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McAuley College Grafton

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4 Hennessy Drive
Clarenza NSW 2460
Subscribe: https://grafslism.catholic.edu.au/subscribe

Email: grafs@lism.catholic.edu.au
Phone: (02) 66431434

McAuley College Grafton

4 Hennessy Drive
Clarenza NSW 2460

Phone: (02) 66431434

  • Visit our Website
  • Newsletter Archive
  • Subscribe to Newsletter
  • Like us on Facebook
  • School Calendar

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    Term 4 - Week 3 - 27th October 2023

    • From the Principal
    • Learning & Teaching
    • Mission & Wellbeing
    • School Refusal Fact Sheet for Parents & Carers
    • Careers
    • A Message From the SLT
    • From the Classroom, Camps & Excursions
    • From the Literacy Coach
    • Sports News
    • Important Dates for Year 12
    • Forest Coach Lines - Bus Network Change
    • NEW 2024 Uniform - Ordering & Collecting
    • Position Vacant - Uniform Shop Convenor
    • NEW - Order a Chromebook Portal
    • Suicide Prevention Resources & Training
    • eSafety Parent Webinar
    • From the Library
    • Dates to note for October & November, 2023
    • Flexischools App - Online Canteen Orders - Reminder
    • Parish News
    • Statement from the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council
    • COVID-19 Information
    • Advertisements

    From the Principal

    Dear Parents and Carers,

    As we approach the end of another busy fortnight here at McAuley Catholic College, I am delighted to share some remarkable achievements and initiatives that have shaped our community in recent weeks. This term has been truly inspiring, reflecting the Mercy Values of Compassion and Justice we hold dear.

    Soctober: A Testament to Our Compassion

    One of the highlights of last week has been our successful participation in Soctober, a program exclusively run by Catholic Mission. I am pleased to announce that our students, staff, and the broader McAuley community came together to raise $290.60 for Mission Month. These funds will support programs benefiting children worldwide, aligning perfectly with our core values of Compassion and Justice. We are truly grateful for everyone's involvement in this worthy cause.

    Academic Achievement and University Scholarships

    Our students nearing completion of the HSC have been setting the bar high academically. I am thrilled to announce that some of our Year 12 students have been awarded prestigious university scholarships. James Grimshaw received the University of Newcastle Vice-Chancellor's Award for Academic Excellence in Year 12. Mayha Mead-Davies and Paige Thompson also received the Vice Chancellor's High Achievement Prize from the University of New England. These accomplishments are a testament to their dedication and hard work, and we are incredibly proud of their achievements.

    The HSC exams will finish Thursday, Week 4, and we keep our students in our thoughts as they make decisions about their future.

    Another example of our academic achievements in the local community was the acknolwledgement that McAuley Catholic College once again was the most successful secondary school in the Jacaranda Festival Woodwork Display High School Student’s competition. The competition receives around 60 to 120 entries from up to 6 high schools in the area, and the recognition is a testmanet to the wonderful work in the TAS department.

    Remarkable Sporting Achievements

    Our sporting achievements have been outstanding this term for such a small school. Our students have been leading the way across the diocese in various events. We had four teams competing in the Clarence Valley High School Touch Football Shield finals, and our junior and senior boys were crowned outright champions. The McAuley U15 girls also achieved the runners-up position in the Northern Dio Volleyball. Furthermore, only last Thursday, our Senior Boys secured victory in the first round of the 2023 Downie Cricket Shield. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the students who participated and represented the college with sportsmanship and pride (and, of course, their coaches who have dedicated their time to supporting student success).

    New Student Leadership Team and Their Initiatives

    Our newly inducted student leadership team has been dedicated to improving McAuley College. Already, they have been driving various initiatives, including "Dodgeball in the Hall" to support our house competition and introducing colourful and vibrant artworks to brighten up Vinnie's room. They have run Soctober and are keen to hear the student voice about what matters most to McAuley students. I want to thank our student leaders for their commitment to enhancing our college community.

    Celebrating World Teachers Day

    On Friday, October 27th, we celebrated World Teachers Day. This year's theme, "Hats Off to Teachers," reflects the respect and acknowledgement that our dedicated teaching staff genuinely deserve. I want to thank our exceptional staff for their unwavering commitment to providing our students with such an outstanding holistic education.

    Acknowledging Challenges and Praying for Peace

    While we celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students and community, we must also acknowledge the challenges we face. Fires in our local area and tragic events overseas affect our school community and the world at large. Let us pray for all those impacted by environmental issues and violence worldwide. In our way, may we respect the dignity of all we meet and lead lives of peace and harmony for the benefit of all.

    Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our college community. Together, we will continue to nurture a thriving environment where our students can achieve their best and positively impact the world.

    Dianne McGowan
    Acting Principal

    Learning & Teaching

    Year 11 Reports and Parent-Teacher-Student Conferences

    Year 11 Semester Two Reports can now be accessed through Compass. We extend an invitation to parents and students to participate in teacher conferences for a discussion about the students' academic progress. The Conferences will take place in the College Hall on Tuesday, 31st October. 

    HSC 2024 Information Evening

    Year 11 students and their parents and carers are also invited to join an informative HSC 2024 session immediately following the Parent-Student-Teacher Conferences on Tuesday, 31st October. The gathering will be held in the Performing Arts room (P1) and begin at 6pm. 

    The information session will cover the following important topics:

    • HSC Requirements and Assessment 

    • Career Opportunities, Higher Education and Post-School Pathways
    • Wellbeing – Navigating the challenges and stress of the HSC Year

    The Learning Hub

    The Learning Hub is located in room A2, accessible every day during the second part of the lunch break. Teachers may request students to attend the Learning Hub for classwork or assessment task completion. Alternatively, students are welcome to attend the Learning Hub voluntarily. During this time, a teacher is available for supervision and to provide assistance with any learning requirements.

    Tiffany Lee

    Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching (Acting)

    Mission & Wellbeing

    Catch The Wave

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    Last week, all Year 8 students participated in the Catch the Wave retreat. This was designed to provide an opportunity for students to deepen their own understanding and experience of the foundations of the Christian faith.  

    At the heart of the Catch the Wave experience is the proclamation of the Gospel through contemporary Christian music played by the Proclaim Lismore Wildfire Worship Team. The session theme of ‘Catching the Wave’ was brought to life by the Mission Assistants from other secondary schools in the Diocese and students from our Year 10 Ministry Class. 

    The Catch the Wave experience was a dynamic, interactive and joyful opportunity for our Year 8 students to build connections with peers and deepen their understanding and experience of the Christian faith.

    The students particularly enjoyed the music from Wildfire Worship Team. Students joined in games, singing, small group discussions and prayer.

    The Catch the Wave experience is also an introduction to Youth Ministry and provides students with an opportunity to consider applying for the 2024 Ministry Class in Year 9.

    Many thanks go to Mrs Robinson and students from her Year 10 Ministry Class for their leadership and ministry.

    Year 9 Ministry Class 2024

    McAuley Catholic College and most schools in the Lismore Diocese offer the Catholic Schools Youth Ministry Australia (CSYMA) Program within the structure of the existing Years 9 and 10 Catholic Studies Program. Classes are currently being organised for 2024, and students in Years 9 and 10 will be invited to apply. The students in the current Year 9 class will be asked to re-apply if they are interested in continuing with the course next year as well as other interested students in the year group given the opportunity to apply. 

    Students with an interest in nurturing their faith, while developing skills in the area of peer-to-peer ministry, are required to complete an ‘Expression of Interest' as part of the application process. Ministry Application forms will be distributed through Catholic Studies Classes and must be submitted to the College Office by Tuesday, 15th November 2023.  The Ministry Class has limited places and will be made up of students from this application process and teacher input. A strong emphasis is placed on students' responses related to the criteria for the course, which include: 

    • A commitment to faith development 
    • A commitment to youth ministry, spirituality and leadership 
    • Catholic/Christian background and religious practice 
    • College/Parish Involvement 

    Unity and Reconciliation

    It is important for us to recognise the difficult and emotional time post the recent 'voice to parliament referendum' for many of our Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander staff, students and families. While the outcome of the referendum may not have reflected the hopes and aspirations of many in our communities, please know that McAuley Catholic College will continue its steadfast commitment to understanding, respect, inclusion and justice.

    In the spirit of reconciliation, we acknowledge the unique cultural heritage and wisdom that Indigenous communities bring to our shared Australian identity, and we pay a deep level of respect to the Indigenous communities in the Clarence Valley - the Gumbayngirr, Bundjalung and Yaegl Nations.

    Our Catholic values compel us to stand with one another, as it is the strength of unity that paves the way for positive change. We pray that as we move forward we stand in all work towards a future where every voice is heard, valued, and cherished.

    Please take time to read the statement from the  National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council outlining the need for healing at this time.

    Margaret Bertalli
    Assistant Principal Mission & Wellbeing (Acting)

    School Refusal Fact Sheet for Parents & Carers

    School_refusal_fact_sheet.pdf

    Careers

    2024 Scholarship Recipients
    Congratulations to James Grimshaw for receiving the University of Newcastle
    Vice-Chancellor's Award for Academic Excellence in Year 12.
    Pictured is James receiving his Award from Careers Adviser, Mr Paton.

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    We would also like to congratulate Mayha Mead-Davies and Paige Thompson who received the Vice Chancellor's High Achievement Prize from the University of New England.

    Year 10 Work Experience and Structured Workplace Learning

    All Year 10 students are reminded that compulsory Work Experience is fast approaching. Students should be making enquiries now to attend workplaces during the week of November 27th until December 1st in Term 4, especially if they are considering travelling interstate.

    Work Experience is a valuable opportunity to assist students with the planning of their career path. It is also a chance for students who intend to leave school to showcase their abilities to prospective employers.

    All the necessary guidelines and permission forms can be accessed on our Career website at www.mcauleycatholiccollegecareers.com

    Completed documents are due on Friday, November 10th

    Now may also be a good time for Year 10 students to think about participating in the Structured Workplace Learning Program at MCC. The Structured Workplace Learning (SWL) Program is for students who intend to leave school at the end of Year 10, and it is an opportunity to promote themselves, raise their profile and improve employability options during Term 4 before leaving. The Program provides benefits to employers by contributing to the development of workplace skills and entry-level skills in their industry, providing access to a pool of future paid apprentices, enabling employees to mentor young people in their career decision-making process and encouraging students to become involved with businesses in their local community. Benefits to students include:
    • Improving understanding of the work environment
    • Development of networks
    • Obtaining industry feedback and a professional referee
    • Enhancing opportunities for an apprenticeship, casual or part-time employment 
    • Providing an opportunity to try-out career choices before leaving school 
    Students find their own workplace based on their interests and attend their chosen workplace one day per week or fortnight depending on circumstances. Students are covered by CCI Insurance whilst enrolled in the program. There are documents to complete and return before students begin, and then they must complete a booklet as they progress and keep in regular contact with Mr Paton.
    In previous years many students who were enrolled in SWL gained apprenticeships. Students who are interested in SWL are encouraged to visit the Careers Office to speak with Mr Paton.

    Reminders for Students

    Students are reminded that if they can no longer attend work experience/placement on their organised days, it is the student's responsibility to inform the School and their work experience/placement employer of their absence. 
    Year 12, 11 and 10 are reminded to check their school email regularly as I send information on University Open Days, early entry, the university application process and employment opportunities to students.

    Visit the link below for important upcoming student career opportunities and dates:
    Student_Careers_Resources_October_February.pdf
    Student_Careers_Resources_October_February _pdf 193.15 KB

    Rod Paton
    Careers Adviser

    A Message From the SLT

    The Student Leadership Team is very excited for the term ahead as our new leaders step into their roles. Ready and eager to offer our talents and passions to contribute to the College, our team strives for student engagement in College events. It is our aspiration that over the coming 12 months, we will be able to develop a sense of school connection, working alongside the year 10 and 11 student leaders, staff and the student body. 

    Term 4 is set to bring many exciting events for the College. Our First event, the annual Socktober fundraiser took place on Thursday, 26th October. This day was held to raise funds for Catholic Mission supporting children in Timor-Leste. Thank you to all the students that wore crazy socks to school and brought a donation for the coin line during PC which raised more than $290!

    The main events for the day included a Crazy Sock Parade and competition and a lunchtime game of “Socker”. Congratulations to our Crazy Sock Champions: Lilly Sullivan, Olivia Lewis and Kamsi Anachunawho who received the sought-after canteen voucher prizes.

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    Another project the Team is looking forward to organising this Term is the Netball World Cup. The Netball World Cup has been heavily requested by the student body and will offer a great opportunity for friendly house spirit and competition. The tournament will run with two mixed teams per house, led by the House Captains and Ms McAlister as the supporting teacher. 

    A further focus of the SLT for Term 4 is reintroducing the Thursday morning breakfasts at Catherines Cafe. Organised by our Leadership Team and the staff, we aim to support the students who may not have time for breakfast in the morning because of early bus times. The initiative aims to give a low price alternative from other breakfast options with only a gold coin donation needed. All proceeds go towards Catholic Mission. 

    The weekly initiative of Thursday lunch time activities will also be continued. Each week, students from different year groups can compete in a sport for the chance to win house points. There will be a new sport chosen each term, and this Term is volleyball!

    From the entire Leadership Team, we wish to thank you all for entrusting us with these positions, and we look forward to the year ahead.

    From the Classroom, Camps & Excursions

    Exuro 2023
    On Friday, 27th October, the College held it’s retreat day for Year 5 students within the Diocese, Exuro. This event is an exciting and informative day for the young students and teaches them about about discipleship and how they can be a disciple through activities, games, conversations, and participation. The day finished with a liturgy.

    This year’s Exuro theme was “Be an example in your speech and actions”, which comes from the scripture verse 1 Timothy 4:12, ‘Do not let anyone look down on you because you are young, but be an example for believers in your speech, your conduct, your love, faith and purity’. Throughout the day we heard some great examples from our Year 9 students on how we can be disciples, especially within our schools, including: always smiling and welcoming people, being patient, helping look after our school environment by picking up rubbish and taking care of our space,  including others and always making people feel welcomed.

    During the day we heard a quote from St Teresa of Avila, 'Christ has no body but yours, No hands, no feet on earth but yours, Yours are the eyes with which he looks compassion on this world, Yours are the feet with which he walks to do good, Yours are the hands, with which he blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, yours are the eyes, you are his body. Christ has no body now on earth but yours'. When we think of discipleship, we should consider how we can use our hands, feet and eyes to be disciples. No matter our age, we can be an example by our speech and conduct.

    Overall it was an excellent day and well enjoyed by the Year 9 and Year 5 students.

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    MCC Choir Returns
    MCC Choir has returned as of Thursday 26th September. Students who are interested in joining the choir are invited to come along to rehearsals every Thursday during lunch in P5.

    Sarah Nicholls & Laura Hoade
    MCC Music Teacher & Faith and Action Leader

    Art Enrichment Program

    We have been having a wonderfully creative and busy time in Art Enrichment during Term 3 and now into Term 4. Our students have been exploring colour and pattern with a fun shaving cream and ink activity. This helps with building on fine motor skills and is a fun visual and tactual activity. Other colour exploration activities have been watercolour prints with natural elements such as leaves, drawing and painting a number of bird species and jellyfish in watercolour, and using Posca Markers and Gelli Plates to create Mono prints. Other students have worked on a group watercolour activity painting a sunset over lavender fields. We’ve been busy exploring ceramics, reduction lino printing and spray paint. 

    A number of students have also chosen to draw and paint canvases of sporting teams, TV and game characters, or landscapes they’re interested in. 

    Art Enrichment is offered and run through the Learning Support Team.

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    Maeve _ KiaraWyatt Bullen Colour and ink exploration activitySigourneySigourney shaving cream activytSIGOURNEY AT WORKPrithviPrintmaking and collection of worksPeterMia reduction printingMia reduction printing Maeve Reduction Prints20230907_110319Lavender FieldsKaitlyn HunterGeorgia Clarke WIP Felicity Higgins Geli plate explorationcollection of works by SigourneyCeramicsAiden _ NathanielAiden _ Nathaniel - Spray painting explorationAbby with Glee Art work

    Year 7 Food Technology

    Earlier this term, Year 7 students made a healthy pizza sauce with school grown herbs and designed mini pizzas. They thoroughly enjoyed making and eating these delicious little creations.

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    Year 9 and 10 Food Technology
    Our Year 9 and 10 students have also been crafting some delicious pizzas as well as healthy quiche recipes in recent weeks as part of their learning tasks.

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    Catherine's Cafe
    We are thrilled to share some exciting updates from Catherine's Cafe. Our Year 11 Hospitality students have embarked on an incredible journey in the world of coffee by delving into the art of espresso-making.
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    From the Literacy Coach

    Using Flashcards to Ace Your Exams

    Many subjects have tests soon which means it's time to get serious about revision. Simply reading over your notes is usually not enough - you need to actively recall and test yourself on the material. This is where flashcards come in handy! Here are some tips for effectively using flashcards to prepare for exams:

    • Choose your materials wisely. Don't try to cram everything onto flashcards. Focus on key terms, formulas, diagrams, dates, etc. The most important information for your exams should make it onto the cards.

    • Write questions on one side and answers on the reverse

    • Keep it brief. Don't write paragraphs on each card. Use concise bullet points, short answers and key words. This makes review quicker and less overwhelming.

    • Space it out. Create your pile of flashcards over time, not all at once. Studying in small chunks over several weeks aids memorisation better than cramming cards together right before the test.

    • Review frequently. Build in flashcard review time throughout your exam preparation, not just near the end. Frequent exposure to the concepts keeps knowledge fresh.

    • Fix mistakes. If you realise you've mixed up terms or facts on a card, immediately correct it to avoid memorising incorrect information.

    Creating and using purposeful, high-quality flashcards is an excellent study habit. With commitment and active repetition, flashcards can help you thoroughly learn and remember key course material, boosting your confidence for exam day. 

    Flash_cards.png
    Lena Jansons
    MCC Literacy Coach

    Sports News

    Clarence Valley High School Touch Football Shield

    On Tuesday, 17th October, McAuley sent four teams to Yamba for the Clarence Valley High Schools Touch Football Shield. All four teams played very well in the round games in extremely windy conditions. Each team played well enough to make the Grand Final in their respective age divisions:
    • The Open girls were unfortunately defeated 1-0 in the Grand Final against Grafton High School;
    • The Junior girls finished the Grand Final with a draw but sadly lost in a drop-off decider to Grafton High School as well;
    • The Junior boys defeated Grafton High School 5-3 in the Grand Final;
    • The Open boys defeated Maclean High School 4-3 in the Grand Final.
    Special mention to Cruz Sewell, junior boys player of the final and Jack Fels, open boys player of the final. 
    Thank you to coaches Mrs Robinson, Mrs Lee, Mr Howard and Mr Nipperess.
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    On Thursday, 27th October, we formally recognised the excellent sporting achievements from our touch football boys from recent championship events at our school assembly.
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    (L-R: Max Forwell - U15 Boys Northern Diocesan Champions (Ballina 18/08/2023), Cruz Sewell - Junior Boys Clarence Valley High Schools Shield Winners (Yamba 17/10/2023), Mrs Lee  (Coach), Mitchell Dick - Open Boys Northern Diocesan Champions (Ballina 18/08/2023), Jack Fels - Senior  Boys Clarence Valley High Schools Shield Winners  (Yamba 17/10/2023)

    Important Dates for Year 12

    Year 12 Important Dates: Sept to Dec
    Year 12 Important Dates: Sept to Dec 100.98 KB

    Resources for How to Manage Exam Season

    Forest Coach Lines - Bus Network Change

    Forest Coach Lines have announced bus service changes in the Coffs Harbour Region, which will see more buses, more often! With assistance from Transport for NSW, the existing route and school bus network has been reviewed, and all  customers will soon be able to experience a more effective and user-friendly bus service.
     
    Importantly, please note there will be changes to some of the school services from Monday, 30th October. Please check the School Services section of the Forest Coach Lines website from Wednesday, 25th October, 2023 for details of these changes. You will find specific information under the About School Services and School Bus Timetables and Maps pages.
    For more information you can also speak to the Forest Coach Lines team on (02) 6653 3345 Monday to Friday, during office hours.

    NEW 2024 Uniform - Ordering & Collecting

    The new McAuley uniform will be available to order via the new online store mccuniformshop.com.au from Wednesday, 1st November 2023, with collection from the new uniform shop located onsite on the first day of trading scheduled for Wendesday, 17th January, 2024.

    Customers who order online will save time by collecting from the prepaid line.

    Flyer_Online_Uniform_Shop.pdf

    Uniform_shop_start_of_year_opening_hours.pdf

    Position Vacant - Uniform Shop Convenor

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    NEW - Order a Chromebook Portal

    Parents and Carers of Year 9 and 10 students are now able to purchase a Chromebook for their child online through our new Ordering Portal via the College website.

    Click the link below to access the College Computer Information, Policies, and the Order Portal.

    Computer Information & Order Portal https://www.grafslism.catholic.edu.au/teaching-and-learning/computer-information
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    Suicide Prevention Resources & Training

    Parents and carers are well-placed to observe suicide warning signs, encourage alternative coping strategies and help young people and adults access support. Empower yourself to have effective conversations with others by registering for this FREE 90 minute online training via the flyer.

    Living_Works_Suicide_prevention_1_3_.pdf
    Living_Works_Suicide_prevention_1_3 pdf 114.46 KB

    eSafety Parent Webinar

    All parents are encouraged to register for a free, 30-minute webinar to be held on Thursday, 9 November, from 7.30 to 8.00 pm.

    The webinar facilitated by the e-Safety Commissioner will cover:

    • creating a positive digital identity
    • privacy and sharing online
    • managing what you see online
    • good practices in group chats
    • help-seeking.

    Click here to register or see the flyer below for more details and to register.

    CCSP_Getting_Started_with_Social_Media_Term_4_eSafety_Webinar_Flyer.pdf
    CCSP_Getting_Started_with_Social_Media_Term_4_eSafety_Webinar_Flyer _pdf 220.74 KB

    From the Library

    Jacaween 

    The Mercy Library is celebrating all things spooky and scary in the lead up to Halloween. 

    Thank you to Ann and the help of some Year 7 students who have done an amazing job decorating the library and turning it into a haunted mansion. Have a look at what they have created!

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    If your children love novels that can scare the pants off them, tell them to enjoy this teaser of some of the hair-raising novels we have in the library:

    We are also looking forward to celebrating this iconic memorial day with a blood-curdling Home Room challenge.

    In other news, the library is planning on turning November into a Games month! Our Switch competition starts Monday, 30th October and a Chess competition starts  Friday, 3rd November. See the fliers below for more information:

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    Dates to note for October & November, 2023

    Dates to note:

    October:

    31st: Yr 11 Parent Information Evening

             Yr 11 Parent, Teacher, Student Conferences 

    November

    1st: All Saints Day

    2nd: Jacaranda Thursday - No School Day

    6th: Yr 11 Geography Excursion - The Farm, Byron Bay

    7th: Yr 6 Orientation Day

           Yr 6 Parent Night 

           Yr 8 Surf Awareness Day

    7th-9th: Yr 9 Camp

    9th: Dio Water Polo Jnr Championships, Alstonville

    9th-10th: G.O.A.T Retreat

    10th: Yr 12 Leadership Day

    11th: Remembrance Day

             Yr 12 Graduation Dinner

    13th: Sam Dougherty Award Nominations Close

    14th: Parent Forum

             Dio Golf Championships, Coffs Harbour

    15th-17th: Yr 10 Camp

    16th: Debating Championships, Sydney

             Dio Water Polo Snr Championships, Alstonville

             Yr 10 & 11 Leadership Speeches and Voting

    20th: Yr 9 Reflection Day

    23rd: 2024 Student Leadership Team announced

    27th: Yr 7 Reflection Day

    27th-1st Dec: Yr 10 Work Experience Week

    Flexischools App - Online Canteen Orders - Reminder

    As mentioned in our previous newsletters over the last few weeks, the College now offers lunch orders online through the Flexischools app. Please see the attached flyer to get started.

    Flexischools Orientation
    Flexischools Orientation 799.90 KB

    Parish News

    Please find below the latest Parish Bulletins from Clarence Valley Parish 

    CVP_Bulletin_22nd_October_2023.pdf
    CVP_Bulletin_22nd_October_2023 _pdf 2.25 MB

    CVP_Bulletin_29th_October_2023.pdf
    CVP_Bulletin_29th_October_2023 _pdf 2.21 MB

    Statement from the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council

    When we started this journey, we knew it would not be easy. We knew that there were many hurdles to overcome. This has been the case for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples for over 200 years. Our strong culture and spirituality have helped us survive through challenges, and an unsuccessful outcome to the Voice to Parliament referendum is just another challenge that we will face with dignity, respect and without losing hope.

    Throughout this journey we, the members of the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council (NATSICC) have placed an emphasis on fostering respectful dialogue and providing Catholics with information to help them make their decision. We are proud to have maintained the stance that all people are created equal in the image of God and thus deserve to be respectfully treated, regardless of their stance on the referendum question.

    Guided by the Catholic social teaching principle of Subsidiarity, we (along with most First Australians) saw the value in a mechanism for our voice, and the voices of our children and grandchildren to be heard in Parliament and the potential for tangible outcomes to improve the day to day lives of our people. We also acknowledged that this was not the only way forward, but a step on the journey of Reconciliation.

    We accept that, for a variety of reasons, the Australian people have decided that an enshrined Voice is not the way to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in the Constitution, or see it as useful to help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples gain an equal footing on metrics such as life expectancy, health and socio economics. What we must not accept is that this signals the end of the journey. Statistics from the Closing the Gap strategy show that we cannot maintain the status quo. We now call on those that espoused alternatives to champion Indigenous-led ideas and initiatives that will address these practical issues, and for all people in this country to work for reconciliation.

    Fear, confusion and misinformation have impacted relationships between communities, families and friendships. The biggest tragedy we face as a nation is to hold onto resentment and disagreements, allowing them to fester and divide us further. As Colossians 3:13 says, 'Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you'. Embracing this spirit of forgiveness can pave the way for shared healing and unity.  

    As we look towards the future, we are heartened by the impact and response to the One Journey, Together website. 30 Catholic organisations, including the peak bodies for Catholic Health, Education and Social Services, congregations and groups articulated their support of the Voice and will be valuable allies as we move forward in our shared work of reconciliation. 

    The path of reconciliation and unity is a long one, but it is one that we must tread with unwavering faith and determination. The challenges we face are not insurmountable, and with the collective strength of our communities and the guidance of our faith, we can envision a brighter future for all. 

    May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.' Romans 15:13

    With this hope in our hearts, we, the members of NATSICC, will continue to advocate for the rights and dignity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We are certain that our family, the Catholic Church continues to walk alongside us. As Chaplain to NATSICC, Bishop Charles Gauci joins with us in these thoughts and prayers and hopes that 'we be open to the Holy Spirit’s guidance so that we can grow together in the way Jesus teaches us'.

    We believe that together, with love, understanding, and the grace of God, we can build a future where every individual is recognized, respected, and cherished.

    COVID-19 Information

    Please note COVID-19 is still present in our community. 

    Please be reminded that students and staff CANNOT attend school if they are showing any symptoms of COVID-19. 

    Students who are unwell

    If a student is unwell, displaying any COVID-19 or cold and flu-like symptoms at any time, they CANNOT attend school and should undertake a rapid antigen test. 

    If the rapid antigen test is positive and the student is unwell and/or experiencing any symptoms, they CANNOT attend school.

    If the rapid antigen test is positive and the student is not feeling unwell and not displaying or experiencing any symptoms, they CAN attend school under the following conditions:

    • the school office is informed of the positive test result, AND
    • the student (over 12 years old) wears a mask for a period of 7 days in all indoor settings.

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