It has been a joy to return to the College after a period of leave and I have been warmly reminded of the vibrant and dynamic learning environment that defines our school community. I would like to thank Christopher Grant for his work as Acting Principal in my absence.

Across the College, there are so many rich opportunities for our students to grow — academically, socially and spiritually. On Monday evening I attended the Rowing Information Evening, thanked our parents who are participating in the Tuning into Teens Program and watched the dress rehearsal of Oliver. Our community is one that is dynamic joy filled.

In recent weeks, the energy has been palpable. The College production of Oliver has been a shining example of student creativity and collaboration, while participation in South Street Debating and Public Speaking has showcased our students’ confidence and eloquence. Our Teacher Advisor Interviews have fostered meaningful conversations between staff, students and families, reinforcing the strong partnerships that underpin student growth. Looking ahead, we are excited about the Sustainable Racing Challenge taking place this weekend — a fantastic initiative promoting innovation, teamwork and care for our environment.

During my leave, I had the privilege of visiting the Mary MacKillop Memorial Chapel in North Sydney. As we marked Vocations Week, I was reminded that each of us, as members of a Catholic community, is called to a vocation of service — to God and to one another. Mary MacKillop’s legacy continues to inspire us in our mission to educate hearts and minds.

Since returning, I’ve been actively involved in the recruitment and interviewing of staff for new Positions of Leadership within the College. I have been so encouraged by the outstanding calibre of applicants and the deep sense of vocation our staff bring to their roles. As a learning community, we are committed to ongoing reflection and growth. These new roles will further support the continued development of the College, ensuring that we are responsive to the needs of our students and faithful to our mission. The video below details these new roles and how they will support our students, staff and community.

This week, our Staff Formation Day, Friday 8 August, will centre on the Damascus story, as we celebrate 30 years of formation and reflect on our shared journey. This is a significant moment to explore who we are as a Catholic learning community and to reaffirm our commitment to forming young people who are compassionate, courageous, and hope-filled.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership.

With every blessing

Steven

As we move further into Term 3, it’s certainly been a busy and exciting time in the life of the College.

I am very much looking forward to attending the opening night of the College Production of Oliver! this evening. Our students, staff and production team have worked tirelessly over many months to bring this show to life. Under the dedicated guidance of our Performing Arts staff, the cast and crew have committed themselves to countless rehearsals, set building, costume work and musical preparation. I would like to particularly acknowledge the enormous efforts of Nicole Burness, Andrew Seeary, Bella Harper, Graeme Strachan and Toola Strachan, along with the many staff, families and volunteers supporting them and our talented Damascus students. These events are not only a showcase of student creativity and teamwork, but also a celebration of the spirit and energy that defines our College community. I encourage all families to come along and enjoy the performance if they can.

Last Friday evening, our Senior School students gathered for their formal – a significant and memorable event in their final years of schooling. I would like to congratulate all those who attended for the way they conducted themselves throughout the evening. It was a joy to witness their maturity, their sense of fun, and the pride with which they represented themselves and the College. I also extend my thanks to the staff who attended on the night to support the students and help make it a safe and enjoyable celebration.

We are currently in the midst of subject selection for 2026, following a very well-attended Subject Expo Evening and a number of informative lunchtime sessions last week. It has been fantastic to see such strong engagement from families in the subject selection process, particularly through Teacher Advisor Interviews taking place this week. These conversations are vital in helping students make informed choices about their learning pathways. From here, the information gathered will play a key role in shaping how we structure the elective offerings and determine how many classes we can run at each year level.

In addition, we are also working through the application and interview process for our 2026 Positions of Leadership. We’ve been very pleased with the level of interest and the quality of the applications received so far. These leadership roles play an important part in the continued growth and direction of the College, and we look forward to continuing these positive and purposeful conversations with staff over the coming weeks.

Finally, I would like to remind families about the importance of students wearing the correct College uniform. As we move through the colder months, we have noticed an increase in students wearing hoodies underneath their PE jumpers. Hoodies are not part of the Damascus College uniform and should not be worn. We ask for your support in discouraging your young person from wearing a hoodie to school. An exception remains for our Year 12 students, as well as students in Core Groups 8.4, 8.5 and 8.6 at the St Brendan’s Campus, who may continue to wear their school-issued hoodie.

Thank you once again for your continued support and partnership in the education and wellbeing of your young person.

Chris

Term 3 Wellbeing Initiatives

At Damascus College we place a high priority on the wellbeing of all our students. Over the coming term there are several different wellbeing initiatives tailored to certain year levels. These will help foster the holistic development of each individual and build essential life skills, which are crucial when navigating social situations, managing emotions and building resilience.

Social Media – Year 7

On Monday 28 July, the Year 7 cohort took part in a Social Media Presentation led by Cr Des Hudson. Topics included online safety, respectful relationships and responsible decision making. Des has had an extensive career with Victoria Police and his insights and advice were both informative and challenging. As our Year 7 students move further into their teenage years, they will be faced with many a scenario where responsible decisions must be made independently, which will have lasting impacts on friendships, their reputation and not least their digital footprint. I would strongly encourage you, as the primary educator of your child, to have a follow up conversation at home regarding the above presentation.

Seeing Through the Haze – Year 8

On Friday 15 August, the Year 8’s will take part in an educational session “Seeing through the haze”, which will be delivered by Ballarat Community Health. The aim of this session is to deepen student’s understanding of the risks associated with vaping and smoking, while encouraging healthy lifestyle choices, which in these formative years it is imperative that lifelong habits are formed. This initiative supports the Year 8 Health curriculum and hearing this message from an external source can only enhance and deepen what has been taught in the classroom and broader conversations that have been had in the household.

Digital Thumbprint – Year 7-10

Friday 29 August, will see “Digital Thumbprint” present to Years 7- 10’s. Digital Thumbprint is endorsed by the eSafety Commissioner as a trusted eSafety provider program. The program teaches students the advantages of a positive online presence to ensure they are safe online whilst learning essential digital safety skills that also align with our curriculum.

Year 8 (Period 1)

Protecting your personal information – With hackers, scammers and fake friends reaching young people online this session will explain what digital defence moves there are to stop cyber criminals.

Year 10 (Period 3)

Digital Identity – This workshop provides students with the opportunity to examine their social media profiles and posts through the lens of a boss who is in the process of hiring and then during employment. At the conclusion of the session students should understand how to improve their online identity for future success and safety.

Year 9 (Period 4)

Social Media - Has the power to influence society, and our friends, for the better. Students work through scenarios and practice discernment to see through online media and problem solve for a safe and healthy online solution.

Year 7 (Period 5)

Respectful online relationships – This workshop discuss consent online, image-based abuse, including the impact of Artificial Intelligence, and the tools they must have to positively support themselves and their peers.

For more information, please go to www.digitalthumbprint.com.au

Year 8 “Live4Life” Program

Throughout Term 3, Year 8’s will take part in the Live4Life program, which is a nationally recognised mental health education initiative designed to empower regional and rural communities to support young people’s mental health. Students will participate in three sessions, which aim to educate, reduce stigma and increase help seeking behaviour among our young people. Topics include the introduction to general mental health problems, informing where professional help can be sought, creating a self-action plan, being able to identify when a friend may be suffering mental health problems and how best to support them, and reflecting on scenarios to explore strategies for self-care and ongoing support.

Resources for Parents

Live4Life
https://www.live4life.org.au/

Beyond Blue | 24/7 Support for Anxiety, Depression and Suicide Prevention - Beyond Blue

Headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation

How Far is Too Far? - Eating Disorders Victoria

Kids Helpline | Phone Counselling Service | 1800 55 1800

Lifeline Australia - 13 11 14 - Crisis Support. Suicide Prevention.

A big thanks to our Leader of Positive Behaviour for Learning, Mitch Jolly and our Leader of Student Wellbeing, Hannah Keating, for organising the above initiatives. As part of our commitment to educating the whole person, we strongly believe that offering educational sessions will encourage informed decision making into the future for your loved one.

Thank you for your continued support in promoting the wellbeing of our students and please never hesitate to reach out to any members of our Wellbeing Team at the college.

Gavin Webb

Acting Assistant Principal – Student Wellbeing

A Positive and Productive Start to Term 3 at Damascus College

As we continue to work on embedding the Damascus Instructional Model, Term 3 has begun with a calm and focused start. Students across the College have embraced the use of Entry and Exit routines in their classrooms. These routines are important because they create a structured and settled environment, helping students transition smoothly into learning at the start of each lesson and consolidate their understanding at the end. This approach ensures students are engaged quickly, remain focused, and leave each lesson with clear takeaways, setting them up for success throughout the term.

Although classrooms have been settled and focused, the wider school has had a vibrant and busy start to the term. Last week, we welcomed families to our Pathways & Careers Expo, which plays a key role in supporting our students’ learning, wellbeing, and future planning. It was also fantastic to see so many families join us at the VCE and VCE-VM Q&A sessions. These sessions provided valuable insights into the programs we offer at Damascus College, helping families better understand the opportunities available for their child’s senior years.

Your participation reflects the strong partnership between home and school that we deeply value and highlights our shared commitment to supporting every student’s learning journey.

The Importance of Teacher Advisor Interviews

This week sees the beginning of Teacher Advisor (TA) Interviews for students in Years 7–12, offering a valuable opportunity to reflect, connect, and plan ahead. Grounded in our Mercy values of hospitality, respect, and compassion, these conversations bring students, families, and teachers together to strengthen the partnership that underpins student success and belonging.

During the interviews, students will review their Semester 1 progress – academically, personally, and socially, with their Teacher Advisor and family. Together, they will celebrate achievements, revisit goals, and explore strategies for growth in Semester 2.

These interviews also play a crucial role in subject selection and pathway planning for 2026, whether students are choosing junior electives or considering VCE, VET, or VM options. Advisors will help align each student’s strengths and interests with future opportunities, using reflective questions to tailor the dialogue to their individual needs.

Last week, students entered their draft subject selections for 2026, and this week, through TA Interviews, we will work in partnership with families to finalise subject choices and ensure every student is supported on their learning pathway.

Looking Ahead

With a calm and purposeful learning environment, strong family engagement, and rich conversations guiding student growth, Term 3 is off to a fantastic start. We thank all families for their ongoing support as we continue to nurture each student’s learning and wellbeing journey at Damascus College.

After an exciting and action-packed Term 2, Term 3 in the Science Department is off to an even busier start. Here are some of the highlights so far, and an exciting sneak peek at what’s still to come.

Science & Engineering Challenge
Students from our Year 9 Creative STEAM Solutions and Year 10 Physics/Chemistry classes recently represented our school at the Annual Science and Engineering Challenge, hosted by the University of Newcastle in partnership with local Rotary clubs, universities, and community sponsors. Competing against eight other local schools, students tackled a range of real-world STEM challenges, including bridge building, circuit design, wind turbine construction, and communication puzzles. It was a fantastic day full of teamwork, creative thinking, and hands-on science in action.

Science Club Launch
This term saw the successful launch of Science Club, a fun and curious space for students across all year levels to explore the wonders of biology, chemistry, physics, and the environment through exciting experiments and investigations.
When: Tuesdays, First Break
Where: Room 3103
All students are welcome!

Year 9 STEM Showdown
Two more of our Year 9 classes took part in the STEM Showdown at Ballarat Tech School earlier this term. In this fast-paced competition, students worked in teams to tackle challenges involving coding, physics, engineering design, and critical thinking. Set in real-world contexts like robotics, space, and environmental science, the event pushed students to think creatively, collaborate effectively, and solve problems under pressure. They rose to the occasion brilliantly.

National Science Week: Week 4 (August 11 to 15)
This year’s National Science Week theme is Decoding the Universe, an exploration of the hidden language of nature through patterns, signals, systems, and codes. We’re celebrating with daily Break 1 activities that bring the theme to life in fun and interactive ways. All staff and students are invited to join in.

The program includes:

Monday: Online Quiz
Put your science smarts to the test. Can you decode questions and find clues the fastest? This challenge will reward quick thinking and sharp pattern-spotting.

Tuesday: STEM Challenges (Science Club in Room 3103)
Use engineering know-how and mathematical reasoning to tackle hands-on challenges. Explore how systems and structures help us understand the physical world.

Wednesday: Annual Periodic Table Challenge (Room 3101)
How well do you know the fundamental building blocks of matter? Mastering the periodic table is like learning nature’s alphabet. Can you recite all 118 elements?

Thursday: Science Escape Room (Room 3103)
Solve a series of mini-experiments and logic puzzles. Work as a team to crack secret codes and uncover hidden scientific principles, just like real-life researchers.

Friday: Movie – Hidden Figures (Room 3101 and 3102)
Come escape the cold and enjoy a film based on the true story of brilliant women who helped decode space travel through mathematics.

What’s Happening in Our Science Classes?
Our Year 7 students are investigating forces and how simple machines make work easier, while Year 8s are uncovering the hidden world operating at a microscopic level. Year 9s are getting a taste of environmental science, exploring the carbon cycle and greenhouse gases, and our Year 10s have launched into their chosen science electives. We’re proud of the curiosity, creativity, and energy our students bring to their learning, and we’re excited to see what discoveries lie ahead this term.

Georgia Nicht
Science Learning Area Leader

iGEN Program – Intergenerational Education Nexus

On Monday 28th July, our Year 10 iGEN students for Semester 2 took their first steps in an inspiring journey of connection, compassion, and community. As part of their preparation for weekly visits to Mercy Place Ballarat East, students completed a comprehensive incursion day focused on learning modules in models of care, infection control, dementia awareness, the aging process, and effective communication.

Led by Ellen Francis (Physiotherapist, Mercy Health Bendigo), Colin Hogan (Catherine McAuley College Bendigo), and Danielle Nyikos (Damascus College), the day equipped students with both knowledge, skills and empathy, setting the stage for meaningful engagements with the residents they will soon come to know.

The iGEN program, delivered through the Year 10 Religious Education program, is an example of Mercy values in action. It creates powerful two-way connections: residents share their wisdom and stories, while students offer companionship, energy, and a fresh perspective. After a highly successful launch in Semester 1 2025, the program continues to build strong intergenerational relationships that benefit all involved, enriching lives, nurturing communication skills, and fostering deep mutual respect. We are looking forward to the semester ahead.

On Thursday 24 July, Damascus College proudly hosted over 250 guests for our Year 7 Grandparents and Grandfriends Day.

The atmosphere was filled with warmth and joy as Grandparents and Grandfriends reunited with smiles, hugs, and genuine excitement, ready to spend a special morning together.

The event began with a beautiful student-led liturgy, complemented by musical performances from our talented students, featuring the harmonious voices of the choir alongside the grand piano and guitar players.

This was followed by formalities, including heartfelt speeches from Year 7 students who shared reflections on their high school journey so far, offering guests a meaningful glimpse into their experiences and highlights. Along with a thanks to grandparents’ speech, expressing gratitude and acknowledging their unique love, support, and influence grandparents bring into their lives.

Guests were then invited to take part in guided campus tours, offering a chance to explore the wonderful facilities available to our students. The morning concluded with a lovely morning tea, which was a perfect opportunity to connect over delicious food and a warm cuppa to end the celebration.

Thank you to our wonderful community who attended the event and made it a memorable Grandparent and Grandfriends day.

Our VCE Unit 4 PE students recently took their learning beyond the classroom with a visit to Federation University for a VO2 Max test. As part of their studies into training methods to enhance performance, this hands-on experience gave students valuable insight into elite athlete testing protocols.

Experiences like this are just one of the ways Damascus College supports students through real-world, engaging learning opportunities that bring the curriculum to life.

As we begin Semester 2, the Technology Learning Area is off to a productive start. Staff have been working diligently to establish clear class expectations, ensuring that students are engaged, supported, and well-prepared for the exciting challenges ahead in their studies. Our aim remains to foster curiosity, critical thinking, and practical skills that will serve students in both academic and real-world contexts.

For our Year 12 students, this is a particularly significant time. With final assessments well underway, they are demonstrating dedication and resilience as they bring their secondary education journey to a close. We are proud of their commitment and encourage them to continue striving for excellence in these final stages.

Meanwhile, our dedicated staff have also been contributing their time and talents behind the scenes of the upcoming school production of Oliver!. From designing intricate sets to crafting period-appropriate costumes, the Technology and Performing Arts teams have worked collaboratively to bring this classic musical to life. We commend the creativity and teamwork, and we wish the Performing Arts team every success as they take to the stage.

This term has also seen the careers team successfully hosting of our annual Careers Expo, with Technology staff providing invaluable guidance for students across middle and senior years as they consider subject selections and future pathways.

We look forward to a semester filled with innovation, achievement, and discovery.

Try Before You Ride - Ballarat Station Upgrade Session

Inviting you to come along and try out coaches and taxis in a safe and comfortable environment, learn how to ride your local service, explore ticketing and understand what occurs during a disruption on the V/Line network.

• Come along and try out coaches and taxis in a safe and comfortable environment.
• Learn how to ride your local service and explore ticketing.
• Understand what occurs during a disruption on the V/Line network.
• Learn about navigating public transport with your mobility devices and aids

This is event is for people living with disability, chronic health conditions or accessibility needs!

Event Details:

When: Thursday 14th August 2025

Where: Ballarat Railway Station

Time: 10:30am - 11:30am

Cost: Free

Bookings: Essential

Registration link: https://events.humanitix.com/try-before-you-ride-ballarat-h2rgnf3g

Accessibility of Ballarat Train Station - Lydiard Street North, Ballarat 

• The train station has easy access from the bus exchange (vline services) and from the drop off points. 

• The bus exchange (vline services) has full TGSIs (tactile ground surface indicators) leading to the main platform and into the ticket office. 

• The ticket and information windows are equipped with hearing loops and communication cards. 

• The accessible toilet has been recently upgraded to new standards. 

• The existing toilet height, handrails and basin are compliant. 

• The access to the second platform is via the pedestrian crossing over the rail tracks in Lydiard St or using dedicated crossings over the tracks.

• For people travelling by train, Traveller’s Aid can provide assistance weekdays from 7:30am – 3:30pm.

• Traveller’s Aid connection assistance information - https://www.travellersaid.org.au/our-services/connection-assistance/

Accessibility information for the City of Ballarat: https://www.ballarat.vic.gov.au/community/disability-access-and-inclusion

Parking:

Please plan ahead if you are parking close to Ballarat Railway Station. Information on parking during the Station works can be found here: https://www.vline.com.au/Service-Changes/Community-Notifications/2025/Ballarat-Station-upgrade-works or you can call 1800 800 007.