Other
Editorial
As the year of remote learning and cancelled events comes to a close, we are finally able to return to some normalcy and get to work in making our final days of the College as festive as possible. With plenty of expertise from Ms Lockett and Ms Phillips, we have celebrated many major events in the past couple of weeks with the cultural energy of the College thriving with the lifted restrictions.
Some special mentions include the performances of our talented girls at their Achievement Assemblies, such as our own Cultural Captain, Caitlin Ramirez performing her composition 'Ventriloquist'. Younger girls such as Saskia McIntyre and Hannah Makotsvana performing 'Never Enough' on piano and flute. The Senior Chamber Choir featuring Megan Ashford, Sofia Rundback, Layla Tarhan and Isabella Merola are bringing life back through their beautiful singing at College events.
The cultural events of the College have not finished yet, with perhaps the largest St Mary's talent showcase ever to commence on the last day of school. We have over 15 acts of dancing, singing, juggling and drumming to look forward to after a long year of resting vocal cords and silent instruments.
Congratulations to all the girls who received commendation for their cultural contributions in their Achievement Assemblies and we as Cultural Captains are looking forward to hearing and watching the acts the girls have put in place for this today.
Megan Ashford and Caitlin Ramirez
Year 12 Cultural Captains 2021
Prayer
Dear God
We thank you for your guidance through this uncertain and turbulent year. We thank you for the many positives that came from COVID-19, including adaptability and connections.
Thank you for a great year at the College, full of academic, community and spiritual development and opportunities. You have allowed us to grow closer together in the face of adversity and in turn closer to you.
We ask for our Christmas to be filled with Love and Peace. May we reconnect with loved ones and come together to celebrate in the true spirit of Christmas.
Please look after the less fortunate during this festive time. May the new year be more prosperous and full of fun and excitement.
We ask this prayer through Christ Our Lord,
Amen
Alexandra Jones, Year 9
Foley House Report
With the intention of bringing back spirit within the House, Foley has introduced 'Fun Fridays', allowing girls to mingle within Tutor Groups whilst participating in various games and activities.
As a House, we congratulated Nieve Campbell on being announced Foley House Middle School Leader 2021. I'm over the moon to be working with such an admired student and I am also very proud of the six students who put themselves forward for the role.
Within Foley House we have collected numerous Christmas essentials from each Tutor Group and donated them to Vinnies. We gathered sweets, toys and lunch options that will hopefully make the holiday season more enjoyable and comfortable for those in need in our community. Thanks to everyone for your contributions, I'm sure these acts of kindness will mean the world to others.
Last Friday, Years 8 and 9 gathered for a Twilight Evening of old-style games, ball sports, music and a photo booth fun. Topped off with a pizza buffet to bring life back into the College and to celebrate the end of year.
Celebrating the end of year with a bang, students have been invited to enter the much anticipated event, 'St Mary's Star of the Stage'. The event will highlight students with skills and talents showcasing to the community.
With the school year coming to an end, we have been invited to look back on the year that was. The persistence and dedication of the girls within Foley House will be remembered our entire lives. I think all the girls can agree that though this Term has been short, the Christmas break couldn't come soon enough.
I wish you a fantastic Christmas break, spend time with your collective families and return recharged and energised for 2021. It's a new year and a new beginning!
Holly Holmesby
Foley Year 12 Captain 2021
Kelly House Report
Even though Kelly House has faced so many hurdles this year, we have managed to come together and pull off an amazing last Term.
First things first, I want to say "congratulations" to all the girls who put themselves forward for Kelly House Middle School Leader, well done Olivia Sheridan who was elected to the position. I'm very proud of everyone for having the courage to go for this Leadership role and I can’t wait to work with all of you next year. I promise it’s going to be a lot of fun!
To get into the Christmas spirit this year, Kelly have been decorating their Tutor Group rooms with all things pink. These decorations have bought back some vibrancy to the Kelly corridors and stirred some friendly competition amongst the girls. Judging for the most creative, most beautiful, best use of pink and most Australian decorations took place on Wednesday.
Over the past few weeks Kelly House has been involved in lots of initiatives where the girls have brought in donations and shown off their House spirit. We participated in the Interact Fundraiser wearing orange to raise awareness for violence against women. We gathered essentials for Vinnies, hopefully making the holiday season a bit more comfortable and enjoyable for those in our community in need. Thank you to everyone who contributed.
On Friday, 27 November, Years 8 and 9 participated in the school's Twilight Evening. There were many fun activities where the girls could get involved, with music playing to get everyone in the groove. The event was a success with the girls having fun with friends in a relaxing celebration for the end of the busy school year.
This year has also seen the very first showcase of 'St Mary Star of the Stage'. The show allowed the girls to show off their talents while bringing the school community together for the last day of Term with a special twist. Congratulations to all the girls who performed on stage, you were all amazing!
Happy holidays everyone!
Eliza Berrell
Kelly House Captain 2021
Middle School Leaders 2021
In early November, Year 9 House Leaders 2021 were announced.
Congratulations to the following girls. They all look forward to working with their senior House Captains in 2021.
House | Year 9 2021 House Leaders |
Bashir | Maya Chrostowski |
Foley | Nieve Campbell |
Gibbons | Zoe Veljanovska |
Hayes | Summer Jennett |
Kelly | Olivia Sheridan |
Lyons | Hiba Shahbaz |
Sullivan | Lia Fera |
Ungunmerr-Baumann | Scarlett McEwan |
Congratulations to the following girls who were elected as Year 9 Portfolio Leaders 2021.
Cultural Leader | Saskia McIntyre |
Stewardship Leader | Tahlia Leonard |
Liturgy Leader | Sienna De Battista |
Sports Leader | Montana Doubell |
Social Justice Leader | Amirah Jabakhanji |
SRC Leader | Imogen Reh |
Sportswoman of the Week - Helena Halios-Lewis
Helena is a young emerging soccer star with a bright future ahead. Recently, Helena was awarded with the Amy Taylor Emerging Talent Award for excellence in soccer, this being a major accomplishment in her soccer career so far. Helena continues to strive for excellence in her game, putting in extra work to receive the rewards. Persuing soccer and continuing to improve in every aspect of her game is high on the agenda for Helena in 2021.
Awesome work Helena, keep up the great effort!
What achievement are you most proud of?
I am most proud of winning the Amy Taylor Emerging Talent Award as this has been a huge achievement throughout my years of playing. Many young Matilda’s and W-League players have won the award before me including Western Sydney Wanderers player Chloe Middleton. One other achievement that I am beyond proud of is being selected for the Far South Coast Talent Support program for 2020, unfortunately COVID-19 got in the way as I would have attended an U15s NSW Football Cup in August.
Who is your inspiration?
My inspiration is Caitlin Foord, Caitlin is a local Illawarra girl who plays for the Matildas and has recently joined Arsenal in the English WSL. She became the youngest Australian to play at a World Cup when she represented Australia at the 2011 FIFA Women's World Cup at the age of 16.
Why do you love Soccer so much?
Football makes friendships and that's what I've learnt over the past few years playing. I love football as it allows me to be me and let everything go and to play with passion.
Any advice for young athletes?
My advice for young athletes would be to not give up, don't allow anything to bring you down, to always put 110% in and to know that there will always be the occasional bad day. Do not let that get in the way, always persevere.
Claudia McGoldrick and Macey Hawkesby
Sport Captains 2021
Year 8 Design sends a Binary Christmas Wish!
Year 8 Design have been exploring digital technologies and investigating how computers receive and send information using Binary. Last week students looked at how words can be encoded using particular languages such as ASCII code. They used the ASCII code to create their own Christmas cards with a secret Christmas message. Well done Year 8 and have a wonderful Christmas.
Allison Pace
TAS Coordinator
Donation to Vinnies Christmas Appeal
With the fast approaching end of school year and the beginning of Christmas festivities, Year 7 Design have been busy in their woodwork class helping Santa deliver Christmas presents.
As our year of being new-comers at St Mary’s ends, with the help of our teachers we have constructed classical wooden toy cars in woodwork classes. Our hope is to bring a little more cheer and joy to these families by donating the wooden toys.
We will be donating the toys to Vinnies for their annual Christmas Appeal, they will be put into hampers along with other Christmas necessities like Christmas food and clothing to make sure every family has a very Merry Christmas.
Year 7 Sculpture by the Sea
This Term, Year 7.6 Art class studied Bondi’s renowned Sculpture by the Sea. For our artmaking in this unit we held our own mini-exhibition at the beach and lighthouse area across the road from the College. Our class spent the majority of the Term planning, sculpting and creating these masterpieces. We were allowed to choose materials like clay, wire, straw and plastic to represent something to do with the sea or respond to our chosen location. Our sculptures had to be site-specific to our coastal area and could have an environmental message.
The original Sculpture by the Sea attracts hundreds of visitors for the three week display period. Although we couldn’t have our sculptures on site for three weeks, we still had lots of fun making our works, starting over multiple times, taking photos and spending time with friends on our excursion.
Making these artworks helped us to understand the natural beauty of this planet and the need to change the way we treat our environment.
Millie Lawson and Codie Weber, Year 7
Year 9 Cultural Food Incursion
In Week 6, Year 9 Food Technology participated in a Cultural Food Incursion run by Taste Cultural Food Tours, a charity and social enterprise which celebrates a diverse Australia. The incursion was designed to build understanding across cultures using food and was hosted by Sahar who showcased Egyptian and Middle Easter recipes.
The students were hands on, prepared and were able to taste and enjoy the recipes that were demonstrated. Students were also able to listen to the hosts' stories and ask questions about their lives as migrants and engage in discussion about culture and faith and other topics of interest. The recipe highlight as voted by Year 9 was the Egyptian savoury dish called Koshari.
Allison Pace
TAS Coordinator
Languages Club News
On Thursday, 3 December, the Languages Club held their 'Christmas al fresco' activity. It was a hive of activity with traditional Christmas treats from France, Indonesia and Italy which everyone thoroughly enjoyed.
Due to the inclement weather, the bocce and boules games could not go ahead. However, our girls enjoyed participating in rangku alu, a traditional Indonesian game originated from Manggarai, East Nusa Tenggara, which is played using two pairs of bamboos or sticks in motion until the opponent’s foot is wedged by the bamboos.
JOYEUX NOËL, SELAMAT HARI NATAL and BUON NATALE from the Languages Faculty.
Michael Timpano
Languages Coordinator
SSA Poster Competition Winners
This semester, the Year 10 iSTEM class completed a unit on Biomedicine and Statistics. For their major project, the students ran investigations on a biomedical topic of their choice. This was then presented as research poster and entered in the Statistical Society of Australia’s National Statistics Poster Competition.
Paris Bamford, Lauren Rooke and Breana Tang investigated The Effectiveness of Different Brands of Hand Sanitiser on Bacterial Growth. For their effort, they were awarded with an Honourable Mention for Stage 5.
Congratulations girls!
Mr Chris Berry
Science Teacher
Christmas Card Competition Winners
Congratulations to Isabelle Kirkbride and Poppy Pollack on their beautiful designs which won the College Christmas Card competition. There were many entries and thank you to all the girls who entered.
NSW All Schools Track and Field
Last Friday, Cate Giason and Celeste Carolan, Year 7 competed at the NSW All Schools Track and Field Championships held at Sydney Olympic Park. Cate finishes 17th and Celeste 24th from a field of 36.
Congratulations girls!
Debating for Fun
Recently, our debaters from Years 7 to 11 pitted their wits against students from Edmund Rice College, Wollongong, Corpus Christi College, Albion Park, St John the Evangelist Catholic High School, Nowra
and St Joseph's Catholic High School, Albion Park in friendly but a competitive three rounds of debating. They Zoomed their way through the day and many thanks to Sarah and Callum from IT who supported us as we navigated this new way of debating.
The results are:
Year 7 won all three debates
Year 8 won two out of three debates
Year 9 won all three debates
Years 10/11 won two out of three debates
They had a great day and thank you for supporting them in this event.
Marie Pulford
Debating Coordinator
Personal Project 2021
Year 9 students have begun preparation for the Personal Project, which they will commence at the start of 2021. During PDHPE classes this week, students completed an extensive reflection form which gave them the opportunity to reflect on their ATL skills and begin considering their passions and interests. Students will receive their Student Guide and commence work on developing their goal in Week 2 of 2021. There will also be an information evening for parents, details will be available when students return.
Completing the Personal Project provides so many benefits for our students, as detailed in this article. “ Why I think the MYP personal project is the best preparation for the fourth industrial revolution”
Mrs Christine Rutherford
Personal Project Coordinator
Library News
As 2020 wraps up for the year and holidays begin, a quick reminder of the Library resources available online.
Audio books are great for road trips or just chilling at home. Our Wheelers ePlatform is constantly updated with new releases, students access via the student portal or go directly to the website. https://smc-college.wheelers.co/
eBooks are also great for travelling - students can download the app to their phone or tablet and read on the go. Students access via the student portal or go directly to the website.
Online databases are available during the holidays and for our senior students this holiday time can be an opportunity to continue with their various research projects. Access to all online resources is via our PLC Google Site which students access via the student portal or go directly to https://sites.google.com/a/stmarys.nsw.edu.au/polding-learning-centre/
Mrs Christine Rutherford
Teacher Librarian
Year 7 Reflection Day
On 26 November, Year 7 participated in their first Reflection Day. The day was based on the theme ‘Love of Neighbour’. We learned about experiencing and realising the problems that are happening all over the world like poverty and pollution.
Throughout the day we took part in a variety of activities that enabled us to reflect, be inspired and develop an awareness of the world we live in.
Our guest speaker, Ms Beth Riolo shared her knowledge about climate change and how the earth (God’s creation) has changed over time. This opened our minds and enabled us to recognise that every living thing is our neighbour and we should look after the earth; we only have one!
One of the activities that resonated strongly with the students was having to access water from the beach and carry it in a bucket for 50 minutes. We could not just simply turn on a tap or open a fridge, it was a physically demanding task and a reminder that we take many things for granted. It was the realisation that people in our world are faced with harsh battles and difficult circumstances when accessing basic needs.
Every House created a banner for their House which reflected Year 7 2020. All the Houses had different ideas of what to do and different images that mirrored the values of their House. After all of the physical activities, we settled down in the SGN Hall and took some time to reflect on what a year it has been. We received a booklet which asked questions about this year. It has been a crazy year, some things were challenging, some were easy but altogether, it has been a great experience.
Reflecting made us remember our favourite day or the friends we’ve made. Whilst reflecting we were asked to write a short prayer for the Liturgy which we were participating in. It was a great way of expressing our gratitude and thoughts. The Liturgy included volunteers and the remaining students as viewers. There was a hymn at the end where everyone sang.
Overall, the day was a lot of fun and a good learning experience for all Year 7. We have many memories this year which help us live up to our school motto “We are Born for Higher Things.”
Chloe Beeker and Addison Evans, Year 7
Year 8 Reflection Day
On 16 November, Year 8 attended their Reflection Day with the Youth Mission Team (YMT).
Hannah Gordon and Zahli Poidevin, Year 8
Year 9 Reflection Day
On Monday, 23 November, Year 9 gathered for a Reflection Day.
The day was run by the Sydney based, Youth Mission Team (YMT) with Year 9 Religion teachers assisting. They organised a range of engaging activities, skits and games based on the day’s theme of 'Social Justice'. It allowed for reflection about our approach to life and communication with others as well as God.
The team shared their experiences and stories about the strengthening of their relationship with God. Their confidence and strength to be able to do this proved that the bad things that happen to us, still have meaning and help our lives. Activities were completed in both large and small groups. Large group activities were warm up games, performances and discussions about different interpretations. Small group activities were more personalised and allowed for each person to contribute. The main focus was about each person’s impact on their environment and how people can work together.
The day provided a new perspective on the impact of God in our lives and gave reflection time in which we thought about our interactions with others. Messages surrounding social justice were expressed to all participants.
Mimi Ryan and Demi Hales, Year 9
Year 10 PASS Outdoor Education Excursions
Year 10 Pass classes were lucky to participate in two fun days this Term as a result of the ski trip being cancelled due to COVID-19. Part of the Outdoor Education unit, 'Getting about in Nature' was a key theme of the first activity at the Nowra Tree Top Adventure Park.
We had the freedom to try the challenging courses and test our skills. It was a thrilling experience which incorporated teamwork and personal growth. There were several different courses to choose from, all varying in heights, obstacles and length. They included high ziplines, obstacles, rope climbing and tightropes. This allowed us to gain confidence and overcome fears with the support of our friends in a safe and fun environment. The day was full of fun and it was great to see everyone getting involved.
The second experience at Cables Wake Park in Penrith was both a fun and challenging event. Our Year 10 PASS classes split into two groups, one doing knee and wakeboarding while the other enjoyed an inflatable waterpark. The kneeboarding was challenging to master especially the tight turns.
Some girls then moved onto wakeboarding which proved even more difficult. However, from multiple attempts, the girls got the hang of maintaining their balance and were able to conquer fast and agile movements along the water. The weather was perfect for the water sports and there were plenty of sore muscles the day after. The inflatable waterpark also proved challenging and on the slippery obstacles where we always found ourselves in the water. From relays on the floating obstacles to sliding down huge slippery dips, it was an exciting day and fun for everyone.
Thank you to the teachers who escorted us on the day.
Paris Bamford and Alyssa Monro, Year 10
Service as Action
It was very pleasing to see all the wonderful actions performed by our junior students to help others and the environment this year. Even in 2020, students found many meaningful ways to help others and the environment. Years 7, 8 and 9 are reminded that they can make a start on their 2021 Reflections this Term.
Below are just a few of the highlights from our Year 7 students:
The IRT Letter Writing activity
Malak Alfqui explained: “I am usually shy but this experience helped my confidence. My grandparents live overseas so I don’t get to spend time with them, so talking to this resident made me feel like I had another grandparent. This made me think about how much the pandemic has actually affected our community, especially the elderly.”
Making posters for an animal that needed adoption.
Fatima Achaechi reflected that: “It was so sad reading through all the reasons why these animals didn’t have a home. I was happy that I could be part of giving this kitten a home. I wish I could have adopted it because it was such a cute kitten. My French teacher even started tearing up. I was glad that we were learning about pets and family and that we were able to do this activity.”
Vinnies Virtual Sleepout
Dakota Fothergill felt that: “Doing the Vinnies Sleep Out made me realise how people who live in poverty sleep. I found out for myself when I slept outside for the night. It was a real eye-opener, actually being in people's shoes who sleep outside and how they might feel cold from the weather or wet from the rain. In some instances, it could be very hot and they have no way of cooling down. Having to eat tinned food which was very different from the food we usually eat at home; like steak, hot pasta and spinach and feta pies made me realise how people live their lives without a home. I can tell you that I could not live that way every day. So, for me, this made me look at homeless people and the way they live differently from my previous thoughts.
Writing a Thank You letter to an essential worker
Olivia Giorgio explained that: “I decided to write a letter to a Police Officer. This was an amazing experience for me. I was able to commend all officers at Port Kembla Police Station for the way they display professionalism and bravery each and every day while they are on patrol. They make the community a safer and better place to live in by protecting us. This activity made me feel honoured as I was able to say thank you in person. A few weeks after handing the letter to a Duty Officer at Port Kembla Police Station, I received a letter back from them thanking me. I felt proud and happy that they appreciated my letter.
Volunteering to make the Year 12 Chalk Walk
Charlotte McLeod reflected that: “I stayed back after school and was given a square between myself and two other students. We wrote around 12 people's names. We wrote them in their House colours to make it extra special and we decorated the square full of rainbows and bright, beautiful colours. I felt very pleased and proud because I had helped to make some Year 12 student lives better and their last day feel special for them. Completing this action helped me to learn how to work collaboratively with others.
Participating in the Ration Challenge
Matilda Povea-Purcell explained: “Sadly many children go through situations where they have next to no food and are always hungry. While I only had to live on refugee rations for three days, refugee children from war-torn countries can live on rations for years. Feeling hunger and not being able to simply eat more food was an eye-opening experience and gave me insight into the lives of others who aren’t as privileged as I am.
Every day, thousands of children die due to starvation and thousands of children everyday are entering the gates of refugee camps - through no fault of their own thrust into difficult and uncertain circumstances. Being an active figure for the Ration Challenge, I not only fundraised over $1,000 to support refugees in harsh camp conditions but I was also an advocate for their human rights.
The Ration Challenge inspired me to make a change in the world after experiencing just a tiny taste of what refugees and others less fortunate than myself go through each and every day.
Mrs Katrina Wall
MYP Coordinator
PLC Textbook Returns for 2020
It's that time of year again - TEXTBOOK RETURNS
Please read the list below so you know what to keep for 2021 and return to the PLC before the holidays.
YEAR 7 - Return TRASH
(Keep French/Italian textbook for Year 8)
YEAR 8 - Return - A WRINKLE IN TIME and your IDS ENGLISH NOVEL
(Keep French/Italian textbook for Year 9)
YEAR 9 - Return - ENGLISH NOVEL, TAPIS VOLANT 1 (FRENCH TEXTBOOK)
(Keep Parliamo Italiano 2, Information and Software Technology and Textiles Technology textbook for Year 10)
YEAR 10 - return ALL OF YOUR TEXTBOOKS
Please see PLC staff if you need any assistance.
THE COLLEGE WILL BE OPEN UNTIL 18 DECEMBER FOR ANY RETURNS
Ms Rachael Baez
Library Assistant
Tuition Fee Update – School Fees Due for Payment
A friendly reminder that all outstanding school fees are now due for payment or if you wish to discuss your account further, please contact the College.
As advised by the Principal in previous correspondence, a credit for Resources and the Year 8 Camp due to COVID-19 has now been applied to your account.
If your account has been paid or you are already on an instalment arrangement, please login to the Parent Lounge to confirm your balance.
For further clarification on tuition fees please refer to the Fee Management Policy on the College website, alternatively contact the Fees Coordinator on 4253 5230.
On-line TASS Parent Lounge Access and Fee Statements
The College has made a number of improvements to the on-line TASS Parent Lounge, including the transition to online statements that will make it easier for you to manage your tuition fee account. The Parent Lounge now provides your current balance, regular Term statements and the ability to make credit card payments.
Login details and instructions have previously been provided to you via email on 28 October. Should you have any issues accessing the Parent Lounge, please email our ICT Department via helpdesk@stmarys.nsw.edu.au
You can still make BPay transactions via your financial institution, alternatively contact the College to establish a regular Direct Debit arrangement.
Rosina Dowsett
Fees Coordinator
Last Day's Activities
Dr Hack's Farewell
As I have walked onto the College grounds each morning the building that has dominated the space over most of my time here has been the Chapel. So very loved by members of the community, it is a reminder of what is at the heart of the school and its long tradition. Since 2017 it has stood as the backdrop to a more modern exploration of our spirituality; the Good Samaritan installation. I am well aware that when it was first placed there, people were dubious. I was told that the lightly coloured sandstone would be jarring against the dark brick of the established chapel. People wondered if the old and the new could exist in a cohesive relationship that allowed both to be a focus for our lives, our mission and the story of who we are.
These last couple of weeks I have been perhaps more mindful and more reflective as I make that familiar walk early each morning. My time here is evaporating very quickly and it gives me cause to wonder and to let my mind wander. It seems this year that the landscaping and the garden around the installation have finally come into their own. The lilies have sufficient height to frame the installation in vivid green and the promise of clouds of red in lilies and rust in the kangaroo paw is only days away. It is a wash of colour and greenery around the classic sandstone forming a bridge of colour to the darker chapel which has stood so faithfully for many decades to remind us of who we are.
Later in the day, when this space is filled with students and staff it takes on, in a tangible and lived sense, the charism and character of the community. It is common to see the drama, art and all manner of students working and creating in the space. It is a daily occurrence to find students talking with each other or with staff members finding a quiet haven in the busyness of the College. House Coordinators sit there with students. Staff often use the space for an early lunch. It is a space for conversation, for exploration of ideas for hospitality and study and all that happens in the life of the school. It features in the Open Day tours as the space to tell our story. For all of us who use the space the words of the parable are literally under our feet; ‘Who is my neighbour?’ and the command to ‘Go and do likewise’. In the end, in the twenty-first century, long after the glimmers of a founding vision of the first Sisters who came to Wollongong, this question and this statement offer direction inviting us into faithfulness in the complex world in which we live.
My mother always talked fondly of the Good Samaritan education she received a long way from here in the 1940’s. While I was proud of the Ursuline education that formed and nurtured me, Mum told me that she always regretted that I had not had a Good Sam education. Perhaps after my time here I have come into my own and I recognise a few truths about myself and my journey at St Mary’s. I suspect when I arrived that some were dubious about how I would fit into the establishment and traditions of this place. My mother, would know doubt be delighted, because after ten years here I have finally had the Good Samaritan education she hoped I would receive. It has been, in the richness of my Good Sam education that I have been taught every single day to seek answers about how to travel faithfully on the road.
I have been richly blessed in relationships and encounters too numerous to count. I am grateful to the thousands of students, staff and members of the wider community who have ensured that my education here has never been found wanting. I could create a cumbersome list of thank-yous’ to a long list of both past and present members of this community. It would be of no use. It would be a list and undoubtedly would leave someone out. My heart is full of the love I have received here and the privilege of the opportunities I have been offered. Your work, your energy, your creativity, your willingness to embrace change and take risks, the robust nature of the conversations I have had here have sustained me and always forced me to ask questions of myself. A Good Samaritan education is a life changing gift.
With enormous gratitude I say farewell.
May the blessings of the Christ child who will come again at Christmas give you all hope and joy.
Dr Joanne Hack
Assistant Principal - Dean of Mission and Innovation
From the Principal
Dear Parents and Carers
I have reflected in previous Newsletters that we spend much of our time and energy preparing for the next "thing". The Church’s season of Advent provides for us an opportunity to prepare for the arrival of Jesus.
Christmas is a special time. For us in the Southern Hemisphere, it dovetails with the end of the school and working year, a time for recovering from the hectic pace of life of the previous twelve months, a time to celebrate the gift of family and a time to both reflect on what has been in the previous year and look forward with faith and optimism to what lies ahead.
Advent is a time when we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus. The modern world places great store in the capacity of people to be organised. Whether this organisation applies to our working life, social life, career, family, financial planning or simply in the day-to-day, preparation and organisation are highly valued skills in 2020. And yet, the season of Advent challenges us to be watchful, alert and prepared for the presence of God in our lives at all times, not simply at a time of our own choosing or organising.
Sadly, we are constantly reminded throughout the course of each year that God’s time is not necessarily our time. Usually, this reminder is most stark when we are confronted by unexpected grief through suffering or loss. We are jolted into reordering our priorities so that we address the important human needs of those closest to us and those most in need. The season of Advent and the celebration of the birth of Jesus in a modest stable in Bethlehem serves as a constant reminder that the presence of God in our lives is usually at times and in places where we least expect and not when we are most prepared or organised. We are called in Advent therefore to reflect on the need to be more open more often to the presence of God in our lives not only through prayer and celebration of the Sacraments but so too in the ways that our relationships manifest themselves in the day-to-day and in our responsiveness to the needs of those less fortunate than ourselves. A beautiful but challenging message.
The school year has ended well at the College. The easing of some of the restrictions from throughout the year has enabled us to share the delight of our community once again through the Year 12 Graduation and Formal, Achievement Assemblies, Year 7 2021 Orientation Day and a whole school assembly. Each of these occasions has been a reminder of what we have missed throughout the year and equally, of the goodness and graces that flow from being together as a community. It has been a delight.
The end of each school year is always a time of endings and of new beginnings as students and staff begin new journeys. A small number of staff will be leaving the College when school concludes. Each in their own way has made a significant contribution to our community. Some are on periods of temporary leave whilst others are looking towards new horizons. We wish them all well and thank them for who they have been at the College during their time here.
Most notably, I wish to acknowledge Dr Joanne Hack who, after ten years, leaves St Mary’s to take up a senior leadership role as State Manager Secondary Education with Catholic Schools New South Wales. This is a wonderful opportunity for Dr Hack and thoroughly deserved recognition of the experience, wisdom, intellect, integrity and faith-filled leadership that she has brought to her work as Assistant Principal at our College. It is commonly said that no person is irreplaceable. However, some people are considerably more difficult to replace than others. Dr Hack is one of those people. Her period of leadership and service at the College over ten years has been marked by innovation borne out of a deep personal faith and an authentic commitment to creating new and better opportunities for our girls. She has and continues to be the strongest advocate for girl’s education; challenging and inspiring the girls to be the very best version of themselves and to take their rightful place as leaders in our world. These are the qualities Dr Hack will take with her to her new role; qualities that she has graced our community with in the most self-effacing of ways.
Personally, I am deeply grateful to Dr Hack for the support that she has been to me in my first year at the College. I will miss her wisdom, her counsel, her example of faith leadership and her sense of humor. I will not miss her constant harassment of me about the possibility of a day when “everyone can bring their pet to school”. Dr Hack is a fine educationalist and school leader. She is an outstanding person. On behalf of everyone in our school community and those girls and colleagues who have gone before us, I thank Dr Hack for all that she has been and all that she has contributed to the life of our College in her ten years and I assure her that she leaves with our deep gratitude, fond memories and warmest best wishes for the next chapter of her life.
Thank you all for your patience, your engagement and your wonderful support in this most challenging of years. I hope that you may enjoy the abundant blessings and joy of this beautiful season and I look forward to 2021 with a great sense of anticipation, excitement and optimism.
Mr Tony Fitzgerald
Principal
SMC Noticeboard
18 December - HSC results released
23 December - College closes
28 January - Years 7,11 and 12 return
29 January - Years 8, 9 and 10 return