Principal Address

Dear Parents,

In the school holidays, I had the privilege of travelling to Zimbabwe to lead leadership sessions for school principals across the country. It was a wonderful opportunity to share ideas around culture, relationships, leadership and education.

You may have also remembered in Term 1, we raised some money for a school over there. I had the privilege of visiting this school, which is in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe and even though it was only a small amount of money, it will make a huge impact. 

Although the different Christian school groups that hosted me definitely didn’t allow me to "slum it," every visit to a developing country still reminds me just how blessed we are here in Australia. We have access to incredible opportunities, resources and educational experiences that we can often take for granted. I always come home feeling incredibly grateful, but also grounded.

As I have travelled over the years, the more I realise that while material possessions may be fewer in developing countries, there is often an abundance of things that matter most. Families are deeply connected, faith is woven into everyday life, communities genuinely care for one another and children are raised with love, resilience and strong values. There is a simplicity to life that is refreshing. It reminds me that while resources are important, they are not what ultimately shape a child's character.

I was also reminded that joy doesn't necessarily come from having more. Some of the happiest people I met have very little by Australian standards, yet they possessed something that can easily be overlooked, a deep trust in God, gratitude for what they have and a contentment that wasn't dependent on circumstances. 

It challenged me to think about the culture we are creating in our own homes. Are we modelling gratitude or always chasing the next thing? Are we teaching our children that success is measured by achievement alone, or by the way they love God and love others? Are we creating space for family, for church, for service and for rest? 

Markets Tomorrow

Back here at HopePoint, one of my favourite events of the year is almost upon us. Our Community Markets are tomorrow, and they are always such a wonderful celebration of our community. There will be plenty of fantastic stalls, delicious food, activities for the children and lots of opportunities to spend time together.

Even if you can only pop in for a short while, I'd encourage you to come along. These events are about celebrating the community God has built here at HopePoint, connecting with one another and simply enjoying being together. I look forward to seeing many of you there for what promises to be a fantastic day.

My door is always open.

Mr Joe Britton