💫 Vale Pope Francis

Much has been said and written about the extraordinary life of Pope Francis. He was a Pope for all seasons, for all people regardless of their beliefs. People resonated with his genuine approach.

Millions of people around the world and the thousands who walked past his open coffin in St Peter’s Basilica gave homage to his humility, humbleness and his way of making the complex doable. Two words come to mind – Love and Kindness. He was a leader in the true sense of the word and treated all as equals. He was one for ages.

“A little bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just. Too often we participate in the globalization of indifference. May we strive instead to live global solidarity. Kindness is firm and persevering intention to always will the good of others, even the unfriendly." Pope Francis.

Much is known about Pope Francis’ public displays of affection, care and kindness. The legacy of Pope Francis may not be really understood for some years, but it will happen, and he will be remembered for being a Pope of courage, engaging the Church in a changing world. There are countless stories of his actions that most of us are not aware of, stories that one day will come to light and remind us of his incredible sense of service to others. This link is just of many examples of Pope Francis’ gentleness and compassion.

https://www.npr.org/2025/04/21/g-s1-50613/memorable-moments-from-pope-francis-papacy

💫 Staffing

Mrs Brock remains on indefinite leave to support her ill daughter. Mrs Gough (Director Faith & Mission) is on indefinite leave supporting her husband Peter who is in hospital being treated for a long term very serious illness. Kate Best (Admin) is on leave to support her ill mother.

Ms McKay is returning one a day a week while her cancer treatment continues.

The College is actively seeking suitable candidates to replace teachers who have moved on. In a time of widespread teacher shortages, rural schools face the constant pressure of attracting teachers.

💫 Maintenance Team

Due to the increased workloads, ongoing building works, general maintenance and upkeep of for current buildings, garden and landscape surrounds, Shane Woods will be joining the College Maintenance team. We look forward to Shane bringing his skills and workplace experience, as the College grows.

💫 Stage 1 & 2 Updates

Bricks and steel works will be delivered within the next two weeks and when framework is completed the roof will be added. Planning is underway for the Science Labs with one more school to visit before ROAM finalises the first architectural draft.

💫 Lest We Forget

A few years ago, I was privileged to place my hands on the tree that stands in the middle of the Lone Pine Cemetery at Anzac Cove, Gallipoli. I said a prayer for all who lost their lives. All around there were white headstones along with thousands of names on memorial walls. There are another 30 cemeteries in the immediate vicinity.

I stood next to the famed Simpsons (and his donkey) grave. The young man noted for his heroism taking a donkey onto the open battlefield to bring back wounded soldiers. Simpson’s bravery became the most prominent symbol of Australian courage and tenacity on Gallipoli. Not far from that cemetery there is a memorial wall with a quote from a past Turkish Military Commander in remembrance of the fallen at Gallipoli.

“Those heroes that shed their blood and lost their lives ... You are now lying in the soil of a friendly country. Therefore, rest in peace. There is no difference between the Johnnies and the Mehmets to us where they lie side by side here in this country of ours ... You, the mothers who sent their sons from faraway countries, wipe away your tears; your sons are now lying in our bosom and are in peace. After having lost their lives on this land they have become our sons as well.”

My emotions that special day at Lone Pine? For me it was of a deep sadness and gratitude for the legacy that has been given to us, which makes Australia such a special country.

A big thank you to our St Mary’s students who represented our wonderful College at the ANZAC Dawn and 10.00am Services. It was a privilege to stand beside the students who showed such sincerity in being present and pride in the St Mary’s uniform.

💫 The St Mary’s Spirit

Mrs Osborne emailed me two example of St Mary’s spirit from the College Cross Country. Jill Clarke (3B) stopped to help a student who fell and hurt himself. Jill went to get help and sacrificed her placing. There was another Australian who did the same but on a far bigger stage that is written in athletics history – Ron Clarke.

https://monumentaustralia.org.au/themes/culture/sport/display/32505-sportsmanship

Amelia Stevens (4A) ran the course twice to encourage a few students who were struggling. Nurse Lisa ran with them and these students all finished the course. Thank you to Jill and Amelia for your kindness and selfless approach to service. The spirit of St Mary’s is in good hands when we have students who let their actions speak.

💫 Congratulations Mr Dudfield

Matthew is a member of the Footscray Brass Band. During the Easter break at the National Championships the band was awarded the Australian A Grade Brass Band title. St Mary’s is blessed to have his expertise and passions for Music, which is so obvious in the excitement our College band show as they become more confident and skilled.

💫 Australia Votes

The election campaign comes to its conclusion on Saturday evening. Soon enough the results will be announced with congratulations and commiserations front and centre across radio and on TV. Whoever governs Australia for the next term I hope they are willing to recognise the true value of Catholic education and fund Catholic System Schools accordingly.

💫 Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney

Tonight, at St Mary’s Cathedral, Sydney a friend who I have known since 1988 will be consecrated Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney. Fr Tony Percy, the boy from Cooma NSW (Archdiocese Canberra Goulburn) studied Finance at NSW University before his calling to the priesthood. Whilst I am an apology to attend tonight, our group said a prayer from the top of the Grampians for this kind, intelligent priest who cared deeply for people. The bishop elect will do great things in his new episcopal role.

💫 Year 7 Camp

Year 7 have continued the excellent behaviour that is synonymous with St Mary’s Camps at Hall’s Gap. The students had a fantastic time enjoying the activities and the time away. They and we (staff) will sleep well tonight. On the Peak Walk this morning Group 3 were brilliant. When other walkers came upon us the students stopped, stood to the side and graciously let them through. (Every group of walkers said, “your students have wonderful manners.” )

Best wishes

Wayne Smith

Principal

DipEd (ACU) DipREd (ACU) Bed (ACU) GradCertEdAdmin (Edith Cowan)

GradDipREd (ACU) MEdAdmin (Charles Sturt) MTheoStudies (BBITAITE)

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