Graduating Class 2023
To the Graduating Class of 2023
Principal Tassoni's speech to the Year 12 Graduating class
Good morning and welcome to our special guests, members of the Lakeside College Council, parents and of course, our remarkable students. In thinking about what to write in this speech there were numerous thoughts that went through my mind. Inevitably, moments like this are filled with a mixture of excitement tinged with a hint of sadness. All of us are excited about the fact that you are leaving us to pursue your hopes and dreams in the big wide world. For some of you this will mean further study, for others it may include the commencement of an apprentice or vocational course and for others entry into the workforce. Whatever path your next journey will go down, always remember that throughout your formative years have been and always will be part of a very special and unique family.
Our year commenced with the tragic passing of our dear brother Nick Maan. Nick was a popular student, amazing sports person, a great friend to many and a person with a beautiful heart. He made an impact on all he met and his smile will remain etched in our hearts always. When I see our senior students playing basketball or just spending time on Nick’s court, I know his memory and joyous spirit will live in our hearts for a very long time. Nick’s passing was painful and distressing for all of us here at Lakeside, but especially for our Year 12 students. Today we acknowledge in appreciation his life and what he has meant to us.
Throughout your time here at Lakeside College you have proven time and time again that you are a cohort of diverse, interesting, creative and complex human beings. You have shown great resilience and stamina in your approach to learning. You have ridden the Year 12 roller coaster with grace and dignity and you have supported each other right through.
Many of your teachers, both past and present have made reference to the fact the graduating class of 2023 is comprised of a wonderful group of people who are passionate and motivated to be the best version of themselves always. As you move forward, remember that your time here was not just about acquiring knowledge, but about developing your character. It's natural to feel a mix of excitement and apprehension about the challenges that lie ahead, but remember that the foundation you've built will provide you with the strength to navigate these challenges. You've gained wisdom and insight from your experiences, and these will guide you on the path ahead.
Reflect on the connections you've formed, the insights you've gained, and the personal growth you've achieved. Cherish the moments of camaraderie, the shared experiences, and the valuable insights that you've encountered during your time here. Carry these cherished memories with you as you venture out into the world, knowing that you have a network of support and a wealth of experience to draw from.
I am filled with hope as I think about the positive impact you will undoubtedly have on theworld. Through your words, actions, and choices, you can contribute to a brighter future.
Remember that your journey has equipped you to make a difference, and that your experiences have prepared you to face the opportunities and challenges that come your way.
As you step into your future, remember the values that have been cultivated here and let them guide your path. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, extend understanding and empathy, and continue to cultivate a heart of service. You are not just graduates of Lakeside College, but individuals who are ready to leave your mark on the world.
I want to offer my heartfelt congratulations to each and every one of you. I also wish to acknowledge the outstanding leadership of our School Captain Minuthi and Sienna who have led with distinction and were ably supported by our wonderful Vice Captains. May your journey be guided by your experiences and may your lives reflect the growth and transformation you've undergone during your time here.
As you step out into the world, go with the assurance that you are equipped, empowered, and ready to make a positive impact. I’ll leave you with a quote from Proverbs chapter 3 verse 6, “In all your ways acknowledge Him and he will direct your paths."
May God bless and take care of you.
Thankyou
Mr Robert Tassoni
Principal
Year 12 Excursion to Wilson Park
It had been planned several weeks prior, but being spring, the weather for our Year 12 pastoral care park excursion was never certain. The day before was a lovely sunny day, but on the morning of our Year 12 excursion to Wilson Park Berwick, it teemed with rain. Our spirits were nonetheless not dampened and with smiles on the faces of the students at the incongruency of it all, we boarded the bus under heavy grey skies and persistent rain. Perfect day for a picnic!
But the thought of a dismal day out was soon banished, as we arrived at the park and found there was plenty of shelter (some pre-booked) for the students to gather under, in convivial circumstance, to discover something quite new to them in their local area. The park is indeed a hidden treasure, situated just to the west of the Berwick township.
Our scheduled activities were quickly rearranged as the students, with the cool weather and a shortened recess that day, were ravenous in their desire for some food. The contents of our picnic hamper were very soon consumed, before heading off on a walking tour of the park. We were privileged to have an experienced volunteer guide for our walk, who enjoyed being amongst the youth, enthusiasm and vitality of our students. Very quickly an attitude of mutual respect and appreciation sprang up.
We had plenty of umbrellas and were able to comfortably walk along in the rain in our circuit tour of the park, and students were most interested and surprised what this 2022-award-winning park had to offer. The geology and its large basalt rock crystals showed its volcanic origins. There were both fossils and living plant examples to be seen in the park that reflected the dinosaur times of more than 65 million years ago, such as the Wollemi Pine, and the rare fossil occurrence of Myrtle Beech and the first Eucalypts co-occurring, in rocks dated at 35 million years old. Apart from that, the park has a large ornamental lake populated by quite a variety of resident water birds. Its collection of mature-age exotic trees is also impressive amongst dense displays of flower-filled gardens.
Following our walk we found another shelter (by that time the rain had eased almost totally) to move to, much larger than the one we occupied earlier. It was large enough to open our “outdoor” games box, where students had lots of fun and laughter challenging each other while rotating through the games, one being the popular hoopla.
Our guide, a sprightly man of senior years, complimented our students, and said he could see they were beacons for the future, observing their bright, generous and cheerful de-meanour.
He composed a poem for them and recited it, to encourage them to carry that wonderful spirit and energy on into the next stage of their lives. The students listened intently and applauded his words.
The happy crew, Ms David and your correspondent re-boarded the bus, in anticipation of another great day to follow – graduation day!
Nevil Schultz
Year 12 Pastoral Care and Homeroom Teacher