Principal's Message
Dear Parents and Carers,
As a school community, we continue to reflect on the sad news we shared last week regarding the passing of Rapunzel Hikaru, a much-loved Year 3 student at St Philomena’s. Her absence is deeply felt, and we hold the Hikaru family in our hearts and prayers during this time of grief.
We are mindful that such loss can affect students in different ways. Support remains available for any student who may need it — please contact the school office if you feel your child would benefit from assistance. In the coming days, we will provide further information about the Requiem Mass for Rapunzel, which will be held next week.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. And let perpetual light shine upon her. May she rest in peace. Amen.
Athletics Achievements
Congratulations to all students for their participation and sportsmanship in our recent Athletics Carnival. It was wonderful to see the Phillies' spirit alive and well.
We would like to acknowledge that there was a correction in the Senior Girls points tally — this has now been rectified and the updated results are published in this newsletter.
Our Primary Dio Athletics team competed with great determination at the Armidale Diocese Athletics Carnival. A huge congratulations to the following students who have qualified to represent ACS at the Polding Championships in Glendale on Friday 12 September:
- Isabelle Riordan – Junior 1500m
- Sophia Cutler – 11yrs 1500m
- Elsie Sullivan – 11yrs Shot Put
- Colt Swan – 11yrs Long Jump
- Will Smith – Junior 800m & 1500m (broke 1995 Dio records in both events)
- Chase Cosgrove – Junior 800m & 1500m
- Digby Adams – 800m, 1500m & Long Jump (2025 Senior Boy Runner Up)
- Leo Tapscott – 13yrs 100m
In Secondary Athletics, Phillies students also shone brightly, with five qualifying for the NSWCCC Championships in Sydney in various events. We wish them the best in their upcoming competitions.
Outstanding Sporting Achievement – Rugby
Congratulations to Brodie Schutt, who has been selected for the NSW Waratahs Next Gen Cup for Rugby Union. This is a tremendous accomplishment and we are proud to see Brodie representing St Philomena’s and our diocese at such a high level.
Feast of the Assumption
Today, we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption, a Holy Day of Obligation for Catholics. This solemnity honours the belief that Mary, the Mother of Jesus, was taken body and soul into heaven at the end of her earthly life. It is a reminder of our shared hope in the resurrection and God’s promise of eternal life. As a school, we gathered in prayer to reflect on Mary’s faith, humility, and trust in God’s plan.
Pursuing Potential – Secondary Focus
This term, our Secondary students have been engaging with our theme of Pursuing Potential. This initiative challenges our students to set personal goals, take ownership of their learning, and strive to be the best version of themselves — academically, spiritually, socially, and physically. It’s about recognising that growth comes through both effort and reflection, and we are proud to see students embracing this mindset.
Enrolments for 2026 Now Open
A reminder that enrolment interviews for 2026 will begin in the coming fortnight. If you have a sibling ready for Kindergarten next year, or know families who may be interested in joining St Philomena’s, please encourage them to submit their enrolment forms as soon as possible.
Alistair Stewart
Principal