From the Principal

A Prayer for Peace

Lord Jesus Christ,
You are the true King of peace.
In You alone is found freedom.

Please free our world from conflict.
Bring unity to troubled nations.
Let Your glorious peace reign in every heart.

Dispel all darkness and evil.
Protect the dignity of every human life.
Replace hatred with Your love.

Give wisdom to world leaders.
Free them from selfish ambition.
Eliminate all violence and war.

Glorious Virgin Mary,
Saint Michael the Archangel,
Every angel and saint:
Please pray for peace.
Pray for unity amongst nations.
Pray for unity amongst all people.
Pray for the most vulnerable.
Pray for those suffering.
Pray for the fearful.
Pray for those most in need.
Pray for us all.

Jesus, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us.
Jesus, hear our prayers.
Jesus, I trust in You!

Amen.

Venerable Nano Nagle, Pray for us!

Dear Parents, Carers, Staff, Students and Friends

In recent weeks, we have all been deeply aware of the conflicts unfolding around the world, particularly in the Middle East at this time. These events can weigh heavily on our young people, who are often exposed to confronting images and complex narratives that are difficult to process. In moments like these, the role of a strong, compassionate school community becomes even more important.

At Domremy, we remain committed to being a place of safety, respect, and understanding for every student. Our values call us to respond to global uncertainty with empathy, hope, and a renewed dedication to the dignity of each person. I am grateful for the way our staff continue to guide our students with sensitivity, and for the way our students support one another with kindness and maturity.

As a community grounded in the Presentation tradition, we draw strength from our shared belief in justice, peace, and the transformative power of faith, love, hope and education. These principles remind us that even in challenging times, we can be a source of light for one another. Thank you for the trust you place in us each day and for the partnership we share in nurturing resilient, thoughtful young women.

Domremy hosts the NEAA Executive Committee Meeting

Last week, the College had the privilege of hosting the Nagle Education Alliance of Australia (NEAA) Executive Committee Meeting on Thursday, 12 March and Friday, 13 March. This gathering, part of the NEAA’s commitment to high‑quality professional learning and collaboration, brought together leaders from Presentation schools across the country.

In partnership with BBI – The Australian Institute of Theological Education, the NEAA organised a keynote presentation by Dr Cristina Lledó Gómez titled “Schools of Hope: The Legacy of Nano Nagle and Our Multicultural Schools Today.” This presentation offered a rich opportunity to reflect on our Presentation heritage and consider how Nano Nagle’s vision continues to guide and inspire our work in the diverse and dynamic context of contemporary education.

As the host school, we were delighted to extend the invitation to as many staff as possible. Following the keynote, all attendees from Presentation schools were warmly invited to join us for refreshments and collegial conversation. Events such as these strengthen our shared mission, deepen our understanding of our story, and reaffirm the values that shape our community.

NAPLAN

Over the past two weeks, our Year 7 and Year 9 students have participated in the NAPLAN standardised assessments. As many of you will be aware from recent media coverage, a number of technical issues affected schools across New South Wales during the testing window. Unfortunately, our school was not immune to these disruptions.

I want to take a moment to acknowledge the remarkable composure shown by both students and staff throughout this period. Their patience, adaptability, and calm professionalism under pressure were nothing short of outstanding. It is a testament to the strength of our school community that, despite the interruptions, everyone approached the situation with maturity and a commitment to doing their best.

It is also important to remember that NAPLAN represents just one measure of student learning. While it provides useful data, it does not capture the full breadth of our students’ abilities, achievements, or potential. Our teachers draw on a wide range of assessments and observations to build a holistic understanding of each learner.

Once the full set of results and feedback becomes available, we will provide a comprehensive review and share insights with our community. In the meantime, I extend my sincere thanks to everyone involved for navigating a challenging testing period with such grace and resilience.

Year 12 Half Yearly Exams

I want to give all of our Year 12 students a huge shout‑out for successfully completing their Half‑Yearly examinations. I was particularly impressed by their outstanding attendance throughout the entire exam period. This level of commitment speaks volumes about their maturity, discipline, and dedication to learning.

As they move forward, I ask them to remember the strength of the ‘Domremy Sisterhood’ and the importance of ‘shining their light brightly’. I encourage them to continue to support one another, to lift each other up, and to work together so that every student has the opportunity to reach her full potential. When they encourage each other, the whole year group will flourish.

Well done to each young woman! I am incredibly proud of each and every one of our Year 12 students.

Optional HSC Holiday Revision Workshops

During the upcoming Easter School Holidays, Year 12 teachers are offering our Year 12 students a variety of HSC Holiday Workshops. These are optional, but I would strongly encourage students to make the most of such opportunities to engage in review activities that will refresh their understanding of content and develop their skills in applying their knowledge. 

On a final note …

A reminder that the registration window for the Year 7 Parent/Student/Teacher Interviews, to be held on Monday 30 April from 3.00pm to 7.30pm via Google Meet, will close next Friday 27 March. I strongly encourage all Year 7 parents and carers to make a booking.

These interviews are an important opportunity for us to connect early in your daughter’s secondary school journey, to share insights about her learning, and to strengthen the partnership between home and school. Establishing this shared understanding in Year 7 lays the foundation for a positive and successful path ahead.

I look forward to meeting many of you throughour the course of the year and continuing our journey together in supporting your daughters to thrive.

As we approach the final weeks of term, I want to encourage all students to stay focused and keep pushing forward. This is often the time when energy dips and routines slip, but it is also when consistent effort matters most.

The girls have worked hard to get to this point – I encourage your daughters to not let their guard down now. They should maintain the momentum, continue striving for their personal best, and uphold the standard of excellence they have shown throughout the term. Every lesson, every assessment, and every act of commitment contributes to the strong finish they deserve.

Thank you for your continued commitment to our endeavours.

Blessings on you and your families,

Mrs Antoinette McGahan 

College Principal

Prayer

Loving God,

On St Patrick’s Day,

Bless Ireland and all its people with peace and hope.

May the courage of St Patrick and the compassion of Nano Nagle

Guide us to bring light to others,

Especially those most in need.

Help us walk with faith, kindness, and generous hearts.

Amen.

Venerable Nano Nagle, Pray for us.

From our Religious Education Coordinator

In our Church 

St Patrick’s Day – March 17

Reflection: Nano Nagle, Ireland and St Patrick’s Day

Each year on St Patrick’s Day, people around the world celebrate the rich faith, culture and heritage of Ireland. The day honours Saint Patrick, who brought the Christian faith to Ireland and helped it grow through courage, perseverance and trust in God.

Centuries later, another Irish figure carried that same spirit of faith and service: Nano Nagle. Born in Ireland, Nano lived during a time when many people, especially the poor, had little access to education. Moved by compassion and guided by her deep faith, she dedicated her life to teaching children and helping those most in need.

Just as Saint Patrick shared the light of the Gospel across Ireland, Nano Nagle became known as the “Lady of the Lantern.” Each night she walked through the dark streets carrying a lantern as she visited the sick and the poor. Her lantern became a symbol of hope, compassion and faith in action.

St Patrick’s Day reminds us not only of Ireland’s history, but also of the people who lived their faith courageously. Nano Nagle is part of that Irish story — a woman whose faith inspired her to bring light to others.

For Domremy, inspired by Nano, her Irish heritage is more than a historical fact; it is a reminder of the values she lived: courage, generosity and service. Like Nano and Saint Patrick, we are called to share God’s light in our own communities, bringing kindness, hope and compassion wherever we go.

Loving God,

On St Patrick’s Day, bless Ireland and all its people with peace and hope.

May the courage of St Patrick and the compassion of Nano Nagle guide us to bring light to others, especially those most in need.

Help us walk with faith, kindness, and generous hearts.

Amen.

Venerable Nano Nagle. Pray for us.

The hero of Catholic education in Ireland • Venerable Nano Nagle

St Joseph, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary – March 19

This week the Church celebrates the feast of Saint Joseph, a man who lived his faith not through many words, but through quiet courage, trust and action. Joseph was chosen by God to care for Mary and to raise Jesus Christ. Although the Bible records none of Joseph’s spoken words, his life speaks powerfully of faithfulness and trust in God.

Joseph listened carefully to God and responded with courage. When God asked him to welcome Mary and protect the child Jesus, Joseph trusted that God would guide him. He became a protector, a provider and a loving father figure.

Joseph reminds us that holiness is often found in the ordinary moments of life—in caring for our families, supporting others, and doing our daily responsibilities with love and integrity. Like Joseph, we are called to listen to God, trust God’s plan, and act with quiet courage.

Today we ask Saint Joseph to inspire us to be people who serve others faithfully and who trust that God is guiding our lives, even when the path ahead is not always clear.

Loving God, We thank you for the example of Saint Joseph,
a man of faith, courage and humble service.

Help us to follow his example by trusting in your plan for our lives.
Teach us to care for others with kindness,
to do our daily work with love,
and to listen for your voice in our hearts.

May Saint Joseph guide and protect our families and our community,
and help us grow in faith each day.

We ask this through Jesus Christ.

Amen.

Mrs Caroline Morizzi, Religious Education Coordinator

St Patrick’s Day at Domremy and Mass at at St Mary’s Cathedral

St Patrick’s Day Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral

On St Patrick’s Day we attended Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral in the city to celebrate the life of the well loved Saint who changed the lives of many in Ireland. When we entered the cathedral we were in awe of the stained glass windows, lighting and architecture but we especially enjoyed the mass led by Archbishop Anthony Fisher. During his homily he spoke about the importance of continuing St Patrick’s mission of sharing the word of God to bring faith to people in need and freedom to those who feel isolated or lost. From the Archbishop’s homily I learnt more about St Patrick’s history, during his younger years he did not care much for his faith but when he was around 16 he was kidnapped by Irish pirates and was held captive for many years. During this time he became drawn to his faith to provide hope and to pray for freedom. After this time he became a priest and began his mission to spread the word of God.

By Henrietta (Year 10)

St Patrick’s Day at Domremy

Domremy celebrated St Patrick’s Day with plenty of colour, community spirit and the return of our much‑loved green donuts – all sold to raise funds for Project Compassion. The treats brought joy across the school, while also supporting those most in need.

The day reminded us of our strong Irish heritage. St Patrick is honoured for bringing the Christian faith to Ireland with courage and trust in God. Centuries later, Nano Nagle carried that same spirit, dedicating her life to educating the poor and bringing hope to the vulnerable. Known as the Lady of the Lantern, she walked the dark streets of Cork to care for the sick, her lantern shining as a symbol of compassion and faith in action.

For Domremy, this heritage continues to inspire us. Nano’s Irish story calls us to live with courage, generosity and service, sharing God’s light in our own community.

Our green‑donut fundraiser captured that spirit beautifully – a simple moment of joy that helped shine light for others through Project Compassion.

Mrs Caroline Morizzi, Religious Education Coordinator

Renewed in Faith: A Lenten Retreat Experience 

Attending the Women’s Lenten Retreat with the Dominican Sisters of Saint Cecilia was a truly grace-filled and enriching experience. I am especially grateful to the Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney, the Catholic Women’s Network, and Sydney Catholic Schools for sponsoring this wonderful opportunity.

Set in a spirit of prayer, reflection, and community, the retreat offered a beautiful chance to pause amidst the busyness of life and refocus on the true meaning of Lent. Throughout the experience, the Sisters shared their deep wisdom, joy, and love for Christ, guiding us through Scripture reflection, moments of silence, and meaningful conversation. Their authenticity and faith were both inspiring and uplifting.

One of the most powerful aspects of the retreat was the strong sense of community. Women from diverse backgrounds came together, united in faith, to support and journey with one another. The opportunity to share, pray, and reflect together created a deeply encouraging and affirming environment.

The retreat also provided valuable time for personal reflection, inviting each of us to deepen our relationship with God and consider how we are called to live out our faith more intentionally during Lent and beyond. It was a gentle reminder of the importance of stillness, prayer, and trust in God’s presence.

I am incredibly thankful for this experience. It was a meaningful encounter with God, enriched by the witness and guidance of the Dominican Sisters. I return with a renewed sense of peace and purpose, carrying a deeper commitment to living out my faith each day. This time of reflection has not only strengthened my personal relationship with God but has also enriched my faith in a way that empowers me to serve more wholeheartedly as a Religious Education Coordinator. I feel better equipped –  spiritually, pastorally, and professionally – to guide our Domremy community.

I warmly encourage others to take up similar opportunities in the future – it is truly a transformative experience. 

Mrs Caroline Morizzi, Religious Education Coordinator

Celebrating HSC Visual Arts Excellence at Juniper Hall – Class of 2025

Artist statement 

Year 8 Safety and Wellbeing – NSW School Liaison Police Visit

Year 8 students recently had an important visit from NSW School Liaison Police Officer, Constable Jim, who spoke to them about critical topics affecting young people today. The lesson focused on raising awareness and educating students about vaping, bullying, alcohol use, consent and domestic violence.

Constable Jim engaged Year 8 with information about the risks and consequences associated with vaping and alcohol, emphasising the importance of making safe and responsible choices. He also addressed bullying, highlighting how it impacts individuals and the community and encouraged students to stand up against it.

Constable Jim educated students on consent to help them understand personal boundaries and respect for others, fostering a culture of mutual respect. Additionally, he spoke about domestic violence, aiming to inform students about its serious nature and the importance of seeking help if they or someone they know is affected.

To provide context, recent statistics show that vaping among young people in NSW is a growing concern. According to the 2023 NSW Health survey, approximately 15% of students aged 12 to 17 have tried vaping, with around 7% reporting regular use. These figures highlight the importance of education on the health risks and legal implications associated with vaping.

This visit is part of our ongoing commitment to support the wellbeing and safety of our students by providing them with this invaluable opportunity and knowledge to navigate these challenges confidently. We encourage parents to continue these conversations at home to reinforce these vital messages.

Ms Mary David, Year 8 Coordinator

NESA SHAPE Exhibition – Year 11 Design and Technology

On Friday 20 March, Year 11 Design & Technology students embarked on an excursion to the NESA SHAPE Exhibition held at The University of Technology, Broadway. It was a showcase consisting of a range of HSC Design & Technology, Textiles & Design and Industrial Technology projects and portfolios from 2025 HSC students, which allowed us to gather inspiration from, and learn more about, the different areas of design. We also attended a seminar from a HSC marker that provided an informative talk regarding the process of completing a Design & Technology Major Design Project and tips for success.

Ms Stephanie Ricciuti, TAS Teacher

Year 11 Ancient History Excursion – Chau Chak Wing Museum

Our visit to the Chau Chak Wing Museum was an extraordinary experience that quickly became my school highlight, as handling a multitude of ancient and delicate artefacts is a once in a lifetime experience that we were lucky enough to touch and inspect. Immediately we were given artefacts ranging from ancient Egyptian shabti totems, to ferocious Spartan weapons giving us an insight into the culture and way of living that existed before our time. Personally, I’ve always had a passion for the past, specifically the world of Greek myths and folklore, so visiting the Chau Chak Wing Museum, a place defined by myths, legends and history, was like a dream come true. The ancient artefacts and our amazing tour guide provided us with interesting facts and knowledge about ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome that provided us with a richer understanding of the past. Overall, it was an insightful experience that brought out ‘in class learning’ to life, providing us with an excellent learning opportunity that enabled us to experience the ancient world. 

Cassia, Year 11

Learn to Learn Program: Year 7’s Master the Art of Assessment Preparation

Today, our Year 7 students engaged with a Learn to Learn workshop delivered by the College Leader of Learning and Teaching, Mrs Smit. Students began by exploring the fundamental nature of assessments, learning that these are not just tests but valuable skills check-ins that allow teachers to see what has been mastered and what needs more practice. Mrs Smit broke down the difference between formal summative tasks found on Compass and the informal formative checks that happen every day through teacher questions, group work and class work. 

A key highlight of the session was the introduction of the “Two-Week Rule” as a blueprint for eliminating last-minute stress. Students were encouraged to use the first week to read their task notifications, brainstorm ideas, and complete a first draft, while reserving the second week for refining their work against the marking criteria, using the StudyHub mentors to work through editing activities and asking a parent/carer to check work before submission.  

Year 7s explored the ethical use of Artificial Intelligence as a “thinking partner.” They learned that while AI can be a powerful coach for explaining hard ideas or brainstorming different sides of a topic, it must be used mindfully and ethically. The session established clear protocols for being an ethical AI user, emphasising the necessity of verifying all facts against trusted sources and the importance of “keeping your voice” by rewriting any suggestions in your own words. By maintaining this transparency and ensuring that the final work reflects their own understanding, students are improving their understanding of how digital tools can be used to enhance their critical thinking rather than replace it.

All session resources are made available to students through Google Classroom and students are encouraged to work with their teachers as they further develop their positive learning habits.

Future Learn to Learn sessions will continue to build on the foundation of mastering assessments and organisation established today. These upcoming workshops are designed to help students transition from feeling overwhelmed by their workload to having a concrete plan for success. 

Mrs Kelly Smit, Leader of Learning and Teaching

A beautiful celebration of Harmony Day

Harmony Day celebrations at the College

Sport happy snaps!

Year 7 Swimming

Year 8 Cycling

Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award

In fantastic news, two of our Year 11 students,

Daisy and Lily,

will be completing the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. 

We take this opportunity to wish them all the best and cannot wait to receive their reports back of their journey.

Cristina Peros, PDHPE Teacher

Brilliant result for Alexa at Junior State Athletics Championships

Easter Holidays – Optional HSC Workshops 2026

Year 12 teachers are offering our Year 12 students a variety of

HSC Holiday Workshops.

Enrolments Year 7 2028 – Applications close 27 March 2026

The Application window for Enrolment applications for Year 7, 2028 will close next Friday 27 March. 

If you are thinking about Domremy for your daughter, please apply without delay.

• Apply Online: Enrol Now
• Enquiries: Please contact our Enrolments Officer at 9712 2133 or via email at enrolments@domremy.catholic.edu.au

Try Domremy for a Day for Year 3 students – Registrations opening early Term 2

Our final Try Domremy for a Day for the year, for Year 3 students, will be on 26 June. Registrations will open early Term 2 – be sure to mark it in your calendar so you don’t miss out! If your daughter is in Year 3, this is a fantastic opportunity for her to step into the shoes of a Domremy student for a day of fun and learning.

• Registration: Essential (places fill quickly). 
• Registrations to open early Term 2: visit our website here.

We received an overwhelming response to our Try Domremy for a Day for Year 4 students and that day is now fully subscribed and registration has closed. For any enquiries, please contact our Enrolments Officer on 9712 2133.