From the Principal – Issue #6, 2026

Acknowledgement of Country

Dear Parents/Guardians, Friends & Students of SAC,

Open Night was a huge success, with over 100 prospective families visiting the College. Alongside our current students and their families, who created a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere, there was a great energy as people moved around the campus to speak with staff and students about how we do things around here. As they were departing, guests spoke so highly of their experiences. Thanks to everyone who contributed to this wonderful celebration of community.

CLICK HERE & ENJOY A glimpse of OUR 2026 OPEN NIGHT!

It was an honour to welcome Dr Jenni Caruso to our Staff Meeting last week, to explore the Reconciliation Action Plan and consider how we might all take on some small actions to create great impact in 2026. We also heard from Michelle Barratt, Visual Arts Coordinator, about how the faculty are seeking to explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in teaching and learning this year. It feels like there is great momentum around our work for reconciliation at SAC.

Two of our First Nations students have been selected as Year 10 Leaders in the Tjindu Academy this year. We are so proud of Harper and Elke for their commitment and achievements, and we look forward to seeing them flourish as leaders, both at SAC and Tjindu. Student voice has been central to planning for our Nunga Night early next term, under the guidance of First Nations Student Support staff Indi and Rhubee,  and the senior students are showing great creativity and initiative in this space.

Thank you to the many families who generously donated Easter eggs over the last month in the front foyer. We have been able to support both Catherine House and Catholic Charities due to the large number of donations. At a time when financial pressures on families are high, we appreciate your kindness and support for those who need it most.

Today we came together to participate in the Holy Week Liturgy. Each year, this marks a very special moment in the liturgical life of the College and students of all ages respond to the quiet, contemplative space to reflect on Jesus’ suffering and death. Whilst today is marked with sadness, we look forward to the Easter Mass next Wednesday in the Cathedral, where our celebration will focus on the joy of the resurrection.

In a recent reflection, Carmel Ross (Trustee Director of Mercy Ministry Companions), reminded us that this year, Pope Leo’s message for Lent is about relationships – in particular, how we speak about each other. He put it simply: I would like to invite you to a very practical and frequently unappreciated form of abstinence: that of refraining from words that offend and hurt our neighbour. … Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgement, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves.

This call to kindness is incredibly important at a time when the world is experiencing disruption and war. Each day at SAC I am grateful for the respect and compassion which underpins relationships and see it as a visible sign of God’s love alive in our world.

Wishing everyone all the peace and joy of the Easter season.

Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal

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