Dear Parents and Carers,

As we commence our journey through the second half of Term 3, I would like to acknowledge the generosity of all staff at St Michael’s Nowra. Despite challenging illness within our local school community due to Covid, RSV and Influenza A&B, along with inconsistent weather, our staff turn up each day ready to teach and assist students. Just in the last week, we have had staff go beyond all expectations for the sake of our students and families. The following examples highlight this generosity:

• The school musical continues to gather momentum - thanks to all involved, including the staff who assisted move the stage props into place in the hall last Friday. I am aware the families of students in the musical will be helping generously in the near future. We would also like to thank Bunnings Warehouse Nowra for supporting our request for the donation of 50 pool noodles to paint and use as stage props. We are extremely grateful for this support and look forward to a wonderful production!

• The Mini Vinnies 'Winter Sleepout'. Congratulations to Martine Mathieson, our Year 6 teachers and all staff who attended the sleepout and assisted in any way. Thank you Bern Royston and Karen Delany for your pre-winter sleepout preparation.

• The Bookweek Parade was a great success with thanks to everyone involved, especially Barbara McKenna, Viki Boyton, Shari Cook and all staff who helped set up the hall and support the students in the classrooms. 

I would also like to acknowledge the strong and crucial role our parents play in assisting their child to be successful each day. The students arrive at school each day dressed appropriately and ready for learning. The packed lunches which accompany the students to school each day are rich in nutrition and are appreciated by the students.

In the sporting arena, there have been some outstanding achievements in the last two weeks. Our track and field athletics representatives have recorded some exceptional results and the school rugby team was very competitive at the recent state championships at Hunters Hill. Mr Allmark’s sporting section in the newsletter highlights all of these achievements. The school is very proud of these students. We thank all staff and parents who have assisted these students to compete in these sporting events. 

During the next two weeks, important events will include:

• 5 September 2025 South Coast Soccer Gala Day
• 6/7 September 2025 Enrolment Weekend for Sacrament of Eucharist - First Holy Communion  
• 8 September 2025 Fathers Day Breakfast and Liturgy
• 9 September 2025 Parents and Friends Meeting 6pm 
• 11 September 2025 Catholic Mission Launch
• 12 September 2025 Kindergarten excursion to Nowra Zoo 

Have a good weekend everyone. 

Yours in faith & virtue

Christopher Paton

Principal

A warm welcome to Fr Damien Ellis, our new Parish Priest. In the coming weeks Fr Damien is looking forward to meeting St Michael’s students, staff and families. Please keep Fr Damien in your prayers as he begins his new ministry at Nowra and we work together in faith and action.

ST VINCENT DE PAUL WINTER APPEAL 

During Term 2, our Mini Vinnies students put together 166 packs made of the health care products families generously donated for the Vinnies Winter Appeal.

Last Thursday the Wollongong Vinnies Van visited our school, providing a presentation to Year 6 students and demonstrating the important work they do in supplying a service for those facing homelessness. Mrs McCrohane was delighted to receive our generous donations and expressed her appreciation for the wonderful support of St Michael’s Nowra.

Well done everyone!

MINI VINNIES WINTER SLEEPOUT

Last Friday night over 50 students from our Mini Vinnies Team chose to sleepout in the school hall.

The sleepout shone a spotlight on the issues of homelessness by the students experiencing a glimpse of 'sleeping rough' for one night whilst raising crucial funds for the Nowra St Vincent de Paul Conference. Mrs Judith Walker from the Nowra Conference was our guest speaker and thanked the students and their families for their support.

A big thank to all the staff who supported this important social justice event. Without their generosity this would not be able to take place. 

It was a long, cold and uncomfortable night for everyone but a valuable lesson in being grateful for what we take for granted and an opportunity to look for ways to be beacons of HOPE for those in need.

Congratulations to our students for raising $2,070 to support the disadvantaged in our community.

FATHER'S DAY BBQ & LITURGY

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM OF FIRST HOLY COMMUNION

Students in Year 3 and above

Registration for the Sacramental program of First Holy Communion for students in Years 3 and above will be taking place on the weekend of Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 September 2025.

If your child is in Year 3 or above and has been baptised and completed their first Reconciliation sacrament, then they may register in the First Holy program for this year after Mass. A Sacramental Leader will be able to assist with registration at St Michael's Nowra, St Patrick's Berry or Holy Spirit Vincentia. Mass times may be found on the Nowra Parish website. If you have any questions, please contact Nowra Parish on 4423 1712 or email nowra@dow.org.au.

Martine Mathieson

Religious Education Coordinator

ATHLETICS

On Monday 19 August, several students proudly represented St Michael’s at the Wollongong Athletics Selection Trials. Despite challenging conditions, including rain and a wet track, all students gave their best and displayed determination.

Congratulations to Finn Goddard, Mia De Ruyter, Mila Bozikov, Archie Richards, Amarlie Ward, Matilda McGee and Taylor Dennis, who were successful in qualifying for the Wollongong Team. These students will now compete at the NSWCPS MacKillop Athletics Trials in Sydney on Wednesday 24 September.

RUGBY UNION

On Monday 18th August, our representative team participated in the next round of the Catholic Schools Rugby Union Tournament held at St Joseph's College, Hunters Hill.

The boys showcased incredible teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the day. They kicked off the tournament with a convincing win in their first game, setting the tone for a strong campaign. After three tough pool matches, they finished 2nd in their pool – an impressive effort against high-level competition.

The team then progressed to the semi-finals, where they faced a formidable opponent, St Matthew's Mudgee. Despite a valiant effort, they narrowly missed out on a spot in the final. Ultimately, the boys finished 4th overall in NSW – a phenomenal achievement!

Well done to all the players and coaches involved. A huge thank you to Mr James Milligan for volunteering his time and effort to coach the boys and lead them to a well earned 4th position. 

Mr Caleb Pearman

 

 

CRICKET GALA DAY

Lastly, please note that due to low student numbers, St Michael’s will not be participating in the Cricket Gala Day scheduled for Wednesday, 16th October.

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;

• Netball
• Rugby League
• Rugby Union
• Football (Soccer)
• AFL
• Basketball
• Tennis
• Touch Football
• Cricket

Nominations for the 2026 representative pathway selection trials will open on Monday 1 September 2025. 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. 

FINN PLACES 5TH IN AUSTRALIA

Last weekend, Finn Goddard of Year 5, travelled to Ballarat to compete in the Australian National Cross Country Championships.

Competing in the 3km event amongst 64 competitors, Finn tackled the challenging wet track, navigating extremely muddy sections, log obstacles and a slippery course to finish in 5th place.

Finn also anchored his team of 3 NSW competitors to place first in the team event.

A huge congratulations on these remarkable achievements.

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 5 September – Year 3 – 4 Soccer Gala Day (all students)

Friday 5 September – Year 5 & 6 Soccer Gala Day (selected students)

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

Andrew Allmark

Sports Coordinator

As we move from Winter into Spring and notice changes in the weather, we remind families that students are expected to continue wearing the Winter Uniform until Week 9 of Term 3.

During Weeks 9 and 10 of Term 3 and Weeks 1 and 2 of Term 4, (from Monday 15 September to Friday 24 October) a transition period will be in place. Students may wear either the full Winter or full Summer Uniform during this period.

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

STUDENT ATTENDANCE

DROP OFF AND COLLECTION

We wish to remind families of the services available to assist working parents with providing care for students before and after school each day. Supervision at school is provided from 8:15am to 3pm daily.

Thank you to all students, parents/carers and staff for your amazing efforts in supporting our Bookweek Parade last Friday. 

Barbara McKenna

Library Teacher

Hello Defence families,

Our school is proud to celebrate Legacy Week, a time to honour and support the families of Australian Defence Force veterans. As part of the celebration, there will be items available for purchase, with all proceeds going to Legacy to help care for the partners and children of those who have served our country.  The items will be available at St Michael’s on Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd September from 8:15 to 8:45am and 3:00 to 3:45pm. 

Students and families are invited to take part by purchasing items such as wristbands and badges. Your support helps make a real difference and shows our gratitude for the sacrifices of Defence families.

Click here to view the items for sale

UPCOMING DEFENCE EVENTS

There are also some upcoming events in our local area that may be of interest:

• 19 September:   Child of the ADF Medallion Presentation
• 27 September:   Outdoor Movie Night
• 29 September:   ADF Equip focusing on Relocation for 5-12 year olds

THE CHILD OF THE ADF MEDALLION

The Child of the ADF Medallion are presented to children who have shown resilience and growth in managing the challenges of the ADF lifestyle.

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).

DMFS Nowra have a medallion presentation scheduled for Friday 19 September 2025.

Limited tickets remain. If tickets sell out, please complete the waitlist form, as this will determine when the next presentation is scheduled.

To register for the event, please follow the link below:

An ADF families event: Child of the ADF Medallion Ceremony Tickets, Fri, Sep 19, 2025 at 4:00 PM | Eventbrite

ADF OUTDOOR MOVIE NIGHT - SATURDAY 27 SEPTEMBER

DMFS Nowra and Kookaburra Retreat invites you to join us for a fun family evening under the stars with two fantastic films and great company! Come cozy, bring your rugs, jackets, blankets and chairs and enjoy the movies.

 

• Movies: The Wild Robot (PG) – Commencing at 6pm
• Second Movie: Wonka (PG) – Commencing at 8pm

Tickets are free with complimentary popcorn. Games and activities to keep the kids entertained.

Food trucks and a coffee van will be on-site to keep you fuelled and cozy. Please note purchases are at your own expense.

Be sure to secure your tickets early. Please follow the link below:

An ADF families event: Outdoor Movie Night Tickets, Sat, Sep 27, 2025 at 5:00 PM | Eventbrite

ADF EQUIP PROGRAM: CHILDREN'S GROUP RESILIENCE PROGRAM

A suite of sessions tailor-made to support the resilience and wellbeing of children that may experience the effects of parental absence and frequent relocations due to their parent/s or guardian/s serving in the ADF.

The DMFS Nowra office have two programs scheduled, focusing on Relocation.

ADF Equip Program | ADF Members & Families | Defence

ADF Equip for 5-8 years old

When: Monday 29 September 2025

Time: 10am – 12.30pm

Where: Shoalhaven Veteran and Family Hub

To register attendance, please see the link below:

An ADF families event: ADF Equip - Relocation (5-8 years) Tickets, Mon, Sep 29, 2025 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite

ADF Equip for 9-12 years old

When: Monday 29 September 2025

Time: 1.30pm – 4pm

Where: Shoalhaven Veteran and Family Hub

To register attendance, please see the link below

An ADF families event: ADF Equip - Relocation (9-12 years) Tickets, Mon, Sep 29, 2025 at 1:30 PM | Eventbrite

Please note registrations are essential for the ADF Equip program.

Registrations will close Monday 22 September 2025.

If you have any questions on the program, please email dmfs.nowra@defence.gov.au

SPOTLIGHT IN SUPPORT

The Families of Veterans Guild is a Social Work and Wellbeing Program that offers free wellbeing Programs and events for Defence and Veteran family members. Online events areon offer if you are unable to attend in person.For more information on the above events, please follow the linkto learn about our upcoming wellbeing activities. Home - Families of Veterans Guild

Warm regards,

Renee Wenban

Defence School Mentor

wenbanr01@dow.catholic.edu.au

(02) 4421- 3630

On Wednesday 27 August, Year 3 students travelled to the Nan Tien Temple in Berkely and participated in the following activities;

• 1 hr Guided Tour & Museum Visit
• Origami
• Mindful Mealtime- A vegetarian meal of fried rice, potato wedges and spring roll.

There is lots going on over the next few weeks, and we are excited to celebrate Father’s Day with a range of special events for our school community!

 

FATHER'S DAY RAFFLE

Tickets are now on sale  for our Father’s Day Raffle. We have an amazing range of prizes generously donated by our local businesses and school community.

 

Purchase Father's Day Raffle Tickets

 

A huge shout out to our wonderful sponsors – these events are not possible without your support:

Prizes to be Won

1st Prize – $900 Eufy Security Package – Donated by Jirgens Civil Pty Ltd.

2nd Prize – $300 Bunnings Voucher – Donated by Bomaderry Ultrasound

3rd Prize – $250 BBQs Galore Voucher – Donated by Rate Money

4th Prize – $50 Blak Cede Café Voucher – Donated by Bliss Conveyancing

5th Prizes – $50 Blak Cede Café Voucher – Donated by Bliss Conveyancing

6th Prizes – $50 Expresso Boy Doughnut Voucher – Donated by Bliss Conveyancing

7th Prizes – $50 Expresso Boy Doughnut Voucher – Donated by Bliss Conveyancing

8th Prize – $50 JB Hi-Fi Voucher – Donated by Independent Hospitality Solutions

9th Prize – $50 JB Hi-Fi Voucher – Donated by Bliss Conveyancing

10th Prize – $50 Milkwood Bakery Voucher – Donated by Milkwood Bakery

 

THE raffle closes on Sunday 7 September at 4:00pm and will be drawn during the Monday morning BBQ, with winners announced on the day.

FATHER'S DAY STALL - MONDAY 1-FRIDAY 5 SEPTEMBER

The P&F Father's Day stall has an amazing selection of special gifts available that will make Dad and the father figures feel extra special, as shown in the following price list.

Please note, if a student wishes to purchase a glass, an accompanying parent/carer will be required to take the glass home from the stall to ensure the safety of students and prevent any breakages and injuries.

We are seeking volunteers to assist with the stall. Your help will be greatly appreciated. If you can assist, please email the P&F on  stmichaelspnf@gmail.com

All proceeds support our school community.

FATHER'S DAY BBQ & LITURGY

We warmly invite all dads, grandads, and father figures to join us for a BBQ Breakfast on Monday 8 September from 7:45am – 8:45am, followed by a beautiful school liturgy in celebration of Father’s Day.

The Father's Day Raffle will be drawn and winners announced during the BBQ.

Important: If you arrive before 8:15am, you will need to remain with and supervise your child, as playground supervision does not begin until 8:15am.

VOLUNTEERS REQUIRED

We are still seeking volunteers to help with our Father's Day Stall and BBQ. If you are able to lend a hand, please contact the school office or P&F on stmichaelspnf@gmail.com.

We are also seeking volunteers for the Soccer Gala Day canteen on Friday 5 September. If you can assist, even for an hour, please email stmichaelspnf@gmail.com

All proceeds from these events go directly back to our school to support resources and activities for our students.

Thank you once again to our generous sponsors and our school community for making these events possible. We look forward to celebrating together and wish all dads and father figures a very Happy Father’s Day!

STAY CONNECTED – FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Want to stay in the loop with everything 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

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.

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.

ASPIRE SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAM

 

MOANA JR THE MUSICAL

If you're looking for an activity for the October school holidays, Moana the Musical stage show will be performing from 8-11 October, featuring Zavarne Sater of Year 5, as well as St Michael's graduates, Jordan Sater and Keira Sater (starring as Moana)! The show involves performers from 5-18years of age.

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