Dean of Students | Mr Damien Fall

This week, I spent some time with friends explaining last week’s House Choir competition to them and their reaction was one of bewilderment.  On reflection, their response was understandable.  The idea that the vast majority of our 1600+ adolescent male students would voluntarily turn up on a Friday night to take part in a competition that involves singing and dancing would probably be hard to comprehend – unless you are part of our community and understand how important such events are.  I have said before that House Choir is our biggest community event and last week was no exception, the Pat Rafter Arena only added to the spectacle.  It was a fantastic event and I thank the large number of people who worked so hard to bring it all together.  In particular, I would like to acknowledge our House Deans who have endured the stress of putting together the worthy performances on the evening.  The final product was outstanding, and the Deans deserve praise for their efforts to make the night such a success.  Congratulations to Buckley House for taking out the trophy, but the night is about so much more than winning.  Friday night should make us all feel proud to be a part of this community.

The middle block of this term is especially busy for our Seniors.  The QCS test is fast approaching and next week sees them completing two full days of practice, before the Senior Formal on Tuesday evening.  It is a particularly busy time with the load of assignments and exam preparation rapidly building.  We have been very pleased with the progress of our Senior cohort and we wish them well over the coming weeks.  They have the full support of our community as they go about making the most of their time.

We return to Tennyson for Rugby on Saturday and I would like to commend our students for the way they have presented and conducted themselves across all GPS activities in recent weeks, whether playing or spectating.  We would like to continue the trend this weekend, so a reminder about our expectation:

• We ask that all students supporting at Chess, Basketball or Rugby at Firsts level, are attired in their full College uniform, with a white shirt, regardless of their year level.  The Akubra is not required, and the red Terrace cap may be worn instead.
• Students who have played previously are asked to change into their academic uniform, including white shirt, before the commencement of the 1sts match.
• Our support needs to be enthusiastic but sensible.  We ask that students direct all support towards Terrace players and not direct any comment towards referees, opposition players or supporters.

We look forward to another fabulous Winter’s day as we host Churchie and celebrate Timor Friendship Day.  Best wishes to all in the Terrace Family.