CAPTAIN'S CORNER

SENIOR CAPTAIN

Year 12s have had a crazy few weeks coming up on the end of our high school days that have been stressful, busy, and seemingly never-ending. However, instead of focusing on the constant academic stresses, I would like to emphasise the reprieves. There have been so many initiatives lately; from Health and PE day including a Just Dance Off encouraging us to get active, to the upcoming Respect Walk (which I encourage all to get involved in). In the midst of an overwhelming onslaught of SACs and assessments it’s easy to get lost in the hubbub of it all, but I think it’s really important to focus on everything else going on. 

It’s so great to see our recent sporting success. I know how much hard work and effort it takes to be able to manage school and sport and commend everyone who takes part. Especially McKinnon’s continued success in volleyball, which would not be possible without the major efforts of teachers and coaches. Sport offers a unique opportunity to bond with others while getting active. Even in the chaos of VCE, knee deep in SACs, I find even just half an hour of activity super helpful. It gives us a chance to get away from huddling over our Chromebooks and into nature, boosting productivity and most of all providing joy. 

To be able to come together as a school, having fun, is key to what makes McKinnon the incredible school that it is. I am grateful to be part of such a vibrant community and would love to encourage others to reach out and grasp this opportunity. I used to always hear how the Year 12s missed their younger years, I however always thought I would never miss waking up before 8am rushing to school, but now here I am reminiscing on my past years. 

A lesson that I find myself reflecting upon is that of friends. I genuinely don’t think I could have made it to this point without my friends. I rely, support, and count on them. We find ourselves sequestered, in a place with people of similar age yet incredible diversity. The people we choose to hang out with every day, whether that be playing soccer on the oval or walking around the Oasis are so integral to our lives. Not only is it important to recognise this fact but more so to act upon it. 

Express your gratitude, be kind, be outgoing, say hi to that person below you in the lockers. So, for all the people along the way and in the future, thank you.

Jake Lasnitzki

Year 12 Student

JUNIOR CAPTAIN

As we move toward the end of Term 3, it feels like all the milestones of our year are arriving at once – each one carrying its own weight, its own meaning.

Just weeks ago, our school brought Mary Poppins to life in four incredible performances. Outstanding directing, producing, acting, dancing and singing came together in a show that was, quite simply, ‘Practically Perfect’. From the smallest detail to the grandest number, it was a production that set a new standard of brilliance. 

A heartfelt congratulations to everyone involved – on stage, backstage, and behind the scenes. I’d like to especially thank and congratulate Ellie Adler (Director), Tom Baldwin (Musical Director), Miranda Barber (Assistant Director), Lucy Angell (Producer) and Annelise Scott (Set Designer). And not to mention the spectacular AV crew, led by Michael Birkett (Technical Director) and Caleb Goldwaser (Audio Engineer). 

Soon after came the Winter Concert, another reminder of depth of talent in our school. I was fortunate to experience it both backstage and on stage, performing as a guitarist in the World Music Ensemble. A special thanks to (once again) Ellie Adler, Lucy Angell, and the backstage crew, whose efforts made the night possible.

Market Day took place on Tuesday 9 September and brought nearly 80 stalls across both campuses, where creativity met business (and plenty of delicious treats), and it was a very successful day for all the studentpreneurs. 

Following that, our school’s second ‘RESPECT’ Walk on 12 September: sixteen laps around the McKinnon Road Campus Oval to stand for kindness, equality, and respect. I feel honoured to take part, and I hope many of you will join.

The year now begins to wind down. It is bittersweet for me, and I can only imagine how much more so it must be for our Year 12s. To the Year 12 captains: thank you for leading with strength and for inspiring the captains here at East Campus.

The year may be ending, but the memories are just beginning.

Itay Volnerman

Year 9 Student