“We are not islands, we are in the world to live in God’s image: open, in need of others and in need of helping others.” 

These words were said by Pope Francis on June 12 this year and it embodies the spirit of Hennessy, especially over the past few weeks when we have been challenged. Helping others is one of the most fundamental Catholic values and staff have pitched in and gone above and beyond; students have willingly worked with combined classes and there has been a sense of charity throughout the College. These are difficult times for schools but Hennessy continues to be a welcoming place where the dignity of every individual is respected and supported. And for that, I thank you all.

The end of term seems like it should be a time to wind down from a long winter block. It’s never been my favourite as the days get shorter and colder. But it’s certainly been extremely busy. Over the past two weeks, we have:

• Welcomed the Mary Quinnane Choir Festival to our College - and congratulations go to West Wyalong for taking out First Place
• Hosted a Chess tournament against St Mary’s 
• Had the Community Council host a movie night fundraiser at Southern Cross Cinema
• Students competing in the Inter-Diocesan Soccer and Riverina Country Cup competitions
• Year 12 students taking part in the QANTAS Business Studies Lecture 
• Welcomed local State member Steph Cooke who met with our Year 12 leaders and to discuss her leadership journey
• Hosted a session from our Careers Advisor Mrs Parkman for Year 10 about Year 11 options
• Finally had Variety Night after 2 years!

This cannot happen without the amazing work of our staff and their support of these ventures both organising them, but also the staff who stay behind to take classes. It truly does ‘take a village’.  So it has been a very busy term with the added challenges of staff shortages at times but the students are to be thanked for their flexibility and the staff for their hard work in keeping all classes on track. Unfortunately, this is a widespread issue for schools but Hennessy will continue to work to our very best to ensure that quality learning continues in every class. 

A reminder our first day for students is Tuesday 19th July (Day 2) as Monday is the Staff Spirituality Day. I wish every family a safe and restful break. Mrs Holding will be back at the start of Term 3.

Mrs Sharon Hibbert

Acting Principal