PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

As we approach the conclusion of the school year, today marks the final Friday that our Year 12 students will attend classes at St Mary MacKillop College. With only two school days remaining, it is difficult to believe that another graduating cohort is preparing to leave our community and embark on the next chapter of their lives. Whether pursuing further study, employment, apprenticeships, or other opportunities, we wish each of our Year 12 students every success and happiness in their future endeavours. They leave with our gratitude, prayers, and very best wishes. 

On Tuesday, our Year 9 students departed for Canberra and will return this afternoon. While the journey is a lengthy one, the educational opportunities afforded by a visit to our nation's capital are invaluable. The excursion provides many meaningful connections to the History curriculum, allowing students to deepen their understanding of Australia's political and historical heritage. We trust that the experience has enriched their learning and created lasting memories. 

We look forward to gathering as a College community for our End of Year Mass on Tuesday. This celebration provides a wonderful opportunity to give thanks for the many achievements, experiences, and blessings of the 2026 school year. 

At the conclusion of the year, we will farewell Mr Ash Seguin, who will complete his teaching internship with us before returning to Melbourne. We are grateful for the contribution he has made to our students and community during his time at the College. 

We will also farewell Miss Alannah Robinson-Hore, who will be taking twelve months' leave to travel and teach through mission work in communities less fortunate than our own. We thank Alannah for her dedication and service and wish her every success in this meaningful endeavour. 

As the weather becomes warmer, it is timely to consider the importance of sun safety. The following information is provided by the Cancer Council to remind families of the need to protect themselves from harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. 

UV radiation is a form of energy produced by the sun. The sun emits several types of energy: 

• Visible light – which we see as sunlight. 
• Infrared radiation – which we feel as heat. 
• Ultraviolet (UV) radiation – which we cannot see or feel. 

UV radiation is often mistakenly associated with heat; however, temperature does not determine UV levels. UV radiation can be just as intense on cool or cold days as it is on hot days, particularly when skies are clear. While thick cloud can provide some protection, UV radiation can still penetrate light cloud cover. Although UV levels are generally higher in summer than winter, UV radiation is present throughout the entire year. 

The UV Index categorises UV radiation levels as follows: 

• Low: 1-2 
• Moderate: 3-5 
• High: 6-7 
• Very High: 8-10 
• Extreme: 11 and above 

When the UV Index reaches 3 or above, it is important to take appropriate precautions to protect the skin from harmful UV exposure. 

A UV Index of 6 means sunburn can occur in as little as 23 minutes. Forecast UV levels over the coming week are expected to average around 8, which falls within the Very High category. 

At St Mary MacKillop College, we strongly encourage students to wear a hat whenever they are outdoors during Term 4. We ask families to support this important health message by ensuring their child brings and wears a hat each day. 

Thank you for your ongoing support as we approach the end of another successful school year.

Michelle Haeusler

Principal