Principal

Dear Mary MacKillop, Catholic Regional College Community,

This is the last Newsletter for Term 2, so I wish everyone a safe, happy, and refreshing break.

Please note that we will finish school on Friday, 4 July, at 2:30 pm.

Also, Term 3 will commence for students on Tuesday, 22 July 2025. Staff will be on site on Monday, engaged in a Professional Learning Day focused on Student Wellbeing.

Thank you

As Term 2 draws to a close, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks on behalf of students and their families to all staff for your unwavering commitment, care, and professionalism throughout this busy and vibrant term. One where we move from the middle of Autumn, with bright and sunny days, to the depths of Winter. Their professional and caring dedication has enabled our students to thrive academically, spiritually, and personally.

This term was marked by many significant moments that reflect the strength of our community.

The Year 9 Camp was a particular highlight, providing students with the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and deepen relationships. Our involvement in the SSV Sports program and the House Cross Country Carnival brought great energy and pride to our College. At the same time, both the Year 10 Work Experience Program and the Year 10 Retreat provided an opportunity for our students to reflect and grow as they approach decisions about their future studies and vocations next term. We had significant community gatherings, including our ANZAC Day Commemoration, Catholic Education Week Liturgy and Badge Presentation, and Sorry Day Liturgy.

Behind each of these events was the tireless work of our teaching and support staff, who planned, guided, and supported students every step of the way. Thank you for the countless hours, the quiet encouragement, and the joyful moments you help create each day. 

Additionally, on behalf of the college staff, I would like to express our appreciation to the students for their engaged participation in all aspects of the learning and cocurricular programs and to our families for their support and trust.

Year 10 Camp

Thank you to Melinda Stephan for leading this camp and to all the staff who participated during the week: Chris Spencer, Bekk Anthony, Jessica Cox, Zac Cox, Rosemary Drennan, Jasmine Jones, Julia Leslie, Peter Preston, Robyn Scouller.

Year 9 Careers Expo

Thanks to Kate Dwyer, Cassie Raschle, and Melissa Preston for organizing this opportunity for our Year 9 students to attend the Careers Expo in Korumburra on Tuesday. Thanks also to Ben Stein for his support.

Music Performance VET Music

Thank you to Beth Winterhalter, Meg Doherty, and Phil Schumann for their work in preparing and supporting the VET Music students in their performances on Wednesday. All three students - Tayla Ateyo-Peters, as well as Harriet Finlay and Alanah Grist, who performed together – provided a good evening of entertainment. 

Principal’s Leave

I will be on a short period of Long Service Leave for the first week of Term 3. During this time, Mr John Ryan will attend to any pressing matters.  

John will be supported by Chris Spencer, who will commence as the Deputy Principal for Culture, Excellence, and Growth at the start of the term, as well as the other members of the Leadership Team - Kaila Hutchinson, Bekk Anthony, Nicole Dudman, and Laura Higgins.

This is an outstanding team, and I appreciate their support, which enables me to take a short break.

Year 7 2026 Enrolments

Year 7 Enrolments for 2026 were expected to be submitted by 31 May 2025. 

There are places available, so we will continue to review applications. However, as a matter of fairness, priority will be given to completed applications submitted on or before May 31. Those received after that date will be processed in the order of receipt, in accordance with our policy.

Staff News

Congratulations to Belinda Cetnar, who received news that she passed the Bar Exam last week. This is a significant achievement, placing Belinda one step closer to becoming a barrister in Victoria. 

This week, we bid farewell to Marie Holderhead, who is completing her tenure with us as our College Registrar. We wish Marie and her family the best of success.

The following staff will be on Long Service Leave during the next term: Tracey Bugbird and Pat McCarthy. 

Sapientia Domini Docet Nos

John M Freeman