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High Notes, Vol 7 No 18, June 16 2006
From the Principal
High Talent
250th Edition of High Notes (2000-2006)
Take it Home Competition Mark 2
Safely Crossing Anzac Parade
Liaison Parents for Year Groups
Cohort Assemblies
Speed Enhancement Training International Mathematics OlympiadRecently Vinh Pham (Year 12) was officially selected to represent Australia at the 2006 International Mathematics Olympiad (IM), while I was selected a reserve for the Team. This selection was determined from results in four exams earlier in the year. The first selection exam was the 2 day Australian Mathematics Olympiad, which the top 100 students in Australia are invited to participate in. In this exam, Vinh came 6th in Australia while I came 8th. The top 25 from the exam were then invited to participate in the Asia-Pacific Mathematics Olympiad – a competition for competitors from 21 Pacific Rim nations. In this exam, Vinh finished 8th in Australia and I finished 11th. From these two results, we were both invited to the IMO Selection Camp held in Sydney in April. The top ten at this camp sat the final two selection exams (unfortunately held on Easter Saturday and Sunday) and from the combined results at these four exams, Vinh was selected to be a member of the team, while I was selected as the reserve.
As a member of the team, Vinh will travel to Rome for the final training camp and then to
Ljubljana, Slovenia for the International Mathematics Olympiad. The IMO is a competition for high
school students from over 90 countries and consists of two 4.5 hour papers with a total of six
questions. Gold, Silver and Bronze medals are awarded to half the students in the ratio 1:2:3.
Only 11 Australians have ever won a gold medal, the last of whom was Ivan Guo from Sydney Boys in
2004. From LOTE
Chinese Eisteddfod This year’s Eisteddfod was highly competitive as usual. Our boys were in the Native Speakers’ groups, although most of them were born in Australia. It was very tough competing with lots of students who only recently arrived in Australia from China. Our boys showed great enthusiasm and strength and achieved so many awards. Congratulations to 15 boys from Year 8 Chinese community classes: Jun Gao, Austyn Guo, Hugh Huang, Lawrence Li, Merlin Li, Justin Liang, Richard Lin, Andy Liu, Yixin Liu, Daniel Luo, Guangzhi Niu, Oliver Wu, Adrian Zhang, Michael Wang and Harry Zhuang. They won 1st prize in the 13-15 years old group competition. Well done, boys! In the 13-15 age group, Tom Sun and Edward Lu both received 1st place in their categories, Jacob Cao came 2nd in his, Shorson Zhang gained 3rd place, Gareth Chan and Jacky Li both won 4th position in their category with their outstanding performances. Congratulations to all of you! Leo Cheng and Jeffrey Xie both achieved 2nd prizes in the 16-18 age groups with their unique and impressive recitals. Fantastic! Congratulations to all boys who took part in this event for your dedication and achievement. Although it was a bit disappointing that some of our candidates missed out on awards after their hard work, I am sure you impressed a lot of the audience including me and the experience that you gained through these eisteddfods will definitely benefit you in future learning.
Huge thanks to parents who gave immense encouragement and support. It was great to see families
being so involved. I am proud of our boys, not only because of their language abilities,
intelligence, effort and awards, but also the honour they have brought to Sydney Boys High. Letter from an Old Boy...Dear Dr Jaggar It was with great pleasure and pride that I watched the Footy Show on channel Nine last Thursday night and saw the prefects and cadets representing our school at the Sir Roden Cutler wheelchair push. They looked splendid in their uniforms, particularly the prefects in their distinct chocolate blazers, and did themselves and the school proud. Being a prefect in Year 12 I believed it to be an honour to be wearing the gold reef and prefects pocket and I am sure that by their actions last week these boys do as well. The boys should be commended for representing the school on national television (even international television with the Footy Show being beamed to NZ and other rugby league countries) in such a fine manner as I am sure they already have. It was also with pride that I saw the Sydney High Marching Band during the ANZAC Day march. As with the prefects they represented the school with distinction and having been a member of the music program for all of my 6 years at High I envied the chance that these boys had to play at such a special occasion. Being only a recent Old Boy (1998...although our 10 year reunion is coming up soon!!!) I am pleased to see that the school spirit that I felt and still feel is still present in the current students. In a time of changing values and preferences for the younger generation and their parents it is pleasing to see that the boys that attend our fine school still learn that life is more than academic achievement and place a strong value on being part of a special school community and take pride in attending the unique Sydney High. My congratulations to all concerned with the above events, and my congratulations to yourself and the staff, many of whom were present in my day, for continuing to make our school one the finest in the country.
Kindest Regards Thank You - P & C ParkingA huge thank you to the many parents and students who braved the miserable weather on Saturday evening 10th June to help with the Swans parking.
Thanks to Serdar for his organisation and to Roger Lindeback, Tom (10) and Nick (9) Scott Umbers
and Campbell (8) Dan Wang, Ai Ling Wang and Vincent (7T) Paul Koerber and Alex (8M) Harleen Kaur
and Angud Chawla (8T) Anita Bezjak and Jonah Petrie (7R) Jules Bastables and Jimari (8E) Roshan
Karunaratne (11) John Evans Keen Wan and Wei Sean Wan (8M) Year 12 Parents Dinner InvitationLet’s all get together for dinner during our boys’ final year at school.
Date: Friday 23rd June Please indicate your interest so we know how many to book for.
Sue Levy and Antoinette Farrow Year 9 Camp ReportAt 9:00 am on the 8 May 2006, 157 eager Year 9 students set off on a journey to Cataract Park on our three day annual camp. It was both exciting and an opportunity for us young men to get out of our comfort zones. The journey there was very exciting considering you had the sound of two mates singing Red Hot Chili Peppers ringing in your eardrums. Anyway once we got there, we were divided into our groups, with half the cohort spending the first night at Sandy Plateau in freezing conditions. The others would stay in the lodges for the night then go to Sandy Plateau on the second night. The activities we participated in were designed to expand our comfort zones, and included pioneering, caving, Challenge Valley and giant swing at base camp, and abseiling, rock-climbing and orienteering out at Sandy Plateau. Most people participated in all the activities. Challenge Valley was particularly hard and it was the coldest that I have felt. That aside, the activities were exciting and rewarding. Camping out in the cold was quite an experience, but better than many expected. Thanks to Mr. Fuller, my group camped out in luxury.
Overall, the camp was a good experience and Year 8 should look forward to next year’s
camp. Boggabilla ExchangeI looked forward to seeing some familiar faces on Boggabilla Central School's return to Sydney. I attended the other end of the exchange, last year, going up to Boggabilla (in North-Western NSW), which was a truly unforgettable experience. I arrived on Monday, not quite sure what to expect as I had never billeted before. After a brief introduction and formalities, it was off to see Boori Pryor. A multi-talented man who shared a couple of good yarns, but more importantly discussed issues within the Indigenous community. His story was a true inspiration to us all. Off to the Powerhouse Museum to make some music. This was an experience both the Bogga and High kids loved. 'Az and the Hunter D's Brooklyn Remix' is definitely one for the ages. On the way back we had some trouble navigating through the traffic, and dropped off Drew (a teacher at BCS) went to attempt to gain his bus licence. (Unfortunately, he failed) It was then time for the unexpected. The Bogga kids going home to their billets. I took in John and his cousin Mervyn, they were great blokes. John, a Brisbane and Queensland supporter, Mervyn and myself Roosters and NSW Blues supporters. After a quick, wet tour of the Eastern Suburbs, it was time to get a long sleep as a massive day was ahead of us. Wednesday, marked Boggabilla's visit to the Aquarium and lunch with Sadem Aiken lawyers. Unfortunately, the High boys could not attend. Wednesday, also marked Mr Barris's stern talking to us, on the topic of getting back from Origin. It was a great game of rugby league, but the lack of atmosphere was disappointing. On the contrary, Lachlan and Eddy's singing, dancing, comedy and 1sts football 'in' jokes, added a great deal of excitement to the night. Despite the best-laid plans it was a very, very late night. We only just caught the last bus back. We were all pretty tired backing up for school on Thursday. This was Boggabilla's final day in Sydney, they surfed at Maroubra Beach, played touch and exchanged formalities. Luckily, the beginning of the week's arctic chill had passed.
Summing up, this was yet another unforgettable week with the Boggabilla boys and girls. It also
helped me academically, complementing the work I was doing in English: Indigenous studies and;
Aboriginal history in Australian history. Academics aside, I made plenty of new friends, had the
opportunity to interact with another culture and gained insight into their lives and vice versa.
I would strongly recommend next time BCS comes back that you billet, and you too can partake in
the benefits of a cultural exchange. Volleyball
High Wins Metro Cup The tournament featured a strong field from all over the state although many schools (including High) were playing without key players due to NSW CHS representative commitments. High met Baulkam Hills, Knox, Sydney North U17s, and the NSW U16s to win a place against Great Lakes Secondary College in the semi. Strong Hitting by Terry Ly and Victor Nguyen in plays set up by Alex Le allowed High to overcome a depleted Great Lakes team in straight sets. The highlight of this game was a brilliantly executed “B quick” play set by Alex and completed by Warren. The ball hit the floor hard on the Great Lakes 3 metre line before they had time to make any defensive preparation. The Final was against Blue Mountains Grammar. BMG was a tall and strong team. They worked out that High was pressuring the match pace and attempted to copy the strategy but lacked the necessary drilling and athleticism to cut time between points. The greater focus on fitness during 1st grade trainings this year paid off in this match.
Profile of players contributing to the tournament victory
Year 8 Metro Volleyball
Both teams played extremely well, although we were playing Year 9 boys who were more experienced
than us. The games started at around 9:00 am when we played Westfields. We lost to them but they
were a very good team who could spike exceptionally well. Next we played a series of Year 9 teams
who also defeated us, but only just. Finally we played Baulkham Hills School. One of our teams
lost by a fraction, while the other team won! All in all we enjoyed the tournament and had a good
time playing. From Chess
Round 6 of the preliminary competition rounds saw the Seniors defeated by Homebush Boys. Sydney
Technical drew with our Intermediate A Team 2-2, the Bs had a bye. In Junior division the A team
had another 4-0 win, this time against Fort Street B, Cs were 3.5 -0.5 over St. Andrews , Bs
suffered a gallant defeat 0-4 to the highly rated Scots A team and the Ds overcame Sydney Tech A
3-1. Parent-Teacher Interviews
Year 7 - 12 Please note the following arrangements –
High Rugby FriendsHigh Rugby Friends Inc. (HRF) is a non-profit association that has been set up to support the rugby program at the school. It aims to:
Boys: Get online to view the most recent High rugby news, results and photos. Also, get in touch with us through the site, to let us know what you think HRF can do to assist the rugby committee. Parents: Make the most of this opportunity to support the rugby program at High. Join HRF today, and it will be your boys that benefit! The success of HRF depends almost entirely on membership, so spread the word and help get other members of the High community involved too!
To find out more, visit: Football: The Onion BagWith no games due to the long weekend, it gave us the opportunity to focus our ‘footballing’ attention on the other football competition currently taking place in Germany. And what a start at the World Cup for Australia! What was most impressive with the game was the steely resolve and determination shown by all the players when trailing 1-nil late in the game. Bring on Brazil! For developing players there is no better way to improve your game than to watch how the best in the world play. When watching the games, try to look beyond the obvious spectacular highlights such as the flicks, the nutmegs, back heels and goal celebrations. Try to spot the difference between the good and the great. Focus on how well they control the ball when they take possession. A good first touch provides the time necessary for the player to balance themselves for a quality second touch, which could be either a pass to team mate or a shot. Notice how they absorb the momentum of the pass to prevent the ball from bouncing away to an opponent. How they turn and shield the ball from defenders when their attacking options are closed down. Possession is crucial and not given away lightly. Pay attention to the angles that passes are made at. Midfielders will try to slot the ball diagonally in behind the defensive line for strikers to run on to. Off the ball runs and decoy runners are made to create space, time, and hence goal scoring opportunities for team mates. Watch how players continually support their team mate with the ball several times in any one movement. Any attacking raid may involve 6-8 different players and many of them will figure multiple times. You don’t have to have the ball to be in play and your run will create room to move for another team mate. Enjoy the World Cup and good luck on Saturday.
Wet weather numbers:
Contact:
GPS Round 3 v KINGS 17/6
Quote of the Week Fundraising: Travel Bags For Sale!
TRAVEL BAGS Only $25 or two for $40
Sturdy black sports or travel bags. Pay at school Cashiers office and collect your purchase from Mrs Roser’s office.
Funds raised will go towards the 125th Anniversary Project for the new Library and Performing
Arts Centre (every bit counts!) Want to Dance?In Year 10/11/12 or Staff at Sydney Girls or Sydney Boys High School? Then come to
From FundraisingNEED A TAX DEDUCTION? As tax time approaches consider making a donation to the
Australian Sports Foundation - download form from the web site: Sports | Sports Donations DO NOT FORGET THE 125TH ANNIVERSARY APPEAL Each family was sent, in the latter half of 2005, information regarding the desire and need for a New Library and Performing Arts Space to be built as a fitting project for 2008 – our 125th Anniversary. Please use the donation card and reply paid envelope to send your tax deductible gift. Donations can be made by credit over the phone. Ring the School and ask to speak to the Cashier. Thank you for your continued support of our boys – helping make a difference.
Any inquiries, please contact Valda Roser 9361 6910 email.
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
Project Supernova Film Festival
Student Opportunity!! Kambala Girls School has invited us to take part in a film festival they are running in support of the Oaktree Foundation (), whose work aims to minimise poverty. Much like Tropfest, the films for submission are to be up to 7 mins long, be of M rating and have a signature theme of “FREE”. The films will screen at Kambala on Sunday August 13th. No experience is necessary, just an interest in filmmaking and the dedication to see the project through to completion. We need people to fill a variety of roles and we will provide you will some instruction, guidance and the resources to get the film (or animation) done! If it sounds like something you would like to be a part of email Miss Brewer at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it by Monday June 19th and tell me what role(s) you would like to fill, what skills you have and what your favourite film is.
Read the daily notices for information on meeting times. SBHS & SGHS Universities EveningCongratulations and thank you to the Careers Advisers of SBHS and SGHS for the second wonderful University evening last Wednesday in the Great Hall. Thanks to the prefects for their assistance on the evening. It was a coup to have all the major universities students enrol in on location with lots of crucial material to guide subject, course and career choices. Sydney Uni, UNSW, Macquarie, UTS, ANU were all represented. It certainly beats going to the huge university expos that are so overcrowded. Next year there are hopes to have the American and British embassy available to discuss scholarships and the Uni of Western Sydney as well.
Congratulations also to the students and parents who took advantage of the opportunity ensuring
the evening will become a regular fixture on the SBHS calendar. 'Take It Home' Competition
Years 7, 8 and 9
How do I win?
What can I win? 1. What date will mark the 125th anniversary of Sydney Boys High School? ___________________________________________________________ 2. What date will Parent/Teacher interviews be held this year? ___________________________________________________________ 3. Name the High Old Boy who won a gold medal as Cox of the Australian Fours at the Empire Games in Vancouver in 1954 ___________________________________________________________ Parent’s Signature ________________________________________ Student Name _________________________ Roll Class _________ Place this form in the box located at the Main Office before Friday 23 June to be in the draw for these fantastic prizes.
Prizes will be drawn on Monday 26 June. The Record: Want to set The Record Straight?The RECORD is an annual printed publication of around 180 pages recording the events and achievements of our Boys and High family members. Each boy is entitled to a copy every year while they are at High building a 6 volume history over their time at School. The cost is approximately 15K-18K per publication. To offset this cost advertising will be offered in this year’s publication (2006) for full and part page advertisements. An opportunity to ‘Donate a Page’ will also be available. Help is needed in pricing, collating and possibly artwork of advertisements. Please contact Valda Roser at School on:
Phone: 9361 6910 Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Please leave a voice mail message. |
Sydney Boys High School
