OURS Week 3 Term 2 2025

Principal’s Report

Lest we forget. Honouring those who have served.

To commemorate ANZAC Day, the Hon Tanya Plibersek MP shared the following words:

“ANZAC Day is not a celebration of war, but a solemn reflection on its profound cost. In remembering the past, we reaffirm our commitment to peace, unity, and the values that bind us as Australians.”

At Melbourne High School, we wholeheartedly echo these sentiments. Each year, we pay our respects to those who have served, including a number of notable Old Boys. Among them is former Principal Brigadier George Furner Langley, CBE, DSO, ED (1 May 1891 – 24 August 1971), who served in both the First and Second World Wars, including the Gallipoli Campaign.

This year, our school proudly participated in several ANZAC events, culminating in the annual school service at the Shrine of Remembrance. Our students formed the guard of honour for Her Excellency Professor the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC. The Tattam Wallis Band provided musical accompaniment, and the combined Year 10 choir from the Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School and Melbourne High School offered a moving vocal tribute.

We extend our sincere thanks to all students, staff, and community members involved in making these commemorations so meaningful.

House Athletics – Congratulations, Waterloo!

Congratulations to Waterloo for taking home the trophy this year! While they earned the win, I want to acknowledge and commend all students for their incredible efforts—whether competing on the track, supporting behind the scenes, or cheering passionately from the stands. It was a true team effort.

A heartfelt thank you as well to all the staff and volunteers who helped make the day such a success.

Events like this showcase the enthusiasm and dedication our students and staff have for their House. This spirit was especially evident during the final races, when the cheers from the stands grew louder with each lap.

The final tally was as follows:

Waterloo – 975 points
Yarra – 912.83 points
Como – 779.83 points
Forrest – 759.33 points

I must also mention two significant personal achievements in the 18 – 20’s 1,500 m race: Finley Symons (Como) 4 min 09.12sec, and Daniel Ball (Yarra) 4 min 09.66 sec.

Recent Trips – United States and Japan

At Melbourne High School, we place a strong emphasis on developing intercultural understanding and providing students with experiential learning opportunities beyond the classroom. International study tours and exchange programs are key ways we support these educational goals.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff who organised our recent trips to the United States and Japan. These experiences require significant planning and effort, both before departure and while on the ground. Despite the demanding nature of these programs, they offer students invaluable insights into the history, culture, and daily life of other communities.

Each tour also features a unique focus. The United States trip centres around Space Camp, a week-long, hands-on STEM program held at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama. This year, before attending Space Camp, students spent a week in New York City, where they visited the United Nations, the American Museum of Natural History, Wall Street, and MoMath—the National Museum of Mathematics.

The Japanese Exchange offers students the chance to enhance their Japanese language skills through a school-based immersion program, which includes a six-night homestay with a Japanese family. Before the school-based component, students travelled to Hiroshima, Kyoto, and Nara. Highlights of the cultural activities included cooking classes, calligraphy, and participation in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.

Junior School Social

On Friday, May 2, the Junior School held its annual social at St Kilda Town Hall. A sincere thank you to the staff and parents who provided supervision, and to the SRC Representatives, Form Captains, and Stage Crew who helped with setup and supported the event throughout the evening.

We were delighted to welcome 670 students from schools across Melbourne, all of whom contributed to a vibrant and enjoyable night. It was especially heartening to see MHS students reconnecting with friends from their former schools.

Proceeds from the event will be shared between a selected charity and support for student clubs at Melbourne High School.

Combined School Musical – ‘The Pirates of Penzance’

Last night was the opening of the Melbourne High School and Mac.Robertson Girls’ High School. Congratulations to all performers and crew for putting on a wonderful show. Thank you to all of the staff who have contributed to the production. Tickets are still available for tomorrow’s shows here.

Thank You – Friends of Music Barbeque

A huge thank you to the Friends of Music and their incredible team of volunteers who generously gave up their time last Saturday to run the fundraising BBQ at the election. From setting up at 7:00 am to packing up around 6:30 pm, it was a big day — and thanks to your efforts, around 500 sausages were sold, along with plenty of coffee, cakes, and soft drinks. We’re especially grateful to the parents, Old Boys’ parents, and the Year 10 students who participated as part of their community service. Your support and dedication helped make the day a great success.

Advance Notice – School Council Meeting 5:00pm Tuesday 20 May 2025

This is the annual public meeting. The agenda will include the tabling of the Annual Report. If you are unable to attend in person and wish to attend virtually, please contact the Principal’s PA for a link.

Dr Tony Mordini
Principal