The Mazenod College Newsletter

From the Principal

Dear Parents, Students, Staff and Friends of Mazenod College,

 

“There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit distributes them. There are different kinds of service, but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working, but in all of them and in everyone it is the same God at work. Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good.” (1 Corinthians 12:4–7).

As we reach the conclusion of another busy and fulfilling term, I used today’s assembly to provide a reminder of the many wonderful gifts and talents within our community. From performances in Drama and Music at the Catholic Performing Arts Festival, to our sporting achievements in the ACC Athletics Carnival and Senior Boys Soccer or through the MJFC or CMJHC, to Outdoor Education camps and the dedicated work of our Sustainability group, our students continue to shine in diverse and inspiring ways. Highlights such as the Year 7 Water Expo further remind us of the creativity, energy and depth of learning that takes place each day at Mazenod College.

 

Thank you to all staff and students who have contributed so much to College life this term. I challenged our students that if they find themselves reflecting that their contribution has been small, I encouraged them to consider the many opportunities ahead in Term 4 – whether in faith, academics, service, sport or the arts – and to step into them with dedication, generosity and commitment.

 

I am pleased to share with you some recent staffing appointments for the 2026 school year. These roles are vital to the life and mission of our College, and we are confident that those appointed will continue to lead with dedication and generosity of spirit.

 

I would like to make special mention in announcing the appointment of Dr Nathan Leber, who will join Mazenod College in 2026 as our Director of Catholic Faith & Oblate Mission. Dr Leber will join us directly from Trinity College, having held various roles in school and the wider educational communities and Catholic ministries. We will introduce Dr Leber in more detail prior to 2026, but are thrilled to have his extensive knowledge, wisdom and experience joining our Oblate Mission team at Mazenod College.

 

In other exciting news, I confirm the following internal appointments;

 

  • Head of Learning Area (English)
    • Ms Candice Betts
  • Head of Learning Area (Humanities)
    • Mr Leon Maag
  • Newly appointed Heads of Year;
    • Mr Brandon Poletti (Year 7)
    • Mrs Vicky Pulford (Year 8)
    • Mr Matthew Alexander (Year 9)
    • Ms Michelle Otway-Melvin (Year 11)

 

We congratulate each of our staff on their appointment and thank them for their ongoing commitment to our students and College community. As they prepare to step into these new roles in 2026, we will keep them in our prayers and offer them our full support. Mrs Jane Cox returns in Term Four in the role as Head of Year 10, to continue in 2026 and we thank Ms Michelle Otway-Melvin for her work this year in filling this vacancy. Mr Liam Mallon will follow his current year group in 2026 as the Head of Year 12.

 

This time of year is a very important time in the Student Leadership program of the College where the important selection process for 2026 Student Leaders occurs. The calibre of applicants from our Year 11 cohort was again outstanding and I’d like to acknowledge all of the Year 11 students who submitted applications. Those students who have been selected for the various positions are announced in the earlier weeks of Term Four. I think however, that it is important to remember that leadership never starts or ends with a badge, a title or a selection process, but is rather seen through action and example. As such, we are always fortunate to have such quality students. Needless to say, student leadership in our College in 2026 is in a very enviable position with the calibre of students across the spectrum of our community.

 

This week saw the conclusion of formal classes for our Year 12 students. Whilst we have an extensive Graduation, Farewell and Valedictory program awaiting us in Term 4, we did enjoy the celebrations this week that mark the commencement of our farewells for this group.

 

Let us keep our Year 12 students in our prayers. For many, this is a time of exams and final preparations, and we trust that their hard work and perseverance will be rewarded. May we all be supportive of them as they conclude their formal journey at the College.

 

In conclusion, I wish all able, a safe, restful and joyful holiday. May our staff and students return refreshed, ready to finish the year with strength and spirit. A reminder to all of our students too, that Term 4 begins in summer uniform – including the tie!

 

God bless.

 

“Consult not your fears but your hopes and your dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do”. (Pope John XXIII)

 

Simon Harvey

Principal