Dear Parents and Carers,

Last Friday, we observed the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus with a Mass attended by Stage 2. The Sacred Heart of Jesus reminds us that true compassion is not passive. It is a courageous response to suffering, expressed through love and action. During June, Pope Leo XIV invited us to pray “that the world might grow in compassion.” His intention called us to seek consolation in a personal relationship with Jesus and, from His Sacred Heart, to learn how to extend mercy to a world in need. May this intention continue to guide our hearts, reminding us that true peace begins with compassion, rooted in Christ, and extended to the world.  

Last Friday night, our Mini Vinnies students embodied this call for compassion by participating in the Vinnies Sleepout, choosing to experience—if only briefly—the discomfort faced by thousands of Australians who sleep rough each night. Their witness was more than symbolic; it was a heartfelt act of solidarity and a powerful reminder that compassion begins with empathy. A huge thank you to Mrs Ann-Marie Wilson, Mr Dylan Anderson and the Mini Vinnies faithfuls - Aleia D, Henry H, Luke S, Ruby F, Fleur C, Daisy D, Jasper S and Evie P for raising awareness and showing compassion in action. This effort was part of their broader support for St Vincent DePaul, and along with the now annual ‘Souper-Hero' day in Week 8, both raising vital funds for those who will go without this winter. 

As I reflect on the term, I am continually moved by the daily expressions of compassion within our school community—some clearly visible, as above, others gently discreet. While compassion is not unique to our community, what sets us apart is the extraordinary depth with which we live it out. Thank you for making this a truly special place to belong.

Many thanks to our incredible P&F and canteen crew for hosting a fabulous Disco last Friday night. Your time and energy are greatly appreciated. Thank you for putting smiles on little faces and bringing together our school community in a wonderful end-of-term celebration. 

You may have read my Compass alert informing you that our School Counsellor, Kelly Cubis-Higgs, will be concluding her time at St Mary’s at the end of this term. Kelly has accepted an exciting new work opportunity, a move that will also allow her to spend more time with her family. On behalf of the entire St Mary’s community, I extend our sincere thanks to Kelly for her dedicated and compassionate service. Her thoughtful support of our students and their families has made a meaningful difference, and her gentle, professional presence will be greatly missed. CatholicCare is currently in the process of recruiting a new counsellor to join us in Term 3.

Many thanks to Nadja Cohendy (Leif and Clay C) who has created a stunning mural in the Greenzone portraying our local bush to surf environment. Please feel free to wander down to the Greenzone sometime to view her masterpiece.

On our final day of Term 2, we will celebrate  NAIDOC Week, 2025 with a special ceremony and class activities.  NAIDOC Week runs from 6–13 July and is a powerful opportunity for families to come together in celebration, reflection, and learning. This year’s theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week as a national movement, and it shines a spotlight on the role of young people in carrying forward the strength and wisdom of their communities. We are excited to welcome back past student Angelique McCabe, to speak to our students about her vision for the future as a young Aboriginal woman. Thank you to Mrs Ann-Marie Wilson for her thoughtful preparation of the NAIDOC ceremony and class activities. 

As we conclude Term 2, I offer my gratitude to the wonderful staff I work with, and the fantastic students and their families I work for. In particular, I thank Mrs Ann-Marie Wilson, Mr Dylan Anderson and Mrs Tania Speer, who have been an incredible support to me as I have undertaken the Acting Principal role. Next term, we are very excited to welcome back Mrs Laurinda Nelson. 

Wishing all families a restful and rejuvenating break.

Yours in faith and partnership,

Julie Valentini
Acting Principal