Winter Sleepout 2026

Winter Sleepout: A Lesson in Solidarity

Each year, our Winter Sleepout gives students and staff a powerful opportunity to step outside their comfort zones and, in a small way, experience the challenges faced by those who live without secure housing.

While spending one night sleeping in cold and uncomfortable conditions can never replicate the reality of homelessness, it invites us to reflect deeply on the dignity of every person and our responsibility to care for those most vulnerable in our community.

As a Catholic school, we are called to live the Gospel message through both prayer and action.

Jesus consistently reached out to those who were marginalised, reminding us that whatever we do for our brothers and sisters, we do for Him.

The experience challenges our students to consider the things they often take for granted: a warm bed, a secure home, regular meals and the support of family and friends. Through reflection, conversation and solidarity, students are positioned to gain a greater awareness of the complex realities of homelessness and disadvantage.

The generosity shown by our school community through donations and support of the St Vincent de Paul Society demonstrates the power of collective action, and we are very grateful to everyone who has contributed.

May this experience continue to inspire us to be people of hope, mercy and compassion, living out our faith through service to others and responding to Christ's call to love our neighbour with generous hearts.

The Winter Sleepout is an expression of Catholic Social Teaching, particularly the call to stand with those who experience hardship and injustice.