Principal's Report

Last week I was asked to speak at our regional Principal Forum regarding Warrnambool College’s commitment to Koorie Education.  There is much we are doing that we can be proud of which has ultimately given rise to most Koorie students achieving their personal best in learning and achievements whilst at our school.  I also reflected on the front entrance to our school, which welcomes everyone in Peek Whurrong language – ‘Ngatanwarr’.  Our school embraces our connection to Koorie culture and land because doing so ensures we practice a deep sense of inclusion and safety for all students.  It’s why we plan to support Islamic students in our school with a prayer room next year and why we address issues of gender inequality through our curriculum.  It’s also why we fly a pride flag so that all members of the LGBTIQ community know that they are inherently welcome at Warrnambool College in an environment that is respectful and supportive.

Sometimes symbols and words can be powerful by themselves, but at other times actions need to take centre stage.  For some time now, our performing arts team has been busy working in the background to try to secure the licensing rights to a musical that has never before been performed by a school.  It was an ambitious undertaking and I commend the musical team for their commitment towards a goal that was ambitious at best.  However, after more than 12 months of negotiations, I can reveal that in 2020 Warrnambool College will be the first school in the world to perform ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert – The Musical’.

Based on the 1994 popular cult film of the same name, ‘Priscilla Queen of the Desert’ follows the journey of two drag queens, Tick and Adam, and a transgender woman, Bernadette, as they travel across Australia in their bus which they've named Priscilla.  Along the way, they learn to accept and support each other, whilst encountering a host of strange and colourful characters. Their journey eventually brings them to Alice Springs, having forged a bond that will last forever.  Packed with well-known pop songs, Priscilla Queen of the Desert is a flamboyant, funny, disco-fuelled musical that will have you up on your feet and dancing all the way home!  Given the gravity of being the first school globally to premier this incredible musical, tickets will no doubt sell out quickly and so, when they go on sale next year I’d recommend snaffling your seats promptly.

Our musical each year is an absolute triumph in celebrating the artistic talents of our students on stage.  I know next year will be no different.  And, it is also be a chance to further our message of inclusion and loving people for who they are to the wider Warrnambool community.  What an incredible privilege to be given such an opportunity by the creators of the show.

This is the last school newsletter for 2019.  It’s been an incredible year of learning for our whole school community.  I’m immensely proud of each one of our students.  To those that are leaving us this year, I wish you the very best in your new adventures beyond our school gates.  To those returning in 2020, finish the year off well (we’re not done yet!) and carry that momentum into next year where a new set of challenges and learning awaits.

Kind Regards,

Dave Clift

Principal