PRINCIPAL'S REPORT

Were you fortunate enough to attend our recent school production of Mamma Mia!? If so, I am sure you would agree that it was an outstanding success. The production was the culmination of many months of dedication and hard work by both students and staff, who have been preparing for their roles since November 2025. 

Countless lunchtime rehearsals, weekend sessions and full-day rehearsals contributed to a truly memorable showcase of the remarkable talents within our school community. Congratulations to Talia Henderson, Production Coordinator, and to all staff and students involved on stage, in the band and behind the scenes, whose commitment and professionalism ensured such an exceptional performance. 

For those who were unable to attend, be sure to secure your tickets next year so you do not miss another outstanding production. 

Penola Campus 

This week, approval was granted for our architects to progress Stage One of the Penola Campus Master Plan to tender. This is an exciting and significant milestone in the development of the campus, with the hope that the tender process will lead to the appointment of a contractor and the handover of the site before the end of the year. 

As part of the preparations for Stage One, Mrs Nella Sharp, Head of Campus, has arranged a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony at Penola Campus on 8 September. All Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students will be invited to participate in this important cultural event, which will acknowledge and celebrate the deep connection of First Nations peoples to Country. 

Student Agency 

Eight students from Years 8 to 10 are currently participating in a Student Agency program through the Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Limited (DOBCEL). Guided by mentor Laura Crow, the students meet regularly to develop a project that will positively benefit our school and wider community. 

As part of the program, students have travelled to Horsham to collaborate with secondary students from both Horsham and Ararat. They have also participated in online learning sessions with Ms Jean Stiles from Edmonton, Canada. In November, the group will travel to Ballarat to take part in a showcase event involving all participating DOBCEL secondary schools, with Jean facilitating the event in person. 

School Advisory Council 

The School Advisory Council (SAC) serves as an important forum for discussion and discernment, providing opportunities for parent and guardian perspectives to help inform and support decisions made by the Principal for the benefit of the school community. 

The primary role of SAC members is to offer advice and support on significant school matters. Our current parent representatives are Hollie Conlan, Scott Anderson, Nick Thomas, Adam O'Brien, Alicia Tongpao, Tania Lawry and Haidee Graham. 

At the conclusion of this year, Hollie, Scott and Adam will complete their terms of service, creating an opportunity for new members to join the Council. 

The SAC meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month during school terms. If you are interested in becoming a member and contributing to the future direction of our school, please contact Emma Webb on 5032 9771 or via email at ewebb@mackillopsh.vic.edu.au.

Michelle Haeusler

Principal