2025 Newsletter #05 March 26
PRINCIPAL NEWS
Welcome to the final newsletter for the term. As we celebrate the joyous season of Easter, we are reminded of the hope, renewal, and everlasting love that Christ brings into our lives. Easter is the fulfilment of God’s promise—a time to rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus and the new life we share in Him. Let us carry the light of Easter in our hearts, bringing kindness, peace, and joy to our families, school, and community.
Shared Table
Father Mick wanted to pass on his sincere thanks to the school community for their very generous donation of $878.25 to The Shared Table and Fr Michael's continued ministry in Peru. Much has been achieved over the years and many have benefitted from the generosity of many in the Mildura area. This is a wonderful effort by your community and it is very much appreciated.
Wedding Bells
We are delighted to share the joyous news that Ms. Giddings will be marrying her partner, Jordan, just before the holidays. This is a wonderful and exciting milestone in her life, and we extend our heartfelt congratulations to them both. As they begin this beautiful journey together, we wish them a lifetime of love, happiness, and many blessings. Ms. Giddings will also be taking some well-deserved time away from work to enjoy a honeymoon, and we look forward to celebrating with her upon her return.
Long Service Leave
Mrs. Brouwers is currently enjoying a well-earned long service leave, taking the opportunity to visit her daughter and son-in-law overseas. This special time with family will surely be filled with wonderful experiences and cherished memories. We hope she has a relaxing and fulfilling trip and look forward to welcoming her back next term, eager to hear all about her adventures abroad.
Pick Up After School
CDC Bus Lines has asked us to remind parents not to park next to the bus stop opposite the out gate. Many of our younger students catch the bus, and parking on the nature strip creates an unsafe environment for bus drivers trying to pull in and out. It also poses a hazard for students walking home in the area. While we all have places to be after school, taking a little extra time to park safely and walk a little bit further will help ensure the safety of all our students.
Grade 5 Visit to St Joseph's College
Our Grade 5 students had a fantastic experience at St Joseph's Secondary School last week. They took part in a variety of engaging activities, including rock climbing, dance, and drama lessons. A highlight of the visit was getting their hands messy while making delicious rum balls! It was a wonderful opportunity for them to explore new skills and get a taste of secondary school life.
School Advisory Council
The School Advisory Council (SAC) will meet on Tuesday at 7:00 PM in the staffroom. This year, as we prepare for our five-year validation and review, the SAC will play a key role in analysing data to reflect community engagement at St. Paul’s. The discussion will focus on identifying both our successes and areas for growth as we continue to enhance our school community.
Condolences
Our heartfelt condolences go out to Mrs. Narelle Simms on the sudden passing of her husband, Luke, beloved father to Breeanna and Mitchell. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Simms family during this difficult time. May they find comfort and strength in the support of our school community.
Farewell
We bid farewell to Clayton as he leaves St Pauls and the district. We wish him and his family all the best for the future.
Cross Country
This Friday is the St Paul’s Cross Country. We look forward to having many family and friends cheering on the students.
Time | Race - Year level | Laps - Distance |
9.15 am | Foundations | 1 lap of the oval - 500m |
9.30 am | Grade 1 | 2 laps of the course - 1km |
9.45 am | Grade 2 | 2 laps of the course - 1km |
10 am | 12+ Year Old Students | 6 laps - 3km |
10.30 am | 11-Year-Old Students | 6 laps - 3km |
12 pm | 10-Year-Old Students | 4 laps - 2km |
12.30 pm | 9-Year-Old Students | 4 laps - 2km |
Gotcha awards
Congratulations on reaching 25 Gotchas for 'Being Safe', 'Being Respectful' and 'Being your best'. Niro, Tobias, Hugo, Clayton, Ollie, Kimberley, Lilah, Harlow, Jack, Sophie, Charlie, Matthew, Emmett, Mayta, Julian, Eseta, Oliver, Molly, Asena, Callum, Cienna, Henry, Shani, Siena, Alli, Neve, Rosie, Clara, Natasha, Lucas, Ira, Darcey, Memphis, Vincent, Heidi, Elliott, Harjap, Fletcher, Sione, Yana, Elsie, George & Halle.
Professional Learning
The school holidays will be extended for students as staff participate in valuable professional development sessions during the additional student-free days. These sessions will support our ongoing growth and commitment to providing the best possible learning environment for our students.
- Tuesday, 22nd April – Religious Education: Exploring the power of prayer in faith formation
- Wednesday, 23rd April – Review and Validation Planning: Preparing for our five-year school review
- Thursday, 24th April – First Aid Training: Ensuring staff are equipped to respond to medical situations
We appreciate the support of our school community as our staff engage in these important learning opportunities.
Early Finish - FRIDAY 4th APRIL
A Reminder that school will finish at 2.25pm on Friday 4th April following our Colour Run!
Wishing you and your loved ones a blessed and joy-filled Easter!
We look forward to seeing everyone back after a three week break on Monday 21st April.
Melissa Sutherland
Principal
END TERM 1 2025
Friday 4th April is the last day of school for Term 1.
**School will finish at the earlier time of 2.25pm.**
The school buses will NOT be running to an earlier time table.
All school bus afternoon runs will operate according to the standard timetable and will not commence an hour earlier. Parents will need to make alternate arrangements for your child's pick up if they normally catch a bus.
Term 2 Classes for students will resume again on Monday 28th April 2025.
Religious Education News
Project Compassion - Hope in Action
Thank-you wholeheartedly to all families who have contributed to our Project Compassion fundraising so far. Project Compassion is a Lenten fundraising initiative that helps to raise funds for people living in some of the world's most vulnerable communities. Project Compassion encourages us to live out the values of prayer, fasting and almsgiving, and there’s no better way to embody these values than by supporting those in need.
All students will have received their Project Compassion boxes two weeks ago and we encourage students to collect small donations at home or make a donation online via the following link https://fundraise.
We would also like to congratulate Fletcher, Tyler, Dan and Jordan on their successful lemonade stand. These students planned, made and sold lemonade to fundraise for Project Compassion. The resurrection is a symbol of Hope for Catholic Christians and to be Easter people is to be people of HOPE in the world today. These students, together with the support of Narelle Simpson, have shown hope in action. They have been transformed through their Religious Education learning and should be very proud of their initiative and fundraising efforts.
Thank you once again for reaching out with love and compassion to make a difference to those most in need in our world. I would like to leave you with this quote from Pope Francis. How can you be a hope-filled person this Lent?
The Big Water Walk
As part of our Project Compassion Fundraising, our school community are continuing our 'Big Water Walk' - TOGETHER! There are many people in Africa, Asia and the Pacific who have to walk incredibly long distances to access and collect clean water every day. In some schools around the world, students have to be sent home early due to the depletion of clean water supplies.
Our students have been participating in Walking Club, as well as walking two laps of the oval during their brain break time. By participating in the 'big water walk,' students will be able to advocate for those most in need in the world and encourage their families to donate. Donations can be made by scanning the QR code or following the link in the above section. This will create lasting change and help empower people to lift themselves out of poverty.
I have also attached a poster below, which details how our contributions can make a difference!
Arts News
The school is coming to life with colour and creativity!! As you walk through the office, you will notice a big BEE HIVE has appeared. All students from Foundation to Grade 6 created a piece of honeycomb and it looks brilliant! I wonder if you've found yours yet?
Our senior students have been exploring the darkly imaginative world of Tim Burton, using only grey lead pencil, white pencil, and sharpies to create eerie yet expressive self-portraits. They studied Burton’s signature style—exaggerated features, high contrast, and gothic charm—before applying these techniques to their own artwork.
Through careful shading, bold outlines, and dramatic highlights, students transformed themselves into Burton-esque characters, each with its own unique personality and storytelling element.
Their finished pieces are hauntingly beautiful and full of creativity—make sure to check them out on display near the senior classrooms!
Tim Burton selfies
Our middle unit students have been bursting with colour and creativity as they explored the vibrant world of Romero Britto! Inspired by his bold lines, bright colours, and playful patterns, students created self-portraits that celebrate joy and self-expression.
Using strong black outlines, eye-catching colours, and a mix of patterns, each student designed a unique artwork that reflects their personality in a fun and energetic way. Their masterpieces are a true celebration of positivity and bold design—come and see them on display as you walk through the school.
Romero Britto self portraits
Our junior students have been thinking outside the box with their amazing LEGO-inspired self-portraits! Using the simple shapes and bold features of LEGO characters, students designed their own mini-figure versions of themselves.
With bright colours, fun expressions, and creative details, each portrait captures their unique personalities in a playful and imaginative way. Be sure to check out their fantastic work on display—our little LEGO artists have built something truly special!
Mini figure ME!
Senior Unit News
This term has absolutely flown by.
Congratulations to our Grade 5 students who have successfully completed their NAPLAN assessments. To say we are proud of their efforts, perseverance and patience would be an understatement.
Tuesday 18th March, the Grade 5 students spent the day at St Joseph’s College as part of the Grade 5 Catholic School Visit. Their behaviour and engagement was to be commended. Our students absolutely loved rock climbing, the human powered vehicles and making rum balls.
Last Friday we celebrated Harmony Day. This is a time to celebrate that Australia is one of the most successful multicultural societies in the world. We acknowledge and celebrate inclusivity, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background. During our Harmony Day celebrations, we participated in a short prayer, before reflecting on the meaning behind Harmony Day as we created 3D globes to hang in the unit.
Coming Up - Senior Unit Camp to Roses Gap - Wednesday 7th - Friday 9th May 2025.
Further information in regards to the camp will be sent out next week on the SIMON Everywhere App.
It would be a great help if parents could kindly donate some pre-packaged snacks which we can take with us to camp. No nuts please!
If you have any queries or concerns regarding camp, feel free to email Amy Jones at ajones@spmildura.catholic.edu.au or speak with your child's classroom teacher.
From the Senior Unit, we wish you all a restful and relaxing holidays and look forward to seeing you all back in Term 2.
Upcoming Events:
Friday 28 March- Cross Country
Friday 4 April - Whole School Colour Run
Friday 4 April - Last day of Term 1
Wednesday 7 May to Friday 9 May - Senior Unit Camp to Roses Gap
Grade 5 SJC Visit
Middle Unit News
Harmony Day Celebrations
Last Friday we had a fantastic time celebrating the many different cultures that are represented across the school.
In the Middles, we spent time creating some incredible artworks that are now displayed in the unit. Below are some photos of our artworks.
Literacy
Our students have been learning how to organise information using a Single Paragraph Outline (SPO) and note taking! It has been great to see the progress our students have made throughout the past couple of weeks. We look forward to raising the bar of what we can expect to see from our students. Well done everyone!
Chaffey Trail Excursion
As part of our Geography unit the Middle Unit will be going on an excursion to the Chaffey Trail onTuesday 1st April. Please ensure you have given your child permission on the SIMON Everywhere App to attend this excursion. This will be a great opportunity to learn some of the history of Mildura and enjoy some time outdoors.
Junior Unit News
As we approach the final week of term, we would like to take a moment to wish all our families a safe and restful school holiday break. It’s been a busy and rewarding term, and we hope everyone enjoys some well-deserved time to relax and recharge.
AFL Football Clinic
The Junior Unit students had a great time recently at the Footy Clinic, organised by Sunraysia AFL. It was a fun-filled hour where they learned lots of new football skills, like kicking, handballing, and marking. The students also enjoyed playing games that helped them practice what they’d learned in a fun and engaging way.
It was a fantastic opportunity for everyone to try something new, improve their abilities, and most importantly, have fun. A big thanks to the Sunraysia AFL team for making it such a memorable experience!
Foundation Unit News
Last Monday was St Patrick's Day and the Foundation Unit children learnt all about St Patrick. They also got to enjoy some green jelly and made special Leprechaun hats to take home.
Cross Country
On Friday we have our School Cross Country on the John Hill Oval. Parents and friends are most welcome to come along and spectate. Students are encouraged to wear their sporting house colours. (Red = Hill, Blue = Mercy, Yellow = McKenzie, Green = Chaffey)
You can check the House on SIMON everywhere App -Click on Profile - current enrolment detail - scroll to the bottom
Please note: Students in Grades 3 to 6 will compete in their sporting age groups. If you are unsure which age your child is in please speak to their classroom teacher.
Students in Foundation to Grade 2 will compete in their year-level groups.
The schedule for Cross Country is as follows:
9.15 am - Foundation Students (500mts/1 lap)
9.30 am - Grade 1 Students (1km/2 laps)
9.45 am - Grade 2 Students (1km/2 laps)
10 am - 12+ yr old Students (3km/6 laps)
10.30 am - 11yr-old Students(3km/6 laps)
12 pm - 10-yr-old Students (2km/4 laps)
12.30 pm - 9-yr-old Students (2km/4 laps)
- Please note: These are approximate times.
- Place-getter ribbons will be presented to students in their Units on the day.
Colour Run
We are counting down the days until our Monty’s Colour Fun Run! There is only 9 days to go!
Fundraise with Monty the Monstar at www.myprofilepage.com.au and collect your own unique Monty prize!
Take advantage of the online platform included in our fundraiser via the link above.
There are lots of interactive features with plenty of rewards up for grabs, like free bonus donations and a Monty Handball. Let’s make the most of our resources and start fundraising today! We are fundraising for additional Sports Equipment for our school.
The whole school will be participating in the Colour Run between 1.30-2.25 Students will need to wear a White T-Shirt and their black sports shorts.
The order for the event will be:
Juniors - J4, J5, J7, J8
Middles - M1, M2, M9, M10
Foundations and their Buddies (Grade 5)
Grade 6
Parents and friends are invited to come along on the day to watch and cheer for the students while they complete the run.
First Aid Information
Concussion Information
If your child has experienced concussion outside of the school setting it is important that they rest for a period of 24 to 48 hours and then gradually return to activities after this time. Returning to school can be a graduated approach with the aim of increasing tolerance to a full day, the same situation could occur with sporting activities. It is always important to check with your doctor and seek medical treatment after a child sustains a concussion.
It is important to inform the school if your child has sustained a concussion outside of school; this is to ensure the school can monitor your child’s wellbeing and adapt activities as required.
This factsheet link below from the Royal Children’s Hospital is valuable to read and understand.
https://www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Head_injury_return_to_school_and_sport/
Student Medical Updates
Thankyou to everyone who has updated their child's Asthma and Anaphylaxis / Severe allergy plans for 2025.
Just a reminder to families who have children who have Asthma, Anaphylaxis and Severe Allergies to please ensure that your child has an up to date Anaphylaxis Action Plan and/or Asthma Action Plan and all current medications are provided to the school. We have sporting activities / excursions / camps and all Information is required to be current at all times.
Sts Anne and Joachim Catholic Parish Bulletin
National Referral Centre
National Referral Centre
We can support your child’s education with free home internet.
This is an Australian Government program for families and carers with school age children who are struggling with bills. Contact our team to see if you qualify and for help getting your house connected.
Call 1800 954 610 (10am – 6pm AEDT Monday to Friday, excluding Victorian Public Holidays) or fill out this form.
To qualify you must:
- Have a school age student at home (full or part time) enrolled in an Australian school (up to year 12 including Prep in Qld/Vic/Tas, Kindergarten in NSW, Reception in SA, Transition in NT/ACT and Pre-Primary in WA).
- Not have an active nbn® network internet service at your current residential address now or in the past 14 days. (Having a mobile internet service does not affect eligibility).
- Live in a premise that can access the nbnnetwork through a standard connection
https://www.anglicarevic.org.au/student-internet/
Parent Noticeboard
