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Term 2 Week 6 – Friday 6 June 2025
JUNIOR AND SENIOR CROSS COUNTRY
NIJSSA CROSS COUNTRY
Held under beautiful blue skies at Windsor Park, the NIJSSA Cross Country provided an excellent setting for some outstanding performances.
Our students gave it their all, with many achieving personal bests and showing fantastic effort and determination throughout the races. The supportive team spirit and positive attitude displayed by all made it a memorable day of competition. Scotch Oakburn College finished 2nd overall in a close finish with Sacred Heart.
Top 10 finishers:
Year | Boys | Girls |
3 | Leo Payne 8th | Xuran Zhao 2nd Maggie Green 3rd |
4 | Reuben Derbyshire 6th Nixon Purton 8th Charlie Wood 2nd |
Katie Horsman 1st Violet Krapf 2nd Molly Kershaw 6th Violet Harvey 9th |
5 | Charlie Green 6th Archi Page 9th |
Katie Hyde 1st Annabelle Heckendorf 3rd Jasmine Liu 6th |
PRIMARY SCHOOL CHAMPIONSHIPS
In stark contrast, the All Schools Championships at Symmons Plains tested our students in cold, rainy, and muddy conditions. With over 250 competitors in each race, the event posed a significant challenge. Despite the tough weather and slippery terrain, our runners demonstrated incredible resilience and perseverance, pushing through to complete their races with grit and pride.
We congratulate all participants for their exceptional efforts and thank families and staff who supported our students on the day. These events highlight not just athletic ability, but the strength of character within our College community.
Top 50 finishers:
Year | Boys | Girls |
3 | Leo Payne 33rd | Maggie Green 11th Xuran Zhao 33rd |
4 | Charlie Wood 2nd | Katie Horsman 15th Violet Krapf 16th |
5 | Charlie Green 46th | Katie Hyde 1st Annabelle Heckendorf 11th |
SECONDARY ALL SCHOOLS CROSS COUNTRYThis year saw another huge team of 82 students taking part in the Tasmanian All Schools Cross Country Championships at Symmons Plains.Continuing the trend from last year, Scotch Oakburn had the largest team competing out of the 60 secondary schools from around Tasmania. Congratulations to all our students that competed on the day and gave your all for the College.With our strong participation across all age groups, created some excellent team event results along with the many sensational individual performances. The highlights being Zahli Wescombe (Year 10) placing first in the U17 Womens event and Sophie Marshall (Year 12) finishing first in the U20 Womens event. Other top 10 places were:
Individual Results:
U20 Men | U20 Women | U18 Men | U18 Women | U17 Women | U16 Men | U16 Women | U15 Men | U15 Women |
5th – Jobie Wescombe | 1st – Sophie Marshall | 7th – William Nicholls | 6th – Chaeli Barron | 1st – Zahli Wescombe | 8th – Flynn McLoughlin | 10th – Olive Kwan | 5th – Joshua Mau | 9th – Sarah Horsman |
7th – Quinn Elliott | 5th – Izzy Wing | 9th – Tariku Brammall | 4th – Chloe Horsman | 7th – Jakai Wescombe | ||||
9th – John Skipper | 7th – Rose Talbot | 10th – Archie Martin |
Team results
In the team results, Scotch Oakburn won five out of 12 events; U20 Boys first, U20 Women first, U18 Women first, U17 Women first, U15 Boys first and also placed third in the U18 Boys competition. NSATIS results are still being calculated, with signs that Scotch Oakburn is going to feature strongly in the Shields competitions. A presentation for both All Schools and NSATIS will happen early in Term 3 where medallions and certificates will be presented to the students in assembly.Congratulations to all students on showing excellent sportsmanship, effort, and support throughout the day, upholding the College’s Values. I would like to extend my thanks to Ms Kim Badcock, Mr Andrew Nichols, Mr Brendan Long and Mr Tim Reese for their words of encouragement and support to the students as they ran the course.A full list of results for the event can be found HERE.
SCOTCH OAKBURN COMMUNITY STEPS UP

Image courtesy of the Examiner.
Scotch Oakburn College proudly made its mark at this year’s Launceston Running Festival, entering the largest team across all participants. This outstanding display of community spirit and enthusiasm was led by Year 5 teacher Milly Clark, whose passion for health and wellbeing inspired students, families, and staff to get involved.
With a little help from Channel 7 and Channel 9, the College’s participation was not only visible on the course but also celebrated across the broader community. The event highlighted the strong sense of connection and camaraderie that defines the Scotch Oakburn spirit.
Students from various year levels, alongside their families and teachers, took part in the event—whether walking, jogging, or running—with energy and pride. Their collective effort created a vibrant atmosphere that celebrated healthy lifestyles and friendly competition. The cheers, encouragement, and shared moments along the course reflected the values that Scotch Oakburn holds dear.
Deemed one of the fastest courses around, the event attracted elite athletes from across the globe, and it was wonderful to see so many members of our community experience this. Congratulations again to all involved—let’s see if we can enter an even larger team across the range of events next year.
Ross Patterson
Principal
THE MAGIC IS BUILDING
The magic is building! We’re thrilled to welcome professional puppetry designer Theresa O’Connor to the College as we bring Harry Potter and the Cursed Child to life! From lip synching puppets to rod puppets that will fly, Theresa is working her spellbinding magic with our students behind the scenes… Tickets are selling fast — don’t miss this unforgettable production full of wonder, storytelling, and theatrical wizardry. BOOK NOW! www.theatrenorth.com.au/soc-harry-potter-cursed-child. Plus, you can follow Theresa @theresa_oconnor_puppetry_arts.
RAW WEEK
Last week, our Year 12 Student Executive led a powerful initiative in support of Rural, Alive and Well (RAW) — a program dedicated to supporting those in agriculture and rural communities.
RAW WEEK
Monday 26 May marked the beginning of the much-anticipated Rural, Alive and Well (RAW) Week. RAW is a Tasmanian non-clinical service that provides mental health support for farmers, with the delivery of authentic, early-intervention suicide prevention for rural and remote communities.
Tuesday 27 May was the College’s first ever “Dress like a Farmer Day” where gold coin donations were collected at the end of assembly. At the assembly, the College had the honour of hosting Jacqueline Shipton as our guest speaker. Jac is a Community Engagement Officer at RAW Tasmania, and as a farmer herself, was able to provide a clear insight into the everyday hardship’s that farmers face. Her main message of the presentation is that help is only a call away.
Later in the day, the Class of 2025 gathered at Scotch Oakburn Park to each plant a tree sapling – a total of 89 trees. This ‘plant-a-thon’ encouraged sustainable practises, effectively raising awareness of farmers’ mental health, whilst simultaneously leaving a legacy of the Class of 2025.
On the Friday of RAW Week, one tree was also planted at both the Middle and Senior School campuses with the support of the Year 8 Peer Leaders as a special memorial tree of the week. The Student Executive also aims to plant a tree at the Junior School at the Lachie Wright Centre once construction is complete.
A special thanks goes to the Grounds team, especially Robert Breier, Amelia Goss, and Bek Milbourne, without whose cooperation this event would not have been possible.
Sophie Marshall
College Co-Captain
DRESS LIKE A FARMER
Thank you to our Year 3 – 5 students who supported our recent Rural Alive and Well (RAW) fundraiser on Tuesday 27 May. It was lovely to see our students dressed as farmers, bringing a fun and vibrant energy to the Elphin Campus. From flannel shirts to straw hats, the creativity and enthusiasm was fantastic!
This event was not just about fun; it also helped raise awareness and celebrate our farming communities. RAW are a genuine and passionate local organisation working to ensure people in regional Tasmania have access to help when they need it most. More information about RAW can be found HERE.
Students brought in gold coin donations, which were collected and passed on to our Year 12 Student Executive for final tallying. We are looking forward to hearing the total raised soon.
Thank you again for your generosity and community spirit!
Ben Green
Deputy Principal – Elphin
NEWS FROM PENQUITE
The past fortnight at Penquite has been filled with rich experiences that have inspired learning, reflection, and community spirit.
Our Year 8Y students embraced the rugged beauty of Mount William National Park during their Education Outdoors program. Immersed in nature, they developed resilience, independence, and a deeper appreciation for Tasmania’s unique environment.
Year 7V students took part in the World Peace Game—an immersive simulation that challenges students to resolve global crises through diplomacy and collaboration. This powerful experience fosters empathy, critical thinking, and a sense of global responsibility.
We also celebrated “Dress Like a Farmer Day” in support of Rural Alive and Well. Students and staff donned their best country attire to raise awareness about mental health in rural communities and the importance of staying connected and supportive.
Our musicians have had a fantastic showing at the recent Launceston Competitions, showcasing their talent, dedication, and musicality. We are thrilled to celebrate Wandering Notes for their outstanding second-place finish, and our Clarinet Quartet and Concert Band, who each earned a well-deserved third place in their respective categories. A special mention goes to the Big Band, whose spirited and dynamic performance marked their return to competition after several years. Their energy and enthusiasm were infectious, and their presence added a vibrant note to the event. Congratulations to all involved!
Have you booked your tickets to the TCE Mid-Year Play, Eros to Agape: A Journey Through Love? Limited season Thursday 12 and Friday 13 June you can BOOK HERE.
Reconciliation Week was marked with a moving Round Square session and a campus-wide Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country on the Penquite Green, facilitated by Uncle Hank Horton. These moments of cultural recognition and unity were beautifully complemented by the TCE Band’s performance of Goanna’s Solid Rock. Chosen as the official song for the week, Solid Rock speaks to the enduring strength and spirit of First Nations peoples.
As we approach the mid-year assessment and examination period, we encourage our Senior students to prepare with focus and determination. At the same time, we remind them of the importance of balance—making space for co-curricular passions, friendships, and wellbeing alongside academic pursuits.
Ben Marsland
Deputy Principal – Penquite
UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS OF VAPING
On Wednesday 4 June we welcomed Tanya Cavanagh, CEO of Teen Challenge Tasmania and founder of the NotEvenOnce program. Tanya has been at the forefront of educating young people and their families about the dangers of vaping and delivered a very engaging and informative session to parents. Her insights are crucial for parents aiming to protect their children from the growing vaping crisis.
Tanya’s presentation unpacked the myths young people believe, the dangers of vaping, how the industry targets youth, and the increasingly discreet ways vaping is being hidden in school and at home.
Myths Debunked
Common misconceptions about vaping:
- “It’s just water vapor”: Vape aerosol contains harmful chemicals, not just water.
- “It’s safer than smoking”: While some believe vaping is less harmful, it still poses significant health risks.\
- “Everyone is doing it”: Contrary to popular belief, most teens choose not to vape.
Health Risks Associated with Vaping
- EVALI (E-Cigarette or Vaping Product Use-Associated Lung Injury): A severe lung condition linked to vaping, with cases reported in Australia, including fatalities.
- Cardiovascular Concerns: High nicotine levels in vapes can elevate blood pressure and adrenaline, increasing the risk of heart attacks.
- Oral Health Issues: Vaping can lead to dry mouth, gum disease, and other oral health problems.
How Teens Are Hiding Vapes
A concerning trend Tanya highlighted is how discreet vaping devices have become:
- Vapes disguised as USBs, highlighters, or pens make them hard to detect in school bags or pencil cases.
- Hidden use is common, with students using hoodie drawstrings or holding vapor in to avoid detection.
- Online trends show teens sharing tips on how to hide vape use from adults – further complicating parental awareness.
Parents are encouraged to be vigilant and familiar with how these devices look and operate.
Industry Tactics & Youth Appeal
The vaping industry targets young people through:
- Sweet flavours (e.g., bubblegum, mango)
- Youth-focused packaging
- Heavy promotion via social media influencers
These tactics make vaping seem harmless and even fashionable—masking the real dangers involved.
Staying informed about the realities of vaping is essential for safeguarding our youth. Engaging in honest conversations and challenging misconceptions can make a significant difference. It’s vital we work together to keep our children safe and well-informed.
Did you miss the parents’ seminar? A very similar one was recorded last week which you can access below.
NotEvenOnce Vaping and Schools Info and QandA – Zoom
Kylie Wolstencroft
Director Wellbeing – Penquite
BRINGING OUR VALUES TO LIFE – VISIBLY AND PURPOSEFULLY
In alignment with one of Scotch Oakburn College’s strategic priorities, we’re proud to unveil new visual markers installed across our campuses to highlight and celebrate our core Values: Respect, Compassion, Courage, Commitment, and Responsibility.
This initiative is about more than signage—it’s about fostering a shared culture where our Values are not only understood, but actively lived. We invite all members of the College community to engage with these touchpoints and consider how each Value shapes our actions, decisions, and relationships.
Joel Brewer
Director of Marketing, Communications & Community
SUCCESS AT THE CHINESE BRIDGE COMPETITION
The “Chinese Bridge” Chinese Proficiency Competition is the largest international Chinese language contest in the world — a prestigious platform that brings together students from across the globe to celebrate language learning and cultural exchange.
On Sunday 18 May, two of our students, Eva Shaw (Year 10) and Jack Duncan (Year 12), proudly represented Scotch Oakburn in the 2025 Tasmanian regional final of the competition. Their hard work and passion shone through, with Eva taking out second place and Jack placing third: an incredible accomplishment that reflects their dedication and love for the Chinese language.
Through speeches, cultural insights, and language skills, Eva and Jack demonstrated how learning Chinese can open doors to a wider world. Their efforts have not only brought them well-deserved recognition but also inspired others to embrace the journey of language learning.
We’re excited to see where this experience will lead them next and how many more bridges they will build along the way.
Ruby Lan
Teacher – Penquite
BRIDGING NOW TO NEXT
In Amharic, Tariku means “I have a story to tell.” And hopefully that’s fitting, because today I want to tell you why Reconciliation Week matters to someone like me.
I’m Ethiopian, Indian, English, and Australian. Not in parts, not switching between them depending on who’s asking, but all at once. I was born here, my dad was born here, and in every way I am Australian. But I’m also in every way every part of my other heritage too. That’s not a contradiction, that’s just who I am.
When we talk about reconciliation, we’re talking about truth – telling. And the truth is complicated. The truth is that this country has always been home to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The truth is also that it’s become home to people like my family, who bring together different backgrounds, languages, and stories that have shaped how we live and connect with this place.
And living among so many other families like mine, I’ve come to learn that belonging isn’t something you have to prove or earn. It can exist in more than one place, in more than one way, all at the same time.
Reconciliation isn’t a one-week-a-year conversation. It’s not a box you tick or a statement you post. It’s the ongoing work of understanding that this land holds all our stories, but some stories were here first, and those same stories were nearly silenced.
I think about what it means to be proud of who you are while still questioning the systems around you. Growing up with multiple cultures running through you teaches you that identity isn’t simple. You learn that you can be completely Australian and completely connected to other cultures. You can love this country deeply while still pushing it to be better.
What strikes me about Aboriginal culture, and what I continue to learn thanks to people like yourself – is this understanding that everything is connected. That taking care of country means taking care of each other. That’s not just philosophy that’s practical wisdom for building the “next” we’re trying to bridge toward.
So, what does “bridging now to next” actually look like? It’s not just acknowledging the past – it’s using that knowledge to build something different. It’s understanding that reconciliation isn’t an event, it’s infrastructure. You don’t build a bridge once and walk away. You maintain it, you strengthen it, you make sure it can carry the weight of everyone who needs to cross.
I am who I am because this country allows for complexity. But that acceptance didn’t happen automatically – people fought for it. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples are still fighting for recognition that should never have been a fight in the first place.
The bridge we’re building isn’t just about healing the past. It’s about creating space for all our futures – where Indigenous knowledge is valued, and the realisation that our diversity is what makes our country so special.
My very existence is a testament to what’s possible when we choose complexity over simplicity, when we build bridges instead of walls. But I’m not the bridge – none of us are individually. We’re all part of building it.
Thank you to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who continue to teach us what connection to country really means. The bridge from now to next isn’t something we build for you – it’s something we build with you.
I look forward to being part of the ongoing story of reconciliation that we’re all writing together.
Tariku Brammall
Year 11
BUILDING SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL SKILLS THROUGH GAMES
At Scotch Oakburn College, small group sessions focused on Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) are helping students develop essential life skills in a fun and engaging way. These groups bring together students to explore important topics like empathy, communication, emotional regulation, and problem-solving.
One of the most effective and enjoyable tools we use is games. Whether it’s a team challenge, role-play scenario, or a simple card game, these activities create safe spaces for students to practise turn-taking, managing frustration, reading social cues, and supporting peers.
Through laughter, teamwork, and structured reflection, students build confidence and learn how to navigate social situations both in and out of the classroom. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with students reporting they feel more connected and better equipped to manage friendships and challenges.
We’re proud to see our students growing together, one game at a time.
Patrick Daly
Teacher – Social Emotional Support Penquite
EXCHANGE IN JOHANNESBURG
Over the past four weeks, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to take part in a Round Square exchange at St Stithians Boys’ College in Johannesburg, South Africa. Although I’m only halfway through my time here, I’ve already made unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships.
From the very beginning, I was exposed to so many new and different experiences that pushed me out of my comfort zone. One of the highlights so far has been the electric atmosphere at the First Team rugby game. The war cries and school spirit were like nothing I’ve ever seen before – it was a truly unforgettable moment.
Of course, there have been some challenges too. One of the biggest adjustments for me has been the early school start. Classes begin at 7:20 am, which means waking up at 5:00 every day. It’s been tough, but it’s also helped me become more disciplined and adaptable.
Living in Johannesburg has been eye-opening. I was surprised by the lack of economic development and structure in such a large and populated city. I’ve witnessed the stark contrast between extreme wealth and deep poverty – something that has really made me reflect on the differences between home and here.
What’s really stood out to me, though, is the strength of the school culture at St Stithians. The sense of unity, pride, and community within the school is something I’d love to bring back to Scotch Oakburn. It’s been inspiring to be part of a place where school spirit runs so deep.
This exchange has helped me grow as a person in ways I didn’t expect. I’ve been challenged, inspired, and humbled – and I know that the second half of my trip will bring even more opportunities to learn and grow. I’m incredibly grateful for this experience and all that it’s taught me so far.
Lachie Mayes
Year 10 Student
DINNER DEBATE
On Wednesday 21 May, the senior debating roster had supper prepared and served by the Year 10 Food Truck under the capable guidance of teacher, Bec Rockcliffe. We were treated to minestrone, Tuscan lamb soup, bread rolls, hummus, tzatziki, bacon and corn dip, homemade crackers and Mars Bar slice. It was wonderful to have such a nutritious and delicious supper prepared for us on site by our own students.
Thank you from the debaters as we hosted St Patrick’s College and Launceston College for the final round of the 2025 season.
Sharon Beattie
Person-in-Charge Debating
PARLIAMENTARY SHIELD DEBATING
On Friday 23 May and Saturday 24 May, the annual Parliamentary Shield Debating weekend was contested at St Patrick’s College. This marks the culmination of our 2025 senior debating roster and for Year 12 students, Harriet Lynch (C), Blaise Fitzallen and Eliza Duigan it was their final time debating together after six years in the program.
The Year 11 Parliamentary Plate team of Meg Kilby, Georgette Wilks, Makaela Fulton and Calan Young won the Parliamentary Plate this year with a victory on the topic, “that popular culture is a better reflection of society than high art”. Elizabeth Moore, Year 10, competed in the Parliamentary Shield composite team (for experience, not points) and was very successful, as that team won both their debates. Our Year 12 Shield team of Harriet, Blaise, Eliza, Shinu Bindal (C) and Jack Duncan competed well, but missed the final on a count back in a very evenly contested competition. Commendation must go to all students who represented the College with distinction; their passionate and good-natured approach to their verbal battles is appreciated by everyone. The Year 11 team will be heading to lunch at Parliament House in Hobart later this year to be feted for their victory.
Sharon Beattie
Person-in-Charge Debating
SOLVING OUR WORLD’S CRISES
Over the past week, our 7V mentor class has been immersed in the rich and complex world of the World Peace Game, and what an incredible journey it has been!
From the outset, students demonstrated a remarkable commitment to the challenge. When faced with uncertainty, difficult negotiations, and competing national interests, they rose above the chaos, showed unity, and triumphed through adversity. The presence of the Saboteur and the elusive Secret Empire added an extra layer of intrigue. Though they operated quietly in the background, their influence was certainly felt.
Throughout the game, our students have shown what it means to be agile, navigating rapidly changing events with focus and purpose. They have been collaborative, working across countries and roles with generosity and clarity. Their decisions have been guided by a compassionate mindset, ensuring no one is left behind, and they have been courageous in facing the pressures of leadership and crisis.
Their curiosity has driven deep thinking and insightful questions, while their ability to be effective communicators has enabled powerful dialogue, thoughtful negotiation, and genuine understanding across borders. They have approached the game with an ethical lens, weighing complex decisions with integrity, and they have remained inclusive, welcoming all voices and perspectives to the table. Many have been impressively innovative, offering creative solutions when traditional ones fell short. And above all, they have demonstrated self-regulation, maintaining focus, calm, and perseverance even when the stakes felt sky-high.
With six global crises left to resolve on the last day, every country and agency had an action plan in place. Peace has often felt just out of reach, but in those moments, 7V has shown its true strength. They stepped up, stood strong, and worked as one. What they have achieved together is not just a game victory—it is a lesson in unity, resilience, and leadership that will stay with them far beyond the classroom.
Thank you to all the students for their energy, commitment, and heart throughout this journey and our team look forward to sharing this exciting experience with the remaining Year 7 classes to come.
Bec Tattersall
Facilitator of 7V’s World Peace Game
DRAGON BOAT FESTIVAL
Last week, students from Years 7 to 12 explored the customs of the Dragon Boat Festival in their Chinese classes and enjoyed freshly steamed zòngzi (sticky rice dumplings).
Students learned about the origins of the festival, including the story of Qu Yuan, and explored some of the fascinating customs associated with this special day. These include dragon boat racing, hanging aromatic herbs, and making and eating zòngzi — glutinous rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves.
As part of the cultural experience, students had the opportunity to taste freshly steamed zòngzi filled with sweet red bean paste. It was a delicious and memorable treat! Many students commented on how much they enjoyed the unique flavour and the chance to take part in an authentic cultural tradition.
Ruby Lan
Teacher – Penquite
FREYCINET TREK
This week the TCE Outdoor Leadership class headed to Freycinet for a three day bushwalk around the peninsula. The students completed all the planning for the trip, including logistics, budget, menus, risk management, and equipment. Once on the trip the students took turns in leading different sections of the three day adventure, doing all the navigation and ensuring they managed the group well. We had cool weather but very little rain, and several students braved the cold ocean for a swim!
It was a fantastic trip in a beautiful part of the world, and all students thoroughly enjoyed the experience.
Mark Hassell
Teacher – Science | Head of Experiential Learning
CELEBRATING NATIONAL RECONCILIATION WEEK
In Early Learning, we have spent the week coming together to honour and celebrate National Reconciliation Week. It has been a time to connect, reflect, learn and grow. Throughout the week, our youngest learners have been engaged in meaningful conversations and experiences that gently introduced the rich culture, stories and knowledge of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Guided by Alex Austin, the students explored a variety of provocations that sparked curiosity and inspired discussion. Mrs Austin also shared some of her personal experiences and photographs from her time living and working in Aboriginal communities, offering our students a meaningful window into life, traditions and connection to Country.
Together, we began an important conversation in a way that felt safe, respectful and full of wonder. These conversations will continue to grow back in our learning environments and, we hope, in your homes too.
We inquired into the geography of Country, Aboriginal artwork, native animals and the beauty of music and language. One of the highlights was learning songs in language, practising rhythm and beat with clap sticks, and watching videos that shared the sounds and stories of Aboriginal music traditions. We also reflected on our responsibility to care for the land we learn and play on, and the ways we can honour our promise to the palawa people.
It has been a joyful, powerful and important week in Early Learning. How wonderful it is to have these moments of connection, understanding and celebration as we begin the lifelong journey of Reconciliation with our youngest citizens.
Early Learning Team
CAR WASH – SPEAK UP! STAY CHATTY
Over the coming week the Senior’s Committee will be supporting Speak Up! Stay ChatTY, with a Shorts Day on Tuesday 10 June and a Car Wash on Saturday 14 June.
Car washing will be available from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm in the Senior School turning circle. There will be a BBQ available for you to purchase from while you wait. Car wash is $10, and the BBQ will be $2, both cash and EFTPOS accepted.
All proceeds from these events will go directly to Speak Up! Stay ChatTY. This important organisation encourages people to speak up about mental health, reducing the stigma and supporting wellbeing — especially amongst young people.
Saskia Boden
Senior’s Committee
FORE THE WIN
The Tasmanian State Golf Pennant finals were recently held at Devonport Golf Club and Mowbray Golf Club. The state final series sees the winning club from each regional pennant series (Northern Golf, Northwest Golf Tasmania, Southern Country Golf Association and Golf Southern Tasmania) play a round robin format to determine the state winner.
Xavier Nicholls (Year 10) was part of the winning Launceston Golf Club men’s team that took home the Division Two State Pennant title defeating Tasmania Golf Club and Thirlstane Golf Club in closely contested matches. This team also included former student Joel Harwood (’14).
Kirri Piper (Year 10) was part of the winning Launceston Golf Club women’s team that took home the Division One State Pennant title. Former student Pip Leedham (nee Rowell, Oakburn ’73) was a member of the winning team that defeated Llanherne Golf Club and Seabrook Golf Club.
James Robinson (Year 12) was a member of Launceston Golf Club’s Division One side that also played in the State Pennant final series.
Jacqui Churchill
PENQUITE INTER-HOUSE CROSS COUNTRY
Thursday 22 May saw the running of the Penquite Inter-House Cross Country held at Scotch Oakburn Park in ideal running conditions. With the course relocated back to Lecompte Oval this year, it made for a more centralised viewing point for House groups and supporting students of all year levels. The highlight of the afternoon was seeing all students test themselves across the three challenging courses.
We had some standout performances on the day which are listed below, but even more importantly, it was great to see many students grasp the opportunity, giving their all, in support of their house and leaving the Park knowing they put forward their best performance.
It was great to see some parents coming along to support the students as well as a few staff having a run out on course.
Age group | Age Champion | Runner Up |
Year 6 Boys | Hamish Woolley | Zeke Yang-Sun |
Year 6 Girls | Isla Powell-Dean | Lucy Kershaw |
U13 Girls | Alice Hyde | Gweyneth McLoughlin |
U13 Boys | Rupert Rogers | Finlay Lovell |
U14 Girls | Sarah Horsman | Audrey Green |
U14 Boys | Joshua Mau | Jakai Wescombe |
U15 Girls | Olive Kwan | Olive Saxton |
U15 Boys | Flynn McLoughlin | Taylor Heazlewood |
U16 Girls | Zahli Wescombe | Chloe Horsman |
U16 Boys | Ben Berlese | Seton Brock |
Open Girls | Sophie Marshall | Chaeli Barron |
Open Boys | William Nicholls | Hugh Talbot |
The age group placings and House points are on the Cross-Country Dash page as well as the times for the top 10 competitors for each age group.
Thanks to all the staff for helping on the day, the House Heads for their support as well as all the students that gave their all out on the course on a great afternoon of competition.
A large selection of students will now turn their attention to the Secondary All Schools Cross Country Championship at Symmons Plains, where last year the team took home all three NSATIS shields and many age groups medals at the Championships. This event will be held on Thursday 12 June and a letter has been sent out to all students involved. We wish these students all the best for this competition.
Ali Foot
Head of Sport
NEWSTEAD ATHLETICS SCHOOL SERIES
On Saturday May 31st, the final run of the Newstead Athletics School series took place. This is a fantastic initiative from Newstead Athletics, encouraging school aged students to get involved across five events on Saturdays in Term 2.
Scotch Oakburn students of all ages have shown incredible determination and resilience as they challenge themselves each Saturday in these runs.
We are pleased to share that this year we have won both the Primary and Secondary Northern Schools Cross Country competition. A huge congratulations to all students involved in this event and all contributing to this result!
Becca Biggs
Deputy Head of Junior School (Years Prep-2) | Teacher
ELPHIN INTER-HOUSE CROSS COUNTRY
What a fantastic day we had for our annual Elphin Inter-House Cross Country! With perfect weather and an abundance of energy and enthusiasm, the day was thoroughly enjoyed by all. From the youngest to the oldest, students showed incredible determination and school spirit. The cheering was loud, the team spirit was high, and the participation was outstanding!
A big congratulations to all students for their effort and sportsmanship, and a thank you to our dedicated staff for making the day run smoothly.
House Results:
1st Place: Fox (734 points)
2nd Place: Dean (695 points)
3rd Place: Briggs (667 points)
4th Place: Nance (407 points)
Top six placegetters:
Year 3
1. Maggie Green & Angus Trudgett
2. Leo Payne & Elsie Workman
3. Miller Mayne & Xuran Zhao
4. Charlotte Heckendorf & Louis Kerkham
5. Amber Barritt & Toby Swanell
6. Lawson Dray & Piper Parry
Year 4
1. Violet Krapf & Charlie Wood
2. Reuben Derbyshire & Katie Horsman
3. Molly Kershaw & Nixon Purton
4. Charlotte Cole & Charles Clifton
5. Campbell Allen & Maeve Coates
6. Violet Harvey & Noah Kleinig
Year 5
1. Charlie Green & Katie Hyde
2. George Archer & Jasmine Liu
3. Annabelle Heckendorf & Archi Page
4. Olive Byrne & Oliver Randall
5. Jude Batten & Valentina de Deuge
6. Henry Kerkham & Lucy Remnitz
Special Congratulations to Charlie Wood who has broken the Year 4 boys record of 6.34 minutes with a new record of 6.24 minutes – a fantastic achievement!
Well done to the above placegetters from each Year level who have now qualified to represent Scotch Oakburn in the upcoming NIJSSA Cross Country Carnival and the Tasmanian Primary School All Schools Cross Country.
We are so proud of all of our students’ efforts at the Elphin Inter-House Cross Country.
Nicky Reid
Head of HPE & Sport
STATE KARATE CHAMPIONSHIPS
Eliza Minster (Year 6) and Inari Williams (Year 4) have both won State Karate Championships on Sunday 1 June down in Hobart.
Eliza won the 12/13 Years Female Kumite (sparring /fighting discipline) and finished with a bronze medal in the 12/13 Years Female Kata (techniques and forms discipline).
Inari won the State Championships (9 Years Female) medals in both disciplines (Kata & Kumite).
Both girls have just been selected in the Tasmanian State Team of 12 athletes (ranging from under 10 age group to adults) to compete in the National Championships in Adelaide from the 11 – 13 July.
Ben Green
Deputy Principal – Elphin
COACHES NEEDED
The College is seeking expressions of interest for coaches of the following sports:
Senior Boys Seconds Soccer coaches – training is Tuesday afternoons and matches are played Wednesday afternoons in Term 3.
Junior Year 7/8 NSATIS Boys Cricket coaches – training is Thursday afternoons, and the matches are played on Tuesday afternoons in T20 format in Term 4.
For more information and to apply, please contact me via ali.foot@soc.tas.edu.au or on 6336 3300.
Ali Foot
Head of Sport
OLD SCOTCH – SUPPORTING COMMUNITY
Our community connections are important. We encourage our community to get behind Old Scotch Collegian Football Club this season and support our extended community.
On Saturday teams are playing at home, with the Womens team having a bye.
All fixtures can be found here:
Mens Fixtures | Womens Fixtures | Under 18s
We look forward to following the teams this season.
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