Principal’s Report

Dear MAC Community,

Welcome to our first newsletter for 2026. It has been an enthusiastic and positive start to the year, both in classrooms and through extracurricular activities, setting a strong foundation for the year ahead.

Our Entry students have settled in exceptionally well, embracing high school life with confidence, forming friendships and taking on new challenges. It has been a pleasure getting to know both them and their families. Meeting Entry parents at the Welcome BBQ was a highlight, and I have enjoyed hearing students reflect on their early experiences at MAC and what they are enjoying most.

We commenced the year with 830 students and welcomed 12 new staff members to MAC, whom you will read more about later in this newsletter.

Thank you to the staff and students who have organised and participated in the many events this term. Highlights for me included the Entry and New Families Welcome BBQ, Swimming Sports, and School Spirit Week. I would also like to acknowledge Charlotte Iannella, the student leadership team, staff, and students involved in our Open Day on 4 March. Approximately 300 visitors attended, with very positive feedback from prospective families. It was wonderful to welcome back former students Lachlan Janetzki and Gus Zaitzev as part of the staff and student Q&A panel.

Thank you to the MAC Parents and Friends Association for supporting the Welcome BBQ with a sausage sizzle, and to the parents and students who participated in the Working Bee on Saturday 28 February.

The PFA has also hosted two Bunnings BBQs this term and has begun planning for the Trivia Night in October. The continued support of our PFA plays a vital role in strengthening our community and enhancing student experiences. The PFA meets on the first Monday of each month—further information is available on our website.

I also extend my sincere thanks to the families who have contributed to the Building Fund. Your generosity supports capital improvements, including new playing courts, seating areas, and upgrades to the MasterChef kitchen.

I thank families who have made voluntary financial contributions. These contributions are essential in supporting high-quality programs and curriculum experiences for our students.

I would like to remind families of our uniform expectations. Students are required to wear full school uniform daily, which helps foster belonging, responsibility, and school pride. Please note that PE items may not be worn with academic uniform pieces. Only tartan skirts or college grey shorts/pants may be worn with the white polo or shirt, and PE track pants or shorts must either feature the College logo or be all black. Students must also wear fully black shoes, including black soles. The uniform shop now has the new girls’ pants available, and feedback on both comfort and design has been very positive.

The uniform shop operates Mondays and Thursdays from 3.00–4.00pm, with the second-hand uniform shop open on the first Monday of each month from 3.30–4.00pm.

I would like to remind the school community that all school policies, including those relating to Child Safe Standards, are available on the College website. These are reviewed by the School Council Policy Subcommittee and align with Department of Education guidelines.

Thank you for your continued support. I wish our staff and students a restful break and look forward to another successful term.

Dani Angelico, Principal

MAC School Council President’s Report Meeting 24-Feb-26

You can download this report as a PDF here. 

Dear School Community,

Welcome to MAC 2026. Here’s a summary of the concluding meeting of your 2025 School Council.

I’m pleased to report there’s been a strong and positive start to the year for our school community, with plenty happening across MAC thanks to the efforts of staff, students and families.

🌞 Solar PV Project Now Live!

MAC’s solar PV system went live on 17 December 2025 and has already saved the school over $5,000 in electricity costs; meaning more funds for educating students. As of last week, grid connection is complete, allowing excess solar generation to be exported – mostly on non‑school days. MAC’s solar journey is also featured in Renew Magazine #174; available at newsagents, your local library or by subscription. See: https://renew.org.au/renew-magazine/.

🫶 Parents & Friends Association (PFA) Update

The PFA reported a great start to the year, with the Bunnings BBQ fundraiser repeatedly selling out and raising an awesome $2,000! The PFA also ran MAC’s New Families Welcome BBQ. A big thank you to all those involved in both events. Lastly a reminder that new members are always welcome. To get involved and make some new friends, visit the school website and join the Facebook group “MAC Parents & Friends”.

👕 School Uniform Shop Update

In 2025, the Second‑Hand Uniform Shop recorded just over $3,000 in sales, helping reduce schooling costs for many families and reduce waste. Our sincere thanks to Janine F, Melanie H Aleks dR, Claire V and Nicolle G for running the shop and providing such a value for money service (60% to 70% off RRP). Thank you also to everyone who donates uniform items; your generosity makes a real difference to our community and the environment.

🌿 School Grounds Update

Recent progress on school grounds includes gating access to the vegetable gardens, removal of the old playground, quotes for grassed sports areas, new seating installation and drainage surveys. PFA organised working bee will focus on maintaining current facilities as we progress on the new – see the school calendar for dates.

Finally, it’s with gratitude and sadness the School Council of 2025 says thank you to departing members Louise L (teacher representative – and parent), Kate B (Vice President and parent of VCE 2025 student Will), Anita C (parent of VCE 2025 student Toby), Mark L (student representative), and Luke V (former student and community member totalling 5 years). Your collective professionalism, leadership, dedication and expertise has been immensely valued.

For more information about School Council – including membership, subcommittees, meeting dates, and documents – please visit the school’s website School Council page. The next meeting will be held on the evening of April 1st, 2026. Community attendance as guest observers is always welcomed (except during rare, closed agenda items). Please let the school know in advance if you’d like to attend.

Yours sincerely, Peter Hormann – School Council President 2025

Mobile Phone Use in Schools

MAC has a mobile phone policy in line with the Department of Education Ministerial policy relating to mobile phone use in schools. The policy means phones brought to school must be switched off and stored securely in students lockers during the school day.

The aim of this policy is to provide:

• a safe environment to learn without inappropriate mobile phone use (including cyberbullying) or distractions
• greater opportunities for social interaction and physical activity during recess and lunchtimes.

Research in Victoria has shown that the mobile phone ban in schools has led to increased engagement, focus in learning and social interactions during breaks as well as a decrease in addressing behavioural concerns.

As part of MAC’s mobile phone policy we have a staged response if students are found with their phone during school hours.

1. First offence: student is asked by the staff member to hand over their phone. The phone is taken to the Head of House office and safely secured for the remainder of the day. Students collect the phone at 3.30pm.
2. Second offence: student is asked by the staff member to hand the phone over. The phone is taken to the Head of House office and safely secured. A member of the Head of House/Student Engagement Team will contact the parent/carer/guardian who will be asked to collect the phone from the General Office. 
3. Third offence: student is asked by staff member to hand the phone over. The phone is taken to the Head of House office and safely secured. A member of the Head of House/Student Engagement Team will contact the parent/carer/guardian who will be asked to collect the phone from the General Office. The student will then be required to hand in their phone at the Head of House office for 5 days.
4. Fourth offence: in addition to the steps above, a meeting with the parent/carer/guardian will be held to discuss barriers for the student following the mobile phone policy and further possible consequences.

Our mobile phone policy can be accessed here.

Annual privacy reminder for our school community

Our school collects and uses student and parent personal information for standard school functions or where permitted by law, as stated in the Schools’ privacy policy and the Schools’ privacy collection notice.

Our Photographing, Filming and Recording Students policy describes how we collect and use photographs, video and recordings of students. The policy also explains when parent consent is required and how it can be provided and withdrawn. 

We ask parents to also review the guidance we provide on how we use Google Workspace for Education safely at the school and what parents can do to further protect their child’s information. 

For more information about privacy, refer to: Schools’ privacy policy: information for parents. This information is also available in eleven community languages:

• Amharic
• Arabic
• Chinese
• Dari
• Gujarati
• Mandarin
• Somali
• Sudanese
• Turkish
• Urdu
• Vietnamese

Uniform Update

We’re excited to share that the new Girls Bootleg Pants are now available!

These pants feature:

• dark grey colour
• comfortable elastic waistband
• a convenient zipped side pocket

They are now available online and from the Uniform Shop for $40.

2026 MAC Open Day

Meet our new MAC Staff

Hi everyone! While this is my first official role based in a school, I’m not a stranger to how they run. I’ve spent the last five years performing asset stocktakes for various schools, so I feel at home already.

I’m thrilled to join the MAC community and want to thank everyone who has made me feel so welcome. Outside of work, I spent a few years living in Mallorca and love dedicating any spare time to travelling or photography. When I’m at home, you’ll usually find me baking sourdough or watching the footy or cricket. Looking forward to meeting you all!

Tegan Litchfield, Reception/Administration

Hello MAC community! I am a new Physical Education teacher. I love to travel and have been lucky enough to experience teaching overseas in Malaysia and in remote Northern Territory. I have also lived in Japan, working as a ski and snowboard instructor. I love getting outside (in all kinds of weather) to do physical activity, but I also enjoy staying indoors to play boardgames. I’ve felt so welcome in my first Term at MAC and I look forward to working with the whole MAC community in the future!

Jye Johnston, Health/PE Teacher

After spending the best part of 40 years as an Engineer and Manager in Technology companies, I have made the transition to teaching. I have a deep desire to help students identify career paths that they may wish to pursue (especially in Tech). 

I have enjoyed my first term at MAC and feel very comfortable with the College and how students are given every opportunity to develop their skills (both personal & academic).

Larry De Cata, Systems Engineering/Technology Teacher

Hi all, this is my first time in this role and I am loving it! I’ve worked in hospitality and construction, from 5 star hotels to assisting in the build of new homes. I love food! Trying new recipes and cooking for family and friends.  I’m a mother to two young men, a cute little Staffy – Lexy and a Carlton supporter.  Thank you to all the MAC community for being so welcoming and awesome!

Catia Nardo, Food Technology Assistant

Hello MAC! After eight great years of teaching in Sunbury, I’ve moved to our wonderful school and am having a fantastic time getting to know the staff and students. A highlight has been the engaging discussions with students in class and in the yard. Outside of school, I enjoy creating art on my iPad, eating at Somali Kitchen, playing and watching basketball (go Trailblazers), and spending time with my Chihuahua, Herbert, at the park.

Jesse Gaut, VCD/Art Teacher

Hi, MAC community, I’m a new Math teacher. I’m really happy to have joined the MAC community, I used to teach IELTS in China for about two years. But I’m more passionate about teaching mathematics, especially the logical thinking behind it. I find the classroom atmosphere here really positive, and I genuinely enjoy every part of it. Outside of work, I love going to the gym, travelling and listening to podcasts. It’s very nice to meet you all. 

Mia Yi, Mathematics Teacher 

Hi MAC community! I’m very happy to be joining MAC this year. I teach Mathematics and enjoy supporting students to grow in confidence and achieve their personal best. I believe in making learning engaging and meaningful for all students. Outside of school, I enjoy music and dancing, as well as finding little escapes to relax and recharge.

Ingrid Qu, Mathematics Teacher

Hello MAC community! I’m excited to be embarking on a career in teaching after previously working in the sustainability space. The students and staff at MAC have been very welcoming, and I have enjoyed the term so far. In my free time I love reading, trying new coffee spots and spending time down in the Surf Coast where I grew up.

Isabella Stacey, English/Humanities Teacher 

I’m joining the Mount Alexander College community as a Learning Support Officer. With a background in book-keeping, performing arts and education, I’m passionate about fostering inclusive learning environments where every student feels empowered to succeed. I’m currently halfway through my initial teacher degree.

Douglas McDowell, Learning Support

Hey everyone! I’m joining the MAC Community as a Learning Support Officer and am very excited for the opportunity to encourage and support all students in their education. I have a background in the music industry and sports coaching and am a passionate advocate for young people and their learning.

Nathaniel Peacock, Learning Support

Hello MAC community! I’m joining the team as a Learning Support Officer and am looking forward to the opportunity to support all students in their learning. I previously worked in outdoor education and recently completed my Bachelor of Outdoor Education and Environmental Science. In my spare time, I enjoy watching movies and catching up with friends over a cup of coffee. 

Jack Davies, Learning Support

Hi Mac community. I have recently joined the learning support team at MAC this year. I have a Bachelor of Science in Geology and an Honours degree in  Petroleum Geology. I previously worked in the Petroleum industry and Geotechnical Field.  I have been passionate about supporting students and have done so at my children’s school over the years and have intentions to pursue a career in secondary teaching. I  look forward to working with and supporting all students with their learning. Outside of school I enjoy watching Melbourne Victory matches with my children and catching up with family and friends. I enjoy walking, cycling, good food and wine and heading away on holidays.

Anthony Bianchi-Rossi, Learning Support 

I’m really enjoying getting to know the staff and students at MAC. In my spare time I enjoy going to pub trivia and football, despite being a long-suffering Carlton supporter.  

Louise Williams, Learning Support

Doctors in Secondary Schools Update

This week we sadly said goodbye to Dr Erin Gordon our Doctors in Secondary Schools (DiSS) GP who has been with us at MAC since the beginning of the DiSS program in 2016. We are grateful for the time, care and support Dr Erin has provided to our students over the years here at MAC. We know that Dr Erin will continue to work in community health and advocate for marginalised individuals and communities. 

Our DiSS service will continue to operate at MAC. We have fortunately been able to replace Dr Erin with Dr Lihini who will be joined by Practice Nurse Clara. We welcome Dr Linihi to MAC and wish Dr Erin all the best. 

Student Wellbeing team

Swimming Carnival

Music Concert

Entry Camp

Entry Swimming Program

Entry Families BBQ

Photographed by Havilah Henry, Above Entry 8

Can you believe that there were 150+ parents at this year’s annual Entry and parents introduction BBQ? Neither could I until I was in a swarm of our entry students; already surrounded by friends in groups, playing on the basketball court, and a handful of students excited to tell the crowd about their chosen electives. From DNA testing and learning geography to cooking in the kitchen and graphic designing, all our new year 7 students were able to get together, even give a couple teacher shoutouts, parents were getting to know one another, and in all, enjoy the late afternoon sausages. As far as I saw, these year 7 students are the embodiment of our school values, and will continue our long tradition of being a closely knit community up until their own graduation. 

Giti Niazi, Graduate of 2026

Athena Spirit Week

Athena’s Spirit Week was a huge success at MAC for student and community engagement. There was a theme each day, Mic Drop, Spread the Love, and Fit Check Friday, to name a few. We all enjoyed the music and clothing from the 2000s — nostalgic for staff, fresh and fun for students, everyone got into the ‘spirit’ of the week.

MAC in the Flemington Kensington Local News – Autumn 2026

Athena Shakes up the New Year at MAC

You can download this report as a PDF here or read their newpaper here. 

This term, the Athena community at Mount Alexander College is excited to introduce something new and energising for our whole school – Spirit Week.

Spirit Week is a week-long celebration designed to bring students together, strengthen school pride and create a happy connected atmosphere across all year levels with themed dress up days, lunchtime activities, and friendly competitions, the goal is a simple way to build community and have fun!

Each day of Spirit Week will bring something different for students to enjoy including Mic Drop Monday, Spread the Love Tuesday, Switch It Up Wednesday, Throw Down Thursday, and Fit Check Friday. Throughout the week students will have to get involved in activities that encourage creativity, teamwork and house spirit from themed outfit days and interactive challenges to student-led events whether you’re competing, supporting your friends or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Spirit Week is all about participation and inclusivity.

The Athena Community has been working hard behind the scenes to make sure this week reflects what students want – more connection, more energy and more opportunities to celebrate being part of MAC. School life can feel busy and demanding so Spirit Week aims to create moments that are uplifting, memorable, and fun for everyone.

Spirit Week also highlights the importance of student voice and leadership. As a community we wanted to switch things up from the traditional bake sale approach and create something bigger that involved the whole school. This idea was developed collaboratively showing what can happen when students are empowered to shape school culture in meaningful and creative ways.

Importantly, Spirit Week is not just about fun, it is also about giving back. Throughout the week we will be raising money for Doctors Without Borders, supporting their work providing medical care to people in crisis around the world. By coming together as a school, we hope to make a positive impact beyond our own community.

We encourage all students to get involved, show their spirit and make the most of this exciting new tradition. We look forward to seeing the creativity, enthusiasm, and pride that make Mount Alexander College such a strong and vibrant community.

Let’s make Spirit Week one to remember.

Seamus Mac Hale, Deputy College Captain, Above Entry 10

VM Excursion to Ascot Group

On Monday 16 March, Year 12 VM students visited construction company, Ascot Group to discuss careers in construction. When the group arrived, the company had cooked a BBQ for the students and set up the warehouse for the presentation. There was a carpenter, apprentice and administration staff who presented to the students and answered their questions. All the students were engaged and asked insightful questions of the panel. 

Ascot Group were very generous with their time and were very open with their responses to the students. It was a fantastic learning experience and the students represented the school with pride.

Tori Robinson-Conlon, Artemis Head of House, English and Humanities Teacher

Student Leadership

Annual Overnewton Leadership Summit

On Friday 20 February, our College Captains and Vice Captains attended the annual Overnewton Leadership Summit. This event gave us the opportunity to network with other student leaders and gain valuable insight into what makes a good leader. In this event, coordinators from the Youth Leadership Academy Australia (YLAA) spoke on what makes a good leader. Federal MP Alice Jordain-Baird also attended this event, telling us about her journey. Overall, this was a positive experience for all of us, and we gained much valuable insight which we look forward to taking back to MAC to implement positive change.

Elliot Mohummadally & Sienna Barrios-Seupule, 2026 College Captains

Interschool Sport

Intermediate Girls Volleyball

Today we had Volleyball Interschool Sports! We were all pumped and ready to play our first game against Strathmore. Throughout the game, our continuous positivity and teamwork contributed to having a great game and we ended up winning one set, which led us to have a tie breaker which we also won our second game.

We played against Braybrook and got completely destroyed (winning 0 sets). We unexpectedly had a third match to play and we were highkey quivering with excitement. But that all went away 20 minutes later when we got absolutely obliterated by Sirius College #cooked. Overall we only won 1 out of 3 games but the spirits were high all day. Stay peachy MAC Community.

P.S. #Boysdidgood

Katia Bertolini, Above Entry 10

Senior Boys and Girls Volleyball

Above Entry 10 Families Information Session

International Women’s Day Breakfast

Arts and Technology

As we welcome over 7 groups to Masterchef this Semester, ranging from entry to VCE, we have been blown away by the enthusiasm these groups have brought to the Kitchen!

Please continue to encourage students to bring a container when we cook to support our sustainable initiatives in the kitchen.

Please follow along our adventures on Instagram @macmasterchef

Lezanne Webb-Johnson, Food Studies Teacher

Student Wellbeing and Empowerment

SchoolTV

SchoolTV is an online resource designed to empower parents with credible and sound information with realistic, practical ongoing support strategies. You can access SchoolTV by either clicking the SchoolTV icon on the home page or this link.

In this edition of SchoolTV – Responding to Peer Pressure

Peer pressure is a natural part of growing up. As children and adolescents place greater importance on friendships and belonging, the influence of peers can shape their choices, behaviour and sense of identity. While this influence can be positive, it can also create pressure to conform or take risks, particularly during adolescence.

In today’s digitally connected world, peer pressure extends beyond face-to-face interactions. Social media and online communication expose young people to constant comparison and unspoken expectations about how they should look, act and perform. Understanding how peer pressure works, both on and offline, helps families support young people to build confidence, make healthy decisions and stay connected to their own values.

Click HERE for the Responding to Peer Pressure edition of SchoolTV.

Resource Centre

Staff and students can use the Library Catalogue (login using the Single Sign On with your school email address and password) from school and from home. It’s a great way to see what books are on offer in the library and to reserve a book that you’ve been looking forward to reading.

A friendly reminder to anyone who has overdue books to please return them to the Resource Centre. Bringing books back by their due date ensures that everyone is able to enjoy our collection.

Do you know we have ebooks and audiobooks?

The Eplatform has over 2500 ebooks and audiobooks that you can read or listen to with new books being added every day. You can access it by downloading the app on your device and signing in with your school details in the Single Sign On (SSO). Find out more here: mountalexandercollege.wheelers.co

Carla Iannarella, Resource Centre, Communications and Marketing Manager

MAC Alumni News

MAC Alumni Participating in Community networking with the Rotary Club Flemington & Kensington

With the warm and kind Rotarians’ invitation, I attended the end of year meeting and Christmas gathering with some of our MAC Alumni students. These young graduates will continue to carry on and support the generosity of many Rotarians who have offered scholarships and financial support to these young people. MAC students and teachers witnessed the award given by the Moonee Valley Council to Madam Lesley McCarthy who was also the recipient of the Victorian Senior Citizen of the Year award by the Governor of Victoria. 

Chinglyna Chan, Chinese and Japanese Teacher

2025 Awards Night

Henry Frazer

Henry Frazer, a previous DUX of MAC, is currently studying Medicine at the University of Melbourne. He dropped into the MAC Awards Night ceremony in December 2025, having flown from Sydney to attend one of his family members receiving awards on the night. I was so glad to meet the parents of the Frazer family on the evening, and Henry said hello to all his previous teachers and MAC community. 

It was fortunate to have a visit from a graduated MAC student who studied Chinese Second Language study – this subject awarded him 11 extra marks towards his study score. Henry and his friends have pioneered the study of Chinese language at MAC. We wish to continue to keep up the contact with our Alumni students and wish Henry all the best in his research study. Hopefully, he can lead a team of Australian doctors with Chinese doctors medical fields to benefit the world.

Chinglyna Chan, Chinese and Japanese Teacher

Community News and Advertising

We advertise and support local organisations that reside in our catchment area. These suburbs include Flemington, Kensington, Ascot Vale, Moonee Ponds, Maribyrnong, West Brunswick, North Melbourne, and Parkville.