Dear Parents,

There is much to celebrate following local and international events of the last two weeks. As an Australian, I am very proud to have witnessed the extraordinary achievements of the Australian representatives at the Paris Olympic Games. Australia’s athletes have truly shined at the Paris Olympics, showcasing their exceptional talent and determination. The athletes dazzled with their speed, skill and precision, bringing home 18 Gold medals and numerous silver and Bronze medals. They also impressed with record-breaking performances and remarkable resilience. Overall, the Australian representatives have not only competed with skill but have also embodied the spirit of sportsmanship and excellence.

Closer to home, many of our St Michael’s athletes participated in the CEDoW South Coast Athletic Carnival last Tuesday and have been selected to participate in the Diocesan carnival next week. Congratulations to these students and thank you to their parents for transporting them to and from the carnival. Thank you to Mr Allmark for supporting all of our sporting students! 

Last Friday evening a number of Year 6 students and numerous staff members participated in the annual Mini Vinnies Winter sleepout in the school hall. This sleepover was organised by Mrs Mathieson, Mrs Royston and a number of dedicated staff. The students were  sponsored by family and friends to raise money for the homeless of our local region. Additional funds were raised through a mufti day which was held last Wednesday. Due to the generosity of families and sponsors, a total of $644 (mufti day) and $1,196 (sleep out) was raised to assist the local homeless people. For the Year 6 students and staff who attended the sleepover, this was a life changing experience. Thank you to everyone who assisted in any way. 

The Year 6 Mass with Bishop Brian Mascord at Dapto last week was a wonderful Eucharistic celebration. Our Year 6 students, teaching staff and I attended this mass which included amazing singing and a liturgical movement at the end. Bishop Brian, a former primary school teacher, spoke beautifully with the students and their reverence and behaviour was outstanding. The whole experience was exceptional and the students and staff were appreciative of the time we had with Bishop Brian Mascord.

This Monday 19 August 2024, the annual ‘Bookweek Parade’ will be held on the front playground at 9am and students are invited to wear clothing related to a book theme of any type. The main theme for 2024 is: “READING IS MAGIC’. This is always a very exciting day. 

In the next three weeks, students will be attending the following excursions;

• Year 6 Canberra excursion on 29-30 August 2024
• Year 1 Tilbury Beach, Culburra on 30 August 2024
• Year 3 Nan Tien Temple on 4 September 2024
• Kindergarten Shoalhaven Zoo on 6 September 2024
• Year 5 Leadership Camp at Waterslea on 19-20 September 2024

PARENTS AND FRIENDS (P&F) GROUP

Two weeks ago, the P&F ran a very successful school disco for our infants and primary students. The evening was well organised and supervised by additional parent helpers. The students and parent helpers had a wonderful time. I am always very appreciative of the work that our P&F do to support your children. At our monthly meeting last Tuesday, important issues and events were discussed and actions taken. I do encourage more parents to attend in person or by Zoom. I am also very thankful to our Assistant Principal Mrs Rutkowski, who supports the students and families through her attendance at this monthly meeting. During the months ahead, there will be some very important issues discussed and I do encourage you to join us. This term the P&F will also be providing a canteen at the South Coast Gala day on 23 August 2024 as well as coordinating the Father's Day stall and BBQ. This is a very productive P&F and your participation within this group would be very much appreciated. The next P&F meeting will occur on Tuesday 10 September 2024 at 6pm.

Finally, the P&F will be supporting a ‘School Working Bee’ on Saturday 7 September 2024. The Working Bee will commence at 8.30am and conclude by 2pm. All families are invited to attend and numerous projects including gardening and maintenance will be completed. If you can assist for 1,2,3 or 4 hours, your assistance will be appreciated. There is much to do to enhance the school for your children and I invite your attendance. A google form will be sent home early next week inviting your attendance. Please mark this day in your calendar and join me at the Working Bee. You will enjoy the experience.