Principal's Update 

Dear Parents, Carers, Staff and Students,

As we reflect on the period from early April to mid-May, we are reminded that life in our College community is marked by both celebration and challenge, joy and sorrow. It has been a time rich in learning, connection and achievement, and one that has called us to stand together in faith, compassion and care.

A Time of Deep Sadness and Reflection

As I communicated to you over the weekend, our community was deeply saddened by the passing of one of our Year 7 students, Nathan Gillespie, on Friday, 8th May.

Nathan had been courageously battling cancer, and he passed peacefully, surrounded by his loving family. His journey was one marked by strength, resilience and quiet determination, qualities that touched all who knew him.

As a College, we hold Nathan close to our hearts and give thanks for the joy and presence he brought to our community. We extend our deepest condolences to his parents, Ana and Peter, and to his brother, James, a 2024 graduate of the College. We continue to keep them in our thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

Our staff have been working closely with students, particularly those in Year 7, to provide care, support and space for reflection. On Wednesday, we gathered as a College community for a liturgy led by our Year 7 students to celebrate Nathan’s life. It was a deeply moving occasion, with Nathan’s parents, Ana and Peter, in attendance. They expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the College for honouring and celebrating Nathan’s life.

In moments such as these, we are reminded of the importance of community, of standing together, supporting one another, and of holding fast to our shared faith.

As a faith community, we entrust Nathan to God’s loving care:

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord,and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen.

A Time of Learning, Growth and Opportunity

Across these weeks, our students and staff have continued to engage deeply in the life of the College. Classrooms have been filled with purposeful learning, co-curricular activities have flourished, and our shared commitment to the holistic development of each young person remains clear.

One particularly special moment in recent weeks was the unofficial opening of our new training restaurant, Marian Kitchen. I had the pleasure of attending a wonderful Italian-style shared feast prepared by Pippa Gilbert, with support from Nathan Smith, our VET Hospitality Teacher and Marian Kitchen Manager. The meal served to Pippa’s family, friends and teachers was nothing short of exceptional.

While these dinners have long been part of the VET Hospitality programme, Pippa’s event was the first to be held in our brand-new facility. The quality of the food, presentation, and service was on par with any high-class restaurant, making it a proud moment for our College. We look forward to opening Marian Kitchen to our parent community in the near future, with further information to follow.

Honouring Service and Sacrifice – ANZAC Day

As a College community, we also came together to commemorate ANZAC Day, honouring the courage, sacrifice and service of those who have served our nation.

Our Year 11 students led a respectful and deeply meaningful service that embodied both reverence and gratitude. A highlight was Mr Tom Cousins playing The Last Post atop St Patrick’s Tower, a moving and memorable moment that resonated strongly with all in attendance. It was a powerful reminder of the freedoms we enjoy and the enduring legacy of the ANZAC spirit.

Looking Ahead – Building for the Future

This week has also seen the start of the refurbishment of the St Patrick’s West Wing. The decommissioning of the old classrooms marks the start of an exciting project that will breathe new life into one of our most significant heritage spaces.

The redevelopment will deliver a modern learning environment in this spectacular building, with completion planned for the end of Term 1, 2027. This investment reflects our commitment to providing contemporary, high-quality learning spaces while honouring our College's rich history.

Celebrating Alumni Excellence

We also take great pride in celebrating the achievements of our former students. Congratulations to Scott Pendlebury, who recently equalled the VFL/AFL all-time games record in a match against Geelong.

Scott’s remarkable achievement is a testament to his dedication, professionalism and enduring excellence. As a proud former student of Catholic College Sale, he is an inspiration to our current students. We look forward to celebrating with him when he surpasses this record in the coming weeks, an extraordinary milestone in an outstanding career. Well done, Scott.

Moving Forward Together

In the weeks ahead, we continue to walk together as a community grounded in faith, hope and love. We do so mindful of the importance of caring for one another, especially in times of grief, and of recognising the strength that comes from our shared values.

I encourage all members of our community, students, families, and staff, to continue looking out for one another, showing kindness, and being attentive to those who may need support. Our College is at its best when we act with compassion and genuine care.

Thank you, as always, for your continued support of Catholic College Sale. It is through this strong partnership between home and school that we can provide the best possible environment for our young people.

Please continue to pray for Nathan and his family.

Yours sincerely,

Brett Van Berkel

Principal