Senior School News

From the Head of Character and Culture

As we move toward the midpoint of Term 1, I would like to sincerely thank the many parents and carers who attended our recent House Mentor Parent Teacher Interviews. This was the first time we have facilitated interviews in this format, and we appreciated the strong engagement from families. The conversations were purposeful and student-centred, allowing House Mentors, parents and students to reflect not only on academic progress, but also on wellbeing, organisation and engagement in school life. The partnership between home and school is one of our greatest strengths, and it was encouraging to see this in action.

As Dr O’Rielly noted in her column, the middle of term is often when the initial energy of a new year begins to settle. The routines are established, assessment tasks are coming regularly, and the pace can feel more demanding. It is at this point in the term that the small, everyday habits make the biggest difference.

Sleep, in particular, is foundational. Adolescents require consistent, quality sleep to support concentration, emotional regulation and overall wellbeing. Fatigue can quickly impact organisation, resilience and learning. A regular bedtime routine, limiting screen use late at night and prioritising rest are simple but powerful ways to support students through this busy period.

Alongside sleep, attention to timeliness, preparation and uniform standards also matters. Arriving at school and to class on time sets a positive tone for the day and protects valuable learning time. Ensuring correct uniform and personal presentation reflects pride in belonging to our community and helps maintain high and consistent expectations for all students.

This point in the term is when consistent routines, clear expectations and a strong partnership between home and school make the biggest difference. Together, by noticing how our young people are showing up each day, in their effort, their presentation, their punctuality and their care for themselves and others, we can help them finish the term strongly and with confidence.

Mr Marcus Smalley

Head of Character and Culture

Applications now open: Free STEM opportunity for girls (Years 7–12)

Applications are open for the 2026 Young Women in Aerospace & Defence program - a free, 4-day STEM program for girls in Years 7–12, delivered at RMIT during the Victorian school holidays. The program provides students with hands-on aerospace and defence STEM experiences, industry visits, and direct engagement with engineers and scientists.

Find out more: Astra - Free STEM opportunity for girls (Years 7–12)

Senior School Swimming Carnival – 13 Feb 2026

The much‑anticipated first carnival of the year made a brilliant splash on 13 February, with students from every house showing exceptional energy, teamwork and school spirit. The pool deck was alive with colour, cheering, and plenty of competitive fun as our swimmers dived into both championship races and a wide range of novelty events.

From T‑shirt relays to lilo races and bomb competitions, the novelty events once again delivered entertainment, laughter, and fierce but friendly rivalry. Students embraced every event with enthusiasm, proving that the swimming carnival is as much about participation and spirit as it is about results.

This year’s Spirit Cup competition was especially vibrant, with houses rallying together, supporting teammates, and showcasing the dedication and unity that make this carnival so memorable.

2026 Age Group Swimming Champions

Boys

• U13: Ryan Guo (7 Riley)
• U14: Arthur Attwooll (8 Millward)
• U15: Liam Hubble (9 Aherne)
• U16: Seb Mansfield (11 Frew)
• U17: Xavier Ough (11 Riley)
• U20: Henry Allan (12 Jones)

Girls

• U13: Sophie Lee (7 Millward)
• U14: Lauren Davenport (8 Jenkin)
• U15: Meisha Dunlop (9 Millward)
• U16: Darcey Whitsed (10 Riley)
• U17: Stephanie Ingram (11 Riley)
• U20: Charlotte McIntosh (12 Jenkin) & Georgia Mahony (12 Frew)

Congratulations to all champions for their outstanding performances!

Overall Results

This year’s Swimming Carnival delivered one of the most competitive and engaging point races in recent memory, with houses battling fiercely across races, novelty events, and participation points. After a full day of outstanding performances, Jenkin House emerged as the overall champion.

A huge thank‑you to the Sport Department, House Coordinators, teaching staff, lifeguards, and the many volunteers whose organisation and dedication ensured that the day ran safely and smoothly. Your work behind the scenes helps create an atmosphere where students can shine. And of course, well done to our amazing students; your enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and house pride are what make the Swimming Carnival one of the best days on the school calendar.

Mr Matthew Hoyt

Representative Sports Assistant

Year 9 Outdoor Education

Year 9 Outdoor Educations students recently finished a nature diary project. Their task was to sit quietly in their own garden and observe the plants and animals around them, record what they saw heard and felt, ask thought provoking questions then research further in class. 

They produced some beautiful work detailing their growing connection and knowledge about their local area. Well done Year 9 Outdoor Edders!

Ms Lucy Warfe

Girton Tennis Tournament shines in showcase of talent, leadership and school spirit

Girton hosted its annual Tennis Tournament on Wednesday 28 January, bringing together outstanding athletes from Years 9-12 for a day of high‑energy competition and camaraderie. Despite warm conditions, our students demonstrated remarkable resilience and sportsmanship, adapting seamlessly to a modified four‑game‑set format. Across all year levels, students displayed determination, skill and joy, perfectly reflecting the values and spirit of our sporting program.

Year 9/10 Boys: A display of grit and competitive spirit

The Year 9/10 Boys division delivered an exciting showcase of talent, with Benjamin Bowles and Rhyder Michielsen dominating the field. Their final round‑robin clash was a highlight of the day-an intense, point‑for‑point battle that had spectators fully engaged. Ben ultimately claimed the title in a thrilling 5-4 tiebreak, a testament to his composure under pressure.

Year 9/10 Girls: Depth of emerging talent

Our Year 9/10 Girls division reflected the depth of emerging talent at Girton. With nearly every competitor securing at least one win, the competition was both close and exciting. Willow Kelly proved to be a standout, going undefeated and earning the overall championship with consistency and confidence.

Year 11/12 Girls: Leadership on display

The Senior Girls competition featured fast‑paced rallies and impressive displays of athleticism. Girton Tennis Captain Eva Gross led by example, delivering a polished and commanding series of performances to take the title. Shanali Wickramasinghe also impressed, finishing in second place after a strong showing throughout the day.

Year 11/12 Boys: A fitting finale

With twelve competitors, the Senior Boys division was the tightest and most strategic of the tournament. After a series of competitive pool matches, Louis Wood, Harshil Balraj, Max Henderson, and Jack Smith advanced to the semi‑finals. The draw produced a much‑anticipated final between Year 12 students Max Henderson and Louis Wood, both exceptional leaders within Girton tennis. In their final tournament representing the school, Max secured the Senior Boys title 4-1 after a spirited contest and inspiring finish to their years of contribution to Girton sport.

Year 7/8 Competition: A promising future

In the weeks following the senior competition, the Year 7/8 Boys and Girls tournaments were held at Ironbark Tennis Club during school time. Students embraced the challenge of shortened, high‑intensity matches (first to seven points), producing exciting early‑season tennis. Benjamin Carter claimed the Boys title after a closely fought match against Ethan Schoder, while Gracie Seipolt shone in the Girls division with strong wins over several rising stars, including Senna Featherstone, Alyssa Burnett, and Piper Hooke. These performances highlight a bright future for Girton tennis.

A community effort worth celebrating

We extend sincere thanks to Steve Storer, the Bendigo Tennis Club, and the Ironbark Tennis Club for their invaluable support. Their partnership helps ensure that our students continue to experience high‑quality sporting opportunities.

With outstanding performances across every age group, the 2026 Girton Tennis Tournament once again demonstrated the strength, spirit, and talent of our young athletes. We look forward to an exciting Representative Sport Tennis season ahead.

Mr Matthew Hoyt

Representative Sports Assistant

Girton Friendlies 

Throughout the year, Girton will be competing in a series of representative sporting fixtures against schools in the Bendigo region. These matches aim to support both schools in their respective competitions while continuing to strengthen relationships within the community.

Badminton – 18 February

Twenty students participated in a friendly badminton fixture against Creek St Christian College. With a mix of first‑time players and seasoned campaigners representing Girton, the results varied across the matches. Ultimately, Creek St secured the win, taking the day 6 matches to 3.

Girls Basketball – 25 February

A team of Year 7–10 girls played Victory Christian College in the early hours of the morning. The squad delivered a strong and spirited performance, holding their own against a well‑drilled opposition. Although the girls were defeated by 10 points, Head Coach Mr. Randall was extremely impressed and believes the team can be genuine contenders come the ICCES Winter Tour.

Volleyball – 3 March

The Girton gym was full of energy as volleyball took center stage against Creek St. Two girls’ teams and two boys’ teams competed in modified-format matches, with the focus firmly on participation and building connections within new squads. A great mix of experience and newcomers were on display, resulting in an evenly balanced outcome—three wins each to Girton and Creek St. Both schools left with smiles on their faces after a well‑received afternoon of sport.

The next scheduled event will see our volleyball teams head to Creek St, and we can’t wait to continue the friendly rivalry. A huge thank you to all coaches, staff, and student helpers who have supported these fixtures so far. Your efforts are greatly appreciated and never go unnoticed. Until the next one!

Representative Sports Department