Welcome back to Term 4, I can hardly believe we are almost through another year. I hope everyone had a relaxing holiday with family and friends. I had the opportunity to visit Condobolin in the far west of NSW where I spent a significant part of my teaching career. It was wonderful to reunite with some of my old Kinder students and shocked to hear that they are now 33. It reminds me that teaching is such a privilege to share in such a significant part of each child’s life. I was also starkly reminded of the severe drought that continues to ravish most of inland NSW, the strength and resilience of these farming communities, who continue to say, ‘it will come good eventually’. I ask that we continue to support these communities in kind and prayers, and to appreciate the wonderful and blessed part of the country that we live in.  

The final day of Term 3 was one of great celebration for St Mary’s community with Grandparents’ Day and the finale of The Bee Musical. The day began with an unprecedented crowd of grandparents, friends and families attending our special liturgy in the hall. Year 1, Mrs Collins and Mr Kinch had prepared a beautiful liturgy where many children reflected on the many special things that grandparents bring to their lives. It was beautiful to witness the close bond that our children have with these wise ones in our community. Many grandparents had travelled significant distances to be present and we thank them for making this enormous effort.  A delicious morning tea was followed by ‘Open Classrooms’ and a picnic lunch with seating on our new play deck area under our trees. 

The day was completed with the final performance of the Bee Musical, which was the perfect finish to the perfect day. Watching the many hours of hard work come together under the watchful eyes of Mrs Erin Chard and Mrs Daniella Cooper, as every child shared their many and particular talents. An enormous thank you to Glenda Johnston who single handedly made, sourced, created and coordinated all of the costumes and props for the play, what an astounding effort! 

For the first four weeks of this term, I will be on leave to support my son through his HSC. I wish all families in our community who are supporting children through the HSC, a successful and calm time. During my absence Mr Anthony Kenna will be Acting Principal, supported by Mrs Julie Valentini as Assistant Principal. 

I know you will support our wonderful staff in welcoming Anthony to our wonderful St Mary’s school community. I wish all of our students a great start to the term and I look forward to seeing everyone in Week 5. 

Yours in partnership

Laurinda Nelson