Guwanyi Winter 2026

As an acknowledgement to the traditional custodians of this land, the people of the Dharawal nation, Guwanyi comes from the Dharawal language meaning “tell”. On this land they taught their children their beliefs, knowledge and culture. We pay our respect to them as we seek to do the same for our children.

Published by Shellharbour Anglican College 1 Piper Drive, Dunmore New South Wales 2529 info@shac.nsw.edu.au events@shac.nsw.edu.au alumni@shac.nsw.edu.au

Education is, at its core, about relationships. Our Learning for Hope framework integrates learning, faith and wellbeing into all aspects of school life.”

Mrs Megan Hastie

Message from the Principal

Welcome to this edition of Guwanyi, our biannual College publication. Guwanyi means "to tell" in Dharawal, and through this magazine we hope to tell of the wonderful learning opportunities at the College, our amazing students and dedicated staff.

Mrs Megan Hastie Principal

Looking through the stories in this edition, Shellharbour Anglican College shines as a community grounded in hope, joy and purpose. These are not abstract ideals – they are lived each day in our classrooms, on our fields, and in the relationships that define us.

Across the Prep to Year 12 journey, hope-filled learning takes shape in ways that reflect each stage of development. Across every age and stage, we seek to cultivate learners who are not only capable, but compassionate – young people who understand that growth is intertwined with service to others.

2026 is a year of both celebration and transition within our College. We have welcomed new staff whose energy, expertise and care enrich our community.

We are also launching our Strategic Plan 2026-2028 This plan articulates a hopeful and purposeful direction for the future, anchored in four key strategic intents.

People Growing People is a powerful reminder that education is, at its core, about relationships. We continue to embed our Learning for Hope framework that integrates learning, faith and wellbeing into all aspects of College life. We are also continuing to strengthen high potential learning opportunities, ensuring that students are both supported and extended.

Places, Spaces and Resources challenges us to think more broadly about where learning happens. Increasingly, we are embracing outdoor and real-world learning opportunities that connect students to authentic contexts.

A shining example of these values in action was our recent Senior School Musical, Mary Poppins This production captured the joy, creativity and spirit of our College. It was a powerful demonstration of collaboration and courage, as students pushed themselves beyond their perceived limits to achieve something truly exceptional.

As you read through this edition of Guwanyi, I encourage you to look for these threads of joy, hope, courage and purpose.

Staff Spotlight

Welcome to Mr Luke Adams, our new Head of Senior School.

A warm and authentic educator, Mr Adams believes that students achieve their personal best when they feel deeply known, valued and safe. He fosters a relational culture that balances positive regard with high expectations.

Having entered teaching because of the profound impact of a Year Coordinator on his life, Mr Adams’ goal is to help young people navigate challenges, discover their strengths, and achieve their potential, just as that teacher did for him.

“One caring adult can make a huge difference in a student’s life,” he said. “It inspired me to pursue teaching and has shaped the way I approach my role in education. I want to create the same sense of connection, support, and encouragement for students.”

Depth of Experience

Mr Adams comes to us from St Philip’s Christian College, Cessnock, in the Hunter Valley, where he has been the Director of Studies – Senior School. He brings experience in strategic and collaborative educational leadership, developing learning frameworks and ensuring that educational vision remains future-focused and evidence-informed.

Currently completing a Master of Education (Educational Leadership), Mr Adams holds a Bachelor of PDHPE/Bachelor of Education and NSW Certificate of Religious Education. He was a finalist in the 2021 Australian Education Awards Department Head of the Year, and recipient of the 2021 Professional Teachers Council Outstanding Professional Service Award.

Fostering a Culture of Care

A self-confessed ‘sports tragic’, expect to see Mr Adams on the sporting field, as well as at the school gate. "The strongest relationships are built through everyday interactions, and the healthiest and most thriving school communities are those where every individual feels seen, known, valued and loved,” he said.

Mr Adams is deeply influenced by the example of Jesus, who he says led with both truth and grace.

“He showed remarkable love and compassion for people while also challenging them to grow and become the best version of themselves. This balance is essential in education,” he said.

Mr Adams’ desire is to create environments where individuals feel safe to take risks, where mistakes become opportunities for growth, and where relationships remain at the centre.

“Young people need high expectations, but they also need to know that they are valued beyond their achievements, mistakes, or circumstances.”

Faith in Action

Mr Adams has strong convictions about the role that faith, relationships and care play in shaping culture. One of the most formative experiences in his career was leading a school-based Walkathon that raised more than $200,000 for Children's Mission.

“The project enabled the construction of a school in Zambia, and I was fortunate enough to attend its opening. Seeing students make such a meaningful impact on the lives of children they would never meet reinforced my belief that faith is most powerful when expressed through action, compassion, and service to others.”

Looking Ahead

Mr Adams took up his role as Head of Senior School in Term 3. We are excited to see how he will help leverage a vibrant Senior School culture shaped by a sense of compassion, respect, hope and purpose.

I want to help foster a culture where every student experiences a sense of belonging, where they are encouraged to pursue excellence, and where they are supported through both success and challenge.”

Mr Luke Adams

Even today, our daughter still talks about her experiences in Cambodia and Vietnam. What we noticed was that she was more confident, talked more and appreciated what she had.”

Vanessa, parent

Changing Lives in Cambodia

In December 2025, 22 Senior School students and four staff set out on what would be a life-changing adventure – the College’s inaugural cultural immersion and service trip to Cambodia and Vietnam.

Visits to two schools were especially meaningful experiences. At one, students had the chance to teach the local children, while at the other, the group made environmentally sustainable bricks, and created a mosaic for the playground.

“The students stepped up in amazing ways and made real, authentic connections,” said Mr Brown.

In planning for this cultural immersion, Mr Brown had hoped that the students would be able to explore different cultures, engage in meaningful service, learn new things, be challenged in their thinking, and grow in their character and as global citizens.

“What we couldn’t plan for was the transformation that happened in each student and staff member as we saw how blessed we are and what a difference we can make.”

Registrations are now open for the December 2027 Cambodia Cultural Immersion trip. Contact Mr Mark Brown for more information.

Mary Poppins: Practically Perfect

Cherry Tree Lane was brought to life on stage, complete with Mary Poppins and Bert, a colourful, all-singing, all-dancing cast and whimsical special effects at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre in June.

“Mary Poppins was more than just a spectacular show,” says Miss Olivia Corish, Musical Director. “It was a celebration of growth.”

After months of rehearsals, our students came out the other side not just with skills in acting, dancing and singing, but also skills for life – including confidence, resilience, empathy and communication.

“Putting on a musical is a big task,” explains Miss Corish. “Navigating all the challenges encourages the type of collaboration and creative problem-solving that students will carry with them long after the curtains close.”

Amelia Blanchett, who played the role of Mary agrees. “Doing a show teaches everyone how to work as a team, how to think on their feet. Everyone worked so incredibly hard to put this show on. It’s a great experience.”

Creating a College environment that champions the arts and allows creativity to thrive takes a village. Thanks go to staff who generously contributed skills and time, to the parents and families of the young performers, to the incredible production and creative team, and to our College community who came to enjoy the show.

Friendship Skills That Really Work

Friendship is often treated as something children should just "know" how to do. But any parent or educator knows that navigating playground dynamics can be one of the most challenging parts of a child’s day.

Rather than simply telling students to "be nice", our Junior School teaches Friendship in Action based on the URSTRONG Friendology curriculum. We believe friendship is a concrete skill that can be practiced, refined, and mastered.

Shared, Child-Friendly Language

Friendology gives students, staff and families a shared vocabulary to talk about relationships. Instead of vague complaints, students use specific terms such as: Friendship Fires: This concept reframes normal, everyday conflict as a small fire that needs to be put out. It removes the panic from disagreements and reminds students that conflict is normal.

Mean-on-Purpose: This helps children identify and label intentional, mean or cruel behaviour, distinguishing it clearly from an accidental slight or a standard misunderstanding.

Tangible Tools for Complex Emotions

Friendology introduces concrete, visual tools to help children understand relationships. Posters are displayed in classrooms and playgrounds for easy reference.

The Friend-o-Meter: A visual gauge that assists students assess whether a friendship is healthy or unhealthy, teaching them that they have agency over their social circles.

The Four Friendship Facts: These include reminders such as, “No friendship is perfect” and, “Friendships change”, setting up realistic expectations.

Creating Independent Problem-Solvers

When playground drama arises, a child's first instinct is often to run to a teacher to fix it. Friendology flips the script by empowering children with step-by-step strategies to extinguish their own Friendship Fires. This builds emotional resilience, serving them into adulthood.

The Data Supports It

Our students complete surveys at the beginning and end of the term when they have engaged in this program.

Across the Junior School, students have identified improvement in:

Their ability to manage challenges in their friendships. Their ability to form new connections, make friends and have a sense of belonging.

Recognising their own emotional states and using personal calming techniques.

Having realistic expectations of friendships.

Building a More Effective Learning Community

When students struggle with friendships, it impacts the way they approach their learning. By teaching our students how to communicate in conflict, establish healthy boundaries and treat one another with respect, Friendship in Action helps us build a safer, happier, and more resilient school community, well set up for learning.

When students struggle with friendships, it impacts the way they approach their learning. We believe friendship is a concrete skill that can be practiced, refined, and mastered.”

Mr Matthew Low

House Music Festival

At the Senior School’s most anticipated event, the performances did not disappoint.

The 21st year of the House Music Festival brought students from Years 7 to 12 together in a vibrant showcase.

More than a competition, the Festival fosters inter-year collaboration, nurtures leadership and performance skills, and celebrates our students’ creative gifts.

Each House worked collaboratively over several weeks to produce a themed musical performance, incorporating costumes, choreography and creative storytelling.

This year was a tight contest between Chapman and Booth. In the end, Chapman took home the title with an entertaining, cohesive, high-energy performance.

When students are given space to lead, express and innovate,

they rise to the occasion in inspiring ways.” Mrs

Jodie Liddiard

Tales Under the Library Tree

On the one-year anniversary of the new Junior School Library, we caught up with Junior School Teacher Librarian Mr Joshua Stavert to find out about the power of books and reading and what he loves about being a teacher librarian.

If you read with your child for five minutes a day their vocabulary

expands to about 100,000 words by the end of primary school. If you read more, it grows even more. Reading is the gateway to learning.”

Mr Joshua Stavert

House Public Speaking

The finalists of our much-anticipated annual House Public Speaking Competition impressed the audience with articulate, engaging, and confidently delivered presentations. Congratulations to this year’s winners: Olivia Phillips and Mason Barker.

Junior Division Finalists

Allen Matthew Abraham

Booth Tabitha Grey

Chapman Ali Abdul

Chiswell Olivia Phillips

Senior Division Finalists

Allen Joseph Barter

Booth Mason Lay

Chapman Mason Barker

Chiswell Taylor Mackey

It’s the funniest thing in the world watching your friend

trying to eat a dog-food flavoured jellybean.”

Mason Barker

Flourishing Outside the Classroom

2026 has already been a big year for sport at Shellharbour Angl with successes for individuals and teams in netball, rugby leag cross country, hockey, touch football, athletics, triathlon and

“Having something you’re excellent at, where you’re surrounded by teammates, and where you feel a sense of belonging, is a place to learn good skills that children need for life,” says Coordinator of Representative Sport, Mrs Shannon Peters.

Mrs Peters is enthusiastic about providing opportunities for students to excel and flourish in sport.

“The Junior School years are the time to get in and have a go at a range of sports, and see what you might be good at,” she says. “In Senior School, it’s a time for building more skills, challenging yourself further and seeing how far you can go.”

Sport offerings have increased in the last number of years, both in Junior and Senior School.

The College offers a wide range of sports at all levels, as well as pathways for achievement for teams and individuals through the CSSA (Christian Schools Sports Association), AICES (Association of Independent Co-Educational Schools) and CIS (Combined Independent Schools Sports Council).

At Shellharbour Anglican College, sport

and pathways are available for students

Learning Leadership

Our Leaders serve, inspire and shape the culture of the College community. We caught up with our 2026 College Captains and Vice Captains to hear about their experiences and growth through their leadership roles.

“It’s great seeing all the leaders stepping up into their roles and doing a good job in things like assemblies and House meetings and helping the Year 11 leaders for House Music Festival.

I have loved getting up on stage and saying something that I believe is meaningful to the students, giving them a student's perspective on different ideas and topics. But it’s not just speeches. Every hour you're at school you're doing your role. When you're in the playground or in class, you’re modelling what it is to be a leader.

Being a leader means putting others before yourself, not simply thinking about what's best for me in this situation, but thinking what's best for the other person. You’re not out there using all your power for yourself.”

“I think I’ve grown in the ability to be a welcoming person. In this role you’re constantly having to put others before yourself in the leadership team, and students come and talk to us about things they’d like to happen at school.

It’s been great to have the opportunity to voice our ideas, and the teachers have given us so much time listening to what we’ve put forward.

What I’ve loved about being a captain is the time I get to spend in the community, talking to kids. My model of leadership comes from Jesus and his servant-heartedness.

I don’t know how much time I’ve given to my leadership role. I tend to do leadership work over schoolwork. I enjoy seeing the community grow.”

Leadership is not thinking first about what’s best for me in this situation, but what’s best for the other person. It’s not using all your power just for you.”

Joseph Barter

“As Vice Captains, we run the SRC Student Representative Council which meets every two weeks. The goal is to bring student voice to the leadership team.

This year we had a sum of money given to us by the P&F so after lots of discussion, we decided we wanted to install outdoor gym equipment in the playground so that everyone could benefit from it. The idea is still in its early stages.

This is the second year that the College has had an SRC. We’ve tried to build on the foundations set by last year’s Vice Captains. Running SRC meetings is a good learning experience – you have to keep the discussion moving. Sometimes people don’t want to be the first one to stick their hands up!”

“The SRC does a student newsletter as well as community things like Harmony Day. We started the idea of the student newsletter, handed it over to the SRC and let them come up with an idea and a structure. It’s outgrown us and has now become a Time to Thrive group. Students who want to participate can join in.

It’s great to have students from all years on the SRC. Sometimes younger students can be shy, but this is a place where everyone can bring ideas. It helps to build a community and brings everyone together. We do a lot of mind mapping in meetings as we figure things out.

I’ve learned a lot about working with other people. There's a lot of collaboration in this role.”

College Community 2026

P&F supports Student Voice

In early 2026, the P&F allocated $5,000 each to the Senior School SRC and Junior School MAACAS and asked them how they would like to spend it.

Every year the Shellharbour Anglican College P&F raises money for the College, allocating it according to requests from the teachers.

"We get a lot of requests from the library and for PE and sports equipment, as you'd expect," says P&F President Jayne Williams. "This year, we've also had requests from maths, science and geography which is great."

Student Input

Jayne and the P&F are always conscious of allocating funds across different faculties, as well as benefiting both Junior and Senior School. This year they were also keen to hear from the students on what they wanted to do.

"We allocated $5,000 to both MAACAS in the Junior School and to the SRC in Senior School and said, 'This is your money. You tell us what you'd like to do, and we'll try to support it.'"

Jayne says that the students were excited to receive P&F funds and begin discussions about how to spend it.

"MAACAS wants to use it to run some events, and the SRC are considering spending it on equipment for use at recess and lunch."

Future projects that P&F Fundraising is supporting:

Installation of a groundwater test well for Senior School Science and Geography

Library Resources including dyslexia texts

College Musical

New school kits for Junior School and Senior School representative sport

Outdoor play/learning space for Birung, outside the Junior School Library

Raising Money

P&F fundraise via events such as barbeques and food stalls at sports carnivals, hot cross bun and pie drives, and the most recent campaign, selling discounted Jamberoo season tickets.

Fundraising relies on motivated volunteers like Jayne and her team. "The reason I became President was to teach my son that things don't happen without people being involved."

Jayne says now is the time to join the P&F. "There's a good group of people. It's a supportive environment where we use everyone's expertise rather than just giving you a task that doesn't suit your skill set or your time."

The reason I joined P&F was to teach my son that things

don’t happen without people being involved.”

Jayne Williams

Being Transparent

"People are more willing to support the P&F, volunteer at events and contribute to fundraising if they know what the money is going towards," says Jayne. "This year I'm focused on bringing more visibility to where the money goes and what we're providing for the College."

Jayne is excited to tell the College community more about some of the P&F supported projects. "It’s great to have been able to support representative sports through providing uniforms for some of the different teams.”

P&F meetings are once per term, on a Monday evening. In 2027 the meetings will be on Mondays in Terms 1 and 3, and Thursdays in Terms 2 and 4. Find more information via Broadcasts on Edumate.

Celebrating our Alumni

Turn on WIN News and you’ll soon see alumna Meg Claridge reporting on regional stories. Meg still daily demonstrates the College’s values, reporting not just with boldness, but also compassion, wisdom and respect for individuals and local communities.

Starting in Kindy with Mrs Sara Lundberg, Meg did all her schooling at Shellharbour Anglican College, graduating with the Class of 2021.

“Covid seems so long ago now,” she remembers. “We did exams in masks, and there was an off-site period where we had to learn to use Zoom and communicate with the teachers in other ways.”

A Shellharbour local, Meg spent a lot of time at The Farm in the waves with her boogie board and has strong memories of doing Cross Country at Killalea. “It was a great chapter of my life,” she says.

I was a quieter student at school, but I was pushed

by my teachers to keep asking more questions, to be bold and unafraid.”

Meg Claridge

At school, a highlight of every year was the House Music Festival, rehearsing constantly, counting down the days and hoping that Chiswell would win. “I vividly remember all the work the Year 11 students did, and how much fun it was, and how it brought all of us together as a House.”

Meg also recalls the relationships built with teachers as a special part of her time at the College. “I was there for

In Years 11 and 12, journalism emerged as a possibility for Meg to pursue after school. She enjoyed English and loved storytelling, so applied for a Bachelor of Journalism degree at University of Wollongong, receiving early entry.

“I didn’t know what area of journalism I would go into at that point,” she says. It wasn’t until she did a three-week internship with WIN News in her second year of uni that she decided that was where she wanted to be.

“It gave me hands-on experience and showed me what a reporting role would look like,” she says. “I got in the newsroom environment and fell in love with it.”

After some time working casually as a news assistant in her third year, Meg moved to Orange. She spent 10 months as a WIN reporter in their Central West newsroom, before coming back to the Illawarra and joining the team in the Wollongong newsroom.

“Sometimes you're speaking to people on what might be their worst day, but they're still sharing their experience,” she says, reflecting that it's a privilege to be able to share regional stories that matter.

“Each story I do is incredible for its own reasons, but whenever I've been to a 100th birthday, it’s a joy. They always have a cheeky story to tell. The cameraman and I end up grinning ear to ear.”

Since starting out as a reporter, Meg has been on a learning curve. “I watched back my first story a while ago and didn’t even recognise my voice!” she says. “I've been able to learn and grow so much.”

She credits Shellharbour Anglican College with teaching her to put herself out there and work hard for what she wants. “I was a quieter student at school, but I was pushed by my teachers to keep asking questions, to be bold and unafraid.”

Meg says she’s already in her dream job – sharing regional stories that matter. “I feel grateful to do it in my own backyard.”

We love hearing from our past students and celebrating the many paths they’ve taken beyond Shellharbour Anglican College. If you’re an alum and would like to share your story, achievements, or reflections since graduating, we warmly invite you to get in touch at alumni@shac.nsw.edu.au – we’d love to hear from you.