This is our final newsletter for the year. I would like to thank and commend all our staff, students and families for all that has been achieved this year.

On Saturday 22 November, Joanna De Bono, Shane Taylor and myself had the privilege of being present for the momentous occasion of the Perpetual Profession of Sr Emma Llewellyn rsm. Emma made her final commitment to the Institute of Sisters of Mercy of Australia and Papua New Guinea and to God. It was a deeply moving Mass and profession celebrated by Archbishop Comensoli and Sr Karon Donnellon rsm and witnessed by her family, the many Sisters of Mercy present in the Church and online from all over Australia and the world, and the people who have contributed to her journey along the way. We are blessed to have Sr Emma join our staff in 2026 as Leader of Student and Staff Formation. We look forward to welcoming her and working with her. Shane Taylor shares some of the blessings and a link to the Mass later in the newsletter.

Our theme for 2025 was ‘Don’t be afraid. Go and be...’(Mark 5:36b). We were challenged by our student leaders to take up every opportunity to try something that we might not otherwise consider. The students at all year levels rose to this challenge participating in great numbers in all our co-curricular, social justice and sporting opportunities. Performing Arts also experienced a strong growth in student participation. Even staff tried new things with the appearance of a Staff Band on Mercy Day.

I have always been acutely aware of a very special quality of OLMC students. They commit to supporting opportunities to improve the lives of others when given a chance. Their commitment and generosity, and that of their parents and guardians means that we are excellent supporters of McAuley for Women and Children and Mercy Works. Each ministry of Mercy provides much needed support for the vulnerable in our community.

The final assembly for the year will also be held next week. Students who have exhibited excellence in their learning or through their engagement in co-curricular or outreach programs will be formally acknowledged. It will be a moment to celebrate and give thanks for all that has been achieved throughout 2025. It will be an important moment of recognition for all the ways so many students demonstrated that they were not afraid to go and be.

Next week, the Orientation program for the Year 11 and 12 classes of 2025 will take place. The program is a very important introduction to the demands of VCE whilst at the same time setting students up for the year ahead. It is an extremely important part of the preparation for 2026 and we look forward to seeing all students eagerly participating.

Each year a large number of people contribute to the ongoing development of OLMC. The members of the College Advisory Council, the Finance Sub-Committee and the Parents’ Association spend time each term discerning policy, considering and planning for new possibilities, building community connections or raising funds for OLMC. Through the generosity of their time and expertise we are able to share so much with our students. I would like to thank them for their commitment and dedication to our students and community.

Staff Movement

This year a number of people are discontinuing their normal roles at OLMC. Each person has contributed to the fabric of our community helping to build and nurture young people of courage, compassion, justice and joy. There are many OLMC students who speak about their amazing experiences both in class and in the many co-curricular activities on offer because of the dedication of staff like them.

They have offered kindness, mentoring and leadership to all with whom they have worked. While we wish them well in the next part of their journey, we farewell them with some sadness but hope they will remember that they will always be a part of the OLMC Community:

• Fiona Koenig-Doig
• Hayley Gamble Curran
• Taylah Lambert
• Dina Fragapane
• Gabrielle Tabban
• Rowena Babuin-Lamberti
• Shirley Wu
• Phina Tran
• Marie Jenkins
• Anne Couch
• Lara Del Conte

Staff on extended Leave in 2026

• Katie Clarkson from Term 2

Staff Returning from Leave throughout 2026

• Jemma Banfield
• Elise Cooper
• Alex Seit
• Sarah Cook

Christmas

In the season of Advent, we prepare for the birth of Jesus. This is a season of great joy, hope and celebration. We spend time with family, and share celebrations with our friends and colleagues. It is a celebration of the gift of life. Christmas can therefore become an occasion to welcome, as a personal gift, the message of hope that emanates from the mystery of the birth of Christ.

My hope for all OLMC families, as it is each year, is that this is a time of great joy where the gift of life and the nourishment for your heart enables you to find a place of encounter with God and each other. May the blessings of Christmas be with you.

‘Let your heart become a quiet place where God can speak.’

As Advent begins, many feel the familiar pressure of end-of-year schedules. Amid this pace, the Advent resource ‘In Holy Stillness – Advent 2025’ offers a simple and timely invitation: ‘Let your heart become a quiet place where God can speak.’

This year’s theme encourages us to make room for stillness, not as another task to complete, but as a small act of care for ourselves and for one another. One reflection reminds us that ‘God does not compete with noise. God waits for the moment we pause.’ Another says, ‘Stillness is not the absence of activity. It is the presence of awareness.’

For busy households, these words feel especially grounding. Advent doesn’t ask us to be perfect or peaceful all the time. It simply asks us to notice God in the small spaces of our day: a shared meal, a moment of prayer, an experience of God’s beauty in Creation, a moment of kindness when the morning rush feels overwhelming. The resource encourages readers to ‘welcome Christ in ordinary moments,’ trusting that God meets us right where we are.

As we move through this season, may the gift of holy stillness soften our pace, steady our hearts and remind us that God’s hope grows quietly within us. May it bring comfort to families carrying heavy loads and offer a gentle path toward Christmas joy.

Inspired by In Holy Stillness – Advent 2025 (Archdiocesan Ministries, Brisbane)

https://archdiocesanministries.org.au/advent-plus-resource/

Loving God,
In this season of waiting,
help us find a moment of stillness amid our busy days.

Quiet our hearts so we can hear your gentle voice.
Open our eyes to your presence in the ordinary:
in the kindness we share,
in the care we give,
and in the small moments of peace that brighten our homes.

Fill our families and communities with hope as we prepare for the coming of Christ.
Guide us toward joy, simplicity and compassion.
May your light steady us, your love surround us,
and your promise lead us to Christmas with grateful hearts.

Amen.

Over the weekend, Pope Leo formally advanced the cause of Sr Mary Glowrey, an Australian-born medical doctor who became a pioneering missionary sister with the Society of Jesus Mary Joseph. Her life of service to women and children in India has long inspired many, and this latest step brings her closer to becoming Australia’s second saint – and our second woman to be recognised in this way. To read more, please click here.

Next Friday, all students and staff will gather for our Final End-of-Year Mass. As we begin our Advent journey, this Mass will focus on the gifts of these special weeks leading to Christmas. Here are the words of our Advent Candle liturgy, celebrated during this Mass.

As we celebrate the end of our school year, we turn again to the season of Advent. We light this candle in four moments, remembering the gifts God offers us and the ways we are invited to grow. Each year level carries a special part of this journey.

First Sunday of Advent – Hope (Year 7)

We light the first candle for hope.

This year, we learned what it means to begin again: new subjects, new teachers, new friendships, and the courage to step into a new community. Sometimes we felt unsure or overwhelmed, but hope helped us keep going.

As this flame rises, we ask God to help us trust that every beginning holds promise and that we never walk alone.

Second Sunday of Advent – Peace (Year 8)

We light the second candle for peace.

In Year 8, we learned how important it is to find balance, even when school, friendships or expectations felt busy or uncertain. Peace isn’t something that just happens. It grows when we slow down, listen well, and choose to be gentle with ourselves and others. As this flame burns, we pray for calm hearts, steady minds and peaceful relationships.

Third Sunday of Advent – Joy (Year 9)

We light the third candle for joy.

This year challenged us to discover who we are becoming. Joy showed up in unexpected ways: in our friendships, in trying something new, in moments of laughter, and in finding confidence we didn’t know we had.

As this flame brightens, may we notice the joy that comes from gratitude, connection and being true to ourselves.

Fourth Sunday of Advent – Love (Years 10 and 11)

We light the fourth candle for love.

As older students, we have learned that love is not just a feeling. It is choosing to show respect, to include others, to step up, and to use our influence for good. This year, we have been called to lead, to support younger students, and to act with compassion.

As this flame glows, may God strengthen us to build a community where every person feels valued, welcomed and uplifted.

Final Prayer

Loving God, as these four flames shine together, fill our whole College with hope, peace, joy and love. Guide us into the holidays with grateful hearts and renewed purpose.

May the light of Christ continue to shape our choices, our friendships and our future.

Amen.

On Saturday 22 November, the Parish of St Monica’s in Moonee Ponds was filled with joy as Sr Emma Llewellyn made her Perpetual Profession of Religious Vows as a Sister of Mercy. The church overflowed with her family and friends, Sisters of Mercy from across Australia, and many others whose lives had been touched by Emma’s ministry and friendship.

Archbishop Peter presided over the Mass, joined by clergy who had accompanied Emma throughout her vocation journey. Their presence reflected the deep relationships she has formed in service, prayer and community.

The liturgy was rich with meaning and beauty. One of the most moving moments came as Sr Karon, Institute Leader, led Emma through the profession of her vows. When the time came for the Sisters of Mercy to affirm her commitment, the church was filled with the powerful sound of the Triple Amen. Sung by all the Sisters present, it rose as a single voice of faith, support and unity. It was a moment that touched everyone in the church.

Sr Emma’s perpetual profession marks a profound step in her life as a Sister of Mercy. Surrounded by those who love her, she offered her 'yes' with grace, courage and joy. It was a day of gratitude for her vocation, her witness and the hope she brings to the Mercy story.

Click here for the recording of this Mass.

We pray for Sr Emma, and thank God for her example of God’s loving and merciful presence in our world. We look forward to Sr Emma joining the staff of OLMC in 2026.

The end of the academic year always seems to come quickly, as students are incredibly busy throughout November applying their knowledge and understanding to their assessment tasks, be it in the form of a project, oral presentation or exam, be the task individual, paired or group.

Teachers have been busy assessing, with Correction Day providing the opportunity to complete assessment and exam marking. Throughout the year you will have had access to student results in each subject via PAM. This allows you to see student attainment via the rubric, a grade and, depending on the task, a teacher comment. Further to this, students will write a reflection on their learning for the task, often acknowledging what they are proud of and an area for future focus. We trust that having access to this feedback has allowed for discussions about learning and progress at home.

Correction Day is also an opportunity for teachers to undertake report writing. The end of Semester Two reports will be available via PAM by 4.00 pm on Friday 5 December. When they are available you will receive a notification via email and an announcement will be posted on PAM. The email will also provide you with an outline of the various sections of the report.

Thank you for the conversations regarding learning you have had at home, and with teaching staff at Parent/Student/teacher Interviews and other events. We look forward to continuing these conversations in 2026.

In our recent parent webinar hosted by Jemma Rust from Real Schools, the book Restoring Teaching written by founder of Real Schools, Adam Voight, was referenced. Restoring Teaching gives an insight into the principles that have guided his work in establishing Real Schools and what this model of restorative practices is about.

A link to the audio book of Restorative Teaching is below:

Restoring Teaching Audio

Two areas of the Restorative Practices model that has been a focus at OLMC this year has been the use of affective statements and positive priming. To learn more about what this can look like in our interactions with our young people, please read the articles attached.

We look forward to our continuing partnership with Real Schools in 2026.

During Term 4 9G and 9H participated in Horizon. We started off the term by taking a series of quizzes to find our attributes and characteristics. These quizzes helped us find jobs that suit our personalities and work and lifestyles. Students were also asked research questions, interviewed experts and then wrote an analysis based on the topic. We also learned important life skills such as how to manage money and savings, how to write a cover letter and resumé and developed our interview skills. Horizon has been an eye-opening experience and I believe it has taught me many valuable lessons and abilities I am able to apply in my day-to-day life. It is a break from the regular timetable and it is a good experience to be able to have independence and freedom while you work and explore the city. Overall, I believe that Horizon has taught me more about myself and helped expand my knowledge about critical thinking and life skills.

Evelyn M - 9G

Horizon was an amazing and unique experience. During the term we had a break from the typical school day and learnt a lot more about the practical and real world as well as helpful skills for the future. We explored things like finance, inquiry-based learning, planning our future, careers, problem solving and a lot of engaging activities along the way. After Horizon, I definitely feel much more prepared for the real world and got hands-on experience. I also enjoyed going on Trail Days, where we were able to go to different places such as courtrooms, museums, universities and many more where we got to learn all about the different experiences. During Horizon I was really able to see the full picture and not just study English and Maths. We were able to have more independence over our work and our assignments and on camp. We recently went on Horizon camp which was such a fun experience where we participated in caving, rock climbing, abseiling and a MasterChef challenge. A highlight of the camp was getting to cook our own meals for the group.

Annie T - 9G

As another year draws to a close in the DAT Learning Area, here is a collage of highlights from across our subjects. Congratulations to all the students who have taken creative risks this year. The creativity and problem-solving skills you are developing will continue to hold you in good stead as future-ready young people. We look forward to seeing how you build on these skills and continue to grow in the year ahead.

Mark Jenkinson
Design, Art and Technology Learning Leader

Music at OLMC offers students a vibrant space to grow, connect, and express themselves. Throughout the year, our young musicians have embraced rehearsals, ensemble participation, and performance opportunities with enthusiasm and commitment. Our teachers have shared in that joy too - guiding, encouraging, and celebrating each student’s progress has been one of the most rewarding parts of the year. Below are some reflections from our Year 7 students about music this year. We hope these reflections inspire others to consider joining our music program and discover the achievement, belonging, and shared happiness that come from being part of our musical community whether it is through having lessons, being part of an ensemble or being an enthusiastic member of a music class, all are welcome!

I really enjoy being a part of the music program. I find it rewarding to practice a skill I wouldn't usually do within the classroom and I love making new friends through the program.

Lauren W 7A

This year, Music at OLMC has been filled with growth, creativity, and memorable experiences. We explored a wide range of musical styles, developed new skills, and enjoyed working together in both the classroom and our ensembles. One of our greatest achievements was building confidence in performance, whether through singing, playing instruments, or creating our own compositions.

A major highlight of the year was being involved in two big concerts. Our first was the Hairspray production, which was full of energy, colour, and teamwork. It pushed us to challenge ourselves and helped us understand what goes into putting together a large production. Our second concert was a Celebration where we shared the progress we’ve made throughout the year with our families and friends. It was a rewarding moment to reflect on how far we’ve come.

These performances, along with our work in class, helped strengthen our teamwork, creativity, and appreciation for music. Overall, this year allowed us to deepen our love of music, support each other, and celebrate what we can achieve when we work hard together.

Elina L 7E

I’d like to also take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in our music program - and their families - for their dedication and support throughout the year. We’re excited for the many events and performance opportunities ahead in 2026, and we look forward to seeing our students’ growth and confidence continue to flourish.

Jo-Anne Mileto
Instrumental Music Coordinator

A reminder for all parents and carers of our current Year 11 students that on the evening of Tuesday 2 December, we will be having an event hosted by Time and Space. Students of the Class of 2026 and at least one parent or guardian will be required to attend. This night signifies the beginning of the cohort’s final year at OLMC. Information about this event was emailed out to families last week but please also see the flyer below for further details:

As of Wednesday 10 December, various social media platforms will no longer allow children under 16 to keep or create an account. These platforms include:

Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, Snapchat, X, Youtube, Reddit and Kick

This list may change in the coming weeks so the best place to keep updated is the eSafety Commissioner website listed below:

eSafety Commissioner

This adjustment will be difficult for some of our young people who have become accustomed to using these platforms. In a recent webinar run by Jocelyn Brewer, the founder of Digital Nutrition, it was emphasised that an important way we can support our young people to navigate this change is to have conversations with them. In her presentation to parents and educators, Jocelyn suggested some key questions to ask our young people could be:

How do you use these platforms at the moment?

How do you feel about the changes?

How do you think you will cope?

Jocelyn also suggested asking our young people about what could be other ways that they could achieve the sense of connection they may get from using these platforms. A gradual reduction in time spent on these platforms in the lead up to December 10, was also suggested as a way to support children to become accustomed to this new law.

The eSafety website also provides some video resources to support parents in their conversations with their children about the upcoming change. These resources can be found at the link below:

eSafety Resources for Parents

More information about Jocelyn Brewer’s work in this space can be found at her website below:

Digital Nutrition

This term has been full of sport and a wide range of opportunities for students at OLMC.

GSV Weekly Sports of Basketball and Cricket have been very popular.

All Senior sport is conducted over three weeks on Monday and Wednesday to enable Senior students to compete prior to their exam schedules.

Girls Sport Victoria Weekly Sport – Basketball and Cricket

This term we had a total of 16 basketball teams: 2 x Senior, 5 x Intermediate and 9 x Junior teams and a Senior and Junior Cricket team participated in GSV Weekly Sport.

GSV Weekly Sport Finals were played in Week 4 for Senior Sport & Week 8 for Intermediate and Junior Sport.

Senior Sport:

Senior Cricket: Following an impressive season, our Senior Cricket team finished top of the ladder and competed in the final, triumphing over Sacre Coeur winning: 96/4 (15.3) – 95/2 (16).

Senior Basketball (B) team: Placed second, earning a place in the Finals on Wednesday 29 October at MSAC. Playing a formidable MLC, OLMC showed great determination to finish as Runners Up in the Senior B Division.

Intermediate Sport:

Basketball was very popular with our Intermediate Students with a total of five teams playing Weekly GSV Sport. Of the five teams, three teams were successful in making GSV finals played at the State Basketball Centre in Wantirna on Wednesday 26 November and all three finished within the fourth highest ranked teams in the GSV Competition - a fantastic effort!

Junior Sport:

OLMC Junior students played in Cricket and Basketball Weekly Sport this term.

We had one Junior Cricket team who finished third and a total of nine Basketball teams, of which six made it to GSV finals.

The finals took place yesterday with a squad of 45 OLMC Junior Basketballers setting out to compete at the State Basketball Centre in Wantirna.

At GSV Basketball finals all teams play a series of games and the winning teams qualify for the final.

In a first for OLMC Junior Basketball, all six teams played in the Grand Final round with a terrific display of team work and basketball skill. Grades A, C, D and E finished Premiers and B and F Runners Up. A fantastic result!

Congratulations and thank you to every student who committed themselves to OLMC Sport in Term 4. Your training sessions, games after school and attending a GSV Finals Competition on a Student Free Day was all worth it.

Thank you to all parents for their cooperation in ensuring their daughter was able to come along yesterday. Thank you also to the OLMC Staff Coaches for their commitment to the teams.

2026 GSV Sport:

Trevor Robertson
Sports Coordinator

A heartfelt thank you to everyone in our OLMC community who supported this year’s Parents’ Association Lucky Fees Raffle. Your generosity helps fund projects and initiatives that enrich learning and strengthen our vibrant school community.

We are delighted to share that the raffle draw has now taken place.

Congratulations to our lucky winners!

1st Prize – $4000 Voucher for 2026 School Fees
Winner: Patrick Johnston

2nd Prize –$2000 Voucher for 2026 School Fees
Winner: Genevieve Hennessy

3rd Prize – Snap Fitness Heidelberg Performance Pack
Winner: Brigitte Callery

4th Prize – Noone Uniform Vouchers valued at $400
Winner: James Westcott

5th Prize – Meridian Travel Mystery Melbourne Hotel Stay (Value: $300)
Winner: April Tuli

6th Prize – Oroso Poultry & Meats Christmas Turkey
Winner: Lisa Montalto

Once again, thank you to all families who purchased tickets, and to our wonderful prize sponsors for their support. The funds raised will make a meaningful difference to programs and opportunities for our students in the year ahead.

We look forward to another exciting raffle next year!

OLMC Parents' Association

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