Principal's Message
Dear Community,
Thank you for your partnership this term! We can not believe how quickly the term has flown by. I've really enjoyed settling in here at St Mary's and have felt so welcomed by the students, families and staff.
School Fair
It was wonderful to see our school community come together today—students, families, friends, and visitors—all sharing in the fun and spirit that make St Mary’s such a special place. Events like this are a great reminder that a school is more than classrooms and lessons; it’s a community built on connection, generosity, and joy. The fair was a chance to celebrate our students, enjoy time together, and support the many opportunities that help our school continue to grow and thrive.
I’d like to extend a sincere thank you to the many volunteers, staff, and families who have worked so hard to make the event possible. A special thank you also to our generous sponsors and raffle donors who have generously donated towards the event!
To our amazing Parents and Friends Committee - your endless organisation, care and efforts in preparing for the success of the School Fair is very much noted and appreciated. I am so impressed by the level of care and commitment from our community - we are small but we are mighty. Once we know the outcome of the total funds raised, we will share this with you all!
Holy Week Liturgy
We had a beautiful liturgy on Monday morning to acknowledge the events that make up Holy Week.
Holy Week is an important time for Christians around the world. It takes place in the week leading up to Easter and remembers the final days of Jesus’ life.
The week begins with Palm Sunday, which celebrates the day Jesus arrived in Jerusalem and was welcomed by crowds waving palm branches. During the week, Christians reflect on Jesus’ teachings, kindness, and love for others. A key day is Good Friday, when Christians remember the death of Jesus on the cross. It is a quiet and thoughtful day. Holy Week ends with Easter Sunday, a joyful celebration of Jesus rising from the dead. This day is all about hope, new life, and new beginnings.
Many people mark Holy Week by going to church, spending time with family, and helping others. It is a time to think about kindness, forgiveness, and caring for those around us.
Staffing News
After a short period of leave, David Carter who was employed as our Learning & Teaching Leader has resigned from this role to take on an intervention role in a school closer to home. He will begin this role at the beginning of Term 2. We wish David all the best in this new role.
We are very lucky to have Blythe Neve (Grade 5/6 Teacher) step in to the Learning & Teaching role from the beginning of Term 2. Julie Cotter will remain in the classroom on Monday and Tuesday, with Wednesday in the Wellbeing space. Blythe will continue to work in Grade 5/6 on Wednesday and Thursday, and on Friday will have time allocated to the Learning & Teaching role which focuses on what is learned by our children and how these skills and content are taught by our teachers. Blythe's skill set and understanding of our school community is so valuable in leading our school on our journey of continuous improvement. Thank you Blythe for stepping in to this role!
On Fridays, we will have Brooke Westphal joining us to work with the Grade 5/6 students. Brooke has recently moved from Western Australia and comes with some great experience in Catholic Education and Language Centre schools. This appointment was made yesterday and we are excited to welcome Brooke in to the St Mary's Community starting in Week 1 of Term 2.
Preparing for Term 2
Attached are the Term 2 dates (correct at the time of publishing) for your planning and information. We look forward to welcoming you all back on Tuesday 21st April for the first day of Term 2 for 2026.
During this Easter season, I'd like to extend my warmest wishes to all of our students, families, and staff. Easter is a special time for many, offering an opportunity to rest, reflect, and enjoy quality moments together.
The holiday break is a wonderful chance for our students to recharge after a busy and productive term. Whether your plans include travel, family gatherings, or simply enjoying some quiet time at home, I hope the days ahead are filled with relaxation and connection.
I sincerely thank our school community for your continued support and partnership throughout the term. We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for another exciting period of learning.
Wishing all our families a safe and happy Easter break.
God bless,
Shannon Betham
Acting Principal