From the Principal

For me, writing this final newsletter is a bittersweet moment. Of course, I am looking forward to returning home to family and friends in Melbourne. However, my term here at St Augustine’s College has been both a blessing and a privilege.  I have learnt so many new and unexpected things - camels, as well as cows, are milked around here! 

         -  it’s called Ky, not Kyabram

         -  the land is so flat, and when it rains, there are puddles!

         - everyone knows everyone else - not an unexpected country thing

         - and 21C in November is a cold day! (Blimey, I come from Belgrave and Ballarat)

Being part of this F-12 school has provided the most thrilling learning of all; where senior students walk seamlessly amidst Foundation students, where Foundation students knock on my window and share particular information about their day, and where there is such a strong sense of community. It has been a truly uplifting and wonderful experience. 

While living within a small community would have its moments, good and less so, it is clear that support abounds when needed and as the College motto encourages, living with Strength and Kindliness is what matters most of all. 

As a Catholic school community, we celebrate the coming of Christ and understand that over 2000 years later, we are the ones who are asked to be part of the coming of the Gospel, to contribute to the world, in whatever community, to be signs of hope that “never go away until, someday, the star finally shines” (Joan Chittister, Waiting is not easy). 

And now students are heading off for the Christmas and summer holiday break. We offer farewell and best wishes to those who are moving in new directions and wish them well for their future learning endeavours.  Also at this time, the College farewells several staff. 

Taking leave over the next twelve months or more are Tamara Brereton, Cathy Kyne, Sean Martin, Elly Pinnuck, Sophie Robinson and Ivy Davidson. 

Moving into new schools are Grace Hammond, Molly Carver, Elaine Atley, Ebony Barron, Bryana Pogue, Kerri Bowman, Stephen Smith, Lauren Hall, Loretta Richardson, Rosalind Willsher and Mel Key. 

We will be offering a formal farewell and thanks to all of these staff for their service and contributions to the College, some over many years, at our final Staff gathering next Thursday. 

And so I too must sign off.  My thanks to all who have made me welcome and supported me in my role at the College. I wish you all a peaceful and hope filled Christmas and New Year. 

“May you go often to the Bethlehem of your heart and visit the One who brings deep and sustaining peace.”

Mary Fitz-Gerald

Principal