Principal's Report

We hope our Year 12 students leave St Mary’s College with fond memories and wish them every success in their upcoming exams.

Final Year 12 Assembly

Our community gathered for the last time with our Year 12s last week to acknowledge that they are approaching the culmination of their secondary schooling and to celebrate their contribution to St Mary’s College. As our graduating class processed into Logue Hall, they were welcomed and applauded. Our College Captains, Stella and Hugo, addressed the school community for the last time and reflected on their time at St Mary’s. The last day of regular schooling is normally tinged with mixed emotions. While there is celebration that a new chapter of life is about to commence, with expectations of newfound freedom, it’s often accompanied with some trepidation that the familiar pattern of life that symbolises a school day is over. We hope our Year 12s have fond memories of their time at St Mary’s College and wish them every success in their upcoming exams.

Unfortunately, I was absent due to sickness on the day, and I thank Mrs Mulhall for offering the Principal’s Address in my absence. My reflection referred to last weekend’s gospel and a phrase from Matthew 22 that will sound familiar: Many Are Called, Few Are Chosen. While there will be many opportunities ahead for our graduating class, they will need to accept the invitation was the theme of my message. There will be time for further reflection and thanksgiving with parents and guardians at the Graduation Mass and Dinner on November 19th.

College Captains 2027

It is my great pleasure to announce that our College Captains for 2027 are Lila Charewicz and Ryder Poupard; and our College Vice-Captains are Rivi Farrell and Maverick Yin. In their interviews, each of these young leaders spoke passionately about St Mary’s College and their strong desire to serve the community and their peers.

Year 7 Information Evening

Our Year 7 families of 2027 gathered on Tuesday evening to commence their orientation program in preparation for next year. Many of those in attendance have their oldest child commencing secondary school and it is important that we demystify the transition process as much as possible by explaining the structures of St Mary’s. You may recall the transition period from primary to secondary and the questions that you wanted answered as you helped prepare your young person to move to this next stage. We still have places at Year 7 for 2027 and would appreciate if you could promote our school to friends or family who may be looking at secondary school options and are still undecided. Orientation Day for our new cohort occurs on December 7th.

Staff Formation Day

Our recent Formation Day on the first Monday of this term provided an opportunity for staff to deepen their understanding of First Nations perspectives and the significance of the land on which we gather. The insights from Mr Justin Butler, Director of First Nations Education at EREA, and our afternoon walking tours will help inform the development of St Mary’s Reconciliation Action Plan. In coming weeks, we will be forming a committee and inviting students to join.

We are also looking forward to strengthening our partnership with Melbourne Indigenous Transition School (MITS), with three young men joining St Mary’s next year in Year 9. They each visited the College on Monday as the first part of their transition program. We look forward to welcoming them and supporting them as they begin their journey with us.

VCE Exams

The official exam period for our VCE Unit 3 & 4 students commences this week, and we wish everyone who is undertaking these assessments every success. It is important to note that many of our graduating class will be seeking an ATAR (Australian Tertiary Admission Rank), but others will be pursuing other pathways. The ATAR is an important measure for those who desire to undertake tertiary studies that require this rank, and it is the culmination of many hours of work. There will also be graduates who proceed to apprenticeships, or work, and we celebrate with these young people on having exciting post-school pathways and a clear sense of purpose as well.

P&F at Bunnings

The Parents and Friends Committee held their regular meeting on Monday night; I would like to extend my appreciation to this dedicated team of parents and guardians for the work they do to assist the College. At the meeting I was able to offer thanks for their generous support that has allowed us to purchase a replacement College bus.

Our P&F is conducting the sausage sizzle this Sunday 18th October at Bunnings in Port Melbourne as a fund raiser. Last year it proved to be an excellent fundraiser, and I know that the P&F would appreciate your support. Thank you to the P&F co-ordinators of this event and those who can volunteer their time to ensure the success of this fundraiser.

School Closure Day

Advance notice that Monday 2nd November is a school closure day ahead of the Melbourne Cup public holiday for all except students scheduled to sit VCE exams on this date. School resumes on Wednesday 4th November. I also offer notice of a Student Free Day on Friday, 20th November for teachers to complete assessment and reporting duties. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Darren Atkinson 
Principal 

Deputy Principal

“Young people don’t just need us to guide them; they need us to listen to them.”

“Young people don’t just need us to guide them; they need us to listen to them.”

This week I invited a group of our Year 10 students into my office to hear about their experiences of school, what matters most to them, the challenges they are navigating and their hopes for the future.

What struck me most about these conversations was the honesty, humour and thoughtfulness of our young people. Their responses reminded me that while we, as adults, often focus on academic achievement, future pathways our students are also thinking deeply about friendship and the kind of people they want to become.

When I asked what was going well at St Mary’s, students spoke about becoming more sociable, building friendships and feeling loved and connected to our community. And, of course, the canteen food received a positive mention!

It was encouraging to hear how much relationships and a sense of belonging contribute to their experience of school. As educators, we know that students are more likely to thrive when they feel safe, valued and connected. Hearing this directly reinforces the importance of creating a community where every student feels they have a place.

When asked what advice they would give to younger students, one message stood out: focus on making friendships and getting to know the school rather than trying to be cool. It is a simple but powerful reminder that genuine connection matters far more than appearances.

Our conversations also explored what students enjoy most about Year 10. Mathematics and electives featured prominently, reflecting the value students place on subjects that interest them, challenge them and allow them to explore their strengths.

However, Year 10 is also a time of significant transition. Students spoke about the pressure of moving towards VCE, making decisions about their future and feeling the weight of expectations that come with these choices.

Their aspirations were diverse. Some dreamed of travelling and experiencing different cultures, others wanted to create art, achieve an ATAR that reflected their hard work or earn enough money to enjoy a comfortable life. One particularly important aspiration was simply to be content.

I was reminded that our students do not all define success in the same way. While academic outcomes and future pathways are important, so is creativity and finding a sense of purpose. One of the questions I asked was, “What is something you would like adults to understand better?” Students spoke about the changing world in which they are growing up and the importance of having their opinions heard and respected. They challenged us to remain open-minded and to recognise that young people experience society differently from previous generations. That we should not assume what happened to us will happen to them.

Their message was not necessarily that adults must agree with them. Rather, they want to know that their perspectives are taken seriously, that they can express their opinions without being dismissed and that adults are willing to listen before making judgements. Wisdom, humour and a few reminders for us all.

I also asked students what advice they would offer others. Their responses captured the spirit of our conversations.

“Be chill.”

“Don’t drink coffee, drink hot chocolate.”

“Be calm and let the rain clouds pass.”

“Not all wounds are visible.”

“Be yourself.”

“Support one another in challenging times.”

I smiled at some of these responses, but I also found myself reflecting on their deeper meaning. Beneath the humour is a genuine understanding of what young people need: permission to be themselves, reassurance during difficult times and the knowledge that they are not alone.

Perhaps the most important lesson I took away was this: we do not always need to have the answers. Sometimes, the most meaningful thing we can do as adults is to listen to our young people and remind them that whatever challenges lie ahead, they do not have to face them alone.

And if we can do that while encouraging them to be themselves, support one another and occasionally choose hot chocolate over coffee, we are probably heading in the right direction.

Fiona Mulhall 
Deputy Principal 

The End of an Era – Farewell to the Graduating Class of 2026

81 students. An infinite number of hopes, dreams and possibilities.

81 students. An infinite number of hopes, dreams and possibilities. Today, we farewell the Graduating Class of 2026. This year level is particularly significant as they are the first full cohort of students who started as St. Mary’s College students, after the closures of both CBC and Presentation College.

The year 12 student cohort are an unflappable lot; kind, courteous and genuinely held in high regard by the College Community. Their boisterous nature will undoubtedly be missed by us all and the corridors will seem empty without their exuberance.

I thank all the Year 12 Pastoral Care Teachers for their guidance as well as the subject teachers and staff throughout their years who have undeniably shaped these amazing adults over the six years at the College.

I would like to thank in particular the Student Leadership team, led admirably by Stella and Hugo, who have insured their final week was a time of celebration and fun.

Finally, I would like to thank the parents and care-givers who have supported their children through the challenging times and the times of excellence – both important times in the shaping of our identities as people.

To the graduating class of 2026 - best of luck with your exams, work placements and other exciting ventures that lie ahead of you. You are an intrinsic and irreplaceable chapter in the story of St. Mary’s College and will be missed.

Brendan Tollit
Year 12 Pastoral Care Leader

Upcoming VCE Exams

As long as you have done your best, you should be proud of your achievements.

Upcoming VCE Exams

When the weather becomes nicer and the sun is out, I am always reminded that the exam period is looming. The last thing a student wants to do in spring is be cooped up in their room studying for exams! So let us have our Unit 3 & 4 students in our thoughts and prayers as they embark on their intensive study for their upcoming exams. Our LOTE and Performance students will be commencing their exams this week and for the large majority, the English exam marks the start of the examination period. It feels just like yesterday that I addressed the cohort, warning them that the exams will come before we know it, and now it is that time.

As the students spend this time busily revising and preparing, we must acknowledge the culmination of hours, weeks and months of the hard work our VCE students have made in preparation for theses exams. We are proud of our students and hope that they will be proud of their efforts too, and they will be rewarded for their work in their results.

In addition, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our families and teachers who have supported our VCE students throughout their time at the College, but especially this year. We are extremely fortunate to have passionate VCE teachers who work tirelessly in ensuring that our students are prepared for these exams. While classes may be over, students are encouraged to touch base with their teachers as they complete their final exam preparation .

As the exams approach, I am sure there will be a few nerves and feelings of stress or anxiety leading up to and during the exam period. Please rest assured that this is normal and a certain level of stress is a good thing as it sharpens the mind and spurs you on to achieve your best.

Here are a few survival tips for students as they approach exams. It pays to keep a level head and a healthy body.

  • Sleep- maintain a regular sleep pattern and ensure you are well rested before each exam.
  • Drink plenty of water and eat well- I am sure fridges will be well stocked!
  • Ensure you have set up a study schedule. But also plan enough breaks and rest time to unwind. While it is important to study, it is vital to have short breaks to avoid burnout
  • On the day of the exam, avoid stressful situations - plan to arrive in plenty of time with the correct equipment. Come knowing that you have prepared and you will do your best.
  • After the exam, avoid looking for the solutions and worrying about what you got right and wrong. Continue to look forward to the next exam or celebrate the end of your exams.
  • Remember your ATAR does not define you. There are many pathways to get to where you want to be.
  • Ensure you meet with Ms Ellwood who has a wealth of knowledge on how to get There is always a way forward.
  • As long as you have done your best, you should be proud of your achievements.

Derived Score

Last term, all students completing a Unit 3 & 4 subject attended a presentation about the upcoming exams and were also given their individual timetables. This was attached to the Exam Navigator. It is important that students read through this booklet, so they know the rules and regulations.

It should be placed where parents can access it so they can check any details needed. There is an important section in the Exam Navigator on the Derived Examination Score (DES) process. If your child is significantly affected by the onset of an illness, or the occurrence of an injury or personal trauma or serious intervening event at the time of your VCE external assessments, they may be eligible for a DES. It is important that if your child experiences anything that may have an effect on their exam performance, to inform the VCE Coordinator on the day of the exam so we can make an application on behalf of your child. Attached is an electronic version of the Navigator https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/sites/default/files/2026-07/2026-VCEExamsNavigator.pdf If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. 

Sylvia Pastore 
VCE Coordinator

Special Provisions in VCE

Special Provision ensures students have an equal opportunity to achieve their best in the VCE.

Special Provisions in VCE

Individual students may need special provisions in their learning program to achieve the learning outcomes, and in assessment to demonstrate their learning and achievement. This process ensures every student has an equal chance to achieve their best. Special provisions are granted to students to help them complete the requirements in a timeframe comparable to that of their peers.

What is Special Provision?

Special Provision provides students completing the VCE or VCE Vocational Major who are affected by illness, disability or other personal circumstances with an opportunity to participate in and complete their secondary level studies.

Special Provision is available for:

  • classroom learning
  • school-based assessments
  • VCE external assessments.

The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) has responsibility for determining if your child is eligible for Special Examination Arrangements for VCE external assessments including the General Achievement Test (GAT).

Common examples of approved Special Examination Arrangements include rest breaks, extra working time and use of computers and/or assistive technology.

It is important that any student who is studying a Unit 3 & 4 sequence in 2027, and who has been working with Learning Diversity or has had Special Provisions in their previous exams and assessments, applies again to the VCE Coordinator for their Special Provisions to be recognized by the VCAA, preferably before the start of 2027.

If you think your child should maybe apply for special provisions, and you would like to discuss this, you please do not hesitate to contact the VCE Coordinator or Learning Diversity. This can begin at any year level. Early engagement allows us to discuss interventions and implement appropriate provisions for classroom learning and school-based assessments, in the years preceding VCE.

For students completing a Unit 3 & 4 subject in 2027, an email to the VCE Coordinator is requested before the end of October so we can begin the application process. Please email vcecoordinator@stmaryscollege.vic.edu.au with your request to apply for Special Provision.

Upon receipt, VCAA documentation will be sent out to you to begin the application process. Please note that in order for the school to apply for special provisions on behalf of your child, a consent form must be signed and copies of any diagnostics need to be completed. Forms include a medical statement that must be completed by a dedicated practitioner who is treating your child.

For a fact sheet about special provisions, please go to https://www.vcaa.vic.edu.au/administration/special-provision/special-provision-within-vce .

For further information about special provisions, please do not hesitate to contact the VCE Coordinator at vcecoordintator@stmaryscollege.vic.edu.au or a member of the Learning Diversity team.

At the same time, please note that students who have been granted Special Provision are not exempt from meeting the requirements for satisfactory completion of the VCE, or from being assessed against the outcomes for a study. Students are still required to demonstrate their achievement fairly in meeting the outcomes of the study design as well as completing School-based Assessments and VCE external assessments if relevant.

Sylvia Pastore
VCE Coordinator

From the Careers Office

All the best to the VCE students for those exams!

Year 12 Parents, please keep a close watch on your email over the next week or so as I will be sending out a number of important documents to assist you and your student to navigate the exam period and the tertiary and job application processes.

Watch for:

  • DIRECTIONS - the Careers Newsletter. The Year 12 sections are in purple to help your student scan the most relevant articles!
  • Beyond Year 12 – my school leaver handbook. This should have most of the information you need for the rest of the year and into next year.
  • What to do when things go wrong in exams – a factsheet that solves most of the issues your student may face
  • Pathways to Uni and other guides - to help with any disappointments at results and offers time.

Whilst students doing exams need to focus on just that for a few weeks, I am available for appointments and drop-ins right up to the close of the Change of Preference (COP) period. When offers come out on 23 December, any student or parent needing help is welcome to email me and I will do what I can to assist before COP closes again on 24 December.

Again, I will be watching my email on 12 January (the next offer round) and any further offer periods in January and February.

Do not feel bad about contacting me at these “out of hours” times – this is my job and I would prefer to solve any problems you may encounter and ensure everyone gets where they wish to go!

All the best to the VCE students for those exams!

All the best to parents too – keep calm and carry on!

Mandy Ellwood 
Careers Counsellor 

Year 7 Visual Arts Animal portraits

Together, these portraits demonstrate the students’ careful and purposeful engagement with their subjects.

Year 7 Visual Arts Animal portraits

Earlier this year, Year 7 students explored portraiture by creating artworks of people they admired for their human qualities, skills, and achievements. This semester, they have taken an enchantingly new direction, turning their attention to their representation of animals.

Using the collage medium, students have created some beautifully expressive portraits, focusing on the Elements and Principles of Art - tone, texture and colour and movement.

The challenge was to capture each animal’s personality through its facial expression, demeanour or behaviour. We began by looking at some wonderfully expressive photographic examples, including a smug orangutan, a toothy llama and a scared cat, before students selected their own animal subjects.

I hope you enjoy these charming representations of these much-loved creatures, each brought to life through the students’ careful observation and thoughtful artistic choices.

Grace created a beautifully and skilfully executed deer collage, paying thoughtful attention to the animal’s delicate features and gentle expression. 

Dylan approached his lamb collage with considerable energy and enthusiasm, demonstrating significant experimentation entirely on his own initiative. Through his exploration of different materials and varied textures, he captured both the softness of the lamb’s wool and the strength of its form.

Amy’s puppy conveys a steady, thoughtful demeanour as it gazes directly at the viewer. The careful, purposeful placement of the paper strips reinforces this sense of stillness and quiet gravitas, reflecting Amy’s considered approach to the composition.

Another puppy from Kyla is a study in cuteness overload. The little puppy appears to move towards us, an impression heightened by the foreshortening of its right leg, which brings it closer to the viewer.

Tegar’s monkey is beautifully executed, with a serious demeanour that holds our attention. There is a certain majesty dignity about him that makes it difficult to look away from his gaze.

Anna’s intricately constructed tiger combines finely textured areas with broader shapes, creating a strong sense of balance and visual tension. The diagonal composition adds further dynamism to this striking portrait.

Another lovely dog from George demonstrates a strong understanding of form, making the dog appear almost to emerge from the page, ready to greet the viewer

Will’s dog is a compelling study in black and white, with a strong contrast that emphasises its form. The composition is particularly effective, with the reclining dog following a diagonal that reinforces a sense of movement and visual energy.

Together, these portraits demonstrate the students’ careful and purposeful engagement with their subjects. Through close observation, thoughtful composition and considered choices in the placement of colours and tones, they have captured not only the physical characteristics of their animals but also their individual personalities and presence.

Susan Lopez
Art Teacher

Director of Music

A wonderful celebration of musical talent, dedication and teamwork across St Mary’s College.

Jam-packed Term 3

Term 3 was a whirlwind of events and quite possibly one of the busiest terms we have had in a long time! There were so many wonderful musical moments to celebrate, but for the purpose of this article, we’ll focus on these major highlights.

Rock of Ages - School Musical

With a cast and crew of more than 60 students, Rock of Ages rocked the stage with five fantastic performances featuring classic 80s hits! The production was a huge undertaking and a wonderful showcase of the talent, dedication and teamwork of our students.

A massive thank you to Mr Tollit for their hard work and commitment, as well as to all the staff and teams and individuals who helped bring the production to life. Most importantly, congratulations to our incredible students for their countless hours of rehearsals, their enthusiasm and their outstanding efforts in delivering such a successful show!

Massed Music Concert

In week 9, the music students of St Mary’s College came together for our Massed Music Concert, showcasing the incredible breadth of musical talent across the College. The evening featured performances from our Symphonic Band, Big Band, Musical Band, Choir, Percussion Ensemble and Rock Bands.

It was a fantastic celebration of the hard work and dedication of our musicians, with each ensemble bringing something special to the stage. The concert was also a particularly exciting milestone for our Year 7 students, who took part in their first major College concert. A wonderful celebration of all the music-making happening every day in our school.

ACC Battle of the Bands

In week 10, St Mary’s College proudly hosted the annual ACC Battle of the Bands. The day began with workshops led by talented presenters who shared their expertise, knowledge and practical advice with our student musicians. In the afternoon, the bands took to the stage to compete, with our workshop presenters also taking on the role of adjudicators and providing valuable specialised feedback.

Our very own St Mary’s College Band delivered a fantastic performance of Watch Me, written by Christian Cowan, earning an impressive third place! Congratulations to the band on this fantastic achievement and thank you to everyone involved in making the day such a success.

ACC Royal Australian Air Force Band Workshop

Our Symphonic Band had a fantastic opportunity to experience the incredible musicianship of the Royal Australian Air Force Band at Emmanuel College. Students enjoyed watching the professional musicians in action before spending the afternoon working alongside them in a specialised band workshop.

Throughout the workshop, our students benefited from demonstrations, expert guidance and valuable feedback from the musicians, gaining new insights and developing their musical skills. It was a highly educational and inspiring experience, providing a wonderful opportunity for our students to learn from professional performers and further develop their passion for music.

A Huge Thank You!

Behind every successful performance is a team of dedicated people, and Term 3 was a wonderful reminder of just how much our music community achieves together.

Whether you were performing on stage, conducting an ensemble, working behind the scenes on sound and lighting, accompanying at assemblies, practising during recess and lunch, or organising extra rehearsals for your fellow band members, we see you, we appreciate you, and we thank you!

These events simply would not have been possible without the commitment, enthusiasm and teamwork of our students and staff. Thank you for making Term 3 such a memorable celebration of music at St Mary’s College. We are incredibly proud of everything you have achieved!

Upcoming Events

Look out for these Term 4 upcoming events and save the dates!

  • 10th of November: Term 4 Music Recital
  • 18th of November: Year 7 End of Year Band Concert
  • 26th of November: End of Year Showcase and Christmas Carols
Katie Thomas 
Director of Music 

Year 9 Students Step Up Through Sport

Year 9 Students Step Up Through Sport

As part of our Year 9 Step Up Program, students recently took on a leadership role by running a range of sporting activities for Grade 2 students from St Mary’s Primary School.

The session gave our Year 9s the opportunity to develop their leadership, communication and teamwork skills while encouraging the younger students to get involved, stay active and have fun.

It was wonderful to see our students supporting and encouraging the Grade 2s, demonstrating initiative and building connections with our wider school community.

The Step Up Program provides valuable opportunities for Year 9 students to grow in confidence, take on new responsibilities and put their learning into practice beyond the classroom.

Lucy Waghorn
Year 9 Pastoral Leader

ACC Cricket

A Thrilling Win Against St Bede’s

Round 2

St Mary’s 2/131 (20) d Salesian 8/102 (20)

H. Ridley 45
D. Ridley 22
H. Silbereisen 3/6 (2)
H . McDonald 3/11 (3)
B .Holland 2/18 (4)

The first game of the season brought a mixture of nerves and excitement, particularly as it was the first time we had fielded a composite Year 7, 8 and 9 team. Adding to the occasion was the wonderful family support, with a great number of parents and family members there to watch and support the boys.

We won the toss and elected to bat, with the outfield still wet from the earlier conditions. The Ridley boys opened the batting and quickly dispelled any early nerves, taking advantage of some wayward bowling. Harry and Dylan put together an excellent opening partnership of 85, providing a fantastic start to the innings.

Harry went on to make a well-paced 45, showing great composure and control at the crease. Unfortunately, our middle order was unable to fully capitalise on the strong platform, finding it difficult to consistently make contact with the ball and keep the scoreboard moving.

Despite this, we finished with a respectable 131 runs from our 20 overs, giving us something to defend.

The plan in the field was simple: bring energy, bowl full and apply pressure from the very first ball. In the first 10 overs, the boys completely broke the game open with some brilliant catching and tight, disciplined bowling, restricting Salesian to 6/41.

A standout moment came when Will Tiernan produced a brilliant low diving catch to dismiss their best batsman, who was beginning to look very dangerous. It was a fantastic piece of fielding that lifted the whole team.

Our leg-spinner Harvey Silbereisen and medium pacer Henry McDonald both chipped in with three wickets each, bowling effectively stump-to-stump and continually putting the batsmen under pressure.

A special mention must also go to Mitchell Gumley behind the stumps. Mitchell set a wonderful standard with his positive communication, encouragement and exemplary wicketkeeping. His energy and leadership behind the stumps played an important role in keeping the team switched on throughout the innings.

t is always a great way to start the season with a win, particularly considering we had nine underage players in the team. However, the key to our victory went well beyond what happened on the scoreboard. It was our connection, support for one another and the way the boys bonded together as a team that really stood out.

This was also noticed by many of the family members who came along to support the team. They commented on the strong sense of togetherness and the way the boys encouraged and supported each other throughout the game.

That connection is such an important part of building a successful team. When players trust, support and work for each other, it creates a positive team environment where everyone can contribute and perform at their best.

Lets continue this fantastic vibe next week.

Cricketer of the year - Top 5
  • H. Ridley 70
  • Harvey Silbereisen 45
  • Henry McDonald 41
  • B.Holland 33
  • D. Ridley 32
Coach Eddie Cavolo
Teacher

St Mary’s 6/90 (20) d St Bedes 6/89 (20)

M. Gumley 37
W. Tiernan 28

In a top-of-the-ladder clash against St Bede’s, we won the toss and elected to bat. However, we were soon under pressure at 2/15, losing both Ridley boys early in the innings. This created a great opportunity for Mitchell Gumley to step up and show his class, and that is exactly what he did.

Mitchell batted beautifully, bringing stability to the innings and showing great maturity against some tight bowling. His innings featured lovely leg-side shots and clever nudges into gaps to keep the scoreboard ticking over. He was extremely well supported by Will Tiernan, who contributed a valuable 28 runs, highlighted by some excellent running between the wickets.

We eventually managed to grind out 90 runs from our 20 overs. Against quality opposition, we knew we would need a committed effort in the field to defend this total.

We made an early breakthrough in Harry Ridley’s second over, picking up two wickets, including a brilliant caught-and-bowled. This gave us real momentum and belief that we could defend our score.

The game was ultimately won through the magnificent middle-overs bowling of Will Tiernan and Henry McDonald. Between them, they bowled eight overs and conceded just 19 runs, putting St Bede’s under enormous pressure. Their efforts meant the opposition needed six to seven runs an over in the final four overs.

With both co-captains, Bailey Holland and Harry Ridley bowling the final overs and leading the way, the boys held their nerve in a tense finish. St Bede’s needed three runs from the final ball but could manage only a single, securing a fantastic and hard-fought victory for St Mary’s.

A special mention must go to Gianluca Ala, whose desperation and commitment in the field saved crucial runs. In a match decided by such fine margins, his efforts made a real difference.

These boys continue to exceed expectations. Today, against quality opposition in a top-of-the-ladder contest, they needed to find another level, and that is exactly what they did. They showed resilience, composure and a willingness to fight for one another.

Most importantly, this group is developing a genuine belief in its own ability and a growing trust in each other. Watching these boys grow as cricketers and as a team is making me extremely proud. This was a victory built on teamwork, commitment and belief - a wonderful example of the St Mary’s way.

Cricketer of the year - Top 7
  • H. Ridley 105
  • W. Tiernan 63
  • B.Holland 61
  • M. Gumley 55
  • Harvey Silbereisen 50
  • Henry McDonald 48
  • D. Ridley 33
Coach Eddie Cavolo
Teacher

ACC Tennis

It was a strong start to the season and all 10 students played their part in the triumph.

St Mary's Year 7 & 8 ACC Tennis Team won their first game of the season dismantling Parade last Thursday 8 sets to 4.

It was a strong start to the season and all 10 students played their part in the triumph. My main lesson to the boys this season is although tennis can be quite an individual sport it is still just as important to bring necessary team qualities that we at St Mary's College drive.

On Wednesday we will have a training session to sharpen up on some of the key fundamental skills of the game.

We play away at De La Selle this Thursday - let's keep this form rolling.

Adrian Cataldo 
Teacher

Plan, Prepare, Perspective, Play

Try to support your child by talking to them and encouraging them to focus on what they can control – day to day routines, organization and planning.

The exam period can affect the whole family.

Many of our VCE students may be feeling stressed about the uncertainty of the upcoming exams.

Exam time can impact on the family, and it’s important as parents that you Look after yourself during this period too. This is a big deal, and it can be stressful.

It might help to remember that you’ve done an amazing job so far!

Exams tend to be stressful.

Tempers may get short; theirs and yours. Their bedrooms may be (more) messy, they may answer back, be upset with you, siblings, others, and they may not seem themselves.

Try to support your child by talking to them and encouraging them to focus on what they can control – day to day routines, organization and planning.

Remind them to Plan, Prepare, have Perspective then afterwards you can all Play.

Plan: 
  • Plan and create a study routine together or in discussion with your child. Include a work, study, sleep, social balance.
  • Monitoring how late they are staying up studying and discuss the benefits of getting 8-9 hours of sleep a night. Encouraging a regular sleep routine is especially important right now to enable rest, recuperation, and to allow your child to be in the best frame of mind to take on the challenges of exams.
  • Encourage and plan time to exercise. Natural endorphins will lift mood and the break away from the books will rejuvenate the brain.
  • Plan a study routine with breaks from study. Your child needs a healthy balance of study as well as down time.
  • Plan for alternatives. Have a plan B.
Prepare: 
  • Preparing healthy & regular snacks to ensure they are fueling their bodies enough.
  • Balancing social connectedness with study. Studying with a friend can be helpful
  • Reduce casual work hours over the exam period to free up time to prepare for exams
  • Households can be very busy but try to have a quieter home in the lead up and during the exams
  • Prepare and set up a study space
  • Some students like realistic boundaries to be set for them as self -directed study is too flexible. Discuss and prepare these together.

Perspective:

  • Encourage them to limit worrying about the “what if’s” that are outside their control
  • Encourage your child to not think too far into the future
  • Discourage conversations that focus on ‘What if I fail?’ or ‘What if my mark isn’t good enough
  • Use positive self-talk “I can do this” “I will get through it”
  • Talk about effort, realistic expectations, and alternatives. 
  • Tell your child its Ok to feel disappointed if you need to. Create new goals and pathways.
Play:
  • Celebrate effort NOT just outcomes.
  • It’s over, you all got through it.
  • PLAY.


For more information about managing study stress, tips & advice, visit:
https://headspace.org.au/young-people/how-to-reduce-stress-and-prepare-for-exams/

Trish Maguire
College Counsellor

October is ADHD Awareness Month

Through raising awareness, we can also celebrate the strengths ADHDers have.

Raising awareness, understanding and acceptance around ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder)

According to ADHD Australia, 1 in 20 Australians have ADHD. This means that it is likely that you know someone who has ADHD.

Despite the growing awareness, there are myths, misinformation, and stigma that still adversely affect the lives of individuals, families and loved ones with ADHD. These obstacles can hinder access to accurate information, prompt diagnosis, treatment, support, and accommodations.

ADHD affects individuals differently at every stage of life. In Australia, tailored and evidence-based strategies help children, adolescents, and adults manage ADHD effectively—often through a combination of clinical guidance, education, and behavioural support.

ADHD is often characterised by patterns of attention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Through raising awareness, we can also celebrate the strengths ADHDers have:

  • Creativity and innovation
  • Ability to hyperfocus
  • Visual-spatial reasoning and problem-solving
  • Adaptability and quick thinking
  • High energy and enthusiasm

Some of the more pronounced symptoms in teens with ADHD are related to deficits in executive functioning, the brain’s ability to prioritise and manage thoughts and actions. In other words, executive function allows individuals to foresee longer-term consequences for actions, plan accordingly, evaluate progress and shift plans as necessary.

Early, comprehensive support - including behavioural, educational, and psychological strategies—helps children and young people succeed at home, school, and beyond.

You are welcome to make contact at any time to discuss how we at St Mary’s College can support difficulties your child may be having with learning.

For further information:

ADHD Awareness Month: https://www.adhdawarenessmonth.org/adhd-questions-and-answers/
ADHD Foundation: https://adhdfoundation.org.au/adhd-awareness-month
ADHD Australia: https://www.adhdaustralia.org.au/

Chris Sodaitis
Learning Diversity Leader

Mia's Remarkable Basketball Success – State and National Champions!

Travelling to Perth to compete in the National Club Championships, Mia and her teammates continued their winning streak, securing the national title and establishing themselves as the best Under 14 girls club team in Australia.

The St Mary's College community is delighted to celebrate the outstanding basketball achievements of Mia Hedberg, who has enjoyed an extraordinary season representing the Melbourne Tigers Under 14 Division 1 Girls team.

Mia and her teammates have achieved an incredible 52 consecutive victories, remaining undefeated throughout the entire season! Their remarkable success has seen them claim several prestigious titles, including the Eltham-Dandenong Tournament, the National Junior Classic and the VJBL Victorian Championship, officially earning them the title of the best Under 14 girls basketball team in Victoria.

The team's success did not stop at the state level. Travelling to Perth to compete in the National Club Championships, Mia and her teammates continued their winning streak, securing the national title and establishing themselves as the best Under 14 girls club team in Australia!

Adding to these impressive achievements, Mia has also been individually recognised for her basketball talent, earning selection into Basketball Victoria's State Development Program for the 2026–2027 season. This is a wonderful acknowledgement of her ability, dedication and potential as a developing athlete.

Mia's achievements are a testament to the commitment, perseverance, teamwork and discipline required to succeed at such a high level of competition. Balancing the demands of school with competitive sport is no small accomplishment, and Mia should be incredibly proud of all she has achieved.

Congratulations, Mia! The entire St Mary's College community celebrates your exceptional success and looks forward to following your basketball journey in the years ahead.

Below are the photos her mum sent through. Let me know if there are any issues!

Amy Fitzpatrick 
Teacher

Give Your Uniform a New Home

Year 12s – Give Your Uniform a Second Life!

As you prepare to finish your time at St Mary’s, we’d love you to consider donating your St Mary’s branded uniform to the P&F for resale to future students.

If you have uniforms that you no longer need, please make sure they are clean and in good condition and drop them off at the College Front Office.

The P&F will sell the donated items, with all proceeds going back to the school to support our students and College community.

It’s a simple way to help another St Mary’s student, support families with uniform costs and give your uniform a second life.

Thank you for considering giving back as you finish your St Mary’s journey!

David Formosa
Director of Development


Fire Up the BBQ! Support Our P&F This Weekend

Fire Up the BBQ! Support Our P&F This Weekend

Our Parents & Friends (P&F) team will be firing up the barbecue at Bunnings Port Melbourne this Sunday, 18 October, and we’d love to see our St Mary’s community get behind them!

Whether you’re stopping by for a sausage in bread, grabbing a quick bite while shopping, or simply coming along to say hello, every purchase helps support our P&F fundraising efforts and the opportunities we provide for our students.

A big thank you to all the parents and friends who will be volunteering their time to make this event possible. If you’re visiting Bunnings this weekend, make sure you stop by, grab a snag and support St Mary’s!

David Formosa
Director of Development

2025 Pictorial Yearbook

2025 Pictorial Yearbook

We apologise for the delay in getting the 2025 Pictorial Yearbook into the hands of our families.

This year, we have been working with a new yearbook platform, and the transition has taken a little longer than anticipated. We appreciate your patience while we have worked through the process to ensure the finished yearbook is something our students and families can enjoy and treasure.

The 2025 Pictorial Yearbook will be available electronically through SIMON and the Parent Portal for families to access.

For those who would also like a printed copy, books can be purchased directly through Treering using the link below:

Purchase your 2025 Pictorial Yearbook

Alternatively, simply scan the QR code below to access the purchase page.

Thank you again for your patience and understanding. We hope you enjoy looking back on the many wonderful moments from 2025 at St Mary’s College.

David Formosa
Director of Development

St Mary's College Snaps

2026 Lumina Edition 16 - 15 Oct 2026

ACC Tennis

It was a strong start to the season and all 10 students played their part in the triumph.

Adrian Cataldo

Teacher

St Mary's Year 7 & 8 ACC Tennis Team won their first game of the season dismantling Parade last Thursday 8 sets to 4.

It was a strong start to the season and all 10 students played their part in the triumph. My main lesson to the boys this season is although tennis can be quite an individual sport it is still just as important to bring necessary team qualities that we at St Mary's College drive.

On Wednesday we will have a training session to sharpen up on some of the key fundamental skills of the game.

We play away at De La Selle this Thursday - let's keep this form rolling.

Adrian Cataldo 
Teacher
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