From the Principal

Dear Parents, Students and Friends of St Virgil’s,

As the term moves towards its final weeks, I continue to be impressed by the breadth of learning, engagement and achievement taking place across the College. Even a brief look at the College Facebook page highlights the many rich opportunities available to students from Kindergarten through to Year 12. It has been wonderful to see our young men and staff participate so enthusiastically in Mary Rice Day, mental health initiatives, music, sport, community activities and celebrations of student success. At St Virgil’s College, we remain committed to encouraging every student to strive for his personal best while also recognising the importance of service to others.

Father’s Day Breakfast

Beyond the commercial aspects often associated with Father’s Day, the occasion provides an important opportunity for our students to reflect on the significant influence fathers and father figures have in their lives. For many of our boys, it is also a reminder of the role they may one day take on themselves. Fatherhood carries a distinctive and profound responsibility, one that can shape lives in ways far greater than many personal or professional achievements.

I am grateful to the many fathers, grandfathers and significant male role models who attended our annual Father’s Day breakfasts at both the Junior and Senior School campuses this week. These gatherings provided a warm and meaningful way to recognise the different father figures within our community and the important place they hold in the lives of our boys. The joy and pride visible among our students made clear how much they valued having these special people present. I also extend my sincere thanks to the staff whose careful organisation made these occasions such successful and memorable community events.

Choomalaka Festival & Feast (Senior School)

A reminder that our Senior School Performing Arts festival will be held on Friday 25 September at the Austins Ferry Campus. After many months of rehearsal and preparation, students and staff are looking forward to sharing their talents with family and friends. Food vans will be available throughout the evening, and I look forward to joining our College community as we come together to celebrate the Performing Arts at the Senior School. Further information about the evening will be provided closer to the date. 

Staffing Update

Junior School Japanese: Ms Alison Wignell will conclude her role at the end of Term 3. We thank Ms Wignell for her contribution and wish her well. From Term 4, Mrs Stephanie Coleman will teach Japanese on Thursdays and Fridays, with Mrs Caroline Connalin supporting as co-teacher in Mrs Coleman's Year 5 class. 

IT Manager: Following the resignation of Mr Alex Woolcock, Mr John Nettleton has been appointed IT Manager from 30 September 2026. Mr. Nettleton brings more than 20 years’ experience in education settings, including 11 years as ICT Manager at a large K–12 Catholic College in regional Western Australia. Please join me in welcoming Mr Nettleton to the College.

Administration Officer: We welcome Mrs Vanessa Hay to the role of Administration Officer (Senior Campus). Vanessa has extensive customer service and front office administration experience from her previous roles as a Customer Service Representative at several banking institutions. Please join me in welcoming Mrs Hay to the College.

Director Appointments: Congratulations to Mr Rohan Mitchell and Mrs Mary-Jane Anders on their reappointment as Director of Learning and Innovation and Director of Administration, respectively. Their continued leadership, professionalism and deep commitment to the College are greatly valued, and we look forward to the positive contribution they will continue to make in these important roles.

Director of Rowing: Mr Oliver Wilson-Haffenden will take leave from his role for family reasons while continuing to provide administrative support one day per week. During this period, Mr. Andrew Pinelli, Director of Rowing at St Mary’s College, will oversee both rowing programs for the 2026–2027 season and be based part-time at Austins Ferry from Term 4. Mr Wilson-Haffenden is expected to return for the 2027–2028 season.

Senior School Open Day — Wednesday 16 September 

Families considering enrolment at the College are warmly invited to attend our upcoming College Open Day next Wednesday from 9.00am to 10.30am at the Senior Campus.

This is a valuable opportunity for prospective families to visit the campus, see our learning environment, and gain a sense of the College community. We encourage current families to share this invitation with friends, neighbours, or relatives who may be interested in learning more about the College.

With best wishes for the week ahead.

Jon Franzin

PRINCIPAL