From the Acting Principal

Principal’s Report – June 2025

As we reach the midway point of the school year, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on what we’ve achieved together and where we’re headed. I’m incredibly proud of the progress we’ve made – in the classroom, on stage, on the field, and in the wider community. Our school’s vision of fostering both challenge and community is not just words on a page – it’s being lived out by our students and staff every day.

Leadership Update

With Mr David Russell currently on long service leave, our leadership team has stepped seamlessly into adjusted roles:

• Melissa Treverton – Assistant Principal, Years 11–12 and Operations
• Aaron Petersen – Assistant Principal, Years 9–10 and Engagement
• Brooke Douglas – Assistant Principal, Years 7–8 and Support

We also welcome Rachael Rosenbrock into the role of Year 9 Coordinator while Jess Ballas is on leave for the remainder of the year.

Culture, Community and Celebration

Term 2 has been nothing short of outstanding when it comes to building a strong, vibrant school culture. Here are just some of the highlights:

• Performing Arts

  • VCE Theatre Studies: The Fox on the Fairway
  • VCE Music Recital and our Instrumental Music Soirée

   

  These performances showcased not only our students’ incredible talent but also the dedication they bring to their craft. A huge thank you to Ms Tebbutt, Ms Benvenuti, Ms Lucy Treverton and the entire Performing Arts and Music teams for their leadership and guidance.

   

• Tjindu AFL Academy vs Parkdale SC Matches

  Held at RSEA Park, this was a powerful cultural and sporting experience for all involved. Our boys came away with a fantastic win, and our girls played with enormous heart. Thank you to Aunty Katrina Amon, Ms Chiocci, Mr McCormack, Mr Bose, and Mr Sawyers for making this event so memorable.

   

• STEM Excellence

  Our Science Department continues to lead the way in developing the love of Science in our students – particularly among our female students. Highlights included:

  • Zoo Victoria’s Youth Conservation Leadership program
  • Girls in Physics Breakfast at the Australian Synchrotron
  • STEP Forensics Crime Scene Morning

  • The Parky Day Spa – a brilliant showcase of student-led cosmetic chemistry, designed and led by our Science Captain Jasmine Buckingham. Thank you to the whole Science team, and in particular to Ms Mullins and Ms Scott, for their leadership and energy.

     

• Languages Week

  A week full of food, culture and music, including Japanese Koto and French piano accordion performances. A big thank you to Ms Weeraratne and the entire Languages team for bringing this celebration to life.

   

• Year 7 History Exhibition

  The JLC was transformed into the “Charms of Ancient Egypt” museum thanks to the amazing work of our Year 7 History students and the leadership of Ms Thorne. The student presentations were thoughtful, articulate and passionate – a credit to their effort and learning.

   

• The Parky Big Give

  Our first-ever Parky Big Give was a phenomenal success – bringing together fun, fundraising and community spirit in equal measure. From sausage sizzles to the ice bucket challenge, the sense of community was amazing. Thank you to the organising team – Ms Douglas, Mr Petersen and Ms Palmer – along with all staff who contributed.

   

• Debating

  Congratulations to our debating team who have competed at numerous events this term.  The team has worked hard on their preparation for events and have represented our college with pride.  Thank you to Ms Norton for supporting the students through this challenging competition.

I want to thank our students, staff and families for making this such a positive and high-achieving term. The strength of our school community is seen in every event, every classroom, and every student success.

Have a safe and restful break – we look forward to an exciting Term 3 ahead.

Vale Mr Doug Knee

I am sad to report on the passing of the valued ex-staff member Mr Doug Knee.  Doug taught Maths and Science across his time Parkdale from 1991 to 2018.  Doug is warmly remembered as a caring teacher full of passion and energy, who always looked after his students and colleagues.  Doug’s contribution to the school was significant, as school timetabler he tirelessly organised the school program for many years, he mentored many a Maths teacher, along with leading student activities, in particular the Great Vic Bike Ride.  Doug has left a lasting legacy at Parkdale and we send our thoughts and well wishes to his family.