From the Principal – Issue #9, 2026

Acknowledgement of Country

The winter weather certainly arrived in full force this week. Thankfully, at this time of year we have plenty happening at school and beyond to keep us warm!

Seventeen students participated in the Sacrament of Reconciliation last week at the Cathedral. The students and their families engaged thoughtfully in the liturgy and Fr James McEvoy and Fr Matthew Newman led the students through their first reconciliation with respect and compassion. Thanks to the many families who attended, along with our beautiful primary choir, who lifted our hearts with their voices. We hope this step in the sacramental journey will remind each student of how deeply they are loved by God.

Reconciliation Week has been a special time of connection with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and their families. Thanks to everyone who came along to Nunga Night last week, and to the students and staff who set up the stalls and activities to make the evening so much fun. We also attended the National Reconciliation Week breakfast, with over 3000 guests at the Convention Centre, and the Lowitja O’Donoghue Oration at Bonython Hall this week. Professor Larissa Behrendt AO reflected on a concept that feels more urgent than ever: Strength with Grace: Bringing the Nation Together. She spoke of how First Nations women’s leadership can guide us towards unity, with a style that is strategic, steady and focused on connection. It was an inspiring address that left us hopeful and committed to our ongoing work for reconciliation.

We were thrilled to hear that Year 7 student, Senudi, has made it to the Grand Final of Rostrum Voice of Youth 2026. Senudi will present both a prepared speech and a short notice speech in the Junior Section Final at Parliament House on 27 June. Congratulations also to Aamina, Year 10, who made it to the semi-finals and sincere thanks to teachers Rachel Morant and Lucy Newton, who have prepared the girls so well for these public speaking opportunities. Alongside our many Debating Teams performing well this season, it’s great to see students developing confidence in raising their voices and articulating their ideas with strength and clarity.

It has been a very busy start to Term 2, and the long weekend will provide some welcome rest for both students and staff. We wish our senior students well as they prepare for their upcoming exams, marking the end of Semester 1. As with all forms of assessment, we encourage students to view these as one of many opportunities to demonstrate what they know and can do across the curriculum, and the feedback will help them to direct their efforts in Semester 2.

Wishing everyone a restful long weekend.

Ms McEvoy
Principal

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