From the Principal

THE ULTIMATE ROLE MODEL

A decade ago I was on an appointment panel for a key position at the school in which I was Vice Principal. After the interviews were conducted I was asked by the Principal for my thoughts on a preferred candidate. I gave my recommendation but the Principal had a contrary opinion.

‘I don’t agree with your suggestion’ he advised.

‘Why not?’

‘He is too much like you and me. We have similar strengths and weaknesses and we need to encourage a divergence of opinion and a different skill set’.

It was a good lesson for me. Sometimes we can surround ourselves with people who share similar beliefs, interests and attributes. However, it may result in a narrowness of view and inhibit growth and development.

Last weekend’s Gospel told the story of Jesus accepting a drink at the well from a Samaritan woman. At that time a Jewish man was not supposed to talk with a woman, much more with a stranger, in public. Jews did not associate with Samaritans.

Jesus chose to converse with the woman in public and gently guided her by recognising her dignity as a person, offering God’s gift to her and revealing himself to her.

With Jesus as our ultimate role model, the challenge is to see God in everything and everyone around us. We have a natural tendency to spend time with those with whom we feel most comfortable. To interact positively with all in the College community is aspirational for all staff, students and families.

This week’s assembly beautifully highlighted diversity with superb reports and video presentations on our Japanese and Italian study tours. Mikayla Bargh and Sam Moroney provided an excellent preview of our upcoming College Production and we celebrated a very meritorious 2nd place in this week’s A division ACC Swimming Carnival. Our College has much richness and diversity to celebrate and acknowledge.

PRIMARY SCHOOL PICNIC

On Saturday afternoon (18 March) the Junior Primary Oval was transformed in readiness for the Primary Family Picnic. The fun and games began at 5:00pm and over 700 came along for this annual event. A great time was had by all and fantastic community spirit was evident.

The picnic was a huge success due to our energetic and hardworking Primary Picnic committee, including Clay and Ainsley Gourdis, Jennifer Cabassi and Juliet Lennon.

A special thank you also to staff members Ric Del Pizzo, Doug Watson and Jeff Jansen for all their hard work behind the scenes.

Together, let us seek justice.

Yours sincerely

Robert Henderson

Principal