Dear Parents and Caregivers,

On Monday, 24 February 2025, our school community came together for a beautiful Opening Liturgy to mark the beginning of the new school year. It was a wonderful opportunity to welcome back students and families, setting a positive and faith-filled tone for the year ahead. A special highlight of the event was the presentation of leadership badges to our newly appointed student leaders, including School Captains, Prefects, Colour House Captains, all Year 6 students, Year 6 Aboriginal students, Mini Vinnies, and the Year 3-6 Student Representative Council. Congratulations to these students and their families on this important achievement! A special thank you to Mrs. Rutkowski, Mrs. Mathieson, Mrs Royston, Year 6 teachers and all staff involved in organising such a meaningful and uplifting event. We look forward to a fantastic year ahead!

This week all families have received through Compass a copy of the Grade Newsletter. Some Grade ‘Meet and Greets’ have occurred during the last two weeks and will continue during the next week. Grade meeting times have been shared with all parents. The Grade Newsletters contain hyperlinks to school policies and timetables. Please refer to the Grade Newsletter on a regular basis. 

WELCOME DISCO- FRIDAY 28 FEBRUARY

Tonight our exceptional Parents and Friends group will be hosting the annual ‘Welcome Disco’ from 5pm - 7pm beneath the back COLA. Parents and students are invited to attend the first social event of the school year with a night of fun, music, and community spirit. Please note, this is not a drop and go event. Parents/carers must remain with their child for the duration of the event.

This much-anticipated event is the perfect chance to meet new families, catch up with old friends, and enjoy a relaxed evening together. With DJ ‘Bop Till You Drop’ keeping the dance floor alive for the students (and families), a delicious sausage sizzle, cold drinks, and snacks available for purchase, and the return of the preloved uniform stall, there’s something for everyone. Plus, grab a coffee from Franks Espresso Bar while the kids dance the night away!

Entry is by voluntary donation, and both cash and EFTPOS will be available. So bring your picnic rugs, chairs, and dancing shoes, and let’s make it a night to remember. As with all functions which include students, this is an alcohol free event.  See you there!

PROJECT COMPASSION

On Tuesday 4 March 2025 our School Captain, Sidney Warner and Prefect, Phoebe Guyatt will join Mrs Warner and myself at the Wollongong Diocesan launch of Project Compassion. Parents and students often wonder, 'What is Project Compassion?' The following information provides an insight:

WORKING BEE 

The first Working Bee for 2025 will be on Saturday 15 March 2025. It will commence at 8.30am and conclude by midday. Due to the recent regular rainfall and ideal growing conditions, this Working Bee will concentrate on gardening. Students are welcome and parents are invited to attend for some or all of the morning. To make an impact, a minimum of 40 volunteers are required. A Google Survey Form will soon be distributed through Compass to complete, noting your availbility for putting aside some time on Saturday 15 March 2025.

With the development of the school’s recent Vision and Mission, one of the key Virtues is 'Service’. What a perfect way for students and their families to put this Virtue into action. There are numerous areas around the school that we would like to beautify for the students. Please consider one or more hours of ‘Service’ on Saturday 15 March 2025. 

ENROLMENTS 2026

The new student enrolment in our Catholic Schools for 2026 has commenced. The school has already received over 50 enrolments for Kindergarten 2026. If you have an eligible child for Kindergarten 2026 or family and friends who are considering St Michael’s Nowra for 2026, please advise them to submit their child’s enrolment online through our school website as soon as possible. 

SCHOOL UNIFORM FEEDBACK

Thank you to all families who have sent students back to school this year in the correct school uniform. There are three main areas which still require some attention in the early days of 2025; 

• Correct black school shoes
• Correct socks
• Hair grooming and extreme hair styles

The school has now been back for four full weeks and parents are requested to attend to the following areas of the school uniform policy by Monday 17 March 2025. During this week, class teachers will begin to distribute ‘Uniform Reminder Slips’ so that families can action the uniform requirements over the next two weeks, prior to Monday 17 March 2025. 

Correct black school shoes as per the uniform policy

Summer and Winter uniform: Black polishable leather shoes – with black laces or black velcro (not boots). Shoes that do not have a black polishable leather finish are not to be worn with the Summer or Winter uniform. 

Correct Socks as per the uniform policy 

Summer and Winter uniform: Girls - white ankle style;  Boys - grey with a stripe.

Sports uniform: Red ankle style for boys and girls.

Correct Hair Grooming - extreme hair styles - as per the uniform policy

In the 2024 survey, parents were satisfied with the school uniform policy and asked that attention be given to extreme hairstyles, particularly the following:

• Undercuts;
• Carved hairstyles;
• Rat’s tails or horsies (not permitted even if tied back);
• Mullets with significant differences in length- hair must be blended;

The school is aware that some of the students still have some hairstyles from the 6 week holiday break, but it is now time to abide by the school policy regarding mullets, rat’s tails, carved hairstyles and undercuts. It may take a few weeks for mullets, carved hairstyles and undercuts to begin to grow out, but parents are asked to not support student requests for these hairstyles in future. Thank you for your support. 

In Week 7, there will be two significant events occurring:

• School Cross Country on Monday 10 March 2025 at Willandra
• NAPLAN will commence on Wednesday 12 March 2025. Year 3 and 5 will be involved in this program. 

Information has been distributed to families regarding these two events. Thank you to all of the school staff involved in these two areas. 

Yours in faith & virtue

Christopher Paton

School Principal

Grades will be attending the Parish Mass at 10am on the following dates:

We welcome parents, carers, family and friends to join us and celebrate Mass with your child.

LENT

Christians use this special time to show their devotion to their faith, draw closer to God, and prepare for Easter. 

Lent begins on Ash Wednesday 5 March 2025, the day after Shrove Tuesday, and for six weeks before Easter. It ends on Holy Saturday, the day before Easter.

During Lent, we seek the Lord in prayer; we serve by giving alms; and we practice self-control through fasting.

SHROVE TUESDAY - TUESDAY 4 MARCH

Mini Vinnies Cafe -8.15am -8.45am

Pancakes and Milo for sale ($1.00 each)

All monies raised to support Project Compassion.

ASH WEDNESDAY - WEDNESDAY 5 MARCH

Ash Wednesday starts the beginning of the Season of Lent.

Students from Kindergarten to Year 4 will attend a stage Liturgy and receive ashes.

Years 5 and 6 will attend Mass at 9:30am St Michael's Church. Parents/Carers and family are welcome to attend the Year 5 & 6 Mass.

During Lent let us pause and reflect on our relationship with God through prayer, almsgiving and fasting.

Martine Mathieson

Religious Education Coordinator

COUNSELLING AT CATHOLIC CARE

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like you need some more support with parenting?

CatholicCare Wollongong offer professional counselling services to support you through life's challenges. Their counsellors provide a listening and independent ear and will equip you with strategies and tools for coping with stress and major life changes.

Counselling is available in-person in Nowra, Wollongong and Campbelltown or via phone or online.

Visit their website to learn more: https://catholiccare.dow.org.au/services-and-programs/family/family-care/counselling/

PRIMARY CROSS COUNTRY

Our annual school Cross Country event is fast approaching! This exciting event involving all students from Years 3 to 6 will be held at the Willandra Course on Monday 10 March. It promises to be a fantastic day filled with energy, determination, and school spirit.

The race distances are as follows:

• students turning 9 & 10 in 2025 will run 2 km
• students turning 11 & 12 in 2025have the option to run the 3km competitive race or a 2 km fun run.

We encourage all students to participate and embrace the challenge, whether competing for a place or simply enjoying the experience.

Parents, please ensure you provide consent for your child to attend and complete the two required questions for submission. Additionally, if you are available to assist on the day, we would greatly appreciate your help as a course marshal to ensure the event runs smoothly and safely.

All volunteers for school events are also required to register on the following onboarding link to comply with Working with Children safety requirements.

https://apps.dow.catholic.edu.au/vms/onboarding/new

As there will be no canteen facilities at the event, please ensure your child brings plenty of food and water bottles. 

We look forward to a fantastic day of racing, personal achievements, and team spirit!

AFL TRIALS

On Tuesday, some of our talented students participated in the Combined Wollongong & Canberra/Goulburn AFL trials in Fairy Meadow. Charles Meagher and Jack Webber (Year 6), Eli Lane, and Blake Dunk (Year 5) competed against top players from as far as Bega and Yass.

The competition was fierce, with each player showcasing their skills in kicking, marking, and game awareness. Our four representatives put in a fantastic effort, displaying great teamwork and determination.

A big congratulations to Charles, who has been selected for the MacKillop trials in Wagga at the end of March for the second year in a row. His hard work and dedication continue to impress, and we wish Charles all the very best!

CHLOE REPRESENTS IN TENNIS

A huge congratulations to Chloe Webb (Year 6), who represented Wollongong in Tennis on Friday 21 February at Leumeah. Competing against some of the best players in the MacKillop Region, Chloe demonstrated her incredible skill, agility, and precision on the court. She won three matches to advance to the final, where she faced a higher-seeded opponent. Despite giving it her all, Chloe was unable to clinch the victory but walked away with a wealth of experience and a greater understanding of high-level competition. Her determination and sportsmanship were commendable. Well done, Chloe!

KOBE REPRESENTS IN BASKETBALL

At the Snakepit in Wollongong, Kobe Weir (Year 6) competed in the MacKillop Diocese Basketball trials, facing some of the most skilled players in the region. The day was filled with fast-paced action, strategic plays, and intense competition. Kobe’s talent, leadership, and skills were on full display throughout the four games as he helped the team secure three victories. Kobe's outstanding performance and ability to stay composed under pressure earned him selection for the MacKillop Basketball Team, a fantastic achievement! We wish him the best of luck at the Polding Carnival in May.

TOUCH FOOTBALL TRIALS

On Wednesday 19 February, Mila Bozikov and Finn Goddard of Year 5 participated in the Primary Boys and Girls Touch Football trials at Thomas Dalton Park, Fairy Meadow. The weather conditions were ideal, providing a great setting for fast-paced games, sharp passing, quick footwork and tactical plays. Both Mila and Finn competed fiercely, demonstrating excellent teamwork and skill throughout the trials. Their sportsmanship and positive attitude were truly admirable.

DIOCESAN SWIMMING TEAM

St Michael’s Swimming Team will be competing at the Diocesan South Swimming Carnival at Corrimal Pool on Tuesday 4 March. This event will bring together some of the best swimmers from across the region. We wish our representatives the very best as they strive for personal bests and strong performances.

K-2 AUSKICK SKILLS

Students in Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 will be participating in an Auskick Skills Afternoon on Wednesday 5 March on the back oval. This exciting program introduces students to the game of AFL, helping develop essential hand-eye coordination skills, teamwork, and confidence. The session will include fun drills, mini-games, and skill-building activities that cater to all ability levels. Students in K-2 are to wear their sports uniform to school on Wednesday 5 March.

WINTER SPORTS

Registrations for Winter sports have commenced. Refer to the Community Notice section for a variety of local sporting teams that your child may be interested in.

UPCOMING EVENTS

K–2:  AusKick  Wednesday 5 March on school oval 

Years 3 – 6 School Cross Country: Monday 10 March at Willandra 

If you have any questions about sport or upcoming events, please don’t hesitate to contact me. 

 Kind regards

Andrew Allmark

Sports Coordinator

I look forward to meeting and getting to know the new St Michael’s families this year, and will be available on Wednesday and Fridays from 8:30am–3pm.

I may also be reached on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays at St John's High School Nowra.

ANZAC DAY CEREMONY

We are currently preparing for the annual ANZAC Day Ceremony, a significant event that unites us in remembrance and respect. St Michael’s ceremony will be held at 10am on Friday 2 May.

We would like to welcome all families to join us for this important event.

THE START OF AN ONGOING PROJECT

St Michael's has been named as one of the recipients of 'The Anzac Community Grants Program' (ACGP), which provides small grants for a range of projects that commemorate and educate New South Wales communities about the service and sacrifices of current and former military servicemen and

servicewomen.

We have been awarded $700 to purchase ANZAC resources and to plant rosemary bushes, to respect and honour our past and current serving military members.

KINDERGARTEN DEFENCE CLUB

Kindergarten Defence students met our Pine tree last week, a symbol of resilience and growth in our school community. I look forward to watching them grow together. 

Kind regards

Julie Lawrence

Defence School Mentor

iPAD ROLLOUT

WELCOME FAMILY DISCO & BBQ - TONIGHT

The wait is over—our Welcome Family Disco & BBQ is happening tonight. This is a fantastic opportunity to meet new families, reconnect with old friends, and celebrate the start of the school year together in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

Bring your picnic rug, chairs, and dancing shoes and get ready to dance the night away with DJ Bop Till You Drop! The kids will love the music, and parents can enjoy a great night of community and connection.

The P&F will be selling sausage sandwiches, cold drinks, and snacks throughout the evening. A price list has been sent via Compass, and both cash and EFTPOS facilities will be available.

We are also excited to welcome Franks Espresso Bar for all your coffee needs.

Our preloved uniform stall will be set up to provide families a great chance to stock up on essential school uniform items.

Please note: This is not a drop-off event. Parents and guardians are expected to stay with their children for the duration of the Disco.

We look forward to seeing everyone for an amazing night of fun, food, and dancing.

For further details or any questions, feel free to email us at stmichaelspnf@gmail.com.

LOLLY GUESSING COMPETITION- WINNER ANNOUNCED TONIGHT

Our Lolly Guessing Competition has been running all week, and guesses closed this morning.

For just $1 per guess, students had the chance to win a jar full of delicious treats, with two winners—one from Infants and one from Primary.

Winners will be announced tonight at the Family Disco.

Thank you to everyone who participated, and good luck to those who entered.

WORKING BEE - SATURDAY 15 MARCH

Many hands make light work!

We need your help! Our school playground and gardens are in need of some TLC, and we’re calling on parents, grandparents, and friends to lend a hand.

What: A Community Working Bee to tidy up the playground and surrounding gardens.

When: Saturday 15 March

Where: St Michael’s Primary School.

Whether you can rake, plant, paint, or just lend a hand, every bit of help makes a

difference! Even an hour of your time will be greatly appreciated.

Why come along?

- Help create a safe and beautiful space for our kids.

- Meet other parents and be part of our wonderful school community.

- Enjoy a fun, hands-on morning with a rewarding outcome!

Sausage sizzle will be provided - because hard work deserves a treat!

Bring your gloves, tools (if you have them), and a great attitude. Let’s work together to make St Michael’s shine!

We can’t do it without you – see you there!

STAY CONNECTED - FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Want to stay in the loop with everything happening at St Michael’s? Make sure to follow our Parents & Friends Association on social media!

• Facebook: P&F Events Page
• Instagram: St Michael’s P&F Association

By following our pages, you’ll get instant updates on;

• Upcoming school events & fundraisers
• Important school community news
• Fun photos & highlights from our activities

Join us online and be part of the conversation! Let’s work together to build a strong and engaged school community in 2025.

We are looking forward to a wonderful year ahead and can’t wait to see you tonight at the Welcome Family Disco & BBQ!

See you there!

St Michael’s P&F Association
stmichaelspnf@gmail.com

We would like to invite parents/carers of Kindergarten 2026 students and families considering enrolment at St Michael's to attend our upcoming Open Night on Tuesday 18 March (6pm - 7:30pm).

Applications for Kindergarten 2026 enrolment are now being accepted on the following link, due by Monday 7 April 2025.

Enrol for Kindergarten 2026

This link is also available on our school website. 

Kindergarten 2026 enrolment interviews will be held on Saturday 3 May 2025. During mid-late April, applicants will be sent an email with an invitation to book an interview time. Invitations will only be sent to applicants who have completed the form, providing all necessary information and signatures. 

If you know anyone considering enrolment for their child, we ask that you please share this information.

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 by 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.

School Canteen Online Orders

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.

WINTER SPORTS

Registrations for Winter sports have commenced. Some local sporting clubs your child may be interested in joining include;

Netball teams

Saints: http://saintsnc.nsw.netball.com.au/ 

Rebels: http://rebelsnc.nsw.netball.com.au/

Jervis Bay: http://jervisbaync.nsw.netball.com.au/

North Nowra and Bomaderry: http://nnbnc.nsw.netball.com.au/

Albatross: http://albatrossnc.nsw.netball.com.au/

Lyrebird: https://www.facebook.com/LyrebirdNetballClub/

Worrigee:  https://www.worrigeetigersnc.com/

For further information on different clubs, please follow this link for Shoalhaven Netball Association: http://sna.nsw.netball.com.au/

AFL

Nowra Giants: https://www.facebook.com/shoalhavengiants/

Bay and Basin: http://www.bombers.net.au/

Bomaderry: https://www.bomaderrytigersafl.com.au/

Rugby Union

Shoalhaven: https://www.facebook.com/weareshoals/

League

Bomaderry: https://www.facebook.com/Bomaderry-Swamp-Rats-270032815270/

Football

Bomaderry: https://www.facebook.com/BomaderrySoccerClub

Shoalhaven Heads/Berry: https://www.facebook.com/headsberryfc/

Martial Arts

Karate - South Coast Shotokan - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100057307314479