From the Principal

A very warm welcome to Term 2. I hope everyone has enjoyed some well-deserved rest and relaxation, returning to the College feeling refreshed and looking forward to a very exciting Term ahead.

As we commence Term 2, I extend my thanks and congratulations to all students, staff and families involved in this week’s celebration of the performing arts during our College Musical, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. As many are aware, preparations for the College musical commenced many months ago and involve a broad section of our community, some who have volunteered their time and expertise for many years. Sneaking into the back of the Theatre during one of the holiday rehearsals, it was a privilege to witness first-hand the hard work, determination and support the cast gave each other as dance routines were polished and vocals tested.

Particular thanks is extended to our Director, George Tsakisiris, who so expertly led our talented student Cast, superbly supported by Musical Director, David Dockery, Choreographer, Molly Rowbottam, Costume and Set Design, Kiri Moore, Lighting Design, Andrew Portwine, Sound and Production Manager, Jeff Jansen, Makeup Coordinator, Claire Knight, Set Construction, Declan Fyneman, Stage Manager, Kaitlyn Green, and Vision, Jack Purkiss. Of course, at the time of writing, preparations are well underway for tonight’s show and tomorrow’s finale, so we wish our cast and crew the best of luck for both. Congratulations to everyone involved!

Today, the College was honoured to host the Migrant Jubilee Cross, which has been touring the country since 2025. For those interested, more information about the Migrant Jubilee Cross can be found in the Mission section of the Newsletter. On Saturday, the Cross was welcomed to WA during a Celebration of the Eucharist at St Mary’s Cathedral. During that same celebration, one of the Prayers of the Faithful read, ‘For the world: That leaders of nations may work for peace, justice, and the dignity of every person, especially in places of conflict and suffering’.

During the holidays, many may be aware that Pope Leo XIV offered an emotional reflection on the need for peace. Recalling St John Paul II’s witness during the Iraq War, the Pope repeated the urgent appeal for “no more war.” Peace, he said, had been a moral responsibility shared across generations.

True strength, he insisted, was found in serving life, echoing our own founder Pope John XXIII, that nothing was lost by peace, but everything could be lost by war.

Pope Leo called for a global moral awakening, with millions choosing peace through healing, rebuilding, and listening; especially to the voices of children who suffered most from conflict. He urged world leaders to stop the escalation of violence and return to dialogue, while reminding ordinary people that they too bore responsibility. Peace began in homes, schools, communities, and daily choices that rejected hostility and fostered encounter.

As a College, then, our collective responsibility remains to foster empathy, understanding and the commitment to seeking justice. Perhaps by doing so, we can help to build a future where equality, dignity and respect are the hallmarks.

In the words of Pope Leo XIV: