Catholic Identity and Mission 

Feast of St Carlo Acutis: A Saint for the Digital Age

Each year on 12 October, the Church celebrates the feast of St Carlo Acutis, a young Italian teenager whose life continues to inspire people around the world, especially young people. In a time when technology can often distract and divide, Carlo showed how digital tools can be used to bring others closer to God.

Born in 1991, Carlo was an ordinary young person who loved soccer, computer programming, video games, and spending time with friends. Yet his life was also marked by an extraordinary love for the Eucharist. He often said, "The Eucharist is my highway to heaven." His deep relationship with Jesus shaped the way he lived, treating others with kindness, standing up for those who were bullied, and generously helping those in need.

What makes Carlo particularly relevant for our school community is that he understood the digital world. Rather than allowing technology to consume his life, he used his talents to evangelise. He designed websites and created an online catalogue of Eucharistic miracles, recognising that the internet could be a powerful tool for sharing faith, hope, and truth.

Carlo's example challenges us to reflect on our own use of technology. Are our online interactions marked by respect, kindness, and truth? Do our social media posts build others up or tear them down? Carlo reminds us that holiness is not reserved for a select few; it is a call for every person, in every age, including the digital age.

As students, staff, and families, we can draw inspiration from St Carlo Acutis' simple yet profound message: to place Jesus at the centre of our lives and to use our gifts in service of others. His witness assures us that sainthood is not about being extraordinary in the eyes of the world but about faithfully living the Gospel in the circumstances of everyday life.

On this feast day, may we pray through the intercession of St Carlo Acutis that we will have the courage to be authentic disciples of Christ, both online and offline, and that our lives may reflect the joy, generosity, and faith that shone so brightly in his.

St Carlo Acutis, pray for us.

A Farewell Reflection for the Class of 2026

As our Year 12 students prepare to conclude their final week of Catholic secondary education, we pause as a community to celebrate a significant milestone. This moment marks not only the end of your school years but also the beginning of a new chapter, filled with possibilities, opportunities, and the promise of growth.

Throughout this year, we have reflected on the words of Saint Mary MacKillop:

“No one in this world is perfect—love and bear with one another.” Mary MacKillop, 1889

These words provide a fitting reflection as you prepare to leave our College community. In a world that often demands perfection, Mary MacKillop reminds us that what truly matters is how we treat one another. The friendships you have formed, the challenges you have overcome, the forgiveness you have offered, and the compassion you have shown have all contributed to the people you are becoming.

Over your years at school, there have been moments of achievement and moments of disappointment, times of confidence and times of uncertainty. Yet through each of these experiences, you have learned one of life's most important lessons: that growth comes not from being perfect, but from being willing to learn, persevere, and walk alongside one another with kindness and understanding.

This year's graduating class also holds a very special place in my heart. Among you are a number of students whom I had the privilege of teaching as my very first Prep class at St Joseph's in Korumburra. To have watched you grow from those eager, curious young children into the remarkable young adults you are today has been a profound gift. It is difficult to put into words the pride and joy I feel seeing the people you have become. You have been part of my educational journey from its very beginning, and because of that, you will always hold a special place in my heart.

As you look towards life beyond our College gates, I encourage you to carry with you the values that have shaped your Catholic education. Be people who lead with compassion, who seek justice, who act with integrity, and who recognise the inherent dignity of every person you meet. The world does not need perfect people; it needs people of courage, kindness, faith, and hope.

Like Mary MacKillop, may you have the courage to trust in God's presence when the path ahead seems uncertain. May you continue to learn, to grow, and to use your God-given gifts in service of others. And may you always remember that success is measured not only by what you achieve, but by the difference you make in the lives of those around you.

As a College community, we are enormously proud of you. We thank you for the contributions you have made, the memories you have created, and the legacy you leave behind. While your time as students may be ending, you will always remain an important part of our College story.

As you embark on the next stage of your journey, know that you go with our prayers, our gratitude, and our best wishes. May God bless each of you with wisdom for the decisions ahead, strength for the challenges you will face, and joy in the opportunities that await.

Congratulations, Class of 2026. May you go forward with faith in your hearts, hope for the future, and the confidence to make a positive difference in our world.

May Saint Mary MacKillop walk with you, and may God bless you always.