Message from the Headmaster

What is Excellence?

Dear Parents and Carers,

Last week, The Daily Telegraph published a list of the best 100 private schools in Australia. They determined that Shore was in the rather extraordinary position of 14th. They identified Shore as the second best boys’ school in NSW and the sixth best in the country. The criteria were NAPLAN and ATAR results; student/teacher ratios; school fees, overall funding and socio-economic advantage; school facilities, breadth of subjects offered; and range of co-curricular activities, including sport. What exactly was their methodology and how rigorous was this? We simply don’t know. There is no granularity in the ranking, which is yet another media league table. At least it is preferable to the constant excoriation and scarifying such schools normally suffer through various media.

What should we make of this? In one sense it is a compliment. However, there is no place for hubris or any form of arrogance. The Apostle Paul’s maxim: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves” (Philippians 2:3) is a key value at Shore.

Even if we accept the label of excellence, that is no justification for resting on our laurels. Schools which are not constantly endeavouring to improve further, risk becoming becalmed. Moreover, Shore seeks excellence in multiple areas, including those which are not readily expressed in data. Amongst these are the critical character attributes and virtues which are part of becoming an excellent adult man.

Some recent indicators of excellence are certainly robust. Oliver Roxburgh of Year 12 has won a gold medal in the International Geography Olympiad. Dylan Mathew has achieved a silver medal, and Ben Bauer and Dylan Phelps have both achieved bronze in the same competition. Henry Pritchard of Year 11 has won a gold medal in the Australian Geography Olympiad. Austin Xu of Year 11 has won a High Distinction in the Australian Economics Olympiad, and to consolidate such results, as pointed out last week, Jayden Pan of Year 11 has won gold at the International Mathematics Olympiad. Year 7 students, Zachary Robertson, Edward Perham and Charlie Cameron have been labelled as Future Entrepreneurs of the Year for their submission “Funtrade” (KidsMBA), an online e-commerce trading platform. This is international recognition. The boys are amongst 12 international finalists, the first Australians ever to reach the final. Their work was submitted last year as a Year 6 entry. Also from the Prep School, Year 5 students, Dash Sippe and Ezra Do, have been shortlisted from 6,500 entries in the Whitlam Institute’s What Matters? Writing Competition.

In Surf Life Saving, Sam Davis of Year 11 has been selected to represent Australia as a member of the Australian Youth Life Saving team to compete in the International Surf Rescue Challenge in New Zealand. George Kennedy, Hamilton Ward, Russell Yuan, Alex Woolfe, Jett Semmens and Cooper Semmens have been selected in various U15 and U17 State teams in Water Polo.

Congratulations to all of these students and to the staff who have assisted them in these worthy endeavours.

Regards

Dr John Collier
Headmaster

Chaplains’ Chat

There are so many good and wonderful things about life. While Sydney and parts of the state have had a fair amount of rain in the past few months, we should be thankful for all the benefits that this brings. Yes, I do know that there will be some disappointment when sport is called off! However, we should also be thankful for the sunny blue skies that we also experience. But more than the weather, we enjoy much in this country. We typically have material things in abundance, such as provisions, clothing, houses, as well as friends and families. The danger in having so much is that we sometimes have this subtle mindset that starts to influence us to have more and more. Enough never seems to be enough.

In Chapel this week, we were reminded in Ephesians 4:27 that: “Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.” Stealing is essentially all about being a taker. Taking what is not ours. It is contrary to the God of the Bible, who is a giver. He gives us much in life, and above all this, he has given his son Jesus. We are reminded in this verse that even work is a good thing from God, and yet even in our work and enjoying the material benefits of this, we are encouraged to be generous and give to those in need. Of course, our giving can take many forms, such as giving money, spending time with others, volunteering, and supporting others. May we continue to be people who give, just as God has given to us.

Rev Anthony Benn
Chaplain

Expressions of Interest – HSC Exam Supervision

We are currently seeking expressions of interest from individuals who would like to be involved in supervising the upcoming HSC examinations.

The 2025 HSC exams will take place from Thursday 16 October to Friday 7 November 2025.

If you are interested in applying, please email Sally Carr sallyanncarr888@gmail.com

Mr Andrew Holland
Deputy Head, Academics (Acting)

Stay Connected with Lampada

Dear Shore Families,

As we dive into another exciting Term, we’d like to remind you that Lampada remains your central source for all things Shore. Whether you’re looking for the latest School news, events, calendars, academic updates, or Co-Curricular information, Lampada is the place to go.

• Need to check an upcoming event?
• Looking for academic resources or reports?
• Want to stay in the loop with School announcements?

It’s all there. Quick, reliable, and always up to date.

We know how busy family life can be, and we’re committed to making it easier for you to stay informed and engaged with School life.

Something Exciting is Coming…

In just a few weeks, we’ll be launching something that will take your Shore experience to the next level. Designed with parents in mind, streamlined to access Lampada content, it’s going to be a game changer!

Stay tuned, we can’t wait to share more with you soon.

The Community Engagement Team

American Tea 2025

Everything You Need to Know and How You Can Get Involved

1. Boyzone Ride Wristbands – Pre-Purchase Now

Unlimited fun awaits! Boyzone wristbands are now available for $35 each, giving boys access to all rides on the day. Pre-paid wristbands will be available for collection on Thursday 11 September, during recess and lunch outside the Senior School Library, or for Prep boys via the Prep Front Office.

Purchase wristbands here. 

2. Volunteer and Be Part of the Action

From flowers, crested goods, BBQs to food stalls, set-up and pack-down – American Tea thrives when our community comes together. Volunteering is a great way to meet other parents and see your son(s) having a fantastic day.

Sign up for a volunteer role on the days leading into American Tea here.

Sign up for a volunteer role on the day at American Tea here.

To help you pick a time, here is the student schedule for the boys attending the American Tea:

Years 3 to 6: 9:10 – 10:00am and 1:10 – 2:00pm 

Year 7 and 8: 8:20 – 9:10am and recess (10-10.30am) and lunch (12.30-1.10pm)

Year 9 and 10: 10:30 – 11:20am and recess (10-10.30am) and lunch (12.30-1.10pm)

Year 11 and 12: 11:20 – 12:10pm and recess (10-10.30am) and lunch (12.30-1.10pm)

3. Pre-Sales Now Open

Beat the queues and pre-purchase gourmet food, flowers, and other limited items for American Tea now. Order
here.

4. Bakers Needed for the Cake Stall

The Cake Stall is an American Tea favourite – and we need your help! You can:

• Bake an item to deliver on the morning of Friday 12 September – sign up here.
• Join or host a “Baking Day” with other parents in the lead-up – email Laura at Lmferguson505@gmail.com to join.
  • Please provide a full ingredient list for all baked goods to ensure allergy safety.
• Prep Years 3 to 6 Cake Box Decorating Competition – In the coming weeks, boys in Years 3 to 6 will be bringing home a cake box for the annual American Tea Prep Cake Box Decorating Competition. The decorating theme for 2025 aligns with the Book Week theme of “Book and Adventure”. We would be grateful if you could fill your son’s cake box with whatever homemade baking you enjoy and have your son deliver it to the Cake Stall on the Chapel Lawn on the morning of the American Tea. More details to follow.

5. Silent Auction Sneak Peek

The Silent Auction is our biggest fundraiser – and this year’s prizes are better than ever. Bidding opens the week before American Tea, but here’s a taste of what’s on offer:

• Tickets to the Hong Kong Sevens with accommodation at The Conrad
• Family adventure weekend in the Kybeyan Valley – trout fishing, biking, hunting and more…
• Private dining for eight with a chef in your own home
• Exclusive Behind the Scenes tour at the Australian Museum

Keep an eye on the American Tea page on Lampada for more information on this great event. Let’s make this American Tea our best yet – see you there!

Shore Parents’ Association

Shore Community Fellowship and Prayer Evening

You are warmly invited to this special evening where we come together to reflect and rejoice in the School’s Christian purpose and to pray.

All current and past members of the School community are most welcome.

The evening will be an opportunity to share a casual meal, meet one another, hear from various members of the School community regarding the Christian ministries that are happening, and to pray for the School as well as our wider world.

Date: Thursday 4 September, 2025

Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Place: Shore Dining Hall

Dress code: Smart Casual

A casual Dinner will be provided (Boarding meal)

Please click here to RSVP

Parking is available in the School Car Park (Entry via Hunter Cres).

Please share this invitation with interested members of the Shore community.

SPA Vacant Positions

The Shore Parents’ Association (SPA) is seeking applications for the following vacant positions:

• Assistant Treasurer
• Services Coordinator
• American Tea Convener

These are two-year roles (the Assistant Treasurer becoming the Treasurer in the second year) commencing after the SPA Annual General Meeting on 20 October 2025.

Please click on the links below to access full position descriptions from the SPA Lampada page:

• Assistant Treasurer
• Services Coordinator
• American Tea Convener

Please also refer to the SPA Lampada Page for further information about the important role SPA plays in serving the Shore community. 

To apply, please email SPA Chair, Rev Dr Rich Wenden, at spachair@shore.nsw.edu.au

Applications for the Assistant Treasurer position close Monday 18 August 2025.

Applications for the Services Coordinator and American Tea Convener positions close Monday 1 September 2025.

Rev Dr Richard Wenden
Chair, Shore Parents’ Association

The 2025 Old Boys’ Union Scholarship

Fuel Your Passion for Making a Difference

The Shore Old Boys’ Union is once again proud to offer the Old Boys’ Union Scholarship supporting Year 13 students with a strong commitment to community service. This is your opportunity to turn your passion into action.

Do you have a service-based project or idea that could create real change? Each year, the Old Boys’ Union Scholarship is awarded to Year 12 student/s who demonstrate commitment, initiative, and a desire to give back. Whether you’re starting a not-for-profit, launching an environmental project, or pursuing an idea that’s close to your heart, this scholarship could help turn your vision into reality. The Old Boys’ Union wants to support your journey.

The Scholarship seeks to acknowledge both a boy’s appreciation of the School values, and also his desire to put into practice what they have learnt in a unique way. The value of the Scholarship is a minimum of $3,000. It may be utilised by the recipient(s) over a three-year period up to the 31st December of the third year following your final year of School. The Scholarship is announced in the final week of Term 3.

What We’re Looking For:

• A genuine passion for making a difference
• A well-thought-out service project or community initiative
• A demonstrated commitment to helping others
• Clear goals for your community service or passion project
• A plan for how the scholarship will support your next steps.

If you are interested in applying, we ask that you give a brief explanation in writing, answering the following three questions in no more than one A4 page in total. Send to: Ms Maria Black, Alumni Community Manager at mblack@shore.nsw.edu.au by 5:00pm on Sunday 31 August.

1. What have you learnt in your years at Shore about being ‘A Good Man?’
2. Indicate the nature of Service activities that you have already been involved in both in the School and the wider community.
3. What would be the nature of the ‘Service’ activity that you would like to undertake on leaving school?

Don’t miss this opportunity to take your ambition beyond the School gates.

Ms Maria Black
Alumni Community Manager

Year 12 Celebration Events: Secure Your Place Today!

A reminder to all families to book for the Year 12 celebration events as we prepare to celebrate the achievements of our 2025 cohort.

To view all the different event details and secure your spot, please visit the Year 12 2025 Celebration Events page on Lampada.

Please book by Friday 12 September to secure your place.

Let’s come together to celebrate our Year 12 students. We look forward to seeing you there!

Music Calendar

All dates and events are subject to change, please confirm with the Music Department.

Term Dates 2025

Science Week

Next week, to celebrate National Science Week, there will be events and activities across the School for all students to enjoy. Everyone is welcome to cheer on their House at The Smart Science House Quiz every lunchtime in the Smith Auditorium, with the Grand Final on Friday. Year 7 will work in teams to build a catapult, Year 8 will learn about the Ice Age from Geologist, Dr Samuel Boone, Year 9 will build a contraption for the popular Egg Drop, and Year 10 will enjoy a Virtual Reality experience. There are Escape Room activities for Years 7, 8 and 9, and all students can collect clues around the School to win prizes in the Treasure Hunt. 

Science Department

Year 10 Work Engagement

Thank you to all students who have submitted their Student Placement Record as a PDF on Lampada and completed the online form with employer details. Also, thank you to those parents who are supporting the programme and are able to offer placements to students for the week. It can be challenging to secure a position, particularly with employees working from home, so it is greatly appreciated.

Completed Student Placement Records are due on 31 August. They require sections to be completed by the parent/carer, student, school and the host employer. As the form needs to be sent to the host employer to be completed and then received back, it can take a couple of weeks for this to occur. Therefore, students are encouraged to send the Student Placement Record to employers as soon as possible to meet the required deadline. This is a legal document, and no student will be able to participate in the programme without a completed Student Placement Record.

Students undertaking the Macquarie University Business Week have been emailed the Employer Section of the Student Placement Record. Once the parent/carer section and the student sections have been completed, the form can be uploaded onto Lampada.

For those students who have registered for White Card and Barista training, a reminder that they will need to secure three days of work engagement from Wednesday to Friday of the Work Engagement week and upload a Student Placement Record for those days.

Further details and where to upload paperwork are available here: Lampada – Work Engagement.

Work Engagement is such a wonderful opportunity to explore future pathways and experience the world of work. Students can meet and have conversations with professionals and gather career stories. Experiencing the ‘end career product’ before embarking on further education greatly assists in the decision-making process, particularly as courses cost significant amounts of money and take time.

Upcoming events, information sessions and further information on post-school options are available on the Careers News page on Lampada.

Please don’t hesitate to contact the Careers Team if you have any questions careers@shore.nsw.edu.au.

Ms Vanessa Shirriff
Head of Careers Education

Partnering with Parents

Respect and Consent and Navigating Digital Identity

As part of Shore’s comprehensive K-12 Respect and Consent programme, we were privileged to host Dr Marshall Ballantine-Jones last Wednesday evening for a parent presentation and Q&A session. Dr Ballantine-Jones is the author of the DigiHelp programme, which is currently being implemented in Year 7 and Year 9 PDHPE lessons this year. His work focuses on helping young people navigate identity, relationships, and the impact of digital media, particularly pornography and sexualised content.

The DigiHelp programme offers age-and-stage-relevant activities and conversations, guided by our excellent PDHPE teachers. Lessons focus on respectful relationships, consent, and challenging assumptions about harmful online material. Boys are encouraged to reflect deeply on their digital habits and the messages they receive through social media and other platforms.

The beginning of the presentation included some very alarming statistics around gender-based violence; tragic and awful realities that require deep reflection. These included findings that 58 percent of young women experience gender-based violence, including sexual harassment, assault, or online abuse, and that one in five women aged 18 to 24 have experienced stalking since the age of 15. Dr Ballantine-Jones went on to discuss major contributing factors to hyper-sexualised attitudes and negative behaviours in young men, such as early exposure to pornography, mass media sexualisation, social media, and narcissism. He highlighted the role of super stimuli, including pornography, social media, and gaming, as powerful influences that shape negative behaviours among young people.

Some key insights from the presentation include the following sobering statistics:

1. By age 15, 70 percent of boys will view porn regularly.
2. The average age of first viewing pornography is 11.5 to 12.5 years old.

He also unpacked the neurological impact of doom scrolling, where young people spend hours viewing short videos on social media sites, explaining how the brain is saturated in dopamine and how it can lead to addiction and wasted hours for young people.

A related and powerful takeaway: “You become what you dwell on”. This statement challenged us as educators and parents to consider how digital content shapes behaviour, character and relationships.

Some excellent practical advice for parents was offered. Dr Ballantine-Jones presented five key strategies:

1. Break Online Cycles – Teens need more non-screen activities. Delay access, set boundaries, and use tools like Custodio for parental controls on school devices. Most importantly, have the conversation—build trust and set clear expectations.
2. Parent Well – Strong relationships are foundational. His advice: “Talk early. Talk often. Talk well.”

He addressed the social cost of exclusion for boys not on social media and encouraged open dialogue.

3. Consider Peer Power – Know your son’s friends. Peer influence is the engine room of behaviour. Affirm identity and work with partner bodies—schools, clubs, churches—to provide positive role models.
4. Promote Belonging – Shore’s rich offering of co-curricular activities fosters a strong sense of belonging and positive role modelling. A vital counterbalance to online toxicity.
5. Consider Christian Sexual Ethics – Even for families not regularly attending church, Dr Ballantine-Jones recommended values of forgiveness, redemption, and mutual love. He urged parents to help boys resist mass media’s distorted messages about sexuality and identity.

We encourage parents to view the presentation recording and slides and to reach out with any questions or concerns. As always, we thank you for partnering with us in the pastoral care of your sons and for supporting this important work.

For more information about the DigiHelp programme or Shore’s Respecting Consent curriculum, please contact Mr Derek Champion, Deputy Head of Pastoral Care.

Mr Derek Champion
Deputy Head of Pastoral Care

Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Reception

Three Year 12 students were invited to attend a reception for Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award achievers hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, at Government House at the beginning of this Term.

Gus M, Nicholas C and Daniel B completed their Gold award during the first half of the year, and their achievements were recognised in this event. Along with 130 other students in Year 12 or who had recently completed high school, they were acknowledged for reaching the pinnacle of this award, demonstrating confidence, courage, determination, resourcefulness and adaptability.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award shows ability to lead, to work effectively as a team member, to solve problems and overcome obstacles, and to be creative and critical in thinking and planning.

“Completing the Gold Level Duke of Ed’ challenged me physically and mentally, built my resilience, leadership and teamwork skills, and gave me unforgettable experiences that shaped my confidence, independence and sense of purpose.”
Gus M

Mr Tim Scouller
Co-Curricular, Duke of Edinburgh

From the Music Department

Music Awards

Exciting news! Music Awards are coming up, so start practising! The Heats will begin on Monday 25 August and will run for two weeks until Friday 5 September. There will be QR codes to sign up shortly around the Music Department, so you can play as a soloist or in an ensemble for points for your House. We are fortunate to have Mr Timothy Chung adjudicate for us this year. He is a conductor, music educator, and performer based in Sydney, with over three decades of experience. He has worked extensively with various ensembles and educational institutions throughout his career, serving as Musical Director of the Sydney University Musical Society, Principal Conductor of the Macquarie University Singers, and Foundation Director of VOX. He has also been a Guest Conductor with the Gondwana Matthew Doyle Choir (young men’s voices).

Currently, Tim focuses on conducting and performing as a countertenor. He has performed as a soloist and chorister with renowned groups, including the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra Choir, Cantillation, Pinchgut Opera, ACO Voices, the Sydney University Graduate Choir, St Andrew’s Cathedral Choir and St Mary’s Cathedral Choir, where he serves as an Alto Lay Clerk. He is also the countertenor in Consort 8, a Sydney-based early music ensemble that performs sacred and secular repertoire. Consort 8 regularly presents concerts at St Paul’s Anglican Church, Burwood, and Santa Sabina Chapel, Strathfield.

Since 2009, Tim has conducted annual performances of Handel’s Messiah at the Sydney Town Hall, an endeavour he holds close to his heart.

Ms Alex Wentzel
Head of Strings (ELC-12)

Private Music Lessons

Please note the following if you would like private music lessons to cease at the end of Term 3, 2025. Notification should be emailed to privatemusiclessons@shore.nsw.edu.au and the private music tutor no later than 9am on Thursday 28 August. A reason for ceasing would be very much appreciated. Thank you.

Ms Judy Hicks
Coordinator of Private Music Lessons

Mrs Kim Barber
Head of Music

Student Articles Available in Lampada

In keeping with tradition, printed copies of student articles are handed out at the Senior School gates every Friday. This allows us to honour the Shore Weekly Record’s mission, ‘by the boys, for the boys,’ while making the digital version more concise for parents. A PDF of the student articles is also available each week on Lampada in the publications page.

AFL Report

Saturday 9 August 2025

Another wet week, another round of cancellations. Fortunately, the Junior A Team played Friday night against Redlands on a synthetic field, Macquarie University Oval, Northern Field. The Shore Junior A team concluded the year in style with a commanding victory over Redlands, with many of our own players filling in for the opposition to get as many players on the field. With four goals and five behinds compared to Redland’s single behind in the first quarter, Shore dominated the game right from the start. Despite a late surge by Redlands in the fourth quarter, Drew Rennie’s two goals ensured victory. As usual, Mr Caspersonn provided excellent coaching from the sidelines, while Mr Mason-Jones made a striking presence. Watching the boys play their first game against Barker College at the start of the season, it was great to see how much they have improved and how much they are enjoying it. Well done to Archer Bailey for being named Junior A Best and Fairest and Tomas Pahor named Most Improved.

The other three matches were called off, which was a very disappointing way to finish the season, with two wash-outs in a row. The Second XVIII was eager to play against Waverley’s third division team to try and notch up their first win for the season. The First XVIII wanted the opportunity to play against a Division 1, Pool A team to really test themselves to see where we truly stood as a team in the competition. We felt this was our moment to show we should be ranked fourth out of 10 teams, which is the best Shore has been since our inaugural season back in 2016.

To formalise the end of the season, next Friday we have the traditional First XVIII AFL End of Season Function in the Emery Room, Northbridge Playing Fields. It is a great event with all the players, parents and coaches coming together to celebrate a great season. We also name the Golden Boot, Most Improved, and Lewis Roberts-Thomson Best and Fairest Award.

“Beyond the Bridge”

Mr Geoff Tesoriero
MIC of AFL

Results

Cross Country Report

Saturday 9 August 2025

We were excited to be hosting the Shore Cross Country at Northbridge for the second time last Saturday. Let’s be clear, though, we weren’t so excited about the weather! It was wet!!! That being said, the GPS Schools stoically took to the course and made a good fist of the competition. There were some great performances, on which I’ll reflect on shortly. However, it is also worth mentioning the support that the Blue Street boys receive from their families. I was particularly impressed by the grandmothers who turned up last weekend to support the ‘apples of their eyes’ in the torrent! One nan was on umbrella duty as she raced around providing support for a ‘golden-haired boy’ with little regard for her own comfort, whilst another was heard shouting ‘that’s my grandson’ as he surged around the course in emphatic fashion! As I don’t want to embarrass anyone, you know who you are, yet it certainly wasn’t lost on me and others, great stuff!!!

In racing, sadly, the regular Saturday numbers were reduced as the CAS were off at their Championships. We got the Juniors underway at the scheduled 9am, and thankfully, racing soon warmed the athletes up! Harry Nicholson from the Prep was once again ‘amongst it’ up front and there he remained to finish a super 3rd overall! I’m so looking forward to him and his Prep buddies arriving next year, I think our Juniors will be hot! George Harvey was again super impressive, getting better weekly, and just managed to finish ahead of Zac Robertson as they were 11th and 12th, respectively. I look forward to witnessing what they may be able to do on the Track in the imminent Athletics Season! At the risk of sounding like a scratched record, it is the competition amongst us that improves our performance the most and certainly increases the essential ‘depth’! While mentioning improvement, Thomas Coleman is surging his way upward on the result sheet as the season progresses, as he was 23rd, completing our team result of 3rd, nice! A ‘shout out’ to Leon Field, who was a solid 26th, and it would be remiss of me not to mention Patrick Old, Alexander Warren and Elliot Smith, who were tenacious in the muddy conditions! Alexander possibly usurping Zac from last week for photo of the season…

The Intermediates looked very impressive from impartial (…) Shore eyes with Toby Ward, Jonty Jagger, Hugo Stewart, Ben Frantz all toeing the line as they welcomed Tom Armati to our ranks. We had been hoping and encouraging him to join us all season long. As we do to Will Bestic! Racing was as hot as it could be considering the conditions… and Toby and Jonty soon established themselves at the pointy end of the race. Toby surged to the lead, ultimately ‘breasting the tape’ for an awesome win! Nor far adrift was Jonty as he crossed the line soon after in 3rd. Hugo Stewart ran well, possibly the best we have seen so far this season, as he was pushed by the debutante, his cousin, Armati, ultimately finishing a very respectable 10th and 11th! Nice!!! Hugo Pope was stoic as he comes back from illness and can start to look toward a healthier season, more aligned with his ability next year, as he was 28th.

Thankfully, we were able to field a team (just) in the Opens last week with Fraser Pandit and James Thompson back in the saddle. Their aspirations this season have been constantly curtailed by injury. James Bestic led up front and relished the conditions, being so used to time in the pool, in the Opens race. He did hit the skids a few times, yet was able to get back up and continue – he finished a fine 8th. Tom Gray is literally running into form as he was 15th, looking very comfortable. Fraser and James followed thereafter to complete our team, which ended up 8th.

THANKS!!! Huge thanks to those parents and staff members who stepped into the trenches on Saturday to assist in running the meet, be it marshalling, crowd control or in the canteen. Many hands do make for lighter work! Thanks also to Jack Riding for his photography on Saturday, taking over from the regular bloke who was otherwise occupied, no doubt talking somewhere…

Shore Cross Country Machine of the Week: George Harvey

CITY to SURF: We had a few in our number compete in the City to Surf on Sunday, including a crowd from Barry House, arguably the most athletic Boarding House… Tom Gray held the torch aloft for the current crop of fine young Shore men as he secured a super time of 51min 57secs to be 230th! No mean feat!!! Toby Ward wasn’t too far back in 55min 13secs to be 590th with Zac Robertson not far adrift in 57min 30secs. A little further back again was Barry House el Supremo Mr Morris, leading his Barry House charges by example as he crossed the line in 1hr 56min 18secs to be 54819th… Other Shore and Shore-ish shout outs to Bronte Oates, Mrs Oates’ daughter, who won the Women’s race in a swift time of 45min 51secs and Old Boy Ed Goddard, who was probably a little disappointed, yet finished in an awesome time of 42min 30secs to be 7th.

Off to Miranda tomorrow for the season-ending GPS Championships.

Good running,

Mr Michael Spratt
MIC Cross Country

Football Report

Saturday 9 August 2025

The last two Saturdays we’ve had no games played except a half a game on Saturday 9 August with the Second XI vs St Ignatius’ College Riverview (Riverview) and rescheduled Round 5 GPS games vs Sydney Boys High School (SBHS) on Tuesday 5 April at Northbridge as per reports below.

First XI vs SBHS 4-2 win

After a rainy weekend, the Shore First XI’s matchup vs a strong SBHS came on a Tuesday afternoon at Northbridge. Shore started strong early, using link-up play and speed to create early chances, and a skilful run down the wing from Will Procter created a chance for Brian Thorpe, who scored with ease. However, a quick response from SBHS saw the half-time score level at 1-1 going into the second half. A motivated Shore came out strong in the second half, creating multiple chances and holding SBHS’s attacking chances to a minimum. After dominating possession of the ball, a rebound fell to Brian Thorpe, who scored his second to give Shore the lead. The dominance continued, with Shore scoring two more goals from Hamish Walls and Brian Thorpe, which put Shore up 4-1. SBHS got a goal back late in the game, making the final score 4-2 to Shore. Congratulations to Brian Thorpe for scoring a hat trick, leading Shore to their first win of the GPS season.

Second XI vs Riverview 2-5 loss

Despite the wet weather and a bogged pitch, the Second XI game between Shore and Riverview persisted, with Riverview starting strong with three goals early due to their manipulation of the tough conditions. Shore fought hard despite the conditions, playing some excellent long balls out wide and were rewarded with a goal by Alex Wilde, however, Riverview immediately struck back with two goals of their own from two consecutive corners. Shore kept fighting and found another goal at the end of the second half from Alex Wilde before the match was called off due to dangerous conditions, leaving the half-time (and full-time) score 5-2 to Riverview.

Mr Elvis DeMarchi
Head of Football

Rugby Report

Saturday 9 August 2025
Shore vs Saint Ignatius’ College Riverview (Riverview)

“The Swamp” lived up to its nickname on the weekend, and muddy, wet fields greeted Shore teams on Saturday at Riverview. We are grateful to our hosts for keeping all Rugby games on, even when the fields did not look like they could take on 30 boys tackling and sliding in the mud. Great fun! 

And congratulations must be given to the Riverview First XV. Last weekend, they managed to secure the GPS Rugby Premiership, and this is an achievement they should be proud of. They have been the best and most consistent team in 2025, with an excellent defensive record. We can learn much from their season and “steal shamelessly” from it!

Around the grounds, Shore had a very positive weekend, and hopefully everyone enjoyed their Rugby in the conditions. It was great to see a few teams that have had tough seasons register some wins. Our 13D’s lapped up the mud and had a great victory. And Old Boy Coach Rory Hall has the 13C’s firing – second win in a row. Likewise, the 13B’s – two in a row and ready for The King’s School (King’s). Unfortunately, the 13As went down on Saturday, but Coach Morgan has a cunning plan this week at training to bounce back.

Our U14s were on fire, only dropping one game out of five. The 14Cs have the best record in the School (only dropping one game thus far in the year) and they are hoping to finish off in style at the Bridge this weekend.

Our Competition teams (Third, Second and First XV) all went down to Riverview. The Thirds and Second XV both had chances in their games and were never out of it until the end of their games. 

The First XV were determined to hold on to the Centenary Trophy (a trophy played for between Shore and Riverview teams), and the team welcomed back Charlie Galligan, who was cleared to play one half in his return from injury. Shore scored first with a converted try, and the rest of the first half was an arm wrestle, with Riverview displaying suffocating defence, and both teams managed to score two converted tries each. Two penalty goals gave Riverview the advantage at halftime, but the game was even against the competition’s heavyweights.

The second half proved why Riverview were the champions this year. They continued their strong defence and converted their opportunities when presented. Shore pressed valiantly at the Riverview line on a number of occasions but could not break them. In the end, Riverview came out as worthy winners.

Accepting the Decision

I wanted to acknowledge the great discipline shown by the 15As last weekend. Over the years, it has been a fierce battle between Shore and Riverview, and last week was no different. Shore found themselves behind by four points with five minutes to go and Riverview in possession. Every ruck became a warzone, but despite repeated attempts to counter-ruck or pilfer the ball, the Shore boys were unable to win back possession without an infringement being called. The team did not argue or remonstrate, but got back 10 each time and redoubled their efforts. Even when a try was disallowed, which would have given victory, the Shore team abided by the decision and focused on the next phase. We did not end up winning the game, but our boys showed great character by accepting defeat, shaking hands, and moving their focus to the final fixture of the season. Let’s all follow that example this weekend against King’s.

Mr David Mason-Jones
MIC Rugby

Taekwondo Report

Saturday 9 August 2025

On Saturday 26 July we hosted the First V Taekwondo competition against Barker College and Sydney Grammar Schoolfor a double header. Against opposition with varied sizes and tactics of play, we recorded wins in both rounds.

First V vs Barker College (4-1 Win)

Coming into the 5th Round of the tournament, we knew that we had to make a statement to the other teams. The first bout of the weekend was an accurate reflection of our efforts throughout the week. A dominant and quick victory of a 4-1 win was instrumental in helping us prepare and motivating us for the next and main event. The clash for the minor premiership.

First V vs Sydney Grammar School (4-1 Win)

Now, with another two points secured, we knew that this was our chance. The chance to book our tickets to the finals.

Our captain, Andrew G (Year 12) leading the charge again this week. Despite his opponent towering over him, he made no hesitation and set the tone for the rest of the team. His courage and speed allowed him to defeat his opponent with a 3-1 win, leading the team to strike first on the scoreboard.

Next up was Ethan Tong (Year 10). Despite having a fever just last week, that didn’t stop him from competing and giving it his all on the mat. Unfortunately, he came up short and with a defeat of 3-1.

Now tied, Josh Lo (Year 11) was called up onto the mat. In a fiery and entertaining match, he made no mistakes and made a statement in a 3-0 victory. A complete shutdown and domination of his opponent. Helping Shore gain yet another point and closer to the minor title.

With one more win needed, there was a sense of anticipation among the Shore boys. Christian Wong (Year 11) was given the task to finish it against the captain of Sydney Grammar. The bout was equal, both he and the opponent trading one point after another, and it ended up going into a golden point battle (2-2). Despite the pressure, he refused to break and won the point.

Despite securing the win, the team was still tenacious and hungry for more. Ben P (Year 11) was the final match of the day. His determination in this bout was commendable. Despite being down 2-1, he immediately came back and scored two consecutive points to help Shore finish off the job and leading the minor premiership.

With another win in the books, we are currently at the top of the leaderboard for the First V Taekwondo Competition. But there’s more to come, we have one Round against Riverview College next week and a final chance to bring home the 2025 Taekwondo season trophy. Well done to all those who participated in the training and on Saturday this week. In addition, we would like to thank Dr Collier for taking time out of his busy schedule to watch the team compete. It was a real motivator for the boys and spectators.

Go Shore!

Christian Wong
Vice-Captain Taekwondo