From our Principal

Dear Parents, Students and Friends,

What a wonderful and inspirational way to finish a very productive semester one. The end of term two always has a focus the celebration of the feast day of St Peter. This year St Peter’s feast day is held on Saturday, 29 June. It is a special day to reflect on a disciple that was tasked with building the foundations of the early Church.

St Peter’s Dinner

The first event to mark this special time was the St Peter’s Dinner, an opportunity to say thank-you to the staff for their contribution over the course of the past year. A special focus is placed on our 10 and 20 year service award recipients. I acknowledge the following for their significant contribution over a significant period of time.

10 Year Award

• Mary Joseph
• Pina Marciano
• Louise Overberg
• Sarah Slykerman
• Stephen Stergiadis
• Glen Studd
• Glenys Van Dorssen

20 Year Award

• Shaun Parton

St Peter’s Mass

Held at Casey Basketball Stadium, 1750 staff and students packed out the stadium as both campuses joined together for a mass to celebrate St Peter’s Day. This was an opportunity to also acknowledge and celebrate our 25th anniversary. It was an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of St Peter’s College over that time and some of the significant moments and people that have contributed to our history. The opportunity to come together in such numbers and to reflect and give thanks to St Peter was inspiring. It was wonderful to have a beautiful choir supporting a moving liturgy led by Fr Joseph Abutu and Fr Denis O’Bryan.

St Peter’s Day Celebration

This day is always a wonderful celebration which showcases our community spirit and connectedness. The best part of this day is the involvement and engagement of students, especially those that support stalls and provide the entertainment throughout the day. This year’s St Peter’s day took on special significance as we were fortunate to hear from Craig Challen, Australian of the Year and one of the divers who contributed to saving the lives of 12 boys and their coach. The message Craig delivered focussed on grabbing hold of opportunities and not wait for them to come to you. His story had the audience on both campuses spellbound. Craig Challen (& Richard Harris) led a heroic rescue under the spotlight of the world’s media. They placed the safety of others above their own and inspired hope when hope seemed lost. Their selflessness, courage and willingness to help others in a time of need typifies the Australian spirit. His story of how 12 boys and their coach were saved was a miracle and provided us all with the inspiration to make a difference. It was a privilege to meet and listen to Craig.

Northern Territory Experience

Four staff and 50 students departed for Central Australia and the Northern Territory this week. This is an annual pilgrimage for St Peter’s College that goes back some 20 years. The trip presents students and staff the opportunity to engage with our Indigenous culture and history as well as experience some of the most beautiful landscapes and natural phenomenons found anywhere in the world. We wish all on the trip a safe journey and we look forward to hearing of their experiences upon their return.

Students Return

I take this opportunity to wish all a safe and restful break. The commencement date for students to begin Term 3 is Monday, July 15.

Enjoy the week ahead and stay warm

Mr Chris Black

Principal