Mackenzie House

24 September 2026Liza Dolgova, Mackenzie House Captain ‘26

This past year in Mackenzie House is one I will cherish forever. In September, we welcomed the cutest new addition to our family, Ms. Legassicke’s puppy, Kenzie, while new human members quickly learned to fear the “box-of-doom” chores for being late. Our hardworking Orientation Assistants lugged boxes up the maze of Mack stairs, helping everyone settle into their new home.

Orientation Week showcased the competitive spirit of Mack-Ellis. A sea of green and yellow stormed Foote for Fun & Games, and we set ourselves up for success with a hard-fought win in the Eco-Challenge. As returners arrived, new friendships blossomed across all grades. Our Grade 9s were sweet and curious, even if Maya and Piper often struggled with morning inspections. The Grade 10 cohort doubled in size and kept duty nights hilarious, especially when Pauline, Nyasha, and Montse were causing trouble.

Watching the Grade 11s mature has been inspiring; I am confident they will lead with responsibility and fun, and I know Irene is thrilled to finally stop handing in her phone. My fellow Prefects taught me the power of teamwork, and I can’t wait to see what they achieve next year.

Core memories will forever remain with the Mackenzie House frogs. Our Decades-themed Open House, sparked by Robbie’s idea, was a huge success. We still laugh about the “Just Dance” session with Ellis when visiting rugby players joined, uninvited, and the intense dodgeball games during prep bonded us through healthy competition. None of this would be possible without Ms Cheung and Ms Legassicke. On behalf of the house, we are so grateful for our Mack Housemothers and the life lessons they’ve taught us. Though Mr Chalmers might witness our less-than-mature moments during prep visits, we’ve all learned to love, laugh, and leap through life together.

Being House Captain has been an incredible honour. I am grateful to every member of Mack House for teaching me about the world. Thank you to the duty staff and every frog and tadpole for making this year special. To all future members: you are in for a treat.

Liza Dolgova, Mackenzie House Captain ‘26

Where Students Choose To Be