From the Principal's Desk

This term has been defined by an incredible sense of community connection. From our Campus Community Events and the colourful, fun‑filled Year 7–12 Athletics Day to our first whole‑of‑college Student Leadership Ceremony, each occasion showcased the pride, kindness and unity that shape NBC. 

Harmony Week and the unveiling of the RESP sculpture further highlighted the richness of our diverse community and the power of shared celebration. Alongside these events, strong academic focus has been evident in every classroom. Even our on‑again, off‑again NAPLAN experience tested our patience but ultimately delivered record participation. Thank you to all members of the amazing Northern Bay College community for helping launch our 2026 school year so positively. 

We look forward to everything the rest of this year holds with great anticipation.

Scott Diamond

College Principal

GROWTH

10 Years of Extended School Day

This year we celebrate what is truly a remarkable and unique program at our college. The Extended School Day program marks its tenth year of operation, with students beginning their Term 1 programs this week. The program consistently engages over 100 students three nights each week in co-curricular activities that support their personal, social and cultural growth. Over the years, ESD has delivered more than 300 different after-school programs, ranging from yoga and meditation to soccer and basic self-defence, through to resin art, special effects make-up and even a group called the ‘Swifties’, where participants channel their inner Taylor Swift. It is a remarkable success story and a program that truly reflects the intent of Gonski funding and school equity initiatives. If you haven’t seen the program in action, it is well worth visiting when students from all five campuses gather after school to enjoy an afternoon snack before heading to their activities. 

Congratulations to Program Coordinator Amanda Baulch, her trusted sidekick Jessie Blackney, our bus supervisors, and the hundreds of program leaders who have supported ESD over the years.

Victorian State School Spectacular

Now in our 13th year I would like to introduce the 2026 Victorian State Schools Spectacular Mass Dancers and Choir

Tallis - Scarlett E-L, Jasmine D, Zen F

Hendy - Ali Zafar H, Shawn T, Max M, River H

Peacock - Ava M, Annabelle M, Abby M, McKenzie R, Sowaiba A

Wexford - Zoe G, Harper P, Charlotte G-L, Lacey A-A, Evie W, Savannah A, Molly A, Alleria W, Aurora B, Jasmine W, Hunter B, Emmerson S

Goldsworthy - Amy G, Logan E, Tiana K, Maddie N, Elizabeth H, Dream H, Naomi M, Sam R-M, ,Zanda D, Molly W, Ellanore H, Jesscinta B

2026 School Council

Our 2026 school Council held its first meeting last night. With a very positive mood in the room the group welcomed new members and elected Office Bearers for the 2026 school. We again this year have an almost full constitution with just two parent positions outstanding. Please seebelow members and office bearers for 2026 who I thank deeply for their contributions this year:

• School Council President - Antony Vriesen (Wexfordparent)
• Vice President - Jess Burr  (Hendy parent)
• Tresurer - Philippa Rickards (Goldsworthy Parent) 
• Secretary - Maddie Brnic (non-member)
• School Council Members - Fidele Armani (Wexford Parent)
• Student Representatives (Year 9) - Zeinab Husseini & Mahnaz Hussaini 
• Staff Representatives: Lisa Gray, Mat Potter, Anthony Condemi & Ben Cooper

COLLABORATION

Year 9 Camp

Year 9 Camp has begun successfully at the Doxa Youth Foundation camp in Malmsbury, with students quickly making themselves at home in the beautiful surroundings. It has been wonderful to see students getting involved in a range of activities and finishing the evening with an exciting night walk. For many of our students, this is the first time they have travelled to this part of Victoria, and it is a fantastic opportunity to experience a new environment, challenge themselves and strengthen connections with their peers. We know they will continue to have an amazing time.

PERSISTENCE

Athletics

 Our Year 3–6 Athletics Carnivals wrapped up on  Tuesday,  with Hendy students proudly  living  the motto stronger, faster, further.  Participation was high across all campuses, and the encouragement from families created a supportive and joyful atmosphere. Students gave their best in every event, celebrating both achievement and effort. These carnivals continue to be memorable school moments that build confidence, connection and pride. A big thank-you to our conveners and all staff whose hard work, organisation and enthusiasm ensured these days were such a success.

KINDNESS

RESP Project Unveiled

A special moment during Saturday’s Community Event was the unveiling of the RESP sculpture, a piece that carriesdeep meaning for our College and the young people who helped create it. The sculpture was commissioned after a group of Multicultural Student Leaders participated in a design process late last year, guided by well known local artist Susan Barlow. Through this process, students explored and expressed their own refugee experiences, translating personal stories into a shared artistic statement.The final sculpture features a stylised globe with a boat at its centre, carrying two passengers and two suitcases. These symbols speak to the idea that we all share one world, that every journey is personal, and that movement - whether physical, emotional or cultural - is part of many chapters of our lives. To extend this message across the College, four additional boats will be created and placed at each campus, all pointing toward the central piece. It is a thoughtful work, and the depth of meaning our students have embedded in it is remarkable.Sincere thanks go to the students from every campus who contributed to the design, the RESP staff group who coordinated the project, and Richard, Col, Ken, Cam and the GITTC team for bringing the sculpture to life. It is well worth taking the time to see it in person.