As we conclude Term 2, I extend my sincere gratitude to our Damascus College community for the enthusiasm, commitment and generosity of spirit that have characterised the past few months. Grounded in our College Vision — Inspired by Christ’s Mercy, a welcoming community, transforming self, others and the world — we continue to see our students, staff and families contribute to a vibrant and flourishing learning community.

Our Catholic identity remains at the heart of all that we do. Throughout the term, students and staff have embraced opportunities to live out the Mercy Charism through service, faith and community engagement. The St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal, Winter Sleep Out and Catholic Education Week Liturgy each provided meaningful opportunities to put faith into action through compassion, justice and service. These experiences remind us that faith is not simply something we learn about, but something we are called to live each day.

This term, we also acknowledge a number of staff members as they conclude or commence new chapters. Sharon Lehtonen has tendered her resignation after making a valued contribution to the faith life of our College. Matt Hallowell will also finish with us at the end of the term as he and his family relocate to Western Australia. We thank Matt for his significant contribution to the College, particularly through his work in Student Growth and Engagement, and wish him and his family every success as they embark on this new chapter.

As acknowledged in previous College communications, we also farewell Peter Buzko and Alan Strange. We thank Peter and Alan for their dedicated service, commitment and contribution to our College community. Their positive impact on the lives of students and colleagues has been greatly appreciated, and we wish them every success and happiness in the next chapter of their journeys.

I also wish Erin Marshall and Mark Courneyea well as they commence extended periods of Long Service Leave. Erin will be on leave for Semester 2, while Mark will be on leave for Term 3. We thank them both for their ongoing contribution to the College and hope they enjoy a well-deserved opportunity to rest, recharge and make the most of this special time away.

Student wellbeing and connection have continued to be a significant focus throughout the term. Our House-led Assemblies have provided wonderful opportunities for student voice and leadership, strengthening House spirit and fostering a sense of belonging across the College. The annual Lap of the Lake was once again a highlight, bringing students and staff together in a celebration of community, participation and wellbeing. Across BAS sport, students have represented Damascus with pride, resilience and sportsmanship, demonstrating the values that underpin our College culture both on and off the field.

Our Junior School, led by Dan Jans, continues to provide a strong foundation for students as they transition into secondary education. It has been pleasing to see our Year 7 and 8 students embrace the routines, expectations and opportunities of College life with confidence and enthusiasm. Their willingness to engage in learning, build friendships and contribute positively to our community reflects the strength of our transition programs and the support of staff and families.

A highlight of the Junior School experience remains the work undertaken at our St Brendan’s Campus. Through experiential learning opportunities, students develop independence, resilience and practical skills while connecting classroom learning to authentic experiences. Whether through St Brendan’s programs, House activities, BAS sport or classroom learning, our youngest students continue to demonstrate curiosity, courage and a genuine commitment to making the most of their Damascus experience.

Our Middle School, capably led by Gavin Webb, has enjoyed a productive and engaging term as students continue to develop the skills and dispositions required for future success. Participation in Respectful Relationships workshops has provided valuable opportunities to explore healthy relationships, empathy, communication and personal responsibility, supporting a culture of wellbeing, respect and inclusion across the College.

As students begin considering future pathways, it has been pleasing to see them engage enthusiastically with elective subjects and practical learning opportunities. A wonderful example has been our Year 9 Metal students, who designed and constructed hose holders as part of their studies. Their craftsmanship, problem-solving skills and attention to detail highlight the value of hands-on learning and showcase the creativity and capability of our students.

Our Senior School, led by Rachel Wallbank, continues to provide rich opportunities for students to pursue their chosen pathways with purpose and determination. Across both VCE and VCE Vocational Major programs, students have demonstrated commitment, resilience and focus as they work towards their goals.

The VCE Vocational Major Market once again showcased student entrepreneurship, creativity and collaboration, providing valuable real-world learning experiences. Senior students have also benefited from opportunities to explore future pathways, including visits to Newman College, which provided valuable insights into university life and residential living.

I would also like to acknowledge two significant nominations for the Bishop Paul Bird Spirit of Catholic Education Awards. We congratulate Belinda Dwyer for her outstanding work within the VCE Vocational Major program, where her dedication to student growth, inclusion and authentic learning opportunities continues to make a profound difference. We also celebrate the nomination of our St Brendan’s Team, whose commitment to providing alternative and experiential learning opportunities for Year 8 students exemplifies the spirit of Catholic education. These nominations are a testament to the passion, innovation and care that characterise our staff and their unwavering commitment to supporting every student to flourish.

The Arts continue to thrive at Damascus College, and there is a growing sense of excitement as students prepare for our upcoming production of Animal Farm. The dedication of our cast, crew, musicians and staff has been remarkable, and it has been inspiring to witness students develop their confidence, creativity and teamwork throughout the rehearsal process. The College community eagerly anticipates this production, which will also mark the final Damascus College production directed by Andrew Seeary. Andrew’s contribution to the Performing Arts over many years has enriched the lives of countless students, and we look forward to celebrating his outstanding legacy through what promises to be a memorable production.

The commitment of our staff to continual improvement remains one of the College’s greatest strengths. Throughout Term 2, teachers and leaders have continued their professional learning through Teach Like a Champion, while our middle leaders have further developed their leadership capabilities through ongoing formation and development opportunities. Together, these initiatives strengthen our commitment to excellence in teaching, learning and student outcomes.

We have also continued to steward our resources thoughtfully to enhance learning environments for current and future students. The renovation of the Blue Courts has been a significant project this term, providing improved facilities that will support student participation, recreation and community engagement for many years to come. These upgrades reflect our ongoing commitment to creating spaces that encourage activity, connection and a positive school experience.

As I have moved around the College this term, I have been continually inspired by the energy, talent and aspirations of our young people. Whether in classrooms, on sporting fields, on stage, through service initiatives or in leadership opportunities, our students continue to demonstrate courage, kindness and a willingness to embrace new challenges. Their achievements are made possible through the partnership between families, staff and the wider community, and for this I offer my sincere thanks.

As we enter the term break, I encourage all members of our community to take time for rest, renewal and connection with family and friends. May the weeks ahead provide an opportunity to reflect on the many blessings of the term and prepare us for the opportunities that await in Semester Two.

Thank you for your continued support of Damascus College and for the many ways you contribute to making our community such a special place.

With every blessing,

Steven Mifsud

Principal

As we approach the conclusion of Term 2, it is an opportunity to reflect on a busy and rewarding semester of learning, growth, faith and community at Damascus College. Throughout the term, students have embraced a wide range of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom, demonstrating commitment to their studies, participation in College life and care for one another.

Events such as Lap of the Lake, House celebrations including St Martin Founders Day and Rice House Day, our Mother’s Day Liturgy and Breakfast, Subject Teacher Interviews, Catholic Education Week, National Reconciliation Week and Year Level liturgies have all contributed to the vibrant culture and strong sense of belonging that exists within our College community. These occasions have provided opportunities to celebrate achievement, strengthen relationships, deepen our faith and recognise the many gifts and talents of our students.

This term has also been an important period of academic growth. Students across all year levels have engaged positively with their learning programs, completed assessment tasks and worked diligently throughout Semester 1. Our Year 11 students have recently completed their semester examinations, while senior students undertaking the General Achievement Test (GAT) and VCE studies have continued to demonstrate resilience, organisation and perseverance as they prepare for the next stages of their learning journey.

Throughout the semester, students have been encouraged to develop important life skills such as time management, critical thinking, collaboration and independence—skills that will continue to serve them well in their future pathways.

I would like to thank our students for their efforts and engagement throughout the term, our staff for their dedication and commitment to supporting every learner, and our families for the ongoing partnership they provide. The strength of our community continues to be one of Damascus College's greatest assets, and it is through our shared commitment to learning, wellbeing and faith that our students are able to thrive.

Term 2 will conclude on Friday 26 June, with an early finish time of 2.18pm for all students. We encourage families to make note of this earlier dismissal time when making arrangements for the final day of term. We hope all students and families enjoy a well-earned and restful holiday break and have the opportunity to spend quality time together, recharge and return refreshed for the semester ahead.

Looking ahead, Term 3 will commence with regular classes on Monday 13 July.

We anticipate that student timetables for Semester 2 will be available on SIMON during the first week of the holiday break. Students are encouraged to log in and familiarise themselves with their new timetable, paying particular attention to any changes to Physical Education classes and the days on which PE uniform is required. Pathways and elective subjects will also transition for Semester 2, and students should ensure they are aware of these changes and bring the appropriate resources for any new subjects on the first day back.

For our Year 12 students, the holiday period provides an important opportunity to both rest and prepare for the challenges ahead. With Unit 4 coursework commencing, students are encouraged to use some of the break to revise Unit 3 content, consolidate their understanding of key concepts and begin familiarising themselves with Unit 4 material.

As Term 3 is a relatively short ten-week term, it will move quickly. Students who use the break productively will place themselves in a strong position as they enter the final months of their VCE or VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) journey. At the same time, it is equally important that students take the opportunity to relax, recharge and maintain a healthy balance, ensuring they return ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of the second half of the year.

On behalf of all staff, thank you for your support throughout Term 2. We wish all members of our Damascus College community a safe and enjoyable holiday break, and we look forward to welcoming students back for the beginning of Term 3 on Monday 13 July.

Chris Grant

Deputy Principal

At the beginning of Term 2, Damascus College was pleased to welcome Bishop Mark Freeman, the newly appointed Bishop of the Ballarat Diocese, for his first visit to our College.

We were delighted that Bishop Mark made time to visit our community, providing an opportunity to warmly welcome him to Damascus. Principal Steven Mifsud and Bishop Mark took a short walk around the College before gathering with staff for an all-staff meeting in the Damascus Events Centre.

During the meeting, Bishop Mark shared a thoughtful reflection on the Resurrection story, connecting its message of hope and renewal to our College community and the loss experienced at the end of Term 1. His words reminded us of the importance of walking together with faith, compassion and hope during times of both challenge and celebration.

Bishop Mark also introduced himself to staff and expressed his appreciation for the vital work undertaken each day to support the spiritual, intellectual, social and emotional growth of our young people. He spoke warmly of his enthusiasm for becoming part of the Damascus community and the wider Ballarat Diocese.

We thank Bishop Mark for his time, presence and encouragement. His visit was a meaningful way to begin Term 2 and marked the beginning of what we look forward to being a strong and enduring relationship with our College community.

Damascus College welcomed mothers, grandmothers, aunties, carers and other significant women from across our community to our annual Mother’s Day Liturgy and Breakfast.

The morning began with a student-led liturgy centred on the theme Held, Known and Loved, reflecting on the important role mothers and mother figures play in the lives of our young people and the lasting impact of their love, care and guidance. Through prayer, Scripture, music and reflection, students celebrated the many women who nurture and support them, while also acknowledging that Mother’s Day can be a time of mixed emotions for some members of our community.

Following the liturgy, guests gathered in the Damascus Events Centre to enjoy a family-style continental breakfast prepared and served with the support of students and staff, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Students played an important role throughout the morning, assisting with set-up, welcoming guests, serving breakfast and leading the liturgy with confidence, care and pride. Their generosity and willingness to serve others beautifully reflected the spirit of Damascus College.

Principal Steven Mifsud thanked all those who attended the celebration and acknowledged the valued partnership between home and school in supporting the growth and wellbeing of our young people. He also expressed his appreciation to the students, Catholic Culture Team and staff whose dedication and hospitality helped make the morning such a special occasion.

As part of the celebration, Steven shared this prayer for the women of our community:

"May the women of our community be blessed today and always.

May they know the love, care and guidance they give so freely is deeply valued. May they continue to nurture with grace, lead with strength and inspire others through their compassion and faith.

May God's peace and blessing be with them today and always."

We thank the mothers, grandmothers, carers, aunties and significant women in our community for the countless ways they love, support and encourage our young people. Their compassion, strength and faith continue to enrich the life of Damascus College.

Earlier this term, Damascus College welcomed more than 600 prospective students and family members to our annual Open Night, providing an opportunity to explore our campus and experience all that a Damascus education has to offer.

Principal Steven Mifsud reflected on the evening, saying:

"It was a genuine pleasure to welcome so many families into our College. There is something special about seeing our students and staff share their pride in Damascus and the opportunities that exist here. Thank you to every family who took the time to come and experience it for themselves."

A sincere thank you to our staff and students whose enthusiasm, generosity and hospitality helped make the evening such a success. The way they welcomed, guided and connected with our guests truly reflected the spirit of our College community and brought our Mercy value of Hospitality to life.

We are also proud to provide opportunities for students to share their talents and tell the Damascus story. A special thank you to Ronan for capturing the evening through his photography and for the wonderful way he continues to showcase student voice and life at Damascus College.

The Damascus College Sustainable Racing Team (SRT) is entering an exciting new chapter, with Class of 2018 alumnus Jonathan Western stepping into the role as long-serving Coordinator Alan Strange prepares to retire.

For Jonathan, returning to Damascus is more than a new job, it's a chance to give back to a program that played an important role in his own school experience.

Jonathan was heavily involved in the Energy Breakthrough (EBT) program from Year 7 and remembers his time at Damascus fondly. One of his highlights was being part of the team that took a fully electric vehicle to Maryborough in 2016, an experience that sparked a lasting passion for engineering, innovation and teamwork.

After leaving Damascus early in 2017, Jonathan completed a Diploma of Engineering at SMB before embarking on a varied and impressive career. His journey has taken him across Australia and overseas, working in a range of technical and engineering roles. Among the highlights were positions with Tickford Racing in the V8 Supercars competition as a carbon fibre technician and mechanic, and later with Rocket Lab in New Zealand as a Research and Development Engineer.

More recently, Jonathan worked as a Learning Support Officer in St Arnaud, a role that strengthened his passion for supporting young people. He said he particularly enjoyed building relationships with students and helping them discover their strengths outside the classroom.

"What excites me most is helping students discover new skills and talents, while working as part of a team, and continuing the legacy of the program that has had such a positive impact on my life," Jonathan said.

As Coordinator, Jonathan sees his role as supporting students while maintaining the strong foundations already in place and introducing new technologies where possible. He hopes students involved in the program will develop confidence, teamwork skills and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

For outgoing SRT Coordinator Alan Strange, the handover marks the end of a significant chapter. Alan first became involved with the program as a volunteer when his son participated in SRT as a student and then officially took on the Coordinator role in 2015. His connection to the program has now come full circle, with his grandson, currently in year 7, joining SRT this year.

Reflecting on his time with the team, Alan said his proudest moments have been watching students find their place, learn new skills and challenge themselves to achieve things they may never have thought possible.

"The program gives students the opportunity to grow, do hard things and find direction," he said.

One of Alan's standout memories was being part of the Broken Hill to Ballarat (B2B) event in 2024, an experience he described as both humbling and rewarding.

Both Alan and Jonathan agree that having a former Damascus student lead the program is a positive step for its future. Jonathan said he was thrilled to have the opportunity to continue his involvement with SRT, while Alan believes Jonathan's understanding of the school community and firsthand experience as a participant will be invaluable.

As the Sustainable Racing Team looks ahead, the program remains committed to providing students with hands-on learning opportunities, fostering innovation and developing skills that extend far beyond the workshop. With Jonathan now at the helm and the strong foundations established by Alan and those before him, the future of SRT is in capable hands.

Year 7 student Jag Stanford has already made a meaningful contribution to the Ballarat community through his involvement in the 2025 Kids Think Tank, a program facilitated by the City of Ballarat that gives young people an opportunity to share their ideas and contribute to community projects.

Jag became involved as a Grade 6 student at Buninyong Primary School. After completing an application and interview process, he was part of a group selected to represent his school.

One of the highlights of the experience was meeting students from other schools and working with City of Ballarat representatives. Jag contributed to discussions relating to the redevelopment of the Ballarat Botanical Gardens and Lake Wendouree, helping ensure young people's perspectives were heard.

Through these projects, Jag developed valuable skills in public speaking, teamwork and confidence, while learning the importance of representing not only his school, but the voices of young people across Ballarat.

He says these skills have been particularly useful as he transitioned to high school, helping him feel comfortable meeting his teachers and other students and encouraging him to embrace new opportunities.

Jag's commitment and contribution have recently been recognised through a nomination for a Ballarat Youth Award. He said he was proud of both himself and fellow nominee Lily, and that the nomination came as a welcome surprise.

"I really enjoyed being part of the program and being a voice for kids," Jag said. "The nomination shows that the hard work I put into the program has paid off."

We congratulate Jag on his achievements and wish him all the best for the Ballarat Youth Awards, with winners to be announced on 14 August.

To learn more about Jag's involvement - Inside the Kids Think Tank: How local students are changing the way Council listens | City of Ballarat

Photos courtesy of City of Ballarat

When the curtain rises on Animal Farm next month, audiences will witness far more than Damascus College's annual school production. This year's performance represents a remarkable full-circle moment in the College's history and provides an opportunity to celebrate the extraordinary contribution of one of Damascus College's most dedicated and longest-serving teachers, Andrew Seeary.

In 1999, Damascus College staged its first major school production, George Orwell's Animal Farm. More than a quarter of a century later, the College returns to the same powerful story, creating a fitting connection between the beginnings of Damascus theatre and the culmination of Andrew's distinguished career in education and the performing arts.

Andrew's contribution to Catholic education in Ballarat spans more than 36 years. Beginning at St Martin's in the Pines in 1990, Andrew quickly established himself as a passionate advocate for drama and student performance. In 1995, when Damascus College was formed, Andrew continued his role as a driving force behind the Performing Arts program. Over the past three decades, Andrew has helped shape a vibrant performing arts culture that has become one of the hallmarks of Damascus.

As Coordinator of Performing Arts (Drama), Andrew has had many roles, including assisting as director or designer, and guided students through an extraordinary range of productions. From the groundbreaking Animal Farm in 1999 to beloved musicals such as Little Shop of Horrors, Fame, Footloose, Annie, Grease, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, The Addams Family and Oliver, generations of students have discovered confidence, creativity and connection through the opportunities he helped create.

The breadth of productions over the years reflects Andrew's commitment to exposing students to a wide range of theatrical styles and experiences. Audiences have been captivated by dramas such as The Diary of Anne Frank, The Crucible and Cosi; literary adaptations including Around the World in 80 Days and The 39 Steps; and imaginative family favourites such as The Wiz and The Brothers Grimm Spectaculathon.

Many alumni fondly recall their involvement in Damascus productions, whether as performers, musicians, backstage crew members, or enthusiastic audience members. Under Andrew's leadership, the Performing Arts program has become much more than an extracurricular activity. It has been a place where students have found friendship, belonging, confidence and a sense of purpose, often creating memories that last long after graduation.

The decision to revisit Animal Farm in 2026 is especially significant. The production honours the legacy of the College's first all school production while highlighting how far the Performing Arts program has evolved over the past 27 years. It also serves as a tribute to Andrew's enduring influence on drama education at Damascus College and his commitment to providing meaningful opportunities for students to grow through performance.

As Andrew prepares to take his final bow following this production, the Damascus community has much to celebrate. His passion, creativity and dedication have enriched the lives of countless students, colleagues and families. The impact of his work will continue to be felt long after the final performance concludes, living on through the confidence, skills and memories he has helped create.

This year's production of Animal Farm is a celebration of history, community and the transformative power of the performing arts. Most importantly, it is a fitting tribute to a teacher whose influence has shaped Damascus College and the broader Ballarat community for more than three decades.

With strong interest in this special production, limited seats remain available. Tickets can be booked via https://www.trybooking.com/DMOPY.

Damascus College Unit 3 VCE Business Management students recently welcomed Tim Bodey, Chief Financial Officer of Selkirk, for an engaging session that connected classroom learning with real-world business practice.

Drawing on his experience with one of Ballarat's best-known manufacturers, Tim provided students with valuable insights into business operations, manufacturing processes and strategic decision-making, while demonstrating how these concepts apply directly to the VCE Business Management curriculum.

Students also explored the important role Corporate Social Responsibility plays within Selkirk, gaining an understanding of the company's commitment to supporting the Ballarat community and the positive impact businesses can have beyond commercial success.

The session provided students with a practical case study that will support their learning throughout the year and prove valuable as they prepare for their end-of-year VCE examinations.

Adding a fun element to the visit, Tim challenged students to guess how many LEGO® pieces it would take to build a life-sized brick. Congratulations to Adeline Vereker, whose guess came closest to the correct answer, although there was still quite a gap to the final total!

We thank Tim and the team at Selkirk for sharing their time, knowledge and experience with our students. Opportunities such as these strengthen classroom learning by demonstrating how business theory is applied in real-world settings and inspire students as they prepare for their future careers.

Year 12 students undertaking the VCE Vocational Major (VM) Work Related Skills program showcased their creativity, teamwork and entrepreneurial skills during this term's Market Day, presenting the culmination of their Small Business Projects.

Throughout the term, students developed their business ideas from concept to creation, completing business proposals, marketing campaigns, budgeting and profit-and-loss calculations before producing and selling their final products.

The College courtyard came alive as students offered a diverse range of handmade items, baked goods, resin coasters, jewellery and other unique creations. One of the day's highlights was a raffle for a custom-built coffee table crafted from recycled car parts, demonstrating the innovation and practical skills developed throughout the project.

More than simply selling products, Market Day provided students with the opportunity to apply business concepts in a real-world setting, developing valuable skills in planning, communication, financial management and customer service.

Congratulations to our Year 12 VM students on the enthusiasm, initiative and commitment they brought to the project. We are especially proud that all profits raised will be donated to a range of charitable organisations, including FightMND, breast cancer charities and ocean conservation initiatives, reinforcing the importance of using enterprise to make a positive difference in the community.

The Damascus College Year 12 Drama Ensemble took audiences on a thought-provoking theatrical journey this term with their original performance, Aim to be the Same, presented over three evenings in the Valda Ward Auditorium.

Created as part of the students' VCE Drama Unit 3 Ensemble Performance studies, the production explored the theme of conformity, inviting audiences to reflect on individuality, expectation and the courage to challenge the status quo.

Entirely devised and performed by students Archie, Dana, Macey, Declan, James, Finn and Lucy, the performance blended comedy, drama and a range of theatrical styles to tell the story of a society moving along a carefully controlled path until one person dares to break free. Through ensemble performance, movement, music, lighting and projection, the students demonstrated exceptional creativity, collaboration and performance skills.

Throughout the creative process, students worked together to develop the concept, script and staging, gaining valuable experience in devising original theatre while strengthening their confidence as performers and storytellers.

Guided by Performing Arts Coordinator Andrew Seeary, the ensemble embraced the challenges of creating an original work from concept to performance, delivering a production that was both engaging and thought-provoking.

Congratulations to Archie, Dana, Macey, Declan, James, Finn and Lucy on an outstanding achievement. Their dedication, creativity and willingness to challenge themselves resulted in a memorable production that showcased the strength of Drama and the Performing Arts at Damascus College.

Earlier this term, Damascus College celebrated St Martin’s Day with a student-led assembly that showcased the spirit, leadership and talent of St Martin’s House.

The assembly recognised and celebrated student sporting achievements, highlighting the commitment, teamwork and success of students both on and off the field. A vibrant talent show brought energy to the stage, with students confidently sharing their creativity through a variety of performances. It was wonderful to see so many students embracing the opportunity to participate and celebrate the gifts and talents within their House.

Students also shared updates on upcoming College events, including Do It For Dolly Day and the College production of Animal Farm, helping to keep the Damascus community informed and connected.

St Martin’s Day provides an opportunity to honour the life and legacy of St Martin de Porres and reflect on the values he embodied. His example of humility, compassion, service and care for others continues to inspire our community, with students encouraged to live the St Martin’s House values of Service, Participation, Trust, Diligence and Truth each day.

Congratulations to the St Martin’s House Captains – Kate, Lucy, Lachlan and Archie – for their outstanding leadership and organisation, and thank you to every student who contributed to making the celebration such a memorable occasion.

Rice House came together this term to celebrate its annual House Day Assembly, recognising the spirit, talent and achievements of students while reflecting on the enduring legacy of House founder, Edmund Rice.

Students and staff enjoyed outstanding performances of Let Me Entertain You and Rise Up, showcasing the remarkable musical talent within the Damascus College community and bringing energy and enthusiasm to the celebration.

The assembly also provided an opportunity to reflect on the life and values of Edmund Rice, whose commitment to faith, compassion and service continues to inspire the Rice House community.

Student achievements were recognised through presentations celebrating the Lap of the Lake and Term 1 BAS Sport, acknowledging the commitment, teamwork and determination demonstrated across a range of sporting pursuits.

The celebration concluded with the much-anticipated Year 12 dance, bringing the assembly to a memorable close and highlighting the strong sense of pride, participation and community that defines Rice House.

Damascus College Class of 2025 graduate and former VCE Literature student Layla Muir has been recognised among Victoria's outstanding young writers, presenting her creative work, The Fish on the Great Northern Box, at the Top Scribe 2026 Anthology Launch.

Top Scribe celebrates exceptional original works created by VCE Literature students from across Victoria, showcasing creative writing developed as part of their school-assessed coursework. Each year, a select group of students is chosen for publication in the annual anthology, featuring an impressive collection of fiction, poetry and hybrid works.

The 2026 Anthology Launch was held at The Wheeler Centre, celebrating the achievements of 25 VCE Literature students from across the state and streamed online to a wider audience.

Layla's inclusion in the anthology is a significant achievement and a testament to her creativity, dedication and talent as a writer. Her work, The Fish on the Great Northern Box, explores themes of human connection, resilience and community through imaginative and evocative storytelling.

Congratulations, Layla, on this outstanding accomplishment. Your success reflects not only your talent and commitment to your craft but also the strength of the creative opportunities available to students at Damascus College. We are incredibly proud of your achievement and look forward to following your writing journey in the years ahead.

Did you attend Damascus College or one of our foundation schools, Sacred Heart College, St Martin's in the Pines or St Paul’s Technical College? Were you part of the Class of 1966, 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006 or 2016?

We are delighted to invite alumni back to Mt Clear for our 2026 Reunion Day on Saturday 10 October, a special occasion dedicated to reconnecting former students with old friends, treasured memories and the College community.

This year's reunion celebrations will welcome alumni from the Class of 1966, 1976, 1986, 1996, 2006 and 2016, marking significant milestone anniversaries since their graduation. Whether it has been 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 or even 60 years since leaving school, Reunion Day offers a wonderful opportunity to come together and celebrate lifelong connections.

The day will begin with a warm welcome and the chance to enjoy food and refreshments while catching up with former classmates and teachers. Alumni will then have the opportunity to take part in a guided campus tour, exploring familiar spaces while discovering the many developments and improvements that have shaped the College in recent years.

Formal proceedings will provide an opportunity to reflect on the history of the College, meet the current principal Steven Mifsud, and reconnect and celebrate the shared experiences that continue to unite generations of alumni. Throughout the reunion, there will be plenty of time for conversation and sharing stories from school days gone by.

For many alumni, Reunion Day is a chance to reconnect with friends, revisit favourite memories, see how the campus has evolved and renew ties with a community that continues to play an important role in so many lives.

We encourage all eligible alumni to spread the word among their classmates and join us for what promises to be a memorable celebration.

Bookings are essential and can be made via TryBooking, please use the link for your Class of group.

Sacred Heart College Class of 1966

Sacred Heart College Class of 1976

Sacred Heart College Class of 1986

Damascus College Class of 1996

Damascus College Class of 2006

Damascus College Class of 2016

We look forward to warmly welcoming our milestone reunion year groups back to campus on Saturday 10 October.

Please note: Class of groups are named for their graduating year, which is the year a student did or would have completed Year 12 or equivalent.