Right Thing, Right Now – Lessons in Character

In his book “Right Thing, Right Now,” Stoic Philosopher and author Ryan Holiday challenges readers to consider a timeless yet increasingly difficult question, what does it mean to do the right thing, right now? In a world often shaped by convenience, distraction, and self-interest, Holiday reminds us that character is not formed in grand moments alone, but in the small, everyday decisions we make consistently over time.

At the heart of the book is the idea that integrity is active rather than passive. Doing the right thing requires courage, discipline, humility and wisdom, virtues that have long been central to both classical philosophy and contemporary character education. You only have to read the texts of Aristotle and Confucius to be reminded of how far this thought precedes us. Holiday argues that moral action is not dependent upon recognition or reward, instead, it is grounded in an individual’s commitment to values and principles, even when no one is watching.

At Bacchus Marsh Grammar our Character Education program is aimed at this very notion. Grounding students in virtuous behaviours, educating students with appropriate knowledge and guiding students’ moral behaviours so that they can make the right decisions at the right time and for the right reasons, especially when no one is watching.

Every day our students are faced with choices that shape both their learning and their character. Whether to show kindness to others, persevere through challenge, act honestly, or take responsibility for their actions. These moments may appear small, yet collectively they contribute to the formation of habits, values and character

For educators and parents, “Right Thing, Right Now “ serves as a timely reminder that character development is not simply taught through programs or lessons alone, but through modelling. Young people observe the actions of the adults around them closely. They learn integrity when they witness fairness, compassion when they experience kindness and resilience when they see perseverance demonstrated in adversity.

Regarding the Bacchus Marsh Grammar community, Holiday’s message encourages us to continue striving towards lives marked by respect, courage, wisdom, kindness, discipline and responsibility. In doing so, we help nurture young people who are not only academically capable, but who are also prepared to contribute positively, flourish and add to the world around them.

Andrew Perks – Deputy Principal: Culture and Character Education

During Cultural Week, students came together to celebrate and learn about the many cultures within our school community. Through a range of activities, discussions and shared experiences, students demonstrated our school values of respect, inclusion and kindness. It was wonderful to see students embracing diversity and showing curiosity and appreciation for others. Events such as these are an important part of building connection, understanding and a strong sense of community within our school.

As we continue through the term, we kindly remind families of the importance of students arriving at school on time each morning and being collected promptly in the afternoon. Wearing the correct school uniform each day also helps students feel proud and connected to our school community. Being organised, punctual and prepared reflects our school value of discipline and supports a positive learning environment for all students.

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

Maddingley

Special Persons Day

Continuing a cherished tradition, our Prep to Year 2 students were delighted to welcome their mothers and other special people into our classrooms for memorable Mother’s Day celebrations. Throughout the week, classrooms were filled with smiles, laughter and creativity as students and their guests enjoyed quality time together through a range of engaging activities and crafts.

The students in Prep Reception participated in a variety of rotational activities, while the Prep students created meaningful keepsakes to treasure as a reminder of the occasion.

Year 1 students enjoyed designing wonderful posters and special crafts alongside their mums and other special visitors, creating lasting memories as they celebrated Mother’s Day together.

The Year 2 students shared a wonderful afternoon creating a silkworm lifecycle craft, completing a reading activity focused on vocabulary, and making beautiful tissue paper flowers together. Students also had the opportunity to interview their special person, engaging in meaningful conversations and learning more about them while creating lasting memories.

It was wonderful to witness the positive energy across the week as students worked alongside their loved ones and proudly showcased their classroom environments. We thank all families who attended and helped make these celebrations so memorable for our students and staff. Your support and involvement in our school community is greatly valued.

Prep to Year 2 Coordinators – Maddingley

Year 3 Spotlight

This term has been a busy one for our Year 3 students. On Friday 24 April, students participated in the Cross Country event at the Staughton Vale campus. The teachers were incredibly proud of the confidence, determination and House spirit displayed by all students. Congratulations to Mia Z, Anya V, Jazlyn K, Oliver L and Lennon M who progressed to the next round of the competition.

As part of Cultural Week, students experienced the world of Taiko Drumming. Taiko is a traditional Japanese style of drumming that uses large drums and strong, rhythmic movements. During the session, students learned about the history of Taiko, watched a live demonstration and had the opportunity to try drumming themselves. They worked together to follow rhythms, stay in time and perform as a group. Students also enthusiastically participated in Cultural Dress-Up Day, proudly showcasing a range of cultural costumes and demonstrating engagement and respect throughout the week’s activities and learning experiences.

On Monday 11 May, students visited Staughton Vale for a day of activities focusing on specialist subjects including Art, Science and Physical Education. Students created a foil art piece inspired by the natural landscape and designed a landscape diorama that reflected their learning about the Earth’s surface and natural features such as mountains, rivers, lakes and hills. During Physical Education sessions, students enjoyed participating in a variety of games and outdoor activities in the beautiful weather. Some students visited the kitchen garden where they planted garlic and picked strawberries and lemons. The day was an engaging and enjoyable experience for all students and provided valuable opportunities for learning beyond the classroom.

Bethan White – Head of Year 3 (Maddingley)

Year 4 Leaders – GRIP

Our Junior School Leaders and House Leaders recently attended the GRIP Leadership Conference in Ballarat, where they had the opportunity to be inspired and motivated alongside student leaders from other schools.  

Throughout the day, students explored what it takes to be inspiring and effective leaders within our school community, while also connecting, collaborating and sharing ideas with peers.

The conference provided valuable insights into leadership, teamwork, and positive influence, encouraging students to reflect on the important role they play within our school community.

We are incredibly proud of the way all students demonstrated our school values of respect, kindness, discipline, confidence and leadership throughout the day. They represented our school with pride and should feel proud of the mature and respectful manner in which they conducted themselves.

We look forward to seeing what young inspiring leaders will achieve as they continue to make a positive impact within our school community.

Woodlea

Mother’s Day Afternoon

On Friday May 8, our classrooms were filled with smiles, laughter and creativity as we enjoyed a special Mother’s Day craft activity together.

The students worked so carefully and proudly to create beautiful gifts for the wonderful women in their lives. It was lovely to see the love and thought they put into every detail.

Moments like these remind us how special mothers, grandmothers and all the caring women around us are, and how important it is to celebrate the love, support and kindness they give every day.

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

Year 1 Spotlight

In Mathematics, our Year 1 students have been exploring the concept of measurement through a range of engaging hands-on activities.

Students have been measuring the length and width of classroom objects using both formal and informal units of measurement.

They have also been developing their mathematical language by comparing and ordering objects and classmates using terms such as taller and shorter.

It has been wonderful to see the students’ increased confidence as they investigate measurement in meaningful and practical ways.

Year 1 Teachers

Maddingley

Victorian Indonesian Language Teachers Association Competition

Rnvir Singh A of 6A recently participated in the state-wide Victorian Indonesian Language Teachers Association Competition in which students were challenged to design a poster promoting the benefits of learning Indonesian.

We are delighted to share that Rnvir was selected as the winner of the Year 6 category across the entire state of Victoria. His poster stood out for its creativity, visual appeal and exceptional quality.

We congratulate Rnvir on his efforts and award.

Kayla Rideg – Teacher (Maddingley)

Student Achievements

This term, our Middle School students have demonstrated the very essence of the BMG spirit, pursuing excellence through the living application of our core values: Confidence, Ambition and Knowledge.

Whether navigating the rigorous intellectual challenges of the Da Vinci Decathlon, showing physical fortitude on the cross-country track or displaying the courage required to perform during Music Week, our students continue to reach new heights.

These fantastic achievements are a direct reflection of our community’s commitment to character, where loyalty and service to one’s House go hand in hand with individual success. We applaud the integrity and self-discipline our students show in their daily habits, and we celebrate the hard work and virtue that makes these significant successes possible.

Academic Excellence and Special Recognition

The Compass Award

This program encourages students to step outside their comfort zones by engaging in physical recreation, community service and personal skill development. It is a prestigious pathway for students to build long-term resilience and leadership.

Rnvir A – Level 1
Ayansh G – Level 2

Language Arts Success

The state-wide poster competition challenges students to promote the benefits of bilingualism through visual art and persuasive design. It requires a deep understanding of cultural nuances and the cognitive advantages of learning a second language.
Rnvir Singh A (Year 6): Winner – “Why Learn Indonesian?”

Single School Colours – 50 Points

School Colours are a traditional mark of distinction awarded to students who accumulate points through a balance of academic effort, co-curricular participation and citizenship. Reaching 50 points reflects a sustained commitment to the school’s core values over a significant period.

Om A 6A
Zariya R 6A
Hamza Q 6C
Kiara G 6D

Da Vinci Decathlon Results

The Da Vinci Decathlon is an elite academic competition designed to challenge and stimulate the minds of school students through ten disciplines including engineering, code-breaking and cartography. Teams must work under intense time pressure to solve complex problems that require both logic and creative flair.
Year 7 Team: 1st Place Overall

1st Place finishes: Mathematics, English, Ideation, Engineering, Art and Poetry.

2nd Place finishes: Cartography and Code Breaking.

Team Members: Omika Katyayani A, Nabeeha A, Tanish C, Robinson D, Sampath D, Saanvi G, Reyan H and Harvi M.

Year 8 Team: 3rd Place Overall

1st Place finish: Cartography.

2nd Place finishes: Ideation and Mathematics.

3rd Place finishes: Science and English.

Team Members: Viraat B, Anay A, Imogen O, Jaithra S, Aditi S, Meet S, Kashvi S and Edgar T.

Congratulations to all our students on their hard work and success this term!

Scott Bayne – Assistant Principal: Head of Middle School (Maddingley)

Maddingley

Pre VCE Biology into Unit 3/4 Biology – Gel Electrophoresis

In recent weeks, both Pre-VCE and Unit 3/4 Biology students have taken part in conducting gel electrophoresis, a technique used to separate DNA fragments which can then be used in DNA fingerprinting.

Pre-VCE Biology students completed an introductory gel electrophoresis activity. Using food colouring rather than DNA, students explored how different molecules move through a gel under an electric current. This model allowed them to focus on the fundamentals: preparing the gel, loading samples steadily and observing how separation occurs.

Unit 3/4 Biology students also undertook a gel electrophoresis practical; however, this was a more complex practical as part of their studies into how DNA is manipulated through genetic tools. This investigation required them to work with DNA samples that had been cut using endonucleases and to interpret more detailed banding patterns.

Overall, students found these activities enjoyable, and Unit 3 /4 Biology students found they benefited from completing a similar practical in previous years which allowed them to build their understanding over time.

Sarah Thomson – Head of Science (Maddingley)

Woodlea

Year 10 City Experience

Year 10 students ventured into Melbourne on Thursday April 30 for their INSPIRE City Experience Day. Students participated in one of the following activities that allowed them to engage with Melbourne in ways they may not have explored before.

At the Shrine of Remembrance, students reflected on Australia’s wartime history. Guided through the galleries and memorial spaces; they explored themes of service, sacrifice and national identity.

The Melbourne Cricket Ground and Sporting Precinct gave students the opportunity to move around the stadium and surrounding sporting areas. Students were able to observe Melbourne Victory training at one of the local ovals.

Melbourne’s laneways offered students the option to wander through the laneways observing street art, small businesses and the rhythms of urban life. A stop at local cafés gave them a taste of the city’s famous food culture and a chance to discuss how public spaces shape social connection.

At the Royal Botanic Gardens, students explored biodiversity, conservation and the importance of green spaces in urban environments. Guided walks highlighted native plants, ecological relationships and the role of the gardens in protecting species and educating the public.

The visit to ACMI immersed students in the world of film, gaming, animation and digital storytelling. Interactive exhibits encouraged them to think critically about how media is created and consumed and how technology continues to reshape the way stories are told.

Examining Melbourne through a sustainability lens enabled students to observe public transport systems, waste‑reduction initiatives, green architecture and the city’s efforts to balance growth with environmental responsibility.

Elese Demarchi – Head of Year 10 (Woodlea)

Celebrating Cultural Week

Over the last two weeks, the school community came together to celebrate Cultural Week, a vibrant and meaningful celebration of the many cultures, traditions and backgrounds that make our school such a diverse and welcoming place. Throughout this time, students enthusiastically participated in a range of lunchtime activities, proudly wore cultural dress and supported the Cultural Concert. It was wonderful to see students from all year levels embracing the opportunity to learn from one another and celebrate the richness of our community. The energy and involvement across the school created a positive and inclusive atmosphere for everyone.

A highlight of the week was the rich program of visiting experiences offered across the school. Students engaged in a variety of immersive cultural workshops including a French mime performance, Japanese ink art workshops, African drum and dancing sessions, and Indigenous cultural experiences. These hands-on opportunities allowed students to deepen their understanding of global cultures through authentic and engaging learning experiences, further enhancing their appreciation of diversity.

A special thank you goes to the teachers and school leaders who generously volunteered their time to organise and run activities throughout the week. Your dedication and support made Cultural Week both educational and enjoyable, creating memorable experiences for all involved. Cultural Week was a valuable reminder of the importance of recognising, respecting and appreciating different cultures and perspectives. We are incredibly fortunate to belong to such a supportive and multicultural school community.

Jacinta Davie – Teacher (Maddingley)
Courtney Williams – Deputy Head of Junior School (Woodlea)

Woodlea

House Chess

Woodlea House Chess brought together students from all three sub-schools for a week of strategic battles, as competitors represented their houses with focus and determination.

From sharp openings and well-timed gambits to intense middle-game tactics and carefully calculated endgames, students demonstrated impressive skill and resilience at the board. Each match contributed valuable points with participants carefully planning their moves, defending key pieces and capitalising on checkmate opportunities.

In a closely contested tournament, Djerriwarrh claimed victory by just 4 points, highlighting how every move truly mattered. A sincere thank you to the team from Northern Star Chess for their expertise and support throughout the week.

Congratulations to our Star of the Tournament Trophy winners who each showcased outstanding strategic thinking and composure under pressure.

Neevan P (Year 3–4)

Arjun A (Year 5–6)

Japvir N (Year 7–8)

Dulein P (Year 9–10)

Niraj P (Year 11–12)

Ellen Farrugia – Head of House: Parwan (Woodlea)
Melvin Tan – Head of House: Lederderg (Woodlea)

Free app for parents

The Raising Children’s Network has now developed a helpful app for parents.

Co-designed by parents, mental health experts and funded by the Australian Government, this new app, Raising Healthy Minds, supports children’s social and emotional wellbeing.

The Raising Healthy Minds app is a free, personalised pocket resource to help parents raise confident, resilient children. It offers a mix of quick-read articles, videos and animations designed to support children’s social and emotional wellbeing from birth to age 12.

Find out more about Raising Healthy Minds here.

Student Wellbeing Team

Maddingley

Middle School House Athletics

On Monday March 30, Middle School students showed their House spirit at their annual House Athletics Carnival. A big congratulations to all involved and thank you to staff who attended on the day.

Results:

1st – Lerderderg – 544.5
2nd – Djerriwarrh – 496
3rd – Pyrites – 469.50
4th – Parwan – 464
5th – Kororoit – 462.50
6th – Toolern – 443
7th – Dale – 435
8th – Pykes – 424.50

Year Level Champions:

Year 5: Rylee R (5C) and Jonathan D (5C)
Year 6: Ariella K (6D) and Yuvaan J (6D)
Year 7: Jayshivani J (7D) and Mitchell T (7A)
Year 8: Jayde C (8I) and Ranit K (8C)

Congratulations to those students that qualified to represent BMG at the BMPSSA and ICCES Athletics Carnivals.

Matt Harris – Head of Sport (Maddingley)

Middle School House Cross Country

The annual House Cross Country for Middle School students was held on Monday April 27 at our Staughton Vale Campus. Well done to all students who participated in this event and a big thank you to all staff for your efforts on the day.

Results:

Equal 1st – Kororoit and Lerderderg – 596
3rd – Parwan – 566
4th – Pykes – 508
5th – Toolern – 507
6th – Pyrites – 453
7th – Djerriwarrh – 435
8th – Dale – 288

Year Level Champions:

Year 5: Rylee R (5C) and Zac Z (5A)
Year 6: Harbin Kaur A (6D) and Jimmy K (6A)
Year 7: Jaysgivani J (7D) and Liam W (7C)
Year 8: Mackenzie Q (8A) and Ranit Singh K (8C)

Congratulations to those students who qualified to represent BMG at the BMPSSA & ICCES Athletics Carnivals.

Matt Harris – Head of Sport (Maddingley)

Senior School House Athletics

Senior School students competed in their House Athletics Carnival on Thursday April 23. Congratulations to all students who participated and thank you to all staff your assistance.

Results:

1st – Djerriwarrh – 667.50
2nd – Lerderderg – 537
3rd – Toolern – 526
4th – Pyrites – 488
5th – Dale – 471.50
6th – Parwan – 431.50
7th – Pykes – 417
8th – Kororoit – 349.50

Year Level Champions:

Year 9: Zara S (9E) and Jye A (9G)
Year 10: Myah E (10B) and James P (10E)
Year 11: Evie W (11H) and Armaanpartap B (11G)
Year 12: Miah B (12G) and Ethan B (12I)

Congratulations to those students who qualified to represent BMG at the ICCES Athletics Carnivals.

Matt Harris – Head of Sport (Maddingley)

BMPSSA District Athletics Carnival

On Tuesday April 28, BMG proudly took 73 students from Years 3 to 6 to the annual BMPSSA District Athletics Carnival at Masons Lane. On what was a perfect day for athletics, our students represented the school with great pride, consistently demonstrating our school values throughout the day. I would like to congratulate all students who attended on their achievement in qualifying for this event, as well as their excellent performances and exemplary behaviour.

At the conclusion of the event, 25 of our students either placed 1st or 2nd in their individual events or were part of a relay team that finished 1st. As a result, these students have qualified for the Western Ranges Division Athletics Carnival which will take place on Wednesday September 9 (Term 3, Week 8).

Congratulations to the following students:
Attaya A (6D)
Izzy B (4A)
Jonathan D (5C)
Ayaan D (6B)
Shan D (5F)
Jiya D (5A)
Saatvik D (4D)
Eloise E (6A)
Harbin Kaur A (6D)
Michael K (6B)
Ariella K (6D)
Emma M (6C)
Leo M (5A)
Jack M (6B)
Rylee R (5C)
Jrue S (5A)
Harveer Singh S (4D)
Maddie S (3D)
Isaac S (4A)
Shivjeet V (4D)
Ivaan V (4C)
Isabelle W (5A)
Pippa P (5C)
Mia Z (3C)
Zac Z (5A)

Information regarding the Western Ranges Division Athletics Carnival will be communicated via EdSmart and Schoolbox at the start of Term 3.

Matt Harris – Head of Sport (Maddingley)

Individual Sporting Success – Hockey Australia National Championships

Bacchus Marsh Grammar is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Year 12 student Ruby G who recently represented Victoria at the Hockey Australia Under 21 National Championships in Canberra.

At just 16 years of age, Ruby was one of the youngest players selected in the Victorian U21 squad, earning her place through impressive performances at state trials. Competing against the nation’s top emerging hockey talent, she played a key role in her team’s success to help secure a bronze medal – an exceptional result at this elite level.

Balancing her VCE studies with elite sporting commitments, Ruby is also a member of the WestVic Academy of Sport which supports her development along a high-performance pathway.

Ruby now looks ahead to the Under 18 National Championships in Darwin where she will again represent Victoria. Her continued selection at such a young age is a testament to her dedication and work ethic.

Matt Harris – Head of Sport (Maddingley)

Woodlea

Middle School Cross Country

Term 2 commenced with the Woodlea Campus annual Middle School Cross Country held at our picturesque Staughton Vale campus. Surrounded by the tranquillity of the natural landscape, the event provided students with a valuable opportunity to challenge themselves physically while enjoying the fresh air and expansive open spaces that make Staughton Vale such a distinctive setting for school events.

Students from across the Middle School demonstrated outstanding House spirit, proudly wearing their House colours and encouraging one another throughout the event. From the starting line to the final stretch, there was a strong sense of camaraderie, resilience and determination as students pushed themselves to complete the course. Whether striving for a top placing or simply aiming to achieve a personal best, every participant approached the event with enthusiasm and a positive mindset.

We were also delighted to welcome many parents and carers who attended the event to support their children. Their presence contributed to the vibrant and encouraging environment, and students greatly appreciated having family members cheering them on along the course. Events such as these strengthen the sense of community within our school.

An amazing day was had by all and we congratulate every student on their efforts. Also thank you to our staff and families for their support in making the event such a success.

Sze Foo – Head of House: Pyrites (Woodlea)

Woodlea

Prep’s first time at Staughton Vale

On Tuesday May 5, the Woodlea Prep cohort headed off on their very first excursion to the Staughton Vale campus. The sun was out, the bus was buzzing and students arrived ready to make the most of the day.

Students spent the day in mixed groups across classes, giving them the opportunity to meet and work with peers from other classrooms. The first activity had groups collaborating to build huts out of sticks, requiring them to problem-solve together and decide how to best use the materials they had.

The Nature Scavenger Hunt took groups out to explore the campus surrounds, with students on the lookout for specific items in the natural environment. Finding tree sap, feathers and interesting bugs had everyone excited, and it was a great way to get them observing and engaging with the world around them.

Groups also collected natural materials including twigs, gum nuts, rocks and leaves, and used them to create nature portraits, arranging their finds into images on the ground. A long walk through the wider surrounds of the campus rounded out the day, giving students the chance to take in the environment at a slower pace.

The bus ride home was quieter as quite a few students were asleep before we made it back to school. A sure sign of a very full and well-enjoyed day!

Florence Prep WA – “I loved watching the Roly Poly dig a hole.”
Sahir Prep WB – “I loved seeing the kangaroos.”
Vidhun Prep WE – “I loved making the huts because the sticks are very strong!”

Warwick Grinter – Head of Prep (Woodlea)

Year 5 goes to Staughton Vale

On Friday May 1, Year 5 students enjoyed an unforgettable day at Staughton Vale. We were incredibly lucky to have beautiful warm and sunny weather which meant every activity could be enjoyed outdoors in the fresh air. The excitement began the moment we arrived and continued throughout the entire day!

One of the highlights was learning how to make Oobleck. Students worked together using excellent teamwork, communication and sharing skills as they carefully followed the procedure to create the strange and messy mixture. There were plenty of laughs as the Oobleck changed from a solid to a liquid in their hands.

The students also put their creativity and writing skills to the test in an exciting narrative relay challenge. Using the theme “A Night at Staughton Vale,” teams collaborated to plan imaginative story ideas before racing to continue the narrative one student at a time. Every student contributed to the story and the finished products were read at the end where the winners of each narrative were announced!

Throughout the day, students also participated in an orienteering course where they searched for and measured different angles hidden around the grounds. Working in groups, students applied their mathematical knowledge in a fun, hands-on way while developing problem-solving and teamwork skills.

The energy and enthusiasm continued during the afternoon’s team-building activities. Cheers and laughter echoed across the fields as students competed in tug of war, dodgeball, soccer and the challenging half-pipe activity. The games encouraged resilience, cooperation and plenty of friendly competition.

Overall, the excursion was a fantastic success filled with learning, laughter and memorable experiences!

Lisa Bragiola – Staff Association Representative (Woodlea)

Maddingley

Junior School Enrichment Lunchtime Games

As part of the Senior School Enrichment Program, our Year 11 and 12 students have been leading a range of lunchtime games and activities for Junior School students each Wednesday. Their enthusiasm and leadership have created a fun and inclusive environment that younger students eagerly look forward to each week during lunch.

Prep and Year 1 students have loved participating in Dance Club, building confidence and creativity through movement and music. Years 2 and 3 students have enjoyed the excitement of Basketball and Downball, developing teamwork, coordination and sportsmanship. Meanwhile, Years 3 and 4 students have enthusiastically taken part in a variety of Court Games, encouraging collaboration and active play.

A special thank you to our Year 11 and 12 students for the care, energy and encouragement they bring to these sessions each week.

Lisa Foster – Deputy Principal: Deputy Head of Maddingley Campus

Equestrian

The Equestrian Team has had an extremely busy few weeks with our riders proudly representing Bacchus Marsh Grammar at four major events.

Interschool State Championships

The biggest event of the year, the Interschool State Championships were held at Boneo Equestrian Park this year and featured hundreds of riders and encompassed all disciplines, from jumping and showing to games. Competing across a full week of events, Jasmine C, Jayde C, Lucy B, Molly R, Chloe B and Jayde W rose to the challenge with determination and skill. Despite testing weather conditions throughout the competition, each rider performed admirably and demonstrated excellent sportsmanship.

Interschool Show Jumping – Round 1

Jasmine C, Jayde C and Cailin K travelled back to Boneo to defend their titles at the second round of the Boneo Show Jumping Series.

Girton Grammar Equestrian Championship

Day 1 – Show Jumping

Milly S, Jayde C, Kate T, Jayde W, Chloe B and Alexandra L travelled to Elmore and made up our Show Jumping Team on Day 1. Everyone jumped their hearts out against 22 other schools.

The riders brought home many placings and ribbons and came third overall on the day. A huge achievement for our small team. A special congratulations to Alexandra who won Overall Champion of her class and Jayde W who came Reserve Champion in her class.

Day 2 – Dressage

Day 2 saw a deluge of rain and a storm most would hide from inside – let alone ride a horse. Lucy B, Jayde C, Kate T and Alexandra L showed great resilience and determination as they rode through the rain, thunder and at times had to wait for the lightning to pass to make up our small but brave Dressage Team. Together, they collectively scored enough points to again place 3rd overall. Special mention to Jayde who won overall champion of her class and Alexandra who placed 3rd overall in her class.

VEIS Show Jumping Round 2 – Werribee Equestrian Centre

A few more days at school and our team were saddling up again the next weekend to compete in the second round of the Show Jumping Series. One of our biggest teams to jump yet, Jasmine C, Milly S, Molly R, Myah E, Jayde C, Lucille C, Cailin K, Chloe B and Alexandra L all rode extremely well. Special mention to Jayde and Jasmine who yet again, won overall champions for their classes.

Watching our Equestrians ride throughout the season has been nothing short of inspirational. Their horsemanship, sportsmanship, dedication and determination are recognised and admired by all who watch them. They continually represent the school with pride and our small but mighty team make their mark and their presence known at every event they attend, continually placing in the top few schools in Victoria. With no time to rest, our team is yet again getting ready for the inaugural ICCES Equestrian Championship and remainder of the Show Jumping series.

Georgia Low – Assistant Head of Year 7 (Maddingley)

Woodlea

Junior Music – Spotlight on the Young Performer’s Orchestra

Under the expert guidance of Ms Dorothy Quinal and Ms Lauren Jones, the Year 3 and 4 Junior Music Enrichment Young Performer’s Orchestra has been preparing Orff-Schulwerk inspired repertoire that encourages students to create music in three parts.

Working in small groups, students collaborate, refine ideas and take on leadership roles before coming together as a mini orchestra where they learn about balance, flow and harmonic unity.

These 45-minute enrichment classes act as a gateway to effective music-making practices, allowing students to create, listen and perform in dynamic and engaging ways. Using percussion, piano, voice and violin, they craft their own tapestry of sound.

Moving into Semester Two, these young performers will undoubtedly carry these creative experiences into all areas of their learning, and continuing to grow with confidence, curiosity and musical imagination.

Suzanne Kinsella – Head of Faculty: Music (Woodlea)

Community Service Club

The Community Service Club supports the BMG community and beyond while helping students develop essential interpersonal skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership. Through hands-on projects, students learn to work together and navigate real-world social situations.

Over the past two years, the club has supported the Early Learning Centre (ELC) through after-school programs that build connections between younger students and those in Middle and Senior School. This year, the focus expands to include closer collaboration with the Junior School.

The club’s projects aim to enhance the environment and raise community awareness through litter initiatives and outreach to hospitals, aged care homes and foster care organisations.

A highlight this year is the inclusion of two Senior School teams in the Future Problem Solvers Community Projects competition, joining Junior and Middle School teams for the first time.

Participating teams include: Trash is Art, Project Privacy, Here’s My Story, Brush Tail Phascolage Project, Next Horizon Project, Send a Smile, and Bringing Joy.

We wish all teams every success as they work to make a positive impact in their community.

Ann Adams – Teacher (Woodlea)

Private Bus Delays – Hopkins Road, Truganina

As part of the Victorian Governments Big Build Projects, the railway crossing at the end of Hopkins Road, Truganina, is being removed and replaced with an overpass.

This intersection is a major road joining the western part of Derrimut Road and Hopkins Road with the Western Highway, along with the Truganina industrial estate around Stockland Park. It is causing massive disruption and traffic chaos.

Long term, this upgrade will provide smoother and more organised traffic flow, in the short term, we appreciate your patience.

Road works are expected to be completed by May 18, 2026.

We ask parents to monitor RollCall for their child/rens bus arrival times in the afternoons.

Thank you for your understanding.

Woodlea

Hawk Route – Updated Timetable

Due to roadworks on the Melton Highway, HILLSIDE, the current stop 2 in the PM – Melton Highway (just before Calder Park Drive) is inaccessible.

Effective as of Tuesday 12 May 2026, stop 2 will be relocated to: Melton Highway – just before Banchory Grove (PTV Stop 7841)

Please note that this change only affects the PM location, there are no changes to the AM location

The above stop change will be effective for the remainder of Term 2.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Late Bus Information

Maddingley

Both late bus 1 and late bus 2 will operate every TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY and THURSDAY afternoon departing the bus quay at 4.40pm sharp.

2026 Timetables are available on the school website for your reference. Please note the late bus timetables have limited stops.

Students themselves are required to sign up to either late bus 1 or late bus 2 by putting their name under the stop at which they will disembark. The sign-up sheets will be in the Main Reception; students are required to sign up prior to the end of lunch on the day of travel. If no students sign up for a bus, the bus will be cancelled for that afternoon. Students require their student ID cards to travel on the late buses.

Parents are advised to monitor Roll Call for the late bus arrival time at their child’s stop.

Woodlea

The late bus will operate every TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY and THURSDAY afternoon departing the bus quay at 4.40pm sharp.

2026 Timetables are available on the school website for your reference. Please note the late bus timetable has limited stops.

Students themselves are required to sign up to the late bus by putting their name under the stop at which they will disembark. The sign-up sheets will be in Reception; students are required to sign up prior to the end of lunch on the day of travel. If no students sign up for a bus, the bus will be cancelled for that afternoon. Students require their student ID cards to travel on the late buses.

Parents are advised to monitor Roll Call for the late bus arrival to their child’s stop.

ID Cards

Students MUST use their Student ID cards to tap on/off any BMG private buses.

Student ID cards are compulsory when boarding a private bus or attending any school excursions/camps etc and they must always be carried.

Students who board the bus repeatedly without their ID cards will receive a detention or further consequences.

Student Permission Cards

Students in Prep Reception – Year 6 require a green permission tag on their bags if they are to disembark from the bus to be picked up by someone other than their parent/guardian.

Students in Grades 5 and 6 can disembark from the bus on their own if they have a green permission tag on their bag for the driver to check.

Student Afternoon Bus Arrangement & Permission Notices are available on Schoolbox under School Letters. Please return Student Afternoon Bus Arrangement & Permission Notices to bus@bmg.vic.edu.au.

Leanne Robertson – School Bus Services Administrator

Conveyance Allowance Information

Conveyance Allowance
The Conveyance Allowance is a contribution towards transport costs and is not intended to cover the full cost of transporting children to and from school.
The Conveyance Allowance may be available to students attending government or non-government schools:
• travelling by private car, motorbike, bicycle or bus, and
• whose nearest school is not serviced by a free school bus provided under the School Bus Program or a free Victorian public transport service.

Eligibility Criteria:
1. Students must reside 4.8km or more from their nearest school/campus they attend.

2. Students must be of school age and reside in Victoria

3. Students must be enrolled in a school for 3 or more days per week.

A student who meets the above requirements may be eligible if they:
• attend their nearest or designated neighbourhood government school/campus appropriate to their year level, at which admission is permissible, or
• attend their nearest appropriate non-government school/campus appropriate to their year level, at which admission is permissible, and
• reside 4.8km or more by the shortest practicable route from the campus attended.

Please note that a Conveyance Allowance is not available where a free bus service is available. From 1 January 2026, people aged under 18 will be able to travel for free on all Victorian public transport services.

Eligibility will be assessed when the school completes your child’s application on the Student Conveyance Allowance System (SCAS). If approved, the allowance payable is based on the one-way distance to make the journey to and from school.

Please note that if BMG is not your nearest school but your decision to send your children to BMG was because you felt that it was the nearest appropriate school that both respected ecumenical values but did not require your child to participate in religious instruction or religious celebration; then you may be eligible for the Conveyance Allowance (subject to other Conveyance Allowance rules), however your application must include a signed supporting letter outlining the reasons above for your decision to send your child to Bacchus Marsh Grammar.

If you already have a Conveyance Allowance application in place and your circumstances have not changed (method of transport to and from school or home address) you will not be required to submit a new application, and your previously approved applications will automatically roll over. Please note that current applications for public transport will not roll over to 2026 as per the above changes. If you have additional children starting at the school and would like to apply for the Conveyance Allowance for them, you will need to submit a new application.

If you have not applied for a Conveyance Allowance previously and would like to apply for the allowance in 2026, please obtain an application form from the School’s website.

New applications can be submitted throughout the school year, however, they must be submitted to the school by no later than Friday 30 October 2026 otherwise, parents/guardians risk their claim not being accepted. Please refer to the 2026 Business Notice for further information.

Please direct any queries you may have to Catherine Coombridge or Kate Bridgett at conveyance@bmg.vic.edu.au

Kerryn Browne – Company Secretary and Risk Manager

Camps, Sports & Excursions Fund (CSEF) – Final Applications Due

This applies to parents/guardians who hold a valid Centrelink Pensioner Concession Card or Health Care Card (CRN).

If you have not yet submitted your CSEF application form, please ensure it is returned to the Administration Office or emailed to accountsrec@bmg.vic.edu.au, no later than June 22 to allow sufficient time for processing.

Further information, along with the CSEF application form, can be downloaded from the School’s website.

All enquiries should be directed to Sharon Micallef at accountsrec@bmg.vic.edu.au

Sharon Micallef – Accounts Receivable Manager

Our latest Grammarian is now out!

The Summer Edition of The Grammarian is now live and available to read online.

This edition captures stories and achievements from across the latter part of 2025 and beginning of 2026, including student learning, campus developments, the arts, sport and community initiatives across all campuses.

Read the edition here.

Printed copies are available on request.

Jess Thorpe – Marketing and Communications Coordinator

Health Centre

Raising Body Bright Children

Want to help your child grow up feeling good in their body?

Butterfly’s webinar for parents of primary age children provides practical strategies to build body confidence, create positive relationships with food and movement, and know what support is available.

Date: 17 June 2026

Time: 7pm – 8.15pm (AEST)

Via Zoom (time-limited recording available)

To register, click here.

Cost: $15pp

For more information, click here.

Term Dates

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

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

Bacchus Marsh Roadworks – from Transport Victoria

Big Build Roads is upgrading two major intersections in Bacchus Marsh on behalf of Transport Victoria. The upgrades will improve road safety, enhance traffic flow, reduce congestion and provide better crossing opportunities for pedestrians and cyclists.

They are getting ready to upgrade the Station Street/Griffith Street and Grant Street/Parwan Road roundabout from Sunday May 17.

They will need to close sections of the roundabout at Station Street and Grant Street overnight, at times in May and June to safety complete these works. Please see the below information and maps for details.

For more information about this project visit www.transport.vic.gov.au and search ‘Bacchus Marsh Intersection Upgrade.’

The Bacchus Marsh Intersection Upgrades Project Team

Ph: 1800 105 105

E: contact@bigbuild.vic.gov.au

W: bigbuild.vic.gov.au.roads