The Fountain

From the Principal

It's hard to believe that we are coming to the end of Term 1 already. It certainly has been a busy time—so many things have been achieved and deserve to be celebrated. 

 

When reflecting on the Lent season and our approach to Easter, our current situation in the world throws up some challenges. 

 

The war in Ukraine, the COVID-19 pandemic and political unrest around the world have all posed challenges, but as a Christian community, it is important that we take time to stop and reflect on the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus makes for us in this season, and the event that took place over 2000 years ago, the significance of which we celebrate each year. 

 

As we go into the break, I ask that people take the time to reflect and explore the true meaning of the ultimate sacrifice that Jesus makes.

 

Our students will prepare to conclude the Lenten season by celebrating the Palm Sunday Liturgy  (Prep to Year 6) on Monday 11 April and Stations of the Cross Liturgy (Prep to Year 12) on Thursday 14 April.  Let us celebrate this holy occasion with happiness and peace. 

ANZAC Day 

One of the disappointing parts of Easter being so late in the year is that ANZAC Day falls during our holidays. This year, ANZAC Day will be held on Monday 25 April, and a number of our students, Eliza Topham, Grace Simonetis and Amelia Howell, will be singing and representing the College at the Dawn Service, accompanied by our Learning Leader Performing Arts, Scott Weston. 

 

I encourage all students interested in attending this service to wear the formal school uniform to represent our College and support our performers. It is a very special day where we honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice in serving their country and those who continue to keep us safe.

Meet the Principal tours 

Following the success of our recent Open Days, I will be holding ‘Meet the Principal’ sessions, followed by a College tour by student leaders, so parents and carers have the opportunity to speak to students and staff, and see what we do during a day at St Mary’s College. 

 

If you have friends or relatives keen to enrol at the College or you already have a child attending and need to enrol a sibling, please contact our Enrolment Officer, Nicole Wighton. Nicole’s email is enrol@smc.tas.edu.au or phone the College on (03) 6108 2560 to progress an enrolment application and/or book a time for a tour.  I have listed below the upcoming sessions: 

  • Friday 8 April 2022 – 9.30am
  • Friday 20 May 2022 – 9.30am
  • Friday 29 July 2022 – 9.30am
  • Friday 5 August 2022 – 9.30am
  • Friday 16 September 2022 – 9.30am
  • Friday 4 November 2022 – 9.30am

If the above sessions do not suit, please contact us and we'll arrange a suitable date/time.

Nano Nagle lantern 

On Monday 4 April, we had Emeritus Archbishop Doyle join us for the blessing and the unveiling of the new Nano Nagle lantern.  The lantern was donated by Mary Smith and her family who have had strong connections with St Mary’s College over its history.  

SMC alumna, Mary Smith at the unveiling and blessing of the Nano Nagle lantern.
SMC alumna, Mary Smith at the unveiling and blessing of the Nano Nagle lantern.

Descendants of Mary’s family attended the ceremony, and the gift was acknowledgement of the wonderful support the Presentation Sisters have given to the education of their family.  At the celebration, Mary was joined by her daughter, Christina Marshall, and Rosie Berger, who is also related to one of the first families who came to St Mary's in the 1800s. Thank you to Mary for such a wonderful gift. 

Mother's Day Breakfast

We look forward to celebrating the special women in our lives at the upcoming Mother's Day Breakfast on Wednesday 4 May from 7.45am to 8.30am. More information and the official invitation, which will include the booking link and menu items for selection, will be sent to all families soon. 

 

Presentation Families welcomes and appreciates any assistance that parents and carers may be able to offer at this event. If you would like to sign up as a volunteer, please email Community Relations. 

COVID-19 update 

Our COVID-19 situation remains very fluid. Currently, we are experiencing a number of cases in our Junior and Senior Schools. 

 

As we manage our response to this pandemic, we continue to work closely with Tasmania Public Health and Catholic Education Tasmania. The link on our website here will provide you with all the updated information.

 

Enjoy the holiday break!  

 

Damian Messer

Principal