Culture, Excellence & Growth 

A Journey to Remember – Reflecting on Our School Years

As our Year 12 students recently celebrated their final days of classes at Mary MacKillop Catholic Regional College, this provided an opportunity to reflect on their journey through secondary school. 

For many, it would feel like only yesterday that they were walking through the College gates as nervous but excited Year 7 students, wondering what the next six years would bring.

And what a journey it has been!

Think back to those early days in Year 7. Meeting new classmates, finding their way around the College, getting to know teachers and heading off on their first camp to Phillip Island, an experience our younger students now enjoy in Melbourne. These early experiences helped lay the foundations for friendships and memories that would last throughout their school years.

Then came Year 8 camp at Waratah Bay, Year 9 at Camp Coolamatong and Year 10 at Forest Edge. Each brought new adventures, challenges and opportunities to develop independence, resilience and friendships. In the senior years, the Year 11 and 12 retreats provided time to reflect on relationships, values, faith and the people they were becoming.

But a school journey is about so much more than camps and retreats.

It is the memories of Walkathons, Swimming and Athletics Carnivals, Cross Country, representing the College in school sport, performing in the choir or at music eisteddfods, and participating in excursions. 

It is also the everyday moments: conversations in the yard, friendships formed, laughter shared, challenges overcome and learning that takes place in classrooms. All these experiences contribute to the growth of our young people.

As a Catholic school, faith is also central to this journey. Through College Masses, liturgies, prayer, retreats and opportunities to serve others, students are encouraged to explore their faith, reflect on their values and consider how they can make a positive difference in the lives of others.

To our Year 12 students, take a moment to look back with pride, not only at what you have achieved, but at the people you have become, the friendships you have made and the memories you will carry with you.

To our students in Years 7–11, your journey is still unfolding. There are camps to experience, friendships to form, challenges to overcome and memories yet to be made. Often, the moments that shape us most are the ones we least expect, whether in the classroom, on camp, at a sporting event or simply spending time with friends.

To our graduating Class of 2026, congratulations and thank you for the contribution you have made to our College community. We wish you every success in your upcoming examinations and whatever journey lies ahead, whether that be further study, employment, travel or new opportunities. May you embrace the next chapter with confidence and courage, and always look back on your time at Mary MacKillop with fond memories, pride and a strong sense of belonging.