Dear Parents and Caregivers

Last Friday was the 15th anniversary of the canonisation of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Australia’s first saint. On 17 October 2010, Mary was officially recognised in Rome for a life of faith, courage and service. Her journey from a young woman teaching in a stable in Penola, South Australia, to the founder of the Sisters of Saint Joseph is a remarkable story of perseverance and trust in God’s providence.

Mary believed that every child deserved an education and that help should be given to those who were poor, lonely or overlooked. Her famous words, “Never see a need without doing something about it,” continue to guide Catholic schools today. At St Thomas Aquinas, we see this call to action in the way students care for one another, support social justice initiatives, and look for ways, both big and small, to make a difference.

As we begin Term 4, we pray that Mary MacKillop’s example inspires us to notice the needs around us and to respond with generosity and hope. May her spirit encourage our community to live with faith, compassion and resilience, just as she did.

Loving God,
Through the example of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop,
may we learn to see the needs of others and to act with courage,
kindness and hope.
Help us to follow Jesus with generous hearts.
Amen.

In honour of Mary’s legacy, we invite every student and family this week to complete one simple act of kindness, whether it’s helping a neighbour, writing a note of thanks, or collecting items for someone in need. Together, these small actions continue Mary’s mission of love and service in our own time.

Term 4 promises to be another busy term, as you’ll see from the upcoming dates listed below. It’s sure to bubble along quickly and, before we know it, Christmas will be upon us. Let’s enjoy each event as it comes, celebrate the learning and achievements of our students, and finish the year with the same energy and spirit that have carried us so far.

CDF Diocesan Public Speaking Regional Competition

Last Friday, our school was proudly represented by Henley S (Year 5) and Alice R (Year 6) at the annual CDF Diocesan Public Speaking Regional Competition. This prestigious event is open to all Stage 3 students across the diocese, and our girls competed against their peers from the Macarthur and Highlands regions. The standard of speeches in both competitions was exceptionally high, making the girls' achievements even more remarkable.

Henley S (Year 5)

Henley competed against 13 other Year 5 students and presented her compelling speech on, "Mirrors - True Reflections." She beautifully related the reflections of mirrors to the words people use, drawing on her own family's experiences with bullying. Henley posed the powerful question: why should someone change who they are to please others? She provided the audience with specific, actionable steps to take, urging them to give compliments instead of insults, speak up, and help others instead of bullying. Henley delivered a succinct and memorable summary, leaving a powerful message with the audience. While Henley didn't place on the day, her achievement in making it to the regional level and delivering such a personal and well-crafted speech is something we are incredibly proud of.

Alice R (Year 6)

Alice competed against 12 other Year 6 students, presenting her deeply inspiring speech, "Being Hopeful When All Seems Hopeless." Alice told the powerful story of Harriet Tubman, also known as Minty, who was born into slavery in 1822. Alice explained how hope was the driving force behind Minty’s incredible work in founding the Underground Railroad, which led many, including her own family, to liberty. Alice used Minty’s story to demonstrate that hope can start with a small spark and gives us the power to change things. Her delivery was engaging and she successfully conveyed a strong, moving story. We are delighted to announce that Alice’s hard work and compelling presentation earned her a fantastic third place in the Year 6 competition! Alice will now compete at the CDF Diocesan Public Speaking Grand Final on Thursday 6th November at St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School, Bulli. We wish Alice all the very best for this competition, but regardless of the outcome, we are very proud of her