Principals Report

Welcome back to the beginning of Term Two. I hope that all families had a very enjoyable and relaxing holiday break and took time to stop and embrace the season of Easter. Since my previous address, a lot of action has occurred inside and outside the classrooms, including fetes, liturgies, fundraisers, Cross Country, and much more. A very important week ahead with two significant events happening in our school community with ANZAC Day and Nano Nagle's Feast Day.

ANZAC Day holds profound significance in the hearts of Australians and New Zealanders alike, including our Inglewood community. As we lead up to this commemorative day, we remember the bravery, sacrifice, and enduring legacy of the men and women who fought for Australia. In commemorating ANZAC Day, we recognise the past and reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values for which the ANZACs stood. It is a day to reflect on the importance of peace, unity, and the enduring spirit of resilience that defines us as a nation. As we gather in remembrance on Thursday, let us honour the ANZAC legacy by striving to build a better future for all. 

The St Mary's community will meet at The Fat Butcher's at 10:45 a.m. and then make our way to the cenotaph for the 11:00 a.m. service.  

The arrival of the Presentation Sisters in Inglewood, Victoria, marked a significant chapter in the region's history, bringing a legacy of education, compassion, and community service. Our St Mary's story began with the pioneering spirit of Nano Nagle, whose vision for social reform and education laid the foundation for the Presentation Sisters' mission.

In the late 19th century, as Australia experienced waves of immigration, there arose a pressing need for accessible education, particularly in rural areas. Responding to this need, the Presentation Sisters, inspired by Nano Nagle's example, journeyed from their Irish homeland to Australia.

Arriving in Inglewood, the Presentation Sisters wasted no time establishing a convent in 1907 and then the school building in 1927, providing much-needed educational opportunities to the local community. Their dedication to fostering intellectual growth and spiritual development grew on the locals, and the school became a cornerstone of this community.

The Sisters' impact extended beyond the classroom as they immersed themselves in various aspects of community life. They provided support to families in need, cared for the sick and elderly, and became trusted confidants and advisors to all who sought their guidance.

This Friday, we remember the legacy of the Presentation Sisters and their spirit of service during our student-led Nano Nagle Feast Day Liturgy from 9:00 am in the school building; all are welcome. 

To conclude, as we celebrate the upcoming Catholic Education Week (April 29-May 3) throughout the Sandhurst Diocese, enrolments for 2025 are now open. Existing families who have a child that will begin Foundation next year are invited to collect an Application for Enrolment pack from the Office. We’d appreciate it if you could spread the word about enrolling at St Mary’s and all the fantastic activities and celebrations we do here throughout the Inglewood and Bridgewater communities.

Kind Regards,