From the Principal
Dear Parents & Carers,
Last Friday we woke to the news that Queen Elizabeth II had passed away at Balmoral Castle, Scotland (8th September, UK time). I wish to acknowledge the amazing life of Queen Elizabeth II, particularly her dedication and service, in her role as Queen. Her faith was an integral part of who she was and the life she led. Her humbleness, service and faith are character strengths that all can model. Our Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese has declared Thursday 22nd September a public holiday as the official National Day of Mourning for Queen Elizabeth II. Therefore, the school will be closed on Thursday 22nd September. The College will be open on Friday 23rd September.
Year 12 2022
It is with sadness we say farewell to our Year 12 students of 2022. Since their Trial HSC exams students have received feedback from their teachers, highlighting areas to work on and skills to improve. This week the year 12’s and staff have competed for the prestigious Salad Bowl, an annual competition that has become a popular event in the calendar. The winners will be announced next week at the Year 12 presentation. Week 10 is the final week of school for our Year 12 students and due to the public holiday on Thursday we have moved the Graduation and Awards Ceremony to Wednesday 21st September 2022 at 9.30am in the College Hall.
We wish all our year 12 students the best as they prepare to leave the formality and routine of school life. As a College, in partnership with your parents, we sincerely believe you have developed into amazing young adults ready to take on the world in many different ways. The experiences you have had in school will hold you in good stead. You should be proud of your achievements, as we are, especially the resilience and courage you have shown through COVID times. Spend time in the coming break preparing thoroughly for your HSC exams.
Student Leadership
I wish to thank our 2022 Year 12 Student Leaders for their contribution to the College over the last 12 months in somewhat difficult times (COVID, floods) and I welcome our new Student Leaders for 2022-23. I have listed these in this newsletter. Our new Yr 12 Student Leaders will be inducted at the Graduation and a handover of Leadership from the outgoing captains to the incoming captains will be part of the Liturgy.
McAuley Day & McAuley Fest
Congratulations to the staff & students who made these two events so successful. A huge thank you to the community who supported our McAuley Fest - which was a showcase of talent across so many areas of creative arts, technology, and hospitality, and had a wonderful ambience of acceptance and support.
HSC Music Concert & Practical Exam
Last Sunday evening the Year 12 Music students had their final rehearsal before their practical HSC examination on Tuesday. The students played a range of instruments, performed classical and modern pieces, and performed solo, duets and within groups. Congratulations to Arliah, Arwen, Zeke, Molly, Anna, and Oscar, and to Ms Nicholls for her preparation and dedication.
End of Term 3 and dates for Term 4 & SDD
Year 12 Graduation and Awards Ceremony - Wednesday 21st September
Public Holiday - Day of Mourning for Queen Elizabeth 11 - Thursday 22nd September
Last day of Term 3 - Friday 23rd September
First day of Term 4 (staff & students) - Monday 10th October
Staff Development Day - Friday 14th October
As this is the last newsletter for the term I extend to everyone a safe and relaxing holiday and thank the parent community for their support this term. I also wish our 16 students and 4 staff attending Ignite in Brisbane all the best.
Yours sincerely
Kate
Kate Thomson
Principal
“We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”
Catherine McAuley