Ms. Carolyn Liddy
While we place all our confidence in God – we must act as if it all depended on our exertion
Catherine McAuley
Catherine McAuley’s leadership style was personal, warm, and responsive to the needs of those with whom she lived and worked. Such relational and affirming leadership qualities can inspire all leaders within our community, especially our newly commissioned Year 12 2025 school leaders. In the coming weeks, we have opportunities to recognise and celebrate the impact of teachers and grandparents during Word Teachers’ Day and Grandparents’ Day. Amongst the many gifts our teachers and grandparents give us, they remind us that leadership goes beyond titles. It is about taking initiative, embracing responsibility, and having the courage to inspire and create a path for others to follow.
Year 12 2025 Leaders
Yesterday, our Class of 2025 were officially appointed All Hallows’ School leaders in the presence of their proud families and staff during our Year 12 2025 Leadership Commissioning Mass celebrated by Fr Peter Dillon.
The Commissioning Mass was a beautiful opportunity for celebration, gratitude and anticipation, as we acknowledged the responsibility and privilege that comes with leadership. We also celebrated our new school leaders during our Whole School Assembly yesterday.
On so many occasions, we have proudly witnessed our Class of 2025’s commitment to our Mercy ethos and school values of Respect, Integrity, Service, Compassion, Joy and Justice. As they step into their roles, we are confident they will guide our school community with purpose, following in the footsteps of our Class of 2024 leaders who have inspired our students with their rallying cry 24 Like Never Before.
P&F AGM and Meeting
Our hard-working Parents & Friends Association (P&F) held its Annual General Meeting last Tuesday, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to the Executive for their continued support throughout the year. The AGM was an opportunity to reflect on the many achievements made possible by our incredible parent community in 2024 and to create a shared vision for next year.
We also acknowledge outgoing P&F President, Mr. Phil Young, for his outstanding leadership and dedication over the past three years. Phil’s commitment to fostering a strong school community has made a lasting impact, and we are deeply grateful for his time, energy, and passion.
We are also delighted to welcome Mr. David Watt as the incoming P&F President and are confident that his enthusiasm and vision will ensure the P&F will continue to thrive.
As we acknowledge the tireless efforts and generous contributions that enrich our school, I’d like to take this opportunity to encourage parents and caregivers to get involved in any way they can across the multitude of parent and caregiver groups within our community. I can’t tell you how often I hear from P&F, Mothers’ Network, and Parent Support Group volunteers how they personally benefit from giving their time to enhance and support our All Hallows’ community.
Foundation Appreciation Evening
Next Thursday 24 October, the All Hallows’ Foundation will host its annual Donor Appreciation Evening at our newly renovated St Gertrude’s. This beautiful space will provide additional shaded eating areas and playground space for our Year 5 and 6 students who are excitedly awaiting the opportunity to experience this beautiful new space.
This enjoyable evening is an opportunity to thank the many generous members of our community who have contributed via our dedicated and hardworking All Hallows’ Foundation.
We thank Foundation Board Chair, Ms. Sarah Rush, and all members of the Executive for their continued support and advocacy for our school and their tireless efforts to support our students.
Sports Lunch
We are also looking forward to our annual Sports Lunch this Friday, which is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our comprehensive co-curricular sports program. From remarkable individual performances to inspiring team efforts, our athletes have demonstrated skill, dedication, and fair play throughout the year. We acknowledge and commend their hard work, as well as their many incredible achievements across various competitions.
This success wouldn’t have been possible without the unwavering support of our dedicated coaches, sports staff, and parents. From early mornings to late nights, their commitment, guidance, and encouragement have been instrumental in helping our athletes reach their full potential. We extend our deepest thanks to everyone involved for making this sporting year one to remember.
At this Friday’s lunch, we are thrilled to welcome three exceptional speakers — Charlotte Caslick, a three-time Olympian and Rugby 7’s gold medallist from the Rio Games; Alice Williams (Class of 2015), an Olympian and silver medallist in Water Polo at Paris 2024; and Marguerite King (Class of 1998), an Olympian rower and two-time World Champion, now the lead physio for the Australia’s Women’s Water Polo team. These accomplished athletes, including two of our very own past pupils, will share their inspiring journeys with us in what will be a very enjoyable and memorable event.
Music Ensembles Camp
Our talented and dedicated music students are eagerly preparing for the upcoming Music Ensemble Camp, which will take place from 25–27 October at Mapleton. This annual event is a rewarding opportunity for students to refine their musical skills, collaborate closely with their peers, and be inspired by expert guidance from our generous music staff. We look forward to seeing the growth and passion that will emerge from this intensive and enriching experience, as our ensembles prepare for future performances.
World Teacher’s Day and Grandparent’s Day
As we approach World Teachers’ Day on Friday, 25 October, we extend a heartfelt thank you to our wonderful and dedicated teaching staff. Their passion, commitment, and tireless efforts to inspire and support our students make a profound difference in our school community. We feel truly blessed to have such exceptional educators shaping the future of our students every day.
Then, on Sunday, 27 October, we celebrate Grandparents' Day — a special occasion to acknowledge the many remarkable individuals who impact our students' lives. Grandparents and other significant figures play a vital role in nurturing, guiding, and supporting our students, and we are grateful for their love and influence.
Both days serve as a beautiful reminder of the strong community surrounding our students, fostering their growth and development.
I wish you every blessing to you and your family in the week ahead.
Ms. Carolyn Liddy (Deputy Principal).