St Aloysius Newsletter

2026 Acknowledgement of Country

From the Principal - Issue #11, 2026

Catherine McAuley called us to be “shining lamps, giving light to all around us”. Year 7 student, Senudi, was certainly shining brightly last Saturday night when she won the Grand Final of the Junior Section of the Rostrum Voice of Youth public speaking competition. Ably coached and supported by Ms Lucy Combe and Ms Rachel Morant, Senudi spoke passionately for six minutes on the topic “Bridging the Gap”. Her simple but eloquent reflection on the steps we might take to address First Nations injustice in Australia was incredibly powerful. She then delivered a three-minute speech on the short-notice topic, “It’s Not Fair”. Senudi’s family and the whole audience were blown away by her talent and authenticity. She will now travel to Sydney for the National Final. Congratulations, Senudi!

The Reception and Year 6-led Primary Assembly in Week 9 was a celebration of the wide range of learning experiences that take place both inside and outside the classroom. Students were also given a taster of some of the emerging technologies they will engage with in the STEM Room of the new building next term. A highlight of these assemblies for me is seeing the way Year 6 students guide, encourage and mentor the Receptions. As I watched Senudi speak in the Parliament on Saturday evening, I reflected on how the confidence to step up and speak out is developed from such an early age at SAC. It is a factor families often comment on when they join a school tour, and seeing how staff skilfully develop that confidence over the years is very impressive.

Aboriginal spirituality and culture were the central focus of the Year 11 Retreat last week at Sunnybrae Reception Centre. Led by Pilawuk White, David Booth and Rob Napoli, and supported by Sarah Kennedy and Danielle Toubia, the day began outdoors with a Litany and Water Ceremony, which set a quiet and reflective tone for the day. Students attended workshops on weaving, fabric painting, artefacts and dance. All our guest presenters and the staff at Sunnybrae acknowledged how well the students engaged in the program and respected their surroundings. This Year 11 Retreat Day is an important element of our Reconciliation Action Plan and we are lucky to have built strong relationships with artists and elders who come back each year to walk alongside our students in this journey of reconciliation.

When we return for Term 3, the new Dunlevie Building will be open! I would like to thank the whole community for the patience and flexibility students, staff and families have shown in navigating the disruption caused by such a significant development in the centre of the campus. We know that the new experiences made possible through this amazing facility will more than compensate for the inconvenience. There are so many people to thank for their vision, energy and commitment and we look forward to recognising these people at events throughout Term 3.

Everyone is welcome to join us for a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony in the Dunlevie Courtyard on Friday 24 July, as we mark our first week in the new primary school. Exciting times ahead!

Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal

Growing up at SAC

In just a few weeks, the laughter of a new group of Reception students will fill the Junior School classrooms as they embark on their St Aloysius College journey for the very first time. For one family in particular, it marks both a beginning and an ending.

As Year 12 student Gislene prepares to graduate after 13 years at SAC, her younger sister, Amira, is preparing to walk through the College gates for her very first day.

It is a full-circle moment that beautifully captures the enduring impact of a St Aloysius College education; one informed not only by learning, but by the sense of belonging to a community.

Reflecting on her own first day, Gislene still vividly remembers arriving hand-in-hand with her father, meeting her Reception teacher and making friendships that have stood the test of time.

"I played with magnetic blocks and made some friends I still know now," Gislene fondly recalls.

From Reception to graduation, side by side, Gislene and Amira's story is a wonderful example of the lifelong journey and community that make St Aloysius College so special

Over the years, those early friendships have been strengthened by countless shared experiences. Mercy Day celebrations, Book Week parades, Can Drive, music performances and whole-school events have all contributed to the warm sense of community that is synonymous with life at SAC.

"The community events and the continuous integration of primary and secondary students have shaped the sense of community and warm nature that I now have," Gislene said.

Like many students who have spent their entire schooling at SAC, Gislene describes her journey as one of growth.

"I've always been bubbly and loud," she laughs. "Growing up at SAC, I learnt to really be authentic and feel a sense of empowerment and pride in who I am."

That same sense of belonging is echoed by Year 11 student Daniela and Year 8 student Elainnah, who have also called SAC home since Reception. Their younger sisters, Isabella (Year 6) and Sophiah (Year 3), are now continuing that journey alongside them.

For Daniela, opportunities beyond the classroom have played a significant role in shaping who she is today.

"Being involved in senior choir, volunteering, Peer Support and school events has built my confidence, taught me leadership skills and encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone," Daniela believes.

Elainnah reflects on the many milestones that have marked her own journey, including her memorable Year 7 Canberra trip.

"It was my first time going on a plane and being away from my family," she says. "It helped me become more confident and comfortable being independent."

Despite being in different year levels from their younger sisters, both Daniela and Elainnah say sharing their SAC experience with a sister has made their journey even more meaningful.

"It's comforting to know we can always support each other and celebrate each other's achievements," Daniela says of her journey with Isabella.

For Elainnah and Sophiah, it is reassuring to always have someone who understands exactly what school life is like.

Sisters Elainnah (Year 8) and Sophiah (Year 3), and Daniela (Year 11) and Isabella (Year 9), continuing their journey together at SAC.

"It feels like more than just a school," the sisters reflect. "It feels like a place where we really belong."

Perhaps no story better captures the continuity of an SAC education than the unique journey of Gislene and Amira.

While Gislene prepares to farewell the community that has nurtured her into the talented and bright young woman she is today, Amira can hardly contain her excitement about beginning her own adventure.

"I'm excited to go play and make new friends," she said enthusiastically. "Going to big girl school... to learn... to sing... and seeing Gissie every day!"

When asked what advice she would give her little sister, Gislene's answer reflected the Mercy values that have influenced her own journey.

"Always ask questions and be curious," she says. "Follow your passions with no limits and take every opportunity given, because SAC is the best place for them to flourish."

As one chapter closes and another begins, the story of these sisters is a reminder that an SAC education is about far more than the years spent in the classroom. It is about the friendships formed, the confidence discovered, the opportunities embraced and the community that continues to support students long after they leave the College gates.

For Amira and the many Reception students beginning their own journeys this semester, the first day of school is only the beginning of a story that, like Gislene's, has the potential to leave a lifelong imprint.

Ms Maddie Kelly
Justice and Mercy Coordinator

Growing together, supporting one another and flourishing every step of the way, our SAC families reflect the caring community that makes the Reception to Year 12 journey so special

Among many SAC sisters and families who have shared their journey from Reception, Savi and Sami (Years 6 and 12), and Jemima and Maisie (Years 11 and 9), continue to grow and flourish within our community.

From Reception to Year 12...
Our Reception and Year 12 students come together throughout the year, building connections across year levels and celebrating the shared SAC journey, from their very first days to their final farewell. This is SAC.

From the Primary Sport Coordinator

Ms Zoe Duffy
Primary Sport Coordinator

Netball Fever Finishes the Term Strong!

It has been a busy end to the term for netball for our primary students. Our Year 3–6 teams participated in the SACPSSA Netball Carnival, enjoying a sunny day of competition as they played six matches and showcased great skill and teamwork throughout.

It was fantastic to see our teams supported by senior students Maggie, Makayla, Arabelle, Charlie and Sienna in coaching and umpiring roles. Our 5/6 KO Netball team also competed at Cedar College, finishing 5th on the day and enjoying a win in the entertaining musical chairs game during the tournament!

Well done to all our budding Thunderbirds for an outstanding week of netball!

Ms Zoe Duffy
Primary Sport Coordinator

From the Secondary Sport Coordinator

Term 2 Highlights – Secondary Sport

As the term comes to a close, I’d like to highlight a few sporting moments from Term 2 and provide updates for when we return at the beginning of Term 3.

Knockout Highlights

Our 7-12 knockout netball teams competed in their first round matches in week 7 this term. All three teams played the same opposition (Glenunga International HS and Pedare Christian College), and all three teams won 1 game and lost the other. Whilst curiously consistent with their results, unfortunately it was not enough to advance through to Round 2 of the Statewide Schools Competition. We are so proud of our teams; not just the quality of netball played, but also the way in which they represented the college. A special congratulations goes out to the few students selected to play up in higher age divisions – playing several matches/minutes throughout the week and giving it 100%.

Year 9/10 Knockout Netball Team, Year 7/8 Knockout Netball Team & Year 11/12 Knockout Netball Team

We also congratulate our Year 9/10 Knockout Volleyball Team for finishing 5^th in the Division 2 Carnival, also held in Week 7. A big thank you goes out to Mr Jacob Dickson and Isabelle Crotty for supporting the girls on the day of the competition.

On Tuesday of Week 9, our open knockout AFL team won their first round matches for the Division 3 Statewide competition. They began their pursuit with a convincing win against Mary Mackillop College and finished strong with a come-back win by 5 against Mitcham Girls. Considering we had a few late outs with illness and injury, we're so proud of the girls for their efforts! We look forward to sharing their results for Round 2 early Term 3.

Throwback to Round 5 – Reconciliation Round

Another highlight of Term 2 was SACSSGSA Reconciliation Round at the end of May.

Guided by our First Nations Student Support Officer and old scholar, India Bament-Sitkowski, our First Nations students came together to design the 2026 SAC Reconciliation Round Ribbon. It was India’s idea to have students collaborate on this design to coincide with this year’s Reconciliation Theme ‘ALL-IN’. Each student designed a section of the ribbon, and these were placed side by side intentionally.India shared, ‘our Reconciliation ribbons represent all the woman voices coming together, symbolising  growth, strength, and unity.’

Netball, AFL, soccer and badminton teams wore these ribbons proudly in their round 5 matches, coming together with opposition schools to recognise this significant round in the association calendar, and that advancing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples' rights is a shared responsibility.

Mid-Season Break & Return to Play

We are now in our mid-season break for netball, soccer and badminton fixtures. I hope you all take this time to rest and reset over the school holidays. Whilst mornings are getting chilly and dark, we will only have 4 more weeks of winter sport when we return in Term 3! We ask that students make their best effort to show up for trainings and games for the remainder of the season, and follow absentee procedures to ensure effective management of teams, trainings and gameday.

Where possible, we ask that game and training absences are logged 24 hours or more in advance so that fill ins can be sourced with enough notice. For last minute absences on the morning of games, best practice is to log an absence through clipboard AND notify the Sport Coordinator via email or phone call 0447 937 709.

From the Careers Department

Life in the Uni Lane

Life in the Uni Lane 2026, hosted by the Office of Indigenous Strategy and Engagement at Flinders University, provided an exciting on campus experience designed to assist students with future study and career pathways. Participants tried their hand at code breaking and game design and learnt about midwifery and ecological science through the exploration of seaweed, fire and bush plants. The day was informative and fun, allowing students to investigate the Flinders Campus at Bedford Park and to understand more about potential post school pathway options. We thank our hosts for the warm welcome and for providing this wonderful opportunity for our students.

Open Doors to Your Future: University and TAFE Open Days Across South Australia

As students begin thinking seriously about life after school, one of the most valuable opportunities to assist with decision making is just around the corner. Across South Australia, universities, TAFE and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) are preparing to welcome prospective students and their families to their annual Open Days.

Whether you're considering university, vocational education, an apprenticeship, or are still undecided about your future pathway, attending an Open Day can help you make informed decisions and discover opportunities you may not have previously considered.

Why Open Days Matter

Choosing a post-school pathway is one of the biggest decisions young people make. While websites, brochures and social media can provide useful information, you can’t beat in person attendance on campus to get a real sense of possibility and fit.

Open Days allow students to:

• Explore campuses and training facilities
• Speak directly with lecturers, trainers and current students
• Learn about courses, entry requirements and career outcomes
• Discover scholarships, support services and accommodation options
• Experience hands-on demonstrations and workshops
• Compare different study pathways in one place

Many students find that visiting a campus helps them gain clarity about their future. It can confirm a course of interest, or introduce them to exciting new options they hadn't previously considered.

Parents and caregivers are also encouraged to attend. Open Days provide an excellent opportunity to ask questions about student support, graduate employment outcomes, fees and financial assistance.

SATAC Applications Open on 3 August

An important date for Year 12 students is 3 August, when applications for university and TAFE open through the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre (SATAC).

SATAC is the central application service used for most university and many tertiary education applications in South Australia and the Northern Territory. Through SATAC, students can apply for courses, organise preferences and access information about entry requirements and selection processes.

It is important to remember that SATAC preferences can often be changed after initial submission, but developing a well-informed list of preferences early can reduce stress later in the year.

Ms Julie Stephenson
Careers & VET Coordinator

From the Music Department

On Wednesday 17 June, SAC proudly hosted more than 170 students for the HUB assessment in preparation for the upcoming Catholic Schools Music Festival. Held in Week 10 of Term 3, the festival brings together students from across South Australia to celebrate the joy of music and performance.

Our choir had the exciting opportunity to rehearse their festival repertoire together for the first time under the direction of Denise Rothal. Having attended weekly rehearsals since the beginning of the year, the students have shown great dedication and commitment, and their hard work is certainly paying off. They are sounding fantastic and are well prepared for the festival ahead.

The Music Department has also recently enjoyed several vibrant and inspiring performances, appropriately held around World Music Day, which is celebrated annually on June 21. These occasions highlighted the incredible talent, dedication, and enthusiasm of our student musicians.

The celebrations began on Sunday, June 21, with our popular Sunday Soirée. This special event featured three concerts held throughout the day, each showcasing students who participate in our private instrumental and vocal tuition program. Audiences were treated to a diverse and engaging program of performances, reflecting the breadth of musical styles and instruments studied at the school.

From expressive vocal solos to polished instrumental pieces, each concert demonstrated the growth and commitment of our students. The Soirée offered a wonderful opportunity for performers to share their learning in a supportive and celebratory environment, while families and friends enjoyed the high standard of music-making on display.

Events such as the Sunday Soirée are only possible thanks to the dedication of our Music staff and tutoring team, whose expertise, encouragement, and behind-the-scenes organisation ensure that every student has the opportunity to shine. We extend our sincere thanks to all involved for their continued support of our thriving music community.

The momentum continued the following day with the second instalment of Rockin’ the Cloisters, held at lunchtime. This energetic concert featured an exciting lineup of our school rock bands, involving students from Year 5 through to 12, who brought the Cloisters to life with their dynamic performances and stage presence. The event drew an enthusiastic crowd and showcased the creativity and collaboration of our ensemble musicians.

Together, these events captured the spirit of World Music Day - celebrating music in all its forms and bringing people together through performance. We look forward to many more opportunities this year to share the talents of our students and to continue building a vibrant musical culture within our school community.

Ms Fiona Turner
Music Coordinator

2026 Australian Mathematics Competition for Students in Years 7-12

Your daughter is invited to take part in the 2026 Australian Mathematics Competition. This competition will be completed on Tuesday 4 August 2026 (Term 3, Week 3).

Participating in the Australian Maths Competition helps students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by challenging them with a variety of mathematical problems. Additionally, it provides an opportunity for students to gain recognition for their mathematical abilities and boosts their confidence in tackling complex concepts.

Further information on the competition can be found on the Australian Mathematics Trust website (www.amt.edu.au).

Participation in this activity is optional. If you would like your daughter to take part in this assessment, please email at lflynn@sac.sa.edu.au by Monday 20 July (Term 3, Week 1).

Ms Laura Flynn and Ms Nicoletta Romanelli
Mathematics Coordinators

Voices on Air - Arch D Radio & Podcasting Leaders Day

During the term, four keen podcasters had the opportunity to attend the CESA Arch D Radio & Podcasting Leaders Day. The current Podcasting Leaders Myf Hardy and Lucy Gill from Year 11 and two up and coming podcasters Arabelle Bhar and Charlize Dang from Year 9 had a crash course in podcasting where they had the chance to build their own podcasts with students from other CESA schools. “It was an amazing day, we began by participating in ice breaker activities, getting to meet a variety of students from different catholic schools around South Australia.” -Charlize Dang. As the day developed these narrative style podcasts came together with four unique stories being produced. “This was an experience I will cherish and never forget as it was insightful, fun, helped me grow and continue with podcasting at school through the abundance of amazing opportunities our school provides including the Arch D Radio and Podcasting course.” – Arabelle Bahr!”

Mr Lochlann Dwyer
Digital Technologies Coordinator

7,572 Cans. One Incredible Community

Kindness, teamwork, creativity and generosity were on full display as students came together to collect an incredible amount of 7,572 cans for the Adelaide Day Centre. A huge thank you to everyone in our SAC community for helping make a real difference. It's always lovely to see our community come together in support of a meaningful cause.

Enjoy a few snapshots from Can Drive 2026

SAC Stories | Ep 5 - Together we, CAN!

In Episode 5, we’re shining a light on SAC’s Annual Can Drive. Joined by Ms Kelly, our JAM Coordinator, Primary JAM Leader Aanya, and one of our Year 11 Student Leaders, Myf, this episode explores the purpose behind the event, the leadership involved and the fun of Can Drive Day. Learn more about how SAC students are building kindness, one can at a time.

👉 Click here to watch Episode 5

From the Faith and Mission Coordinator

Carlo Acutis, born in London in 1991 and raised in Italy, enjoyed many things in common with his peers – football, playing video games, spending time with friends. He was also a young person of deep faith – using his own money to buy sleeping bags for homeless people, defending classmates who were bullied, and using his skills in technology for evangelisation. He wrote “We don’t need superpowers to be saints, we just need to love”, emphasising, as we have been reflecting on this year, the importance of being animated by love.    

His life shows holiness flourishing in the modern world – on computers, among friends, in family life and in everyday prayers and acts of kindness. Carlo's statement that “all people are born as originals, but many die as photocopies” is a challenge to live with sincerity and authenticity, despite pressure to do otherwise.

Furthermore, Carlo was deeply committed to helping others discover the beauty of Jesus in the Eucharist. At the time of his death from leukemia in 2006 at the age of 15, he had developed an extensive on-line catalogue of Eucharistic miracles from around the world. 

A Major Relic Pilgrimage will be journeying through Adelaide from 6 to 9 August. This includes an opportunity to venerate a relic of the young saint and to peruse the Eucharistic Miracles exhibition. Relics are tangible reminders of lives transformed by God, as was Carlo's. Students will have an opportunity to participate in the Pilgrimage on Friday 7 August. Those interested in participating are asked to email Mrs Pelekani on gpelekani@sac.sa.edu.au Details of the itinerary, locations and times can be found at adelaide.catholic.org.au

Ms Genevieve Pelekani
Faith and Mission Coordinator

Creating Communities of Welcome

As part of Refugee Week, St Aloysius College was pleased to welcome Sharni Bowden, Youth Development and Schools Engagement Officer from the St Vincent de Paul Society (Vinnies), to speak with our JAM students.

Sharni shared valuable insights into the experiences of refugees and people seeking asylum, encouraging students to reflect on the challenges many individuals and families face when rebuilding their lives in Australia. She also highlighted the important work Vinnies undertakes to provide practical support, advocacy and a sense of belonging for those seeking safety and a fresh start.

The session invited students to consider how compassion, justice and hospitality can be lived out in everyday actions, inspiring thoughtful discussion about the role each of us can play in creating more welcoming and inclusive communities. We thank Sharni and Vinnies for sharing their time, expertise and commitment to walking alongside some of the most vulnerable members of our society.

Ms Maddie Kelly
Justice and Mercy Coordinator

During term break the SAC Uniform Shop will be open:

Tuesday 14 July and Thursday 16 July 8:30am - 4:00pm (Please enter via the Angas St Redden gates).

 For a full formal uniform fitting, please book an appointment with the Uniform Shop byclicking here.

For cold wintery days the uniform shop stocks: 

• New​ black acrylic scarf for all year levels to wear with PE uniform $16
• New grey wool scarf for new formal uniform $40
• Restocked brown acrylic scarf for outgoing formal uniform $16
• Restocked brown tights in 120 denier
• Brown and white socks for outgoing formal uniform 
• Grey tights and grey knee high socks for new formal uniform
• Compact purple SAC logo umbrella