This week we remember St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia's first saint, for her dedication in caring for the human and spiritual needs of children, and her care for the poor and destitute. Underpinning all of her activities was her faith in divine Providence. In all the challenges she faced, and the crosses she endured, she never doubted the unceasing protection of 'our good God'.

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Pray for us.

Yuin Banaan- Cultural Day
Last Friday, 4 August our K-12 Pathway schools hosted the Yuin Banaan Cultural Day at Captain Oldrey Park, Broulee. Aboriginal students from Kindergarten to Year 12 from St Bernard's, St Mary's and Carroll College and friends were invited to attend, as well as all family members. 

We were very fortunate to receive a NAIDOC grant from National Indigenous Australians Agency to support this event. Activities included a bush tucker and medicine walk; traditional dancing with the Muladha Gamara group; damper cooking; Yarning circles; seafood cook up; ochre face painting; Aboriginal Trivia, art making and soccer. Some of the activities were led by our Carroll College students and we thank them for the initiative and leadership they displayed.

Community organisations and service groups were invited to set up stalls on the day and many coordinated activities for the students.

We extended a very warm welcome to Elders of family members from our three school communities so they could be honoured for their contributions in passing on the knowledge and traditions of their ancestors.

A very special thank you to Trish Ellis for her ongoing support and guidance as our Aboriginal Elder at Carroll College. We are privileged to have Trish working alongside us to advise and educate on Aboriginal teachings and traditions. Also, to Melissa Ellis (Carroll College parent) who spoke so eloquently as she delivered Welcome to Country and explained the importance of our history and respect for our elders. Mrs Michelle Katuke and Miss Chelsea Laurie were also part of the organising committee and I thank them for their efforts in organising the day. Yuin Banaan was a very special experience for all who attended.

Student Leadership Team (SLT) 2024

It has been my absolute privilege to be an integral part of the process of student selection for the SLT for 2024. Last week, Year 11 students nominating for College Captain and Vice-Captain were interviewed by Mrs Ibbett and I. This gave us a deeper understanding about each student’s motivation for these roles and their understanding of leadership and the essential qualities required of them should they be successful. I am very proud to say that any one of them would be outstanding in a formal leadership role. Earlier this week, students then presented a speech to their Year 11 peers to share their insights and present their vision to lead their Year 12 cohort into 2024. Year 11 students and staff are now tasked with the responsibility of putting their preferences forward to determine our new student leadership team. I wish them well throughout this process.

I close this week with a short yet powerful prayer for families. We can never thrive alone. Our college is built on trust and partnership and our strength is drawn from working together. There are many families currently experiencing health concerns, distress, and hardship. Help us to be a source of strength and support for each other.

Lord, strengthen my family each day. Help us to love and cherish each other on a daily basis. Help us to forgive when we have wronged each other. Give us grace to make mistakes, and to help each other when we are down or discouraged. Amen.

With respect and encouragement to you. 

Jacqueline Heffernan
Principal

“The fruit of love is service, which is compassion in action.”       

St Mother Teresa