MacKillop Chronicles Term 3, Week 8

Dear Parents, Carers and students,

CSBB Digital Enablement has advised us that Microsoft will stop supporting Windows 10 on October 15, 2025. After this date, devices running Windows 10 will no longer receive essential security updates or technical support from Microsoft.

To ensure students can continue to learn safely and effectively, it is highly recommended that all families check their child’s device and take action before this date.

What families need to do

• Check if your child’s Windows device can upgrade to Windows 11.
• Most newer devices will support Windows 11.
• If the device is too old, you may need to consider an alternative supported device (where possible).
• Microsoft has provided step-by-step instructions on how to upgrade here

• Check apps and programs.
• Before upgrading, please confirm that any personal apps or software used by your child are compatible with Windows 11.

Why this is important

• Upgrading ensures your child’s device remains secure, supported, and able to operate current learning tools and applications.
• Not upgrading means the device could become more vulnerable to viruses and may lose access to required apps in the future.

We ask that families complete this process before October 15, 2025, so that students do not experience disruptions to their learning.

Thank you for helping us keep student learning safe and supported.

Amelia Goodwin | Digital Enablement Lead 7-12

Grab a Bargain! Second-hand Book Sale starts MONDAY!!!!

The Library will host our annual Indigenous Literacy Foundation Second-hand Book Sale during Week 9 and 10 this Term.

All books are 50 cents each (cash only)

There are books available for all ages, from pre-school to adults.

Sale is on every day from 8.20-3.30

All Parents, Staff and Students welcome!

The Foundation will use the money raised to buy books for Indigenous children in remote areas of Australia. https://www.ilf.org.au/

Jacquiline Crowe | Teacher Librarian K - 12

On Friday, 19 September, we invite our K-12 community to bring in a gold coin to support Catholic Mission for Socktober. On this day we also encourage our students who bring a gold coin to wear full summer uniform, with 'crazy socks' to commemorate Socktober.

24^th Sunday of Ordinary Time – The Exaltation of the Holy Cross

 Gospel Acclamation: 

“We adore you O Christ, and we praise you, because by your cross you have redeemed the world” Jn 3:13-17

Dear Parents and Carers,

Message from the Head of Primary

It was wonderful to see the students return this week in their summer uniform.  Father’s Day is the pivotal place marker in the yearly calendar when we turn our hearts to spring.  I hope every family was able to celebrate the day with memories, joy and love. 

This Sunday, the Catholic Church celebrates the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross.  The cross is the universal symbol of Christianity, and yet it holds much more to believers in the saving power of Jesus.  I see many students throughout the College wearing a simple cross to display their belief.  Our Kindergarten students can confidently tell me the difference between a crucifix and a cross.  On this feast day, may we contemplate the journey of the Cross, along the road to Calvary, its role in holding Jesus in His final hours and the saving power of its existence in the 2000 years since.

Kinder Yana

It is hard to believe that we are well into the second half of the year, and it is time to welcome the incoming Kindergarten Class of 2026.  These young people are excited about their move to ‘big school’ in the new year.  During the six-week program, our teaching and learning team engage with the children and their parents to develop the classes that form the incoming cohort.  We will have four classes in 2026, and while many of these students are siblings, we also welcome many new families to our community.  It is also wonderful to have many past students now return to MacKillop as parents, who want their children to experience the College and all that the community represents.  We feel very blessed to welcome you to MacKillop!

At the other end of the College, we bid farewell to the Year 12 Class of 2025.  When I arrived at MacKillop in 2014, these young people were in Year 1, and to see them now as young adults fills me with pride.  I love to take out my Yearbook and see the great change over the years.  As a teacher and leader in a K-12 College, it is a gift to be able to see the journey of learning and life in the faces of these young people.  The next two weeks are filled with many activities, assemblies and rituals that are both sacred and celebratory, providing time for reflection, thanksgiving and joy.  I wish them well as they head out into the wider world to make their way and give thanks for their contribution to MCC.   May God bless you all.

The remaining weeks are very busy with a variety of activities, including Netball Gala Days for Stage 2 & 3, as well as the K-2 ‘Learn to Swim’ Program.  We also have Public Speaking, Class Masses, House celebration and one final Primary Assembly for Term 3, before we break for the spring holiday break.  The end of term often reflects fatigue and illness, sometimes revealed in disharmony, crankiness, sore tummies or headaches.  As we navigate the end of Term, may we embrace a sense of hope and gratitude for the warmth of the sun, the occasional light storm and a time of well-earned rest.

Have a great weekend

Kerry Power | Head of Primary

Father’s Day Breakfast & Liturgy – Thank You!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us last Friday for our Father’s Day Breakfast and Liturgy. It was a beautiful morning filled with warmth, community spirit, and sunshine. We are so grateful to have shared it with you.

A huge thank you to all the staff (and their dads!) who arrived extra early to prepare and cook the delicious breakfast.  Your efforts did not go unnoticed and are truly appreciated!

Raffle Winners – Congratulations!
I’m excited to announce the winners of our Father’s Day Raffle:

• Kynamin G (3W)
• Samya P (KM)
• Sophie S (2B)
• Hudson C (5G)
• Kate W (2B)
• Chrystal P (Staff)
• Arianna H (4W)
• Mackenzie D (5G)
• Charlotte L (7P4)
• Isla F (4B)
• Josip T (3B)
• Evelyn D (6B)
• Scott O (1G)
• Douglas B (5W)

All winners have been contacted, and prizes have been distributed.

Thank You to Our Supporters
We extend our sincere thanks to the generous local businesses who donated raffle prizes:
BCF Tuggerah, Donut King Lake Haven, Honda, Shelly Beach Golf Club, and The Dam Hotel.
Your support is deeply appreciated!

We’re thrilled to share that we raised $3,395, which will go directly towards the construction of a new playground for our Primary School. Thank you for your incredible support!

Little Lighthouse Playgroup – Teddy Bears Picnic
Today at Playgroup, we enjoyed a delightful Teddy Bears Picnic, complete with morning tea and fun activities. It was wonderful to see so many new friendships forming!
Our next Playgroup session will be held on Thursday 25 September.  I hope you can make it!

Volunteers Needed – Stage 3 Netball Gala Day
H E L P !!
We’re seeking Year 6 parents to assist with team supervision at the Stage 3 Netball Gala Day next Tuesday. It’s a fantastic day for our students, and your help would be greatly appreciated.
If you’re available, please complete the form here:
👉 Netball Gala Day Volunteer Form

Parent Engagement Talk – Elite Sports Program
Also on Tuesday evening, 16 September, we invite parents to attend a special talk about our new Elite Sports Program. This initiative supports student athletes from Years 5–12 who compete at State level and above.
For full details, please refer to Mrs Walters’ newsletter article.

As always, please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.

Warm regards,
Lucy Marien | Parent Engagement Coordinator

Year 11 Preliminary Examinations and the Power of Discipline

Good luck to our Year 11 students who commence their Preliminary HSC Examinations on Friday and continue throughout next week.

This is the last big test before they embark on their HSC year, which starts in Term 4.  It is also a great opportunity to get a gauge on how they are travelling academically, an opportunity to assess what is working and what’s not. 

On some occasions, students will realise that what they thought was enough study actually fell a bit short.  It might be a time when students have to consider all their competing priorities and narrow their focus as they head towards their HSC.  It might be time to create a dedicated study space in the house, free from distractions, devoted to providing the best preparation possible.  There is a lot to consider, and performance in these Preliminary Exams can provide valuable direction.

When I spoke at the assembly last week, I emphasised a particular quote that I think applies to all students, from Year 7 to 12.  The famous quote was from Jim Rohn, where he said, "We must all suffer from one of two pains: the pain of discipline or the pain of regret.  The difference is discipline weighs ounces while regret weighs tons".  I love this quote because it truly does highlight the importance of discipline in our lives.

I have said to students for many years now that when it comes to the HSC, it is the hardworking, disciplined student who always comes out on top, not the student who appears to have coasted through Years 7 to 10 on natural ability.  Natural ability is terrific, but it's not enough on its own to be successful in Stage 6.  The disciplined hard worker will extract every bit of ability they have and will inevitably get a result they are proud of because they fulfilled their potential.

Good luck to our Year 11s, and be disciplined.  It will not only help you now, but it will make an immeasurable difference to your life after school as well.

God bless,

Paul Lynch | Head of Secondary

As we approach the end of Term 3, our English classes have been hard at work developing their analytical writing skills.

• Year 7 are preparing for their very first essay, exploring the theme of adversity in Lemony Snicket’s The Bad Beginning.
• Year 8 are focusing on the theme of bravery in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone.
• Year 9 are currently analysing and discussing Romeo and Juliet in class.
• Year 10 have just received notification for their upcoming exam next Term, where they will write an essay on Macbeth as a tragic hero.

While our junior students refine their essay-writing skills, Year 11 students are preparing for their Preliminary Examinations. These are modelled on Paper 1 of the HSC and sat by students across Advanced, Standard and ATAR English Studies courses. In the lead-up, many of our students are working through their revision strategies. We wish the students the best of luck and encourage them to continue reviewing key quotes, building flashcards, preparing analysis tables, and seeking feedback from their teachers.

For Year 12, the focus has been on targeted revision and refining writing strategies. Recently, we highlighted exemplar Trial essays from top-performing students and held lecture-style sessions to unpack these responses. While students found these sessions beneficial, they were also preparing for university-style lectures that some will be attending within a few months. Year 12’s lessons this term have been tailored to specific areas of need, with ongoing feedback provided to guide improvement. Students are encouraged to keep attending every lesson, making the most of their teachers’ expertise, and practising timed responses. As we move into Year 12’s final week of classes, our teachers have been preparing various trivia, scavenger hunts, and essential revision lessons for our Year 12 students to ensure they have a memorable and positive end to their MacKillop journey, while staying on track with their HSC preparation.

On the next page, you’ll find three creative responses from our newsletter competition, where Year 7 students were invited to represent what they are currently studying.

Amelia Goodwin | Secondary English

Pathways and opportunities 

At our College, we believe that students thrive when they understand how their learning connects to life beyond the classroom, to future study, careers, and the broader world. Embedding these pathways into the curriculum is essential to helping students see the relevance and purpose of their education. 

We’re fortunate to have Shana Kuziow working alongside us to strengthen these connections. Shana collaborates with staff to embed real-world opportunities into courses, curriculum, and student experiences. Her work is helping us build a more integrated and future-focused learning environment where students can see the links between school life and their aspirations beyond the gates.  

Shana has shared a few initiatives below that will continue to grow our connections with the community, families, and our future alumni. 

Primary Pathways Workshop - Volunteers Needed! 

We’re on the lookout for parent, alumni, and community volunteers to help out with our Primary Pathways Workshop. The workshop is all about encouraging students to believe in themselves and believe that they can do and be anything. 

We’re especially keen to hear from professionals working in roles that challenge traditional gender norms, including: 

• Female: Engineers, scientists, IT specialists, builders, electricians, carpenters, police officers, firefighters, paramedics 

• Male: Early childhood educators, nurses, allied health workers, midwives, beauticians, hairdressers 

By sharing your story, you’ll help students dream big, challenge stereotypes, and explore exciting new pathways. 

Students interested in exploring a career in early education 
We also invite enthusiastic Year 9, 10, or 11 students keen to explore early childhood education to volunteer and help on the day. It’s a great way to gain experience and make a real difference! 

Keen to get involved or want to learn more? Get in touch with our Pathways and Partnerships Leader, Mrs Shana Kuziow at shana.kuziow@dbb.catholic.edu.au. 

Stay Connected Beyond Year 12 

As our Year 12 students prepare to graduate, we encourage both students and parents to stay connected with the College community. We spoke to Year 12 last week about how they are now part of the MacKillop Family and that they play an integral role in not only the present but also the future. We want to know about their future lives and, where possible, invite students back to share their new experiences and lives. One way we have asked the students to do this is by sharing their preferred personal contact details so we can keep in touch about reunions and alumni opportunities.  Students under 18, we ask that your parent/guardian provide these details on your behalf. 

Please share your information via this form: Student/Parent Contact Form. 

We also invite year 12 students to join our official LinkedIn “Class of 2025” group, which allows you to keep in touch with peers, hear about upcoming reunions, and access alumni opportunities. 

Here’s how to get started: 

• Create a LinkedIn account (please do this at home, as LinkedIn is not usually accessible at school). 

• Follow the MacKillop LinkedIn page. 

• Join the “Class of 2025” group to stay linked with your year group and the College well into the future. 

This is a wonderful way to celebrate your connections now and ensure they last long after graduation. 

Year 11 Exams 

Best wishes to our Year 11 students who begin their exams tomorrow, starting with English. These exams are the final assessments contributing to their Preliminary HSC Record of School Achievement (RoSA). Students are reminded to check their exam timetables carefully and ensure they are familiar with all examination rules and procedures. Preparation, punctuality, and a calm mindset will help them perform at their best. 

Year 10 Exams 

Year 10 students will receive their exam timetables shortly. In the meantime, we encourage them to begin revising and building their study notes to support their preparation. Regular review and consistent study habits will help students feel confident and well-prepared as they approach their exams. 

Elite Sports Program - Parent Engagement Evening 

We invite families to attend a Parent Engagement Evening next week to learn more about the MacKillop Elite Sports Program, which will officially launch in 2026. This evening is open to families whose child is currently competing at a state level or higher in their chosen sport. 

During the session, we will cover: 

• An overview of the MacKillop Elite Sports Program 

• The application and selection process 

• How we will support student-athletes throughout the program 

• Next steps for interested families 

We look forward to sharing how MacKillop aims to support our elite athletes in balancing their academic and sporting goals.  

Alex Walters | Deputy Head: Student Achievement

The following are the final sports to play this Term:

Jnr & Inter Girls Basketball
14’s/16’s Girls AFL – POSTPONED – Tm 4
16’S 9’s Rugby League – Rescheduled - Thursday 25th September

How can a student represent MacKillop?

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

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. Suppose a student is selected into a team and is unfortunately suspended from school (internally or externally). In that case, 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.

College Age Champions

Congratulations to the following students who are College Age group Champions

Swimming

12           Charles S and Annabelle T
13           Jacob J and Charlotte M
14           Phoenix W and Krystall L
15           David K, Jackson G and Rachel F
16           Cooper B and Lauren B
17           Cooper M and Sienna C

Cross Country

12           Cameron F and Piper E
13           Tyler F and Lara M
14           Cooper B and Scarlett C
15           Riley T and Rahni D
16           Joshua N
17           Seth G

Athletics

12           Cameron F and Kellis S
13           Tyler F and Lia B
14           Cooper M and Ella J J
15           Javier C and Mollie F
16           Beckett G and Aaliyah F
17           Markus W and Grace J

CSBB SPORTS

Girls - Junior and Intermediate Basketball

CSBB Gala Day on Monday, 8 September

Junior Girls

The girls took to the court in all games with enthusiasm. The team had decisive wins over St Brigid’s and St Paul's. The Junior girls finished 6^th overall.

Intermediate Girls

The intermediate (9-10) girls' team played some entertaining games. The girls finished the day in 7^th place. With many of their matches being extremely competitive.

Golf

Congratulations to Ava P, Year 10, taking out the Girls Division on the day at the CSBB Golf Championships. Ava played some beautiful strokes at Wyong Golf Course. While Levi P, Year 10 finished 3^rd overall in the Boy’s Division. Congratulations to both students.

Duncan Black | Representative Sports Coordinator 

On Friday, 22 August, our College community gathered for the annual Winter Sleepout, an event that continues to remind us of the importance of solidarity, awareness, and action in addressing homelessness.

This year, we were delighted to see over 100 students choose to spend their Friday night learning, reflecting, and engaging in activities that deepened their understanding of the challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness. Throughout the evening, we welcomed speakers from a number of organisations dedicated to tackling homelessness, who generously shared their stories and insights with us. Their words encouraged our students to reflect not only on the realities of homelessness in Australia but also on the responsibility we share in contributing to positive change.

Alongside these valuable talks, the night also included games, trivia, and opportunities for students to connect with one another in a spirit of community and service.

We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the many staff members who gave their time to supervise the event, provide support, and ensure its success. A special thank you goes to those who prepared warm homemade soups, offering both comfort and hospitality on a cold winter’s evening. Without their generosity, the event would not have been possible.

Jame Hodgeson | JUMP Coordinator

Greg Inglis is coming to MacKillop Catholic College! 2nd December 2025

One of rugby league’s greatest players, Greg Inglis, will be visiting MacKillop Catholic College to share his journey of triumphs and hardship after a glittering career. This is part of the Stick With It campaign, which encourages people to seek help during tough times.

Find out more about the campaign:

Watch the video

Exclusive Student Lunch with Greg Inglis!

After his talk, Greg will have lunch with a select group of students to discuss his experiences further.

Want to be in the draw? Here’s how to qualify:

 85%+ Attendance in Term 3 & 4 (From Week 3)

10+ Merits in Term 3 & 4 (From Week 3)

 No Afternoon Detentions in Term 3 & 4 (From Week 3)

 Open to all Secondary MCC students

 Eligible students will be entered into a ballot and names will be drawn before the visit

"I want people to know that they're not alone, and it is OK to actually reach out."

— Greg Inglis

Luke Barry-Donnellan | Director of Wellbeing K - 12

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 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

Counselling and support services | eSafety Commissioner

If there are any risk concerns regarding your child’s emotional state – please call one of the below numbers to seek help:

- Kids Helpline - 1800 551 800

- Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636

- Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511

Crisis Support

If you, or someone you care about, is at risk of harm right now call Triple Zero (000).

Suicide/self-harm

If you are having thoughts about suicide or self-harm, please call:

- Lifeline on 13 11 14 

- Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467