Around the Grounds…. 

With so much happening in and around the school community, I felt a summary of recent events would be fruitful… 

Carramar Connections 

Year 9 have commenced their weekly visits to Carramar where they have begun to foster and develop relationships with some of the residents who come along for a catch up.  There have been many highlights over recent weeks but a couple that I have observed: 

"Last week I spoke with Wayne who was playing Jenga with Abraham and Hamish.  Wayne said to me that this was the third time he had spent with the kids, and he was absolutely "LOVING IT!!".  

In week 5, students met Ralph, a new resident who had only arrived the day before our visit.  In our most recent visit Ralph brought along his photos of his beloved Holden car, a certificate he had been awarded from work, and numerous photos of him in his younger days.  These created great discussion between Ralph, Jack, Billy and Darius.

Year 12 Student/Parishioner Catch Up 

Recently the Year 12 students invited their parishioner for a “Comfortable Cup of Tea”, a term initiated by Catherine McAuley and one which we adopted for a meet and greet with our parishioners.  The student/parishioner program is in its second year and involves connecting a parishioner with a Year 12 student to pray and support them in their final year of school.  The students and parishioners had a wonderful time getting to know each other, sharing stories and establishing connections.  A prayer service was held in the chapel to conclude their time together. 

Supporting the Cancer Council 

Chelsea Debnam sold cupcakes and other morning tea treats each Tuesday for the month of May as a fundraiser for the Cancer Council.  Chelsea also provided information to Mentor classes around the fantastic work the Cancer Council continues to do in fields of research and support.  Chelsea also challenged Mentor classes to submit a photo showing their awareness of sun safety.  The winning Mentor class was McAuley 2 who now hold the Mentor cup and will receive lunch for their Mentor class.  Chelsea also raised $445 during her fundraising.  Well done, Chelsea. 

Next term we will continue to support cancer groups with Year 6 student Grace Barker and Miss Thompson rocking the chop for the Ponytail Project, as well as a Beanies for Brain Cancer Day for the third State of Origin.  Stay tuned for how you can support these campaigns.  

Mini and Teen Vinnies 

Both Mini and Teen Vinnies are well underway with their Winter Appeal for St Vincent de Paul with a wonderful response to our call for blankets and tinned food.  Can I encourage all students to contribute a least one can, remembering that “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”  Mini Vinnies also recently held a cupcake and hot milo stall to raise money for SVDP.  Funds raised will help many families in the cold months ahead. 

Meals on Wheels 

Year 8 students have commenced their second round of Meals on Wheels this week.  Ensuring that our students are able to live out our Mercy values, and contribute in such a meaningful way to our community is empowering. 

"One person I visited for Meals on Wheels, said that I had made their day and that made me feel pretty good!" - Year 8 student, Charlie

"It's fun and it really gets you out of your comfort zone and being out in the community.  It also gives you a good feeling of helping others". - Year 8 student, Olivia

With God's blessings,