Message from the Principal – Christine Harding
Welcome to the community of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College Burraneer. Striving for excellence, we are the only specialist all-girls school in the Sutherland Shire.
Dear Parents and Carers,
In the spirit of our recent Mercy Day, let us be reminded of our College prayer, which calls us to live a life rooted in Gospel values and a deep love for all people. May we strive to embody these principles in our daily actions, fostering compassion and understanding in our community.
| Inspired by the spirit of Catherine McAuley, We lovingly offer ourselves in service to you. As we follow the way of the cross, we pray that Catherine, and the many others who have walked the path of Mercy, encourage us on our journey. We pray for your grace to ignite in us a love for all your people, So that: Where there is poverty; we show mercy, Where there is misery; we bring mercy, Where there is hunger and thirst for justice; we are mercy. Let us remain faithful to the Gospel believing that ‘anything we do for your people here, we do also for you’. |
Our Lady of Mercy Keep us under your protection and bless our school
Catherine McAuley Pray for Us
Mercy Day Mass
Last Friday, our College community came together to celebrate Mercy Day Mass, a beautiful and moving occasion that highlighted the heart of our Mercy tradition.
The Mass served as a reminder of the legacy of Catherine McAuley, a woman of deep faith and remarkable courage. Her unwavering commitment to the works of Mercy continues to inspire us today. As members of Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College, we are proud to continue her mission. In Catherine’s own words: “No work of charity can be more productive or good to society than the careful instruction of women.”
A thank you to the Mercy Sisters from Parramatta and Fr James McCarthy for making the celebration special. Events like these cultivate a strong sense of unity and belonging, strengthening the bonds within our community and creating cherished memories.
As a symbol of this unity, students received 90 year anniversary ribbons for their hair and a cupcake in College colours, a gesture marking this milestone in our College’s history.
I would also like to extend my warmest congratulations to Ms Kim Tregoning, recipient of the 2025 Living Mercy Award. This prestigious award, nominated by staff, recognises individuals who exemplify the Mercy values in their everyday actions and contributions to College life.
Archbishop’s Award for Student Excellence
It is with great pleasure that I announce Sofia von der Hocht as the recipient of the prestigious Archbishop’s Award.
This award, presented by Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP, is given to one Year 12 student in each Catholic school across the Archdiocese of Sydney. It recognises students who live out their faith with heart, purpose, and action, making meaningful contributions to the faith life of their school, parish, and the wider Church community.
At the Archbishop Awards ceremony, Amelia Buhagiar had the honour of reading the official citation for Sofia, highlighting her outstanding commitment and witness to our shared Catholic values.
Thank you to Amabel Garvin, Year 10 violinist, who was accompanied by Mr Peter Lee on keyboard and represented OLM whilst performing a musical interlude at the awards.
| Each week, Sofia attends Sunday Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, Caringbah, contributing her musical talents by playing the violin. At school, she is a valued member of the Chamber Group, performing during whole school Masses. Sofia attended World Youth Day in Lisbon, returning with a renewed sense of faith that encouraged her to share her experience with both her parish and school communities. In addition to her Sunday worship, Sofia regularly attends Masses for special celebrations. Beyond liturgical involvement, Sofia regularly attended Mercy Action Group meetings with a social justice focus from Years 7 to 10, where she actively supported various initiatives. In her own time, Sofia regularly plays the violin for residents at her local Aged Care facility. Her willingness to do this reflects a strong commitment to faith, community and service. |
Student Success
We are proud to acknowledge the contributions of Addison Bennett and Ruby Hoggan (Year 10), who generously volunteered their time and energy to support the Women Supporting Women fundraising event in 2025. This marks the second consecutive year the girls have donated their time to this important initiative.
The event, which raised an incredible $104,500 for The Family Co., is dedicated to empowering and supporting local women through community, connection, and practical assistance. Addison and Ruby played a vital role on the evening, assisting with venue setup, coordinating activities, and managing the sale and payment of fundraising items.
Addison and Ruby are examples of what it means to be Mercy girls, compassionate, committed, and courageous in their service to others.
Year 12 Formal with De La Salle College
This week, we’ve continued our collaboration with De La Salle College Caringbah by welcoming Year 12 boys to OLM for a shared afternoon. The visit was part of preparations for their upcoming formal together, offering a chance to connect and celebrate.
Red Earth immersion
At OLM, we are committed to nurturing the whole person. We believe it is essential to provide students with opportunities to grow, learn, and contribute meaningfully to society. In line with this vision, we are excited to offer our Year 10, 2026 students the opportunity to participate in an immersion experience to Cape York, a unique and transformative journey into the remote First Nations homelands.
This immersion allows students to make genuine connections with First Nations People living on their ancestral lands, where culture and history remain deeply rooted. Students will learn directly from Elders and Traditional Owners, gaining insights into ancient traditions, stories, and ways of life. They will also engage with young First Nations children, offering friendship and a glimpse into life beyond their communities.
This experience is more than a trip, it is a journey that reflects our Mercy values and our commitment to justice, compassion, respect and community.
Christine Harding, Principal