Have you grown up hearing the saying ‘Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me’? I recall my parents telling me this, as well as teachers and older people when I may have felt hurt or injured from a callous comment. I imagine it was meant to help build resilience and develop a tough outer skin that would set us up for life beyond the supportive environment we were growing up in.

Over time though, like you, I have learnt and observed that words can be very hurtful. In fact, the physical ‘sticks and stones’ can cause injury, which then heals and you move on. Hurtful words, however, can sustain an injury that doesn’t always heal, and the scars can stay with people for some time. The introduction of social media has really elevated the hurtful words to a new level. We see people inflict and experience dreadful comments to each other with little regard to the impact their words are having on the recipient. ‘But I am just saying how I feel!’ seems to be an acceptable retort when the other party is both shaken and distressed by the comments.

The lead up to the Voice Referendum saw similar hurtful and disrespectful language used in the community when people spoke openly about their rejection or their disengagement with the topic. Our First Nations People have endured another round of racism and attack at a time that could have been enriching and empowering for them. The outcome of the referendum must compel us to reflect on the illusion that everyone in Australia ‘gets a fair go’. Our First Nations People, who had been buoyed by the outcome of the Mabo case, had their hurt and trauma validated as the truth was laid bare through the ‘Bringing Them Home Report’ on the Stolen Generation, once again optimistic after the National Apology led by Kevin Rudd, and the initial support for the Statement from the Heart, must have been hopeful that the winds had changed and the nation was behind them. This has not been the case. Let’s hope and pray that this devastating outcome will fuel the change that needs to happen in our country to begin the truth telling and the true reconciliation that has been long overdue. The College is flying the Aboriginal flag at half-mast this week in respect to our Aboriginal community who are grieving.

Last Saturday evening, we hosted our Alumni reunion. Sixty-five women attended the College to participate in a tour of the grounds and reminisce old times. The joy and laughter amongst the women was wonderful. I am very grateful to Mrs Monique Keogh, Alumni President, her very dedicated Alumni executive and Mrs Sciffer, for all their work in hosting this event. The College will hold a reunion at this time each year, so if you missed last Saturday’s event, we hope you will be able to attend next year. Don’t forget you can still order a paver to cement your name in the College’s history. Information at the end of this edition.

As is often the case as we move through term 4, we have a few staff moving to new schools or taking some leave. I would like to inform you that Mrs Reader has secured a position elsewhere in 2024. I would like to acknowledge Mrs Reader for the decades of service she has given to St Patrick’s College and wish her the very best in her new school. Mrs Conti will be taking leave from the end of this year to have her baby. We wish her and Mr Conti the very best and look forward to seeing her return in term 4 2024. Finally, Mr Lord is having a well-deserved break this term and Ms Negrin will be Acting Maths Coordinator from week 5 for the remainder of the year.

I will leave you with this poem written by Sr Kerry Macdermott OLN from the Aboriginal Catholic Ministry, Minto in response to the outcome of the weekend’s referendum.

Blessings

Sue Lennox

“Father forgive them – they know not what they do.”

This has been my constant prayer since the results came through.

How could Australia vote No to such a simple request?

Have they ever met an Aboriginal person? How could they say NO?

Why would you deny them their birth right?

They are the First People of Australia and have been for 65,000 years.

We owe them so much for all they have given us.

Mother Mary comfort them like you did Jesus.

Let them know they are loved and treasured.

Give them the strength to endure yet another cross.

Fill their hearts with grace and beauty.

If only Australia sat down with them and listened to their stories –

They would then know how blessed we are as a country.

Dear Jesus, help Australia to see what you see.

Forgive Australia for what they have done.

Fill our First People with the courage to turn the other cheek –

Sadly, they are always having to do so.

Give them all they need to continue to embrace us.

Help us to listen and learn from them.

Be their solace, Lord, at this sad and tragic time.

We have lost the opportunity of a lifetime.

It will not come again and we will suffer the consequences.

Let us be people of peace and bring hope not despair.

Forgive us, Lord, for what we have done.

Give strength to our First People – give them hope.

Make them witnesses of your great love for us.

Unite us as your people and heal our country.

May we be one in You.

Sr Kerry Macdermott OLN - Aboriginal Catholic Ministry, Minto

Fundamentally, as a Catholic Christian community we are influenced by the teachings of Jesus, especially the teaching of Love of Neighbour, which is also our Benedictine Value of focus this year. This teaching can be found in the New Testament, specifically the Gospel of Matthew when Jesus said in response to the question ‘Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the law?’, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself’ (Matthew 22:36-40). To love God fully, we must care for God’s creation, a gift bestowed on us and a responsibility to steward or take care of. To love our neighbour as ourselves we must consider those most affected by Climate Change, the poor who have a limited voice or power to change their circumstances. We need to ask ourselves how we would feel to be in their situation. Both elements of this teaching call us to make changes in our lives so that we have less impact on the issue of climate change, to show love to God and our neighbour.

Aside from the teachings of Jesus and the Bible more broadly, Catholic morality is also influenced by Church Doctrine or Church Tradition. The Vatican and the popes especially have an influence on developing social justice teachings and doctrine. As I have written previously, Pope Francis is passionate about and deeply concerned about the Climate Crisis. He first wrote in 2015 Laudato Si(Praised Be), then Fratelli Tutti(All Brothers) in 2020 and now in October 2023 Laudate Deum(Praise God). All of these letters express concern for the planet and call on people, regardless of faith, to take action to respond to the Climate Crisis. You can read the full text here or there are various news articles that report on the key themes. In his latest publication Pope Francis has said the rich world must make profound changes to tackle the climate crisis, while defending climate protesters and urging governments to make the forthcoming Cop28 climate summit a turning point. 

Finally, as we have free will, Catholics are encouraged to use all the sources of revelation and use their own minds to make decisions regarding such issues. Ultimately, we need to care about the earth and the poor just as much as we care about ourselves. 

Louise Barry - Religious Studies Coordinator

The launch was run by Bishop Brian Mascord and attended by representatives from both primary and secondary schools from the Wollongong diocese. It was a time for us to remember and celebrate the work of Catholic Mission and for us all to consider how we might be true witnesses of God's love in the world. The theme for this year's Catholic Mission is “hearts on fire, feet on the move”. The representative speaker for Catholic Mission said that "Pope Francis has given us a powerful and inspiring message. It is an invitation to walk together on the path of peace, hope and creation." As a community we can implement our devotion to helping others by our actions and we can make a difference in the world.

Alana C - Year 10

Ltyentye Apurte is an Eastern Arrernte community 85km south east of Alice Springs on Arrernte country. It was established by a Catholic Mission in the 1950s and the majority of Santa Teresa citizens identify as Indigenous Catholics.

Our students spent their days in various roles of service. This included:
🔹 Making meals for the elderly members of the community.
🔹 Working in the arts centre.
🔹 Helping the women of the Spirituality Centre varnish their crosses and package them up for delivery.
🔹 Playing with the children every afternoon at the skate park.

In these roles, our students were exceptional representatives of our College. I was particularly proud of the girls as they sat and listened to the women in the Spirituality Centre speak of their experiences as members of the Stolen Generation. The girls were visibly moved as they listened to the heartache endured by our First Nations people.

I am so incredibly proud of Jiselle, Holly, Latiah and Sophie for their willingness to be ‘present’ in this learning experience. I have no doubt that these young women will go on to be advocates for remote communities in the future.

Elizabeth Dadd - English Teacher

The girls documented their ideas, conducted market research, designed packaging and the recipe in a business plan proposal. The girls then worked in small groups to choose their most creative biscuit concept and produce their prototype over two lessons. The biscuits were then available to sample outside the kitchens by the wider school community. Some of the highly creative flavours that were produced by the girls included a Barbie theme Tim Tam that was enhanced with beetroot juice for natural colours, Birthday Cake Tim Tam, Cheesecake Cups, Lychee and Coconut Monte Carlo, Biscoff Tim Tam, Forrest Fruit Tim Tam and Lemon Shortbread Cream.

Well done to 9.1 and 9.2 Food Technology students!

Mrs Pollicina and Mrs Robertson - TAS Teachers

The excursion began with the girls enjoying the surrounds of Hyde Park where they became familiar with the city and completed worksheets related to their course.

They experienced an insight into many of the areas involved in the operations of Sydney Tower. The girls participated in a Q & A session with a Chef and Business Manager who explained the many aspects involved in both the Business Services and Hospitality departments. This was followed by a buffet lunch in the newly renovated revolving restaurant – SkyFeast.

A magnificent view of Sydney and surrounds could be seen from the revolving restaurant and the girls were treated to a vast array of foods celebrating diverse cultures and authentic flavours. 

It was a very successful day with many of the girls still excitedly talking about their experience on the way home and exclaiming it was one of the best excursions they had been on.

Thanks to Mrs Cassandra Conti and Mr Jason Muller for accompanying me and the girls on this great day.

Maree Durrington - VET Coordinator

Hope E - Nominated for all practical components - Core Performance, Core Composition (titled 'Coffee' and danced by Taylor Hallett Year 11) and Major Study Performance. 

Eden G - Nominated for her Core Performance and Core Composition (titled 'Spider' and danced by Erica Edgerton Year 9).

Monique R - Nominated for her Core Composition (titled 'Pins and Needles' and danced by Kaylee Buddingh Year 11). 

Emma D - Nominated for her Core Composition (titled 'Jenga' and danced by Niamh McDonagh Year 9).

Emma Randell - Dance Teacher

Charley L - Music - Encore Nomination
Charley sang a performance set of 4 Musical Theatre songs: "Kindergarten Boyfriend" from the musical Heathers, "Get Out and Stay Out" from the musical 9 to 5, "Open, Stay" from the musical Open, Stay and "I Will Prevail" from the musical Wonderland.

Emilie DV - Music - Encore Nomination
Emilie sang a performance set of 4 Popular Music songs: "Bound to You" by Christina Aguilera, "Rock With You" by Michael Jackson, "It's a Man's World" by James Brown and "Skyfall" by Adele.

Quincee P - Music - Encore Nomination
Quincee sang a performance set of 4 songs showcasing a mix of R 'n' B, Pop and Worship Music: "Killing Me Softly" by The Fugees, "Too Good At Goodbyes" by Sam Smith, "Almost is Never Enough" by Ariana Grande and "Oceans" by Hillsong UNITED.

Vanessa Singles - Music Teacher

A huge well done to Monique R, Charley L, Sophia S, Jeanne-Lee R and Hannah W for their outstanding work in the Drama Course and for achieving this nomination which is reflective of their dedication and hardwork.

About the piece...

Life in the Dreamhouse

Our piece explores how women have been portrayed in society over time. Barbie, created by men and brought into a man’s world, is forced to adapt, please and compromise as part of her role as ‘the perfect woman’. In a male dominated world, Barbie just wants to be heard. She realises that she is more than her looks, does not need to be defined by men’s expectations or limited by society's constraints, and comes to the realisation that ‘she can be anything’.

Catherine McLaren - CAPA Coordinator

Charley Langford
‘What Hast Thou Done?’
Charley reimagined Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream presenting a playful Puck and sharing his tumultuous tales within the forest.

Monique Ray
‘The Grand High Witch’
Monique took our Favourite Roald Dahl story The Witches and created the meanest, most terrifying witch we have ever seen, creating a Norwegian nightmare for us to enjoy.

Catherine McLaren - CAPA Coordinator

Please join us for a wonderful night of theatre in the St Patrick's Drama Room where we'll explore the dynamics and journey of the mother/daughter relationship and what it is to be a woman.

Performance Dates:
Thursday October 26 7pm
Friday October 27 7pm

Please RSVP via our trybooking link: https://www.trybooking.com/CMIVX Tickets are complimentary, however, a booking is required to ensure a seat is available.

We were greeted by an enthusiastic tour guide who gave us a rundown of the history that stood before us and then we began our visit. Our first activity gave us an insight into garbology, the study of a community or culture by analysing their waste. As a class, we partook in this activity by exploring simulated litter and determining who the garbage belonged to and what period of time it was from. By involving ourselves in this project we learnt about the garbologists who explored the waste found in the Hyde Park Barracks and used it to determine the lives of convicts and women living in the Barracks. For our next few activities, we walked through the barracks where we saw items from the asylum, smoke pipes from the convicts and the hammocks that convicts used to sleep in. By being exposed to these artefacts, we were able to gain a deeper understanding of what daily life used to be like at the Hyde Park Barracks. Our final activity was an archeological dig where we had to find artefacts and determine the historical significance surrounding them. During this activity our class found items such as a religious pendant, a porcelain bowl, pieces of clothing and other informative pieces. This related to the archeologists at the Barracks who spent their time digging up artefacts and determining the historical significance surrounding them. For example, many archeologists found old packs of cards and other games that the convicts would use to spend their time. Overall, our trip to the Hyde Park Barracks was a beneficial experience and opportunity that allowed us to learn about the history surrounding Australia and the lives of convicts during the 19th century. 

Aisha Aboud - HSIE Teacher

They would also like to have some of our students dressed as World War I nurses to represent the nurses from Camden who served in the war. Tribute is also being paid to World War II nurse, Sr Vivian Bullwinkel  whose statue has been recently unveiled at the Australian War Memorial. Any students who would like to represent the College either as a nurse or in school uniform please email Mrs Musico Rullo for a permission note fmusicorullo@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au

Fran Musico Rullo - HSIE Teacher and History Club Coordinator

Daily quizzes were held in homeroom such as guessing the famous historical face and historical events. Congratulations to Sophie C, Hannah W, Caitlin O, Isabella W, Emmalyn D, Hannah B, Hannah M, Isabella D, Lacey S, Piper C, Kaleena H, Makayla L, Chantelle G, Olivia M, Elizabeth W and Meghan W for winning quizzes.

The HSIE Department ran a series of events to promote History in the College throughout the first week of September.  

• ‘Make your Own Ancient Artefact’ out of clay. Making cardboard pharaoh headresses and Roman helmets. 
• Exhibition of the HSIE Faculty’s artefact collection from ancient coins to a piece of coal that was on the Titanic. These artefacts were purchase from prize money won by the History Club. 
• Presentation from Mr Stevens of his personal military history collection.
• Library History Week display including Mrs Aboud’s Lego models of the Eiffel Tower during World War 2, the Titanic and an Egyptian pyramid.
• History Trivia Kahoot in the Library - won by Meredith P, Isabella W and Josephine M.
• Viewing of Horrible Histories
• History Photo Booth - students were able to dress up as various historical characters from an Egyptian pharaoh, a Viking to a Medieval plague doctor. Students enjoyed their special historical chocolates made by Mrs Aboud

A school wide competition was held called ‘Voices From the Past Photo Competition’ where students selected a family photo from their collection and wrote 2-5 paragraphs. 

The winners were

First place - Angel M of Year 10

Second place - Summer M of Year 10

Third place - Gabrielle W of Year 10

Highly Commended awards to

Michelle A of Year 7, Abbey F of Year 7 and Caitlin R of Year 11

‘I enjoyed history Week  2023. I loved the daily trivia and enjoyed making artefacts. It was an amazing week for history week. I also loved the photo booth with the historical props with my friends!’ Alessandra Rullo Year 7

‘I enjoyed History Week because it was full of fun activities and I learned a lot such as historical figures and dates. We would get excellent prizes, played a Kahoot, had a photobooth and more!’ Meredith Power Year 7

Fran Musico Rullo - HSIE Teacher and History Club Coordinator

In 2023, History Club members from Years 7 and 8 took part in the competition. Congratulations to the following students who took part.

Year 8 

Libby M and Bianca W who both achieved the level of merit.

Year 7

Charlotte C, Brooklyn D (Merit), Claire F, Emma M, Abigael O (Merit) and Alessandra R.

Fran Musico Rullo - HSIE Teacher and History Club Coordinator

The girls were outstanding during the pool matches beating St Joseph’s, St Benedict’s, St Francis and Mt Carmel and only losing the one game to eventual championship runners up Holy Spirit. These excellent results allowed the girls to qualify for the semi finals where they were matched up against an extremely strong St Mary’s team. This particular St Mary’s team consisted of no less than 5 current national championship players which was going to make it a very difficult task to progress to the final. Unfortunately, the girls went down but managed to score 1 of only 3 points St Mary’s conceded throughout the whole championship. The girls then went into a playoff for 3^rd and 4^th position but were narrowly defeated by St John’s.

A massive congratulations to the girls and their coach Mr Nash on their outstanding performance.

The team consisted of Patressa A-L, Isabella K, Chloe C, Charlize F, Kailin K, Olivia L, Maliha L, Sophie P, Valentina S-M and Jemma S. Coach Mr Nash.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Unfortunately, the girls were slow to start the day and lost a number of early matches that they probably should have won. These losses proved very costly and resulted in the team being ranked 4^th in their pool mid-way through the day. However, in true St Pat’s fashion, the girls rallied and won their final games which allowed them to progress into the playoffs for minor positions. After a convincing win in the first round of the play offs, the girls then drew St Josph’s in the playoff for 5^th and 6^th position overall. The girls played St Joseph’s in the round of the day and were beaten by a better team, however, the girls showed their true potential in the playoff and were leading the game until a controversial decision by the umpire after the final siren led to the girls going down by 1 point. While it was a disappointing way to end the championships, the girls should be extremely proud of the way they played and improved throughout the day.

A big thank you to coach Mr Baca for his efforts with the team on the day.

The team consisted of Skyla S, Hannah W, Valentina S-M, Amelia C, Ava S, Mariah A, Chloe C, Olivia L, Patressa A-L, Gabrielle L, Stephanie B, Tapenisa M, Georgia T, Rebekah N, Ava M, Lily S, Witi J and Adele L. Coach Mr Baca.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

We’d like to remind all Year 12 students that all current library items on loan, including their prescribed textbooks, are due for return on or before their final HSC exam. To find a list of all current loans:

1. Go to the Library catalogue.
2. Click 'login' at the top of the page, then click on the blue bar
3. Click on 'My Stuff'
4. Choose 'Checkouts' to view items currently on loan (due dates are presented in MM/DD/YY format).

All library items not returned by final day of the HSC exams will be subject to replacement costs. We encourage students to contact the Library if they have any concerns or questions. Students can return items in the chute located outside the Library.

For those students who aren't sure where to find Mrs McGillicuddy, our Careers and Pathways guru, we will let you in on a secret.

She has her own Career's corner near the back windows of the library.

If you wish to see Mrs McGillicuddy and she is not available, email her and she will get back to you.

• Make Notes Regularly: Instead of cramming all of your studying into the last-minute rush, make it a habit to make study notes regularly. This will help you understand the material better as you go along, making studying for tests less overwhelming.
• Plan Ahead: Don't wait until the last moment to finish your study notes. Start early, ideally weeks before the exam or as you finish each topic; so you have ample time to review and understand the material thoroughly. Avoid last-minute stress by planning ahead.
• Create Organised Study Notes: Create structured and easily digestible study notes. Use headings, bullet points, and diagrams to make your notes visually appealing and comprehensive. This will make it easier to review and memorise key information.
• Use Active Learning: Don't just passively read your notes. Test yourself on the material to gauge your understanding. Use flashcards, quizzes, or teaching the topic to someone else. Active learning reinforces your memory and comprehension.
• Use Diverse Study Techniques: Don't rely on a single study technique. Experiment with various methods like mind maps, mnemonic devices, or group study sessions. Explore what works best for you and adapt your study routine accordingly.
• Simulate Exam Conditions: To prepare for the pressure of exam day, practice under realistic conditions. Set a timer at home when doing questions, avoid looking at your notes, and simulate the exam environment as closely as possible. This helps build your confidence and adapt to time constraints.
• Use Varied Sources: Don't limit your study materials to just one source. Diversify your resources by using textbooks, online materials, practice exams, and teacher-provided resources. This broadens your understanding and exposes you to different perspectives.

By incorporating these study habits into your routine, you can significantly enhance your preparation for tests and exams. Remember that consistency and early planning are key to success in high school and beyond.

In consideration of the year 12's who are currently sitting/studying for their HSC exams, and in anticipation of the upcoming year 10 exams, the library is in quiet mode.

We ask that when utilising the library, you do so quietly and respectfully.

The space is for those who wish to work silently. If you wish to socialise, play a game, or collaborate, feel free to take a game or chat outside in the sun.

We appreciate your understanding and consideration of your peers.

The focus of this event is to raise funds that will provide financial assistance to families facing difficult circumstances. 

Together we can be a community taking action; advocating, supporting, sharing and providing. 

We can create a path of opportunity, let’s come together and change lives through education.  A fantastic night with fusion dining, captivating entertainment and a chance to dance the night away, all while contributing to a worthy cause. 

Tickets will be available in November. Save Saturday 9 March in your calendars. 

The Gala Ball is an excellent opportunity for local businesses and individuals to get involved;

- become a sponsor, donate an auction item or raffle prize.

- help us make this night a success.  Our goal is to raise $100,000. 

Please reach out to us @ galaball@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au

We are proud to share that Walker has partnered with the College for a third year in a row as Event Partner. This is a wonderful contribution to our scholarship fund, Thank you Walker.