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- A Message from the Principal
- A Message from the Assistant Principal
- A Message from the Leader of Ministry
- Heads of House and Leaders of Wellbeing and Engagement : Bathu, Watha and Wati
- A Message from the Leader of Data Analytics
- A Message from the Internal Sports and Activities Coordinator
- A message from the External Sports Coordinator
- A message from the PDHPE Faculty
- A message from Student Services
- Supporting your Child - Council of Catholic School Parents
- Upcoming Events - Term 2 2025
- Parish Mass Times
Bernard Burgess
The Holy Gospel according to Luke
They all ate and were filled. Jesus made the crowds welcome and talked to them about the kingdom of God; and he cured those who were in need of healing. It was late afternoon when the Twelve came to him and said, ‘Send the people away, and they can go to the villages and farms round about to find lodging and food; for we are in a lonely place here.’ He replied, ‘Give them something to eat yourselves.’ But they said, ‘We have no more than five loaves and two fish, unless we are to go ourselves and buy food for all these people.’ For there were about five thousand men. But he said to his disciples, ‘Get them to sit down in parties of about fifty.’ They did so and made them all sit down. Then he took the five loaves and the two fish, raised his eyes to heaven, and said the blessing over them; then he broke them and handed them to his disciples to distribute among the crowd. They all ate as much as they wanted, and when the scraps remaining were collected they filled twelve baskets.
Dear Catherine McAuley Catholic College families,
The past two weeks have been very busy in the college with final Semester One assessments and reporting taking centre stage in the teaching and learning domain and all families will have already, or will soon, receive their child’s Semester One Report followed by an opportunity to engage in Student / Parent / Teacher conferences to discuss student progress and talk about achievements and areas for growth.
All families are warmly welcomed and encouraged to take up this opportunity to come to the college with their child/ren and meet with teachers face to face to engage fully with the learning process. Our calendar gives details of dates and time for these conferences.
High School Musical
During the last week, staff and students involved with the first ever musical production for the college, High School Musical, presented a spectacular production and performance showcasing the immense gifts and talents of our students and provided the opportunity for so many families to witness and enjoy this wonderful event.
Our student performers, dancers and technical experts were amazing, and the staff that provided the opportunity right from the original idea through to the planning, coaching and delivery, not just of the performance but in the technical aspects and prop creations, must be recognised and celebrated. We are truly blessed to have the level of dedication displayed by all staff and students involved in this production as apart of our college community. Congratulations to all!
Year 11 2026 Course selections
Following the recent Year 11 2026 Course selection evening, it is now time to finalise course selection for our Year 11 students who are intending to remain at CMCC for Stage 6 studies in 2026. Our staff continue to work with our students in guiding and assisting in this area and while there will still be some flexibility beyond the initial deadline for selections, it is important that the process can be moved forward in determining what subjects can and will run in 2026 and the timetable can reflect this with staff being appropriately allocated teaching schedules.
College Athletics Carnival
The final two weeks of Term 2 include some significant events, not least of which is the College Athletics Carnival on Thursday 3 July. All students are encouraged to attend and join in the friendly competition and community aspects of the day even if they do not see themselves necessarily as athletes. These days are important in our college community and help to build spirit and pride and should be considered a compulsory school day.
With best wishes for the final two weeks of Term 2.
United in Mercy
Bernard Burgess
College Principal.
Claudette Stace
Defence School Mentor
I am excited to share that we have applied for and accepted an offer for Australian Government funding under the Defence School Mentor Program. As a school community we greatly value our Defence families and look forward to enriching our support by delivering the following outcomes:
- Providing families with information about the school environment and the support available relevant to their child's development needs.
- Supporting children of ADF members to access school based social and emotional support, aligned to school policies.
- Facilitating opportunities for children of ADF members to build relationships and connections through events and other initiatives.
- Raising awareness amongst the school community about the impacts of the Defence lifestyle on children and families.
After we undertake a process of recruitment, we look forward to announcing the successful applicant and welcoming this new role to the CMCC team.
High School Musical Success
Our students and entire community have been blessed by the collaborative and creative efforts of our CAPA team alongside the broader CMCC staff. Not only have our students shone on stage and behind the scenes but we have all been enriched by the joy of sharing our first musical production together.
Our eagles have soared to new heights this week and created a wonderful culture that will continue to flourish.
United in Mercy
Siobhan Kelly
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them.” – Matthew 18:20
Our Catholic community has truly come together in so many generous and joyful ways recently, and we are deeply grateful. Thank you to everyone who supported the launch of our Vinnies Winter Appeal and the Bishop’s Fundraiser Lunch. Together, we raised $1,250 for the Bishop’s Flood Appeal through our sausage sizzle lunch, and $900 for St Vincent de Paul via the gold coin donations for our first Out-Of-Uniform Day. A big thank you to Medowie Woolworths for their generous support in donating the bread, onions and soft drinks for our fundraiser – please thank them next time you’re in store!
We’ve already
filled the donation bins in Reception for our St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal. What a wonderful response! Vinnies have collected and replaced them, so please continue bringing in warm winter items until the end of term. Please note there is a donation bin for each of our college houses: Wati, Watha and Bathu as well as a donation bin for staff. We are keeping track of the number of donations contributed by each house to run a House Cup Tournament for our ministry efforts. The house with the biggest donations will win the cup – so please give generously.
On Monday, our Year 8 students enjoyed a beautiful Reflection Day at Dixon Park Surf Club. The crystal-clear water and whale sightings made it a perfect day to reflect on the theme “Made in God’s Image.” Grounded in Genesis 1:26–31 and Matthew 22:34–40, the day focused on recognising our sacred dignity and our call to love God, ourselves, and each other. These messages reflect our Mercy values and our vision of forming compassionate, reflective learners who show kindness, courage, and justice in all they do.
Staff recently gathered to celebrate Pentecost, marking the birth of the Church with cake and the colour red. Pentecost reminds us of the day the Holy Spirit came upon the Apostles, filling them with courage and purpose. It is a celebration of unity, mission, and the power of God working through us to build a loving community.
Finally, if your child is interested in beginning or continuing their Sacramental journey, please contact the school and we can help connect you with your local Parish. The Sacraments are beautiful signs of God’s invisible grace, helping us grow closer to Him and to one another.
Thank you again for all the ways you support our community and I look forward to updating you on the outcome of our St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal.
United in Mercy
Siobhan Kelly
Leader of Ministry
Wellbeing Week Highlights
During Week 7, our school celebrated Wellbeing Week with a variety of activities aimed at promoting the importance of looking after our mental, emotional, social, and physical health. Wellbeing is a key focus for our school community, as we recognise that students who feel connected, balanced, and supported are better able to engage in their learning and thrive. Our Year 10 Wellbeing class played a significant role in organising and running a fantastic range of lunchtime activities designed to bring students together in fun and inclusive ways. Events throughout the week included student versus teacher basketball and kick tennis, cookie decorating, a colouring-in competition, primary games, craft activities, karaoke and dance, as well as a mufti day and BBQ. It was a great opportunity for students of all year groups to participate, connect with others, and enjoy a positive, vibrant atmosphere across the school.
Connection Club
Connection Club has been running in the Library Green Room each fortnight on Tuesdays at Break 1. It is a relaxed space for students to come together and play board games, eat some yummy snacks, and meet other students. Connection Club is open to all students from Years 7 -12 and is facilitated by members of the Wellbeing Team, School Counsellors Rachel Davies and Cherie Martin, and Beyond the Gates Caseworker Kristie Monaghan.
We get lots of regulars coming back to Connection Club each fortnight and most of the students who come along are in Year 8, as well as a few students in Years 7, 9 and 12. We would love for more students in other year groups who are looking for something fun to do in their breaks to join us.
We play a range of different card and board games, but “Tapple” is the most popular by far. We have been pleased to hear some positive feedback recently from some of our students telling us they have made new friendships with students they met at Connection Club. This is what Connection Club is all about!
Blazing Belles and Resistance Training Year 7 & 8
Our PDHPE department has been working in partnership with the University of Newcastle to provide more opportunities for students to engage in physical activity during the school day. The first initiative to come from this collaboration is "Blazing Belles," a program designed to offer a safe, supportive, and fun environment for girls to be active during their break times. Held every Tuesday during Break 1 in the school hall, Blazing Belles gives girls access to a variety of activities of their choice, encouraging movement, connection, and confidence. The program has already proven to be highly successful, with a noticeable increase in participation and a positive impact on the wellbeing of our female students. Blazing Belles will continue throughout the year, and we encourage all girls to come along, get active, and enjoy the benefits of being part of this fantastic initiative.
In conjunction with the success of Blazing Belles, the PDHPE department has recently introduced a Resistance Training initiative specifically for Year 7 and 8 students. This program is designed to help students develop an understanding of the basic principles of resistance training and the many benefits it can have on their overall fitness and wellbeing. The sessions focus on teaching correct techniques, promoting safe exercise habits, and encouraging students to build their strength and confidence in a supportive environment. Held every Thursday during Break 1 in the hall, the program offers a fun and engaging way for students to get active, learn new skills, and improve their physical fitness. All Year 7 and 8 students are encouraged to join in for 20 minutes of fun, movement, and personal growth
Hail Mary Running Group
On Tuesday afternoons from 3:10 – 3:45pm students are invited to join our Hail Mary Running Group. Lace up and come run with us! Every Tuesday after school, Miss Koch and Miss Madden are leading the Hail Mary Running Group and everyone’s welcome, no matter your pace or experience.
We’ve been having a blast running around Medowie, and it’s a great way to clear your head, get moving, and hang out with mates.
Running helps with fitness, focus, and stress PLUS it just feels good to finish the day strong and a great wellbeing activity.
Come join the fun, bring a friend - you might surprise yourself!
Wellbeing Tools and Agencies for Parents
There are a range of normal distress responses that your child or young person might display during times of trauma or anxiety. One of the most effective ways to support them is by staying connected, engaged, and available for open communication. During these times, children need comfort, reassurance, and consistent support to help them feel safe and secure. It’s important they know they are being looked after by the adults around them. Attached are a number of helpful resources that provide access to community support networks, as well as practical tools and strategies you can use when discussing wellbeing with your child. These resources are here to assist you in supporting your child’s emotional health during challenging times.
United in Mercy,
Wellbeing Team
Matthew Klopper
Strengthening Numeracy at CMCC: A Data-Informed, Cross-Faculty Approach
This year at CMCC, the Insight and Ignite improvement cycle has guided our work in setting meaningful Literacy and Numeracy goals. As part of this initiative, I’ve had the privilege of leading the Numeracy Professional Learning Community (PLC), which brings together educators from the Mathematics, Science, and TAS faculties. United by a shared commitment to improving student outcomes, this team has been working strategically and collaboratively to enhance numeracy across the school.
The Insight and Ignite improvement cycle is adapted from the CSO School Guide to 2025 Strategic Improvement Plan which is based on Collaborative Inquiry in Sharratt’s Clarity (pp.71 – 117).
To identify these focus areas, the PLC began by analysing NAPLAN and PAT data from previous years. This analysis highlighted several key skill gaps, which informed our selected areas of emphasis:
- Creating and interpreting graphs
- Reading scaled units and converting measurements
- Operations with fractions and decimals
- Understanding and solving worded problems
Our numeracy goal for 2025 is clear and focused:
Strengthen student numeracy skills through a cross-faculty, data-informed approach that integrates targeted professional learning. Focus areas include measurement, fractions, decimals and percentages, graphing techniques, and overall numerical literacy—aiming for measurable growth in Year 8 student outcomes.
Year 8 students have completed a targeted pre-assessment covering these areas, providing a baseline for growth and helping us understand where explicit support is needed.
In Term 3, the focus will shift to implementation. Faculties will work together to embed targeted strategies and deliver explicit teaching aimed at addressing misconceptions and knowledge gaps. This collaborative approach ensures that numeracy is not just a Maths concern but a shared responsibility across disciplines.
Through shared expertise and evidence-based teaching, we’re building a strong foundation for improved numeracy outcomes, equipping students with the skills they need to succeed in all areas of learning.
Blake Jamison
It’s been another action-packed term full of friendly competition, teamwork, and fun during break times – and we’re not done yet!
We kicked off the term with a Connect 4 Competition, drawing in some serious strategists across all year levels. Bailey Kent (Year 12), Alyssa Edwards (Year 7) and Nathan James (Year 8) were some of our top players throughout the competition.
Our Five-a-Side Football tournament brought together students from Year 7 to Year 12, with fast-paced matches and great sportsmanship on display throughout. After some tightly contested games, the team of Eli Baas (Year 11), Parker Penfold (Year 11), Oliver Campbell (Year 11), Lachlan Webster (Year 11) and Alexander Ford (Year 11) were victorious – well done boys!
Our Kick Tennis and Trivia competitions are currently taking place at break times. It’s been fantastic to see so many getting involved, and the early rounds have been full of competitive spirit and close contests!
We are also excited to announce the launch of a Dungeons & Dragons Club, led by the very passionate Jasper Whitney in Year 10. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned adventurer, this is a great opportunity to meet fellow players and dive into some epic storytelling.
Meanwhile, our Multi-Sport Cup continues to be a big hit with LEA classes competing across a variety of sports including soccer, noodle hockey, frisbee, and handpass AFL. It’s been great seeing the energy and team spirit on full display each week.
Our Year 9 PASS students have jumped into their Physical Fitness Unit, and it’s been a blast so far!
As part of the program, students have had the opportunity to attend Active Fitness Medowie, where they’ve had the chance to try out a whole range of training styles including zumba, pilates, resistance training, yoga, stretching, spin, and HIIT. There’s been plenty of laughs, lots of sweat, and a great team vibe throughout.
It’s all about learning how to train effectively, challenge themselves, and build healthy habits they can carry into the future. We’re super proud of how everyone’s getting involved and giving it their all.
Looking ahead to Week 10, our key winners this term – 8LEA7, 9LEA4, 9LEA6 and 9LEA7 – will take on the challenge to Unlock the Box. These classes earned their keys by correctly answering trivia questions about staff members, logos, Australia and celebrities. Which LEA will unlock the prize box? We can’t wait to find out!
And next term promises even more excitement with the return of some crowd favourites and new challenges: get ready for the MarioKart Cup, Jenga, Sticky Golf, and a Putting Challenge – all set to run during break times.
Thanks to everyone who’s taken part so far. It’s your enthusiasm that makes these activities such a highlight of school life here at CMCC.
Go Eagles!
Chris Tyrie
Sports Highlights
Rachel Jenkins – Dio Tennis
Congratulations to Year 9 student, Rachel Jenkins, who was the Junior Girls Champion of the Diocese Tennis Gala Day. Rachel won her 7 round robin matches, to move to the Semi Finals, which she won 4-1. Rachel progressed to the final and won 6-0.
Boys Bill Turner Soccer – Round 2
On Tuesday 10 June our CMCC U/15 Boys Bill Turner team took on Merewether High School in Round 2 of the Bill Turner Soccer Knockout Competition. Our Eagles played their hearts out against a vert skilful opposition to finish the game with a 2-1 loss. Well done to all involved and a special mention must go to our Year 11 Sports Coaching students Parker and Eli for their outstanding coaching efforts.
Dio Cross Country:
On Thursday 8 May, students from CMCC took part in the Dio Cross Country event at Glenbawn Dam.
All students participated with great sportsmanship and applied maximum effort in their events.
Notable results were:
Lily McCaull – 3rd in 15 Girls
Thomas Lynch – 2nd in 15 Boys
Ruben Phillips – 1st in 14 Boys MC
Go Eagles!
Open Girls Basketball
On 9 May our Open Girls Basketball team competed in the NSW Competition. Our first game we came up against a competitive St Joseph’s Lochinvar team. Our girls had a stellar game, but were unfortunately defeated.
Next the Eagles played Erina High School. This was a hotly contested game with the Eagles winners by 1 point!
The girls were outstanding in their last game, but were outplayed by a strong team from St Catherine’s Taree.
Congratulations to all the girls for representing CMCC with such a positive attitude.
NSW Cup Opens Boys Basketball Gala Day
Our Opens Boys Basketball team competed in the NSW Cup Gala Day with determination, teamwork, and sportsmanship on full display. Led by captain/coach Reagan Connor, the team opened the day with an impressive double-digit win over St Paul’s CC Booragul.
In their second match, the boys faced a strong and physical Division 1 side from Avondale School. Despite falling behind early, our team fought back with grit and courage, refusing to give in against a much older and experienced outfit.
The final game was a close battle against Newcastle Grammar School for a place in the Division 2 Grand Final. Our boys led for much of the game before NGS surged in the final minutes to claim the win.
Special mentions go to Andy Gill and Zach Richards for their outstanding performances throughout the day. The entire team demonstrated excellent sportsmanship, shared game time fairly, and largely self-managed both on and off the court. The Eagles represented the College with pride and were a pleasure to supervise.
Lunch Time Resistance Training - THURSDAY BREAK 1 IN THE HALL
Resistance Training – Year 7 & 8
We had an awesome turnout last week — let’s keep it going! Come join us in the Hall during Break 1 every Thursday for a fun and quick 15-minute resistance training session with a mini group challenge, run by the PDHPE faculty.
Why join?
Over 30% of teens don’t meet muscle-strengthening guidelines, and 80% worldwide aren’t active enough. Let’s change that — together!
Bring a friend and let’s get stronger every day, starting today!
BLAZING BELLES - TUESDAY BREAK 1 IN THE HALL
Attention all girls! You are all invited to the hall during break 1 on Tuesdays, to play Just Dance, volleyball, soccer, basketball or just get moving!
We can't wait to see you! See the flyer attached for more details.
Full Day and Partial Day Absences
Parents are encouraged to report only full day absences through Compass.
Please DO NOT submit Partial Absences through Compass, as this causes inconsistencies in the class roll. If a student arrives late, their parent must either sign them in at Reception or contact the College.
Parents must inform the College of the reason for their child's absence within 7 days. This can be done via Compass, email or phone. After 7 days the reason must be submitted in writing to the College via email at admin@medowiecmcc.catholic.edu.au . This will then be recorded as an Unjustified absence rather than Unexplained.
Vaccinations
Catherine McAuley Catholic College will be hosting NSW Health as part of the school vaccination programme.
- Year 10 Vaccinations: Thursday 24th July 2025
- Catch up Vaccinations, Year 7 and Year 10: Friday 5th September 2025
Further information can be found here: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/schoolvaccination.aspx
Lost Property
Student Services has some jewellery and ear buds in Lost Property. If you recognise any of these items, please contact Student Services.
Students are encouraged to please label their belongings, especially Jackets and Hats, to enable lost property to be returned.
DON'T MISS OUR UPCOMING FREE WEBINARS IN TERM 2
PRESENTED BY BEYOND: CAREERS AND PATHWAYS INFORMATION FOR PARENTS WITH CHILDREN IN SECONDARY SCHOOL
Register using the link - See you online!
A PARENT’S ROADMAP TO CAREERS AND PATHWAYS
LEARN HOW TO IDENTIFY AND LEVERAGE YOUR CHILD’S STRENGTHS
For parents and carers of Years 7–10 students
Presented by Beyond
Wednesday 4 June
7pm – 8pm
Key Dates 2025 |
|
| Wednesday 25 June |
Year 11 Student Parent Teacher Interview Evening |
| Monday 30 June |
Year 11 VET student work placements |
| Thursday 3 July |
College Athletics Carnival |
| Friday 4 July |
Pupil Free Day / Staff Development Day |
| Term 3 |
Monday 21 July - Friday 26 Septmeber |
|
Monday 28 July |
Year 7 - 10 Student Parent Teacher Interviews |
|
Monday 4 August - Monday 18 August |
Year 12 Trial HSC Exams |
|
Monday 8 September - Monday 22 September |
Year 11 Exams |
|
Friday 26th September |
Pupil Free Day / Staff Development Day |
|
Term 4 |
Monday 13 October - Friday 19 December |
|
Thursday 16 October- Friday 7 November |
Year 12 HSC |
St Brigid’s, Raymond Terrace
(69 William Street)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5.30pm
Sunday 9.30am
Weekday Mass:
Tuesday 7.00am
Wednesday 7.00am
Friday 9.15am
St Christopher’s, Medowie
(On the site of Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5.30pm
Weekday Mass:
Tuesday 5.30pm
Friday 5.30pm
Our Lady Help of Christians, Mallabula
(1193 Lemon Tree Passage Road)
Weekend Mass:
Sunday 7.30am
Weekday Mass:
Thursday 9.15am
St Michael's, Nelson Bay
(12 Sproule St)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5.00pm
Sunday 8.30am
Weekday Mass:
Tuesday 5.00pm
Wednesday 9.15am
Thursday 5.00pm
Friday No Mass
St Brigid's, Buladelah
(26 Buladelah Way)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5:00pm (1st, 3rd & 5th Saturdays)
Sunday 8:30am (2nd & 4th Sundays)
St Stephen's, Tea Gardens
(Witt St)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 5:00pm (2nd & 4th Saturdays)
Sunday 8:30am (1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays)
Our Lady of Rosary, Karuah
(Tarean Street)
Weekend Mass:
Saturday 6:30pm (Vigil - 1st, 3rd & 5th Saturdays)
Sunday 8:30am (2nd & 4th Sundays)
St Peter-in-Chains, Stockton
(13 Dunbar Street)
Weekend Mass:
Sunday 9:00am
Weekday Mass:
Thursday 8.30am