Without Mary’s Tower, it wouldn’t be Nudgee...
Without the stripes, it wouldn’t be Nudgee....
Without the brotherhood, it wouldn’t be Nudgee....
Without your support, it wouldn’t be possible.

You might recognise those lines from the promotional video developed for our inaugural Giving Day. The majority of Nudgee College families will have received information on the Giving Day over the past week. Today we are asking the community to support the important restoration and preservation works of Mary’s Bell Tower.

While the Bell Tower has been part of the College infrastructure since our earliest days in the 1890s, the statue of Blessed Mary was erected in the 1950s. Restoration of the tower is a signature part of the redevelopment of the Treacy heritage precinct, which is currently being undertaken. As outlined in the video, the tower and the statue of Mary were in need of greater restoration than anticipated. This created a need for the extended Nudgee College community to financially contribute to a once in a generation opportunity to continue the legacy of the tower.

We are seeking the help of our closest supporters, not only our current parents, to come on board for this inaugural Giving Day. We invite you to visit charidy.com/nc to view the campaign video and consider making a donation to our Nudgee College Giving Day. You are encouraged to share the link with any other Nudgee College supporters who may not be as connected but would welcome the opportunity to support the day. We have just 24 hours to reach our target.

In mentioning Mary’s Bell Tower it is timely to provide a brief update on the building projects that are underway around the campus. The Treacy heritage precinct project is well advanced and proving to be a complicated refurbishment. Rohrig are currently on track to hand over part of the Treacy building (south and east wings) across the end of term break. Staff will be moved into new offices and classes will commence in the spacious level one classrooms in Term 4. The demolition of the Gallagher Building will commence in September. Currently, the project is on track for a Term 1 completion in 2021.

I would encourage you to take a drive past the Flats – it is a significant and extensive earthworks project. The drainage and irrigation systems are vital to the long term success of the redevelopment and as such have required much planning, preparation and attention to detail. Our two old and smaller dams have been decommissioned and replaced by a much larger dam, which is under construction. Associated with this dam are the pump house and filtration systems, which will ensure the retention and recycling of 40 per cent of the water that will be used on the ovals themselves. In the next couple of weeks we anticipate the laying of the first section of turf. The phased in establishment of the turf will continue until Christmas. Despite the recent rains which have delayed some of the work, the project is anticipated to be completed and handed over from Main Constructions to us in January 2021.

The final project is the Mary Rice Early Learning Centre (MRELC) in the MacKillop Building. The Centre on the ground floor, as well as office space and student gathering areas on the second floor will be completed and handed over early in September from Tomkins (the construction company). This is both an exciting and daunting prospect. It marks the beginning of the establishment of the business operations of the MRELC ahead of its opening in January next year. The MRELC will operate independently of Nudgee College. While it is located on the campus and available to all in the community, the MRELC business is governed by EREA, who also govern Nudgee College. For those who are interested, there will be an opportunity for the community to visit the Centre during Term 4. More details on this are to come.

Finally, Year 12 parents will have received information this week about an important online evening next Wednesday. It will be an opportunity to share details regarding the ‘Roadmap to Certification’ and our preparation of the Seniors for external exams. Given the ongoing changes and challenges presented by COVID-19 restrictions we will also provide an outline of our current plans for Year 12 Valedictory and associated end of year events.

Important Dates and Changes

I wish to advise you of a number of changes to the school calendar over the coming months.

• Friday 4 September: Unlike many other schools Nudgee College, will NOT be holding a pupil free day. Regular classes will be operating for all students in all grades.
• Friday 18 September (final school day Term 3): This will be a pupil free day at the College. The building works and relocation of many teaching staff necessitate the early end of Term 3. The College will provide supervision for the day for any student who cannot be cared for at home. Details will be provided at a later date.

• Monday 19 October (Orientation Day for all new students in 2021): This has been a long-standing pupil free day at the College, which will be the case again this year. The College will provide supervision for any student who cannot be cared for at home. Details will be provided at a later date.

With every best wish for the week ahead.

Mr Peter Fullagar
Principal

As a working dad and with a wife who works in Central Queensland, I have become the master of survival – or so I tell myself. I am time poor, and try to be a skilled multi-tasker. I find myself doing housework and preparing dinner while listening to my son, planning my next day and answering texts and emails. My life is paced by the alerts on my phone. I hold it together most of the time, but I have to admit that sometimes I have no idea what my son is talking about because my attention is somewhere else.

Researchers refer to this parenting phenomena as ‘continuous partial attention’. We may be physically present with our boys, but we are not emotionally present. In this scenario, parental attention is unpredictable and reactive. Recent research shows that this kind of parenting results in boys who are more negative, less resilient and who feel unimportant.

The opposite to this style of parenting is that we give our sons (and our daughters) our undivided attention. This approach is also undesirable, contributing to an entitled attitude with a distorted sense of self. One solution to this parenting challenge is to be fully present with your child for a short, predictable burst of quality time – no phones, no TV, no distractions. Chat over dinner, go for a walk, or just listen! Positive attention builds self-esteem, increases resilience and develops a sense of security.

Dr Justin Coulson says: “Listening is one of the most important ways that we can build resilience. Rather than operating on ‘auto-parent’ we will help our children know they are important by giving them our undivided attention. Children feel validated and worthy when we listen to them.”

In her article, The Single Most Important Parenting Action We Can Do Today, Rachel Macy Stafford says: “Having a parent that listens creates a child who believes he or she has a voice that matters in this world.” This powerful concept does not require huge chunks of time, but it does require your full attention to allow your child to feel truly heard. At Nudgee College, we also want to increase the opportunities for the student voice to be heard, both individually and collectively. We want to empower our boys to share what they are thinking, feeling and needing in order to learn and thrive. We want to know each Nudgee College gentleman has an individual they can talk with and find ways to connect. As I have written in the past, we want each boy to find his tribe and be known well by his teachers and coaches.

My challenge for myself is to be intentional about creating time to be present, engaged, unplugged and focussed. My son deserves nothing less. I am sure you all feel the same way about your children.

Mr David Johnston
Deputy Principal

A Prayer of Generosity and Gratitude

Holy Father, there is nothing we have that You have not given us. All we have and all we are belong to You, bought with the blood of Jesus.
To spend selfishly and to give without sacrifice is the way of the world,
but generosity is the way of those who call Christ their Lord.
So, help us to increase in generosity until it can be said that there is no needy person among us.
Help us to be trustworthy with such a little thing as money that You may trust us with true riches.
Above all, help us to be generous because You, Father, are generous. May we show what You are like to all the world. Amen.
Live Jesus in our hearts!
Forever 

Mr Stephen Meara
Dean of Identity

Congratulations to the following students for receiving Principal’s Awards:

Mr Jason Sepetauc
Dean of Learning and Teaching

Write That Essay Workshop

Writing and communicating with clarity and precision extends far beyond the Habit of Mind that teachers emphasise at the College. Although such attention to detail is important when boys are completing assignments and exams, it is also needed when they apply for a job or create a pitch for a new workplace project. In Year 12 Essential English, students are currently preparing for their final assessment piece for the year; an external exam that requires them to explain the representation of ‘resilience’ – a concept that could not be more appropriate given the events of 2020. In recent years, the Write That Essay program, which explicitly teaches sentence structure and construction, has been widely implemented across a broad range of subject areas at the College. In recognition of the benefits of this program, on Monday 24 August, all Year 12 Essential English students were given the opportunity to engage in a two-hour exam workshop that was specifically designed to assist them to respond to questions with accuracy, fluency and clarity.

Mr Tom Hughes
Coordinator of Essential English

This week, Christian Setefano and Shannen Gerard Solker spoke passionately to the school community about the topic of inclusion. Below are excerpts of their speeches:

Mahatma Gandhi once said: “Our ability to reach unity in diversity will be the beauty and the test of our civilisation”. 

Good morning Mr Fullagar, staff, parents and my fellow Nudgee brothers.

Nudgee College as you know is a vastly diverse community – home to students and staff from different races, socio-economic backgrounds and sexualities. A community which I am proud to call my second home. A community which treats me with dignity and respect, regardless of my skin tone and ethnicity. We pride ourselves on the unique nature of our diversity here at Nudgee College. Some would argue it is what makes this place great. Everyone is different and everyone has their own story to tell. Despite these differences, we are all unified in one common goal – to be a Signum Fidei – a Sign of Faith. One of Nudgee College’s key ethos which is ingrained in our young men is the notion of inclusivity – an Edmund Rice touchstone which manifests acceptance and compassion.   

Unfortunately, this is not always followed. A minority of Nudgee College men use non-inclusive language as a joke aimed at students of different races, socioeconomic backgrounds and sexualities. They say: “It is just a joke, a bit banter, I don’t really mean it”. But every word you say, boys, has the power to empower an individual and also the force to beat them to the ground, especially when you have no idea what is going on in their lives. Your words have the power to push someone to the breaking point or save them. It is your choice. The power to tear down or build up lies in your tongue. A joke should never be at the expense of another person’s dignity. Why should we have the right to make a joke which could have detrimental effects on an individual’s life? No person should ever be subjected to a racial slur or undermined because of how they look or who they are as an individual.

It is all of our responsibilities to ensure that Nudgee College is an inclusive place at all times and it is critical that we call out poor behaviour and we challenge our mates to be better. We are a band of brothers united in love. Brothers that put the needs of the man sitting next to him before himself. That is what makes Nudgee College so special; that unique sense of camaraderie despite our differences. Let us ensure that every single Nudgee man is a part of that 10,000 brothers and is loved just as much. – Shannen Gerard Solker

As you might’ve seen over the past few weeks, Nudgee College has put an emphasis on the need to celebrate the diversity of all students, regardless of race, religion, abilities or sexual identity. As Nudgee men we have been taught the EREA, Catholic values of love, peace and compassion, which we can utilise by uplifting those around us by respecting their identity and sexuality. By using inclusive language we can be conscious of the awesome diversity of our Nudgee brothers, and ensuring that our words and actions as Nudgee men are ones of inclusion and love for each other. As we actively celebrate each other’s differences and their individuality, we acknowledge that Nudgee College is a place of inclusion, and a place that encourages everyone to be an individual.

This week the Library has organised an Inclusion Week to celebrate the diversity of all students. Ms Miller and the Library staff have put together a variety of different activities for all students, which includes Lego activities and Kahoots. Finally, on Friday, you will notice all of the Library staff and some academic staff will be wearing purple clothing to show their support for National Wear It Purple Day - a day of support for LGBTQI young people. These staff are supporting the incredible work of the Wear It Purple organisation, who support young LGBTQI people, and offer specialist support to lower the suicide rates of our young people struggling with their identity. Through this week, and our ongoing inclusive actions, we as Nudgee men, can ALL feel a sense of acceptance and belonging. I hope that we can stand together, as 10,000 brothers, to speak and live our lives of peace, love and compassion by lending our voice to those who get drowned out by hate. I thank you all for listening and wish you all a good day. – Christian Setefano

Having watched Nudgee College ‘grow’ in my time here over the last 25 years, I was incredibly proud of the boys and the place we have become (and are becoming) in terms of all the different ways you can be Nudgee man. Well done Shannen and Christian.

Mr Peter Todd
Dean of Students

This week we have some happy news to share with you. Our head of Cotter Boarding House Mr Casey Brealy and his lovely wife Megan who works as our O’Brien House Mum are expecting their first child. We wish them heartfelt congratulations from all of the Nudgee College family.

In other news, College has been in the news. We were mentioned on ABC program The Drum on 19 August during a story on the border closure issues facing boarders. We have also recently had a News Corp film crew on site and a few of our young boarders were interviewed for a News Corp story about the implications of the border closures on them not being able to go home for holidays.

Health Centre Protocols on Testing for COVID-19

Most importantly, again a reminder that our current COVIDSafe plan with Queensland Health (which ensures we can open at full capacity) states that any boarder who presents with any symptoms related to COVID-19 MUST be sent for testing and quarantined whilst waiting for the test result.

We also ask that when on leave boarders are mindful of steering clear of crowded places and follow any directions given by Queensland health in relation to wearing masks if advised to do so.

We cannot afford to risk the education or the health of our students and are doing everything in our power to keep COVID-19 out of Nudgee College. We need your help to ensure this.

Please note that our Health Centre is consistently at full capacity to cater for boys under quarantine conditions. Families that live close to Nudgee College are asked to have their son return home during this period to ensure we can cater for the high number of boys being tested and quarantined during this typical flu season.

Mr Christian Oneto
Dean of Boarding

Debating

During Weeks 5 and 6, each House put forward a team of debaters from a variety of year levels to compete in the 2020 Inter-house Debating competition. Topics debated this year were: ‘Politicians should be banned from social media’; ‘learning at home is better than learning at school; ‘face masks should be mandatory at school’; and ‘TikTok is ruining popular culture’. Each topic was fiercely debated, but only one House can be victorious. In a crowded (and socially distanced) Tierney Auditorium, ultimately Ross took the victory from Tierney. Congratulations to Mr Michael Byrne and the Ross House debaters. Special thanks to Ben Weber, Tom Walsh, Daniel Kuskie, Mattias Dahlstedt, Blake Keir, Injarra Harbour, Oliver Horwood, Patrick Kelly, Michael Jones, Lastus Auakai, Mr Jason Sepetauc and Mr Dayne Treacy for their adjudications, and to Mr Peter Todd and the House Deans for their support of the competition.

Mx James Makiol
Debating Director

Basketball

Although we had a fantastic day collecting numerous wins in the supplementary draw, we had a tough day at Toowoomba Grammar School (TGS), winning only one of the A games. The 1st V started extremely well, leading at quarter time 32-19, led by some outstanding offensive play from Jaisson Angalo. Unfortunately Jaisson and Heath Lillicrap fouled out by half-time and the team struggled to handle the hot shooting of TGS. The game was marred by some strict officiating that our boys were unable to effectively adjust to. Despite the circumstances, TGS proved to be the more formidable side on the day.

The 2nd V had a strong performance coming from behind, in large part due to Nicholas Cardiff's three-point barrage, to only lose on the bell 42-44.

The 9As had a big win, 75-49, with Joaquin Tullouch and Mladen Markovic the standouts.

The 9Bs had a monstrous win led by some great team play all around. The boys were able to share the ball, ensuring every player made their fair share of shots. Well done!

Aside from a few games in the supplementary draw the boys will take a much-needed break and enjoy the bye round this Saturday. Please make sure to tune into the Nudgee College Youtube channel to watch the 1st V host BGS in Round 8.

Mr CJ Massingale
Basketball Director

Rugby

All Rugby games were played away last Saturday across six different venues. Results wise, it was a very successful day, winning 28 from 35 and one draw; including wins for all ‘A’ teams. There were very few injuries too, which is most pleasing.

Highlights from Round 6

• 14A grinding out a good win
• Our 11Ds finding their shoulders in the tackle and making some huge improvements from previous weeks
• 5th XV beating Downlands 16As
• 12Ds getting a hard-fought win
• 16Ds still yet to concede a single point
• The 1st XV’s clinical 43-14 win against a strong TGS outfit

Check Team App for a match report on every game that was played. Also, for a full wrap-up of the round that was, including game highlights, player and coach interviews, special features and heaps more, check out Episode 5 of the Weekly Review Show, which premieres at 5.00pm Wednesdays on the Nudgee College Rugby Youtube channel.  

Round 7 Draw
In such a short season, we endeavour to get as many fixtures as possible for our teams, even in our scheduled bye round. This weekend most teams are playing, including another trip up the range again for some teams. The game of the round is our 2nd XV taking on Downlands 1st XV, which is also a great contest! We wish all teams well. 

Looking ahead at Week 10
The Round 1 fixture against ACGS is rescheduled to Friday 18 September (Friday of Week 10). Please note that only the 1st XV are playing on this day. That means that the season will end for all other teams on Saturday 12 September versus Brisbane Boys' College. With this in mind, we need to finish off the season strongly and attend all training sessions.

Mr Sean Graham 
Rugby Director  

Tennis

Another week of tennis is done and dusted. This week saw the College play TGS at home. After play was rained out in the week prior for most teams, boys were keen to get out there and have a hit. 

Although the sun was shining on game day, strong winds presented some challenging conditions, which made for an entertaining day of tennis. It was great to see boys adjust their games under said conditions. 

Winning teams on the day included 5A, 7A/B, 9B, 10A, 11A/B and the 1st IV. The first final score was 8/16/96 to 0/0/27. It was pleasing to see the boys playing tennis and having fun in the process.

Honourable mentions this week go to:

• Isaac Simpson for great consistency throughout his game
• Caleb Hopsick, who played up in the 5As and won his singles match
• Des Cowley for the great sportsmanship he showed when hitting long balls to keep rallies alive, whilst still winning 6-0
• Alex Ropelin for his great singles match, which went right down to the wire 

The Age Championships are being held this weekend. Years 9 to 11 are playing on Friday afternoon, while the Years 5 to 9 and Opens are playing on the Saturday. I look forward to a great weekend of tennis.

Mr Brendan McGuinness
Tennis Director

College Receptionist - Fixed Term Contract  

Our College receptionist is taking some well earned Long Service Leave for Term 4, 2020. We are inviting experienced and interested people to apply to fill this role for the term.

The details of the role are:

• Dates: 1 October 2020 to 2 December 2020
• Hours of Work: 8.00am to 4.00pm
• Rate of Pay: $29.05ph

The successful candidate will need to be available for a two day handover in the week 14 to 18 September 2020. To apply please send your resume and covering letter to employment@nudgee.com.

Applications close 6 September.

Holiday Hours

College Office: (07) 3865 0555

• Monday 21 September to Friday 2 October: 9.00am to 3.00pm
• Monday 5 October: Closed
• From Tuesday 6 October: 8.00am to 4.00pm

The Locker Room: (07) 3865 0498

• Monday 21 September to Tuesday 29 September: Closed
• Wednesday 30 September to Friday 2 October: 9.00am to 3.00pm
• Monday 5 October: Closed
• From Tuesday 6 October: 8.00am to 4.00pm

Book Hire: (07) 3865 0172

• Monday 21 September to Friday 2 October: Closed
• Monday 5 October: Closed
• From Tuesday 6 October: 8.00am to 3.00pm

Dimensions

The Dimensions Arts Festival has been re-imagined in the wake of changes in 2020. This year we are hosting an exhibition of the Nudgee College Art students' work. There will also be audiovisual displays of the Music ensembles, with some live performances from our pianists. The exhibition will be held on Friday 4 September in the Cleary Building from 3.30pm to 7.00pm.

We welcome parents to attend and walk through the exhibition. We are pleased to announce the Art students have developed this exhibition themselves and would love to present this for parents to walk through, within COVIDSafe parameters, to view and purchase their artwork.

We appreciate the parents, staff and community in their continued support of the arts at Nudgee College.

Raffle:

We are selling tickets for our raffle fast for our fantastic prizes valued at more than $20,000. Please help us to raise funds for the boys by purchasing raffle tickets for your chance to win one of the following great prizes.

Tickets for our incredible raffle can be purchased now. This year there are only 1,000 limited tickets on sale, so get in quick to avoid disappointment.

Major prize is:

• $10,000 cash OR
• One year of Nudgee College tuition for 2021, up to the value of $15,000

This year there are also four more great prizes to be won:

• Second Prize - Harry Harry Home Australia $2,000 voucher
• Third Prize - Panda Pearls package
• Fourth Prize - Weekend away at Sea Pearl Mooloolaba
• Fifth prize - $500 Locker Room voucher

Raffle tickets can be purchased here, and will be drawn on 31 October 2020 at 3.00pm.

Please share with your family and friends. There are many prizes to be won this year and we wish you good luck.

With our sincere thanks for your support.

Nudgee College Arts Committee