CAPTAIN'S CORNER

SENIOR CAPTAIN

As we approach the conclusion of Term Two, the school year is in full swing, and the Senior students are working hard as mid-year exams are getting closer. Both the Years 10 and 11 cohorts are preparing for their mid-year exams and the Year 12s are continuing with their studying for SACs. While the school is reaching the halfway point of the school year, congratulations are in order for the Year 12s who have already met this halfway point, with their last day of school being Thursday 16 October. 

Goodluck to all of the senior students in this busy time of year!

An exciting part of taking subjects at McKinnon are the opportunities we’re given as students, such as going on excursions, where students can see real-life examples of their subject in everyday life and have the chance to fully immerse themselves into what they’re studying. 

The senior French students were grateful to attend the Metropolitan Opera’s ‘Samson et Dalila (Samson and Delilah)’, which was sung in French, conveniently helping develop their listening and comprehension skills. It was the first time many of the students had been to the opera, and what an enriching experience it was! 

The Year 12 Literature class were also fortunate and went to the NGV, as well as the Year 12 Business Management classes going to the Yakult factory, with both subjects benefitting from the excursions and enhancing the understanding of their coursework. A huge thank you goes out to all of the teachers who organise these events and make learning engaging and fun for their students!

Amelie Villella

Year 12 Student

JUNIOR CAPTAIN

I hope you didn’t miss last Friday because I certainly didn’t, it was a day to remember. Wear It Yellow Day was full of fun and certainly community spirit. From the almost sold-out sausage sizzle to live music performances, bracelet making, the day was buzzing.

Reconciliation Week is always a highlight on the school calendar, but this year’s celebration felt especially meaningful. I had the pleasure of running the sausage sizzle, with all proceeds going to support Children’s Ground - a charity that celebrates and uplifts First Nations people.

Beyond flipping snags, I also had the chance to enjoy some incredible student performances, including a standout saxophone solo by the talented Ruma Lee (Year 9). Earlier in the week, other events, such as the Reconciliation Week Public Speaking Competition also took place.

Following that, this week, Year 9s attended the Drug and Alcohol awareness session led by Michael Raydan and his fiancée, Sammy. Michael shared his gripping personal story of battling anxiety, addiction, violence, and prison, delivering a message that was raw, honest, and deeply impactful. Students were encouraged to ask questions, and Michael’s openness created a uniquely safe and engaging atmosphere. 

He offered a firsthand look into the harsh realities of prison and the emotional cost of addiction, while also highlighting the power of change. Through discipline, purpose, and support, he turned his life around and now helps others do the same. 

The session ended with a rare opportunity for students to speak privately with Michael or Sammy, something many appreciated. His story showed that hitting rock bottom doesn’t define a person, and that resilience and connection can lead to real transformation.

Itay Volnerman

Year 9 Student