St Aloysius Newsletter

Acknowledgement of Country

From the Principal - Issue #16, 2025

As we prepare to launch our new uniform for 2026, I am thrilled to share some images of the final product with you all. The return to purple is exciting, and the range of options will allow students to select fabrics and designs that best suit them across the seasons. We know that transitions take time, and we have allowed a three-year changeover period so that families are not forced to buy new pieces unnecessarily. Having said that, I sense that the girls are so excited about the new uniform that they will be keen to hop on board as soon as possible. An assembly in Term 4 will give students their first chance to see the new uniform in real life and we can’t wait to see their reactions!

The final week of Term 3 at St Aloysius College is always a special one, as we mark Mercy Day in a variety of ways. We began with the SACOSA Mercy Day High Tea last Sunday, where more than 110 old scholars gathered to share stories and reconnect with one another in the Jordan Courtyard. Despite the fact that the spring weather failed to appear, there was a warmth and energy that radiated from this gathering. The Class of 1995 made a special effort to join us to mark their 30-year reunion, which no doubt carried on well beyond the high tea! It was hard to believe that I had taught many of these women Maths in Year 8. I was struck by the respect they had for one another and their school and amazed by the many different directions life has taken beyond school. Patty Diaz, who travelled from her home in the US for the occasion, spoke of the Mercy hospitality extended to her by Sr Judith Redden and all the staff at SAC. It was a joy to spend the afternoon with this group of dynamic and talented women.

Speaking of talent, the Catholic Schools Music Festival this week gave our musicians another chance to shine. With performances from the SAC Music Department at the Convention Centre on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, the festival showcases talent from students of all ages in Catholic schools in SA. Congratulations to Tennille Gibson and Maddie Binney, who prepared the CSMF Choir students, Steph Neale, who directed the Stage Band and Jo Tropeano, who led the Senior Choir in their performances. As always, the students make us proud, not only with the quality of their music, but more importantly in the way they conduct themselves on these occasions.

The choir are also integral to making our Mercy Day Mass special. Their voices lift our hearts and enable us to experience a sense of the sacred as we gather in the Cathedral. We are grateful to my brother, Fr James McEvoy, who leads our eucharistic celebrations, and to old scholar Ellie Stephenson, who shared her reflections on how her Mercy education shaped her life beyond school. Thanks also to the Liturgy Committee, under the guidance of Genevieve Pelekani, who constantly seek to make connections between the justice and mercy activities that take place at the College throughout the year and our celebration of the Mercy Day Mass.

The spirit of mercy was also at the heart of today’s festivities. I am always amazed by the way our students throw themselves behind Mercy Day fundraising and activities, knowing that their work will make a difference to people who access the support services of the Adelaide Day Centre, Catherine House, Vinnies Women’s Shelter and Mercy Works. More significant than the amount raised is the joy in the faces of all who took part. Thanks to all our families whose generosity makes Mercy Day such a success.

Wishing everyone a happy and safe holiday break.

Ms Paddy McEvoy
Principal

Mercy Day 2025 💜 A Celebration of Compassion 💜

From the Duke of Edinburgh Award & Outdoor Education Coordinators

Mr Michael Heath
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award & Outdoor Education Coordinator

Ms Rachel Grawich
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award & Outdoor Education Coordinator

Gold & Silver on the Peaks: A Week to Remember

The Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh students ventured to the Flinders Ranges for their assessed adventurous journey. It was an action packed week with students hiking the Boom and Bust trail, St Mary’s Peak and Mt Ohlssen Bagge. The week concluded with a fabulous sunset at Stoke lookout, one that will be remembered for all.

We are excited to hear about the premiere of the documentary We Are Not Powerless at the Adelaide Film Festival

We Are Not Powerless shines a spotlight on the remarkable refugee-led education movement that Nagina Zahra (SAC staff member) and her husband, Muzafar, helped establish, continuing the journey first captured a decade ago in The Staging Post. The film highlights how their vision has grown and continues to empower communities today.

The documentary, featuring Nagina, her family, and their community, will premiere at the Adelaide Film Festival this October.

Staff, students, and families are invited to celebrate this milestone by attending the premiere. Group discounts are available for bookings of 10 or more, making it a perfect outing to enjoy together and show support.

For screening details and tickets, visit the Adelaide Film Festival program.

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE AND GET TICKETS!

From the Primary Sport Coordinator

AFLW 9-a-side Gala Day

On Tuesday 9 September, our Year 6 knockout team took part in an AFLW Round Robin Gala Day, facilitated by the SANFL at West Adelaide Oval.

Throughout the day, the girls grew in confidence, developing their skills and knowledge with every game. Their efforts were rewarded when they played off for 5th and 6th place, securing a thrilling win against St John’s Grammar. The excitement and joy on their faces said it all!

This experience highlighted the spirit of giving new sports a go, showing how much fun can be had while learning and building strong team camaraderie.

A special thank you goes to Eloise Griffith, Isabelle Crotty, and Gracie Sim for generously sharing their expertise and guiding the team on the day.

Year 5/6 Knockout Basketball

On Wednesday 13 August, our Year 5/6 basketball team competed in Round 1 of the Statewide Schools Large Schools Competition at Wayville Stadium. The team has shown great dedication, training most Wednesdays at lunchtime with coach Mr Casey since Term 1.

Their hard work paid off with two great wins from three matches, earning them a place in the crossover final. Despite a determined effort, Concordia proved too strong on the day.

Congratulations to the girls on their commitment and the progress shown throughout the season.

Year 4–6 SAPSASA East Adelaide Athletics Trials

On Thursday 21 September, 17 students represented our school at the East Adelaide SAPSASA Athletics Trials at Bridgestone Stadium. Our athletes achieved some outstanding results, with many reaching the track finals—a fantastic achievement. The day finished on a high with our relay teams placing 1st (10 year olds) and 3rd (11 and 12 year olds).

Congratulations to Alexandria (Year 4), Zara (Year 5) and Zara (Year 6), who have been selected to compete for the East Adelaide SAPSASA Athletics team later this term.

Ms Sarah Anderson
Primary Sport Coordinator

Shining Bright at the SA Chinese Language Awards

We are thrilled to celebrate the achievements of our outstanding Chinese language learners! In Week 9 Friday, at the 2025 SA Chinese Language Awards Ceremony hosted by the Chinese Language Teachers Association of South Australia at UniSA’s City West Campus, Year 12 student Celeste and Year 6 students Clarisse, Elizabeth, and Nancy were each honoured with an award recognising their effort, commitment, and success in learning Chinese. The ceremony brought together nearly 300 people—including Chinese language students, parents, teachers, school staff, sponsors, and members of the wider Chinese learning community—for a joyful celebration of language, culture, and excellence, where our students proudly joined other top Chinese learners from across the state.

Ms Xiaomeng Ding
Chinese Teacher

Connecting Culture and Community: Thriving People 2025

Thriving People, hosted by Catholic Education SA, is a much-anticipated highlight on the school calendar for our Aboriginal students. This year, our Primary students were fortunate to experience a second opportunity to connect with culture and with each other.

From exploring river bugs and building wardli's, to decorating clap sticks, the day was filled with engaging, hands-on activities. What made it even more special was the chance to share good company and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings of the Warriparri (Sturt River).

Generosity across Generations: Celebrating Mercy Day at SAC

Mercy Light: Connecting

Every September, the St Aloysius College community pauses to honour its Mercy heritage, remembering the courage and vision of Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy who founded our College. Mercy Day is always a time of joy, gratitude, and togetherness. This year, with the 2025 liturgical theme, ‘Pilgrims of Hope’, the celebrations have felt especially alive with meaning, reminding us that hope is nurtured not only through prayer, but also through acts of service and generosity that ripple far beyond our community.

The Mercy Day Mass, held on Wednesday 24 September – the date on which Catherine McAuley opened her House of Mercy in Dublin, Ireland, in the year 1827 – brought students, staff and families together in a prayerful celebration of faith and heritage. Voices filled St Francis Xavier’s Cathedral in song and reflection, drawing reference to the heart of Catherine McAuley’s mission: to walk alongside others with compassion, dignity, and hope. Ellie Stephenson (Class of 2020), shared some of her own pilgrimage with the community, as this year’s Mercy Day Mass invited speaker, explaining the ways in which the Mercy values of Courage, Compassion, Service, Justice, Hospitality and Respect have enriched her life and work as a Music Therapist. Ellie shared that, “each of these values has been a pivotal part of my journey, sometimes individually, sometimes all at once, through my school years and now into my career and life. One thing I can say for certain is that they’re not just “school values.” They’re life values. And in today’s world, where change is constant and not always for the better, they feel more important than ever.” Ellie reminded everyone that Mercy may be seen every day, if and when it is sought and that all are called to notice the needs of others and respond with Mercy in action. Year 12 College Co-Captain, Revathi S, shares how, “Mass helped me feel connected to the spirit of Mercy through hearing Old Scholar, Ellie, discuss the impact of her Mercy journey after graduation. I felt incredibly grateful to have shared my schooling with so many others who value the Mercy beliefs just as much as I do, and who have made so many amazing impacts outside of SAC”.

When reflecting on her favourite moments of Mercy this year, Revathi explained, “we have been lucky enough to maintain a close relationship with Angel from The School of St Jude in Tanzania. Our Year 12 cohort has sponsored her scholarship, and we feel blessed that we get to make an impact outside of the classroom. The Mercy values shown by the entire graduation class of 2025 is something I am so proud of, and I know these values are what shapes us as a group.”

One of the most touching examples of Mercy in action this year has come from an SAC student just one year younger than Angel in Tanzania, Maria P, and her grandmother.  Inspired by the spirit of Mercy, Maria’s yiayia (grandmother in Greek) and two of her friends lovingly crocheted blankets and dolls to be donated to Catherine House, an Adelaide service supporting women experiencing homelessness. These gifts, stitched with care and compassion, reflect how the Mercy story extends beyond the College gates. They remind us that the pilgrimage of hope is not bound by age or circumstance – every person can contribute something of value to brighten the path for others. These women, who wish to remain anonymous, reflect the same spirit of Mercy demonstrated by Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy, who served humbly, without need for recognition or praise.

Young Maria delivered these generous gifts with quiet pride, knowing that her grandmother’s hands had created something that would bring warmth and comfort to women in need. Maria’s mother, Angelik, said the women wanted to help and bring joy to people in need, and explained how her daughter, Maria, “has always been kind-hearted, and, along with her brothers, has always looked at ways in giving back to the community to those less fortunate.” This donation was a beautiful moment of intergenerational generosity, showing how the Mercy spirit continues to inspire and connect families in our community.

On Friday September 26, the Mercy Day carnival transformed the College into a lively festival of colour, laughter, and activity. Students from all year levels ran stalls, sold delicious treats, and organised games and activities – all with one purpose: to raise funds and awareness for Mercy works, and organisations that support people in vulnerable situations.

The carnival is always a highlight of the school year, not only because of its joyful energy, but because it channels youthful creativity into meaningful action. Every cupcake baked, every sausage sizzled, every raffle ticket sold contributes to the larger mission of Mercy: to walk with those in need and to embody the hope we profess in our theme.

Students learn, through Mercy, that hope is not abstract – it is lived and shared in practical, concrete ways. During Mercy Day festivities, they see that generosity can be fun, communal, and hugely rewarding. Year 12 JAM Leader, Clodeta T, reflected, “For me, Mercy Day is a day filled with joy and love as I spent it with my peers. I was so excited for the chance to see what other classes created for the whole school, as well as the lively atmosphere of excitement and laughter.”

Mercy Day is more than a calendar event; it is a reminder of the path we are all walking together as a community of faith and service. The Mass, the handmade donations, and the carnival may seem like separate elements, but together they form a tapestry of hope—woven from prayer, generosity, and joy.

As Pilgrims of Hope, the St Aloysius College community recognises that each act of kindness, no matter how small, is a step along the journey towards a more compassionate world. Whether it is the hands of a grandmother crocheting blankets, the voices of students raised in prayer, or the laughter of friends sharing a moment at a fundraising stall, each moment adds up to something much greater. Year 12 College Co-Captain, Darcy J, summarised it poignantly: “The true heart of SAC lies in its spirit of Mercy. It is a spirit that encourages us to act with passion, to serve others without expectation, and support one another through both challenges and celebrations. It is not always easy to explain, but it is something that is deeply felt. It is a spirit that defines SAC, reminding us all that we are part of a community and where every act of kindness ripples far beyond what we can see.”

This Mercy Day, we give thanks for the heritage that grounds us, the community that surrounds us, and the hope that guides us forward.  Catherine McAuley’s pilgrimage has paved the way for many to follow in her footsteps, walking with Mercy and hope in our hearts.

Ms Maddie Kelly
JAM Coordinator

Charter Ambassadors Making a Positive Impact

Our Charter Ambassador Summit Day began with the focus being on our Positive Impact Project which encompassed various activities designed to promote connection and inclusivity among all students participating in the program. One such activity was a vision poster for our Positive Impact Project action; in which we explained the key themes and actions we are going to undertake in Term 4. We shared our idea with other school groups and took inspiration from their ideas and prior actions. As a result, our goal is to promote wellness and mindfulness amongst our peers, through a wellness week in which we will conduct activities linked to each day of the school week. Throughout the day, we were provided with delicious food and snacks. We all enjoyed being around other schools and seeing the ideas they came up with. 

Dale Sidebottom was a very inspiring guest speaker who shared ways to deal with mental health in positive and fun ways.  We loved his enthusiasm and love for taking care of people's wellbeing and it taught us how to feel the same. He also mentioned that he specifically created his presentation to make it fun, engaging, and interactive whilst still being informative. Furthermore, we then had the chance to travel around the zoo in our school groups, visiting the many animals and taking photos to remember our beautiful experience. Today, we learnt about the many positive ways in how to make an impact on our community.

Hannah, Charlotte, Capri, Lily and Lili

From the Languages Coordinator

Year 11/12 Italian Immersion Day

With the Stage 2 Italian Oral Exams fast approaching, our students along with the classes from St Michael's and St Mary's Colleges teamed up for a Senior Italian Immersion Day. We started off with a special screening of the film Napoli - New York at the Palace Nova East End Cinema as part of this year's Italian Film Festival. With the screenplay co-written by the famous director Federico Fellini, the film told the poignant story of two orphaned children in the aftermath of World War II, stowing away on a ship in search of a better life in America. 

After the screening it was back to SAC for our bella chiacchierata to start, but first we had to refuel our brains with delicious pizza from Est-Ovest, washed down with San Pellegrino. Appetites sated, the groups then split into Stage 1 and Stage 2 groups for conversational speed dating. The buzz of conversation soon filled the room as students practised for the oral exams, with assistance from the teachers and our very own Italian assistant, la Prof Imma. We hope that all of the students feel more confident about the weeks ahead and wish them all in bocca al lupo!

Ms Jane Mahar
Languages Coordinator

Year 6’s Stellar Adventure!

In Week 9, our Year 6 students enjoyed an exciting excursion to the Australian Space Discovery Centre, where they had the opportunity to explore the wonders of space and STEM in action.

The session began with an engaging presentation from a speaker who shared fascinating insights into space exploration, astronauts, and the future of Australia’s involvement in the space industry.

The interactive exhibits were a big hit. The hands-on games and engaging displays allowed students to explore how rockets launch, how satellites orbit, and even what life might be like in space. The exhibits sparked curiosity and encouraged plenty of questions and discussion.

Students were also given the opportunity to see inside the SABER Astronautics control room. Seeing where real life space missions are monitored and managed was a huge hit and students were amazed to witness the behind-the-scenes action of space science in motion.

Year 6 Teachers

SAC Future Entrepreneurs in Action

Year 11 & 12 Tackle Real World Problems

Last week, our Year 11 and 12 Business Innovation students had the opportunity to learn about entrepreneurship through the Academy for Enterprising Girls workshop run by Young Change Agents. Over the day, students, as a group, engaged in the design thinking process to create innovative business ideas and present these as pitches. The students chose to focus on solving problems in their community. Some of the problems tackled included: personalised teaching styles, cutting down tall poppies, and heavy backpacks. Their solutions focused on social enterprises that would provide practical and positive impacts. Students and teachers left feeling inspired.

From Ideas to Action SAC Students Compete at the Tournament of Minds State Final

On Sunday, seven Year 9 and 10 students, represented SAC at the Tournament of Minds State Final. Tournament of Minds is a nationwide competition where teams of students work together to solve open-ended challenges that draw on creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. The competition day involves presenting a prepared Long-Term Challenge as a 10-minute performance, as well as participating in an unseen Spontaneous Challenge.

Over the course of Term 3, Aria, Maya, Angelique, Hayley, Lili, Lucy, and Portia, supported by mentor Yenuli, diligently prepared for this competition through lunchtime trainings, afternoon rehearsals, and weekend sessions. Competing against a strong field of teams from across South Australia, they placed 4th in their category, an outstanding accomplishment and a testament to their hard work and dedication.

“Tournament of Minds was an eye-opening experience that challenged us to think outside of the box and push ourselves to our creative limits. This experience has led us to meet new people forming new connections with other like-minded peers. Plus, the pizza nights were pretty fun!” – Portia and Maya

Ms Kiara Schonberger & Mr Lochlann Dwyer
Tournament of Minds Coordinators

ASX Schools Sharemarket Game Success

Congratulations to Sienna and Alice, who are currently in second place in South Australia in the ASX Schools Sharemarket Game! This competition challenges students to apply their knowledge of economics, business, and investing by managing a virtual share portfolio and potentially take home a real cash prize! We wish them the best as they continue trading over the holiday break.

“This competition is both exciting and nerve-racking, as it simulates the Australian Stock Exchange. We’ve discovered firsthand the principle of high risk, high reward. By investing in highly volatile stocks, our strategy has paid off, placing us second in the state, with our sights set on claiming first place next.” – Sienna and Alice

From the Careers Department

Welcome to the ✨ Women in Space ✨ panel event brought to you by the Adelaide University Space Society!

📍 Location: Stone & Chalk, Lot Fourteen
📅 Date: Wednesday 22 October
⌚ Time: 5:30pm - 8:30pm

This special evening will showcase the brilliant women driving innovation and discovery in South Australia’s space sector. Hear directly from leaders across research, engineering, business, and technology as they share their journeys, challenges, and visions for the future of space.

The night will feature engaging panel discussions followed by an open networking session and is a chance to connect with students, industry representatives, and the inspiring panellists themselves. Whether you’re curious about the local space scene, exploring career pathways, or passionate about diversity and opportunities for women in space, this is your opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired.

Grab your tickets now for just $5 and secure your place 🎫 (use "SAC2025" for a FREE ticket)!

Register here: https://events.humanitix.com/women-in-space

Adelaide University Activate Program for current Year 11 students

Activate is a program that will be offered by the new Adelaide University and replaces previous programs such as Headstart and ACCELERATE. It offers motivated Year 12 students the opportunity to commence university study while completing SACE.

Further details about the program will be released in Term 4, but interested Year 11 students and families may register interest at the following link:

Activate

Extension Studies at Flinders University

The Extension Studies Program provides a taste of university life for high-achieving South Australian senior secondary school students while also giving the opportunity to complement and extend their SACE studies.

It will suit students who have the maturity to adjust to a university learning environment. University study demands more independent learning through a student’s own reading, research, online work, and writing.

Participation requires considerable commitment and it is recommended that students seek guidance from their support network beforehand to make sure it will be manageable.

Students can enrol in a maximum of one university topic per semester while completing Year 12.

Applications for 2026 will open on 17 November 2025 and close on 6 February 2026.

Further information regarding the program, fees and application process can be found here:

Extension studies - Flinders University

SATAC reminder for Year 12 students

A reminder to Year 12 students that SATAC applications should be submitted by Tuesday 30 September to avoid a late fee. Students are still able to change their application preferences after this date.

Pilgrims of Hope - Walking Together