From the Principal
Mr Damian Messer

From the Principal
Mr Damian Messer
Kinetic sand issue
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our families for their patience during this week’s disruption to learning. The resilience shown by our young students, who were displaced from their classroom due to the WorkSafe interruption, has been remarkable. We anticipate returning to business as usual later this week or early next week. We will continue to communicate with the affected students and their families daily to keep everyone updated and supported throughout this process.
Bloom Festival is coming next week
We are excited about our upcoming Bloom festival on Wednesday 26 November, which will showcase the creativity, innovation and sustainability initiatives that are integral to our College ethos. Bloom is more than an arts festival; it is a celebration of community and a reflection of our dedication to fostering holistic education. The event runs from 3.30pm–6.30pm and we look forward to seeing you all there. Register online here.


2025 exams in the Senior School
Tomorrow marks the final day of Year 11 and 12 examinations, signalling the end of secondary schooling for our Year 12 students. We know it has been a stressful time, but we hope the rewards of all of your hard work will pay off. Meanwhile, Year 10 students are preparing for their exams later this month. Their dedication and focus during this important stage have been admirable, and we look forward to supporting them as they move into their senior years.
Advisory Council
The Advisory Council held its final meeting for 2025, focusing on key matters including the 2026 budget, school fee structures, capital master planning, policy and procedure updates, and workplace health and safety. These discussions play an essential role in guiding the College’s strategic direction. We sincerely thank all Council members for their dedication, time and ongoing commitment to supporting the St Mary’s community. Their contributions continue to strengthen our school and its future.
Social media age regulations
From 10 December, Australian young people under 16 will not be allowed to create or hold accounts on certain social media platforms. The eSafety Commissioner advises that parents and carers can help their under-16s by talking openly about the age restrictions, finding out how they currently use social media and how that may be impacted by the new law. Information and resources to support parents and carers and young people to prepare for the change are available at the eSafety social media age restrictions hub.
Final events for the year
Here’s a list of our final events for the year. We look forward to celebrating these special occasions with you.
| Date | Event | Time | Location |
| Monday 24 November | Step-Up day Kinder to Year 6 | ||
| Wednesday 26 November | Bloom Festival | 3.30pm–6.30pm | College Green |
| Friday 28 November | Year 12 Leavers’ Dinner | 6.30pm | Glen Albyn Estate |
| Wednesday 10 December | Kinder–Year 2 End of Year Concert | 1.30pm | Nagle Centre |
| Tuesday 16 December | Year 3–6 End of Year Concert | 1.30pm | Nagle Centre |
| Tuesday 16 December | Senior School Prize Giving | 6.30pm | Wrest Point Casino |