Acting Principal
Gratitude
As we come to the end of the year, I would like to finish with something that is simple, yet powerful: gratitude. Gratitude is more than saying ‘thank you.’ It’s about recognising the blessings in our lives and responding with respect and appreciation.
Why does gratitude matter? Because it changes how we see the world. When we are grateful, we stop focusing on what we lack and start appreciating what we have. Gratitude builds stronger relationships, strengthens communities, and reminds us that none of us succeed alone.
This year, I have so much to be grateful for:
My family: I have an amazing wife who always supports me, and three beautiful children. My son has just finished his HSC, and my daughters are in Year 10 and Year 7. They remind me every day what really matters.
Working here at St Patrick’s: Every day, I feel welcome. When I walk through the playground and you say hello, it means a lot. Those small gestures matter.
The Italian Study Tour: What an incredible experience! Travelling with amazing young men and dedicated staff was something I will never forget. I remember one night in Rome, sitting with a group of students who were reflecting on the day. They spoke about how lucky they felt to be there, and how much they appreciated their parents and teachers for making it possible. That’s gratitude in action.
My Economics classes: For that one hour a day, I get to do what I love: teach, guide, and learn from you. It’s a privilege.
The P&F Committee and College Advisory Council: These hardworking groups give their time freely to support you and guide the College. You may never see their work, but it makes a huge difference.
I especially thank our outgoing Chair of the SPC Advisory Council, Mr Anthony Meaker for his leadership over the past three years. His ongoing commitment to the College has been outstanding and he has left us in good stead.
I also sincerely thank Mrs Elena Ierardo for her leadership of the P&F Committee over the last three years. Her tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed, and we look forward to continuing to work with her, while she steps back from being President, she has agreed to stay on the committee.
The students: I see you play sport on weekends, perform in the orchestra, shine at soirées, and act on stage. These moments remind me how vibrant this community is.
Parents, thank you for entrusting us to help to teach your sons spiritually, emotionally, academically as well as in the co-curricular sphere.
The College Leadership Team: outstanding people who always make decisions with the students in mind. They have been a constant support to me this year and especially this term.
Our staff: Most of all, I am grateful for the incredible staff here. They work long days, weekends, and go above and beyond to help students grow. They go above and beyond to ensure that our students receive a well-rounded education. We are blessed.
Saint Thérèse of Lisieux once said: ‘Gratitude is the memory of the heart.’ It means that when we are truly grateful, we carry those blessings deep within us and let them shape how we treat others.
St. John Paul II: ‘The future starts today, not tomorrow.’ If we want to build a better future for ourselves and for this College, we must start with gratitude today.
Why do people value St Patrick’s College? It’s not just the buildings or the facilities—though they are impressive. People value this College because of its community. Because of the way we look out for each other. Because of the opportunities we have here to grow in every way—academically, spiritually, socially, and physically.
Parents choose this College because they know their sons will be challenged to become good men—men of character, men of faith, men who serve others. They value the traditions that have shaped generations of young men since 1928.
So, when we think about gratitude, think about this College. Think about the people who make it what it is—the staff, the parents, the volunteers, and the students. This is a privilege. I don’t take it for granted.
As we finish the year, take time to discern and reflect on how you can do better next year. Gratitude is not just words. It’s action. It’s respect. It’s kindness.
It has been my utmost privilege to lead this College as Acting Principal. As we look towards 2026, we look forward to the return of Dr Vittoria Lavorato to steer us through our next Strategic Plan.
Live Jesus in our hearts… Forever.
Adrian Byrne
Acting Principal