Community News

A message from Marianne 

Dear Parents, Students, and Colleagues,

As I begin my retirement from Hamlyn Banks Primary School and the teaching profession, my heart is full of gratitude. Teaching has been more than a career - it has been a passion, a journey of learning, growth, and countless memorable moments. My career began in 1987, and after working in three other schools, my path finally led me to Hamlyn Banks in 1999. From the moment I stepped onto the grounds of HBPS, I felt at home. I knew I had found the school where I would set down roots and remain until my retirement.

To the parents, thank you for entrusting me with your children. It has been a privilege to be a part of your child’s journey and to collaborate with you in supporting their growth and development. As I reflect on the time we've spent working together, I want to express my deep gratitude for the partnerships we've built throughout the years. The trust and communication we've shared have been incredibly meaningful to me, and I am so thankful for your openness, involvement, and dedication to your child's success. Thank you also for the kindness you have shown me over the years and for the genuine concern for my health and wellbeing. Your support has meant so much and makes Hamlyn Banks such a special place.

To my students - past and present - you are the reason I loved coming to work each day. Your energy, your curiosity, and your courage to learn have been my greatest inspiration. Each new school year filled me with excitement, as I worked to create a classroom that felt warm, safe, and joyful - a place where students were encouraged to push themselves and strive for their best. It was a space where successes were celebrated, and each achievement, big or small, was acknowledged. It became a little haven, one where I couldn’t help but ‘faint’ with pride when students produced their best work, and shed ‘happy tears’ in response to their growth and accomplishments.  The students absolutely loved it and would often ask if I was going to faint or produce happy tears when they were proud of their work. (Apologies to any parents who might have thought I was actually having fainting spells at school - I promise, it was just my theatrical flair!)

And to my colleagues, past and present, thank you for your unwavering support, wisdom, and kindness throughout my time at HBPS. Thank you for the laughter, the shared challenges, and the many moments of joy. Working alongside such dedicated and passionate people has been an absolute privilege. Beyond professional collaboration, I am especially grateful for the lifelong friendships that have grown along the way - friendships that will continue long beyond the school and classroom walls. These connections are something I will always treasure, and they remind me how fortunate I have been to be part of this community. You have made this journey richer and more rewarding than I could ever have imagined, and another reason I loved my job.

Although I am stepping into a new chapter, I will carry the memories of this school, this community, and each of you in my heart. Thank you for making my teaching journey so meaningful and unforgettable. 

With heartfelt appreciation,

Marianne Spiranovic

Corio Soccer Club - 2026 Juniors Expression of Interest

We are currently welcoming interest from children of all ages and skill levels who would like to be part of our club next season.

Here are the links to our Expressions of Interest forms:

• Miniroos (ages 5–11, boys & girls): https://form.jotform.com/242472800647861
• Junior Girls (ages 12–17): https://form.jotform.com/242473250281855
• Junior Boys (ages 12–17): https://form.jotform.com/242472800647861

HELP AND SUPPORT

https://www.health.vic.gov.au/mental-health-services/telephone-and-online-services

Telephone and online services

There are telephone and online support services for people affected by mental health issues, with targeted services on particular issues or for particular groups in the community.

For specific groups in the community