ELTHAM College Family News June 12 2026

For a complete list of College activities take a look at the calendar on mE.

Events and dates may be subject to change.

Key Dates

16 June – General Achievement Test (GAT) (Year 12 and eligible VCE students) 

16 June – Year 7 Band Concert

17 June – Year 12 Hump Day Activities 

22–24 June – Year 10 Retreat

25 June – Year 5–12 Assembly

26 June – Term 2 Concludes (All Students) 

Please refer to the Junior School Newsletter for upcoming events and activities.

From the Archives

This photograph captures a familiar College landmark, with the sculpture featured in the foreground and the original Music Building visible in the background. Completed in 1980, the building was a significant addition to the campus and remains a fond memory for many members of the ELTHAM community.

Esmae Boutros

Archivist

Nillumbik House has been recognised for its efforts in supporting FightMND as part of ELTHAM College’s Service Learning Program, raising awareness and funds for motor neurone disease research through a series of community initiatives.

As Nillumbik House’s chosen charity partner for 2026, students organised the sale of Big Freeze beanies to staff, students and families across the College community. The response was overwhelming, with all beanies selling out within the first week of sales, a wonderful reflection of the generosity and support shown by the ELTHAM community.

Last Friday, students and staff proudly wore their Big Freeze beanies in support of FightMND and the AFL Big Freeze match. The day also provided an opportunity to acknowledge the extraordinary contribution of FightMND co-founder Neale Daniher and the lasting impact of his advocacy and leadership.

The fundraising efforts continued with a highly anticipated Big Freeze Ice Dunk event, which brought plenty of excitement and laughter to the school community. Director of Senior School Lesley Moulin, Year 12 Coordinator Simone Kenny and Year 11 Coordinator Nick Milne bravely volunteered to take part in the icy challenge, with students who donated a gold coin given the opportunity to be selected to pour the buckets.

The success of the fundraiser was made possible through the dedication and leadership of the Nillumbik House student leadership team, including House Captains Patrick Knight and Solveig Yen, House Leaders Ethan Kent and Pip Hanson, together with the support of Nillumbik House Coordinator Oliver Ashkar and many staff members who assisted behind the scenes.

ELTHAM College congratulates Nillumbik House on delivering such a successful fundraiser and thanks all students, staff and families who purchased beanies, donated and participated throughout the campaign. The initiative was a wonderful example of student leadership, community spirit and service in action.

Alisha Bennett 

MECA, Digital Marketing & Content Assistant

On Friday 29 May, ELTHAM College warmly welcomed back members of the Class of 2024 for a reunion evening at Platform 3095. Around 50 graduates returned to catch up with friends and staff, sharing stories and reflecting on their experiences since graduating from the College.

The evening provided an opportunity for alumni to reconnect and hear about the many different pathways they have pursued since leaving ELTHAM. Conversations throughout the night centred on university studies, gap year adventures, career opportunities, travel experiences and plans for the future.

Guests enjoyed finger food and drinks in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere as friendships were renewed and recent achievements celebrated. It was wonderful to see so many familiar faces together again and to witness the strong sense of connection that continues beyond graduation.

A special thank you to staff Sim Kenny, Cheryl-Anne White and Guy Mitchell for joining the celebration. Their presence added to the occasion and highlighted the lasting relationships formed within the ELTHAM community.

We thank all members of the Class of 2024 who attended and look forward to following their journeys and achievements in the years ahead.

Lisa Burleigh

Community Engagement Coordinator

The ELTHAM College community is warmly invited to attend this year’s production of Les Misérables, with tickets now available for purchase through Humanitix.

We encourage families and friends to secure tickets early, as strong interest is expected across all performances. This much-loved musical will be brought to life by our talented students, whose hard work and dedication have been instrumental in preparing for the production season.

Performance Dates

Thursday 13 August – 7.00pm

Friday 14 August – 7.00pm

Saturday 15 August – 2.00pm

Saturday 15 August Gala Performance – 6.45pm arrival for a 7.30pm performance

Guests attending the Gala Performance will enjoy a pre-show drink and light refreshments included with their ticket.

Audience members also have the opportunity to pre-purchase a program when booking tickets. As only a limited number of printed programs will be available during the season, pre-orders are encouraged to support accurate print quantities and the College’s sustainability efforts.

Please note that, although this is the School Edition of Les Misérables, the production includes mature themes consistent with the original work, including depictions of violence and death, as well as some coarse language. Adult supervision is recommended for younger audience members.

We look forward to sharing this incredible production with our community and celebrating the outstanding work of our students both on and off the stage.

Tickets available via Humanitix:

Thursday, Friday & Saturday Matinee Tickets

Saturday Gala Performance Tickets

Nicole Howard

Performing Arts Coordinator

Preparations are well underway for ELTHAM College's 2026 production of Les Misérables – School Edition, with students and staff working hard behind the scenes as rehearsals continue and production elements begin to take shape.

As part of the set and prop construction process, the Performing Arts team is seeking assistance from the ELTHAM College community. Donations of second-hand items would greatly assist in creating the authentic world of nineteenth-century France and bringing the production's iconic barricade and scenes to life on stage.

We are currently seeking the following items:

• Wooden wagon wheel (or part thereof)
• Old silverware, including cups, cutlery, goblets, candlesticks, tankards and jugs (silver or brass; no glass items)
• Old wooden chairs
• Barrels or half barrels
• Small wooden tables
• Old coins
• Antique-style walking sticks or canes
• Old pails
• Straw brooms
• Hessian sacks
• Washboards
• Old fabric, tablecloths or curtains
• Wicker or woven baskets
• Table crosses or ornamental crucifixes
• Rag dolls
• Porcelain dolls
• Thick nautical-style rope
• Old wooden doors

If you have any of these items and would be willing to donate them to the production, please contact Performing Arts Coordinator Nicole Howard via email at nhoward@elthamcollege.vic.edu.au.

To assist the production team in determining suitability, please include a photograph of the item along with a brief description in your email.

We thank our community for its ongoing support of the Performing Arts program and look forward to sharing this extraordinary production with audiences in August.

Nicole Howard

Performing Arts Coordinator

Students from Years 10 and 11 came together on Saturday 30 May for the 2026 Formal, enjoying an evening of celebration, friendship and fun at the Manningham Hotel.

Arriving dressed for the occasion, students enjoyed an evening filled with laughter, conversation and shared experiences. Guests were treated to a delicious three-course meal and refreshments throughout the evening before taking part in a range of activities. The photobooth proved a popular attraction, with students capturing fun moments with friends and taking home keepsakes from the night.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Formal Awards, recognising a number of students and adding an extra element of excitement to the celebrations. Following the awards, the dance floor quickly filled as students embraced the opportunity to celebrate together and enjoy the remainder of the evening.

The 2026 Year 10 and 11 Formal was a fantastic opportunity for students to connect, celebrate and enjoy time together outside the classroom.

A huge thank you to our staff, particularly Event Coordinator Dannielle, with support from Kate in the Senior School Office, whose hard work and dedication helped make the evening possible. We also extend our thanks to Year 10 Coordinator Andrew Bishop, Year 11 Coordinator Nick Milne, Principal/CEO Richard Lisle, Deputy Director of Senior School Shane Chellingworth, and teaching staff Nathan Auld, Antoine Flores Gracia and Vincent Setunga for their support throughout the event. Congratulations also to all students who attended and contributed to the positive atmosphere throughout the evening.

Lesley Moulin

Director of Senior School

Last week, the Creative Writing Club headed into Melbourne in search of inspiration. Students explored the NGV’s First Nations Collection and Top Arts exhibition, using key artworks as prompts to develop their own creative writing.

The group then navigated Melbourne’s bustling tram network on their way to the City Campus, where students enjoyed exploring the spaces and learning more about the opportunities available to them in Year 9. After lunch at Melbourne Central, with sushi, bento boxes and hot chips proving popular choices, students spent time browsing the shelves at Readings Bookshop.

The excursion concluded at ACMI, where students engaged with a range of interactive exhibits that sparked creativity and curiosity. It was a fantastic day of exploration, inspiration and learning with a wonderful group of students.

The Creative Writing Club is open to Year 7 and 8 students and meets every Wednesday at lunchtime. New members are always welcome.
 

Kylie Price
Head of Literacy

Student writing from the day.

Inspired by art depicting a goanna looking up at birds in a tree

He stared upwards, thinking. Thinking of how unfair it was. They got to be free, leave this hell that had been made by man. Undervalued, he stood under that tree wishing. Praying. The smoke filled the air enclosing the last part of his autonomy. The horns blew arrogantly. He knew it would soon be over. Freedom is a luxury only given to some. Wishing was futile, for soon the world would be encased by the storm and smoke, leaving us to the blinding light…

• Bianca, Year 8

Inspired by traditional bark paintings depicting mermaids.    

Her voice rang out among the cliffs

The ship turned facing towards her

Waves lapped as the ship pulled closer

Human screams were drowned out by the waves

She smiled, the taste of death on her lips.

• Eleanor, Year 8

 Inspired by the animal sculptures at the NGV

Leo is very fluffy. He loves humans and socialising, but he seriously hates other cats. The theory on ginger cats, that they are crazy, is very true when it comes to Leo. He usually loves pets, but only on his terms: he must only be petted when he jumps on you and if you pet his stomach, he will swipe at you. He is also obsessed with wet food and tuna, he also stole food last, last Christmas

• Asha, Year 7

Pride Month is celebrated annually throughout June and is a time to recognise, celebrate and support the LGBTQIA+ community. 

It is an opportunity to acknowledge the importance of inclusion, respect and belonging, while also recognising the ongoing journey toward equality and acceptance for all people regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

Pride Month has its origins in the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in New York City, a pivotal moment in LGBTQIA+ history that sparked a global movement advocating for equal rights and visibility. Today, Pride Month is celebrated around the world through community events, education, advocacy and opportunities to foster connection and support.

For schools and families, Pride Month serves as an important reminder of the role we all play in creating safe, welcoming and inclusive environments where young people feel seen, valued and supported. Encouraging conversations about diversity and inclusion helps students develop empathy, understanding and respect for others and themselves.

Representation and visibility can have a significant impact on the wellbeing of young people. Creating spaces where students feel comfortable expressing who they are contributes positively to confidence, connection and mental health. It is through inclusive communities that we can continue to foster a culture of kindness, belonging and acceptance for all members of the ELTHAM College community.

Pride Month is not only a celebration of identity and diversity, but also an opportunity to continue learning, listening and supporting one another. By promoting awareness and encouraging respectful conversations, we help create a community where everyone feels empowered to be themselves.

For families and students interested in exploring further support, events and wellbeing resources during Pride Month, a selection of organisations and resources are available below.

For Further Resources:

https://www.minus18.org.au/

https://www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au/Community/Diversity-and-inclusion/LGBTIQA

https://www.nillumbikyouth.vic.gov.au/Programs/Rainbow-Events

Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances among young people, making it an important topic for families to address early and often. From the primary years onwards, children are exposed to messages about alcohol through social situations, media and online content. Starting age-appropriate conversations early can help build healthy attitudes, strengthen trust and make later discussions during adolescence easier and more effective.

As children grow older, curiosity, peer influence and increasing independence can increase the likelihood of experimentation. Research shows that strong family communication, clear expectations and positive role modelling are key protective factors in helping young people make safer and healthier choices.

This edition of SchoolTV explores the impact of alcohol on children and adolescents and offers practical strategies to help families navigate this important topic with confidence and care.

https://elthamcollege.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/drinking-alcohol-au

For all information regarding the Sport program including Carnivals, EISM Fixtures, Team Lists, Training Sessions and Seasonal Sporting events please visit the ELTHAM College Sports page on mE link below.

2025 sees us move to our new improved newsletter, which is now available fortnightly.

Key Dates and more timely information will be shared via the mE app. If you have not already installed the mE app on your phone and enabled notifications, we ask our families to do so.

Parents can access this information from the Information for Families page on mE and by clicking on the mE App tile. 

Final reminder! Tickets are selling fast for ECCA’s Hollywood-themed Trivia Night, taking place on Saturday 20 June at Swipers Gully Training Restaurant.

Gather your table, dress in your best Hollywood-inspired outfit and enjoy a fun-filled evening of trivia, entertainment and prizes, all while supporting the wonderful work of A Big Group Hug.

The evening will run from 6.30pm – 10.30pm and tickets are $55 per person, including finger food and two alcoholic drinks.

As the next edition of Family News will be published after the event, this is the final opportunity to secure your tickets and be part of what promises to be a fantastic night for the ELTHAM community.

Saturday 20 June

6.30pm – 10.30pm

Swipers Gully Training Restaurant

18+ event.

Bookings are essential via Humanitix.

Planning a visit to Swipers Gully Vineyard & Restaurant before the end of term?

As a reminder to our community, our coffee shop and restaurant will be taking a short break over the school holidays.

Coffee Shop

 • Last day of service: Friday 26 June

 • Reopens: Tuesday 14 July

 • Closed: 15–17 July (Year 8 Retreat)

 • Reopens as normal from Monday 20 July

Restaurant

 • Last day of service: Thursday 18 June

 • Reopens: Wednesday 22 July

As a student-led hospitality venue, reopening dates align with student learning programs and training schedules.

Located on the grounds of ELTHAM College, Swipers Gully Vineyard & Restaurant provides students with valuable hands-on hospitality experience in an authentic industry setting, supporting the development of practical skills, confidence and workplace readiness.

We thank our community for its ongoing support and look forward to welcoming you back next term.

Child Safety at ELTHAM College

All staff at ELTHAM College are responsible for providing a safe environment and the protection of children and young people within our care, including promoting physical, emotional and cultural safety. All staff are responsible for reporting information about suspected child abuse. All staff share in the responsibility for the prevention and detection of child abuse and promptly raise any issues or concerns about a child’s safety. All staff are required to follow the School’s Child Safe policies and Child Safety Code of Conduct.

ELTHAM College takes a zero-tolerance approach to child abuse and is fully committed to ensuring that its strategies, policies, procedures, and practices meet all Child Safe Standards as specified in Ministerial Order No. 1359 (2022).  All applicants should refer to our Child Safety Policy and Code of Conduct found at Policies - Eltham College.