MacKillop Chronicles Term 3, Week 2

Thursday 1 August, 2024

A Message From Our College Principal

Dear Families

Student Leadership- The Aspire Program

We recently had a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the commission of student leaders in the Secondary school. I am providing a short extract of my speech so that we are able to share in this significant moment.

Today is an important day in the life of our community. Today marks a moment in time, when we come together to acknowledge new student leaders, who through their formation over time, have been shaped to be the leaders who will carry us into tomorrow. On such occasions, I am drawn to Jesus’s words, “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” And Jesus’ words in John’s Gospel express the aim of human life as ‘human flourishing’.  It is important on this day, to remind ourselves that these young people who will be called by name today and are required to animate these virtues that will continue to shape their characters and leadership. These virtues include:    faith, hope, love, justice, solidarity, courage, temperance  and wisdom in order flourish…

… Leadership requires three critical things of these people. Firstly, is the notion that that these young men and women need to know the way forward. Secondly, they then need to go the way forward and finally they need to show the way forward. Each of these three components of leadership require action, visibility and commitment. Each of these three components are intricately connected. Knowing the way forward has been shaped by their families. Families who have taken time to teach their children the difference between right and wrong. Families, who have provided Gospel teaching as the backbone to developing character. Catholic schools, such as ours, that play a critical role in their formation of young people because they engaged with, and are immersed in the Word, and in doing so we look to our greatest role model Jesus…

There is no doubt in my mind, that the young people presented today are the leaders that our world and community need right now… We are so proud to present these new emerging and aspirational leaders who are ready to take their place in our community.

We congratulate our newly appointed secondary school student leaders. We are blessed to have these young leaders to inspire and motivate their peers and work closely with staff. Please keep our new leaders in your prayers.

Technology Update

Regrettably, I am unable to update you on any changes yet to the technology vision at the College for 2025. We are awaiting the return of our business proposal to confirm the best way forward for us at MacKillop. As soon as this comes through, this will determine our trajectory and I will communicate this with our community.

Enrolments for Year 7 2025 and Kindergarten 2025

We continued to run enrolment interviews over the holidays and are getting very close to our cut-off numbers. After we reach this, we will create waiting lists. I urge you to ensure that you have booked your Year 6 into Year 7 re-confirmation of enrolment interview and that all kindy interviews are finalised as soon as possible.

Grandparents Day

It was wonderful to see so many Grandparents at the 2024 Grandparents Day. We thank you for supporting our cake sale and for blessing us with your presence. You play a significant role in the lives of our young people.

God Bless,

Tanya Appleby,

College Principal

Primary Matters

18^th Sunday on Ordinary Time

Gospel Acclamation: 

“No one lives on bread alone, but on the word that comes from the mouth of God.” Mt 4:4

Dear Parents and Carers,

Message from the Principal

Some artworks in our College highlight the importance of our First Nations relationship. Two particular artworks were created by Marilyn Fraser, a proud Bundjalung woman who worked in Catholic Education for many years. Marilyn worked at MacKillop as an Aboriginal Education Support Teacher, encouraging students in their learning and connection to culture.

The first artwork was designed to represent the MacKillop College Story and is worn by our Year 6 students and many staff. The Year 6 students wear their names on the back, and staff wear the Cross, as seen below.

The symbols represent the MacKillop Community, positioned within the other communities of the Parish, the suburb of Warnervale, the region Central Coast, the State of New South Wales and the country, Australia.  Within our community the two communities of Primary and Secondary exist in harmony.  The two are connected by a bridge that is literal as well as spiritual.  As students grow, they move across the bridge from one community to the other but still within the safety of MCC.  The footprints represent the Northern Long-nose Bandicoot, the spirit animal of the Darkinjung, the traditional custodians of the land.  Binbuyn, has left this land as new people and animals arrived.  It is also symbolic of an individual’s journey to one day leave MacKillop, to make their place in another land but to take with them the Spirit of this place in their hearts.

The second artwork was a collaboration around the connection between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Spirituality and Christianity. Marilyn and I prepared a workshop for a Faith Formation Conference. The artwork is inspired by the Sacred Scriptures of ‘The Road to Emmaus’ from the Gospel, according to Luke. This triptych breaks the narrative into three parts.  The top illustrates the setting of the story.  The Holy Land is populated by the three Abrahamic religions of Islam (Cresent & Star), Judaism (Star of David) and Christianity (The Cross with the hands representing Jesus is here). The movement of the dots symbolises the dunes, hills and waters of Israel. In the story, two disciples, Cleopas and another, are walking away from Jerusalem filled with sorrow, following the crucifixion of Jesus (represented by the two black feet indicating their grief). On the way, they encounter a stranger they do not recognise as the resurrected Jesus (shown by the three white feet), who proceeds to tell them His story from the very beginning, lifting their spirits through a deep sense of accompaniment. As they reach the town of Emmaus, they encourage the stranger to stay with them for a meal (the three sitting in the centre of the artwork). When they ‘break bread’ together, their eyes suddenly open, and they realise that the stranger is Jesus, but He disappears from them.  Excitedly, the two returned to Jerusalem and gathered the remaining eleven disciples (within a golden circle) to tell them they had indeed encountered the Risen Christ. The multitude of dots in the third section illustrates the movement of the Spirit as the Good News is shared amongst believers, community to community, throughout time, all the way to us and even further as they move beyond the edge of the painting.

First Nations artists have used art to convey stories for thousands of years, and I feel very privileged to have participated in these projects, consolidating a relationship of mutual appreciation and respect.

Our students participated in NAIDOC activities this week with Mrs Taylor-Lee Cheney, Aboriginal Education Support Teacher and Mr Will Spek, Aboriginal Learning Support Assistant. In these actions, we continue to acknowledge and respect the role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people in our local history and the history of our nation as we seek reconciliation. Always was, always will be!

Year 5 Camp 

Going to Point Wolstencroft Sport and Recreation Camp is always so much fun and full of activity. The children learnt new skills in archery, rock climbing, canoeing, bike riding and damper cooking, as well as vital skills in leadership, communication, cooperation, problem-solving, perseverance and resilience. The children also were put through the test of fitting a sheet to a bed, looking after their belongings, how to roll a sleeping bag back into the smallest of bags at the end of camp and how to zip up their bags, which were overflowing with unfolded items.

The students did an exceptional job with all activities considering the less than favourable conditions with a very strong blowing wind and it was wonderful to see friendships continuing to grow as students helped and interacted with their grade peers outside of the classroom.

We would like to thank all the parents for their support and organisation of the items required for camp. A huge thank you also goes to the teachers who worked on the camp preparation and gave up their family time/commitments to ensure the Year 5 students had the most wonderful experiences at camp. We look forward to seeing every student put what they have learnt about leadership into action.

- Cathy Whitmore | Leader of Learning - Numeracy /Stage 3 Co-ordinator 

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Chris Gangemi Rugby 10’s Cup Broken Bay

Today our Stage 3 Rugby Union team won the Broken Bay stage of the Chris Gangemi Rugby 10’s Cup with a 29-22 win over OLSS Terrigal. The team played incredibly well and were proud representatives of the College. Highlights were Adam Porter running the length of the field for a try which would have made Usain Bolt jealous, Braxton Doherty tackling anything that came near him and Jacob Jarrett - the clean out machine!

The team now move on to the NSWCPS knockout level to be played at Hunters Hill in Week 4!

- John Sullivan

Sea Sunday 21 July 2024 and 28 July 2024

As a Coastal community MacKillop acknowledges the Lighthouse as a symbol of hope during challenging times.  Our MacKillop College Prayer recites, “As a lighthouse shines its light, guide us through our challenges so that we make good choices as we travel our journey with you.” Last week and this Sunday we celebrate ‘Sea Sunday – Stella Maris’, when the church prays for all those who live and work at sea. Without them, we would not have most of the items we rely on for daily living. Even during the pandemic, seafarers continued to bring into our ports products that sustained our population and economy. Many members of our community participate in sea-related activities that provide protection and safety for the wider community as well as joy and improved wellbeing. Stella Maris, or ‘Our Lady Star of the Sea’, is the Patron Saint of the Diocese of Broken Bay.

Stella Maris, Apostleship of the Sea, is the official maritime welfare agency of the Catholic Church. It supports seafarers both practically and spiritually.

Enrolment 2025

The Kindergarten enrolment process is coming to a close. If you know of family or friends who are seeking enrolment for Kindergarten—or other grades—in 2025, don't hesitate to get in touch with the enrolment officer by submitting their application via email to smccwenrolments@dbb.org.au or by completing the online Enrolment Enquiry Form to secure a place.

Blessings for a wonderful weekend,

Kerry Power

Acting Primary Principal

Primary Events

Secondary News

Dear Community,

Why MacKillop?

Something I really love about schools is how no two days are the same.  This has been further highlighted to me at MacKillop, where the opportunities for our students are broad and varied.  In this week alone, we’ve had our NAIDOC liturgy, a NAIDOC smoking ceremony; we had a carwash fundraiser for our junior girls heading off to the State Touch Football Championships; we welcomed our guests from Nihon Daiichi Junior High School in Japan; we had Year 7 Vaccinations, various sporting competitions and educational excursions, on Thursday we had an evacuation drill, we had many students on work placement and on Friday a number of our host students will accompany our Japanese visitors to the Reptile Park for a truly Australian experience.

The week I described above is very much the average at MacKillop, with our staff continually going above and beyond to ensure our students have an authentically holistic education.  In my view, it is absolutely essential that school be a safe place for our young people, a place where they spend their formative years getting a quality education.  Our focus is on building their foundational skills to equip them for a successful life post-school.  A life of contribution to society and a life of choice.  Perhaps, more than anything else, I hope that our graduating students have all the qualities and characteristics to go out into the wider world with options to follow a path they are passionate about.  I have no preconceived ideas about what that path is, I do expect though, that they have the choice of multiple paths.

In the short time I’ve been at MacKillop, it has been abundantly clear to me that it is a wonderful school.  We are blessed with terrific students, amazing teachers and a wonderful community.  With these ingredients, I have no doubt that MacKillop will continue to produce outstanding young men and women who will leave our College confident in their abilities and well-prepared for whatever challenges lie ahead.  I urge all of our students to embrace the opportunities that exist here, push yourselves outside your comfort zone, try new things, interact with different people and enjoy everything that your time at school has to offer.  It is a very short time in the big scheme of things, but it is undoubtedly one of the most formative times in your entire life.

Winter Sleepout 2024

On Friday, August 23, we are having our annual Winter Sleepout. This event brings us together as a MacKillop community, allows us to hear from guest speakers about the realities of being homeless, and allows us to participate in activities that help raise funds for the Vinnies Appeal. 
 
If you are interested and in Years 7-9, you have the option to attend the event from 5:30-9 pm to participate in guest speakers and games, or if you are interested and in Years 10-12, you have the option to attend the event from 5:30 and rough it for the night, leaving at 6 am on Saturday 24 August.

 If your child is interested, please complete the attached form.

Complete this form to register your interest. 

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs Beeson: michellie.willner1@dbb.catholic.edu.au

Parliament Commissioning Ceremony

Last week, we proudly inducted our Secondary student leaders into their new roles during a heartfelt ceremony attended by family, friends, and the wider college community. This special event not only celebrated the students' leadership qualities but also offered a moment to recognise and honour their achievements as they embark on this important journey. A highlight of the ceremony was when parents of the newly appointed captains had the honour of placing the leadership pin on their child's blazer, marking their official induction into their roles.

Following the ceremony, families and student leaders gathered for a celebratory lunch, where they shared stories, laughter, and words of encouragement. It was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to connect and celebrate the beginning of a promising year of leadership and growth.

 - Rachael Elcoate  | Student Leadership and Leader of Pastoral Care - Year 7 

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Sister School relationship with Nihon Daiichi Junior High School 

We are very fortunate at MacKillop Catholic College to have a wonderful Sister School relationship with Nihon Daiichi Junior High School in Japan. This year is their 15th visit to our school. The new principal, Mr Aoki, along with Mr Yuhara and Ms Endo, accompanied 25 students who arrived at MacKillop on Sunday afternoon. They were met by their host families, which included a matching ceremony followed by an enjoyable welcome cake.

We are very grateful to our host families, who opened their homes and hearts to the students for the two weeks. Without their kindness, we would not have such a successful relationship. We enjoy seeing all the friendships flourish.

This week, the students have been involved in NADIOC celebrations, including the smoke ceremony, a welcome ceremony run by the Year 11 Japanese students, English lessons, music lessons, science lessons, dance lessons, and activities with the primary students. The Nichidai students have also visited Norah Head and Toowoon Bay during their off-campus excursions.

On Friday, the host students and the Nichidai students will be spending some time at the Reptile Park, where they will see the Australian animals and reptiles, enjoy a sausage sizzle and have a photo taken with the koalas.

We are looking forward to the continued success of the Sister School relationship.

- Helen Beech | Leader of Learning and Teaching – Japanese

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Year 11 Drama Major Production

On Friday the 26th of July, an audience of parents, friends and teachers enjoyed a live performance in the Theatre presented by the Year 11 Drama class. The class performed the contemporary Australian play, The Turquoise Elephant which explored the serious issue of climate change in a humorous way. Below are comments from some of the Year 11 Drama students about their experience of being in a full length play.

"Performing The Turquoise Elephant was a fabulous, wacky, unique experience and we all loved and adored every moment of it! Being in this production and exploring the style, “theatre of the absurd”, which was a style that our class is very new to was challenging, but our love for the stage never stopped us from rising to the occasion. (Charlotte)

“A lot of us were nervous to perform but knowing we had each other out there was the best thing to ask for”- Jacinta 

“My first experience performing on the stage was very exciting as the support around us with the audience was uplifting and exhilarating. We were able to build our performance together and were able to work with one another to create this amazing production. - Grace

We'd like to thank everyone for their support and kindness who watched our production and of course our lovely drama teacher Miss Baird. We appreciate all the effort and encouragement from all!

- Sharon Baird | Performing Arts

God Bless,

Paul Lynch

Acting Principal Secondary

MCC Presents: Starlight Cinema

Free Webinar for Parents and Carers

Religious Creative Arts Competition 2024

Mary's Faithful Wardrobe and Mary's Formal Closet

Term 2 Dates