This week, I had the privilege of attending the EREA Deputy Principals' Conference in Melbourne - the first time in four years that Deputy Principals from across the country have gathered in person. It was an incredibly enriching experience to connect with colleagues in similar roles, to share insights, and to reflect together on the values that shape our schools. These conversations affirmed many of the qualities that make CBC Fremantle such a distinctive and special place. 
While in Melbourne, I also had the opportunity to attend the Big Freeze game at the MCG on Monday. As I sat amongst a passionate and edentulous group of Collingwood supporters, I was struck by a powerful reminder of one of CBC Fremantle's defining strengths: community and belonging. Around me were people from all walks of life - diverse in background, belief, and circumstance - yet for those three hours, we stood united in support of our team and, more profoundly, a greater cause.
The Big Freeze is more than a football match. The sea of blue beanies is a symbol of solidarity - transcending sport to support Neale Daniher's mission to find a cure for MND. To sit alongside 77,000 others, unified by purpose and compassion, was a moving and timely reminder of the power of community.
Community and belonging are not only central to the Big Freeze; they are foundational to life at CBC Fremantle. We often ask our young men, "Are you a CBC boy, or just a boy who goes to CBC?" It's a question that invites reflection - and more often than not, it affirms the depth of character and shared values that our students embody each day.
Whether it's wearing the uniform with pride, living out the values of a CBC Gentleman, or simply looking out for one another, our boys contribute to a culture where every individual is valued. As Brené Brown so eloquently puts it, "True belonging doesn't require you to change who you are; it requires you to be who you are."
At CBC, we see this every day. Some students reluctantly get that much-needed haircut, others quietly tuck in their shirts, yet all make small sacrifices that contribute to something larger than themselves - a united and inclusive community. Whether they're in the LEGO Club, the First XVIII, striving for straight A's, or simply doing their best, each of our students adds to the rich tapestry of our College.
This past week has been a powerful reminder of the importance of belonging — whether among fellow EREA leaders or cheering on the black and white at the MCG. (And just in case you didn't know, edentulous is the dental term for having no teeth - something I'm often reminded of by the ever-loyal Freo faithful!)
CBC Fremantle has been a part of my life for 15 years, and experiences like these highlights just how deeply its community spirit continues to shape me - and so many others. It's the uniqueness of each individual - student, staff member, and family - that brings out the best in all of us. It's a privilege to contribute to a culture where all members of our community are respected, supported, and feel they belong.
Vice Principal
Brent Butcher
Pictured with CBC Class of 2013 graduate, Billy Frampton