From the Director of Identity and Mission

Anzac Gathering

Term 2 began with a solemn gathering as the whole College community came together on the College Green to commemorate Anzac Day. The significance of this day, which the nation remembered during the school holidays (25 April), was shared with the students by our Head Prefect, Lucy Hofler.  We then listened to prayers and a Gospel reading led by our other Year 12 Prefects, before the traditional Ode was read, and the Last Post was played by Year 10 student and skilled trumpetist, Orlaithe Dhue, followed by a minute’s silence, reverently observed by students from Prep to Year 12.  All students should be congratulated for their respect and participation.

The College also extends its congratulations to all students who proudly represented the College at local Anzac Day ceremonies on Saturday 25 April, including Grace Willis (Year 12) and Beatrix Clarke (Year 11), pictured here, who sang at the Hobart Dawn Service at the Hobart Cenotaph. 

Year 10 Retreat – People of Creation

Later in Week 1 of the term, Year 10 students had the opportunity to go on Retreat at The Lea. This year’s Retreat focused on Pope Francis’ letter Laudato Si, which the students had been learning about during Term 1.  This letter challenges the Church and the world to reexamine our relationship with creation and to seek ways to care for the Earth as our common home. 

As a part of the experience, students had an opportunity to hear about the deep spiritual connection to Country of Aboriginal people during a session with Linton Burgess, proud Trawoolaway man from North East Tasmania. Linton shared many things with the students, such as the importance of respecting our native plants and animals, as well as bush tucker.  He also led us through a smoking ceremony and shared the importance of ochre in cultural practices. 

Later in the day, students participated in a variety of interactive and reflective Creation Stations, designed to encourage students to grow in their understanding and respect of the natural world.  Based on the principles of Laudato Si, the students were able to discuss things like how climate change is affecting people’s lives around the world and how our attitude to water and food might be different if they were in short supply.

The day concluded with a liturgy where students were invited to commit themselves, each other and God, to better care for creation. They wrote these on leaves, which will be displayed in the College as a reminder, throughout the year, to be People of Creation.

What our Year 10 students had to say:

• “The Retreat allowed us to take a step back and reflect on our learnings in the classroom of Laudato Si in a practical environment. It was a place I never would’ve have been otherwise, and I’m glad we got the opportunity to explore.” – Chloe Gray

• "The Retreat was insightful and allowed me to reflect on environmental issues."

• "Being part of a big group of people I wouldn't usually be able to collaborate with was a really fun experience. Even though the weather was fresh, it didn't stop us from learning from others and expanding our knowledge of the world around us and what we can do to keep it safe."

Celebrating Nano Nagle and 250 years of the Presentation Sisters

On Wednesday 13 May, the St Mary’s College community gathered for our annual whole school Nano Nagle Mass. This Mass honoured the life and faith of Nano Nagle, who died on 26th April 1784.  It also celebrated 250 years of the Presentation Sisters, which was founded on 24th December 1775 in Cork, Ireland, when Nano Nagle and three companions first made their vows. Over the past 250 years, the Presentation Sisters have spread throughout the world, continuing Nano’s mission of following Jesus through prayer, education, compassion and service to people in need.

The Mass began with an introduction celebrating the life and work of the Presentation Sisters, in particular, those who have had a connection to St Mary’s College. Stories of several Presentation Sisters were read, while symbols representing each Sister’s life and ministry were brought forward in procession. This was a meaningful way to recognise the women whose faith, leadership and service have shaped the College community across generations.

Students heard about Mother Xavier Murphy, who arrived in Hobart in 1866 with eight other women ready to establish the first Presentation convent and school in Australia. Her story highlighted the courage and determination of the early Sisters who helped grow Catholic education in Tasmania.

Students also heard about Sister Barbara Amott, remembered for her strong leadership as Principal of St Mary’s during the 1970s and 1980s, as well as her sense of humour and memorable PA announcements! The life and work of Sister Majella Kelly was also shared; her passion for Science led to the College’s Science building being named in her honour. Sister Marilyn Fryett was recognised for her gentle and caring work in counselling, welfare and pastoral care.

The stories continued with Sister Monica Shelverton and her missionary work in Papua New Guinea, which fulfilled a dream she had held since her years as a student at St Mary’s. Students also reflected on the contribution of Sister Gabrielle Morgan and her leadership within both the Tasmanian and international Presentation communities.

A particularly special part of the Mass was the introduction of a new hymn, Rise O People, written to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Presentation Sisters. The song beautifully reflected the spirit of Nano Nagle’s mission and the ongoing call to bring hope, justice, compassion and education to others.

The Mass was celebrated by Father Kasun, and we are very grateful for his presence and leadership on this significant occasion. As a College, we give thanks for the vision of Nano Nagle and for the generations of Sisters whose faith, courage, leadership and compassion continue to inspire us today.