School News
Unlocking Cancer Research Through Stem Cells
GTAC, in collaboration with the Novo Nordisk Foundation Centre for Stem Cell Medicine, reNEW Melbourne, located at the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute (MCRI), offered a free program for Victorian school students earlier this month. The program allowed our students to dive into the world of stem cell science and explore how researchers use stem cells to uncover the complexities behind what causes cancers, including leukaemia and brain tumours. Following an introduction to stem cells, students heard from young PhD students and post-graduate researchers from MCRI about their career pathways, the part of the blood or immune system they are studying, and how they hope to help children with diseases such as leukaemia and diabetes. Students participated in hands-on activities to experience how scientists study cancer development, discuss the ethics surrounding stem cell research, and explore how language, art and science merge to communicate discoveries with the public.
MNSC, Committed to Creating a Safe and Welcoming Environment
At Mirboo North Secondary College, we take our vision statement very seriously: We are committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where everyone can learn and excel.To do this, we must ensure an environment for all which is free from discrimination of any kind.
Racism is a kind of discrimination – like any other and racism (racial prejudice; offensive language and ways of thinking), exists in our society and has been heard in our school. It is a sad truth that we need to deal with.
Racism is both social & political. It is a structure of power and can and does become part of our society’s DNA. Unfortunately, it embeds itself in our language, our behaviours and our institutions – like schools – until it becomes ‘normalised’. Racism is hurtful and never acceptable. But it can be stopped.
The most powerful thing any of us can do is STAND UP! When you see or HEAR racist language – CALL IT OUT! And if you do not feel comfortable doing so, voice your concerns to SOMEONE YOU TRUST – an adult (not necessarily a teacher) at MNSC, who will listen, get help and document your concerns. If you do not want to speak to someone directly, you can use STYMIE
We are all so individual in nature, but most of us have UNCONSCIOUS BIAS or beliefs which cause us to carry stereotypes and impressions of people which are either unfair or untrue. Bias consists of attitudes, behaviours and actions that may occur ‘automatically’ or unintentionally and can affect our judgment & behaviour. Sometimes we ‘just say things’ we don’t mean and even wish we could take these things back and, that’s ok! You can recognise this, recognise your mistake, OWN IT, apologise, educate yourself & change!
We can all change the LANGUAGE we use, the phrases that ‘just come out’ and we can ALL be more inclusive.
Adults employed at MNSC are here because they ALL CARE! We want to help you grow, change and develop into wonderful humans who treat themselves & each other with respect and kindness.
Our SWPBS behaviours are there to help guide us on this journey. We continue to focus on teaching these skills in all our daily classrooms & activities, because we are LIFELONG LEARNERS!
Racism is NOT a thing of the past – it takes work and collective action, and it is the responsibility of all.
Melissa Neill
Assistant Prin/ Co-Prin
VOS Team 2025
Year 12 | Jada Sutherland; Billy Jennings; Olivia Henning; Jacob Daly; Eli Anderson Year 11 | Grace Schill; Molly Mills; Lateesha Sanders; Taj Norwood Year 9 | Alice Williams
Year 8 | Tiana Sims; Jeremy Plowman; Sandy Young; Jade Jackson
Year 7 | Lilly-Anne Sullivan; Alex Banks; Reagan Selsby; Kayla Stryja
Congratulations to the new VOS team for 2025. They have been busy running several events already this year:
- The Clean Up Australia Day where the school collected 2⅓ 240 litre bins of rubbish that had been dropped on the ground.
- Supporting the Health and Wellbeing EXPO with a quiz.
- Collecting names for potential clubs to get up and running next term.
- Organising the Colour Run.
- Helping with the Easter Raffle.
- Successful in gaining a $200 from the ResourceSmart Grant.
- The VOS Team attended the GRIP Leadership conference at the Melbourne Convention centre.
- Hiding Bunnies and Easter eggs in the community.
Lost Property
Throughout Term 1 many items have been handed in to our lost property, if students have misplaced/lost any items, please contact Keith (Middle School Assistant) to find out if it has been handed in. Lost Property will once again also be on the tables in The Avenue during parent teacher conferences.
Year 9 Outdoor Education Camp
We swam to the sand bar, floated in the current, walked Townsend Bluff lookout, practised our tent and Trangia skills, played beach games and camp games, enjoyed the sunset, and visited the Bunurong Marine Park and Eagles Nest for our first overnight camp in Year 9 Outdoor Ed.
Bullying is not ok!
VPN: Is it Really Free?
At our school, VPNs (Virtual Private Networks) are now being actively blocked. If one is detected on your device, you won’t be able to connect to the school Wi-Fi at all — and there’s a good reason for that.
Some students use VPNs to get around restrictions and access apps like TikTok, Discord or YouTube during class. It might seem like a clever workaround — download a free VPN app, hit connect, and boom, school rules don’t apply anymore.
But here’s the catch: when you’re using a free VPN, you might be handing over something far more valuable than your data — your identity.
What a VPN Actually Does
A VPN hides your internet activity by sending it through a different server (often in another country), making it look like you’re browsing from somewhere else. That’s why VPNs can sneak past filters or location-based blocks.
But not all VPNs are safe — especially the free ones.
Why Free VPNs Are a Big Risk
If a service is free, it has to make money somehow. Most free VPNs do this by collecting
and selling your data. Some of the risks include:
- Logging everything you do online and selling it to advertisers or dodgy third parties
- Accessing your contacts, photos, and files
- Installing hidden software that can damage your device or track you
- Collecting your usernames and passwords without you knowing
- Serving you sketchy ads or redirecting you to fake websites
Worse still, many free VPN companies are based overseas and don’t follow Australian
privacy laws. If something goes wrong, it’s hard to do anything about it.
What Could Actually Happen?
- Someone could steal your identity and open accounts in your name
- Your private photos, files or conversations could be accessed
- You could get locked out of your social media or email
- Malware could be installed on your phone or laptop
- You might be targeted by online scams or blackmail
Even if it just starts as a way to watch YouTube at lunch, the risks aren’t worth it.
Why Schools Are Blocking VPNs?
School Wi-Fi filters are in place to:
- Protect students from harmful or inappropriate content
- Keep the network secure
- Help everyone stay focused and on task
When someone uses a VPN, it bypasses all those filters — which can make the whole network vulnerable. That’s why our school now blocks VPN use entirely. If one is found on your phone or laptop, your Wi-Fi access is cut off to protect everyone.
What You Can Do Instead?
- Don’t install free VPNs, especially if you don’t know who made them
- Ask a trusted adult or IT support before using privacy tools
- Keep your passwords private and change them regularly
- Be cautious with apps that ask for lots of permissions
- If something feels off or you think your info has been accessed — tell someone
Where to Get Help or Report Issues?
If you or someone you know is dealing with online problems, scams, or identity theft, these Aussie resources can help:
eSafety Commissioner
Australia’s go-to for online safety. Report bullying, scams, or threats.
IDCARE
Support for anyone affected by identity theft or cybercrime.
www.idcare.org Ph. 1800 595 160
ThinkUKnow
Run by the AFP, with helpful info for young people and families.
Scamwatch (ACCC)
Spot, report and avoid online scams.
Victoria Police – Cybercrime
Report serious online crime and identity theft.
Final Thoughts
Using a VPN might feel like a clever way to break a few rules — but with free VPNs, you’re the one getting used.
Whether it’s your passwords, your private files, or your whole digital identity, the risks are way too high.
Stay smart. Ask questions. And remember — there’s no such thing as “free” when it comes to your online safety.
GRIP Leadership Conference
On Wednesday the 5th of March, Mirboo North SC’s School Captains and VOS Representatives attended the GRIP Leadership Student Conference at the Melbourne Convention Centre.
Throughout the day we engaged in multiple workshops and hands on activities that allowed for group work, while also meeting students from other colleges. Our VOS Team learnt tips on time management, responsibilities of taking on the role of a leader, and creating events that engage students. This opportunity helped stimulate ideas and helped our team work on their role of being a leader. Working with other schools, we also got to listen which created opportunities to find out what other cohorts are doing to make change in their area.
A highlight of this day were the engaging activities that we were able to participate in, such as simple things like getting to know other students’ hobbies and watching short videos educating us on culture and how to make our school a more engaging place. We were able to not only make new friends but learn on how we can improve our VOS team and School Leadership team.
Overall, the GRIP Leadership Conference was a great experience and an opportunity to generate ideas that we can bring back to Mirboo North.
Throughout the month we also have the privilege to help VOS start up an Enviro Club for our school. This club will be run by students with the guidance of teachers to use our Greenhouse space by planting and taking care of a wide range of native plants. The Enviro Club will also not just have the job of only working with the greenhouse but also the school’s grounds with the plan to plant this native greenery. Students participating in this club will also have the opportunity to interact with the community and its green spaces to ultimately work for a better local environment.
Next Thursday, VOS representatives working with MNSC’s school captains have organised a fund raiser colour run, as well as a school wide raffle to help raise money with plenty of prizes for students. Make sure to wear white clothes and bring a spare pair of clothes for after the event!
My experience at the GRIP conference was very educational and I am very excited to use all that I learned to help you and the school. This term we have planning events like easter, the colour run in groups and sharing our ideas to improve the school. Clean-up day was a success even though there could have been more participation, the school looks much cleaner. The easter raffle has lots of prizes and lots to win, the VOS team, teachers and people from the community have worked very hard to make this a reality please treat it with respect, good luck and have a great last week.
By Reagan Selsby.
Year 7 VOS
School Procedures for the Bushfire Season
Schools on the Bushfire At-Risk Register and Schools at Risk of Grassfire (Category 4)
Fire danger ratings and warnings are used in Victoria to provide clear direction on the safest options for preserving life.
Schools and children’s services listed on the DET Bushfire At-Risk Register (BARR) and those at risk of grassfire (Category 4) will be closed when a Code Red fire danger rating day (Catastrophic) is determined in their Bureau of Meteorology district. Our school has been identified as being one of those at high bushfire or grassfire risk.
Where possible, we will provide parents with up to four days' notice of a potential Code Red day closure by Compass or SMS. A Code Red day will be determined by the Emergency Management Commissioner no later than 1.00 pm the day before the potential closure. Once we are advised of the confirmation of the Code Red day (Catastrophic) we will provide you with advice before the end of the school day.
Once confirmed, the decision to close will not change, regardless of improvements in the weather forecast. This is to avoid confusion and help your family plan alternative care arrangements for your child. It is also important to note that:
No staff will be on site on days where the school is closed due to a forecast Code Red day (Catastrophic).
School camps will be cancelled if a Code Red fire danger rating day is determined for the Bureau of Meteorology district in which the camp is located.
All bus routes that travel through the Code Red area will be cancelled.
Depending on which Bureau of Meteorology district is impacted bus route cancellations may affect our school.
On these Code Red days families are encouraged to enact their Bushfire Survival Plan – on such day's children should never be left at home alone or in the care of older children. home alone or in the care of older children.
For those of us living in a bushfire prone area, the Country Fire Authority (CFA) advises that when Code Red days are forecast, the safest option is to leave the night before or early on the morning of the Code Red day .
As part of preparing our school for potential hazards such as fire, we have updated and completed our Emergency Management Plan, re-prioritised any maintenance works that may assist in preparing for the threat of fire and cleared our facility’s grounds and gutters.
What can parents do?
Make sure your family’s bushfire survival plan is up-to-date and includes alternative care arrangements in the event that our school is closed.
- Ensure we have your current contact details, including your mobile phone numbers. Keep in touch with us by reading our newsletters, by checking our website kurnai.co and by talking to your child’s teacher or any other member of the teaching staff about our emergency management plan.
- Most importantly at this time of year, if you’re planning a holiday or short stay in the bush or in a coastal area, you should check warnings in advance of travel and remain vigilant during your stay.
- If your child is old enough, talk to them about bushfires and your family’s bushfire survival plan.
- You can access more information about children’s services closures on the Department of Education and Training website – see http://www.education.vic.gov.au/about/programs/health/pages/closures.aspx
Multiple sources that offer information on emergencies are listed below:
- VicEmergency app – that can be downloaded on your androidand iOS mobile devices
- VicEmergency Hotline(1800 226 226)
- Website https://emergency.vic.gov.au
- Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/vicemergency)
- Twitter (https://twitter.com/vicemergency)
- ABC local radio,Sky News and other emergency broadcasters
Sports News
School House Athletics | 18th March 2025
Our annual House Athletics Carnival was a huge success, with students showcasing their talent, determination, and House spirit! The energy on the track and field was electric, as competitors gave it their all across sprints, distance races, jumps, and throws. The participation levels were outstanding, with many students getting involved in multiple events to earn points for their house.
🏆 Overall House Champion: Narracan🎖️
Age Champions:
12-13 Years: Rainer O’Brien & Matilda Windsor
14 Years: Spencer O’Connor & Gemma Filtness
15 Years: Liam Roberts & Charlotte Evans
16 Years: Zane Flemming & Mia O’Brien
17 Years: Clancy Snell & Grace Schill
18-20 Years: Xavier Berquez & Aleasha Read
A big thank you to our staff, student helpers, and parents who supported the day. Your enthusiasm made the event a great success!
📸 Check out the highlights!
South Gippsland Athletics | 31st March 2025
Following on from our House Carnival, a talented group of athletes represented Mirboo North Secondary College at the South Gippsland Athletics in Leongatha. Competing against schools from across the region, our students displayed incredible sportsmanship and determination. Our Mirboo North athletes put on a fantastic display at the South Gippsland Athletics Carnival, with many students qualifying for the next level of competition!
A huge congratulations to Charlotte and Aleasha, who were named Runners-Up Age Champions in their divisions—an incredible achievement!
Well done to all our competitors for their effort, sportsmanship, and determination on the track and in the field. We’re so proud of you!
🥇 Gold Medallists:
Charlotte Evans – 100m and High Jump (NEW RECORD!)
Beth McDuffie – 200m
Rose McColl – 400m
Aleasha Read – 400m, 800m and 1500m
Spencer O’Connor – Shot Put
Angus O’Connor – Shot Put
Kadean Connor – Javelin
15 Girls Relay Team
🥈 Silver Medallists:
Aleeah Munnich – 100m and Long Jump
Kayla Stryja – Long Jump and Triple Jump
Charlotte Evans – Triple Jump
Zoe Briscoe – Discus
Toby McDuffie – 100m and Long Jump
Zane Flemming – 400m
Kadean Connor – Discus
Fred Gannon – Javelin
16 Girls Relay Team
18-20 Girls Relay Team
🥉 Bronze Medallists:
Maeve Stoertebecker – 200m
Makenzie Evans – High Jump
Aleeah Munnich – Triple Jump
Nic Walsh – 800m
Miller Jackson – 1500m
Spencer O’Connor – Triple Jump
Zane Flemming – Shot Put
Harry Ludlow – Discus
🏅 Runner-Up Age Champions:
Charlotte Evans
Aleasha Read
A huge congratulations to all students who competed. Your efforts and dedication were outstanding! Special mention to those who have now qualified for the Gippsland Championships—best of luck in the next stage!
Well done Charlotte who broke the high jump record from 2012 by 6cms. As she finished her event, she realised Olympian Eleanor Patterson was on the sidelines watching her compete.
James Harvey Trust Scholarships
The James Harvey Trust was established with a bequeathment of funds from the estate of the late James Harvey. The Trust is managed by a committee comprising staff and school council members of Mirboo North Secondary College as dictated by both legislative requirements and the terms of the will.
Mr. Harvey was a local farmer who believed firmly that gaining an education was vital for students and especially for local students. With no children of his own, he wished to ensure that those who attend Mirboo North Secondary College may pursue opportunities that lead to greater educational learning.
Purpose: The primary objective of the James Harvey Trust Scholarship Fund is to improve the educational opportunities of enrolled Mirboo North Secondary College (MNSC) students.
Funding: Grants will be provided from the interest earned on a corpus of funding invested for this purpose and in accordance with the terms of the trust.
Funding Applications open: 2nd April 2025
Funding Applications close: 2nd May 2025
Funding announcements: 16th May 2025
Overview:
The fund provides scholarships for educational purposes and may be granted for activities, resources, programs etc. that assist in the study of subjects on the school curriculum, or other educational subjects approved by the Education Department of Victoria.
Mirboo North Secondary College School Council invites applications for James Harvey educational scholarships from students at the college wishing to advance their attainment of specified educational goals, and in particular from students that have an interest in achieving higher educational standards.
It is expected that applicants will meet the fundamental conditions of:
- Satisfactory completion of the previous year level studies
- Adhere to the MNSC student code of conduct
In addition to school and study specific activities, resources and programs, scholarship awards may be made for such pursuits as:
- Attending a community, leadership, or global learners’ conference
- Student research grants
- Increasing appreciation of art, music or literature deemed to be for educational purposes
- Overseas exchanges
Students will be required to submit a report at the end of the school year documenting their experiences and how the funding has assisted them as part of the acquittal process for this scholarship.
Assessment: applications will be assessed and recommended by the James Harvey Trust board, or delegates appointed by the board in consultation with the MNSC Principal or delegated representative.
Assessment will take into consideration the following categories:
- Academic
- Leadership and community service
- Sporting
- The Arts
- College contribution
Assistance to complete the form may be obtained via the school office.
All applications will be treated in accordance with the Privacy Act of 2010.
Completed applications will be accepted at the school office or can be emailed to mirboo.north.sc@education.vic.gov.au by the due date.
Surfing with the German Exchange Students
On April 1st, we set off from rainy Mirboo North to the partly sunny Smith’s Beach, Phillip Island for a jolly true Aussie experience: Surfing!
Upon arriving at Smith’s Beach, we hopped into our wetsuits and quickly dipped into the water. After some practising, we all managed to stand on our boards, making it a fantastic experience. Surfing was both fun and a tad exhausting, but everyone loved the challenge!
After the session, the group headed to San Remo for lunch. The Australians introduced their German friends to the local food culture, including the classic: Fish and Chips and of course dim sims. It was a great way to wrap up the day before heading home.
