LEADERSHIP TEAM

Dear Students, Parents and Guardians,

As we approach the end of 2023, I want to express my heartfelt congratulations to all the students who were recognised at our annual Awards Night held at the Mildura Arts Centre on Wednesday. We decided to do things a little differently this year with the evening hosted predominately by our student leaders. Our 2023 College Captains, Regan and Molly did an amazing job and were well supported by our school values ambassadors.

The event was a tremendous success, and the near-full attendance showcased the dedication and commitment of our students, families, and friends. The overwhelming support from our community is truly what makes the Red Cliffs Community so special. A special thank you to our distinguished guests for the evening, Jade Benham, Coralee Lever, and Captain Trevor Couch, for gracing our Awards Night with your presence.

I also take this moment to bid farewell to our Year 12 students, who have completed 13 years of education, culminating in their final school event at Red Cliffs Secondary College. Congratulations to Jay Skarpona who was announced as our DUX of the school in 2023.  All year 12 student achievements are commendable, and we wish each of you the very best on your chosen paths next year and beyond.

A huge thank you goes out to our sponsors and businesses whose generous contributions helped make the Awards Night a truly special occasion for our students. Your loyal support is invaluable, and our Awards Night wouldn't be possible without you.

This week, we hosted our Grade 6 Orientation Day, where we had the pleasure of meeting our students transitioning into Year 7 at Red Cliffs Secondary College in 2024. The day was filled with enjoyable activities, games, and a preview of the classes they'll be a part of next year. Despite the initial challenges of attending a new school, it was fantastic to witness new friendships beginning to form. Many thanks to Jen Chatfield, Junior School Co-ordinator and Dmitri Milde, Year 7 Co-ordinator 2024, for co-ordinating the day, and to all staff members who put their hand up to run activities and classes throughout the day. We are eager to work with our new Year 7 students on a deeper level in 2024.

Today, our Year 9 students completed their first round of Work Experience. It brings me immense pride to hear positive feedback from local businesses about the exemplary conduct, commitment, and professionalism demonstrated by the students of Red Cliffs Secondary College. Special thanks to Julia Lewis and Alana Collier, who have dedicated countless hours to overseeing Year 9 Work Experience, managing phone calls, emails, and paperwork to ensure our students receive the best opportunities to acquire real-life skills in the workplace. I would like to take this opportunity thank Julia Lewis who finishes up at Red Cliffs Secondary at the end of the year. Julia has done a remarkable job in leading student careers and pathways for many years. While we wish Julia a happy retirement, she will be sorely missed at our school.

Reflecting on 2023, it has been an exceptional year marked by numerous student successes across the school. I look forward to building on this success in 2024. As the year comes to a close, I encourage you to enjoy a well-earned break, spending quality time with friends and family. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year.

Mr. Justin Matt, Principal, 

Mr. Brad Vallance, Assistant Principal 

Mr. Josh Willersdorf, Acting Assistant Principal