Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome to the new school term. The students have all returned settled and ready for learning. As with all aspects of school life, we have experienced a number of significant events and activities in the first two weeks. The most significant event since the end of last term has been the death of Pope Francis. It appears that the whole world stopped and observed the passing of this significant person in the lives of Catholics, Christians and the general world population. His impact has been significant and the Conclave in Rome has now commenced to elect the next Pope. Please keep Pope Francis in your prayers as the Catholic Church elects his successor. 

In a significant way on Monday 28th April, our staff came together at Culburra Surf Club for a special Spirituality Day focused on ecological conversion, inspired by Laudato Si’. This was based on the writings and theology of Pope Francis. Guided by Beth Riolo from the Catholic Life Education Mission Team, we explored our faith and our responsibility to care for our common home through prayer, poetry, art, music, and reflection. The day invited us to listen deeply - to the song of creation and the cry of the Earth and the poor - awakening in us a renewed sense of purpose and hope. Staff engaged in rich conversations and quiet Sabbath Time, deepening their understanding of eco spirituality and our call to live sustainably and faithfully. In light of Pope Francis’ passing, it was a meaningful and inspiring experience that will continue to shape our shared mission as a Catholic learning community.

Last Friday St Michael’s school commemorated ANZAC Day with an assembly in the school hall. The commemoration began with a bagpipe-led procession and an Acknowledgement of Country, honouring the traditional custodians and the contribution of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to Australia’s military history. Special guests were welcomed, including local dignitaries, military personnel, and school community members. Navy Chaplain Nigel Porter delivered a Gospel reading and reflection, followed by commemorative presentations and speeches, including one from Lieutenant Tim Farrell, a former student and current Royal Australian Navy officer. 

The ceremony featured a tribute to the bugle’s history, a beautiful poem, and a moving rendition of “I Am Australian – ANZAC Version” by the school choir. A formal remembrance followed with The Ode, the Last Post, a minute of silence, and the Reveille, as well as a flower-laying ceremony. The assembly concluded with national anthems, a final prayer, recognition of military families, and an invitation to morning tea in the Parish Centre, organised by the school’s Parents and Friends group. Thank you to the many school staff who were involved in planning the commemoration, ably led by the School Defence Mentor, Julie Lawrence. Congratulations to the students who assisted in the commemoration and the school choir who sang so beautifully.  

Today the students in Years 3-6 attended the annual Athletics Carnival at Sanctuary Point. A special thank you is extended to Mr Allmark and the staff who organised and ran the carnival, assisted by numerous parents. Organising such an event is a mammoth effort and it was once again a very successful day. Mr Allmark will share a summary of the carnival in the next newsletter. Well done all. 

TWO NEW TEMPORARY STAFF APPOINTMENTS

At the end of last term the school interviewed a strong field of applicants for the temporary (until the end of 2025) positions of Middle Leader 1 ICLT and Instructional Coach (one day a week). I congratulate these two teachers on their appointments for the remainder of the year:

• Middle Leader 1 ICLT: Andrew Allmark
• Instructional Coach: Keely Pederson

Both of the teachers will continue to teach their classes four days a week and will be released one day a week to fulfil their new roles. Mrs Michelle Moulton will teach Mrs Pederson’s class each Wednesday and Mr Allmark's class each Thursday. 

IN REMEMBRANCE OF DEACON PETER PRESDEE

Last week a number of staff and I gathered in Varroville to honour the life of Deacon Peter Presdee, whose passing on Good Friday marked a deeply symbolic end to a life lived in the spirit of Christ’s own sacrifice. Peter's journey - from political advocate to ordained Deacon - was one of profound transformation, shaped by a deep faith and a heart that beat always for those on the margins. Whether through his ministry at St Michael’s Catholic Parish in Nowra or his chaplaincy at the South Coast Correctional Centre, Peter embodied the Gospel message with humility and authenticity. He connected with the incarcerated not from a place of judgment, but with the empathy of someone who “knew the language of the street.” His life reminds us that God’s mercy knows no boundaries, and that even in the darkest places, light can break through.

Peter's ministry was never his alone. It was a shared vocation with his beloved wife, Robyn. Together, they became a living witness to Christ’s love, adapting and serving creatively through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and offering comfort where it was most needed - whether to grieving prison officers, struggling families, or a couple desperate for prayer. Peter’s kindness knew no prejudice; his faith, no limits. Through his homilies, teachings, and presence, he leaves behind not only memories, but a legacy of compassion, inclusion, and hope. As we commend his soul to God, we give thanks for a life that truly reflected the servant-hearted love of Christ. May Deacon Peter Presdee rest in God's arms. 

Obituary of Rev. Deacon Peter Kevin Presdee

Today families received a compass alert which provided a link to an annual survey called ‘Tell Them From Me'. Staff, parents and students in Years 4-6 will complete this survey for the first time in 2024. If you are able to spend a short time completing the survey, the information you provide is valuable feedback for the school. Last week families also received a survey to be completed for Mrs Martine Mathieson, our Religious Education Coordinator who is undergoing an appraisal in two weeks time. Your support with both surveys is much appreciated. 

Advance notice is given for the next pupil free Staff Development Day which will occur on Tuesday 10 June 2025. This day follows the June long weekend. Students will return to school after the June long weekend on Wednesday 11 June 2025. 

We would also like to remind families that students are to wear their full Winter School Uniform commencing Monday 12 May. Lowes Schoolwear, suppliers of St Michael's uniforms, will be holding a 20% off sale next Wednesday - Friday, should you need to purchase new uniforms.

Yours in faith & virtue

Christopher Paton

School Principal