Dear Parents, Students and Friends

As we move into our mid-year break, I take this opportunity to thank all families for their ongoing support and wish everyone a safe and enjoyable break. Thank you to the many families and staff who were able to attend our musical last week, We Will Rock You: School Edition by Queen and Ben Elton. It was an outstanding production, showcasing the talent of our students and staff at Carroll College. Mrs Ros Maher, was celebrated for her leadership as Musical Director of the past 14 college musicals, alongside Mr Matt King; Director, Mrs Teagan Lomax, Assistant Director, Mrs Anna Smart, Producer, Mrs Belle Barling, Costume Designer, Mrs Anna Voysey-McManus, Choreographer, Mrs Janette Soper, Assistant Choreographer Ms Alicia Bate, Mr Luke Fuller, Backstage Manager, and Miss Claire Reid, Sound Manager. A huge thank you and congratulations to our cast and crew, and all who assisted behind the scenes with planning and preparation to deliver a memorable production that was appreciated by all.

Catholic Education Canberra Goulburn welcomes new Executive Director, Dr David de Carvalho

New Executive Director for the Archdiocese, Dr de Carvalho commenced in his new role last week. It has been a pleasure to welcome him, and already he has met with all Principals, and made contact with me on Wednesday to ensure our college community was fine amidst the severe weather warnings this week.

In an article published in the Catholic Voice earlier this week, Dr de Carvalho writes about his vision for Catholic Education saying, “…my first thought was, well it won’t be MY vision; it will be OUR vision. For a vision to become reality requires that it is developed in collaboration with the people who will be responsible for making it happen.” A commitment to consultation and collaboration is at the heart of Dr de Carvalho’s leadership approach. He emphasises the importance of working together with school leaders, teachers, staff, families, and the broader Catholic community to shape a shared vision that reflects the mission of Catholic Education. His focus on fostering collaboration aligns with the core Catholic principles of solidarity, subsidiarity, and the common good, ensuring that the diverse needs of each school community are respected and valued.

Dr de Carvalho's early engagement with Principals and his proactive support during this week's severe weather events demonstrate his commitment to prioritising the wellbeing and safety of students and staff. As Catholic Education Canberra and Goulburn moves forward under his leadership, there is great anticipation for the collective growth and renewal that will stem from this unified and inclusive approach.

South Coast Schools Excellence in Vocational Education & Training Awards 2025

I am delighted to announce that the following students have been nominated for the prestigious South Coast VET Student of the Year Awards. Each has been recognised with a Certificate of Excellence in their respective courses and has been invited to participate in interviews today, Friday, 4 July, at Hanging Rock:

Hospitality:

• Justin Murphy
• Beau Mullins
• Ava Jameson
  
  

Business Services:

• Jed Ware
• Akin Suksing
• Marlee Bennett
  
  

We are immensely proud of these outstanding students for their dedication and achievements. Their nominations are a testament to their hard work and commitment, and we are confident they will represent our college with pride and distinction. We wish them every success during the selection process.

Mrs Dalgleish, Mrs Kenna, Ms Paull, and I look forward to attending the awards presentation on 6 August 2025 at Moruya Golf Club, where we will celebrate their accomplishments and the broader excellence in vocational education and training.

 NAIDOC Week 2025, running from 6 - 13 July, is a time to celebrate and recognise the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy, invites all Australians to engage in meaningful reflection and action towards reconciliation and unity. At our college, we are committed to honouring the rich heritage of the First Nations peoples through a range of activities, including art projects, storytelling, and workshops led by local Elders. Please come along to our Yuin Bunaan Cultural Day on 23 July at Captain Oldrey Park, Broulee.

NAIDOC Week is a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to respect and preserve the traditions of the world’s oldest continuous cultures, in alignment with our Catholic values of dignity, justice, and solidarity.

School resumes for all students for Term 3 on Tuesday 22 July.

With respect and encouragement to you.

Mrs Jacqueline Heffernan
Principal

“The Holy Spirit reminds us first and foremost that we are children loved by God –
                                        everyone equal in God’s love, and everyone different.”                (Pope Francis)