“Make more and more progress in the kind of life that you are meant to live” (1:Thess 3:12-4:2). This quote from the second reading this weekend, relates to living a clean life according to the direction given by Jesus. It also however has a message about using the talents that God has given each of us to improve our world and reach our own personal levels of excellence. This is once again relevant as I reflect on the achievements of our students and staff since writing my last newsletter. 

Over the past few weeks there have been a number of exceptional results for Mount Carmel students in their various pursuits of excellence. In the following paragraphs, I am proud to reflect on notable achievements in; academics, culture, sport, spirituality and community. We have been regularly publishing these on our Facebook and Instagram sites and I encourage you to follow these for some fantastic pictures.

We were notified earlier this week that Liam Tannoury has been successful in his English Extension 2 Major HSC work being included in the Young Writer’s Showcase for 2024. This is an exceptionally difficult standard to achieve and is a reflection of Liam’s hard work and talents. It is also a wonderful reflection of the support that he was given by staff over the past six years and especially Mrs Murphy in his English course. A huge congratulations to Liam on such an achievement.

On Friday Nov 15, our students competed in the Haka Warriors PCYC championship held at Homebush. This included 480 students from students from across 14 high schools and is a celebration of cultural dance from Pasifika youth. In the words of Mrs Abra – their coach – students were “Performing with boundless energy and commitment, they captivated the audience and judges, winning several prestigious 

awards, including "Best Samoan" and "Best Haka," securing their place as the overall champions”. Congratulations to the students and Mrs Abra for a great success following five months of intensive preparation and practice.

Soon after this success, our College choir, Bollywood dancers and individual performers travelled to the University of Wollongong for the Illuminate Festival which is a showcase of Creative and Performing Arts from across the Diocese. There were a number of people who commented on the depth of talent and skills from our students and the positive way that they represented our college. Another congratulations to these fine students and especially to Mr Follett who coordinated and worked with our students for an excellent exhibition.

Also on Friday, our sport high achievers were recognised with awards at the Diocesan Sports awards. These are the students who have represented at the highest level and have made diocesan and state and national teams. There will be more on these individual results in the sport section and I am very proud of the efforts and contributions of these students.

On Thursday a number of our students completed training to be catechists in our local state primary schools. The students will work in these schools next year to help to make Jesus known and loved. They are truly representative of the spiritual commitment of the College and were commended by the trainers on their enthusiasm and efforts.

On Wednesday evening, we welcomed our newest members with the Year 7, 2025 orientation evening. These students attended the College today to have a small taste of who we are and what we are about. The feedback was very positive, and I look forward to the class of 2030 joining us at the start of next year.

In Week 5 the last Parents and Friends meeting for 2024 was held. At this meeting, the P&F generously agreed to funding some new seating and contributing to digital signage in our COLA area. These are significant donations and I thank all parents for your support. A very special thank you to the P&F executive who have supported the College with their attendance at meetings and advice and encouragement throughout 2024.

Ite in Veritate