Director of Business Affairs Update

Friends Health & Fitness

There is plenty happening at Friends Health & Fitness, with new equipment and programs continuing to create more opportunities for members to move, build strength and enjoy their fitness journey. One of the latest additions is a fleet of new spin bikes, bringing an exciting new experience to indoor cycling and complementing the strong growth in group fitness classes.

The introduction of this equipment is part of an ongoing focus on providing high-quality facilities and diverse workout options, ranging from high-energy cardio to controlled, technique-focused sessions. This variety was recently highlighted by the success of a five-week small-group Pilates course led by Bonita, which provided participants with a supportive setting to focus on foundational skills such as breathing and movement. One participant noted that Bonita’s clear instructions, empathy and sense of humour made the course both enjoyable and informative, underscoring how small-group programs can help build long-term confidence and skills.

Building on the facility’s existing CCTV security network, the installation of the new Lynxight AI Pool Supervision system significantly enhances pool area monitoring to support swimmer safety, rapid incident response and continuous operational improvement. Together, these technologies strengthen overall security and risk management, while supporting the protection of members, staff and property and providing an additional layer of supervisory care.

New covered court nearing completion

Construction of a new covered court at The Friends’ School’s Argyle Street Campus is nearing completion, creating a much-needed all-weather space for students from Early Learning to Year 8. Located adjacent to the Argyle Motor Lodge, the new facility will provide opportunities for play, sport, recreation, gatherings and community connection throughout the year.

The project has also included resurfacing the existing court, retractable ball-stop netting, improved access and safety features, new walkway lighting and landscaping around the site. Designed to complement the established character of the Argyle Street Campus and surrounding neighbourhood, the covered court is already giving students a glimpse of the possibilities the upgraded space will offer. With finishing touches now underway, the facility will soon become a valuable addition to the School’s learning and recreational spaces.

Staff Wellbeing

Term 3 is recognised as a challenging period for both staff and students due to seasonal illness, changing weather and impending assessment deadlines. To support personal and collective wellbeing during this time, Friends’ held Wellbeing Week from Monday 7 to Friday 11 September.

Highlights of the week included:

190 staff members received on-site head and neck massages.
40 staff members consulted with an on-site physiotherapist to address issues causing niggles or discomfort.
218 staff members walked to a local coffee shop for a hot drink, taking time away from their desks to catch up with colleagues.
No after-work meetings were scheduled, giving staff extra time to catch up or spend time with family.
No classes were held on Friday 11 September, giving Kindergarten to Year 12 students and staff a long weekend to rest, reconnect and recharge for the remainder of the year.

Financial Services

Terms 2 and 3 have been very productive for our dedicated Financial Services team, whose work behind the scenes helps keep our school community thriving and financially sound. Over the past few months, the team has reached several operational milestones, including successfully completing and submitting the annual Commonwealth Government Financial Questionnaire and annual student and staff Census, participating in an annual national independent schools’ financial benchmarking survey and meeting taxation reporting requirements, all while working hard to frame the School’s 2027 budget for consideration by the Board of Governors.

Alongside these major compliance and planning accomplishments, we warmly welcome Matthew Hillhouse and Belinda McCulloch to the Financial Services team as they step into their new roles supporting the School’s continued success.

Risk and Compliance

Avian Flu (H5) Awareness: Keeping Our Campus Community and Wildlife Safe

Avoid direct contact: Students and community members should not handle or approach sick, injured or dead wild birds or animals.
Hygiene practices: Always practise thorough handwashing with soap and running water after outdoor activities.
Primary School chickens: Specific biosecurity controls are in place for student and staff interactions with our Primary School chickens.
Reporting dead or sick wildlife: If you spot a sick or dead bird on or near School grounds, please notify a staff member immediately rather than touching it. Multiple sightings off-campus can be reported directly to the 24-hour Emergency Animal Disease Hotline on 1800 675 888.

Road Safety Reminder: Drop-off and Pick-up Zones

Campus traffic peaks around morning arrival and afternoon dismissal. We remind all drivers to exercise extra caution around Boa Vista Road, Argyle Street, Carr Street, Commercial Road and surrounding drop-off areas.

Pedestrian crossings: Encourage your children to use designated pedestrian crossings and obey teacher instructions at all times. Please do not take a shortcut across the Argyle Street/Archer Street intersection. Instead, use the overpass or the traffic island further north.
Community concerns: Hobart City Council has requested that parking restriction violations be reported directly through the Hobart City Council illegal parking portal.

Emergency Preparedness: School-Wide Lockdown Drill and TFS Compliance

On Thursday 20 August 2026, The Friends’ School successfully completed a practice school-wide lockdown drill across the Commercial Road and Argyle Street campuses during break time. Thank you to students, staff and families for your understanding and cooperation as we continue to strengthen our emergency preparedness and compliance processes.

Shaun Sargent - Director of Business Affairs