Student Wellbeing News

Lots of exciting things are happening in the wellbeing space here at MCC. Following on from our “Do it for Dolly” activities earlier this month the “Wellbeing Team” have been displaying some of the finished pieces created by individual MCC year groups throughout the school. Subtle, and not so subtle reminders that together as a community we can make a significant difference and end bullying. We are all upstanders, uniting in a belief that there is zero tolerance for bullying and we have the capability and capacity to be the change we want to see in our world.

The theme will continue throughout the remainder of the year, reinforcing the importance of respectful relationships, positive relationships and how to encourage others to be upstanders rather than bystanders. The ultimate goal will be launched in term 4; it is to work in partnership with other local services or organisations and take the message to a greater community level. The team are starting to make plans for this, and it will be their major and final activity for this year but an amazing legacy for this group of passionate social justice advocates.

Currently, the “Wellbeing Team” are extremely excited with preparations well underway for the team to commence the “2025 Push Up Challenge”. They are looking forward to the opportunity for a bit of friendly rivalry between homerooms. The goal is to complete as a group within a specific timeframe 3,214 push ups which sadly represents death by suicide in Australia in the most recent year of available data. Each morning the group are provided with information and challenges from the organisation, and this is the catalyst for some great conversations within not only the homerooms but the wider MCC community. 

We are extremely fortunate at MCC to have amazing young people who are prepared to reduce the stigma associated with mental ill- health and start conversations to ensure that everyone is well supported and has the information needed to either access support or support someone in need.

Prior to our next newsletter 10 team members, their Pastoral Leader Ms Reynolds and I, will attend the Wagga Wagga Youth Mental Health Forum where the students will have the opportunity to network with others from schools within the greater Riverina community as well as take part in a workshop with Burn Bright. The presenters are an Australian based organisation providing evidence-based programs focussing on a young person’s psychological growth and development, encouraging young people to become active participants and community leaders, equipping them with self-belief, confidence, and a positive vision for the future. Following on from the workshop the students will have the opportunity during term 3 to work with their peers and not only share some of their experiences from the day but create a whole school activity. We are extremely excited to be part of this workshop and especially excited for the students to be able to have the opportunity to attend.

Finally, I would like to take the opportunity to acknowledge the approaching “National Sorry Day” and “The National Reconciliation Week” The 2025 theme 'Bridging Now to Next' urges all people to look ahead and continue the push forward towards a more united and respectful nation. This time holds great significance as it is a moment of reflection, empathy, and healing for the historical injustices endured by First Nations peoples caused by past government policies and actions, and to pave the way for reconciliation and understanding. Recognising Australia’s National Sorry Day is not only important for the Indigenous community, but for all Australians committed to building a more inclusive and reconciled society.

In a modern society that often values consumerism and excess Dr Tamara Mackean, a Waljen woman of the north-east Goldfields region of Western Australia is quoted as saying “Health and healing are interwoven, which means that one can't be separated from the other.” this quote serves as a reminder of the importance of learning and personal growth as a path to happiness and contentment.

“To us, health is about so much more than simply not being sick. It’s about getting a balance between physical, mental, emotional, cultural and spiritual health.” 

This holistic approach reflects the ethos of both the MCC Wellbeing Team and the pastoral team recognizing and valuing the importance of a person’s cultural identity and faith, their connection to the land as well as community. We take a proactive approach providing opportunities for creating a sense of belonging therefore restoring balance and harmony to the whole person and promote positive well-being for all members of our MCC school community. 

We provide the environment and nurture each individual to thrive and reach their full potential, whatever that may be.

Sue Hone 

(Student Wellbeing Worker)