This Friday 20 September, students across the world are encouraged to take action to entice their politicians to be more proactive in combating climate change. You will have read or heard about the school strike that has been planned for Sydney on this day. In fact, there are 4,638 actions across 139 countries. This is not a strike about a local or whimsical issue. It is about an issue of significant impact and a concern for the entire world.

The whole notion of striking to draw attention to climate change was originally created by an exceptional teenager, Greta Thurnberg. Greta began her political action in her homeland of Sweden and her message and action have travelled across the globe. Whilst we all are responsible for our own efforts to reduce our greenhouse emissions, there is an urgent need for politicians in power and with influence to enforce the necessary legislation and action to tackle the problem. The appetite to action continues to be a challenge in our political arena. For example, one of our own politicians, Craig Kelly, a Liberal backbencher, claims there is no link between climate change and the drought NSW is currently facing. In fact, he believes it is all a lie.  The science on climate change, caused by human action is compelling. It must be very difficult for the Morrison Government, who has accepted the evidence, to bring about significant change when members within their own party continue to deny the situation.

As a Good Samaritan College steeped in Benedictine tradition, reverencing the Earth is an essential part of our charism. Sr Veronica McDougall wrote in The Good Oil of September 2019 that “at the heart of these global crises is the fate of the whole of God’s creation, including humanity- those given the responsibility to care for and steward the Earth.”

At the recent Pacific Island Forum, many leaders of Pacific Island Nations had hoped for a strong statement and commitment to the end of coal fired power. Regrettably, this never eventuated and our Prime Minister said he couldn’t as he was “accountable to the Australian people”.

It thereby becomes important that our politicians hear the message loud and clear that the Australian people are very concerned about climate change and are ready for some stronger action. Our girls will not be going on strike this Friday but they will be hosting events on the College top oval to draw attention to the need to protect the environment. There will be an opportunity for students to sign for action. This document will be sent to our parliamentary members as evidence of our stand for action against climate change. Sadly, if there is no change in our current activities, the world of our children’s children will be a very different world to the one we have the privilege to live in now.

As this will be the last edition of the Inside Out for this term, I wish you a good break and restful holiday with your daughter. I wish the Year 12 students the very best as they finish their final preparations for the HSC and we will continue to support and assist them through this period.

I will finish with a reflection from Pope Francis:

“We must never forget that the natural environment is a collective good, the patrimony of all humanity and the responsibility of everyone”.

Blessings

Sue Lennox - Principal 

Luke presents Mary as the one who is obedient—she listens and responds positively. Her unequivocal “Yes” to Angel Gabriel at the Annunciation marked the start of a lifetime of trust and hope. Luke also portrays Mary as one who ponders the mystery of God: “Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart.” Luke sees Mary as one who is reflective and prayerful. 

One of Mary’s titles is Mother of God. Mary is the model of motherhood. She nurtured Jesus, she witnessed his miracles, she pondered his preaching, she lived out his values, she walked beside him to Calvary, she embraced Jesus’s lifeless body.

John’s Gospel portrays Mary as the “go-to” person. At the wedding feast at Cana, it is Mary who draws people’s attention to Jesus, encouraging them to “Do whatever he tells you.” This phrase captures the nature of Mary’s discipleship—she does the will of God. It is also John’s Gospel which has Mary at the foot of the Cross of Jesus. It is within that setting that Jesus gifts his mother to the Church (and indeed to all humankind): “When Jesus, therefore, saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, ‘Woman, behold your son!’ Then He said to the disciple, ‘Behold your mother!’ And from that hour that disciple took her to his own home.”

The Magnificat, taken from Luke’s Gospel (1:46-55), is Mary’s hymn of praise to the Lord. It is also known as the Canticle of Mary in the Liturgy of the Hours, a special collection of scripture readings, psalms, and hymns that constitute what is known as the prayer of the church. 

Mary’s Song of Praise [The Magnificat]

And Mary said,

‘My soul magnifies the Lord,
     and my spirit rejoices in God my Saviour,
 for he has looked with favour on the lowliness of his servant.
    Surely, from now on all generations will call me blessed;
 for the Mighty One has done great things for me,
    and holy is his name.
 His mercy is for those who fear him
    from generation to generation.
 He has shown strength with his arm;
    he has scattered the proud in the thoughts of their hearts.
 He has brought down the powerful from their thrones,
    and lifted up the lowly;
 he has filled the hungry with good things,
    and sent the rich away empty.
 He has helped his servant Israel,
    in remembrance of his mercy,
 according to the promise he made to our ancestors,
    to Abraham and to his descendants forever.’

Louise East - Acting Religious Studies Coordinator

Representing St Patrick’s College were Year 12 students Abby M and Reagan B, Year 11 student Stephanie N, and Year 10 student Angelina S. This gathering allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of social justice issues through interactive activities and speakers. It was also an opportunity to discuss what it means for young people to work towards a more just and compassionate society. Special recognition was also given to selected students and teachers, acknowledged for their commitment to supporting and fostering the Vinnies presence and ethos in their schools. Abby M, Jessica S, and Reagan B each received an award for their contributions to the St Patrick’s Social Justice Council and for its role in pursuing social justice issues and initiatives. Also on the day there was a bit of extra fun with an ‘Op Shop Challenge’, which saw a keen bunch of students visit their local Op Shop in the lead up to the event and showcase their stylish or funny finds on the day. Angelina S was presented the “Most Stylish” Award for her efforts at Op Shop chic.

Angelo Gattone - Mission Coordinator

The aim of this day is to immerse students in different aspects of the Japanese culture. The activities on the day included Taiko drumming, Hachimaki headband making, Sumo wrestling in padded sumo suits and Obento Japanese Lunch Box challenge. 

All students had a fantastic time and seemed to really enjoy the activities of the day. 

A special thanks goes to ex-students Faith Irwin and Rachel Jacinto who have continued their studies of Japanese at university after graduating from St Patrick's College. Both Faith and Rachel presented the Hachimaki session with the girls designing headbands with different kanji characters. Also, I would like to express my gratitude to Mrs Tannous for her help during the day in the kitchen preparing all the food needed for the Obento challenge.

Julian Nash - LOTE Coordinator, Japanese Language Teacher

Over the three rotations, students had the opportunity to learn about the importance of physical activity in maintaining health, and participated in boxing, interval training, stretching and cardio. Another important aspect of the group activities was understanding how to ‘unwind’ to ensure a positive mental health. Students were able to engage in mindfulness activities, which included participating in meditation and mindful artwork activities. The girls even had the chance to participate in a Bollywood dancing activity which was an absolute hit!

The last rotation activity had a focus on the importance of breakfast and providing fuel for young, growing bodies and minds. The students not only learned about what types of foods work best for them in the morning, but also competed in a ‘healthy eating’ breakfast bowl competition. The students designed their own ‘full of fuel’ breakfast which highlighted how easily and accessible making a solid breakfast can be! The Year 9 cohort were amazing throughout these rotations and have developed skills that will help them continue growing into positive, strong, successful adults in the years to come.

A big thank you to Mr Ashcroft, Mrs Nash, Mrs Sharma, Mrs Pulham and Mr Muller for helping make these rotation activities so successful for the girls.

Jared Baca - Year 9 Coordinator

The students competed against 25 other students studying Japanese from around the state. The girls had a choice of presenting a one minute speech on the topics of "the most important thing/person in my life" or "a letter to my future self in 2029". The girls did a fantastic job and did their families and school proud. Although the students did not win, it was a fantastic experience to use the Japanese they have learnt over the past year and a half.

I would like to express my gratitude to the parents and caregivers who attended the day to support the girls.

Julian Nash - LOTE Coordinator, Japanese Language Teacher

The students performed three items: "Jailhouse Rock", "African Marching Song" and "Don't Stop Me Now". The Adjudicator commented on the way the ensemble blended well and worked together as a team. He felt the highlight was "African Marching Song" with its strong beat and features throughout the ensemble. 

Well done to all of the Band and we look forward to hearing them all at the next Assembly. 

Elizabeth Samyia - CAPA Teacher

This round's scenario saw four tenants living in an apartment complex struggling to cope with living with each other. Jadyn and Marissa were two nature loving gardeners whose rooster (who they called Ronnie) was waking everyone up at the crack of dawn each morning. Chantelle and Jessica played two car loving enthusiasts who loved nothing more than to work on restoring their prized Mustang until late into the evening.

Needless to say, conflict between the two parties took place and with the help of our two experienced mediators, Chantelle D and Cordelia, they were able to come to some amicable resolutions. Ronnie the Rooster was saved from becoming chicken soup and is currently living happily on a farm.

We wish you well in the Semi-Finals!

Jason Muller - Mock Mediation Coordinator

Entering the program required commitment, dedication, and an interest in improving myself by helping out the wider community, all of which I was excited and ready for. The first three months was spent working on self improvement and a certain aspect of our lives or ‘Maximiser’ we each wanted to improve. I decided to improve. As part of the program, we are each given trained community coaches to mentor us through the next five months. My beautiful coach was Jess Satara, an ex St Pat's student who helped me achieve personal significance by improving my studies and attending more co curricular activities to broaden my horizons. The last two months of the program were spent creating a community service project. Having a strong passion for wellbeing and women’s rights, I decided to create the “I-Care Project”. The I-Care Project was a donation drive held within the school to create care packs of beauty items to donate to victims of domestic violence and homelessness at WILMA (our local women’s centre). The objective of this was to create a feeling of importance and worth in the lives of women who have so little. Over the course of a month, we were able to create 25 care packages from the donations by the girls of the College, as well as donations from AMR Hair & Beauty and Nectar Day Spa. The successful campaign created for a wonderful showcase last Tuesday at the Cube, where I, along with other students of the program, was able to showcase our work over the past 5 months. Max Potential was a wonderful opportunity which truly inspired in me a sense of achievement, new abilities, and a motivation to continue helping those in need in our local community. 

Year 7/8 Netball

An outstanding season for our Year 7/8 Netball team going through the season undefeated. The girls were strong in all positions and developed some excellent combinations. The girls cruised through their semi-final game which placed them in first position going into the Grand Final against a very strong Mt Carmel team. In what turned out to be a very close game that saw the lead swap on multiple occasions, the St Pat's girls came out on top to take the game 16-12, making them MISA East Champions. The team consisted of Krisa K, Amy Y, Eden G, Hannah Y, Mia F, Lucy G, Ilori P, Amelia M, Charlie C and Monique G. Coach Ms Wallin.

Year 7/8/9 Soccer

It was a reasonably successful year for the Year 7/8/9 soccer team which culminated in the team finishing in third place overall. Unfortunately, a couple of close losses throughout the season, including a last minute goal in the semi-final that prevented them from going through to the final, saw the girls play off for third place against John Therry. The girls showed their class in the final game of the season which involved a 4-0 win. The team consisted of Siena B, Lilian M, Logan L, Ashalea W, Emily R, Olivia H, Stevie F, Sophie A, Lily M, Amy M, Charlotte T, Alannah A, Jessica J, Sianna F, Tayissa M, Mia C, Grace M, Isabella W and Brooklyn S. Coach Mr East.

Year 9/10 Netball

The Year 9/10 Netball team had a fantastic season which saw them finish in equal first place with two other teams but were relegated to 3^rd place based on for and against. This result put the girls up against Magdalene in the Grand Final qualifier which unfortunately they lost in a close game. This then left the girls to play off against Mt Carmel for third place, which they won convincingly. A great season for the girls whose effort, dedication and commitment were outstanding. The team consisted of Bianca R, Katarina S, Sophia E, Elisha L, Lucy O, Olivia S, Charlotte F, Grace K, Amala A and Carrera K. Coach Mrs Nash

Year 10/11/12 AFL

In what proved to be a difficult season for the girls with injury, calendar clashes and HSC exams impacting on the availability of players, the girls showed true grit and determination to finish in third place overall. This result was made even more remarkable considering the girls played every game short of players and only just missed out on playing in the Grand Final. It was also a sad occasion that saw three of our most valuable servants to the College playing their final MISA game ever. Thank you Amy S, Natalie S and Julia P for your outstanding service to College over the last six years. Your involvement, passion and enthusiasm will be missed. The team consisted of Rahni W, Piper A, Sophie S, Ruby D, Chantel S, Alysha B, Tara B, Loretta T, Amy S, Natalie S, Paris H, Julia P and Laura D. Mrs Arena.

Year 10/11/12 Softball

A good season overall for a group of girls with limited softball experience. The girls were able to come together and post a number of very good wins throughout the season but found competing with the top team a real challenge. The girls tried hard all season and finished in third place overall. The team consisted of Rachael T, Minduli T, Brooke K, Amelia M, Amadee T, Ellie F, Hannah P, Jessica N, Kitiana M, Mackenzie L, Zoe D, Emilee O, Lauren W, Rachael W and Chantelle D. Coach Mrs Lawrence.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

After winning a hard fought match against Mt Carmel to be named MISA East Champions, the girls then were given the privilege of representing the East Zone at the Interzone finals against Wollondilly Anglican College (MISA West Champions) and Thomas Hassall Anglican (MISA North Champions). In what turned out to be a challenging first game for the girls, they were fortunate enough to come away with a 14 point victory over Wollondilly 38-24. This result placed the girls in a great position going in against Thomas Hassall in the final game of the tri-series. The girls were able to easily account for Thomas Hassall, winning comfortably 49-14. The two wins saw the girls finish in first place overall and be named overall champions. The team consisted of Krisa K, Amy Y, Eden G, Hannah Y, Mia F, Lucy G, Ilori P, Amelia M, Charlie C and Monique G. Coach Ms Wallin.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

Siena B from Year 7 has been selected as goal keeper for the U12s team, while Grace M and Sophie A from Year 8 have been selected for the U14s team. Grace has been selected as goal keeper, while Sophie has been selected as a field player.

This tournament is an essential pathway for Football NSW to recognise and select talented players for State Team selection.

We would like to wish the girls all the best for the upcoming tournament.

Scott Ashcroft - Sports and Activities Coordinator

When: Saturday 19th October 2019

Time: 9am-3pm

Address: At the School Grounds cnr of Emerald and Aquamarine Drives, Eagle Vale

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