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VOLUME XXIX No 20 30th November, 2012

M E S S A G E F R O M T H E H E A D O F C O L L E G E

DATES TO REMEMBER

DECEMBER

Year 6 Graduation K-6 Awards Presentation Morning

4th

Middle School Assembly

5th

Prize Giving SS 11.30am Early Dismissal Christmas Carols Afternoon JS Term ends for students

6th

Staff Development Day

7th

St Spyridon Day

12th

HSC Results

19th

JS Office closes

20th

SS Office closes

21st

J A NUARY

Staff Development Day

29th Staff Development Day

30th Years 1 – 7, 11 and 12 commence

31st

F E BRUARY

Kindergarten and Years 8 – 10 commence

1st

2013 TERM 1 31st January – 12th April, 2013

TERM 2 29th April – 21st June, 2013

TERM 3 15th July – 19th September, 2013

TERM 4 8th October – 5th December, 2013

In this last Newsletter for 2012: We wish all students, teachers and their families a Merry Christmas, a safe holiday and a Happy New Year. Mrs E. Stefanou-Haag

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JUNIOR SCHOOL PRIZE GIVING MORNING

On Tuesday 4th December at 11am we will acknowledge the students, K – 6, who have achieved Academic Excellence this year.

At this Prize Giving Assembly, which will be held in the Church, awards to be presented include Academic Achievement in the Key Learning Areas, Athena Pallas Outstanding Reading Award Years 3-6 sponsored by the Beirut Hellenic Bank and the Delphi Bank award for Diligence and Improvement in English for Years 3-6. The Hon. Ron Hoeing, Member for Heffron, will present his Outstanding Leadership Award to a student in Year Six. This year the University of NSW Faculty of Engineering & Maths will present an award to the Year 6 student who came first in Mathematics. The Junior School Leadership Team for 2013 will receive their badges and we will farewell as a school community, Year 6 2012. The Year Six students will be presented with their gift from the school. Parents are requested to sit in the last 4 pews on either side of the church or upstairs. Year Six students may leave after the assembly to prepare for their graduation dinner and younger siblings are also permitted to leave at this time but must be marked off by their class teacher. It is fitting we acknowledge the efforts made by all students to improve this year. It is not possible to award prizes to all students, but students need to feel a sense of accomplishment for their application and gains made this year. Congratulations to all students K – 6.

PRIZE RECIPIENTS JUNIOR SCHOOL 2012

INFANTS Please note Infants awards are in alphabetical order not order of merit. Kindergarten Cerise Alexandra Bizannes Academic Excellence Andrew Dalessis Achievement in Greek Gabriella Gouveros Academic Excellence Georgia Miller Achievement in Greek Victoria Stathos Achievement in Greek Tara Zinopoulos Academic Excellence Kindergarten Jade Dean Foundis - Borrett Academic Excellence Catherine Coutts Academic Excellence Holly Durrant Academic Excellence Dimitra Kasmas Achievement in Greek Chrysa Kirkis Achievement in Greek Isabella Koutoulogenis Achievement in Greek

1 Emerald Natalia Constantinidis Academic Excellence Evana George Achievement in Greek Nektarios Kollias Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek Alexander Kumar Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek 1 Topaz Katerina Alexandratos Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek Nicholas Bastas Achievement in Greek James Karagiannis Academic Excellence Kosta Micos Achievement in Greek Hudson Rallis Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek

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1 Violet Sophia Karatasos Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek Christian Lynch Academic Excellence Jennifer Pyliotis Achievement in Greek Amelia Raptis Achievement in Greek Sienna Tsoukalas Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek 2 Aqua Jamyson Gouveros Academic Excellence Patricia Hardas Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek Marlon Rallis Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek Stephanie Vardakis Achievement in Greek 2 Crimson Paul Giavis Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek George Grillakis Academic Excellence Nicolas Kalligiannis Academic Excellence Christina Pascalis Achievement in Greek Anika Vlahakis Achievement in Greek 2 Indigo Adriana Drakoulis Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek Stephen Koutoulogenis Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek Nicholas Papas Academic Excellence Achievement in Greek

PRIMARY PRIZE RECIPIENTS 2012

3 Amethyst Teoni Antonopoulos 1st English 1st Science 2nd HSIE 3rd Maths Anastasi Poulos 1st HSIE 2nd Maths 2nd Science Mary Diamond 1st Maths 2nd English Mihalis Dovellos 1st Greek gp1 3rd Science Billy Bourdaniotis 3rd English = 3rd HSIE Franklin Pyliotis =3rd HSIE

3 Sapphire Peter Petrides 1st Maths 2nd HSIE 2nd English Juval Mikhail 1st English 1st HSIE 3rd Science Anastasia Dougenis 1st Greek gp 2 Kosta Ioannou 1st Greek gp 3 James Bletsas 2nd Science Greg Hatzon 2nd Maths Emmanuel Aroney 1st Science 3rd Maths Gregory Tsoukalas 3rd English Danae Margaronis - Lopez 3rd HSIE

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4 Coral

Rose Economou 1st English 2nd Science 3rd Maths Katherine Tsingos 1st Science 2nd English Nicola Skouteris 1st HSIE 3rd Science Jordan Frazis 1st Maths Thomas Mouratidis 2nd Maths 3rd English James Hristeff 2nd HSIE Nicoletta Tsimboukis 3rd HSIE Stephanie Andreou 1st Greek gp3

4 Turquoise Laura Pitharoulis 1st English 3rd Maths 1st Science 3rd HSIE Nicholas Drakoulis 1st Greek gp1 1st HSIE = 2nd English Marissa Diakoumis =2nd English 2nd Science Panagiota Kappatos 1st Greek gp2 2nd HSIE George Stavrou 1st Maths Roza Papas 2nd Maths Frances - Lee Pascalis 3rd Science

5 Amber Peter Nikas 1st English 1st HSIE 2nd Science 2nd Maths Desi Kapodistrias 1st Science 1st Maths 2nd HSIE Peter Synesios 2nd English 3rd HSIE 3rd Science Georgia Veryinis =3rd Maths 3rd English Tiffany Tsoukalas =3rd Maths Arianna Baltazis 1st Greek gp2 Spiros Zafiropoulos 1st Greek gp3

5 Iris Connor Giavis 1st Maths 1st English 1st HSIE 1st Grk gp1 2nd Sc Vivienne Hatzigiakoumis 2nd Maths 2nd HSIE Theoni Apostolopoulos 1st Science William Georgas 2nd English 3rd HSIE Sophie Ioannidis 3rd Maths Eleni Preketes 3rd English Christopher Matsoukas 3rd Science

6 Magenta Joanna Skouteris 1st Greek gp1 1st HSIE 2nd Science 2nd English Chrysanthi Diasinos =2nd HSIE 3rd Science 3rd English Michael Vetsikas 1st Maths 1st Greek gp3 Rhea Tsimboukis 1st English =2nd HSIE Dean Albanakis 1st Science Stephen Bletsas 2nd Maths Jennifer - Eve Contominas 3rd Maths

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6 Pearl Felicity Ginis 1st Science 2nd Maths =2nd HSIE Nathan Adam 2nd Science John Margelis 3rd Science Florence Georges 1st Maths 1st English =2nd HSIE Harilaos Papas 3rd Maths Nicole Stramotas 1st HSIE 2nd English Victoria Zois = 3rd English Alexandros Gousetis = 3rd English =2nd HSIE Maree Nikitopoulos =2nd HSIE Nikki Cardamis 1st Greek gp2

Athena Pallas Outstanding Reading Award Sponsored by Beirut Hellenic Bank 3A Jonathon Mournehis 3S Christopher Vougioukas 4C Nicoletta Tsimboukis 4T Laura Pitharoulis 5A Tiffany Tsoukalas 5I Connor Giavis 6M Rhea Tsimboukis / Dean Albanakis 6P Maree Nikitopoulos

Delphi Bank Award for Diligence and Improvement in English 3A Maria - Angela Patsalis 3S Dimitra Katsidis 4C Emmanuel Constantopedos 4T Vivika Lynch 5A Manny Giokas 5I Christian Jenkins 6M Dominic Augoustis 6P Andrew Karedis

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K – 1 2 N E W S SCHOLARSHIPS Year 7 and Year 11, 2014 Applications are now invited from new and continuing students to sit for the following ACER Examination Scholarships: Year 6 (Year 7, 2014) A Year 6 Scholarship for the top Year 6 student applying for St Spyridon College will receive their tuition fees paid for four years, from Year 7 to Year 10. Year 10 (Year 11, 2014) Two scholarships for the two top Year 10 students will receive their tuition fees paid for two years. Closing date for applications is Monday, 4th February, 2013, ACER scholarship examinations will be held on Saturday, 23rd February, 2013. You may register now online: www.stspyridon.nsw.edu.au follow the links Scholarships and Awards, then Online Scholarships. THANK YOU I would like to say a huge thank you to our wonderful and tireless volunteers, Diane Siagos and Elenie Coroneos who have helped us throughout the year on a weekly basis, also Angela Vergotis, Anna Giokas and Marina Margelis who have volunteered during the year. I am very grateful and appreciate their time and support. I would also like to thank our teaching staff who have given us their time and support in times of need, Mr Kaldis, Ms Gambriell, Mr Georgoulopoulos and Mr Zafiropoulos. Thank you to Year 11 and Year 12 students for their help during recess and lunch times. On behalf of Maria and myself we wish all our students, staff, families and friends a Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year. Mrs I. Paraskevas Canteen Supervisor Senior School

PARENTS & FRIENDS REPORT Junior School Showcase On behalf of all the parents and its members, the P&F committee wishes to wholeheartedly congratulate all the very talented performers in the Junior School Showcase last week. What an impressive show! You entertained us and thrilled us with your very special talents! The show attracted a huge audience as the venue reached its maximum capacity of seating. Parents, grandparents and friends applauded not only the talents but the enthusiasm and expression of our students that made this Showcase so dynamic and colourful. Our sincerest congratulations to Mrs Coyne for her great direction and tireless efforts and to the incredible hard working team of staff who assisted solidly in preparations and ‘behind the scenes’ work. We are truly proud of the impressive standard that the students and staff of St Spyridon College have achieved collectively. Bravo! Thank you As Term Four comes to a close, the P&F committee is mindful of the College community and all its generous supporters who have attended and/or contributed to the fundraisers this year. We voice our sincerest thank you for your presence and efforts. We wish you and your families a very eventful Christmas and New Year. May 2013 keep you all happy, healthy and strong! Happy Holidays! See you next year! Mrs M. Pascalis Assistant Secretary P&F committee 2012 J U N I O R S C H O O L R E P O R T MUSICAL SHOWCASE 2012 The Junior School Musical Showcase “Musicals, Movies and More” was held at the SPACe last Friday. What a wonderful show and incredible display of our children’s talent. During the performances so many of the skills and outcomes of the curriculum are covered not only in the music section but also in many other aspects. Children have to memorize their words to the song, the movement choreography, the ability to listen carefully, to cooperate to take turns, to be patient

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and to appreciate the individual talents of other children. Aside from all the children listed in the program for their solo performances I would like to commend Alyssa Alas who stepped in during dress rehearsal to sing ‘Feed the Birds’ in Stella’s absence. Alyssa has a beautiful voice and we look forward to hearing more of her next year. As I mentioned we appear to have many talented children however, it is a matter of discovering them. Please let us know if your child has talent in music or drama. Congratulations to Mrs Coyne our music teacher, for her amazing work and our thanks to all teachers who supported her. Congratulations to Mr Sam Podjarski who is inspiring more and more of our children to learn to play the violin. Well done and thank you to all involved. Thank you to all the parents for your support and to the P&F Committee who take every opportunity to raise funds for our wonderful school.

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CONGRATULATIONS MISS ROGARIS

Miss Rogaris will be getting married at St Spyridon Church this Sunday. We all congratulate her on her wedding day and wish her and her fiancé George Giokas all the best in their future life together. KALANTA

Annually our wonderful deputy Mrs Synesios will be organising our children to sing the Kalata to our parishioners. Please help your children to be involved in our community by filling out the form for your child to sing and also if you can assist by driving it will be greatly appreciated. Dates are on Monday 10th, Wednesday 12th, Thursday 13th and Friday 14th December. Meet at Church in smart casual clothing and comfortable shoes 5pm-8.30pm.

YEAR 6 GRADUATION DINNER DANCE

The Year 6 Graduation Dinner Dance will be held on the evening of Tuesday 4th December. Year 6 students are to meet their teachers in the Library at 6pm. The evening will commence at 6.30pm in the Church Hall. Names will be displayed with table numbers for seat allocation at the entry to the hall. All tickets must be handed in on entry.

CONGRATULATIONS 2013 CAPTAINS AND PREFECTS

The following students have been elected as the 2013 Leadership Team for the Junior School. We congratulate these students and look forward to them providing strong responsible leadership to the Junior School and taking initiative with fundraising and activities to showcase our wonderful school.

JUNIOR SCHOOL

CAPTAIN

JUNIOR SCHOOL

CAPTAIN

Spiros Zafiropoulos Katherine Raptis

VICE CAPTAIN VICE CAPTAIN

Connor Giavis Georgia Bull

PREFECT PREFECT

Manny Giokas Desi Kapodistrias

Steven Stamoulis Rianna Papas

Peter Synesios Eleni Preketes

Chris Vlachos Tiffany Tsoukalas

Congratulations to the following students who were selected by their house teams to be the House Captains for 2013. The students will be expected to demonstrate leadership, sportsmanship and set an example of all aspects of school policies and procedure.

Corinthian Olympian Nemean Delphian

Jonathon

Lynch

William

Georgas

Andrew

Papandrew

Bill

Malomitis

Stephanie

Augoustis

Christine

Frangoulis

Christina

Vlahos

Sonya

Paradisis

PARENT TEACHER INTERVIEWS Thank you to all the parents who attended parent teacher interviews and waited so patiently when interviews went overtime. Thank you also to all for your positive comments about your child’s progress and about the school in general it is greatly appreciated and we look forward to working co-operatively with you in 2013 for the welfare and education of your child. MERRY CHRISTMAS On behalf of all the staff I wish you a Merry and Holy Christmas and a Happy New Year and look forward to your safe return in 2013. Mrs M. Hamer Principal PREMIERS READING CHALLENGE I would like to congratulate the following students who will be receiving their Premier’s Reading Challenge certificates shortly. This year we have a number of students, who have been avid readers for the Premiers Reading Challenge over the past 7 years. Well done. Kindergarten Alexandra Bizannes Sarah Constantinidis Phoebe Economou Dean Foundis-Borrett Gabriella Gouveros Dimitra Kasmas Ari Kougias Gabriel Leondaris George Manos Myles O’Reilly

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Paris Patsalis Ellie Tsoukalas Stephen Varvaritis Tara Zinopoulos Year 1 Katerina Alexandratos Anne-Marie Aroney Nicholas Bastas Natalia Constantinidis Evana George Peter Koukos Anastasija Mihajlovic Thalia Papadimitriou Jennifer Pyliotis Amelia Marie Raptis Year 2 Michael Antoniou Jorge Cooney Adriana Drakoulis Sophia Economou Stathis Gatsis Stefan Gemisis Paul Giavis Heleena Ginis Jamyson Gouveros George Grillakis Patricia Hardas William Illiopoulos Penny Kezalas Nixon Kounnas Anastasia Lambrou Lucas Leondaris Sia Manos Alexander Nikitopoulos Evangeline O’ Reilly Christina Pascalis Marie-Angela Patsalis Michael Pitharoulis Alex Stamoulis Erin Zinopoulos Year 3 Emmanuel Aroney James Bletsas Christina Borean Evan Hatgis Anthony Hatzigiakoumis Jordan Kougias John Leondios Juval Mikhail Anastasi Poulos Franklin Pyliotis Vicki Synesios

Year 4 Georgia Athanasopoulos Emmanuel Constantopedos Marissa Diakoumis Nicholas Drakoulis Rose Economou James Hristeff Panagiota Kappatos Victor Kezalas Alexi Kounnas Frances-Lee Pascalis Laura Pitharoulis Nicola Skouteris Nicoletta Tsimboukis Georgia Varvaritis James Zouroudis Year 5 Connor Giavis Vivienne Hatzigiakoumis Desi Kapodistrias George Leondios Peter Nikas Tiffany Tsoukalas Marie Vasilakis Year 6 Dean Albanakis Anna-Marie Borean Florence Georges Christina Hatgis Georgina Mandadakis Sophia Micos Maree Nikitopoulos Joanna Skouteris Rhea Tsimboukis CONGRATULATIONS TO PETER NIKAS Students who show promising mathematical ability are invited to Join the “Logic Club” where training and practice is provided for participation in The Australian Problem Solving Mathematical Olympiad. The aims of APSMO is:

To teach major strategies and develop flexibility for problem solving

To foster creativity and ingenuity and strengthen intuition

To stimulate enthusiasm and enjoyment for mathematics

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To provide for the satisfaction, joy, and thrill of meeting challenges The student attempts 5 separate external contests, 1 per month from May to September involving students from Australia and neighbouring countries. We are proud to announce that Peter Nikas performed extremely well in these contests, finishing in the top 25% of all participants. He was presented with a figurine and a badge by APSMO Inc.

LOGIC CLUB For those of the view that the Logic Club is somewhat illogical, I have a few words for you. Personally, I found the experience highly entertaining, challenging, stimulating and rewarding. Under the master guidance of the quietly inspirational Mr Dookie, I never imagined that I would actually look forward to my Monday late afternoons where I was to be tested, prodded, heckled, but most importantly and more seriously encouraged to further my potential. To all of you, I urge that even if you have a slight interest or inkling in the mathematic field to explore and develop it as I can guarantee that it will be one of the more satisfying experiences of your life. Peter Nikas 5A

CONGRATULATIONS TO DESI KAPODISTRIAS WORLD MATHS DAY 2012 AWARD Last Wednesday the 21st November, a representative from World Education Games came to our school and presented me with a certificate and silver medal for placing 10th in Australia in the 8 – 10 years age group for the World Maths Day online competition. I was extremely pleased and honoured to have received it and was surprised at how heavy the medal was too!

Every year I look forward to competing in World Maths Day and this year was no different. In fact, I was even more motivated to beat my previous year’s score and work my way up the leader board. I thought, if my brother’s can do it, so can I! It was very exciting to see my name and school on the website and was even more surprised that I also came 54th in the World. This year’s competition was held on the 7th of March, 2012 and 1.37 million students from around the world took part. We had to answer as many questions correctly as we could in 60 seconds against students from all over the world. There were a total of 100 questions over 5 levels that we needed to complete. The more you answered correctly, the more points you received. You had to be careful not to get more than 3 wrong answers in one game or you were locked out until the next one! Each level had harder questions to solve. This year I managed to gain 2446 points. It was very exciting competing online against students from other countries and was definitely an extremely fun and enjoyable event.

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I am very proud in what I have achieved for myself and our school. I strongly believe that if you believe in yourself you can achieve many things. We should always challenge ourselves and become the best we can in whatever we choose to do. That’s why I plan to compete again next year, and even though I’ll be in a higher age division, that doesn’t scare me, and I will try my hardest to get a personal best score. I hope you all can join me. Desi Kapodistrias 5A

YEAR ONE EXCURSION TO THE SYDNEY SEA LIFE AQUARIUM On Friday 16th November, Year One went on an excursion to the Sydney Sea Life Aquarium. We got to the aquarium on a double decker bus! First our mums or dads and Ms Xenos put our name tags on us so we don’t get lost. When we ate our crunch and sip and then got into our groups. I was in a group with Belen, Amara and Mrs Georges. Next, Ms Xenos got the tickets so we could get inside. The first things we saw were fish, platypus, Black tip Reef Shark and a Star Fish! After that, Amara saw these glowing jelly fish and I saw some anemones. Then we went into a tunnel where we saw sharks, cat fish, clown fish, Blue Spotted Sting Ray, Sea Horse, Sea Cucumber and a Puffer Fish! Finally we went back on the bus and off to school. Overall the Aquarium was the best time and the excursion was great! Evana George 1E On Friday 16th November, Year One went on an excursion to the Sydney Sea Life Aquarium. It took 30 minutes on a double decker bus and 1E was very lucky because we got to sit on the top level of the bus! First we had crunch and sip, we went to the bathrooms and then got into our groups. I was in a group with Mia, Charlie Nicholas and Mrs Csergo. Then we went into the Aquarium and we saw a turtle, some Anemones and we even saw Nemo!

Next we saw a big spider crab. We also saw jellyfish, catfish and clownfish. After that we went down a tunnel and people started to get very hot. Ms Xenos’s group met our group and we saw a deep sea costume and everyone got to try it on! Finally we went on another double decker bus and I sat next to Natalia. Overall we had a really good day at the aquarium. Anne-Marie Aroney 1E

On Friday the 16th of November, Year One went on an excursion to the Sydney Sea Life Aquarium. First , Year One went on the double decker bus and I sat next to Nicoletta.

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Next, we went into the aquarium and it was dark. I saw the platypus and it looked very cute. We also saw lots of other sea animals. Then, we went into a glass tunnel and saw sharks, sting rays and other colourful fish. After that, we had lunch and mine was yummy. I sat with all my friends and we talked about all the funny and scary fish we saw. Finally, on the way back to school, 1V got to sit on the top of the double decker bus and we were so excited. Overall, we had a fantastic time and I hope we can go there again! Krissy Bourdaniotis 1V On Friday the 16th of November, Year One went on an excursion to the Sydney Sea Life Aquarium. First we got ready to hop on the white double decker bus but we were disappointed because we sat on the bottom. Talia, Theoni and Christie were so lucky because they got to sit on the top with 1E and 1T. Then we arrived and I was so happy because we got to look at so many fish. There was a green frog that swam in the water, lots of grey nurse sharks, a sword fish and a black tipped reef shark. We also saw a huge Japanese spider crab that was bright red. There were also little turtles and blue spotted sting rays. After that we saw the shark show and saw lots of sharks swimming around. They looked scary. Finally all of Year One went back on the double decker bus. 1V and 1E got to sit on top, we were so excited because we were on top this time. Overall, we had a fantastic day and I wish I can go again! Zachary Marinos 1V On our excursion we saw lots of amazing things. I saw a clown fish and it was incredible. I saw an amazing shark. It was coming towards me with big eyes and sharp teeth. Then I saw a puffer fish and I saw how it puffed and puffed and it was amazing. I saw lots of penguins on the rocks and it was amazing. Then I saw a beautiful unicorn fish with a horn. We saw lots of jellyfish and they were upside down. Next we saw a dugong swimming in the

tank. Finally we went back to school. I had a good time. Kosta Micos 1T

On Friday we went to the aquarium. First we saw a little platypus. It swam up and down in the sparkling water. Next we walked to the fish. We saw an amazing rainbow fish. They were colourful. Later we walked to the penguins. They were diving in the sparkling water. Later we walked to the spider crabs. They were very big. We saw a swordfish. After that we saw a big lazy porpoise. Finally we saw big sharks. I had an amazing day at the aquarium. James Karagiannis 1T S E N I O R S C H O O L R E P O R T PRIZE GIVING AFTERNOON The Annual Prize Giving Afternoon will be held on Thursday, 6th December, 2012. It will take place in the Sports and Performing Arts Centre and start promptly at 11.30am.

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Students will be awarded 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th place Years 7 – 11 and 1st, 2nd and 3rd place Year 12 at this event. Students are to attend school at the normal time wearing summer uniform including their blazer. The Reports for Years 7-10 will be distributed at the end of the afternoon. STAFF NEWS FAREWELL We farewell Dr Lakshmi Srinivisan who leaves us after three years and Mr Luke Rawle after three Terms. We thank them for their commitment and dedication to our students and wish them well for the future. MATERNITY LEAVE Best wishes to Mrs Mulligan who will be on maternity leave for 2013. We wish her well as she prepares for the birth of her second child. MATHS CHALLENGE AWARDS CEREMONY Panayioti Kapodistrias attended the Awards ceremony on the 18th October, 2012 to receive his 4th in Australia medal. Handing out the awards was an Australian Gold medallist Olympian from the Athens Games. Panayioti was also a guest speaker at this event as part of his Ambassador role in which he was well received.

CONGRATULATIONS – Technocrats in the making Year 12 students of the Information Technology Curriculum Framework Course: Brendan Terrett, Brannon Bergmann, Nathan Richardson and Kostandino Baratsas completed ten chapters of the IT Essentials PC Hardware and Software course, completed the lab exercises (which included putting a PC together, installing Windows 7, installing the appropriate drivers, adding various external devices, creating user profiles and sharing the profiles with other users and other devices); completed the examinations for each of the chapters with a pass mark of over 80%. They were then able to complete a Skills Based Task, which involved using all of the skills learned and networking several of the PCs together, with their associated peripherals. Having done all of the activities they were then in the position of the First Graduands of the St Spyridon College Cisco Academy. By completing this course, they have achieved multiple qualifications: Cisco IT Essentials PC Hardware and Software Certificate (internationally recognised), a Certificate II and a Statement of Attainment towards Certificate III in Information Technology, and two Units of a Board Of Studies course recognised for ATAR purposes for the HSC. Congratulations to all – και σε ανώτερα

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Mr Georgoulopoulos Teacher IT HPV VACCINATION FOR BOYS TO COMMENCE IN NSW Boys in NSW high schools will be offered human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination from 2013 to provide protection against developing infections that can lead to cancer. In 2013, the 3-dose course of vaccine will be offered to: - Year 7 boys as part of the routine school-based vaccination program - Year 9 boys as part of the national ‘catch up’ program in 2013 and 2014 only. HPV vaccination has been offered to female students in Year 7 since 2007. In 2011, 81% of Year 7 girls received at least one dose of the three-dose course of HPV vaccine. HPV is the name given to a group of viruses that affect both females and males. Parent Information Kits will be sent home to parents in early 2013. To consent to vaccination, parents are advised to read all the information

provided, complete the Consent Form and return it to their child’s school. Students in Year 7 will also be offered vaccination against other diseases, including diphtheria-tetanus-whooping cough (dTpa), hepatitis B and varicella (chicken pox). For more information please visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation

Mrs A. Katsogiannis Principal

Senior School M I D D L E S C H O O L R E P O R T As we move into the closing weeks of what has been in many ways a jubilant and turbulent year, reflection and acknowledgment of lessons learnt, joys and sorrows shared, battles fought, and the establishment of new seeds of hope, seems appropriate. 2013 presents the opportunity for moving forward, beginning things afresh, and growing from our experiences, both the good and not so good.

Looking back it has been an extremely active year for our students as they worked towards doing there bit to make our world and community a better place. Students picked apples from their adopted trees, engaged in Clean Up days, held numerous fundraising events (eg, cake days, raffles, a sleep in, and BBQ’s) to raise funds for charitable and medical research organizations. These included the Cancer Council, World Vision, Jeans for Genes, the Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, to name a just few. They also collected food donations for the Greek Welfare Centre’s Easter Appeal, visited nursing homes, assisted at the Newtown Soup Kitchen, and most recently filled boxes full of gifts for underprivileged children.

Well done everyone! I wish you all a blessed, safe, and happy holiday season, and look forward to your enthusiasm and energy in 2013.

STUDENT LEADERSHIP PEER SUPPORT LEADERS Congratulations to the following Year 9 students who have been selected as the Peer Support Leaders of our incoming Year 7 group. Over the past weeks these students have been engaged in

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various activities aimed at preparing them for the leadership roles and responsibilities they will now undertake. Maria Bletsas, Kalioppe Kefalas, Theoni Thimakis, Michael Savic, Juliet Manolias, Stephen Ioannidis, Simeon Kerameas, Kristian Kontakos, Anastasia Maloukis, Christos Rapits, Allyssa Stemitsiotis, AnnMarie Xenos, Matthew Chiam, Peter Contominas, Yvette Stemitsiotis, Emanuel Kapodistrias.

YOUNG LEADERS DAY On Monday 19th November Year 9 Peer Support and Year 11 Prefect applicants attended the annual Halogen Foundation’s Young Leaders Day at the Sydney Convention Day. Over 3,500 young potential leaders from across the state attended this event. There they witnessed a very exciting program which challenged them to reach their own personal goals as well as motivate them to achieve the goals of those they are leading. An array of inspirational speakers addressed the students, shared their special stories and gave wise advice to students. Students who attend this day all left the event feeling inspired, energized and ready to make a difference. Thank you to Mrs Dalakiaris and Mr Kaldis for accompanying the students.

RISING GENERATIONS Leadership Presentations to Year 9 and Year 11 Last week our Year 9 and Year 11 year groups engaged in leadership development programs presented by the Rising Generations group. These days aim to challenge and encourage students to be leaders who realise their own potential and use their gifts and energies to serve others and make a difference in their school, family and community. The program delivered was skills-based, fun and interactive and provided opportunities for students to get to know themselves and each other better. Furthermore, hands on practical leadership activities, multimedia and video clips, team building challenges, and discussions were used throughout the program to ensure the students are engaged, the content.

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YEAR 7, 2013 BBQ AND PARENT FORUM

On Tuesday 20th November a BBQ and Parent Forum was held at the Senior School. It was a wonderful evening of introductions, sharing and great food cooked beautifully by Mr Zafiropoulos (HSIE teacher) and Mr Condous (Mathematics teacher & Year 8 Adviser). A special thank you also must be also be extended to Mrs Dalakiaris (Mathematics teacher) for all her assistance with the organization of Year 9 Peer Support Leaders who also assisted on the night. At this gathering, information related to getting organised for the coming year was presented to our new school members. Parents who attended are reminded that all documentation included in the ‘Information Pack’ needed to be returned by Friday 30th November. If this has not occurred, please send in as soon as possible. Also, camp payments and medical forms will be due on Year 7’s first day next year.

YEAR 7 2013, ORIENTATION DAY

A very exciting day was enjoyed by all our 60 new students as they enthusiastically acquainted themselves with the Senior School campus and engaged in informative lessons. Even though there were some very nervous faces to begin with, by the end of the day the foundation of many new friendships had been laid. Students began the day with a guided tour of the school, followed by “Getting to Know You” group work led by Year 9 Peer Support Leaders. After a recess break students cycled through three lesson tasters; Drama with Miss Davis, Technology with Mr Sobolevski, and Outdoor Sports with Mr Zafiropoulos, Mr Meintanis, Mr Kaldis and Ms O’Shea. Following lunch, students received their ‘Passport to Senior School’ and evaluated their day before being farewelled by Mrs Stefanou (Head of College), Mrs Katsogiannis (Principal), Ms Kokinelis (Dean of Middle School) and Year 9 Peer Support Leaders. It was very interesting to see a number of students stay on to talk and play a little more with their new peers, even though parents were waiting at the gate to take them home!

MAPLE EXCURSION TO JAMBEROO As part of the school’s MAPLE reward system 100 Middle School students qualified to attend an excursion to Jamberoo Action Park, (the result of accumulating 150 or more maple stamps over the year). This excursion will be held on Tuesday 4th December, 2012. Parents and students are reminded that students must be at school no later than 7.15am and the return time is approximately 4pm. Additionally, the following will be needed on the day :

a set of clothes for the trip to and from Jamberoo,

swimming costumes: Girls to wear full piece under shorts and t-shirt). Boys to wear board shorts and a t-shirt

Footwear: Thongs and sandals/ runners (some rides will not allow thongs to be worn)

a hat a towel sunscreen, a towel

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Food: bring something to eat and drink for recess and lunch money to purchase drink/snacks from the shops at Jamberoo

** NB: The staff at Jamberoo will conduct a swim test on all students before entering fun park activities. This will identify their swimming level and result in the issue of a bracelet which must be worn at all times as it will determine the rides they may use. ALEXANDER THE GREAT EXHIBITION On Monday 3rd December, 2012 all Middle School students will be attending the Alexander the Great Exhibition at the Australian Museum, featuring the largest collection of treasures to ever come to Australia from the world famous State Hermitage in St Petersburg, Russia. Students will see over 400 objects from classical antiquity through to the modern age from both Western and non-Western origins, spanning a period of almost 2500 years. They will also go on a tour of the Australian Museum. All payments and permission slips were due on Thursday 29th November. Students are to arrive at normal school time and pack their recess and lunch in their bags. They will not be able to purchase food during the excursion Ms G. Kokinelis Dean of Middle School G R E E K C O L U M N Στο τεύχος αυτό δημοσιεύουμε μία ακόμη εργασία μαθήτριας της τάξης των Αρχαίων Ελληνικών. Το θέμα της είναι τα μαντεία της αρχαίας Ελλάδας και ο ρόλος τους. Ευχόμαστε σε όλους τους μαθητές της Γ’ Λυκείου καλά αποτελέσματα και ΚΑΛΑ ΧΡΙΣΤΟΥΓΕΝΝΑ σε όλους! Καλή σας ανάγνωση. κ. Μ. Φαλέτα

Oracles Oracles played a vital role in ancient Greek religion as it provided the ancient Greeks with the means to communicate with the gods regarding their future and important decisions. The ancient Greeks would consult with the oracles in exchange for a small fee that was given to the priest or priestess that was appointed to that specific oracle.

The questions asked to oracles ranged from simple personal questions such as about marriage or trade to much more crucial questions regarding state decisions such as whether to go to war or not – all important decisions required an oracular consultation. The priest or priestess that was designated to a specific oracle, acted as the “mouthpiece” for the god as they interpreted the answers of the god to the inquirer. During the Classical Period, there were many oracles, the most wealthy and illustrious one being the oracle at Delphi within the sanctuary of Apollo. Other prominent sanctuaries included the oracle of Dodona, the healing oracle of Asclepius at Epidaurus, the oracle of Trophonius at Lebadea of Boeotia and the oracle of Amphiareion at Oropos. Oracles were divided into three categories upon the method of divination. These were ‘Cleromancy’ which involved the casting of small rocks or bits of wood dropped onto a surface from a vase; the second was the ‘interpretation of signs’ and the third was oral divination. The Oracle at Delphi The oracle at Delphi, which is situated in a remote area high up on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, located in central Greece, was the most renowned and prestigious oracle in the ancient world. Inquirers from all across the globe flocked to the oracle for oracular consultations. The oracle was situated within the sanctuary of Apollo who was the god of light, music, poetry and prophecy. The oracle came into prominence in the early 8th century and it swiftly gained a high reputation. Several individuals and states showered gifts upon the oracle to express their gratefulness, and by the 6th century, the sanctuary had become an extravagant site. A gymnasium, theatre and a stadium were all a part of the sacred site. ‘Treasuries’ which were situated on either side of the Sacred Way (the pathway that led up the hill towards the sanctuary), contained all the precious gifts that were given by many cities. The method of divination utilised by the oracle at Delphi, was oral divination. A priestess, the ‘Pythia’ was the mouthpiece who interpreted Apollo’s responses to the inquirer. The Pythia was an older woman who had lived a pure life and had no education, and was chosen among the poor people of the Delphi region by the priests. She gave prophecies on the seventh day of each month as seven was the most number affiliated with Apollo, during the nine warmer months as it was

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believed that Apollo did not reside in the region during the winter months. Therefore, this resulted in copious amounts of people and state officials waiting for their turn. To have a consultation with the oracle, the preparation was a lengthy and elaborate one. It was necessary for the Pythia to purify herself and thus, at dawn on the seventh day of each month, the Pythia would bathe in the Castalian spring and then drink the holy water of the Kassotis which flowed nearby the temple. She was accompanied by two high priests and the ‘Hosioi’ (the “holy ones”) who were five members of the council. It was necessary for the priests to check the omens and thus, they sprinkled water on a goat. If the goat shivered, then oracles were able to be delivered and Pythia was allowed entry into the inner sanctuary. The priests would then sacrifice the goat to Apollo. However, if the goat did not shiver, then the oracles could not be given and thus, no oracles could be delivered that entire month. The Pythia would then descend into the ‘adyton’ (meaning “inaccessible”), which was the holiest section of the temple, and ascend the sacred tripod. Prior to ascending the tripod, the Pythia would chew laurel leaves and drink from the holy Kassotis water. When she had ascended the tripod, she held a laurel branch and the bowl of the holy Kassotis water into which she gazed. The sacred tripod was located close the ‘omphalos’ and the fissure which emitted the fumes that caused the Pythia to enter her trance-like state and be possessed by Apollo. The ‘omphalos’ (also known as ‘the navel of the world’) was a large unique stone that was carved by the ancient Greeks as they believed that Delphi was the centre of the world because legend states that when Zeus sent two eagles to fly from opposite ends of the earth, they both met at Delphi. Inquirers who had come to the oracle were required to purify themselves in the waters of the Castalia and it was obligatory for them to bring a goat that would be sacrificed on the inner hearth where the eternal fire burned; a honey cake which was considered sacred and a monetary fee for the use of the oracle. The inquirers were told by the priests “to think holy thoughts and speak well-omened words”. Since inquirers were forbidden from entering the ‘adyton’, the priests would bring their questions to the Pythia. It was believed that when Apollo entered the Pythia’s body, the laurel leaves she held would begin to shake, mysterious music would be heard and her voice would alter. Pythia would make obscure pronouncements

which the priests recorded in verse form and it could be interpreted in many different ways. The answers that Pythia gave were either direct if the question was simple such as “should I marry?” or “Should I trade?”, or her answers were entirely ambiguous and thus, could be interpreted several different ways. If a city-state consulted the oracle, it was expected that the oracle provided a long and descriptive response. However, if the oracle was later proved to be wrong, it was susceptible to receiving a damaging blow to its reputation. Therefore, in order to avoid such a calamity, the oracle began giving ambiguous answers. An example of this was the oracular consultation by the Athenians regarding the impending Persian invasion. The oracle responded saying to “evacuate the city” which proved to be adequate advice. However, to protect its revered reputation, the oracle further added that only a “wooden wall would remain”. The meaning utterly confused the Athenians. Was the oracle referring to the wooden warships of Athens, or was it referring to a stockade composed of wood? Therefore, this double meaning had secured the oracles reputation. If the Athenians had trusted their naval fleet and it was defeated, then the Delphians could claim that the “wooden wall” had not referred to the ships. Another prime example of the oracle’s double meaning is the story of Croesus, the King of the Lydians. Croesus had dispatched messengers to Delphi inquiring whether or not he should attack Persia. The oracle responded stating that if Croesus attacked Persia, “he would destroy a great empire”. Croesus interpreted the oracle as meaning that he would destroy the Persian Empire but it was his own empire that he destroyed. Therefore, the ambiguous responses provided by the Pythia were difficult to decipher and if interpreted wrongly, could lead to severe detrimental consequences. Although Delphi had been invaded several times by the Persians, Gauls, Phonecians and the Romans, it had remained in effect up until 392AD when Christianity began to flourish and became a prominent religion The Oracle of Zeus at Dodona The oracle at Dodona is said to be the oldest of the oracles in Greece dating back to approximately 2000BC. It was located in a remote area in Epirus,

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north-west of Greece. The oracle was originally dedicated to the “Mother Goddess” but was later renamed “Diona” when Zeus became the prime god that was worshipped at the oracle. During the 4th century BC, a small temple was built in honour of Zeus and later in the 3rd century BC, King Pyrrhus of Epirus initiated a building scheme which included many admirable and marvellous buildings at the oracle including a wall to protect oracle. Although it received much appeal and was a magnificent site, it remained second to the oracle at Delphi. The method of divination that was utilised by the oracle was the interpretation of signs. The oracles were originally received by priests known as “Selloi” meaning ‘of unwashed feet and sleeping on the ground’. Later on however, three elderly priestess known as the “Peleiades” were assigned to translate the oracle that was sent by Zeus. The oracular response from Zeus would be interpreted by the priestesses from the rustling of leaves of an old oak tree which was believed to have been sacred to Zeus. Later on, his reply was interpreted from the clanging of pots in which hung from nearby trees in the wind. A stone tablet that belonged at Dodona has a typical question inscribed on it: “Heracleidas asks the god whether he will have children from the wife he has now?” Other simple questions were asked by commoners such as: “Should I marry?”, “Shall I become a fisherman?” or “Did my servant steal from me?” These simple questions could be answered directly by either a “Yes” or a “No”. To consult with the oracle at Dodona, it was necessary to pay a fee depending on the extent of the question. The oracle also gave ambiguous responses to more important issues concerning a city-state, to safeguard its own reputation, just as the oracle at Delphi did. Sanctuary of Asclepius at Epidaurus The sanctuary of Asclepius was located in Epidaurus, a small city in the Peloponnese region on the eastern peninsula, south of the Saronic Gulf. The sanctuary of Asclepius was the most famous healing oracle and an ample amount of people from all over the world visited the oracle to be cured of illnesses. According to ancient Greek belief, Asclepius was the son of Apollo and a mortal woman, Coronis. Asclepius was raised by an old wise centaur named Cheiron who was told by Apollo to teach Asclepius how to heal men of their illnesses. He was a renowned Greek hero

throughout the Greek world and soon after, he soon attained the status of a god. Numerous shrines and sanctuaries for Asclepius were then erected throughout Greece as the people associated him as the “preserver of health” and “healer of sicknesses”, “a god who loved mankind”. However, the greatest sanctuary created for Asclepius was in Epidaurus. The sanctuary of Asclepius, also known as the ‘Asclepieion’, was initially visited by the cult of Asclepius in the early 5th century and by the end of the century, it was visited by plenty of pilgrims from all over the world who came to either be miraculously cured of their illnesses or came seeking medical advice regarding medicine, diseases and healing. Due to the sanctuary’s vast prosperity and opulence, a building scheme was implemented in the 3rd and 4th century to build large, extravagant and flamboyant monuments. The oracle was a dream oracle and thus, sent curative visions through incubation. The method for consulting Asclepius was not an elaborate and long one as opposed to the Delphi oracle, but rather a simple one. The person was required to wash themselves, thereby purifying themselves, and in addition to this, make an offering which was usually a honey cake. When night fell, the person was ushered into the “ἄβαλον” where they slept and waited for the god to appear to them in their dream. Since snakes were sacred to Asclepius, they were used quite often during the healing procedure. A non-venomous snake was usually left to crawl upon the floor of the “ἄβαλον” whilst the person slept. Snakes were considered sacred to Asclepius as they shed skin which symbolised rejuvenation. It has been recorded that the hallucinogenic trance that a person underwent whilst asleep which indicated that a miraculous healing was occurring. Other Oracles Other oracles that were known in the Greek world were the oracle of Trophonius at Lebadea of Boeotia and the oracle of Amphiareion at Oropos. Although these oracles did not match in prestige to the other three, they still remained a crucial aspect in the lives of ancient Greeks. In conclusion, oracles were an extremely pivotal aspect in ancient Greek religion. In times of dire need, various individuals and even city-states resorted to the help of oracles. Although a majority of the Greek oracles became obsolete at the end of the 4th century AD due to the rise of Christianity,

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they had been significant in developing the ancient Greek religion and in shaping the culture and beliefs of ancient Greeks. Natalia Srnic Year 10 Classical Greek C A R E E R S C O L U M N POSITION AVAILABLE – first year apprentice to an electrician. There are 2 positions available. These are for students from St Spyridon College. In first year, students study at TAFE – usually for 1 day a week and work 4 days a week alongside an electrician. Please contact Mr George Michos (firm based in Matraville) on 0425 318 810 or Mr Peter Stamoulis on 0418 881 889 if you would like to know more information. A Day @ UNSW – Thursday, 13 December – 50 Seats left! This is being held in our holiday period. This full-day activity is designed to give students their first taste of university life! All nine of UNSW's outstanding Faculties, including Arts and Social Sciences, Built Environment, Business, College of Fine Arts, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Science and UNSW@ADFA offer activities, workshops and lectures on the day to help students determine what university degree is right for them. When registering, students are given the opportunity to select their preferred Faculty lectures or activities and we ensure they get as many of those preferences as possible. This popular day generally fills to capacity so register as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Date & Time: Thursday, 13 December; 9:15am – 2:45pm Appropriate For: Year 10, 11 and 12 Students; Approx. 50 seats remaining Location: Central Lecture Block (E19) Registration: Via www.network.unsw.edu.au; Keyword: Day @ Mrs A. Skerman Careers Adviser L I S T E N I N G T O O U R S T U D E N T S PEER SUPPORT On the 19th November Year 9 Peer Support Leaders as well as Year 11 Prefects attended Darling Harbour Leadership Convention.

It was overall an insightful and interesting day where like where like-minded students met and exchanged ideas and were provided with information for fortune avenues. The day inspired us to take leadership initiative despite our age. Ronni Khan gave a heartfelt speech about her charity Oz Harvest which was truly inspiring. In addition to this Taga Paa told us his journey from a tumultuous childhood in Sydney’s west to nationwide fame on the voice. Furthermore Dr Karl informed us on climate change and urged this generation to take action. We were encouraged to make a plan that would change the world, and tips on how to make our dream a reality. Overall it was an enjoyable and insightful day. Andreas Nicholson Year 11 STATE PARLIAMENT CONVENTION On Monday, 5th November, I took part in the NSW Schools State Constitutional Convention which took place in the Parliament of NSW. The day began with a simple registration where a student sent from each of the 100 High Schools involvement in the Legislative Council Member’s Room. Only minutes later we were directed to take a seat in the NSW House of Representatives also known as the Legislative Council where we were officially welcomed. This marked the beginning of the proceedings and formalities of this enlightening day. The first part of the formalities included lectures from the several keynote speakers. The speakers included: Professor Anne Twomey a Professor of Constitutional Law at Sydney Law School, the Honourable Adam Searle MLC the Deputy Leader of the Opposition in NSW and Mr Mark Speakman, the member for Cronulla. They discussed and lectured about several topics, however, the most prominent aspects of their addresses was about the role of the Head of State in the Australian Constitution and the issues surrounding Australia becoming a Republic. As the day progressed and the keynote speaker’s addresses came to a close, we began to discuss our own beliefs on these topics. We were separated into different groups for discussion. I was appointed to the Green group that met in the

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Legislative Assembly Chamber where we discussed several issues. The issues included: who is the Australian Head of State? Should Australia become a Republic? If Australia was a Republic, how the Head of State should be chosen and then dismissed? The final question was, should the powers of the Head of State be described in the Constitution? As the heated discussions went on surrounding these issues, we had to appoint a speaker to keep the meeting in order and a scribe to document what we decided we would submit as our general consensus on these issues. At the end of these discussions six students from each group of 20 were chosen to represent NSW in the Federal Convention to take place next year in the Federal Parliament House, Canberra. Unfortunately, I was not one of the lucky students chosen to represent the State in Canberra. Despite this, I thoroughly enjoyed my day and it is something I will not soon forget. Mathew Kambos Year 11 KINDERGARTEN MINI BEASTS INCURSION On Thursday KC and KJ had a Bug Ball at school. First we drew snails with oil pastels. Next the bug lady came with all her bugs. I saw a red back spider. Then I got a magnifying glass and looked at the different bugs. After that I saw a lady bird and an ant on the bug hunt. James Kefalouros KC Jacqui from Travel Bugs came to visit us. First she showed us all of the bugs. Then I had a turn of holding the stick bug. Next I touched the cockroach. Finally I had some jelly and cordial. I had so much fun! Anthia Poliopoulos KJ Jacqui came with spiders and they were in containers. We touched the centipede. There were no bees or butterflies. I also went on a bug hunt. Elizabeth Notaras KJ First I touched a very nice cockroach. The cockroach was very clean. Then I held a stick

insect, and it was a cheeky one! The centipede did not tickle and I had so much fun. Myles O’Reilly KJ

Kindy had a Bug Ball in the classroom. First we drew snails for our art work. Next Jackie came to show us some bugs and I saw a big cockroach and a millipede. Then we touched other bugs. After that we went on a bug hunt in the playground and I found a yellow lady bird. We had a great time. Victoria Stathos KC First I drew snails for art. Next Jackie showed us a millipede and we used magnifying glasses to look at the bugs. Then we touched the bugs but not the scorpion. Peter Bebonis KC

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KINDERGARTEN EXCURSION TO WILDLIFE SYDNEY ZOO On Friday KC and KJ went to the Wildlife Sydney Zoo in the city. First we watched a lady feed the joeys. Next we went to a dark place to see the nocturnal animals and it was scary. Then I held a stick insect in the Bug Garden and it tickled my hand. After that we went to see the koalas sleeping in the tree. Lastly I got to take a map of the zoo home with me.

I had an exciting day on the excursion. Anastasia Csergo KC On Friday Kindy went on an excursion to the Wildlife Sydney Zoo. First we saw a crocodile and I thought he was cute. Next we touched a blue-tongue lizard. It was fantastic! Then we saw a room full of butterflies and one liked me. After that we ate our big lunch. Lastly we went back to school on a big bus. I had a fun day on the excursion. Jordan Haramis KC On Friday Kindergarten went on an excursion to the Wildlife Sydney Zoo. First we went to the Butterfly World and saw some amazing butterflies flying around a hot room. Next we saw snakes sleeping and I thought they looked cute. Then we saw a blue-tongue lizard and he was adorable. After that we saw a pink bird eating at the special Bird Show. Lastly I saw a stick insect hanging from a leaf. I had a fantastic day on the excursion. Alexandra Bizannes KC

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On Friday I went with KJ to Wild Life Sydney. First we had some morning tea there in the café. Then I went with my group leader who was Julia’s mum. We went into the butterfly room first. It was very hot in there. Next we went to the kangaroos and then we saw a few snakes. After that we saw Rex the crocodile. I had lots of fun. Alexandros Pambris KJ

On Friday I went to Wild Life Sydney with KJ. First I went on the bus and I sat next to my mum. Then we got there and I was with Alexander’s mum and her group. Next we went into the butterfly room and it was fun in there. After that I went and saw a show about lizards and snakes. Finally we had lunch. I had so much fun. Dimitra Kasmas KJ

On Friday I went to Wild Life Sydney with KJ and I was in Miss Rogaris’ group. First I went to the butterfly and flower room and it was very hot in there. A butterfly went on Miss Rogaris’ head. Next we went to the koalas and they were cute. We went to see Rex the crocodile and I took a photo with the crocodile. Then we had lunch and went on the bus. I sat next to daddy. We had lots of fun. Phoebe Economou KJ

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S P O R T R E P O R T BOYS BASKETBALL

Opens Blue Mountains 15 Points St Gregory’s College 13 points St Spyridon College 11 points St Pius X College 9 points Oakhill College (Gold) 7 points St Paticks College 5 points

15’s St Patick’s College 15 points St Spyridon College 13 points St Gregory’s College 11 points St Pius X College 9 points Blue Mountains Grammar School 7 points Oakhill College ( Gold) 5 points 14’s St Patricks College 15 points St Gregory’s College 13 points St Pius X College 11 points Blue Mountains Grammar School 9 points Oakhill College (Gold) 7 points St Spyridon College 5 points 13 Reds St Patricks College 15 points St Pius X College 13 points St Spyridon College 11 points Blue Mountains Grammar School 9 points St Gregory’s College 7 points Oakhill (Gold) 5 points 13 White and Green – Development Competition St Patricks Black 13 points St Patricks Blue 13 points St Patricks College Gold 12 points St Spyridon White 11 points Chevalier College 10 points St Spyridon Green 9 points Oakhill College (Yellow) 9 points Redlands 6 points St Andrew’s 6 points St Pauls Grammar School 5 points

Congratulations so far to all teams. Thank you to all the teachers and especially Kosta Baratsas who is helping the 14’s.

It’s been at least 10 years since St Spyridon College has had 6 teams in the ISA Boys Basketball Competition. This influx of boys participating in basketball at St Spyridon College is growing and is proving successful for our school. For the first time in St Spyridon history, we have 3 teams in the 13’s, two of which are development teams. The majority of these students, if not all of them, are playing basketball for the first time and are improving every week, especially the 13’s Green and White teams.

The aim of our development teams is to continually work towards sustaining and promoting further involvement of St Spyridon students in Sport. We recognize the benefits of exercise and regular physical activity for our students in response to the ever-growing health problems associated with obesity and diabetes. Also, playing for their school is one of the things you do that is most rewarding. There is no substitute for enthusiasm and passion in sport and this is certainly true among all of the 6 St Spyridon Teams. With continued effort and improvement all of our teams can reach their potential and greater levels of success. Keep up the good work and good luck in the remainder of the season. Mr A. Condous Boys Sport