Other College News 

Year 12 Graduation

Our Graduation Assembly was held today in Saint Mary and Joseph Cathedral. A full report will be included in our next fortnightly newsletter but until then, some photos from the day.

Chess in Gunnedah

Last week the OCC Chess Team travelled to Gunnedah to take on the might of St Mary's Catholic College in the battle for second place in the NSWJCL North West Division. St Mary's beat us at the same stage last year.

Because of Year 11 exams and illness the team had a very different look.

These withdrawals meant Tom Honeysett and Angus Scrivener were called up for their very last competitive game for OCC. It also meant Archie (super sub) Howarth was called in at the last minute (7:30 am that morning).

In a coaching masterstroke, the boys were allowed to choose which board they would play. At Tom's suggestion it was decided that Angus would be given the opportunity to play Board One with the thinking being John and Tom would have better chances on Boards Two and Three. Archie was happy to play Board Four.

This plan seemed sound until John was defeated in comparatively quick time. 

Archie was next to finish playing. He enjoyed a splendid victory over a girl of the same age. Tom took a little longer but finally wore down his opponent.

That left Angus. Whoever won Board One would win the day. 

It was a great game to watch. Both players took their time and thought about every move thoroughly before making it. I sincerely believe Angus played the best game I have ever seen him play. As I was watching the game develop, and feeling very proud of the way Angus was playing, I realised his opponent was only one move away from winning the match. Fortunately for us, he didn't see it and made another move. Angus continued to attack until his opponent offered him a draw. Angus accepted. OCC 2.5 defeated SMC 1.5. A wonderful victory for an exceptional team of young men. Please congratulate them when you see them.

Finally, it has been my great privilege to be involved with the OCC Chess team over the past two years. The respect, humility and sportsmanship these boys display makes me proud to be associated with them. They are a credit to their families, their College and, above all, themselves.

I wish the OCC Chess Team every good fortune for 2023 in the talented hands of Shane McCann.

Rugby Union Young Referee of the Year

Hamish Biddle (Year 12 2021) has been named Young Referee of the Year by New England Rugby Union. Well done Hamish!