Acknowledgement of Country
From the Principal - Issue #18, 2025
Principal
Newsletter Editorial Week 4 Term 4
As we prepare to commemorate Remembrance Day next Tuesday, I share below two reflections that provide insight into the relationship between St Aloysius College and the family and friends of the 2/43rd Battalion. The first is a speech given by Simon Kelly, who coordinates a ceremony at the Walk of Remembrance each year to commemorate the Battle of El Alamein. Following Simon’s speech is a reflection written by Year 12 College Captains for 2026, Yenuli and Liliana. In a world that desperately prays for peace, the words below provide a message of hope in a troubled world.
Our 2026 Executive Leaders gathered to honour the courage and sacrifice of members of the 2/43rd at El Alamein
El Alamein Commemorative Speech 2025: Simon Kelly
In acknowledging the Kaurna people of the Adelaide Plains as the traditional custodians of this land, we also acknowledge the significance of the Torrens Historical Precinct and all the memories and memorials it holds.
We are, indeed, on hallowed ground.
Not far from this place in Victoria Square is St Francis Xavier's Cathedral, where the colours of the 43rd and 2/43rd Battalions are laid up.
A few doors away from the Cathedral, on Wakefield Street, is St Aloysius College, to which the 2/43rd Memorial Crosses and Regimental Banner were entrusted in perpetuity, the Crosses in late November 2012 and the Banner in March of 2021.
I would especially like to welcome the SAC 2026 Year 12 Student Executive-elect who will participate in our commemoration this morning.
Welcome to College Captains: Liliana & Yenuli; Social Justice Leaders: Teah & Daisy; and Executive Committee Members: Gislene, Alessia, Adele & Holly accompanied by their Principal, Paddy McEvoy and Deputy Principal, Jacqui Mcilroy.
On 23 October 1942, the decisive Second Battle of El Alamein began, in which the Australian 9th Division played a pivotal role by spearheading the assault. They drew Rommel’s best units to face them and allowed the British to eventually break through on the southern flank and finally throw the enemy back in disarray.
In 1967, on the 25th anniversary of the battle, General Montgomery, Commander of the Eighth Army in Egypt, visited the Australian graves at the El Alamein cemetery. The following evening, he told a friend: "The more I think back, the more I realise that winning was only made possible by the bravery of the 9th Australian Division in holding the road against counter-attacks and slowly pushing forward despite increasing casualties. I do not know of any [other] Allied Division who could have done it."
Today, we gather
- to honour and commemorate the service and sacrifice of those who fought in that battle,
- to pay tribute to those who did not return,
- and to remember those who have since passed - all whose memory we hold dear.
Today, we especially remember the men of the 2/43rd and 2/48th Battalions.
Our opening reading, adapted from Ecclesiasticus and delivered by Gislene, spoke of men “whose righteous deeds have not been forgotten” and whose “name lives on generation after generation.”
Apart from their participation in this El Alamein Commemoration, students from St Aloysius have placed the Memorial Crosses on the Field of Honour before Remembrance Day each year since 2012, attended the ceremony on North Terrace and placed tributes in memory of the 2/43rd Battalion.
Ten years ago, in 2015, at the end of the Remembrance Day ceremony, sometime after the named dignitaries had placed their tributes, schools and others were invited to come forward with theirs.
Two Year 9 students, distinguished by their SAC uniforms, approached the Memorial reverently. A quiet descended on the gathering. Two students, one presumably Christian and one, in her hijab, presumably of the Islamic faith, reminded all of us there through their silent tribute, of the type of world for which our forefathers were fighting.
A world at peace, where human dignity is paramount and differences are respected. A world where courage, service, justice and respect are the guiding values, and where the Common Good flourishes.
- So, today we commemorate a great but costly battle which proved a turning point in the war,
- we honour the men who served in it,
- we call to mind those from the 2/43rd and 2/48th, represented here by their families, friends, and loved ones,
- and we promise that we will never forget their service and sacrifice.
A Decade Ago - 2015 Remembrance Day
El Alamein Reflection 2025: Yenuli and Liliana
Thank you for the invitation to commemorate the soldiers who fought during the battle of El Alamein. It is both an honour and a privilege to be here today. St Aloysius College is the current holder of the memorial crosses and the regimental banner of the 2/43 (2nd 43rd) Battalion. At St Aloysius College, we strongly believe in the importance of recognising those who fought for peace. By being here today, we hope to honour those who have given their lives for others.
St Aloysius College has instilled the mercy values of justice, service, compassion, courage, respect and hospitality in each and every one of us. These values embody who we are as a school. In times of uncertainty and devastating war, we stand united, in the hopes that one day our leaders will act out of these values.
As we try to understand the detrimental and generational impacts of war, we reflect and recognise that being educated about events is significantly different to first-hand experience. The suffering, trauma and loss experienced by our soldiers and their families is further evidence of their courage and sacrifice, which continues to impact families and loved ones.
As Catherine McAuley, who founded the order of the Sisters of Mercy said, “We should be shining lamps giving light to all around us”. At St Aloysius College we are called to show compassion, respect and admire the courage of everyone here today. May we all be shining lamps to people in our lives in times of darkness and uncertainty.
We pray for those in our world who are currently experiencing the devastating impacts of war. For the people in the middle east, we pray that they have the strength and courage to keep persevering and achieve a lasting peace. For the people impacted by the war in Ukraine and Russia we pray that they find peace within, in these tough times. We pray for the people impacted by the many other wars in our world that they may find compassion, respect and hope for a better future. May those who fought in the 2/43 bring hope to other people serving their countries on the front line.
This year our liturgical theme is ‘pilgrims of hope, walking together’. It calls us to advocate for those who don’t have a voice and stand up against injustices. We must be signs of hope, encouraging and supporting those who have lost hope. We look forward to the connections that we can make today and we are grateful for the opportunity to attend and be a part of this memorial.
Celebrating 145 Years of Mercy: St Aloysius College Unveils a New Transeasonal Uniform
On Friday 7 November, the St Aloysius College community gathered in the Gymnasium for a milestone moment… the launch of a new transeasonal school uniform, marking a bold new chapter in the College’s 145-year legacy.
As the rhythmic beat of the Drum Corps echoed through the space, students, staff and special guests filled it with anticipation, and a sense of joy and pride rippled through the gathering. More than just a uniform launch, this was a celebration of heritage, identity, and progress, woven together with the same Mercy spirit which has inspired the College since its foundation in 1880.
Deputy Principal of Pastoral Care, Ms Jacqui McIlroy, opened the event with a heartfelt welcome, acknowledging the presence of the Sisters of Mercy, College Advisory Council members, and the work of a dedicated Uniform Committee and the Executive Leadership team, whose vision helped bring the new design to life.
“This year, St Aloysius College proudly celebrates 145 years of excellence, tradition, and community,” Ms Mcilroy said. “It is a moment to reflect on our rich history and the enduring legacy of the Sisters of Mercy, whose vision and values continue to shape who we are.”
The event began with an Acknowledgement of Country and a moving performance of the Suscipe by the Senior Choir. This version of the Suscipe was written by Catherine McAuley, Founder of the Sisters of Mercy, bringing her voice to the celebration in a special way, harmonising faith, tradition, community, and a spirit of hope.
What followed was a captivating fashion parade, showcasing the evolution of the St Aloysius College uniform from the 1930s to today. With each decade came new fabrics and styles, and, as Ms Mcilroy noted, “each uniform tells a story of the students who wore it and the times they lived in.”
To the upbeat swing of Glenn Miller’s In the Mood, the elegance of the 1930s and 40s was brought to life in a showcase of woollen tunics, structured hats, and even a briefcase once owned by one of SAC’s most distinguished Old Scholars, Dame Roma Mitchell.
The 1950s and 60s saw hemlines rise and patterns brighten, mirroring the widespread optimism of post-war years. By the 1970s, bold checks and flared silhouettes captured the changing spirit of the times, and the 1980s introduced a more formal brown blazer that became synonymous with SAC pride and identity, worn until present day.
Each era was presented with charm and precision by student models, accompanied by nostalgic music, from ABBA’s Dancing Queen to Whitney Houston’s I Wanna Dance With Somebody. And, of course, Sister Janet Mead’s grammy-nominated rendition of The Lord’s Prayer. The parade offered the audience a moving reminder that while fashion evolves, the values of Mercy – compassion, service, courage, and respect – never go out of style, and they are stitched into every thread of the new uniform.
Sister Mary-Anne Duigan RSM reminded the College of how its founding Sisters of Mercy lived these values, sharing the inspiring story of their courageous journey to Adelaide, where they established St Aloysius College in 1880. Her words drew a direct thread between the early Sisters, who educated and uplifted girls in a fledgling community, and today’s students, who continue to reap the benefits of this brave legacy in a rapidly changing world. In honour of these Sisters, Principal, Ms Paddy McEvoy unveiled a plaque at the ceremony.
The Senior Choir’s performance of Standing on the Shoulders paid tribute to those who came before – the women whose courage and compassion shaped generations of Mercy education.
Finally, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived.
MCs, Liliana B and Haylee B announced, “Wear it your way, purple for every season!” and the 2026 St Aloysius College transeasonal uniform was revealed.
The new range reflects months of collaboration, creativity, and consultation between students, staff, and families. Designed with student voice at heart, it combines tradition and modernity, honouring the past while embracing the needs of the present.
More updates on when the new uniform will be available are coming soon!
From the short-sleeved dress to the long-sleeved dress to skirts, shirts, tailored trousers, and shorts, the new uniform is inclusive and allows students to choose pieces that best reflect their comfort and style. Reception to Year 2 students will wear their PE uniform year-round, ensuring freedom of movement and readiness for play and learning.
Principal Ms Paddy McEvoy was happy to embrace the return to purple.
“My sisters and I wore purple with pride at SAC in the ‘70s and ‘80’s and I know today’s students will love it. This new uniform allows students to choose the pieces that suit their needs, whatever the season. It will be a visible sign of the respect and inclusion that sits at the heart of our Mercy identity.”
As the ceremony drew to a close, there was a shared expression of gratitude for all who contributed to this landmark occasion. Kiki and Eva (Year 8 and 10 students) expressed excitement at the prospect of wearing their new purple threads with pride:
“Wearing the new uniform makes me feel comfortable and confident, especially as I move into my final years of schooling. It’s bright, bold, and genuinely reflects who we are today. I love that it’s inclusive and gives us so many options to choose from throughout the year. We can wear what feels right for us."
“The launch event was really special. Seeing the Sisters of Mercy there reminded us of where the College began, while the new uniform shows how we’re continuing to grow. It felt like a real connection between our past and our future.”
This launch meant more than just the unveiling of fabric and colour. It was a reminder of the stories of those who’ve worn fabric threads representing St Aloysius College for 145 years; a story of courage, compassion and of growth; of students, staff and families walking together in the spirit of Mercy, as Catherine McAuley inspired others to do more than 200 years ago.
The event was followed by a morning tea for special guests and a celebration with students who participated in the launch, inside the Year 8 classrooms; a fitting reminder that the heart of St Aloysius College will always be its people, and care of the young ones who wear its uniform.
Ms Maddie Kelly
Communications Officer
Youth Governors Leadership Foundation Program
Annabel and Gianna share their YGLF journey:
"Throughout the year, we had the incredible opportunity to participate in the Youth Governors Leadership Foundation Program, that brought together many likeminded young leaders across the state, allowing us to forge close connections. During the program, we engaged in many workshops, collaborative meetings, and learnt about leadership frameworks as well as the meaning of leadership. This encouraged us to think critically about the issues currently facing our communities. We became self-aware, socially conscious, and resilient throughout this five-month program, learning to embrace our individuality and realise the capabilities we hold. Overall, this program has supported us in discovering the leader within ourselves, and it was an unforgettable experience that has motivated us to continue making a difference in our school community and other aspects of our lives."
Gianna and Annabel (Year 10 Students)
Stories, Authors, and Inspiration at Once Upon a Festival
Last week, six of our Year 7 students experienced Once Upon a Festival for 2025. Each year, authors and illustrators from around Australia offer workshops and talks at an expo style event over two days at Immanuel College. We were privileged to participate in sessions with Pip Harry and Amy Doak - both very popular authors in the Catherine McAuley Library. Both authors have recently released new novels and both titles have definitely been added to our 'to-be-read' lists! Pip Harry's new verse novel, Drift, centred around her own experience with bees swarming and creating hives in the walls of her home. Imogen was lucky enough to win a copy for her very thoughtful question at the end of Pip's talk. In addition to Amy Doak's very popular Eleanor Jones is not a murderer series, copies of her latest novel What have they done to Liza McLean? were eagerly picked up in the book tent. It was an inspiring excursion to attend, with lots of encouragement for students to continue their own reading and writing.
Ms Ali Ripberger
Teacher-Librarian | Information Services Coordinator
JAM Band 2025!
A brand-new show with new songs and creative new costumes, every year is different but it is always unforgettable!
The 7-piece live band, teachers, and our amazing talented students lit up the SAC gym with music, movement, and laughter last Friday. It is always an uplifting, educational, and empowering experience, truly a highlight of the term and the year.
The photos say it all, enjoy!
From the Careers Department
Careers & VET Coordinator
Inspiring Minds at Ingenuity 2025
Last week, Year 9 students visited Ingenuity held at the Adelaide Convention Centre. University students presented their work to the Year 9 students who were interested to learn more about studying STEM programs at the University of Adelaide. Ingenuity delivered a collective showcase of over 300 student projects, information displays and achievements. It was fantastic to see some SAC old scholars amongst those presenting their final year university projects in STEM disciplines.
From the Visual Arts Department
Visual Arts Coordinator
Celebrating Creativity: The 2025 Year 12 Visual Art and Design Exhibition
On Friday, October 31, the SAC Foyer Gallery came alive with excitement as students, families, friends, and teachers gathered to celebrate the opening of the 2025 Year 12 Visual Art and Design Exhibition. The evening showcased the incredible creativity and dedication of this talented group of graduating artists and designers.
The exhibition was officially opened by old scholar Jessie Cotton, (class of 2021) who captivated the audience by sharing her journey in the visual arts. Her reflections reminded everyone of the lasting impact of creative exploration and the many pathways to a career in the Visual Arts. Below are some of her inspiring reflections:
“I want to end this by sharing what I wish I could tell myself when I was standing where you are now, it is completely okay, and absolutely possible to have a career in the arts. It is definitely not a one-degree, one-destination kind of journey, but that’s the beauty of it. There’s no single right way to do it, and it will look different for everyone. Building a career in the arts is about taking lots of small steps. Your first step might be showing up to a local gallery or exhibition opening, creating an art account and sharing your work online, joining a market stall to sell your pieces, or reaching out to artists you admire to ask about their practice or even see if you can work alongside them. I have seen how all people from all walks of life, different ages and cultural make it work. It can be challenging at times, and there’s often a lot to balance, but through studying art and working in studios these past few years, I have met some of the happiest, most fulfilled, and most inspired people I know."
The exhibition features a stunning and diverse collection of works produced as part of the students’ Stage 2 Visual Art and Design courses. From inventive design projects to expressive artworks, the exhibition highlights the impressive technical skill and imagination of our Year 12 students.
At this final exhibition one student’s work is chosen to be part of the permanent exhibition of Year 12 work on the walls of the schools Foyer Gallery. In 2025 the School Acquisition prize was awarded to Design student Issac Adey Parham for the piece ‘Beyond the Woods’. The piece chosen is a set of three, large scale posters illustrating characters for a computer game, a medieval fantasy RPG aimed at teenagers. Each poster illustrates a hybrid protagonists, the centaur, Farris, a fairy, Elida and a nymph, Delta. As a faculty we were impressed by Issac's skill and imagination.
Visitors and students alike have been inspired by the exhibition, which will remain on display in the Foyer Gallery until Friday, November 21. We invite everyone to stop by and experience the remarkable talent and creativity of the Class of 2025.
Ms Michelle Barratt
Visual Arts Coordinator
Sporting Spotlights!
Congratulations to Year 12 student Claire on Her Outstanding Performance in New Zealand!
Claire recently represented the SASI squad at the New Zealand 2025 Short Course Championships, held in Auckland from 21–25 September. Competing against strong international talent, she achieved personal best times in all her events, a testament to her hard work and commitment.
Her impressive results included a silver medal in the 50m Breaststroke (17–18 years) and a bronze medal in the 100m Breaststroke (17–18 years).
Congratulations, Claire, on your remarkable achievements and for representing SAC with excellence and pride!
Congratulations to Allegra on Her State Netball Success!
We are thrilled to celebrate Year 6 student Allegra for her outstanding achievement in being selected to represent the SA State U12 Netball Team.
Allegra recently travelled with the team to Ballarat, where they competed against some of the strongest teams from across the country. The team performed brilliantly, finishing second overall in the competition. An incredible result!
Allegra, who is new to SAC, has already begun sharing her sporting journey with our community, demonstrating talent, dedication, and teamwork both on and off the court. We congratulate her on this fantastic accomplishment and look forward to seeing her continue to shine in netball and beyond.
Year 3s Explore Mail the Traditional Way at the GPO!
Year 3 students enjoyed a special outing to the city General Post Office, where they sent letters to a mystery classmate as part of their letter writing lessons in English. After a short walk, they arrived at the GPO, excited to discover more about how mail is sent. The students had a chance to explore the counters and learn about different types of postage. Carefully applying their stamps to envelopes, each student posted their letter, eagerly awaiting the surprise of discovering their pen pal’s identity!
From the English Coordinator
English & Literacy Coordinator
Spring Poetry Festival 2025 Success
On a beautiful sunny November morning it was fitting to gather with students, teachers and families from around South Australia for the launch of the 2025 Spring Poetry Festival anthology. Run by the South Australian English Teachers Association (SAETA) for the past 50 years, the Spring Poetry Festival is open to students from Reception to Year 12, encouraging a love of poetry. Guest poet, Rory Harris, shared great advice with the young writers about the important elements for successful writing – having a dedicated place to write, the process of drafting and crafting, the value of reading your work aloud and having a trusted person with whom to share your writing. Given the quality of writing produced by SAC students each year, in this and other competitions, I’m sure our poets have all these necessary elements.
The Festival convenors received over 400 entries, from which a select few are included in the annual anthology. Congratulations to Mila (8AM), Joy (8JT), Aanya (5AC) and Gloria (4BM) whose work was published this year.
A range of prizes are also awarded to select young poets. Congratulations to Chloe (7AC) who won the Budding Poet Prize. Jude Aquilina, in presenting the award, commented that Chloe’s writing had eloquently “captured the silent frustration and fears harboured by so many young people”. Given that Chloe has previously experienced success with her poetry, we look forward to reading more of her work in years to come!
Asked to reflect on poetry writing and having their work published, the students shared the following:
I enjoy the freedom poetry can give you. To me, poetry is like music and it feels like a way you're able to speak your thoughts in another, more lyrical way. Many times, it challenges your thinking in finding the right words to fit a mood to let your reader really dive into your writing. I find it amazing that I will be able to share my poetry. (Joy Julianto 8AM)
I was very surprised when I found out that my work was being published, it was a dream come true for me and my family. I love poetry and it’s my passion! (Aanya Weerawardhane 5AC)
Congratulations to our successful writers. We look forward to continuing to share your passion for poetry!
Ms Genevieve Pelekani
English & Literacy Coordinator
Year 7 stundet, Chloe, Budding Poet Prize Winner
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