From the Principals Desk

As Term 3 ends, it’s been wonderful to reflect on the richness and diversity of experiences across Northern Bay College. From the energy of camps and sporting successes, to celebrations of culture and student leadership, and the professional learning that strengthens our staff, it’s clear that our community continues to grow in connection and capacity.

We thank our students, families, and staff for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the term. 

While most of our community enjoys a well-earned holiday, we send our best wishes to our Unit 3–4 VCE students, who will be hard at work revising and preparing for their final exams. 

Enjoy the break, stay safe—and of course, Go Cats in the Grand Final!

Scott Diamond

College Principal

Growth

Australian Maths Comp Results

We are delighted to share some exciting news about Northern Bay College’s growing success in the Australian Mathematics Competition. This year we have seen outstanding growth not only in the number of students entering the competition but also in their results. Two of our students achieved rankings in the top 9% of competitors across Australasia, an incredible achievement given the competition attracts participants from across Australia, Hong Kong, and Singapore!!This success is a powerful testament to the culture of aspiration and challenge we continue to build for our students, as well as the wonderful work of staff in our extended mathematics programs. We are proud of our students’ efforts and look forward to further growth in years to come.

Cooking with Sophie

After work on Wednesday, Goldsworthy staff had the wonderful opportunity to learn how to make wonton soup with chilli oil, guided by our popular EAL staff member, Sophie. It’s safe to say that everyone thoroughly enjoyed the experience—not just learning a new culinary skill, but also sharing laughter, good food, and great company. Thank you, Sophie, for the time, effort, and heart you put into this session. Your passion and generosity made it a truly memorable experience for all!

Persistence

Victorian State School Spectacular

A quick message to wish our State School superstar and supporting staff (try saying that fast ten times!!) who hit the stage on Saturday afternoon and evening to deliver what promises to be a ‘Spectacular’ performance!!

Division Athletics Champions

Students from Northern Bay College proudly represented their school at the Division Athletic Championship held at Landy Field on Tuesday, 9th September. Competing against schools from across the Geelong Region, the students showcased their athletic talents, determination, and team spirit in a range of track and field events. Their efforts were marked by strong sportsmanship, and a shared sense of pride in wearing the Northern Bay colours. Congratulations to Sam Blackney, Sarah Mayondo, Rylan (Ry) Beckley, and Mohammad Raufi, who will progress to the Regional Athletics—an exciting opportunity to compete at the next level!

Collaboration

Year 7/8 Wellbeing Day

On Monday 25 August, Northern Bay College held its second Year 7–8 Wellbeing Day for 2025 at the Goldsworthy Campus. Organised by our wonderful Wellbeing Team, with leadership from the Tallis and Wexford teams, the day focused on the theme of “Mind / Body / Soul.” The program began with a motivating presentation from Life Changer, before students moved into smaller groups to participate in a variety of engaging activities, including yoga, ju-jitsu, art, First Nations mindfulness, and a creative music session. A highlight of the day was the opportunity for all students to work with Courage2Care, whose workshops challenged and inspired students to reflect on values of respect and responsibility. The positivity, energy, and engagement of students made the day a real success and a credit to the organising teams.

Golf at Goldsworthy

It has been fantastic to see our new Golf enclosure in the yard already being so well utilised by our students. The space is alive with energy and laughter as students take the opportunity to challenge themselves, practice their swings, and enjoy the fun of friendly competition. Just as pleasing has been the number of staff joining in alongside them, modelling participation, building connections, and showing that these shared moments extend well beyond the classroom. This is exactly the kind of inclusive, active space we want to see at our college—one that encourages teamwork, healthy recreation, and positive relationships across our community. A big thank you to everyone who has embraced this new initiative; it’s wonderful to see it becoming a valued part of our daily school life.

First Nations Event

Yesterday we held a successful First Nations event for our 7–12 students. While a smaller group attended, they were lively and engaged throughout. Pat from Polly Farmer supported the session, and Jaz and Yolanda from Wathaurong shared the exciting programs running at the Forrester St Youth Hub. They have also offered to plan and deliver a Yulunga games session next term, with a Tuesday being their preferred day – a great opportunity to include Tahlia and Taylor in the experience. The positive opportunities continued for a number of our First Nations students with many taking the opportunity to join the Polly Farmer Foundation team Urban Camp. During this experience students visited Bridgestone in Truganina to explore career pathways, attended a powerful performance by the Bangarra Dance Company, with the experience culminating in a meaningful Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Walk, deepening understanding of First Nations history and identity. The NBC partnership with Polly Farmer Foundation is one that we are so proud of and truly see the amazing impact and benefit it delivers to our students every day for which we are truly grateful. 

Kindness

NBC Pop-Up Shop

A massive congratulations to our Senior VM students who have shown outstanding dedication and professionalism over the past few weeks. Tasked with preparing over 30,000 items of stock generously donated by the Corio Village ‘Ally store’, these students transformed the opportunity into a thriving retail experience—with all proceeds going to charity. From stock preparation and display to advertising, customer service, and communication, these students have demonstrated a remarkable range of skills. Their hard work paid off, with students and staff lining up to snag some incredible bargains and support a great cause. A huge thank you to the supportive staff who guided and championed them throughout. You’ve all made the college proud!

International Day of Peace

In 2021, to celebrate 100 years of Rotary in Australia, the Rotary Club of Canberra Burley Griffin (ACT) set out to gift 100 Peace Poles to 100 schools. The idea quickly grew, and today more than 600 Peace Poles can be found across the country. Northern Bay College is proud to be part of this movement, with a Peace Pole standing at each of our four junior campuses.

Today, we welcomed Kardinia Rotary President Rosanne Kava and member Kerry Woodman to our Peacock Campus. Together with College Principal Scott Diamond, Campus Principal Kathleen Nardi, our students and teachers, they gathered around the Peace Pole to mark the International Day of Peace on Sunday, 21 September.

Peace Poles are more than just markers in our school grounds — they are gentle reminders to choose peace every day in our thoughts, words and actions. They reflect our shared hope for a kinder, more harmonious world, and we are proud to celebrate this message as a college community.