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Dear Parents and Caregivers,
Earlier this week, Mrs Rutkowski and I attended the monthly Parents and Friends (P&F) meeting. When I presented my Principal report, I briefly recounted the school events of the past month. It is extraordinary the number of events which included parents from the school and in particular, the P&F. During the last two weeks, parents have played a big part in the life of the school through attendance at events or transporting the students. These include:
- Support of the school musical through collecting the students after school hours. The preparation for the school musical is continuing to take shape. Mrs Boyton is happy with the progress so far and parents are helping the students in the musical to learn their lines!
- Transporting the students to various sporting events. Our students have continued to record some exceptional results and would not be able to be so successful without parent support.
- Provision of a canteen by our P&F for the South Coast Soccer Gala Day last Friday. A big thank you is extended to these parents as well as those who attended as spectators. The sportsmanship by the students in Years 3-6 was outstanding.
- The Father’s Day preparation and provision of a daily stall to enable students affordable purchasing options for Father’s Day gifts. This required parents to set up a stall before and after school every day last week. Thank you for your gift of time.
- The catering and organisation of a raffle for the Father’s Day Breakfast and Liturgy last Monday. Thank you to our P&F team who prepared the food, organised sponsorship, fed the crowd and cleaned up so thoroughly!
- Parent helpers who have assisted in the recent excursions, including the Year 3 Nan Tien Temple visit and today’s Kindergarten excursion to Shoalhaven Zoo.
On behalf of the students and staff, I would like to extend our gratitude to all the P&F, parents and caregivers for your incredible generosity and unwavering support. Your contributions of time, resources and energy have a lasting impact, whether you're volunteering at events, helping with classroom activities or simply cheering on our students. Thank you for being such a vital and important part of our school community.
Yesterday Mrs Warner and our two school captains, Havanah Flugler and Sid Warner, represented our school at the launch of the 2025 Catholic Mission program. This event occurred at Narellan. A special thank you is extended to Mrs Warner and the captains as it was an early start and lengthy journey to and from Narellan. Year 6 will be providing our annual Mission Fair to raise funds for Catholic Mission on our final day of school this term, Friday 26 September. Thank you in advance to the Year 6 students, staff and Mrs Mathieson for organising this fun event. The Mission Fair will support the celebration of St Michael’s Feast Day on the same day. The school will also officially launch the school’s ‘Vision and Mission Statement’ on this day. A great celebration ahead!
Next Thursday and Friday our Year 5 students and staff will attend their annual leadership camp at the beautiful Watersleigh Christian Centre. This is an important two days of learning for our future school leaders. Thank you to the staff who will work closely with the students over the two days and generously donate their time to supervise this overnight excursion.
As many of you may be aware, today is Mrs Jessica Dakin’s last teaching day before commencing her maternity leave. On behalf of the entire St Michael's school community, we extend our warmest congratulations to Mrs Dakin, her husband Mr Dakin and her family on this exciting time. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Dakin for her wonderful teaching and dedication to the students of 1R this year. Following a recent recruitment process, I am pleased to share with our whole community that Miss Annaliese Turner will be stepping into the role of Year 1R's teacher and will be with the students from the start of Week 9 this term until the end of the year. Miss Turner is a familiar face to many of our students, having worked with St Michael’s for the last three years, initially as a school support officer and more recently as a teacher for the last 10 months. She has taught this Year 1 group on a number of occasions and knows the students well. As a practicing Catholic, Miss Turner will continue to guide the children’s journey in faith and learning for the remainder of the year and I am anticipating the transition into the 1R class will be a smooth and successful one.
Mrs Dakin is a valued member of our staff, and we will be keeping her in our prayers as she prepares for the birth of her daughter. We wish Mrs Dakin a safe and joyful time over the coming months and await with great anticipation the birth of her child.
We also congratulate and welcome Mr Marcus Chieffe officially to our teaching staff for the remainder of 2025. Mr Chieffe has been working as a casual teacher within many of our classrooms this year and will continue in this role commencing on Monday 15 September 2025. Congratulations Mr Chieffe on this appointment.
Yours in faith & virtue
Christopher Paton
Principal
CHRISTMAS STORY ART COMPETITION CEO WOLLONGONG
ST MICHAEL OUR PROTECTOR
On the final day of Term 3, Friday 26 September, we will celebrate St Michael’s Feast Day and Catholic Mission with a Liturgy and Mission Fair. The Liturgy will be held on God’s Grass at 9am. Parents/carers and family are invited to attend.
Later in the day, Year 6 students and the Mini Vinnies team will be hosting a variety of Mission Fair stalls on the back playground. Infants students will attend the hour-long fair from 10am, followed by Primary students from 12pm. This is a student only event.
Students will be able to purchase tokens to spend at the Mission Fair. We ask that over the next two weeks, families assist their child/children by providing opportunities to earn some pocket money for spending at the Fair (limit of $10).
Money is to be placed into a snap lock bag, clearly labelled with your child's name and class and handed to class teachers next week (Week 9).
All money raised will go towards increasing awareness and funds for communities in Zambia, to help ensure children have access to food and education, giving them the chance to build a brighter future.
Let’s take up the challenge and help raise money for those less fortunate. We thank you for your support.
Martine Mathieson
Religious Education Coordinator
Term 3 Week 9
| Monday 15 September |
Students to bring Mission Fair Money (up to $10) this week. |
| Tuesday 16 September | |
| Wednesday 17 September |
Rehearsals for School Musical 3:15pm - 5pm |
| Thursday 18 September |
Basketball Gala Day Shellharbour Year 3 & 4 (Selected students) Year 5 Leadership Camp (Watersleigh) |
| Friday 19 September |
Basketball Gala Day Shellharbour Year 6 (Selected students) Year 5 Leadership Camp (Watersleigh) |
Term 3 Week 10
| Monday 22 September | |
| Tuesday 23 September | |
| Wednesday 24 September |
Year 1 Minamurra Rainforest Excursion Rehearsals for School Musical 3:15pm - 5pm (Year 5 & 6 Costumes to be brought in) |
| Thursday 25 September | |
| Friday 26 September |
St Michael's Feast Day Liturgy (9am on God's Grass) Mission Fair Final Day of Term 3 |
Upcoming Dates for the Diary
| Monday 13 October |
Staff return for Term 4 (Staff Development -Pupil Free Day) |
| Tuesday 14 October |
Students return for Term 4 |
| Friday 24 October |
St Michael's 'The Jungle Book' Musical -7pm |
| Saturday 25 October |
St Michael's 'The Jungle Book' Musical (2 shows) |
| Friday 14 November |
St Michael's Colour Run |
| Monday 17 & Tuesday 18 November |
Year 6 Overnight Excursion to Canberra |
| Friday 21 November |
Year 2-6 St Michael's Swimming Carnival |
| Tuesday 25 November |
Year 2 UOW Science Space Excursion |
| Friday 28 November |
Year 3 UOW Science Space Excursion |
Date: Saturday 25 October 2025
Time: 8.30 am – 3.30 pm (doors open at 8.00 am)
Location: Novotel, 350 Church Street, Parramatta, NSW 2150
Find out more information here.
Buy a ticket here: Supporting Families: Working Together in a Modern World Registration.
SOCCER GALA DAY
Last week students from Years 3 and 4, along with some select players from Years 5 and 6, enjoyed participating in the much-anticipated Soccer Gala Day at South Nowra Soccer Fields. After a frustrating reschedule due to last week's rain, the weather gods provided a perfect day.
Over 300 students from our school, Milton, and Kiama came together to enjoy a taste of the 'World Game'. The atmosphere was full of excitement, and it was great to see so many young players embracing the spirit of the day.
Our students played with fantastic sportsmanship, demonstrating fair play on the field and cheering on other teams during their team break. Students were wonderful ambassadors for our school, demonstrating exemplary behavior. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the sight of so many happy, smiling faces, showing just how much fun they had playing the sport they love.
A huge thank you to the students from St John's High School Nowra who volunteered their time to referee. Their support was invaluable and helped ensure the smooth running of all games. We also extend our gratitude to the parents and staff who helped make this day a resounding success. A special mention also goes to our P&F Committee and volunteers for providing the canteen service at the field.
2026 REPRESENTATIVE SPORT- CURRENT YEAR 4 & 5 STUDENTS
Each year, students in Years 5 & 6 throughout the Wollongong Diocese are invited to trial for Wollongong representative teams, for the opportunity to access higher levels of sporting pathways, representation and progression to state level competition in the following sports.
| Sport | Nominations Due |
| Cricket | Wednesday 15 October 2025 |
| Tennis | Friday 31 October 2025 |
| Basketball | Friday 31 October 2025 |
| Football (Soccer) | Friday 21 November 2025 |
| AFL | Friday 21 November 2025 |
| Netball | Friday 21 November 2025 |
| Touch Football | Friday 21 November 2025 |
| Rugby League | Friday 21 November 2025 |
| Rugby Union | Friday 21 November 2025 |
Scheduled dates for the trials can be found here
Nominations for the 2026 representative pathway selection trials are now open. Students are required to be experienced players and extremely talented in their chosen sport. If students are successful during these trials, they will progress to represent the Diocese of Wollongong at MacKillop Level Trials and possibly further advance to represent at a State Level.
Please be aware that we are only able send just a few students for each selected sport and your child may not be successful in their nomination due to experience, skills or not meeting the criteria. Students who have nominated for a sport will be informed if they have been successful or unsuccessful to attend the trials when the trial date is near.
No late nominations will be accepted. Some of the trials for 2026 teams commence in Term 4 2025, therefore it is important that nominations are completed now.
Rep Sport Nominations Year 5 & 6 2026
SUMMER SPORT REGISTRATIONS
As Winter sports draw to a close, it’s time to start looking forward to the exciting opportunities that Summer sports bring. There are a wide variety of activities available for students to participate in. Below are just a few options, along with links and contact details for further information:
- Summer Soccer – summer.shoalhavenfootball.com.au
- Little Athletics - https://www.nswathletics.org.au/join-nsw-athletics
- Nowra Athletics - http://www.nowraathletics.org.au/
- Cricket – playcricket.com.au/junior/cricketblast-juniorblasters | mycricket.cricket.com.au
- Baseball – shoalhavenbaseballassociation.com.au
- Nippers – nowraculburraslsc.asn.au
- Tennis – shoalhaventennis.com.au
- Swimming Lessons
- Waterways Swim School – Ph. 4423 6798
- North Nowra Swim School – Ph. 4448 6299
- Donna’s Dolphins – Ph. 4422 4661
- Bay and Basin Leisure Centre – shoalhavenswimandfitness.com.au/Our-Centres/Bay-Basin
We encourage families to explore these opportunities and support students in staying active, learning new skills, and enjoying the fun of Summer sports.
UPCOMING EVENTS
Friday 21 November: St Michael’s Swimming Carnival Year 2 – 6
If you have any questions about sport or any upcoming events, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
Andrew Allmark
Sports Coordinator
Hello Defence Families,
Last week we celebrated Legacy Australia and our commitment to the families of our veterans. It was heartening to see our success in raising $599.36. Not only did we raise funds we also raised awareness and sparked some great conversations about our active military community. Thank you to all who donated.
THE CHILD OF THE ADF MEDALLION- REMINDER
September 19th is Child of the ADF Medallion Presentation
Participation in the Child of the ADF Medallion program is open to all Defence resident family children aged 18 years and under of current serving ADF members (SERCAT 3-7 and SERVOP C).
To register for the event, please follow the link below:
ONE TREE CHILDCARE SERVICES
Located in Nowra Hill, One Tree Community Services (OTCS) has been confirmed as the preferred provider for childcare services in Defence, with a new contract commencing 1 January 2026. Click here for details.
SPOTLIGHT ON SUPPORT
Defence Families of Australia (DFA) is the official ADF families’ advisory body to the Minister for Defence Personnel and Chief of the Defence Force (CDF). DFA advocates for ongoing policy and practice improvements for current serving members and their families. To find out more about DFA Home - Defence Families of Australia
Warm regards,
Renee Wenban
Defence School Mentor
(02) 4421- 3630
PREMIER'S READING CHALLENGE
OVERDUE LOAN REMINDERS
Barbara McKenna
Library Teacher
From Monday 15th September (Week 9), students may choose to wear either full Summer or full Winter uniform for the remainder of the term. We kindly ask that uniforms are worn neatly and correctly, and that students do not mix items from both sets of uniforms.
For further details, please see our Uniform guidelines.
Thank you for your cooperation.
What a busy few weeks we’ve had at St Michael’s with our Father’s Day Raffle, Father’s Day Stall, Soccer Gala Day and our Father’s Day BBQ Breakfast!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who purchased tickets or gifts, attended events, cooked, served, or helped out in any way. Events like these simply couldn’t happen without the support of our volunteers, school community, teachers, office staff, and most importantly our generous sponsors.
FATHER'S DAY RAFFLE- SPONSORS & WINNERS
We are so grateful to our raffle sponsors for donating such wonderful prizes and are excited to share the winning ticket holders.
Prizes, Sponsors & Winners
1st Prize – $900 EUFY Security Package
Donated by Jirgens Civil Pty Ltd.
Winner: Ticket #768 – Janie Hamilton
2nd Prize – $300 Bunnings Voucher
Donated by Bomaderry Ultrasound
Winner: Ticket #863 – Megan Ethell
3rd Prize – $250 BBQs Galore Voucher
Donated by Rate Money
Winner: Ticket #921 – Kristopher Onate
4th Prize – $50 Blak Cede Café Voucher
Donated by Bliss Conveyancing
Winner: Ticket #579 – Linda Kerr
5th Prize – $50 Blak Cede Café Voucher
Donated by Bliss Conveyancing
Winner: Ticket #362 – Identity Withheld
6th Prize – $50 Expresso Boy Doughnut Voucher
Donated by Bliss Conveyancing
Winner: Ticket #855 – Renee Warnes
7th Prize – $50 Expresso Boy Doughnut Voucher
Donated by Bliss Conveyancing
Winner: Ticket #19 – Caroline Stephenson
8th Prize – $50 JB Hi-Fi Voucher
Donated by Independent Hospitality Solutions
Winner: Ticket #327 – Jessica Rosskelly
9th Prize – $50 JB Hi-Fi Voucher
Donated by Bliss Conveyancing
Winner: Ticket #350 – Ashleigh Baker
10th Prize – $50 Milkwood Bakery Voucher
Donated by Milkwood Bakery
Winner: Ticket #672 – Identity Withheld
A very special thank you also to Nowra Fresh, who generously donated the bacon, eggs and sausages for our Father’s Day BBQ Breakfast.
Due to all of this amazing support, we raised a significant amount of funds for our school – with lots of exciting plans ahead to benefit our students. Stay tuned for updates!
SAVE THE DATE - COLOUR RUN!
Our major fundraiser for 2025 is coming up – mark your calendars for Friday 14 November, it’s St Michael’s Colour Run!
A Compass post will be sent out shortly asking for your input on prize ideas. We want to make sure this event is an incredible success, and your suggestions will help us achieve this!
Last year, thanks to the amazing support of our community, we raised $34,000 – let’s make 2025 our best year yet!
STAY CONNECTED – FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Stay up to date with what’s happening at St Michael’s:
Follow the St Michael’s P&F on:
- Facebook: P&F Events Page
- Instagram: St Michael’s P&F Association
You’ll find event reminders, community updates, and fun photos from school life.
Warm regards,
St Michael’s P&F Committee
stmichaelspnf@gmail.com
Thank you to Meagan's Kitchen for providing our wonderful canteen service.
Our school canteen is managed by Meagan's Kitchen, operating four days per week (Tuesday-Friday).
Lunch orders may be placed online through 'My School Connect' on the following link. (Also available beneath the parent tab on our school website). A reminder for parents/carers, lunch orders for Fridays are to be placed by 1pm Thursday.
ASPIRE BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL CARE
Located in St Michael's school hall, Aspire Before and After School Care provides a safe and nurturing environment for children, outside of regular school hours. Our program is designed to support both the academic and personal growth of each child, offering a variety of activities that promote learning, creativity, and social development.
Our dedicated staff members are highly trained and passionate about providing quality care. They ensure that each child feels valued and encouraged to explore their interests. The program includes homework assistance, recreational activities, and nutritious snacks, all within a structured and supportive setting.
For more information or to enrol your child, please contact Simone Danby at Aspire on 0438 358 118. Simone is available to answer any questions and provide further details about our program offerings.
We look forward to welcoming your child to Aspire Before and After School Care at St Michael's.
DISNEY'S FINDING NEMO JR MUSICAL
St Michael's students Bethany Le, Amelia Pretty, Zavarne Sater, Skylar Hoyes and Samuel Fulginiti will be performing at the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre during these school holidays (October 2-4), in Junior Albatross Musicals' production of Disney's Finding Nemo Junior.
This live musical theatre production, based on the award-winning movie, features beautiful sets and costumes, bringing a vibrant underwater world to life on stage. Performed by over 110 children from the Shoalhaven, the heart-warming production has memorable songs such as “Just Keep Swimming”, “Fish are Friends Not Food” and “Go with the Flow. A story full of family, friendship and adventure, great school holiday entertainment.
Tickets are available from the Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre box office. All tickets $49.
MOANA JR THE MUSICAL
