CAPTAIN'S CORNER

SENIOR CAPTAIN

Following a well-deserved two-week break, it has been great to see students and staff back this week, feeling refreshed and ready for yet another jam-packed term at McKinnon. For our senior students (especially the Year 12s), the grind continued over the holidays as we prepared to face perhaps the most important term of our schooling. Despite this, it is hoped that everyone was able to catch up on some much-needed rest and spend some quality time with friends and family as it is important to look after oneself. 

In true McKinnon fashion, it was straight back into the swing of things come Monday morning as Year 12s completed an English practice exam and students across every year level commenced their oral presentations. It has been reported that teachers have been left “seriously impressed by the high caliber of speakers this year” following the Year 12 presentations and I do not doubt that this was felt by teachers in the younger year levels as well. A huge congratulations to everyone. Speaking in front of an audience is not always an easy task but is a great skill to have.

Last Thursday, 18 July the whole school came together to participate in the Athletics Carnival. A day that was filled with excitement and immense competition as the four houses fought to claim the 2024 House Cup. Upon arrival, there was a slight concern for what the day would hold as we were met with a drizzle of rain and some forceful wind, typical Melbourne conditions! But as more Winnie the Pooh, Toy Story, Mario Kart, Kath and Kim, Bananas in Pyjamas and other nostalgic childhood characters arrived it was clear that nothing would dampen the vibes of the day that was to come. 

Along with the traditional athletics events that took place throughout the day, both Muggle Quidditch and tug of war certainly tested the athleticism of our students and our teachers in particular. 

As the siren rang, the Year 12s mounted their pool noodles and attempted to score with the quaffle, while avoiding the bludgers, and keeping eyes peeled for the golden snitch! In the end, Gilmore came out victorious, claiming the title of quidditch champion. 

The Year 7s certainly surprised the Year 12s by winning the first round of tug of war with their immense numbers, but quickly we were able to redeem ourselves by winning subsequent rounds and more importantly beating the teachers in the following game. 

Chloe Apps

Year 12 Student

JUNIOR CAPTAIN

The beginning of Semester 2 has started with a bang as students are automatically delving into their studies and required tasks. I hope everyone had a rested and relaxing break ready to start the term. I’m sure everyone is putting their best foot forward and beginning on a good note. 

The first week back was a flurry of excitement and activities, including the McKinnon Athletics Carnival and the annual Bastille Day Celebration. The French event incorporated a strong passion for food, competitions and workshops while the Athletics Carnival involved a mix of sporting competitions, laughter and games.

Bastille Day was all about French culture as it was impossible to look around each campus without seeing a red, blue and white poster. From the photobooth competition where groups of students had to compete against each other for a title, or the artisan bakery sale where kids lined up to buy a chocolate croissant, there was truly something for everyone.

The McKinnon Athletics Carnival on Thursday 18 July was a day that will be remembered for a long time to come as many were dressed up in their favourite nostalgic childhood memory. While some students competed in the challenging sporting activities on offer others simply sat back and competed in leisure activities. Despite the rain in the morning, it ended up with sunshine at the end letting everyone have a better day.

I hope everyone enjoyed their holidays and is looking forward to the term ahead! 

Soly Batkilin

Year 9 Student