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Mr Joel van Bentum | Principal
Reconciliation Week
Monday 26 May is National Sorry Day, it marks the day that the "Bringing them home" report was tabled in the Australian Parliament. This was a landmark report that brought to light the extent of the forced removal of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from their families, what we commonly refer to now as the "Stolen Generations".
Sorry Day is a day to remember and reflect on the impact of this part of Australian history. It is also a time to be reminded that the impact is ongoing. People are still disconnected from their families and their culture, untethered from their past, their culture and their stories. For non-indigenous people National Sorry Day is a time to remember and recognise that the actions of the dominant culture whether in good intention or in bad, has caused great disruption and pain for many people.
As a Christian school we recognise that as is says in Romans that all fall short of the glory of God and all require forgiveness. Scripture and History is replete with examples of hurt, pain, death and destruction. It is also full of forgiveness, reconciliation and restoration.
The first step in a journey of forgiveness and reconciliation is the acknowledgement and acceptance of the hurt and pain caused. This can be referred to as truth-telling, there is a need to deeply listen to the aggrieved party to understand the impact, whether intentional or unintentional of our actions. As individuals this is important in our personal relationships and as a nation it is important.
National Sorry Day leads into reconciliation week between 27 May and 3 June. 27 May marks the day of the 1967 referendum that gave indigenous people equal standing under the constitution. June 3 marks the day of the High Courts Mabo decision that overturned the concept of “terra nullius”. Reconciliation week is a time we consider the messy and winding road to conciliation and reconciliation between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and all other Australians.
In personal relationships once hurt has been acknowledged and forgiveness has been extended, the journey to reconciliation can begin. Reconciliation is the process of returning to a restored relationship of trust and good standing. As Christians we remember that once we were separated from God, but through Jesus we are forgiven and can now be reconciled back into relationship with God. For the Christian this is a difficult journey, often full of mistakes and setbacks. It is the same way between people groups.
As we enter this next week I encourage us to be prepared to learn about the mistakes, missteps, and malevolence of our past, to deeply listen to the ongoing hurt and trauma of the present and to participate in the hope of what can come.
To finish, let me share a prayer from Reverend Canon Aunty Di Langham to mark Reconciliation week 2025.
Creator God of Holy Dreaming
Bring us together as one,
Reconciled with you and one another.
Bless Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples of this land.
The first peoples to receive your blessings in this land.
The first peoples to see your beauty in the land, water, sky and nature.
The first peoples to hear your voice in ancient stories.
The first to give you praises in ancient places.
The first to know your love and love you in return.
God bless the Elders keeping culture and languages alive.
Bless all who work in Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, making friends, growing partnerships to a deeper understanding of culture and languages, learning to love and grow together.
Give us grace to travel together towards reconciliation for the sake of Jesus Christ.
- Amen
Living Out Leadership at GPCC
At the heart of every great school is a strong, positive culture, and at the heart of that culture are its students. More than rules, structures, or even programs, it is the everyday choices of individuals that shape the spirit of our school. And it’s been deeply encouraging to see so many students stepping up to lead with kindness, responsibility, and faith.
I want to celebrate those who have taken initiative, not just in formal leadership roles, but in quiet, consistent acts of integrity and service. Whether it’s welcoming a new student, helping clean up after an event without being asked, speaking up when something isn’t right, or offering prayer and encouragement to a peer, these are the moments that define who we are.
There are a number of initiatives currently running or being planned by students:
Cru – Tuesday lunchtimes, where our Year 12 students lead Bible studies
Chocky Tuesdays – Running fortnightly on Wednesday mornings, Year 12 students are offering hot chocolate and the chance to connect with students of all ages
Push Up Challenge – For mental health, being run by Year 11 students
SRC – This is a new initiative for students to be involved in leadership in the school. It is run by Year 12 students and open to all students from Year 7 – Year 11
Jump Rope for Heart – Coming soon. This is being organised by a Year 11 student.
Our school is called to be a place where Christ is honoured in every interaction, and where students grow not only academically but spiritually and morally. That vision doesn't rest only in the hands of teachers or leaders, it belongs to every student. Students have the power to set the tone for their year group, to make GPCC a place where people feel safe, respected, and inspired to be their best.
The Simpson Prize – A History opportunity for Year 9 and 10 students
The Simpson Prize is a national competition for Year 9 and 10 students which focuses on the service of Australians in World War One and World War Two. It is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and run by the History Techers’ Association of Australia.
To enter the Simpson Prize students must respond to an essay question using the Simpson Prize Australian War Memorial Source Selection and their own research.
The 16 winners and runners-up, two from each state and territory, travel to Canberra to participate in a 3-day study program in early 2026. The 8 winners will travel to an overseas destination for an extensive commemorative study tour culminating in Anzac Day ceremonies at that location.
Submissions for the 2026 Simpson Prize are due on Wednesday 5 November 2025.
More information can be found at: https://www.simpsonprize.org/
If your child is interested in entering, please encourage them to see Ms Walls in the HSIE/Social Science Staffroom in H Block.
Our Y
Rainy Weather
After such a rainy week at school, we look forward to some drier days coming up over the weekend. We are praying for those affected by rising floodwaters locally, as well as in Taree and the Mid North coast.
Despite the gloomy weather, there has been some great learning happening in the primary school this week and some wonderful opportunities to worship our great God. Don’t forget to check School Box for any Learning Moments uploaded.
Sponsor Children
Last week at Chapel we had the pleasure of hearing from Sienna Corkill from Baptist World Aid who spoke to our students about the impact of their generous donations to our sponsor children.
As God’s people, we are called to help those in need, and it was a beautiful reminder to our students of the difference they can make to others. Each of our primary classes sponsor a child overseas who is affected by poverty. We spend time regularly praying for these children and writing letters to them.
Please visit the Baptist World Aid Sponsorship website for more information about sponsoring a child impacted by poverty and the difference sponsorship can make to a whole community. Thank you to Mrs Davis and Mrs Graham for overseeing the organisation of our child sponsorship at GPCC.
Safety precautions for before school activities
There are various activities such as choir and Wakakirri that occur before school in the CAPA Theatre. If your child is involved in a before school activity, please remind them to use the pathways alongside the MPC rather than the road to reach the theatre as there are often still cars using this access road at that time of the morning.
The Ultimate Dad Competition
We are inviting all Dads to be part of our "Ultimate Dad Competition", a fun and memorable event for Fathers and their K–6 Sons and Daughters. Join us as we celebrate the gift of Fatherhood through friendly challenges, laughs, and quality time together. It’s a great opportunity to create lasting memories, and show your kids what being an awesome Dad is all about.
Students of the Week
Charlie B; KR, Clara F; KS,Jake F; 1G, Ariella R; 1PN,Annabelle C; 1S, Anna N; 2G,Yuna Y; 2J, Mackenzie H; 2K,Havana Y; 3M, Bianca L; 3BM,Owen T; 4H, Emily H; 4KM,Scarlett F; 4P, Leo C; 5B,Harrison L; 5L, Skye B; 5T,Lauren B; 6A, Sophie S; 6B,Grace G; 6SM
Mr Stuart McSwan | K - 6 Sport Co-ordinator
Netball Games vs Coast Christian
Last Friday, both our Junior and Senior netball teams played against Coast Christian School.
Each game displayed exemplary skill and sportswomanship with both teams claiming convincing wins in what was good preparation for the upcoming HCZS Gala Day in Tamworth next month.
Well done to our competitors and thanks to Mrs Sirone and Mrs Milsom for training and coaching the teams.
I’d also like to thank Ruth G (Year 9) and Mia G (Year 11) for giving up their Friday afternoon to umpire the games.
Dates for your Calendar
School Carnivals
| Date | Event | Location |
| TERM 3 | ||
| Friday - 19 September | GPCC K-2 Athletics Carnival | GPCC Grounds |
| TERM 4 | ||
| Friday - 24 October | GPCC K-2 Swimming Carnival | Peninsula Leisure Centre |
Carnival/Sporting levels:
GPCC: Green Point Christian College
HCZS: Hunter Christian Zone Sports (Zone)
CSSA: Christian Schools Sports Association (State)
CIS: Combined Independent Schools
PSSA: Primary School Sports Association
.Representative Carnivals
| Date | Event | Location |
| TERM 2 | ||
| Friday - 30 May | CSSA Primary and Secondary State Cross Country Carnival | Sydney Equestrian Centre |
| Thursday - 12 June | CIS Primary and Secondary Cross Country | TBA |
| Friday - 22 July | NSW PSSA All Schools X-Country Championships | TBA |
| TERM 3 | ||
| Tuesday - 5 August | HCZS Zone Primary Athletics Carnival | Glendale |
| Friday - 22 August | CSSA Primary State Athletics Carnival | Blacktown |
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Friday - 5 September |
CIS Primary Athletics Carnival | TBA |
| TERM 4 | ||
| Wednesday - 22 October | NSW PSSA All Schools Athletics Carnival Day One | TBA |
| Thursday - 23 October | NSW PSSA All Schools Athletics Carnival Day Two | TBA |
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GPCC Sport Teams
We are looking forward to sending our teams to a number of Gala Days and competitions in Primary again this year.
Students will have a chance to trial for certain school teams over the coming terms and will need to keep a close eye on the notices, teacher announcements in class and listen out for Assembly announcements for when trials will be held.
The protocol for team selection link: GPCC_PRIMARY_REPRESENTATIVE_SPORT_TEAM_SELECTION_PROCESS.pdf
- Teams have at least 2-3 trials before final selection.
- Unfortunately, it is simply not possible for all children who trial to be included in final teams. It is not uncommon for 40 students to trial for a team that only has 10 spots available.
- Once teams have been chose, they will aim to have at least one training session each week before a competition.
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Individual Sport Trials for Primary CSSA and CIS Teams (NOT GPCC teams)
These trials are not for GPCC school teams that we trial for here at school (as mentioned above). The CSSA or CIS trials are usually held in Sydney and students will be trialling against students from either other Christian Schools (CSSA) or other Independent Schools (CIS) and are usually recommended for those students that compete at a representative level.
Please email Mr McSwan before these Nomination dates if your child (YEARS 5 AND 6 ONLY) would like to be considered. Students need to be currently playing in the sport at a very high level and have several years' experience (preferably at a Representative level): Parents are required to transports students to and from these trials.
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CSSA and CIS Sport trial dates: Please note these are not for GPCC school teams.
| Term 2 | |
| Monday - 16 June | CIS Primary Boys and Girls Golf trials - Nominations clsoe Tuesday 10 June |
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* Students must be a member of a registered Golf Club (AGU, WGA), Jack Newton Golf Foundaiton, any Junior Development Program and their handicap at the time of nomination does not exceed 32 in the case of boys and 44 in the case of girls. If the field is too large, players may be balloted based on handicap.
Parents will be required to enter the following extra information on your nomination form:
- Golf Club
- GOLF Link Number
- Handicap.
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| Wednesday 18 June | CSSA Primary State Gymnastics Levels Only (select students). Year 6 in Canberra |
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*All competitors are required to have an accredited gymnastics coach from their club attend on the day- Nominations close WEDNESDAY 4 JUNE Note: All competitors must be insured and registered with a Gymnastics NSW affiliated club. The CSSA State Gymnastics Competition is run following the NSW Gymnastics rules and guidelines. Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate students competing under different gymnastic affiliations ie. Recreational Gymnastics Australia (RGA). |
| Wednesday 18 June |
CIS Primary Rugby Union Trials #1 (select students). Nominations close Wednesday 11 June. Year 6 in Canberra |
CSSA have recommended that all adults (teachers, volunteers, and parents) complete the following module on Child Protection before attending any CSSA event (trials, gala days or carnivals). Thank you.
https://old.cssa.net.au/child_protection/index.html#/
Below is a link for the Risk Warning that accompanies all CSSA run events
https://cssa.nsw.edu.au/risk-warning/
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Mr Chris Harris | Years 7 - 12 Sport Co-ordinator
Dates for your Calendar
| Date | Event | Location |
| Wednesday 28th May | Central Coast Premiership City Cup U15s | Carrington Street Oval |
| Thursday 29th May | HCZS Netball Gala Day | Charlestown |
| Friday 30th May | CSSA Secondary Cross Country | Sydney International Equestrian Centre |
Carnival/Sporting levels:
GPCC: Green Point Christian College
HCZS: Hunter Christian Zone Sports (Zone)
CSSA: Christian Schools Sports Association (State)
CIS: Combined Independent Schools
NSWAS: NSW All Schools
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Individual Sport Trials for CSSA and CIS Teams (NOT GPCC teams)
These trials are not for GPCC school teams that we trial for here at school. The CSSA or CIS trials are usually held in Sydney and students will be trialling against students from either other Christian Schools (CSSA) or other Independent Schools (CIS) and are usually recommended for those students that compete at a representative level.
Please email Mr Harris before these Nomination dates if your child would like to be considered. They need to be currently playing in the sport at a very high level and have several years' experience (preferably at a Representative level): Parents are required to transports students to and from these trials.
Any questions about college sporting teams, coaches, gala days, carnivals and trials can be directed to my email charris@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
Follow the yellow brick road and join us for GPCC’s spectacular production of The Wizard of Oz.
Tickets are now available via the QR Code below, don’t miss your chance to see our talented students shine on stage in this much-loved classic.
Seats are limited, so grab yours today before they sell out.
Primary Choir
In week 10 the Choir will be performing for the NAIDOC service a new Indigenous Aboriginal song.
Practice Details
Where: CAPA Theatre
When: Tuesday mornings 8:00am – 8:30am
Who: Students in Grades 1-6
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Wakakirri 2025 - Great Stories Inspire Change
We encourage all students in the production to use the choreography videos on Schoolbox to revise regularly. An email has been sent home with the rehearsal schedule and student group lists, please ensure students are attending their allocated group practice. We look forward to continuing to create a beautiful story.
Mrs Nicole van Wyk and Mrs Judi Hurst | Teacher Librarians
Online Library Resources
Term 2 Storytime
Preschool story time themes for Term 2 are below. Please register your interest with Nicole van Wyk: nvanwyk@gpcc.nsw.edu See the flier for more information.
National Simultaneous Storytime - Wednesday 21 May
On Wednesday 21 May at 12 noon, all students from Kindergarten to Year 2, along with YVCS students, gathered in the library to take part in National Simultaneous Storytime. This year’s featured book was The Truck Cat by Deborah Frenkel, a heartwarming story enjoyed across Australia and beyond. Our students joined in the fun with cat-themed trivia, a group story reading, and some fantastic teacher dress-ups that brought plenty of smiles.
A big thank you to everyone who participated and helped create a memorable experience. We were proud to be part of an incredible total of 2,204,658 participants across 16,632 locations who came together to share the joy of reading The Truck Cat!
![Screenshot 2025-05-21 at 1.53.16 pm[12]](https://gpcc.schoolzineplus.com/_image/media/9026/screenshot_2025_05_21_at_1.53.16_pm_12_.jpg?ts=1747955893)
![Screenshot 2025-05-21 at 1.53.51 pm[61]](https://gpcc.schoolzineplus.com/_image/media/9027/screenshot_2025_05_21_at_1.53.51_pm_61_.jpg?ts=1747955893)
![Screenshot 2025-05-21 at 1.54.45 pm[56]](https://gpcc.schoolzineplus.com/_image/media/9028/screenshot_2025_05_21_at_1.54.45_pm_56_.jpg?ts=1747955894)
![Screenshot 2025-05-21 at 1.55.24 pm[18]](https://gpcc.schoolzineplus.com/_image/media/9029/screenshot_2025_05_21_at_1.55.24_pm_18_.jpg?ts=1747955895)
Maker Space - Machines in Motion
In Week 6 (4-6 June), students are invited to use cog, and gear sets to make machines that move. Students can work in groups of two or three to create machines that move, lift, turn, etc. There will be a sign-up sheet in the library next week (Week 5).
English Texts Returned
Secondary students and families. Please check at home for any overdue English texts. We will be charging families at the end of this term for any English texts that needs to be replaced for classroom use.
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Partners in Education
Prayer at the Post
Next Tuesday 27 May, from 7:45am – 8:30am, you are invited to gather on the basketball courts with our whole school community to pray and to sing. All students, all staff (GPCC and YVCS), and all school families are welcome.
What a privilege, a freedom, and a powerful opportunity it is to live out our faith in community. Our senior students, in particular, have set a beautiful example for the younger years, boldly standing up as followers of Jesus. They are eager to pray, to sing openly, and to gather as a community of believers, declaring with confidence that God is at the centre of our school and the heart of our purpose here.
First Nations Observances
During the second half of Term 2 each year there are three significant events for all Australians. Sorry Day, Reconciliation and NAIDOC. They are not just for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities; these days are observances for everyone.
First Nations events open a conversation where all Australians can discuss our shared history, rich cultural experiences and find a way forward for a strong, inclusive Australia.
| Wednesday 28 May |
Sorry Day & Reconciliation presentation in Life‘Bridging now to Next’ |
7-12 | MPC 12.00pm LIFE |
| Wednesday 28 May |
Sorry Day & Reconciliation Assembly un by Year 6 service team. ‘Bridging now to Next’ |
K-6 | MPC 2.90pm Chapel |
| Tuesday 1 - Wednesday 3 July |
Breawrrina Visitors: Urayne W, Lacey B, Belinda B, Maddy H. |
K-12 |
Cultural activities Bush Foods, Art & Dance. |
| Term 2, Week 10. Wednesday 2 July |
NAIDOC Week "The next generation: Strngth, vision & legacy" |
K-12 |
2.2pm LIFBrewarrina Greetings. Presentation, Cultural Celebration, Community Engagement. 2.20pm |
Transport NSW and Busways
Transport NSW and Busways will visit GPCC the afternoon of Tuesday 3 June. The purpose of this visit is to ascertain whether sufficient transport is provided and to plan for the future needs of our school. Please see letter below.
Parking
A friendly reminder about parking arrangements for drop-off and pick-up:
- Gate 1 and Gate 3 provide access to the Kiss and Drop zones and P1, P3, and P4 parking areas: these are the designated areas for College families.
- Gate 2 and P2 parking spaces are reserved exclusively for Green Point Baptist Church and Little Coasties staff and visitors.
To ensure the safety of our children, staff, and visitors, and to maintain smooth traffic flow, we kindly ask that College families avoid parking or stopping in these restricted areas.
Staff will be monitoring the P2 area to guide parents and carers to the correct zones if needed.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to keep drop-offs and pick-ups safe and efficient for everyone.
Term 2
Tuesday 29 April - Students Commence Term 2
Monday 9 June - King's Birthday Public Holiday
Friday 4 July - Last day Term 2
Term 3
Monday 28 July - Students Commence Term 3
Friday 26 September - Last Day Term 3
Term 4
Monday 13 October - Students commence Term 4
Wednesday 10 December - Last Day Term 4 for students
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2026 TERM DATES
Please see link below for 2026 term dates
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This week we celebrate Christopher Haines for his unwavering support of his colleagues and the vital role he plays in fostering a collaborative and caring culture within the HSIE team, particularly in relation to Schoolbox.
Christopher consistently demonstrates a selfless commitment to helping others, offering clear guidance and practical support to ensure his team is equipped to navigate new processes and technologies. His encouragement and efficiency in using platforms like Schoolbox have made a significant difference, simplifying tasks and building confidence among staff.
With patience, compassion, and a servant-hearted approach, Christopher exemplifies the GPCC learning profile values of collaboration and Godly character. We’re grateful for the positive impact he continues to have on our team and our school community.
National Sorry Day (26 May)
National Sorry Day is about remembering and commemorating the Stolen Generations, and recognising how this history affects many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families. Even within our own school community families have been affected by this difficult period of Australian history.
We remember as a sign of respect and solidarity with First Nations Australians. Sorry Day is the day before Reconciliation Week.
National Reconciliation Week (27 May-3 June)
National Reconciliaiton Week represents an opportunity for all Australians to learn about this country’s shared histories, cultures, and achievements. And to explore how relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and other Australians can be strengthened, in order to build momentum for national reconciliation.
Next week we will have some student feedback about Reconciliation Week and some images from classrooms.
Uniform Shop
2025 Uniform Shop Trading hours
Monday: 8:00am - 10:30am
Wednesday: 1:30pm - 4:00pm
Thursday: 8:00am - 10:30am
Friday: 8:00am - 10:30am
For the price list and further information on ordering through Alinta, please visit our website – https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/enrolment/uniform.
Cash will no longer be accepted as of 1 June 2025.
Please click on the PDF flyer below for further information regarding Uniform fittings.
The Munchery Canteen Operations and Menu
Please note: All bakery goods will now be supplied by Bakers Delight.
Click on link to access: THE MUNCHERY MENU
All students are strongly encouraged to order online. However, over the counter sales are also available.
Please visit the GPCC website for the link to The Munchery portal: https://www.gpcc.nsw.edu.au/community/the-munchery-canteen
Munch Monitor Account Settings
To assist the staff at the Munchery Canteen in serving your children, if you have a Munch Monitor account you may indicate your preferences for snack money, a daily or weekly limit, and if your child has any allergies.
Please note that The Munchery Staff are under strict instruction to follow these preferences. Please log into your account and update these settings if required.
Please download document below for more information.
Camp Australia
Booking for the Camp Australia Rocketeers Winter School Holiday Program will be open from Monday 19th May.
Early bookings are highly recommended, with a minimum of 13 bookings each day required for the program to proceed. Confirmation of the program going ahead will be made on 20 June.
Book via the Parent Portal or visit https://www.campaustralia.com.au/rocketeers.
Dance Camp Holiday Program
Blood Donations
Got a bit of time next week? Time to give blood and change lives? 1 in 3 people in Terrigal will need blood, and they need people like you to give it. We’re rolling into town on 27 to 31 May. Don’t forget to pre-book your spot at Lifeblood.com.au, on our app or on 13 14 95.
.Green Point Community Notices
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Firewood for Sale
Call Brian for further information: 0404 478 341
Green Point Baptist Church
Services: 9:30am Worship Service, 6:00pm Service
Services continue to be available online each week.
One of the hopes behind this initiative is that it will be a blessing to our school community, offering connection, encouragement, and support to GPCC parents and carers in the early years of parenting.
If you would like to place an community advertisement in the Green Point Community Notices, please email details to our Messenger Editor, Christina Hutchinson at newsletter@gpcc.nsw.edu.au
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