From the Director of Identity and Mission

Faith, fun and generosity collide at Vinnies Quiz Night 

On Thursday 4 June, our school community gathered for a successful Quiz Night in support of the Vinnies Winter Appeal. 

Organised by the SMC Justice Action Network social justice group, the evening opened with prayer and grace led by Father Steven, before a night of fun, generosity and community spirit. 

The Quiz Night brought together students, parents, carers and staff, alongside members of the St Mary’s Cathedral Parish and representatives from Vinnies, highlighting the strong community partnerships that underpin this annual initiative.

Our students did a fantastic job organising and running the event, from preparing the quiz questions to coordinating the evening's activities. 

Guests enjoyed pizza from Ciao Ragazzi, a range of quiz prizes, a youth art stall showcasing items created by St Mary's students and a silent auction supported by generous donations from local businesses and enthusiastic bidding from attendees. 

Hats off to our teacher table for taking home the win as this year’s trivia champions. What a team!

We were privileged to hear from St Vincent de Paul Tasmania CEO Connie Digolis, who highlighted the stark contrast between the comfort many of us enjoy and the hardship faced by others in our community.

Thanks to the generosity of everyone involved, the evening raised over $4,000 for the Vinnies Winter Appeal. We also extend our sincere thanks to all donors and supporters who helped make the event such a success.

Mrs Selma Murphy

Secondary Teacher

A full list of donors is included below in recognition of their valued support: 

Religious Education department news | Exploring our religious heritage

Year 7 Life and Faith classes have been exploring the history of the Catholic Church in Australia, with a particular focus on Tasmania. 

All classes thoroughly enjoyed their visits to Fermoy Cottage, finding the experience fascinating thanks to the engaging stories shared by Mrs Rootes and the opportunity to wander through the Cottage to view its remarkable collection of artefacts. 

Visits to St Mary’s Cathedral during prayer services and class time also provided valuable opportunities to discuss the stained‑glass windows depicting Mary and notable Saints, as well as significant artefacts such as the St Maximilian Kolbe print, the Calvary Group Crucifix donated by the Harradine family and the beautiful baptismal font.

As part of their unit on Abrahamic Traditions (Judaism), Year 8 classes participated in an excursion to the Hobart Synagogue – one of the oldest synagogues in Australia, consecrated in 1845. 

Students viewed significant Jewish artefacts, including a memorial Sefer Torah, and learnt about the rich history of Judaism in Hobart, which dates back to convict times.

The Studies of Religion 2 senior classes recently visited the Hindu Mandir (Temple) in Claremont to deepen their investigation into Hinduism, including key beliefs, significant gods and goddesses, daily practices, and the vibrant Hindu community in Hobart. 

Many students were unaware of the Temple’s existence and embraced the opportunity to learn more about this tradition in a local context, developing a deeper understanding of the Hindu festivals celebrated throughout the year.

We are fortunate to have such wonderful human and physical resources available to support student learning about the Catholic faith, as well as other world religions and traditions.

Mrs Fiona Chambers

Learning Leader of Religious Education