The quiet work of St Mary's College and others recognised in Parliament

Dear Members of the St Mary’s Community

The College has been favourably mentioned in the Victorian Parliament by the Labor Member for Footscray, Katie Hall. Katie was advising the Parliament of the extent of volunteer work and community building that goes on in her electorate. Central to this work, is a group of volunteers who formed ‘Reaching Out in the Inner West’. Reaching Out was formed about 16 years ago to meet a food crisis for the disadvantaged. It is widely supported by around 70 volunteers and about 50 different groups who provide sponsorship, cash, produce, prayerful and moral support.

Katie Hall Speech

St Mary’s College was mentioned by Katie as one of their support groups.

I mention this not to be boastful or prideful, but to alert you of the kinds of things that this school engages in across the community. Of the 500 students at this school, 48% of them come from the Western suburbs of Melbourne with the rest from the Murrumbeena/Malvern area, Richmond/South Yarra along Chapel Street, the City of Port Philip, and the Craigieburn and Upfield lines. St Mary’s is a broad-brush across a wide sweep of Melbourne. Our involvement with Reaching Out includes the production of 250 ready-made meals each Term since April 2021. Most students in the school have had an opportunity to participate. Some of our Walkathon money has been allocated to this enterprise at a school level. This initiative has been ably and generously led by Sandie Saundry (Food and Technology Technician) and Avril Martinelli (Learning Leader, Technologies).

I’ve commented elsewhere about the highly evolved sense of community and inter-dependence that I’ve witnessed and experienced since I’ve come to Melbourne. This is yet another example of a small, powerful and targeted initiative that brings immediate relief to people who are temporarily or permanently in need.

Congratulations to Sandie and Avril and to all the staff who have worked with your children towards this important work. Thank you to all of you who’ve supported your children.

Thank you to the Member for Footscray, Katie Hall, for acknowledging the quiet and understated work undertaken by volunteers and businesses on behalf of people in her Electorate.

St Mary’s is a respected, educational option in Melbourne’s West. This is one of the reasons why.

Year 12 Graduation 2023

Thank you to the many families who have contacted me with a note of congratulations and gratitude for the quality of the Year 12 Graduation. All of us can take great satisfaction with the dignified departure of the Graduating Class. The feedback has been welcomed and passed on to Alex Luscombe and the Year 12 Pastoral Team.

Michael Lee OAM 
Principal (Acting)

Embracing Change and Celebrating Achievements as the School Year Nears its End.

As we approach the end of the school year, our students find themselves engaged in a variety of classes, activities, and programs that mark a departure from their usual routines. The culmination of the academic year is met with a mix of excitement and reflection as each year level participates in unique events tailored to their academic journey.

End-of-year assemblies, liturgies, and smaller celebrations within class groups are creating a vibrant and reflective atmosphere. Year 10 and 11 students are transitioning into the next phase of their academic journey, officially becoming Year 11 and 12 students for the next two weeks. This marks the beginning of their 2024 educational pathway, sparking anticipation for the challenges and growth that lie ahead.

Year 9 students are actively engaging in semester two learning portfolio conferences, an opportunity to reflect on their achievements and set goals for the future. Meanwhile, our Year 7 and 8 students are gearing up for a 'step-up' afternoon in the last week of the year, providing a glimpse into the next stage of their educational adventure.

It's fascinating to witness the focus and calm that permeates the student body during this busy period. Whether it's the anticipation of the approaching year-end or the natural fatigue that accompanies a year filled with learning and growth, our students demonstrate resilience and composure.

Amidst all the activities, we are pleased to observe our students finishing the year on a positive note, establishing and reinforcing good working habits that will serve them well in 2024. Their passion, curiosity, and respect for learning continue to shine through, reflecting the outstanding character of our student body.

As we approach the final stretch of the year, let us continue to encourage all students to finish their classes with the same dedication and enthusiasm they have displayed throughout the year. The remaining time in the year is an opportunity for further growth and accomplishment, and we are confident that our students will rise to the occasion.

Wishing everyone a successful conclusion to the academic year and looking forward to the exciting possibilities that 2024 holds for each and every student.

Shaun Lancashire
Deputy Principal

"Embracing the Light: A Graduation Celebration for the Class of 2023"

As VCE exams came to an end, we celebrated the graduation of our Yr. 12 students by gathering for Mass in our parish Church, St Mary’s, celebrated by our College Chaplain, Fr Jerome Santamaria who shared the following-

Today we give thanks to God for the class of 2023. Each of you has been a gift to the school community. Each of you is a gift to the world. We also pray with you as you finish one stage of your life and begin another. The fundamental meaning of graduation comes from the Latin word for step, graduus. We pray that you will use all you have received at St Mary’s to take the next step with confidence.

Each one of you can be a saint, because a saint is someone who is an expert on love, love of God and love of neighbour. And an expert on love is not someone who knows about love, an expert on love is someone who is great at loving. And that’s what we see in each one of you. The potential for greatness in love.

All students were gifted a St Mary’s College candle, inscribed with their name. The candle is a symbol of God’s eternal Light. It is a reminder of Jesus Christ who said, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.” (John 8:12).

The candle was also a symbol of the light the year 12 students have brought into our St Mary’s College community during their journey with us and now as they leave, the light they will take out into the world.

We hope and pray that all of our graduates are blessed with the light of Christ as they venture beyond the school gates.

Kate Johnston
Director of Identity

Benefits of Education

The College Valedictory Mass and Dinner took place last Wednesday. Thanks to Kate Johnston for her work in preparing students for the Mass and Alex Luscombe for his work in ensuring the dinner was a resounding success. My favourite part of the night, and perhaps the school year, is the part where the speeches conclude and teachers get to mingle with students and families. There is always a sense of gratitude in these exchanges, a sense of accomplishment (mixed with a bit of relief) and a tinge of melancholy that the year and the schooling phase of life is over for the students.

This group, in my eyes, have always possessed very good social skills – the ability to talk, listen, interact. These skills were on display in that 45 minute window of conversation after the speeches were concluded. They asked questions, listened intently, answered eruditely and, generally, seemed at ease throughout. This is a sign of self confidence and maturity . However, it is also a sign of the benefits of education. Education means perpetuating a sense of inquiry and curiosity. This directly relates to listening when holding a conversation. Education is about comprehension – understanding something that is written or said. This, again, relates to the listening element of conversation. Education is about retaining information. This, again, can help generate conversation – remembering something from a previous chat or taking an idea from a previous conversation and bringing it to the current interaction. Also, an education simply provides you more topics to talk about. Again, this is of enormous social benefit.

As our Year 12s finish their time at school, the benefits of this time are evident in so many ways outside of academic pursuits. This, indeed, is a real achievement and is of real benefit to all students.

Chris Pye
Director of Students

St Mary's College Big Band Hits the Right Notes at St Mary's Primary School Fete

We hope this newsletter finds you well and filled with the joyful spirit that comes with celebrating the accomplishments of our talented students. Last weekend, the St. Mary's College Big Band took center stage at the St. Mary's Primary School Fete, and it was a performance to remember!

Under the clear skies and on a lovely day, the big band treated the audience to a captivating 40-minute set, showcasing their musical prowess and dedication to their craft. The highlight of the performance was a heartwarming joint rendition of 'Stand By Me' with the Primary School choir, creating a harmonious collaboration that echoed through the event.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the parents of the musicians for their unwavering support. Your encouragement and commitment play a crucial role in nurturing the musical talents of our students. It is through your support that these young musicians can thrive and share their passion for music with the community.

As we reflect on this wonderful event, we also look ahead with excitement to the coming year. The St. Mary's College Big Band has proven to be a superb group of musicians, and we are eager to embark on new adventures and musical endeavors with them in the upcoming year.

Thank you once again to everyone who contributed to the success of the St. Mary's Primary School Fete, and here's to the continued growth and success of our exceptional musicians!

Warm regards,

Louisa Lawless
Director of Music

Celebrating Academic Excellence: Joaquin Majcen of Year 8 Receives Bursary Medal and Royal Society Recognition

It is with great pride and excitement that we share the remarkable achievements of one of our outstanding students, Joaquin Majcen from Year 8. Earlier this year, Joaquin was honored with a prestigious bursary medal for his exceptional work on a science game—an accomplishment that reflects both his dedication to academics and innovative thinking.

Joaquin's commitment to excellence in the realm of science not only earned him a bursary medal but also caught the attention of the Royal Society. We are delighted to announce that Joaquin has received a $50 cheque from the Royal Society, a testament to the quality and ingenuity of his scientific endeavors.

These accomplishments not only showcase Joaquin's individual talents but also underscore the commitment of our school community to fostering a culture of academic excellence and innovation. We extend our congratulations to Joaquin for his well-deserved recognition, and we are proud to have him represent St Mary's College.

As we celebrate Joaquin's achievements, let us also take this opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and support of our teachers, staff, and parents, who play a crucial role in nurturing and inspiring our students to reach new heights.

We look forward to witnessing Joaquin's continued success and to the bright future that lies ahead for him. Let us all join together in congratulating Joaquin on this remarkable achievement.

Marcia Rogerson
Laboratory Technician

Triumph on the Tennis Court: St Mary's College Junior Tennis Team Seizes Grand Final Victory

We are overjoyed to share the exciting news of a triumphant victory by our Junior Tennis Team in the grand final against ladder leaders Emmanuel College. In a display of skill, determination, and teamwork, our young tennis stars delivered an outstanding performance, securing a convincing win that reflects their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

The final score tells the story of a well-fought match, with St Mary's College emerging victorious with 8 sets and 51 games, while Emmanuel College secured 4 sets and 31 games. The resilience and sportsmanship demonstrated by our Junior Tennis Team were truly commendable, and we are immensely proud of their achievements on the court.

Congratulations to each and every player for their exceptional contributions to this successful season. Your commitment, discipline, and teamwork have not only led to this grand final victory but have also been instrumental in creating a positive and competitive team spirit.

Russell Wynne
Coach

Junior Cricket Team's Remarkable Season

Congratulations to the Junior Cricket Team on an outstanding season! Making it to the grand final was a remarkable achievement and a reflection of their wonderful talent and dedication. 

While the final outcome may not have been in our favor, their resilience and effort were commendable. 

After a poor start of losing two wickets for no runs in the first over, the boys thought it out well, lasted the 20 overs and made a reasonable 73 runs. Despite an excellent effort of bowling and fielding, St Bede’s made the runs with three overs to spare. 

Harry Denning deserves a special mention for his exceptional batting, 32 not out and his great run out of their opening batsman. Ollie Denning was excellent with the ball and took 1/10 in his 4 overs. He was backed up beautifully by Mitchell Slattery (1/15 ). 

Pat Kaufman
Coach

Celebrating Leadership and Bidding Farewell: Parents and Friends AGM Highlights

We are delighted to share the highlights of the Parents and Friends Association's Annual General Meeting (AGM), which took place on November 20th. It was a momentous occasion as we not only welcomed new leaders but also bid a fond farewell to two dedicated individuals whose children graduated this year.

Congratulations are in order for the following parents who have generously volunteered their time to serve as office bearers:

• Leah Lloyd-Smith and Jane Leroi: Co-Chairs
• Sandie Tuddenham: Treasurer
• Cathy Dekievit: Secretary

Their commitment to taking on these crucial roles reflects a deep dedication to our school community, and we look forward to their leadership contributing to the continued success of the Parents and Friends Association.

As we welcome new faces, we also bid a heartfelt farewell to Sandra Gantzos and Sharon Fitzgerald, whose children graduate this year. We express our sincere gratitude for their invaluable service, dedication, and the positive impact they've had on our school community over the years. Their contributions will be remembered and cherished.

Second Hand Book Donations

In exciting news, the Parents and Friends Association will be launching a second-hand book store. We invite anyone interested in contributing to this initiative to donate current edition textbooks by Friday, December 1st. Your support in building this resource for our school community is greatly appreciated.

As we move forward, let us embrace the spirit of collaboration and community that defines the Parents and Friends Association. We extend our gratitude to everyone who attended the AGM, shared their insights, and participated in shaping the future of our school community.

David Formosa
Director of Development