Debra Ogston – Principal

Literacy Week – A Love of Reading

This week we celebrated Literacy Week with a range of activities that highlighted the joy and importance of reading. Exploring different genres and sharing stories helped remind us that books open doors to new ideas and experiences.

At school, we aim to nurture a lifelong love of reading in every child. Families play a vital role in this journey too, whether it’s reading together, talking about stories, or encouraging visits to the library. Together, we can inspire a passion for books that lasts well beyond the classroom.

In today’s world, literacy also extends to the digital space. We encourage students to develop strong digital skills while staying safe online. Parents can support this by setting clear screen-time limits, exploring educational apps together and discussing how to use devices responsibly.

Why not share a favourite family book together this weekend or explore a digital story as a family and continue the celebration at home?

Sally Savic- Assistant Principal: Head of Junior School (Woodlea) and

Melanie Morton – Assistant Principal: Head of Junior School (Maddingley)

Maddingley

Prep Wild Action Zoo Incursion

On Tuesday 26 August, our Prep students were treated to a Wild Action Zoo incursion that brought the wonders of the animal kingdom right into our classroom.

During the program, students were introduced to an incredible variety of creatures including Stumpy the shingleback lizard, Kermit the green tree frog, Casper the black – headed python, Moriarty the freshwater crocodile, Gandolf the tawny frogmouth, B2 the boobook owl, Morticia the mountain pygmy possum and Millie the short-beaked echidna. Students were given the unique chance to touch and hold many of these animals while learning to classify them by their features—fur, feathers, scales or skin.

The session also explored how different species are specially adapted to survive in their environments and encouraged students to consider the impact humans can have on their habitats. Our eager learners were captivated by this hands-on experience which not only built on their scientific understanding, but also fostered a deeper appreciation for protecting Australia’s native wildlife.

Kylie McKerrow – Head of Prep

Woodlea

Year 1

On Friday 1 August, Woodlea Year 1 students began their day at Staughton Vale with Recycling Relays. Students were given pictures of different objects and had to relay them into the correct bins as part of our Sustainability unit.

Everybody was having a wonderful day, when suddenly, halfway through the day, disaster struck! The teachers’ picnic vanished and so began The Staughton Vale Mystery. A witness called Ms Ramsey to notify her that they had seen a teacher take the picnic from the staffroom and had left clues hidden all around Staughton Vale. Each House was given its first clue and then students used their inferring skills to deduce the location of their next clue and off they went to solve the mystery. They worked in their Houses to place their clues together in the right order to reveal information about the thief and, as a cohort, we eliminated suspects and discovered the culprit.

In the end, the teachers’ picnic was returned with some extra treats, and the mystery was solved.

The Year 1 Team

Junior School Art

In Term 3, our Prep students have been busy exploring their creativity through a variety of zoo animal artworks. Each week, they have focused on a different animal and an artmaking technique. They experimented with water and Crayola textas to create colourful elephants, used their painting and drawing skills to bring Giraffes Can’t Dance to life, and sculpted echidnas out of magic clay. This week, in celebration of Book Week, students will be constructing elephants inspired by How to Move a Zoo, by Kate Simpson.

This term, our Year One students have been developing their creativity through artworks inspired by space and storytelling. They used soft pastels to design imaginative space scenes and applied their printing and painting skills to create enchanting fairy-tale castles. For Book Week, students will be exploring colour theory by making their own Thaumatrope inspired by the book The Garden of Broken Things by Freya Blackwood.

This term, the Year Two students have been busy developing their creativity and skills. They began by combining printing, painting and weaving techniques to design their own imaginative Dream House. More recently, they have started exploring sewing including learning how to use a running stitch. For Book Week, students will be creating a textured wall painting inspired by the book Afloat by Kirli Saunders.

The Year Two students have thoroughly enjoyed their co-curricular time this term, creating a range of artworks to brighten our corridors. They also designed individual flowers which, with the support of Lou Callow, were combined into a stunning collaborative piece now proudly displayed in the foyer of the Woodlea administration building. In addition, all P–4 students took part in a special Blue Challenge Week, where they were tasked with creating a painted artwork using different shades of blue. This challenge encouraged creativity, problem-solving and a deeper understanding of colour.

Lucinda Degiorgio – P-2 Art Teacher

Student Achievement

Congratulations Deetya!

We are thrilled to congratulate Deetya –4WE on her selection to represent Australia in the Under-16 Black Belt Camp in Vietnam. This prestigious opportunity will see Deetya train alongside Vietnam’s National Taekwondo Team, legendary masters and world champions, while also experiencing cultural exchanges and team bonding activities.

We are incredibly proud of Deetya’s dedication, skill and commitment to Taekwondo. We wish her a memorable camp experience!

Sally Savic – Assistant Principal: Head of Junior School

BMG and MAV Maths Games Day 2025

Over the course of the last several weeks, teams from both Woodlea and Maddingley have participated in MAV Maths Games days.

These events bring together the brightest mathematicians from schools across Melbourne. Year 5 to 8 students engaged in problem solving relays and mathematical games and other mathematical activities designed to find the best problem solvers. The students each competed in groups of 4

Year 5:

Woodlea: Jack M, Avyaan K, Nicholas S, Aaralyn X, Aarohan B, Jasmine J, Adi S and Namar B.

One group achieved an amazing 4th place result and narrowly missed a bronze medal by 0.75 of a point!

Year 7:

Woodlea: Ethan M, PaalashS, Haaris M, Zayan H, Sumishka B, Devanshi N, Saanvi P and Ritvik P.

Maddingley: Jaithra S, Arnav P, Anhad B, Ronan N, Anay D, Edgar T, Aarav A, Aditi S

One group finished sixth overall – well done!

Year 8:

Woodlea: Ayaan P, Ved P, Ocean L, Aadrika C, Kosheen P, Thanvi V, Nishant S, Hrishaan U.

Maddingley: Anvita M, Archis R, Palaash K, Neev A, Isabella B, Akshat S, Aanav M, Hitesh M.

The teams battled well and enjoyed the day despite not making the top ten places.

Congratulations and well done to all involved.

Debra Penny – Head of Faculty: Mathematics (Maddingley) and Cameron McGregor – Head of Faculty: Mathematics (Woodlea)

Maddingley

Middle School Leadership Expo – A Student-Led Success

As part of the leadership selection process for 2026 Middle School leaders, Mrs. Perks, Deputy Head of Middle School, with the support of our current student leaders, organised two lunchtime expos. These events provided a fantastic opportunity for aspiring leaders to connect with those currently in leadership roles, ask questions about the application process, and gain insight into what it truly means to be a leader in our Middle School.

Each current leader hosted their own table, offering a student-led perspective on the responsibilities, challenges, and rewards of leadership. It was a wonderful initiative led by our Mrs Perks, and we were thrilled to see such strong attendance and engagement from students.

With the application phase now complete, we are moving into the selection stage. Teachers responsible for each leadership area will now carefully consider the candidates and select those who best represent the values and vision of our school.

We would like to sincerely thank all students who have “put their hat in the ring” for a leadership position. For those who may not be successful this time, we encourage them to continue demonstrating leadership by living our school values, supporting their peers, and contributing positively to our school community. Leadership is not defined by a badge; it’s shown through everyday actions.

Mr Scott Bayne – Assistant Principal: Head of Middle School

Beyond Earth: A Student’s Insight into Space Exploration at RMIT

During the winter holidays, I had the incredible opportunity to participate in the RMIT Space Teams Academy held at the Melbourne City Campus. I attended alongside many other students, including seven peers from Bacchus Marsh Grammar.

Over the course of the week, we delved into six key fields of space science: planetary science, spacecraft design, orbital trajectory, orbital descent, habitat construction and surface operations. Each topic was paired with engaging video content and advanced simulation software, allowing us to put theory into practice in exciting ways.

A standout moment for me was designing a spacecraft using professional-grade tools—an experience that offered real insight into the engineering challenges faced by space agencies.

We were also privileged to hear from leading experts in the field, including former NASA astronaut Gregory Chamitoff, who shared stories from his time aboard the International Space Station. Dr. Graham Dorrington, currently exploring how lunar materials might one day supply energy to Earth, also delivered a fascinating talk.

Another highlight was meeting members of the award-winning RMIT Rocketry Team, whose passion and innovation were truly inspiring.

Overall, the program was an unforgettable experience that deepened my interest in space science. I’m sincerely grateful to my parents, RMIT and Bacchus Marsh Grammar for making this opportunity possible.

Jaithra S – Student 7E

Woodlea

Year 5 Time-Travel to 1854: Eureka! A Day at the Centre of History

On 3 December, Year 5 Woodlea students stepped back in time to 1854, the day of the historic Eureka Stockade. During their exciting excursion to the Eureka Centre in Ballarat, they dressed in the mindset of gold miners, soldiers and diggers, the students embraced the spirit of the times as they explored one of Australia’s most important events in the fight for democracy.

As soon as they arrived, the students were plunged into the world of 19th-century Ballarat. Many joined in passionate debates about whether to stand up to the government—or play it safe and keep digging for gold.

One of the most exciting activities was voting in a mock election, just as people of the time would have fought to do. With ballots in hand, students cast their votes and discussed what democracy meant in 1854 and what it means today.

Inside the Centre, students were amazed by the real artefacts from the goldfields, including tools, clothing and documents from the time. Standing beneath the enormous and powerful Eureka Flag, many felt a sense of pride and wonder—this was the very flag flown by the diggers who stood together at the stockade.

Outside, students went on a historic walking tour of the site. They visited plaques that marked where soldiers once stood, and learned about the lives lost on both sides of the conflict. One of the most touching moments was hearing the story of a loyal dog that stayed by its owner’s grave – a poignant reminder of the human stories behind the history.

By the end of the day, the students had laughed, learned, marched and remembered. It was a day of discovery, emotion and imagination. As one “digger” put it, “We didn’t just learn about history — we lived it.”

Lisa Bragiola – Year 5 Teacher

Student Achievement

Jordan K from Year 6 at Woodlea recently competed at the Interclub Fight Day hosted by Barbarian Muay Thai, Delacombe. Competing in the 50–60kg weight class, Jordan showcased his skill and determination, securing a win at the Blue Pra Ja level. Congratulations to Jordan on this fantastic achievement!

Elle Pelly – Head of Year 6 (Woodlea)

English Text Study: Trash

Just recently, in English, my class was analysing the book Trash by Andy Mulligan. While reading, I noticed that one character, Father Juilliard, might not be as nice as he seems.

To understand this story a bit better, Father Julliard is a 63-year-old man in Behala who has been running a charitable mission school for the past 7 years. Rarely anyone comes to his mission school so he has to bribe children with food.

When I first realised this, I told my teacher Miss Ng and attempted to convince everyone. However, that was futile. After all, he looks like a charitable, generous man. Then Miss Ng told me to write an essay about why he wasn’t that nice so I did that. I had my reasons, but when I looked closer into his chapter, I discovered more about him and questioned much more about him. Some of his choices seemed selfish and contradicted his depicted personality. This led me to writing up to 11 pages on paper but when I transferred it online, it turned into 8 pages. The three main arguments I presented were that Father Juilliard doesn’t always lead effectively, seems to accept the poverty he should be fighting against, and often doesn’t try his hardest.”

After finishing my essay, I read it out to the class. Surprisingly, not everyone was convinced. Determined to prove my point I then emailed Andy Mulligan, the author himself. If the author himself agreed then surely it would be more than enough proof. I was unsure whether he would reply but to my surprise, he replied! In his email, he replied with an essay, actually agreeing with my perspective and added another extra piece of shocking information that Father Julliard was an alcoholic. There was no direct reference to this but in Andy Mulligan’s mind, he always was.

This experience from the author made me look back at the story in a new way. Even I, at the beginning, didn’t think much of Father Julliard. It is only if you dig deep inside the book you will see that so many things are possible that what seems like something might not be so. Finding evidence and thinking beyond the writer leads you to a different world, where what is depicted as kind is actually selfish and what might be cruel might be generous.

Student Reflection by Saanvi Pi, 7WF

Senior School Colour Run

As part of the Year 10 Inspire Program, Year 10 students at the Maddingley Campus have been given the opportunity to develop their Service Leadership skills. We are excited to announce that Bacchus Marsh Grammar will host its first ever Senior School Colour Run on the last day of term – Friday 19 September! This fun and vibrant event will bring our school community together to celebrate the end of term, whilst also raising funds for the Starlight Foundation.

The cost to participate is $10 per student, with all money raised donated to the Starlight Foundation.

The Starlight Foundation has been bringing joy, laughter and happiness to seriously ill children for over 35 years. By working alongside health professionals, they create positive experiences to help children cope with the challenges of illness, ensuring that “sick kids are still kids.”

Students wanting to be involved will need to register their interest via the Edsmart correspondence sent out previously.

We look forward to seeing our students come together in a day full of colour, energy and school spirit, knowing that every step they take will help make a difference.

Natalie Desira – Assistant Principal: Head of Senior School and Tenielle Brown – Deputy Head of Senior School

Woodlea

Pre-VCE Physics Excursion

On 1 September, Year 10 Pre-VCE Physics students visited the Melbourne Museum for the Road to Zero road safety education experience. As a group, we explored interactive activities using VR technology and touch tables to investigate how speed and friction influence stopping distances. These lessons gave us valuable insight into the physics of everyday road situations and their direct impact on road safety. Personally, I found the experience eye-opening as it showed how scientific concepts we often overlook can have life-saving applications. Overall, it was an engaging and meaningful excursion for both learning and awareness.

Student reflection by Semira K 10WE

The University of Melbourne Girl Power in Engineering and IT Program – Student Reflection

The Girl Power in Engineering and IT program is a four-year initiative facilitated by the University of Melbourne for female high-school students, aimed at contributing towards gender parity in engineering and IT disciplines. The program begins in Year 9 with a four-day residential camp, followed by a Faculty of Science work-experience placement in Year 10, and includes mentoring opportunities in Years 11 and 12. After submitting my application and taking part in a group interview, I was absolutely delighted to be one of 40 students across Australia selected to participate in this program!

Over the recent school holidays, from 13–16 July, I was thrilled to immerse myself in a four-day, three-night residential camp at the University of Melbourne’s Parkville campus. This program is free of charge and includes all meals, workshops and accommodation at University College. During the camp, I learnt about different career pathways in engineering and IT, participated in hands-on workshops, heard from female industry and academic leaders, and formed networks with like-minded girls who share my passion for STEM.

I participated in a range of workshops during camp, including a Design Thinking Workshop where we explored sustainable housing and used the design thinking process to come up with housing ideas, a Robogals Workshop, where we learnt to code with Python, and a bridge-building competition. We also did a SIRE (Students In Renewable Energy) Workshop, where we built small floating wind turbines, and a Drones Workshop, where we were able to code and fly drones in Melbourne University’s Science Gallery. We also had lunch with the MUR Motor Racing Team, who design and build sports cars for racing events like Formula One.

One of the highlights was visiting The Creator Space at Melbourne Connect, where we designed and built model planes using laser cutters. Another standout moment was the Careers and Networking Panel Discussion evening where we were inspired by the experiences of four remarkable women in STEM and gained valuable insights into each of their careers. I learnt that it’s perfectly okay to take time to find your path and explore different fields within engineering and IT. We even dressed up for the event, which made the night feel extra special.

Between workshops, we were divided into groups of four for a team challenge and worked on a project addressing one of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). My team, InnovateHer, chose SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation. We researched and brainstormed ideas around this topic and developed a solution: a three-in-one water collection and filtration system that we called the Terrasip Kit. On the final day, we presented our solution and were thrilled to be announced the winners out of all ten groups!

Overall, I’m incredibly grateful to have participated in the prestigious Girl Power in Engineering and IT camp. I gained valuable insights and knowledge through the various workshops, projects and networking opportunities. Beyond the workshops, the camp gave me a taste of university life, staying in dorms, trying campus meals at the cafeteria, enjoying games and movie nights with my new found friends! I am thankful to all the wonderful mentors and staff at the University of Melbourne who made this incredible camp possible. I would like to especially thank Mrs Ogston and Mrs Hunter for providing me with a letter of recommendation as part of my application for this program.

To any girls interested in pursuing a career in engineering or IT, or simply curious about STEM, I highly recommend applying for the University of Melbourne’s Girl Power in Engineering and IT program! For more information about this amazing program, please visit the Girl Power in Engineering and IT page on the University of Melbourne’s website.

Maddie D (9WD)

Nepal Expedition September 2026 – Upcoming Information Session

An exciting opportunity for students from Years 7 to 11 at both Maddingley and Woodlea campuses in 2026.

Maddingley

 Sisters Shine at Victorian Interschools Championships

A huge congratulations to our talented Snow Sports duo, Tayla and Kaylee W, on their outstanding results at the Victorian Interschools Championships at Mt Buller.

• Tayla – 1st in Alpine GS, 2nd in Ski Cross
• Kaylee – 3rd in Alpine GS, 3rd in Ski Cross

Together, their brilliant performances secured the team a gold medal in Ski Cross and a strong 6th place in Moguls. The pair now prepare to take on the National Championships in early September. Best of luck, Tayla and Kaylee – amazing work on the slopes!

Bryce Durham – Head of Faculty: Physical Education and Health

WestVic Scholarship High Performance Day

On Monday 25 August, the WestVic scholarship holders and a number of elite sport athletes attended a High Performance Day in Ballarat. The day began at Federation University’s High Performance Centre, where athletes completed a series of fitness tests, toured the facilities and attended a presentation on the attributes of high-performing athletes.

The group then travelled to the RAD centre for a strength and conditioning session before finishing at 360Vital. Here, athletes tested and experienced some of the latest recovery equipment including infrared saunas, compression boots and the low-pulsed electromagnetic technology recovery bed.

Days like this provide an incredible opportunity for our youth athletes to experience what high-performance sport looks like first hand. From elite training to advanced recovery, the day gave them a real insight into the dedication and mindset required to succeed at the highest level.

Bryce Durham – Head of Faculty: Physical Education and Health

Australian Korfball Team Announcement

We are thrilled to announce that four of our Year 11 students – James M, Will R, Charlie M and Miah B – have been selected to represent Australia at the Oceania Korfball Championships, taking place in Bacchus Marsh from 19–21 September.

This is the very first time all four students will proudly wear the green and gold, a remarkable achievement.

We wish James, Will, Charlie and Miah every success as they take to the court on the international stage. Go Australia!

Tenielle Brown – Deputy Head of Senior School

Bacchus Marsh Grammar presents Maddingley in Concert

Tickets on sale now!

Monday 8 September – Clocktower Centre, Moonee Ponds

Join us for an unforgettable evening celebrating the vibrant creativity and talent of our Performing Arts students. Maddingley In Concert will showcase the energy, dedication and artistry of students from both Middle and Senior School.

The program will feature a dynamic mix of vocal acts, vibrant dance performances, high-energy band sets and uplifting ensemble pieces.  This event is a true celebration of music and dance excellence at Bacchus Marsh Grammar – a night not to be missed!

Click here to book tickets now!

High School Dance Competition

The High School Dance Competition is a hip-hop based dance competition with an underlying Bollywood theme, open to high school students. This competition was held on 2 August at the Williamstown Town Hall, where a team of incredibly talented students from BMG proudly represented our school.

In our very first year competing, we are proud to say the night proved to be an outstanding success. BMG was honoured with the Best Costume Award, followed by the Best Debut Award, and, most importantly, we achieved Second Highest Overall. These accomplishments show the dedication, courage and passion each team member brought to the stage.

Though the journey was challenging at times, it was also a meaningful and an unforgettable experience. We are so grateful for this opportunity and for everyone who supported us.

Student reflection by Harsh K

Woodlea’s Winter Soiree

On Tuesday 12 August 12, over 90 instrumental music students from the Junior School took to the stage in The Gym for the annual Woodlea Winter Soiree. Under the guidance of dedicated and caring instrumental music staff, families were treated to a joyful evening of first-time performances, duets between friends, and ensemble pieces that showcased the power of collaboration.

Highlights included the Year 1 String Item, whose playful rendition of Shake It by Gibson and Sharp featured violin playing and rhythmic stamping that brought smiles all around. Nihal Singh Sidhu from Year 3 delivered a show-stopping drum performance of Cake by the Ocean by DNCE, while Aaradhya Joshi captivated the audience with a heartfelt vocal performance of Golden by Huntrix—truly the song of the hour!

Beyond their musical talents, these students demonstrated remarkable courage and discipline. Their enthusiasm was matched only by their support for one another, creating an atmosphere of unity that resonated throughout the evening.

The event was a shining example of the Junior School values of confidence and ambition—expressed through performance and connection. It’s a promising sign of the creativity and heart we can expect from future performances at Woodlea.

Suzanne Kinsella – Head of Faculty: Music (Woodlea)

Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee

Congratulations to all the students who participated in the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee.

At the school level, the winners of each Year Level were:

The students who have qualified for the State/Territory Finals are:

The State/Territory round will take place this week at both campuses.

Competition dates and times will be communicated this week.

Feona West – Teacher Librarian

Book Fair Update – Maddingley and Woodlea

Thank you so much to all our BMG families for your amazing support of our 2025 Book Fairs. Commission from the book sales will be used to purchase more resources for the school.

We are currently waiting on the delivery from Lamont of the last of our orders.

If your child has not yet received their order then please contact Mrs West at westf@bmg.vic.edu.au. Do not contact Lamont Books directly. Thank you.

Feona West – Teacher-Librarian and BMG Book Fair Coordinator

Book Club News September

Issue 6 of the Scholastic Book Club catalogue is available to order from.

Click here to go to the ‘How to order’ page

Click here to be taken directly to the issue page to place an order with the option to order from Issues 5 and 6

Diane Dunn (Maddingley Campus) and Feona West (Woodlea Campus) – Scholastic Book Club Coordinators

Story Writing Competition Winners

Congratulations to the following students who have won the 2025 Annual BMG Story Writing Competition.

Students were challenged to write an original, authentic story with the prompt: ‘Why is that there? Something is not right.’

Winners will be presented with a certificate and a QBD gift voucher.

STORY WRITING COMPETITION 2025 WINNERS

End of Term 3 / Commencement of Term 4 Information

Last Day of Term 3 – Friday 19 September

As per Term Dates, the last day of Term 3 is Friday 19 September. Finish time is 2.20pm.

Commencement of Term 4

Term 4 will commence for all students on Tuesday 7 October. Year 12 students do have trial exams on Monday 6 October.

Term Dates

For a full list of term dates, please visit the School Website.

Administration Office Hours

The Maddingley and Woodlea Administration Offices will operate during the break as follows:

Monday 22 September to Friday 3 October: 9:30am – 3:30pm. Closed Friday 26 September (Public Holiday).

Final Update: ICAS 2025 – Woodlea and Maddingley

Each student who participated in ICAS is recognised with a printed certificate in each subject area, and an online results report to track development each year. Top performers are eligible for one of the highly coveted ICAS medals.

ICAS certificate/s will show student results and the login details, “TAP ID and Pin”. Use these to enter the Results Portal. Note: the school  will publish, via Schoolbox, when  ICAS certificates have arrived. Arrangements will be made to send these home with students or by post.  The TAP ID and Pin from previous years can access 2025 results.  Year 2 students will have to wait for the certificate details or contact ICAS directly to access the “TAP ID and Pin”.

Casey Ryder – Executive Assistant: Maddingley

Reminder: Student Withdrawal Notification for 2026

As we approach the conclusions of Term 3, we kindly remind families that if your child will not be returning to Bacchus Marsh Grammar in 2026, written notification must be submitted to the Principal via email as school@bmg.vic.edu.au prior to the commencement of Term 4 2025.

Please be aware the failure to provide the required notification will incur an Administration Fee, as outlined in the Conditions of Enrolment and the 2025 Business Notice (section 6.1.2). The applicable fees are as follows:

• $750 for Primary School Students
• $1,000 for Secondary School Students

We appreciate your cooperation in ensuring timely communications regarding enrolment changes

Michelle Graham – Director of Administration

School Policies and Documents

The following School policy has been updated and is available to view from the School Policies tile in Schoolbox:

• Bus Travel Code of Conduct – Updated to clarify boarding procedures, strengthen parent responsibilities, outline cumulative consequences for misconduct, and introduce provisions for CCTV review and incident reporting via email.

Please contact Kerryn Browne should you have any questions.

Kerryn Browne – Risk, Compliance and Policy Manager

School Letters/Edsmart Notifications

Parents are encouraged to contact the school if they believe that they are not receiving school letters relating to their child’s excursions, class activities or school events.

There have been instances recently where communication via Edsmart notifications have been blocked from an inbox and considered ‘spam’, or a parent’s mailbox is full and the information is not received.

You can view Edsmart communication for your child via Schoolbox under the Quick Links / Edsmart, or via School Letters.

Please contact Administration staff via email administration@bmg.vic.edu.au or call 03 53664800 to discuss any issues with receiving communication.

Term Dates

Both the 2025 and 2026 Term Dates are published on the school’s website. 

Events Calendar

All upcoming events feature on the Schoolbox Calendar for both students and parents/guardians to view.

Uniform Shop

Uniform information and shop business hours for both the Maddingley Campus Onsite Shop and Rushfords in Werribee are listed on the school’s website.

Please note that uniforms can also be purchased by clicking here

On Campus Store – Maddingley

Week 1 

School Holidays – Closed

Week 2 

Monday 29 September – 10.00am – 2.00pm

Wednesday 1 October – 10.00am – 2.00pm

Friday 3 October – 10.00am – 2.00pm

Normal trading hours resume from Monday 6 October

Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) – The Y Ballarat

The Y Ballarat operates the Out of School Hours Care at Bacchus Marsh Grammar.  Enrolments are completed online. For full information please visit the School’s website.

Email: chrissie.ashmore@yballarat.org.au
Phone: 0490 178 638
Website: https://yballarat.org.au/

Regular Contacts

General School Email: school@bmg.vic.edu.au

End of Term Bus Departure Times

Maddingley Campus

• Early finish at 2:20pm on Friday 19 September
• Private Buses will depart 1 hour earlier than their scheduled timetabled times to coincide with the earlier finish.
• All Public and Country buses will run 30 minutes earlier than their scheduled timetable times.

Woodlea Campus

• Early finish at 2:20pm on Friday 19 September
• Private Buses will depart 1 hour earlier than their scheduled timetabled times to coincide with the earlier finish.
• Rockbank Shuttle Bus will depart Woodlea Campus at 2.25pm and45pm to coincide with train departures to Melbourne and Ballarat.

Private Bus Travel 2026

We are currently rolling over students from 2025 private bus travel to 2026 private bus travel.

If your child/ren’s current bus travel arrangements are going to change, or require to be changed, (eg moving house, no longer require private bus travel) for 2026, please contact the School Bus Services Administrator on 5366 4800 or email bus@bmg.vic.edu.au to discuss this change.  If your child/ren do not require a private bus service in 2026 and parents do not advise the school, your child/ren will be allocated to a private bus and fees will apply.

Allocated Roll Call Stops

If you have changed your child/ren’s stop at which they board or disembark as a permanent change, and have not notified the school, please contact the School Bus Services Administrator on 5366 4800 or email bus@bmg.vic.edu.au.  This information needs to be up-to-date on roll call for emergency services and will assist in the planning for 2026 routes/timetables.

Country Bus Travel 2026: Eligible and Fare Paying for Maddingley Campus

Applications for Permission to Travel forms have been sent to families via Edsmart notification to parents of children who are eligible to travel on a country bus to Bacchus Marsh Grammar Maddingley Campus in 2026.  Application forms are due back by Friday 05 September 2025. Please note that failure to submit this form to the office by the due date may result in your child/ren not being eligible to travel on a Government Operated Bus Service in 2026.

Year 12 Trial Exams

Year 12 trial exams are taking place on Monday 6 October 2025. There will be no bus services available on this day so students will be required to make their own way to and from school.

Wrong Stop Alert

If you are receiving a notification of WRONG STOP in your roll call App,  please contact the School Bus Services Administrator on 5366 4800 or email bus@bmg.vic.edu.au so the correct stop can be updated.  This is to ensure your child is allocated to the same stop for 2026.

Leanne Robertson – School Bus Services Administrator