of this portfolio.  His commission has been to scope the area of possibilities and then action them in a way which will manifest the School’s Christian teaching in concrete actions for the good of others.  Last week, we enacted a kind of launch of the programme. The essence of it appears below.

Dr John Collier
Headmaster

Shore aims to build an outward focus through service, as a guiding virtue in the strategic plan as recently publicised by the School. The act of service is profound and powerful in many different educational settings, not only at Shore, but globally around the world. Looking to the needs of others as part of the School’s Christian faith is imperative as Shore deliberately shapes character, compassion, and men for the future. The School proudly endorses a Christan message, in which service to others as modelled by Jesus is an integral part of the everyday teachings at Shore, through Christian Studies, Chapel, Crusaders and broadly in the School’s ministry. “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” Mark 10:45, speaks to the nature of service, in that Jesus came to serve and not be served, demonstrating the great paradox of serving others first as a leader, and putting other’s needs before oneself. Throughout the gospel and Jesus’ ministry, the importance and significance of service is paramount and a great example of how to live.

Service towards others underpins the essence of character and is widely accepted as an important protective factor in the wellbeing of students, staff, and the Shore community. Significant evidence-based research pointing to increased self-efficacy, self-esteem, and improvements in one’s wellbeing suggest that service is not only important but should actively be part of everyday educational offerings. Furthermore, experiences beyond just internal school offerings are both highly valued and sought by many universities, workplaces, and future employment. Students exploring university placements, job opportunities and future careers, must ensure service is a part of their experience to provide a balanced portfolio, as they progress beyond the gates of the school. These experiences build good men of character, moral judgement and an outward focus on others.

Most notably and importantly, the deep impact and partnerships formed with charities and organisations is critical in developing agency and capacity of many vulnerable people. Organisations and charities face many difficult challenges, including increasing demands on services, volunteer shortages, financial hardship, resource shortfalls and a very significant increase in people using or reliant on their assistance. As these trends continue, Shore has a great responsibility to partner with organisations and charities to make an important difference, looking to serve others where possible. 

As service continues to be developed at Shore, the breadth and depth of experiences offered will ensure that students understand service, and have opportunities to be involved, through Houses and of their own volition. These experiences are a vital part of an holistic educational experience at Shore from Kindergarten through to Year 12. 

In summary, Shore will connect and serve in the following primary organisations as part of the service-learning programme, with many other events to also be added in 2024:

Our Big Kitchen

Our Big Kitchen provides meals in the thousands each week to many disadvantaged communities throughout Sydney, including the Salvation Army, Exodus Foundation, St Vincent’s de Paul, Women’s shelters, and many marginalised communities. Shore will continue in this important partnership, inviting each of the 18 Houses to participate once in a calendar year in this worthwhile cause.

Rough Edges

Rough Edges is a café in the heart of Darlinghurst and Kings Cross, serving meals to marginalised members of Sydney. Many patrons that regularly visit eat, drink, and find a point of connection in this community. Shore has enjoyed a long association with Rough Edges and will continue to support this cause, with weekly service and the Rough Edges Sleepout in 2024.

Broderick-Gillawarna School

Similarly, Shore has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with this amazing school. Students have been visiting for many years, assisting students, staff and parents look after students with greater needs. This school provides important educational services to students with a range of disability. Year 10 students will once again support Broderick-Gillawarna throughout 2024.

BaptistCare

BaptistCare is a national organisation that helps facilitate and provide services to those suffering disadvantage and furthermore, assisting our ageing population. Students in some Houses will have the opportunity to partner with this wonderful organisation, assisting elderly in residential care facilities, community facilities and a variety of aged care environments. Furthermore students will have opportunities to assist in the Mount Druitt hub and further west in regional areas such as Dubbo.

Bill Crews Foundation

Founded by Reverend Bill Crews, the foundation has a wide array of support and services to many disadvantaged communities within Sydney. Shore aims to be involved through Bill Crews Foundation, supporting their important work with literacy programs in low socioeconomic areas. Students in some Houses will have the opportunity to assist primary school teachers, mentor students, peer tutor and help literacy skills in reading groups.

Salvation Army

The Salvation Army is a well-known organisation, serving and working in many critical areas, across Australia. Students will have the opportunity to assist in both Surry Hills and Waterloo, assisting in cooking, serving, and engaging with patrons. Students within Houses will also help in annual appeals near Christmas and the well-known Red Shield Appeal.

Sony Camp

Sony camp is a significant collaboration with Pymble Ladies College and Shore students in providing residential care of 25 disabled boys and girls, allowing respite for their parents. Year 11 students from both schools host the campers within a Boarding House and provide 24-hour care for most of the first week of the December holidays. Students and campers participate in a wide variety of excursions, activities and fun, serving a wonderful cause and enriching the lives of campers. Significant training and preparation take place, for almost an entire year, requiring a community effort to facilitate.

Underpinning and centralising these experiences will be the introduction of a new Service-Learning Award in 2024. Students will have opportunities to serve as part of their allocated House, opportunities individually to serve through a suite of options via a dedicated service page and finally to participate in many already existing service activities within the School. The award requires 200 hours to achieve and will be presented at the School’s annual Speech Day. Further information and details will be provided early in 2024, so students can begin their journey in service. 

As part of a broader school-wide approach, Shore aims to connect with charities, non-government organisations and well-known services, to help all students, staff and families learn to serve and shape their values well beyond their formal education at Shore. By partnering with organisations, Shore aims to help improve the lives of many disadvantaged communities and build connections with many people outside the Shore community. Through these partnerships, service will organically grow, with trust and support from Shore in the years ahead. Students will have the opportunity to participate, reflect and share experiences in Tutor periods, House meetings and at home. Through reflection and shared stories, students will develop their own understanding of service, whilst equipping them thoughtfully for the future. As we aim to pass on the torch of life, we aspire to do so, in the service of others, using our abilities for the greater good and to enrich the lives of many in our efforts.

Mr Huw Blood
Head of Service Learning

HSC Encouragement

NESA (NSW Education Standards Authority) are gradually releasing to schools the details of students nominated in various subjects which have a performance mode or major projects marked by external examiners.  The excellent news is that a further three students have been nominated for Design and Technology and Industrial Technology.  Congratulations to Angus Brewer, Milo Hogarth-Scott and Archie Parker.  HSC Visual Art candidates, Thomas Graetz and Corrie Sloan, have been nominated for consideration in ARTEXPRESS.  Hearty congratulations to both.

For some decades, the only information available to schools about how their HSC students had fared has been information from NESA, being scaled exam and assessment results. After many, many years of urging from Heads and their professional associations, UAC (University Admissions Centre), a federal government body, has relented and will release ATARs (Australian Tertiary Admission Ranks) to schools.  These are much more relevant than Band 6 results as they are the actual “passports” through which Year 12 leavers are able to enter university.  We expect to receive these in timely fashion.  They are important, not just in bringing our sense of closure with our students, for whose success we care deeply, but also because they assist us in analysing our delivery of curriculum such that we can make any adjustments revealed as necessary and helpful.

Dr John Collier
Headmaster

A reminder regarding Shore Community Prayer Night

Parents, Old Boys and Staff are invited to attend the
Shore Community Prayer Night 

Thursday 23 November 2023 
6.30pm – 7.30pm 
Christian Studies Classrooms  

A light supper will be provided

RSVP: ChaplainsPA@shore.nsw.edu.au 
Parking will be available on site with entry via Hunter Crescent

Remembrance Day Chapel Service Invitation 2023 

Dear Parents, Carers, Students and Friends of the Shore community 

Everyone is warmly invited to attend a very special Remembrance Day Chapel Service on

Saturday 11 November 2023 

with Special Guest Speaker: 
General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove 
AK AC (Mil) CVO MC (RETD) 

10.00am - Chapel Service

The event will include a Ceremonial Guard, Items by the Senior Choir  
and Laying of Wreaths. Please join us for Morning Tea 
on the Chapel Lawn after the service. 

 11.00am - The Last Post – from Holtermann’s Tower

Parking is available in the School carpark. Entry via Hunter Crescent. 

Enquiries: Rev. Nick Foord 
Community Chaplain 
T +61 2 9900 4753 
nfoord@shore.nsw.edu.au

This Week We Thank Mr Jesse Muir

In today’s educational landscape, it is crucial to introduce young minds to the world of coding and robotics to prepare them for a tech-driven future. One educator leading the charge in this endeavour is Mr Jesse Muir, a Year 5 Teacher, who has been pioneering the use of robots like Spheros in the classroom. Encouraged by our Head of the Prep, Ms Natasha Mitchell, who values innovation and out-of-the-box thinking, Mr Muir saw an opportunity to make learning more engaging and fun through the use of technology.

Coding and robotics aren’t just about immediate engagement; they also open doors to future opportunities. Mr Muir recognises the importance of catering to different learning styles. Many students are kinesthetic learners, benefiting from hands-on activities. The visual and tactile aspects of coding with robots help solidify their understanding of abstract mathematical concepts.

One remarkable project Mr Muir introduced involved teaching geometry and angles through a mini-golf course design. The students not only designed the course but also coded Spheros to navigate it, imitating different types of angles.

Another activity explored the Cartesian plane, where students plotted points to create shapes, transferred them onto large canvases, and then coded Spheros to paint these shapes. This hands-on approach allowed students to visualise and apply mathematical concepts in a creative and interactive way.

Moreover, exposure to coding and robotics can spark interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM) fields, potentially influencing students’ future career aspirations.

The rapidly evolving technological landscape offers endless possibilities, and early exposure can ignite a passion for these subjects.

Incorporating robots like Spheros into the classroom, as Mr Muir has demonstrated, not only enhances students’ understanding of complex topics, but also paves the way for a future where they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of an increasingly tech-driven world. The excitement and engagement seen in these young learners are a testament to the positive impact of integrating coding and robotics into education. One student even exclaimed, “That was the best maths lesson ever!”.

Impact100: Empowering Students through Philanthropy

Last week we introduced Shore’s participation in the ‘Schools for Impact’ programme.

The ‘Schools for Impact’ programme is more than just a community service project, it’s a transformative educational experience. This initiative is designed to empower students through a two-fold approach: education and fundraising, with a primary focus on addressing the pressing issue of homelessness in Sydney. 

Beyond the acquisition of knowledge, students are introduced to a world of philanthropy where they have the opportunity to make a real impact on their community.

By participating in fundraising activities within their respective Houses, students learn that philanthropy is not just about raising funds but is also a powerful tool for personal growth, community connection, and skill development. This programme cultivates young philanthropists who understand that their actions can significantly benefit local grassroots charities and, in turn, enhance their own lives. 

We encourage each student to consider creative ways to fundraise within their Houses.

Even the smallest contributions can have a collective impact.

Parents can also make a significant difference by participating in the final Pitch Event to be held at the Shore War Memorial on the night of Thursday 23 November. All proceeds from ticket sales will go directly to the charities involved so your attendance will further amplify your sons’ fundraising efforts to address homelessness.

The five finalists pitching to the Shore community include the following:

•          The Haven, Nepean Women’s Shelter

•          Stepping Stone House

•          Dignity

•          Streetwork

•          House of Welcome

Tickets are available for purchase online via: https://events.humanitix.com/schools-for-impact-grant-pitch-night-hosted-by-shore

House Fundraising Links

Top Image: photo credit George Davis

Call for City Hosts

As part of our Pastoral Care programme in Boarding, every new full-time Shore Boarder is connected with a day family who acts as a close link in Sydney to assist them in settling in. We are therefore seeking interest from families who would be willing to be a City Host Family for new Boarders in 2024 and beyond. To give these relationships the greatest chance of success, we aim to pair up the boys with families who have things in common.

Please fill in the following questionnaire if you would like to get involved: https://forms.office.com/r/HKvCS0Ujez

Term Dates 2023 – 2024

Library News and Study Centre

Senior Library closing early on Friday 10 November

Please note that the Senior Library will close at 4.00pm on Friday 10 November.

Study Centre

The boys are encouraged to visit Study Centre each week, especially at this time of year, as they prepare for the yearly examinations. Study Centre offers free tuition by Shore teachers and Old Boys with sessions before and after School according to the timetable published on Lampada (under Library) and in the Shore Weekly Record.

For any questions, please get in touch with Mrs Eva White, Head of Library & Information Services, on 9956 1151.

Please view the study timetable below:

Spotlight on Fantasy

Fantasy is a popular genre with the boys at Shore, especially the younger ones. These books are set in a magical world and often involve myths and magical creatures.  They are great for escapism as they immerse you in a different time and place. Reading fantasy stimulates creativity and, just like reading other genres, it boosts vocabulary.

Many fiction books are published as a series, and the boys eagerly await the next book to be published.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians is one such series and book #6, The Chalice of the Gods, is now available. Book #4 in Kristin Cashore’s Graceling series, Winterkeep, is also available. Brandon Sanderson is another popular fantasy author, for example with the Mistborn series. He has recently published a book set in the Cosmere universe, Tress of the Emerald Sea, which is available in the Library. Conn Iggulden, mainly known for historical fiction, is now writing fantasy novels as well and books 1-3 in the Empire of Salt series are available.

Other recent fantasy novels available in the Shore Senior Library include:

• Cogheart by Peter Bunzl (also available as an audiobook)
• Shadow of the Fox by Julie Kagawa (also available as an audiobook)
• The Prison Healer by Lynette Noni (also available as an audiobook)
• A Hunger of Thorns by Lili Wilkinson
• Impossible Creatures by Katherine Rundell
• The Waking Fire by Anthony Ryan

For more information or help with finding books to enjoy, talk to any Library staff member.

Mrs E White
Head of Library & Information Services

2023 Mathematics

Australian Mathematics Competition Results (AMC)

In this year’s Australian Mathematics Competition, 398 Shore boys competed and were awarded the following certificates: 10 High Distinctions, 70 Distinctions and 153 Credits. The Best in School Certificate was awarded to Nathan L (Year 9).

This was a tremendous effort by all the Shore boys who participated.    

Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad

In September, Shore entered 17 students in the 2023 Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad. (Four students from Year 10, four from Year 9, five from Year 8 and four from Year 7). 

This competition consisted of 10 very challenging questions to be answered in four hours.

This year, one student achieved a Prize, two students achieved a High Distinction, four students achieved a Distinction and six students a Credit.  This is an outstanding achievement.

Congratulations to the following boys:

Congratulations to these boys and to all other boys who represented our School.

Annual University of NSW Schools’ Mathematics Competition

In June, 23 boys from Years 7 to 12 competed in the highly prestigious Annual University of NSW Schools’ Mathematics Competition, which has been running for more than six decades!

This is a very challenging competition where students have three hours to complete six challenging mathematics problems. The competition is designed to assess mathematical insight and ingenuity rather than efficiency in tackling routine examples. Each year, about 700 students participate in the competition, 300 in each division, and prizes and/or certificates are awarded to about 60 students in each division.

Jayden P (Year 9) achieved a High Distinction in the Junior Division and received a Prize. 

Aaron L (Year 10), Jonathan L (Year 10), Nathan L (Year 9) and Rian C (Year 8) each achieved a Credit.

This is an outstanding achievement and all boys who participated are congratulated on their efforts.

Ms SM Camden
MIC Mathematics Competitions

Adolescent Mental Health Seminar

Professor Patrick McGorry: Practical tools to keep your adolescents safe and well.

The Pastoral Care team and Shore Parents’ Association warmly invites parents to an important Seminar with a special guest speaker, Professor Patrick McGorry. 

In collaboration with the Shore Parents’ Association, we are thrilled to announce our upcoming parent seminar featuring Professor Patrick McGorry, a distinguished Psychiatrist and Professor of Youth Mental Health at the University of Melbourne. Professor McGorry also serves as the Director of Orygen Youth Health, and he has been the recipient of numerous prestigious awards. These accolades include the Australian Government Centenary Medal in 2003, the Founders’ Medal of the Australian Society for Psychiatric Research in 2001, and the honour of being named the Australian of the Year in 2010. 

The seminar’s primary focus will be on Adolescent Mental Health, and we extend a warm invitation to parents of boys in Years 5 to 12 to join us for this event. It’s a unique opportunity to gain insights from this exceptional industry-leading professional in the field of mental health. 

At Shore, we are deeply committed to working with our parents and the broader school community to provide the best possible care and support to our boys. Our goal is to equip them with the resilience they need to thrive, not only during their time at school but also in their lives after School. 

Our Pastoral Care team is delighted to host Professor McGorry as part of our proactive approach to caring for the wellbeing of our students and providing them with evidence-based interventions and pastoral care. 

Professor McGorry is a globally renowned clinician, researcher, and advocate in the domains of early intervention and youth mental health. His contributions have been instrumental in the development of safe, effective treatments and pioneering research dedicated to addressing the unique needs of young individuals with emerging mental disorders.  

We strongly encourage parents to attend, please see more details below. 

Thursday 16 November 2023 
6.00pm to 7.00pm  

Followed by refreshments on the Old Boys’ Terrace 

  Venue 
BH Travers Library   

Please RSVP via this trybooking link

From the Music Department

Studio Concerts for the week commencing Monday 13 November

Mrs J Hicks
Coordinator of Private Music Lessons

Upcoming Term Dates:

Mrs K Barber
Head of Music

Keeping With The Times

Constitutional Change is Difficult But it is a Necessary Sacrifice

M. D. Kwak

THE AUSTRALIAN NATION IN 2023 IS VASTLY DIFFERENT from the one federated in 1901 when its Constitution was written. The Australian economy has globalised, its citizens are more multicultural than ever, and the socio-political zeitgeist has trended towards one that is increasingly progressive and inclusive of individuals’ differences. The Constitution, aware of its ahistorical limitations, sets out its own mechanism of constitutional change under Sect. 128. 

The system of referendum, though arduous and rarely successful, ought to remain as is. The necessary change lies in repairing the collective Australian consciousness by which constitutional change is perceived, alongside Australia’s system of civics education.

The amendment process is difficult; often it fails to pass the required majority of electors in a majority of states. However, this is preferable to constitutional changes that are made trivially or with ease. The Constitution requires a certain degree of permanence and importance – serving as a foundational cornerstone upon which more flexible and responsive laws can be built upon. Moreover, constitutional change within the jurisdiction of judiciary, executive or legislative institutions, is prone to exploitation by the majority party of the time and used to entrench political power or dilute democracy. There often exist perverse political incentives for governments to consolidate power or fulfil short-term populist election promises, that are detrimental to Australia’s welfare in the long-term.

The trade-off between making constitutional change more efficient but less democratic is a suboptimal one. Efficiency is not necessarily a benefit in so far as the Constitution provides stability and legal precedent to systems of law-making and judicial interpretation. An ever-shifting ‘responsive’ constitutional framework is an unstable one, hurting efficient long-term legislation and holding an unacceptable level of power by abrogating swathes of legislation or bypassing necessary checks and balances. 

However, positive reform to the Constitution faces two key obstacles. First, Australia holds an extremely conservative sentiment towards constitutional change translating into a refusal to accept the majority of reform. Paradoxically, this means few of the shortcomings at the source of public disillusionment with the political system can be addressed. Second, there exists a strong (and historically-accurate) perception that constitutional amendment requires bipartisan support by the Coalition and Labour to be successful. As a result, the most uncontentious and lowest-impact amendments are proposed; anything which threatens the power of major parties will nearly always be derailed and the political status quo preserved. A lack of effective political education has created this stranglehold. Ignorance and apathy have made constituents vulnerable to political manipulation and fear mongering – creating a bias against reforms seen as ‘irreversible and having dire effects on normal Australians’.  In the long-term, effective constitutional reform requires a citizenry possessing sufficient knowledge about the current Constitution and its ahistorical limitations. A new model of civic education which enables future generations to be both informed and critical is of vital importance.

“Good” Propaganda

Exploring The Nature Of Propaganda

T. G. George

AS ENTERTAINING AS MRS MANSFIELD’S HISTORY CLASSES ARE, occasionally the unorthodox nature of the militaristic rise to dictatorship in interwar Japan does not stimulate my scurrying mind. Then I find myself peering over to the masses of propaganda littered across Ma’ams wall. You’d think the Domino Effect is live and well, being fuelled out of Shore school. A threatening array of angry communists look down upon you, epitomised by a solemn quote “WE SMITE THE LAZY WORKERS”. A potentially archaic, but effective way of making students do work. Thankfully, when I questioned her communist allegiance, she simply said, “I just like good propaganda”.

We Smite the Lazy Workers

So, what is good propaganda?

Propaganda is communication that is designed to persuade an audience to a further agenda. Although cynical, in this case the connotations of good are reversed. The more you can manipulate civilians to glorify inhumane ideologies and practices, the better. It has been a tool of deception for hundreds of years. It can come in forms of speeches, rallies, films, but I will focus on posters. 

You may know the classics, such as Uncle Sam pointing and saying, “I want YOU for U.S. Army”. But it doesn’t need to be so pronounced, as it varies based on its target audience. In Italy’s Fascists’ rise to dictatorship, images began circulating of Mussolini… often shirtless. Apparently, an old man’s physique would appeal to the masses encouraging them to help fix the ailing Italian economy. Suit yourself, I have Sam Sulek.

Some of the most influential and dramatic propaganda comes from the Soviet Union. The spirited use of vigorous red evoked the heroism and pride that the communists wanted civilians to express. They opposed the greed of capitalism, and encouraged commitment and contribution to the state. This artists attempted to mask the reality of communist rule and instead extolled the supposed benefits of communism.

Yet do not think for a second it is just the Fascist and Communist extremists that disseminate propaganda. Australia, the United States, and Britain have been prominent sources of some powerful, and occasionally displeasing, propaganda. For all the United Kingdom’s strength and courage during World War II, it is unlikely it came from Winston Churchill morphed into a British bulldog, “Holding the Line”.

Propaganda, whether attempting to convince civilians to join the Volksgemeinschaft, or enlist in the Australian army, uses a common technique. Appeal to feelings, not logic. A frightening reality, that we humans can have our emotions wired in such a way that we may charge into battle, or dig our own graves for the motherland.

If there is a formula for compelling propaganda, it would be something like this; use simplistic generalities and stereotypes, name-call, and exaggerate the benefits.

For example, if your enemy sinks a civilian ship, accentuate this atrocity! Use it for your own agenda, even if many of your actions in colonies like India have sometimes been problematic.

To conclude, I’d just like to say that WE WANT YOU to write for the Shore Weekly Record. Share your thoughts on pressing issues and sacrifice your time to build up the strength of the Shore men, to live a life of honour and dignity. 

The Attention Economy

All Eyes On Me.

L. M. Chavdarov

DON’T LOOK AWAY, DEAR, VALUED, TREASURED READER. Just like all of the corporations which dominate modern Fortune 500 lists, I really, really want your attention. It’s good for a lot of things, whether you want to sell products to advertisement-overloaded consumers, or turn your zombie-like userbase into the product (and then sell more things to them). In the swirling vortex of the modern attention economy, it’s not enough to just have a product; a business must step into the arena and wrestle, often underhandedly, for every flicker of your eyeballs, and every pulse of your neurons. Dear reader, your attention is the currency of these modern times, and you’re surrounded by pickpockets. Be careful! Otherwise, we might end up where we’re heading.

Once upon a time, the term “attention span” referred to the commendable ability of a human to focus on a task without becoming distracted. Nowadays, with attention deficit disorders on the rise, it’s closely studied, and used as a warning sign of cognitive decline in younger generations. And who can blame them? These modern marvels of technology are like black holes for our attention, bending the fabric of our daily lives around their algorithms. It’s a wonder we ever manage to look up from our devices.

Make no mistake; we’re only at the very beginning of a long, horrible slippery slope of societal harm. Our corner-cafes serve up free Wi-Fi with a side of coffee. Doomscrolling, for all the jokes we hear about it, is both largely problematic, and a concerningly significant part of the human experience, nowadays. Or, consider phantom vibration syndrome; when you feel your phone buzzing in your pocket, yet there’s no notification to be found. This isn’t an elaborate prank by Apple; this is your own brain, playing tricks on you. Our minds are becoming so attuned to the beck and call of our devices that we hear them clamouring for our attention even in the rare moments they’re not. It’s a modern-day horror story, where we’re tormented by the ghost of notifications past. If that’s what we’re already facing, imagine the haunting potential of what’s to come. There’s a not-so-funny joke somewhere in there about being ghosted by your own sanity.

We’re a little too clever for our own good, and a lot too stupid, all at the same time. Technology is advancing at an awe-inspiring rate. Moore’s Transistor Law has held true since 1965. That’s absurd; if one only knew the truth of Moore’s Law, they’d have needed no other investment plan for the past 70 years. But what about human brains? Have we managed to bolt on integrated circuits, and advanced TPU’s?

Whilst this kind of cybernetic improvement might be possible many years down the line, until then, we’re stuck running the same hardware that people did back in the stone age, when banging rocks together was at the forefront of innovation. The result is technology usage which is looking increasingly like an addiction. The hit of dopamine from a like; the oxytocin high of reading the replies on our screens; the adrenaline rush of that challenging battle in a video game – and a plethora of other symptoms that wouldn’t look out of place in a rehab centre. We’re not adapting quick enough; we’re getting outcompeted by… ourselves.

Sure, there’s a kind of black comedy in observing the digital malaise spreading amongst us. It is funny when someone walks into a pole while texting. But it’s also horrifying in its promise to get worse. There is a pressing concern that as attention-capture algorithms get more, and more advanced, voluntarily quitting would become exactly as difficult as the big data companies have always dreamed it would be. Picture a generation alpha support group in twenty years’ time. “Hi, I’m Bob, and I’m down to 500 notifications a day from my peak of 2000.” Cue the sympathetic smiles, and supportive claps. It’s a scenario as comical as it is conceivable.

In a world where it becomes impossible for the individual to resist the digital delights of the perfected algorithm, we might need an intervention from the powers that be. In fact,  the Wild West of the digital age is already on track for rude awakening as calls for oversight grow louder. The trouble is, it’s hard to say how, when a fix is as simple as  finding a file on the internet.

On top of that, there’s so many positive aspects to these technologies that indiscriminate legislation is as bad of an idea as it is absurd. Should the government really be poking its fingers into your house, and deleting your Candy Crush?

Jokes aside, as we march inexorably into the future, the balance between harnessing technology’s potential, and protecting our finite cognitive resources becomes ever more precarious. We might not be able to slow the pace of technological evolution, but perhaps it’s time to make sure we have a say in the direction it’s taking us. And you don’t need to wait for the government to intervene! It’s as simple as making your own choice to stop and smell the roses from time, to time. Now, please, don’t let this article interrupt your day for too long. There’s a whole world out there, and it’s vying for your attention, too.

Dive Into Absurdity: Atlantis

Fact Or Fiction?

C. N. Vujanovic

WE ALL KNOW IT SOMEHOW. Whether it be through Aqua Man, Doctor Who or 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea we all know the legend of Atlantis.

That grand civilisation that supposedly flourished thousands of years before the great pyramids. Yet it was wiped out in a great catastrophe. 

But how do we know about Atlantis?

Well we could go ask an atlantologists, or we could go to atlantipedia.com. Point being, there are an endless supply of theories as to where, what, and why Atlantis was.

But our only source we have for Atlantis comes from Plato, an ancient philosopher who, if you give me long enough, I will happily rattle on about for hours. 

Now the thing about Plato is that throughout his stories he includes imaginative stories used to help convey a message or theme. They are clearly made up, in fact the use of allegory or parable was commonplace to convey philosophical ideas. He realised that if you want to be famous, having the best argument is not enough. You need stories. They go viral.

So Atlantis was a made up story to convey a philosophical idea? Nope. 

Of all of his allegories he insists that Atlantis existed. Moreover, it is the only allegory that appears in more than one of his works.

He explains it like this: that his great, great, great, great, great uncle Solon (the famous lawgiver of Athens) was told it by the Egyptians and it was passed down through the generations.

Unfortunately, this is where we are left at a dead end. No more evidence. Not even hints as to where it was.

Most serious historians today deny its existence claiming it is just a fable. 

So did Atlantis exist? We will probably never know, but the answer is most probably no.

Nature’s Blueprint

Is Architectural Biomimicry the Way Forward or Just a Small Fad?

A. J. Li

SHOULD WE ALL LIVE IN TREEHOUSES? It seems as if nowadays, our “ecological footprint” is becoming an ever present character trait we must always consider in all our actions. Do you have a massive ecological footprint? Well then you must be a terrible person. This interesting problem translates into the world of architecture. By nature, architects seek to push the boundaries and dream up status-quo-shattering designs in a bid to assert dominance over their fellow inferior architect – it’s just the nature of the game. In this sense, building designs have evolved countless times over the centuries and millennia, but now into the 21st century, how do we build structures that are not only bold and functional, but also sustainable? 

Well, what we have discovered is that we can draw inspiration from nature. Many functions of the buildings we use daily often have their respective doppelganger in nature. One idea that’s sure to springboard any prospective architect into either fame or infamy is a termite mound inspired air conditioning system. Termites are known for their impeccable home-building skills and we can mimic their designs for our own human needs.

The main premise behind this idea is that termite mounds have a sophisticated ventilation system which allows for effective air-circulation throughout the structure. As a result, we now have buildings with intricate airflow systems that are as energy-efficient as they are effective.

Another idea is spider silk skyscrapers. Most people have heard the surprising fact that spider silk is extremely strong. In fact, it is as strong, if not stronger than current bullet-proof vests and research is being done to make spider silk body armour 💀. This quality of strength that spider silk so naturally provides can be exploited for architectural means. Currently, concrete must be reinforced with steel beams when building towers  as steel is effective at handling tension and concrete is effective at withstanding compression. 

Spider silk is one of nature’s own resistant materials, possessing these combined properties. Thus, it can be used as a primary material in the construction or supporting of towers and skyscrapers. Certainly it’s an otherworldly idea now and even more so for arachnophobes, but it is an effective proof of concept of sustainable biomimicry.

With these two seemingly effective and sustainable ideas, the question arises, why don’t we see biomimicry everywhere? The answer is, we already do, but there is a limit. There are already many examples of biomimicry in architecture and our daily lives. For example, the shape of bullet trains being inspired by kingfisher birds and shock absorbers being inspired from woodpeckers. Indeed, the termite mound ventilation system has already been implemented in several architectural designs. But on an even larger scale, biomimicry might just simply not be feasible. The whole concept relies on finding a natural doppelganger for a human building or functionality, which sometimes just isn’t possible. There is a reason after all, why humans are the most advanced species. Sometimes we just have to create and engineer our own solutions. Other times, natural designs which operate on a miniscule level like for ants, lose their effectiveness when scaled up to human size (see the square-cube law).

Biomimicry is something most architects are looking into and should be explored further, particularly in our sustainability-centred world. They provide effective and sustainable solutions for many human problems. But sometimes, we just have to purely innovate and engineer our own solutions when we can’t find them in nature.

The Veins of Sydney

How To Travel Across Sydney Via Opal 

C. D. Michel

AS THE YEAR 12’S HAVE FINISHED THEIR SCHOOLING CAREER, only around only 10% of Shore school boys can now drive without supervision, leaving the rest of us to understand the intricate nature of Sydney’s public transport network on our own. So to clear up the convoluted transport system, I have written this article especially for those in younger years so they can finally have their first Chatty meet up, or get out and about across Sydney.

The Sydney Metro is a top tier mode of public transport especially for its accessibility and speed. The metro’s top speed is around 100 km/h which trumps every other option for transport. Furthermore, the modern nature of the Metro gives it a chic atmosphere. For example, immediately as you step off the Metro in Epping, you’re welcomed to a futuristic landscape as you wander up the 45m escalator. The Metro is definitely worth familiarising yourself with, as Transport NSW is planning on expanding the line across the Bridge. However, the metro does have a few cons which damage its high standard. The seating arrangement is poor, especially in comparison to the Sydney Train Network. The long row of seats on each side of the metro make it difficult to talk to a large group of your friends when travelling out to Tallawong. Additionally, the aisle is a few centimetres too wide making conversations with your friends on the other side of the aisle feel unnatural. However, most importantly the Metro is not connected to the Shore-Boy-Motherland in North Sydney, meaning that one must catch a train out to Chatswood before ever stepping foot in the Metro making it much harder to access. Furthermore, there are only 13 metro stations in comparison to the infinite amount of stations for both buses and trains.

The Sydney Trains Network is similar to the metro; however, it is much more accessible. The network involves over 170 stations taking you from Berowra in Sydney’s North to Cronulla in the South. Despite not being as fast as the Metro, the train network is still a fast mode of transport, allowing Shore boys to leave North Sydney, and arrive in Burwood within 35 minutes. Furthermore, the trains arrive consistently at each station every five-ish minutes. However, the train network’s true superiority comes from its design; The design of the trains in Sydney revolutionise the network, making it some of the best modes of transportation in the world. The interchangeable seats in conjunction with the double-decker design of the train makes a trip on the train much more amicable and sociable, contrasting the solitary confinement felt in the metro.

While not being the most useful means of transport, being able to catch a ferry somewhere is quite something. Going to school everyday or finding your way around Sydney by catching a ferry, feels a lot less “stuck in the matrix” than an average train. Furthermore, the names given to the ferry’s such as “Charlotte Ferry” and “Fishburn Ferry” add a little bit more spice into your day, than riding a bus named 7053. However, the system is very unstable and weather dependent. Despite the indoor seating, if riding a ferry, it is a cardinal rule that you must sit outside, thereby making catching a ferry possibly a wet or freezing mode of transport. Furthermore, if it wasn’t for other means of transport such as the light-rail, and the bus network, many of the ferries would be useless as the ports are often hard to get to without catching another type of transport. Moreover, the ferries are not as consistent in Sydney since on a good day they’d only be running once every 30 minutes.

The Sydney light-rail, in my opinion, is utterly useless. Yes, people use it, except it’s only for lazy people. The light-rail travels so slow and half the stops are pedantic; the Bridge Street station is only 200m from Wynyard and Circular Quay, making it easier and quicker to walk the distance than to use the light-rail. Additionally, many of the stops can be accessed via train instead of using the light-rail furthering its inability to improve Sydney. Again, the light-rail is only in a small section of Sydney, so it is also hard to access, especially coming from the typical Shore boy.

The Sydney Bus Network spreads over all of Sydney, where the metro, train-line, ferry and light-rail cannot. Despite seeming quite difficult to understand and figure out, getting a bus app makes travelling via buses so much easier. I highly recommend Next there, which shows all bus routes, specific timing for bus arrival at each stop and an inbuilt bus tracker. The Bus network’s high rating in this article is carried by the B-Line, unlike most other buses in Sydney, the B-Line is extremely quick, useful, and at any B-line stop there will be a bus within five minutes. This contrasts the awfully long trips of most other buses which involve a 10-20 minute wait time at the stop, followed by the bus taking every detour possible, making most journeys upwards of an hour.

Ultimately, to rank the individual means of transport in Sydney from worst to best (5-1);

5.  Light-Rail

4.  Ferry

3.  Metro

2.  Bus

1. Train 

Basketball Report

The Firsts went into the weekend ready for a tough game against what has been a bogey fixture for the last several years. 

Despite a number of players unavailable through illness and injury, Shore came out hot, scoring well from inside the paint and with a superb whole-team defensive effort led by Nick W.

What followed was a remarkably even game, with Shore’s defence generally holding strong but Sydney Boy’s High, (SBHS), coming up with big shots when needed to keep in touch, before a run early in the fourth quarter left the game balanced at 51 – 51. Consecutive defensive stops saw Shore surge to a 9-point lead with a minute left and, despite some late SBHS scoring, the men in white clung on, with Lachlan S coming up with the crucial final steal to secure a 66 – 61 win.  Julian R once again led all scorers with 20 points.

The Seconds were also looking for a bounce-back win after last week’s heartbreaker against Joeys, and started strongly to blow out to a 10-point lead early in the game, scoring well thanks to the corner accuracy of top-scorer Oliver S.  Excellent rebounding from Harry D and the versatile Jack H meant that, despite a third-quarter wobble, Shore remained in the driver’s seat for the majority of the game, finishing with a relatively comfortable 56 – 42 win.

With many of the other games rained out, there is limited news to report from the other fixtures. Ethan W continued his impressive scoring streak with 20 points in a 43 – 27 win for the 13ths against Newington College, while the 15As were imperious in a 50 – 28 win at SBHS.

Player of the Week: Edward M scored a frankly ridiculous 22 of his team’s 38 points on their way to a big win over Grammar in the 16Hs.

Team of the Week: The 14Ds got into the winners’ circle for the first time this year as the whole age group continues to improve after a tough start.

Mr G Davis
MIC Basketball

Cricket Report

Introducing Mr Rory Johnston

I am delighted to introduce Mr Rory Johnston, who will be Shore’s MIC Cricket. Rory brings a wealth of experience, competing at the highest level as a member of the Scotland National Men’s Training Squad and playing for Scotland A, as an attacking opening batsman. One of Mr Johnston’s highlights was representing Scotland at the U19 Cricket World Cup in Bangladesh, in 2016.

Mr Johnston also played for the Caledonian Highlanders and the Forfarshire Cricket Club, the T20 Scottish Cup winners, 2023. Mr Johnston holds an ECB level 2 coaching accreditation and is an Australian Strength and Conditioning Level 1 coach, Mr Johnston can coach at the highest level and coach to develop and increase the basic skills of all cricketers. He can differentiate his coaching style, and one of his key strength’s is his ability to analyse what a player needs and deliver instruction accordingly.

I am certain the Shore cricket community, players, parents and staff, will extend a warm welcome to Mr Johnston when you see him on duty at Northbridge.

Mr M Ticehurst
MIC Cricket

Shore Cricket 2023 – Round 4

In Round 4 of the cricket calendar, Shore took on Sydney Boys High School (SBHS). Remarkably, despite heavy rainfall during parts of the day, six of the matches managed to reach a conclusion, with Shore victorious in five of these games.

All games saw great efforts from parents, players and ground staff to ensure play continued swiftly throughout the day.

Unfortunately, there were some games that lost their battle with the rain. The Fourth XI was called off before a ball was bowled. The Third XI managed only one innings against King’s before play was abandoned and the 15As were also called from the field of play in the second innings after an amazing 108 ret. from T Hamilton during the first.

The 14s, sticking with their current run of form, won their games in, with Shore batters scoring at an impressive rate. The 16Bs were defeated in the final over of their thrilling game and the 16Ass won their game by 101 runs!

Another great week for the competition teams with both recording victories. Back-to-back wins for the First team saw them defeat SBHS with a composed chase of 157 reaching their target with seven wickets in hand after an opening partnership of 89 runs. Whereas at Northbridge, the Second XI made it three wins in a row with a confident display with bat and ball.

Highlights from Saturday 4 November 2023

15As Match Report v Sydney Boys High School

The 15As lined up for what was going to be a great game of cricket against Sydney boys high. Shore batted first and got off to a great start, scoring quickly, before they lost a quick wicket in the 8th over. However, Lachie boys came out to steady the ship, and before long, shore were 1/104 at drinks. Tom H came out firing after the break, and hit Sydney boys all around the park, before being retired on 108, a tremendous knock. Lachie boys continue to work the ball around, and scored a career best 66*, with skipper cooper Granville also scoring a quick fire 26*. Shore finished their innings 1/238, setting SBHS with a mammoth total to chase.

SBHS innings started shakily with Ben S taking an early wicket. However, the rain began to settle in, and the game was eventually called at the drinks break, with SBHS 1/83. Overall, it was a disappointing end to what was a great day for the shore boys with the Bat.

Mr C Smith
15A Coach

Second XI Cricket Report v Sydney Boys High School

Round 4: Saturday 4 November 2023 at Northbridge

Losing the toss on a rainy day, Shore were made to bowl. Struggling to take early wickets, the openers still managed to keep the run rate down and the pressure on. The game changed when Jimmy M came on, bowling stump to stump and grabbing 4 wickets in his first 5-over spell. He came back to finish his spell with figures of 6/34. Shore unable to bowl SBHS out but restricting them to a total of 9/123.

On a tricky pitch affected by the rain, Aidan K and Noah Q weathered uneven bounced and a wet outfield to build into their innings. Their amazing hand eye and mental application made the conditions look easy, and after realising a bonus point was in play, put the team first and raced to the total in under half of the overs required. Aidan K finishing with 50 not out, and Quayle with 60 not out. 

Player of the match – Jimmy M

Mr C Cozens
Second XI Coach

First XI Cricket Report v Sydney Boys High School

Round 4: Saturday 4 November 2023 at McKay Oval

Shore 3/161 (Toby R 72, Will S 42, Alex S 31*) defeated SBHS 8/157 (Sam W 3/22, Toby R 2/13).

The First XI travelled to McKay Oval determined to keep their momentum going following their win last week against St Joseph’s College. Under cloudy skies and with rain forecast during the day, Will S won the toss and asked High to bat.

Shore felt they could restrict High and would be in a good position to push for a win later in the day in the event time was lost due to the forecast rain. In the second over Tom F had their opener caught by Henry S and soon after Sam W had his first wicket with Matt M taking a good catch at mid-off. Two overs later, Sam W had his second bowling their Number 4. At 3/22 in the ninth over, Shore was on top and looking to apply more pressure. Chris L and Ben H were soon introduced into the attack and High progressed slowly to 3/48 after 18 overs. Needing a breakthrough, off spinners Toby R and Stian C were thrown the ball, and they immediately slowed the scoring rate further. In the 23rd over, Toby R snared his first wicket courtesy of Sam W’s safe pair of hands, and soon after he took his second with a lovely delivery that cannoned into the stumps. With SBHS now 5/67 Shore was well on top and had plans of keeping SBHS to a score of around 100. Unfortunately, this did not eventuate with their lower order showing some fight with partnerships of 20 and then 42. Matt M claimed SBHS’s sixth wicket with Will S taking a good catch at slip while Stian C took their seventh with Ben H showing a safe pair of hands. At 8/133 in the 48th over following Sam W’s third wicket, SBHS continued to take some risks and managed to reach 8/157 in their 50 overs. Shore felt they had allowed SBHS about 20 or 30 runs too many. SBHS’s total would be competitive, and Shore would need some partnerships to chase down the target.

The resumption of the match following the lunch break was delayed by 30 minutes due to some light rain but when Shore’s innings started it was evident that both Will S and Toby R were in the mood. Resolute defence mixed with elegant stroke play saw the pair combine for an 89-run partnership in 18 overs before Sutton was out-stumped for 42. Number 3, Fraser P,7-wicket Toby R but was dismissed soon after leaving Shore 2/99. Alex S joined Toby R and the pair put on a further 40 runs before Toby R was out caught for a superb 72. His timing and placement were features of a very mature innings. Henry S then joined Alex S, and the pair saw Shore safely to the target in the 33rd over giving Shore a 7-wicket win. Alex S finished unbeaten on 31 and Sharp on 3.

The First XI looks forward to their final home match of the term this Saturday against Sydney Grammar School at Northbridge in Round 5.

Mr TM Wallace, Mr RA Johnston
First XI Coach, MIC Cricket

16Bs Cricket Report v Sydney Boys High School

Saturday 4 November 2023

After Sydney Boys High School (SBHS) elected to field first, we didn’t start off too well with a few quick wickets.

Fortunately, Malachi W came in scoring a strong 21 runs before getting out, putting the team in a decent place.

Then Dylan G and Bryce S had a strong partnership slowing the wicket rate before Liam O came in and put on a high score of 31 bringing us back into the game.

After successfully seeing out all 20 overs Shore 16Bs’ achieved their highest total this season of 112. We started off strong with the bowling as they need just over 5 and a half runs an over but due to a lot of extras, in the 17th over they only needed 18 runs to win, which would have been manageable but due to a few boundaries they only had to get 7 runs off the last two overs. Unfortunately, due to some quick singles they were able to chase us down with two balls remaining. It was a close game, and we did well but due to some loose bowling we let the game get away from us. 

Fred C (Year 9)
16B Captain

Tennis Report

Round 4 Report – Sydney Boys High School

Firsts Report

Shore’s First’s tennis team secured 9-0 victory against Sydney Boys High School (SBHS) despite threatening weather conditions. The persistent rain early in the afternoon did little to dampen the hunger of our boys to dominate their opponents in all matches. With such a strong score, our team is now leading the competition in both Firsts and Seconds. Ollie W, the team’s Number 1 player, lead from the front with a clinical 6-0, 6-0 win in just 35 minutes while our youngest player Harper C showed great maturity with a strong 6-0, 6-1 victory. This dominant victory, achieved under the pressures of expectation, sets a precedent for future matches as well as the sportsmanship and determination for boys in every team at Shore.

Last weeks’ Shore vs Joeys match report

In a contest with the defending premiers, Joey’s, Shore emerged victorious with a final score of 6-3. Outstanding individual performances backed up with tight-knit doubles pairings ensured not only a victory but a statement of our potential this season. Ari C endured a tough singles match long enough for his opponent to default in the final set. Harper C and Josh P also shone by coming from a set down to reach one set all, eventually winning the match in a thrilling 10-8 super tiebreak. Shore’s victory showcased their talent, resilience, and team spirit, making it a memorable day for the team and their supporters.

Zachary L (Year 11)
First Captain 

Seconds Report

In a well-mannered, dominant display, the Seconds triumphed over Sydney High with a decisive 9-0 victory. The rain couldn’t stop us, with a team squeegee effort enabling us to play. With matches only starting at 2.30pm pace was key, with three aggressive doubles matches played, and won, within a short time, setting the tone for the day.

A highlight was George G and Charlie M playing some of the most aggressive doubles seconds tennis has seen. The singles matches featured stellar performances from Oli D who played an aggressive match of singles, winning in only 45 minutes! Standout was Charlie M stealing a double bagel – an emphatic 6-0, 6-0 victory. We are at the sunrise of a new second’s tennis era with a foot at the top of the ladder and an eye on the premiership.

Chris M (Year 11)
Second Captain 

U16s Report

This weekend the U16s tennis played against the tough opponents SBHS. Overall, most teams got one or two wins each, but Shore did not go down without a fight. The A1 doubles Chris H and Lachie A ended with a 5-7 loss after having fought majority of their games into deuce reflecting how the doubles games went for all the teams. The U16s As and Bs had a couple singles games cancelled as they went overtime due to rain causing a 20-minute break. Even with the overall loss, the boys stayed optimistic and made the most of the time playing at SBHS and are looking forward to winning next week.

Archie J (Year 9)
U16s

Water Polo Report

Fourths

Another week and another step up in performance for the mighty Fourths. Charlie A kicked us off with two goals in the 1st quarter and from there we held the lead. Xavier A scored a nice top corner goal in the 2nd quarter and was up to the challenge defensively, putting pressure on their best player all game. Fergus B was his aggressive usual self and scored a tight angle bounce shot goal late in the third quarter. We had Jack R, Xavier A and Fin S all fill in as goalie this week and they all performed above expectations, especially Fin who made a goalie run followed by a half court bounce shot goal to start the 4th quarter. Charlie F and Max G were brick walls in defence causing turnovers all game. The defensive pressure caused Sydney Boys High School (SBHS) to run out the shot clock several times, a great overall performance from the lads finishing 10 – 5.

Mr Craig
Fourths Coach

16Bs

The 16Bs continued their winning streak vs SBHS coming away victorious 12 – 5. Shore never let the lead slip during the game and went into quarter time up 3 – 2, half time then left us up 5 – 3, and in the back half of the game Shore’s fitness and communication in the pool extended our lead as we pushed further ahead. The game could have been a lot closer with many of SBHS shots at goal hitting the posts and many of the goals blocked by superstar goalie Henry F playing well beyond his years. Lachie H worked hard at centre forward and was rewarded with seven goals. Hamish W and Max H each put one past the SBHS goalie and Ethan N was rewarded on the right wing with three goals. Special mention to Christian W and Harry C who in defensive rarely fouls another player but slows up the attacking team enough to cause panic and poor decisions from opposing teams, resulting in regular possession changes.

Mr Kane
16Bs Coach

14Bs

The 14Bs set the target of transitioning fast in both attack and defence to test the oppositions fitness and swimming speed from the opening whistle. This tactic worked very effectively, with our players movement off the ball seeing open water in front of them, and then good quality passes gave us lots of shots on goal. During the 1st quarter, our radar for the goal was off, only scoring two goals from about ten good attempts. In the 2nd quarter we persevered with the tactic, stretching the opposition on the fast break, moving the ball quickly and accurately up the pool, and shooting as close to goals as possible. The accuracy in the second quarter was much better, with five goals scored. In the third quarter, our superior fitness enabled us to really move ahead in the water, but our bunched attack meant that the shots on goal were contested, and the passing towards the goal was not at our usual standard. In the 4th quarter, we attempted to fix our spacing in attack, but were unfortunately guilty of some defensive lapses due to the lopsided final scoreline of 16 – 1. Special mentions this week go to Cyan C for his tireless defensive effort, both in structure and in open water, and to Will P and Felipe O for five and four goals respectively.

Mr Jones
14Bs Coach

Results

Top image: Fourths

Miss Z Dowdell
MIC Water Polo

Grammar Regatta Report

Season 2023/24 is underway!

Last weekend was a very exciting time for the Shore Boat Club, with the first official hit out of the season taking ace at the Sydney Olympic regatta venue. 

This regatta was the first proper regatta of the season, with the only other regatta being the Spring regatta which we entered a whole host of scullers to be eventually blown off the course.

The regatta got underway with our mighty Third Year 10 VIII. This crew found themselves in a brilliant tussle early but a very determined final 500 metres saw them fight back from a second down to record a great win by just under a boat length.  In their second round of racing – the Third Year 10 crew finished in second place with the heroics of the 1st race not being able to be repeated.

The Second Year 10 VIII hit the water with lots of enthusiasm, unfortunately, they also enthusiastically hit their fin on something also in the warmup, resulting in it snapping and missing the start.  Fortunately, thanks to some quick reorganising of boats, the Second Year 10 crew made it to the start line incident free.  Making up for the lost chance, The Shore crew shot out to the lead by the first station and made up a lead of just over 5 seconds, a lead the built on over the second stage of the course, eventually recording a winning margin of just under ten seconds.

The First Year10 VIII rounded out the junior side of the draw with a strong first outing, coming in 2nd place in a very full field.  The boys from North Sydney Boys High were able to hold their 1.3 second margin over the Newington College crew for the entire duration of the race.  The King’s School were the eventual winners of this first race.  In the second round of racing, the First Year 10 crew came under fire early with many crews launching of the start line.  This crew found themselves in 4th place in a very tight field but with good show of character, they were able to claw back to a podium finish, rowing through Newington in the final 250 metres of the course. 

Our Senior Programme had some late re-organisation to do with a very dreaded Covid-19 cases and other illness forcing the withdrawal of our Third and Fourth IV.  We were able to combine what was left of our senior Third VIII and Fourth Year 10 VIII to compete in the senior Third VIII race in what was their first row together as a combination these boys showed great spirit to come in second place, splitting the two Riverview combinations and Joeys who finished in 4th place.

The next crew we had to compete was the Second IV.  In both their races, this crew showed tremendous courage and fight through the middle 1000 metres, which bodes well for the future of this crew.  In their first outing, they lead early, in the second race they came under fire in the first 500 metres finding themselves in 4th position but then fought back to finish second. 

The First IV first outing found them in a very interesting 5th place albeit by a very narrow margin.  In what was a brilliant final 500 metres they clawed back to finish in 3rd, rowing through Joeys and Scots.  In the second round of racing, the crew finished in 2nd place.  This time they were determined not to leave themselves with too much work to do, came out of the blocks with great energy to find themselves in 3rd position at the 1000 metre mark and with a final push through the final 500 metres and a very even split race strategy they were able to put a boat length on 3rd place to secure second.

The Second VIII recorded two 4th places from their two starts, The first race saw the crew launch out of the blocks with great speed to sit in 2nd place just behind the Riverview crew (who were the eventual winners in both rounds) but alas the transition to middle race pace was costly in both races which saw them slip back into 4th place each time. 

The First VIII had a solid first hit out in the first race, with a very conservative race plan that saw their mid race beat lower than the field, the crew held their position steadily through the race.  In the final 250 metres the Shore boat launched an attack on the Newington boat to see the “Sue Wright” boat get her bow ball infront of Newington to record a 4th place finish. In the second race, the crew started well but alas after what could be described as a “user error”, the crew found themselves out of the race by the 750 metre mark.

Surf Lifesaving Report

Week 4, Term 4 2023

Years 7 and 8 Nippers

During the week the beach was closed so the Nippers worked on their resuscitation skills before conducting some beach events. On Saturday the Nippers worked on their board skills in messy waves. The conditions allowed the boys to use a strong rip to get out the back before returning to the beach on the sand bank. Some board races were then held.

Results Wednesday

Board Race Saturday

Years 9 and 10 Intermediates

The Year 9 and 10 boys are making great steps forward in their skills and knowledge in relation to the upcoming Bronze Medallion course and assessment. In Saturday’s session, following some competitive events and board rescue practice in the sea, the boys returned to the Club Training Room to practice CPR on mannequins. Coach, Mr Ben Neighbour, a qualified trainer and assessor, was pleased with the way the boys took on the new skills and demonstrated competence in a practical situation. The ‘dry’ element of the Bronze Medallion (First Aid and CPR) will be assessed on the evening of Thursday 16 November in Week 6, with the ‘wet’ component (Aquatic Rescue) taking place on Sunday 26 November.

 The following Week 4 results were recorded:

Year 11 Seniors

The Seniors are an athletic, skillful and intensely competitive group. They both enjoy team and individual events and give their all in the water and on the beach. However, they also have a keen sense of service to others, and it is encouraging to see them willfully volunteer to assist younger year groups as either Water Safety during board and swim races, or helping coaches to deliver training in first aid, CPR and aquatic rescues. This, of course, is also in addition to their rostered patrol each Saturday.

The boys enjoyed a less disruptive week with regard to beach closures and had a good deal of time in the water, either swimming or board paddling. Smaller surf conditions on Saturday, coupled with a very quiet beach due to the inclement weather forecast, meant that the boys could maximise their time in competitive events.

The following results were recorded:

Mr G Jones
Acting MIC SLS