Fahan in Focus - 4 April 2025
- Principal's Report
- Office Hours During Term 1 Holiday Break
- Winner of the Rowing Ergo Raffle
- Learning in Pre-Kinder
- Learning about the Very Hungry Caterpillar in Kinder
- Learning about Living Things in Prep
- Learning about Digital Technology in Year 2
- Learning about Australia in Year 3
- Learning about Sustainability in Year 4
- Learning about Measurement in Year 7 Science
- Learning about Healthy Eating in Years 9/10 Food Technology
- Learning Culinary Skills in Food, Cooking and Nutrition
- Learning about Patterns and Sequences
- Learning about Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis
- Learning in Outdoor Adventure Skills
- Learning in 9/10 Sport Science with Years 3 and 4
- Learning about Cells in Biology 2
- Learning about Energy in Biology 3
- Spirit of Reading in Prep
- Spirit of Year 1 and Year 4 Buddies
- Spirit of Year 5 Camp
- Spirit of Year 6 Outdoor Education
- Spirit of Tasmania Reads
- Spirit of Harmony Day
- Learning about Performance
- Spirit of Lumina 9
- Spirit of Years 9/10 Ignite
- Spirit of House Music
- Spirit of Year 12
- Spirit of Fahan Rowing
- Spirit - Junior School Sport
- Spirit - Senior School Sport
- Community - Parents and Friends Dinner Invitation!
- 2026 Term Dates
- Community Notices
Principal's Report
This is a bumper issue of Fahan in Focus, showcasing the diverse range of activities, events, and excursions in which Fahan students have been involved over the final part of Term 1.
Many of these events have required significant commitment from our students over a long period of time. This can require substantial amounts of grit, a quality defined by academic and psychologist, Angela Duckworth, as cultivating a passion for your interests, engaging in deliberate practice, finding a sense of purpose, and maintaining a hopeful outlook, even in the face of setbacks.
This quality can play a significant role in success in life and is a trait that can be developed. Environmental factors can significantly shape grit development, with supportive, yet clear parenting, consistent participation in challenging extracurricular activities, and being part of communities that value perseverance all contributing to building this important quality in young people.
A group of our senior students recently competed in the Sports Association of Tasmanian Independent Schools (SATIS) Athletics Carnival in Launceston. In this event, we came third in the Girls’ Aggregate Shield behind two significantly larger northern schools. This is a tremendous achievement, one that was noticed by many others, some of whom commented on the positive attitude of our students and the confidence and determination they showed in ‘having a go’ at whatever they faced. The same can be said for our Open Rowers who competed in the 2025 Australian Rowing Championships last week. Similarly, our Junior School students are rehearsing for their upcoming musical, Shrek, which also requires effort over an extended period. This is evidence of grit, and it is hoped these students will take this quality into other areas of their lives.
Yesterday we enjoyed the tremendous musical performances of House Music. This event is a highlight for many of our students and staff, and all involved are to be congratulated for their performances.
In staffing news, Mrs Stephanie Hogan will be stepping down from her role as Coordinator of Academic Services early next term to take up a position as a Teaching Fellow at the University of Tasmania. Stephanie has been a wonderful addition to our staff, and we will certainly miss her.
Mrs Andrea Gadon will commence in the role of Coordinator of Academic Services upon Stephanie’s departure, and we will be welcoming a new member of staff to this area of our School in the coming term.
I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a restful, happy holiday and Easter break with your families.
Best wishes,
Meg Lawson
Office Hours During Term 1 Holiday Break
The School Office hours during the Term 1 break are noted below:
Monday 14 April - Thursday 17 April: 9:00am - 3:30pm
Friday 18 April - Tuesday 22 April: CLOSED
Wednesday 23 April - Thursday 24 April: 9:00 - 3:30pm
Friday 25 April: CLOSED
Monday 28 April: 9:00am - 3:30pm
All students return to School for the commencement of Term 2 on Tuesday 29 April.
Winner of the Rowing Ergo Raffle
Congratulations to Abby George who was the lucky winner of our ergo raffle. All money raised will go towards the purchase of new equipment for our rowers. Thank you to everyone who purchased tickets!
Learning in Pre-Kinder
The children had an exciting visit to Alexandra Battery, exploring its tunnels, storerooms, and open spaces. The stunning views of the Tasman Bridge and estuary added to their sense of wonder and appreciation for the area's rich history. This experience deepened their connection to the past while reinforcing the importance of caring for and preserving significant landmarks.
"History is not just about the past. It is about understanding our place in the world today."
Heena, Sean, Moya, Lee and Tiffany
Learning about the Very Hungry Caterpillar in Kinder
Every year on 20 March, children all around the world celebrate The Very Hungry Caterpillar Day in honor of one of Eric Carle’s most beloved picture book characters.
Last week, Year 6 students joined the Kindergarten students to celebrate The Very Hungry Caterpillar Day. Many of the students are very familiar with this classic story and enjoyed reading it aloud.
After sharing the story, students created their own Very Hungry Caterpillar crowns.
Mrs Meg Denman
Learning about Living Things in Prep
This term, Prep students have been exploring living things as part of their Science inquiry. A highlight was their fantastic excursion to the Waterworks Reserve, where they took part in a Water Bug Survey.
Students had so much fun sloshing through the water, getting their hands wet, and overturning rocks and sticks to discover the incredible variety of critters and plant life hiding beneath the surface.
Ms Kim Menadue
Learning about Digital Technology in Year 2
In Digital Technology, the Year 2 students have been learning about basic computational skills such as working out steps and decisions required to solve simple problems. In this activity, students instructed a Bee Bot to navigate around a maze. The students were introduced to simple programming while consolidating concepts such as using positional language, sequencing events and ideas, estimating and measuring.
Mr David Hodgman
Learning about Australia in Year 3
In Year 3, students have been learning about Australia in Geography. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have lived on the Australian landmass and islands for over 60,000 years. They use a map that looks very different to the modern-day maps we usually see. It uses different boundaries to represent all the language, social or nation groups of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Students studied this map and compared it with maps we see now, in which Australia is divided up into 8 states and territories.
Using a globe and an atlas, students located each of Australia’s states and territories. Following a project plan, they researched facts about each of the states and territories using non-fiction books, the internet, atlases, a globe, posters, and through talking to people. Students were encouraged to put the information into their own words and presented their information in the form of a 'scrapbook', with one page dedicated to each state or territory. They tried to use lots of colour, interesting pictures and clear headings to make it engaging and fun for people to look at and learn from.
Great work, everyone!
Mrs Nicole Bury
Learning about Sustainability in Year 4
In Science we have been learning about the properties of different materials. Students have used this knowledge to make sustainable bags to hold their sandwiches and snacks. Here are some photos of the process.
Miss Carla Peacock
Learning about Measurement in Year 7 Science
Year 7 students have been practicing using different measuring devices and their measurement skills in Science.
These happy faces managed to measure accurately resulting in a rainbow selection of colors in their test tubes with each one holding exactly 10ml.
Congratulations Girls!
Mrs Natasha Lambert
Learning about Healthy Eating in Years 9/10 Food Technology
In Food Tech this Term, we have focused on healthy eating. We have made a variety of savoury and sweet meals including, burrito bowls, yogurt cake, fried rice, tacos, quinoa salad, pesto pasta, roast vegetables and Italian coffee cake. All of these were delicious, but our favourites were quinoa salad and fried rice. We have learnt many different important kitchen rules and knife skills while learning how the Australian Guide To Healthy Eating relates to our meals. Food Tech is a great thing to get involved with if you enjoy cooking and learning about what you're eating.
Dr Melanie East
Learning Culinary Skills in Food, Cooking and Nutrition
As the Term comes to a close, students in our Food, Cooking and Nutrition class have not only developed essential kitchen skills but have also explored the art of creating delicious dishes from various cuisines.
The Term began with a thorough introduction to food safety and hygiene, which are fundamental skills for any aspiring chef. Students learnt the importance of keeping their workstations clean, storing food properly, and following safe handling practices to ensure the dishes they prepare are both tasty and safe to eat.
Once the basics were covered, students explored the world of nutrients and how to balance meals for a healthier lifestyle. Understanding how to incorporate the right amount of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins into each dish was a key focus throughout the term.
A particular highlight was the development of knife skills, an essential technique that was practiced through a variety of tasks, from chopping vegetables to preparing delicate garnishes. Mastering these skills allowed students to work more efficiently and safely, all while gaining confidence with their culinary abilities.
Students had the opportunity to experiment with a variety of recipes, ranging from sweet treats to savory snacks. They baked cinnamon scrolls and created light and fluffy banana bread, zucchini slice and choc chip cookies. In addition, they ventured into international cuisines, preparing sushi with precision, crafting delicate dumplings, and rolling fresh rice paper rolls. The class also prepared a large batch of minestrone soup for Louis Van.
By the end of the Term, students had improved practical skills, enhanced their understanding of food preparation, and developed a greater appreciation for the importance of nutrition and safety in the kitchen.
As we wrap up the term, it’s clear that the Food, Cooking and Nutrition class has been a successful blend of education and enjoyment. We are proud of the students' progress and are excited to see their continued growth in the kitchen.
Bon appétit!
Mrs Emily Hogan
Learning about Patterns and Sequences
In Year 9 Maths Enrichment class, we created different sizes of paper for our investigation by assembling A3 papers to create A2, A1, A0 and cutting A3 paper to create A4, A5, A6, through to A12.
We discovered the different sizes of papers and the relationship between their dimensions.
The pattern we observed is that the width of the next size paper up is the length of the previous paper size and the length is twice the width of the previous paper size.
The truncated tetrahedrons made from paper size A0, A2, A4, A6, A8, A10, A12 fit on top of each other and nearly form a whole tetrahedron. The same observation was made for A1, A3, A5, A7, A9, A11.
We discovered the concept of limit: by stacking the truncated tetrahedrons you will never reach the height of the original tetrahedron: as the next truncated tetrahedron added is half of the previous one, there will always be a little gap.
A4, A3 were convenient sizes to work with, while working with small sizes was challenging.
We folded so many truncated tetrahedrons that we could do them in under 1 minute.
By Emma, Grace, Lili, Maisey and Yifan
Learning about Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis
On Thursday 20 March, Ally from the Pelvic Pain Foundation presented the PPEP Talk to the Year 10 Health students about pelvic pain and endometriosis. The talk was informative and interactive which allowed us all to learn and talk in a safe environment. We acquired the knowledge of techniques, symptoms, medications, and support organisations all surrounding pelvic pain.
We all learnt so much and thank PPEP Talk for presenting us with this opportunity to learn more about what is going on inside our bodies.
More information about this organisation can be found here: https://www.pelvicpain.org.au/ppep-talk-schools-program/
Some student feedback from the session is below:
Thank you so much for coming. I learnt a lot more about my body. You also presented the information in a way that made me understand better.
I found that some information was not only helpful for me but also for an adult in my life.
I think that PPEP Talk really helped me become more aware of endometriosis and period/pelvic pain.
Very informative, I didn't know that there were things I could do and medications to take to help with everything.
By Ruby Leditschke
Learning in Outdoor Adventure Skills
During Term 1, our Outdoor Adventure classes have focused on developing skills in various water-based activities. Students have been actively engaged in snorkelling and surfing, enhancing their abilities and confidence in these pursuits. These experiences aim to deepen their understanding of the water-based opportunities available in the Hobart region, empowering them to explore and enjoy these activities beyond the classroom.
My favourite part of outdoor education was spending time in mother nature. I really liked coasteering. I was so brave because I jumped off a big rock. I was really good at surfing too. Taylah East
Learning in 9/10 Sport Science with Years 3 and 4
Our Years 9/10 Sport Science students have been learning all about gross motor skills, exploring how fundamental movements such as running, jumping, and throwing are built from a young age.
As part of their learning, they took on the exciting challenge of planning and running a motor skills program for our Years 3 and 4 students. This hands-on experience allowed them to apply their knowledge by designing engaging activities that help younger students develop key skills.
Through a mix of structured drills, small-sided games, and obstacle courses, our senior students developed their leadership and coaching skills. The sessions were a great mix of enthusiasm, competitiveness and pure joy from both the older and younger students, making for a rewarding learning experience all around!
I am incredibly proud of the senior students’ efforts and the positive impact they had on our junior students.
Well done to all involved!
Mr Bryce Coulson
Learning about Cells in Biology 2
This week in Biology 2 class, we have been learning about cells, their structure, the differences between types of cells, and how to view cells using a microscope. We have looked at onion skin cells, banana cells, cheek cells and protozoans including Paramecium. We have observed, measured and drawn the cells we saw under the microscope, and taken many, many photos of our specimens. We also listened to some beautiful classical music (Faure’s requiem) whilst we were working!
Here are a few comments from the students:
I enjoyed learning about the different cell types as well as getting to look at them first-hand under the microscopes. Olivia Ferrar
I enjoyed seeing how onion skin cells are similar to human skin cells. Aspen Foster
I found it really interesting to see different tissues up close, particularly the human tonsil, lung tissue and a rat knee joint. Shavenya Jayanetti
I loved exploring all the extra leftover slides from past anatomy classes. These included cardiac tissue, mammary glands and motor nerve tissue. Sofia Miles
I found it really interesting to look at cells under the microscopes and see their different organelles. Eleanor de Wit
I really liked zooming in to see what stuff is actually like on a smaller scale. Harriet Turner
Learning about Energy in Biology 3
This week and the next, the Biology 3 class have been conducting their major independent inquiries. Each group is designing an experiment with a focus on energy in cells. They are now conducting their experiments, then analysing the data and writing a report. The students have been incredibly engaged in their experiments and have been working meticulously in the labs to ensure their experiments are reliable and valid. They have completed some initial testing to identify areas for improvement in their methods, before collecting their final data.
We are investigating how changing the amount of sugar given to yeast cells affects how much the yeast cells respire (metabolise the sugar). We are measuring the amount of carbon dioxide gas the yeast produce to tell us which amount of sugar enables them to respire the fastest. Lucy Groom, Claudia Sampson and Eadie Davidson
Our practical investigates how banana cellular respiration affects the rate of starch breakdown into glucose. Cedar Cadle and Ruby Bartulovic
We are experimenting how different wavelengths of light effect the amount of photosynthesis in algal balls. We are determining this through different pH levels. Georgina Parnham and Emily Mazengarb
We are investigating the effect of different wavelengths of light on the rate of photosynthesis of algal balls. We did this by covering bijou bottles with different colours of cellophane, putting the algal balls in them and placing them in front of a light, which enabled them to photosynthesise. We will measure the pH of each solution to determine how much carbon dioxide the algal balls used. Zara Marino and Tess Lawson
We are investigating the effect of different light intensities on the rate of photosynthesis on algae balls, using different transparencies of clear plastic. Ava McGlone and Georgette Pridmore
Our experiment focuses on what factors affect the rate of photosynthesis in aquatic plants. We are investigating how light intensity impacts how much oxygen is produced. Isabel Willcox and Zoe Pitt
Today we tested the effect of different wavelengths of light on the rate of photosynthesis in algal balls. This was done by using Hodson light boxes to change the colours of light exposed to each algal ball group in our School’s dark room. Felicity Barling and Lucie Tomlin
Our experiment focuses on how carbon dioxide concentration affects the rate of photosynthesis in aquatic plants. We are measuring this through oxygen production. Evie Gray and Isis Young
Spirit of Reading in Prep
In Term 1, we welcomed families from the Prep class to join us in the TM Library to share their favourite or a new picture book. The Prep students were thrilled to have their mums, dads, and younger siblings join them for story time. They took great pride in introducing the younger children to our wonderful collection of books. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the families for supporting us on our literacy journey!
Mrs Meg Denman
Spirit of Year 1 and Year 4 Buddies
On Friday 28 March, we had buddies with Year 1. Miss Peacock and Mrs Parsons chose our buddies. In each group we had two Year 4 students and one Year 1 student and we took turns reading to each other. After that we sat on the mat and sang a song from when they were in Year 1 called The Princess Cat. Then we played a game called The Counting Game. Then the Year 4s said goodbye to their buddies and went back to their classroom. It was lots of fun!!!
By Bronte Bedding (Year 4)
Spirit of Year 5 Camp
Year 5 had the most amazing three days on the East Coast last week. Three days of beautiful weather and two calm nights were just what the Year 5 students needed as they negotiated their first camp in tents at Kelvedon.
The students worked hard together to support each other as they tackled many new experiences. Fun was had by all as they swam, explored beaches, rode mountain bikes, survived the Survival game, hunted for Colour Monsters, completed scavenger hunts, ate delicious food and enjoyed two superb nights in a tent.
Thank you to all of the Outdoor Education staff for making this experience possible.
Mrs Ursula Dalton
Spirit of Year 6 Outdoor Education
In week 6 and 7, Year 6 participated in Outdoor Education and went canoeing on the Huon River. Before we got on the water, we had an introduction about safety and how to use our paddles. Then we set off towards the Huon Bridge. Canoeing was very fun, and we all enjoyed trying canoeing for the first time. We were paddling for a couple hours, and we came across the Huon Jet a couple times. After canoeing we had a brief swim in our life jackets. It was extremely cold but fun and everyone was laughing. Afterwards we had lunch and icy poles, and we also learnt how to cook hot chocolate on a Trangia for the first time. We also had a quick play in the park before heading home on the bus. We are very thankful to all the teachers for all their hard work putting this wonderful experience together.
By Juliet Milford and Sofia Nimmervoll
It was a very fun experience and it was fun to hop in the cold water afterwards. The ice-cream was really yummy. Zoe Cubit
We enjoyed racing the other canoes to be first. Mia Karacic
I loved canoeing. It was great fun. It was a little scary at first getting into the boat, but overall, it was enjoyable and exciting. Eleanor Segal
The canoeing experience was amazing. While eating lunch, Mrs Heather told us the story about Lady Jane Franklin and Mathinna and the stolen generation. We played the celebrity game on the bus and sang to different tunes. We had so much fun on the canoeing trip and would love to do it again. Sofia Mugnaioni
Spirit of Tasmania Reads
Last week, we celebrated Tasmania Reads with a variety of engaging activities.
On Monday, students from the Year 6 Book Club visited Fullers Bookshop to purchase new titles for the TM Library. Year 12 leaders shared favourite picture books with each Junior School class in our Pop-Up Storyteller sessions.
Both Fahan and Hutchins libraries facilitated an exciting story walk for Kindergarten to Year 2 students, with Year 6 leading this event at Fahan. Junior School teachers also participated in a fun activity where students guessed their teachers' favourite books.
During our weekly Buddies program, older students read to their buddies, fostering a love of shared story reading. Reading plays a vital role in children's development and vocabulary enhancement, and the Fahan Libraries are a terrific place to explore and borrow new books.
Thank you to all the Year 6 Book Club members.
By Meg Denman
Spirit of Harmony Day
Harmony Week ran from Monday 17 March to Sunday 23 March.
Harmony Week is the celebration that recognises Australia’s diversity and promotes inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone. The Year 7s watched a short video about Harmony Week and created ‘Diversity Chatterboxes’. This year’s theme was ‘Everybody Belongs’. On Friday 21 March it was Harmony Day, and the Year 7s worked collaboratively to create some temporary artwork.
Ms Fiona Short
Learning about Performance
Year 7 students recently visited the Theatre Royal and watched the play, Goldfish.
We took a big bus at 10:15am and headed to the Theatre. When we arrived, we walked up to the third level to a small stage at the back of the Theatre Royal.
The play had two Japanese people who collaborated with Terrapin Puppets. There were three actors in the show, including someone from Launceston. The show was narrated by one of them but all of them acted. We had the opportunity to meet the actors and ask questions at the end. Tully even got a souvenir from the show!
By Mia and Rose
Spirit of Lumina 9
Lumina 9 in Term 1 has been all about deepening the connection to “self” by developing individual strengths and building skills for resilience through mindful interventions. To help us do this we welcomed Dr Rebecca Chabot from Pure Wellness Tasmania. Rebecca came to work with us for five sessions to share her knowledge regarding wellbeing and keeping yourself mentally healthy and happy.
Session 1 focused on an introduction to mindfulness and recognising causes of stress and learning how to care for yourself to help cope with the ups and downs of life. Session 2 was all about setting and achieving goals. We also talked about how to adopt new habits and get rid of old ones via “habit hacking”. In our third session, we covered mindset for success and controlling our negativity bias. Session 4 was all about taming negative thoughts and noticing our automatic negative thoughts “ANTs” and reframing them with self-compassion. In our final session, we worked on mindful communication.
We are so grateful that Rebecca took the time to come and enlighten us with knowledge and skills in this area to support us through the rest of our teen lives and beyond.
The skills we learnt in these lessons really made me realise just how much works our brains do in the background of all our thinking.
By Ruby Williamson
Rebecca gave us important tips that will help us for the rest of our lives and help us recognise how to get rid of negative. Grace Colleluori and Sophie Unwin
I think it’s really important that we learn these skills to use in real life situations that are likely to happen to us as young girls. Claudia Grigor
Spirit of Years 9/10 Ignite
The Ten Lives Towel Project
We are Lizzy and Sasha and we are undertaking a 9/10 elective subject called Ignite! This involves us doing a project about something we are passionate about. We wanted to find a way to support Ten Lives Cat Centre, but we have to be 18 or older to volunteer at the shelter. A few weeks ago, we visited Ten Lives to find out some other ways that we could support the organisation. We found out that the Centre needs spare towels for cats when they get adopted or are sent to temporary foster care. There is also a hospital at Ten Lives that has a need for towels.
We are asking the Fahan Junior School Community to donate any old towels that they might have spare. The towels can be frayed or faded – we don’t think the cats will mind! The donation box will be located in the foyer outside the Junior School Staffroom for the last week of Term 1and the first two weeks of Term 2. Thank you!
By Lizzy Faulkner and Sasha Keogh (Year 10)
Spirit of House Music
After weeks of rehearsals, the Fahan Gym came alive for the 2025 House Music Competition – and what a fantastic showcase it was!
With the theme “Around the World,” our Years 7–12 students lit up the stage with creative, high-energy performances. Each House brought something unique to the stage, creating a memorable afternoon of music and School spirit.
Congratulations to Franklin for winning the House Music Choir competition and to Fenton for winning the House Music Ensemble – a close and thrilling competition!
Well done to all our Houses for their energy, dedication, and hard work, and a special thank you to Year 12 Arts Chair, Nina McLean, for coordinating and hosting the event with such passion.
Thank you to our wonderful teachers, the Music Department, and to Leiz Moore for sharing her time, fabulous expertise, and adjudication skills. What a team effort – and what a show!
Spirit of Year 12
The Year 12s have made an outstanding start to their final year. There have been so many accomplishments already. We compiled a few highlights from our students, of their year so far:
It has been a wonderful experience to collaborate with my peers and the leadership team in leading the School to create a fun environment where there is lots of participation and School spirit. Dressing up for the Athletics Carnival was a highlight: it was great to have fun for our last Athletics Carnival. Hannah Sheen
Working with the whole Freycinet House and getting to know them all, has been my highlight so far this year. Georgina Parnham
The New Parents Welcome Dinner was good because it was the first event where we got to have a leadership type of responsibility. Estella Manson
Sunset at the Barn was a really busy night. It felt good to be able to give back to the School, and help out with the barbeque, the parachutes, and engaging with the kids in the various activities. Ava McGlone
It was nice to meet with the grade at the beginning of the year at our overnight Start Up experience. It was good to grow personally and also to bond as a grade. My favourite activity was reading the letter that our parents had written to us. Olivia Bottomley
We are really excited to be able to get our leaver’s jumpers, because it makes us feel like real Year 12s! Lucy Groom
Spirit of Fahan Rowing
Each year the Fahan Rowing Committee presents the Spirit of Fahan Rowing to a member of our rowing community.
It is awarded to someone who has shown dedication to helping Fahan Rowing by supporting in one or all of the following ways:
- Commitment to their squad
- Commitment to the Junior age groups
- Shows care of equipment, respect for coaches and other volunteers
- Often showing this dedication from an early age
This year the Spirit of Fahan Rowing was jointly awarded to Georgina Parnham and Lucie Tomlin.
Mrs Sophie Baxter
Rowing Co-ordinator
Spirit - Junior School Sport
It has been a busy first Term for Junior School Sport. We have had the Junior House Swimming Carnival, JSSATIS Swimming Carnival, 8 soccer teams from Years 1-6 competing in the JSSATIS Soccer roster, a Years 5/6 tennis team and 5 girls competing in the Orienteering roster.
During sport lessons we have been lucky enough to have Alby Hooper from Hobart City F.C. to come and run sessions to improve our soccer skills. We have also had visits from Steven Hay from Sandy Bay Football club to run the girls through football skills. Earlier in the term students from Prep to Year 6 participated in the Swim and Survive Program, and to finish off the term we had a visit from Hockey Tasmania to teach the girls some hockey skills. From the energy the girls have bought to each PE lesson and the smiles on their faces, I can tell they have enjoyed learning about a number of different sports.
Soccer
It has been a busy and exciting Term for soccer. The girls have thoroughly enjoyed playing whilst showcasing their best teamwork and skills. I have had the pleasure of watching a number of teams across the roster, and it has been rewarding to see the progress and improvement in each player. Congratulations, girls, on a great soccer season!
A big thank you to all the Senior School girls, parents and teachers who put their hand up to coach or manage a soccer team this Term. Without all your help we would not have been able to enter so many soccer teams!
Orienteering
This year in orienteering we went to Lambert Park, Kangaroo Bay, Kingston High, the Domain, Wentworth Park and the Waterworks. Once we arrived, we had to choose a course out of the 4 courses: Primary, Short, Medium and Long. We had to run around reading the map that told us the number of the marker and a clue to where it was. Once we had tapped all the markers, we had to run over to the finish point which was marked on the map. This year, Carla, Elsa, Hailey, Eve and I did orienteering. I really enjoyed doing orienteering because it was really fun! We had to run through all types of terrain, sometimes it was very hard, but that made it even better! Edith Chui (Year 5W)
Thank you to Mrs Bec Wiggins for managing the girls on Wednesday evenings as they completed courses.
Tennis
Tennis has been amazing; every year has been amazing. The schools we played against were exceptionally good. Some of the schools that played against us were Collegiate, St Virgil's and Sacred Heart. We played every Tuesday afternoon while trainings were on a Thursday lunchtime and many people who didn't play were allowed to come down and have a hit with us. It was a pleasure to play for Fahan and I enjoyed every second of it. Claudia Garrott (Year 6N)
This term we had tennis as a School sport and I thought it was very fun. We enjoyed playing all the games together, the training and how we got to play in a team. We didn't have many people to start with, but more and more girls joined in to play at trainings. Some of them even tried playing games as well. We played against many schools, and even if we lost it was still fun. Sometimes it was challenging, but we all loved the experience overall! Hailey Zhang (Year 6O)
Thank you to Mrs Meg Denman for training and coaching the tennis teams. I know the girls have really enjoyed the tennis roster and appreciated your help.
Term 2 Sports
In Term 2 the Junior School girls have the option to sign-up for netball or hockey. Signing up for sport is now through Clipboard which you would have received information about last week. Sign-ups for sports have now closed, however, please contact me if you daughter would like to play netball or hockey.
Netball is played on a Wednesday night for Years 3/4 and a Thursday night for Years 5/6. Games start at 4:00pm at various participating schools. Trainings for netball will be during lunchtime. Hockey is played on a Saturday morning. Students from Years 1-6 can sign up for hockey. We are looking for more players for each grade, so if your daughter would like to play, please get in touch with me. Trainings for hockey will be during lunchtimes.
I hope everyone has a Happy Easter and restful break and I look forward to another exciting and busy Term of sport.
Mrs Katy Stewart
Junior Sport Coordinator
stewartk@fahan.tas.edu.au
Spirit - Senior School Sport
SATIS Athletics
Congratulations to everyone who represented Fahan in the SATIS Athletics at the St Leonards Athletics Centre in Launceston on Tuesday 25 March.
Team members had a very early start, travelling to Launceston to compete with the first race starting at 9:00am. Thank you to Mr Coulson, Mrs Davey and Charlotte Cutrale for travelling with the team on the bus.
A huge thank you to all team members for their commitment to the team. There were many athletes competing in many events throughout the day and there were athletes who stepped in at the last minute. The reserves also played a valuable part in the team, spending the day supporting their teammates and being there if needed.
Thank you also goes to Mr Rob Mazey who has helped coach the team in the early mornings on the Fahan oval. His expertise, knowledge and time is much appreciated.
Fahan had excellent results and again I feel a huge sense of pride when I see our Fahan athletes. The spirit in which we compete and the pride our athletes have in representing their school is outstanding.
Fahan came 3rd in the Aggregate Girls Shield behind St Patricks College and Scotch Oakburn College. Again, we were the first Southern Girls School. The Under 15’s won their pennant and we had many impressive individual performances.
Results can be found on the SATIS website
SATIS | Sports Association of Tasmanian Independent Schools
Congratulations to Jemima Geappen, Tené Terblanche and Pia Abberton who have been selected to represent Tasmania in the Australian Athletics Championships in Perth from Friday 4 April to Tuesday 8 April.
Jemima will be competing in the Under 16 Women’s 100m, 200m, Long Jump and Under 18 Long Jump.
Tené will run the Under 16 Women’s 100m, 90m Hurdles and Long Jump.
Pia will run in the Under 18 1500m and 800m.
Term 2 Sport Sign Ups
Students have now signed up to play a Term 2 sport through Clipboard. There will be more information next term on how to best use Clipboard and how to see the sports fixtures.
A reminder that it is important to commit to the sport you have signed up to play. Teams are entered based on the sign-up numbers and it is very difficult to make changes once the teams have been entered. Being part of a team sport and representing your school is a wonderful opportunity and many memories come from participating in school teams.
Rowing Nationals
The Fahan Open Rowing squad participated in the Australian Rowing National Championships at Lake Barrington last week. It was an exciting and prestigious opportunity for our athletes. It represented the culmination of months, if not years for many of our rowers, of hard work, dedication, and training. The Nationals bring together top-tier athletes from across the country.
Year 12 student, Matilda Cocker, had a standout regatta, representing Fahan, Tasmania University, and Tasmania. She brought home a Gold Medal in the Under 21 Women's Quadruple Scull, placed 8th in the Under 19 Women's Single Scull A Final, finished a close 4th (just 0.63 seconds off bronze) in the Under 19 Women's Double Scull, won a Bronze Medal for Fahan in the Schoolgirl's Single Scull, and finished 6th representing Tasmania in the Interstate Women's Youth Eight.
The Fahan crew of Poppy Leditschke, Nell Terry, Emily Mazengarb, Penny Geappen, Isabel Willcox, Georgina Parnham, Estella Manson, Zara Bury, Kate Edwards and cox, Zoe Pitt, also performed strongly across multiple events. Highlights included 1st place in the C Final of the Schoolgirl's Coxed Four, competitive racing in the Under 19 Women's Coxed Eight, and a strong showing in the Schoolgirl's Coxed Eight Sprint. Congratulations to all our rowers!
Swimming
Best wishes to Ava Mignanelli who will be competing in the 2025 Australian Age and MC Swimming Championships at the Brisbane Aquatic Centre from 10 – 18 April.
Ava will be racing the 800m, 1500m and 400m.
Inter House Cross Country
The Inter House Cross Country will be held on Wednesday 7 May (week 2) at Sandown Oval, Lower Sandy Bay.
This year, the Cross Country will be a whole School event with students from Kindergarten to Year 12 running throughout the day. An EdSmart notice will be sent shortly with race times and all the information.
Students are to wear their sports uniform to and from School on the day (Fahan tracksuit pants, House coloured t-shirt, Fahan rugby top and Fahan jacket). Students may compete in Fahan sport shorts or Fahan bike shorts. Anyone not wearing the School sports uniform will be asked to change on the day (a limited range of spare Fahan sports uniform will be at the event for students to change into). Please note that non-uniform leggings and shorts are not to be worn.
There will be Cross Country/fitness training sessions at School on Tuesday lunchtimes at 12:35pm and Friday mornings from 7:00am – 7:50am. All students are welcome to attend.
After the Inter House Cross Country a team will be selected for the SSATIS Cross Country. This will be held on Wednesday 21 May at Soldiers Memorial Oval, Queens Domain.
The Secondary All Schools Cross Country will be held on Thursday 12 June at Symmons Plains. This team is selected after the SSATIS Cross Country.
Hobart Marathon
Best wishes to all Fahan competitors running in the Hobart Marathon on Sunday 6 April. Enjoy your run and do your personal best effort on the day!
A huge thank you also to all Fahan volunteers who will be out on the course or at the finish line helping to give water, motivate runners and hand out medals. It is always exciting to see the Fahan volunteers cheering everyone on!
Soccer
The Year 8 Soccer team will be playing in the SSATIS Grand Final against Friends’. We are looking to play this game in week 1 of Term 2 due to Year 8 camp. Players will be advised of the date shortly. We wish them all the best for the game and look forward to hearing the results. Thanks to Jaden Goodey (Year 11) and Ruby Leditschke (Year 10) for coaching the team, and to Mr Chris Goodey for being team manager.
This term Fahan has also had a Year 7 Soccer team and a Years 9/10 Soccer team in the SSATIS competition. Whilst these teams are not playing in the finals we commend them on their efforts. They have played excellent soccer and have shown great commitment to their team. Thanks to Benny Pafitis for coaching the Year 7 Navy team and to Zara Marino and Ava McGlone (Year 12) for coaching the Years 9/10 team.
Volleyball
There has been great improvement from all volleyball teams this term. We entered a 1st Grade team in the SSATIS roster for the first time and they have played very competitive games. We have had two Year 7 teams, two Year 8 teams and a Years 9/10 team competing. Thank you to Dr East, Ms Lutzow, Mrs Davey, Mrs Harcourt, Charlotte Cutrale and Lily Bartel (Year 10) for coaching and managing teams.
Sailing
Best wishes to the Fahan Sailing Team for the State School Teams Racing Championships being held on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 April.
Evangeline Gray, Isabel Willcox, Sarah Reynolds, Islay Smith, Chloe Colquhoun, Ruby Pilkington, Abigail Lodge, Abigail Smith and Charlotte Kratz will spend the weekend at Sandy Bay Sailing Club representing Fahan on the water. They are coached by Hugo Allison. Thanks go to Hugo and to Mr Chris Wood, the Fahan Sailing Coordinator. These sailors have been competing every Wednesday in the Schools Team Racing Competition and have sailed extremely well. They often sail in challenging conditions and show outstanding grit and resilience when competing. They are well prepared for the Championships, and we look forward to hearing their results.
Tennis
The 1st and 2nd Grade Tennis rosters are now finished. Betsy Ryan, Felicity Barling, Tara Sciberras and Zara Marino played in the 1st Grade team and should be very proud of their tennis. They trained diligently and showed great commitment to their sport. Thank you to Mr Peter Leary for coaching them.
The 2nd Grade Navy team played in the SSATIS Grand Final on Thursday 3 April against The Friends School. Congratulations to Mia Ciscon, Sarah Berner, Skye Hansen and Ruby Leditschke on their win.
Equestrian
On Sunday 13 April, Eleanor de Wit, Ruby Smith, Willow Jones, Lucy Stewart and Lilie von Savageri will represent Fahan in the Fahan Equestrian team in the Inter Schools Horse One Day Event. This will be hosted by the Huntingfield Riding and Pony Club and will involve dressage, cross country and show jumping. Best wishes to the students and thank you to Mrs Virginie von Savageri for managing the team.
Mrs Jo Banks-Smith
Senior Sport Coordinator
bankssmithj@fahan.tas.edu.au
0428 031 012
Community - Parents and Friends Dinner Invitation!
Another busy year lies ahead for the Fahan Parents & Friends Association.
After a few years as President, Michael O’Connor has resigned from the role. Michael has been a fantastic President: always responsive to queries, always thinking of how to maximise opportunities for the School – while also juggling a young family and a big workload. We thank Michael for all that he has done while President, and we look forward to seeing him enjoy some time out!
The call was out for a new President and I have stepped in, with Trudi Steedman taking on the role of Vice- President.
At our recent AGM, the following were elected:
President: Fiona Pringle-Jones
Vice President: Trudi Steedman
Treasurer: Marcus Pringle-Jones
Secretary: Sarah Yolland
Committee Members: Hannah Challis, Tanya Pitt, Emma Doherty, Sarah Henty, Eliza Grey, Lauren Purtill, Jen Penney.
Our Committee this year are all very busy and committed people, both professionally and personally, and Trudi and I thank them for making time for the P&F Committee.
We would also like to thank our other outgoing committee members for their dedication and hard work– Derek Turnbull, Bruce Wallis and Michelle Smith.
Being a member of the P & F brings value and deepens connection to the school. In a school community like Fahan the interconnectedness between parents, the school, and the students is part of the magic of the place.
P&F DINNER - MAJOR FUNDRAISING EVENT FOR 2025
This year, our major fundraising event will be a dinner and we are excited to invite you all to what I know will be a very entertaining night! This is our major fundraiser for the year and requires the support of the Fahan School Community to make it a success. Therefore, if you or your business wish to sponsor the event or donate to the event, please let me know.
Funds raised on the night are used to purchase additional resources that teachers or the School may require and make an impactful contribution to the teaching and learning environment for our girls.
So, step off the slopes and into style as we transform the evening into a winter wonderland of alpine elegance and après ski chic. The official invitation will land in your inbox next week, but why wait? You can RSVP now and secure your spot: Fahan Parents and Friends Après Ski Dinner
Kind regards,
Fiona Pringle-Jones
P&F President
pandf@fahan.tas.edu.au
2026 Term Dates
Community Notices
Fahan School Bus Service
For more information on the Fahan Bus Service, please click here or email buses@fahan.tas.edu.au