Dear Parents and Carers,

It is hard to believe that we have arrived at the end of another busy and rewarding term. Looking back over the past ten weeks, there is much to celebrate. Whether it has been in the classroom, on the sporting field, through our faith celebrations or simply in the countless small moments of kindness and growth that occur each day, our students continue to make the St Mary’s community incredibly proud.

Today was also a fantastic way to finish the term as we got behind the Socceroos in their green and gold. Events such as these help build the wonderful sense of community and school spirit that makes St Mary's such a special place.

As we head into the holiday break, I encourage all of our families to take the opportunity to slow down, recharge and spend quality time together. School terms can be wonderfully busy, and holidays provide an important chance for children (and adults) to rest, reconnect and return refreshed for what promises to be another exciting semester at St Mary's. I hope every family is able to enjoy some time together, whether that be travelling, catching up with loved ones or simply enjoying the slower pace that the holidays offer.

A visit from the Mayor of Maribyrnong

Last week our senior students were treated to a session with Maribyrnong Council’s Mayor - Mohammed Semra. At only 28 years old it is impressive that the mayor has taken on this important Community Leadership role and is working to make the local area a better place. He presented a great talk on Leadership, Community service and Inclusivity. He has an incredible story of resilience that illustrates one of the themes that makes Australia such a great place; it’s multiculturalism and how diverse cultures have contributed to Australian society. His narrative was featured on Australian Story and is a great watch if you have some time over the break.

Thank you to our outgoing SRC Representatives

After mass on Thursday we acknowledged the great contribution of our 2026 Semester 1 SRC representatives. They led us through numerous whole school masses, acted in our liturgies, advocated for their classes and helped our Leadership Team make decisions about our school. We thank them for their work and look forward to welcoming our Semester 2 SRC representatives next term.

Congratulations to our Girls AFL Team and SSV Netball Team

Congratulations to our Girls' AFL Team on a fantastic campaign this term, culminating in qualification for the District Finals. While the result didn't fall our way on the day, what stood out most was the way our students represented St Mary's. They demonstrated teamwork, resilience, determination and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the competition. They wore the St Mary's jumper with pride and should be incredibly proud of their efforts and the example they set for our younger students.

Our SSV Netball Team but in an amazing effort winning both of their SSV Netball Divisional finals games. This means they advance to the Regional finals next term. They have been putting in great work, training afterschool and a special thanks goes to Natelie Midiri who has done an amazing job coaching the team.

Thank you also to Mr Murphy, Kellie Ward and all the staff and families who have supported our athletes throughout the year. School sport provides wonderful opportunities for students to challenge themselves, develop resilience and represent something bigger than themselves.

Celebrating Our Past Students

Last week, I had the pleasure of attending St Aloysius College's production of Mamma Mia!, and I left thoroughly impressed.

The production was of a high standard, but what gave me the greatest sense of pride was seeing a number of former St Mary's students involved behind the scenes. Whether working backstage, managing production elements or supporting the performers, it was wonderful to see our past students continuing to contribute their talents and embrace opportunities within their secondary schools.

Watching former students flourish beyond St Mary's is one of the great joys of being a principal. It reminds us that while our time with students may only be for seven years, the values, confidence and experiences they develop here continue to shape the young people they become.

Understanding Assessment and Semester Reports

Semester Reports have now been distributed to families, providing an opportunity to celebrate each child's learning and growth throughout the first half of the year.

Reports are an important way of communicating progress, they represent a snapshot in our students’ learning journey. They reflect where students are at this point in time and help identify both areas of strength and opportunities for future growth.

I encourage parents to read the reports with your children and celebrate the progress they have made rather than focusing solely on grades or comparisons with others. Every student begins from a different starting point, and success is measured not by where a child sits compared to someone else, but by the growth they have made over time.

Never See a Need Without Trying to Do Something About It

This fortnight's example of living our 2026 theme recognises one of the quiet achievers within our St Mary's community; our Mental Health in Primary Schools (MHiPS) staff member.

Every day, often behind the scenes, they provide care, encouragement and support to students who may be experiencing challenges. Whether helping a child navigate friendships, managing anxiety, building confidence or simply providing a safe space to talk, their work has a profound impact on the wellbeing of many students and families.

Much like Saint Mary MacKillop's call to "Never see a need without trying to do something about it," they consistently notice the children who need a little extra support and respond with compassion, patience and kindness. The difference they make is often invisible to many, but deeply significant to the students whose lives they touch.

We are incredibly fortunate to have such dedicated staff who remind us that education is about more than academic achievement alone; it is about helping every child know they are seen, valued and cared for.

Thank you to our entire St Mary's community; our students, staff and families, for another wonderful term. Your support, partnership and commitment to our school continue to make St Mary's a vibrant, connected and thriving community.

I wish you all a safe, restful and enjoyable holiday break. I look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 3, refreshed and ready for another term of learning.

Stay safe, stay healthy, stay connected,

Denis Johnstone

Principal

Child Safety Standard 5