Newsletter - T2, W10 - 4/7/2025
From the Principal
"Remember the days of old; consider the generations long past. Ask your father and he will tell you, your elders, and they will explain to you.” - Deuteronomy 32:7
As we approach the halfway point of 2025, it is important to pause and reflect on our journey thus far. An important message can be found in Deuteronomy 32:7. This message was delivered to students during our assembly this week.
We are reminded that we are people with a memory, honouring the stories, faith, and sacrifices of those who came before us. During the business of everyday life, it is easy to overlook the rich heritage that has shaped our families and our College community.
Scripture reminds us that remembering connects us to identity, purpose, and tradition.
St Mary’s has a rich, proud history that has shaped the positive culture that exists today. We stand on the shoulders of countless individuals: former parents, staff, students, parish and the wider community. The success of St Mary’s has been a collaborative effort, and remembering the commitment of those from the past will continue to inspire the mission we live out today.
This passage reminds us of the importance of seeking guidance from others, in particular, those who are more experienced than ourselves. Listening is a very powerful tool, it is through active listening that we gain knowledge and insight. I encourage all students to listen to a grandparent's story, a parent's words of encouragement and teacher feedback.
At St Mary’s, our goal is to form not only informed learners but also young people who are grounded in the Gospel message. Educating students to have the courage of conviction and the compassion to shape a better future.
We recognise that true wisdom often comes from those who have walked the path before us. It is through their lived experience that we gain perspective, inspiration, and a deeper understanding of life's challenges and the way forward.
Student Break
As we conclude the term, I would like to wish all students a safe, restful, and enjoyable break. I am very proud of the way our students have engaged in their learning and contributed to the positive, respectful school culture that continues to grow at St Mary’s. It has been a rewarding term, filled with a strong sense of community.
Thank you to our dedicated staff and supportive families for your continued partnership. I look forward to the second half of the year.
Start of Term 3
Please note that school will resume for all students on Tuesday, 22 July.
On Monday, 21 July, our staff will be participating in professional learning focused on the implementation of the new curriculum reform. This important work ensures we continue to deliver high quality learning experiences for our students.
Once again, I wish everyone a safe and restful break and I look forward to welcoming students back for another productive term.
Michael Campbell
Principal
Upcoming Dates
Term 3, Week 1
Monday 21/07/2025 - Staff Development Day
Tuesday 22/7/2025 - First Day of Term 3 (Day 1)
Wednesday 23/07/2025 - Year 11, 2026 Subject Selection Evening - SMCC
Thursday 24/07/2025 - Year 10 History Troubie Vietnam Incursion- Dusted off! - SMCC
Thursday 24 - Friday 25/07/2025 - GOAT Retreat
Thursday 24/7/25 - Vinnies Winter Sleepout
Week 2
Tuesday 29/07/2025 - Northern Rivers Careers Expo - Lismore Showgrounds
Wednesday 30/07/2025 - Year 9 History Living History WWI Incursion - SMCC
Wednesday 30/07/2025 - Under 14's Girls Country Cup - Mullumbimby Rugby League Club
Thursday 31/07/2025 - College Athletics Carnival - Queen Elizabeth Park
Friday 01/08/20225 - Jeans and Jersey Day
Parish Mass Times
Weekend Mass
Saturday 5.00pm
Sunday 8.00am
Weekdays
Monday 9.00am
Tuesday 8. 00am
Wednesday 8.00am
Thursday 9.00am
Friday 9.00am
Saturday 9.00am
Adoration
Wednesday 5.00pm
Following 9.00am Mass Saturday
Reconciliation
Saturday 8.30am - 9.00am
Anointing of the sick
First Saturday of each month
Country Mass
Sunday, 13 July
Tabulam, 10:30am
Mission Team
In the readings this weekend we hear "The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field." (Luke 10:2)
In this passage Jesus sends out the disciples, encouraging them to go with trust, simplicity, and peace. This passage reminds us that we, too, are "sent out" - especially as parents. Every morning, we send our teenagers into the world: into classrooms, friendships, challeneges, and opportunities. We may not always feel prepared or in control, but we remember that we are not alone.
Our role, life the disciples', is to encouraging resilience, offer peace through our presence, and trust that God is at work in our children's lives. Even small, everyday acts - listening well and being present - are ways we help our children encounter God.
We remember that parenting is a vocation, a mission field of its own, and that the Lord of the harvest is always with us.
Clare Axman
Assistant Principal - Mission
Evangelisation
Family Mass
On Saturday, June 21, we gathered with students, family and friends of the Primary school for our Combined Family Mass. There were a large number of students and staff from the College who attended with their families and gathered after mass for some pizza. During mass, Father Wilber commissioned the students who attended Street Retreat last weekend.
Keep an eye out for the dates of the next Combined Family Mass to be held in Term 3.
Street Retreat
On Thursday, June 26, four Year 11 students - Chris Cormanes, Belle Wall, Patrick Zeller and Violet Zeller, Ms Northam and our Catholic Youth Minister Megan travelled to Brisbane to participate in Street Retreat.
Street Retreat exposes students to social injustice, and equips, forms and empowers students to return to their parish communities with a passion for social justice; awakening a greater sense of the call of Jesus Christ to serve the poor.
We look forward to hearing about the students' experiences next term.
Year 9 Reflection Day
Year 9 had the chance to participate in a Reflection Day facilitated by Dave Jorna on Tuesday, July 1. It gave students a chance to step back from their normal school routine and reflect on themselves, those around them and discover the role that God plays in their lives.
The day included interactive discussions, activities and stories, to help students to develop a strong sense of self, creating the foundation upon which everything else is based, including resilience, self confidence and character. Dave even got the whole year singing as one!
Dave is currently writing a book on raising good men. He is currently gathering data and would be grateful if any parents of boys would be willing to complete an anonymous survey to assist him. Please click this link to complete the survey.
G.O.A.T. Retreat
In Week 1, Term 3, four Year 10 boys will be going to Coffs Adventure Centre to attend the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) Retreat. G.O.A.T. is an overnight experience that involves activities focusing on inspiring young men to embrace their purpose and passion as young Catholic men. It is designed to provide students with a transformative faith experience as they embark on their journey through manhood, guided by the life of Jesus, the saints and the teachings of the Catholic Church. We look forward to hearing about their experience after the retreat.
SHINE
Stage 5 and 6 students this week made their choices for the workshop sessions they will attend during SHINE next term.
Choices for workshops included Faith in Sport, Yeah the Boys, Girl You are Enough, Being Culturally Aware, Holding Cross, Sing with Wildfire and many more. Students are looking forward to joining with other students from across the diocese to participate in these workshops.
Kate Rowlands
Leader of School Evangelisation
Learning & Teaching Team
Curriculum
The Stage 6 (Year 11 & 12) Subject Selection evening is occurring on Wednesday, 23 July at 6pm. This evening will be a valuable opportunity for parents and students to gain insight and advice on the subjects on offer in Stage 6 at St Mary’s. The presentation in the evening will also provide details regarding NESA requirements as well as the way in which the Compressed Curriculum works at St Mary's Catholic College.
Letters of advice have also been sent home to Year 10 parents and students.
The Year 10-11 Subject Information Letter is included below.
The Year 8 into Year 9 subject selection process will begin in mid Term 3. More information will be provided closer to the date.
Chris Robinson
Leader of Curriculum
ICAS Competitions
Our College is excited to announce that we are now participating in the ICAS Competitions — a highly regarded academic program designed to challenge students across a range of subjects. This is a fantastic opportunity to extend learning, recognise academic achievement, and inspire a love of learning throughout our College Community.
What is ICAS?
ICAS (International Competitions and Assessments for Schools) is a globally recognised online competition that allows students to test their higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills. Subjects include English, Mathematics, Science, Writing, Digital Technologies, and Spelling Bee. Students from Years 2 to 12 can take part, competing against peers from across the state and the nation.
Why Take Part?
ICAS is more than just a test — it’s a celebration of academic effort and excellence. Every participant receives a certificate, while top performers may earn Merit, Credit, Distinction, or High Distinction awards. The highest achievers may even receive a medal in recognition of their outstanding performance. These achievements are a great addition to scholarship, leadership, or tertiary study applications.
How Will It Work at Our School?
Starting early next term, students will be able to register for ICAS via the official website. All assessments will be conducted online during school hours, under supervision. More information will be shared in class, and families will receive registration details through Compass.
Get Involved!
If you enjoy solving problems, thinking creatively, or testing your knowledge, ICAS is a fantastic opportunity to challenge yourself and shine. Speak to Ms Parker to find out more.
Let’s get involved, give it a go, and show what we can achieve!
Kylie Parker
Numeracy Coordinator
Work samples from Year 7 English - Hero's Journey narratives
Oceanview Academy sat on a tall hill of Oakdale, the ancient stained glass windows surrounding the sturdy brick walls. The school specialises in fashion, designing, music, and drama, where students can freely express how they are feeling. Our dorms overlooked a beautiful lake surrounded by daisies and roses where doves sang and frogs danced and trails that led to a beautiful waterfall with majestic blue patterned butterflies. Beyond campus, the roads stretched in all different directions, leading to small towns filled with flowers and cafes nestled where the sea breeze meets the scent of roasted coffee beans. Everyone loved Oakdale and the majestic vibes it gave them.
Makaylah Morgan (7W)
At a secret camp in the mountains of South New Zealand that is hidden by a magical mist shielding those on the outside from reality, I trained with a Pegasus named Breeze. Slashing swords until we got them to the right angle, running kilometres up hills to build agility, and hiding behind trees like our life depended on it. By the day’s end, I was exhausted but agreed to protect my newly found family, the ones who were really always there for me.
Ruby Seed (7W)
Sports News
Len Diett Shield Rugby Union -Under 14's
The U14 Rugby Union boys' team delivered an impressive performance in Casuarina, securing two decisive victories against Evans Head.
In their first match, the team dominated, achieving a resounding 60-0 win. A highlight of this game was Riley Formaggin's exceptional four-try effort. The team continued their success in the second game, defeating Evans Head 48-5.
Throughout the day, tries were scored by Riley Formaggin, Jackson Gay, Jed Handford, Ollie Formaggin, Toby Makejev, Campbell Stuart, Sam Butler, and Reece Gay.
These matches served as excellent preparation for the U14s as they gear up for the upcoming Rugby 7s tournament in Term 3. Congratulations to the entire team for their outstanding effort and exemplary behaviour throughout the day!
Dean Coggan
Coach
Len Diett Shield Rugby Union - Under 16's
In their first game against Xavier Catholic College, the College showed flashes of potential, but Xavier's superior ball control led to a comfortable 33-0 victory.
The second match, against Evans River, was a much more competitive affair. Despite a hard-fought effort, Evans River ultimately triumphed with a close 19-12 win. Captain Riley Newman and Kade Baker scored tries for the College, keeping the result in doubt until the final whistle.
Although outmuscled on the day, the team will undoubtedly use these matches as valuable preparation for upcoming Rugby Union competitions in Term 3.
Craig Beare
Coach
Northern Diocesan Soccer
The Year 7-9 girls' soccer team displayed significant growth and determination across their three games.
They started with a 4-0 loss against Banora Point, but their spirit never wavered. In their second match against McAuley Catholic College Grafton, the team showed great resilience, holding the score to a narrow 1-0 deficit until two late goals were conceded in the final two minutes. Pypia Owen and Olivia Cowley created excellent scoring opportunities, and the girls truly began to gel, understanding their structure and working together cohesively.
Their final game against Mt St. Patrick's ended in a 4-0 defeat, yet their effort and teamwork remained evident throughout. Luca Adams was a standout, dominating the midfield, while Eva Crompton was exceptional in goal with impressive saves and distribution.
Considering that most of the players were new to soccer, their commitment to training during a busy term and their eagerness to improve their skills have been truly impressive and show great promise for the future.
Under 14 Boys Cochrane Cup Rugby League
On Thursday, 19 June we traveled to St. Joseph’s Banora Point for a chance at the regional finals.
Game 1 vs. St. Joseph’s Banora Point
We started strong against the host, with Captain Campbell Stuart scoring an amazing solo try from our own try line. Ethan Miller converted, putting us up 6-0. But St. Joseph's quickly took control, scoring three quick tries due to missed tackles and turnovers, leading 18-6 at halftime. While the second half was closer, the damage was done, resulting in a 24-12 loss. Jackson Gay also scored, converted by Ethan Miller.
Game 2 vs. Woodlawn
In an exciting comeback, we secured a 9-8 'golden point' victory in extra time against Woodlawn. Campbell Stuart and Riley Formaggin scored in regular time, with Riley's last-minute try forcing extra time after a crucial one-on-one strip. Excellent goal-line defense held off Woodlawn's attempts to win. Then, from 15 meters out, Ethan Miller calmly kicked a field goal on the sixth tackle, sealing the upset win. We were thrilled!
Game 3 vs. Mt St. Patrick’s
We still had a chance to win the day, but fell short in a tight 12-6 loss to an impressive Mt St. Patrick’s team. Riley Formaggin scored again, but a late try to force extra time couldn't be found. Overall, our students showed great character and effort throughout the day, leaving with their heads held high after a good day of footy.
Craig Beare
Coach
Far North Coast Baseball
Two students from the College travelled to the Illawarra area on Saturday, 21 to Sunday, 22 June to compete in the Country U16 Baseball Championships, where the Far North Coast side came runners-up. Congratulations to James Bratti and Callum Harden from Year 8.
See below for the latest updates to upcoming sporting fixtures in Term 3:
- Wednesday, 23/7/25 - U14 & U16 Boys ‘Alex Gibbon’ Rugby Union 7’s - Evans Head (Week 1)
- Friday, 25/07/25 - U13, 15 & Open Boys ‘Country Cup’ Rugby League - Casino (Week 1)
- Tuesday, 29/7/25 - U14 NRCC Girls Soccer - Byron Bay (Week 2)
- Wednesday, 30/7/25 - U14 Girls ‘Country Cup’ Rugby League- Mullumbimby (Week 2)
- Thursday, 31/7/25 - SMCC Athletics Carnival - QEII, Casino (Week 2)
- Wednesday, 6/8/25 - U14 & U16 Boys ‘Alex Gibbon’ Rugby Union 7’s, - Evans Head (Week 3)
- Tuesday, 12/825 & Wednesday, 13/8/25 - Yr 7,8 & 9,10 Boys & Girls Dio Basketball - Port Macquarie (Week 4)
- Tuesday, 19/8/25 - Yr 7-12 Boys & Girls NRCC Netball - Tweed Heads (Week 5)
- Tuesday, 2/9/25 - Diocesan Athletics Carnival - Coffs Harbour (Week 7)
- Wednesday, 3/9/25 - Y7-10 Boys & Girls Netball - Lismore (Week 7)
Term 3, 2025 Thursday Sport for Years 7 - 10.
Term 3 Sport options have closed. See below the activities on offer. Your child has been placed in one of these based on their top 4 preferred selections. Watch out for the Compass event to give consent.
Stage 4 - Years 7 & 8
- Fishing - Weir or River, near the footbridge ($0 Students bring their own rods, tackle and bait).
- Multi sports- Tennis - Casino Tennis Courts ($3 per week includes equipment), Softball & Athletics, $0 - SMCC & Colley Park (3 weeks per activity).
- Volleyball - SMCC and possibly Colley Park - $0
- Rugby Union / League & Touch - Colley Park - $0
- Netball / Basketball - Colley Park & SMCC - $0
- Indoor Sports - Casino Sports Centre (Dodgeball, Basketball, Futsal, Pickleball - $22.50 for Term 3.
- Beef Bosses- Cattle appreciation - Earth Centre - $0
- 5km Pacers Walking- various routes around the Casino area - $0
- Sport Reform - SMCC and surrounds. This group will be made up of members who for whatever reason cannot participate in Sport. They will be doing activities based in and around the College with an emphasis on keeping our environment sustainable. We recognise that not all students can partake in sport each week and by doing activities such as this, it helps with our ideals of reaching out into the Community.
Stage 5 - Years 9 & 10
- Multi sports - Tennis - Casino Tennis Courts - $3/week (Includes equipment), Softball & Athletics - $0 - SMCC & Colley Park (3 Weeks per activity)
- Volleyball - SMCC/Colley Park - $0
- Rugby Union / League & Touch - Colley Park - $0
- Netball / Basketball - Colley Park/ SMCC - $0
- Indoor Sports - Casino Sports Centre (Dodgeball, Basketball, Futsal, Pickleball, $22.50 for Term 3
- Beef Bosses- Cattle appreciation - Earth Centre - $0
- 5km Pacers Walking- Various routes around the Casino area - $0
- Sport Reform - SMCC and surrounds (see above explanation in Year 7 & 8 sport).
* Parents/Guardians, Can you please consent ASAP as sport begins in Week 1.
Sports Calendars for 2025
Information about all upcoming sports in the College, Diocese and Catholic Schools NSW sport calendar. Please note some of these dates may change from time to time. Click on each one for the link.
St Mary’s Catholic College
Dio Sports Calendar
Catholic Schools NSW Sports Calendar
To check upcoming CCC events and registrations - Link to Catholic Sport NSW
Sport Search (½ way down page) → Step 1 (click on CCC) → Step 2 (select sport). Registration & Calendar is also there. CCC is a pathway and option for students to make a direct application to trial for a particular sport. The standard is usually high, depending on the Sport, therefore representative level is usually but not always the minimum requirement.
Craig Beare
Sports Coordinator
Uniform Shop News
Stock Updates
We now have stock of Girls' Cardigans, ranging from sizes 10-22.
Unfortunately, due to a high demand for scarves this year, our suppliers won't have any new stock until 2026.
Thank you,
Cheryl McDonald
Uniform Shop Opening Hours
Tuesdays 3.15pm to 4.15pm
Thursdays 3.15pm to 4.15pm
The Uniform Shop service is a cashless service. Methods of payment are by EFTPOS or online ordering via Flexischools. No fees are charged to families for using the Flexischools service.
Please note the following information for orders made via this service:
Tuesday Orders
- Cut off time is 12 noon on Monday
- Pick up available from the College office on Tuesday afternoon from 3.30pm - 4.00pm
Thursday Orders
- Cut off time is 12 noon on Wednesday
- Pick up available from the College office on Thursday afternoon from 3.30pm - 4.00pm.
Orders not collected will be given to the student to take home.
Whilst all care will be taken to ensure that stock availability is correct at the time of ordering, there may be some items that are not in stock at the time of packing the online orders. In this case, you will be contacted to advise of an estimated time of arrival for new stock of that item or given the option of a refund processed through Flexischools.
All uniform shop order enquiries can be emailed to: cash-uniform@lism.catholic.
Second Hand Uniforms
Sustainable School Shop is an online shop dedicated to buying and selling of second hand uniforms. For more information ring 1300683337 or visit www.sustainableschoolshop.com.au.
Please note that this facility is available for use with the new College uniforms only.
Canteen
Volunteers
We are looking for volunteers to assist in the Canteen. Please contact the Canteen via the College office if you are available at any time to help.
Flexischools
Flexischools is a well-established organisation allowing you to easily place all your canteen orders online at any time.
Download the Flexischools app from the App store or Google Play. Click here for details on how to set up your account.
Once registered, you can start placing orders immediately.
There is a charge of $0.29 per order for using this service.
If you have any questions, please contact the Flexischools Customer Service Team via their website contact page.
The normal process of ordering from the canteen (cash, eftpos, morning lunch orders) is still available.
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Safer Drivers Course – improve your driving skills become a confident and safe driver – gain an extra 20 logbook hours.
For young students with their learner’s licence (with 50+ driving hours in their logbook):
We are running Safer Drivers Course in Casino during the coming school holidays. Friday 18th July https://behindthewheel.net.au/
This course is carefully tailored for young learner drivers packed with information on how to drive safely and how to mitigate the risks that come with driving. This course is not designed how to operate a car, but it will teach how to recognise and avoid unsafe situations. This course teaches speed management, hazard awareness, safe following distances, how to stay safe when being distracted.
The course includes a 3-hour group discussion with other students and a 2- hour coaching in vehicle session with 1 other learner driver.
To book: https://behindthewheel.net.au/
If a student has a Healthcare Concession Card they can attend for free, just head to our website, download the application form and follow the instructions.
