Mrs Dunwoody shares an update on the refurbishment of Barbara Sutton Hall, and Mrs McClure reflects on her time on the European Music Tour.
We hope all members of our school community, students, staff and families, enjoyed a restful and restorative break. The school is once again buzzing with energy and anticipation for the many opportunities and events that lie ahead.
Term Three is always a rich and vibrant time in the school calendar, and this year is no exception. From the House Readers Cup, House Music, GSV events, Year 8 Camp, Upskill programs, National Science Week, CamberWELL/Book Week, and of course, this year’s Senior School and VCE Theatre Studies Production of Wolves: are coming for you, there is much to look forward to and to celebrate.
Our first two weeks back have been marked by a sense of reconnection and renewed enthusiasm. Last week, students participated in the annual Winter Sleep Out, raising awareness and vital funds for the Salvation Army. We also saw students stepping beyond the CGGS gates and applying their learning to real world contexts, with excursions exploring urban design in Elwood, Islam at the Australian International Academy, and diplomacy and language at a Year 12 French Model UN event.
Furthermore, our Upskill program this week offered a rich and diverse day of learning across the Secondary School. Senior students took part in practical workshops on wellbeing, LinkedIn, financial and digital literacy, and academic masterclasses, while Middle School students had workshops exploring First Nations culture, wellbeing and sustainability in the fashion industry. It has certainly been an exciting and energising start to the term!
As we look ahead, we remind families of the vital role they play in supporting student learning. There are several ways to stay informed and engaged throughout the term. The myCGGS portal remains the central hub for accessing subject materials, assessment tasks, teacher feedback, and academic progress. Semester Two Learning Conversations also offer a meaningful opportunity for students to reflect on their growth and set goals in partnership with their teachers. These conversations will take place on the afternoon of Monday 11 August and throughout Tuesday 12 August. We encourage all families to prioritise these discussions and connect with their child’s teachers on these days.
We look forward to sharing highlights and achievements with you throughout the term via CamNews, and wish everyone a happy, productive and fulfilling start to Term 3.
Kath Woolcock
Head of Senior School
Tom Clark
Head of Middle School
Last week, our Year 7 students had the privilege of meeting Murrundindi, the ngurungaeta (head man) of the Wurundjeri people and a proud descendant of William Barak (1824–1903). Known historically as ‘King William, last chief of the Yarra Yarra tribe’, Barak played a significant role as a cultural leader and advocate for his people.
Murrundindi generously shared stories from his ancestral past, helping to illuminate the long and rich history of the Wurundjeri people. With warmth and wisdom, he introduced students to a remarkable collection of cultural artefacts, which offered tangible insight into the traditions, skills, and ingenuity of Australia’s First Peoples.
The students enthusiastically engaged with the materials, demonstrating curiosity and deep respect as they explored the historical significance of each item. This incursion perfectly complemented the launch of our Ancient Australia Unit in Year 7 History, offering a unique opportunity for students to connect classroom learning with a living cultural perspective.
We extend our sincere thanks to Murrundindi for sharing his knowledge and time with us, a meaningful experience that enriched our understanding of Australia’s ancient past and its ongoing legacy.
From the students
“The best part about this incursion was finding out what all the different artefacts were used for and how old they really are.”
“Today’s incursion made me want to know more about Aboriginal Australians. I really want to know what their experiences were back then and why did they choose to live in Victoria.”
“I loved listening about Murrindindi’s family and ancestors. I thought it was cool that one of his ancestors signed the treaty when the English first came. It was really cool to know about his family.”
Joshua Cozzio
Head of History
Last week, our Year 10 History students visited the Melbourne Holocaust Museum as part of their study of the Holocaust and broader themes of genocide, resistance, and human rights.
Students had the powerful opportunity to hear firsthand from Joe Szwarcberg, a Holocaust survivor who was born in Poland in 1930. At just nine years old, Joe and his family were forced into a ghetto following the Nazi invasion. Despite facing unimaginable hardship, including separation from his family and deportation to labour and concentration camps, Joe survived the Holocaust and was eventually reunited with his sisters after the war.
His testimony reminded students of the human stories behind historical events and helped bring to life the importance of memory, resilience, and resistance in the face of persecution.
Throughout the day, students engaged thoughtfully with artefacts, exhibits, and workshops that explored both the causes and consequences of the Holocaust. They were especially challenged to reflect on the many forms of resistance; spiritual, cultural, and physical, that emerged during this time.
We commend our students for the maturity and empathy they demonstrated, and we thank the Melbourne Holocaust Museum for providing such a valuable learning experience. Special thanks also go to the staff who supported the students throughout the day.
From the Students:
“During the visit I felt very touched and immersed emotionally into the event. I think it was a great opportunity to get some foundational understanding before starting the History Unit on WWII. The message Joe gave on was not to hate others, and to maintain a motivation to live despite the hardships in life, no matter what they are.”
“During the visit to the museum, I felt very emotional and touched by the information provided by our guide. I think it was a great experience for me to gain knowledge about this significant event, and I now know a lot more than what I did prior to this excursion. A message that stayed with me after this event was the message that Joe told us about how not to hate others, and to continue having hope, even in times of hardship.”
Joshua Cozzio
Head of History
Hannah L continues to pursue her passion for the French Horn through outstanding live performances. Most recently, she competed in the Ringwood Eisteddfod Woodwind and Brass Open Solo competition, where she was awarded first place for her exceptional musicianship. In recognition of this achievement, Hannah was invited to perform at the Grand Final Gala Concert, a showcase of the finest emerging classical musicians.
At the Gala, Hannah was awarded first place overall, receiving the Instrumental Grand Prize as the most outstanding instrumental talent of the evening. Her performance of Olivier Messiaen’s Appel Interstellaire was met with high praise. The adjudicator remarked that Hannah’s interpretation “displayed extraordinary musical maturity, impeccable technique, and a profound sensitivity to the spiritual and sonic depths of the work.”
Hannah’s musical journey continues with an upcoming live performance on 3MBS radio’s The Talent, a weekly program supporting young and emerging artists through live-to-air experiences and mentorship. After a successful audition, Hannah will perform live on Tuesday 16 September, with the episode airing at 7:00pm. This opportunity will allow her to share her artistry with a broader audience and receive valuable feedback from respected industry professionals.
We congratulate Hannah on her remarkable accomplishments and look forward to hearing her captivating performance on 3MBS.
Hannah’s Reflection
Winning first prize at the Ringwood Grand Final Gala Concert was such a rewarding and memorable experience. Performing alongside musicians of all ages and instruments challenged and inspired me, and I was genuinely thrilled to be recognised. Being selected for 3MBS ‘The Talent’, a radio program that showcases emerging classical musicians, has been an incredible opportunity; I can’t wait to share my music with a wider audience. More than anything, I had so much fun performing and I was reminded of how much I love connecting with people through music.
Kate Savige and Rohan Mack
Directors of Music
On 28 July, our Year 12 French students took part in the French Model United Nations, an immersive and thought-provoking event that combined diplomacy, debate, and language skills. This year’s topic: Artificial Intelligence and Sustainable Development: Harnessing the Benefits – Safeguarding Human Rights, challenged students to consider the ethical and practical implications of emerging technologies on a global scale.
Our students represented Ghana, Bolivia and Australia, joining over 80 other students who each spoke on behalf of one of 23 United Nations member states. In the lead-up to the event, the students worked hard to research their allocated countries, focusing on national policies, priorities, and perspectives on artificial intelligence.
While nerves were high at the start of the day, the students quickly found their voice. Each group presented its country’s position statement with confidence and then actively contributed to the debate. They proposed and amended clauses, as well as responded thoughtfully to amendments suggested by other countries.
The day was not only a chance to practise advanced French in an authentic setting but also an opportunity to develop teamwork, critical thinking, and public speaking skills. We are proud of how each student embraced the challenge and represented both their countries and our school with determination and insight.
Dr Jo Rittey
Head of Languages
French Teacher
One of the initiatives we are most proud of this year is the Puzzle Pursuit. What started as a simple idea to celebrate the rich multiculturalism within our school community and grew into something far more meaningful. Each puzzle piece represented a different country, and as students searched for them and pieced them together, they quite literally built a visual metaphor of who we are as a community: diverse, vibrant, and beautifully connected.
The idea was sparked by a desire to create something interactive, inclusive, and symbolic, tying in perfectly with our ANA Travels theme, and acknowledging that while we come from many different places, we are all journeying together, growing and learning alongside one another. The friendly competition brought the whole school together, with students and staff enthusiastically participating and showcasing integrity, teamwork, and school spirit. A special congratulations to the Year 12s, who were the winners of this challenge! And a huge thank you to the staff who put up such a great and challenging competition.
We’re thrilled to share that the completed puzzle will soon be displayed near the Woodstock Gate entrance, serving as a lasting reminder of the unity, creativity, and joyful collaboration that define CGGS. We hope everyone enjoyed the challenge as much as we did, we are truly proud of what we created together.
2025 School Captains
Abi, Angela and Nysa
The campaign is underway with students beginning their training sessions with specialist coaches from Elite Wellbeing.
This afternoon, CGGS athletes are participating in their second GSV Track & Field PB Meet in preparation for the GSV Preliminary Carnival on Wednesday 13 August.
A number of members from the CGGS Aquatic Swim Club participated in the inaugural CGGS Aquatic Training Camp at the Gold Coast Aquatic Centre during the Term 2 school holidays.
Club members were unwavering in their commitment to the training camp, completing two gruelling sessions in the pool most days, in preparation for the Victorian Metro Championships in July and Victorian Short Course Championships in August.
CGGS Head Swim Coach, Yuriy Burunov and coach Lily Barry put their respective squads through their paces during the week-long camp, in an endeavour which proved highly successful in further strengthening the culture and team cohesion of the swim club.
2025 Club Captain, Anneka S (Year 11) reflected on the camp experience as being one which was a great deal of fun, in which team bonding was ever-present each day, with club members rising to meet the challenging session load delivered by the coaches. Anneka also commented that the activities away from the pool, including the Team Dinner were valuable initiatives that fostered incredible camaraderie.
Year 10 student – Hermosa H – is looking forward to another spectacular season of GSV Badminton this term. Hermosa has played the great game in both hemispheres, first picking up a racquet at the age of six in China, and then arriving in Australia five years ago to represent CGGS since commencing as a Year 7 student.
Recognised as the premier player at Camberwell Girls in 2024 with her Badminton Most Valuable Player Award, Hermosa is the number 1 ranked player in the Intermediate cohort and will lead the A Team in the GSV competition each Wednesday afternoon.
Hermosa is active in school life, playing Goal Defence in the Year 10 team – ‘The Ambers’ – in the Saturday BNA Netball competition and contributing to the Music program playing the flute in Concert Band.
Isabella Tremewen continues her impressive contribution to CGGS Sport in a coaching capacity these past two years, mentoring students participating in athletics, basketball, cross country, diving, netball, soccer, and volleyball.
As a student, she holds the remarkable achievement of being awarded the CGGS Sportswoman of the Year for three consecutive years. During that incredible journey, Isabella represented the school at the GSV Finals Evenings for athletics and diving, took to the slopes in multiple Snowsports campaigns, and delivered a division championship from the mound as a softball pitcher.
Isabella was elected to the leadership portfolio of Schofield House Sport Captain and relished the focus that school sport occupied in her life from week-to-week, taking to the fields of play with friends.
Currently in the process of completing tertiary studies for a Bachelor of Education (Primary), CGGS Sport looks forward to Isabella’s involvement for years to come whilst she completes her university commitments.
Cameron Childs
Head of Sport
The Year 12 cohort continues to build lasting memories through shared experiences that foster connection, laughter, and camaraderie. A standout event was the Annual Movie Night, where students competed in teams across a variety of fun challenges including riddles, animated movie image guesses, rebus puzzles, and a hilarious round of “Who Am I?” featuring Year 12 students. The joy on students’ faces as they realised that they were the mystery person or watched their peers guess correctly before the reveal was truly heartwarming.
Highlights of the night included:
With 30 pizzas devoured and enough snacks to last a lifetime, the evening concluded with a screening of The Devil Wears Prada. More than just a movie night, it was a celebration of togetherness, with students sharing food, laughter, and the joy of each other’s company. These moments of connection strengthen the bonds within the cohort, fostering a supportive environment that positively impacts their academic journey.
Another special milestone was the 100 Days of Year 12 Celebration, held on the first day of Term Two. With a delightful Cookie Monster theme, students embraced the fun with:
The Class of 2025 continues to impress with their enthusiasm and willingness to engage in every opportunity. Their spirit of participation and appreciation for the little moments of joy and connection inspire the broader school community. We eagerly look forward to the many more events—both big and small—that will shape their final months at CGGS.
Nareen Robinson
Year 12 Coordinator
On 29 June, 40 student musicians and six dedicated staff members gathered at Melbourne Airport, ready to embark on an unforgettable musical journey across Europe. Amid emotional farewells, the air was filled with excitement and anticipation as the group prepared for the adventure ahead. The tour commenced in Munich, where students were immediately immersed in vibrant cultural and musical experiences. From there, they travelled to Salzburg, exploring iconic sites such as the filming locations of The Sound of Music, visiting Mozart’s birthplace, and performing in breathtaking settings near the Austrian Alps.
A standout highlight was the Suma Cum Laude International Youth Music Festival in Vienna. Students connected with like-minded peers from around the world, performed in prestigious venues, and participated in enriching workshops led by internationally acclaimed conductors and educators. The tour reached a pinnacle with powerful performances in the historic Golden Hall of the Vienna Musikverein. Throughout the journey, students were warmly received by appreciative audiences and enjoyed the opportunity to hear and engage with other talented performers. The tour concluded with a fitting finale at Prague’s world-famous Smetana Concert Hall, where the Chamber Orchestra and Tour Choir delivered a captivating program to an enthusiastic audience.
Beyond the music, students embraced Europe’s rich cultural heritage, wandering cobblestone streets, admiring castles and gardens, sampling local cuisine, and visiting world-class museums. This tour was truly transformative, fostering both musical and personal growth. Heartfelt thanks to the incredible staff whose support made this extraordinary experience possible. The memories created will be cherished for years to come.
Kate Savige
Director of Music – Curriculum
Rohan Mack
Director of Music – Instrumental
On 25 July, 34 students from Years 9 to 11 and four staff members experienced “sleeping rough” as part of our annual Winter Sleepout event. We heard from incredible members of the Salvation Army team, from a local Camberwell representative to an Australian wide manager. After the presentation, students and staff walked to our local Woolworths to purchase goods to donate to the Camberwell Salvation Army Doorway Pantry.
This experience aims to raise awareness for homelessness and allow students to have an insight to what some homeless people may face, especially on a cold winter’s night. Although only 6% of homeless people “sleep rough,” students learnt how the number of people classified as homeless has increased and that they are utilising services like the Salvation Army at a rate much higher than ever before.
It was a great experience for both students and staff and made us even more grateful for what we have. We all have an increased appreciation for those who are homeless and will be more mindful and intentional in our continued efforts to raise awareness of this very important issue.
Denise Tan
Head of Service Learning
Mrs Dunwoody shares an update on the refurbishment of Barbara Sutton Hall, and Mrs McClure reflects on her time on the European Music Tour.
It has been a busy start to Term 3 at the Secondary School with incursions, excursions, competitions, and celebrations.
The Foundation students celebrated a significant milestone this week - 100 days of school!
The School was excited to welcome back two Class of 2024 graduates who ran workshops during a recent Upskill day.
We acknowledge and pay respect to the Wurundjeri people as the traditional custodians of the land on which the school is situated.
Secondary School / Administration
2 Torrington Street, Canterbury
Victoria 3126 Australia
T +61 3 9813 1166
F +61 3 9882 9248
camgram@cggs.vic.edu.au
Junior School / Ormiston