Dear families,

It’s great to be back on deck after taking leave on either side of the holidays.

Thank you to John and the leadership team for caretaking during my absence. It’s been lovely catching up with the children and visiting classrooms again.

Last Friday we farewelled Fr Michael as a school community. The Parish had its own chance to celebrate Fr Michael on Sunday with Mass and morning tea. We wish him all the best in his well-deserved retirement.

This week, we welcomed Fr Samuel Pearson to the school and Mary Help of Christians Parish. Fr Samuel visited with staff for morning tea on Thursday before I had the opportunity to take him around for a tour of the school. While he did not have the opportunity to meet with all classes, Fr Samuel will be back onsite regularly and is eager to visit with all classes. I’m sure our students can’t wait to meet him and ask him hundreds of questions! We will also arrange some meet-and-greet sessions for parents, along with a welcome Mass early next month. Stay tuned for more details.

Earlier this week, the School Advisory Council met. We were pleased to learn that a number of parents had utilised the feedback form on our website to ask questions of the team. The questions were pertinent to our role and function within the school, and we have decided that we will feature some of the questions, and the discussions raised around these points, in a separate article in the newsletter each time we meet. Please see the article in this week’s newsletter for more information, and keep those questions and suggestions coming.

Our senior students and staff head off to Camp in Anglesea on Wednesday for 2 nights. I am thrilled that, as a school, we continue to offer these opportunities for our students when it appears so many schools, for many understandable reasons, have ceased to do so. The camp experience is one of those events that tend to stay with us for a long time. It provides opportunity for growth, resilience-building and problem-solving that is just not possible when at school or home in familiar environments. I thank our staff who will go along, many volunteering to do so, offering up time away from their own creature comforts and families.



Have a great weekend. The weather looks promising.

Regards,
Sonia

Kind  Safe  Responsible

It serves to share with the community some of the questions that are being raised, the answers to which may be pertinent to you, and it also serves as a means to ensure that we can demonstrate how much we value parent feedback on topics relevant to this Council’s work.
The discussions that were generated by the queries received were most beneficial, so thank you to those who have already reached out.

Assembly times

We received a suggestion to delay the commencement of assemblies on Mondays so their finishing time coincides with the end-of-day bell. While we know it can be inconvenient when assemblies run short and parents are expected to wait for school to finish, assemblies rarely run to the same timeframe each week, as we do need a little buffer of time for the days when there is more on our agenda. The alternative to this would be that we run over time and parents would be waiting for their children to be dismissed after the bell, which I’m sure you would agree would not be favourable. For this reason, we will keep assemblies in their current slot.

Puberty teaching

We received a question regarding the teaching of content around relationships and sex education. Our current process is that we offer a parent and child online session on a 2-year cycle for our senior students. It was suggested that we could potentially consider offering 2 different programs, one for our Year 5 students and another for our Year 6 students, due to the fact that at this age and stage of development, the content could be more targeted as students prepare for high school. We also heard from a Council member who had taken part in one such session that focussed on the relationship between parent and child during adolescence and the importance of establishing and maintaining connection with our children during this often tumultuous period in their lives. We will explore these options for families further.

Seesaw communication

Parent feedback suggests that you value the “What’s happening this week” snapshots shared by teachers each week, as these serve as timely reminders of things parents may need to tend to as they prepare for the week ahead. It seems that these messages are sometimes not as consistently shared as parents would like.
I will follow this up with teachers in the coming weeks.

Capital works updates

Our building project is currently at the town planning stage, with detailed design drawings still being worked on. We will share some of this information with you once we reach the final design stage.

Please continue to send your questions, queries or suggestions for the Council members via the online form.

 PUPIL FREE DAYS

Monday 2nd November - School Closure Day

Tuesday 3rd November - Melbourne Cup Public Holiday (No school)

Friday 4th December - School Closure Day



KEY SCHOOL DATES

Friday 20th November - Colour Fun Run

Tuesday 24th November - St Mary's Sports Day

Thursday 3rd December - St Mary's Christmas Carols

Friday 11th December - Step Up Day

Tuesday 15th December - All Students 3:15pm Finish Time (End of Term)

Kind  Safe  Responsible

What a wonderful way for the St Mary’s community to come together to celebrate Father Michael’s retirement! It was lovely to have the opportunity to recognise and honour all that Father Michael has contributed to our parish and school community over the past nine years.

Our special school Mass on Friday was a particularly meaningful occasion, with Sonia and our school captains sharing some heartfelt words of thanks and appreciation on behalf of our students, staff and families. It was also a lovely opportunity for staff to enjoy lunch with Father Michael and reflect on the many memories and special moments we have shared with him over the years.

For those who were able to attend Father Michael’s final parish Mass on Sunday, it was a real privilege to be part of such a significant occasion. It was particularly wonderful to witness the strong connection between St Mary’s and the Timorese community, highlighting the sense of belonging, faith and togetherness that makes our community so special.

Hearing tributes from the various parish groups, along with Shiloh’s thoughtful contribution representing St Mary’s as one of our school captains, made the celebration even more memorable.

We thank Father Michael for his dedication, kindness and service over the past nine years and wish him every blessing as he begins this next chapter of his life.

- John Hein 

CASUAL CLOTHES WINNER

A huge congratulations to the 5/6KW, who took out our class prize today with $300 fundraised across the class for our school.

They will all enjoy a casual clothes day for their amazing fundraising efforts!

FUNDRAISING TALLY

We've currently raised an amazing $11,045 across the school - Incredible figures for Week 3 of our fundraiser!

Funds raised are going towards our Sahara Space in the Library.

WHO'S LEADING THE WAY?

The race is on for next Friday's class prize!

The class that raises the most money in Week 4 of our fundraiser will win a CLASSROOM DISCO for their entire class! We will announce our class winner on Friday. 

Remember, there will be a new class prize up for grabs every Friday, so every donation counts!
Each class will start at zero again for the weekly class prizes.

FYI - Students start winning prizes from Monty the Monstar from just $10 fundraised on their Profile.

SLIME A TEACHER!

Guess what!?

We are only $4,000 away from sliming our next teacher! 
Once again, the teacher's identity will remain a mystery until the day!

Who could it be? Someone from Leadership? One of the classroom teachers? Maybe even someone who has already been slimed!

You will have to dig deep St Mary's, to see who it will be!

LETS KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING!

Share your child's profile page with family and friends to help the donations roll in!

Haven't created a profile page yet? It's not too late!

Make your profile page here:  

myprofilepage.com.au 


It's very quick and easy to sign up and get your profile fundraising ready!

If you need any help, please see Emily in the front office.

From, Monty the Monstar!

Dears Parents and Guardians,

This coming Monday the 12th of October we will be hosting an Auslan themed assembly. 

Students from Prep to Year Six will be reading and signing to share their knowledge of Auslan with you.  We look forward to a wonderful celebration of our learning. 

We invite you from 2:40pm, in the hall, to support us. 

Kind regards, Nicole Grech 

(Auslan Teacher)

A reminder that Pizza Day is this Friday 30th October, and the pizza's will be delivered to the school at normal lunch eating time. 

Over the last few weeks, our students have been getting creative in Art and drawing their very own faces to be included in a unique whole-school tea towel. Every child will have the opportunity to create their own masterpiece, which will then be brought together to celebrate our wonderful school community.

These tea towels will make a beautiful keepsake for families and a wonderful way to remember your child's time at St Mary’s. They would also make a fantastic Christmas gift for grandparents, family and friends - A special present featuring all of St Mary's little faces!

TO ORDER:

https://www.trybooking.com/au/event/1650042
 

• Final date for orders is 30th October. 
• We expect delivery by first week of December. 

Reminder: Day for Daniel Friday 30 October 

A friendly reminder that Day for Daniel is happening next Friday, 30th of October!

We invite all students and staff to wear a splash of red to show their support for this important day and help raise awareness about child safety.

Day for Daniel encourages conversations about keeping children safe and empowers children to recognise when and how to seek help.

Thank you for supporting this important initiative and helping us continue to promote a safe and caring school community.

Remember to wear a splash of red next Friday! 

Save the date to join us for this years Carols in the Park.

Our school choir will be performing!

Ms Bernie

This week in Community News:

• Church Bulletin
• Joan Kirner House Newsletter
• Downball Competition

JOAN KIRNER NEWSLETTER

https://www.smaltona.catholic.edu.au/source/11-Newsletter-November-2026-1%20(1).pdf


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CHURCH BULLETIN

https://www.smaltona.catholic.edu.au/source/Bulletin%2025-10-26.pdf


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DOWNBALL COMPETITION

The Term 4 Tournament is on Sunday 29th November, at State Netball & Hockey Centre - 10 Brens Drive, Parkville, Melbourne, VIC 3052 from 2:00pm - 4:00pm.

Please find the attached brochure in PDF or text format below:

Melbourne School Downball Competition
Sunday 29th November
150+ Schools invited
50+ Trophies, medals, hats and balls
$36.30
www.handballaustralia.com.au




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ALTONA ROCKETS LITTLE ATHLETICS

Little Athletics is Back!

Altona Little Athletics is back for another exciting season!

Welcoming children aged 5–16 years, it's a fantastic way to make new friends, build confidence, stay active and have fun!

New to Little Athletics? Come along and enjoy 2 FREE trials! No experience needed.

When: Saturday mornings
Where: George Nevitt Athletics Track, Sugar Gum Drive, Altona

For more information or to register, visit www.lavic.com.au/centres/altona.

Come along and give it a go!

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ALTONA HOCKEY CLUB

Give Hockey a Go!

Our Year 5/6 students have been enjoying hockey clinics during their PE lessons, thanks to the wonderful team at Altona Hockey Club.

These sessions have been provided free of charge and have been a fantastic opportunity for students to develop new skills, stay active and experience the fun of hockey.

A big thank you to Altona Hockey Club for their generosity and support!

For families interested in getting involved in hockey outside of school, please see the flyer below for more information.

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NOVARA YOGA

 

A lovely local lady named Olga has opened a gorgeous new yoga studio, Nova Ra Yoga, at Millers Junction!

If you’ve been thinking about giving yoga a try, this is the perfect opportunity. Olga is offering a free trial class for anyone new to the studio.

She is also currently running free community classes at the following times:

• Mondays at 6:00pm

• Saturdays at 9:00am

A wonderful opportunity to take some time for yourself while supporting a lovely new local business!

To find out more, visit www.novarayoga.com

 

 

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SWEENY'S SWIM SCHOOL

Complimentary Swim Assessment & Level Recommendation

As part of St Mary’s ongoing relationship with Sweeney’s Swim School, families are being offered a complimentary Swim Assessment & Level Recommendation.

The assessment gives parents a clear picture of their child’s current swimming ability, water confidence, safety skills and stroke technique, along with guidance on the most suitable swimming level and what to work on next.

There is no obligation to enrol.

Please see the attached flyer or scan the QR code to book your complimentary assessment.

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CHESS 4 SCHOOLS




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NET SET GO

The Willi Tigers NetSetGO program is a fantastic introduction to netball, designed specifically for young players (5-10 years) to learn and have fun.

Here’s a quick overview of what NetSetGO offers: 

Skill Development: Focuses on fundamental netball skills including passing, catching, and shooting. 

Fun and Inclusive: Games and activities are tailored to be enjoyable and engaging for all skill levels. 

Social Interaction: Encourages teamwork and making new friends in a supportive environment. 

Physical Fitness: Helps children develop coordination, agility, and overall fitness. 

Experienced Head Coach and Junior coaches: Sessions are run by the NetSetGO Coordinator, Naomi McCurry who is experienced in working with young players. Naomi is supported by Junior coaches, who also play netball with Willi Tigers. 

Day: Commencing Saturday 10 October for 8 weeks (No session on the Melbourne Cup weekend) 

Time: 9.30am - 10.30am 

Where: Outdoor netball courts, Bayside Secondary College, Corner Bayview Street & Kororoit Creek Road, Williamstown.

Cost: $150 - For new participants, this covers: 

• 8 NetSetGO sessions
• $99 Netball Victoria Registration Fee for NetSetGO participants (5 to 10 years) and $51 Willi Tigers Club fee 
• Participation Pack for NetSetGO-ers! 

NetSetGOer's returning from Term 3 will only pay $51.

You can register here.

If you have any questions, please email us at nsg@willitigers.com.au. 

Thank you for helping us promote the NetSetGO program.

Kind Regards,

 

Naomi McCurry

Willi Tigers NetSetGO Coordinator

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BRIGHT STARS ACADEMY

Soccer & basketball for kids — Term 4 kicks off mid-October!

Get ready for a term of fun, friendship and active play! Bright Stars Academy offers age-based soccer and basketball programs across Melbourne’s western suburbs, helping kids learn new skills, build confidence and make friends. See the attached flyer for locations and program details, or visit brightstarsacademy.com.au to learn more and enrol now.

Special offer for our school community: Save 40% on a uniform package — now just $45!

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DEBORAH BARRESE LIVE SHOW

Details below for Deborah's next live show.

Deborah is a parent of our school community.




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MAGIC BASKETBALL

 

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SHOTO KARATE

Kind  Safe  Responsible

At St Mary’s, the safety and wellbeing of every child is a priority. Child Safe Standard 9 focuses on ensuring that physical and online environments promote safety and wellbeing while minimising opportunities for children and young people to be harmed.

How does St Mary’s support child safety?

At St Mary’s, we are committed to creating a safe, inclusive and supportive environment where every child feels respected, valued and empowered to speak up. We work to maintain child safe environments through clear expectations, consistent procedures and a whole school commitment to protecting children.

This includes:

• Safe physical environments: Promoting respectful behaviour, appropriate supervision and safe use of school spaces and facilities.

• Online safety: Teaching students to use digital technologies responsibly, protect their personal information and report anything online that makes them feel unsafe or uncomfortable.

• Clear reporting processes: Maintaining a consistent whole school child safe reporting process so concerns are responded to appropriately and promptly.

• Student voice: Encouraging children to speak up about concerns and seek support from a trusted adult.

• Shared responsibility: Ensuring staff understand their child safety responsibilities and follow school procedures to help protect students.

What can families do?

Families can support child safety by discussing online safety at home, encouraging children to speak openly about their worries, and reminding them that they can always ask a trusted adult for help. Please contact the school if you have a concern about a child's safety or wellbeing.

At St Mary’s, child safety is everyone's responsibility. By working together, we can help ensure our school remains a place where every child feels safe, supported and able to thrive.

For further information about our child safe standard 9 please read the document attached.

Our Parents & Friends (P&F) Committee is a great way to get involved, meet other families and make a really positive difference in our school community.

We organising fun events and bring families together to help fundraise for resources and opportunities that benefit our students.
The P&F plays an important role in making St Mary’s such a special place.

You don't need lots of spare time or any special skills!
If you can lend a hand at an event, share a fresh idea or simply come along to a meeting, every contribution is really valued.
It's a great way to make new friendships, feel connected to the school and have a little fun along the way!

As we all know - Many hands make light work.

Thanks, P&F

The School Advisory Council has created a link on its page where parents can ask questions or share suggestions for discussion by its members.

If you have anything you’d like to share or ask, you can access the form here.

Many thanks.

We’re excited to introduce Pure Pops to our canteen menu this term!

Pure Pops are a delicious, all-natural frozen treat made with real ingredients, giving our families a healthier alternative for their children to purchase along side our usual zooper doopers and chip packets.

Pure Pops will be sold for $1 each, the same price as our zooper doopers and chips, at lunch time in the canteen.

We are currently trialing the mango and banana flavour - So far, the kids love them!

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

We are still collecting eligible containers to raise money for our environmental projects.

Our fundraising title is 'Recycle and Grow'

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

• 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