Senior School News
Global issues up close: Insights from guest experts
Our Legal Studies 3 class recently had the privilege of hosting Dr Matt Killingsworth, Senior Lecturer in International Relations at the University of Tasmania, for an engaging and thought-provoking double lesson.
Dr Killingsworth, whose research explores the history of the laws of war and emerging forms of international criminal justice, led students through a lively and insightful discussion on International Law. Using the Trump administration’s actions in Iran and Venezuela as case studies, he encouraged students to think critically about how international norms are tested in real‑world contexts.
Alongside his academic work, Dr Killingsworth is a regular commentator across local, national and international media, and provides weekly political analysis on ABC Hobart and ABC Northern Tasmania.
The class also recently welcomed Lily Riley, an SMC alumna and former Legal Studies 3 student, for another double lesson on International Law. Her visit had an extra twist – not only was she back at her old school, but she was presenting to a class that included her younger brother, who's a student at St Virgil's College!
Since graduating from St Mary’s in 2022, Lily has completed a first‑class honours degree in politics and international studies at the University of Melbourne. She now tutors politics at a residential college on the UniMelb campus and volunteers with a digital‑education non‑profit, helping expand STEM opportunities for regional and remote primary schools.
We are grateful to both Lily and Dr Killingsworth for their time, expertise and generosity in enriching our learning.
Changing the Conversation
Thank you to Olivia Hicks, ambassador for Endometriosis Australia, for joining Prefects Lucy Hofler, Chloe Riley and Hal Cormack 'on the couch' to continue changing the conversation and raising awareness of a health condition that affects almost one million Australians.
Addressing our Senior School Assembly recently, Olivia’s key messages – speak up, ask questions and pursue an answer – strongly align with our vision to empower young people to advocate for their own health and wellbeing. She highlighted how profoundly the conversation, understanding and support surrounding endometriosis have evolved over the past decade.
Olivia was inspired to become involved with Endometriosis Australia after sharing her own experience. You can hear her story in her words in the video here.
Did you know? In some cases, endometriosis can be found in other areas of the body, including the lungs and brain.
We extend our thanks to our Year 12 students for their advocacy and fundraising efforts. To date, they have raised $3,735 for Endometriosis Australia – a wonderful contribution to a very worthy cause.
Head to the Endometriosis Australia website to learn more.
