From the Headmaster

Earlier this week, I communicated with all families regarding our Perspectives Survey, which was carried out in Term 4 of last year. The results highlighted a strong, values-driven culture within the school community, with high participation from parents, students, and staff.
Parents expressed great pride in their child’s school, with many actively promoting it among family, friends and neighbours. The survey also showed that parents and staff strongly believe in Wollemi’s core principles that permeate all we do. Students demonstrated a strong commitment to personal and academic growth, showing confidence in hard work and valuing partnerships with parents, teachers, and mentors. More importantly, they believe in the college's crucial role in developing their faith.
I’m very grateful for the feedback from parents, teachers, and students. While the results were overwhelmingly positive, the survey also identified areas for improvement, and we remain committed to enhancing the learning environment and addressing these potential areas of concern. Your feedback is invaluable to our constant effort to improve and help us map a way forward in the new Strategic Plan we are currently developing.
At the same time, and in a similar vein, this term, we have engaged in several workshops for students, staff and school leaders under the umbrella of Culture in Motion. This is a program facilitated by Pared graduate Isaac Busch that seeks to empower our stakeholders to find their voices and affect positive change in our school culture. We are at present working through the conclusions of these workshops, and I look forward to communicating with you the results.
Last week, I had the good fortune of celebrating the feast of St Joseph with a special morning tea with our Student Leaders who, after the recent election of the Year 7 captains, are now a full team. As Robert Greenleaf, founder of the servant leadership movement, said, "The greatest leader is not necessarily the one who does the greatest things. The greatest leader is one who does the greatest things for others." Congratulations to all our student leaders, and I look forward to working closely with them to support their efforts to serve our community.
A big thank you for all the prayers that the Wollemi community is offering for two very important intentions. Lucy Tudehope, the sister of Mr James Tudehope, continues on a slow road to recovery, and both she and the Tudehope family rely on the continued support of our prayers. Similarly, we all continue to rejoice with the Roberts family in every one of Raphaella’s small milestones, and we are very grateful for the regular updates that allow us to be part of this journey. A big thank you for all the prayers, the meals and the general offers of support. What a great example to our children! If you haven’t done so, consider joining the 200+ WhatsApp group, which makes it easy to stay updated and pray daily for this very special young lady!
Lastly, Congratulations to Jessica & Allan Le Grand on the birth of Maximillian, brother to Joseph (7B) and Anthony (3G); to Paul and Katherine McFarlane on the birth of Michael John, baby brother to William (6B) and Patrick (2B); and Bernadette and Jorge Frech on the birth of Teresa Rose, baby sister to Jorge (4G) and Pedro (2B).
James Ramos, Headmaster
- 2025 Wollemi Secondary Student Council with Mr James and Mr Ramos
Deputy's Dispatch

I begin this edition of The Pine with 2 song titles that resemble the two photos posted below.
Comin' In on a Wing and a Prayer - The Song Spinners
Fly Like an Eagle – Steve Miller Band
Fr Felix is a regular participant in the annual Physics excursion to iFLY Downunder. Before joining the priesthood, Fr Felix was a Deputy Headmaster and Physics teacher in Spain. While enjoying the flying experience, I’m sure Fr Felix shared his physics knowledge with our future physicists throughout the day. Which song do you think sums up our Flying Chaplain?
From one flyer to the next, the Year 2 students and their dads witnessed one of the all-time greatest swimming pool classic catches by our very own Headmaster Mr James ‘Ricky Ponting’ Ramos! The image below, by the time this edition of The Pine is published, is most likely old news. The picture of our college flyer has already gone viral! Upon seeing the image of James ‘Steve Smith’ Ramos, I immediately asked him if he made the catch and his response was (with swagger), ‘Of course I did!’ Fly like an Eagle, Mr Ramos!
Over the past 4 weeks, our secondary house teams have competed in the Junior and Senior Intra-House Futsal Competition. The players for all teams demonstrated exceptional skill at both an individual and team level. Each game had primary and secondary students alike cheering on their housemates with high energy and sheer enthusiasm. The sound of the crowd could be heard from all corners of the school.
This tournament would not have been possible without the support of the Year 12 leaders. I bring to your attention one student in particular, Mathew N – House Captain of Wyuna. Mathew was heavily involved in creating the schedule, setting guidelines for the spectators, and organising the other Year 12 students to ensure the competition ran seamlessly and professionally. A huge thank you to Mathew and his team for organising the tournament. The success can be attributed to his dedication and spirit of service. Special mention to Mr Luke Dominici and Mr Paul Garziniti for giving up several of their lunch breaks to referee a number of the highly competitive and vigorous senior matches.
Maintaining the sporting theme, this week, the Holy Spirit Seminarians Basketball team will play our Year 12 basketballers in the eagerly anticipated annual event. Fr Felix is hoping to use his experience at iFLY to leap high and score many a basket against our talented Year 12 group. Although the basketball team is named the Seminarians, each member of the team is a priest! I look forward to the game and even more so to the post-match catch-up, where our young men spend time chatting and interacting with priests from the Sydney area.
Scott Williamson, Deputy Headmaster
From the Chaplain

Starting the third week of Lent, we will have two big celebrations: the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord to Our Lady and the Centenary of the ordination of St Josemaria to the priesthood.
St Josemaria is helping from Heaven to fill the Diocesan Seminaries. Let's use this prayer card to help him to beg our Lord for more vocations to the priesthood! Hopefully we will have more Wollemi's boys joining the seminary. Now we have one doing his studies in the seminary of Good Shepherd, Sydney Diocese.

A Focus on Integrity
To go along with our weekly motto focus, we have decided to emphasise Integrity for the remaining 3 weeks of Term 1.
Our aim is for ALL boys in Primary school to be able to identify and define integrity and point out ways in which they can show integrity in their everyday lives.
We have chosen a simple definition of integrity for our Wollemi boys to put into practice.
Integrity means doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.
We are hoping this simple message can help boys with their everyday decisions, help them develop greater self control and independence and ultimately, grow in virtue.
Our Primary and Sports Captains will be visiting each class this week, putting up Integrity posters, explaining the importance of showcasing integrity in our everyday lives and giving practical examples of how they live their lives with integrity.
Advance Notice - Parent Teacher Interviews - Day 1 Term 2 - Monday 28 April
Instead of Term 1 reports, Wollemi Primary holds parent-teacher interviews on the first day of Term 2. This is a great opportunity for parents to sit down with their son’s class teacher to discuss their son’s academic progress, application, and behaviour within the classroom.
Please take this opportunity to engage with your son's teacher, ask any questions you may have and work together to formulate some specific and meaningful goals for the year ahead.
Further information regarding the parent-teacher interviews and booking procedures will be sent out by the end of Term 1.
Primary Fun Day / Year 6 Fundraiser
It is great to see our Year 6 students taking on the responsibility of being school leaders with enthusiasm. Early in Term 1, two students approached me about organising a Primary Fun Day / Fundraiser for the end of term.
Abel B. and Xander B. came up with a well-thought-out plan and a number of creative ideas, which we have worked on throughout the term.
I am now happy to announce that we will hold a Primary Fun Day / Year 6 Fundraiser on the last day of Term 1 (Friday, 11 April).
The day will involve several fun activities, sports, and events, with Year 6 students also selling cans of drink, ice blocks, and lollipops at lunchtime.
Further information and pre-order forms will be distributed in Week 9, so please keep an eye out for those details.
Well done to Year 6, and in particular, Abel B. and Xander B., for your efforts! I am sure it will be a great day for all!
Luke Baxter, Head of Primary
Captain's Corner

With only two and a bit weeks left of the school term, things are picking up really quickly. I hope all of you are well prepared for any exams or assessments you have coming up. I would ask that you keep the year 12 cohort in your prayers at this time as we enter our exam period. We would be extremely grateful to you! As the term draws closer to the end, it is important that we continue to strive for excellence; that means doing the little things right up to the end of the term, whether it be tucking in your shirt or remaining focused in class.
On a side note, Lent isn’t just about fasting; it's also about almsgiving. The Lenten appeal that is being run throughout the school this year is an opportunity for you to think about others who aren’t as fortunate as yourselves. This can be achieved simply by dropping a gold coin into your admin Caritas box, or if you have a job, you may feel inclined to give a little more. I know how good that cheeky McSmart meal is, but because we gave up fast food for Lent, maybe we can give that extra $6.95 to those who need it the most.
Congratulations to the Mundoora juniors team and the Wyuna seniors team for being crowned as champions of the Futsal Comp, we now highly anticipate the basketball stars to step onto the court for their houses. In addition to this please come and support the year 12’s as they take on the Priests and Seminarians at lunch.
Have a good week, boys, and God Bless!
Luke B., Vice Captain
Lenten Appeal
We are running a Lenten Appeal, where students can donate money to Caritas Australia, an Australian Catholic agency for development cooperation and humanitarian aid. They have been helping people in poverty for over 60 years.
The boys can donate money for the next TWO WEEKS. It would be awesome if the students could offer up a single McDonald's meal or a couple of dollars that they would like to spend on themselves to make a small sacrifice and give it to people who need the money a lot more than we do. A small sacrifice, a small donation from one of our students, can make a huge difference for someone who lives in poverty. It could be life-changing.
If a class raises $250, they will be able to throw water balloons at any Year 12 student they like! That is just a bit over $10 per student. Hopefully, we can raise a lot of money to help a lot of people.
Leadership Day at the Parliament House
We got off at Martin Place and walked to Parliament House. We waited in the lobby until we were ushered into the downstairs theatre. We listened to some of the members who were available to talk to us, and we attended the Lower House question time. We finished off with a presentation from Elizabeth Smith and topped it off with a little lunch. We walked from Parliament House to the Governor General's house, which is a huge, antique sandstone building on the harbour. We had a guided tour through the house and had a chance to hear from and meet the governor general herself. The day concluded with drinks and snacks in the gardens by the harbour.
Matthias S., School Captain
Student Life
Stations of the Cross
We are running The Stations of the Cross every Friday in lent for anyone who would like to join.
It will be at 1:15pm, during lunch on Fridays. All students and teachers are welcome to come and join.
This is a great way to make a small sacrifice and grow closer to Jesus in lent. It is a small sacrifice to give up a lunchtime, but it is a great opportunity to offer up a small mortification for a specific intention. It is very beneficial in preparing for Good Friday which is upcoming.
Staff in Focus
My name is Yassa Beshay, and I am delighted to be a part of the mathematics team at Wollemi College this year. I currently teach Mathematics to Year 8-11 students, including Advanced Mathematics and Extension 1. With 16 years of teaching experience, Mathematics is not just my career – it’s my passion. I find great joy in helping students develop their skills and confidence in this subject.
Before I became a teacher, I worked as an accountant and a civil engineer, which has given me a diverse background and a unique perspective on problem-solving. I was born and raised in Egypt and moved to Australia in 1993 with my wife. We have three children: our eldest is a software engineer, our second is a data analyst, and our youngest is currently at university studying to become a software engineer.
My faith as a Coptic Orthodox Christian plays an important role in both my personal and professional life. I believe that teaching is not just about imparting knowledge but also about shaping character, instilling values, and guiding students to be thoughtful, compassionate individuals. I strive to create an environment where students feel supported, respected, and encouraged to reach their full academic and personal potential.
Outside of teaching, I have a deep love for the beach. Every summer, you’ll find me at Coogee Beach, enjoying the waves and spending time with family and friends over a good lunch.
I’m excited to be part of the Wollemi College community and look forward to working with your children throughout the year!
Yassa Beshay
Year 2 Father & Son Camp at Blue Gum Lodge
The Year 2 Father & Son Camp at Blue Gum Lodge, Springwood, was an unforgettable weekend of adventure, bonding, and faith. The boys and their dads enjoyed exciting activities, meaningful moments, and great company.
A highlight was praying the Rosary around the large campfire, led by Ezekiel, Patrick, Gabriel, Pedro, and Levi. This joyous time strengthened the spiritual connection between fathers and sons through prayer.
The outdoor team activities included multigolf, where frisbees and soccer balls replaced traditional clubs. Laughter and cheers filled the air as teams competed in this fun challenge through the trees and bushes surrounding the campsite. Many frisbees were almost lost to the wild brambles and vines.
Another favourite was catapult building. Fathers and sons worked together to design and test their creations, aiming for accuracy and power. It was a fantastic hands-on activity that encouraged teamwork and creativity.
During free time, the boys enjoyed the games room and took on impressive jumps into the pool. However, despite all their grand efforts, no one could quite compare to Mr. Ramos' finesse and grace when it came to the greatest of 'classic catches'. Their excitement was contagious as they made the most of every moment.
Saturday’s weather was perfect for outdoor activities, and despite Sunday’s rain, we were grateful some mums and families joined for Mass before camp ended—a perfect closing to a memorable weekend.
A huge thank you to Mr. Breen, the class parents, teachers, mentors, fathers, and sons who attended. Special thanks to the amazing dads who prepared a fantastic BBQ night! Your efforts made the weekend truly special.
The Year 2 Father & Son Camp was a weekend of faith, fun, and friendship—an experience to cherish for years to come!
Year 2 Class Parents and Mr Quan
Year 9 and 10 Visual Arts Assessment
The boys in years 9 and 10 recently completed their first assessment of the year, which was an observation of the human body study. During the Assessment spanning 2 days, the students had to sit in a live figure drawing class that consisted of a Wollemi volunteer (tribute) from another class to stand still for 30 min at a time. The students finished with three drawings using charcoal and graphite mediums, trying to use composition on their page and focusing on the correct proportions of the figure in front of them.
The first took place on a single period on a Tuesday with a Year 12 student Nic Joseph as the model while the second (tribute) Model was the great Araluen leader Giovani Makari who volunteered for 2 periods.
Notable gratitude of thanks to Roman Gil and Jonathan Joseph who also volunteered to play a part in the class’ preparation for the assessment.
“Overall, when working on these different things for the first time, I did find them difficult to understand at first, but afterwards, they ended up becoming really fun to do, whether it was during school time to study or when I had free time at home. We worked on different varieties of drawings, such as negative space and shadow with proportions. Thanks, Mr Tolentino” - Jain A.
The class performed to the best of their abilities honing in their art practice and preparation from figure drawing 6 weeks in duration. I am proud of what they have accomplished in a short amount of time, the hope is that they continue to practice what they have learnt and apply it in their art practice with the joy of learning.
Mike Tolentino, Visual Arts Teacher
Music News
The College Orchestra is recommencing this year with rehearsals on WEDNESDAY mornings at 7:45 am.
All orchestral instrumentalists (including parents) are very welcome.
If you don't play an orchestral instrument (e.g. guitar)and would like to join, please speak to me, and we will see what we can organise for you to play.
The Vocal Ensemble is also recommencing, and rehearsals will take place on Monday mornings at 7:50 am.
All are very welcome, even if you don't classify yourself as a singer, it is great for your musicality!
Come along and give it a try. We are not judgemental!
Additionally, Years 4-8 and Elective Music Classes will be treated to a Double Bass Workshop/Demonstration on Tuesday. Ms Ann Palumbo (a very active and vibrant muso with loads of experience working with famous artists) will be demonstrating all things double bass. She will give some students the opportunity to try this amazing instrument during the event. If you feel inclined, you can consider hiring an instrument from the school and learning from Ann in the future.
Ms Lamrock, Head of Music
Double Bass, Guitar, Voice Lessons
Years 3-9 recently attended a Double Bass demonstration by the incredibly talented Ms Ann Palumbo. Ms Palumbo lives in the Blue Mountains and has performed with many famous musicians, including Elvis Presley's Piano Player!
Ms Palumbo has a few vacancies left for Double Bass, Guitar or Voice. She teaches at Wollemi on Mondays.
The Double Basses can be hired and remain at the students' residence for convenience (to practice). Students can play school instruments while at school.
Please contact Ms Lamrock, Head of Musi,c if you wish to make enquiries about learning from this amazing teacher.
Events
Dads' Jam Night
General Notices
Birth Announcement

Congratulations to the following Wollemi families who have recently welcomed a new baby to their family:
- Jessica & Allan Le Grand on the birth of Maximillian, brother to Joseph (7B) and Anthony (3G)
- Paul and Katherine McFarlane on the birth of Michael John, baby brother to William (6B) and Patrick (2B)
- Bernadette and Jorge Frech on the birth of Teresa Rose, baby sister to Jorge (4G) and Pedro (2B)
Prayerboard

Please pray for our sick Wollemi family and friends:
Regine Bernacer, sister of Peyton Bernacer 9B and Angelo Bernacer 7G; Teresa Hanna, mother to George (8B) and Toby (4G); Lorenzo Soriano 7B, brother to Matthias (12G) and Ignatius (8B); Simon Elbayeh, father to Alexander (10B); Raphaella, newborn baby to Elizabeth and Graham, sister to Michael (4B); Lucy Tudehope, sister to Mr James Tudehope, Secondary teacher and Mentor; Joshua Gibbons (5G) brother to Joseph ( 3B) and Samuel (9G); Matthew Khairy 12B; Joseph Valladores, father to Jose (9G); Carol Alvarez, grandmother to Ramon (9B) and Vincenzo Zamora (5B); Emmanuel Hanna, brother to George (8G); Victor Sciberras, father to Marianne and Carmel Spiteri, grandfather to Justin (9B); Mariano Valladores, father to Ela and Will O'Neill, grandfather to Michael (11B) and John-Paul (7B).
Please pray for the soul of the recently deceased and the family left behind:
Erlinda Kabiling; grandmother to Andrei Kabiling (7B); Cirilo Kabiling; grandfather to Andrei Kabiling (7B); Chris Clements, son-in-law to Mr Gerard Kenny (Wollemi Teacher); Tiano Mariano, father to Raquel and Edge Pinaroc, grandfather to Lucas (6G) and Paolo (10G); Mario Cauchi, mother to Annabelle and Placidus Bhandoo, grandfather to Elijah (4G) and John-Paul (6G); Cecilio Acasio, grandfather of Peyton Bernacer 9B and Angelo Bernacer 7B; Teresita Martinez-De Guzman, mother to Ardy and Mike Seguban, grandmother to Mikhail (7G)
If you would like to add any intentions to the Prayer Board, please send them to newsletter@wollemi.nsw.edu.au. Kindly notify newsletter@wollemi.nsw.edu.au when your intentions can be removed.
Commemorative Book: Celebrating 25 Years of Wollemi

Today, I thought I’d have a quick glance at the just-published college commemorative book Commemorating 25 Years. It wasn’t quick! I became so engrossed that I read it cover to cover in one sitting. It is masterful. The team has collated photos and information covering every conceivable aspect of those wonderful 25 years. Read your copy and cherish the miracle that is Wollemi.
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Marina Haines, Principal 1999-2005
In reading through the Wollemi 25th anniversary magazine, so many marvelous memories, faces and events, so many characters and so much fun, came flooding back to my mind. You’ve covered all bases… every class gets a page, each of the big events, the sports and camps, and so many comments from staff and students are included. Thank you for putting together such a comprehensive and precious record, a permanent record, before all this gets lost in the fog of time. You have done us all a great service. Very grateful.
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Dr Andy Mullins, Wollemi Headmaster 2011-2014
To finally mark Wollemi College's 25th Anniversary in 2024, we are thrilled to present a commemorative book honouring our rich history and the remarkable contributions of those who have paved the way for our success.
We believe this book is a meaningful way to honour and celebrate our school's legacy for years to come. Additional copies are available for purchase at the Front Office, enabling you to share this cherished keepsake with extended family and friends. We deeply appreciate your continued support and hope this special book inspires you.
To order your copy today, click here.
Wollemi Merchandise
Wollemi is excited to offer a range of commemorative merchandise, including custom-designed hoodies, beanies, caps, cufflinks, and ties. These items feature unique artwork inspired by Wollemi's motto and vibrant community.
Visit the front office today to secure your favourite items, as they are in limited supply.
Host Family Needed
Year 7 & 10 Vaccinations

Each year NSW Health works with schools to offer the vaccines recommended for adolescents by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC).
In 2025, the following vaccines will be offered:
Year 7 students:
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine as a single dose.
• Diphtheria, Tetanus & Pertussis (whooping cough) vaccine (dTpa) as a single dose.
Year 10 students:
• Meningococcal ACWY vaccine as a single dose.
Catch-up vaccinations will be offered to any students in Years 8, 9, 11 and 12 who provided consent in 2023 or 2024 and missed vaccination in previous years.
Confirmation of vaccination clinic details is as follows:
Clinic Dates:
Visit 2: Friday 25 July 2025
Yr 10, Meningococcal ACWY
Yr 7, dTpa and HPV - catch up
Yr8 and 9, dTpa and HPV - catch up of students who returned their consents in 2022 or 2023 Yr11 and 12, Meningococcal ACWY- catch up of students who returned their consents in 2023 or 2024
Visit 3: Friday 17 October 2025
Yr 7, dTpa and HPV - catch up
Yr 10, Meningococcal ACWY- catch up
Yr8 and 9, dTpa and HPV- catch up of students who returned their consents in 2023 or 2024 Yr11 and 12, Meningococcal ACWY- catch up of students who returned their consents in 2023 or 2024
Please note that students cannot be vaccinated without online or paper-based consent.
2025 Term Dates
School Times
The school gates will open at 8:15 a.m., and students are not allowed onto the school premises before this time unless they have co-curricular commitments. If you are dropping your child/children off before 8:15 a.m., please remind them that they are to stay outside the gates until they are opened.
A reminder that when collecting your child/ren, parents can either:
Park their car in the outside car park and walk into the school/pedestrian gate to pick up their child
Use the car line process where your child will come to the car.
To help with the flow of the carline and traffic in the area, we kindly ask that:
If you are using the car line, we ask parents not to exit the car.
Please collect your child/children between 3.25 pm and 3.45 pm when Teacher supervision ends.
This is a reminder to parents NOT to park along Gipps Rd in the afternoon, as it causes congestion and risks the safety of our students.
Car Line Pick-up
The safety and well-being of our students are of paramount importance at Wollemi. As you would appreciate, with the commencement of a new school term, and the continued growth of the school population, the volume of traffic in and around the College has increased during afternoon pick-up. As a result of this, we have taken some measures to improve the parking at the College with the expansion of the overflow car park. To help ensure the effective traffic flow and our Wollemi community's safety, I take this opportunity to remind you of the College’s pick-up procedures.
Main Carpark (inside the College)
1. Entry into the school is via the second gate only.
2. Students are only to be collected in the green pick-up area (see diagram above)
3. The curb by the buildings is set down and pick up only (noted in green) – no parking. Do not alight from the right-hand side of cars in the set-down lane. Please be especially vigilant that children ONLY alight on the left.
4. Please do not double park in the set-down lane; instead, wait for space to become available on the curb.
5. Please remain in your vehicle until your son arrives.
6. When waiting in the carline to collect your son/son, please move to the front of the line or fill any empty space available along the pickup area to ensure traffic flow and maximise space.
Please watch for young students crossing on the pedestrian crossing from the school veranda entrance to the carpark.
Overflow car park (outside the school)
7. Students are only to be collected in the green pickup area (see diagram above)
8. Please Park only in the designated parking bays - as noted in yellow on the diagram
IMPORTANT NOTES
Please ensure your son knows which carpark he will be picked up from in the afternoon.
To further assist with traffic flow and reduce parent wait time in the car line, please remind your sons that they must be watchful for the approach of your vehicle on Gipps Rd so that they can be ready for collection.
We hope these measures will help improve traffic flow within the College, reduce congestion, and ensure student safety. We appreciate that the afternoon pickup period can be busy, and we ask that we continue to be patient and courteous to each other.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
School Student Travel - Information for Parents and Students
School Travel Passes
Applications are now open for 2025 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel.
Students in the Opal network applying for an Opal card (including a Term Bus Pass) for the first time will receive their School Opal card at their nominated postal address from mid-January 2025.
Students who require a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply or update their details as soon as possible.
In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.
Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator. It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.
Terms of Use
Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.
This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.
All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.
Sports News
Paul Kelly Cup
On Wednesday, March 19th, fourteen Year 6 boys competed in the Paul Kelly Cup, an AFL gala day.
The team played very well all day, winning three out of the four initial games but then losing the semi-final by a narrow margin.
We played a number of schools in the Penrith region, even beating one team 40 points to 2.
The boys showed excellent sportsmanship throughout the day.
Two students, Jayson de Villiers and Samuel De Meo, were even targeted by a scout from the GWS football team, in which they may have an opportunity to further their AFL skills.
I am very proud of the efforts and commitment of these boys, most of whom had never played AFL before.
Iain Fraser, Year 6G Teacher
Basketball Season Semifinals
Our young ballers are just one step away from the championship, and they need your support now more than ever! The semifinals are here and let’s rally behind them, bring the energy, and help fuel their journey to the Finals!
Be there, be loud, and be part of their Road to the Finals! 🔥 #RoadToTheFinals #SupportOurBallers
WBC New Player Expression of Interest form Winter Season 2025

Winter season is coming fast, and Wollemi Basketball Club is looking for new and returning players to hit the court with us!
Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, now’s the time to join the team and be part of the action.
Expression of Interest is now open!
If you're a new player or didn't join the Summer 2024/25 season, make sure to register your interest by 15 March using the link below:
Spread the word and tag your basketball-loving friends! Let’s make this winter season one to remember!
#WollemiBasketballClub #WinterSeason2025 #JoinTheGame
Midford Wollemi Uniform Shop News
All orders are to be placed online only.
* Please note Terms 1 and 4 require full summer uniform
The fitting range normal hours on Friday 1.00 pm – to 4:30 pm
Online Store
Enjoy the convenience of online shopping. Orders will be filled out when the store opens next.
Fitting Appointment
Full uniform fittings are strictly by appointment only. Please use the QR code to book an appointment.
All ordering and sales of Wollemi uniforms are online Orders can be collected from the College or delivered to your home address ( free delivery for orders over $50). To place an order online, go to www.Midford.com.au and enter the school passphrase: Wollemi1999 when you log in.
Collared House Shirts
New Wollemi umbrellas for sale!
Community
Growing Hearts for Fathers
Every dad wants to be there for his family, but it’s not always clear how to do it best. Take a day to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what truly matters.
Fatherhood isn’t about being perfect—
it’s about being present.
Find out more: Growing Hearts for Fathers
BOOK NOW TO ATTEND
First Letter Course
FEA is thrilled to announce that our First Letters course will be held in Sydney’s Western suburbs this year. The course will take place over three Sundays from May to June and is designed for parents of children aged 4-7 years. This year, we’ll feature one session with an expert speaker and two sessions in our signature discussion group format using the Harvard Study Method. If you’re a parent looking to strengthen your connection with your children, this course is perfect for you! Join us to expand your knowledge and enhance your skills in raising young children effectively!
2025 Women's Lenten Retreat
Holiday Sports Camp
Greetings Wollemi Families,
We hope you are all having a fantastic week. As we near the end of term 1, Mr Berryman and myself (Mr Uyeda) are excited to announce our Wollemi Primary Spring Sports Camp.
When: Monday, 14 April to Wednesday, 16 April, 2025
Start Time: 9:00am
Pickup Time: 3:00pm
Cost: $100 for all 3 days or $40 per day (cash only)
If you or anybody you know are interested in signing up, please click the link below:
Please feel free to contact Mr Dustin Uyeda or Mr Berryman for any further information.
PLEASE NOTE: This is not an official school event and will be facilitated by Mr Berryman and myself. dustin.uyeda@wollemi.nsw.edu.au
jacob.berryman@wollemi.nsw.edu.au
Mr Uyeda and Mr Berryman
St Joseph's Kingswood Sacramental Program
Children’s Sacraments 2025
Sacrament of Reconciliation: Thursday 10th April, 6.00pm
Sessions: 2nd March (Registration & 1st Session), 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th March; 6th April
First Communion: Sunday 22nd June (Feast of Corpus Christi), 10am
Sessions: 27th April (Registration & 1st Session), 4th, 11th, 18th, 25th May; 1st, 8th, 15th June (15th June being for Rehearsal)
Reconciliation: TBA
Confirmation: Thursday 6th November, 7:00pm
Sessions: 20th July (Registration & Session), 27th July; 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th, 31st August; 7th, 14th, 21st, 28th September; (5th October – mid holidays), 12th, 19th, 26th October, 2nd November (2nd November being for Rehearsal)
Eligibility:
For Sacrament of Reconciliation, children should be 8 years old and above and have received the Sacrament of Baptism.
For Sacrament of First Holy Communion children should be 8 years old and above and should have received the Sacrament of Baptism & Reconciliation.
For Sacrament of Confirmation children should be in Year 6 and above and have received the Sacrament of Baptism, Reconciliation & First Holy Communion.
Please provide a copy of your relevant certificates at registration or email a copy to the parish.
All sessions are compulsory and are to be attended by the child with their parent/ guardian. Sessions are held in the Parish Hall after the 10am Mass (Around 11:30am).
Further details will be provided at registration. You can call the Parish office on 4721 4080 or email parish@stjosephskingswood.org for further information.
Office hours: Tues & Thurs 9am to 2pm & Fri 9am to 1pm.
St Thomas Aquinas Springwood Sacramental Program
2025 Sacrament of Confirmation ✞
We invite you and your child to participate in our 2025 Sacrament of Confirmation Program.
✞ Children in Year 5 and older in 2025 who have not yet received Confirmation but have received Reconciliation and Holy Communion are invited to attend.
✞ The Sacrament of Confirmation will take place through a parish-based process. This means that you will do the preparation with your child, but we help you through a process of guided reflection on a weekly basis through meetings in the church.
✞ The enrolment form, payment arrangements, and other information will be available on our website, the back of the church, or the parish office in the middle of Term 1, 2025.
✞ Enrolment forms must be returned to the parish office prior to the first Parent Information Meeting.
Parent ONLY Sessions:
Wednesday, 30th April at 7.00pm, St Thomas Aquinas Church
Wednesday 7th May at 7.00pm, St Thomas Aquinas Church
Children and Parent Sessions:
Saturday 17th May at 11.00am, St Thomas Aquinas Church
Saturday 24th May at 11.00am, St Thomas Aquinas Church (and practice) Confirmation will take place on Wednesday 28th May at 6.30pm, St Thomas Aquinas Church