From the Principal

Matilda’s Success ‘Lifts’ Australia

Who couldn’t see, who couldn’t feel the tsunami of excitement and energy inspired by our ‘Mighty Matildas’ over the last few weeks? Their stunning efforts in the quarter final, semi-final and Bronze medal playoff gave Australians a treasured opportunity to witness high performance, wonderful sportsmanship, and the electric tension of a sudden-death penalty shootout marathon that we will never witness again. 

As a former athletic coach said: “The only thing better than reading about history is making history” The Matildas did this…and all of us were there cheering! The Matildas shared their winning wave with us as a proud nation.

And as we rode the wave with them we finished by knowing each of their names (Sam, Hayley, Mackenzie, Ellie, Mary, Katrina, Caitlin, Cortnee, Stephanie, Alanna, Emily, Kyra & Lydia), their shirt numbers and family origins…just delightful! They became like ‘sisters’ to us. 

Ok, their FIFA Cup dream is finished, however the real dream is just beginning for tens of thousands of young Aussie girls and boys. 

The Matildas have unified the nation like never before and changed the Australian sporting landscape forever. Our young MSCW sportswomen always enjoy their sport, exercise and team events. They have been inspired even further thanks to the ‘Mighty Matildas’.

There is no reason why MSCW couldn’t produce a Matilda or two in the future. 

MSCW Giving Back

Last week at the Principal’s Assembly, the Humpty Dumpty Foundation acknowledged and presented to the College the Humpty Cup. This Cup recognises the Sydney school who raised the highest amount of money to support the Humpty Foundation to “help sick kids in hospital”.

Typical of our girls community giving spirit, MSCW raised $3779.00 this year. The money has been used to purchase an AIRVO 2 Humidifier for John Hunter Hospital.

Thank you to all who ran on the day and to those who sponsored them. These types of contributions are a very active way that we can be of service and give back to the wider community.

Father’s Day 3 September 2023 

Throughout history, there seems to have always been a special and irreplaceable bond between Fathers and Daughters. This special bond announces itself in so many ways throughout a daughter’s life. It’s always full of joy, pride and happiness. 

The role of father to every child is a privilege. However, it seems never before has the FATHER role been more important. DADS can play a vital role in guiding their children. I cannot over emphasise the great value Fathers add to children growing up. Teenage girls benefit markedly by having a loving caring father/father figure in their lives. Research tells us that their learning, perspective, good judgement, balance and interpersonal skills are heightened when a good Dad is on the scene, giving active encouragement, setting firm boundaries or having playful fun in his vital role. 

I am always touched when staring into Rembrandt’s masterful 1669 painting “Return of the Prodigal Son”, now hanging in the Hermitage Gallery in St Petersburg. The unconditional love of a father for a daughter or son is perhaps the most reassuring feeling a child can experience. 

It is equally supported by Harper Lee’s quote in her 2015 book “Go set a Watchman” regarding fathers: 

Our daughters also need to be able to look to their fathers for other reasons:

• being a corner-post of family values and virtues
• treasuring and nurturing good relationships
• demonstrating respect and inclusion in every conversation or discussion
• modelling how to talk to girls and women without being sexist
• setting high expectations in manners, behaviour and getting involved displaying fairness, support, love and a reassuring presence

So as a college community, modelled on the Holy Family, let’s celebrate Father’s Day, next Sunday 3 September, as best as we can. Making sure that Dad, Grandfather or father figure know their importance and feel appreciated for their love, support and gentle care.