We gently returned to Term 2 by reflecting on the Easter story, a timeless message of hope, renewal and new life that speaks to each of us.
We are proud of our college’s strong commitment to honouring the legacy of the ANZACs. Each year, we attend our local Altona RSL services, laying a wreath in remembrance. As a community, we also gathered for a College Commemoration Service over the PA, where the school paused in silence, reflecting on powerful images while following the official order of service observed across the nation.
We were also honoured to be represented at the Melbourne Legacy ANZAC Student Commemoration Service at the Shrine of Remembrance, where our students laid a wreath on behalf of the College. Alongside this, we supported the ANZAC Appeal through merchandise sales and shared a simple morning tea of ANZAC biscuits, with rosemary as a symbol of remembrance, recalling the fields of Gallipoli.
As we entered May, we turned our hearts to Mary, the Mother of God, incorporating the Rosary and Marian prayers into our prayer life. Traditionally known as the Month of Mary, it is a beautiful invitation to return to these familiar prayers and spend time reflecting on her faith, humility and trust in God.
We also celebrated the Feast of St Joseph the Worker through a Chapel prayer service and with our Year 7 students, who gathered for the Eucharist at our local parish. This marked a special first as a full cohort and, in many ways, became a mini pilgrimage, as students walked to and from the church alongside their Learning Mentors in honour of our patron, St Joseph, a humble worker, pilgrim and protector, whose life reflects faith in action. We shared this experience alongside St Mary’s Grade 5 and 6 students, as well as parents, parishioners and staff, strengthening the sense of community. In the words of our students, Fr Michael brought St Joseph to life, making the Gospel real and relatable through his homily. He spoke of Joseph as a quiet, humble man, a “tradie” highlighting the dignity of work and the vital role tradespeople play in our world, while also recognising Joseph as a strong role model for Jesus and a faithful, supportive husband to Mary. Students participated reverently in the Mass, with many taking on roles and joining confidently in the responses.
Our Year 12 School-Based Religious Education students, who explore faith through art, were privileged to welcome Fr Elio Capra for their annual session. This year, Fr Elio led a rich and engaging exploration of justice and peace through Scripture and art, focusing on the parables of the Good Samaritan and the Sheep and the Goats. Blending theological insight with humour and real-world relevance, he created space for deep reflection and dialogue. We are incredibly fortunate to have Fr Elio join us each year, his ability to make faith both accessible and meaningful continues to resonate strongly with our students.
In caring for our common home, students and staff volunteers got their hands dirty planting vegetables and herbs, with plans to nurture the garden throughout the term. These simple yet meaningful actions reflect our commitment to caring for creation and remind us that sustainability begins with everyday choices, especially during Laudato Si’ Week (17–24 May). We also look forward to launching our House recycling initiative, continuing to build a culture of environmental responsibility across the College.
This term, our Social Justice focus shifts from fundraising to practical giving through our Winter Appeal, supporting Big Group Hug. We invite our community to donate new or quality pre-loved winter essentials for children aged 1–16. Collection points are available across the College, including the Front Office.
Our Supportive Friends have launched a wonderful initiative this term, supporting a school in Timor-Leste through our parish partnership. A Book for Timor invites staff to donate new write-in literacy workbooks, with the goal of collecting 100 books by the end of the term. Alongside this, students will prepare handwritten cards of greeting and create a short video message to share with the school community. We also hope to extend this support by sourcing refurbished laptops to send over. It is a meaningful beginning, grounded in connection, dignity and the simple but powerful gift of learning.
Finally, as we approach National Reconciliation Week at the end of the month (27-3 June), we are proud that our College’s Reconciliation Action Plan continues to be a lived and active commitment, brought to life through meaningful opportunities for awareness and engagement. We hold the Alice Springs community in our hearts following the tragic passing of Kumanjayi Little Baby and remain committed to the ongoing journey of truth-telling and reconciliation.
Mrs Anne Severi - Director of Catholic Identity
