Senior School Sport &
Co-curricular
Cocurricular Report
Joe Priest
Director of Co-curricular
I am delighted to share an update on the vibrant co-curricular activities that have unfolded over the past few weeks. Our students have been actively pursuing their passions and making notable contributions to represent the school in various domains. Congratulations to Sophie Williams who was selected into the NSWCIS Softball team earlier this week.
Musical Chicago Cast Announcement
The anticipation reached its peak as we unveiled the talented cast for the upcoming musical, Chicago. The selection process was thorough, and we are thrilled to have such dedicated and gifted individuals who will undoubtedly bring this production to life. Their commitment to the arts is truly commendable. Congratulations to all students who have been selected. We really do look forward to the production.
Western Associated Schools Trials
Our students have recently participated in the Western Associated Schools trials, showcasing their athletic prowess and dedication to sports. Engaging in healthy competition, they have not only demonstrated their physical abilities but also embodied the values of teamwork and sportsmanship. The students have trialled in Basketball, Touch Football, Netball and Hockey. Across the four sports there were eight teams selected and an impressive 32 of our students were selected as representatives. We look forward to hearing more as the students progress through the pathway.
Triathletes
Our triathletes have been making waves at the NSW All Schools Triathlon. Well not quite waves, as there was a last-minute change due to water quality adding an extra run leg to the mix! Their hard work, training, and determination have not gone unnoticed. We applaud their commitment to excellence and wish them continued success in their sporting endeavours. Congratulations to both the Junior Boys and Intermediate Girls relay teams who placed on the day.
The Douglas Shield Cricketers
The Douglas Shield Cricketers have had a busy two weeks, with games in each week.
The boys got away with a hard-fought win here at school defending a low total against St Luke's. Unfortunately, after travelling away early this week and posting another low total they were unable to perform two miracles in the fortnight. Well done to the cricketers on progressing through to the regional final of the Douglas Shield.
These accomplishments highlight the diverse talents and interests of our student body. Through their active involvement in co-curricular activities, our students are not only shaping their individual paths but also contributing to the vibrant spirit of our school.
As we continue to support and nurture our students' passions, we look forward to witnessing their further achievements in the weeks and months to come. Thank you for your ongoing support of our school community.
Upcoming Events
Saturday 9 March – Cattle Team attend the Cumnock Show
Wednesday 13 March – Swim Team attend ISA swimming
Monday 18 March to Monday 25 March – Cattle Team attending Sydney Royal Easter Show
Wednesday 20 March – Camerata Competition
Friday 22 March to Sunday 24 March – Music Camp
Tuesday 26 March – Senior School Athletics Carnival
Thursday 4 April – Senior School Cross Country Carnival
Friday 5 April – Camerata Concert
Sunday 7 April to Thursday 11 April – Senior School Camps Week
Rowing
Ben Watt
Schoolboy Head of the River
Kinross Wolaroi School Rowing had an exceptional outing at the Schoolboy Head of the River, marking a day of remarkable achievements and sterling performances. The team's dedication and perseverance led to an impressive haul of 12 medals, the highest tally among all competing schools, culminating in the award of the prestigious Overall Point Score Trophy.
In a display of dominance, our rowers secured a total of 7 gold medals, 4 silver medals, and 1 bronze medal across various events. Out of the 53 students representing Kinross Wolaroi, an outstanding 43 returned to Orange with a medal, underscoring our depth and commitment within our ranks. This success is a testament to the relentless effort and rigorous training undergone by our squad.
The highlight of the day undoubtedly came with the consecutive victories of our 1st, 2nd and 3rd Schoolboy quads in their respective finals over three races. This feat was made even more special with Dr Parry's presence on the podium, adding to the pride and jubilation felt by the entire School community.
Schoolgirl Head of the River
Despite facing stiff competition, our Schoolgirl team showcased immense determination at the Head of the River. With a squad of 45, the Kinross Wolaroi girls delivered a commendable performance, with 40 girls returning with medals.
Our girls secured 5 golds, 2 silvers, and a bronze, narrowly missing out on the point-score victory in a tense finish to the day.
A special mention goes to Alice Dymock and Charlotte Doyle, whose outstanding performance in the Year 9 double saw them clinch gold, a remarkable achievement considering their recent introduction to rowing in late January.
Similarly impressive was the bronze medal-winning performance of Alexandra Karrasch and Sophie McColl in the Schoolgirl Year 8 double. Despite their limited experience and preparation, both pairs displayed exceptional skill, embodying the spirit of Kinross Wolaroi Rowing.
The unbeaten run of our Year 10 Eight in the NSW schoolgirl racing season ended emphatically with a commanding nine-second victory, showcasing their dominance. Led by the formidable stroke pairing of Lucy Reidy and Maddy O'Brien, the girls rowed exceptionally well, with a superb performance in the 3rd 500m, instilled by their champion coach Emma Fessey.
Additionally, the James Perrin-coached crew of Bell Clinton, Isabel Grout, Rahni Jarick, Laura Chudleigh, coxed by the indefatigable Jane Bruce, set a blistering course record in the Year 9 coxed quad scull with a time of 3:30.97. For those unaware of rowing times and speed, this achievement is truly remarkable.
Congratulations to all our athletes for their outstanding performances and to the coaches, staff, and supporters whose unwavering support contributed to this recent success.
With the Australian Rowing Championships looming, our Kinross Wolaroi squad is in the final stages of preparation. Driven by determination and fuelled by camaraderie, we stand ready for the challenge that awaits.
Australian Rowing Championships – 18th-24th March, 2024.
NSW All Schools Triathlon
Will Ward, Captain of Triathlon 2023-2024
The Kinross Wolaroi School Triathlon team made the journey to Penrith to compete at the annual NSW All-Schools Triathlon. With a strong field of athletes, the Kinross Wolaroi team displayed great perseverance and grit over two splendid days. We had a solid number of athletes with 11 competing in the individual race and another 8 athletes joining the team for the team’s race.
Due to weather and water issues, the swim discipline was cancelled and was substituted for another run, making both races duathlons. This change challenged some, but everyone proved that this mental block was nothing to shy away from.
Luckily for the team, we had a member in each race of every gender and age category in the individual triathlon. This allowed for performance over the whole field. This was many of our team’s first major race and it was great to see how everyone kept their composure in the new environment and surrounded by many.
The team’s event was an even better success, with most teams placing in the top 15th of their categories. Racing under scorching heat was no easy task in the middle of summer but all the training, determination and hard work was paying off with high levels of fitness being shown whilst battling the sun.
Well done to everyone who raced and congratulations to Anna, Imogen and Skye on grabbing bronze in the Girls Intermediate Teams Event, as well as Xavier, Sam and Angus taking home bronze in the Boys Junior Team Event.
A special thanks also goes to Mrs Anderson, Mrs Flynn, and Mr Jones, who have been wonderful coaching staff and support crew throughout this season.
With our major triathlon done for the season, we still have events to prove ourselves in, including the Orange Running Festival in the High School Challenge as well as the Orange Triathlon Club Championship.
Cricket Report
Term 1, Week 6
The curtains of Cricket’s sixteen-round junior competition are slowly drawing to a close. Last week saw the conclusion of two of our junior teams’ seasons. To the Strikers, ably led by Mr. Holland, congratulations on closing out your season with a win. The way you have gone about your cricket this season has been wonderful to watch – the comradery and enthusiasm you have for our game is a pleasure to see. Unfortunately, the Sixers also narrowly missed out on a semi-finals place this week, going down in a closely contested game with Orange CYMS. The KWS Thunder and Heat will battle out their semi-finals this weekend at Sally Kennett Oval and Country Club Oval respectively. Congratulations to both teams and their coaches on making it through to the knock-out stages of the season, and good luck on Saturday. Any support at these fixtures will be welcomed by the players.
In Senior cricket, our Second XI require a win in both of their upcoming fixtures to fight for finals contention after being beaten by a strong Centrals outfit on Saturday. It’s pleasing to see students ‘stepping up’ in the late stages of the seasons, posting runs and taking wickets for our 2nd XI.
It gives me great pleasure to congratulate the First XI, coached by Walter Prowse and Mattew Byrne, on wrapping up first place and the Minor Premiership of the ODCA 2nd Grade competition. This comes off the back of a strong outing on Saturday. The team now cannot be knocked off top spot on the table, with one week of regular season fixtures before finals.
In representative cricket, the First XI travelled to Kellyville to take on William Clarke College in the Regional Final of the Douglas Shield this week. Unfortunately, the hosts proved too strong, winning by 7 wickets. Kinross Wolaroi fought hard throughout the day, and can be proud of their efforts – bettering last year’s run to reach the regional final. To our seniors who have played their final Douglas Shield match for Kinross Wolaroi – thank you for your efforts across the years in this competition – I hope you look back fondly on memories made playing for your school in this competition.
Our Wiburd Shield cricket team will play host to Arndell College of Windsor on Wednesday 20 March in the Regional Final of their knock-out competition. A win in this fixture will place Kinross in the top four teams in the state, and a victory away from being crowned champions. Good luck to the team, and as always, any support is welcomed on the day.
As you can see, there is much to be proud of as we begin to reflect on season 2023/24. I must thank our wonderful coaches for all the time and effort they have put into providing the cricket program to our players. Without their support, we wouldn’t be witnessing the tremendous development of our cricketers throughout the age groups.
It’s an exciting time for Kinross Wolaroi cricket, and I look forward to seeing you around the boundaries this weekend.
Will Waterson
MIC Cricket
Cricket Captain – Words of Wisdom
Do not aspire to be the best on the team; instead, aspire to be the best for the team.
Blake Dwyer – Cricket Captain
Week 4 Fixtures
Senior Teams
KWS 1st XI: 115 (F Byrne 25, C Miller 23*) defeated by Centrals 127 (H Brazier 3/15, L McKenzie 3/18)
KWS 2nd XI: 6/176 (H Shannon 59, B Dwyer 36*) defeated Orange City 121 (W Younghusband 4/19, H Slack-Smith 2/19)
Junior Teams
KWS Heat: 8/79 (F Smith 18, P Johnston 13) defeated Cavaliers 62 (B Brazier 3/9, F Smith 2/0)
KWS Strikers: 8/91 (J Berryman 19, N Hutchings 13) defeated by KWS Thunder 2/93 (J Berryman 1/9, H Buckley 1/13)
KWS Thunder: 2/93 (S Thomas 27, T Dwyer 26) defeated KWS Strikers 8/92 (N Wood 2/5, T Dwyer 2/9)
Week 5 Fixtures
Senior Teams
KWS 1st XI: 2/55 (WJ Prowse 26*, R Heath 13) defeated Wanderers 54 (H Brazier 4/6, C Anderson 3/2)
KWS 2nd XI: 120 (H Martel 29, J Gee 22, A Fergusson 20*) defeated by Centrals 8/163 (A Nock 2/31)
Junior Teams
KWS Heat: 101 (H Sinclair 25) defeated by Orange CYMS 6/133 (M Orme-Smith 1/6, F Smith 1/11)
KWS Strikers: 6/170 (A Roberts 59*, H Buckley 32*, T Kerr 30*) defeated Cavaliers 9/167 (J Berryman 2/9, H Pearce 2/14)
KWS Thunder: 90 (T Hughes 28, H Leader 25) defeated by Orange City 3/91 (H Leader 2 run-outs)
KWS Sixers: 91 (B Chambers 20, A Cosier 17) defeated by Orange CYMS 3/92 (B Chambers and A Aubrey 1/6)
Waterpolo
We are currently in heading into Round 14, with two more competition games left until the Finals. With last week's round 13, as a wash out due to the storms our most recent game was Round 12.
Currently there is a handful of our teams that will hold their spots heading into the finals. The Killerwhales in the Intermediates are sitting on top of the ladder. They have had a very good season with their team work in games combined and consistent training. The Nessies and Bluebottles have worked hard this season and have had some tough results. I watch them train every Tuesday and they all work exceptionally hard. Well done to all of these teams!
The Junior teams, Kraken and Hydra have been building their skills this season and have shown commitment and hard work in every game.
The KWS Krill 2nd's have shown a determined attitude to their games, with Angus Martin making some brilliant shots on goal.
I look forward to the final two rounds of the summer 2023/2024 season.
Ms Sarah O'Gorman
MIC of Waterpolo
Round 12 saw the KWS Barracuda 1st's verse the Platypus, with a 5-5 all draw. The 1st's Captain Julian Connan report:
Waterpolo Round 12
Barracuda's 1st's team
We played a tough strong game, particularly in the second half. Our star swimmer, Emily Clunas, playing a great game constantly moving and marking players as well as making a couple of fast breaks through the defense. We played consistently throughout the entire game with strong defense and attack. It's great to see our team grow in strength over the season. A great game for the spectators!
Julian Connan - 1st's Captain
Tennis
School Playoffs Saturday 24 February
The Kinross Wolaroi School ISA Tennis team travelled to Springwood to compete in the playoffs to determine the winning school for the season. Unfortunately, due to bad weather, our Kinross Wolaroi Evens were unable to play. However our Odds team were lucky enough to take the court in Bathurst against Scots All Saints College (SASC). The Kinross Wolaroi team consisted of Charlie Hall, James Ashton, Anna Orr, Anabelle van Wyk, Will Hoskins and Toby Gee. Some very close sets were played, and it came down to the counting of games to determine the winning school. Congratulations to Anna Orr, Annabelle van Wyk, Will Hoskins and Toby Gee for all winning their singles matches. SASC and Kinross Wolaroi were tied at 10 sets all and SASC just took the game count, 58 games to 52 games, making Kinross Wolaroi the runners up of the competition. A huge congratulations to the team and to our coach Darren Gersbach for a wonderful season.
Doubles Championship Saturday 2 March
Last Saturday our two top doubles teams travelled to Bathurst to compete in the ISA Doubles Championships. Every school in the competition nominates their top two doubles teams and plays a round robin tournament, with the top two teams from each pool playing off in the semi-finals.
The KWS 1 team consisted of Charlie Hall and James Ashton and the KWS 2 team consisted of Anna Orr and Toby Gee. Charlie and James had a cracking start to the day, winning their pool all and going into the semi-finals. Anna and Toby had some competitive tennis in their group and came 2nd in their pool, also taking them to the semis. Unfortunately for Kinross Wolaroi, both teams had to play each other in the semi-final and KWS1 won this match, taking them to the final. Charlie and James worked well as a team in the final and showed great sportsmanship during match play against St Stanislaus' College (SSC). The final result was 6-3 to SSC, making KWS 1 runners up, a fantastic result.
