From the Principal

The theme for this week’s National Reconciliation Week, ‘All In’, is a call to encourage all Australians to actively participate in the search for justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The artwork for this year’s campaign is by renowned Gumbaynggirr/Bundjalung artist Otis Hope Carey, who created a colourful and optimistic visual representation of people from all walks of life being ‘all in’ to make change. Our students embraced this search by participating in a range of activities this week designed to deepen understanding and respect for the rich cultures, histories and achievements of our First Nations people.

For background, National Reconciliation Week recalls the Referendum held on 27 May 1967, which determined that First Nations people be recognised as part of the broader Australian population. The week also recalls the 1992 Mabo High Court decision recognising the existence of native title, and the 1997 Report ‘Bringing them Home’, examining the forced separation of Indigenous Australian children from their families.

Otis Hope Carey’s artwork, ‘Gaagal’, which translates to ‘Ocean’, is a metaphor for people from all walks of life swirling together to be ‘all in’ for reconciliation. For the benefit of those new to our College, our own artwork which adorns the foyer of the College Administration building, and for this week, the Library doors, was designed and painted by local Noongar artist Mel Spillman and is titled People for Others. With input from the 2025 ATAR Visual Arts class, People for Others captures the essence of what it means to be John XXIII College, as evidenced by the various intricate snapshots that feature within the final piece. As a College, we too are ‘All In’. 

We congratulate our Secondary School Cross-Country Team for their strong performance at the ACC Cross-Country Carnival yesterday. The College’s second place is a testament to the continued hard work of all of our College athletes who have been so well led by Head of Sport, Jess Pillera, Assistant Head of Sport, Darren Kowal, Head of Health and Physical Education, Cameron Tremayne, and all staff and volunteers who made up the Cross-Country Team. It was a privilege to witness so many examples of our students courageously embracing challenge and supporting each other during the day. Congratulations everyone!

Finally, our generous parents provided a special morning tea today, and, on behalf of the College staff, I express my gratitude to everyone who contributed so generously.

Daniel Mahon

Principal