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.
Mary MacKillop recognised the divine equality of all. Everyone she encountered was treated with respect - the illiterate, the sick, the poor, the ignored and the homeless. Mary writes: "reject no one, you never know what grace can do".
Mary understood the transformative power of human dignity and to feel whole again.
Let us Pray
We ask God for the alertness to all of those amongst us who do not feel included or special. We ask God for the compassion to understand their plight and the courage to extend a hand of welcome to them.
Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop pray for us.
Sonia Nelson
Mary MacKillop College is firing on all cylinders - full of energy and purpose! As usual, our girls have returned from their holiday break ready for learning and keen to be involved in the many activities and celebrations that mark the start of Term 3.
One of the highlights was JJAMM Week, where each day saw a different celebratory experience, culminating in the beautiful Mary MacKillop Feast Day Mass on the Thursday and the amazing M-Factor talent quest on Friday.
Significantly, we gathered as a College community on Wednesday to recognise 80 years of Josephite secondary education in Kensington. The College began as St Joseph’s Higher Primary in 1944 when secondary students, who had previously been taught at various Parish schools run by the Sisters of St Joseph, were brought together in Queen Street. In 1950, the school moved to Bridge Street and then later in 1963 to the current location on High Street. It was in 1970 that we became ‘Mary MacKillop College’. The special anniversary was marked with a trip down memory lane, including commentary and photos on the Gym screen and each student being gifted with a 80 years memorial badge for their blazers, before moving to the playing field for a whole school photo.
We acknowledge with gratitude, the education and nurturing provided by the Sisters of St Joseph and many other lay people over the years and we proudly follow in their footsteps to continue this legacy of high quality and holistic education for our girls!
I hope you enjoy the many learning activities, events and celebrations showcased in this newsletter edition – we have certainly been busy!
As we honour the feast day of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, may she continue to inspire us to live each day with bold courage, deep compassion and joyful hope. Go well and God bless.
Sonia Nelson
Principal
Jasmin Eckert
MacKillop's Winning Spirit Shines in the SLT Netball Showdown with Rostrevor
In a wonderful display of sportsmanship and community spirit, the Student Leadership Teams from Mary MacKillop College and Rostrevor College came together for a friendly game of netball on Friday 2 August. This event marked the launch of our Pink Round for College sports, a special initiative to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer.
The netball court was a sea of pink as both teams donned their vibrant pink socks and accessories. The game itself was a great contest, with both teams giving their all. While the MacKillop team ultimately claimed the win, the real triumph was the camaraderie and connection shared between our two schools. The fun and friendly competition served as a reminder of the strong bonds we share with Rostrevor, we eagerly anticipate the next challenge on the sporting field.
Congratulations to all who participated and thank you for showing the true spirit of our College community!
The Open Netball Team's Melbourne Adventure
In Week 10 of Term 2, the Mary MacKillop College Open Netball Team embarked on an exciting journey to Melbourne to participate in the Waverley International Schools Netball Championships. This four-day event brought together teams from across South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and even some international competitors, making it a truly universal experience.
The competition was intense, with fast-paced matches that challenged our players at every turn. Although the win-loss record may not have been in our favour, the team’s performance was nothing short of impressive. They played with heart, determination and courage, showing that they could compete at a high level and gain invaluable experience in the process.
Beyond the court, the trip was filled with opportunities for growth, learning and fun. The team had the privilege of attending a Mavericks training session, where they picked up new skills and strategies to bring back to their own game.
The trip wasn’t all about netball; it was also about bonding and creating memories that will last a lifetime. From team-building activities like a MasterChef-style cooking challenges to shopping adventures, the students had a blast. A highlight of the trip was attending the Collingwood vs Essendon AFL match at the MCG on Friday night - a moment that many will treasure.
This trip was more than just a series of games; it was an opportunity for our students to grow as athletes and individuals. The camaraderie, the challenges, and the experiences both on and off the court made it a memorable journey. Throughout the trip, the staff were incredibly proud of the students and the way they conducted themselves both on and off the court. Their exemplary behaviour and positive attitude were a true reflection of the values we hold dear at Mary MacKillop College.
Here's to more exciting interstate adventures for our teams in the years to come!
Adriana Sotira
Celebrating Mary MacKillop - A woman who led with compassion: Feast Day Mass 2024
On Thursday 8 August, our College community gathered to celebrate the Feast Day of Saint Mary MacKillop, Australia’s first canonised saint and a beacon of compassion, faith and resilience. The Feast Day Mass was a beautiful tribute to Mary MacKillop's enduring legacy, where readings, songs and prayers highlighted her unwavering faith and commitment to justice and compassion.
Special symbols associated with Mary MacKillop were carried in the procession, including the cross representing her sacrifices, the emblem of the Sisters of St Joseph, a sign of the continued work of the congregation she founded and rosary beads which symbolise Mary MacKillop’s deep devotion to prayer and her commitment to spiritual life. These symbols served as powerful reminders of the impact Mary MacKillop had on society and the Church, they inspire us to carry forward her mission of love and service.
The reflection delivered by Sr Mary Ryan, a sister of St Joseph emphasised the relevance of Mary MacKillop's life and teachings as a compassionate leader. She asked the congregation to reflect on how we can embody her spirit of generosity and compassion in our daily lives.
As we celebrated the Feast Day of Saint Mary MacKillop, we were reminded of the power of faith, the importance of education and the necessity of compassionate action. May we, like Mary MacKillop, always strive to see the needs around us and do something about them, ensuring that her legacy lives on in our actions and in our hearts.
Adriana Sotira
Religious Education Coordinator
Sarah Morris
I want to remind you of the incredible potential that lies within each of you.
Gathering together as a community on Thursday 1 August, we took the time to appreciate those who have excelled in various areas, whether academically, in sports, in the arts, or through acts of kindness and service throughout Term 2 of 2024.
Our Ceremony commenced by recognising our 32 In Omnibus Merit recipients who, through their thoughtful contribution and generosity have gone above and beyond. These students have enthusiastically involved themselves in numerous events, stepped up to help others in need and demonstrate every day what it truly means to be a MacKillop girl.
This was followed by the presentation of 44 students across Years 7-12 with Principal’s Academic Excellence Awards. In order to receive a Principal’s Academic Excellence Award, the students being presented achieved an A Grade for every school-based subject they undertook in Term 2. In recognising these students, we not only celebrated their grades, but also their dedication, commitment, critical and creative thinking and perseverance. Most importantly, we were celebrating the example set by these young people who dream big and strive to achieve their very best.
We were also incredibly proud to acknowledge the achievement of Anna (Year 12) who has successfully completed her Certificate III in Screen Media through AIE. This course provides a foundational qualification for students with an interest in pursuing a career in the screen, media and entertainment industries.
Anna was also presented with the Best Concept Design Award from the Registered Training Organisation, as a result of her exceptional skills and abilities. What an achievement!
Some parting advice from me:
Every step you take, every obstacle you overcome, and every lesson you learn is a testament to your resilience and strength. Remember that the path to success is not always a straight line. It is filled with twists and turns, but it is these very moments of challenge that shape you into the person you are meant to become.
Celebrate the small victories and the big accomplishments, embrace the mistakes and the setbacks, because each experience, is a valuable part of your story and always remember incredible potential that lies within each of you.
I wish you all a term filled with personal growth, great accomplishments, fun, laughter, and special memories.
Sarah Morris
Director of Teaching and Learning
Congratulations to the Class of 2024 on their SACE results for Research Project A and B.
Overall, 8 MacKillop girls achieved an A+, 98% of Research Project B grades were in the A and B bands, 70% of Research Project B grades were in the A band, 93% of Research Project A grades were in the A and B bands.
100% of MacKillop girls successfully completed their Research Project. Congratulations girls - your hard work and dedication is evident in your results!
Josie Spizzo
Science Week
This week we celebrated Science Week (10-18 August), a national celebration which aims to encourage Australians of all ages to become engaged with STEM.
This year’s theme, Species Survival – more than just Sustainability, explored some of the ‘critical’ challenges impacting Earth’s human, animal and plant habitation.
As Australians we share our island home with more than 200,000 animal species and around 24,000 species of native plants - with each of these species contributing to the richness of our country’s biodiversity.
During the week in Science classes, students from Years 7 to 9 participated in activities exploring a range of challenges endangering species survival, including some of the latest scientific and technological advancements developed to tackle these issues.
In the encyclical Laudato Si' Pope Francis connects care for the natural world with justice for the poorest and most vulnerable people. Pope Francis argues that only by reshaping our relationships with God, our neighbours and the natural world can we hope to address the threats facing our planet.
By advocating for responsible consumption and conservation and through the combined efforts of the STEM community, citizen scientists and Indigenous peoples, it is hoped that each student accepts responsibility for their actions and the important role that they can play in contributing to the well-being and survival of life on Earth.
Happy Birthday Turbo!
To conclude Science Week, we all gathered to celebrate the 50th birthday of our beloved school turtle - Turbo. Mary MacKillop College has been Turbo’s home for the last 30 plus years. Over the years, Turbo has entertained many students either through his playful antics in the aquarium in our former Biology Laboratory, his attempts at escaping through any open door and now in his new home in the Tenison Centre, where he excitedly greets all visitors and students passing through the foyer.
We wish Turbo continued good health and hope that with our love and exceptional care he will continue to thrive for many years to come.
Josie Spizzo
Science Leader of Learning
Lisa Turley
This year, our Year 8 Project Based Learning (PBL) students designed and created meaningful projects to address real world problems, focusing on the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Two Mary MacKillop College teams qualified for the competitive State Showcase and proudly represented the College at the event.
PBL students tackled challenging issues such as water pollution, childhood illnesses, and world hunger. Students had to extend their STEM skills to create their projects, implementing the design cycle to create and test their solutions. The students held a showcase at the end of Semester One, sharing their hard work and innovation with the College community while answering key questions from their audience members.
Three student groups were nominated for the state CESA STEM Make A Difference Showcase, submitting a video demonstrating their solutions. Two of these teams were successful and attended the State Showcase, hosted by CESA at the University of South Australia Mawson Lakes campus.
Congratulations Mia, Bella, Tahlia and Angelina for their project “Bushfire Water Tower”, addressing the risk of bushfires in the Adelaide Hills.
Congratulations Caitlin, Lally, Olivia and Stella for their project "Nutritional Biscuits", addressing the issue of food scarcity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Well done to all participants for their creative and compassionate projects!
Lisa Turley
Teacher
Monty Mott
At the End of Term 2, the Stage 1 Health and Wellbeing classes had the valuable opportunity to participate in the P.A.R.T.Y. (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-related Trauma in Youth) program at the Royal Adelaide Hospital. This interactive program is designed to educate young people about the consequences of risk-taking behaviours, particularly those related to alcohol, drugs and unsafe driving.
Throughout the day, students engaged in a series of eye-opening activities, including presentations from trauma nurses, paramedics and even a tour of the hospital’s emergency and ICU departments. They also heard real-life stories from individuals who have been affected by trauma, helping to underscore the life-changing impact that a single poor decision can have.
By providing a realistic glimpse into the aftermath of risky behaviour, the P.A.R.T.Y. program aims to empower students to make safer choices in their daily lives. Feedback from the students was overwhelmingly positive, with many describing the experience as "sobering" and "incredibly impactful".
This visit highlights the school's commitment to providing comprehensive health education that goes beyond the classroom, equipping students with the knowledge and tools to navigate their teenage years safely and responsibly.
Monty Mott
Health and PE Leader of Learning
Linda Di Blasio
The Mary MacKillop College Arts Department is buzzing with excitement as we prepare for Arts Night in Week 7. We have much to celebrate with all the work going into this wonderful event.
Visual Art students are busy making props, back drop projections, lanterns, paintings and fairy tale images for the performances and exhibition.
Music students are practising their songs with the choir, working hard developing group, solo and duet performances.
Dance and Drama are well underway rehearsing routines and lines. Goldilocks, Rapunzel and Red Riding Hood feature with contemporary and jazz dances.
Focusing on careers in the Arts, some of our Stage 2 Visual Art and Design and Stage 1 Drama students attended ‘An Afternoon with Women in the Creative Industries’ event. This was a wonderful opportunity to connect with women from creative industries in Music, Theatre, Fashion and Visual Art.
Finally, we congratulate Imogen (Year 12) on her successful audition for the Catholic Schools Music Festival. We look forward to seeing Imogen sing her solo ‘Part of Your World’ by Alan Menken from The Little Mermaid. We know she will be amazing on the night! All the best Imogen and congratulations!
Linda Di Blasio
The Arts Leader of Learning
Join us for an adventure as the stories of Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Rapunzel and Goldilocks are brought to life on stage with more than a few twists and surprises.
Featuring Dance, Drama, Music and Visual Art from Years 7-12 Mary MacKillop College Students.
Wednesday 4 September 2024
6.00pm - 8.30pm
Golden Grove Arts Centre
For bookings please visit www.trybooking.com/CTCHT or scan the QR code
Sharon Howson
Invited guests, staff, students and families came together on Wednesday 24 July to attend the Josephite S.A. Reconciliation Circle art exhibition in the Tenison Centre. On display were entries submitted for the NAIDOC Week 2024 art competition from both Mary MacKillop College and Rostrevor College.
This year’s theme of ‘Keep The Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud’ was on display, with the positive message displayed across the 85 artworks, all reflecting the theme. The three prize winners and students who received a Highly Commended were announced and presented with their prizes at the event. Congratulations to:
First Place - Ashlyn (Mary MacKillop College)
Second Place - Jade (Mary MacKillop College)
Third Place - Chiara (Mary MacKillop College)
Honourable Mention - Isaiah (Rostrevor College)
Honourable Mention - Tyannah (Mary MacKillop College)
Honourable Mention - Isabella (Mary MacKillop College)
Sharon Howson
Josephite SA Reconciliation Circle Member
Mary MacKillop College Staff Member
Congratulations to Anna (Year 12) on successfully completing a Certificate 3 in Screen Media. Anna was also received the Best Concept Artist Award from the Academy of Interactive Entertainment - a stellar achievement. Well done Anna!
Zoe Duffy
We are thrilled Intercol is back for 2024.
Intercol, short for Intercollegiate, is a showcase of the talent and sportsmanship of young athletes from Mary MacKillop College and Loreto College. This year we are excited to introduce soccer to the championships, with a Years 7-10 soccer match!
The annual Intercol Championship is set to kick off this Wednesday, 21 August at Mary MacKillop College. Games will commence with Years 7/8 and Years 9/10 Netball teams and Years 7-10 Soccer competing at 4.00pm, followed by the Open Netball showcase at 5.00pm. We invite everyone to be a part of this exciting event, with food and drinks available for purchase on the evening.
So, mark your calendars and together, let's cheer for Mary MacKillop College at the 2024 Intercol Championship!
See you at the courts.
We are delighted to announce Megan Fitzgerald as College Business Manager. Megan has worked in Catholic Education for many years, both in schools and in the Catholic Education South Australia Office. We warmly welcome her to our special Josephite community.
Congratulations to Mr John Parrella, recipient of the 2024 Volunteer Award for Outstanding Service to Mary MacKillop College.
John was presented with the award last week after our Feast Day Mass. Thank you John for all you do for Mary MacKillop College, it is appreciated.
Leah Baylis
I graduated from Mary MacKillop College in 1997, and it’s hard to believe that was 27 years ago - it feels like just yesterday. Reflecting on my time at MMC brings back only fond memories. I was fortunate to be part of a year level filled with friendly, confident and funny young women, some of whom I’m lucky to still be in touch with today. My teachers were incredibly inspiring; they genuinely cared, challenged us and always had our best interests at heart.
One class that stands out is Art, which I had a love/hate relationship with.
Ms Di Blasio taught Art so beautifully that I fell in love with the stories of artists from the Renaissance, Impressionism, Expressionism, Cubism and the Gothic era. Unfortunately, I wasn’t the best artist myself. Recently, I fulfilled a dream from my art class days by visiting the Louvre in France, a place I’d longed to see, it was a very emotional experience for me.
Since leaving school, my career has taken many turns, all with the same goal of helping others achieve success. I initially pursued a Bachelor of Education (Middle School) but spent most of my teaching career working with Year 11 and 12 students at a trade and apprenticeship college in Adelaide. I found great satisfaction in preparing students for the workforce and supporting them in securing employment. After the birth of my third child, I transitioned into recruitment, where I’ve loved working with adults to help them find fulfilling jobs. This role requires empathy, strategy and a keen sense of what makes people excited about their work.
Celebrating 80 Years of Josephite secondary education in Kensington
Our 2024 Annual Dinner, celebrating 80 years of Josephite secondary education in Kensington, promises to be a night to remember!
Friday 27 September 2024, 6pm for a tour of the College, 7pm onwards in the College Gymnasium.
$49 per person includes a drink on arrival, tapas, paella and dessert.
All graduating year levels, current and past staff and community members are invited to join us, so get your friends together and we will see you there!
For any queries please contact curriculum@marymackillop.sa.edu.au
For bookings, please click here.
Girls in Years 3 and 4 - Thursday 31 October or Friday 1 November 2024
Join us for a day of Netball fun!
Learn new skills in footwork, agility, shooting, passing and defending.
Led by experienced coaches and Senior Netball students at the College.
Plus, we've got you covered with recess and lunch provided.
All you need to bring is your enthusiasm and a trusty drink bottle.
Hurry, places are limited!
Secure your place by completing the form below:
Girls in Years 3 and 4:
www.marymackillop.sa.edu.au/netball
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 warm hospitality.
Term 3 Tours:
Tuesday 20 August 9.30am
Wednesday 11 September 5.00pm
Term 4 Tour:
Wednesday 6 November 9.30am
Mary MacKillop College warmly invites girls in Years 4, 5 and 6 to spend a day with us as a MacKillop girl.
Come 'n' Try 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.
Important Dates
Principal's Tour
Intercol
Year 10 Immunisations
Come 'n' Try MacKillop Day
Good News Assembly
Happily Ever After - 2024 Arts Night
Student Free Day
Student Free Day
Principal's Tour
Alumnae Breakfast
Year 11 Retreat
MMC Year 8 and 9 Social
Flight - 2024 Dance Showcase
Annual Alumnae Dinner (Reunion)
Keeping healthy over the holidays
https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/for-young-people/stay-healthy-over-the-holidays/
CSPSA Stronger Families Conference
Click here to book online
College Calendar
A reminder, the College Calendar can be accessed via the SEQTA Portal page.
Thank you.
Click here to book a tour.
Purchase your Entertainment Membership today
Click here to purchase
Catholic Schools Parents SA
Click here to access the Charter for Parents from Catholic School Parents South Australia.
Child Safe Environments
Mary MacKillop College Kensington provides a safe environment for all while valuing the partnership between school and home.
Every year, students are taught the Keeping Safe: Child Protection Curriculum (KS:CPC) which is a respectful relationships and child safety curriculum for children and young people.
Social