As we conclude another school year, I am filled with gratitude and pride for our school community. This year, we have witnessed remarkable examples of effort, determination, and growth in our students. The courage to try new and challenging things, whether in academics, sports, the arts, or service, has been truly inspiring. Students have stepped out of their comfort zones, deepened their understanding, and built skills that will serve them well beyond the classroom.

Equally heartening has been the formation of new friendships and the strengthening of old ones. In a world that often seems disconnected, the relationships built here remind us of our call to love and support one another. These bonds, rooted in kindness and mutual respect, are a testament to the values we strive to uphold.

None of this would be possible without the dedication and commitment of our staff. Teachers and support staff have gone above and beyond to nurture the academic, spiritual, and emotional well-being of every student. Your hard work does not go unnoticed, and I thank you sincerely.

As we enter the Christmas season, may it be a time of joy and reflection. I wish all our students and families a blessed Christmas and a restful, rejuvenating summer break.

“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” (Isaiah 9:6)

We had a very special celebration last Friday evening, recognising our Year 6 students as they reached the end of their Primary School journey. A special moment was looking back at photos of our Year 6 students, through the years at OCS. How they have changed since Kindergarten!

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs. Sarah Milligan for her work across Stage 1 this year, where she stepped in to cover maternity leave positions. Her dedication and willingness to support our students have been greatly appreciated. Mrs. Genna Pade also commences maternity leave at the end of this term, and we warmly welcome back Mrs. Chloe Bertram and Mrs. Amanda Sims from the start of next year.

This term has been a very busy one for our Primary students and they are to be congratulated for their efforts. I hope you will all have an enjoyable, safe and restful holiday break.

As this year draws to a close, I would love to take this opportunity to extend my gratitude to all the parents and caregivers for entrusting us with your children and for your support throughout the year. To our dedicated staff, thank you for your enthusiasm, hard work, and commitment—it is truly valued and appreciated. To our students, I hope you enjoy a fantastic break and return next year refreshed and ready to embrace the exciting opportunities God has in store for 2025.

I wish our entire school community a safe and blessed Christmas, and a Happy New Year. God bless.

What a year in Student Development! We have embarked on new camp sites and venues, worked with school leaders and inducted and handed over to new leaders for a new year. We have discussed effective study techniques, thought about careers, apprenticeships university and other post school opportunities. It has been a very real privilege to work with students across the school throughout 2024. Thank you to staff, students and parents for your wonderful support particularly for parents who assisted with camps. I hope that you all have a wonderful and blessed Christmas and look forward to sharing together in the adventure of 2025.

We have had an amazing year at Prep! It has been a blessing to see how the children have grown and developed and become confident young children. This week, we celebrated the end of year by having a Pizza, Popper and Popsicle Picnic in our Prep yard. On Wednesday we joined the school by dressing up in our Christmas gear. On Thursday, we joined the Prep-Year 6 Thanksgiving Service by performing an item on stage. The children looked forward to going on stage and showcasing their talents in front of an audience.

The Prep staff wish everyone a happy and joyful Christmas.

As we draw to the end of another year filled with sporting achievements, teamwork, and personal milestones, I am reminded of the profound connection between sport and our walk with Christ. Sport has always been more than just physical activity; it is a platform where character is forged, lessons are learned, and truth is tested.

In sport, truth matters. The truth of the scoreboard, the honesty in fair play, and the commitment to giving your all reflect principles that align deeply with God’s Word. As followers of Christ, we are called to live lives of integrity—both on and off the field.

The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Corinthians, writes: “Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable.” (1 Corinthians 9:24-25). This passage reminds us that while earthly victories are fleeting, the ultimate goal of our life’s race is eternal.

True competition is not about comparing ourselves to others, but about striving to bring glory to God through the gifts He has entrusted to us. It is about showing perseverance when the game is tough, humility in victory, and grace in defeat. When we play by the rules, we honour not only the game but also the One who gave us the ability to compete.

This year, I have witnessed countless examples of our students living out these values in our school’s sporting community. From the junior teams learning the basics of teamwork, to our senior athletes showing leadership on and off the field, it has been a blessing to see our students strive to honour God through their actions.

However, the most inspiring moments were not always about winning. They were found in acts of kindness—a player helping an opponent off the ground, a team rallying to encourage a struggling member, or an athlete persevering through challenges with a heart full of gratitude. These moments reflect the truth of Christ’s love, as they remind us of Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”

As we prepare for the coming year, let us commit to running our race with integrity. Whether it’s in sport, academics, or daily life, may we strive to reflect the truth and love of Christ in all that we do. Let us be athletes who compete not for personal glory, but to shine God’s light for others to see.

Thank you for your continued support of our sports team and our sporting programs, but most of all our students. It is a joy and a privilege to see how God is at work in the lives of our students. I look forward to seeing His plans unfold in the year ahead.

May we all run our races with purpose and truth, keeping our eyes fixed on the ultimate prize—a life lived for Christ.

From the 2024 sports team we wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and look forward to another exciting year in 2025 – another year full of sporting opportunities.