Dear friends,

Term 3 has come to an end,

What a term this was, full of many different exciting events and opportunities for all our students. As this term draws to a close, we pause to reflect on the vibrant tapestry of Faith, Hope, and Love that has woven through our school community. These three pillars, so central to our shared journey, have been vividly alive in the experiences and events that have shaped our days.

NAIDOC

Our celebration of NAIDOC Week was a profound reminder of the enduring faith and deep connection to culture that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples embody. Through stories, art, and shared learning, we embraced a spirit of hope, hope for reconciliation, understanding, and a future built on respect. The richness of Indigenous wisdom invited us all to deepen our faith in community and stewardship of the land.

The theme for 2025 is The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy. NAIDOC Week marks a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. The 2025 theme, "The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy," celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of our ancestors.

This year, students undertook a learning experience during APC to develop a deeper understanding of what NAIDOC means, and to develop a deeper understanding of the theme and the meaning for the young First Nations people.

Parish Class Visits

The Parish Class Visits brought the faith alive in a more intimate and personal way. These moments of connection between students and parish leaders allowed our young people to witness the living presence of faith beyond the classroom walls. Through prayer, conversation, and fellowship, we saw hope blossoming in the hearts of students, nurturing a sense of belonging and purpose.

I.T. For Seniors

Our Community Action Team participated in the I.T. for Seniors program. This program not only equips our older community members with valuable digital skills but also echoes the love that forms the foundation of our school spirit. This initiative was a beautiful expression of intergenerational care, as students shared their knowledge with patience and kindness, demonstrating that love is often shown in the simplest acts of service.

New College Chaplain

We warmly welcomed our New College Chaplain, Fr John, whose presence has been a source of spiritual guidance and encouragement. The chaplain’s support has been a beacon of faith and hope for many, particularly during our Morning Masses. We hope that he will continue to support the growth of our spiritual faith journey.

Day in the Diocese

The Day in the Diocese united us with the wider faith community, strengthening our bonds and reminding us that we are part of a larger story. This collective gathering was filled with joyful worship and reflection, reaffirming our hope in the journey we share as a diocese. Nearly 400 primary and secondary students from across the Diocese made a pilgrimage to St. Michael’s Cathedral in Wagga Wagga to celebrate the 2025 Jubilee Year. Students were joined by Bishop Mark, staff, and community members for a day of workshops, prayer, and community. The 'Day in the Diocese' was based on the Jubilee theme of "Pilgrims of Hope," and included activities like art, music, and adoration, and concluded with a commissioning Mass. What a beautiful day to celebrate faith and hope!

Do It For Cancer Morning Tea

On Friday 19th of September, our hearts were moved during the Do It For Cancer Morning Tea, where love took centre stage. The event brought together staff in solidarity, demonstrating compassion and care for those affected by illness. It was a poignant reminder that love calls us to stand alongside one another in times of trial. Our DO IT FOR CANCER Morning Tea works with the Cancer Council to raise awareness of cancer and help raise funds to assist with research that, hopefully, one day may lead to a cure.

Our Morning Tea consisted of:

Cake Auction - Staff turn on their creativity and bake a cake that is donated and is auctioned off.
Raffles
Morning Tea

This year, we had 6 amazing cakes that were auctioned off, and we had some amazing results.

My thanks go to:

Hellen Panerello
Sarah O’Sullivan
Julieanne O’Keeffe
Janine Van Jaarsveld
Katherine Hannon

Your generosity was greatly appreciated, and your contribution has gone a very long way!

My appreciation and thanks also go out to Louisa Patten, Gorgia Garlick, Nicole Forrest, Michelle Swan, Ivan Mason, Kate Crosato, Sue Hone, Daniella Joeky, Sharee Carruthers, Brook Jarvis, Julie Cavallaro, William Lyon, Sanita Lole, Rudo Sithole, Kathy Sparkes and Anneka Morrison for all your amazing contributions.

We humbly pray for all those who are fighting cancer. We ask our Lord to give them the hope and courage they need each day. May our Lord comfort them in their pain and bless them with healing. May he continue to strengthen their family, friends and caregivers.

The contribution of all involved demonstrates how very lucky we are to have so many who are willing to contribute to a great cause!

Year 12 Final Liturgy and Mass

Finally, the Year 12 Final Liturgy and Mass was a profound moment of faith and farewell. As our senior students prepared to leave the nurturing embrace of the school, we celebrated their growth, resilience, and the hope they carry into their futures. The liturgy was a testament to the enduring love that has supported them throughout their journey, a love that will continue to guide them beyond these walls.

The Gospel during our Liturgy reminded them not to worry about tomorrow, for God is already there. We can trust that, just as He has walked with them throughout their schooling, He will continue to walk beside them into the future. When the road ahead feels uncertain, may they take comfort in knowing that God carries them in times of struggle and celebrates with them in times of joy. May they leave our College not only with knowledge, but with friendships, memories, and a faith that will guide them.

As we reflect on these events, we see how Faith, Hope, and Love have not only been themes but living realities in our school community. They remind us that through every gathering, every lesson, and every act of kindness, we are building a place where hearts are nurtured and spirits uplifted.

May the coming term continue to be filled with these gifts, inspiring us all to live with faith, to hope boldly, and to love deeply.

Until then, have a great break!

Yours in Faith

Mr Gabriel Abdala

Counsellor/Wellbeing