Dear Parents and Carers,

During the last two weeks the school community has gathered in different ways to celebrate important events. On Monday 11 November 2024, all students participated in a Remembrance day gathering within classrooms where we honoured the sacrifices of armed forces members who died in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping efforts. One of our students, Patrick Doran, led the school in the Ode of Remembrance, followed by one minute of silence. Students and staff are reminded daily of the significance of ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day due to the presence of a beautiful mural on the back playground which features Poppies, worn on these days as a symbol of remembrance. This mural was painted and donated by Year 6 students a few years ago. 

Our Parents and Friends (P&F) group held their last meeting for 2024 on Tuesday 12 November 2024. A full agenda discussed numerous ways that the students and staff were being assisted through the extraordinary service and fundraising by the Parents and Friends group. This meeting also marked the last official meeting led by our President, Mrs Carina Beattie. Mrs Beattie has been actively involved in St Michael’s P&F for over 11 years, most recently as President. During this time Mrs Beattie has given countless hours and service to create better facilities and opportunities for our students. Mrs Beattie’s second son finished at St Michael’s Nowra in 2023, however the P&F pursuaded her to lead our group for one more year, even without a child in the school. On behalf of the St Michael’s community, I would like to sincerely thank Mrs Beattie for her remarkable service and commitment to St Michael’s school. Thank you Carina. 

On Thursday 14 November 2024, our local radio station Power FM set up their breakfast show in the school, creating a buzz of excitement among students, parents and staff. The morning was filled with live music, interviews, and a chance for students (and some staff!) to showcase their talents on air.

Anticipation grew as everyone awaited the dramatic arrival of a Navy helicopter on the back playground at 7.30am. When landing, the thundering noise and swirling wind left everyone in awe, sparking cheers and amazement. Students were treated to a close-up view of the impressive aircraft, with Navy personnel answering questions and sharing their experiences, making it a truly unforgettable day. Thank you to Power FM, the Navy, the P&F and so many of our school staff who assisted in the supervision of the students from 7am. A remarkable effort by everyone. 

The very next day, the school celebrated a Colour Run and Fun Day. While the aim of the day, which was organised by the P&F and school staff, was to raise much needed funds to go towards creating a better school playground, it was an amazing day of fun for everyone. In the newsletter, there are numerous photos which highlight the fun the students, parents and staff encountered.

The students had a blast during their fun-filled day of activities, starting with the vibrant Colour Run. Bright clouds of pinks, blues, and yellows filled the air as students raced through obstacles, getting showered in colourful powders while cheering each other on.

Adding to the magic of the day, a talented magician captivated the students with jaw-dropping tricks, leaving everyone in awe and laughter. Other fun activities included sports games and creative crafts, ensuring there was something for everyone to enjoy. The event was filled with joy, laughter, and community spirit, creating cherished memories for students and staff alike. Thank you to our P&F team, numerous sponsors including Elite Energy who donated the obstacle course, school staff, parents and the students who raised over $32 000 towards playground enhancements. 

That same evening some St Michael’s families and I attended the Wollongong Diocese CDF Sports Awards. Three of our students, Morten Ellerington, Finn Goddard and Will Rundle received the prestigious ‘Primary Sports Council Red’ award for their outstanding representation at Diocesan representative events during 2024, including some State events. It was a wonderful evening, celebrating the extraordinary talent in our Diocese of Wollongong. Congratulations to Morten, Finn, Will and their families. 

This Saturday and Sunday, students from St Michael’s and the Shoalhaven will receive their First Holy Communion through the Sacrament of Eucharist. This is an incredibly memorable moment for all Catholics and is a significant milestone in the Catholic faith, marking the first time a person receives the Eucharist, which is the body and blood of Jesus Christ. It typically occurs when children are around seven or eight years old, considered the age of reason in the Church. This sacrament represents a deepening of each child's relationship with God and their full participation in the Mass. Congratulations to the parents and children who have travelled the sacramental journey during their participation in the Parish program. All Year 3 students have also learnt about the Sacrament of Eucharist during their Religion lessons this term. Thank you to our teaching staff for your participation in this important milestone in the children’s lives. 

I would like to thank families for enabling the school staff to participate in Professional Development today. Your assistance in allowing students to remain at home today was much appreciated.

Yours in faith & virtue

Chris Paton

School Principal