Last Thursday, 22 students completed their White Card training. The trainer complemented the school on the girls’ behaviour and attitude towards learning. I envisage many of these students will use this as a platform to obtain work experience or structured work placement in trade related areas.

Next term we have confirmed 12 places for students in Years 10-12 to participate in the ‘Girls Can Too’ program. The program will run for 5 consecutive Fridays and cover a ‘taster’ in the areas of agriculture, commercial cookery, construction and engineering.  The program will conclude with associated industry tours. 

We are currently in conversation with TAFE regarding Ag Week and a Girls in Civil Program. Interested students are advised to see Ms Julie Hodges. 

I was thrilled to see our students participate in last week’s Eisteddfod at UNE. Congratulations to all who performed under the direction of Mrs Sarah Sadgrove and Mr Mark Gordon. Songbirds were awarded second place and our 3-6 choir were Highly Commended.

Friday’s Athletics Carnival was well received this year as it was the first time we have held the event on campus for a number of years. Thank you to all involved in ensuring this whole school event ran smoothly. We appreciated the parents who came to sell lunch items, spectate and cheer our athletes on. 

On Friday evening we held the annual Father-Daughter Dinner. Highlights included the raffle, auction items and of course, the dancing. Once again thank you to staff, parents and students. The evening was a huge success and thoroughly enjoyed by all. 

Our next big event is Coonabarabran. I wish all of our competitors well and look forward to seeing you at the Wool Shed!

Vaping 

As the practice of vaping has become increasingly widespread in recent years, it has begun to present challenges to educators, families and regulators. E-cigarettes, many of them containing tobacco products, are easily obtained and commonly used by a significant number of young people. School leaders throughout the country have become increasingly aware of an escalating incidence of vaping in schools. This presents a disciplinary challenge, divides students and challenges schools’ ability to support their students to lead a safe and healthy life. Medical research makes it clear that vaping presents a significant health risk. Commonwealth Health Minister, Mark Butler, has committed the Federal Government to addressing an explosion in the use of nicotine and e-cigarettes, especially amongst Australian children.   

While there is little doubt that vaping is escalating, researchers from Griffith University have found that while vaping is common among teenagers, the ‘crisis’ may not be as bad as many suggest. Data gathered as part of the university’s Blurred Minds initiative (Youseff, 2023), shows that 27 percent of students have vaped at least once. The research indicates that young people understand vaping is unsafe and unhealthy with 96 percent of students surveyed saying they know it is not good for them. A comparable study conducted by the University of Sydney reports that 32 percent of 14 to 17-year-olds have tried vaping at least once (Watts, 2022). Of interest, more females than males have never smoked or vaped. For girls, this was 66 percent and for boys it was 64 percent. For non-smokers who have vaped, the figures for girls are 11 percent and for boys 7 percent. Of particular concern to girl’s schools, is that the data suggests that girls are more likely to try vaping prior to smoking than boys.

The Alliance of Girls’ Schools Australasia outlined the main concerns in a recent E-Brief: 

Vaping: An important challenge for Girls’ Schools. “Research shows vaping can cause lung injury, cardiovascular disease, respiratory infections, serious, negative effects including on brain development and the immune system. Not only can vaping lead to long-term addiction, but it is also associated with other health risks such as seizures, acute nicotine toxicity and burns. Apart from pharmacies dispensing nicotine vaping to patients with a prescription, it is illegal for Australian retailers, including vape stores, to sell nicotine vaping products. However, vape stores are able to sell flavours and non-nicotine vaping products (Therapeutic Goods Administration, 2023). The major concern about vaping in young people is the likelihood this will lead to increased rates of cigarette smoking. The last four decades has seen a decline in the percentage of young people who smoke. In 1984, the rate was 30 percent for 16 to 17-year-olds and by 2017 it was 10 percent (Quit, 2022). In Australia between 2015 and 2019, e-cigarette use by young people has increased by 96 percent. The Alcohol and Drug Foundation states that young people using e-cigarettes are three times more likely to smoke combustible tobacco than those who have not used e-cigarettes and that former smokers who use e-cigarettes are more likely to relapse to current smokers. Of those aged 18–24, nearly 2 in 3 (64 percent) current smokers and 1 in 5 (20 percent) of non-smokers, reported having tried e-cigarettes, compared to 49 percent and 13.6 percent in 2016 (Banks, 2020). Vaping is now considered as a significant ‘gateway’ to future uptake of cigarette smoking and further risk and health complications. Apart from the concerns about nicotine being present in vaping products, the other substances are not identified on labelling provided by manufacturers and are potentially harmful.” 

“It appears peer pressure is a significant factor influencing vaping amongst young people. Even though vaping is technically controlled, advertising and promotion are illegal, companies can use other strategies to target our youth. Social media has been found to play a role as both an information source and as a means of exposure to vaping. Products are targeted towards young people with cartoon-like logos and flavours such as Menthol Freeze, Bubble-gum, Berry Bash, Appletini, Fresh Mint, Mango Tango and Watermelon Wave. There is a flourishing network of online dealers, street sales and convenience stores supporting a thriving black market for illegal nicotine vapes which young people can easily access (ABC News: Four Corners, 2022).” 

The researchers at Griffith University suggest a number of strategies teachers and schools can adopt that encourage students not to vape. 

• Challenging the idea “everyone is doing it”. The research suggests young people think more people vape than actually vape. If they are concerned about fitting in, we need to give them the facts. 
• Empowering young people to know they can refuse to vape. This includes ways of saying “no” without being singled out. Examples of what students could say include, “I don’t want to waste my money”, “I’ve seen those explode,” “I have asthma”, “I don’t want your germs,” or “Have you heard what kind of horrible things are in those?” 
• Understanding the impact on their health. This will enable them to make accurate choices about their wellbeing, rather than for what they think others want from them. 
• Don’t preach. The research shows teachers are seeing much better engagement when they use tools that include games, quizzes, videos and different media elements rather than a lecture. Engaging students in a conversation about vaping and associated behaviours is challenging. 

The Alliance of Girls’ Schools brief makes the point that, “It is not just teachers who need to conduct conversations as part of a strategic and well-planned Health Curriculum but parents also need to be brought into the conversation. Gavin Russell, Director of Academic Operations at Queenwood, provides the following advice. (Russell, 2022)

• Start with information.
• Approach it calmly.
• Don’t make assumptions.
• Avoid judging or lecturing.
• Use facts to explain the health concerns.
• Use real and appropriate consequences if you become aware of vaping.

Schools need to be proactive and realistic about vaping. The research indicates that girls are more likely to try vaping prior to smoking than boys. Risk taking amongst adolescents is part of the problem but we have seen how successful health programs have been in reducing the incidence of smoking. Punitive responses are less likely to be as effective as strategies which are based on research evidence coupled with an information rich and engaging Health Program. Girls’ schools have a particular challenge assisting in the prevention of girls vaping which is more likely to lead to smoking.”

EdStart Achievement Awards Program

Now in its third year, the program recognises students in an area they are passionate about across a range of categories including technology, entrepreneurship, sustainability, sport and arts.

Winners are selected by a judging panel of education leaders and will receive an award and $1,500.00 grant to fund a project, initiative or training related to their area of interest. Finalists also receive a $250.00 grant. 

You can meet some of our past winners below:

• Ethan Buzza, Scotch College WA
• Indiana Tichon, Brigidine College QLD
• Ruby Gorton, Bacchus Marsh Grammar VIC

Nominations close Friday 9 June and students can find out more and nominate at https://edstart.com.au/award.

Ms Liz van Genderen

Principal

I write this from the Great Aussie Bush Camp (formerly the old Leyland Brothers World), as I accompany the year 3-6 camp. This has been a wonderful experience for our students as they push the boundaries of what they think they are capable of, on activities like flying foxes, canoeing, night games and giant swings. The camp has allowed the students to demonstrate and develop all of the school values as they are expected to act respectfully, participate enthusiastically, and contribute selflessly to their own experience. I am certain that the same can be said of our 40 plus riders that are heading off to Coonabarabran to compete in the Schools Equestrian Expo. Their preparation has been meticulous and they head off to represent NEGS in great shape. All of these activities, along with our regular sporting program, takes an amazing amount of organisation and I would like to acknowledge, and thank, those who put in the unseen hours to create these opportunities for our students.

Parents, can you be sure to follow the school's leave processes when applying for leave for your son or daughter. Leave from school days need to be applied for through Engage and leave from the boarding house through Orah. Application through 1 does not amount to application through both. Also, for those with a busy co-curricular program, it is important that you minimise the extra days away from school so as to fulfill legal obligations for attendance, ensuring that academic progress is maintained and guarantees that our sporting teams are not disadvantaged by players being regularly away. If there are any issues completing the above processes, do not hesitate to contact our Attendance Officer, Mrs Helen Smith, at attendance@negs.nsw.edu.au or through 6774 8700.

In terms of uniform, we still are having far too much conflict around breaches of our uniform policy. This is something that is easily remedied, and I ask all to make an effort in this space. As part of our regular review of policy and procedure, I have approached year 12 already, and will seek interest from other year groups to be part of a discussion around uniform.

More information has come to light in the past week around the Government’s plan to ban mobile phones from schools from Term 4 this year. We will continue to look at ways where we can implement the responsible use of mobile devices in our school. We appreciate the need for access outside of school hours in terms of timely communication with families, and this will form part of our decision-making process.

Mr Jamie Moore

Deputy Principal

Thoroughly Schooled 2023 | Program promotion

The Thoroughly Schooled 2023 program has been confirmed for delivery in September. Both Racing NSW and Hunter Thoroughbred Breeding Association would like to attract interest from students from the area who have a genuine passion for horses and who are interested in pursuing a career in the equine industry. With only capacity for 12 students, we anticipate this program to be highly competitive so please spend some time on your expression of interest.

Below is a flyer and further information about the program. Please contact Jane Keenan at Jane.Keenan7@det.nsw.edu.au or Walter Mansfield at walter.mansfield1@det.nsw.edu.au with any questions.

Summary: This is an immersive career program focused on the racing and thoroughbred breeding equine industry. Held over six days in Scone NSW, students will acquire skills through practical training, classroom lessons, excursions, career talks and three work-experience mornings on a stud farm and racing stables. The program will conclude on Saturday 9 September with a parents/guardian’s lunch. This is a program that supports students in gaining casual employment in their region with school-based opportunities including CII Racing Industry (Stablehand) and post-school opportunities including Traineeships in Horse Breeding and/or Racing.

Dates: Monday 4 September – Saturday 9 September 2023 (students will need to arrive to Scone on Sunday 3 September to commence the following morning)

Location: Scone NSW

Target Cohort: Year 10 -12 students with a genuine passion for horses and who are interested in pursuing a career in the equine industry.

Logistics: While the course, accommodation and meals and transport within the program is fully funded, successful students are responsible for travel to and from Scone prior to, and following course completion.

EOI: Students can submit an EOI via the QR code on the attached flyer or here;  https://forms.office.com/r/VX7yVgcCd4. Interested students should discuss this opportunity with Ms Walker, Careers Advisor, and parents/guardians before applying. Any enquiries can be directed to walter.mansfield1@det.nsw.edu.au 

Timeframes: EOIs close on Sunday 2 July. Applicants will be contacted on Monday 24 July.

Eisteddfod News
In week 5, all our Junior and Senior School Choirs participated in the Armidale Eisteddfod, where they were able to showcase all the amazing work they have been doing this year.
Congratulations to the Year 7 Choir (non-competitive), the Songbirds Choir (2nd place!!), 3-6 Choir (Highly Commended!) and the K-2 Choir (non-competitive).

I was incredibly proud of the standard of performance and presentation that all students showed, and want to congratulate them all for their commitment towards excellence in the performance space. I look forward to continuing the year with more beautiful singing.

Mrs Sarah Sadgrove

Music Teacher

I hope this newsletter finds you well as we navigate through a busy and exciting time for our students. As we closed the book on the Armidale Eisteddfod performances and athletics carnival, we eagerly engaged in the Year 3-6 camp, Early Explorer morning, and the continuation of our AFL sessions, all opportunities for our students to embrace new and diverse situations. 

As they continue to learn and acquire new skills at school, I wanted to highlight once again, an area of learning that often goes unnoticed but holds great significance: social-emotional learning.

Social-emotional learning encompasses a range of skills that are vital for a child's development. It is the realm where they learn to understand and manage their emotions, build and maintain friendships, and effectively solve social problems. These skills are not confined to the classroom alone, but are developed throughout the day, whether on the playground or at home. Children observe and absorb social cues from teachers, family members, and friends, and it is crucial to foster positive social skills through initiatives like Kindness in the Classroom®.

Research consistently emphasises the positive impact of social-emotional learning on children's lives. By acquiring and utilising these skills, children are more likely to establish harmonious relationships with others and perform better academically. Teaching students a pro-social approach, which focuses on effective communication, collaboration, self-advocacy, and acknowledging positive behaviour, empowers them to become compassionate and socially responsible individuals. 

Our emphasis on responsibility, respect, caring, inclusiveness, integrity, and courage, allows students to be inspired, act upon what they have learned, reflect on their experiences, and share their insights with their peers.

Currently, we are exploring the concept of inclusiveness and its intentional application. We encourage students to engage in self-reflection and assess inclusivity both as a class and as individuals. This also includes examining the impact of social media on our levels of inclusiveness.

At this stage, our students are in the process of forming their identities, exploring new activities and friendship circles, and navigating new thoughts and emotions. These experiences can sometimes make them feel lost or cause them to hold on tightly to what is familiar. In doing so, they may unknowingly exclude others. As we guide our students through the concept of inclusiveness, we encourage them to think about how inclusive their classroom and school environment truly are. Do they welcome new students and provide the necessary support for their success? Do they actively practise inclusiveness or find themselves gravitating towards the same group of people?

It is important to note that having established friends and routines are not inherently negative. However, we must also consider opportunities to invite those who may feel left out and encourage independent thinking and expression of ideas.

Families play such a crucial role in supporting your child's social and emotional growth. It is important to model inclusiveness and address any exclusivity you may observe in your child's behaviour. There will always be times in your child's life when navigating friendships can be challenging. Being challenged is also not inherently negative. It is normal for misunderstandings and disagreements to occur between friends. It is best to let children sort out most issues themselves where they possess the required social skills and personal resources. Dealing with small friendship issues can help to build resilience and coping skills through learning to problem solve and negotiate.

How can we demonstrate inclusiveness to our children? How can we encourage them to embrace diversity and welcome others into their circles?

We believe that by working together as a school community, we can create an environment that fosters social-emotional learning and cultivates inclusive and empathetic individuals. We appreciate your support and look forward to continuing this journey with you and your children.

Mrs Heidi Dent

Junior School Co-Ordinator

It was certainly a chilly day, but the NEGS Athletics Carnival was a success. The house spirit and support amongst our students from Pre-K through to Year 12 was heartwarming, especially in the warm-up Steeplechase event. Thank you again to the staff, parents and students for all the effort and hard work you put into making this event so successful. These whole school events don’t run themselves, they need a team, and we definitely have the best one in town.

Congratulations to everyone on their results from the day. Students who successfully make it into the IGSA or IPSHA Athletics Teams will be notified shortly.

Athletics Carnival Results 2023

Junior School

Junior Girls

Age Champion - Kenzie Watson 

Runner-Up - Miriam Hiscox 

Junior Boys

Age Champion - Logan Hassett 

Runner-Up - Flynn Guyett 

Senior Girls

Age Champion - Charlotte Travers

Equal Runner-Up - Georgina Pillar and Zia Guyett

Senior Boys

Age Champion - Xavi Dent 

Runner-Up - Thomas de Wild 

Senior School

12 Yrs

Age Champion - Caitlin Emerton

Runner-Up - Pippa Currie

13 Yrs 

Age Champion - Emily Simpson

Runner-Up - Tabitha Havas

14 Yrs

Age Champion - Amelia Fiechtner

Runner-Up - Amanda Knight

15 Yrs 

Age Champion - Izabella Cox

Runner-Up - Dominique Baker

16 Yrs

Age Champion - Alyvia Wilson

Runner-Up - Regan Simpson

17 Yrs

Age Champion - Savanah Brown

Runner-Up - Ami Frost

18 Yrs

Age Champion - Vanessa Baker

Runner-Up - Emily ORourke

House Champion

Highest Point Score - Emily Simpson 143

Highest Field Event Score - Emily Simpson 63

Marching Cup - Green

Reminders:

• Leave exemptions and notifications need to be emailed via a parent/carer to Mrs Nixon for missing training or games in advance
• No sport will be played over the long weekend
• Ensure you are having the best time on the field and displaying respect to coaches, umpires and teammates

Upcoming Dates

RIFLE CLUB

The NEGS Girls Rifle Club had an exhilarating start as we gathered last Sunday again for a day of shooting at half bore. It was an excellent opportunity for us to reconnect, hone our shooting skills, and enjoy the camaraderie that comes with being part of this esteemed club.

The day began with anticipation and excitement as we set up our rifles and prepared for the challenges ahead. The range was filled with a vibrant atmosphere, with members sharing stories of their experiences and discussing their strategies for the day. It was evident that everyone was eager to showcase their marksmanship and push their boundaries.

As the sun broke through the clouds, we took our positions and focused our attention on the targets ahead. With each shot, the rhythmic sound of gunfire echoed across the range, accompanied by the thrill of hitting the bullseye. The air was filled with a mixture of concentration, determination, and pure joy as we celebrated each successful shot.

Beyond the individual achievements, the sense of unity and support among club members made the day truly special. Seasoned shooters shared their expertise and guidance with those new to the sport, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. We cheered each other on, celebrating every milestone and offering encouragement during challenging moments.

The NEGS Girls Rifle Club has always been a place where friendships are forged, and skills are honed. It was heartening to see our members embrace the opportunity to come together again, reaffirming our club's spirit and passion for the sport. The day was filled with laughter, camaraderie, and shared experiences, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

As we wrapped up the day, there was a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. We departed with a renewed enthusiasm for shooting, eagerly looking forward to future events and the continued growth of our club. 

Ms Jessica Walker

Rugby Union Camp 2023!

Rugby Union Camp is on again, and we’d love for you to consider whether you, or someone you know, would love to come to camp this year!

• For Boys & Girls in school years 5-10 (aged 10-16)
• July 1-4 at Tamworth
• Cost $225, fee help available up to 100% discount

Register here: https://sunsw.org.au/events/rugby-union-camp/

Please contact one of the directors, Tim Strong 0429 841 642, for further information and to answer any questions you may have!

Mrs Liane Nixon

Sport Co-Ordinator and PE Teacher

Dear Families,

Welcome to another edition of our newsletter! We hope this finds you all in good health and high spirits. 

As we approach the end of weeks 5 and 6, we wanted to share some of the exciting events and activities in downtown shopping, father-daughter dinner, bowling, skating, and the recent athletics carnival.

The downtown shopping excursion was a great success! Our students had the opportunity to explore local shops and prepare for the upcoming "Coona" and Father-Daughter Dinner event. It was wonderful to see them excitedly choose their outfits and accessories, getting ready for a memorable evening.

Bowling and skating outings were filled with laughter and joy. The students had a blast competing against each other and creating new friendships along the way. These activities provided a refreshing break from their academic routines and allowed them to unwind in a fun-filled environment.

We were thrilled to see many families come together at our athletics carnival and join us in the boarding house afterwards. It was a day filled with friendly competition, sportsmanship, and team spirit.

With the long weekend just around the corner, we wanted to remind everyone that our boarding houses will be open at 3 pm on Monday, 12 June, to welcome everyone back. It's an excellent opportunity for your daughter to catch up on rest and relaxation after a very busy term.

As always, we encourage open communication and appreciate any feedback or suggestions you may have. We aim to provide the best experience for our students, and your input is invaluable in achieving that goal.

We hope you have a wonderful long weekend and look forward to seeing everyone back on Monday.

Mrs Meagan Laverty

Head of Boarding

WARATAH

Canberra Workshop

On Thursday 18 and Friday, May 19, I was fortunate enough to travel to Canberra to attend a 2-day workshop on behalf of the Waratah Project.

Thursday was held in Ngunnawal Country and provided an opportunity to understand Ngunnawal culture by engaging with local knowledge holders. First up was a 2.5hr walk through the bush looking at plants and animals used by the local indigenous people for food, medicine, hunting, cleaning, and even washing with an amazing plant whose leaves, when rubbed together with water, made a soap.

After a yummy packed lunch, we spent the afternoon in a basket weaving class. We used coloured raffia to create a bangle. We then used this same method with a little alteration to make a basket. Sitting in a circle with other teachers as we did our weaving and had a yarn was calm and relaxing. I’m excited to bring this skill back to NEGS and look forward to running a weaving workshop next term for any interested students.

There were many special guests, including a delegation from AIS Northern Territory, including staff from the Haileybury Rendall School in Darwin, as they looked to connect, share and learn from the Waratah Project.

This term's focus builds our knowledge and confidence in developing strength-based approaches to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to create strong schooling pathways - from Personalised Learning Processes to identifying post-schooling pathways and opportunities. 

I look forward to next term's learning opportunity, which will be held in Cessnock.

Mrs Lucinda Bradford

THE SCHOOL OF ST JUDE

We are thrilled to have Gemma Sisia, founder of The School of St Jude, coming to NEGS on Friday, 16 June. Gemma will speak with our students from Year 5 to Year 12. Parents are warmly invited to attend the afternoon, which will be held in our Assembly Hall at 1.50pm.

Gemma grew up on a wool sheep property in Armidale, following school she studied for a Science Degree, majoring in Biochemistry/Genetics at Melbourne University, an Honours in Science at the University of Northern Territory, and then a Diploma in Education at the University of New England, Armidale. Gemma taught for a short period of time at NEGS. Her story of founding and building The School of St Jude is remarkable. We are thrilled to have her visit NEGS.

Please visit the website to read more about her story:   https://www.schoolofstjude.org/q-a-with-gemma-sisia/

If you can't join us Friday afternoon, you might be interested in attending other events whilst Gemma is in Armidale.

THE ROTARY CLUBS OF ARMIDALE present 'AN EVENING WITH GEMMA SISIA'

A book launch of 'The School that Hope Built' by Maddie Kelly and Gemma Sisia.

FRIDAY 16 JUNE 2023

5.30 FOR 6.00pm

ARMIDALE CITY BOWLING CLUB

Tickets: $10.00 minimum donation at the door.

For further information, contact John Wearne on 0418 419 684 or Andrew Pratt on 0481 481 871

Hear from Gemma Sisia, Founder, Maddie Kelly, Author, and Enock Ephrahim, alum and employee, about The School of St Jude and the brand new book, The School that Hope Built.

JUNIOR SCHOOL AFTERNOON GATHERING

• Friday 16 June
• From 3.30pm until it gets cold!

Our Term One BBQ and Bike Track was a great get-together, so we would like to repeat and invite our  Junior School families to mark your calendars to join the NEGS Mid-Winter BYOFTS (Bring Your Own Food To Share) get-together on Friday, June 16, from 3.30 PM until it gets too cold.

Bring along a plate. Make sure it will be eclectic and something to remember. Go Wild! It will be a great way to celebrate a successful Term 2.

The P and F will take care of poppers, water and adult beverages.

JUNIOR SCHOOL DISCO

• Wednesday 21 June

The Junior School Disco will be held on Wednesday 21 June at 5.30pm.

The Disco will be held in the Assembly Hall. The cost is $5, to be paid at the door and includes a glow stick, popper and packet of chips.

Parents are warmly invited to enjoy a drink at the Yarning Circle fire pit near the Music Block, Forster Building.

Please see this week's Careers Newsletter here.

Miss Jessica Walker

Careers Advisor and Teacher

Thank you! 

Last Friday was a great day. Thank you to everyone for your support. The P and F Canteen was busy, with the baked goods and pulled pork rolls a 'sell out'.  It was great to gather as a Pre-K to Year 12 school community and enjoy the day together supporting our children—big thanks to the parents who sent baked goods. 

The Father-Daughter Dinner on Friday night was great, and it was good to see everyone enjoying themselves. Thank you for supporting the P and F Raffle and generosity with the Auction. $11,600 was raised. Thank you to Simon Beirne and the other parents who assisted with organising the raffle and to the families who generously donated items.

This a reminder that the next P and F meeting will be held on Wednesday, 14 June. I look forward to you joining us either in person or via Zoom.

Fiona Macarthur

President

Save the Date:

- 15 September 'Celebrations - 50 Years of the Ec'

- 21 September, Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley Live@NEGS. Don't miss out; this will be a 'sold out' event. See the link below to buy your tickets.

- 10 November, NEGS Twilight Fair

Book Concert tickets - via the button below.

Marketing and Community:

Events wrap-up:

Father-Daughter Dinner - Friday, 26 May

Oh, what a night! Thank you to everyone involved. It certainly was a testament to the NEGS spirit. When our community comes together, there is a great atmosphere. 170 people enjoyed dinner and dancing in the NEGS Dining Hall.

Thank you to the P and F and all the parents who supported the evening, either donating items for the raffle or auction, buying tickets or bidding. $11,600 was raised through the auction and raffle—big thanks to Simon Beirne and Tricia Gerigk for the organisation of this.

Big thanks to our P and F Committee, who ran the bar on the night. They had a big day, as they also managed the Canteen during the day for the Athletics Carnival. Thank you, we appreciate your support. 

The winners of the raffle have all been notified and are listed below:

1st PRIZE WINNER
Darren Mason
Ticket Number: #510

2nd PRIZE WINNER
Kevin Thomas
Ticket Number: #93

3rd PRIZE WINNER
Natalie Swann
Ticket Number: #288

4th PRIZE WINNER
Monty Maguire
Ticket Number: #201

5th PRIZE WINNER
Matt Lynch
Ticket Number: #333

6th PRIZE WINNER
Kim Robinson
Ticket Number: #38

7th PRIZE WINNER
Identity withheld
Ticket Number: #131

8th PRIZE WINNER
Janet Meyn
Ticket Number: #253

"Dad Dancer of the Year" for the 2023 Father-Daughter Night goes to.....Lincoln Brown - congratulations!

SPREAD THE WORD: Open Morning - Friday, 28 July

Enrolments 2024!

Our next Open Morning is now open for registrations. We'd appreciate you sharing this opportunity to discover the NEGS difference with family, friends and your network. As parents, you are our best advocates. We are finalising enrolments in key intake years for 2024 - Pre-K, Kindergarten and Year 7.

Ms Lyn O'Neill

Director of Marketing and Enrolments