During the last 10 days, homerooms in year 11 have started their day full of enthusiasm as all students rise to the challenge of taking part in the 2026 Push Up Challenge. The goal as a group is to complete 3,307 push ups (or squats, lunches, push outs etc) over 23 days. This number sadly reflects the number of people who lost their lives due to an acute mental health issue and the event itself is a national event completed by many schools and workplaces across the nation. The goal is to create awareness regarding mental ill health, reduce stigma and develop awareness about support services and strategies to use during times of crisis or heightened emotions.

Each team has its own strategy to motivate their members to complete the daily target whether it be music to create the vibe or lollies to entice participation; regardless, the engagement has been fantastic and the numbers to date are phenomenal. As a year group already, the students have completed well over 8000 and this number will only rise as we are only at the halfway mark.

The feedback from students and staff alike has been positive and the accompany fact that is provided each day has been the catalyst for some meaningful conversations and reflections. Students have been reminded of the support services available not only at school but also within the wider community. In addition, they have learnt the importance of early engagement to seek help.

Students have also learnt the importance of belonging and making meaningful connections as well as the importance, particularly if we are going to encourage males to seek support or speak up, that the biggest barrier to accessing support is the fear of being labelled or stigmatised. If we are going to make significant changes and reduce the number of people who sadly loose their life to depression or mental ill health we need to have meaningful conversations and remind everyone that it is NOT weak to seek or speak. I am confident that all of these young people will carry this message forward and be part of the positive change in society.

The last days of the challenge promise to be just as entertaining as the friendly rivalry between the home rooms heats up. Every morning the classrooms ring out with laughter, cheers and in particular some classic retro 80s tunes from one of the front running teams.

Although not a fundraising activity as such through sponsorship the team has received donations of $210 thus far which will be given to our nominated recipient, headspace Griffith. We are extremely grateful for those who have sponsored our group. Thanks, must also be given to the homeroom teachers as they have embraced the activity and motivate their students each and every morning.

As the term draws to a close the Yr 11 Wellbeing Team would like to invite everyone within our MCC community to be part of their “Share What You Can” food drive initiative as part of their term 2 wellbeing activities. The initiative itself reflects the Catholic ethos of care and service, and it is an example of putting our faith into action by working towards supporting those who are disadvantaged or marginalised within our community.

Luke 3:11: "And he said to them in reply, 'Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none, and whoever has food should do likewise.'"

With the cost of living continuing to rise and the winter months upon us even the smallest donation can make a significant difference to those experiencing homelessness or financial distress. The team will be collecting donations from Monday 22nd June until Thursday 2nd July with all donations being given to St Vincent de Paul and LCN (Linking Communities Network, lead agency within our region, Women’s Refuge & Youth Refuge) Both of these services provide frontline support and will ensure that the donations are available and distributed to those in need.

Obviously, there are direct benefits to the recipient who will ultimately receive your gift, but did you know donating significantly improves your mental wellbeing? The act of giving stimulates the brain's reward centres, releasing "feel-good" chemicals like dopamine, endorphins, and oxytocin. This boosts self-esteem, provides a greater sense of purpose, and reduces stress.

The activity is an invitation for you to contribute; there is no obligation nor pressure to participate but rather and invite to “Share What You Can”.

Suitable items include:

* canned soup * any dry goods

* packet soup * packet noodles

* UHT milk * baby formula

* cereal * canned fish/tuna

* juice or canned fruit * baked beans or similar

***We do request however that donations are please within “Best before Date”

There will be 2 collection tubs available. For students this will be located near the kitchenette in the L block and staff a tub will be located within the staffroom.

We thank you for your kindness and generosity of spirit and are reminded that true fulfillment often comes from serving our community.

Regards Sue Hone

(School Wellbeing Support Worker)

Careers News