From the Directors

Student Safety in the Community: A Message for Our College Families

In light of the recent and deeply saddening incident at Mernda Station, where a young man tragically lost his life while assisting a student under threat, our College wishes to reaffirm its commitment to student wellbeing and safety both on campus and in the wider community. While such events can understandably cause concern, this is an important moment for us to come together as a community, support one another, and empower our young people with practical strategies for staying safe in public. 

We encourage all families to take this opportunity to talk openly at home about personal safety, travelling confidently, and knowing how to seek support when something does not feel right. These conversations play a crucial role in helping students feel prepared and assured in their daily movements beyond school.

Victoria Police provides clear and practical advice for staying safe in public spaces and when using public transport. Their guidance emphasises the importance of staying alert, travelling safely, and planning ahead. Students are encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings, keep headphone volume low enough to hear what is happening around them, choose well lit and busier areas when walking or waiting for transport, and avoid isolated train or bus stops, particularly in the late afternoon and evening. 

When using trains, trams, or buses, Victoria Police recommends waiting in visible areas, travelling in busier carriages, and when possible, seeking support from Protective Services Officers (PSOs). These officers patrol many stations from 6 pm until the last train each night and are available to assist anyone who feels unsafe or requires support. Students should also be reminded that if they ever feel uncomfortable, moving to a different carriage, changing seats, or seeking help from station staff or PSOs are appropriate and encouraged actions. 

One simple but helpful step we encourage is avoiding large congregations at stations before or after school. Choosing to move promptly and calmly through transport hubs reduces exposure to anti-social behaviour and supports a safer and smoother journey home. Travelling with friends, planning routes ahead of time, and ensuring phones are charged are also easy ways to stay prepared and supported.

Our College remains a safe and welcoming place for all students. Staff are on duty and available until 4:30 pm each day, and students are always encouraged to return to campus if they feel unsure, unsafe, or uncertain about their next steps. Whether they need to contact family, wait for a safer connection, or simply take a moment to regroup, we are here to help.

If a student ever feels unsafe in public, Victoria Police encourages reporting concerns either directly to PSOs or station staff, or through police assistance lines and Crime Stoppers for non urgent matters. For emergencies or immediate danger, calling Triple Zero (000) remains essential. 

We know that events like the one at Mernda Station can affect young people in different ways. Some may have questions, some may feel unsettled, and others may simply benefit from reassurance and routine. By working together as families, students, staff, and our broader community, we can ensure our young people feel supported, informed, and confident as they navigate the world beyond school.

Thank you for partnering with us in keeping our students safe, resilient, and connected.

Ms A Xerri 

Assistant Principal (Campus Director DRC)

Miss N Meade 

Assistant Principal (Campus Director DSC)