Dear families,

A very warm welcome back to Term 3. I hope the holidays gave your family time to rest, reconnect and enjoy some slower mornings.

It has been wonderful to see the children return with energy and smiles, ready for a big term of learning ahead.

Kindness. Safety. Responsibility.

This term we are excited to officially launch our new school values of Kindness, Safety and Responsibility through our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) work. These three values will shape how we speak, learn and care for one another at St Mary's, in every classroom and every space across the school. You will hear the children using this shared language, and we look forward to sharing more with families as the launch unfolds. We can't wait to see these values come to life.

Divisional Soccer Finals

Congratulations to our soccer team, who represented St Mary's at the Divisional finals today. While the results didn't go our way across the three matches, the team filled us with pride in the way they played, encouraged one another and represented our school. A special mention to William, who scored our much-anticipated goal, celebrated loudly from the sidelines! Well done to every player, and thank you to Mr Hertz and Tom, who supported the team on the day.

Staffing News

We are delighted to welcome Casey to our teaching team in Year 5/6 this term. We know our community will make her feel very welcome.

We also warmly welcome back Amelia, who has been unwell. It is lovely to have her, and of course, Nova, back with us.

In Our Thoughts and Prayers

Our school community has experienced some sadness recently, with a number of our parents grieving the loss of their own parents. Ms Bernie's father also passed away after a long illness. We extend our deepest sympathy to these families and ask that you keep them in your prayers during this difficult time.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.

After School Supervision

A reminder that parents are responsible for the supervision of their children after school, particularly on the Oval and in the playground areas. Please stay close to your children while they play.

Please also remember that the ninja playground is for children in Years 3 to 6 only, including after school, and only when a parent is nearby and actively supervising. This is a safety requirement, not just a preference. If these expectations cannot be met, our only alternative will be to close access to these areas before and after school, which none of us wants.

Thank you for helping us keep every child safe.

Grandparents' Day

Next Friday, we celebrate our annual Grandparents' Day with Mass, classroom visits and morning tea. If you have not yet indicated your attendance via the nforma notice, please do so by Monday next week for catering purposes.

Have a wonderful weekend,

Kind  Safe  Responsible

Dear Parents and Friends,

You may have already heard my decision.

I was ordained a Deacon in St Mary's Church, Williamstown on October 11th 1980, and then a priest in 1981. That 1980 ceremony began my ministry within the Catholic Church of Melbourne. Now, on October 11th 2026, I will retire from full time ministry and resign as Parish Priest of Mary Help of Christians Altona.

A retired priest helps in any parish where the resident priest is unwell or is on annual leave. I hope to be of assistance in the Western suburbs of Melbuorne. This is the part of Melbourne I know best - My parents lived in Spotswood when I was born and I was baptised at Sacred Heart Newport. We moved to Williamstown in 1959 and my parents came to Altona in the early 2000's. In 2016, my parents moved to a nursing home.

Over these next few weeks, I will be packing and moving to a new address.

Thank you for your thoughtfulness and assistance during the past 8 1/2 years.
I now look forward to serving the communities of the Western suburbs in a new way.
May we continue to pray for one another,
May God bless you and guide you in the years that lie ahead,

Archpriest (Monsignor) Michael Kalka
Parish Priest

 PUPIL FREE DAYS

Friday 18th September - All Students 1:30pm Finish time (End of Term)



KEY SCHOOL DATES

 Monday 17th August - Wear a splash of purple for 'Bully No Way' Week

Friday 28th August - Book Week Dress Up

Friday 4th September - Fathers Day Afternoon Tea & Fathers Day Stall

Kind  Safe  Responsible

Soccer at Recess and Lunchtime

Soccer continues to be one of the most popular activities during recess and lunchtime, and it is wonderful to see so many students enjoying being active and playing together.

Recently, we have noticed an increase in rough play and disagreements during games. To help keep soccer safe, enjoyable and fair for everyone, our yard duty teachers on the oval have introduced a yellow card and red card system. Students who demonstrate unsafe or unfair play may receive a yellow card as a warning. If rough or unsafe behaviour continues, a red card may be issued, resulting in the student sitting out for the remainder of that game.

Our goal is not to stop students from playing, but to encourage good sportsmanship, teamwork and respect for others while enjoying the game.

We would greatly appreciate your support by having a conversation with your child about playing soccer fairly. This might include discussing the importance of:

• following the rules of the game
• keeping hands, feet and bodies under control
• respecting referees and teachers' decisions
• showing good sportsmanship, whether winning or losing
• including others and playing safely.

Working together, we can help ensure that recess and lunchtime soccer remains a fun, safe and positive experience for all students. Thank you for your ongoing support.

We have some wonderful businesses run by the families within our school community.

Take a look and show your support!

We have some wonderful businesses run by the families within our school community. 
Take a look and show your support!

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Wilson & Co. Projects

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John Jones Electrical Services

Inner West & Surrounds

0412 547 060

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Altona Pines Dental

19 Harrington Square, Altona

03 8330 5999

www.altonapinesdental.com.au

10% discount on Comprehensive Check-Up and Clean for St Mary’s families

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Fudge & Coal Dog Grooming (Mobile)

Call Alistair- 0414 611 080

20% off first groom for St Mary’s families

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New Season Doula Care

Birth & postpartum doula & childbirth educator

0481 847 569

www.newseasondoulacare.com.au

10% discount on any standard package for St Mary's families

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New Season Doula Care

Birth & postpartum doula & childbirth educator

0481 847 569

www.newseasondoulacare.com.au

10% discount on any standard package for St Mary's families

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Pool Rescue

Swimming Pool and Spa Service

Call Tyson- 0407 272 758

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Fudge Gifts in Forest Hill

Call Sarah- 0432 481 259

www.fudgegifts.com.au

Get 15% off first order on full priced items for St Mary’s families when you sign up to our newsletter.

Free delivery to school for St Mary’s families – when you check out, choose ‘click and collect’ and write your child’s classroom as the location in the order notes.

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Jeongsin Taekwondo

www.jeongsintaekwondo.com.au

0400 103 122

7 day FREE trial for St Mary’s families

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Jim’s Specialised Kitchens and Cabinets

Call Joe- 0421 568 956

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Sundara Room

20 Sargood Street, Altona

www.sundararoom.com.au

10% discount code available to St Mary’s families

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Jim’s Mowing Group Altona Meadows West

Landscaping and Gardening Services

0481 948 669

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Laundry Chute

78 Railway Street, Altona

www.laundrychute.au

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Want to promote your business? Email ecross@smaltona.catholic.edu.au with your business name, location, contact number, website, and any discounts or promotions for the St Mary’s community.

Kind  Safe  Responsible

This week in Community News:

• Church Bulletin
• MSJ Applications closing today (14th August)
• First Aid for parents through Hobsons Bay City Council (This Thursday)

CHURCH BULLETIN

https://www.smaltona.catholic.edu.au/source/Church%20Bulletin.pdf


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MOUNT ST JOSEPH GIRLS COLLEGE - APPLICATIONS CLOSING



This is a friendly reminder that applications for Year 7 2028 at Mount St Joseph Girls' College are closing on Friday, 14 August 2026.

Families can submit their application directly via our online enrolment portal:
https://msjgc-au-vic-393.app.digistorm.com/forms/enrolment-application/start

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FREE FIRST AID SESSIONS FOR PARENTS & CARERS

 

 

Hobsons Bay City Council Early Years, in partnership with Ambulance Victoria, is offering 2 free first aid sessions for parents and carers of children aged 0 – 6 years.

To make it easier to attend, the sessions have been scheduled to follow our regular library programs, running alongside Storytime and Babytime at Altona Meadows Library & Learning Centre.

Please see attached flyer for full details and register here: https://events.humanitix.com/learn-first-aid-for-parents-and-carers-of-young-children

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SHOTO KARATE

Guardians of the Sisterhood – FREE Open Day

Wed 26th Aug from 6.30-8pm.

Open to all women aged 14+

Curious about what Guardians of the Sisterhood is all about? Join us for a FREE Open Day and experience it for yourself!

On the night, you'll take part in practical, hands-on learning and discover how our program empowers women with effective self-defence skills, increased awareness, and the confidence to feel safer in everyday situations.

Whether you're completely new to self-defence or looking to build your confidence, everyone is welcome. Bring your mum, sister, daughter, grandmother, aunt, friends, etc and give it a go!

Come along, learn new skills, meet like-minded women, and see how Guardians of the Sisterhood can help you feel stronger, safer, and more confident.

We look forward to seeing you there!

 

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MELBOURNE SCHOOL DOWNBALL COMPETITION



The Term 3 Tournament is on Sunday 23rd August, at State Netball & Hockey Centre - 10 Brens Drive, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC 3052 from 2:00pm - 4:00pm.

Melbourne School Downball Competition
Sunday 23rd August
150+ Schools invited
50+ Trophies, medals, hats and balls
$33 +GST

www.handballaustralia.com.au


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WESTERN BULLDOGS AFLW ALL GIRLS AUSKICK AND SUPERKICK PRE-GAME CLINICS

 

Calling all future Bulldogs!

 

Girls aged 4–12 are invited to join our AFLW All Girls Pre-Game Clinics at Mission Whitten Oval. Each clinic will take place two hours before every Western Bulldogs AFLW home game.

 

 Perfect for girls of all skill levels!

 

•  Auskick (Ages 4–7) – Learn the basics through fun games and activities.
•  Superkick (Ages 7–12) – Build skills and confidence in a game-based environment.

 Location: Mission Whitten Oval

 Clinic Dates:

• Saturday 22 August vs Richmond
• Saturday 5 September vs Sydney
• Saturday 3 October vs St Kilda
• Friday 9 October vs Essendon

 Only $55 for the program

 

 

 Special Offer: Use promo code FCB008C6 at checkout to receive $20 off registration.

 

 Register now:

 Auskick (Ages 4–7): https://www.playhq.com/afl/register/9dd463

 Superkick (Ages 7–12): https://www.playhq.com/afl/register/251cd8

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HOCKEY VICTORIA - HOLIDAY CLINICS

 

School Holiday Hockey Clinics (Ages 6–15)

Looking for active school holiday programs? Hockey Victoria is running full-day holiday clinics across our region these upcoming school holidays! Suitable for all experience levels—from absolute beginners to existing players.

 Find your nearest location and register here: https://www.hockeyvictoria.org.au/programs/holiday-huddle-programs

 

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ALTONA BEACH SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

 

This is our twelfth year of showcasing short films by filmmakers from Altona and around the world.

 

We welcome participants of all ages and abilities to use their cameras, phones or tablets to create a short film no longer than 7 minutes in keeping with this year's theme "Home". Entrants' short films will then be shown at our Festival Gala Screening & Awards Night and go in the running to win cash prizes in the following categories:

 

Best In Festival
Special Recognition
President's Encouragement Award
Best Pre-Teen
Best Young Adult
People's Choice

 

Awards 1 - 5 will be decided by a panel of esteemed judges from the community. The People's Choice Award, however, will be decided by the audience on the night, so make sure your students bring as many of their friends and family as they can to ensure a higher chance of winning!

In past editions of our festival our junior entrants have truly had their moments to shine, with children taking away wins in many of our non-age-related categories several times.

 

Entries into this year's festival are currently open from now until 31 August 2026 at www.altonabeachfilmfestival.com.au

We will be contacting all participants to confirm their place in the lineup by no later than 01 September 2026.

 

This year's ABFF Film Screening & Gala Awards Night will be held on Saturday 19 September 2026 at the Altona Sports Club - 11 Altona Road, Altona VIC 3018.

Tickets are available at reception at the club for $5 per child, $10 per adult, or $20 per family (2x adults + 2 children).

 

We can't wait to see you there!

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AN INITIATIVE BY 'BUILT LIKE ME OCCUPATIONAL THERAPIST'

 

Small moments matter —

Small things that make us smile, the little things that make us feel connected, calm, and part of something bigger.

That’s why #WinterGlimmers is happening from June 21.
Pop up some fairy lights, step outside, and share a tiny spark of joy with your neighbourhood.

Don’t forget to tag @builtlikemeot so your glimmer shines with the rest 

 

Kind  Safe  Responsible

Thankyou to all of our grandparents and special people for making Grandparents Day so special!

There were lots of smiles and laughter in the school today as we made wonderful memories celebrating Grandparents Day!

It was lovely to welcome our grandparents and special visitors into our school to spend time with the children. There were lots of lovely conversations, shared activities and special moments that everyone enjoyed.

Thank you to all the grandparents and family members who joined us. We hope you enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with your grandchildren and make some beautiful memories in their special community!

We look forward to seeing you tonight!

Ticket sales are closed.

 


Thank you to our gold sponsor xynergy

Thank you to our silver sponsor Loaram Constructions

TICKET SALES HAVE NOW CLOSED.



When: Friday, 14th August.
Venue: Altona Sports Club- Waterfront Room
Arrive: 6.30 pm for a 7 pm trivia start. DJ from 10 pm - 11 pm
Tickets: $30 pp [Adults only] or $55 for 2 pp.

Please note:
ALL Drinks are purchased at the bar.
NO KIDS event.
NO BYO FOOD (You can order meals at the Bistro and bring them into the event space).



Dress to impress IDEAS: Embrace the glitz & the glamour!
Sequins, High roller suits, Showgirl, Dealer, Granny Gamblers, Old Vegas/Rat Pack, Elvis, Artists in residence, Queen of Hearts/Card Suits, Vegas bride, Movie characters in Vegas and more or smart casual. 

Prizes for best dressed!

Kind  Safe  Responsible

BOOK WEEK IS IN 2 WEEKS! Are you ready?!

Friday 28th August: Dress up day!
We will have a costume parade at 9:00 am.

There will be lots of other exciting activities planned for Book Week, from Monday 24th - Friday 28th August.

The theme for this year's Book Week is Symphony of Stories!

Bookweek theme and artist, Briony Stewart's (Author & Illustrator of 'Gymnastica Fantastica') introduction to 2026 Book Week & Theme:
https://youtu.be/wz-psnQnUmQ?si=_BfrV-bY7yyJ88aH

On Friday 28th August, students are encouraged to come to school dressed as their favourite book character.

Home made costumes are encouraged! 
They're fun, creative, sustainable, and a great way to keep costs down! 

We will have a costume parade at 9am.

We can’t wait to see our school filled with students favourite book characters, colourful costumes and a whole lot of storybook magic! 

Kind  Safe  Responsible

Kind  Safe  Responsible

How can you help?

There are two simple ways to support our school through the scheme:

Option 1: Donate Your Refund at Collection Points

• When you visit a CDS Vic return point, you’ll be asked if you want to donate your refund.
  
  
• Simply download the app and enter our donation code (2000063591) or search for our school name on the app.
  
  
• All your refunds will be transferred directly to our school account!
  
  

Our donation code is: C2000063591

You can find your nearest return point at: https://cdsvic.org.au/locations 

Option 2: Send Eligible Containers to School

• We will be setting up a collection bin at school next to 3/4W so students and families can bring in eligible containers.
  
  
• Please make sure containers are:
  
  
• Empty and not crushed
  
  
• Have the 10c eligible label
  
  
• Not broken or overly dirty
  
  

We’ll return them in bulk, and the refunds will go straight to our school for our ‘Recycle and Grow’ fundraiser. All funds raised through container deposits will go directly towards keeping our outdoor environment thriving.

Thank you for supporting our school and the environment. Let’s turn trash into treasure and make this initiative a big success!

Kind  Safe  Responsible

We love capturing and sharing the special moments that make our school community so vibrant. If you have photos or videos from school events that you'd like to share, please send them to ecross@smaltona.catholic.edu.au

To help protect the privacy of all students and families, we kindly ask that photos and videos from school events are not shared on personal social media accounts or other public platforms.

Please note that any images or videos shared through the school will only be published in accordance with your child's current photography consent agreement. If you would like to update your child's photography permissions or are unsure what consent is currently in place, please contact the school office - We are happy to assist.

Kind  Safe  Responsible

Would you like to know more about ADHD?

This coming Tuesday August 18 from 6:30 - 8pm we have psychologist, Stewart D’Silva, running a workshop for parents to explore ADHD and how this can present in people.

Dear Parents & Caregivers,

Whether you are seeking clarity, practical strategies, or simply a supportive community, you won't want to miss our upcoming ADHD Information Night!

We are thrilled to host Stewart D'Silva, a psychologist with a wealth of knowledge in child development and neurodiversity. Earlier in the day, Stewart will be running specialized professional development sessions with our teachers and Learning Support Officers (LSOs)—and in the evening, he is opening the floor to our parent community.

Event Details

• Date: Tuesday, August 18
• Time: 6:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• Where: Tri Centre, St Mary's Primary School
• Guest Speaker: Stewart D'Silva (Psychologist)
• Babysitting available
  
  

What We’ll Cover

• How ADHD uniquely presents in children (and what to look out for)
• Practical, compassionate ways to support your child both at home and at school

Over 35 parents have already signed up, but it’s not too late to join us! Whether you’re at the start of your journey or looking to add new tools to your parenting toolkit, you are warmly invited.

We look forward to seeing you there for an insightful and engaging evening!

Warm regards,

Cathy Sims 

Learning Diversity Leader

Kind  Safe  Responsible

Our Learning Support Officer's are selling icy poles & bags of chips in Term 3 for $1 each.

Every lunchtime from Monday to Friday. 

All profits are going towards our school.

Thank you for your support in helping us make this fundraiser a success and for giving our students an exciting winter snack this term.

Kind  Safe  Responsible

• Link to the online family information session
• How to enrol
• Customer Service contact information

Introducing MACSEYE: Your new before and after school care provider.


Online information session:
https://youtu.be/jg0C4kgrHW4


How to enrol:

1. Visit our dedicated MACSEYE OSHC webpage:
https://macseye.vic.edu.au/oshc/oshc-locations/st-marys-oshc-altona/

This web page contains all the key information needed to get started, including:
• Session times
• Fees
• Enrolment information
• Enrolment form link

We encourage all families to complete your enrolment by the end of this term, even if you are still thinking about when you might need care. That way you can book as soon as you are ready.
All children must be enrolled with MACSEYE to attend.

For more information, you can also please refer to the attached MACSEYE brochure.


2. Click the green 'Enrol Now' button and complete the online enrolment form.


Contact MACSEYE - Customer Service
If you need support with enrolment or have any questions, the Customer Service Team is available to assist, Monday to Friday between 9am – 5pm (AEST):
1300 501 029
enrolments@macseye.vic.edu.au

Kind  Safe  Responsible

At St. Mary's we are committed to maintaining a culture of child safety. We implement strategies which demonstrate this through everyday life at the school, guided by the documents listed in the 'Read More' section.
Our Child Safety Officer is John Hein (DP & Learning & Teaching Leader).

Our Child Safety Team consists of John, Sonia Riccardi (Principal), Cathy Sims (Learning Diversity Leader) and Tony Freeman (RE, Maths & ICT Leader).

      

Please contact John (jhein@smaltona.catholic.edu.au) or another member of the team if you would like to discuss any matters related to Child Safety.

St. Mary's School Child Safety Code of Conduct

St. Mary's School Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy

St. Mary's School Child Protection - Reporting Obligations Policy
Strategies for Empowerment of Students

Kind  Safe  Responsible