College Leadership Team

Principal’s News

Dear Parents and Carers

We are at the end of another exciting term and it is timely, as we move to the holidays, that I offer sincere thanks and gratitude for those special people in our community; the students and staff who have contributed so much to making this College such a wonderful and inspiring place.

I also want to thank our amazing teachers who have persevered to look after students’ learning across this term, and all our Middle Leaders on staff who have supported students and teachers during Term 1. Over the last ten weeks, we have been focusing on impactful teaching strategies for all students, and I have been privileged to see some great teaching and student engagement. Over the break, I invite families and students to reflect on:

What went well this term?
Where is the opportunity to improve?
What do I need to improve?
Who can help me?

These reflective practices will deepen the focus on continuous improvement and commitment to success. Together, we are building strong foundations.

At this time of year, we also reflect on the Easter message as we support Caritas Australia through Project Compassion, one of Australia’s largest humanitarian fundraising campaigns. We are grateful for all who have supported Caritas this Lent and we send our prayers to all those who are in distress across the world. As we hear what is happening in other countries, we witness the impacts of these traumatic factors worldwide; the stories of war in the Middle East, fuel prices increasing exponentially, and the potential for reduced stock again in our shops. Together, these factors are creating a sense of unease and trepidation in many people.

When this happens, we need to look to Jesus, our model of managing in times of trouble. When we read the scriptures and hear about the events that lead up to Easter, we see how Jesus responded in that tumultuous time and we gain a good understanding of how we too can respond in a tumultuous time.

Jesus took time out for prayer and reflection. He connected with nature in a garden even in his last hours and he called on God for support. Jesus prayed. This showed his faith. So too for us, despite all that happens we can look to prayer and reflection in our faith as our strength.

Jesus endured the horror of crucifixion, beatings, and derision on Good Friday. Yet, in his last moments he asked for forgiveness on those who had perpetrated this horror. He showed absolute courage. And then, in his very last moments, in an act of great hope, he offered his soul to God. He said “Father! In your hands I place my spirit!” (Luke 23:46)

Jesus shared with his friends and family. He offered wisdom and showed compassion, even for those who were against him. We can learn that despite our stress and unease we are always able to care for those around us and be people of healing. We can be the love of God in the world.

I send you Easter blessings of faith, hope and love as we go out to make a difference in our world.

God Bless,

Kerry

Introducing our Business Manager

I am pleased to announce the appointment of Ms Karen Pitts to the position of Business Manager at St Mary’s Catholic College. Karen will commence in the role on Monday 13 April.

Karen brings a wealth of experience in financial management, operational leadership, and organisational administration. She has demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting dynamic organisations, and we look forward to the important contribution she will make to the continued growth and stewardship of our College.

In her role as Business Manager, Karen will oversee key areas including financial planning, budgeting, compliance, administration, and the leadership of non‑teaching staff. Her work will play a vital role in supporting the Principal and the College Leadership Team in upholding the mission and vision of St Mary's Catholic College.

Prior to joining the College, Karen held significant leadership positions with North Queensland Airports and Barrick Gold Australia, bringing valuable experience from both corporate and operational environments.

The selection panel, which included Paul McArthur (CEDC Chief Financial Officer), Luke Saunders (CEDC Manager - School Support), Mr Paul De Boom (Parent Representative), and me, were impressed by Karen’s capability, professionalism, and alignment with our College’s values. I extend my sincere thanks to the panel members for their contribution to this process.

Please join me in congratulating Ms Pitts on her appointment and in offering your support as she begins her role at St Mary’s Catholic College. We warmly welcome her to our community.

God Bless,

Kerry Manders

Principal