Filter Content
- A Message from the Principal
- A Message from the Assistant Principal
- A Message from the Leader of Ministry
- Wati Discovery House (Years 7 and 8)
- Watha Endeavor House (Years 9 and 10)
- Bathu Horizons House (Years 11 and 12)
- What's happening in English - Term 3
- A Message from the Leader of Learning PDHPE
- A Message from the Leader of Learning Mathematics
- A Message from Hospitality Vocation Education and Training (VET)
- Upcoming Events - Term 3 2025
- Parish Mass Times
Bernard Burgess
Dear CMCC families,
Matthew 5:3
Alleluia, alleluia.
Happy the poor in spirit;
the kingdom of heaven is theirs!
Alleluia.
Dear Catherine McAuley Catholic College families
Welcome to Term 3.
Our Year 12 students have entered the final term of their formal secondary school education. As the term began and, in the lead up to the Trial HSC starting on Monday 4th August, there has been a particular focus on this trailblazing group of students and on supporting them as they journey towards the end of thirteen years of schooling, the last five of which have been at Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie. What a wonderful achievement and legacy they will leave when they “walk out the gates” for the final time a few months from now. The College community looks forward to walking that journey with them and their families and they will be in our prayers as they begin their HSC Trials next week.
Year 7 – 10 Parent Student Teacher Conferences
In Week 1 of this term, it was wonderful to welcome families of students from Year 7 to Year 10 to the Parent Student Teacher Conferences in the College Hall. These opportunities are vital to the partnership between school and home when it comes to supporting student learning and wellbeing and enlivens parent and carer engagement with the school.
Some data of interest from this parent and carer engagement opportunity include:
Students in Years 7 – 10: 697
Total Conferences booked: 1542
Total number of classes (Year 7-10): 254
Proportion of households with bookings; 30%
Average bookings per household: 2.26
There will be further opportunities this year for parent and carer engagement through Learner Led Conferences and it would be wonderful to see an even greater proportion of families taking up the opportunity to meet with teachers and educators to discuss our learner’s growth.
Some staff leadership updates for this term.
- Mr Robert Bain is the acting Head of House for Watha - Endeavour – (Years 9 and 10) in place of Mr Scott Warnock who is on parental leave.
- Ms Madeleine Stoneman is acting Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement for Year 10 while Mr Bain is acting Head of House.
- Mrs Alexandria Warnock has returned in part time capacity to her substantive role as Leader of Learning – HSIE and is in job share with Mr Alex Finall who ably covered the Leader of Learning - HSIE role during Terms 1 and 2.
- Mr Mat Bailey returned from parental leave this term to his substantive role as Sport – Leader of Learning and he was ably covered during Term 2 by Mr Chris Tyrie in that role.
Year 7 2026 welcome interviews and enrolments
On Wednesday evening this week twenty of the college’s staff leaders met with the newest members of the CMCC community - Year 7 2026.
This was a delightful occasion because the excitement and anticipation of becoming a CMCC community member was so evident amongst the incoming Year 7 cohort. The interviews and college tours led by our senior students were designed as an important step in the orientation for the next group of students to join the college.
My thanks to the families who attended and the staff who supported this important enrolment and orientation event as we prepare for next year and to welcome another 180 students to the college.
The Nest newsletter circulation
In Term 3 the college will trial publishing three editions of The NEST as opposed to the usual five while we continue to monitor the readership numbers of the newsletter and feedback is invited through the admin@medowiecmcc.catholic.edu.au email address on whether the three editions per term is suitable or not. The Nest will be published in Weeks 2, 6 and 10 this term.
I trust the beginning of Term 3 has been productive for all in the CMCC community.
United in Mercy
Bernard Burgess
College Principal
Claudette Stace
Trial HSC
Our thoughts and prayers are with our wonderful Year 12 students as they prepare for their Trial HSC exams starting on Monday 4th August. To support our Year 12 students during their Trial HSC period, we have made some changes to morning drop off and afternoon pick up. These changes will support Year 12 students to concentrate during their exams, by keeping outside noise to a minimum around Coolock House as our hall will be utilised for exams
- Morning drop off 4th – 18th August
- Coolock House (downstairs) will be out of bounds during the Trial HSC period
- Students to walk between Coolock House and the Chapel when arriving at school
- Afternoon pick up changes Monday 11th – Thursday 14th August as Year 12 students will be completing exams at the end of the school day
- Valet students to assemble between Coolock House and the Chapel with the teacher on duty
- As parents park at the front of the school you will be able to text your child to come to the car
- Additionally, parents can advise an additional teacher (who will be on duty at the front of the school) who you are here to pick up and that teacher will advise the teacher via walkie talkie which student needs ton be ready to be collected
- Students will still be in exams in the hall on the above dates
ASPIRE
Congratulations to our CMCC ASPIRE students performing in The Rise of Bozz at the Civic Theatre this weekend; Brooke Lucas - Drama Ensemble, Isla Bailey - Drama Ensemble, Lily Wood - Vocal Ensemble, Chelsea Wood - Vocal Ensemble, Annika McFarlane - Dance Ensemble. Congratulations also to Ms Griggs for your work on the production as Assistant Drama Director.
High Performing Student Program
For the past ten years, the University of Newcastle runs the High Performing Student Program. The High Performing Students Program gives outstanding high school students in Years 9 to 11 a chance to try university-level courses while still in school. This program helps students reach their academic goals, explore career options, and get to know the university. Students involved can earn credit that counts toward future university studies.
Throughout Semester 1, Catherine McAuley Catholic College had thirteen students complete and graduate from the High Performing Student Program. This was the most of any school in the diocese, and made up approximately 10% of the total graduates in the entire program. We look forward to an even bigger group of students engaging in this program next year – we are so proud of our students’ achievements.
The following students graduated from Catherine McAuley:
- Chace Brind – Globalisation and International Management
- Ebony Baker - Globalisation and International Management
- Makayla Kelly – Foundations of Health and Disease
- Mateo Koegelenberg - Discrete Mathematics
- Thomas Lynch - Foundations of Health and Disease
- Alana Sepos - Foundations of Health and Disease
- Charlee Wattus - Globalisation and International Management
- Daisy Russell - Foundations of Health and Disease
- Islay Scheerlinck - Foundations of Health and Disease
- Lainey Russell – Discrete Mathematics
- Skyla Buman - Foundations of Health and Disease
- Zaliah Spencer - Foundations of Health and Disease
- Hamish Vaughan - Globalisation and International Management
United in Mercy
Looking forward to a great term ahead!
Claudette
Siobhan Kelly
“The simplest and most practical lesson I know… is to resolve to be good today, but better tomorrow.” (Catherine McAuley)
Last Friday, our Year 11 students gathered at Stockton Surf Lifesaving Club for a beautiful Senior Leadership Day. Set beside the beautiful Stockton beachside, this special day provided students with a chance to pause, reflect, and step into the invitation to lead with compassion and courage.
Throughout the day, students explored what it means to be a servant leader, drawing on the powerful examples of Jesus and Catherine McAuley. Through team games, Scripture meditations, and reflective journaling, they considered the kind of leader they are called to be – one who listens deeply, acts justly, and places others at the heart of their leadership.
One standout session focused on Jesus’ healing of Jairus’s daughter and the bleeding woman, where students reflected on Jesus' ability to lead not through power, but through presence and compassion. Another session centred on Catherine McAuley’s legacy of mercy, inviting students to lead from a place of calm, courage, and care for others. The students finished the day by creating personal affirmation cards, committing to the qualities they wish to embody as future leaders of our college.
As we celebrate the growth of our senior students, we now turn our attention to our Year 9 cohort, who will be attending their Wellbeing and Reflection Day this coming Monday at Hawks Nest Community Centre.
This year’s theme, “Many Parts, One Body, One Spirit”, taken from 1 Corinthians 12, reminds us that each person is a vital member of our community. Students will engage in games, small group discussions, and creative responses to explore how their unique gifts contribute to the wider body of Christ. The day will conclude with a beautiful liturgy, where students will place their personalised puzzle pieces into a shared mural – a symbol of unity in diversity.
We look forward to another inspiring day of faith, connection, and reflection as our students continue their formation journey.
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Hello families,
Year 7 Highlight from Mr Moore
Welcome back to Term 3! I hope all our Year 7 students and families had a relaxing and enjoyable holiday break. It’s been wonderful to see everyone return refreshed and ready to continue their learning journey.
This term, our theme is ‘Stewardship' (Faith in Action). Throughout the term, students will explore what it means to be stewards in their everyday lives, caring for others, the environment, and using their time and talents to make a positive difference. They will be encouraged to think about the legacy they leave through their actions and how even small choices can leave a lasting impact on the world around them. We look forward to a meaningful and engaging term ahead.
Assessment Tasks:
Year 8 Highlight from Ms Koch
As we settle into Term 3, I want to thank our Year 8 families for your ongoing support and involvement. A particular thank you to the many parents, carers, and students who attended the Parent/Teacher/Student interviews this week. These conversations are essential in strengthening the partnership between home and school, and supporting each student's growth.
Term 2 ended on a high note, with many students demonstrating maturity, compassion, and a growing sense of community. A standout event was our Year 8 Reflection Day, which gave students the chance to step back from the busyness of school life and focus on connection, empathy, and personal development.
Already this term, there are several exciting events underway:
- Learning Partners have been introduced across core subjects, establishing consistent seating plans that encourage positive peer relationships and focused learning. These will be reviewed and adjusted to best support each class environment. This began earlier in the week on Tuesday.
- On Friday, 1 August, we will come together as a College for our NAIDOC Week Assembly, honouring the cultures, histories, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- Our upcoming Core+ Evening on Wednesday, 20 August will support students as they begin planning their Stage 5 electives for 2026—an exciting step toward shaping their individual learning pathways and future opportunities.
- In Week 5, selected students will participate in Write a Book in a Day—a creative, team-based writing challenge that encourages imagination, collaboration, and storytelling under time pressure.
- We are also looking forward to welcoming families to our Father’s Day Breakfast and Liturgy, which will be held in Week 7. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and reflect on the important role of fathers and father figures in our community.
- A reminder that Friday, 26 September will be a Pupil Free Day. Please note this date in your calendars as there will be no classes running on that day.
As always, I encourage families to ensure that students are returning to school each day in line with College expectations regarding uniform and appearance, as this helps create a sense of pride and readiness for learning.
Thank you again for your partnership and support.
Warm regards,
Lucy Koch
United in Mercy,
Wati Discovery House Leaders
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Welcome Back
Dear Watha Families,
Welcome back to Term 3! I hope the break was a restful one and that your child has returned feeling refreshed and ready for the term ahead.
This term, I have the privilege of stepping in as the Head of House for Watha, while Mr Warnock takes some well-earned time on parental leave. I’m really excited to be working more closely with Watha students and supporting their learning, leadership, and wellbeing. Please know that my door is always open, students are welcome to come see me at any time.
As part of this change, Mrs Madeleine Stoneman is now leading Year 10 as the Leader of Wellbeing and Engagement for the remainder of the year. She brings a calm, supportive presence and a deep commitment to student growth. Year 10 is in excellent hands with her guidance.
For Year 9, things continue as normal with Ms Taylor Joyce remaining in her role as LOWE. Ms Joyce does an incredible job, and her ongoing work with Year 9 will ensure students are supported academically, socially, and spiritually.
Looking ahead, I’ll also be stepping into another leadership role in Term 4, supporting Wati (Years 7 and 8) while Mr Mahony is on parental leave. I feel very fortunate to be in a position to work across the school community and connect with even more students.
Learning and Wellbeing (LEA) Themes – Term 3
In Term 3, our LEA program continues to play a key role in student development, with a specific theme and focus tailored to each year group:
Year 9 – “Many Parts, One Body, One Spirit”
This theme invites students to reflect on their individual strengths and how they can contribute positively to their year group, the school, and the broader community. It highlights the importance of teamwork, respect, and recognising the value of others.
Year 10 – “Service and Leadership”
This theme encourages students to think about how they can lead through action. It’s not just about taking a formal leadership position, but about serving others, stepping up when needed, and making a positive difference in the lives of those around them.
Each LEA lesson integrates wellbeing, faith, and personal growth—helping students build confidence, connection, and character.
If you or your child ever need to contact their LEA teacher please see below:
LEA teachers to reach out in year 9 and 10.
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YEAR 9 |
Contact |
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9LEA1 Mr Brosie |
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9LEA2 Mr Cawthorn |
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9LEA3 Mr Stephens |
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9LEA4 Ms Jordan |
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9LEA5 Mr Tomasella |
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9LEA6 Ms Lord |
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9LEA7 Mr Bellamy |
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9LEA8 Mr Lo |
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YEAR |
Contact |
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10LEA1 Ms Rendina |
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10LEA2 Ms Goggin |
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10LEA3 Ms Sproule |
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10LEA4 Mr Tonks |
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10LEA5 Ms Burkett |
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10LEA6 Mr Hunter |
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10LEA7 Mr Mather |
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10LEA8 Ms Giffney |
Key Dates – What’s on in Term 3
We are incredibly lucky to have a very full and enriching term ahead, packed with excursions, events, and opportunities that support learning beyond the classroom:
- Week 3 Monday – Year 9 Reflection Day
- Week 3 Tuesday – Year 10 ‘bstreetsmart’ Safe Driving Excursion (Sydney)
- Week 5 Friday – Write a Book in a Day
- Week 6 Tuesday – Year 10 Reflection Day
- Week 7 Monday – ADF Presentation for Years 9 & 10
- Week 9 (All Week) – Year 10 Work Experience
- Week 9 Wednesday – Year 10 Religious Literacy Assessment
- Week 10 Friday – Pupil Free Day
These events are designed to build independence, strengthen faith, inspire creativity, and develop practical life skills. We encourage all students to fully engage with what’s on offer; it is a privilege to have such a broad and supportive school program.
If you ever need to you can always contact myself at robert.bain@mn.catholic.edu.au.
Thank you for your continued support. I look forward to a positive, purposeful, and productive Term 3 with our wonderful Watha students!
United in mercy.
Mr Robert Bain
Acting Head of House – Watha
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Hello families,
Year 11 Highlight from Mrs Browne
Welcome back to Year 11 for the final term of their Preliminary studies. It is hard to believe we have already reached this stage of the year. I encourage all students to make the most of the weeks ahead by staying engaged in their learning and enjoying the opportunities this term brings. At the same time, it’s important to begin preparing for the Preliminary exams, which will take place at the end of the term, to ensure you finish the year on a strong note.
Ski Trip
The Year 11 Ski Trip took place from Sunday 20th July, with students travelling to Perisher for three incredible days of skiing and snowboarding. For many students, it was their first time experiencing the snow, which made the adventure even more exciting. Each morning began with a two-hour professional lesson, followed by afternoons spent practicing and building on the skills they had learned.
Throughout the trip, students demonstrated the Mercy value of courage as they challenged themselves on the slopes. By the end of the three days, most students had gained the confidence to independently make their way up the mountain and ski or snowboard all the way back down successfully. It was wonderful to see the growth, progress and resilience that developed over the course of the trip, as students supported one another and pushed through the challenges of learning a new skill.
We would like to sincerely thank all staff who attended and helped make the Year 11 Ski Trip such a memorable experience. Their time, effort and support allowed students to enjoy a safe and rewarding trip that they will remember for years to come.
Year 12 Highlight from Ms Harrison
'During Thursday's Year Assembly, students received the following newsletter with updates about their busy time ahead. Included are some brief updates about the HSC Trial Examinations, Year 12 Graduation and Formal, Week 10 (students final week at CMCC), HSC, and their Yearbook.
As students prepare for the HSC Trial Examinations, the following guide, published by The Sydney Morning Herald may be of use to parents and students alike: HSC Study Guide 2025 This 50th anniversary edition of the HSC Study Guide offers valuable information, stories, tools and other resources designed to motivate and inspire this year’s 80,000 HSC students.
Wishing all of Year 12 the greatest success in their HSC Trial Examinations - you've got this team!'
United in Mercy,
Bathu Discovery House Leaders
Emma Bennis
The English Faculty is looking forward to another productive and engaging term with our students in Term 2.
Please feel free to contact your child’s class teacher if you have any questions about English this term.
| Emma Bennis | emma.bennis@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Kylah Hollingsworth | kylah.hollingsworth@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Bianca Sibert | bianca.sibert@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Tamara Carrigan | tamara.carrigan@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Taylah Grainger | taylah.grainger@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Michael Crellin | michael.crellin@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Jaclyn Wilton | jaclyn.wilton@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Scott Warnock | scott.warnock@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Claudette Stace | claudette.stace@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Anastasia Griggs | anastasia.griggs@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Lisa Dionysius | lisa.dionysius@mn.catholic.edu.au |
| Abbey Lakajev | abbey.lakajev@mn.catholic.edu.au |
Lachlan Tonks
Welcome back to Term 3 at CMCC! It's always a pleasure to see our students return, refreshed and ready to hit the ground running with all things PDHPE related. This term promises to be filled with exciting activities and learning opportunities, and I'm thrilled to share some highlights from Term 2 with you.
PA4E1 – Lunchtime Resistance Training (LRT)
The PDHPE staff have launched an exciting new Lunchtime Resistance Training (LRT) initiative as part of the PA4E1 program, which aims to enhance physical activity opportunities for students. Held in the gym during lunch breaks, the sessions are strength-based and feature engaging circuit training and fun fitness challenges. LRT offers a supportive environment where students of all abilities can build confidence, improve physical strength, and enjoy being active with their peers. We encourage all students to come along, get involved, and challenge themselves!
Dance - The Footwork Fiends Shield
As part of their practical dance unit, Year 10 PDHPE students showcased their talents by competing for the Footwork Fiends Shield. This competition, judged on creativity, enthusiasm, and skill execution, highlighted the impressive abilities of our students. Congratulations to all participants, and special kudos to the winners, Josie Parsons, Molly Jeffery, Jada Stanley and Charli Ball for their outstanding performances!
Year 9 Child Studies - Egg Parents
The Year 9 Child Studies class recently undertook a unique formal assessment task, becoming 'parents' to an egg. This activity required students to demonstrate creativity and care in designing and looking after their eggs, as well as their own playrooms!
Year 9 PASS - Fitness Testing and Improvement
Our Year 9 PASS students visited a local gym as part of their fitness testing and improvement unit. The students were exceptional, demonstrating dedication and enthusiasm throughout their sessions. This hands-on experience allowed them to apply what they've learned in class to a real-world setting, furthering their understanding of fitness and health.
bstreetsmart - Year 10 Excursion to Sydney
Our Year 10 cohort is eagerly anticipating their upcoming trip to Sydney to attend the bstreetsmart day. This event is designed to provide young drivers with practical road safety education. Students will have the opportunity to witness live crash scenarios, hear from emergency service personnel, and engage in interactive displays. It promises to be an informative and eye-opening experience, reinforcing the importance of road safety. This event will be on Tuesday 5th August, payment and consent is required for this mandatory event, due by tonight. Please contact the College ASAP to organise consent/payment if the due date has expired.
If you have any concerns regarding your child in PDHPE, please feel free to contact me via the College phone or at lachlan.tonks@mn.cathoilc.edu.au
Wishing everyone a productive and enjoyable Term 3 ahead!
Warm regards,
Lachlan Tonks
Chris Tomasella
Mathematics Update – Term 3
Semester 1 was a fantastic period of growth and achievement in Mathematics at Catherine McAuley Catholic College. Across all year levels, students demonstrated strong engagement with their learning, with many showing significant improvement in their assessment results. Semester 1 reports reflected the hard work and effort that students have put into developing their skills and deepening their understanding of key mathematical concepts.
We are especially proud of the way students approached their formal assessments. Whether it was calculating interest in Financial Maths, solving algebraic equations, or interpreting data, students consistently applied themselves and showed growth in both confidence and ability.
As we move into Term 3, our Year 12 students are preparing to sit their Trial HSC Examinations in Week 3 and 4. This is a major milestone, and we wish them every success as they revise, practise, and consolidate their learning. The trials are a crucial step in their journey towards the HSC, and students are encouraged to seek help from their teachers and use all available resources to prepare effectively.
Our Year 11 students are also beginning to prepare for their Preliminary Examinations, which will take place at the end of this term. These exams are an important opportunity for students to demonstrate their understanding of the Year 11 course content and build exam experience ahead of Year 12.
We encourage all students to continue building consistent study routines, ask questions, and take pride in their progress. With the right effort and support, there is no limit to what our students can achieve.
If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact the mathematics department.
Kayla Dowling
Placement and classroom experiences By Kayla Dowling (Hospitality Trainer/Teacher)
Our Hospitality students have been having a fantastic time in the kitchen! From meeting new people to preparing and presenting delicious dishes, they’re not only sharpening their culinary skills but also building confidence and improving communication. It’s been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and teamwork shine through every session!
Year 11 Hospitality - Ahmani Jedniuk at Cupcake Espresso
We are incredibly proud of our Hospitality students who continue to shine during their work placements. These experiences are vital for student development, helping them grow in confidence, professionalism, and real-world skills. We extend our sincere gratitude to the local businesses who generously support our students—your mentorship and guidance make a lasting impact. Thank you for being part of their journey!
Key Dates 2025 |
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| Term 3 |
Monday 21 July - Friday 26 September |
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Monday 4 August |
Year 9 Reflection Day |
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Thursday 7 August |
Vinnies Sleep Out |
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Monday 4 August - Monday 18 August |
Year 12 Trial HSC Exams |
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Monday 18 August - Friday 22 August |
Book Week |
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Wednesday 20 August |
Year 8 Core+ information evening 545pm |
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Tuesday 26 August |
Year 10 Wellbeing and Reflection Day |
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Monday 8 September - Monday 22 September |
Year 11 Exams |
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Friday 26th September |
Pupil Free Day / Staff Development Day |
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Term 4 |
Monday 13 October - Friday 19 December |
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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