From the Acting Principal
Mr Dallas Hyatt
Spring is finally here!
As we enter the final two weeks of Term 3, it's hard to believe how quickly the year is flying by. It feels like just yesterday we were welcoming students back after the winter break, and now the days are getting longer as we look ahead to the spring holidays.
This term has been a period of immense growth and learning for our students. We have seen them tackle new challenges, build on their knowledge, and achieve great things both inside and outside the classroom. From engaging projects and sporting events to our recent excursions, the school has been a hub of activity and achievement.
With just a fortnight remaining, it’s a crucial time for our students to consolidate their learning and prepare for the well-deserved break. Teachers will be busy finalising assessments and celebrating the progress made.
I encourage all students to make the most of these last nine days. Let's finish the term strong, ready to come back refreshed and ready for an exciting Term 4.
Welcome Mr Quinn!
I was pleased to announce that an announcement was made yesterday to all parents regarding the appointment of Mr. Chris Quinn as Acting Principal of St Mary's Primary School for Term 4.
Mr. Quinn met with me yesterday for a smooth handover meeting and had the opportunity to meet most of the staff and many of the students. I am confident that he will provide outstanding leadership and guidance for our school community during this time.
My thoughts and prayers continue to be with Mrs. Burton as she recovers, and I hope that she will be able to make some special guest appearances at various times throughout the upcoming term.
I Need To Learn From My Mistakes!
This morning has been quite an interesting affair as I have just released myself from being taped to the wall and some areas of skin is missing due to some strategically placed pieces of packing tape! I am asking myself this question, 'Why am I sucker for punishment?' I placed myself in the exact some position at St Patrick's Primary last year and again I volunteered myself to go through this humiliating process! I really thought it wasn't going to end with a number of students eagerly purchasing a large number of strips. It will take time but I will definitely get my revenge on some certain individuals who took great pleasure from my discomfort. The things you do for a good cause.
Other than that, our Mini Vinnies team should be very proud of how successful today's fundraiser was. Thank you, everyone as all of you should be very proud of your achievements.
Year 6 Canberra Excursion
In just a few more nights, the majority of Year 6 students, Mrs Fittler, Mr Power, Mr Garraud, Mrs Robinson along with myself, will embark on our journey to Canberra. Upon reviewing the itinerary, it is clear that we are in for a week filled with numerous activities. Among the experiences we will engage in are visits to the zoo, an exploration of the history of our currency system and the coin production process at the Australian Mint, testing our athletic abilities at the Australian Institute of Sport, and a tour of Parliament House, which merely scratches the surface of our planned adventures.
Parents and students are reminded that they need to be at St Mary's between 6.00am-6.15am at the latest on Monday morning, as we are departing at 6.30am.
Look out Canberra, here we come!
Year 4 Excursion to Lake Keepit
Our Year 4 students had an absolute blast on their overnight excursion to the Lake Keepit Sport and Recreation Centre late last week. Despite a few bumps on the road, the trip was filled with adventure, laughter, and a whole lot of mud!
The fun began with an exciting bus ride to the centre. Upon arrival, the students wasted no time diving into the action. The highlight for many was the challenging commando course, a series of obstacles that left everyone covered head-to-toe in mud but with big smiles on their faces. After conquering the course, they all enjoyed some well-deserved free time, cooling off with a swim in the pool with their friends.
As evening approached, the students refuelled with a delicious dinner before gathering for some classic games on the tennis court. The air was filled with laughter as they played "scissors, paper, rock" and engaged in fun-filled rounds of "finger fencing."
The next morning kicked off with an early start. After a hearty breakfast, the students geared up for archery, where many showed impressive aim, hitting the target with their newfound skills. The day concluded with some fun problem-solving activities before it was time to say goodbye to Lake Keepit.
I heard it was a great two days and thank you to Mrs Reinke, Mrs Walters and Miss O'Brien for supervising the Year 4 students during this time.
First Holy Communion
Next Sunday, September 21st, will be a special day for many of our students and their families as they receive the Sacrament of Holy Communion for the very first time. The celebration will take place at the cathedral, where these young members of our community will take a significant step in their faith journey.
Receiving Holy Communion is a beautiful and sacred moment. It is a time when our students will receive the Body and Blood of Christ, deepening their personal connection to Jesus and becoming more fully a part of our Catholic community. This sacrament is a reminder of God's love and the grace He shares with us all.
I want to extend my very best wishes and heartfelt congratulations to each and every student who will be celebrating this milestone.
My prayers and thoughts are with you all as you prepare to receive this beautiful gift. May this day be filled with joy, peace, and a profound sense of God's presence.
Dio Gala Day Netball & Soccer 25/9/2026 Tamworth!
The Diocesan Gala Day for Soccer and Netball will be held on Thursday, September 25th, in Inverell for interested students in Years 3-6. This is a fun day, and permission notes have been sent to those who want to attend.
Upcoming Staff Development Days
Please be advised that Friday, September 26th, and Monday, October 13th, will be Staff Development Days at St Mary's Primary School.
This means that the last day of Term 3 for all students will be Thursday, September 25th. Students will then return for the first day of Term 4 on Tuesday, October 14th.
I understand that these dates may cause some inconvenience for our families, and I sincerely apologise for this. These days are essential for our staff to engage in professional learning and training, ensuring we continue to provide the highest quality education for your children.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Transition Dates for Kindergarten 2026
We are excited to welcome our new 2026 Kindergarten students! Their Transition Program will begin in Week 2 of Term 4 and run for five weeks, finishing in Week 6.
P & F
Thank you to the P & F and the Fete Committee who met on Wednesday evening. They have set the following dates & events:
Paint and Sip Fundraiser, Friday 12 September
End of Term Sausage Sizzle- Thursday 25 September
FETE Save the Date Saturday 15 November - St Mary's Fete
Next Fete Meeting is 29th October at 5:30pm in the Staff Room.
Kindergarten Enrolments for 2026
If you know anyone who has a son/daughter ready to start school next year, please let them know that enrolments are now open. Enrolment forms can be obtained from the School Office.
Enrolments are now open for Kindergarten 2026.
Please contact the school for an enrolment package - 6772 4441 or email
Wearing our Uniform with Pride
Thank you parents for ensuring your children wear the correct uniform. It is very evident that we take pride in our presentation.
Maintaining a high uniform standards is an important part of our school's identity and plays a significant role in fostering a sense of pride and respect for our school.
Our uniform identifies St Mary's School within the community and develops a sense of school spirit and belonging within the student body. Some specific uniform requirements, such as shoes, hats, hair and jewellery, are directly related to student safety. The wearing of the correct school uniform is compulsory, and students are expected to arrive wearing it daily, ready to learn. Families are asked to ensure that each item of clothing is clearly labelled.
We thank you for your partnership in this important aspect of school life.
