From the Principal

Kingfisher Fair 

Although we are unable to confirm actual crowd numbers for our Kingfisher Fair, the number of cars was higher than we have experienced previously. The large crowd that attended this wonderful community event all left in good spirits. This outcome would not be possible without the dedication of our P&F volunteers and school staff. 

Families coming together, along with members of the community, provided opportunities for people to meet, socialise and get to know new people and is a big part of what GSG is all about. This creates a more cohesive community and a greater sense of belonging. Coordinating a school Fair with shared responsibilities is a challenging task. Given the complexities of the Kingfisher Fair, I am delighted the event achieved what it set out to do. 

Could I extend my thanks to P&F President Mr Jim Darmody,  Vice President Mr Jason Pages, Secretary Mrs Stacey Murnane as well P&F House and Year reps and all staff, parent and student volunteers. Please see the Kingfisher Fair page for a full list of acknowledgments.

Student Leaders 2024

This week we announced the student leaders for next year. The selection process involving students and staff provided opportunities for students to exhibit their personal values and align them with the school’s values. 

I congratulate our new leaders. 

Great Southern Perspectives

This diverse event, linked to the Kingfisher Fair, provided arts students in Years Nine to Twelve the opportunity to showcase their work. The artwork included ceramics paintings and textiles. Our Year Eleven drama students performed ‘The Carer’s of Everything’ outdoors enhancing the theme of the importance of taking care of the land. The Year Ten Drama class performed their YOH Fest play which earlier this year was performed at the Albany Town Hall. Media films were shown in the Hall and included the winning CinefestOZ entrants. 

Art allows people to express emotions, expose injustices and help gain an understanding of the world around us. Great Southern Perspectives certainly did this. The students certainly impressed the audiences. 

We are grateful to the staff involved including the Head of Arts Mrs Rachel Mordy and teachers Miss Katie Gunning, Dr Giles Watson and Ms Rachael Colmer. 

Griffins Volunteers Sundowner

Great Southern Griffins is governed by the School Council and has just completed three years of successful competition. The governance model relies on the generosity of volunteers who give their time and skill to operate a sports club with similar values to Great Southern Grammar.

Last week was an opportunity to thank the volunteers for their commitment over the past twelve months. The club has grown to 700 registrations across a range of sports. Mr Tom Moir, the Independent Chair of the Great Southern Griffins, acknowledged the outgoing sport presidents; Ms Lisa Dimer (Netball), Ms Julianne Dwyer-Adams (Soccer) and Mr Adam Scott (Hockey). All three Presidents have been instrumental in the transition to and the formation of Greater Southern Griffins and providing leadership in their respective sports. 

Mr Tom Moir has been the apex of leadership for the establishment of the Club along with the school support of Mr Nathan Symonds and Mrs Louise Sprigg. Collectively they have been the engine room of the establishment of our sports Club. 

School Bus Service - update

The school has recently received correspondence from School Bus Services regarding Recommendation 7 of the Bus Fair Report:

“The Minister for Transport should ensure the Public Transport Authority update the administration of the Student Transport Assistance Policy and Operational Guidelines so students who alight at a central point in a town centre, and are required to make their own way to school, are eligible to receive transport assistance whether they go to their nearest Appropriate School or another school in that town”.

To assist the PTA with finalising passenger lists for 2024 the flyer above will be distributed to all 2024 new enrolments to ensure families who reside more than 4.5kms outside of the City of Albany public transport boundary are applying for transport assistance as soon as possible.

Mr Mark Sawle | Principal