MacKillop Chronicles Term 3, Week 4

20^th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Gospel Acclamation: 

“My sheep listen to my voice, says the Lord; I know them and they know me.”  Jn 10:27 5:3

Dear Parents and Carers,

Message from the Head of Primary

This Friday, August 15, is the Feast of the Assumption.  This feast day is an important Presentation in the K-2 Religious Education Program.  Mary, as the Mother of Jesus, was rewarded for her fidelity to God, and so when she died, she was taken into heaven, body and soul.  In the Presentation, students observe a religious icon that provides an insight into the person of Mary as the Mother of Our Lord.  The two parts of the image help us to reflect on the last moments of Mary’s life on earth, and that upon her death, she was taken by angels to heaven.  I marvel that our very young students can use detailed religious imagery to understand important doctrine of the Church.  Assisting our students in their understanding of the important characters in the life of the Church is vital in the development of a personal relationship with our faith.  On Sunday, August 17 the Maltese Community in our Parish celebrate the Sante Maria Festival-perhaps you have noticed the flags around our site.  This special celebration includes Mass at 3pm with Bishop Anthony Randazzo, followed by a procession, cultural food and activities and concluding with a firework display at 6pm.  All are welcome!

Next week we recognise that we are halfway through Term 3. Week 5 is Wellbeing Week! During this week students and teachers are encouraged to pursue activities that support their wellbeing.  Teachers may lead their students in a mindfulness exercise or meditation. They may take brain breaks that encourage contemplation or nature activities. Formal meetings are reduced for teachers, and staff are encouraged to consider their own mental health and self-care.  The Social Team prepare special snacks to sustain us and sometimes a gift from a Special Friend appears. The first four weeks of this term have been frenetic, with many exciting experiences that have taken students outside of the ‘normal’ classroom environment.  This week we are encouraging each other to rest, reflect and reboot, ready for the next five weeks, which includes new dismissal procedures, Book Week, Gala Days for soccer and netball, Father’s Day -Stall/Liturgy & Breakfast, Kinder Yana, Public Speaking, & Learn to Swim!

Have a great weekend

Kerry Power | Head of Primary

Congratulations to our Year 12 students who are now in the final days of their Trial HSC examinations. These exams play a crucial role in preparing students for the HSC by offering valuable insights into their strengths and areas for growth. The students have approached the trials with maturity and dedication, and we commend them for their efforts. We look forward to welcoming them back to classes next Tuesday, where they will continue refining the skills and knowledge needed for success in the HSC exams in October.

Science Week Celebrations

This week, we’ve been celebrating the wonders of science through a variety of engaging activities. A huge thank you to our passionate Science faculty for organising daily events that sparked curiosity and excitement. Highlights included a visit from the Reptile Park and the explosive fun of Tick Tick Boom! A fantastic way to showcase why we love science.

Year 11 Subject Selections  and Year 9 Electives for 2026

We’ve now completed interviews with all students and families for our 2026 Year 11 cohort. These conversations have been incredibly valuable in supporting students as they prepare to transition into Stage 6. We discussed future pathways, subject choices, and tailored recommendations to help guide their decisions.

Please note: Edval subject selections for both Year 9 electives and Year 11 courses will close tomorrow. Make sure all choices are submitted before the deadline.

Alexandra Walters | Deputy Head of Student Achievement 7-12

Young Detectives Crack the Case and Pen New Mysteries

On 29 July, MacKillop Catholic College hosted an unforgettable Crime Fiction Writing Workshop for students across the Broken Bay Diocese who are enrolled in the Writer’s Collective – a Cross Campus Centre Elective. What began as an ordinary day quickly turned into an interactive mystery, where students weren’t just reading about detectives; they became them.

From the moment the workshop began, participants were thrust into the middle of a murder investigation. Armed with evidence files, character profiles, and witness statements, students worked as a team to analyse alibis, decode hidden clues, and rule out suspects one by one. Every twist in the case required sharp observation, deductive reasoning, and a healthy dose of teamwork. The suspense was real, and so was the satisfaction when pieces of the puzzle began to fall into place.

We didn’t just talk about crime fiction; we stepped into the story itself. The workshop was designed so that students could live the narrative arc - beginning with the crime’s discovery, moving through the rising tension of investigation, and culminating in the reveal of the culprit. In this way, students experienced first-hand the pacing, red herrings, and plot reversals that make the crime genre so compelling.

The day ended with applause and congratulations to our very own Rachel, whose enthusiasm and leadership skills earned her the title of Lead Detective - along with a beautiful box set of Sherlock Holmes novels. But the mystery-solving was just the beginning. Inspired by the day’s activities, students entered a Crime Fiction Writing Competition, crafting their own stories packed with intrigue, suspense, and clever twists.

There are two $30 book vouchers awarded to the People’s Choice and Teacher’s Choice, and a selection of these original works will soon be published on the MUSE website, which is launching soon. Our young authors-turned detectives have proven that they can crack cases and write them.

Shannon Mulder | English Teacher M.U.S.E Founder

Youth Ministry has been alive and well in the College during Term 3, so far. During the Term 2 holidays, twelve students were extending their faith through exploring the offerings at the Ignite conference held at the Light of Christ Centre, Waitara. The conference offered many opportunities for real-world evangelisation experiences, through workshops, presentations, prayer experiences, adoration and Mass. Most of all, though, the students were captivated by the encounters of faith through music presented by the Emmanuel Worship Band. The four-day experience had an immense impact on the faith development of the students involved, and already I have seen this being transferred back into the schooling environment.

Our Lady of Dolorus, Chatswood, once again hosted us on Friday night of Week 2, for a night of Praise and Worship. Fr David Ranson led the night with a deep discussion and exploration of the life and impact of Carlos Acutis, who will become the first millennial saint later this year. Students were able to engage with the Praise and Worship band and then were offered opportunities to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation, followed by adoration. The night also provided an opportunity for the students who participated in Venio to reconnect with the other students who attended from other Broken Bay Schools.

Our year-long pilgrimage, highlighting the Year of Jubilee, continues in Week 6, as on the Friday night we will be heading down to the shrine of Saint John Vianney, at Mary Immaculate Church, Manly.  This will be the third Connecting Catholic Coasties event of the year, and it is focused on giving the opportunity to engage with the relics of saints and the Catholic belief of the Communion of Saints. Students will not only gain a deeper understanding of who St John Vianney was, but they will also accompany other Broken Bay students in being witnesses to their faith.

Closer to home, students have also been able to express their faith through their engagement in Youth Mass. Youth Mass takes place on the third Sunday of every month. Before Mass, Pharus leaders lead the Youth Group, where they play games, build connections and shape faith activities that engage younger primary students before they enter into the Mass. A reminder that all are welcome at Youth Mass, with Youth Group starting at 4 pm and Mass at 5 pm.

Youth Ministry in the College is going to become more structured this term with a weekly format of Youth Ministry meetings on Monday, Connect and Chill time on Wednesday, and the Rosary on Friday. The Youth Ministry meetings will allow students to gather in games and discussions around topical issues of faith. Wednesday Connect and Chill time offers students a quiet space where they can engage in prayer, journalling or meditation, to ensure that they have their own space with God. Finally, I hope to bring the Rosary into the church on Fridays to ensure that elements of the Catholic tradition are present in the day-to-day lives of the students in the College.

Dr Ashley Sadler | Youth Ministry Coordinator

The Religious Creative Arts Competition is back for its 11th year, and all students from Kindergarten to Year 10 are encouraged to take part. This well-established event, hosted by Catholic Schools Broken Bay, celebrates the incredible skill, creativity, and faith of young people across our diocese.

Here at MacKillop Catholic College, we are proud to have had past students recognised for their outstanding talents in previous years, and now it’s your turn to shine!

The competition invites students to explore the 2025 theme: WITNESS – “You will receive power from the Holy Spirit… and you will be my witnesses” (Acts 1:8). This is your opportunity to creatively express what it means to live out this value in your own unique way.

Students can enter in one of five categories:

• Visual Arts
• Dance
• Drama
• Music
• Short Film

Key Dates:

• All submissions are due to the school by Friday, 22nd August (Week 5, Term 3).

Following local judging, selected finalists will be invited to perform or display their works at the Showcase Night at Hornsby RSL, 5:30 pm, Wednesday 12 November 2025. The evening will feature:

• A visual art exhibition
• Screenings of finalist short films
• Live performances in dance, drama, and music
• Awards for each category and age group, plus the prestigious Bishop’s Choice Award.

Finalists will also have the unique opportunity to perform alongside industry professionals. A truly awesome opportunity and experience!

So, whether your strength is painting, performing, composing, choreographing, or filmmaking, this is your chance to share your God-given gifts with our community and bear witness through the arts.

Let your creativity speak your faith. Enter the Religious Creative Arts Competition 2025!

Blessings,

Michelle Baxter | Religious Education Coordinator 7 - 12

As we start the new term of representative sport, the College will be busy competing in individual and team sports. The following sport will be played this term.

U13B/14G(9s) Rugby League 
Y7 & Jnr Girls Netball 
Y7-9 Boys Netball
Jnr & Inter Boys Basketball
Golf
Athletics 
14’s/16’s Boys AFL
Jnr & Inter Girls Basketball
14’s/16’s Girls AFL
14’s/16’s Boys Rugby 7’s

CSBB (Catholic Schools Broken Bay) Sport

Netball

Congratulations to the College Jnr (7 and 7/8 Girls) and (7 – 9 Boys) Netball teams that travelled to Adcock Park, Gosford. The weather turned it on for the day; the sun was out after a few weeks of rain. There were 21 teams across the three divisions that contest - the Year 7 Championship, Year 7/8 Championship, and Year 7–9 Boys Championship.

The College Year 7 girls and Year 7/8 girls achieved a 5^th place overall in their competitions.

While our Year 7 – 9 Boys Netball team were runners-up on the day, they played an extra-time semi-final against St Peter's, where they eventually won by 1 point. Going into the Final against St Edwards, our boys put together a strong effort, going down 19 – 4.

How can a student represent MacKillop?

Teams have been selected and /or trials will be conducted. Students have been asked to complete a sign-up form, and trials/training have started for the above sports. It is important for students to remember that they are responsible for informing the teacher if they cannot attend training, read Compass, or emails, or attend meetings.

Sign-ups will be sent via Compass, where the student will register. The Coach (teacher) will hold a meeting/trial/training to select teams.

How can a student represent NSW Combined Catholic Colleges (NSWCCC)

The first, via school representation, students will be selected into the College team, then selected to represent the CSBB Broken Bay team at the NSW CCC carnival, where A NSW Combined Catholic Colleges team will be selected.

The second way is by a student registering as an individual. This can be achieved by registering via the CSNSW Sport portal  https://csnsw.sport/.

What’s next?

The Student will need to make meetings/selection trials/training sessions.

If a student’s behaviour at school has been ongoing, they will be less likely / to represent the College. If a student is selected into a team and is unfortunately suspended from school (internally or externally), they will not be able to represent the College or the Pathway (CSBB or NSW CCC teams). This occurs in all schools; this is not just Mackillop. Thank you for your understanding.

CSBB Calendar

From Wednesday 6 August to Friday 8 August, our Year 11 students embarked on an unforgettable adventure, staying in Berridale and spending two incredible days skiing and snowboarding at Perisher. Each morning began with lessons from experienced instructors, helping students refine their techniques and gain confidence on the snow before tackling the slopes for the rest of the day. The snow conditions were nothing short of perfect, a bumper season topped with clear skies, setting the scene for an action-packed experience.

Students embraced the thrill of the slopes, from mastering the magic carpet and beginner runs to taking on more challenging trails, all while encouraging and supporting one another. Beyond the skiing and snowboarding, the trip was filled with laughter, teamwork, and the kind of shared moments that become lifelong memories. It was an awesome experience from start to finish.  A HUGE thanks goes to the staff who helped me make this trip possible — Mr Wilkins, Mrs Werchon, Mrs Elcoate, and a special guest appearance (and much-anticipated comeback) from snowboarding expert Mr Bonner. Can’t wait for next year!!

Nicole Abel | Leader of Learning PDHPE

Camps are an integral part of school life. Away from the daily classroom, teachers and students have an opportunity to engage in new experiences and master new skills.

Listed below are tentative camp dates for 2025. Please consider these dates when booking holidays or other leave requests to take your child/ren out of school. As camps are compulsory school events, we are unable to credit or refund camp costs for non-attendance.

Year 5                 29 October to 31 October 2025

Year 9                 15 - 17 September 2025 // New date

Year 11              3 November to 5 November 2025

Mon 18 Aug - Sec Pupil Free Day

Tue 19 Aug - Pri Stage 2 Soccer Gala Day

Tue 19 Aug - Sec Year 10 Immunisations

Wed 20 Aug - OC Class Assessment for Year 6 (for MacKillop students)

Thu 21 Aug - OC Class Assessment for Year 6 (for non-MacKillop students)

Fri 22 Aug - Sec Winter Sleepout tbc

Sun 24 Aug - Youth Group & Mass

Mon 25 Aug - Sec - CSBB Jun/Int Basketball

Mon 25 Aug – Fri 29 Aug - K-12 Book Week & Scholastic Book Fair

Tue 26 Aug - K-12 Book Parade

Tue 26 Aug - Sec Year 11 Interviews for Subject Selections

Wed 27 Aug - Sec CSBB Golf

Tue 02 Sep - Sec CSBB Athletics

Thu 04 Sep - Sec CSBB 14/16 AFL

Fri 05 Sep - K-12 Father's Day Liturgy & Breakfast

Mon 08 Sep - Sec CSBB Jun/Int Basketball

Tue 09 Sep - Sec Yr 11 Exams Begin tbc

Thu 11 Sep - Sec - CSBB 14/16 AFL & Rugby 7’s

Mon 15 Sep – Wed 17 Sep - Sec - Year 9 Camp

Mon 15 Sep – Fri 26 Sep - Pri K-2 Swim Program

Tue 16 Sep - Pri Stage 3 Netball Gala Day

Mon 22 Sep - Sec Yr 12 Grad Rehearsals

Tue 23 Sep - Pri Stage 2 Netball Gala Day

Tue 23 Sep - Sec Yr 12 Charity Morning

Wed 24 Sep - Sec Yr 12 Grad Mass & Guard of Honour

Wed 24 Sep - Sec Yr 12 Awards Night

Fri 26 Sep - Sec Yr 9 PASS RAW challenge

Fri 26 Sep - K-12 Last Day of Term 3

For the most up to date information please refer to Compass