From the Principal

 By Christine Shaw

Term 3 has seen significant student achievement, community engagement, and the ongoing development of student leadership, all reflecting the Loreto value of Felicity in action. Students have demonstrated leadership that enriches both the College and the broader community, through joy, gratitude, hope, and a commitment to building positive relationships.

We have seen them excel in a wide range of co-curricular pursuits throughout the term. In the Royal South Street Debating Competition, a number of teams competed with three teams making it into the Grand Final, the Senior and Intermediate teams winning their respective debates. Similarly, students participating in Public Speaking, and Speech and Drama represented the College with distinction, sharing thoughtful perspectives and demonstrating courage in expressing their ideas before wider audiences. Loreto’s third consecutive victory in the BAS Culinary Competition and the Girls’ Premiership in BAS Cross Country are testament to the dedication, persistence, and teamwork many of our students have displayed. The Father’s Day Liturgy was a student-led celebration held in the Chapel, followed by a community breakfast with our dads, grandads and special father figures. Through all these events, students have shown leadership and have been well supported by outstanding teachers who go above and beyond to create these opportunities.

We have announced the 2027 student leaders, which includes the appointment of Senate and House Executive members and College Captains, Grace Barr and Amali Torney.  At the Leadership Assembly, we celebrated Leadership across the College, inducting our new leaders and thanked all of the outgoing 2026 leaders including College Captains Bonnie Burt and Jemima Knobel. 

Leadership in all its forms across the College highlights the strength of our student voice and the commitment of our students in serving others. I spoke to our students at this Assembly, about the important lessons we can learn through the Season of Creation, reminded of our responsibility to care for God’s creation, in protecting the vulnerable, and working together for the wellbeing of all life. Such a mission requires leadership, not just from those in formal positions, but from every member of the community.

Drawing on the example of Mother Gonzaga, who cherished the natural beauty of Ballarat and named her publication Eucalyptus Blossoms, I referenced the Eucalypt tree as a powerful metaphor for our leadership. Trees demonstrate qualities that effective leaders should embody;  strong roots representing core values, resilience in times of challenge, adaptability to changing seasons, and a commitment to growth and learning.

Challenges and setbacks, like scars on a tree, build strength and wisdom over time. Just as trees communicate, support one another, and share resources through interconnected root systems, leadership thrives through collaboration, trust, and strong relationships. Leaders create opportunities for others to grow, mentoring and nurturing those around them rather than standing alone. 

For a Loreto graduate, leadership is grounded in the Loreto values of Freedom, Justice, Sincerity, Verity, and Felicity, in the way they serve others and create a positive legacy to inspire future generations. I reminded our students that leadership belongs to everyone at Loreto, not only those with titles or badges and the emerging leaders are already modelling the positive influence, hope, and enthusiasm that are central to the Loreto tradition. 

Gonzaga Barry Day finishes our term which is always a wonderful celebration for everyone, but even more importantly it is our time to reflect on our ‘why’ and give to others by raising important funds for the work of Mary Ward International. Everyone leads on this day, and we know that giving to others is one of the best ways we as a community can not only improve our own sense of wellbeing but enhance the lives of others less fortunate. Thank you for your support of this important day. 

I hope the pause of the holiday break brings renewal through rest, and for the Year 12 students completing VM tasks or preparing for VCE examinations, may it also provide the focus, confidence and perseverance needed to finish the year strongly and recharge for all that lies ahead.