Dear Families and School Community,

Welcome to Week 8 of Term 3!

Spring has officially arrived, bringing sunny skies, warmer weather, and a wonderful boost of energy across our school community. It is fantastic to see our students enjoying the fresh air and making the most of the vibrant outdoor areas during recess and lunch. Hats are now expected to be worn every day and we are all reinforcing this expectation. I encourage all parents to continue to support this school expectation.

As we spend more time outdoors, this is a strong reminder for everyone about appropriate outside play. We encourage all students to remember that we always use kind words and kind actions in all our games and play. Whether sharing equipment, including new friends in a game, or practicing good sportsmanship, showing respect and kindness ensures our playground remains a safe, happy, and welcoming space for everybody. Thank you for your continued support in reinforcing these positive values at home as we head into our final two weeks of Term 3.

Divisional Athletics Carnival - Mr Corey

Yesterday, 15 of our students proudly represented St Catherine at the Divisional Athletics Carnival, competing against some of the best primary school athletes from across the Geelong region.

Held on the first day of spring, it was a great day of competition, with our students supporting and encouraging one another throughout the day. It was fantastic to see everyone giving their best and representing our school so well.

We had some excellent results across a range of events, including several podium finishes. Siena placed 3rd in the 800m, Eva finished 3rd in Discus, Kai placed 2nd in Discus, and Matisse finished 2nd in High Jump. Whilst, Arnie finished 1st in both the 100m and 800m.

Our relay teams also enjoyed success, with Koa, Orlando, Finn and Arnie finishing 3rd, while Matisse, Nahla, Sophia and Siena also crossed the line in 3rd place.

Other fantastic individual results included: 

- Siena 4th in the 200m 

- Matisse 5th in Triple Jump

- Rosie 8th in Triple Jump

- Owen 8th in Discus

- Scout 12th in Shot Put

- Parteet 14th in Long Jump

- Bethany equal 4th in High Jump

We wish Matisse, Kai and Arnie all the best as they prepare to represent St Catherine at the Regional Championships early next term. Congratulations to all 15 students on a fantastic day and for representing St Catherine with pride.

The countdown is officially on for our Year 6 students as they prepare to head off to their farm adventure camp at Kangaroobie next Wednesday, September 9th through to Friday, September 11th! Nestled near the iconic Twelve Apostles in Princetown along the Great Ocean Road, this action-packed camp promises incredible outdoor activities, hands-on farm experiences, and unforgettable memories. We wish all of our Year 6 students, their friends, and teachers the absolute best time away from school as they embark on this exciting adventure together and we can’t wait to hear all about it upon return next week.

What a fantastic way to cap off Week 8 this afternoon as our school community came together for our special Father's Day liturgy and family group activities! It was wonderful to see so many fathers, grandfathers, and father figures join us to celebrate the vital role they play in our children's lives. The afternoon was filled with joy, connection, and high spirits as students worked alongside their family groups to craft, create, and share meaningful moments together. Thank you to everyone who joined us to make this afternoon such a heartwarming and memorable finish to another busy week!

Our Annual Family Disco Tickets are now on Sale - Don't forget to get your tickets, this is an event you don't want to miss out on! Tickets can be purchased via TRYBOOKING LINK

Wishing all dad’s, grandfathers, and father figures a terrific father’s day on Sunday.

In Partnership,

Nathan

R U OK? DAY 2026

Thursday 10th September is R U OK? Day. The 2026 theme, ‘Ask R U OK? Any Day,’ reminds us that looking out for one another is something we can do every day. As a Catholic school community, this is an opportunity to live out our call to love, care for and support one another, showing kindness and compassion to those around us.

We encourage our students to take the time to notice when someone may not be themselves, to ask how they are going, and most importantly, to listen with care.

Throughout the day, our staff will be encouraging students to become “Listening Legends” by learning and using the ALEC approach:

• A – Ask: “Are you OK?”
• L – Listen: Listen carefully and give the person your full attention.
• E – Encourage Action: Encourage them to speak with a trusted adult or seek support.
• C – Check In: Remember to check in with them again and let them know you care.

A simple conversation can make a meaningful difference. By creating a school community where everyone feels seen, heard, valued and supported, we can help our students develop the confidence and compassion to care for one another

Please find below link to the Dates for your Diary - Updated for Term 3 Week 8

These are subject to change and will be updated with new events regularly. Please ensure you check SIMON /PAM and the What's on Weekly.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

What is the Holy Spirit?

God exists as three persons who work together. They are called Father, Son, and Spirit. The Holy Spirit was sent down to earth at Pentecost to remind the world of what Jesus taught and did.

The Holy Spirit is our Helper and the spirit helped give the disciples courage to spread the word or Jesus when he had gone to heaven.

When we need help, we can stop to listen or feel what the spirit is saying in our hearts. The Spirit helps us to make decisions about right and wrong.

The Holy Spirit is presented in the bible as a dove, fire and wind.

Mini Vinnies Update

A huge thank you to everyone for getting involved in our Pyjama and Hot Chocolate Day! It was wonderful to see so much enthusiasm and excitement from our students. Thank you to the amazing parents who came along to help serve the hot chocolates.

Thanks to everyone’s generosity, we raised $831.25 for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation. What a fantastic effort!

Prayer

Loving God,

Today we give thanks for all fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, carers and special men who guide, support and care for us.

We thank You for their love, encouragement and the many ways they help us grow. Bless them with good health, happiness and strength as they continue to nurture their families.

Inspired by St Catherine of Siena, who lived with courage, faith and compassion, may we always show gratitude for those who care for us and follow her example of serving others with love.

We remember those fathers who are no longer with us and ask that You hold them in Your loving care.

May our school community continue to grow in faith, kindness and respect, and may all fathers and father figures know how much they are loved and appreciated.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen