The school year has a number of activities and celebrations that are significant for students and their families and hopefully will create life-long memories for many.

At the end of Term Two, during the school concert, we were reminded of the importance of the students sharing their talents with their community, who were of course, very proud of them. Over the year our school has rallied together with the Parents and Friends Committee to help raise funds for a new playground. Today we also thank the parents who gave up their time to run the Father's Day Stall- one of many events that have parent involvement. Together, we have seen the power of teamwork and felt the sense of belonging that comes from experiences like these.

At the beginning of Term 3 Danielle was in Darwin for a Principal's Conference which highlighted to her the importance of community support as shown in a small island community. Here is Danielle's reflection -

I was very fortunate to attend the 2023 Principal conference in Darwin.

On Monday the 17th of July I awoke to an alarm at 3.00 am!! Far too early for my liking. After a few coffees I was able to function.

As I arrived at the airport I was filled with a range of emotions and the realisation that I had far too many bags. Yes, I took out the award for MOST LUGGAGE!!! Going away with a group of NEW people certainly took me out of my comfort zone, which is what we often ask our children to do.

Throughout the 5 days we visited many attractions in Darwin and had the opportunity to listen to many knowledgeable locals.

The highlight of the conference was visiting the Tiwi Islands. After a 2-and-a-half-hour boat trip we arrived at Bathurst Island where we were met by locals. We were welcomed with such warmth and were immersed into their culture with a smoking ceremony. We visited the Museum to learn about the history of the island and also had the opportunity to meet the principals of the primary and secondary schools on the island.

We were fortunate enough to meet with an amazing woman Sister Anne Gardiner (92 years old) who has worked with the community for the last 63 years. Sister Anne works in the Mission on the island and with St. Theresa’s church, which is in desperate need of restoration. The church was originally constructed and painted by the locals and is very special to the Tiwi people.

The church was truly amazing, but certainly in need of restoration. The Tiwi people love visiting the church as it offers a place for solace and reflection.

Sister Anne’s passion and dedication to this remote community is truly inspirational. The difference she has made to the community is evident. She holds a very special place in the locals' hearts.

The Eastern Central Zone Principal network has decided that we would like to fundraise to support the Tiwi people on behalf of Catholic schools in our region.

The decision is for our schools to independently hold a walkathon during the last week of term three. As a school we have decided to hold this with Footy Colours day!

Upon reflection I am so pleased I took this opportunity. Not only did I walk away with wonderful memories, but the powerful connections forged with new people and the opportunity to reflect on Aboriginal culture.

Danielle Rodgers

At Good Shepherd as a staff, we will map out an area to walk and ask for students to make a gold coin donation on the last day of Term 3. Please see further information in the' Walk For Tiwi Islands' page.

Next Sunday, 10th September, two groups of First Communicants will celebrate their First Holy Communion. The third and last group will celebrate the following Sunday, the 17th September.

Links for both Masses will be sent to the First Communicant's families later this week.

We have also decided to send the links to the whole community.

We sent a link for the Confirmation Mass to all families recently, and many families who were not involved with the Sacrament of Confirmation this year reported that they had viewed all or part of the Mass.

The celebration of the Sacraments is an important part of our Good Shepherd Parish Community.

Danielle & Ruth