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Warm hearts, generous spirits: Supporting the Vinnies Winter Appeal
Last week, the St Mary's College community came together in warmth and generosity to support those doing it tough this winter through our annual Winter Appeal for the St Vincent de Paul Society.
On Wednesday 25 June, students and staffed donned their cosiest pyjamas, Oodies and Ugg boots for Winter Woolies Day, raising awareness and funds while also donating dozens of blankets, beanies, scarves, gloves and warm clothing. These thoughtful contributions will go directly to Vinnies to support those facing hardship during the coldest months of the year.
The highlight of the week was our Vinnies Quiz Night on Friday evening, where students, families, staff and friends came together for an evening of fun, trivia and social justice. Held in the Mary Morgan Wing, the night was a huge success – filled with laughter, spirited competition and a powerful sense of community. Our special guest speaker, Louise Wilson, Southern Regional President of Vinnies, reminded us why this cause matters so deeply, especially in winter, when the need is greatest.
A heartfelt thank you goes to our incredible SMC Cares student team, who coordinated every detail of the night, from collecting silent auction donations to running the kiosk and making sure everything ran smoothly on the night.
Thanks also to our generous local sponsors, who donated a stunning array of silent auction items, including cruises, yoga memberships, beauty products, wine and framed Tasmanian photography.
Whilst we don’t have the final tally just yet, early estimates indicate over $2,000 for the Vinnies Winter Appeal – a wonderful reflection of our community’s compassion and commitment to social justice.
Thank you to everyone who supported this important cause.
Belle Young
Youth Minister
First Nations students perform with the TSO
On Thursday 19 June, our First Nations students from Years 5 to Year 8 were invited to the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra's (TSO's) school performance of Australia: One Land, Many Stories.
Our students opened the event with a Welcome to Country taught to students by Palawa artist Dewayne Everettsmith. Their performance, guided by Ms Mary Heferen-Faulkner, set a powerful tone for the concert and was a true highlight of the day.
The students represented our school with pride and cultural integrity, demonstrating courage and leadership in front of an audience of more than 850 students from across Tasmania. Their voices and presence honoured Country and connected us all to the land and stories that unite us.
After the performance, the students were treated to a behind-the-scenes tour of the TSO by Learning and Community Projects Manager, Jack Machin. They had the opportunity to meet the conductor for the day, Aaron Wyatt, and were also warmly welcomed by two inspiring St Mary’s College alumni: TSO Brand Manager, Frances Darcey, and CEO, Caroline Sharpen, who made a special visit backstage to meet the girls.
Throughout the morning Mr Machin guided and encouraged the students to perform from their hearts and helped them to relax and enjoy the experience.
We are incredibly proud of these students, not only for their powerful performance, but for the way they stepped into this moment with humility, confidence and care. They embodied the spirit of storytelling, and shared pride in place.
Well done to all involved and a special thanks to Mr Michael Power for organising the opportunity!
Catherine Midson
First Nations Faciliator K–12