Celebrating an OPAC Christmas and Community
As the year draws to a close, OPAC has been alive with festive spirit and meaningful moments. Our SRC Christmas Week was a highlight, featuring a lively carols competition that even saw teachers stepping up with choreographed dance routines! Students embraced the season by arriving in festive clothing and accessories, spreading joy across the campus. The celebrations culminated in our Carols Evening, which was nothing short of spectacular. Blessed with a beautiful evening, we welcomed what was likely over 600 attendees, all joining in the spirit of Christmas together.
Looking ahead, our Celebration Assembly next promises to be exactly that—a true celebration of a bumper year in 2025! This event is not only about recognising academic excellence but also honouring students who have demonstrated resilience and character. Many have faced learning challenges yet shown incredible grit in striving to do their best. We will also acknowledge those who consistently make positive choices, impacting others with generosity and kindness. These qualities are the heartbeat of our community.
Christmas is also a time for giving, and OPAC students have embraced this wholeheartedly. Through our Service Electives and the tireless efforts of the SRC, we’ve supported several charities. One of these is Blue Wren House, an extraordinary local organisation providing a safe and secure home for women and children experiencing domestic and family violence. Our students raised over $300 and donated baskets of goods to make a difference this Christmas.
In addition, Mr McMinn and a group of Year 10 and 11 students have taken on the World’s Greatest Shave, raising an incredible $9,800 so far to support families facing blood cancer. This charity funds vital research and provides practical and emotional support to those affected. Soon, students and Mr McMinn will ceremoniously shave their heads—a powerful symbol of solidarity. We extend heartfelt thanks to the OPAC community for your generosity and invite you to help us reach our goal of $10,000. You can support this worthy cause by visiting:
Service Trips – Learning Through Serving
Our Year 10 students have been living out OPAC’s values through Service Learning trips, making a real difference in communities both at home and internationally:
- Vietnam/Cambodia – Students began by exploring the Vietnam’s rich history and culture, including a visit to the Cu Chi tunnels. Over the past few days, they’ve started building a home using bricks funded through our College fundraiser—a powerful experience of learning, service, and connection.
- Temora – Through the Dusty Boots Program, students supported the Temora community in many ways, including gardening and preparing meals to freeze and for the Plates of Plenty, which operates every Thursday. Their cooking skills and enthusiasm were a blessing to many.
- Mudgee – Students received a warm welcome at St Luke’s Anglican Church in Gulgong and enjoyed a Henry Lawson history tour. They then rolled up their sleeves to paint the exterior of St Andrew’s Church in Cooyal, embracing the challenge with enthusiasm.
- Oran Park – Year 10 students who chose to stay close to home have been making a big impact in our local community. From cooking hearty meals for families supported by Turning Point Camden, to baking scones and delivering them to our neighbours at the Retirement Village, and preparing cookies for Shining Star Camden, their efforts have brought joy and practical help to those in need. It’s been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and teamwork in action, with even some Junior School students stepping in to lend a hand and learn the value of serving others.
These experiences remind us that service is not just an action—it’s a way of life that reflects Christ’s love.
A Christmas Reflection
As we celebrate the joy of Christmas, the achievements of our students, and the spirit of giving, we are reminded of the true meaning of this season: the gift of Jesus Christ, who came to bring hope and peace to the world. In all our festivities and acts of service, may we reflect His love and light to those around us.
“For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6
God bless,
Mr Steve Owen
Deputy Principal – Head of Senior School