Edition One
21 February 2025

Mary MacKillop College acknowledges the Kaurna people, Traditional Custodians of the land on which we live, work and study. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Loving God,
As we begin this new school year, we come before You with open hearts and minds, ready to embrace the journey ahead. We know that challenges will come, but in them, we see opportunities to grow in wisdom, faith and compassion.

Inspired by the life of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, who faced challenges with courage and trust in Your divine plan, may we too face our challenges with perseverance and grace.

Bless our school community—our students, teachers and families. Strengthen us to support one another, to uplift the marginalised, and to walk together in faith. Fill our hearts with the same resilience and compassion that guided St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, so that through challenge, we may truly flourish.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

A ‘Flourishing’ Start to 2025!

The year has begun with great energy and enthusiasm, setting the tone for a vibrant and purposeful year ahead at our College. With students and staff returning refreshed and ready to engage in the opportunities before them, we have already celebrated key moments that reflect our values and aspirations as a community.

Each year, our College embraces a theme that inspires and guides us. For 2025, our theme is Through Challenge We Flourish. This theme acknowledges that growth often comes through perseverance and stepping beyond our comfort zones. Whether in learning, leadership or faith, challenges are not obstacles but opportunities to strengthen our character, deepen our understanding and prepare us for the future. Inspired by the example of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, we encourage our students and staff to embrace challenges with courage, knowing that through them, we truly flourish.

One of the highlights of the start of the year was our High Achievers’ Ceremony, where we recognised the outstanding efforts of our Class of 2024. It was a privilege to welcome back our highest achievers and celebrate their success alongside their families and teachers who supported them throughout their journey. Their accomplishments remind us that hard work, resilience and the support of a nurturing community can unlock great potential. We particularly acknowledge our 2024 College Dux, Caitlyn Grech, who topped the state as one of only three students to achieve four SACE subject merits. As our current students look ahead to their own aspirations, the stories of our recent graduates serve as encouragement to approach their studies with commitment and confidence.

Another significant moment in our calendar was the Whole School Beginning of Year Mass, held at St Ignatius Church. Coming together in prayer and reflection at the start of the school year is always a special occasion, reaffirming our shared Josephite mission and values. As a faith-filled community, we are also mindful of the approaching season of Lent, which begins on Ash Wednesday, 5 March. This sacred time invites us to reflect, renew and prepare our hearts for Easter, drawing us closer to the Jesus story and inspiring us to live with greater compassion and purpose.

As we settle into Term 1, I look forward to witnessing the many ways our students and staff bring our College theme to life—whether in the classroom, in co-curricular activities or through their interactions with one another. May 2025 be a year of growth, discovery and shared success for our entire Mary MacKillop College community.

Go well and God bless.

Sonia Nelson
Principal

Leadership Camp: Building the Future of Student Leadership

At Mary MacKillop College, we are committed to developing strong, capable and confident young women who have the Courage to Lead and the passion to serve their community. On the weekend after our Swimming Carnival, our 2025 Student Leadership Team embraced this challenge by participating in an enriching and reflective Leadership Camp at West Beach. This experience provided them with the opportunity to set strategic goals, develop their leadership skills and strengthen their sense of unity as a team.

Braving the summer heat, our dedicated student leaders spent their Sunday afternoon crafting a strategic vision for their leadership year. Taking respite from the warmth, they enjoyed a reflective beach walk after gathering at the West Beach Life Saving Club for dinner. As they watched the sun set over the ocean, each student took time to contemplate the unique gifts and talents they bring to our College community. In this moment of shared reflection, they articulated a shared vision and formulated a leadership creed that will guide them throughout 2025.

Monday’s program was a dynamic and engaging day of workshops focused on enhancing leadership skills and setting a strong foundation for the year ahead. The students explored different leadership styles, refined their public speaking techniques and developed actionable SMART goals to drive their initiatives. Through collaborative discussions and hands-on activities, they deepened their understanding of what it means to lead with purpose and integrity.

The 2025 Student Leadership Team is well-prepared to embrace the College’s theme for the year, Through Challenge We Flourish. The camp not only strengthened their leadership capabilities but also reinforced their commitment to serving our community In All Things, Love. Their enthusiasm, dedication and vision for the future reflect the Josephite tradition of leading with faith, compassion and a heart for justice.

We commend these young leaders for their commitment to making a meaningful impact at the College and we look forward to seeing our 2025 leaders in action.

Jasmin Eckert
Deputy Principal

Speech delivered at the High Achievers Ceremony by our 2024 College Dux, Caitlyn Grech

Good morning, College Principal Sonia Nelson, Sisters of Saint Joseph, special guests, staff, students, families and friends. It is an incredible honour to stand before you all today as the College Dux of 2024 to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Mary MacKillop College.

I feel especially honoured to be named as Dux among such a hardworking and talented cohort and I would first like to extend my congratulations to the Class of 2024. Year 12 presented many challenges, yet we navigated them with resilience and determination, uplifting and supporting one another along the way. Each of you should take immense pride in your well-earned achievements, which are a testament to your hard work and perseverance.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many teachers and staff I have encountered throughout my journey at the College. You have inspired me, uplifted me, motivated me and provided unwavering support. By doing so, I have not only been equipped with the skills to succeed academically but have also been taught resilience and confidence that I will carry into the next chapter of my life.

I am especially grateful to my Year 12 subject teachers for their generous support and tireless dedication. To Ms Del Corso, for her ability to remain endlessly compassionate while going to all ends to see her students do their best. To Dr Finch, for her steadfast commitment to supporting her students and equipping them with all the skills to succeed. To Mrs Spizzo, for her unwavering willingness to re-explain difficult concepts over and over again, and for her incredible patience with my many frustrations and complaints. To Ms Duffy, for always encouraging my creativity and pushing me to reach my full potential. To Ms Stewart, for fostering an engaging and inspiring classroom environment. And to Mrs Morris, for guiding us through the meticulous and often headache-provoking Research Project with so much patience and understanding.

Every one of you played a vital role in shaping my Year 12 experience. Your patience, dedication, and support have not gone unnoticed – and I truly appreciate everything you have done for me.

Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to my family for their support throughout the year. From attentively listening to me read every assignment aloud, to enduring my in-depth lessons on every single Chem and Bio topic, you have supported me every step of the way. Thank you for celebrating my every achievement, no matter how big or small. I could not be more grateful for your love and support.

Year 12 is undoubtedly tiring and demanding, with relentless assignments, late-night study sessions, and the constant pressure of knowing that every task counts. I started the year feeling overwhelmed and fearful of what was to come. However, I soon realised that while Year 12 is challenging, it is entirely manageable – and, more importantly, an incredibly rewarding and memorable experience. So, based on what I have learned this year, I would like to share three pieces of advice to guide you through your high school journey.

First, find what motivates you. There will be days where you do not feel like studying, when stress takes over, and your workload piles up. In those moments, having a reason to keep going makes all the difference – whether this be a future career, personal goals, or genuine interest in your subjects. For me, choosing subjects and assignment topics that genuinely interested me kept me engaged and made Year 12 not just manageable, but enjoyable.

My second piece of advice is to find balance and stay consistent. Going into Year 12 I was prepared to put everything aside for studying, but I quickly realised that being available for other aspects of my life – like playing sport, working part time, and spending time with family and friends – were essential. Success in anything, whether academic or not, is not about working yourself to exhaustion – it is about showing up consistently.

My final piece of advice and the one that resonated with me the most throughout Year 12, is to not fear criticism but instead seek it. I spent a lot of time chasing my teachers for ways to improve, even when it led to me rewriting entire assignments because I was not happy with them. Your teachers only want the best for you, so ask for help when you need it, take feedback on board and do not be afraid to make mistakes. Every challenge is an opportunity to improve.

Looking back, I realise that the fear and anxiety that I felt at the start of the year was really just proof that I cared. If you ever feel that same fear, take it as a sign that you are invested in something that matters. The journey will not always be easy, but if you set your mind to it, you are capable of anything. If God has placed a dream in your heart, it is because He knows that you can achieve it.

As I leave the College, I do so with immense gratitude for all it has provided me over the past six years. To every student sitting here today: believe in yourself, embrace the journey, and dream big. Hard work, faith and perseverance will take you further than you ever imagined. I wish the MacKillop community all the very best for 2025 and beyond.

Caitlyn Grech
Mary MacKillop College Dux 2024

Beginning of Year Mass - Through Challenge We Flourish

On Monday, 10 February, our Mary MacKillop College community gathered in St Ignatius Church with joy and unity to celebrate our Beginning of Year Mass. This mass was celebrated by Fr Chris Horvat from St Ignatius’ College Athelstone campus. In this sacred event we observed the beginning of a new chapter for both staff and students, filled with opportunities for growth, learning, and faith.

This year’s theme, Through Challenge We Flourish, served as a reminder that challenge is a pathway to growth. Throughout the Mass, we were encouraged to embrace the challenges that come our way, seeing them as opportunities to strengthen our character, deepen our faith, and support one another as a community.

In reflecting on this theme, we look at the example of Mary MacKillop, as her life teaches us that when challenges are met with courage and faith, they lead to personal transformation. She reminds us to trust in God’s providence and to uplift those around us through kindness and service.

As we journey through this year, may we hold onto the message of this Mass—flourishing through the challenges we face with resilience, faith, and unity. May we support one another, striving always to grow into the people God calls us to be.

Adriana Sotira
Religious Education Coordinator

Welcome to 2025!

I would first like to congratulate the Arts classes of 2024! What amazing results from across the Arts, Visual Arts-Art and Design, Dance and Music. All results were in the A+, A and B bands.

Congratulations to Anna who received a Merit in Visual Arts-Design and Isabelle who received an A+ in Visual Arts-Design, Sophia and Lily both received an A+ in Visual Arts-Art. All that hard work, dedication and skill paid off and we are very proud of you all.

Thank you to Ms Romina Penna, Mr Gavin Hughes and Ms Rachel Scott for all your hard work, support and dedication in helping these students achieve their best.

We also welcome our 2025 Arts Captains; Ella and Ally, who have already started working behind the scenes regarding Arts events this year. We are glad to have you on board representing the Arts this year.

Every year, we work on and develop a new theme for our Term 3 Arts Night. This year, the theme is Africa: Circle of Life and we will be showcasing this event at the Norwood Town Hall in September. Preparations have already begun as we delve into all things Africa: landscapes, animals, the Lion King, African Dance workshops, masks and many more.

Lastly, a big thank you to our Student Leadership Team who joined the choir for the Beginning of Year Mass and our Awards Assembly. How fantastic to have you all singing and representing the Arts.

Looking forward to a great year.

Linda Di Blasio
The Arts Leader of Learning

On Monday the 17 February, Years 8 and 9 Dance Academy and SACE Dance students had the opportunity to participate in an African Dance Workshop run by Bortier Okoe. The students had so much fun learning about African culture and dance through drumming, singing and movement. Thank you Bortier for sharing your passion for music and dance with us. The workshop has been a great introduction to our 2025 Arts Production.

Drama students have also begun working towards items for our Arts Production. Inspired by the dance, landscape, animals and culture of Africa, our Year 8 students will be taking on main character roles this year. Year 7 students have been exploring mime, tableaux and puppeteering techniques in the pursuit of bringing African animals to life on stage. ‘Circle of Life’ will be presented at the Norwood Town Hall on 4 September 2025.

Rachel Scott
Dance and Drama Teacher

A Warm Welcome to Our Year 7 Students

On Tuesday 28 February, we were delighted to welcome our newest cohort of Year 7 students to Mary MacKillop College. Their first day was a soft landing into their Orientation Week, with each girl being warmly welcomed at our Beginning of Year Liturgy and presented with their lily badge from our Year 12 Student Leadership Team. The Year 7 students then spent time with their Pastoral Care Teachers and Year 11 Peer Support Leaders, engaging in team-building games and icebreaker activities to foster a sense of belonging.

Our Orientation Week followed, which was a dynamic and enriching experience, filled with activities designed to help our newest students build connections with teachers, form strong friendships with their peers and settle into the rhythms and routines of their new school environment. The students participated in workshops throughout the week including Digital Technology to familiarise themselves with the College’s learning platforms, College Tours and visits to the Library. The students also had a interactive session with the College Counsellor, exploring strategies for building positive friendships and navigating new social dynamics.

The week ended with our first whole College event, the 2025 Swimming Carnival, which was an opportunity to get to know our Sport Teams and House Captains.

It has been a flourishing start to 2025 and we look forward to a year full of growth, connectedness, memorable experiences and most importantly a whole lot of fun.

Mrs Michelle Arthur
Years 7 to 9 Pastoral Care Coordinator

Year 9 Camp: A Time To Flourish

On Thursday 13 and Friday 14 February, the scenic grounds of Woodhouse Adventure Park set the stage for an unforgettable journey as our Year 9 students embarked on their Camp, expertly guided by Wilderness Escape.

Over two action-packed days, students took on challenges, including abseiling, high ropes adventures, rock climbing, Challenge Hill, billy karting and the creative construction of catapults. Students showed their awesome camping skills by constructing their own tent and then camping under the stars. This opportunity allowed each student to embrace nature and the outdoors while demonstrating resilience and determination. A little bit of rain definitely didn’t dampen their spirits.

A highlight of the camp was The Calling, a Rite Journey Ceremony held on Thursday evening. Led by our Rite Journey Coordinator, Ms Natalie Baack, the ceremony marked a meaningful transition, encouraging students to let go of childhood behaviours and embrace new responsibilities. Students reflected on this by writing messages on pebbles and then had some time to ponder this as they placed these in the wilderness.

Following this, the highly anticipated Penola Shield Challenge brought fierce competition and camaraderie through a series of fun activities. Year 9 Green emerged victorious, proudly claiming the Penola Shield for Term 1—a win that celebrated not just triumph, but unity and teamwork (and a little bit of creative thinking).

The Year 9 Camp was more than just an adventure; it was a journey of self-discovery, teamwork and friendship. Along with exhilarating experiences, students returned home with inspiring stories of resilience and overcoming the 'delicious' challenges that they set for themselves.

Mrs Michelle Arthur
Years 7 to 9 Pastoral Care Coordinator

On Friday 31 January, our College community came together for a spectacular day of fun, competition and holiday cheer at the 2025 Mary MacKillop College Swimming Carnival. Students were seen embracing this years theme, Christmas in January, by sporting Santa hats, gold tinsel, snowflakes and Christmas tree decorations across the Norwood Swimming Centre. It was a fantastic day and the warm weather made it a perfect pool day! Students from all levels displayed enthusiasm and incredible participation whilst showcasing their skills in the freestyle, back stroke, breast stoke and butterfly events. Our house captains Kiara (Alexander), Sophie (Flora), Lucy (Tenison) and Alessia (Tappeiner) demonstrated outstanding leadership and are amazing role models for our College community. Their support and preparation to ensure the day ran smoothly was much appreciated by students and staff.

A special shout-out to our Best Dressed winners, who fully embraced the Christmas theme!

Congratulations to the following Age Group Champions and Runners Up:

Under 13 Runners Up - Juliana and Isabella
Under 13 Champion - Harriet
Under 14 Runner Up - Winter
Under 14 Champion - Ella
Under 15 Runner Up - Ashlyn
Under 15 Champion - Madeleine
Under 16 Runners Up - Grace and Mikayla
Under 16 Champion - Ava
16+ Runner Up - Alessia
16+ Champion - Sophia

A special congratulations to our Individual 50m Freestyle Champion, Sophia, who also ended the day on a perfect score of 50 points.

House spirit and Christmas cheer was at an all time high throughout the day as house chants and singing could be heard all around the pool. Congratulations to Flora who secured the Spirit Cup.

The 2025 MMC Swimming Carnival champions were Tenison! The final results were:

Flora: 335 Points
Alexander: 370 Points
Tappeiner: 436 Points
Tenison: 487 Points

We look forward to Athletics Carnival, Thursday Week 6 and hope to see everyone dressed up in their 2000’s Era inspired costumes!

Term 1 Sport also commenced at the beginning of Week 3 and we wish all teams the best of luck for their season ahead.

Sport Reminders:

• Term 1 Sport has commenced and the training and weekly schedule can now be seen on the Sport Portal on SEQTA. These will be updated each week.
• Students are reminded to arrive 20 minutes prior to their scheduled game time.
• All absences from training and games must be communicated to the College Sport Coordinator, Ava Corrieri through email (acorrieri@marymackillop.sa.edu.au).
• Morning Swim squad training will commence on Thursday 27 February at the Norwood Swimming Pool. Swim Squad trainings run every Thursday morning from 7.30am until 8.30am. Students can shower and change in the Gymnasium bathrooms before heading to class. All students are welcome to join, bring along friends and have some fun in the pool (it is free of charge).

Join our Principal, Sonia Nelson, for a tour of the College.

Principal’s Tours are a great opportunity for prospective MacKillop girls and families to visit the College and to meet our Principal. You will meet senior staff and students on an intimate tour of the school and experience our welcoming community.

Tuesday 25 March, 4.30pm until 7.00pm - Open Night

Term Two
Wednesday 7 May 5.00pm
Friday 30 May 9.30am
Friday 27 June 9.30am

Term Three
Friday 1 August 9.30am
Tuesday 19 August 9.30am
Wednesday 10 September 5.00pm

Term Four
Wednesday 29 October 9.30am

Click here for more information or to register.

Mary MacKillop College warmly invites girls in Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 to spend a day with us as a MacKillop girl.

Discover MacKillop Days are a wonderful opportunity for your daughter to meet our staff and students while being involved in a range of interactive lessons and meeting new friends.

Term One
Tuesday 25 February
Tuesday 8 April

Term Two
Thursday 15 May - Specialist Dance Day
Thursday 5 June

Term Three
Friday 15 August - Masterchef at MacKillop Day
Tuesday 26 August

Term Four
Friday 7 November - Specialist Netball Day

Suitable for girls in Years 3 to 6.

Please click here to register your daughter for a Discover MacKillop Day.

Our proud tradition of excellence continues to inspire a bold vision for the future! Starting in 2025, school fees have been reduced across all year levels - a powerful reflection of our commitment to compassion, justice and opportunity.

This exciting change makes it easier than ever to join our welcoming community, where each girl is known, nurtured and empowered to lead with courage and compassion.

Discover how your daughter can grow and lead with us at Mary MacKillop College:
https://www.marymackillop.sa.edu.au/fees