Dear Parents, Students and Staff

As we conclude Term 2, I would like to offer my congratulations to the many students who have made consistent and ongoing efforts both in their studies and in their sporting and cultural endeavours over this ten-week duration.  The academic achievements of our students have been noted in the reports that have been prepared this term for all students in Years 7 – 12.  I hope that all students receive results that they are proud of and that reflect the time and effort that they have put into their studies.  For any students who received results that need improving, they have the second half of the year to make some adjustments to their application and commitment to their studies to ensure a more positive outcome at the end of the year. 

Aboriginal And Torres Strait Islander Sunday 

On Sunday, 7 July, we gather as one church community to honour and celebrate the rich cultural heritage and contributions of our First Nations Peoples to our Australian Catholic Church. 

The Gospel Reading for 7 July, from Mark 6:1-6, tells the story of Jesus returning to His hometown, only to be met with scepticism and disbelief.  Despite His teachings and miracles, those who knew Him best failed to recognise His divine wisdom and power. 

This passage resonates deeply with the experiences of many First Australians, as they can often find that their voices go unheard, and their contributions not always embraced. 

As Pope Francis reminds us, we are called to be a Church that goes forth, embracing all cultures and peoples.  Let us open our hearts to the wisdom and spirituality of our First Nations Peoples, recognizing the presence of Christ in their stories and traditions.  May this celebration be a moment of grace, healing, and transformation for all. 

St Clare’s Athletics Carnival 

Our third attempt to hold our Athletics Carnival for 2024 was again thwarted by wet weather and ground closures.  We will make a 4^th and final attempt to hold this carnival on Tuesday, 30 July (Week 2 of Term 3).  More details will be provided closer to the date. 

Vinnies Winter Appeal 

A very big thank you to staff and students who made contributions to our Vinnies Winter Appeal this year.  Our fundraising and awareness raising efforts included BBQ breakfasts, BBQ lunches, a Comfy Clothes Mufti Day, guest presentations at school assemblies and donations of goods to support Taree Community Kitchen.  Together we were able to provide some much-needed funds and supplies to help our local community throughout Winter.  A special thank you to Tanille Gardner, Denise Ryan and Deacon Vince Ryan for their drive and organisation of our efforts. 

 Left to Right:  Jeremy Hobbes, Eloise Thomas, Denise Ryan, Sandy Basile & Jane Polson

Start to Term 3

A reminder that all staff will be involved in a Professional Learning Day on Monday, 22 July.  We will join with Primary School staff from St Joseph’s Taree, St Joseph’s Wingham, St Joseph’s Bulahdelah, Holy Name Forster and St Joseph’s Gloucester for a combined Staff Day focussing on Indigenous Cultural Awareness.  The first day of Term 3 for students will therefore be Tuesday, 23 July. 

God bless and best wishes for a relaxing an enjoyable holiday break.

Tony McCudden
Principal