Welcome to Week 4. There continue to be many opportunities for all our students to pursue their interests, passions and talents. Monday’s athletics carnival was a great example of this. After a wet weekend, the sun shone on a near perfect day. Students enthusiastically competed in many events.  A big thanks must go to Mr Brendan Croese and his team of helpers for putting together such an enjoyable and well organised day. Thanks must also go to Mrs Natalie Turner and her helpers from the Community Council for organising the canteen and barbeque on the day.

Last week I had the absolute privilege of attending the Year 11 retreat at the Galong Monastery. The theme of this retreat was Salt and Light and was based on the gospel of Matthew:

13 “You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

14 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. 15 Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. 16 In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

Students were involved in many activities and reflections led by Daniel Merza (from Sydney, author of ‘Get the Monkeys off your back”, Mrs Mary Wright, Mr Phil Mitchell, MrsTracey Cullen, Mr Luke Miller, Miss Jess Buchanan and Mr Rob Cullen.

A highlight of the two days was the walk up to the grotto and the night-time liturgy focusing on forgiveness. The students were a credit to the College. Thank you to Mrs Wright for organising such a meaningful and memorable experience and also thank you to all the teachers who supported her.

Tomorrow is Hennessy Day which is a day of fun but also an opportunity for mass and a reflection on the values and attributes of Monsignor Jerome Hennessy as our founder and how we might adopt lives of kindness and community service.

Today you will be sent an email outlining details of planned industrial action next Friday, May 27. Please keep an eye out in Compass or your emails for this letter.

Keep safe and Happy Hennessy Day!