I was fortunate to join the basket weaving activity on Wednesday, following our reading of the beautiful book Afloat, which highlights the importance of holding onto and sharing communal traditions. I was genuinely impressed by the dexterity and determination our students showed when taking on this new and complex skill.

Each year, Book Week sparks plenty of discussion in the media and among school communities. Much like debates about homework, opinions are strong and varied. A few years ago, after the COVID pandemic, we surveyed parents to determine whether to hold the dress-up parade annually or every second year. The overwhelming response supported an annual parade, and I continue to be amazed by the creativity and effort families put into costumes. This year was no exception; our students and staff alike had a wonderful time celebrating together.


Yesterday, I had the privilege of attending the funeral of our colleague, David Bright. David and his wife, Patty, have cared for our school with great dedication as our cleaners for many years. It was an honour to join his family and friends in celebrating such a kind and generous man. Listening to stories of his life, from joining the Navy at just 16, to his work on Manus Island and in the prison system, gave me a deeper appreciation for the extraordinary person he was and the love he shared so freely with those around him.


Next week will be a little quieter, with our Seniors heading off to Camp Kookaburra on Wednesday. Under our current agreement, teachers are now formally recognised for the time and effort required to attend camp, something that was once simply expected “from the goodness of their hearts.” While the system is not perfect, it is progress. I know some schools have responded by discontinuing camp programs altogether, but I am grateful for the support of our School Advisory Council, which backed both a camp fee increase and a recovery day for students and staff who attend. Camps are such an important part of growing up and the school experience (I still regret never being allowed to attend when I was a student!), and we remain committed to offering these opportunities.


A light-hearted moment from last week’s Mary MacKillop celebrations also made me smile. During a Year 1/2 activity, students were asked to write about what Mary MacKillop was doing in their picture. One student proudly wrote, “Mary was a teacher and she was teaching UFLI!” Clearly, she was ahead of her time!

Please note, Camp Australia will not be open on our closure day, Thursday 18 September. Registered families should already have received notification.

Wishing you a restful weekend,

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

Thank you to all staff and families who helped make Book Week such a memorable celebration of reading and storytelling!

We were fortunate to enjoy beautiful weather for our Book Week Dress-Up Day Parade on Thursday. It was a joy to see so many students and staff bring their favourite book characters to life with creative and colourful costumes. Congratulations to our costume award winners, and a big well done to everyone who dressed up, especially those who created homemade costumes. Your efforts were truly appreciated!

Throughout the week, various book-themed activities took place across the school. Teachers led special sessions inspired by the 2025 CBCA Book Week shortlisted titles, allowing students to engage deeply with this year’s featured stories.

Students also enjoyed a range of lunchtime library activities, including:

• Basket weaving inspired by Afloat by Kirli Saunders
  
  
• Dream cloth creation linked to A Teaspoon of Light by Peter O’Connor
  
  
• Storytelling and drama activities following an excerpt from Laughter is the Best Ending by Maryam Master
  
  

Last week, we also welcomed Perform Education for a whole-school performance titled Treasure Hunt. This interactive show explored some of the shortlisted books in a fun and engaging format. What a fantastic experience to bring stories to life!

Brenda Lycke

Literacy Leader

blycke@smaltona.catholic.edu.au

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

Book Week 2025

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Any unclaimed items by Friday 29th August will be removed and repurposed to support students in need.

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

 ST MARY’S FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT

 Event Details

 Date: Thursday, September 11
 Time: 6:30 PM (movie starts promptly)
 Venue: The Sun Theatre, Ballarat Street, Yarraville VIC 3013
 Tickets: $20 per person
 Includes a mini combo (popcorn & drink) for kids
 Seating: General admission (no allocated seats)

 Important Notes
 Parents must purchase their own tickets
 Children must be supervised by a parent/guardian for the entire movie

 [BUY TICKETS NOW]
 The Bad Guys 2

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

We’re pleased to let you know that Elaine has kindly provided a handout with key notes from her presentation. This resource includes helpful strategies and a list of recommended tools and readings for those who would like to learn more. You can explore many of these resources further by searching for them online.

We hope this handout is a valuable support for your parenting journey.
Click here to access.

Regards
Marg Masseni
Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage

Respect • Responsibility • Resilience • Courage