The start of the 2023 school year has been a very productive one for our school community, and I wish to thank parents, students, and staff alike for the way I have been welcomed into this wonderful school community.

Early today, we gathered as a College community to enter into Liturgy on this very important day in our liturgical Calendar being Holy Thursday.  Holy Thursday is the commemoration of the Last Supper of Jesus Christ when he established the sacrament of Holy Communion prior to his arrest and crucifixion. At Mass, on Holy Thursday, the Priest will wash the feet of twelve parishioners, the same as Jesus did to the twelve Apostles, our first bishops and priests.  At the 6.00 pm Mass of the Lord's Supper at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, our SRC Executive students will have their feet washed by Father Jaison as part of this symbolic ritual.

Holy Thursday marks the end of Lent and the beginning of the sacred "Triduum,” or three, of Holy Week. These days are the three holiest days in the Catholic Church.

Triduum runs from the evening of Holy Thursday to the evening of Easter Sunday; these three days are distributed as follows:

The last part of Holy Thursday

Good Friday

Holy Saturday

The first part of Easter Sunday

The Holy Week Mass and service times for our Parish are advertised in this week's addition of our newsletter.

Congratulations to our Chess Team who on Tuesday competed in the State Interschool Chess Tournament and came 2nd.  Melanie Garrad  Yr 9, was named  Best Female Player, and Cameron Welsh Yr 11 was awarded Most Improved Player.  Congratulations to all involved.

Our Athletics Team travelled to St Leonards Athletics Track in Launceston on Tuesday to compete at the SATIS Athletics Championships.  The team were accompanied by Mr Sam O’Keefe, Mr Brady Butcher and Ms Sophie Lansley.  I need to congratulate the students on the outstanding manner they represented our College, not only in competition but while in the community.  I have recieved compliments from several sources about the way our students conducted themsleves and saw this first hand as I had the privilege to attend in the afternoon.

We have had a number of students representing the State at the National Rowing Championships in Perth Western Australia.  Congratulations to the following students; 

Olivia Yeates and Sarah Ellis Yr 12, Matilda Spaulding Yr 9.

Olivia Yeates won the B final in the U19 Women's Single.  Sarah Ellis was coxswain for the U23 Women’s 8 that placed 5th.   Matilda Spaulding competed in the U17 Women’s Single.

On Monday afternoon we welcomed Tasmania Jack Jumpers Coach Mr Scott Roth to our College where he met with groups of our students, to discuss leadership, his philosophy on team first culture and the importance of athletes investing in the development of their teammates as much as their own.  In talking to many of our basketball players and Athlete Development students they found this session extremely valuable.  A great opportunity for our students to learn from a former NBA player and current coach.

It was wonderful speaking with many families at our Parent Teacher night on Monday evening.  While we have moved to continuous feedback for students, having these formal occasions where students with their parents can celebrate success while also unpacking further areas of growth with their teachers is really important.

A reminder to all families that Term 2 commences on Wednesday 26th April as Monday is a student free day where staff will engage in a spiritual formation day, an important part of our accreditation as a catholic school.  Tuesday the 25th is ANZAC Day and the College will be represented at both the Dawn and 11.00 am Services by myself, Ms Leah Sussman and our Student Executive.  As this is an important day for us to also formally recognise as a community the College will have a service on Wednesday the 26th in recognition of our Service men and women and the importance of this National Day of recognition.

Congratulations to our Senior Student Executive for bringing to fruition the Tim Blair Foundation 12 Hour Walkathon.  This is a wonderful initiative by our student leaders. The Tim Blair Foundation supports Tasmanian kids and their families in overcoming the challenges that serious childhood illnesses present by:

increasing awareness of childhood illnesses,

providing direct assistance, and

raising funds for medical projects and research that improve outcomes and medical treatments.

We keep Mr Paul Hayes and his family in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time after the passing of his father and Mrs Robyn Arthur for the passing of her mother overnight.  

I wish everyone a restful Term break, and hope that the coming days provide all students the opportunity to reflect on the importance and message of Easter.  One of the last statements of Jesus on the Calvary Cross was: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23/24). Forgiveness of every person who harms us is one of the great saving lessons of Good Friday.

Yours Sincerely

Today we gathered together for our Holy Thursday liturgy to mark the end of Lent and prepare for the joyous celebration of Easter. During the liturgy, students and staff came together to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus and renew their commitment to living a life of service and love. We were reminded of Easter's hope and promise and encouraged to spread joy and kindness. 

Our SRC students planned a whole school Easter egg hunt as a festive way to celebrate the Easter season. Students gathered together to search for hidden eggs placed around the College grounds, fostering a sense of connection and joy within the College community. We want to thank all students and families who kindly donated eggs; the excitement and energy of the afternoon have created lasting memories for all involved. 

As Term 1 concludes this afternoon, we hope the holidays are filled with rest, rejuvenation, and the opportunity to spend time with family and loved ones. 

Yesterday our students participated in a 12-hour walkathon to raise awareness and funds for the Tim Blair Foundation. The event began at 6:00 am and continued until 6:00 pm last night, with staff and students walking non-stop for the entire duration.

The students were blessed with fantastic weather, making it much easier to keep their spirits high as they walked in support of the foundation's mission. The student's efforts paid off, with all funds raised going straight to the foundation.

Their commitment and dedication to the cause were truly inspiring and a testament to youth activism's power.

On Monday afternoon, we had the fantastic opportunity of welcoming Mr Scott Roth, the Head Coach of the Tasmania JackJumpers and former NBA player, to the College to talk to our students about leadership.

Throughout the informative Q&A session, Mr Roth touched on the significance of vulnerability and empathy as crucial skills needed in leadership. We heard what attributes he looks for in players, the team culture at the JackJumpers, how to handle adversity, and a little about his life journey and the hardships he overcame before his flourishing career.

Thank you, Mr Roth, for inspiring our students and for your insight into all things leadership.

We are thrilled to celebrate a beautiful milestone for our young student leaders, particularly our Year 12 students who are at the beginning of their last year of schooling.

During last Friday's ceremony, our Principal, Mr Stuart Ralph, and Fr Jaison presented senior badges to the Class of 2023. Taking a moment to acknowledge all the hard work and dedication that has led them to this point.

We also acknowledged and awarded badges to our Senior SRC, Junior SRC, Sports Leaders, and Arts Leaders.

Thank you to the parents and guardians who joined us for last Thursday night's Year 7 2024 Information Evening. It was a fantastic opportunity for new and returning families to connect, be led on a College tour by current students, and also for us to share information about the opportunities on offer and what to expect next year.

We look forward to welcoming Year 6 students to our upcoming taster days!

Earlier this week, our Chess team competed in the Inter-school State Chess Tournament at Ulverstone Secondary College. The tournament showcased impressive performances from players across multiple schools, with a competitive and engaging atmosphere throughout. 

Melanie Garrad (Year 9) and Cameron Welsh (Year 11) were awarded medals for their achievements. Melanie was recognised as the Best Female Player, and Cameron received the Most Improved Player award.  

On Tuesday, we held our second meeting for our College Poultry Club, which was a lively and informative affair. Members spent time comparing eggs of different sizes, colours, and shapes and were able to match them to the specific hens that laid them. This exercise provided valuable insight into the biology and behaviour of poultry and sparked a range of interesting discussions. 

Additionally, the group discussed the club's goals and objectives, as well as explored possible opportunities for events and projects throughout the year. 

All in all, the meeting proved to be another engaging and enjoyable experience for all members and helped to strengthen their passion for all things poultry!

Congratulations to all the students who participated in yesterday's SATIS Athletics Carnival. Your hard work and dedication were on full display, and it was uplifting to see you push yourselves! Each student represented the College with an outstanding amount of pride and sportsmanship.

Year 7 vaccinations went very smoothly last week. Catch-up vaccinations for students who were absent or students whose parents have changed their mind, will be held on October 24. Please be aware that as of 2024 the only way to receive the HPV vaccination free of charge will be through the school's vaccination program. Spare forms are available from Caritas reception. 

For the information of parents and students, we have instituted an enrolment review process that will automatically be implemented any time a student returns from external suspension, though there are also other circumstances in which a student's enrolment may be subject to review. What this means is that essentially the student is on probation for a period of time. Towards the end of the review period, a meeting is held with the student, the relevant House Coordinator and the Deputy Principal Pastoral Care to discuss their conduct during the review period. The student is also invited to nominate a teacher of their choice to participate in the meeting. Our first review meetings took place and we have found the process to be supportive and affirming.

Students have been made aware that the confirmed date for their celebration dinner is Friday, 1 September. This is a student-free day for Year 10. The venue is Don River Railway. Next term, the dinner committee will meet to determine further details of the event.

Also coming up is a camp for Year 10 in Hobart from 6-8 December to finish the year.

After a week-long competition, Rowing Nationals concluded last Sunday in Perth, WA.

To start off the week, Year 9 student Matilda Spaulding competed in the U17 women’s single, racing well in the heats and repechage. Year 12 student Olivia Yeates had a very successful week winning the B final in the U19 Women’s single. Olivia then joined alumna Meg Castles in the women’s U19 double, making it to the semi-final.

Olivia also competed in the U19 women’s quad (joining Meg Castles ('22) and Lilly Barker) and represented St Brendan-Shaw College in the school girls' single. Olivia made the A final (championship race) in both placing 5th and 6th, respectively.

Year 12 student Sarah Ellis coxed the U23 women’s 8 placing 5th in Australia. To finish off the week, Sarah joined 2022 alumnae Ella Spaulding and Catherine Greenhill (with Meg Castles as Reserve) to compete in the Australian Interstate Regatta. These Students represented Tasmania and competed in the Interstate Women’s Youth 8 placing 5th in the country.

Well done to all current and past students on your achievements! Outstanding efforts.

Devon Netball is holding a clinic in the school holidays run by our State League coaches and players.

Participants can register via the following PlayHQ link. 

https://www.playhq.com/netball-australia/register/86b852

GIRLS - WE NEED YOU! Come along to training and give AFL football a try!

The Devonport Football Club invites all new and returning YOUTH GIRLS footballers U14 & U17 (2006-2012) of all skill levels to come along to our training sessions to be held:

U14 – (2009-2012) Coach Paul Hampton
Tuesdays 4:00-5:00 pm @ Byard Park

U17 – (2006-2008) Coach Kelsey Aherne
Tuesdays 4:45-6:00 pm @ Byard Park

Thursdays 6:00-7:00 pm @ Meercroft Park (combined with senior women)

If you would like any further information, please head over to our private Facebook group listed below and request access or contact the club's Junior Coordinator.

2023 Devonport Football Club Youth girls U14/U17s
DFC Junior Coordinator
Clint Costello
clintcostello1@gmail.com
0499 994 808

Holy Week Mass & Service Times 

HOLY THURSDAY: MASS OF THE LORD’S SUPPER

• Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Devonport, 6pm – adoration till 8:30 pm followed by night prayer of the Church
• Sacred Heart Church, Ulverstone 7pm adoration till 9:00 pm

GOOD FRIDAY: STATIONS OF THE CROSS

• St Joseph's Mass Centre, Port Sorell – 10:00 am
• St Mary's Church, Penguin – 11:00 am
• Holy Cross Church, Sheffield – 11:00 am
• St Patrick's Church, Latrobe – 11:00 am

GOOD FRIDAY: COMMEMORATION OF THE PASSION

• Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Devonport 3:00pm
• Sacred Heart Church, Ulverstone – 3:00 pm

EASTER VIGIL:

• Our Lady of Lourdes, Devonport – 7:00 pm
• Sacred Heart Church, Ulverstone – 7:00 pm

EASTER SUNDAY:

• St Mary’s Church, Penguin – 8:00 am
• St Joseph’s Mass Centre, Port Sorell – 8:00 am
• Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Devonport 9:30am
• Sacred Heart Church, Ulverstone – 9:30 am
• Holy Cross Church, Sheffield – 11:30 am
• St Patrick’s Church, Latrobe – 5:00 pm

DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY (16th April)

• Our Lady of Lourdes, Devonport 2:00 pm mass followed by Adoration and 3:00 pm Divine Mercy Chaplet Veneration of the Divine Mercy Image Confessions.

To view the Mersey Leven Catholic Parish Newsletter, click here.

Congratulations to Lucy (Year 10), Gemma (Year 10), and Claire (Year 11) on their outstanding achievement of being selected to represent Tasmania in the upcoming U/18 National Basketball Championships.

It is a testament to their hard work, dedication, and talent—special recognition to Claire for her captaincy and Lucy for her vice-captaincy. The St Brendan-Shaw College community is proud and wishes you all the best for the tournament. Keep up the great work!