From the Principal
- Reflection
- World Mission Sunday
- Celebrating the 15th Anniversary of St Mary MacKillop’s Canonisation
- 2026 College Student Leadership Investiture and Year 11 Academic Awards presentation
- HSC Examinations continues into Week 2
- Term 4 Cocurricular Program commences
- Key Dates
Reflection
A Prayer for Peace in the Middle East
God of mercy and compassion,
of grace and reconciliation,
pour your power upon all your children in the Middle East:
Jews, Muslims and Christians,
Palestinians and Israelis.
Let hatred be turned into love, fear to trust, despair to hope,
oppression to freedom, occupation to liberation,
that violent encounters may be replaced by loving embraces,
and peace and justice could be experienced by all.
- Reverend Said Ailabouni.
This time two years ago, I shared the prayer above with our community.
Two years on, its message resonates even more deeply. The conflict in the Middle East has not only persisted but intensified, impacting neighbouring regions including Lebanon. Yet, amidst the hardship, a glimmer of hope has emerged.
Earlier this month, a US-brokered ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas was signed in Egypt, marking what many are calling a defining moment in modern Middle Eastern diplomacy. Hostages have been released, humanitarian aid is beginning to flow into Gaza, and peace negotiations are underway. While challenges remain, this development offers a renewed sense of possibility for the people of the region.
We continue to pray that the spirit of peace may fill the hearts of all those affected. May it guide leaders and communities toward unity, cooperation, and a shared vision for a brighter future. Let us hold onto hope that through diplomacy, compassion, and open dialogue, peaceful resolutions can be found bringing relief and stability to the innocent people of the region.
World Mission Sunday
Last Sunday, we marked World Mission Sunday, an annual celebration established by Pope Pius XI in 1926. This day reminds us of the Catholic Church’s global mission to spread the Gospel and serve communities in need.
On World Mission Sunday, Catholics around the world unite in prayer and support for missionaries who bring faith, hope, and love to places where the Church is still growing or where humanitarian needs are great.
It is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to reach out, spiritually and materially, to those in need, and to live out the message of Christ in every corner of the world.
Celebrating the 15th Anniversary of St Mary MacKillop’s Canonisation
On October 17 2025, we marked the 15th anniversary of the canonisation of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia’s first saint. This milestone invites us to reflect on the enduring legacy of a woman whose life was defined by faith, courage, and service.
St Mary MacKillop, co-founder of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart, dedicated herself to the education and care of disadvantaged communities, especially in rural and remote areas of Australia. Her canonisation by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010 was a moment of national pride, recognising her unwavering commitment to justice, inclusion, and the dignity of every person.
Across the country, schools, parishes, and communities commemorate this anniversary with special masses, prayers, and educational activities, celebrating the values she lived by kindness, resilience, and compassion. Her story continues to inspire generations, reminding us of the power of faith and determination to transform lives.
“Never see a need without doing something about it.”
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop
This simple yet profound message continues to guide us in our daily lives, encouraging us to respond with love and action wherever there is need
Prayer to St Mary MacKillop
Loving God,
We thank you for the example of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop,
who showed us how to live with faith, courage, and compassion.
Inspired by her love for the poor and her dedication to education,
may we follow her example of serving those in need.
St Mary MacKillop, you trusted in God's providence
and never lost hope in the face of difficulties.
Help us to walk with that same trust,
knowing that God is with us always.
Intercede for us now, and pray for our intentions,
that we may grow in love, humility, and perseverance.
May we, like you, seek to bring hope and light to the world,
and live out our faith with kindness and generosity.
Through Christ our Lord, Amen.
St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, pray for us.
Blessed Edmund Rice - Pray for Us
St Pius X - Pray for Us
Live Jesus in our Hearts - Forever!
2026 College Student Leadership Investiture and Year 11 Academic Awards Presentation
On Thursday 30 October, the College gathers as a community to celebrate the 2026 College Student Leadership Investiture, a significant and symbolic event that formally acknowledges the appointment of our new student leaders.
This ceremony marks the passing of responsibility from the outgoing leadership team to the incoming cohort, as they prepare to serve their peers and uphold the values of the College. It is a moment of pride and reflection for our students, their families, and the broader school community.
The Investiture highlights the commitment of these young leaders to making a positive impact both within the College and beyond. It fosters a culture of service, collaboration, and personal growth, and encourages our leaders to act as role models, inspire others, and help build a stronger, more inclusive school environment.
We look forward to congratulating our newly inaugurated leaders and to the contributions they will make in the year ahead.
At this ceremony we will also acknowledge and celebrate the academic success of our Year 11 students who have recently concluded their Preliminary year, by presenting the Year 11 Academic Awards.
HSC Examinations continues into Week 2
Please continue keep all our Year 12 students in your prayers as they their HSC Examinations continue into the second week. The students have been very positive about the examinations so far so please let us continue with our prayers and best wishes.
Term 4 Cocurricular Program commences
As we begin the ISA basketball and cricket season, I would like to remind all students that it is important to wear the designated College attire during, as well as to and from, games. Students must be in the appropriate College team uniform when playing. This requirement also extends to those attending games as supporters: they should also be dressed in College attire.
I kindly ask parents and guardians to ensure their sons are properly dressed when traveling to and from both home and away games. We greatly appreciate the commitment of the majority of students who consistently represent the College with pride by wearing the correct attire each week. Thank you for your cooperation.
Basketball Inter-Trials Showcase Team Spirit and Dedication
As I observed our basketball teams during the recent inter-trials, I was genuinely impressed by the level of commitment, teamwork, and positive interaction on display. It was more than just a series of games, it was a celebration of sportsmanship, unity, and the shared passion our students have for the sport.
The way players supported one another, communicated on and off the court, and gave their best effort was a testament to the strong culture we are building within our College sporting community. These trials not only helped shape our teams for the season ahead but also highlighted the values of respect, resilience, and collaboration that we strive to instil in all our students.
As we look ahead to the official start of the ISA competition this week, I extend my best wishes to all our teams. May the season be filled with growth, achievement, and memorable moments. We are proud of you and look forward to cheering you on.
Cricket Teams Off to a Strong Start
It was also wonderful to witness the early success of our 1st XI and 2nd XI cricket teams. The 2nd XI delivered a confident and commanding performance in their trial match, securing a comfortable win that reflects their preparation and teamwork.
Meanwhile, the 1st XI were involved in a tightly contested and highly competitive game. What stood out most was the display of true Pius spirit resolute, determined, and united. Their hard-fought victory was a proud moment for the team and a promising sign for the season ahead.
Go the Blue and Gold.
Key Dates
Term 4
Week 3: Performing Arts Festival Week 2
Tues 28/10 Year 7 Vaccination Clinic #2
Wed 29/10 Year 11 Reports Issued
Thur 30/10 Year 5 & 6 Transition Day / Senior Leaders 2026 Investiture and Academic Awards Ceremony / Drama Ensemble Showcase 5:00 pm
Fri 31/10 Junior School Music Concert
Sat 1/11 ISA R2 / IPSHA R9 / NSTA / MWJCA
Sun 2/11 Youth Mass 5:30 pm
Fide et Labore
By Faith and hard work
Live Jesus in Our Hearts - Forever
Mr Michael Ronchetti - College Principal