Graduation is always such a special time in our College calendar, a moment that reminds us of the precious gifts of education, community, faith, and relationships. It is a time to pause and give thanks for the journey shared, and to witness with pride the spirit of our Josephite Charism shining brightly through our graduating students.
The day began with a lovely breakfast as our Year 12 students arrived, proudly wearing their “pipped-up” summer dresses, each adding their own creative touches and personal flair. There was laughter, countless thank yous, a few tears, and a deep sense of gratitude and anticipation for the day ahead. The morning celebrations continued with the final assembly, filled with presentations, speeches, games, and reflections on their years at the College. The Colour Run added a final burst of fun and energy before students returned home to prepare for the evening, dressing in their full academic dress for one last time, surrounded by their families and loved ones.
The evening brought our community together for a moving Graduation Mass, a celebration of faith, gratitude, and unity. Before the commencement of Mass, the graduates processed into their chosen song, Landslide by Fleetwood Mac, as families, friends, and teachers looked on with pride and emotion.
The Mass began with a touching Light Ceremony, where three candles were lit, one on behalf of the staff, one for families, and one for the graduates. This symbolic gesture reflected the trinity of support that has shaped our students’ journeys. It reminded us that it takes all three staff, families, and the graduates themselves to reach this significant point in their lives.
What made the Mass especially meaningful was the deep reverence shown by our graduates and their active participation throughout the liturgy. Many contributed for the final time by singing in the choir, carrying the gifts, proclaiming the readings, and leading the Prayers of the Faithful, reading in either their home language or a language studied at school. Our College Captains also served Communion, embodying the heart of servant leadership that has defined their time at the College.
We were blessed to have both of our parish priests, Fr Binh Le and Archpriest Michael Kalka, concelebrate the Mass. Fr Binh’s homily spoke deeply to the heart, reminding us of the unique gifts, values, and light within each of us and the importance of using them for good. The choir’s magnificent voices and the spirit of all present beautifully reflected our 2025 College Theme, “Be the Light that Ignites Hope,” a fitting message for an occasion celebrating both endings and new beginnings. The final blessing over our graduates, as the entire room raised their right hand in prayer, was a deeply moving moment that captured the essence of our Josephite spirit.
Following the Mass, the Graduation Ceremony recognised the achievements and milestones of the Class of 2025. The proceedings included the presentation of special awards and certificates, heartfelt addresses from the Principal and College Captains, and a moving photo presentation capturing memorable moments from their journey. A particularly touching highlight came when graduates shared letters of gratitude with their families, expressing love and appreciation for their support throughout their school years.
The evening concluded in true St Joseph’s spirit, with the graduates joining together on stage to sing the College Song, a highlight that filled the room with pride and joy. Supper was then shared in the College Café, as families and staff gathered for photos and final farewells.
In a world where hope is needed more than ever, we have great confidence in this remarkable group of young women. As the Class of 2025 steps forward into the next chapter of their lives, we give thanks for their presence, their leadership, and the joy they have brought to our community. May they continue to carry the light of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop within them, to see the good in others, to act with courage and compassion, and to always be a light of hope in our world.
On Friday, 17 October, our newly appointed Junior Leaders for 2026 participated in a Faith Formation and Social Justice Workshop in South Yarra, facilitated by MacKillop Family Services. The day provided an enriching opportunity for students to explore the vital work of MacKillop Family Services in supporting vulnerable children and young people, while engaging in interactive activities and reflections that deepened their understanding of leadership through the Josephite charism.
"I attended MacKillop Family Services, where we learned about what it meant to be an orphan in the past and how things are different now. It was interesting to see how much has changed and how people are supported today. We also learned about different ways to have deep conversations with others without it feeling awkward. During the visit, we got to share ideas and work together with students from Xavier College, a boys’ school in Melbourne, which helped us understand different perspectives. Overall, the experience was really eye-opening, and I think everyone had a really fun time."
Mila Gatt - Year 8
As the season of Advent draws near, we are reminded of the hope, joy, and generosity that lie at the heart of our faith. In the spirit of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, our Advent in Action Appeals invites our community to reach out with love and compassion to those in need.
Junior School (Years 7–9) are collecting non-perishable food and festive treats for Vinnies Christmas Hampers, which will be presented to our local Vinnies Conference President at our Advent Mass on Thursday 4 December. Donations can be brought to the classroom or Front Office.
Senior School (Years 10–11) are supporting Big Group Hug, gathering new items such as toiletries (child or adult), bedding, stationery, and small toys for children in need. Donations can be brought to the House Leaders’ Office or the Front Office.
All families have received a letter outlining the appeal details, and students have been briefed during Morning pastoral. Thank you for your generosity and for helping to make this Advent a season of hope and action for others.
Mrs Anne Severi - Director of Catholic Identity
