Dear St Monica's families and friends,

The weeks are flying by and it is hard to believe that summer is nearly over! There is an essence of calm across the school, as the students have returned with enthusiasm, quickly embracing their routines and reconnecting with friends and teachers. I am very proud to walk around the classrooms at any time of the day and know the students are learning. Our Kindergarten students are settling in well, and the 'Wonder and Awe' of ‘BIG SCHOOL’ still emulates from them. It has been heartening to see the school community come together in such a positive and settled way.

Last week's Parent Information Evening was a fantastic opportunity to welcome both familiar faces and many new families. Attendance at Information Evening and the Meet & Greet sessions demonstrates the commitment of our parents and carers to their children's education, and we appreciate the support and engagement from all who joined us.

A special Liturgy took place last Friday with the commissioning of our Year 6 leaders. All students have embraced their leadership roles with pride and responsibility, setting a strong example for their peers and younger students. I am confident they will serve our school community with integrity and enthusiasm throughout the year.

Looking ahead to next Thursday we are excited for our annual Swimming Carnival. This event is always a highlight, bringing students, staff, and families together for a day of friendly competition and school spirit. If you are available to assist on the day and hold a valid WWVP card we would love your help. Please reach out to Sharon Friend sharon.friend@cg.catholic.edu.au or Alisha Barrett alisha.barrett@cg.catholic.edu.au to register your availability.

Council News: On Tuesday evening we had our first School Community Council meeting for the year. I am very grateful to all parents who have offered their service to our school and know that you will support them in their endeavours to make our school great. The council continues to have great aspirations for our school and to make these a reality we rely on the support of the wider community to assist the Working Group Leads. If you have capacity, expertise or skills, or a willingness to learn, the council is looking for help with fundraising initiatives, working bees, volunteers for our school canteen and the upcoming fete. The council has a new email address and should you wish to contact the council you can do so via email: stmonscc@gmail.com

I am pleased to announce our 2025 School Community Council members:

Council Chair – Jo Schultz

Deputy Chair – Bianca Partington

Secretary – Erin Gilligan

Treasurer – Kate Carey

Parent Representative – Ellie Little

Parent Representative – Natalie Elliot

Parent Representative – Jon Scholtes

Parent Representative – Damian Dwyer

Staff Representative – Maggie Lloyd

Staff Representative – Melinda Brown

Fete News – Keep an eye out for updates and news about our upcoming Autumn Fair (Fete) The committee is always looking for a helping hand and your offer of assistance no matter how big or small is warmly welcomed. You can contact the fete committee via email at: stmfete@gmail.com

Wishing you a wonderful weekend and week ahead,