Assistant Principal — Religious Identity & Mission 

Laudato Si’ (Care of Creation) Conference 

A group of our Year 8 Landcare and Pathways (First Nations) students proudly represented the College at this year’s Laudato Si’ Day, sharing the important work they undertake to care for Country on our Austin’s Ferry Campus. 

As part of the event, students presented a video showcasing their ongoing partnership with Trent and Bushy, highlighting the many ways they are learning to respect, protect and connect with the land. Through this program, students have developed practical environmental skills while deepening their understanding of Aboriginal cultural knowledge and traditions. 

Throughout the year, students have participated in activities such as learning about cool burning practices, crafting waddies, and preparing and dyeing animal skins using traditional natural dyes. They have also explored traditional leatherwork and gained valuable insights into sustainable land management practices that have been passed down through generations. 

During Laudato Si’ Day, students further enriched their cultural learning by participating in traditional weaving activities and helping to plant native vegetation alongside students from other schools. The day was a wonderful opportunity for our students to celebrate stewardship of creation, share their learning with a wider audience, and demonstrate the positive impact they are making within our school community. We are incredibly proud of the way they represented the College and thank Trent and Bushy for their ongoing guidance, support and knowledge-sharing. 

"The Earth is our common home, and caring for Country is a responsibility we all share." 

Sacrament Celebrations for our students 

We were delighted to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation at St Bernard’s Church, Claremont, on Wednesday 27 September, led by His Grace, Archbishop Anthony Ireland and Fr Suresh. 

We congratulate Oliver, Ewan, Carter and Marshall, who received the Sacrament of Confirmation alongside students from Holy Rosary Parish School. Confirmation is an important milestone in a young person’s faith journey, strengthening their relationship with God and their commitment to living out the values of the Gospel. 

These students have prepared diligently for this special occasion through their learning and formation at the College, supported by Fr Suresh and myself. We are incredibly proud of their commitment and the example they have set for our school community. 

We hope to continue offering this opportunity each year. If your son is interested in progressing his faith journey through the Sacraments, please contact me at atoman@stvirgils.tas.edu.au . I will ensure sure your family receives information about next year’s program. 

Congratulations once again to our Confirmation candidates on this significant step in their faith journey.