FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – OPERATIONS, STAFF & COMMUNITY

One of the many great strengths of St Patrick’s College Townsville is the strong sense of belonging that defines our community. Our shared commitment to the education and wellbeing of our students is evident not only in our daily interactions, but also in the ways staff, students, families, and wider community members connect with and support one another. Over recent weeks, this spirit has been clearly visible through opportunities that have brought our community together with purpose and pride.

Our Twilight Open Evening was a wonderful example of community engagement in action. Prospective families were warmly welcomed by staff and students who generously gave their time, shared their experiences, and spoke passionately about life at the College. Classrooms, learning spaces, and specialist areas were alive with conversation as visitors engaged directly with teachers and students, asked questions, and gained insight into the learning, opportunities, and culture that define St Pat’s. The evening reflected not only the quality of our facilities and programs, but also the genuine relationships that sit at the heart of our community.

This commitment to partnership is particularly evident in the way we work alongside families to support student learning and wellbeing. Opportunities for connection help build shared understanding around learning pathways, expectations, and the role we each play in supporting student growth. These conversations strengthen trust, encourage collaboration, and reinforce the importance of strong relationships in achieving positive outcomes for our young women.

Alongside these community connections, we continue to benefit from the depth of experience and leadership within our staff. As we move through the year, there will be some staffing movements, including acting appointments and periods of leave. I am pleased to advise that Mr Dan Santarossa has been appointed as Acting Head of Faculty – Mathematics & Digital Technologies for Semester 2, and Ms Claire Verapen has been appointed as Acting Head of Faculty – Humanities for the commencement of Term 2. Both bring considerable expertise and a strong understanding of our College context, ensuring continuity and consistency in leadership and learning.

We also extend our very best wishes to Ms Shanelle Rubio as she commences maternity leave, and to Ms Kelli Chapman and Ms Kaitlin Borgeaud‑Moo as they begin their respective periods of leave. We thank them sincerely for their valuable contributions to the life of the College and the care they show our students each day, and we look forward to welcoming them back in due course.

Change is a natural part of any thriving organisation, and our community can be confident that the College is well placed to manage these transitions with care and purpose. The professionalism, experience, and collaborative spirit of our staff ensure continuity of learning and support for our students and families. Through strong relationships and shared leadership, we continue to provide a learning environment where every student is known, supported, and able to flourish.

As we come to the end of the term and prepare for the Easter holidays, I am mindful of the Mercy values that shape our life together as a College community. Easter invites us to reflect on hope, compassion, dignity, and service to others, values that are lived each day through the relationships we build and the care we show one another. I am grateful for the generosity, welcome, and sense of belonging that families, students, and staff continue to bring to our community. I wish everyone a safe, restful, and joyful Easter break, and I look forward to welcoming you back next term as we continue our shared work in the spirit of Catherine McAuley.

Patrick Morrow

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – OPERATIONS, STAFF & COMMUNITY