From the Principal
- Reflection
- Annual Awards Ceremony – Wednesday 3 December
- Thank You
- Key Dates
Reflection
The Season of Advent
During this Advent season, I pray that you and your family find moments to celebrate and rejoice in the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ.
The joy and warmth of this season always inspire me, yet I am reminded that for many in our community the lonely, the marginalised, the poor, and the homeless this reality can feel distant. My hope is that through our prayers and acts of love, everyone may experience a share of the blessings of Christmas.
May we all receive the greatest gift this season - the gift of Christ’s love for each of us.
I BELIEVE that Christmas is more than a time for parties and ornaments; it is a time for remembering Christ and the incarnation of God’s love in human flesh.
I BELIEVE there are gifts more important than the ones under the Christmas tree, the things we teach our children, the way we share ourselves with friends, and the industry with which we set about reshaping the world in our time.
I BELIEVE that the finest carols are often sung by the poorest voices; from hearts made warm by the wonder of the season.
I BELIEVE in the angel’s message that we should not be afraid - that the Child of Bethlehem is able to overcome all anxieties and insecurities.
I BELIEVE in prayer and quietness as a way of appropriating Christmas - that if I wait in silence, I will experience the presence of the one born in the manger, for he lives today as surely as he lived then.
I BELIEVE in going away from Christmas as the wise men went: 'another way.' I want to be different when these days are past - more centred, more thoughtful, more caring.
And I believe God will help me. Amen
As we enter the joyful season of Christmas, I wish each of you a blessed and meaningful celebration. May this sacred time fill your hearts and homes with peace, love, and hope as we reflect on the birth of Christ and His message of compassion and unity.
Thank you for your dedication, support, and the spirit you’ve shared throughout the year.
I hope you find time to rest, reconnect with loved ones,
and embrace the true essence of Christmas.
Wishing you and your families a Merry Christmas and a New Year overflowing with joy, blessings, and fulfillment.
Feast of Immaculate Conception - Friday 8 December
For centuries, Christians have held the belief that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was preserved from sin. This teaching was officially declared as dogma by Pope Pius IX in 1854 after consultation with bishops worldwide. Each year, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on 8 December, exactly nine months before the feast of Mary’s birth on 8 September. In 1858, Our Lady appeared to St Bernadette at Lourdes, identifying herself as the Immaculate Conception, confirming the dogma proclaimed just four years earlier.
'O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.'
Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us
St Pius X - Pray for Us
Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!
Annual Awards Ceremony – Wednesday 3 December
The Year 5 – 10 Annual Awards Presentation was another great opportunity for the College to acknowledge and celebrate the academic success of so many young men. These awards are a testament not only to academic excellence but also to the perseverance, resilience, and commitment to personal growth demonstrated throughout the year. We also acknowledged the several staff members who will either be on extended leave for 2026 or will end their time with us. While some are moving on to exciting new opportunities, other significant members have decided to end their journey with us. Please refer to last week’s Woodchatta for details.
I ended my address to the College with the following words of thanks and encouragement for 2026:
“As we come to the close of 2025, we reflect on a year guided by our College theme, 'Unite to Ignite.' It reminded us that true growth happens when we come together standing in solidarity, lifting each other up, and using our gifts to serve others, just as Blessed Edmund Rice envisioned when he stood at the docks in Waterford.
This year, many of you embraced challenges, stepped outside your comfort zones, and committed to personal excellence. Every effort you made, big or small, has shaped who you are today.
The Aristotle ancient Greek philosopher said: 'Quality is not an act, it is a habit.'
Therefore, I hope and pray that the positive habits you have built this year will carry you forward into 2026.
As we look ahead towards next year, our 89th year, I encourage you to keep that spirit alive. Continue to unite with one another showing kindness, respect, and integrity in all that you do. A strong, connected community lifts everyone higher, and together we can make next year even more extraordinary.
So, as we prepare for a new year, set your sights high. Raise the bar. Embrace every opportunity, challenge yourself, and support one another. Together, let’s ignite 2026 with purpose, growth, and success.
Congratulations to our award recipients and may the joy and peace of Advent be with you all.
May we live Jesus in our hearts… forever.'"
Thank you
Thank you to our wonderful community for your support throughout the year. Wishing you all a holy and blessed Christmas filled with peace and joy.
Key Dates
Term 1 2026
Wed 21/1 Office Opens
Fri 23/1 Year 5, 7 & 10 PLD deployment (9:00 am - 12:00 pm / 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm) College gym
Week 1
Thur 29/1 Year 5, 6, 7, 11 & 12 students return / Year 8, 9, 10, 11 new students induction morning (8:30 am - 10:00 am) / New parent cuppa / Junior School sports trials (please note Junior School students to wear sport uniform)
Fri 30/1 Year 8, 9, 10 students return / Melba ID photos
Sat 31/1 ISA sport resumes R7
Week 2
Mon 2/2 Year 5 and Year 7 and any new families Welcome Mass, BBQ and Parent Information Evening
Tues 3/2 Year 10 Parent and Student Information Evening
Wed 4/2 Year 11 Parent and Student Information Evening
Thur 5/2 2025 High Achievers Assembly and Symposium
Sat 7/2 ISA R8
Fide et Labore
By Faith and Hard work
Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever
Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal