Message From Our Principal

As we enter week 7 of the final term, the end of the school year is fast approaching, bringing a mix of excitement and a touch of nostalgia. Students and teachers alike are working hard to wrap up projects and learning goals while also savouring these last weeks together. Next week, on Tuesday, November 19th, we’ll have a curriculum day, offering a valuable chance for teachers to focus on planning, collaboration, and professional growth. It’s an opportunity to prepare for a strong finish to the term while looking ahead to the next year’s goals.

Last night, we had the privilege of hosting Steph and her team from The Phone Pledge, a fantastic initiative right here in Regional Victoria. The Phone Pledge aims to spark important conversations around phone use in teens.

Steph shared some eye-opening statistics on the decline in teenagers' mental health, which led to honest and meaningful discussions among our group of over 25 caregivers. We explored the challenges of managing phone use, expressed concerns around the mental health issues raised, and shared the ups and downs of setting boundaries for our children.

The openness and support within the room was heartwarming. Steph’s call to “start a conversation” was embraced wholeheartedly by our community. We hope this marks the beginning of something impactful—a movement that helps support and protect our kids, now and into the future.

A big thank you to The Phone Pledge team for empowering us with the knowledge and confidence to navigate this important journey together. I know we all left tonight ready to shape a positive path forward for our children in whatever way we can!

A big thank you to Tongala Health and Kyabram District Health Service - KDHS for hosting the Tongala Health Community Forum at St Patrick’s on Wednesday. It was great to get the conversation started about the current health services in Tongala and the future programs that could happen in our great town.

Click on the above links and check out their Facebook Pages.

It was truly heartwarming for the entire school community to come together for the Remembrance Day celebration at the Tongala RSL. Students, staff, and families gathered to honour the sacrifices made by servicemen and women, reflecting on the importance of peace and unity. The respectful atmosphere and moving ceremony provided a powerful experience, reminding everyone of the strength in community remembrance and the value of freedom. It was a memorable day that brought together all generations, connecting them through shared gratitude and respect for those who have served.

We are incredibly grateful to the Lions Club for their generous $500 donation in support of our school camps.  School camps offer students the opportunity to develop resilience, teamwork, and independence in an outdoor setting, creating memories and life skills that will stay with them for years to come. The support from the Lions Club strengthens our community and reinforces the importance of working together to provide enriching opportunities for all students.

Just a quick reminder to ensure the correct amount of money is included with your child’s Friday Feeds order. Recently, we’ve noticed some orders have been submitted with an expectation for change. Please remember that our arrangement with the provider does not include making change, so it’s essential that the exact amount is provided.

Thank you for your cooperation in making Friday Feeds run smoothly!

We currently have the following position advertised. Thi is the link to apply: https://careers.ceosand.catholic.edu.au/.../specialist...

A big thank you to the parents who have been in to contact some books for us. We would love to see more of you for a cuppa and some contacting:

Our chickens have started laying eggs! Who wants to buy some fresh eggs!! $5 a dozen. See Teresa at the office if you are interested!

LOOK HOW WELL TEAM BLAKE DID WITH YOUR SUPPORT:

What is StepUP! #21YourWay?

StepUP! #21YourWay is a national fundraising and awareness campaign held during Down Syndrome Awareness Month every October. It celebrates the significant contributions people with Down syndrome make to our communities and raises valuable funds to support the Down Syndrome Federation. It takes place with a variety of face-to-face events around the country as well as the option to participate online with #21YourWay.

Why #21?

The significance of 21 is that most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes in each of their cells (46 in total). People with Down syndrome have 47 chromosomes in their cells. They have an extra chromosome 21, which is why Down syndrome is also known as trisomy 21.

School preparations for the bushfire season:

Each year, to prepare for bushfires and grassfires, schools complete a range of activities. Please read the attached document to see what we have done: