Deputy Principal Operations

Living with Courage, Purpose, and Accountability 

Much has been said about Neale Daniher these past few days, and rightly so. What an amazing legacy he leaves behind. As we reflect on his incredible impact, there is so much that we, and particularly our students, can take from his profound example. Neale beautifully modelled our core Mercy values, particularly those of courage and service. In the face of immense personal adversity, his dedication to serving others and fighting for a cure for MND showed a strength of character that should inspire us all. He famously noted that, "when all is said and done, much more is said than done." This is a powerful reminder for our young people that true character is measured by actions, not just words. 

Dreaming Big: Careers and Future Pathways  

Guided by that spirit of action, our Year 9 and Year 10 students have spent the past two weeks attending careers expos. At St Mary’s, we are deeply committed to ensuring our students ‘Dream Big’. Our young people couldn't have more dedicated, passionate staff supporting them in their endeavours, helping them turn those big dreams into tangible future pathways.  

Welcoming the Class of 2027 

Over the last fortnight, Mrs. Allison Moore and I have had the absolute pleasure of conducting enrolment interviews for our incoming Year 7 class of 2027. During these conversations, prospective students and their families frequently speak about why they want to join the St Mary’s College community. They consistently highlight: 

• Our deeply supportive learning environment. 
• Our culture of high expectations. 

• Our consistent follow-up and clear consequences when students make poor choices. 

   

School is, and always should be, a safe space for students to make mistakes. However, we firmly believe that clear consequences help students learn. As adults, we know there are consequences, both positive and negative, to every choice we make. We want to teach our students this reality as they grow into young adults. Crucially, we teach our students that poor choices and mistakes do not define them. A mistake is a moment in time, not a reflection of a student's worth, and it is through navigating these moments that true character is built. The ability to reflect on our actions, understand how they have impacted others, and take genuine responsibility for them can be difficult. Yet, it is an essential part of growing into a person of integrity. 

 Keeping Our Students Safe Online 

As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping our students safe, we would like to issue an important reminder to parents regarding mobile phone and technology use. If your child is under 16, please pay close attention to the legal age requirements for various social media platforms. We highly encourage parents to actively view their child’s messages and photos from time to time.  

Why Proactive Monitoring Matters 

 A Shared Responsibility: If we engage as a collective community to monitor our children's digital footprints, we can protect them. 

Immense Power: Mobile devices hold incredible power. Used correctly, they are wonderful tools; used inappropriately, they can have devastating consequences on others. 

Positive Direction: Active parenting helps ensure students use these devices safely, kindly, and positively. 

Leadership Update 

As a final note, our Principal, Wayne Smith, is currently on leave. During his absence, it is a privilege to have been asked to assume the position of Acting Principal. Additionally, Allison Moore will be taking on the role of Acting Deputy Principal Operations over this period. 

Please feel free to contact me at any time via email to genevieve.gordon@smseymour.catholic.edu.au or by phone on (03) 57922611. 

Warm regards, 

Genevieve  

Acting Principal  

BAppScPE (RMIT), BExScHons (UB), MEdWellbeing (ACU), GradCertCathSt (ACU) 

 Mrs Genevieve Gordon

genevieve.gordan@smseymour.catholic.edu.au