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,

Term 2 has begun with a wonderful variety of rich learning experiences, both in and beyond the classroom. These activities highlight the dedication of our teachers and the enthusiastic participation of our students. It is inspiring to see such strong collaboration and engagement across our school community.

May – A Marian Month

May is traditionally a month dedicated to honouring Mary, the Mother of God, whom we lovingly call ‘Our Good Mother’. In his final moments on the cross, Jesus entrusted Mary to the care of his disciple John, saying, “Behold, your mother” (John 19:27). In this moment, Mary became mother to us all. She continues to be a guiding example of what it means to live a life centred in Christ.

This weekend, we celebrate Mother’s Day, a special time to honour and give thanks for the mothers who have guided, supported and shaped our lives. Within our community, we recognise that this day is celebrated in many different ways and may include grandmothers, aunties and other mother figures who play a significant role in our families. We are also mindful that Mother’s Day can be a difficult time for those who are grieving the loss of a mother or a significant maternal figure. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you.

Mother’s Day Breakfast

It was fabulous to see over 270 in attendance for our Mother’s Day breakfast. The morning was filled with a wonderful sense of community and belonging. We wish all mothers, grandmothers and significant women a very happy Mother’s Day this Sunday.

Sydney Catholic Schools HSC 2025 Awards

I am delighted to share some outstanding news from the recent Sydney Catholic Schools Awards Ceremony. Our school was honoured with two significant awards for our 2025 HSC cohort, presented by Executive Director Danielle Cronin.

The College received:

• Highest Median ATAR across all secondary Sydney Catholic Schools
• Highest Learning Growth for the 2025 HSC

These achievements are an exceptional milestone for our community and a remarkable way to mark our inaugural HSC year. They reflect the dedication, expertise, and commitment of our teachers, whose HSC experience and genuine care for students have made this success possible.

We are incredibly proud of our students and staff, and we look forward to building on this strong foundation in the years ahead.

ANZAC Day

Our Year 12 Student Leaders commemorated ANZAC Day at the Cronulla Dawn Service, representing the College with dignity and pride. They showed deep respect throughout the ceremony, honouring the legacy of those who served.

Led by Mrs Treeves and the HSIE faculty, the College gathered for a solemn ANZAC Assembly that honoured the courage and sacrifice of those who have served. A moving slideshow paid tribute to the families within our own community, displaying the names of relatives who have participated in the defence forces.

They shall grow not old,
as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them,
nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun
and in the morning
We will remember them.

We will remember them
Lest we forget

Student Leaders Archbishop’s Luncheon

Our College Captains, Sophie and Amelia, recently attended the Archbishop’s Student Leaders Gathering at St Mary’s Cathedral. Each year, the Archbishop invites emerging young Catholic leaders to reflect deeply on important themes, and this year’s focus was “Trust in the Lord: For True Peace and Strength.”

It was a wonderful opportunity for our captains to hear directly from the Archbishop and to meet, connect with and learn from other student leaders across Sydney Catholic Schools. The experience offered valuable insights and inspiration as they continue to grow in their leadership roles within our community.

Debating

Congratulations to our Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 debating teams, who have just completed Round 3 of the Catholic Schools’ Debating Association competition. The girls have been training during Thursday sport under the guidance of Ms Kamp, and it has been wonderful to see their skills and confidence grow throughout the season.

Silver Duke of Edinburgh Hike

We are immensely proud of our Year 10 students for their outstanding success in the Silver Duke of Edinburgh hike to the Blue Mountains. Accompanied by Year 10 boys from De La Salle Caringbah, they exhibited remarkable resilience and teamwork.   Congratulations to all our resilient Year 10 Duke hikers on your successful completion of the Silver practice Hike.  participants for their fantastic achievements. Special thanks to Ms Peric and Mr Hoban for supporting the girls on their hike.

Wednesday Afternoon Learning

Our Wednesday afternoon learning sessions have been hugely successful this year, with a strong number of students attending each week. Over the past three weeks, specialised Mathematics, Science and English teachers have been available to support students. In addition, our 2025 Year 12 HSC High Achievers have been assisting, particularly with Year 11 and 12 students as they prepare for their HSC.

We are very proud of the positive learning and growth culture that is developing. If your daughter would benefit from extra support with her studies, please encourage her to attend each Wednesday from 3:00–4:00pm in the College Library.

Christine Harding, Principal

Principal’s Post on Empowering Young Women

Since 1935, Our Lady of Mercy Catholic College has held a legacy of instilling the values of leadership, excellence and service, nurturing confident young women. We empower our girls to make their make on society with confidence and compassion.

Safe on Social

Taken from Safe on Social by Kirra Pendergast

Safe on Social blog

Kirra Pendergast began her career in 1991 working on the foundational infrastructure of the early internet, specialising in the protocols, authentication systems, and security architecture that modern digital life depends on. By 1999 she was at VeriSign, contributing to the cryptographic trust systems that secured government, military, financial, and commercial transactions worldwide. Over the following decades Kirra led major identity, security, and online safety reforms across government and enterprise, later founding independent organisations including Safe on Social and Ctrl+Shft to address emerging technology facilitated harms. Today, her frameworks are used by more than 1,200 organisations across eight countries, and she serves as an expert advisor, witness, and media commentator on online safety, digital risk, and child protection.

“Miss, Have You Heard of Omoggle?”

The question came from a Year 6 student. He said it the way children sometimes say things they suspect they shouldn’t know, half curious and half watching my face.

At first, I thought he had said Omegle, that older corner of the internet most of us hoped had been buried. But he repeated it slowly, with the patience children extend to adults who are not keeping up. Omoggle. Not Omegle. Something newer, and as I discovered over the following week, something altogether stranger.

We are entering a new phase of digital harm for children. Not because Omoggle is uniquely evil. It represents the collision of three forces that should never have been allowed to meet inside a child’s bedroom. AI-generated beauty standards, algorithmic social ranking, and a generation growing up inside what is becoming a comparison economy. Unlike the pressures most of us survived as teens, this one does not switch off.

I came of age in the era of the supermodel. We compared ourselves to Elle Macpherson and Cindy Crawford in whichever glossy magazines our mothers brought home. Even that quaint dose of unattainable beauty did extraordinary damage. Eating disorders, anxiety, perfectionism, and a generation of girls who came to believe that worth lived in the symmetry of a face.

That was before algorithms. Before livestreams. Before AI. Before, children carried, in their pockets, a permanent global comparison machine that woke when they did and slept only when they finally surrendered to exhaustion.

Omoggle is a livestream platform built around appearance ranking. A byproduct of what I call MANipulation (commonly known as Manosphere). Users enter what the culture calls “face battles.” There is anonymous video chat, AI facial analysis, attractiveness scoring, and the broader infrastructure of looksmaxxing, the belief that human worth can be optimised through appearance alone. The respectable end of it is skincare and fitness. The darker end is body dysmorphia, misogyny, racialised looks, hierarchies, humiliation culture, and a quiet dependency on the validation of strangers.

When I logged in, there were around eight thousand users online. The platform claims to be eighteen and over. It is also what is now called an AI slop app, built cheaply on mass-produced AI-generated content and designed to scale faster than any regulator can catch it. If a platform spreads through TikTok and gaming and meme culture, children will find it. When a Year 6 student tells me about it, I can be certain they already have.

Kids do not enter these spaces because they are vain. They enter because adolescence has always been a hunt for identity, belonging, and acceptance. What has changed is the scale, and the permanence. An adult sees a meme, a joke, a passing absurdity. Kids see, in the same moment, a verdict on whether they are attractive enough, popular enough, worthy of attention. It is developmental psychology. We have wired the most porous years of human identity into AI scoring and livestream judgement.

Parents – this is not a moment for panic. Kids do not need fear from us. They need informed adults.

If your child mentions Omoggle or looksmaxxing or face ratings, do not shame them. Do not mock them. Get curious otherwise they will slam a wall down faster than you can blink. In casual conversation, say you read about it, and ask what people like about it, how it makes them feel. Ask what happens to a user who gets no attention.

Long before we hand a child a smart device, we should be asking a bigger question. Have we helped them build a sense of self strong enough to survive an internet designed around comparison? 

If they already have a device we need to be more curious and tune in. Create that safe space for them to speak up about anything, anytime and model a family connection culture around that.

The kids most vulnerable online are usually the lonely ones, the anxious ones, the kids desperate to belong, the kids quietly wondering whether they are enough.

A child’s sense of self is not built through praise alone. It grows when a child feels genuinely useful inside a family, when they develop skills that have nothing to do with appearance, when the adults in their life praise their courage and kindness and curiosity rather than their performance. It grows through boredom and creativity, through nature and music, through the slow lessons of failing and trying again. Sport matters. Hobbies matter. Sleep matters. Unstructured play matters. So does letting kids see adults who are not constantly performing themselves online.

The greatest protection we can give a child online is not surveillance software. It is a sense of self that does not collapse the moment a stranger online ranks them, ignores them, or tells them they are not enough.

Enrolling Now

Mother’s Day Breakfast

Calendar Update

Term 2 Important Dates

May

Tuesday 26 May – Tuesday 2 June
Years 9 and 10 Assessment Block

June

Wednesday 3 June
SCS Cross Country

Thursday 4 June – Wednesday 10 June
Red Earth Immersion

Friday 5 June
Staff Development Day

Monday 8 June
King’s Birthday – Public Holiday

Monday 22 June – Thursday 25 June
OLM and DLS Musical – Shrek Jnr.

July

Thursday 2 July (pm) – Friday 3 July
Years 7 – 12 Parent / Teacher / Student Interviews

Friday 3 July
End of Term 2

Athletics Carnival – Gallery

Join us on Social Media

Assistant Principal – Karen Shawcross

It has been wonderful to welcome all students back for Term 2, refreshed and motivated for another exciting period of learning.  I am certain that they all had a relaxing break with family and friends.

Winter Uniform Commences in Week 4

Please be advised that the full winter uniform is compulsory starting next week, Week 4.

• Blazers must be worn to and from school.
• For extra warmth, the jumper may be worn under the blazer but should not be worn as a replacement for the blazer.
• College scarf may be worn with the College Blazer to and from school.

I appreciate the students’ commitment to wearing their uniforms well and expect this high standard to continue.

College Assembly 

Term 2 has begun with outstanding sporting and academic achievements, recently showcased at our College Assembly. I was thrilled to note that nearly 200 girls were involved in the variety of areas highlighted. At the end of the assembly I challenged every student to get involved in at least one college activity this term. Opportunities include assisting with debating, volunteering to attend Stella Maris during sport time, or participating in the musical, to name a few.

House Competition

Baggot House is currently leading the house points competition. The Athletics Carnival will be a fantastic opportunity for all students to earn points for their houses through participation and cheering.  The challenge is for other houses to catch Baggot.

Open Learning/Homework Club

Every Tuesday and Wednesday there is dedicated support sessions in the Catherine Centre to assist students with their studies, upcoming assessments, and collaborative work. In addition to teachers providing  support, we have three students who completed the HSC in 2025 available to assist during the Period 5 study lessons and after school on both Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

• Wednesday Homework Club: This is held every Wednesday from 3:00 pm to 4:00 pm for any student seeking extra assistance or a dedicated study space.
• Tuesday and Wednesday Senior Study: The Catherine Centre is also open on Tuesday afternoons until 4:00 pm specifically for senior students.

Karen Shawcross, Assistant Principal

Religious Education Coordinator – Ian Anderson

When we left term 1 we were fasting, praying and giving charity in lent. We have returned to a new term and in a season of Feast, Easter. In this time we consider the joy of the resurrection. Pope Leo, in his Easter message said, “The resurrection “opens us up to a hope that never fails, to a light that never fades, to a fullness of joy that nothing can take away.” That is the joy of the Gospel.

Holy Week

On Holy Thursday the College held a liturgy to end the term. For the students, they engaged with the Stations of the Cross, as a community. The students who produced this liturgy went on to also hold the Stations of the Cross at St Aloysius Parish for the local community. Our Senior leaders also attended Mass at St Aloysius on Thursday evening to have their feet washed as a symbol of commitment, re-creating the events of the Last Supper and Jesus’ washing the feet of the Apostles. I must thank all the students who have contributed to the running of this week and the positive way they contributed to the community.

Senior Retreat

Week 10 last term saw Mrs Bernie and Mr Anderson take the Year 11 cohort on their senior retreat where they partook in activities and quiet reflection to grow closer as a group, reflect on their friends, family, school and their relationship with God. This is an important activity for the girls to undertake at the beginning of their HSC journey and I thank the girls for the way they participated and conducted themselves.

Mercy Formation

On Friday, 24 April, a group of Year 9 students attended a Formation Day at Catherine McAuley Westmead, joining students from all five Mercy schools. The day focused on deepening their understanding of the Mercy Charism through reflection, collaboration, and shared experiences. Students explored how they and our wider community can live out the Works of Mercy and strengthen our commitment to environmental stewardship. It was a valuable opportunity for our girls to grow in faith, service, and leadership.

Alpha Program

Each Wednesday this term, the College is offering the Alpha program in the chapel during recess for any student who wishes to reflect on and grow in their relationship with God. Alpha is a twelve week faith formation program that encourages conversation, questions, and personal exploration. All students are warmly welcome to attend, and Mercy Hours are available for those who actively engage with the program.

Mercy Action Group

The Mercy Action Group is up and running again this term. Students are invited to meet in the chapel each Tuesday at recess, with a particular focus on knitting and crochet as we prepare for the colder months ahead.

All students are warmly encouraged to come along. Participating in the Mercy Action Group offers many benefits, including:

Catechists

Each Tuesday afternoon, a dedicated group of Year 10 students has been visiting Burraneer Bay Public School to minister to young Catholics, bringing the Gospel into their classrooms. This is a very important ministry. As Catechists, our students carry the responsibility of making Jesus known and loved to children who may not otherwise hear the Gospel.

I would like to sincerely thank these young women for their commitment and for the wonderful work they do each week. They are truly living out their faith in service to others.

Religious Education Coordinator – Ian Anderson

Leader of Pathways and Partnerships – Lisa Formica

Sutherland Shire Year 12 Careers Information Day

Last Thursday our Year 12 students attended the Sutherland Shire Careers Information Day. This is an expo organised by the careers advisers of the Sutherland Shire to support our Year 12 students as they prepare to transition from school to work, university or other training. With almost 100 exhibitors, it is a valuable event with something for everyone. As it is targeted at Year 12, students can easily discuss their needs by finding out about things such as Early Entry, Scholarships, cut-off dates etc. 

Year 12 – Future Teacher Scholarship 

Sydney Catholic Schools is proud to offer an academic teaching scholarship in 2026 for high-performing Year 12 students at our school.

Future Teacher Scholarship – Applications Now Open

Offered is up to $20,000 in financial support over four years plus a one-off $2,000 upfront payment to get you started. Many other features and benefits to this scholarship can be found at the above link.

Applications close at 5:00pm on Sunday, 21 June 2026.

Year 11 – Step up into Teaching

Step Up Into Teaching (SUiT) is an Australian Catholic University (ACU) early entry program. It provides Year 11 students considering a career in teaching the opportunity to:

• Experience learning in a university environment.
• Study two University-level units while completing their school studies.
• Qualify to receive a conditional offer to study a Bachelor of Education degree at ACU.
• Receive credit for the units completed, HECS-free.

You will also gain real world experience of university learning skills such as referencing, study skills and navigating a university campus. This might help you decide if university studies are right for you.

Applications are now open and close 15 May 2026.

Work Experience

All Year 10 should have now received their information packs for Work Experience. If a student was absent during the presentation, please see me to obtain a pack. Any questions regarding work experience, please contact me.

EMPOWER Lunches

Empower lunches began this week. Different speakers will attend during lunch time to discuss their occupation in a casual, informal way with students from any year group. This is a great way for students to hear about the day-to-day duties of a role, and the different ways to enter that role, from someone still working.

It is also a fabulous networking opportunity for students to develop connections they may not otherwise have. All students are welcome.

Monday – 4 May HR and small business management

This was our first Empower Lunch of the year. A huge thank you to Mrs Kelly Salmon for taking the time to discuss with our students the career of HR and the important aspects to running a small business. The girls had some fantastic questions, and greatly appreciated the time Kelly gave to them.

Upcoming Empower Lunches at OLM

Tuesday 2 June – Mirvac – Construction and Project management

Monday 15 June – Paramedicine (UTas discussing their Sydney based talk)

TBC UOW Student discussing the pre-med degree and the options it offers

If you are interested in assisting with a casual half hour chat to our students about your position, I would love to hear from you. Please email lisa.formica@syd.catholic.edu.au.

UOW

2026 EmpowerHER Applications Open. The University of Wollongong, with support from Bluescope, is excited to announce the return of the EmpoweHER STEM Summit in 2026. Students will explore the world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM) at UOW’s Wollongong Campus, enjoying interactive activities, and a Bluescope Steel site tour alongside faculty, current students, and local industry representatives. 

Dates: Tuesday 7 July & Wednesday 8 July 2026

Who Can Attend? Female students in Years 10, 11, & 12 who are passionate about STEM!  (Year 7 to 9 student program applications open October 2026). Registration Closes: 19 June 2026

Cost: $120 per student for the two-day event. Application Here

UOW Early Admission Dates Confirmed

UOW Early Admission applications will open 9am Monday 15 June 2026, and close 5pm Friday 7 August 2026. A dedicated UOW Early Admission ‘Ace your Application’ Webinar will be held online on Monday 29 June 2026 for students and families. Find more information and register here

Upcoming UOW 2026 Parent & Carer Webinars 

• Year 10 Subject Selection Webinar – 7pm, 15 June: Register Here
• Year 12 Parent & Carer Future Talk Series – 4 x webinars hosted across 2026 designed to give families clarity, confidence and practical tools to navigate the year ahead: Register Here  

University of Sydney

• Year 10 Info Night: 11 June – This session is designed to support students as they navigate the subject selection process and prepare for their pathway to university. It will explore a range of important topics, including what to consider when choosing subjects for Years 11 and 12, how subject choices can influence adjustment factors, what the ATAR is and how it is calculated, prerequisites and assumed knowledge, tips for university admission and scholarships, and first‑hand insights from current students about their own subject selection experiences and transition to university.

• Year 11 and 12 Info Night: 16 June 2026 – Learn everything you need to know about the University of Sydney, including university entry, scholarships, study options, entry pathways, student support services and more. Undergraduate events will be published on the link soon.

• Indigenous futures at the University of Sydney: Westmead Open Night is holding an on campus event: 13 May 2026, 5–7 pm (AEST). Register here

• The information evening to study Medicine at Sydney University is on Wednesday, 6 May at 4 pm (AEST)Register here

• Women in Engineering Scholarship Information Night on Wednesday 3 June 2026, 5–8 pm (AEST) Register here

Western Sydney University

The 2026 Discover Western webinar series featured webinars aimed at Educators, Parents and Students. Watch the webinars on demand to hear all about our early offer program, alternative entry, Scholarships and student life. Register here

• Discover Western – For Parents and Supporters: Your Role and How You Can Help Guide Them to University | Monday 4 May, 7:00pm
• Discover Western – Pathways, Alternative Entry and Early Offers | Tuesday 9 June, 5:00pm
• Discover Western – Uni Life, and Making the Most of Your Time At Uni | Tuesday 28 July, 5:00pm
• Discover Western – Scholarships | Tuesday 18 August, 5:00pm

UNSW

UNSW Engineering Work Experience Programs | EOIs close 10 May

UNSW Engineering’s Year 10 Work Experience Programs will be offered from 19–23 October 2026. Students will be able to submit an expression of interest (EOI) for either Chemical Engineering or Solar & Renewable Energy Engineering. These programs provide students with practical, hands-on insight into what it’s like to study and work in these engineering fields. More information here

Australian Catholic University

• Australia Catholic University – Talk with Occupational Therapists and Physiotherapists: Wednesday 6 May 2026, 6.00pm–6.45pm Think physio is just sports injuries or OT is only for the elderly? Think again. From paediatrics to neurological rehab, women’s health to community care — these careers go further than you’d expect. Join ACU alumni as they share where their degrees took them. Visit: https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/future-student-events/talk-with.

• UTS Bachelor of Accounting Information Evening Designed for high‑achieving school leavers, the UTS Bachelor of Accounting with a cooperative education scholarship prepares future business leaders. This multi‑skilled degree focuses on accounting and financial management. The webinar will be held on Wednesday 6 May 2026 at 6.00pm. https://www.uts.edu.au/events/bachelor-of-accounting-information-evening.

• Australian Federal Police (AFP) Women in Policing and Protection – Online Information Session | Tuesday 12 May Discover a legendary career with the AFP by registering for this online information session. The session features female officers from national policing, ACT policing, protective services and the recruitment team. Hear about their experiences, career opportunities and benefits, and offer advice on the application process. Register now at https://www.afp.gov.au/jobs/events.

• Australia Catholic University – Talk with Nurses, Midwives and Paramedics: Wednesday 13 May 2026, 6.00pm–6.45pm Nursing is more than a ward round — think ICU, Emergency, Oncology, Cardiology. Midwifery means delivering personalised, specialist care at life’s most profound moments. And paramedicine? High-stakes pre-hospital care and rapid decision-making that makes a real difference. Hear from ACU graduates and find out where these careers can take you. Visit: https://www.acu.edu.au/study-at-acu/future-student-events/talk-with.

Lisa Formica, Leader of Pathways and Partnerships

Newman News

It has been an exciting start to the year for our Newman Selective Gifted Education Program.

In Term 1, students settled in and have already demonstrated a strong work ethic and creativity in our Newman classes. It has been delightful to see students trying new things and sharing their gifts in a variety of areas. We also thank the teachers from across the school who support our students in so many ways and nurture their gifts by running clubs and facilitating participation in opportunities outside of the classroom. 

External opportunities

Students have already taken up opportunities to shine in our wider community. We especially commend those entering writing competitions and registering interest in other competitions. 

Some upcoming competitions and external opportunities are available for registration via this Google Form (to be completed by students only), and include…

• Write a Book in Day 
• Australian Virtual Astronaut Competition
• CBCA Book Week Shadow Judging 
• Tournament of Minds 
• Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards 
• Eureka Prize run by Australian Museum 

Creative Writers Club 

This year, we have introduced an extra-curricular activity run on Wednesdays at recess called Creative Writers Club. Students have been sharing their creative writing pieces for peer feedback, are receiving mentoring to improve their writing and are working towards publishing their work. This is a great opportunity for mentorship and workshopping for budding writers. 

Book Club 

After the successes of Book Club last year, we have started the year by sharing our favourite reads from the holidays. Despite some missed sessions due to school-wide events, we have caught up and nominated some ‘must reads’ for the holidays. See our list of recommended books below: 

Independent Learning Project 

Year 10 students in our Independent Learning Project elective have been busy planning and beginning to implement their projects. This course guides them while they research an area of interest and develop a tool or information resource to share their knowledge with a specific audience. Students might complete an online course or devise their own research plan. So far, we have students researching areas such as…

• Astrophysics and science communication for high school students 
• Anesthesiology and career pathways 
• Occupational Therapy courses 
• And many more! 

We look forward to seeing these projects develop over the year. 

School Musical 

Girls have been sharing their creative gifts in our school musical each Thursday during sport and on our Sunday rehearsals. A big shout out to Mrs Mason, who has been organising musical rehearsals across two schools. She has been working tirelessly, making sure that every student feels supported and their gifts nurtured. 

Da Vinci Decathlon 2026

In Week 1 of Term 2, 32 girls from Years 7 to 10 competed in the regional round of the illustrious Da Vinci Decathlon. This competition, created by Knox Grammar School, encourages students to work as a team and celebrates polymaths like the great Leonardo Da Vinci. 

Fresh off a win from debating the night before, the girls showed tenacity, grit and academic integrity as they competed as a team to complete ten challenges across different disciplines. In groups of eight, they completed challenges in: 

• Code-breaking
• Legacy 
• Mathematics
• Science
• Art and Poetry
• English
• Ideation
• Creative Producers
• Engineering
• Cartography

We came away with some great results, including: 

• 2nd place Science – Year 7 
• 3rd place Science – Year 9 
• 2nd place Engineering – Year 8 
• 2nd place Code-Breaking – Year 9 
• 2nd place Art and Poetry – Year 9

We also had our Year 10 team place 9th overall in their cohort, Year 8 place 8th overall in their cohort and Year 9 place 6th overall in theirs. 

Some other mentionable results were: 

• 5th place English – Year 9 
• 4th place Code-Breaking and Legacy – Year 10 
• 6th place Ideation – Year 7 

We are very proud of the way the girls conducted themselves – they were great representatives of our school and demonstrated the excellence we always strive to achieve. It was a fun day of learning challenges!

Ms Kate Berger, Newman Coordinator

HSIE Faculty News – Mrs Karla Treeves

On Saturday 25 April, our College leaders Sophie Hammon, Amelia Gray and Cyan McKinnon represented Our Lady of Mercy at the Cronulla RSL Anzac Day Dawn Service at Cronulla Park.

The girls laid a wreath at the memorial on behalf of our school community, standing alongside veterans, serving members and families to mark the occasion. The dawn service is a meaningful part of Anzac Day, and Sophie, Amelia and Cyan embraced the early start and the significance of the morning with maturity and genuine respect.

We’re very proud of the way they represented our school, and grateful for their willingness to be there on a morning that means so much to so many.

Lest we forget.

Mrs Karla Treeves, Instructional Leader of Curriculum – HSIE

Diverse Learning – Gemma Mahoney

Staffing Update: Maternity Leave

As of Term 2, I will be commencing my maternity leave. I want to thank all the families I have met so far for your warmth and partnership; I wish you and your daughters a successful and prosperous year ahead.

I am pleased to announce that Belinda Stoimanovski will be stepping into my role during my absence. Please direct all enquiries to Kathy Swan (LSO) at kathy.swan@syd.catholic.edu.au & Belinda Stoimanovski (acting DL Coordinator) belinda.stoimanovski@syd.catholic.edu.au.

I would also like to extend my deepest thanks to the DL team—Kathy Swan, Sophie Havers, and Allison Dutton—for their incredible work in launching our Tier 2 Literacy and Numeracy Intervention programs this year.

Action Items & Documentation

To ensure our records remain current, please forward any updated forms or diagnostic reports to:

• Kathy Swan: kathy.swan@syd.catholic.edu.au

Workshops

A reminder that the previous two newsletters highlighted free parent workshops on ADHD and ASD. These are excellent opportunities to further support your daughter’s learning journey.

Thank you again for a wonderful start to the year.

Gemma Mahoney, Diverse Learning Coordinator 

Instructional Leader – Co-Curricular – Danielle Polson

The following link has important information from Sydney Catholic Schools regarding sport.

https://sport.syd.catholic.edu.au/

Silver Duke of Edinburgh – Practice Adventurous Journey (2026)

– By Becky Ashamalla

Our Silver Duke of Ed practice hike took us into the Blue Mountains for three days of early mornings, long walks, heavy packs, and some seriously amazing views. It was tough at times, but we ended up having a great experience together and learned a lot about what it actually takes to complete a real adventurous journey.

Day 1 – Tuesday 28 April

We met at Caringbah Station at 7:15am, still half asleep, and caught the train into the city before switching to the Blue Mountains line. By the time we arrived at Wentworth Falls around 10am, we were fully awake and ready to start walking.

We headed straight to the Charles Darwin Track, which was a nice warm‑up before the real hiking began. The track took us through bushland and out to a lookout where we stopped for lunch. After eating, we walked back to the station to catch the train to Katoomba.

Once we arrived, we checked in with the local police and rangers to make sure all the tracks were open. Then we walked to Katoomba Falls Campground to set up our tents. Cooking dinner at the campsite and settling in for the night made it feel like the real Duke of Ed experience had officially started.

Day 2 – Wednesday 29 April

We woke up early, packed our gear, and set off for a full day of hiking. The first part was the Federal Pass Walk, which took us through Leura and down to the Cascades for lunch. The scenery was incredible with waterfalls, rainforest, and huge cliffs everywhere we looked.

After lunch, we climbed back up the cliff (which felt like it went on forever) and continued along the Dardanelles Track, passing the Three Sisters and the Visitors Centre. The views over the Jamison Valley were worth every step.

By the time we got back to camp, we were exhausted. We cooked dinner, stretched out our legs, and got ready for another night in the tents.

Day 3 – Thursday 30 April

On the last morning, we packed up our tents and walked to Scenic World. This was definitely one of the highlights  we rode the Scenic Railway, walked through the valley, took the Cable Car, and crossed the valley on the Skyway. Seeing the Blue Mountains from above was pretty unforgettable.

After that, we walked to Witch’s Leap, then headed back to camp to grab our packs. We walked into Katoomba for lunch before catching the train home. By the time we got back to Caringbah around 4pm, we were tired, hungry, and very ready for a shower.

The practice journey showed us how important it is to be prepared, pack properly, and support each other when things get tough. We learned how to manage long distances, steep climbs, and early starts and we also got to enjoy some of the most beautiful parts of the Blue Mountains.

Even though it was challenging, we finished feeling proud of ourselves and much more confident for the Silver Qualifying Journey.

SCC Rugby League

Congratulations to Pippa Bacon who has been selected in the Sydney Catholic Schools Rugby League Team. Best of luck to Pippa who will now attend the NSW CCC event.

Little Athletics

Danielle Polson, Instructional Leader Co-Curricular

Creative and Performing Arts Faculty – Verneen Mason

SCS Eisteddfod

Verneen Mason, Instructional Leader Creative and Performing Arts

Debating News – Susan Kamp

With only two rounds of the CSDA Competition underway, the OLM debaters have already been impressive with their eagerness to improve and their willingness to mentor younger teams and students. Our School Captain, Sophie Hammon of Year 12 is also involved in coaching and giving her time to support the development of debating in the school.

The debating teams this year are comprised of both experienced debaters and students who are trying something new. Year 10, in particular, exemplifies this mix of experiences. They have been awarded two BYES in the competition to date, and will participate in their first debate against Bethany College during Round 3 at OLM on Wednesday 6th May. 

Our three younger teams, Years 7, 8 and 9 all achieved success in their first round debates against St Aloysius, Cronulla. Years 8 and 9 also won their second round debates against Aquinas College, Menai. The Round 2 topic for all three divisions was, ‘That Australia is the land of the fair go’. 

Students proudly involved in the OLM Debating Squad this year are: 

Year 7  

Debaters: Poppy Doyle, Mila Portillo, Aloise Johnston

Reserves and Helpers: Chelsea Zammit, Mackenzie Duggan, Eden Reid 

Year 8

Debaters: Ava Kopke, Emma Broadhurst, Lillian Greaves

Reserves and Helpers: Sophy Wang, Miranda Martin, Sienna Lauro

Year 9

Debaters: Zoe Andrews, Alice Donahoe, Lauren Cuddihy

Year 10

Debaters: Sophie George, Kate Middlemiss, Lillian Bowring, Alia Fahs, Anna Govindrulu, Alejandra McKinnon

Susan Kamp, Debating and Public Speaking Coordinator

Leader of Operations – Luke Reynolds

Using e-bikes and e-scooters on NSW roads, shared paths, and footpaths

E-bikes and e-scooters have soared in popularity, but before you head out make sure you know the relevant road rules to keep you, and those around you safe.

E-bikes

E-bikes are subject to the same road rules as bicycles (see below). To be considered a bicycle it cannot be propelled exclusively by a motor. In Australia e-bikes must not assist pedalling past the speed of 25km/h.

Before buying an e-bike ask the retailer for evidence the e-bike is legal to be ridden on public roads and that it comes with the compliance sticker that ensures the bike is legal and that it meets Australian quality standards.

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New education resource for young riders now available

Check out the new free Student Digital Bicycle Licence Scheme

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Liability and insurance

In the event of an accident, ensure you or your child are covered for personal and public liability for injuries and property damage. Parents may be held responsible for their child’s behaviour.

Consider looking into bicycle insurance to protect your family against potential liability issues. Bicycle NSW provides insurance to its members.

Remember, insurance is void for illegal devices, so ensure your e-bike complies with regulations.

What are the rules for riding e-bikes?

You can find out more about e-bikes at Transport for NSW

E-scooters

Personal e-scooters cannot legally be ridden on public roads and paths in NSW, only on private property.

The NSW Government is working with some local councils to enable trails of shared e-scooters. Shared e-scooter trials are currently taking place in Kogarah, Forster-Tuncurry and Wollongong. Sutherland Shire Council is not currently taking part in the trial.

The trials are in response to the growing popularity of e-scooters and the need to safely manage their use. The trials are collecting information on demand for shared e-scooters, safety, and community sentiment. This will help inform the future of e-scooters in NSW.

You can find out more about e-scooters at Transport for NSW

Road rules for bicycles

• Only children under 16 years of age of age can ride on the footpath, and they can be accompanied by adults.
• Bicycle riders must keep to the left on footpaths and give way to pedestrians.
• Bicycles are not allowed in pedestrian malls such as Cronulla Mall (there is no riding of ANY recreational vehicles in Cronulla Mall – all riders need to dismount).
• All bicycle riders must have a bell on their bike to warn others of their approach and wear a helmet.

Road safety

Road safety is a shared responsibility. Council and police follow up where, and as appropriate with unsafe and illegal behaviour.

As individuals, we cannot change the behaviour of others. It is important whether riding, driving, or walking that we are all responsible for our own safety and the safety of others.

Courteous ways to use a shared path

Have a pleasant and fun experience by looking out for each other and following a few simple steps:

• Be the best version of you
• Always keep to your left
• Keep your wits about you
• Don’t be distracted by your phone
• Keep your animals on a short lead
• Provide space for others when passing them
• Look where you’re going and keep an easy pace
• People riding bikes should ride slowly and use their bell or voice to give pedestrians plenty of warning that they are approaching
• Hold your child’s hand
• If you need to stop, move off the path to the left
• Be visible in the dark! Use lights, reflectors, and wear reflective clothing

E-bike and e-scooter fire risk

E-bikes and e-scooters commonly contain lithium-ion batteries. These batteries pose a number of risks including explosion and fire, particularly when used in products that are not manufactured to meet the relevant Australian standards.

To reduce the risk of incidents caused by e-bike and e-scooter batteries we suggest following Fire and Rescue NSW’s list of recommendations.

Luke Reynolds, Leader of Operations