News

Get #FirstDay2021 ready for the new school year

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 14:08:48 AEDT

Be prepared for the new school year with our back to school tips and tools.

The start of a new school year can be both an exciting and demanding time for parents and students alike.

Our parents and carers Back to school hub can help you prepare for the year ahead with practical articles, tools, activities, calendars and checklists so you and your child can be ready from day 1, term 1.

Find out about what your child will learn in high school, how to support their health and wellbeing, and help them make decisions about their future.

There's also a dedicated section for students starting Year 7 and Year 11 & 12 where you'll find tips for a smooth transition into high school, and pathways for students after school.

Video – #FirstDay2021

Duration – 0:49

HSC Results

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 14:06:12 AEDT

After a disrupted and problematic year, Farrer MAHS is delighted to report an outstanding set of HSC results for the 2020 cohort.

These wonderful results are apparent not only in achievements of academic excellence, but also in a strong spine of results which extended throughout the entire year group. This reflects a culture where everyone is willing to give it their best shot. In a year where there was perhaps every reason to make complaints, the Farrer boys without exception demonstrated aptitude, perseverance and resilience to achieve a performance of which we can all feel justifiably proud.

A special mention must go to the teaching staff who adapted brilliantly during the COVID disruption to provide a continued instruction and support to our HSC students. The teachers stood beside their students every step of the way. The expertise and professionalism of the staff is a beacon to cast back the shadows of a difficult year.

We extend our congratulations to our HSC students and teaching staff and wish them a Happy Christmas and a New Year of opportunity and prosperity.

Josh Guest Dux of 2020

Wed, 10 Feb 2021 15:03:32 AEDT

Josh Guest has received a half scholarship to Bond University to study a Bachelor of Actuarial Science after achieving an ATAR of 97.6. The scholarship is worth $50,000 over two years. Josh studied Extension 2 Mathematics at Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School and achieved scores of 98% and 93% respectively in the Extension 1 and Extension 2 papers.

In addition, Josh was a recipient of the prestigious Susan and Isaac Wakil Foundation Scholarship from the Public Education Foundation. This scholarship provides financial assistance to high potential students in Year 12 and is valued at $11,000. The scholarship aims to support motivated individuals with demonstrated merit to realise their career goals and contribute to a better and brighter Australia.

Liam Tops the State

Fri, 18 Dec 2020 15:21:54 AEDT

Liam Rodgers topped the State in Industrial Technology Timber & Furniture Products with a 100% mark in the HSC.

Liam paid tribute to his teacher Tony O’Connor, saying he was a great help with everything, all the way and he probably couldn’t have done it without him.

The magnificent queen size bed complete with head and footboard, storage drawers and matching bedside tables is bespoke showing Liam’s commitment and skill to his project.

Congratulations Liam - the bed should give you a lifetime of comfort.

School Updates App - be prepared for any emergency

Mon, 16 Nov 2020 13:58:03 AEDT

Receive notifications of school closures. Opt in to receive timely, accurate notifications about the operational status of your chosen NSW public school(s).

The NSW School Updates App was created to help our parents and carers check on the status of their school during last summer’s bushfire season. And it’s been invaluable during COVID when schools were required to close for deep cleaning.

The app is free and available now for iOS and Android users.

Visit NSW School Updates App to download and for more information

Privacy information

The app doesn't store any personal or identifiable information.

#MathsTrainsBrains for the future

Tue, 27 Oct 2020 19:00:32 AEDT

Parents and carers can now explore the importance of mathematical skills with the new Everyday Maths experience, featuring activities, resources and explainers targeted to year groups.

The digital launch is part of the NSW Mathematics Strategy 2025, which aims to strengthen mathematics teaching in NSW public schools, promote understanding of the usefulness of mathematics and build positive perceptions of mathematics.

Tune into Education LIVE to find out how high profile Australians like media guru Kellie Hush, former Olympian Steve Solomon and former Masterchef Alice Zaslavsky use maths in their everyday lives.

Video – #MathsTrainsBrains

Duration – 1:00

White Suffolk Ram Sale

Fri, 11 Sep 2020 11:42:49 AEST

The 26th Annual White Suffolk Ram Sale was held at 11.30am on Wednesday 9th September 2020.

Farrer Rams held strong in its 26^th annual on-property ram sale topping at $14,500 and averaging $2,282 in one of its best sales ever. Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School Stud Manager Darren Smith was delighted with the sale which was held entirely online through Auctionsplus due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Returning and new stud and commercial buyers from across Australia participated in the sale which offered 57 rams for a 100% clearance, with rams going to NSW, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. Mr Smith said buyers were chasing low birth weight, high muscling and worm resistant sires with good meat-eating qualities. Over 50% of the offering was in the top 1% of LEQ rams in Australia.

The restrictions meant that while some buyers were able to view the rams individually at open days before the sale, many conducted virtual inspections via video call, a first for the school.

Mr Smith thanked Garvin and Cousins who were the agents for the online sale as well as the Farrer Year 10 Animal Management students who were actively involved in the direction and management of the stud. Their contributions include DNA testing, sire selection, crutching, shearing the sheep including sale rams, vaccinating, drenching and lambing supervision.

“I thank the students for their commitment, effort and interest in striving to continually improve the Farrer White Suffolk sheep and stud,” he said.

Special mention also to the farm staff for their continual assistance with the sheep and support of the students in undertaking the many husbandry duties.

(Pictured: Will Ticehurst, Hayden Moore and Hugh Shadwell holding Farrer 190001, purchased by Gemini and Bundarra Downs White Suffolks for $14,500.)

COVID-19 Guidelines for the 2020 Ram Sale

2020 Ram Sale Catalogue

White Suffolk Booklet Sept 2020

Farrer First XIII game in Gosford

Mon, 03 Aug 2020 15:36:00 AEST

Good luck to the Farrer XIII team who will be playing St Edwards, from Gosford, on Wednesday at Farrer.

Please note: due to the Department of Education guidelines for COVID 19, spectators, including parents and carers, are NOT permitted within school grounds or at sporting events held during school hours.

For after school sports we have been asked to allow ONLY one parent/carer per player to attend.

Experience Day for Year 5 students

Tue, 28 Jul 2020 09:42:02 AEST

Experience Day for Year 5 students will take place on Friday 25th September.

The day will follow strict COVID-19 guidelines as outlined by the Department of Education.

Please complete the online registration and, nearer to the date, we will email you detailed Covid-19 information outlining how the day will proceed and what is required of you when you drop your son to our school.

This is a fantastic opportunity for your son to “Experience” Farrer so that your family can make an informed decision regarding his high school education.

REGISTRATION and INFORMATION

Updates to COVID-19 restrictions affecting NSW schools

Tue, 21 Jul 2020 23:19:06 AEST

Latest COVID-19 case locations in NSW

NSW Health has a website to inform you of the actions you should take if you have been in a location where there have been confirmed cases of COVID-19 within NSW. Monitor the site and follow the relevant health advice if you have been at any of the locations at the specified dates and times.

Students and staff who have travelled through or visited Victoria

All students and staff who have visited Victoria must have a permit to enter NSW and are required to self-isolate for 14 days.

Except for students and staff who reside in a border town, all students and staff who have visited Victoria in the 14 days before the commencement of school should not attend school until they complete the 14 days self-isolation period since they left Victoria.

Students and staff who are unable to return to school due to these self-isolation requirements will be supported to learn and work remotely during the self-isolation period via the online learning hubs until they return to on-campus learning and teaching.

NSW Health has requested anyone who has been in Victoria and is unwell or has flu-like symptoms arrange to be tested through their local medical practitioner or one of the COVID-19 clinics.

Refer to current advice for people who have recently visited Victoria.

Information for students and staff on new NSW-Victoria border restrictions

The NSW Government has announced further tightening to the restrictions for people travelling across the NSW-Victorian border.

From midnight Tuesday 21 July a border zone, defined along the Murray River, will be established.

Anyone travelling from Victoria to NSW must apply for a new permit through Service NSW.

Victorian residents who have been in one of the restricted areas in Victoria in the last 14 days must not enter NSW.

Attending schools along the border

Current permits will expire at midnight, Tuesday 21 July. We strongly encourage all parents and staff to check they have a permit and if not, apply for one through Service NSW.

Students and staff who reside in Victoria will need to be eligible for a border permit to attend school in person.

Under the new public health order, the border zone has been reduced significantly.

Not all students and staff may be eligible for a border permit under the public health order. If you are not eligible for a border permit you will not be able to cross the border. Students and staff will be supported through remote learning and working via the online learning hubs until they return to school.

Further information on the new border zone is available from Service NSW.

Border permits can be rescinded at any time if a cluster outbreak in your community occurs. We encourage parents to monitor local circumstances regularly as things may change in the coming days or weeks.

Transport to and from school will run as scheduled. For travel advice to and from school refer to Transport for NSW.

New restrictions affecting boarding schools

Any student returning from Victoria to reside at a boarding school in NSW must now self-isolate for 14 days in a NSW location separate to the boarding school. They must also obtain a negative test swab from day 10 of their isolation before entering school and have written confirmation of the test result and the period spent isolating.

Those who are unable to return to boarding while they are completing the self-isolation period will be supported through remote learning and working via the online learning hubs until they return to school.

More information

Returning to school in Term 3

Fri, 17 Jul 2020 15:44:51 AEST

Our school will be open to welcome students back to onsite learning from the beginning of Term 3 – Tuesday 21 July 2020.

Students returning into residential facilities

In accordance with NSW Health advice the following additional requirements must be applied to any boarding student returning to school after travelling through, residing in or visiting any location in Victoria before returning to school:

Students who have been in Victoria must self-isolate for a period of 14 days in suitable accommodation separate from the boarding school or college from the time they have left Victoria.
Students must have a negative naso-pharyngeal swab for COVID at day 10 of isolation.

Before the school accepts the student back within the boarding facility, parents or carers will need to provide written confirmation to the school that their child has self-isolated for the full 14 day period since they were last in Victoria and returned a negative test result before leaving self-isolation.

Day students returning to school

As you would be aware the border between NSW and Victoria closed as of 12:01am 8 July 2020.

All staff and students returning from Victoria after this time must have a permit to enter NSW and are required to self-isolate for a period of 14 days.

All day students who have been in Victoria in the 14 days before the commencement of school must not attend school until they complete the 14 days self-isolation period since they left Victoria.

NSW Health has requested anyone who has been in Victoria and is unwell or has flu-like symptoms arrange to be tested through their local medical practitioner or one of the COVID-19 clinics.

Refer to current advice for people who have recently visited Victoria.

Students who are unable to return to school due to the border closures or self-isolation will be supported to learn remotely.

We would like to remind our community the most important action you can take is to practise good hand hygiene and physical distancing. Our school will be vigilant in implementing these requirements to minimise the risk at school.

UNE GRASS

Wed, 24 Jun 2020 14:26:52 AEST

UNE GRASS Industry Placement Scholarship Program 2019/20

Education Week to celebrate learning together

Fri, 19 Jun 2020 12:10:16 AEST

Education Week 2020 will be held from Monday 3 August to Friday 7 August.

Education Week is our annual week of celebration to highlight the achievements of our students and staff and the role of public schools as the cornerstone of their communities.

This year’s theme is ‘Learning together’ and it reflects the incredible months of 2020 where NSW public school students have continued to learn and achieve, despite natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Our schools have experienced significant disruption but our staff – in partnership with parents and carers – have worked tirelessly to ensure that high quality teaching and learning has continued for all students.

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott said the best learning takes place when there is a partnership of students, teachers, parents, carers and the community.

“Our schools and families benefit from strong, respectful relationships where responsibility for student learning is shared,” Mr Scott said.

“As our lives slowly return to normal, it’s time for us to reflect on the achievements and resilience of our entire school community. We look forward to celebrating Education Week with all of you in August.”

Statewide events for Education Week include:

a live stream launch on Monday, 3 August
activities for National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day on Tuesday, 4 August
a live streamed student film festival on Wednesday, 5 August.

Schools are invited to share photos, videos and stories of local celebrations on social media using the hashtag #EdWeek20 or send an email to educationweek@det.nsw.edu.au.

18th Annual Farrer Angus Bull Sale

Mon, 25 May 2020 13:57:14 AEST

18th Annual Farrer Angus Bull Sale will take place on Wednesday 24th June 2020. This is an ONLINE event via AuctionsPlus.

Bulls can be inspected by appointment only. Contact the school on 6764 8600 to make an appointment.

Please see this link to view the bull Lots.

Catalogue link

NSW students return to the classroom full-time

Tue, 19 May 2020 11:25:43 AEST

Students across NSW will be back in the classroom full-time from next Monday, 25 May.

The success of the phased return to face to face teaching has demonstrated the education system and community are ready for school to come back full-time.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education Sarah Mitchell thanked school communities and parents for their patience during this difficult time.

Ms Berejiklian said a return to full-time face to face teaching and learning is crucial for the education progress of every child in NSW from Kindergarten to Year 12.

“Since starting a managed return to the classroom, we have seen a strong degree of confidence from our school communities in managing COVID-19 and a clear desire for all students to be back at school,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“We expect schools to stick with the health advice – increased cleaning, access to hygiene supplies and compliance with hygiene practices – and look forward to seeing all students back on campus five days a week.

“The health advice is very clear; a return to full-time face to face teaching is safe.”

Over the last two weeks schools have been working hard to support students practise good hygiene and implement new routines at school, which has been successful giving the community confidence that full-time face to face teaching can resume.

Ms Mitchell said she was eager to see students back in the classroom full-time.

“Our principals, teachers, support staff, parents and carers have gone above and beyond to continue the education of our students while we respond to this pandemic,” Ms Mitchell said.

“My priority is the education of our children. We know that parents across NSW share our desire for students to be back in school, and that is our expectation.

“Schools will need to maintain the measures and precautions they have put in place for the foreseeable future, including no assemblies and excursions.

“Teachers will be focused on identifying where their students are at in their education and we will be supporting them to recognise and assist those students who need additional help.”

Read the department's latest advice for families.

Students begin return to classrooms

Fri, 08 May 2020 19:15:13 AEST

From Monday 11 May (Week 3) students will begin a phased return to school.

The phased return will maintain distancing in the classroom while supporting students' education and wellbeing.

Most students will continue learning from home and will only attend school 1 day each week.

Our school will continue to provide detailed information about the return to the classroom throughout the rest of Term 2.

Measures to keep schools clean and safe for all students and staff include:

25% more cleaning time focused on high-touch areas
priority deliveries of hygiene supplies including soap and hand sanitiser
local school changes to pick up, drop off, lunch and recess times and processes.

NSW students to transition back to the classroom in Term 2

Tue, 21 Apr 2020 13:39:51 AEST

NSW school students will gradually transition back to the classroom during Term 2 as the Government continues to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian and Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell outlined the plan for students attending NSW public schools to progressively return to face-to-face learning in week three of Term 2.

Ms Berejiklian said health advice continues to be that schools remain open, and parents, teachers and students can be confident that school is safe place.

“We are grateful to all families who kept their children home from school at the end of Term 1 and to teachers who worked tirelessly to deliver education online,” Ms Berejiklian said.

“This allowed us critical time to prepare our schools to develop better online learning options and for considering additional hygiene measures to allow schools to return.

“We know that nothing is more important than a child’s education, and we must begin to return our students to their classrooms in a considered way.

“Under these changes, from week three of Term 2, every student will be attending school for one day a week.

“We will look to increase the number of days students are at school in a staged way and hope to have all children back at school full-time by Term 3.

“I’d like to thank the Catholic and Independent schools for working with the NSW Government at this time, as well as staff, including teachers, principals and cleaners, for working so hard to prepare for a resumption of school.

“I’d also like to thank parents for what has been a tough month, often juggling working from home and caring for children. We hope the partial resumption of on campus learning will provide some much needed relief to those families.”

During the first stage of on-campus learning, parents will be encouraged to keep their children home except on their allocated day of face-to-face learning. Initially, about a quarter of a school’s students are expected to be on site at any one time. The specific days students will be required to attend school each week will vary from school to school and will be clearly communicated to parents.

Classes will be split across schools, allowing schools to appropriately social distance students and teachers.

As always, schools will remain open for students who need them and no child will be turned away from school.

Ms Mitchell said careful consideration had been given to support the school community, providing clarity and certainty on the path forward.

“This plan provides a clear path that balances community concerns with a need to deliver continuity of quality education,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Hand sanitiser will be available in all classrooms and provisions are in place for at-risk teachers to work from home. Drop off, pick up, recess and lunchtimes will also be staggered to ensure social distancing.”

In addition to the staged return to school, the NSW Government has committed up to $95.7 million to help keep casual and temporary school staff engaged in active work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Our casual and temporary teachers and other non-teaching staff across NSW schools are critical to our education system, and will help ensure the educational outcomes for our students during this staged return,” Ms Mitchell said.

A cross-sector working group of teachers will also be established to report back to the Minister on recent innovations and educational developments assembled during the COVID-19 period that are suitable to support future educational delivery.

“It’s important that we have an inventory of the cutting edge teaching solutions and recognise the best efforts of our amazing NSW teachers during a difficult time,” Ms Mitchell said.

Teachers will have an additional day to prepare for Term 2 on Tuesday 28 April making the first day of term for students Wednesday 29 April.

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

No child will be turned away from school

Wed, 25 Mar 2020 13:38:38 AEDT

The NSW Department of Education's advice regarding schools is very clear. No child in NSW will be turned away from school.

Schools will remain open for parents who want their children to attend irrespective of their profession or working arrangements.

The decision to keep schools open has been made based on advice from NSW Health, which has not changed.

The department will provide continuity of learning for all students both on and off campus and the Premier, for practical reasons, has encouraged parents to keep their children at home if they could.

Schools will communicate directly with parents on what learning options are available using their communication methods such as the school website, newsletters, emails and other online tools.

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

New COVID-19 restrictions begin as schools move towards online learning

Mon, 23 Mar 2020 17:41:39 AEDT

The NSW Government has taken significant new steps to increase restrictions across the state - triggering the next level of enforcement necessary to fight COVID-19.

Following the decisions made by National Cabinet, NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian confirmed the shutdown to protect NSW citizens.

"I understand many in the community are worried, and these changes will affect everyday lives, and may be upsetting," Ms Berejiklian said.

"But these decisions will make us all safer, they are taken with the health of all citizens in mind, and they must be taken now.

"If you have the capacity to work from home, you should do so."

In line with health advice, from midday today, the following non-essential activities and businesses will be temporarily shut down:

pubs, registered clubs
gyms, indoor sporting venues
cinemas, entertainment venues, casinos, and night clubs
restaurants and cafes will be restricted to takeaway and/or home delivery
religious gatherings, places of worship (excluding small weddings and funerals that comply with the 4m2 rule, which can proceed).

It is important to note essential gatherings at places such as hospitals, workplaces, constructions sites and for public transport are exempt and will continue.

As confirmed last night by the Prime Minister schools will remain open, based on health advice, which has not changed.

But from tomorrow, in NSW, for practical reasons, parents are encouraged to keep their children at home.

"Because nearly 30 per cent of children are already being kept out of school, for practical reasons NSW is encouraging parents to keep their children at home," Ms Berejiklian said.

"This will ensure there is only one unit of work, whether the student is at home or at school.

"No child will be turned away from school."

Latest advice

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to COVID-19 (novel coronavirus).
Explore the department's learning from home resources for teachers and parents to support both online and offline learning for all students.

Schools to implement distancing measures

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 20:05:11 AEDT

The NSW Department of Education is introducing proactive measures to limit the impact of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in our schools.

Mark Scott, Secretary of the Department of Education, today announced that schools would adopt social distancing measures requiring them to cancel assemblies, excursions, travel, some events and conferences.

Mr Scott said these measures are precautionary and designed to reduce exposure via non-essential gatherings.

"Schools have been a focus of the community and the government as the impacts of coronavirus have developed globally," Mr Scott said.

"From Monday onwards, I expect school assemblies and substantial gatherings to be cancelled, along with all excursions.

"The community expects schools to be as safe as possible. We are implementing these measures to provide peace of mind for students, parents and staff."

"These cancellations also extend to inter-school arts, sports, initiative activities and events.

All major arts, sports and initiative activities and events will temporarily be ceased until further notice. This includes whole-school sporting events and inter-school events involving three or more schools.

"Local inter-school sport and other activities can proceed, but we ask organisers to ensure that as far as possible, reasonable precautions are taken," Mr Scott said.

"I trust our principals and staff to show leadership during this time."

Schools will be provided with more detailed advice and suggestions on how they can adjust their day to day activities with minimal disruption.

The department is continuing to prepare for further closures if necessary with scaling up of technology, additional training of staff and preparation of offsite lessons.

Families and students in self-isolation can find useful information to continue learning from home.

For the latest information, check COVID-19 advice for schools.

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 20:24:54 AEDT

The department is working with the Ministry of Health to monitor and respond to the unfolding international novel coronavirus situation.

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to novel coronavirus.

81st Speech Day

Thu, 05 Dec 2019 11:48:14 AEDT

81st Speech Day - Farrer MAHS

The Farrer MAHS Speech Day marks the highpoint of the academic year for our students and, as per previous years, it was once again held in the Tamworth Town Hall.

On Friday 29^th November the morning began with the Processional, the National Anthem and Cody-James Taylor giving the Acknowledgement to Country. Mr Clint Gallagher, presented his Principal’s Report which was followed by our Guest speaker former Old Boy Mr Michael Crowley (1991-1996) who is the General Manager (Producer Consultation and Adoption) of Meat & Lifestock Australia. Michael spoke about his career since Farrer which gave the students some lifelong points to ponder.

An important event during the morning is the induction of the incoming Year 12 Leaders who, as a whole, stand and repeat the Pledge read by Mr Gallagher and then each student, individually announced by Mr Tony O’Connor (Year 12 Coordinator), is presented with their tie and/or badge by Mr Gallagher assisted by Mr Crowley.

With an array of awards presented (academic, cultural, agricultural and sporting) speeches made, photographs taken and musical items performed, both instrumental and vocal, it was a morning filled with achievements and acknowledgements.

Thank you to all of our special guests including Mr Col Murray, Mayor, Mrs Ruythe Dufty (Director Educational Leadership) and Mr Frank Potter (Executive Director School Operations & Performance Rural North) and guest presenters for their attendance at this important occasion.

A big thank you to Mrs Cathy Ewin and Mrs Angela Monticone for their organisation of this event. It is nothing short of a miracle that they can pull this together in the short time frame they are given – well done ladies!

To our incoming Captains for 2020 Nick, Ben and Liam, well done, all three of you spoke very well and it’s clear why your cohort elected you to be our next school leaders.

Photo above shows the first in year prizes winners - Year 9

Speech Day Program

Ram Sale 2019

Tue, 17 Sep 2019 16:27:58 AEST

Our White Suffolk Ram Sale was held on Wednesday 11th September 2019.

To read the full report ...

Experience Day Friday 27th September

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 11:05:20 AEST

Experience Day

Farrer 1st X111 Old Boys’/Sponsors Day

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 10:24:35 AEST

***UPDATE on University Shield First X111 v Hills Sports High School***

Perfect weather, players in great fitness and state of mind and a good turnout of spectators, what a way to start a footy match!

Unfortunately for Farrer’s First X111 team that was a good as it got L.

Our boys played well and fought hard, but, Hills Sports High were just too strong. There were some BIG boys in the Hills Sports side and they used that size to their advantage, ploughing straight up the middle of the field, most tackles took three of our players to stop them.

Still, our boys kept going and never lost that fighting spirit, giving in was not an option. Their defence was solid, but it was demanding and physically exhausting as the better part of the game was spent defending. The times they managed to attack, some great ground was made, and we saw glimpses of the talented team they are with Mitch Henderson scoring the only try which was converted by Trent Taylor.

It was a good clean game, with some huge hits and tackles and some good tries, the score line did not reflect how well our boys played, with a final score of 38-6.

Afterwards the boys put on a BBQ for past Farrer 1st X111 players/coaches/ mangers/trainers and the raffle was drawn for the framed and signed Sydney Roosters Jersey. Mr Barry Pratten was the lucky recipient winning the jersey, Imogen Smith and Mrs Susan Durham got second and third winning a $50 Steggles voucher, congratulations.

Our boys may be out of the University Shield but, on Wednesday 31^st July the First X111 team is off to Sydney to play in the NRL Schoolboy Cup against Patrician Brothers' College. If they are successful in winning this game they will be through to the ¼ finals.

Good luck boys, you all are some remarkable ambassadors for our school and you make us proud.

Angus Bull Sale

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 11:57:01 AEST

The Farrer Annual Angus Bull Sale took place yesterday, Wednesday 26th June. We were unsure how the sale would perform this year with the cattle market being on a decline and the prolonged drought conditions in many areas of the state. Buyer numbers were lower than last year, with 22 registered bidders at the sale and 5 registered bidders online via Auctionsplus.

The Certificate III Beef students presented themselves in a very professional manner and exhibited gusto and enthusiasm in each task assigned to them. All members of the public were extremely complimentary of their efforts and our facilities. This year's sale saw the top price bull reach $6000 going to Sara Park Angus Stud of Glen Innes, with a sale average $3251. A number of repeat buyers were once again present along with several new buyers. Mr Marty Peeters, Stud Manager, would like to thank all of the students who encouraged their parents to attend the sale and registered to purchase bulls.

Mr Peeters would like to sincerely thank and congratulate the Certificate III Beef students, farm staff, ancillary staff and Ag staff for all the tireless hours that went into preparing the cattle for the sale and to thank all of the successful bidders and under bidders for their support and encouragement of our annual bull sale. We look forward to the 2020 season.

View our 2019 catalogue: Angus Bull Sale Catalogue

Generous support enables Farrer to retain strong nucleus for future

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 10:49:08 AEST

Generous support enables Farrer to retain strong nucleus for future

Farrer Memorial Agricultural High School Principal, Clint Gallagher has welcomed strong support that will enable the school to maintain the heart of its dairy herd until conditions improve.

Mr Gallagher said the on-going drought and other challenging conditions have forced the tough decision to temporarily cease dairy operations.

“This will not mean the end of our dairy operations,” Mr Gallagher said.

“Fortunately, two producers will take 30 of our dairy cows, which will enable us to reinstate operations promptly as conditions improve.

“The support from Hurlstone Agricultural High School and Denman producer, Brian Parker, along with an offer of assistance from Tocal Agricultural College, have been enormously heartening.

“It gives us hope for the future.”

In the more than 80 years since it was opened, Year 9 Farrer boys have enjoyed the educational benefits and camaraderie of their tasks in the dairy.

The school also forged a sound reputation for the calibre of its dairy stock.

Mr Gallagher said as a result of the drought and other associated conditions, despite the education potential, the dairy was no longer economically viable.

This week, he reluctantly informed students, parents and Old Boys that the unique educational opportunity would temporarily cease operations but remained on the horizon for when times improved.

Mr Gallagher said conditions included:

continued high and increasing feed costs and scarcity

ongoing low milk prices

the lack of opportunity for the school to increase the size of the dairy to make it more economical

the likely zero-per-cent allocation of river water for irrigation in the next financial year.

the current outlook of a dry winter

Case IH come to Farrer

Tue, 02 Apr 2019 15:28:27 AEDT

Agricultural machinery company, Case IH, visited Farrer to provide our students with some valuable industry training.

NBN News covered the event.

World's Greatest Shave

Wed, 06 Mar 2019 10:11:18 AEDT

Farrer’s Year 12 students have shaved off their locks in support of the World’s Greatest Shave.

This has become an annual event on the school calendar for Year 12 Farrer students, who are more than willing to lose their locks for this tremendous cause. Farrer students have been participating in the Shave for over a decade, with 2019 being the first year all of the Year 12 cohort shaved their heads.

On the day, 20^th February, the action started with a lunchtime auction when students could bid to ‘shave a head’. A big thanks to the Auctioneer, Old Boy Hamish Fauchon, who was honoured to be asked to run the auction. Hamish had started at Farrer with this year group but left in 2017 to pursue a career with Ruralco Property Davidson Cameron – Tamworth.

Seven brave individuals went under the hammer, these included: -

Teachers - Mr Luke Maloy, Mr James Harvey & Mrs Amanda Watson.

Students – Dylan Ciprian, Ben Ashley, Cooper Dixon & Darcy Hooper who had his chest waxed. All auctioned individuals made fantastic money, with the ‘hammer falling’ on Dylan Ciprian for $1050, and the whole school got behind the auction with hands shooting up everywhere.

Onto the shave itself there were some weird and wacky hair styles as the locks came off. We would like to thank the local hairdresser – Hair Affair, who volunteered their time to come and shave our students & staff.

Farrer Year 12 students traditionally participate in numerous fundraising ventures in their senior year and over the last decade have raised in excess of $110,000 for organisations such as the Leukaemia Foundation and the John Hunter Hospital. The 2019 Year 12 cohort have raised in excess of $14,000 with online money still to be added to the grand total.

This is one of the many ways that Farrer students give back to the community.

Well done boys, you make our school proud!

West of the Divide Music Tour

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 15:52:04 AEDT

West of the Divide Wind Ensemble & Choir – Italy and Croatia Tour

Our tour group of 138 Australians comprised of 39 supporters, 19 teachers, 8 musical tutors and 72 students from 39 different schools from all over the state, west of the great dividing range.

We flew out of Sydney on 15th January and spent the first three days touring Rome enjoying lunches and dinners at typical Italian resteraunts. We toured the Colosseum and performed in the Domus Australia, a repurpoused Cathedral in the heart of Rome.

The group also participated in guided tours of the Sistine Chapel, home to Michaleangelo’s “The Creation of Adam“, and “The Last Judgment“, as well as performing at mass in St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican City.

On our way from Rome to Florence we visited a little town called San Gimignano, an exceptioanlly picturesque Tuscan village known for its towers, breathtaking landscapes and the world’s best gelato.

In Florence, we visited the Galleria dell'Accademia, the home of Michelangelo‘s David as well as participating in a choir workshop with Maestro Fabio Lombardo teacher of Choral Conducting at Conservatory L. Cherubini in Florence.

Moving on to Venice, the group visited Liceo Scientifico Leonardo Da Vinci, a science high school where we were treated to a short performance by some of the students before performing ourselves for the entire school. Then we travelled onto the Venitian islands and visited a glass blowing factory where w witnessed one of the master glass blowers in action, producing quality venetian glass products. That night we performed at mass inside St. Mark’s bassilica in the heart of Venice.

Performance in the Postojna caves, Slovenia. The group travelled by train deep into the caves and performed in the caves concert hall with the most astounding acoustics.

The next day we travelled by traditional Plenta boats to the only island of one of the most beautiful lakes in the region, Lake Bled, before being given the chance to explore Ljublyana, the capital of Slovenia.

On day 11 of the tour, the group toured the famous Plitvice Lakes, a 295-sq.-km forest reserve in central Croatia. It is known for a chain of terraced lakes, joined by waterfalls, that extend into a limestone canyon. Walkways and hiking trails wind around and across the water, and a Lake Kozjak ferry links the upper and lower lakes. The latter is the site of Veliki Slap, a 78m high waterfall. We also took part in a folk workshop with a renowned Croatian female “Klapa” ensemble, who were dressed in their traditional folk costumes, and equipped with amazing vocal skills.

On the last day of European touring the group participated in a guided tour of Zagreb, the Capital of Croatia, before performing at Lisinski Hall as part of the Australia Day Celebrations in conjunction with the Australian Embassy.

By Stuart McAdam

University Highlights Tour

Wed, 13 Feb 2019 14:03:51 AEDT

Year 11 & 12 Farrer students and some Year 12 Peel students ventured to Wollongong and Sydney on 3^rd, 4^th & 5^th February to tour Wollongong University and two Sydney Universities. On Sunday night we stayed at Kooloobong College at Wollongong University and following an early start we attended their Experience Day. We were one of many schools from around the State and we were able to attend 3 or 4 sessions of interest to us. At around 2pm we were back on the bus and heading for Macquarie University, North West of the ‘big city’. That evening we had a campus tour, with some of their students, and later that night our group went for a look around Macquarie Shopping Centre. There was lots to see including some masterful ice skating by Julius, Eli and Cole – only hitting the floor a couple of times!

Tuesday morning a few lads were woken up with a very strong coffee made by Mr Arranz followed by a campus tour of the University of NSW.

This experience for our group gave us all a real understanding of future opportunities for ourselves and a brief look at a city lifestyle.

On behalf of the lads that toured I would like to thank Ralph the bus driver, Mr Arranz for organising the trip and Ms Allen for assisting us.

Report by Sam Driscoll Year 12

Gratitude Challenge

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 16:06:53 AEDT

Mr Clint Gallagher, Farrer School Principal, has set our students and staff a "Gratitude Challenge" for 2019. Research has shown that feeling grateful is one of the strongest emotions we have. The practice of gratitude helps us cope better with stress, improves our physical and mental health and increases positive feelings such as hope and happiness.

Our students and staff will be talking about what they appreciate in their everyday lives. eg feeling grateful for what they do have, not what they don’t, showing courtesy, kindness, listening and exhibiting patience.

Our School Captain, Sam Wentworth, was the first student to participate in this challenge. In the video he outlines what he appreciates here at Farrer. See what Sam has to say.

Sam Hannan Year 12

Wed, 06 Feb 2019 14:31:26 AEDT

Sam Hannan, a 2018 Year 12 student, has been offered a place at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, or ‘The Con’ as it is affectionately known, which is one of the oldest and most prestigious music schools in Australia.

To achieve a place at ‘The Con’, Sam had to perform a 20 minute music audition and was notified in December that he was successful in obtaining a place.

Sam has decided to defer for a year as he is applying to McGill University in Montreal, Canada for a position. If successful Sam will move to Montreal in July to get settled, before commencing a four year course in Bachelor of Music. When asked why he chose McGill University Sam said ‘It’s a cool location, I have some extended family there and I am looking forward to new experiences.’

Sam has always had an interest in music, starting to learn the trumpet in Year 4 and by Year 10 his love was the tuba. He is a dedicated and committed music student who attributed much of his success to Mr Mead the Farrer music teacher. Sam said ‘Mr Mead helped me to develop my musical ability, giving me the support and guidance I needed to keep progressing to a very high standard and I thank him for his inspirational guidance’. Mr Mead was a major factor in Sam’s preparation for his HSC performance and so it comes as no surprise that Sam obtained a Band 6 in HSC Music.

Farrer wishes Sam the very best in his future endeavors. Good luck Sam and stay in contact.

Clay Target Shoot

Tue, 05 Feb 2019 15:30:48 AEDT

Farrer Clay Target Shooters attended the first Tamworth Clay Target Club shoot of the school year. We were represented by Riley Pennell, Patrick Hickey, Shaun Clarke, Tom Hickey, Lachlan George, Campbell Alderson and Mr Wade.

Special mention to Pat who shot his first 25/25 in competition, (called getting some red on the board), and Campbell who had his first competition shoot.

All boys are to be commended for their attitude and positive behaviour during the day. We are fortunate to have Tamworth CTC who have such a great commitment to junior development.

Congratulations to the students and parents who have got themselves organised so quickly this year with their permission notes and payment of their ACTA fees. Thanks so much to Mr Wade for taking them. Good luck to the boys for the rest of the year.

Year 12 Formal Dinner

Wed, 19 Dec 2018 13:07:42 AEDT

On the evening of the last 'official' day for Year 12-2018 the boys were joined by their partners and families for a farewell dinner dance at West League Club. This event is a less formal affair than the assembly (held in the morning) with the boys enjoying themselves mingling with their mates, posing for the Happy Booth photos and generally letting loose on the dance floor.

One of our Farrer traditions is that each Year 12 student is presented with a personally engraved pewter funded by the Farrer PT&F. Other traditions are the mother and son dance and the cutting of the graduation cake. This year the guests were entertained by the same band as last year, Hurricane Fall.

Thanks to year coordinator Sarah Allen, departing parents Brad & Leann Size, Mrs Kylie Clinch, School Captains and Mr Clint Gallagher for their speeches which added to the good-humoured atmosphere of the evening.

Farewell Year 12

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 13:41:04 AEDT

The Michael Kilborn Centre was packed to the rafters for our Year 12 Farewell Assembly held on 27th September, with some families arriving more than one hour early to ensure a front row seat.

It was a very emotional assembly with heartfelt speeches delivered from students and staff alike which was a direct reflection on the calibre of this Year 12 group.

What makes Tamworth a liveable place?

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 13:37:16 AEDT

Year 7 HSIE students took to the streets of Tamworth to ask the question, “What makes Tamworth a liveable place?"

The second part of the excursion took place up at the Oxley Lookout.

VET Student of the Year Award

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 15:29:43 AEDT

Farrer student Kieran Sullivan from Uralla, is the worthy recipient of the VET (Vocational Education & Training) in Schools Student of the Year award presented at the 2018 NSW Training Awards in Sydney.

Kieran said his passion for agriculture and completing vocational studies whilst still at school would make him more employable after his HSC.

Future entrepreneurs raising money for drought relief

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 14:01:06 AEDT

Year 10 Commerce students at Farrer conducted a Market Day

WorldSkills medal winner

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 14:14:06 AEDT

Jack McKemey (Year 12) has won silver in VETiS Primary Industries at the WorldSkills Australia 2018 National Championships in Sydney.

Jack competed against 8 other Year 11 and 12 students in his chosen field, which was designed by industry and skills experts. The VETiS Primary Industries Regional Competitions assesses an individual’s knowledge, practical skills and employability attributes against a set of strict criteria. Over 4000 apprentices, trainees and students, have the opportunity to win gold, silver or bronze medals, in their chosen skill.

Jack had to show expertise in the following areas:

Fencing – straining fences, tying wire knots and hooking up an electrical fence.
Livestock – weighing of sheep, fat scoring, drafting and mouthing the sheep, calibrating a drench gun and drenching sheep.
Chemicals – calibrating a boom spray and cleaning up a hazard spill
Tractors – students had to do a pre operational start, identify mechanical hazards, hook up 3 point linkage and PTO (Power Take Off).

This was all competed over a three day period.

Focusing on the highest quality of standards aligned to the industry endorsed training packages, employers and training providers can use the activity to benchmark their own apprenticeship and training programs.

A few interesting National Championship fast facts:

Over 500 competitors
60 trades and skills represented
300 judges
16-20 hours spent competing
159 medals awarded

When asked what he hoped to get out of this experience Jack said “Potential employment – my involvement in the World Skills competition enabled me to gain experience and meet new people, giving me exposure to prospective employers in this industry field.”

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about participating in the 2020 WorldSkills Competition Jack? “Get involved and have a go!”

Well done Jack, we wish you all the best in your future endeavors – you’ve made us proud.

Year 8 attend university

Tue, 18 Dec 2018 14:08:24 AEDT

On 18th May eight boys from Year 8 attended Armidale University to compete in the annual Year 8 Mathematics Day which is the largest competition of its type in Australia. The focus of the day is to promote students working together to solve a diverse range of mathematical problems, as well as have them interact with students from other schools across the region.

There was a total of 50 teams competing; Farrer took two teams with team number 1 consisting of Michael Lewington, Zac Walters, Charlie Williams and Ilki Boyraz and team number 2 of Angus Toole, David Nassim, Max Irwin and Tom Lesslie.

The students competed in many challenges/games such as: head to head, filling in patterns and tower construction. In the end with all our points tallied up the Farrer team number 2 was awarded second place.

Thank you to Mr Burges and Mr Wade for taking the boys up to Armidale University.