We have a new Pope. Pope Leo XIV was selected by the Cardinals to lead and guide the church. We offer our prayers that Pope Leo XIV will enjoy the support of the broader Catholic community and is guided by the Holy Spirit in his discernment and guidance for Catholics in all parts of the world.

The Parents’ Association Mother’s Day event was a wonderful success again this year. The Association must be congratulated for their hard work and dedication, bringing together members of our community to celebrate mothers. Over 200 people attended, with some families represented by three generations of women. The Association once again this year gave each mother a wonderful gift. The evening was filled with laughter and conversation and was a fitting celebration for mothers.

The Parents’ Association continues to be an integral part of the OLMC Community, supporting family school connections and creating opportunities for parents to gather and meet whilst enjoying a social event. In the last few years, the Association membership has increased and it has continued to flourish. The number of sponsors they were able to partner with to hold the Mother’s Day event was amazing and represented a power of work. The Association also raises funds to support the provision of amenities to students. At OLMC, we continue to be blessed to have such a committed group of parents working with the Leadership of the College for all our students, and I am grateful for their ongoing support.

On Tuesday, the Annual House Athletics Carnival took place. The weather was stunning, and the participation and engagement of students who attended was fantastic. Whether they competed in the formal athletics program or in the novelty and cheering events, the atmosphere was great. Days like this help young people to strengthen their connections with students from their year level, other year levels and teachers. The significant contribution of the Student Leaders from Year 9 and 12 was outstanding. Congratulations to all who won their Year Level awards and to McAuley on securing the trophy on the day.

Congratulations must go to the staff and students involved in the M² Production of The Addams Family as they prepare for the opening next week. It takes courage, determination, perseverance and good organisation for students to commit themselves to the many months of rehearsal whilst maintaining a strong commitment to their studies. Many of the students involved in production are involved in many other activities within their schools. The students from OLMC and Marcellin College continue to inspire us with their talents, courage, passion and joy. We look forward to welcoming many of you to see the Production in the coming weeks.

Reflection on Pope Leo XIV

Our Church recently welcomed Pope Leo XIV as our new Holy Father. As a community of faith and learning, we pause to reflect on this moment of hope, renewal, and responsibility.

Pope Leo comes to us with a heart shaped by the Gospel and a deep commitment to dialogue, inclusion, and mercy. One of his first messages to the world was simple yet powerful: ‘We must walk forward together, even if we begin at different points.’ In these words, we hear an invitation to unity, not a sameness, but a shared journey built on listening, trust, and compassion.

He has reminded us that the Church must be a place where ‘every person feels seen, heard, and loved.’ These are words not only for bishops and cardinals but also for each of us. In our school community, this means being people who notice when someone is left out, who choose kindness over judgment, and who believe that the Spirit is at work in every human life.

Pope Leo also spoke about the importance of young people in shaping the future of the Church. He encouraged us to ‘be brave with our questions and generous with our hope.’ These are words that speak especially to our students, who are not only the Church of tomorrow but of today.

Let us take heart in this new chapter of our Church's life. Guided by the Spirit and inspired by the leadership of Pope Leo XIV, may we continue to grow as a community that walks with Jesus in faith, love, and mercy.

So we pray…

Loving God,
We thank You for the gift of Pope Leo XIV,
chosen to guide Your Church in this new moment.
Bless him with courage and compassion,
with wisdom to lead and humility to serve.

May his words remind us that faith is a shared journey,
and that every person—young and old—is called to belong.
Help our school community to echo his message:
to listen deeply, to love freely, and to act justly.

Make us brave in our questions,
generous in our hope,
and strong in our commitment to walk together in Christ.

Through the example of Pope Leo,
may we be renewed in our purpose and united in our mission,
as people of mercy, faith, and joy.

We ask this through Christ, our Lord.

Amen.

Image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/catholicism/54506387286/

Each year, from 27 May to 3 June, Australians across the country observe National Reconciliation Week (NRW) to learn about our shared histories, reflect on the work still to be done, and take meaningful steps toward justice and healing. The dates mark two critical milestones: the 1967 Referendum, when Australians voted to recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the Census, and the 1992 Mabo Decision, which overturned the legal fiction of terra nullius and recognised native title. These moments remind us that change is possible—and necessary—when we walk together with truth and courage.

The theme for NRW 2025 is Bridging Now to Next. It calls each of us to act grounded in the lessons of the past and committed to shaping a more just and equitable future. This is more than a national observance for us as a Mercy community. It’s a call to live out the values of justice, compassion, and dignity, and to do so in a spirit of genuine reconciliation.

This year’s theme artwork, created by Kalkadoon artist Bree Buttenshaw, features native plants known for regenerating after fire. These plants symbolise strength, resilience, and renewal, powerful reminders that new life can grow from adversity.

At OLMC, we will mark Reconciliation Week with prayer, learning, and reflection. We will also take time to listen to the voices of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, recognising that reconciliation is not a one-time event, but an ongoing journey.

As we remember the historic moment of Corroboree 2000, when First Nations and non-Indigenous leaders gathered in a national call for reconciliation, we recommit ourselves in 2025 to the same hope: that by walking together, we can bridge now to next.

May this week be a moment of deep reflection and renewed commitment for our Mercy family—students, staff, and parents alike.

Image:https://www.reconciliation.org.au/our-work/national-reconciliation-week/

Within the Archdiocese, there are many youth movements and events. If your child would like to participate, please see two opportunities below:

Elevate: Ignite Your Faith – Youth Event
Friday 13 June
6:30pm
St Oliver Plunket Parish Centre, 1 Landells Road, Pascoe Vale
Contact: north4youth@outlook.com

Youth Encounter – Burwood
Friday 27 June
6:30pm
St Benedict’s, 283 Warrigal Road, Burwood
trybooking.com/CYQJY

Last week I had the opportunity to speak with Year 12 students at a morning assembly. Term 2 is a busy term for everyone, but particularly our Year 12s. Therefore, it was important for us to gather to identify the distanced travelled so far in Units 3 and 4 at VCE, as well as what is coming this term.

A message that we in the Pathways team wished to convey was the importance of the three Ps in managing the time ahead. The three Ps are not just for Year 12, but they can be applied at any year level. The three Ps are Plan, Progress (not perfection), and to be Proactive.

Plan – taking time to outline when assessments or exams are, and when other life events are scheduled, is an important component of gaining some control over the busyness of the term. Having this on a calendar, stuck to the fridge or above a desk, helps to provide the perspective of what is happening and when. Working backwards from the events, from the deadlines, will help identify when things need to be done, and what the small goals along the way will be and when these will occur. Having a plan, that becomes a routine, helps to alleviate stress levels that can rise quite quickly when there is little planning.

Progress (not perfection) – sometimes we can allow an idealised version of the future, of perfection, to hold us back from making a start. It may be that we have a plan, but we can’t see it suddenly transforming our understanding and so we let it slide. Each day or week we should look for the progress we are making, and name the progress. What is the skill or knowledge I have been able to demonstrate today that indicates I have made some progress? What do I wish to make progress in this week when it comes to my use of quotes, for example? Completing homework, contributing to class discussions and undertaking active revision are all activities that enable us to make progress.

Proactive – being proactive to support your progress will keep procrastination at bay. It is about taking some control and ownership of the learning. Whether it is reviewing the lesson activities and success criteria on Canvas, clarifying some feedback with a teacher, or creating a study group with peers, taking action helps to put you in control. This can also help reduce stress, and give a greater sense of purpose – particularly during busy times.

At home, perhaps a dinner table conversation can also utilise the three Ps. For our Year 10 and 11 students, with exams next month, the use of the three Ps may have greater resonance in conversation.

For example, what is the plan for revision for the upcoming English exam? What will progress look like this week? What will you do to make this progress? Is it something you will do this evening, or over the weekend?

The more precise the answers to the questions are, the greater the opportunity for not only growth in knowledge and skills, but also in keeping the focus on what we can do.

The Languages Learning Area staff and students have been busy with a number of activities. A group of Italian students recently returned from the Italy Study Tour, our new Italian Language Assistant has joined us at the College and we are currently preparing for a visit from our Japanese sister school in late July.

James Stavretis
Languages Learning Leader

Italy Study Tour 2025

We spent three weeks in Italy over the holidays. We began our journey in Prato for five days where we did a language course at Monash University. It was a quiet, small town and it took us no time to feel like one of the locals. We were welcomed and didn't even feel like tourists. This included both at Monash University and at the local liceo (high school), who all had great energy.

We then embarked on our sightseeing part of the tour, starting in Venice. Some of the highlights were seeing the Basilica San Marco and travelling to Murano on a vaporetto. After Venice, we went to Verona where we saw Juliet’s balcony and put traditional love lockets on the gate. La Spezia was next, where we went to see the Cinque Terre. The steep walk from Monterosso to Vernazza took us around two hours. The views were breathtaking and worth all the slips and slides. We made a short and soaking wet stop on the way to Florence to take shots of the leaning tower of Pisa. We spent one day in Florence, visiting the Accademia gallery, the home of Davide, we also shopped at the traditional leather markets.

Next, we went to Perugia, where we had an afternoon at the Baci factory tour and workshop. Having the opportunity to make our own Baci and bringing them home to our families was great. Finally, we travelled to Rome. We really enjoyed travelling by train, playing scopa along the way. We were fortunate to spend our Easter there, and celebrated Mass at the Papal Basilica Santa Maria Maggiore. We toured the Vatican museums, and walked all over Rome to see the Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, Villa Borghese, and our final day at the Colosseum and Ancient Forum.

Along the way we enjoyed lots of cornetti (breakfast brioche) and of course lots of delicious pasta. We practised our Italian the whole time!

Chiara S, Mikayla D, Romi L, Lara M, Sofia M, Ayesha B, Charlotte P, Madeline L, Amelia D

Italian Language Assistant

Hello everyone,

My name is Consuelo Cricelli and I am the new Italian Language Assistant at OLMC this year. I have just started, but I will be here for the rest of the school year. Although my name is a Spanish name, I am from Italy.

I graduated last year from university, which I attended in Rome, Italy. I studied Spanish and Norwegian Language and Literature. I am very passionate about learning languages, which is why I also attended a language high school in Italy where I studied English, Spanish and French. I have started to learn Japanese as well, although I still do not feel very confident. In my free time I enjoy reading and music – I play the classical guitar and sing. In Winter, I like to go ice skating.

This is my first time in Australia and I have only been here for less than two weeks, so I still haven’t seen much of the city. But I am loving Melbourne! I took a walk by the Yarra River and have had a Chicken Parma which was delicious. I hope I will have the chance to visit some more parts of Australia and see the Great Barrier Reef!

Before coming to Melbourne, I had just moved to Spain. I was an Italian Conversation Assistant at a Language Public School in Salamanca, a small city near Portugal. The most interesting part of my work there was running a conversation café where a wide range of topics were discussed.

As a Language Assistant here, my role may be similar to the one I had in Spain. I look forward to working with groups of students having one-to-one conversations, especially the students preparing for VCE assessments. I also hope to introduce several cultural aspects, where my goal is to make students grow curious about Italian culture, music, cinema, etc.

Although Spain is the place where I believe I would like to move in the future, I am extremely happy and grateful to have the opportunity to come to Australia. OLMC looks beautiful, is very well organised and is quite big for me compared to the high schools we have in Italy… but I’ll get used to it!

Thank you.

Consuelo Cricelli
Italian Language Assistant

Japanese Sister-School Visit

The College will host a visit from eighteen students from our Japanese sister school, Seirei Gakuen High School from Wednesday 23 July to Thursday 31 July. We have a strong relationship with Seirei, including annual reciprocal visits.

During this visit in July, the Japanese students will participate in English and Australian cultural lessons, visit OLMC classes and do language and cultural exchanges with our Japanese students.

We are seeking OLMC families to host the students. It is not necessary that your daughter studies Japanese. We ask you to please consider hosting if you can as it is not only an enriching experience for our visitors but also for our students whether they study Japanese or not. An information evening about hosting a Japanese student will be held in early June. More details will soon follow about this evening.

In the meantime, if you are keen to host or would like to know more about the exchange, please do not hesitate to contact me (James Stavretis) at the College via email: jstavretis@olmc.vic.edu.au.

James Stavretis
Languages Learning Leader

Compiling the OLMC Senior Course Guide may sound like a busy, tedious endeavour. It’s not. It is certainly less engaging than working with students in the classroom as it’s mostly screen-based, cutting and pasting and typing and coping with tired eyes.

However, it does unearth some gems. It’s like fossicking in the administrative dust and finding a diamond in the form of precise, well-polished student thinking. It’s as if a veil is lifted on Year 10 and 11 attitudes to some of their subjects and we - their teachers - get to read what they enjoy about their studies.

In the weeks before the Senior Course Guide changes are due, I ask specific students to write 50 to 100 words on the positives of doing VCE History, Politics, Accounting, Business Management or Legal Studies. These are the subjects under the Humanities golf umbrella and they are all above par and fabulous to get around. Students share their thoughts regarding the subject in order to alert their younger readers - those about to choose Year 10, 11 and 12 studies - and these quotes are placed alongside the more formal descriptions of the courses.

You can see an example here:

It’s with great pleasure that I share a range of the ‘subject spruiks’ that have crossed our desks this year. These tiny snippets of insight give us energy to continue, remind us why we do our work, and sprinkle a-ha moments around the office. Who knew that an administrative task could be so invigorating?

‘Accounting has allowed me to understand how businesses track income and expenses, manage cash flow, and make informed financial decisions. It has very quickly become my favourite subject as it lays a solid foundation for a future in business, finance, or even just managing personal finances better in the future. I would highly recommend this subject to students who enjoy organisation and logical thinking!’ Hanna

‘I have thoroughly enjoyed Citizens and the Law this year. The content I have learnt is interesting and has expanded my knowledge on the legal system. I would recommend this subject for people who would like to learn more about law, or who are considering VCE Legal Studies, as it is a perfect pathway towards it.’ Ava

‘I enjoy Politics because it gives us a chance to discuss current events and go deeper into the stories we see on the news and social media. Politics is not only enjoyable but also gives us valuable information that we can take into our everyday lives as well as other classes (especially our Humanities subjects.) I would recommend Politics to anyone who has an interest in world events.’ Lucy

‘Legal Studies is a thought-provoking subject that offers deep insight into the complexities of the Australian legal system. I really enjoy learning about rights, courts, and key legal principles, and applying them in real-life cases. This subject has strengthened my analytical and evaluation skills and provides a great foundation for anyone considering law, criminology, or other related fields.’ Maddie

‘Studying Business Management is a great way to understand how real businesses operate and make decisions. I enjoyed learning how entrepreneurs turn ideas into successful businesses. I would highly recommend this subject to those interested in learning about the internal and external business environment, as well as what’s involved in creating and managing your own business.’ Bella

‘Commerce gave me a great understanding of how the economy works, especially through supply and demand and economic players. The ASX Sharemarket Game was a fun highlight, and if you enjoyed Year 9 Economics, you’ll love this subject. It’s a great intro to business and economic thinking.’ Emily

‘I love History Revolutions. It is so fascinating and engaging to be learning about how different countries have developed into what they are today. To be learning about events and individuals who have shaped society, and therefore are so relevant to life today, is something so unique to this subject, and what makes this subject so rewarding.’ Liv

Rosemary Jones
Humanities Learning Leader

It’s been a busy and exciting year so far for our incredible Year 9 students! From creating new connections with peers, to embracing challenges, there's already so much to acknowledge and celebrate.

One of the highlights was Athletics Day on Tuesday — an event filled with team spirit, cheering, and some amazing athletic achievements. Congratulations to all students who participated and a huge shout-out to the students who assisted teachers throughout the day.

In Extended Pastoral last term, creativity was flowing with the making of the ‘One Take Dance videos!’ Each class brought their own vibe and energy to the choreography, and the results were both entertaining and heart-warming. It was a great way to bond with the Pastoral class. Congratulations to 9D for winning the competition and receiving a pizza lunch.

There is a real buzz around Activities Week and Horizon Camp. The excitement is growing and it's sure to be a highlight of the term. We now have 9C and 9D participating in the Horizon program and it is wonderful to see the students so excited to head off on the bike ride and trail days.

Students have been exploring their new electives, discovering passions and trying new subjects — from Art and Drama to Brain-Stretching and Change Makers. There’s been a real sense of enthusiasm as everyone learns topics that they are genuinely interested in.

Our Year 9 student leaders are attending a Middle Years Leaders Network Workshop on Thursday 22 May, at Whitefriars College. The students are looking forward to sharing and learning new ways to further build the OLMC community and support each other.

What has stood out the most is the way Year 9 students have been looking out for one another and acknowledging each other's achievements. This has been highlighted at our fortnightly assemblies, where the Class Captains and students give shout-outs of their peers' success, whether it be for showing kindness, winning a basketball tournament or for demonstrating a great work ethic in a learning area.

As a Pastoral team we would like to congratulate all of Year 9 for the fantastic approach to the year so far and we encourage all students to continue challenging themselves and making the most of the many opportunities on offer at OLMC.

Deb Butterworth
Year Level Coordinator – Year 9

It has been interesting to see the recent attention in the media regarding the VCE Vocational Major. An article in The Age on Monday 28 April, ‘More students hop into VCE’s vocational stream’, highlights the surge in enrolments of almost 20% across the state into the VCE VM, as Year 11 and 12 students seek an alternative to the stress of pursuing an ATAR in their senior studies. With 26,600 students now completing VET vocational training as part of their studies, the number of students completing VCE VM is rising rapidly. The growth is set to continue, as students realise the flexibility that VCE VM offers them to combine their chosen VET with their studies, compared with the traditional VCE pathway.

OLMC offers VCE VM as a senior pathway in Years 11 and 12. The students who have elected to do VCE VM at OLMC are generally pretty clear on their pathway beyond school. They enjoy not having the pressure to achieve an ATAR, the flexibility in the program, and the focus on their personal development and work-related skills. Work placement and the vocational subjects as part of VCE VM studies are an added advantage for students to gain access to tertiary studies and work opportunities post-Year 12.

The VCE VM is working for Harriet, who is studying Allied Health at Box Hill TAFE. ‘I like VCE VM due to the hands on and practical learning which is connected to the real world. Work placement gave me the chance to experience a real workplace environment and explore the different career options in the healthcare field. This hands-on experience really helped me decide on the career path I want to take after school.’ Next year, Harriet plans to study a Diploma of Nursing to become an Enrolled Nurse, with a view to continuing her studies in a Bachelor of Nursing at university in the future.

Lola began her senior studies in VCE and then decided it wasn’t for her! She made the move into VCE VM in Year 12 and has ‘absolutely no regrets’. ‘Last year, I struggled to manage the stress of SACS, exams, and schoolwork on top of all my outside commitments. VCE VM has given me the space to manage that better, and for the first time in a while, I actually enjoy coming to school. It’s given me the chance to come out of my shell and actually use the leadership skills I’ve always had. I’m definitely happy I made the move—it’s made school feel meaningful again, and it’s helping me build skills I’ll actually use in my future career in real estate.’

The VCE VM is an ideal pathway for a growing number of students. Those students who are considering their options for Years 11 and 12 are encouraged to have a chat with their parents and to come and speak with the Pathways team, to discuss how VCE VM can work for them!

Helen Hamblin
Senior Vocational Program Coordinator

On Wednesday 7 May, the VCE Theatre Studies class presented their production of Clue, based on the popular Parker Brothers Board Game. It was a smashing success! Here are some reviews from the audience:

‘We were so impressed with the level of professionalism shown by all involved. Amazing work indeed.

The set, sound and lighting effects really added to every moment of the production. The confidence of the performers was a tribute to their rehearsals, and to the behind the stage team and directors who no doubt gave them the confidence to play their parts so beautifully.’

‘We were especially amazed to hear that the entire event was fully run and organised by the students themselves. They were so well prepared, and their passion and commitment really shone through. You all should be incredibly proud of what you accomplished, we certainly were proud to witness it, as were our family members who attended.’

‘The whole production was amazing and I feel the cast and crew captured the era (props, costume, script/dialogue, use of language, accents and overall atmosphere) perfectly.’

And some thoughts from a student:

‘Being a Units 3 and 4 Theatre Studies student and being given the creative licence to direct a performance of Clue was truly one of the most rewarding experiences. Seeing not only yours but your peers’ hard work and dedication come together, is such an amazing feeling and one of immense pride. I would highly recommend Theatre Studies to all those considering it!’ Molly W (12A5)

Hayley Gamble Curran
Loreto House Coordinator

On Tuesday 13 May the OLMC school community participated in the 2025 House Athletics Carnival held at Tom Kelly Athletics Track in Doncaster.

In sunny conditions, students had the option to participate in track, field and novelty events.

Students at the carnival had a great time trying many of the activities on offer. Highlights of the day were the Annual Year 12 Parade and the inclusion of a Students vs Staff Relay, which the students won convincingly.

Thank you to all students who competed on the day and the work of OLMC staff in making the day a great success.

The results of the day:

Year Level Champion and Runners Up:

School Results

Overall Results

Trevor Robertson
Sports Coordinator

On Thursday 8 May 2025, McAuley Hall was once again filled with laughter and smiles as we gathered to celebrate Mother’s Day — an evening dedicated to honouring mothers, grandmothers, and all the incredible women in our lives.

The event began with a warm welcome from Judith Weir, followed by a touching liturgy prepared by Shane Taylor and beautifully read by students. Rachel O’Keeffe then extended a heartfelt greeting on behalf of the Parents’ Association, adding a cheerful touch to the evening.

We extend our sincere thanks to the many students who helped make the evening so special. From delivering readings to several of our Year 12 students drawing the raffle, at what was their final Mother’s Day Supper at OLMC.

Guests enjoyed a delicious supper, had fun with the photo booth — a hit especially among the students. A highlight of the evening was the beautifully curated gift bags prepared by Lia Heim with products donated by DPP Pharmaceuticals Preston. Each attendee left feeling appreciated and valued. Thank you again, Lia, for your thoughtfulness and care.

Events like this are made possible by the dedication and generosity of our amazing Parents’ Association volunteers. A big thank you to the fundraising committee for sourcing the raffle and door prizes, and special thanks to Vassie and Vanessa for your tireless efforts in organising and assembling the gifts for door prizes and raffles. Our gratitude also goes to Julie of Balloons by Julie Maree for donating the fabulous balloon display — it lit up the room and brought such joy to the celebration.

We are also incredibly grateful to this year’s sponsors for their generous donations, including:

Elite Training Bulleen, Chemist Warehouse, Osteopaths of Ivanhoe, Adriatic Furniture Preston, The Hampton Life, Chakra Skin, Align Pilates Studios, Meridian Travel, Manhattan Skin and Laser Clinic, Glenferrie Gourmet Meats, Lior Jewellery, Little Black Pig & Sons Restaurant, The Alleyway Café, Three Blind Mice Salon, Lash Design by Elia, Vascular Ultrasound Specialists, Vasko Restaurant, Vida Tennis Academy, The French Lettuce Bakery, Daniela Casa Cucina, Balloons by Julie Maree, Veneto Club Bulleen, and DPP Pharmaceuticals Preston.

The evening was filled with a wonderful sense of community and heartfelt appreciation for the incredible women in our lives. We look forward to welcoming you to our next Parents’ Association event.

Thank you to all those that supported the raffle and congratulations to the winners!

1st Prize: Health and Wellbeing Pack 1 - Kirsty Eccles

2nd Prize: Health and Wellbeing Pack 2 - Daniela Splitgerber

3rd Prize: Home Beautiful Pack - Marina Giatrakos

4th Prize: Feel Good Pack - Marina Giatrakos

5th Prize: Getaway Pack - Marina Giatrakos

6th Prize: Pamper Pack - Vanessa Taranto

7th Prize: All the Essentials Pack - Teresa Smith

8th Prize: Dine and Relax Pack - Mary O’Brien

9th Prize: Tennis and Coffee Pack - Meagan Denison

10th Prize: Dinner at Home Pack - Rachel O’Keefe

11th Prize: Dinner and Coffee Pack - Sally Splatt

12th Prize: Hair Treatment Pack - Anna Balazinec

Nikki Reynolds
On behalf of the OLMC Parents’ Association

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