Principal's Report

Dear Parents, Carers, and Community Members,

Witnessing the cheerful return of students through the school gates after the recent holiday break brought us immense joy. Term 2 commenced with the same vigor with which Term 1 concluded, marked by a flurry of significant events and jubilant celebrations. Among these, we had the privilege of attending ANZAC services over the holidays, followed by our own heartfelt tribute Thursday week 1. 

Additionally, Indigenous students embarked on a culturally enriching journey in preparation for the upcoming CSNSW Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander State Education Conference in Tamworth, scheduled for October 2024. Our staff also dedicated time to professional development, collaborating with colleagues across the diocese with a shared commitment to enhancing student learning outcomes. Meanwhile, our students showcased their talents on various fronts, including various sporting competitions, with a notable victory for our Turner Cup team.

The students have been actively engaged in representing the school in netball, participating in the Warraymaylaya Culture and Careers pathways retreat, Girls You Can Do, TAFE program, futsal competition and cross country to name a few. Most significantly our Year 7 students embarked on their inaugural high school camp experience at the Great Aussie Bush Camp in Tea Gardens, Wednesday through to Friday last week. I had the pleasure of attending the camp on Thursday, taking time to connect with them, watching them have fun, while also challenging themselves by participating in activities such as the high ropes course, big swing and flying fox. The instructors were very impressed with the students' behaviour, their willingness to get involved, challenge themselves and go outside of their comfort zone, but most notably the encouragement and support they gave to their fellow group members during all activities. 

In this article, I wish to take the time to emphasize the significance of ANZAC Day, a momentous occasion for both Australia and New Zealand. I am deeply appreciative and proud of the substantial turnout of students and staff who not only attended but actively participated in multiple ANZAC services across the Armidale region, especially considering it coincided with the school holidays.

ANZAC Day serves as a poignant reminder to honour and commemorate the brave individuals who selflessly served and sacrificed their lives for our nations. It is a time to reflect on the unwavering courage, loyalty, and dedication exhibited by our soldiers, both past and present, in defending our freedoms and securing our way of life. Among the countless heroic tales, one that resonates profoundly is that of Simpson and his donkey. During the Gallipoli campaign in World War I, Australian soldier John Simpson, alongside his faithful donkey, courageously rescued wounded comrades amidst relentless enemy fire, epitomizing the spirit of mateship and selflessness ingrained in the ANZAC legacy.

The story of Simpson underscores the importance of solidarity and support during times of adversity. His actions exemplify the essence of loyalty and camaraderie that defines the ANZAC ethos. Moreover, it is essential to recognize the diverse contributions of individuals from various cultural backgrounds who served in World War I but also conflicts since,  including our first Nation People of Aboriginal and Torres Strait descent, soldiers of Belgium, French, Indian, Chinese, Japanese and Italian descent to name a few. 

Among them, Private William Reginald 'Bill' Rawlings, a Gunditjmara man, and Lieutenant Dalbert Hallenstein, a Jewish officer of German descent, exemplify the rich tapestry of our nation's history.

Private William Reginald 'Bill' Rawlings who was a Gunditjmara man born near Purnim, Victoria, in about 1890. As a young man, he worked as a horse-breaker. Rawlings was one of many men from Framlingham Aboriginal Station who enlisted in the AIF. In July 1918, he was awarded the Military Medal for leading a bayonet charge at Morlancourt, France. Rawlings was killed in action on 9 August 1918 and buried at Heath Cemetery, Harbonnières.

Lieutenant Dalbert Hallenstein who was a promising Jewish officer of German descent from a well-known Melbourne family. After nearly 4 years of service, Hallenstein was killed in action at Péronne on 1 September 1918, only 500 km from his birthplace in Heidelberg. His commanding officer described him as 'a brave man, and a capable officer' and lamented his loss.

Regardless of cultural differences or allegiances, at the core, we are all human beings with shared aspirations, fears, and bonds of love. In the words of Jesus, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your being, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbour as yourself." Hence, amidst the chaos of war, our ANZACs epitomized the essence of humanity.

As our students navigate the challenges of adolescence, I urge them to draw strength from the courage of the ANZACs. Let us stand up for justice, extend a helping hand to those in need, and foster a culture of inclusivity and compassion. Our cultural diversity is not merely a facet of our identity; it is our greatest strength, enriching the fabric of our society and fostering unity amidst diversity.

On another note, I would like to express the importance of Student-Parent-Teacher (SPT) conferences. These conferences offer a valuable opportunity for Year 12 and Year 11 students to reflect on their progress, celebrate achievements, identify areas for improvement, and set goals for the remainder of the academic year. With the Year 12 students approaching their trial HSC examinations in Term 3, these conferences assume heightened significance, serving as a platform for collective support and guidance as they embark on the final leg of their schooling journey.

Let us seize this moment to reaffirm our commitment to learning excellence, mutual support and respect for all, echoing the spirit of solidarity embodied by our ANZACs and our College Vision.

‘ A faith filled Catholic Professional Learning Community, founded on faith and focused on learning, working collaboratively to enhance the learning for all. Resulting in students who are creative, confident and informed people ready to make a real difference in our world.’

Kind Regards,

Mr Phillip Gibney

Principal, O'Connor Catholic College