Boarding News
Dear Parents and Friends,
Life sometimes has a way of jolting us out of our slumber and reminding us how precious and fragile it can be. Recent news in our community has done just that.
Last week we received the wonderful news that the Halaifonua family had welcomed a beautiful baby girl into their family. We all welcome Joy Mary-Mae Kiana Halaifonua to the St Greg’s community. Congratulations to Tevita and Effie and proud big brother, Ami. There are some very excited little kids on the hill who will be keen to meet baby Joy as well.
This week we were rocked by the tragic loss of one of our Old Boys, Adam Fitzpatrick (Class 2017). Adam is from Jugiong and was a Boarder from Years 7 – 12. His untimely death has impacted many Old Boys, current students, staff and families; past and present. Adam, affectionately known to his mates as ‘Staunch’, will be sorely missed. His character and presence left a mark wherever he went. Please keep Adam’s family (Peter, Pip, Mandy and Emma) in your prayers.
Life is indeed extremely precious. We know as Christians we are called to celebrate life and to respect and nurture human dignity. We seek to follow the way, the truth and the life of Jesus. This is how we live life to the full and why we hope in life eternal with our God.
Max Spencer
Director of Boarding
Junior Boarding
The Boarders' Free weekend is always a welcomed time for the boys to head back home or away from the College to have a break. I know this was a great little break for the boys after talking to them. The time with family, friends and that extra time away from the routine of school and boarding is always a good change.
We are approaching the end of Term 3 and I have challenged all-boys individually to complete their assessments to the best of their ability. I sat down with the Year 10 boys to discuss their futures, whether that be continuing on at St Gregory’s for their Senior Years and pursuing their HSC, or leaving and taking up apprenticeships. All boys were excited about their futures, however, I reminded them they have a job to finish off this year to hold them in good stead for their Senior Years or going into the workforce.
Talking with the Year 9 boys it is clear we have some great young men and future leaders of the College amongst the year group. However, there have been a few incidents by some boys at school and in the boarding house that have brought Fingal House down. Again, I reminded the boys of expectations and challenged them to think about consequences before they act..
With Rugby Union, unfortunately, being cancelled, our boys will have a bit more time on the weekends. In-house sport will be offered with the Gym being open, Tennis courts being available and some Touch Football games running. We hope to take the boys on an outing down to Wollongong for a scenic walk and some time at the beach.
I hope all families/carers loved having their boys home for the free weekend and we look forward to them finishing the term strongly and earning their 2-week holiday break!
Michael Bullock
Year 9/10 Boarding Coordinator