FROM THE COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

As we draw near to the end of another busy and fruitful term at St Patrick’s College Townsville, I extend my heartfelt thanks to all our students and staff. Term 1 has indeed been busy: the onboarding of new students, learning of new routines, parent information evenings, implementation of learning how to learn programs, new child safety regulations, timetable reviews, Twilight Open Evening, and pivots which will allow online access to students in Term 2, as a contingency given recent issues in relation to fuel supply and distribution. St Pat’s is not a place of idleness!

Aside from being a busy term, it has also been a most successful one for our students, particularly in extracurricular endeavours. Our Under 14s were victorious in the North Queensland School Girls’ Super 7s, whilst our Under 16s and Under 18s were runners up. Our swimmers won the A-Schools Swimming Carnival, despite competing from lane 8. Our Basketball team came runners up at their recent Gala Day, missing victory by only one point. Our Rowers mounted a highly successful nationals campaign. Special mention goes to Holly Wilkie who won a gold medal in the U17 Women’s Quad, and Georgia Cresswell who won a gold medal in the U19 Women’s Eight. While victories like these are always encouraging and momentum building, it is important to note that they are products of the opportunities provided by those staff willing to go the extra mile, spending time in training, supervision, or strategising. I thank all those staff who have gone the extra mile for students this term, and all students whose efforts have inspired others.

As we enter the Easter season, may we all remember that Easter is a time of profound hope, celebrating Christ’s resurrection and the victory of love and life over darkness. It reminds us that, no matter the challenges we face, there is always the promise of renewal and new beginnings. Our faith calls us to be people of hope – carrying the light of Christ into our world, even when it is marked by uncertainty or sorrow.

This year, as we witness ongoing conflict and suffering in the Middle East, the Easter message resonates more powerfully than ever. We are reminded that peace is fragile, and the need for compassion and understanding is great. Let us hold in our prayers all those impacted by war and division. At the same time, may we be inspired by Christ’s example to take practical steps – however small – to build peace in our own lives and community. A kind word, a helping hand, or a moment of forgiveness can be acts of hope that ripple outward.

As you enjoy a well-deserved break over the holidays, I encourage you to rest, spend time with loved ones, and reflect on how you can bring the Easter spirit of hope and renewal into your daily actions. May this sacred season fill you with joy and strengthen your resolve to make a positive difference in our world.

Wishing you all a blessed and peaceful Easter.

In Mercy,

Kath Little

COLLEGE PRINCIPAL