Principal

National Reconciliation Week (27 May – 3 June)

National Reconciliation Week (NRW) serves as a time for all Australians to learn about the shared histories, cultures, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. It aims to foster reconciliation by encouraging individuals and communities to reflect on the past and work towards a more inclusive future. The dates of NRW commemorate two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey:

• 27 May, 1967: The successful referendum that allowed the Australian government to make laws for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and included them in the national census.

   

• 3 June, 1992: The High Court's Mabo decision, which recognised the land rights of Indigenous Australians and overturned the concept of terra nullius (land belonging to no one).

The theme for 2025 is Bridging Now to Next, which emphasises the ongoing connection between the past, present, and future, encouraging all Australians to step forward together in the reconciliation journey.

As a school in the tradition of Edmund Rice, we are compelled to educate our boys about the need to address the injustice served to First Nations people and the need as Christians to stand in justice and solidarity with them, so their life outcomes improve.

Amongst a minority of our student population, there is often some confusion about the validity of including First Nations customs and rituals in our liturgies.

Here is some information about the symbols, rites and celebrations associated with Aboriginal ceremonies and their similarity to religious rituals of the Catholic Church (adapted from Catholic Education Office WA).

A couple of facts to note.

When we gather for assemblies or liturgies, we Acknowledge Country before we make the Sign of the Cross and begin our prayers.

As Christians, we acknowledge the incredible design of our creator God who, in the beginning, decided that it was right and good for the First Australians, Indigenous peoples of this land, to be resident here to care for it and enjoy its fruit.

And so, we continue to deepen Indigenous cultural traditions of respect, servanthood, and honour by acknowledging that we are meeting (or working) on traditional Indigenous lands. We recognise the peoples’ name (Wangal clan) and the language group (Darug People). We conclude by paying our respect to Elders, both past, present, and emerging. In so doing, we join with the restoring, reconciling, and healing work of the Holy Spirit amongst all peoples of Australia. We hope that our acknowledgement of country may encourage others into a journey marked by respect and understanding so that we may together live in peace and harmony.

On a special occasion, such as Reconciliation Week, a smoking ceremony may form part of the Acknowledgement of Country. The smoke is not there for the purposes of calling upon spirits but rather for blessing and healing. 

All this occurs before we commence our prayer liturgy and the transition to Catholic prayer is clear – we mark ourselves with the Sign of the Cross.

Blue, Black and Gold Dinner

I returned from Perth last Friday and had a marvellous time at the BBG Dinner at Le Montage. It was well attended, and we all had so much fun. I thank Elena Ierardo, Caroline Chahin, and Jaslyn Hewitt-Shehadie for organising such a wonderful evening.

Parent social events offer a platform for parents to connect, share experiences, and build supportive networks. These events benefit parents by providing a sense of community, reducing isolation, and offering practical and emotional support. They can also strengthen relationships between parents and children's educators. The benefits to parents are not always obvious.

Building Networks:

These events facilitate the development of informal support networks, where parents can connect with each other for advice, practical help, or emotional support. 

Shared Experiences:

Parents can share their joys and struggles, normalising the experiences of parenting and fostering a sense of community. 

Increased Confidence:

Learning from other parents and seeing that they are facing similar challenges can boost a parent's confidence in their parenting abilities. 

Strengthened Relationships with Educators:

Events can allow parents to interact with their child's educators in a more relaxed setting, building stronger relationships and fostering a sense of partnership.

2025 Strathfield Rotary Youth Achievement Awards and Certificates of Commendation

Last week, several of our lads won Rotary Youth Achievement Awards. These awards recognise the outstanding achievements of young people who go back to school, live, work or train in the Strathfield or adjacent local government areas. Running since 2003, the Awards are recognised by the Rotary Club of Strathfield, and feature categories of Arts and Culture, Environment, Community Service, Science and Technology, and Sport. 

I thank Mr Simpson for attending the evening on my behalf while I was on leave, and to our Year Coordinators who know the boys, their interests and successes and their efforts in seeing them recognised in the wider community.

Declan Fletcher: Community Service - Certificate of Commendation, 

Sports Award-Junior Certificate of Commendation; 

The Roy Ellis Shield (Young Sportsperson of the Year)

Declan was recognised for his outstanding contribution and achievements in Community Service and sports such as Surf Lifesaving, rugby refereeing and cricket. Declan’s involvement and achievements as a member of Bondi Surf Bathers’ Life Saving Club (BSBLSC) since 2012 was noted. This included him completing his Bronze Medallion, permitting him to patrol at Bondi and compete in Surf Sports with the senior club. Declan has been part of several teams that have achieved success at NSW and national championships in 2023-24. Declan was Bondi’s U17 male Club Champion in 2024. He is a valued member of the BSBLSC and a reliable and skilled member of his Bondi patrol team. 

Massimo Costa-Puntillo: Sports Award - Junior 

Massimo was recognised for his ongoing achievements in karate, which included his attendance at the 2025 TSKF Australian National Championships held in Perth. He was successful in each of his five bouts, resulting in achieving two gold medals and him retaining his title as National Champion. This has built upon his success at the international World Shoto Championships in which he participated in London in September 2024. As part of the Team Style Kumite category, earning the prestigious "World Champion" title. Massimo has also been graded to his Second Dan black belt, a rank held by very few under 18. After London, Massimo prides himself on becoming a Sempai or Instructor at his dojo and plays an integral role in training and developing the future champions of NSW, volunteering his time to the sport he loves so much. 

William Ters: Community Service Award

William was recognised for his consistent advocacy and exceptional commitment to social justice, leadership, and service throughout school. This includes receiving the Brother Chanel Powell Extra Service Award through the SOL service program, his volunteer work with Chalmers Road School, involvement in the Peer Support Program, and as a dedicated member of the Social Justice Action Group (SJAG). William has completed the Desmond Tutu Courageous Leadership Course and represented the College at the Edmund Rice Advocacy for Change 2024 Launch Day. He has taken part in several national and local campaigns in both 2024 and 2025. 

Jack McDonald: Community Service - Certificate of Commendation

Jack was recognised for his achievement in completing the Surf Life Saving Silver Medallion Aquatic Rescue (SMAR) course—one of the most challenging and respected qualifications in coastal emergency response. He was one of only two candidates selected from each Northern Beaches Surf Club to complete the demanding course. He was the youngest participant in the course to earn this prestigious qualification. He will formally receive his Silver Medallion from Branch Headquarters in the coming weeks, a well-deserved recognition of his skill and determination in the field of aquatic rescue.

Christopher Mok: Arts and Culture Award - Certificate of Commendation

Christopher was recognised for his consistent excellence in music, notably as a McGlade Organ Scholar at the College, having completed his AMEB Grade 8 Piano Exam with Honours, and working towards his Certificate of Music. Furthermore, his academic achievements in Year 10 and recognition for his extraordinary contribution to the College’s Co-curricular Program were noted. Furthermore, his continued participation in activities such as the Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and tennis in Year 11 has been recognised.

Michael Bridge: Arts and Culture Award - Certificate of Commendation

Michael was recognised for his passionate and dedicated contribution to the performing arts at the College since Year 8. Serving as the Performing Arts Captain (Theatre), Michael leads with energy, humility, and a deep respect for collaboration. He is known not only for his talent but also for his unwavering commitment to supporting others and lifting the standard of every performance of which he is involved. His dedication extends beyond the school walls—he was part of a group that won an external sustainability performance competition, using creativity and performance to raise awareness for an important global issue. Beyond theatre, Michael shares his musical talents at key school events. These moments highlight not just his artistic skills, but also his ability to connect meaningfully with the school community.

Elijah Mannah: Arts and Culture Award- Certificate of Commendation

Elijah was recognised as a vibrant and gifted performer whose passion and dedication for both music and theatre has made a lasting impact both within the College and in the wider community. He is a valued member of the choir, contributing his voice to group performances that enrich school events and liturgies. A long-standing participant in College productions, his presence on stage is marked by his strong voice, natural stagecraft, and a genuine love for entertaining others. Beyond school, Elijah is known across the state for his Elvis tribute performances, including the prestigious Parkes Elvis Festival and community events. His performances not only showcase his talent but also his generosity in using that talent to bring people together.

Isaac Tannous: Arts and Culture Award - Certificate of Commendation

Isaac was recognised for his talents as a musician and respected student leader who has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to the College and the wider community. As an SPC Organ Scholar, Issac has brought music to life in school liturgies and formal occasions, enriching the spiritual and cultural fabric of the College. Outside of school, Issac is a member of the prestigious Sydney Youth Orchestra, where he collaborates with other gifted young musicians and continues to refine his performance abilities at a high level. Issac’s commitment to the community is grounded in a belief in giving back—using his talents to uplift others and bring people together through music and service. He is admired not only for his achievements but for his character, and he leaves behind a legacy of excellence, leadership, and generosity.

Nicholas Macher: Sports Award - Junior Certificate of Commendation

Nicholas was recognised for his achievements in the field of long-distance pool and open water swimming, notably being a multi-medalist at recent National-level open water championships.  In January 2025, Nicholas achieved a 3rd place and bronze medal in the 7.5km event, which saw Australia’s leading distance swimmers compete. Subsequently, he was selected into the National Flippers Squad – Open Water, a key part of Swimming Australia’s pathway for developing high-performance swimmers to reach the highest levels of competition.  This is the second time Nicholas has achieved selection onto the National Flippers Squad after securing 2nd place and a silver medal in the 7.5km event in 2024. 

Romeo Nasr: Sports Award - Junior Certificate of Commendation

Romeo was recognised for his ongoing success in his chosen field of motor racing. During the last four years, Romeo competed in all rounds of the Australian Kart Championship, which were held across the Australian states, and obtained several top five placings. In 2024, Romeo represented Australia on the world stage, where he participated and consistently placed in the Champions of the Future Academy Program, competing in countries such as Belgium, Spain, and Italy. In 2025, he was selected to drive in the Australian Toyota Gazoo Scholarship Series. During the Easter weekend, Romeo and his teammate won their category at the prestigious Bathurst 6 Hour Enduro production car event.

In Memoriam

We keep in our prayers Mr John McCarthy (Year 6 Teacher) on the recent loss of his beloved grandfather. May he rest in eternal peace. 

Dr Vittoria Lavorato

Principal

SPC boys can do anything! 

**except divide by zero