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From the Principal - Issue #13, 2024
From the Principal
Principal
Dear Parents/Guardians, Friends & Students of SAC,
The cold winter nights did not deter the Year 12 Class of 2024 from coming out in force for the Winter Sleepout last Friday. As well as experiencing the harsh reality of sleeping outdoors midwinter, students joined with Young Mercy Links to learn more about the realities of homelessness through this experience. Special guests from Fred’s Van and other homelessness services shared their insights into the complex web of factors that can lead to people sleeping rough. Thanks to Maddie Kelly, Mia Konopka, Angie Alfaro, Viv Graney and Gaby Kinsman for making this event possible.
At our School Tour last week, I watched our senior student leaders interact with prospective families to share stories about SAC. These young women are great ambassadors for the College and their confidence and character inspire others to join this community. I am so grateful for the leadership they have shown throughout their years at the College, and especially in this final year. At a time when they could be forgiven for focusing purely on their studies, they continue to give back as an expression of gratitude for their education. On Tuesday we presented the primary student leaders for Semester 2 with their badges, and we hope that their leadership journey will be a positive and enriching one.
This term we have welcomed three study tour groups to SAC, two from Japan and one from China. Students from Years 8 to 10 have been buddies for our visitors, making them feel welcome and at home here. The global perspectives made possible through these connections are extremely valuable. Fostering an interest in language and culture is critical in educating global citizens and we hope that the international friendships formed this term will last a lifetime.
In the last fortnight, SAC students have been on the road participating in a range of activities: Outdoor Education camp on the Yorke Peninsula, representing the College at the ABODA Band and Orchestra Festival, taking some time to reflect and renew at the Annual Year 8 Retreat Day, competing at the Mathematical Association of SA Quiz Night and so much more. All of these activities, offered in extension to the curriculum, are made possible through the vision and commitment of our teaching and support staff. I would like to acknowledge and thank the staff for their vision and commitment, as they constantly find new ways to engage and inspire our students. We are blessed to have such talented and hard-working staff at SAC.
This week marks National Science Week, and the theme for 2024 is Species Survival – More Than Just Sustainability. We were thrilled that we had twice as many students from Years 2 to 9 enter the Oliphant Science Awards this year, and that is testament to the way teachers and families nurture the girls’ curiosity about all things scientific. You can read more about their success in this newsletter and some of the entries are currently on display in our foyer gallery. The seeds that are planted in early years Science lessons reap benefits for students in the diversity of pathways open to students in the senior years and beyond school.
As we say farewell to Science Week, we are busy preparing for Book Week! I can imagine there are some parents busy putting together a costume for next Friday’s parade. Have a great weekend,
Ms Paddy McEvoy
PRINCIPAL
Year 10 Innovators Shine in the Catholic Ed STEM MAD Competition
finding Creative Solutions for Social Skills and Mental Health Management
Year 9 and 10 Digital Technologies students spent some time across Term 1 and 2 working on a STEM unit aimed at allowing them to design and test solutions to a problem of their own choosing as part of the Catholic Ed STEMMAD Competition. On Friday of Week 2, we had a group of four Year 10 students compete in the state final to be able to share their great work. Stephanie and Maria worked on a project to create a Dungeons and Dragons board to assist the development of younger people with social skills, and Adele and Peniel created an app called ‘Mood’ designed to help people of all ages with management of mental health. Both groups did great research into what the users of their product would need and developed and tested their prototypes against this to ensure they had the best possible final product. The students did a great job and presented their projects confidently to their peers as well as the expert judges. Adele and Peniel were awarded the People's Choice award for their work. Congratulations on your terrific achievement.
Mr Thomas Cotton
Digital Technologies Coordinator
Something for Everyone During Science Week
Mercy Light: Learning
Have you ever wondered why ‘dark matter’ matters? Or about how marine biologists extract and examine samples from animals?
Science Week is a national occasion promoting engagement with STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). This year’s schools' theme was Species Survival: More than just sustainability, and College Science Coordinator, Ms Linda Kitto, explains how, “Science Week celebrations provide students with the chance to engage in learning without the pressure of assessments and deadlines. In this context, students often feel more comfortable taking risks and exploring ideas without the fear of failure.”
Ms Kitto says, “The activities we have offered are designed to be interactive and engaging, while also fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in both STEM fields and everyday life.”
Year 12 STEM leaders, Tara Tu and Abbie Gibney, agree.
“Science Week is a great opportunity for students to explore their interests in science within a safe and welcoming space, surrounded by supportive teachers,” Tara says.
“Throughout the week we've had a bunch of different activities in class time and lunchtime. From Reception all the way to Year 12, we've set up activities to suit all students,” Abbie adds.
There was an interactive session exploring how animals over time have adapted to survive in extraordinary environmental conditions, with students then having the chance to ‘invent’ their own creature. Then there was the escape room experience, with students solving a series of scientific mysteries. There were interesting – if a little gross – encounters with Jonah the Whale! Students collected and studied samples of pretend snot, testing pH, protein and glucose levels and examining its colour.
It was a great deal of fun and a rich learning experience, based on new innovations.
“Personally, my favourite part of Science Week was learning about the initiative led by a marine biologist who uses drone technology to monitor whale behaviour and collect samples,” Ms Kitto says.
“This approach has allowed scientists to learn much more about whales and the health of our oceans. It is also incredibly rewarding when students respond to an activity you've prepared with excitement and awe at what they have been able to achieve.”
A highlight of the week for SAC’s youngest students was a special ‘visit’ from Professor Dumkoff, the colourful and hilarious alter-ego of Year 3 teacher, Mr Brendan May, and his equally quirky assistant, Hans Strudel (Year 4 teacher, Mr Aaron Casey). The dynamic duo led a session for students in Reception-Year 2 on rockets with a fizzy twist, followed by a fun quiz on the animal kingdom.
Science Week’s activities not only captured students’ imagination, but their curiosity and critical thinking. A group of students in Years 10-12 gathered in the Physics lab on Wednesday to ponder the huge concept of our universe with Mr Paolo Arman, who, in just 45 breathtaking minutes, explained the evolution of our universe and the existence of dark matter.
Mr Arman has been inspiring SAC’s emerging scientists and innovators for over 15 years. Old Scholar, Victoria Cholsh (Class of 2021), recently nominated him for the Australian Institute of Physics' 2024 Excellence in Physics Teaching Award. This award is given to a South Australian teacher who has made an ‘outstanding contribution towards teaching physics at high-school level’. The Institute awarded the prestigious honour to Mr Arman at a ceremony held earlier this month.
Mr Arman’s nominator, Victoria, says, “he not only taught me Physics, but resilience. A lot of learning in physics can come from failing and learning how to deal with disappointment, and sometimes not achieving my goals is something Mr Arman helped mentor me through. His genuine love and enthusiasm for the subject is what got me interested in Physics and is the reason I am still studying Physics at university.”
Mr Arman shared that this recognition is, “a very special highlight in my career alongside a trip to NASA in the USA and working with my amazing and dedicated SAC teaching colleagues. Having my name on a perpetual shield, alongside renowned high school physics textbook authors and Physics curriculum advisors, is a real honour for me. In my brief thank you speech, I thanked the Institute for recognising teachers who may not gain visibility through authoring books or serving on committees.”
He said, “It is very humbling and gratifying as a classroom teacher to be professionally recognised as an important contributor to the education of Physics in our state. There are so many Physics teachers in the classrooms just getting on with the job and it's at this grassroots level where the foundation of Physics education and career paths begins its journey.”
This well-deserved award for one of SAC’s longest-serving staff is cause for great celebration during Science Week.
Mr Arman with Year 12 Physics students
St Aloysius College might be home to the frivolous likes of Professor Dumkoff and Hans Strudel. However, as showcased during Science Week, the expertise of SAC’s innovative STEM faculty and its student leaders is no laughing (or dark) matter. It is indeed admirable, with many SAC students, like Victoria, forging successful pathways in the field beyond school.
A final word from Tara and Abbie, as they prepare to conclude their term as STEM leaders and embrace life beyond school: “Don't be afraid to give things a try! STEM is about being willing enough to try something new and have the chance to learn something you're interested in. We encourage all students to ask questions and stay curious!”
Ms Maddie Kelly
Marketing & Communications Team
Catch a glimpse of the Science Week action and see below some of the outstanding entries for the annual Oliphant Science Awards competition
From the Science Coordinator
Science Coordinator
Oliphant Science Award Results
The Oliphant Science Awards are an annual competition run by the South Australian Science Teachers Association. This competition offers a wonderful opportunity for students from Reception to Year 12 to explore and develop their interest in science across a range of categories and themes, including posters, games, and multimedia, among others. With such a variety of options, there is something to suit every student’s passion.
This year, SAC students truly excelled, with a total of 60 projects entered by students from Years 2 to 9. We congratulate every participant for the effort and creativity they poured into their projects. If you wish to see some examples of their work, these projects will be on display in the foyer throughout the next week.
While we are proud of all the entries, we would like to especially acknowledge those students whose projects either won their category or were highly commended. These outstanding achievements will be formally recognized at a ceremony in October.
Congratulations to:
Winner in the Programming Apps and Robotics category for Years R-2
- Jurassic Park - Sophia De Silva
Winner in the Games category for Years 3-4:
- Plants: Sharvi Vibin and Samantha Nelson
Winner in the Poster category for Years 3-4:
- Women in Science - Isla Aplin
Isla also received a nomination for the Australian Institute of Physics (Years R-12) sponsor prize.
Winners in the Poster category for Years 7-8, Natural History section:
- Natural History - Madilynn Ryan
- Natural History - Sienna Fiegert
Both students also received a nomination for the Flinders University - Environment (Years 7-12) sponsor prize.
Highly Commended:
Year 9-10 Multimedia:
- How to Find a Fun Guy - Erin Whitehead, Hannah Corena, Lily Reynolds
Years 7-8 Posters:
- World of Pollinators - Alana Thai
- World of Pollinators - Serena Thai
- Survival of Species - Shania Iteka
These fantastic results would not have been possible without the invaluable guidance and support from our staff. We extend our sincere thanks to Kate Ruston and the Year 7, 8, and 9 Science teachers, who inspired and encouraged their students to reach new heights in their scientific endeavours.
Ms Linda Kitto
Science Coordinator
From the Drama Department
Drama Coordinator
Year 10 and 11 Drama Excursion - Fourteen the Musical
Last week, the Year 10 and 11 Drama students were fortunate to see Fourteen the Musical; Shake & Stir Theatre Co’s critically acclaimed adaptation of the bestselling memoir by award winning journalist, Shannon Molloy. Fourteen was equal-parts uplifting and heart-wrenching account of Shannon’s fourteenth year of life. A year of self-discovery set amidst a backdrop of torment, bullying and betrayal – not just at the hands of his peers, but by the adults who were meant to protect him. This production was a moving true story of adversity and trauma but also a story of resilience, hope and hilarity – thanks to the love of a group of close-knit friends, a fiercely protective family, an extraordinary mother and... S Club 7. All the students were amazed by the quality of the production and skill of all the performers.
"Fourteen was one of the most incredible things I've seen. I think it's such an important story to tell, especially for, young adults. I think the actors just represent the characters really well, and they can capture each moment perfectly. It was just in simply beautiful and moving." - Alexa Bagas (Year 11)
"I just can't even describe how good it was!! Everyone should see this show. The songs, the dancing, the way the actors could just act - were all incredible." - Holly Mueller (Year 10)
"The acting was very inspiring and very polished. It definitely taught us a lot about what some people go through in their teenage years." - Anabelle Kenny (Year 10)
"The show was amazing and it explored people’s lives and their personal struggles and I would recommend it to anyone aged 15 and up!" - Abby Harper (Year 10)
"Watching this play made me realise the complexities of homophobia in society and it's good that we're much more inclusive to everyone compared with the 1990s era." - Nyarony Isaac (Year 11)
Prince Alfred College (pac) stage production, Urinetown - The Musical
Late last term, many students from the SAC community were treated to an exceptional performance on the PAC stage production, Urinetown - The Musical. The PAC boys, along with girls from St Aloysuis, delivered an exceptional production. This Co-Curricular production showcased the incredible growth in our students, the light shone brightly on the singing, dancing and acting in a show that had the audience captivated. We are very proud of the SAC cast and crew and congratulate everyone on their performances, especially the PAC teachers who ran the production! Great work Alexa Bageas, Grace Kennedy, Poppy Ship, Francesca Papps, Stella Jackson, Eloise O’Connor, Emilia Papacharalambous!
Mr Tom Coultas
Drama Coordinator
UN Youth Council Conference - Representing SAC with Confidence
Last week, at Flinders University Tonsley Campus, two Year 10 students Alice and Mariya competed against other students from five other schools in SA. The students debated confidently and represented SAC positively on behalf of their selected country, Mozambique. The topic was: Resolution 2403 (2024): The Question of Universal Healthcare. Alice and Mariya find out later this term if they have made it through to the finals. We wish them luck!
Ms Philippa Smitheram
Teacher
From the Music Department
Music Coordinator
The Music Department had an exceptional day last Friday, traveling to Balaklava with students from the Concert Band, Stage Band, Rock Band, and Catch 22. We set off early in the morning and enjoyed a smooth, hour-and-a-half journey to the charming mid-north town.
It was a day of success with every ensemble placing in their division. The performances began at the Horizon Centre with the Concert Band, led by Ms Fiona Turner and their impressive effort earned them second place in their division, along with some valuable feedback. Following the Concert Band, the Stage Band division began with our own SAC Stage Band under the direction of Ms Stephanie Neale. Their energetic performance secured them third place.
It was great to be able to move between various venues across Balaklava, with the vocal division being held in a local church. Here, Jo Tropeano and Catch 22 wowed the audience and were crowned winners of their division as well as overall choral champions for the second consecutive year.
Our final performance was held at the Balaklava Town Hall, where we eagerly anticipated the Rock Band division. The SAC Senior Rock Band, Catalyst, under the direction of Ms Nicole Wedding, delivered an inspiring performance with their set including one of their original songs. Their efforts earned them third place in their division. It’s been a busy period for Catalyst, who also spent time in the recording studio over the recent school holidays. Stay tuned for more from them on Spotify!
In addition to our ensembles competing, we also had some students and old scholars compete individually in the Saturday divisions and there is more about their achievements below.
The Balaklava Eisteddfods were not just about the competition, it was also a day filled with fun, laughter, and camaraderie. We cheered for one another, celebrated each other’s achievements, and enjoyed performances from other schools. It was an amazing opportunity to share the results of our hard work. Congratulations to all involved!
Congratulations are also in order for a number of ensembles who have been successful in winning positions as support acts in this year’s Catholic Schools music festival Where Dreams Begin…
We are so pleased to be sharing our music with the wider community at each performance. You can hear SAC students performing at the following evenings:
- Monday – CSMF Festival Choir, SAC Stage Band and Duo Harmonique
- Tuesday – Senior Choir
- Wednesday – Stage Band
- Thursday – Catch 22 and soloist, Lucy Crocker.
To purchase tickets, please go to Where Dreams Begin tickets | Festival Theatre | Ticketek Australia
We also look forward to inviting the school community to our upcoming Spring Concert featuring many of our ensembles.
Student and Old Scholar Achievements in Music at the Balaklava Eisteddfods
Zoe Van Pamelen achieved an Honourable Mention in the Intermediate B Musical Theatre Solo division and received fabulous feedback on her Intermediate Vocal Solo - Non-Classical section.
Gauree Rawat was awarded third prize in the Junior Musical Theatre Solo division and an Honourable Mention in the Junior Vocal Solo division.
SAC Old Scholars were also well represented with Emily Crocker achieving an honourable mention in the Open Solo Instrumental section, as well as winning the AUSTA award for Most Outstanding String Player. Holly George placed second in the Open Vocal Classical section and won the Open Musical Theatre Solo, and the Musical Theatre Solo Champion and Roger Manuel Memorial Award.
What fantastic opportunities and achievements for our current and former Music students.
Ms Fiona Turner
Music Coordinator
Experiencing Aussie Wildlife and Adventure at Gorge Wildlife Park!
Last week we had the pleasure of taking a group of our short-term international students on an exciting excursion to the Gorge Wildlife Park and the Big Rocking Horse in Gumeracha.
The students had an unforgettable experience as they explored the unique Australian wildlife and nature. They were thrilled to see and feed a variety of native animals, including kangaroos and koalas.
The day was filled with laughter, learning, and plenty of photo opportunities. It was a wonderful chance for our international visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and wildlife of Australia.
Ms Meng Sun
Chinese Teacher
Year 8 & 9 Languages Day 2024: A Celebration of Culture, Creativity, and Culinary Adventures
Year 8 Languages Day 2024 celebrated the breadth of learning about languages and cultures here at SAC, with the students enjoying a range of activities. The French students started the day with a concert by the French-Canadian singer Étienne at St Peter’s College before returning to school and having fun creating and performing skits using different scenarios. Meanwhile, the Chinese girls tried their hand at making dumplings before learning and performing a dance choreography. The Italian students participated in ‘La gara fantastica’ (Amazing Race) around the Central Market before watching a puppet show of ‘Puss in Boots’ by Carousel Theatre. Overseen by Amelia and Yvonne, our Language Leaders for 2024, all of the girls also heard from senior students about the Overseas Study Tours and what it is like to continue with their studies.
A few days later, the Year 9 students celebrated their languages study with their own Languages Day. This time, while the Chinese and Italian students negotiated their way around the Central Market, the French students enjoyed the gastronomic delights of different cheeses and the quintessential dish of escargots. Language games, a gara dei selfie, shared lunches and artistic activities, as well as some rounds of Italian scopa, finished off the day.
Ms Jane Mahar
Languages Coordinator
Embracing the Chinese culture
Indulging in a culinary French journey - savoring cheeses and mastering escargots!
Students welcome the 'Avventura italiana' on languages day
Inspiring Australians Student Summit
On Friday the Year 11 and 12 student leaders attended the ‘Inspiring Australians Student Summit’ held at Adelaide Botanic High School. The event aimed to "to inspire and uplift students by sharing the inspiring stories and experiences of our distinguished speakers, embodying the true spirit of dedication, compassion, and community involvement".
Guest speakers included:
- Tim Jarvis AM - 2024 Australian of the Year SA
- Taryn Brumfitt - 2023 Australian of the Year
- Bernie Shakeshaft - 2020 Australian of the Year – Local Hero
- Tiahni Adamson - 2024 Young Australian of the Year.
Ms Lucy Dilger
Year 11 Coordinator
Camp Quality Performance
This term the primary students were entertained by a puppet performance from Camp Quality. Students met puppets Airel and her brother Tom as they navigated Airel’s cancer diagnosis and treatment. These puppet performances empower children with knowledge and compassion while also teaching age-appropriate cancer education.
Ms Gabrielle Cronin
Year 6 Teacher
From the Catherine McAuley Library
Teacher‑Librarian & Information Services
Coordinator
Preparations are well underway in the library for celebrating Book Week! Next week will be a special time when the 2024 theme of ‘Reading is Magic’ will be reflected in our library, across the school, and especially at the Book Parade on Friday morning – a special highlight of the week. Classes have been reading their way through the shortlisted books with teacher librarians over the past few weeks. Crafts in response to texts have been created to decorate our library, as well as some lunch time activities for everyone to contribute to the fun. We are looking forward to a fantastic week celebrating books, reading, our library, and the special place that stories hold in our hearts.
Ms Ali Ripberger
Teacher‑Librarian & Information Services Coordinator
Year 9 Students Dive into the Art of Poetry with Adelaide Poet David Chapple
Adelaide poet David Chapple returned to SAC at the start of Term 3 for Poetry Workshops with the Year 9 English classes. Across two sessions, students worked on a series of activities, creatively capturing their ideas in writing and courageously sharing these with their peers and teachers. Students explored various elements of poetry, such as rhythm and rhyme, and how poetry can be used to present thoughts from the profound to the absurd.
Ms Genevieve Pelekani
English and Literacy Coordinator
Some students shared their reflections of the workshop:
"The poetry workshop was fun and interactive. I loved his positivity and playful attitude." - Lily Reynolds 9AB
"I enjoyed how we were encouraged to write quickly and not worry whether it sounded bad. I learned that often poetry writers start with a rough draft, spilling words on the page, and edit the work afterwards." - Lily Ryan 9AB
"I enjoyed the atmosphere and how we were able to express ourselves through poems. The leader of the workshop kept reminding us that we shouldn’t think about it and just write. Using this technique, I noticed that my writing was better." - Lemar Mosleh 9AB
"It was interesting to listen to how other author's work. I learned that poetry can be written in different languages." - Amel Piol 9AB
From the Justice and Mercy (JAM) Team
Service with a smile: Recognising National Homelessness Week 2024
This year’s National Homelessness Week was a chance for SAC students to learn about the causes and impacts of homelessness, and support those experiencing it. On Friday 9 August, many students across different year levels rose bright and early to participate in The Hutt St Centre’s community fundraising event, ‘Walk A Mile in My Boots’. It was a particularly chilly and frosty morning, but nothing could dampen the enthusiasm of the large gathering of walkers who traipsed the one-mile distance between Victoria Park and the South Parklands. A special congratulations goes to the Mangos sisters – Mariana 6GB, Charisse 3SC and Angelique RCM, who collectively raised over $5,000! Last year, Mariana raised well over $4,000 for The Hutt St Centre in 2023, so the family has now generated close to $10,000 for this wonderful local cause.
Another equally significant event at which SAC was well-represented was Homelessness SA’s memorial service, paying respect to people who have died while experiencing homelessness in South Australia. Held in Tarntanyangga/Victoria Square during lunchtime, students and members of the community were invited to plant a pinwheel in the lawn, symbolising a person’s precious life. They also blew bubbles as a visual symbol of their commitment to improving outcomes for those experiencing homelessness, and their hope for a better future. Students then met with members of local organisations, such as Fred’s Van and The Hutt Street Centre, to discuss actions that they were taking to improve outcomes for those experiencing homelessness.
Concluding this important week was the annual Year 12 Winter Sleepout. A large number of Senior students braved a cold night, sleeping outside in the SAC grounds with only a piece of cardboard to pad the ground. This immersion encourages Year 12s to deepen their insights into homelessness and correlating social issues, learn from local organisations and enhance their own perspectives. We welcomed Teresa Branch, Manager of Fred’s Van and the Vinnies Women’s Crisis Centre, who shared information about her work and the people she encounters daily who are in need of support. Service is an important component of the Winter Sleepout, and this cohort gave their service with a smile! In addition to announcing a donation on behalf of the College of $500 to Vinnies Women’s Crisis Centre, the students cooked a nutritious meal of vegetable soup for the Men’s Crisis Centre and delivered goods to Catherine House. This year’s cohort demonstrated courage in sharing their own reflections during group discussions, and powerful observations as they appropriately engaged with all the activities.
We thank the SAC community for generous contributions to Catherine House, and to all who participated in National Homelessness Week activities.
Ms Maddie Kelly
JAM Coordinator
Ms Mia Konopka
JAM Support Coordinator
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award - Update!
Dukes, as it is affectionally known is an internationally recognized award which offers a multitude of benefits to young people who participate in the program. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Personal Development: Participants develop essential life skills such as self-belief, self-confidence, and a sense of identity.
- Skill Enhancement: Young people discover new talents and abilities and learn to plan and use time effectively.
- Community Engagement: There’s a strong emphasis on learning from and giving to others in the community, fostering a sense of social responsibility.
- Building Relationships: The program helps in forming new friendships and enhancing problem-solving, presentation, and communication skills.
- Leadership and Teamwork: Participants gain valuable experience in leadership and teamworking skills.
- SACE Credits, up to 40 credits on completion of the Gold Level.
Moreover, Dukes is recognized as a mark of achievement that is respected by employers, colleges, and universities. It provides young people with a chance to have fun with friends, discover new interests and talents, and develop essential skills for life and work. It also supports mental health, community involvement, and personal challenges.
Overall, the Dukes program is designed to help young people become more rounded, confident adults, ready to face the challenges of the future with a robust set of skills and experiences and to be “World Ready”.
On Tuesday 6 August, at our whole school assembly 41 participants received either their Bronze, Silver or Gold Award
During Week 3 of this term, 7 Gold Dukes students travelled to Bathurst (Tiwi) Island, Darwin to participate in their Residential project for their Gold Award.
Below is a reflection and some photos of their experience on the island:
We were welcomed by OLSH nun, Sister Anne Gardiner and Sister Monique. We were fortunate to attend Murrupurtiyanuwu Primary School where we met and developed learning relationships with local Indigenous children.
Whilst assisting in the learning of basic literacy and numeracy skills, we began to understand their complex culture and their way of life, through their dance, music and engaging in their language. The entire community was welcoming and friendly – everywhere that we went, the people were interested to learn more about who we were and where we were from. Sr. Anne informed that the Tiwi people learn from the past, but live in the present, having no word in their language for the future. The days ran on ‘Tiwi Time’, and no one was in a rush to get to places, with no strict timetable to adhere to.
At the end of our time, we were asked by Sister Anne what we would take away from our experiences in Tiwi. Our answers varied from person to person, but we all appreciated the Tiwi spirit, with constant happiness and laughter filling the air wherever we went. We hope that we have helped to make a small - but significant - difference in each of their lives, reminding them that they are all special and unique.
Overall, this was such an eye-opening experience. We are so incredibly furtunate that we were able to have this experience and witness how different indigenous community’s function. Coming from an environment where we have access to basic necessities and education, makes us cherish the opportunities we get, when exposed to different circumstances and ways of life. It was inspiring to meet all the different OLSH Sisters that lived on the Island which have helped the community. They have implemented Catholic Schooling, initiatives to raise money for the communities, and Masses which help the community come together and reflect. Overall, this experience was something everyone is incredibly grateful for, as it allowed us to witness how other people live and help us realise that the things we have in our day to day lives are incredibly rare to other people. Thank you, Mr Brown, Ms McEvoy and Ms Graney for making this such a memorable experience for us.
The 2024 Tiwi Island Team
Mr Alan Brown
Duke of Edinburgh International Award Coordinator
Students' Spotlight!
Cybersafety Workshop for Parents
From OSHC
Welcome to Our New OSHC Team Members!
We are thrilled to introduce the newest members of our OSHC team! Each brings unique skills, enthusiasm, and a passion for creating a fun and supportive environment for our students. Their diverse experiences and commitment to quality care will greatly enrich our program. Please join us in giving them a warm welcome as they embark on this exciting journey with us!
pupil free day - Please make your booking via the SPIKE App
Are you a Year 12, Class of 2023 or 2024 graduate? Check out the 2025 ATO School Leaver Program
