Today is the Feast of the Ascension of Jesus.

“Stop holding on to me, for I have not yet ascended to the Father. But go to my brothers and tell them, ‘I am going to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’” (Jn 20:17)

The Ascension is the completion of the Easter mysteries of Jesus’ life, passion, death and resurrection, and it is the final step before the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.

In a very real way, Jesus’ ascension into heaven is the goal for each one of us. He goes before us, and we are to follow Him there. In the Ascension, God’s glory is opened to us, and Jesus, in His glorified humanity, takes His rightful place at God’s right hand.

The second thing to remember about this mystery is that Jesus will come back. When that day comes, we should be ready. He has asked us to be his faithful disciples, living in a vital friendship with him. This is possible through the Holy Spirit, whom each of us receives in baptism. It also takes a lived relationship with God in prayer. Finally, Jesus expects us to be open, available and ready to cooperate with him in the mission he calls us to.

The last thing Jesus said to the Apostles in Matthew’s Gospel: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age” (28:19-20).

Jesus is with us in the Eucharist and in the liturgy of the Church. Jesus also is present spiritually when we pray in his name, as he said: “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Mt 18:20).

Jesus’ work on earth is now complete, but the task of bearing witness to Him and making disciples is never done, not until he returns at the end of time. That is the task the Apostles began to do, starting with prayer in the upper room as they awaited the promised Holy Spirit. Mary, the Mother of Jesus, was there with them. The Apostles began to do what the Lord Jesus asked them to do: bear witness and make disciples. That task is not just theirs; it belongs to all of us. It is key purpose of the Catholic School.

Thank you to Leaders of Change Charity and to DJ Tobiahs Fakhri

With the support of Antonine College Director, Janette Lahoud, and member of Leaders of Change Charity, we were fortunate to receive $15,946.66 fundraising from DJ Tobiahs* 24 hour Live Streaming his music mixes on Twitch. The money was raised to assist Year 7 students whose parents may be struggling to cover costs associated with starting secondary school such as fees, devices etc. On behalf of the Antonine College community, we thank Janette Lahoud, DJ Tobiahs, and Leaders of Change Charity.

*About DJ Tobiahs - Melbourne based producer Tobiahs Fakhri combines elements of house, pop and garage to deliver his unique vision of lyric driven dance music. Having created music since the age of 15, Tobiahs has honed his skills and sound, initially garnering attention from a series of remixes shared online. His debut single Through To You, a garage-inspired story of troubled relationships, was released in 2017 and has since amassed over one million streams on Spotify and Apple Music.

Antonine College wishes Tobiahs all the best!

Important Reminder about Bus behaviour

We are very fortunate to have a bus program that brings over 800 students to and from school each day. We ask parental support to further encourage:

• Students being on time and not holding up the buses
• Students being respectful of bus property, keeping bus clean and not causing any damage
• Parents not going on to the buses and not engaging with other students

If there are any issues, parents are asked to call the school rather than take matters into own hands. This is important for the safety of all students and the drivers. Students who damage buses or continually cause disruption may be suspended from the bus service. It would be great if parents could continue to support by reminding their children of good bus behaviour.

- Ms Joanne Bacash

Parliamentary Friends of Lebanon

Antonine College, Deputy Principal, Mr Abraham Diab had the privilege of attending Parliament of Victoria for the launch of the Parliamentary Friends of Lebanon event on Tuesday 27 May.

This event provided him a valuable opportunity to engage with a diverse group of guest speakers, including local MPs and members of the Lebanese community including 2008 Alumni, Founder of Teeth on Wheels and Director of Antonine College Board, Mr Joseph Zeid along with his brother and Alumni Rami Zeid and the Hon. Nazih Elasmar OAM, former Member of Victorian Parliament.

The shared focus was on fostering stronger connections and mutual appreciation between Victoria and Lebanon, particularly with the Lebanese community.

A highlight of the event for Abraham was a personal tour of Parliament, generously conducted by the Hon. Anthony Cianflone MP, State Labor Member for Pascoe Vale.

- Ms Joanne Bacash

We are now on LinkedIn

Please follow our College LinkedIn account: https://www.linkedin.com/school/antoninecollege/

Alumni students on LinkedIn

If you are an Alumni student or know any alumni students, we would appreciate your support in connecting with us and other alumni by adding Antonine College to your education history on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/school/antoninecollege/

Awards Evening Sponsors

Antonine College is hosting our Annual Awards Evening in November and we are seeking sponsors to contribute to the success of the evening.

The Annual Awards Evening provides an opportunity to celebrate student achievement and recognise academic excellence. Recipients of awards receive financial contributions towards their future studies.


Sponsors are acknowledged during the Annual Awards Evening and via our College Newsletter, Website and Annual.


If you are interested in providing sponsorship please complete the form in the link below:

https://bit.ly/AwardsSponsor25

Antonine College Bus Service

There are three core elements to the Antonine College bus system that we strive to always maintain:

1. Safety - Students and drivers arrive safely at school and return home safely
2. Reliability – All buses are available to students and cancellations are minimised
3. Accuracy – All students are on their correct bus

Safety

Safety includes both the safety of the driver and students. It is imperative that students remain seated at all times on the bus with their seatbelts on at all times. This also helps minimise distraction for the driver so they can concentrate on the road.

The new Roscar attendance system also allows for the College to track and monitor performance of buses and provides easy access to incident reporting and emergency management.

Reliability

The introduction of three StavLink coaches and several StavLink minibuses in 2025 has created greater flexibility in our bus routes, which has minimised cancellation of buses this year due to driver illness or unavailability. Antonine College runs 38 bus routes and continually strives to keep cancellations to a minimum for routes and will only do so in exceptional and unavoidable situations.

Accuracy

The introduction of the new attendance system on the Antonine College Bus Service continues to be very successful and greatly assists the College in maintaining these three core elements. In late March all students using the bus system, with the exception of Buses 3, 16 & 34, have been required to use the Roscar attendance system on Antonine and StavLink buses. All Year 3 to 12 bus students must be using their student ID cards and students in Foundation to Year 2 have ID fobs attached to their school bag, when they are using buses to and from school.

A reminder This attendance system requires bus students to use their cards or fobs to:

• tap on in the morning as they enter the bus
• tap on in the afternoon when they enter the bus and tap off when they exit the bus at home or designated stop

Students have been mostly excellent in using their cards or fobs to allow the attendance system to be accurate. Could all families please encourage their children to have their student card or student fob with them at all times so that the attendance system is always accurate. This greatly assists in buses running on time and will assist parents into the future of knowing where their children are on the bus.

St Joseph Campus Car Park

Demolition of three houses next to our St Joseph Campus is now almost complete and the construction on a car park will commence in the coming weeks. This new carpark will provide 50 car park spaces, which will allow the surrounding streets to be safer for residents and for our buses travelling through the surrounding streets due to less cars being parked around the College. It will also create greater flexibility on how the resources at St Joseph Campus are utilised by both the College and external organisations.

Click here for photos

- Mr Robert Fomiatti

Laudato Si Week

This year is the 10th anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical letter Laudato Si. He wrote this letter urging all humankind to take care of our common home. This is the one and only earth that we get, and it’s up to us to make sure it lasts for generations.

At Antonine we celebrated Laudato Si week by participating in different activities across the college. Some classes explored nature, went technology free and incorporated the use of recycled materials into artworks.

“Together we pledge our commitment to raising awareness about the stewardship of creation” – Pope Francis

Below are two captions written by students in Year 6

In 6C, we learnt about Laudato Si’ Week, which takes place from May 24th to May 31st, 2025. Ten years ago, Pope Francis wrote Laudato Si’, a powerful message calling us to care for our common home and work towards a brighter future. We can all make a difference by picking up rubbish, planting our own gardens, showing kindness, spreading joy, and working together to protect our planet. If we take action now, future generations will benefit, and both our families and the world will grow stronger and healthier. – Adam T, 6C

During Religion classes the Year 6s have been learning about Pope Francis’s letter, Laudato Si. We went out to the front of the school to collect flower petals, leaves, twigs, and olive branches to create an art piece to symbolise peace and care for God’s creation. This activity was calming and a wonderful way to connect with nature. – Zahra G, 6B

Click here for photos
 

- Ms Tanya Khattar

Year 10-12 Mass

On Tuesday 13th May students in Year 10-12 came to celebrate mass with Father Ehab. Today’s Gospel of the ‘Catch of the Miraculous Fish’ reminds us that even when we are tired, uncertain or unsuccessful, that Jesus is with us, ready to guide us and provide more than we could imagine. Students also had the opportunity to stay back after mass and celebrate the rite of Reconciliation.

“Confession is the sacrament of the tenderness of God, his way of embracing us" - Pope Francis

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- Ms Tanya Khattar

Mary Our Spiritual Mother to all

Motherhood is a sacred vocation, a reflection of Mary’s ‘yes’ to God. Today we honour all women who have embraced this calling with grace and faith, following in the footsteps of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We remember especially the mothers who have gone before us, now resting in the arms of Our Lady and the mercy of God.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to the raffle ticket gift

• El Sheikh Families. Sam, George, Roula, Ibrahim, Sahar
• Natalie El-Halabi & Johny El Halabi
• Fehme Barakat with his band
• Elias El Hage
• Almina – Walid Abdo with their wonderful staff
• Our P&F for working hard in organising the night
• Antonine College Staff and Child Care
• All our mother’s for all their dedication and support
• MP Anthony Cianflone State Labor of Pascoe Vale and Coburg
• Riyad & Jina Farah
• Cecilia Sleyman
• Mariana Chedid
• Amelia Youssef
• Fayda Toauk
• Roula Haddad
• Rania Zakkour
• Diala Al Murr
• Nina Massouh
• Hiba El Bonji
• Sophie Saba
• Jacquie Azzi
• Tony Asmar
• Therese Jeitani
• Chadi Ibrahim
• Najwa El Khoury
• Lilian El Khoury
• Talar Khello
• Rita Khaissi

Click here for photos

- Sr Veronique Karam

F-2 classrooms National Simultaneous Storytime

Foundation to Year 2 students celebrated National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) on Wednesday, 21 May. NSS is held in May every year to shine a spotlight on the important work of libraries across Australia and New Zealand every day, and of course, the fantastic children’s books that are produced by wonderful authors and illustrators.

The book selected to be read this year was The Truck Cat, written by Deborah Frenkel and illustrated by Danny Snell.

Along with his human, Yacoub, Tinka travels roads wide and narrow, near and distant. But no matter how much they travel, home feels very far away – for both of them.

Yacoub drives his truck to make a living, learning the landscape of a new country along the way, and longing for connection. When Tinka and Yacoub are unexpectedly separated, they are determined to find their way back to each other – and, in doing so, might find more than they expected …

The Truck Cat is a story about cats and humans, immigration and identity, and homes lost and found. During the literacy block on Wednesday morning, the students in Foundation - Year 2 participated in the storytime reading of the book followed by literature-based activities. Just before the first break the students then gathered in the atrium to share their activities with each other.

The students demonstrated a deep understanding that home is a special place where we are safe and loved. The assembly concluded with the students watching the Story Box Library video of The Truck Cat read by actor Jacek Koman.

If you would like to watch the story with your child, go to: https://storyboxhub.com/stories/the-truck-cat

Username: Cedar Story Box Library

Password: stories

Click here for photos

- Mr Gavan Kelly

Curing olives

Curing olives is one of the oldest traditions in our Lebanese culture which passed down through generations.

Year 3 and 4 students had the opportunity to practise this tradition. Students picked olives from the school garden, washed them and prepared their own jars of olives soaked in salt water to take home.

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- Mrs Rima Atme and Mrs Joelle Zakharia

The Year 3 students have embraced hands-on learning as part of our Inquiry unit – Top of the Food Chain & Life Cycles. The students created mini greenhouses using recycled punnets. They planted their seeds, watered them and watched them sprout and grow into seedlings. These seedlings will be transferred into the garden soon. We also welcomed mealworms into the classroom for students to observe their lifecycle. This real-life experience sparks discussion and a deeper understanding of metamorphosis. The students explored food chains and how all living things are connected. They created their own food chains, demonstrating what they’ve learned in colourful, creative ways.

This term has shown that learning doesn’t just happen from books—it grows in gardens, wriggles in containers, and lives in the wonder of discovery.

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- Mrs Joelle Zakharia, Ms Janine Wanda and Ms Georgia Petraki

Year 6 Coburg Interschool Sport – Mid-Season Update

Our Year 6 students have made a strong start to the Coburg Interschool Sport Competition, proudly representing our Antonine College across AFL, netball, and soccer. With a few rounds still to go, it’s been fantastic to see our students giving their best and displaying great sportsmanship in every game.

AFL – Boys
The boys have faced some tough opponents and are yet to register a win, with three losses so far. Despite the scoreboard, their effort, commitment, and improvement each week have been outstanding.

AFL – Girls
The girls' team is off to a strong start, with one win, one loss, and one draw under their belt. Their teamwork and determination have earned them 2nd place on the ladder as we head into the next round.

Netball – Mixed
With one win and two losses so far, the mixed netball team continues to build momentum. They’ve shown great communication and energy on court and are looking to finish the season strong.

Netball – Girls
The girls have had a tough run so far with three losses, but they’ve shown fantastic resilience and team spirit. They continue to train hard and improve with every match.

Soccer – Boys
The boys' soccer team has faced three tough matches and is still searching for their first win. Their persistence and teamwork have been a highlight, and they remain focused on the games ahead.

Soccer – Girls
With two wins and one loss, the girls' soccer team is performing exceptionally well and currently sit 2nd on the ladder. Their attacking play and solid defence have been a key strength.

Well done to all our teams for their efforts so far. We’re proud of your dedication and sportsmanship, and we look forward to seeing how the rest of the season unfolds!

Click here for photos

- Mr Hayden Wyllie

Year 9 Camp

The Year 9 Camp took place on the 19th to the 22nd of May at Coonawarra Lake Resort. Although the nights were below zero degrees, we were lucky to have warm days throughout the four days which allowed the students to engage in many outdoor activities that they thoroughly enjoyed. The students took part in rock climbing, raft making, canoeing, the giant swing, damper making and the flying fox. By night, they took part in disco trivia and were brave enough to go on two night walks through the Australian bush and observe the stars in the clear night sky.

During our time at Camp, the students got to see many wildlife roaming the premises such as beautiful Australian wallabies and possums that surrounded the area. The students faced their fears of being away from home, the fear of heights on the giant swing and dared to skim the water whilst on the flying fox. The camp proved to be so successful that the students asked to stay another day.

New friendships were made, and students and teachers felt very fortunate to have an experience such as this with one another. We sincerely thank the teachers who accompanied the students to the camp and look forward to the year ahead creating more memories with Year 9.

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- Ms Diane Farah

Year 10 Work Experience 19 to 23 May 2025

Work Experience is a great way to get students thinking about career interests and exploring the world of work. All Year 10 were responsible for planning, securing and participating in work experience. Networking is a great way to get a foot in the door or some of the exciting workplaces secured by our students including ANZ bank, stylists, dental specialists, architects, project managers and many more.

Students realised a sense of responsibility in workplaces which actually required them to show initiative and provide support in customer service in a range of retail and service work placements. Interestingly increasing number of employers are contacting me directly speaking highly of our students and impressed with their development of interpersonal and practical skills.

Well done to all students in the work experience program.

Student reflection

During my week of work experience at ANZ Bank, I gained valuable insights into how a major financial institution operates, for example observing different graphs, attending important meetings and forming presentations that summarise the problem/solution. I was placed in a city based branch where I got to observe the day-to-day responsibilities of different staff members, including operators (the people in charge of speaking to customers), the collective strategy team and acquisitions (those who set a guideline in sensing the eligibility of a customer).

Overall, my work experience at ANZ Bank was eye-opening and helped me understand the different roles within a bank and how they all work together to support customers. - Vanessa A at ANZ Bank

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- Ms Josie Rovetto

The Biggest Morning Tea

On Tuesday 27th May, the Year 12 students hosted The Biggest Morning Tea. This yearly event raises money for cancer research whilst providing the Year 12 students with an opportunity to wind down and have an enjoyable meal with staff. This year was no exception. There was plenty of morning tea on offer, lots of laughter, and good cheer. A big thanks to the students who prepared a feast and to the staff who donated money. The Year 12 student leaders worked well to help organise the successful fundraiser.

It was also a significant milestone for Monsignor Joseph Takchi, our College Chaplain, who turned 70 on the weekend. Wishing him a Happy Birthday, good health and happiness.

- Ms Ayesha Guido

Student reflection

On Tuesday, my Year 12 classmates and I came together for the biggest morning tea, and it was such a wholesome experience. Everyone brought a plate of food to share, and we gathered as a year level to enjoy it together. It wasn’t just about the food, it was very heartwarming coming together, chatting, and sharing a moment of unity. Also through our combined efforts, we managed to raise over $2,000 for cancer research and support, which was an incredible achievement. - Leen M

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- Ms Ayesha Guido

VCE Year 12 Data Analysis

Year 12 VCE Data Analysis students enjoyed an insightful experience at an IT careers conference called “The Big Day at RMIT” on 22 May. They explored careers in Information Technology and gained exposure to the university pathways. The industry experts from Wisetech Global, Westpac, Adobe and Tata Consultancy share valuable insights on emerging trends in technology sector. The event motivated students to consider future study and career options in this rapidly expanding and impactful field.

- Ms Polly Kaur

5-6 June: Year 5 Camp

9 June: King's Birthday Public Holiday

13 June: Cedar Fun Run

17 June: No School - please note this is a change of date to coincide with Year 12 GAT

18-20 June: Year 7-10 End of Semester Exams

1 July: Music Soiree (6pm)

4 July: Last day of Term 2

Pilgrims of Hope - College Theme 2025