Sunday 15 March to Sunday 22 March, our College joined Catholic schools across Victoria in celebrating Catholic Education Week. This annual celebration invited us to reflect on the rich faith tradition that shapes Catholic education and the values that guide our mission.

The theme for this year was, ā€œChrist beside me: Walking in the footsteps of Saint Patrick,ā€ encourages us to recognise the constant presence of Christ in our daily lives. It also calls us to draw inspiration from Saint Patrickā€™s unwavering faith, courage, and missionary spirit. Following his example, we are reminded of our shared responsibility to be people of hopeā€”advocating for justice, showing compassion, and living out our faith through service and respectful relationships.

It is my absolute delight to share that Rachel Kau (Class of 2025) has been awarded the Highly Commended ā€“ Secondary Award in the 2026 Catholic Education Creative Arts Exhibition for her artwork Where Passion Drowns. We extend our warmest congratulations to Rachel on this outstanding achievement.

Last night, we were also pleased to welcome the parents of our Year 7, 2026 cohort for a ā€œGet to Know Each Otherā€ community BBQ. I extend my sincere thanks to all staff and families who attended and contributed to the warm and welcoming atmosphere. A special thankā€‘you goes to our students, whose musical performances added such joy to the occasion and showcased the wonderful talent within our College.

In addition, a number of our students proudly represented ¹ū¶³APP at the ACS Swimming Carnival yesterday. I congratulate every student who participated for their commitment, and enthusiasm. I also extend thanks to Mr Madden and the entire Physical Education staff for their dedicated preparation, guidance, and support of our swimmers.

Study Tours

Our Italy Study Tour group departed on Saturday and we are pleased to share that they enjoyed a smooth and safe flight. We look forward to hearing about their experiences as they immerse themselves in the rich history, culture, and artistic heritage of Italy. Our Japan Study Tour group will depart tomorrow, 1st April.

Yesterday, Sunday 29^th marked Palm Sunday, a significant moment in the Christian calendar. Palm Sunday commemorates Jesusā€™ entry into Jerusalem, welcomed with palm branches and praise. It invites us to reflect on humility, hope, and the beginning of Holy Weekā€”a time of deep spiritual significance for our community.

Please note that the final day of term for students will be next Wednesday. On Friday, 3 April, we observe Good Friday, a solemn day that remembers the sacrifice of Jesus and His crucifixion. This leads us into Easter, the most sacred celebration in the Christian calendar, marking the resurrection of Jesus and the promise of new life, hope, and renewal.

As the term concludes, I wish all members of our community a safe, restful, and blessed break.

Happy Easter.

Easter Prayer

Lord of Life and Resurrection,

As Christ rose from the darkness of the tomb,
bring peace into our hearts,
peace into our homes,
and peace into our world.

Where there is uncertainty, grant us trust.
Where there is division, teach us understanding.
Where there is hurt, lead us to healing and forgiveness.

May the risen Christ walk beside us,
guiding our words and actions,
so that we may be instruments of His peaceā€”
living with compassion,
acting with justice,
and reflecting Your love in all we do.
We ask this through Christ our Lord,

the Prince of Peace.
Amen.

Mary Farah
College Principal