House of Origin
Ladies and gentlemen, strap yourselves in, because House of Origin once again delivered all the drama, tension and theatre we have come to expect from one of the great Taylor House traditions.
In the lead-up to the highly anticipated clash, the men of Taylor House were primed and ready to wrestle the shield away from Boyce House. Max B set the tone beautifully with a fantastic pre-game video, stirring the emotions and sharpening the focus of the boys in black before they took the field.
After last year’s questionable refereeing and a rather dubious last-minute try from the Buffs to steal the game, Taylor ensured there would be a more level decision-maker this time around, with Josh from the Red Frogs taking control of proceedings.
From the opening whistle, tensions were high and emotions were running hot. Both teams came out with such intensity that, although this was technically a game of touch, boys from both sides deciding to drop the shoulder, the heavens clearly decided a good drenching was needed to cool things down. Down came the rain, and on went the contest.
It was Taylor who opened the account first, troubling the scoreboard attendant and bringing a sense of calm across the men in black. Long passes, short passes, wet ball, slippery conditions, none of it seemed to bother the Taylor boys. That was, of course, until one pass found its way straight into the breadbasket of a rampaging Buff, who gleefully accepted the gift and levelled the scores.
At half-time, Coach James A delivered what can only be described as a classic “spray”, somewhere between tactical genius and Tommy Raudonikis inspiration. Whatever was said, it worked. Taylor returned with renewed focus and were soon over again for another try.
But as the rain fell harder, the temperature dropped and hands became cold and heavy, the Buffs clawed their way back once more. With the weather demanding the boot come into play, a few wayward kicks from Taylor landed directly in the hands of the maroon Buffs. Then, in the dying seconds, Boyce crossed to claim the match.
So, for one more year, the boys in black will have to endure the chirp from the men next door. But this New South Welshman is not perturbed. Taylor showed courage, spirit and plenty of fight.
Next year, boys, next year is our year.
Academic Focus as Term Draws to a Close
Over the past few weeks, it has been pleasing to see the boys sharpen their pencils, open their books and settle into a focused period of study as assessments and exams have approached. There has been a noticeable calm across the House during prep time, with boys busily revising, working through questions and seeking support from both their peers and staff. This quiet determination has created a positive academic environment and we are hopeful that the effort shown in the evenings will be reflected in some pleasing results at the end of term.
Each boy should be encouraged to take pride in the work he has put in. Assessment periods can be challenging, but they also provide an important opportunity for boys to demonstrate growth, resilience and commitment to their learning. The habits developed during these busy weeks; organisation, persistence, focus and asking for help, are just as important as the results themselves.
As we now draw closer to the end of term, it is vitally important that all boys remain engaged and present until the final day. While the major assessment period may be coming to a close, the final two weeks of term remain highly valuable. During this time, boys will begin important work that will form the foundation for learning and assessment in Term 3.
For this reason, attendance through to the end of term is essential. Finishing well allows each boy to maintain momentum, prepare properly for the term ahead and ensure he gives himself every opportunity for continued success.
As we draw to a close
The end of term is fast approaching, it is important that all boys remain focused and engaged right through to the final day. While holidays are certainly something to look forward to, there is still valuable learning taking place, with new content being introduced that will form the foundation for Term 3 assessments. Being present, prepared and attentive in these final weeks will give each boy the best chance of beginning next term with confidence.
We also look forward to the ever-popular House Track and Field Carnival, which will be in full swing before the break. This is always a hotly contested event in the Headmaster’s Shield and with all Taylor boys in attendance, we have a real opportunity to earn some much-needed points. Every effort matters, whether competing, supporting, cheering or contributing to the spirit of the day. As Taylor Men, this is another chance to show our House pride, unity and commitment.
As families prepare for the holiday period, it is also time to consider travel arrangements and ensure there is enough room for boys’ belongings to return home. Over the break, Taylor House will undergo a deep clean and as usual, visiting groups will be using the House facilities. For this reason, all personal belongings must go home where possible.
The holidays are also a great opportunity to reset. Please ensure clothing is washed and clearly named, doonas are dry-cleaned and blazers are also cleaned and ready for Term 3. We will have limited storage available for larger items such as bedside tables and fans. For boys travelling home by public transport, we will of course assist by storing belongings safely where needed.
Thank you for your support as we finish the term strongly, proudly and well.
REACH and weekend leave
Families are asked to please take note of an important update regarding REACH leave and weekend leave arrangements.
As outlined in recent communication from the Director of Boarding, Mr Byron, REACH leave will now close on Thursday evening each week. Once this deadline has passed, adding new leave will become significantly more difficult, as the system will lock and late entries may not be able to be processed in the usual way.
To support the smooth running of weekend arrangements, we ask that all leave is entered into REACH by Thursday evening. This allows House staff time to check details, follow up where needed and ensure boys are safely and appropriately accounted for before the weekend begins.
We do understand, however, that some things cannot be helped and that plans may change. If leave has already been entered by Thursday evening, families will still be able to amend the leave themselves through REACH. If leave has not been entered prior to the Thursday evening cut-off, please contact the House Master on Duty on 0419 145 404 and they will assist you with the leave arrangements where possible.
Thank you for your support and understanding as we work with this updated process. Having leave entered on time greatly assists staff and helps ensure the boys are well supported in their weekend plans.
Eugene Massi
Head of House | Taylor Boarding
