MRC Newsletter - Issue 13 - 22 October 2025

Prayer

Principal's Message

Welcome to Term 4. It’s always a lively stretch in our Mercy year—our Car Raffle, St Vinnies Christmas Appeal collections, the buzz of our Year 12s finishing 13 years of schooling, and orientation for our incoming Year 7s—Year 8 and 9 Camps, plus a little more sunshine to lift the days. A community member asked me recently which Eastern Maar season we’re in—surely the windy one! After today (and the past few weeks), it certainly feels that way.

Senior Student Leadership 2026

Today we gathered for our Student Leadership Investiture—a wonderful recognition of the service and example of our 2025 Student Leadership Team and a celebration of our newly appointed 2026 team. Our outgoing Captains spoke to our community with pride, gratitude and hope for the future. We thank our College Captains Rose, Riley and Nellie and our leadership team  for their dedicated leadership this year. In a moving moment, the light was officially passed from 2025 to 2026, symbolising the continuity of leadership in our Mercy community. Families were warmly welcomed to share the occasion.

We congratulate our newly appointed Student College Leadership Team for 2026:

Senior Years and Final Days for Year 12s

This evening we formally acknowledge our Year 12 students as they conclude thirteen years of schooling—six of those, for many, with us at Mercy Regional College. We are incredibly proud of these young people and recognise this as a significant milestone for their parents, carers and families. Our gratitude also goes to their dedicated teachers, whose steady guidance and care have supported them every step of the way. Our Graduation Mass and Awards Evening will be held in Terang tonight, Wednesday 22 October. Year 12 Celebration Day and the final Year 12 assembly will take place tomorrow, Thursday 23 October. We wish every student sitting their VCE exams all the very best—their hard work is seen and valued—with English commencing on Tuesday 28 October. Our prayers and best wishes are with them all now and always.

Parish Name - A message from Fr George

Dear Parishioners of Timboon, Camperdown, and Hampden Parishes, 

Over recent months, our parish communities have been prayerfully reflecting on the ways we can continue to live and share our faith more vibrantly amid the changing realities of our region. After consultation and discernment with parish leaders, pastoral councils, and the Diocesan Office, it has been proposed that our three parishes — Timboon, Camperdown, and Hampden — be brought together to form one new parish family. 

This new parish would encompass seven faith communities: Lismore, Camperdown, Cobden, Timboon, Simpson, Mortlake, and Terang. Together, these communities share a deep history of faith, service, and commitment to the mission of the Church in our district. The aim of this formation is not merely administrative, but pastoral and missionary — to strengthen our unity, share our gifts and resources, and ensure that our Catholic presence continues to flourish in each of our towns and communities. 

We believe that, united in one parish, we can support one another more effectively in worship, outreach, and pastoral care. In the coming weeks, further opportunities will be offered for conversation, prayer, and input as we journey toward this new chapter together. Your voice, hopes, and suggestions are invaluable in shaping the character and direction of this new parish. As we take this important step, we would like to invite you to take part in choosing a name for our new parish. The name should reflect our shared faith, local identity, and the spirit of unity among our communities. It may be inspired by a saint, a biblical figure, or a title of Christ or Our Lady that expresses our common mission and values. Two different names to be proposed, one based on spirituality and the second local identity and the spirit of unity among our communities. Let us continue to entrust this process to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, that we may move forward with faith, hope, and love — as one body in Christ.Fr George Kuruvila

MRC Car Raffle

We congratulate Rebecca Couch who was the winner of our Early Bird draw today. We are always excited to commence our much anticipated Annual Car Raffle in our community. Our first prize this year is a MG ZS Excite (Demo) with 9 other amazing prizes on offer.

Families have received tickets to sell and the community can find us at many local events and gatherings. Tickets are also available online using the link below. I look forward to making the congratulatory calls on 2 December! We always greatly appreciate your support.

CAR RAFFLE TICKETS LINK: https://www.mercy.vic.edu.au/community/car-raffle/

MRC Central Australia Experience

In the first week of term, an intrepid group of Year 9–11 students and staff boarded an early-morning bus from Camperdown to Alice Springs. The journey gave everyone a rare, first-hand opportunity to lean into Australia’s history, culture, geography and ecology, with bonus lessons like how red dust finds its way into socks and everything you own. They travelled through Coober Pedy, Uluru, Kata Tjuta, Watarrka (Kings Canyon) and Alice Springs, coming home with new perspectives, stronger friendships, and memories to last a lifetime—plus a newfound respect for hats, water bottles, insect repellent and sunscreen. So much packed into 8 days. Thanks again to the staff who gave their time and to parents who facilitated both the early morning drop off and late night pick up!

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Year 8 and 9 Camps

Our Year 8s head to Anglesea today—bags (and coats) packed, spirits high. We’re wishing them, and the staff with them, a safe, memorable few days. Camps like this matter: a little more independence, resilience learned the fun way, friendships deepened, teamwork tested, learning that actually breathes outdoors—and the gift of time without devices so they can be fully present and free to be themselves. In two weeks our Year 9s are off on their Melbourne City Experience—safe travels to all, and bring back good stories. Thank you to the staff that give their time to ensure these experiences continue to take place.

Changes to Social Media Laws

As Australia’s new social media laws take effect on 10 December 2025, platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, X and Facebook must take reasonable steps to prevent under-16s from creating or keeping accounts—the onus sits with the platforms, not parents. These changes aim to reduce harm from early, unrestricted use and will be a big shift for many young people. They’ll need your support. A good place to start is a calm, empathetic chat at home: listen to your child, name what they’re feeling, and explain that the goal is their safety and wellbeing. More information is included later in this newsletter from AP Wellbeing, Emily Stephens.

⭐ Celebrating our Young Achievers! ⭐

⭐ Well done Lucia C. who will participate in the Premier's Women's Cricket Competition in Melbourne.

⭐ Congratulations to Ava C. who won the Warrnambool Hockey Competition Junior Sportsperson Award.

If you know of any students doing great things in the community, please let us know at office@mercy.vic.edu.au

With kindness,
Sharon Gillett - Principal

Deputy Principal's Message

Artificial Intelligence at MRC

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming part of everyday life, including in how we learn, teach, and communicate. At Mercy Regional College, we are working proactively to ensure that AI is used responsibly and in ways that reflect our core values of Respect, Community, Inclusiveness, and Excellence.

This term, we’ve established an AI Committee made up of dedicated teaching staff and ICT leaders. Together, they are leading the development of clear guidelines for the ethical and purposeful use of AI across the College.

Our goal is to support students and staff to use AI as a tool that enhances learning, not replaces it, and to ensure its use always promotes fairness, critical thinking, and transparency.

In the coming months, we’ll be providing further information for families, professional learning for staff, and guidance for students on how to use AI well. Together, we are building a whole-school approach that helps our community flourish in a digital age.

Patrick Seal - Deputy Principal

Learning at MRC

As I sit in my lounge to write this report I marvel at the beautiful pink blossoms on the tree just outside my window. Combine that with the hum of my neighbours lawn mower and I know that spring has arrived. The days are warmer and the air is so sweet.  It makes one feel alive and reinvigorated to take on the challenges of one of the schools busiest times of year, in the lead up to Christmas.

Planning and preparation are underway for the weeks between now and the Christmas break. Some of the learning items on the list include:

• Unit assessments
• Home learning
• Year 9 to 11 Exams
• Year 11 and 12 step up
• End of semester reports
• And so much more.

With so much happening it is important that students keep a close eye on their schedules to keep on top of due dates.  Now is a good time for students to review their home study planner to ensure that they have plenty of time to go outside to do the things they enjoy, whilst building in time for Home Learning. I encourage parents and carers to have a look at the Parent Access Module (PAM) to check the status of your child's assessment and class tasks.  Keeping on top of overdue work will reduce stress and allow students to focus on the current topic rather than having to catch up on tasks from the previous unit of work.

Later this term students in Year 9 to 11 will be completing exams.  This can be a stressful time for some students. It is important that we work together to build student confidence and resilience. If they are working to the best of their ability and are actively participating in all learning activities, they will be well prepared to complete the exams. Exam technique is a valuable skill which needs to be built over a number of years leading into VCE.  

As our Year 12 students prepare for their final exams and step out into the world beyond Mercy, they will have a new understanding and appreciation for what life is like beyond Mercy and how their years at Mercy have prepared them for the new adventures that they are embarking upon. 

I would like to congratulate our Year 12 class of 2025 and wish them all the best for their upcoming exams and life beyond Mercy. You are a wonderful group of young people who will go on to make a positive difference in the world and the lives of those around you.

Leanne Delahunty - Director of Learning & Teaching

SENIOR SCHOOL

Supporting Your Teen Through VCE

As a parent of a Year 12 Student, I can completely understand that the stress is not only on the student but also on those around them. We struggle to see our kids worrying, struggling with the workload load and questioning their ability in a subject or subjects. 

It can be tempting to reassure your teen with comments like “it’s only an exam” or “it’s just Year 12.” But for them, this might be the biggest challenge they’ve faced so far. Try not to downplay it; instead, let them know you understand that it feels like a big deal right now.

Sometimes the best thing you can do is simply listen. Teenagers often don’t want advice or stories about “how it was in your day.” They just need someone to hear them out. Let them vent, share their worries, and express their feelings without jumping in to fix things. A calm presence and a gentle “I love you” can mean more than any pep talk.

Eating well and getting enough sleep are both key to keeping their brain sharp. Good nutrition helps maintain energy and concentration, while adequate sleep allows the brain to store and process what they have learned. Late-night cramming might feel productive, but it can actually make it harder to remember things the next day. Encourage your teen to prioritise rest and to fuel their body with wholesome meals. It’s one of the best ways to support their study success.

Helping them plan ahead can also ease some stress. Sit down together and map out when their assessments and exams are. From there, work backwards to create a realistic study plan that feels achievable.

As the exams approach, it’s normal for teens to start doubting themselves. If you hear them saying things like “I’m going to fail” or “I can’t do this,” remind them how much effort they’ve already put in. Encourage them to be kind to themselves; they’re doing their best, and that’s what matters most.

When they do take a break, let it truly be a break. Avoid bringing up chores or homework; give them time to switch off and recharge.

And most importantly, remind them that this stressful time won’t last forever. Exams only go for a few weeks, and there’s a whole world waiting beyond VCE. Chat with them about what they’re looking forward to: holidays, friends, plans for next year. It helps to remember there’s an end in sight.

Melanie Kavanagh - Learning Leader Senior School

VET Hospitality Service

VET Hospitality students were busy serving up a delicious lunch for their peers yesterday afternoon

Service periods are an integral part of the VET Hospitality course, with students regularly participating in these hands-on assessments on the path to achieving their certificates.

Red Frogs Presentation

Red Frogs presented to our Year 12 Cohort on 10 October about the many services they offer.

The session helped empower students to make positive choices for themselves and their peers as they approach life after school.

Year 11 Girls Camp

Year 11 girls attended their camp in the last week of Term 2.

Similar to the boys a few weeks earlier, they experienced some great activities together including the P.A.R.T.Y Program at The Alfred Hospital, a Salvation Army tour, shared dinner and a walk through the CBD.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Ag Studies Excursion

In the final week of Term 3, our agriculture studies class ventured to the local Campadre Farms to look at egg production. Ash and Lucy Pyle have roughly 3000 egg layers and were keen to show our students how they raise the animals and run a successful Ag business. One of the big investigations for the excursion was to see relatively high animal production done on a small area of land. One of the first things we saw were the maremma dogs who protect the birds while they are outside exploring. Next we saw the packing room and spoke about egg collection and packing operations as well as how the deliveries work and where the eggs end up.
Students enjoyed inspecting the transportable "chicken tractors" that are moved every couple of weeks around the paddocks. We looked at some of the different designs of the chicken tractors and the changes they had made over the years; the changes maximise production for them as farmers but also to ensure the birds' needs were met in the changing seasons. Thanks to Ash and Lucy for having us and showing us their vibrant and fascinating farm. 

Middle School Oratory Competition

The Middle School Oratory Competition on Monday was a resounding success, with Kiara L., Elle M., Lucia C., Tilda M., Maisie P. and Amelia P.  presenting some very polished speeches.

We congratulate the 2025 Winner Amelia P. who presented on the topic ‘The most important lessons in life are not learned at school’ and Highly Commended Kiara L. who spoke on ‘History has it eyes on us’

Thank you to our judges, Jo Beard, Virginia Proud and Craig McFarlane for taking the time to share their knowledge with participants. We also thank Ms Gilchrist for her organisation and the many students, parents and friends who attended!

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Year 7 and 8 students participated in the annual McAuley Cup and Shield with Damascus College on Thursday 18 September at the Noorat Recreation Reserve

Congratulations to the strong Damascus teams who took home both the Cup and the Shield.

Well done to everyone on a great day of friendly competition, which strengthens our ties as schools in the Mercy tradition!

AP - O'Keeffe Campus

The Joys of Term 4 – Camp, Faith and Leadership

There’s something special about Term Four — a lively mix of excitement, reflection, and celebration as we head towards the end of another school year. For our Year 8 students, this time of year is especially meaningful, filled with opportunities to connect, grow and lead.

Year 8 Camp
One of the highlights of the term is the Year 8 Camp. Students are looking forward to a few days away filled with adventure, teamwork, and friendship. Camp is always a wonderful chance to step outside the classroom, challenge ourselves, and strengthen the bonds that make our school community so special. It’s often the memories made at camp that stay with us long after the term ends.

Year 7 Faith Day – This Friday
This Friday, our Year 7 students will gather for their final Faith Day of the year — a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate their spiritual growth throughout 2025. Faith Days are an important part of our College life, reminding students of the Mercy values that guide all we do: community, respect, inclusiveness, and excellence.

Sports and Leadership
With cricket and basketball seasons in full swing, students have been displaying great enthusiasm and teamwork. The courts and ovals are alive with energy, friendly competition, and plenty of encouragement from peers and staff alike.

Meanwhile, leadership applications are open, giving students the opportunity to step up and make a positive impact on the school community. We’re already seeing some inspiring displays of initiative and service from those hoping to take on leadership roles in 2026.

As we move through this busy and joyful term, let’s take time to celebrate these moments — of courage, faith, friendship, and fun — that make Term 4 such a highlight of the year.

Stephanie Rose-Goodhall - Assistant Principal - O'Keeffe Campus

AP - Wellbeing and Engagement

As new social media laws come into effect for children under 16 on 10 December I’d like to use this platform to help families understand the changes and offer resources to help with this change.  

These changes aim to protect young people from the pressures and risks of early social media use, however, they may also raise questions at home.

Take time to listen to your child’s perspective, review current apps together, and explore safe, balanced ways to stay connected. Setting clear boundaries and modelling healthy tech habits can help your child build confidence and resilience online. 

I have attached a ‘quick fact sheet’ which helps summarise the changes. 

New National Campaign: “For the Good of Their Wellbeing”

A new national campaign, For the Good of Their Wellbeing, was launched on 19 October 2025 to raise awareness about Australia’s new Social Media Minimum Age Law.

From 10 December 2025, young people must be 16 years or older to create or maintain a social media account.

The changes aim to protect under-16s from the pressures and risks they may face while using social media. Many of these risks come from design features built into platforms that:

• Encourage excessive screen time through constant notifications, alerts, and disappearing content.
  
  
• Increase exposure to negative, upsetting, or manipulative content promoted by algorithms.
  
  

These features have been linked to harms to health and wellbeing, including increased stress, reduced sleep, and lower concentration levels.

Of course, these are not the only risks. Young people can also be exposed to cyberbullying, requests for explicit images, and inappropriate or violent material.

The new age restriction is intended as a delay, not a ban. Parents and carers can say “not yet” to social media, knowing that other under-16s will also be prevented from creating or maintaining accounts—meaning their child won’t be missing out.

This delay offers valuable time to have open conversations about online safety and wellbeing, helping young people build the digital, social, and emotional skills they’ll need when they turn 16. It provides breathing space to prepare them for the responsibilities and pressures that come with social media use, and to encourage reaching out for help if things go wrong.

To help guide these important conversations, eSafety has developed practical tips for parents and carers and factual information about the change for families and young people. 

https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/industry-regulation/social-media-age-restrictions-hub

https://www.esafety.gov.au/ 

FREE webinars available through e-safety website:

https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/industry-regulation/social-media-age-restrictions/webinars

RUOK? Day

Both campuses were a hive of activity as we acknowledged RUOK? Day last term - a national initiative that reminds us of the importance of starting meaningful conversations and checking in on those around us.

The day has included activities from Headspace representatives at our O’Keeffe campus, photo booths, headbands, RUOK shaped shortbread cookies and a lunch for staff provided by our Hospitality students.

To further support this important message, SchoolTV on our website has a special report on RUOK? Day, which can be accessed here: https://mercy.vic.schooltv.me/.../special-report-r-u-ok-day?

RUOK? Day is a valuable reminder that a small conversation can make a big difference. Thank you to all staff, students, and visitors who contributed to making the day so meaningful

Emily Stephens - Assistant Principal - Wellbeing & Engagement

Useful Wellbeing Links:

Faith at MRC

Mercy Works Fundraising 

Our Mercy Works Fundraising in Term 3 raised a lovely $708 that will contribute to the developmental arm of the Sisters of Mercy Australia. This was achieved through a raffle at each campus and the selling of Chicken Burgers on the final day of Term 3. 

The winners of our raffles were: 

Cooper M. - Sweets hamper 

Oscar P. - Gorge chocolates

Grace H. - The Shed voucher

Harper D. - The Shed voucher

Dan Glennen - Chocolate snackle box 

Maisie M. - Sweet snackle box

Rose Henry - Canteen voucher

Kellie Wilson - Canteen voucher 

Our Lady of Mercy Mass

Our Lady of Mercy Mass at the end of last term was a wonderful celebration of our Mercy heritage. The Mass was hosted by Frayne house. Their connection to the Mercy Tradition via their namesake, Ursula Frayne, is a core part of the theme for this Mass. The Mass was celebrated by Father George. After the Mass students celebrated the day and end of term with Chicken burgers and games in the stadium. 

Leadership Investiture & Year 12 Grad Mass - Tonight 

Today the new leadership team was invested into their roles for the 2026 year. The leadership investiture took place in St Patrick’s Church. The importance of holding the investiture in the church illuminates the importance we place on the leadership that Jesus, the disciples, and our leaders in the Mercy tradition have shown us and we wish to emulate. 

Our Year 12s of 2025 will be celebrated tonight at their Graduation Mass at St Thomas’ Church in Terang. A lovely celebration for the year 12s, their families and their teachers. The Mass will begin at 7pm and be followed by an awards ceremony. 

All Saints Day - and Halloween 

I often hear that Halloween is an American tradition and that it is un-Christian—but in fact, its roots are deeply connected to our Christian story. The word Halloween comes from “All Hallows’ Eve,” which means the evening before All Hallows’ Day—better known as All Saints’ Day. This feast day, celebrated on November 1, honours all the saints who have lived holy lives, both known and unknown. In centuries past, Christians would gather on the night before to pray and remember loved ones who had died, lighting candles as symbols of hope and eternal life. 

Over time, these sacred customs merged with older harvest and folk traditions, especially in Ireland and Scotland, and later travelled across the world—eventually becoming the Halloween we know today. While modern celebrations often focus on costumes and fun, the heart of this season still points to something much deeper: remembering the saints, praying for the departed, and celebrating the triumph of light over darkness. Regardless of whether it’s something you personally participate in or value, as Halloween continues to grow in popularity, it’s worth remembering that its origins are not as far removed from faith as they might first appear. 

Upcoming:

• Year 7 Faith Day - Friday 24th October 
• Junior Seeds of Justice Conference - Thursday 30th October 
• Remembrance Day - Tuesday 11th November

Melanie Bourchier - Director of Catholic Identity & Culture

Sports Report

GWR Athletics

On Thursday 9th October students who qualified for GWR Athletics travelled to Ballarat

In tough conditions our students performed really well with a number of top 3 finishes across both track and field events.Fantastic work Archie C. who won the high jump and Indiana C. who won the 200m, allowing them to qualify for the State Finals later in the year.

Our relay teams competed well although none were able to win through to the State level.

Well done to the many students who participated and congratulations to those who achieved a result in the top 3:

Indiana C. 2nd Long Jump, 3rd 100m, 1st 200m
Tayla B. 3rd Long Jump, 2nd Triple Jump
Harrison G. 3rd Shot Put, 3rd Discus
Aidan C. 3rd 100m, 3rd Triple Jump, 2nd Long Jump
Archie C. 1st High Jump
Sarah B. 3rd High Jump
Nate S. 3rd 200mArlo H. 3rd Discus
Lucia C. 2nd 400m
Oliver C. 3rd 1500m

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GWR Cricket

Last Wednesday, two cricket teams competed in the GWR Competition. Both teams were very competitive against the other schools. 

The boys team were beaten by a strong Emmanuel College team and essentially knocked out of the competition. The team had a lot of Year 9 students who will be able to play next year so we look forward to another competitive effort. Good batting performances on the day were from George S., Paddy H., Arlo H. and Jonty R.. Max R. and Lenny W. both performed well with the ball. 

Our girls team, also beaten by Emmanuel College, played very consistently over their three games. The quality of cricket was excellent and with most of the team playing locally it will not be long before one our teams progress to the State level.

Victorian Regional Academy of Sports Tournament 

The Victorian Regional Academy of Sports Tournament was held recently, providing development opportunities for regional netballers

MRC students Isabella W., Tyra S., Olive W. and McKenzie D. headed to Melbourne to participate, with one team winning three games and the other winning two. It was a great experience for our young athletes and we congratulate them on their efforts!

BAS Netball Grand Final

Winners! Congratulations to our BAS netballers on winning the BAS 2nd Netball Grand Final on 10 September

It was an outstanding effort and a great game against Ballarat Grammar, with many from our Mercy community on the sidelines supporting our team!

Final score: 41 to 27

We thank Ms Gillett for her coaching expertise and the many staff who made this year’s BAS season possible.

College Notices

Fees and Charges Now Due

Dear Parents, please be reminded that all fees and charges for the college are now due and payable. The College will assess all accounts over the coming weeks and make contact with families with outstanding balances.

(Please note that if you have a payment agreement with the College Business Manager, this message does not apply to you.)

If you are having trouble meeting your financial obligations to the College, please contact our Business Manager through email bm@mercy.vic.edu.au or call Nicole at the College to arrange an appointment to meet with the Business Manager.

New Track Pants now available

New straight leg track pants have arrived at the Uniform Shop and can also be ordered via the MRC online Uniform Shop site.

Price is $47.50

Thunderstorm asthma – be prepared this pollen season

Grass pollen season, which typically runs from October to December each year in Victoria, brings an increase in asthma and hay fever symptoms. It also increases the risk of thunderstorm asthma. For people with asthma or hay fever, especially those who experience wheezing or coughing with their hay fever, thunderstorm asthma can be sudden, serious and even life threatening.
MRC will implement a range of measures to keep our school community safe as the risk of thunderstorm asthma increases.
Many of our staff are trained in asthma first aid. We will monitor the VicEmergency app to receive thunderstorm warnings and, where appropriate, keep students indoors when weather forecasts identify greater risk.
During the season, there are some things you can do to prepare and protect yourself and your family:

• If your child has ever had asthma, talk to your doctor about what you can do to help protect them from the risk of thunderstorm asthma this pollen season, including updating your asthma action plan. Taking an asthma preventer properly and regularly is key to preventing asthma, including thunderstorm asthma.
  
• If your child has hay fever, see your pharmacist or doctor for a hay fever treatment plan and check if you should have an asthma reliever puffer. These are available from a pharmacy without a prescription.
  
• If your child has hay fever and experiences wheezing and coughing, it is important to make sure they don’t also have asthma. Speak to your doctor about an asthma action plan.
  
• Where possible, avoid being outside during thunderstorms from October to
  December, especially during the wind gusts that come before the storm. Go inside and close your doors and windows. If you have your air conditioning on, turn it to 'recirculate’.
  

Protect yourself this pollen season – managing asthma and allergies matters.
Find out more
For more information, speak to your doctor. You can also refer to the Better Health Channel website.

2026 Enrolments

The link to the 2026 enrolment form can be found on our website https://www.mercy.vic.edu.au/join-our-college/enrolment-information/ 

2026 Year 8 - 12 Enrolments are most welcome.

If you require any further assistance completing the form please do not hesitate to contact our Registrar Nicole Darcy on 5593 2011 or office@mercy.vic.edu.au

Careers

Please see the latest editions of Careers News below.

Neil Porter Legacy Newsletter:

Useful Careers Links:

Kym Penry - Careers and Pathways Leader

Child Safety

Mercy Regional College is a child-safe community.

Child Safety Officers:

Contact them by email or on:
Phone - 55932011 (McAuley Campus) or 55925353 (O’Keeffe Campus)

College Notices

MRC will be moving from Spriggy to CDF pay for canteen operations. This will commence in Term 1 2026 and we ask parents to use their Spriggy funds by the end of the year.

Upcoming Dates and Events

Thursday 23 October
Year 8 Camp
Year 12 Last Day & Assembly

Friday 24 October
Year 8 Camp
Year 7 Faith Day

Monday 27 October
Middle School Clay Target Comp

Tuesday 28 October
VCE Exams Commence
GWR Junior Cricket

Thursday 30 October
SEEDS Junior Conference

Friday 31 October
World Teachers' Day

Monday 3 November
Student Free Day - Staff PL

Tuesday 4 November
Student Free Day - Melbourne Cup Public Holiday

Wednesday 5 November
Year 9 Camp

Thursday 6 November
GWR Junior Basketball
Year 9 Camp

Friday 7 November
Year 9 Camp

Monday 10 November
Unit 2 Exams
Year 7 2026 - Parent/Student Information Session

LATER IN THE YEAR:

Tuesday 2 December
Year 11 Last Day
Mass of Thanksgiving & Y7-11 Awards
Car Raffle Drawn

Friday 5 December
Year 7-11 Last Day

Tuesday 9 December
Year 7 2026 Orientation Day

Community Notices

Do girls game? Yes, they do!

We’re excited to welcome Jess Rowlings from Next Level Collaboration, presenting “Supporting Girls and Women to Feel Safe When Playing Online.” Jess will share insights into the unique challenges faced by girls and women in online gaming spaces, and offer practical strategies to help create safer, more inclusive environments for everyone. A/P Matt Harrison will join us for the Q&A session.

#VPCLive Webinar: Supporting Girls and Women to Feel Safe Online
Date: Thursday, 23 October 2025
Time: 7:30 PM AEDT
Register here 

Our second #VPCLive this term features returning guest

Evelyn M Field OAM, FAPS, presenting “Why Social Smarts Matter for Every Child.”
Evelyn is a psychologist, bestselling author, and internationally recognised expert on school and workplace bullying.

#VPCLive: Why Social Smarts Matter for Every Child
Date: Thursday, 6 November 2025
Time: 7:30 PM AEDT
Register here