Weekly Reflection

St Catherine of Siena Feast Day - 29 April

This week, students of Catherine House will celebrate the Feast Day of St Catherine of Siena. This day marks her unique life and calls us to reflect on her unshakeable courage and faith in the face of adversity. 

Catherine lived in a time of great division and uncertainty, yet she did not remain silent or passive. Instead, she worked tirelessly to bring about peace and renewal within the Church and the wider world.

Shaped by a profound spiritual experience at age 6, Catherine made a private vow to dedicate her life to God and began spending many hours in prayer. One tradition says that she would pray on each step as she climbed the stairs in her home. She appeared to move effortlessly, as if she were gliding rather than walking, as she was so completely immersed in God’s presence.

What makes Catherine’s story so striking is not just her wisdom, but her willingness to act. Though she was not formally educated in the way many leaders of her time were, she spoke with clarity and conviction, reminding those in power of their responsibilities and calling people back to compassion and unity. 

Her life shows us that leadership is not defined by status, but by integrity and a deep sense of purpose.

As a school community, we can take inspiration from her commitment to both contemplation and action by taking time to reflect and striving to make a positive difference in the lives of others. 

May her example guide us to be people of courage, kindness, and truth.

“There is nothing we can desire or want that we do not find in God." St Catherine of Siena
Terri Curnow

Director of Faith and Mission

From the Principal

Welcome back to Term 2. I hope that all families had a restful break and that students are eager to return to their studies.

We have had a very busy start, with staff engaging in a full day of professional learning and our ANZAC Day memorial services, all in the first week.

As April draws to a close, I would like to continue our series that focuses on the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) new child-safety campaign, MACS Care, and highlight Child Safe Standard 3: Children and young people are empowered about their rights, participate in decisions affecting them, and are taken seriously.

What does this look like in a school environment?

Creating opportunities for student voice

We create formal structures such as student councils and leadership programs. At St Francis, our student leaders meet regularly and are empowered to lead assemblies and memorials such as our ANZAC Day Service. Our Leaders at Cobblebank have launched a wonderful campaign to encourage students to keep the College clean. 

Students are also regularly asked to contribute their thoughts and feedback on events, excursions and classroom learning in the weekly College newsletter.

Acting on student feedback

We listen to what students tell us and respond to concerns, suggestions, and ideas. This includes making sure students are aware when we have acted on their feedback.

Building staff capacity

Our staff receive professional learning, so they understand the importance and benefits of listening to and responding to students. This also includes training for staff on incorporating student voice, agency, and empowerment into their daily interactions and decision-making. Staff receive regular mandatory training and participate in ongoing professional learning regarding child safety.

If you would like more information on Standard 3, please click on the link below.

MACS Care Parent Newsletter 3 2026

Marlene Jorgensen

Principal

Looking Ahead - Melton Campus

Dates to remember
Tuesday 28 AprilParent Student Teacher Interviews - 3.30pm - 8pm
Wednesday 29 AprilCatherine House Mass
Wednesday 29 April - Friday 1 MayEnsemble Camp
Tuesday 5 MaySenior Drama Performance Night - Click here for details
Wednesday 6 MayGlowrey House Mass
Thursday 7 MayParent Student Teacher Interviews - 3.30pm - 7pm
Friday 8 MayMother's Day Liturgy and Breakfast - 8am, Performing Arts Centre. Click here to RSVP

Maker's Market - Big Break in the library - Click here for details

Monday 11 MayCollege Tour - 9.15am. Click here to register
Tuesday 12 MayParents and Friends Association Meeting
Wednesday 13 May - Friday 15 MayYear 7 Camp
Wednesday 20 May - Friday 22 MayProduction Camp
Friday 20 MayYear 10 Immunisations
Friday 29 MayYear 7 Immunisations

College Tour - 2.15pm. Click here to register

Looking Ahead - Cobblebank Campus

Dates to remember - Term 2
Tuesday 28 AprilParent Student Teacher Interviews - 3.30pm - 8pm
Wednesday 29 AprilCatherine House Mass
Wednesday 29 April - Friday 1 MayEnsemble Camp
Monday 4 MayStaff Recruitment Evening
Wednesday 6 MayGlowrey House Mass
Thursday 7 May

Mother's Day Liturgy and Breakfast

Parent Student Teacher Interviews - 3.30pm - 7pm

Tuesday 12 MayCollege Tour - 9.15am. Click here to register
Parents and Friends Association Meeting
Wednesday 20 May - Friday 22 MayProduction Camp
Wednesday 27 May - Friday 29 MayYear 7 Camp
Thursday 28 MayCollege Tour - 2.15pm. Click here to register

Staff Recruitment Evening

Mother's Day Reflection and Breakfast


We will host our annual Mother’s Day reflection and breakfast next week to celebrate and recognise all the motherly figures in our students’ lives.

Cobblebank Campus - Thursday 7 May at 8am in the Yellow building (please enter from Gate 3 on Bridge Rd)

Melton Campus - Friday 8 May at 8am in the Performing Arts Centre (please enter from Gate 6 on Bulmans Rd)

Students and their mothers, grandmothers, aunties or a significant adult in their lives are invited to join us for a prayer reflection followed by breakfast for those who would like to stay.

Siblings are welcome to attend, as is anyone who would like to come along and say a prayer for mothers past and present.

For catering purposes, please click here to RSVP.

Amy Rowley

Director of Community Relations

ANZAC Services

Melton Campus

Our Melton Campus community gathered around the Lone Pine tree for our annual ANZAC Day commemoration ast Friday.

Our student leaders reverently guided staff and students, remembering the sacrifices that the ANZACs, our past war veterans and those currently serving in the Australian Defence Force have made. The service included a reading of John McCrae’s poem In Flanders Fields, an acknowledgement of the significance of the Lone Pine tree and the traditional bugle calls of the Last Post and Rouse.

We thank our wonderful student singers, Alannah (Year 12) who sang the Australian national anthem and Mereana (Year 9) who sang the New Zealand national anthem.

Jessica Read - Student Leadership Coordinator

Cobblebank Campus

Cobblebank staff and students paused to commemorate ANZAC Day during a ceremony at the campus last Friday.

We were extremely fortunate to hear from a serving member of the Australian Army, Jack Bacchin, who spoke to our students about past war veterans and the sacrifices made by those who gave their lives for the prosperity of our nation.

Many eager students attended a question-and-answer session after the ceremony, asking Jack about his experience and gaining an insight into army life. They were privileged to participate in this rich learning experience. We look forward to inviting Jack to return to the College for future career days.

I would also like to thank our Pasifika Engagement Project Officer Kimiora Joyce, who represented New Zealand, singing the National Anthem beautifully alongside Year 10 Cobblebank student Maria. Year 9 Cobblebank student Amaira performed the Australian national anthem.

Thank you to everyone involved in this year’s service.

Charlee Keating - Student Leadership Coordinator, Melton Campus

Senior Drama Performance Night

Our annual Senior Drama Performance Night will be held on Tuesday 5 May at 6.30pm in the Performing Arts Centre at Melton Campus.

Our Year 10, 11 and 12 Melton Campus Drama students have been preparing their ensemble performances, and they are both excited and a little nervous to share their work with an audience.

The Year 10 students have been exploring the concept of ignorance and ways it might be addressed to create a more just and ethical world.

The Year 11 cohort investigates the idea of luck and questions whether it truly exists.

And finally, the Year 12 students reflect on how historical events and popular culture have shaped their development. They also attempt to find ways to address the issues young people face today.

We look forward to welcoming you on the night.

Natalie Saunders

Teacher

Maker's Market at Melton Campus

The VCE VM Makers Market has become quite an event on the College calendar.

All items are handmade by the students and include candles, mugs, serving platters, beaded keyrings, combs, mirrors, pens, magnets, plants and much more. 

This year, for the first time, students will showcase items made on the new 3D printer, including trinket dishes, trolley tokens and fidget pens.

The market is also a great opportunity for students to pick up a last-minute Mother's Day gift.

Cash and card will be accepted on the day, and prices range from $2 to $15.

Narelle Layton

Applied Learning Leader

Year 7 Auslan Students Experience Silent Sport

Our first Year 7 Auslan students put their Term 1 learning into practice last week during an incursion focused on building their understanding of Deaf culture and communication.

We were privileged to welcome guest speaker Renee D’Offay, from First Hand Auslan, who shared her personal journey of becoming deaf later in life.

Renee spoke openly about the challenges she faced and her determination to become a member of the Australian Deaf Basketball Team and compete at the Deaf Olympics, an honour she achieved twice.

Her story provided students with a powerful insight into identity, inclusion, and the importance of communication beyond spoken language.

We were also fortunate to hear from our Deaf Education Assistant, Vanessa, who shared her own experiences. Vanessa is an incredible role model for both our students and staff, and we thank her for the positive impact she is making in our community.

Following the presentations, students took part in a game of Deaf basketball. They had to rely entirely on non-verbal communication, applying the skills they had been developing in class. Students demonstrated great teamwork and enthusiasm as they navigated the game without spoken instructions.

This incursion was a fantastic opportunity for students to not only apply their learning in a fun and supportive environment but also to step outside their comfort zones, build empathy, and gain confidence in their communication skills.

We thank both Renee and Vanessa for sharing their stories and helping bring our Auslan program to life.

Student reflections

Last Thursday, the Year 7 Auslan students played Deaf basketball. We were split into teams and played in complete silence. The refs used a blue ribbon and waved it instead of a whistle. We had a lot of fun! We met Renee, and she told us her story. Renee has been deaf since she was 19 years old after losing her hearing overnight. Her story was very inspirational. It was a great learning experience for us all. Mia

Playing Deaf basketball in Auslan was fun. We had to use hand signals and watch carefully instead of listening to whistles or people calling out. It made teamwork a bit harder but also more interesting because we had to communicate in new ways. It helped us better understand how Deaf people play sport and communicate. Spoorthi

Leah Thorburn and Amy Goldby

Auslan teachers

Year 9 Visual Communication Design

During Term 1, our Year 9 Visual Communication Design students stepped into the role of graphic designers, taking on an exciting assessment task of creating an original surface design for a skateboard deck.

Throughout the project, students explored visual language and examined how designers use the elements and principles of design to communicate ideas effectively and engage a specific audience. 

Students experimented with bold colour palettes, imagery, pattern work, and hierarchy to develop designs with a strong focal point. 

As part of the design process, students developed original concepts, refined their ideas through feedback, and considered how design choices influence meaning and audience engagement. 

The finished skateboard designs showcase not only students’ technical skills, but also their understanding of how design can communicate visually. 

Madeleen Enriquez

Teacher

Hospitality Students Visit William Angliss Institute

Late last term, Year 10 Hospitality students from both campuses visited the William Angliss Institute in Melbourne. where they were given a guided tour of the facilities, including the pastry, ice cream, and chocolate production areas.

After the tour, students enjoyed a prepared lunch featuring beef curry and lamb cutlet, followed by a choice of dessert: white chocolate and green apple mousse or a peach tart. 

The excursion provided students with valuable insight into the industry, and all participants enjoyed the opportunity to explore the facilities and share the experience with their peers.

Akoul

Year 10 student

Live Online Cybersafety Session for Families

Victorian Premier's Reading Challenge 2026 Begins


The Victorian Premiers' Reading Challenge has begun, and we are excited once again to invite students to take part in this wonderful celebration of reading.

The challenge is open to all Victorian children from birth to Year 10 and aims to nurture a lifelong love of reading. It is not a competition, but a personal challenge that encourages students to explore new stories, authors and ideas.

In 2026, students are invited to read 15 books by the end of the challenge period.

  • Year 7 students have already been enrolled.
  • Students in Years 8, 9 and 10 who would like to participate are invited to register their interest by emailing Mrs Wall, at awall@sfcc.vic.edu.au.

This year’s theme is Stories to discover. Stories to tell. It celebrates the power of stories to spark curiosity, build empathy and give students a voice. Whether discovering new worlds through books or sharing favourite reads with others, students are encouraged to see themselves as both readers and storytellers.

All students who successfully complete the challenge will receive a Certificate of Achievement signed by the Victorian Premier - a proud reminder of their commitment and effort.

For more information, including the Premier’s letter to parents and the official booklists, please visit the Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge website.

Any student enquiries can be directed to awall@sfcc.vic.edu.au

Happy reading and storytelling!

SFCC Library Team

Melton Elite Sports Academy Pro Physio Visit

Year 10 Melton Elite Sports Academy students visited the Pro Physio Plus headquarters in Hoppers Crossing last Friday to complete the strapping and taping component of their Sports Trainer Level 1 qualification.

Students participated in a hands-on workshop guided by expert sports physiotherapists, learning to tape for common ankle and knee injuries. 

The physios shared their knowledge and expertise from their years of experience in the industry, with some advice for our aspiring student-athletes who may also be looking to pursue further study/career opportunities in the allied health and sports science field, in addition to their sporting endeavours.

We thank Pro Physio Plus for their generous support of the Elite Sports Academy program over the last four years.

Jacob Scott

Strength and Conditioning Coach, Melton Campus

SACCSS Swimming Championships


Five of our students were named Division 2 Age Champions at the SACCSS Swimming Championships in April.

Year 7 student Seb, Year 8 students Delta, Victoria and Brody, and Year 9 student Emmett, all from the Melton Campus, received Age Champion medals while both campuses achieved multiple podium finishes.

We are incredibly proud of all the students who represented the College, and we look forward to seeing most of you back next year!

Congratulations also to Delta, Victoria, Brody, Emmett and Year 12 student Matthew, who have been invited to represent SACCSS at the Victorian Schools Association Competition (VSAC) meet on Monday 11 May.

Click here to view a full list of SACCSS results for the College.

    Claudia Alp

    Director of Sport Cross-Campus

    Kryal Castle Chess Tournament


    Last week, SFCC students represented the College for the first time in the Kryal Castle Chess Tournament. 

    Competition took place in rooms that recreated the medieval atmosphere, with atmospheric lighting, blue stone walls, and other decorative adornments. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to experience chess in a unique environment.

    The tournament featured 170 students from 17 schools across Victoria. Our students played seven games of rapid chess, with 10 minutes on the clock with two-second increments. After the challenging day, a number of our students achieved Distinctions.

    A special mention to Year 12 student Chloe , who received a gold medal after winning five out of seven games. Chloe has also qualified for both the Regional Open Finals and the Girls Tournament later in the year.

    Thank you to all our staff who helped prepare and get the team to Kyral Castle, and congratulations again to all our players.

    Nathaniel Winfield

    Teacher

    SFCC Shines at the Karate Australian Open

    It was medals all round for four of our students who competed in the Karate Australian Open in Sydney during the school holidays.

    Year 7 Melton student Charlotte earned her first national-level medal at the competition. Despite an unfortunate first-round loss to a New Zealander in a very close round, she charged through two repechage rounds against NSW competitors to claim the bronze medal. 

    She demonstrated a great deal of growth at this competition, stepping onto the mat with respect for her opponent and the desire to push herself to be better with every fight.

    Year 7 Cobblebank student Xavier successfully battled through tough rounds, winning 3-2 and 2-1 to find himself, once again, facing his friend and training partner in the finals of his division. 

    The sportsmanship and resilience he displayed ultimately earned him the silver after a 0-1 loss, adding to his previous national and state-level medals.

    Year 8 Cobblebank student Owen earned another national title, winning 3-0, 7-1, and finally 2-1 over a strong Western Australian competitor to claim the gold. 

    Sensei Wayne Noble praised Owen’s skill, composure and excellent decision making throughout all his rounds. His performance highlights that he is ready for his next steps in the sport.

    Both boys previously represented Australia at the 2025 Oceania Cup, and plans are underway to attend the Philippines Open in August.

    Year 10 Melton student Olivia came away with a gold medal in her division, with 6-2 and 3-0 wins against two strong Western Australian competitors, and finally a 3-2 win against her friend and Victorian State Team training partner, with a last-second technique securing the win. 

    Olivia’s win places her as the front-runner for national selection later this year, with the World Championships in Poland in mid-October and the Commonwealth Championships in Scotland in early November. In May, Olivia will travel to the Philippines to compete in her first World Karate Federation Youth League event.

    The results achieved place these competitors in a strong position for the upcoming National Championships in Hobart in July.

    The College had further representation through the work of teacher Maria Brown, who spent the weekend refereeing the competition. Maria is a Third Dan Black Belt and is one of Australia’s highest-ranking referees, with Oceania qualifications to her name. She is respected not only by her club but also by many others across the country, as she continually strives to improve her skills and knowledge.

    Congratulations to all our students and staff.

    Heather Cunningham

    Learning Support Officer

    Bronze for Caleb at Australian Athletics Championships


    Congratulations to Year 11 student Caleb, who earned a bronze medal while representing Victoria in the Under 18 4x400m relay team at the 2026 Australian Athletics Junior Championships last month.

    Caleb also achieved the 400m qualification time to attend Nationals next year.

    Claudia Alp

    Director of Sport Cross-Campus

    Sports Update

    Melton SACCSS Senior Sport Round 1

    Team

    Result

    SFCC Ladder Position

    Boys AFL

    Caroline Chisholm Catholic College 89 d SFCC 69

    4

    Girls Volleyball

    MacKillop College 3 sets d SFCC 2 sets

    5

    Boys Volleyball

    SFCC 3 sets d Marymede Catholic College SM 0 sets

    1


    Cobblebank Year 10 SACCSS Premier League Semi-Finals

    Team

    Score

    Ladder

    Boys Basketball

    Kolbe Catholic College 46 d SFCC 43

    2

    Girls Volleyball

    Marymede Catholic College SM 2 d

    SFCC 1

    4

    Girls Netball

    Caroline Chisholm Catholic College 45 d

    SFCC 3

    4


    Senior Netball Grand Final

    The Senior Girls' Netball team had an outstanding SACCSS season, losing only one game, against Emmanuel College, the team we faced again in the grand final.

    Although we put up a strong fight, we were defeated by a 14-goal margin in the grand final against a tough Emmanuel side. The team showed great determination, improving as the season progressed, highlighting our ability to work together and enjoy the game.

    Year 12 student Reese received the Peer Award, recognising her strong contribution to the team throughout the season and her excellent performance in the grand final.

    Although the result did not go our way, we had an incredible season overall, and the team should be proud of their achievements.

    We thank all Year 12 students who played in their last Senior Netball season and look forward to seeing our remaining seniors represent the College in next year’s team. Hannah, Captain

    Faith and Mission Caritas Fundraising Totals

    The Faith and Mission Action Teams at both Melton and Cobblebank campuses would like to extend their sincere thanks to our College community for their generous donations to the Caritas Project Compassion Appeal during Term 1.

    Students worked collaboratively in their Houses during both Big and Short breaks to raise funds, and we are so proud of their efforts.

    Cobblebank raised an impressive $863.95, while Melton contributed $2,512.35, bringing our combined total to $3,376.30.

    These much-needed funds will support vulnerable communities by providing access to training, farming equipment, and clean water initiatives, helping to build a more sustainable future.


    SFCC Faith and Mission Action Team

    Night at the Museum Expo

    History came to life at both our campuses this week when Year 9 students showcased their creations at our annual Night at the Museum Expo, which focused on their World War I studies in Humanities.

    Wonderfully detailed three-dimensional models depicting trench warfare, artworks in remembrance of the fallen and re-creations of historical artefacts were on display, taking visitors back in time and exploring themes such as conscription, weapons, health and food.

    Students also focused on mateship, taking part in activities that required teamwork and collaboration.

    On behalf of the Year 9 Humanities team, we would like to extend our thanks to the families who supported students in creating the artefacts at home. We hope this gave you a chance to talk with your child about the World War I topics covered in class. We also appreciate the support of those who attended the Expo and saw the hard work of our students.

    Lastly, we would like to thank the Year 9 Humanities teachers for all their hard work in facilitating this assessment and exhibition. This unit wouldn't be as successful as it is without their contributions.

    Melton Expo

    Cobblebank Expo

    What our students had to say

    I found learning about the trench rats in World War I interesting because I wasn’t aware that any creatures could survive the harsh conditions on the battlefields. So when I found out that there were actually nasty rats lurking and tormenting the soldiers, I immediately decided to research this for my assessment.

    My artefact was a painting, crafted with watercolour and inspired by the vintage style of Renaissance paintings. During the painting process, I wanted to depict the trench rats as horrifying and scary.

    Learning about World War I definitely opened my eyes to the real realities of war, and I think being informed and aware of topics like this is so important. Many issues, such as war, are often disregarded or discussed satirically in current times. Being informed of the true gruesomeness of war and what the soldiers had to go through could encourage more people to be against unnecessary conflict. Sophia - Cobblebank Campus


    In Term 1 we learned about World War I and how multiple things influenced what happened during the war. I enjoyed this topic a lot, since it covered such a big part of our history and allowed us to create artefacts to represent this. We could choose a specific place or piece of machinery to base our project on, and I chose dogfighting (a tactical form of aerial combat between fighter aircraft).

    My artefact highlighted the air battles fought. Soldiers had to suffer an endless period of fighting both in the air and on the ground, and my aim was to show the eternal suffering that was normalised throughout the war. Georgia - Cobblebank Campus


    I have always been fascinated by the past, so I jumped at the chance to look further into what life was actually like for soldiers on the front lines during World War I. 

    For my project, I chose to focus on trench life. I researched the harsh conditions the soldiers faced, such as the constant mud, cramped spaces, and poor hygiene. It made me realise the level of stress they were under every day and gave me a much deeper appreciation for what they went through. 

    The highlight of the task for me was definitely creating the diorama. I’ve always enjoyed hands-on, creative work, so I liked being able to bring my research to life. It was a bit of a challenge to get the scale right and make the details look realistic, but I felt proud of the final result. Overall, I found this task really engaging because it combined historical research with a creative project. It was a great way to learn, and it helped me gain a much clearer picture of trench warfare. Ava – Melton Campus


    Researching World War I for the expo was fun and engaging. It helped me better understand the causes and impacts of the war, especially events like the actions of Gavrilo Princip and the tensions within Austria-Hungary. Building the artefact was also enjoyable, as it gave me the chance to be creative and bring my ideas to life in a hands-on way.  Maja - Melton Campus

    Nirasha Pandi and Mitchell Taylor

    Humanities Domain Leaders, Melton and Cobblebank

    Community Notices

    Melbourne Victory All Abilities Football Sessions

    Melton Station Carpark Changes

    Brotherhood of St Laurence Saver Plus Program

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