From the Principal’s Desk

Prayer to St Joan of Arc

In the face of your enemies, 

in the face of harassment, ridicule, and doubt, 

you held firm in your faith.

Even in your abandonment, alone and without friends, 

you held firm in your faith.

Even as you faced your own mortality,

you held firm in your faith.

I pray that I may be as bold in my beliefs as you, St. Joan.

I ask that you ride alongside me in my own battles. 

Help me be mindful that what is worthwhile

can be won when I persist.

Help me hold firm in my faith.

Help me believe in my ability to act well and wisely. 

Amen.

Venerable Nano Nagle, Pray for Us

Dear Parents, Carers, Staff, Students, and Friends,

A Season of Celebration, Community, and Charism

This week, our College community came together in a spectacular expression of joy, faith, and unity to celebrate our annual Domremy Day and the upcoming Feast of St. Joan of Arc, our Patroness (30 May). Domremy Day is always a pinnacle of our school calendar, a day which brings us together as one community to celebrate. We were particularly blessed to be joined again this year by one of our Presentation Sisters, Sr Cecilia Wiltshire, pbvm. We are always profoundly grateful when the Sisters celebrate with us, leading our girls in Mass and sharing in the vibrant fun of the day.

Resilience, Imagination, and the Disney Spirit

The chosen theme for this year’s celebration was ‘Disney’. Our day began beautifully with a Celebration of the Eucharist, celebrated by Fr Kelvin Lovegrove of St Mark’s Parish, Drummoyne, and enriched by the angelic voices of our College Choir led by our most talented Mrs Zapulla and Mr Magson.  Much gratitude to Mrs Morizzi for her meticulous organisation especially as this is her first Domremy Day with us. Following Mass, the campus transformed as staff and students fully immersed themselves in the festive spirit, showcasing some truly magnificent and creative costumes!

As many families would know, a wet weather forecast forced a difficult, late decision to cancel the outdoor amusement rides due to safety risks. What followed, however, was a masterclass in the Domremy spirit. Rather than letting disappointment dampen the day, our students lifted the occasion to unforgettable heights.

I want to extend my immense gratitude to Ms Carbone, our Events Prefect, Isabella Colubriale, and the unstoppable Year 12 Leadership Team. At exceptionally short notice, and fueled by a determination to make this a brilliant celebration, they designed and executed a flawless indoor festival. From action-packed activities to faultless logistics, their leadership was exemplary. Thank you to every student and staff member who worked behind the scenes to deliver such a magical day.

A Living Expression of Faith

In weathering the literal storm, the Feast of St. Joan of Arc became much more than a historical commemoration; it unfolded as a living expression of her courage, conviction, and deep sense of mission. These are the very qualities that echo our Presentation Charism.

We are currently moving through a remarkably rich liturgical season, sitting between the courage of Pentecost and the upcoming Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (31 May). On Domremy Day, our girls beautifully harmonized these moments. In their confident leadership, we saw a reflection of the Holy Spirit’s gifts of bravery and purpose. In their kindness, teamwork, and joyful participation, we witnessed the perfect blend of St. Joan’s heroic faith, Mary’s spirit of lifting others up, and Nano Nagle’s compassionate vision of carrying the lantern. History, charism, and student spirit intertwined beautifully.

A Prayer for our Community 

Loving God, 

Fill our hearts with the spirit of joy, courage, and generosity. 

Help us to recognise the needs of others 

and to respond with kindness. 

May our school be a place where your Spirit shines brightly, 

and may our actions always bring hope. Amen.

Venerable Nano Nagle, pray for us.

Celebrating the Diverse Horizons of Student Excellence

As you read through this edition of the newsletter, you will be struck by the remarkable collection of student achievements that highlight the diverse passions of our young women. Our girls continue to embrace every opportunity to challenge themselves and expand their horizons:

• Academic & Intellectual Rigor: We congratulate our students for their recognition in the prestigious ANZAC Activity Schools Award, alongside those who stretched their critical thinking in the intellectually demanding Da Vinci Decathlon.
• Global Connections: Our linguists achieved outstanding results at the Education Perfect International Languages Championships, proving their capacity to thrive on a global stage.
• The Creative Arts: The exceptional musical talents of our College bands and ensembles were on full display at the Sydney Catholic Schools’ Eisteddfod, showcasing both immense skill and hours of dedication.
• Sporting Prowess: On the sporting fields, we celebrate Tiffany and Mila, who continue to excel and demonstrate inspiring dedication in their respective chosen sports.

On a Final Note…

Staff Professional Learning & Spirituality Days

A final reminder to all families that we have two upcoming pupil-free days designed for staff development, formation, and systemic preparation:

• Friday 5 June: Staff Spirituality and Formation Day.
• Tuesday 16 June: Staff Professional Learning and Curriculum Reform Planning.

These days are absolutely vital for the spiritual and professional renewal of our staff as we prepare for significant upcoming curriculum changes. Students are not required at school on these dates, and we highly encourage our girls to utilize this time productively for revision, assignment completion, and independent study.

Thank you for your continued partnership in helping our students grow not only in knowledge but in spirit.

Blessings on you and your families,

Mrs Antoinette McGahan 

College Principal

Prayer

A Prayer to Welcome the Holy Spirit into Our Day

Holy Spirit, we welcome You.

Holy Spirit, we know that You are the Counselor of Truth, our help in need,

and the One who fills us with the Spirit of God.

Holy Spirit, we pray this very day to come into greater communion with You.

You so graciously work to intercede for us to the Father,

but also to comfort us with Your peace that goes beyond all understanding.

Holy Spirit, please come.

Holy Spirit, today we ask for godly counsel and direction.

As it says in Psalm 37:4 to delight yourselves in the Lord, so we boldly seek to do so today.

Following the will and heart of the Father is our greatest desire,

for we know His plans are best for us and, in the end, glorify the kingdom.

Holy Spirit, please lead us by Your wisdom, discernment, and kindness throughout our lives.

Holy Spirit we praise and thank You for the love lavished upon us.

Holy Spirit, we seek and so earnestly crave to be in Your presence,

to feel the inner work of You in our own hearts and minds.

You so graciously give comfort, truth, and love.

Holy Spirit, we welcome You this very day. In the Name of Christ Jesus.

Amen.

Venerable Nano Nagle, Pray for Us

(A prayer by Cally Logan, author)

From the Assistant Principal: ‘Magnifica Humanitas’ – How Young People Can Flourish in the Age of AI

Pope Leo XIV has recently released his first encyclical Magnifica Humanitas. Pope Leo XIV, in presenting to the world and to all the people of God the importance of caring for the human person in the time of Artificial Intelligence. He said “I invite all members of the Church and of the human family: let us learn to listen to one another, face the present challenges with courage, and cooperate in building a more human and fraternal society … Please take with you a commitment to stay awake and, as ‘artisans of hope’, to keep on building the worksite of our time. May the Spirit of the Risen Lord Jesus sustain our work together.” (Pope Leo XIV, 2026)

The encyclical invites us to safeguard something precious: the human person, especially the dignity of children and young people at a time when artificial intelligence is reshaping everyday life. The Pope does not treat AI as only a technical issue. He frames it as a moral and educational challenge: “what kind of person, communities, and future will we be when technology becomes part of how we think, relate, and decide?” (Pope Leo XIV, 2026)

For school communities, this is more than a metaphor. It means: AI can become another “tower” that flattens people into outputs, metrics, and efficiency. Or it can become a tool that supports communion helping students grow into truthful, free, and responsible persons. 

Central to the encyclical is a clear principle: it is human intelligence, conscience and freedom that must guide technical innovation and determine how technology is used and limited. That matters for young people, because AI is not only something to “use.” It is also something that can shape habits of mind:

• what students learn to prioritise,
• how they interpret information,
• and whether they develop the capacity to judge truth and goodness for themselves.

In addition to the encyclical’s vision, Pope Leo XIV has directly addressed the safeguarding of minors in AI. He warns that children and adolescents are particularly vulnerable to manipulation through AI algorithms that can influence their decisions and preferences. He emphasises that safeguarding cannot be reduced to regulations alone; it also requires “digital education.” Adults must rediscover their vocation as “artisans of education” and provide daily, ongoing support—helping young people recognize risks and approach digital life as a means of strengthening responsible choices. 

The encyclical concludes with a Marian lens: as Mary guides believers to see the world from “the viewpoint of the little ones,” we are invited to become “weavers of hope” so that, even in the era of AI, the Holy Spirit can build a civilisation of love. 

Mrs Melissa Vassallo, Assistant Principal

From the Religious Education Coordinator – In our Church …

In our Church …

This week in our Liturgical Church calendar has been a truly special one, as we celebrate two significant feasts: Pentecost and the Feast of Mary Help of Christians.

Pentecost: 24 May

Pentecost, celebrated on May 24 is a Christian holiday, observed on the seventh Sunday after Easter, that celebrates the blessing of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ, as mentioned in the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 2:1-31). The day of Pentecost is known in the Christian Church as the day on which the Spirit descended upon the apostles. Guided by Peter’s preaching, many thousands were converted in Jerusalem.

Come, Holy Spirit,

fill the hearts of Your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of Your love.

Send forth Your Spirit and they shall be created,

and You shall renew the face of the earth.

Breathe into our weary hearts Your divine life,

comfort us in our trials,

and ignite us with the zeal to share Your truth.

Transform our fears into courage,

that we may boldly witness to the Risen Christ.

Amen.

Venerable Nano Nagle, Pray for Us.

Solemnity of Our Lady, Help of Christians: 25 May

Pope Pius VII established the feast in honour of Our Lady Help of Christians in 1815. 

After being imprisoned by Napoleon, he established the feast in thanksgiving for his release. Australia, a new colony at that time, had no Catholic priests and therefore no Mass available. The faithful recited and relied on the Rosary to sustain the Catholic community.  In 1844, Australia became the first country in the world to have Mary Help of Christians as Patroness.

Mary Help of Christians, Patroness of Australia and of the Military Ordinariate

Almighty God, deepen in our hearts

our love of Mary Help of Christians.

Through her prayers and under her protection,

may the light of Christ shine over our land.

May Australia be granted harmony, justice and peace.

Grant wisdom to our leaders and integrity to our citizens.

Bless especially the men and women

of the Australian Defence Force and their families.

We ask this through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Mary Help of Christians, Pray for us.

Venerable Nano Nagle, Pray for Us.

Our Presentation Community …

Presentation Schools Collaborative Meeting 

Domremy College was delighted to host this term’s Presentation Schools Collaborative Meeting, welcoming leaders and staff from our Sydney Presentation schools to continue strengthening our shared mission inspired by Venerable Nano Nagle. The gathering provided a rich opportunity to connect, share initiatives, and plan future collaborative projects that keep the Presentation charism alive in our communities. We reflected on Nano Nagle through this reflection thinking about how we act on “Deeds not Words” in our time and place? 

REFLECTION: 

In her day, Nano rejected the role of a helpless hand wringing bystander. 

In our day, we are summoned to nothing less 

lantern in hand to journey into worlds gone dark. 

(Deeds not Words, C Murray, Wisdom Whispers, Dec 2025) 

   How do we act on “Deeds not Words” in our time and place? 

WE PRAY: 

Renew in us Nano’s boldness to 

risk everything for the sake of justice, 

her tenderness toward those in need, 

and her enduring trust in your Divine Providence. 

May the lantern she carried shine through our lives, guiding us to be light for others, just as she was light in the darkness. Amen 

(cf Our Flame of Hope, A. Moran, Wisdom Whispers, Dec 2025) 

We look forward to gathering again in Term 4, continuing our commitment to walk in Nano’s footsteps with courage, compassion and hope.

Mrs Caroline Morizzi, Religious Education Coordinator

From the Religious Education Coordinator – In our Community … Year 9 Reflection Day

In our Community …

Year 9 Reflection Day

Year 9 enjoyed a meaningful and uplifting Reflection Day with presenter Chris Doyle, exploring the themes of courage, vulnerability, letting go, kindness, compassion, and seeing Jesus in others. Through music, storytelling and shared activities, students reflected on the friendships they form and the way they care for one another.

A highlight of the day was the chance to connect with classmates they may not usually spend time with, strengthening bonds across the year group and building a deeper sense of community. The atmosphere was joyful, open and supportive, and students engaged wholeheartedly throughout.

It was a wonderful and very successful day, leaving Year 9 inspired to bring greater kindness and compassion into their daily lives.

Mrs Caroline Morizzi, Religious Education Coordinator

Domremy Students Celebrated for Excellence in ANZAC Activity Schools Award

Minds in Motion: Outstanding Results at the da Vinci Decathlon

A big congratulations to our brilliant academics who recently competed in the prestigious da Vinci Decathlon! Designed to challenge the brightest minds, this rigorous competition tests students across ten demanding disciplines, requiring intense teamwork, critical thinking, and lateral problem-solving under pressure.

Our teams across Year 7 to Year 11 stepped up to the plate and delivered some truly spectacular results against the toughest competition in the region.

While every team pushed their cognitive limits, a special mention goes to our Year 9 team, who walked away with an incredible 8th place overall finish, anchored by a phenomenal 1st place victory in Ideation and 3rd place in Legacy!

Here is how our teams placed in their standout categories:

We are incredibly proud of all our participants – you have proved that the spirit of discovery and innovation is alive and well in our school community!

Mrs Ganderton, Leader of Inquiry and Enterprise

Top results by our Languages students

• Zara in Year 11 Japanese achieved an Emerald Award
• Allanah in Year 11 French achieved a Silver Award
• Amelia in Year 8 Japanese achieved a Bronze Award

Congratulations to our students.

Ms Lisa Tang, Languages Teacher

Year 10 Global Connections Excursion 

On Friday 15 May, Year 10 Global Connections students participated in a geographical fieldwork excursion around Iron Cove and the Bay Run, engaging in an authentic inquiry experience designed to support their Your World, Your Way assessment task.

As part of this unit, students are undertaking an independent geographical investigation into an issue or area of personal interest, requiring them to develop and apply key research and fieldwork skills. The excursion provided a valuable opportunity for students to experience these processes firsthand, working alongside geography specialists to conduct environmental testing, make observations, and analyse the interactions between people and the environment in a real-world setting.

Through activities including water quality testing, measuring environmental conditions, and investigating the changing landscapes of Iron Cove and Callan Park, students strengthened their understanding of how geographical data is collected and used to inform inquiry.

“One of the most valuable aspects of the Global Connections excursion on the Bay Run was working alongside a geography expert to conduct water testing and measure environmental factors such as humidity. These activities helped develop a clearer understanding of how ecosystem health is assessed and how environmental conditions influence where organisms are found, which will definitely support and strengthen my research for our upcoming assessment task.” – Saskia

“The Global Connections excursion was a great opportunity to explore ecosystem interactions through fieldwork and observation. Investigating environmental conditions, along with exploring areas such as Callan Park, strengthened our understanding of how natural landscapes have changed over time and the features that shape these environments.” – Aurelia

Experiences such as this are a valuable part of Global Connections, encouraging students to take ownership of their learning while developing the inquiry, analysis and critical thinking skills needed to investigate contemporary geographical issues both inside and beyond the classroom.

Mr Greg Sciortino, HSIE Teacher

Japanese Excursion to the Nihongo Tanken Centre

Last Friday students from Years 10 and 11 Japanese classes together with Mrs Tang and Mrs Gulisano went to the Nihongo Tanken Centre for a day of Japanese activities. Housed in a Japanese-style building with tatami flooring and shoji screens, we participated in a variety of language activities led by Miyako-sensei and Chika-sensei. We explored the features of a Japanese house, formed words in katakana, did a speed-dating style conversation game, ordered food from a cafe, wrote kanji, did maths in Japanese, played scattergories and finished with a Grand Prix quiz. Divided into 4 teams, based on the seasons, we competed throughout the day for points. At lunchtime we enjoyed sushi and snacks in the Japanese garden, despite the rain. Four hours of immersion Japanese activities was a lot of fun and we learnt a lot along the way! Now many of us are looking forward to our Japan Trip in September even more. Arigato Signora Gulisano for supporting us!

Mrs Lisa Tang, Languages Teacher

Extension Amadeus Concert Band wins 1st Place at SCS Eisteddfod

Congratulations to our incredible Extension Amadeus Concert Band on winning 1st Place in the Secondary Concert Band SCS Eisteddfod with their rendition of ‘Sweet Dreams’. All 40 students gave it their all!!!

Thank you to Mr Adams, Mr Elderfield and Mr Canas on their hard work and support of our wonderful students! 

Mrs Romina Zappulla. Music Coordinator

2nd place at SCS Eisteddfod: Extension Amadeus String Ensemble and College String Ensemble

  

From The Study Hub – ‘Reading for Mental Health and Wellbeing’ afternoon

  This week we celebrated reading and wellbeing in The Study Hub with the ‘Reading for Mental Health and Wellbeing’ afternoon. 

We all relaxed with a great read and a calming cup of hot chocolate or herbal tea.

Parents, siblings and Domremy students were invited to join us.

Research has long supported the fact that reading for pleasure can improve mood, assist relaxation, improve cognitive function and extend a person’s ability to empathise with fellow human beings.

At Domremy, reading is a community wide pursuit and we celebrate that view by welcoming participation at these occasions. Modelling good reading habits is one of the most important and valuable gifts we can pass on to our teenagers and children.

Thank you to all the students and parents who joined us and made time for immersing themselves in the enjoyment of recreational reading.

Mrs Nicole Harada, Teacher Librarian

Tiffany is smashing it in Badminton

Mila makes NSW Ice Hockey’s Boxhall Team for National Championship

A reminder to our Community … St.Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal and The Vinnies “Not” Sleepout

Each year, Domremy College supports the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. This is a wonderful initiative raising awareness, encouraging solidarity and supporting our community during the colder months. Our school has the opportunity to make a meaningful difference.

We will also be hosting ‘The Vinnies “Not” Sleepout’ on Friday 26 June, where students will be packing snack packs for St Vincent de Paul at school. Expressions of interest for this event will be posted on Compass shortly.  

We are asking Homerooms for items for the winter clothing and food for the Vinnies Not Sleepout over the next six weeks. (Four homerooms will collect for the winter appeal and two homerooms will collect food items to support the snackpacking.) 

Together, we can help make winter warmer for those in need. Thank you so much for your support.

Mrs Caroline Morizzi, Religious Education Coordinator

Try Domremy for a Day – Year 3: Online Registration open, places filling quickly

Connect with us: Follow and like us on social media

Follow and like us on our social media platforms, for the most up to date and regular news stories on what is happening at the College and what our wonderful students are doing.