The Camberwell Girls community came together in remarkable fashion for Save Your Seat, demonstrating the power of collective generosity and the strong spirit of support within the School community.
Following the recent long weekend, we return energised and ready for the final few weeks of Term Two. Our Year 10 and Year 11 students are now well underway with their examinations, demonstrating commitment, resilience and the ability to apply their learning in different settings. We wish them every success as they continue through this important period, which is designed to provide valuable examination experience leading into their final VCE exams in Year 12.
Creativity has also been on full display, with House Cinema moving into the editing stage and our VCE Theatre Studies students presenting their production of Unicorn Girl. The performance is a testament to the imagination, collaboration and dedication of our students, both on stage and behind the scenes. This year, students also performed for Auburn South Primary School, providing a wonderful opportunity to showcase their talents and connect with members of our local community.
There is much to look forward to over the final few weeks, including the 2027 Years 9–12 Subject Selection Evening and Careers Expo, as students begin to consider and shape their future pathways. For those completing a Unit 3 and 4 VCE subject, the upcoming GAT represents another key milestone in their academic journey. Additionally, our Upskill programs and broader curriculum continue to provide rich opportunities for students to extend their learning beyond the classroom, fostering curiosity, independence and real-world application, with the final two Upskill program days this semester taking place on 16 June and 23 June.
In sport, we congratulate our GSV teams on a strong season, with many progressing through to finals over the coming weeks. We wish all teams the very best as they represent the School with pride and determination.
Kath Woolcock
Head of Senior School
Tom Clark
Head of Middle School
Our movie night was a memorable and enjoyable event that brought everyone together in a fun and relaxed setting. Throughout the evening, we watched the fan-favourite childhood classic Ella Enchanted, which provided plenty of entertainment and laughter for everyone. To make the night even more engaging, the Movie Night Committee organised and hosted a series of movie trivia games. Their enthusiasm and expertise made the activities exciting, and everyone enjoyed testing their knowledge of films. We also enjoyed delicious pizza and warm hot chocolate, which added to the cosy, comfortable atmosphere of the event. One of the highlights of the night was seeing each group arrive in matching pyjamas and onesies. The creative outfits added a fun aspect to the evening. More importantly, the movie night served as a valuable bonding experience, allowing students to spend time together outside the classroom, strengthen existing friendships, and form new connections. The combination of the film, trivia games, food, and themed outfits created a welcoming and inclusive environment that everyone could enjoy. Overall, the movie night was a great success and left us with many positive memories.
Zoe L and Kayla F
Year 12 students
The Mountfield Maestros performance provided an opportunity for Secondary School students to share a selection of work developed in their Speech and Drama lessons. With a growing understanding of storytelling, students built on skills acquired in previous years to convey greater depth of character in their performances and to explore a variety of ways of engaging an audience.
Students demonstrated a range of scripted work, including monologues, small group pieces, and a narrative poem. Their performances reflected positive engagement, strong commitment, and a growing maturity in the way they present themselves.
The quick-thinking skills developed through spontaneous improvisation are central to creating and developing characters in lessons, and students provided the audience with an opportunity to see this in action. In a game titled ‘The Worst Date Ever’, each student selected a character to bring to a blind date scenario. While the characters were chosen in advance, the interactions themselves were entirely unplanned, with students’ quick responses leading to some hilarious moments.
Congratulations to all those involved. It was warmly received by an appreciative audience.
Claire Colthup
Drama Teacher
One of the highlights in the life of a senior Theatre Studies student is their assessment that requires them to stage an interpretation of a script for an audience. It is the opportunity to work like a professional theatre company, producing a full production, conceived of and designed by the class. Homework for this outcome can include learning lines, drawing designs, building props, composing sound, designing costumes. It’s a lot of work filled with joy and laughter.
This year’s performance was, Unicorn Girl, by Madelaine Nunn, a theatre in education piece about the pitfalls of finding your identity.
We were so proud of our students, last week, as they performed to an overflowing friend and family audience and then to Auburn South Primary Grade 5s & 6s. A real world touring experience to cement their understanding of the performance style.
Congratulations to Spencer P, Hilary F, Harriet J and Victoria M for their maturity, joyfulness and incredible creativity. And a huge shout out to Audrey K (School Drama Captain) and Sarah W (Year 10) for being a part of our company!
Keira Lyons
Head of Theatre
VCE Theatre Studies Teacher
Joyce Z (9C) recently competed in the Ringwood Eisteddfod Piano Competition, where she was awarded first place in the Pianoforte 16 Years and Under Section and an Honourable Mention in the Pianoforte 18 Years and Under Section performing works by Sergei Rachmaninoff and Claude Debussy. This is an impressive achievement, given the strong field of older competitors in both age groups of the competition.
Joyce continues to pursue her passion for the piano through outstanding live performances, demonstrating mature technical skill and expressive musicality. Her commitment to consistent practice and artistic refinement is evident and serves as an inspiration to those around her. Joyce also contributes positively to the music community within the Secondary School, as a soloist, collaborator, composer and leader in a variety of ensembles.
We congratulate Joyce on her outstanding achievements and look forward to celebrating her future performances and continued growth as a musician.
Kate Savige and Rohan Mack
Directors of Music
Olivia H (7P) recently participated in the World Piano Teachers Association Piano Competition and was invited to perform at the Prize Winners’ Gala Concert at the Mozarthaus in Vienna, Austria. During her time in Vienna, Olivia embraced a range of rich and immersive musical experiences; a masterclass with pianist and educator Dr Julijana Šarac, rehearsing in a music studio and performing in a series of featured concerts across Vienna. The WPTA Prize Winners’ Concert took place in the historic Mozarthaus, situated beside St Stephen’s Cathedral, an iconic site where Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart once lived and performed. At this significant venue, Olivia performed ‘El Puerto’ by Isaac Albéniz.
Olivia also performed, ‘A Courtly Dance from Postcards’ by John Carmichael at the Ehrbar Saal Concert Hall, adding another meaningful performance highlight in one of Vienna’s historic performance venues. Following the performances, a formal ceremony was held where participants received recognition from the adjudicators. Olivia was awarded ‘Best Australian Pianist’ in Category C (ages 12–14), as well as 3rd Prize in the Category C ‘Teen Talents’ division, marking a significant achievement.
Beyond the concerts, Olivia’s journey included exploring Vienna’s cultural landmarks, such as St Stephen’s Cathedral and the Sisi Museum within the Hofburg Imperial Palace. The trip also extended to Salzburg, where Olivia visited Mozart’s birthplace and residence, the famous Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and attended a marionette performance of The Sound of Music. The trip to Austria was a very special experience for Olivia, full of many highlights that will continue to inspire her passion for music and the performing arts.
Kate Savige and Rohan Mack
Directors of Music
Student Reflection
My trip to Austria was a memorable experience. I enjoyed learning about its rich musical heritage, fascinating history and beautiful architecture, while also having the opportunity to perform in some of its most prestigious concert venues. It was wonderful to share this experience with my family too; we had a fantastic time. Thank you to everyone who supported me during this once in a lifetime opportunity.
Olivia H
Year 7 Student
Eight students from Years 7 and 8 represented Camberwell Girls at this year’s annual eSports competition, the FUSE Cup. Competing as two teams against schools from across Melbourne, they participated in the popular game Just Dance.
Caitlyn L (Year 7), Mahva M (Year 7), Neesha N (Year 7), Cecilia Y (Year 7), Ava Y (Year 7), Stephanie M (Year 8), Ivy X (Year 8) and Alice X (Year 8) performed a variety of songs, earning points for precision, timing and pose throughout the day.
The competition was closely contested, with even the smallest movements influencing scores. In the end Camberwell Girls placed 2nd and 3rd out of 10 teams. Individually, Caitlyn L (Year 7) finished 3rd overall, while Stephanie M (Year 8) secured 1st place, earning a golden ticket to compete on the Gold Coast this November.
Kingsley Ren
Head of Technologies
Mark Major
Systems Engineer
National Reconciliation Week (NRW) 2026 was a powerful time of knowledge-sharing, ceremony, and commitment to the 2026 theme All In. Students and staff participated in events celebrating Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures while strengthening their dedication to an equitable future.
The week commenced with the annual NRW Assembly. Murrundindi performed a Welcome to Country and delivered a captivating Yidaki performance. Year 8 students Nellie E, Iris Z, Angelina N, Miah K, Eloise C, and Charlotte D explored the history of Reconciliation and we were privileged to hear from First Nations students Katelyn A, Casey JS, Latia B, Shaylen T, Bethany R, and Norah R as they powerfully shared their cultural knowledges and personal experiences of “walking in two worlds.” A major milestone of the week was the formal launch of the School’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP).
Sport served as a unifying force. Students in Years 7–12 participated in a volleyball round-robin and athletics events at the Worawa Reconciliation Sports Carnival in Healesville where the 4 x 100m relay team – Latia B, Helena C, Ann B, and Anthea V were placed third. Back at school, Murrundindi led the annual Reconciliation AFL Jumper and Netball Bib Presentation in Dara’s Labyrinth followed by an inter-sport marngrook match between the Senior AFL and Netball teams. Students proudly wore the bibs and jumpers during GSV Sport and Saturday netball fixtures. On Thursday, selected students also took part in an inter-school marngrook game against Camberwell Grammar School. Umpired by Murrundindi, the fiercely contested game ended in an 11–11 draw.
To celebrate the RAP publication, students and staff participated in a “Hands of Reconciliation” scratch art activity in the Fig Tree Café at lunchtime. Inspired by techniques and symbols shared by Murrundindi, participants created a visual installation reflecting their appreciation for Wurundjeri culture and commitment to Reconciliation. Additionally, a BBQ raised funds for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation with students also enjoying some First Nations music in the Quad.
National Reconciliation Week 2026 was an important opportunity to deepen our understanding of Reconciliation and celebrate the role we all play in building a more connected and inclusive community. Together, we continue to move forward and be All In for Reconciliation.
Liza Stevens
First Nations Programs Coordinator
GSV Championship Cross Country Carnival
The 45-strong Camberwell Girls Cross Country Team journeyed to Cruden Farm to contest the GSV Championship Carnival on Friday 29 May.
With the introduction of the twice-weekly Camberwell Girls Run Club training sessions from the commencement of this 2026 academic year, anticipation of an improved team performance from previous year’s was present throughout the group.
And so, it proved to be, with Camberwell Girls narrowly missing out on winning the Division 3 title by a mere fourteen points to finish in second position, an improvement of three positions/schools from the 2024 and 2025 campaigns.
The Junior Team (Years 7 and 8 students) finished in third position, Intermediate (Year 9/10) in third position, and the Senior Team (Years 11 and 12) in second position.
Six students crossed the finish line in the top 10 of their respective Division 3 age categories. Congratulations to:
Millie M (Year 11) posted the fastest 4 kilometres amongst the Camberwell Girls students, completing the course in a time of 17.09.5. She was closely followed by Hanna L (Year 9) with a time of 17.19.5.
A strong performance by all students, with many also engaging in the Camberwell Girls Run Club in the lead up to the event, where they were able to engage in high-level training session focussed on improving their cardio-vascular endurance and running capabilities.
GSV Term 2 Weekly Sport Finals
There is great excitement with the Term 2 GSV Finals scheduled for next week across the Senior, Intermediate and Junior Divisions.
(At the time of submission deadline) confirmation has been received that the Senior A Netball team will progress to Finals next Monday 15 June.
The Senior AFL team is well-placed to qualify for the Grand Final after a thrilling 3-point victory in their previous match last Friday. With several instances of inspirational play in the final quarter characterised by strong contested marking, effective tackling and smothering, and desperate defence, Audrey N (Year 10) kicked the game-winning goal from long range with only minutes remaining in the contest.
All Finals results to be included in the next edition of CamNews.
GSV Representative Soccer Team Selection – Emily L
Congratulations to Emily L (Year 11) on achieving selection to the GSV Representative Soccer team for a second consecutive year.
In the 2025 representative match against AGSV, Emily was instrumental in setting up the goal for her GSV side, dashing down the wing and delivering a perfect cross into the 6-yard box to supply her forwards in the 1-1 Draw.
Emily continues her superb sporting form into 2026 after claiming the Sportswoman of the Year Award at the 2025 Celebration of Sport.
GSV will play the AGSV side on Wednesday 29 July at PEGS.
Swimming – Winter Warm-Up Series
CGGS Aquatic Swim Club has produced some stunning performances in the MSAC pool this past May, competing in the three events that comprise the Winter Warm-Up Series.
This brand-new concept is designed to be a fast-paced event, providing swimmers the opportunity to sharpen their racing skills with the exciting blend of traditional races and creative formats.
Always at the forefront of innovation, CGGS Aquatic dominated the relays, securing multiple first and second place finishes.
Year 10 student, Jasmine X, reflected on recent short course competitions in which she has realised several personal best results. Jasmine has set new goals off the back of these stellar swims to continue her upward spiral of race performances. She credits the advice provided by Head Swim Coach, Mr Yuriy Burunov, including pre- and post-competition coaching and feedback, as a contributing factor to the overall performances of squad members. Jasmine references that every training session is a great mix of hard work and enjoyment.
Several CGGS Aquatic club members are looking forward to the annual training camp on the Gold Coast from 6 – 10 July.
Charlotte D – Women’s Disc Golf Achievement
Congratulations to Year 9 student, Charlotte D, on producing the highest rated round in the world in the FJ15 Division, in the sport of Disc Golf.
Charlotte achieved this impressive feat competing in the Women’s Global Event, where players from all over the globe competed on a specific day, attempting to record the highest rated round in accordance with the difficulty of course played.
Having already notched up seventeen career wins on the Professional Disc Golf Association (PDGA) circuit, Charlotte lists winning the 2026 Victorian Open in the FJ15 category as her career highlight so far.
The PDGA was founded in 1976 and is a sport played similarly to golf. The association has members across 54 countries with more 9,800 courses worldwide.
The objective is to complete each hole with the fewest number of throws, from a tee area to a target, where the most common ‘hole’ is an elevated metal basket. As players move down the fairway, they take their next throw from the place where the previous throw landed. The “putt” is when the disc lands in the basket which completes a hole.
We wish Charlotte every success as her career progresses on the charge for career victory number 18!
The Camberwell Girls community came together in remarkable fashion for Save Your Seat, demonstrating the power of collective generosity and the strong spirit of support within the School community.
As Term 2 draws to a close, examinations, creative performances, future pathways planning, Upskill programs and GSV finals are all contributing to a busy and rewarding end to the semester.
As excitement builds for the reopening of Barbara Sutton Hall, Mrs Dunwoody has provided an update on the remarkable success of the Save Your Seat Giving Day initiative.
