Principal's Message

What a great fortnight at St Philomena’s!

As we approach the end of Term 2, it's been wonderful to reflect on all that we've shared as a school community over the past two weeks.

Last week's Pyjama Day fundraiser was a big hit, with students and staff getting behind the cause to support the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. It was a fun way to raise awareness and much-needed funds for those doing it tough this winter.

This week, we celebrated NAIDOC Week 2025, marking 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. The national theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy”, celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of our ancestors.

Our celebrations began with a beautiful NAIDOC liturgy and Awards ceremony, where we recognised the contributions and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students across the school. Throughout the week, each class participated in our Deadly Doors competition, transforming classroom doors with bold colours, powerful messages, and cultural pride.

A big thank you to Rod Tighe, our Aboriginal Community Liaison Officer, for coordinating a fantastic Secondary Touch Football event that brought students together in the spirit of fun, teamwork, and community.

A special thank you must also go to our Aboriginal Education Assistants for their leadership and commitment in organising a meaningful weekend of NAIDOC commemorations. Their work ensures that our students experience these events not just as school activities, but as moments of deep cultural learning and respect.

Looking Ahead to Term 3

We begin next term with a very special event – our Jubilee Mass Celebration on Wednesday, 23 July. We are excited to welcome students from across the diocese, including Gunnedah, Narrabri, Wee Waa, Walgett, Mungindi, and Warialda, as well as parishioners from our local deanery and staff from Armidale Catholic Schools. It will be a wonderful occasion to come together in faith and thanksgiving.

On Friday, 25 July, we'll hold our Athletics Carnival – always a highlight on the school calendar. We look forward to cheering on our students as they give their best in every event.

Best of luck to all students who will be competing in Representative Sport during the holiday break, especially our St Philomena’s students: Lincoln Bailey, Angus Meppem, Harley Smith, Digby Adams, Nichola Hartin and Eliza Amos, who are competing in Sydney these holidays as they represent Central North in Ruby League – we're proud of you and look forward to hearing about your experiences.

Finally, we farewell Miss Holly McConnellogue, who has been teaching with us this term during her working holiday from Northern Ireland. We thank her for her contributions to St Philomena’s and wish her safe travels as she continues her journey around Australia.

Wishing all of our families a safe, restful, and happy holiday break. We look forward to welcoming students back for the start of Term 3 on Tuesday, 22 July.

God Bless,

Alistair Stewart

Principal