This week we gather to celebrate a remarkable moment in the life of our school community, our Year 12 Graduation. It’s a day filled with memories, laughter, and maybe even a few tears, as we look back on the journey that has brought our students to this milestone.

When I see our graduates walking across the stage, I can’t help but think about time. Time is one of the most precious gifts we are given, and it moves so quickly. For some of our students, that time has stretched over 13 or 14 years here since Prep or Kindergarten. We remember them in oversized uniforms, learning their first sight words, running around the playground with boundless energy. Today, those same children stand before us as confident young adults, ready to step into the world beyond school. What a privilege it has been to walk alongside them on this journey.

None of this happens alone. To our parents, thank you. From packing lunchboxes in the early years, to encouraging late-night study sessions in the senior years, your dedication has been unwavering. Especially in these last few months of HSC preparation, your calm presence and encouragement have meant more to your children than words could ever capture.

We also thank the grandparents, siblings, aunties, uncles, and extended families who have cheered from the sidelines. You’ve turned up to concerts, sports carnivals, and graduations, and you’ve quietly supported in ways that often go unseen but never unnoticed. Your love has been a steady anchor.

And of course, to our staff. Graduation is always a reminder that schools are built on relationships. Our teachers and support staff have poured their time, energy, and hearts into these students. You’ve not only taught them subjects, but you’ve modelled what it looks like to live with purpose, compassion, and integrity.

That word, integrity, is at the heart of what we celebrate today. Integrity is doing the right thing even when no one is watching. It’s staying true to your values in the little moments as well as the big ones. For us, those values have been respect, resilience, responsibility, and attitude. We have seen our graduates live these values in the classroom, on the sports field, in service projects, and in the way they treat one another. These are the qualities that will guide them far beyond the HSC.

Our college verse reminds us: “Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord” (Psalm 31:24). As our Year 12s step into the next chapter, may they carry this verse in their hearts. May they have the strength to face challenges, the courage to hold to their values, and the integrity to live out what they believe.

To our Year 12s: your time here may be ending, but what you carry forward matters most. Cherish the lessons, treasure the friendships, thank the people who stood by you, and step boldly into the future with Christ as your guide.

Congratulations, Year 12. We are so proud of you, and we can’t wait to see what God will do through your lives.

In Week 9 of Term 3, MAC hosted a Week of Spiritual Emphasis (WOSE), with the theme of Echo, focusing on the ripple effect of the choices we make in life. The theme was chosen with our Year 6 and Year 12 students in mind as they prepare to graduate and transition to another chapter of their lives.

Our guest speaker was Pr Cedric Peniata from Canberra, who shared inspiring messages with both Primary and High School students. Highlights from the Primary WOSE included fun icebreakers and entertaining daily skits performed by students. The High School program featured special items from students and a moving response from those who stood for an appeal to be used by God.

Beyond the program, Pr Cedric connected with students on a personal level, joining in with the high school lunchtime volleyball competition and a Primary Teachers vs Students basketball game.

It was a week filled with fun, learning, and praising God, and we hope the messages shared will inspire our students to make choices that create a positive Echo in their lives. A key verse of the week, Matthew 5:16, states: “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” It is our prayer that our students will continue to let their light shine brightly and in doing so, God may be glorified.

So let your light Shine,

MAC Chaplaincy Team.

Year 6 Canberra Trip – A Camp to Remember!

Students from our school have recently undertaken an education Camp of the national capital. This exciting opportunity allowed them to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia's history, culture, heritage, and democracy, and what an adventure it was!

Our Year 6 students set off with enthusiasm and returned with unforgettable memories. From the moment we arrived in Canberra, the learning and laughter never stopped.

We kicked off with a visit to Questacon , where science came alive through hands-on exhibits and thrilling experiments. At Parliament House , students explored the heart of Australian democracy, even standing in the very rooms where national decisions are made.

A moving experience at the Australian War Memorial helped students reflect on the sacrifices made for our country, while the National Gallery of Australia inspired awe with its stunning artworks and creative spaces.

The view from Mount Ainslie was absolutely breathtaking, giving students a bird’s-eye perspective of the capital. At the National Capital Exhibition , they learned how Canberra was designed and why it plays such a vital role in our national story.

Of course, there was plenty of time for fun and friendship too! The Pod Playground was a hit, with students climbing, sliding, and laughing together. And our night of bowling was a highlight, filled with friendly competition, team spirit, and lots of laughs. It was a perfect way to bond and celebrate the camp.

We’re incredibly grateful for the support of the Australian Government , which recognises the importance of all young Australians visiting the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. Through the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) program, our school received $30 per student to help cover the cost of the excursion. This funding is paid directly to the school upon completion of the trip.

This excursion was more than just a school trip, it was a journey of learning, growth, and connection. Our Year 6 students returned with new knowledge, lasting memories, and a deeper appreciation for what it means to be Australian.

A huge thank you to our incredible staff for their dedication and care throughout the camp, and to our legendary bus drivers Pete and Rob , who kept us safe and smiling and laughing every step of the way. Most of all, thank you to our amazing Year 6 students, your enthusiasm, respect, and sense of fun made this trip truly unforgettable. You represented our school with pride and created memories that will last a lifetime. Well done, team!

Mr Goldfinch aka Mr G

Year 12 PDHPE Physio Visit

On Friday, 12 September, Year 12 PDHPE students visited DrFitPhysio in Preston to deepen their understanding of the syllabus content on rehabilitation procedures, which falls under the HSC critical question, “How is injury rehabilitation managed?”

Throughout the session, students engaged by listening, asking questions, and participating in practical activities that explored each stage of the rehabilitation process. They gained valuable insights into how specific injuries—such as a hamstring tear and a shoulder dislocation—are treated and managed through rehabilitation.

The experience not only enhanced their knowledge of injury management but also provided a real-world perspective into the role of physiotherapists. This learning opportunity will support students as they prepare for their upcoming HSC examinations.

In our Maths Department, we are making word problems a regular part of our teaching. Word problems help students do more than just calculate – they teach them to understand situations, choose the right strategies, and apply maths to real life .

Research shows that when students practise with meaningful, real-world problems, they become stronger problem-solvers and more confident learners. They learn not only how to do the maths, but also when and why to use it.

To share this journey with our school community, we’ll be posting examples of the word problems students are tackling in class. We invite parents to try them at home – it’s a great way to see the kind of thinking and reasoning skills your children are building.

Some example questions are below...

At MacArthur Adventist College, we are deeply committed to the well-being and safety of all children and young people under our care. We aim to provide an environment that supports their education and personal growth, helping them lead meaningful, joy-filled lives, build strong friendships with God, and develop the character traits of kindness, service, and integrity.

As part of our commitment, we want to reaffirm that the safety, welfare, and well-being of every child at our college is of the utmost importance. Our dedicated staff work tirelessly to ensure that MacArthur Adventist College remains a safe and nurturing environment, free from harm and abuse.

We hold a zero tolerance for child abuse and view our child protection responsibilities as one of the highest priorities. The college is fully committed to complying with all relevant child protection laws and regulations, ensuring both physical and online spaces remain safe for all students.

We appreciate the trust you place in us and work alongside families to support our children and young people in their journey of growth, with a strong foundation of Bible-based values and selfless service to their communities.

Together, we can create an environment where all students are protected and empowered to thrive.

Thank you for your continued support in making MacArthur Adventist College a safe and loving place for every child.