Have you ever experienced the feeling that you are exactly where you are supposed to be? That you were meant to witness an event or meet someone who was going to have an instantaneous positive impact on you and you just knew that this feeling of being in the right place at the right time just where you were supposed to be was like a gifted moment in your life?

I’d like to share two such moments that have happened to me in the last week.

On Tuesday, I had the great honour of attending a celebration of Eucharist to welcome two Year 12 students into the Catholic faith. Held at the parish of Mary Mackillop in Oran Park, these two young women had freely and thoughtfully, and no doubt prayerfully, discerned that this was a decision they wanted to make. Standing with their sponsors before their family and friends and members of their parish community, they were firstly baptised, then confirmed and then they received their first Eucharist.

I have no doubt that this was a very special moment for each of the girls.

I was sitting towards the back and noticed before mass that there were lots of young women coming into the church. I made the correct assumption that they were Year 12 students from St Pat’s, there to show their support and love for these two young women, and I was right.

Another moment was being welcomed by Fr David before mass began. His big smile and joy-filled hug were genuine expressions of his welcome. During the mass too, he included not only myself but the wider St Patrick’s College and the young women there to support their peers. His insightful homily about St Joseph – a man of no words but of gentle actions reflecting his integrity and faithfulness – was inspiring.

What I also learnt was that Fr David is living with cancer and is undergoing rounds of chemotherapy and, except for his bald head, his personal demeanour and infectious joyfulness would not signal this illness.

His genuine warmth and welcome are priceless. To be a witness to the strength of the faith of these young women is priceless. To feel the love and support of the whole community for these two young women, priceless.

I felt that I was where I was supposed to be – here in this community of St Pat’s.

Then on Wednesday at our celebration of our feast day Mass and my commissioning, I experienced another moment of “this is where I am supposed to be”, standing before the community pledging my service to them. The College sang a blessing over me, the words of which are both humbling and beautiful, and I did try hard to hold back tears of utter joy. I looked out and saw some girls beaming big smiles back at me and I knew again that I am supposed to be here at this school at this time in its history.

How many of us can say that I am where I am meant to be?

How many can say, this is the new life that Jesus spoke about … the joy and welling up of the human spirit to give us life … life to the full?

Life at St Pat’s is bustling with life and joyfulness and this last fortnight was no exception.

I have had these two unforgettable moments confirming for me that this place, this community, is exactly where I am supposed to be. How blessed I am.

As we come to the end of the church’s Lenten season and prepare to enter the holiest of weeks and celebrate the joyfulness of the life promised to us through the Resurrection, may each of you and your families feel Jesus’ presence with you.

I would also like to acknowledge the service milestone recently achieved. Congratulations and thank you to the following staff for their dedicated service to the College:

10 years
Melissa Goodsell (2014 – 2024)
Tim Stevens (2014 – 2024)
20 years
Pola Nicolaou (2004 – 2024)
Michelle Parker (2004 – 2024)
Shobna Sharma (2004 – 2024)
Tarna Tannous (2004 – 2024)

Wishing each of you a most Happy and Holy Easter.

Mary Leask - College Principal

With the theme “Our Community, My Journey” we were granted the opportunity to approach this reflection anticipating higher connections, reflection, recovery, evaluation, and renewal. During these two days, large group sessions focused on St Paul’s letter to the Thessolonians, preaching to strive to do what is good for each other. We were invited to immerse ourselves in Christ’s teachings, and apply this within our cohort. Once introduced to our small groups, we were encouraged to self reflect, appreciating personal triumphs and passions. Feeling more connected to one another, each of us had the opportunity to share our own personal stories, initiating a more authentic bond. 

Amelia F and Deana F - Year 10

Year 10 students have been diving deep into the world of light waves, exploring the concepts of transverse and longitudinal waves, as well as the electromagnetic spectrum. Through hands on experiments, they are gaining a better understanding of how waves behave and their significance in our everyday lives.

In Year 9, students have been busy swabbing different areas in the school and using agar plates to study microbial growth. This hands on activity is providing valuable insights into the world of microbiology and the importance of hygiene practices.

Our Year 12 Biology students are delving into the fascinating world of gene cloning. They are learning about the use of bacterial plasmids in gene cloning and the implications of this technology in various fields, including medicine and agriculture.

Year 11 Biology classes have been investigating the concept of surface area to volume ratio through the hot potato experiment. This experiment is helping students to understand how this ratio impacts heat transfer, cell size, and other biological processes.

Students in our Year 9 Catalyst classes have embarked on an intriguing journey with "The Case of the Mystery Bone" unit. The girls have been comparing human and animal bones and skulls, naming the bones in the human skeleton, and measuring various bones in their bodies. Through equations and predictions, they're uncovering patterns between bone length and height.

We look forward to many more experiments in coming weeks as our students continue to explore the amazing world of Science!

Here are the scores for the last two rounds:

Round 3

Court 1 - Team 2, 47 points / Team 4, 17 points

Court 2 - Team 1, 45 points / Team 5, 19 points

Round 4

Court 1 - Team 4, 24 points / Team 1, 22 points

Court 2 - Team 3, 34 points / Team 5, 12 points

Team 1 and Team 4 went head-to-head in this past round and proved to be strong opponents for each other. With only two points in it, Team 4 took the win. However, both teams should be very proud of their efforts with such a narrow margin!

As we are all growing more comfortable with the game, girls are developing their skills, growing closer as a class and having lots of fun. One student stated that it was a buzz of energy on the courts with all the plot twists. You couldn’t tell who was going to win at times! We are building up our endurance and stamina as well. Even in the heat, girls are singing and dancing, cheering on their teammates. Pitbull was a crowd favourite!

As a part of this unit, students also take turns embodying the duty team roles of: scorer, timekeeper, first-aid officer, equipment officer and umpire. These girls are learning the difficulty of these jobs but are persevering! A further congratulations to our Best and Fairest Award recipients!

Keep an eye out on our College social media pages for more information!

Rebecca M - Year 10 - on behalf of 10.3

There are two session options for parents to choose from.

Face-to-face PST Interviews – Wednesday 3 April 3:45pm - 8:30pm (MSC)
Online Zoom PST Interviews – Tuesday 9 April 4:00pm - 8:30pm.

The Term 1 PST Interviews provide an opportunity for families to connect with  teachers and ask any important questions about progress and support moving forward. Bookings are made online through the Parent Lounge.

The system will close for further bookings on:

Thursday 27th March 3:00pm for the face-to-face (MSC) sessions and 
Monday 8 April 3:00pm for the online Zoom session.

Booking Interviews
Interviews are booked through the Parent Lounge Portal. Information on accessing the Portal and booking interviews is available by viewing or downloading this document. 

If you have any further questions about the interview sessions, do not hesitate to contact Mr Robson (BRobson@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au) or myself, Dr Bourne (dbourne@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au). For problems related to Portal Access, please email info@saintpatricks.nsw.edu.au.

We look forward to seeing you at the Parent/Student/Teacher interviews.

Students are developing their confidence in developing, making, experimenting, testing and working collaboratively in a hands on manner. Stage 5 electives offered by the Technology faculuty include Textiles and Design, Food Technology, Computing Technology and Design and Technology. Across the different courses students develop essential design skills and learn how to apply them to real world situations.

Jacqueline Flint - TAS Teacher

Food and Agriculture classes have revamped the agricultural plot space and are designing their own self watering planter system for their assessment in small groups. The girls will also make a homemade dip for their task and use herbs grown to flavour their dips for their grazing boards. We look forward to tasting some wonderful creations! Timber Technology classes have been developing their woodworking skills making their own air plant frames before they design and make their customised Jewellery stand project.

Year 10 Food Technology students have studied Food for Specific Needs this term and will participate in a design your own recipe challenge for their assessment. The girls have had the opportunity to explore a range of different functional foods and fortified foods that aim to assist with dietary needs and health conditions. Year 10 girls also had the opportunity to explore how logistical considerations and changes in daily life can also mean changes to our diet, for example camping food and even food designed for space exploration!

Follow along with our own instagram page stpatstas to see all the amazing progress, designs and ideas. Like and follow to see what amazing work our hardworking TAS students create. 

Annabelle completed her VET work placement at the "Chef and I" during 2023 and was nominated as VET student of the Year by her employer. 

Many students in the Macarthur region were nominated for this award and were then required to go through a selection process  to become finalists.

Annabelle was selected as one of 6 finalists for the Hospitality Cookery category. 

We congratulate Annabelle on this wonderful achievement.

Maree Durrington - VET Coordinator

The class was placed into three groups and were given "mystery boxes" to create both a main meal and dessert.

The girls loved this experience and prepared and produced restaurant quality meals in a 3 hour time slot.

The main meals produced included:

- Homemade Chicken Alfredo Fettucine

- Crispy Crumbed Fish with Garlic Aioli and Oven Baked Vegetables

- Lamb Rump with Caramelised Onions and Pea Puree and Hand Cut Fries

The desserts included:

- Chocolate Layer Cake

- Baked Chocolate in Pastry with Poached Strawberries

- Mille-fueille.

Congratulations to our winners on the day - Annabelle, Amelia, Diamanté and Layal 

A special thank you to Mrs Christina Silvano and Mrs Melissa Goodsell for being the guest judges on the day.

Maree Durrington - Hospitality/Cookery Trainer and VET Coordinator

The excursion featured a site tour that allowed the girls to gain a deeper understanding of the company's structure, operations, and the pivotal role STEM professionals play in its success. Our students were then able to engage directly with female professionals who have carved successful careers in the STEM fields via a Q&A morning tea session. Through candid conversations, these role models shared their experiences, challenges, and triumphs, offering invaluable insights and inspiration to the next generation of female STEM leaders.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Trudy Kelly and her team at Redox Ltd for providing the College with such an enriching opportunity. The event has not only expanded our students' understanding of the professional world but also empowered them to envision a future where they too can contribute to pioneering advancements and achieve remarkable success in their chosen STEM fields.

I really enjoyed getting to understand and get an insight into the field of STEM. 
Redox has definitely opened my eyes to different opportunities in the field and how important STEM subjects are in changing the world for the better. I also really enjoyed listening to how important women are in the community of STEM and how the company values womens views and opinions. - Makayla - Year 12
 
The visit to the Redox company was an excellent opportunity to explore a variety of unique employment roles that exist within the STEM field after completing our studies. This exposure helped us understand the practical applications of academic knowledge and qualifications through the exploration of potential career paths that align with our interests and skills. This excursion gave a unique insight into the roles of women within the STEM field and the varying challenges they face with being in a male-dominated industry. Being exposed to successful women working in such a diverse company was a great inspiration to pursue STEM careers after completion of the HSC and Tertiary Education. - Bronwyn Year 12

Elizabeth Parsons - Science Coordinator 

Year 12 visited The Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway on the 13 March. It was a great honour for us to have 100 year old Kokoda veteran, Reg Chard, be our guide. Reg joined the Australian Militia Force when he was 18 in 1942 and has recently published his biography, The Digger of Kokoda. He was very generous with his time and not only led the students around the memorial walkway, but was happy to meet each student and answer their questions.

The program began in the Memorial’s Centerpiece, a series of granite walls which depict iconic photographs taken by George Silk on Kokoda. Reg was able to tell the students about the people in the photos (many whom he knew personally). Here our students, Bronwyn Z and Emily M, presented a wreath on behalf of the College. Students then went to the Ralph Honner Education Centre where they experienced a virtual reality program on Kokoda gaining an understanding of the terrain and harsh conditions faced by the Australian soldiers. After some historical background by the volunteers, the students were guided around the Kokoda Memorial Walkway, an 800 metre track with 22 stations to mark places of military engagement along the track including Milne Bay, Myola, Menari and Gona. 

Year 12 reflections on the excursion:

"Having the opportunity to attend the excursion at the Kokoda Memorial Track was an amazing chance to learn about the Kokoda campaign. We had the privilege of meeting 100-year-old war veteran Reg Chard. He was full of stories and knowledge that enlightened us of the experiences of the soldiers. From talking about what the men had to carry with them, the ages of some of the youngest (14 years old) and how mateship and bravery kept them together. Reg shared with us the cruelty and determination of the Japanese during the war including how the Japanese resorted to cannibalism. Reg spoke of eating bark and leaves due to having lack of rations. Reg spoke highly of the “fuzzy wuzzy angels” and he believes the soldiers would not have been able to survive without them. "

- Lauren H and Layla B

 ‘My experience at the memorial was one that I will never forget. Reg Chard brought me to tears on multiple occasions, from his raw recounts of the horrors he saw to the fondness with which he discussed his late wife, Reg was vulnerable and a genuine delight to talk to. He gave us primary accounts of what it was like to be a part of the Kokoda Campaign and how the horrors of war never leave you. I feel extremely privileged to have gotten to talk to a living legend and hear about the personal experiences of WW2 from one of the last living veterans apart of the Kokoda Campaign and the last of his Battalion.’  

- Meghan W

‘My experience on this excursion to the Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway was phenomenal. I was able to learn so much about what life was like on the Kokoda Track for the brave Australian soldiers as well as the initial campaign. This experience was curated not only by the  amazing volunteer guides, but also by Reg Chard, a veteran who experienced the Kokoda track starting in 1942. Reg was able to pass on his valuable knowledge of the track as well as his own personal stories and encounters during his time there. Through this, our whole modern history class was able to become enraptured by his wisdom of the track as well as his engaging stories that were able to teach us so much about his friends, the native people of Papua New Guinea, and his encounters with the Japanese soldiers. Similarly, the volunteers were able to teach us so much about the trail and the campaign through the Virtual reality experience, which was able to show us the experiences of other veterans. Afterwards, we were able to go on a tour of the track, in which we were able to learn valuable facts uch as the only VC recipient on the Kokoda trail was Bruce Kingsbury, as well as facts about each of the different battles and camps. Throughout the day, Reg was available to answer any of our questions, making the experience even more valuable. Overall, this excursion was so rewarding, as we were so lucky to meet and engage with such knowledgeable people and understand a uniquely Australian perspective about the conflict in the pacific. I would love to thank Reg and the volunteers that guided us through our day.’ 

-Emily M

‘The Kokoda Track Memorial Walkway was an experience that will have a hold on me for the rest of my life. The things that I learnt are things I will never really forget, especially when meeting a veteran from the Kokoda track. Reg Chard, a hundred year old Kokoda veteran, had spared the time of day to share his experience with us, sharing the names of the heroes who had perished back in Papua New Guinea on the Kokoda track to keep their memory alive a hundred years later. I had the privilege of being able to ask a few questions, such as his opinion on religion before and after the war. He shared that he felt he didn’t deserve to be religious after what he had seen and done during the war. An other question was about the reaction that he had received when he returned to Australia, and what that was like. He replied that nobody had known of his return, then he went on to share an emotional story regarding his return to his mother and father. Reg Chard was an extremely humble man, who shared his personal experiences which have instilled a deeper sense of empathy and values regarding morality that people of the current generation of Australian citizens will never have the horror of understanding. He had said vehemently that he never wished to be called a hero or to be held in such respectful regard for all of the heroes who had died back on the track. Reg Chard shared words that will forever be instilled in my heart and are words that I will make sure will be instilled in my own children.’

- Sierra N

‘Our experience at the Kokoda Track Memorial walkway allowed us to gain valuable knowledge about the track and the conditions experienced by the soldiers who walked it.  We had the opportunity to meet Reg Chard who is a 100-year veteran who was on the track from 1942. Reg passed on some valuable stories to us about the track. Additionally, The VR experience provided a profound opportunity to fully immerse ourselves in the surroundings of the Kokoda track. We were able to understand the harsh conditions and landscape that the Australian soldiers faced in the jungle whilst also gaining a perspective of Port Moresby during the war. The explanation by veterans throughout the VR experience provided a dynamic and enriching educational resource.’

-Bronwyn Z and Isabelle S

We wish to thank Reg, the volunteers and Mr Muller (for accompanying us). 

The walkway can be also undertaken by the public - https://www.kokodawalkway.com.au/

Fran Musico Rullo - HSIE Teacher

The College had 11 girls compete over the 3 rounds held, and all represented the college to such a high standard and we are so incredibly proud of them. Round 1 was held on 1 March at St Patrick's Strathfield where all girls competed in an entry round, and we had some great success here with 3 of our students progressing to the next round - Abbygael T, Zali B and Holly G.

The next round was zone finals, and again the students exemplified their skills to present strong competition, and here we saw Abbygael T advance to the Grand final! 

Held at Parramatta OLMC, Abbygael presented her speech with a high level of sophistication, and wowed the judges into a 3rd place victory!

Congratulations to Abbygael, and all of the girls who represented the College, and thank you to the parents who supported their girls each night! 

It was an honour to be selected to represent the school at CSDA public speaking. We had 11 participants representing St Pat’s. Round 1 was held at St Patrick’s Strathfield and there was a large variety of speeches. It was a tough competition, however I was lucky enough to be chosen for the zone finals. Zone finals were held at Aquinas College in Menai with 3 students representing St Pat’s. This proved to be a bigger challenge than the initial round. There was a good number of talented speakers with well thought out speeches and some amazing ideas. Congratulations to Abbygael T who represented us in the grand finals where she had an amazing result. Thank you to all the teachers who have supported us. Thank you to Miss Pedder who guided us through this competition and thank you to Mrs Leask for taking the time to attend. - Zali B-  Year 10

Emily Pedder - Debating and Public Speaking Coordinator

Thank you Mrs Davis for your incredible work in the Visual Arts and Drama space. We can’t wait to meet your little bundle of joy and pray for you and your husband during this time.

Farewell and good luck Mrs Davis. Be sure to visit us!

24th March 2024, 6pm-10pm

Campbelltown Arts Centre

Free entry

Website link: https://c-a-c.com.au/ngana-birrung-campbelltown-2024/

Ngana Birrung (Dharug for Black Stars) is back in March 2024! With an incredible line-up of First Nations music talent that will hit the stage across Western Sydney. Ngana Birrung’s closing event will take place at Campbelltown Arts Centre (C-A-C) on Sunday 24 March. The stellar all-female line-up will be headlined by ARIA award-winner Kaiit and Miss Kaninna and supported by Kootsie Don – and C-A-C audiences will be treated to a special performance by emerging local artist, Riah!

Peter Pan, played by Will Carter, has been captivating the directors with his playful and adventurous spirit. Meanwhile, Captain Hook has been embodying the role with great finesse, bringing a menacing and villainous presence to the stage. The dynamic between Peter and Hook is electric, adding depth and excitement to their scenes together.

The pirates, under the command of Hook, are a formidable and rowdy bunch. Their choreography and performances have been impressive, creating a sense of danger and excitement whenever they're on stage.

Tiger Lily, played by Victoria Shridhar and the braves of Neverland, with their graceful dancing, add a touch of elegance to the production. Their movements are fluid and precise, transporting the audience to the enchanting world of Neverland.

As for the lost boys, led by Peter, they embody the essence of youth and innocence, not wanting to grow up. Their camaraderie and playful interactions with Peter create heartwarming moments that resonate with audiences of all ages.

Don't forget the Darling family members as they journey from the nursery to Neverland. Wendy played by Ebony Penman, Mrs Darling played by Adele Limbrey and Liza played by Grace Quinnell bring warmth and a feminine touch to the very busy Darling household as the children succumb to the magic of Neverland. 

Overall, the first Sunday rehearsal last week was a success, showcasing the progress we've made in just one month of rehearsals. With each passing day, our production of Peter Pan is taking shape, promising to be a magical and memorable experience for all.

Catherine McLaren - CAPA Coordinator

The standard of swimming at the championships was outstanding and it was great to see so many of our girls competing at such a high level. As well as some excellent individual results, we also had a number of strong team results which highlights the depth in the swim team this year.

Congratulations to all the girls who competed on the day. It was amazing to see so many girls getting PB’s and trying their best which ultimately contributed to St Pat’s finishing in 3rd place position. A real team effort. Well done girls. 

• Alexandra N completing a clean sweep by winning every event she entered on the day as well backing up to be part of the two winning relays teams. Alexandra won the 50m freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly and backstroke, the 100m freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly and backstroke and the 200 Individual Medley.
• Alexandra N breaking the 50m butterfly record which was previously held by current Australian Junior Dolphins swimmer Jessica Cole as well as being named 15 Years Overall Age Champion.
• Our Intermediate 4x 50m Freestyle and Medley relay team consisting of Olivia K, Hannah W, Vivianne M and Alexandra N taking out the gold in both the events to qualify for the NSWCCC Championships to be held in Homebush next month.
• Our 6x50m All Age relay team placing 3^rd
• Our Senior 4x50m Freestyle team placing 2^nd
• Olivia K placing 3^rd in the 50m butterfly.
• Ava M placing 3rd in the 50m breaststroke
• Evie C placing 3^rd in the 50m backstroke.

We wish our team who will be heading to Homebush representing Wollongong Diocese at NSW Combined Catholic Colleges Championship the very best:

• Alexandra N in nine individual events including the 50m Freestyle, 100m Breaststroke, 50m Butterfly, 100 Backstroke, 50m Breaststroke, 100 Freestyle, 50m Backstroke, 200m Individual Medley, and 100m Butterfly. 
• Olivia K, Vivianne M, and Hannah W will also be joining Alexandra N the Intermediate girls 4x50 Medley relay and the 4x50 Freestyle relay. 

A massive thank you to Mr Lord and Mrs Knox for managing the team on the day, and to Mr Ashcroft for all your organisation and work behind the scenes. A big thank you also to the parents who came down and supported us on the day.

The College Swim Team consisted of:
Jennifer B, Ava M, Sophie K, Evie C, Oliviah W, Chloe P, Alexandra N, Emma R, Olivia K, Vivianne M, Hannah W, Caitlin R, Isabelle S, Alex M, and Hannah Y. 

Caitlin R - Swim Team Captain & Year 12 Student and Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator 

In specifically-designed guides, Library staff curate information for students to access when completing assesments and assignment work. As information specialists, the Library team ensure the information provided is authoritative, reliable, current and applicable to the task. The Research Guides are not intended to spoon-feed the students by any means, but rather offer the students a link to quality research material which they can then springboard from, to further develop and hone their own research skills. 

The most recent Research Guide was created to support Year 11 Modern History students, who are currently studying the Romanov Dynasty. Check out this guide here, and find the suite of guides via the College Library website here.

The Library Team

Imagine Mrs Feely's delight and our admiration at the absolute artistic talent of Charliez G in Year 9.

Charliez has no formal art training, does not take art as a subject, yet was able to produce such a beautiful work of art. She prefers animals as her subject of choice: with the time taken to complete each artwork dependent on the level of detail. Charliez began doodling at a young age, with her more intricate works developing in the past 2 years. Her Great Grandfather was a keen painter and sketcher.

Charliez prefers lead pencil over other mediums, and her current artwork was done because she feels that Freo is important to both the College and Mrs Feely, and she loves to make people happy through her art. Previously, Charliez gifted a horse artwork to Mrs Wilson, and has another surprise gift up her sleeve.

The artwork was outstanding and certainly brought much happiness. Congratulations Charliez on your kindness and exceptional talent.

The Library Team

The game of Chess as we know it, has been played for more than 500 years. It is a game of strategy and concentration; there is no element of chance involved.

Here at St Pat's, we haven't been playing it for that long, but we are just as keen.

The Chess Club has been running for quite a few years now, with the College participating in inter-school competitions. The Library is well-equipped with more than a few chess sets and timers. Chess club meets each Wednesday during lunch in the library.

The club facilitators, Hailey B and Hannah L, are happy to offer instruction, guidance, or challenge you to a friendly game. All are welcome to join in, learn the game or simply observe.

The Library Team

Students in year 8 fill the role for terms 1, 2, and 3, with year 7 taking the reigns in term 4. They then continue the following year as year 8 students.

Although the program is not a library initiative, the student helper is based in the library and is overseen by the library staff.

Participating in the Student Helper Program enables a contribution towards College community service.  Community service provides opportunities for students to:

• Develop a sense of responsibility
• Practice communication skills
• Gain experience in clerical and office administration work

The roster is a rolling one, moving through the pastoral classes. Each Pastoral teacher liases with the students to check their work schedules and commit to 2 periods that do not impact on assessments or pracs. Most students fill the role twice during the term 4 - term 3 time frame.

Whilst undertaking the role, students have the opportunity to do their own work when not delivering messages.

While some students are not confident and so are reluctant to participate, the library staff are both supportive and encouraging, and the general concensus is that the experience is an enjoyable one. Seeing the growth in confidence by all participants reinforces the positive aspects of the role.

The Library Team

Congratulations to our first Premier's Reading Challenge finisher.

The Challenge permits the inclusion of books read since the close of the previous challenge, and we have encouraged our participants to take advantage of this.

Advika S of year 8 has already fulfilled the reading requirements and completed the challenge. She was recently presented with her certificate by Mrs Feely. Congratulations Advika.

A reminder to all participants to use their login and password to enter the challenge site and log their reading. Please see Mrs Harradine in the Library if you have forgotten your details or are having difficulty.

The Library Team 

This article from the State Library focuses on four pioneers of Libraries here in Australia. 

It takes a look at four outstanding women who helped shape our magnificent Libraries. Each of their unique contributions has left a lasting legacy and paved the way for women in librarianship and beyond.

Nita Kibble, Jean Arnot, Phyllis Mander-Jones, and Ida Leeson were all Australian born and educated women who went on to promote and advocate for the importance of libraries.

The Library Team

The Library have put together a small Makerspace trolley, complete with the everyday essentials needed when feeling crafty. It is available for everyday use.

The trolley 'lives' next to the Assessment table and is mobile. All we ask is that it is returned after use with all items back in place, and kept tidy.  If supplies run low, let the Library staff know and we will replenish.

Happy Makerspace!

Under the graceful guidance of Bishop Brian Mascord, Father James Arblaster, and Father Feleki Tautunu, we came together in a beautiful mass, enveloped by the spirit of St Patrick.

Our College community celebrated this occasion with song, dance, and respectful prayer. Our Mission team supported wonderfully with prayer and service. Our choir, musicians and liturgical dancers leading the prayerful celebration. 

With humility and resolve, Mrs Leask accepted the role of Principal of St Patrick’s College, embracing the sacred responsibility of leading our college in the rich traditions of the Benedictine charism that defines us. Through her leadership, Mrs Leask committed to encourage us to transcend our comfort zones and aspire towards greater heights, fostering a shared sense of purpose and community.

The College community led by the students offered Mrs Leask a Blessing, delivered in magnificent song.

In the morning, in the evening
In your coming, and your going
In your weeping, and rejoicing
He is for you, He is for you

As a College community we extend our gratitude to a number of special guests who joined with us to celebrate this day.

Parents and family members of the College

Representing Good Samaritan Education, Moira Najdecki, The Chair of Good Samaritan Education, Jane Comensoli the Executive Director, Frank Pitt, Mission Formation.

We also thank Sr Geraldine Kearney, Sr Catherine Slattery, and Sr Julie O’Regan.

We thank our Chair of Company members, Libby Denny and Company member Tom Galea, our Chair of the Board Paul Colyer and fellow directors Paul Burgess, Mark Mendola and Moye Prichard, as well as board committee members Joanna Patterson and Julie Puckin.

We welcomed Principals and staff from other Good Samaritan schools, including Jennifer Foldes and Matt Cleary from Mater Dei, Michael Hanratty from Mount St Benedict College, Elizabeth Carnegie from Stella Maris College, and Tony Fitzgerald from St Mary’s Star of the Sea College.

We thank our friends from St Gregory’s College, Matthew Brennan Principal, Diana Ivancic, Head of Junior School and Adrian Quig, Head of Philanthropy and Fundraising for attending.

From the Catholic Education Office in Wollongong, Peter Hill the Director of Schools, Sister Monica Barlow from the Bishops Office and a number of Principals and staff including Bradley McAllister from John Therry Catholic College, David Cloran from Magdalene Catholic College , Stephen Lo Cascio from Mount Carmel Catholic College, Phillip Barrington from St Thomas More Catholic Primary School, Margaret Foldes from St Clare’s Catholic Primary School and Mel Foldes, RE Coordinator at St Justin’s Catholic Primary School.

From the Campbelltown Catholic Club, Directors David Olsson and Mary Ellen Bland and Community Liaison for the club, Jeff McGill.

Kara Thornhill,  the Vice-President of the Parents and Friends association here at the College and Sr Kerry Macdermott and Aunty Joan Hazel from the Aboriginal Education Advisory Committee.

Susan Sciffer - Community Engagment Coordinator

As our guests arrived they were treated to beautiful sounds from our musicians alongside the red-carpet and the main stage, thank you girls for your masterful performances. Thank you to our our lovely ushers, who displayed the very spirit of hospitality that we witness always, through our College charism, you ensured that guests felt welcomed. Our dancers who performed recently at Multicultural Night, collaborated to create a unique and entertaining performance for our Gala Ball guests - you really set the night up for succcess with your energy and enthusiasm. Your presence added vibrancy and depth to the event.  

The room was transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour and beauty with exquisite Japanese styling.

The room quikcly filled with our guests and it was a pleasure to see familiar faces and to welcome new friends, all coming together in the spirit of community.

We express our deepest appreciation to our sponsoring partners and those who generously contributed to the raffle and silent auction. Your support enables us to fulfill our vision for the Scholarship Fund and we can report the succesful fundraising amount of $60,743. The amount raised on the evening will support at least 20 students and their families who are encountering circumstances whereby a St Patrick's education may not have been possible.

Thank you for allowing us to be a community that comes together, showcasing the Gala Ball as an avenue to advocate, support, share and provide, empowering those who need it.

The Gala Ball Committee

If you would like your child to receive this vaccine you must complete the online consent form. Vaccinations will only be provided at the College if consent has been received by NSW Health.

How to provide consent:

1.To complete online consent for your child’s school vaccinations, visit: https://engage.health.nsw.gov.au/engage

2.Follow the steps to log in to your existing ServiceNSW account. This is the same account you may already use to renew your driver’s licence. If you don’t have a ServiceNSW account, refer to ServiceNSW to create one. 

3.Update or confirm your personal details in ServiceNSW as required. 

4.Complete the School Vaccination Consent Form for your child/ren. You will need to:  

               a)  Enter your child’s personal details
               b)  Provide the Medicare card details for you and your child  
               c)  Read the linked Parent Information Sheet and privacy statement
               d)  Provide consent  

On the day of vaccinations, please ensure that your daughter has a healthy-sized breakfast and drinks plenty of fluids throughout the day. Also please advise your daughter to wear her SPORTS UNIFORM on this day.

Please note, the College’s role in the administration of these vaccines is purely as a facilitator.

For more information on routine school vaccinations, please visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/schoolvaccination or call the Liverpool Public Health Unit on 9794 0855.

If you require information in your language, please visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/school_vaccination_language.aspx

Date - Friday 5 April 2024
Time - 6.00pm-9.00pm
Dress Code - Smart Casual
Cost - $10 per student

Tickets available from - https://www.trybooking.com/CPXXP

Susan Sciffer - Community Engagement Coordinator

Students need to wear their full school uniform.

Please place your order online before the day of photography - Go to www.advancedlife.com.au and enter this code: LBZ 3LR 3ZX.

Payment can be made using Visa, Mastercard or PayPal.

If you are unable to order online, please collect a envelope from the College reception and hand your completed order directly to the photographers on the day of photography.

If you have any queries concerning school photographs and ordering, please contact advancedlife directily: www.advancedlife.com.au/contact

We have recently had complaints from our neighbours regarding parents vehicles using spaces at the local shopping centre. We ask that all parents are mindful of our neighbours and not use parking at the shops which is intended for those local businesses.

The show runs from 19-28 April 2024.

Show your support for the girls. Tickets can be ordered here.