Distinguished guests, parents, carers, families, Year 11 students, and most importantly, the trailblazing Year 12 graduates of Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie. Welcome to this momentous and historic occasion.

As Mrs Denham, your long time mentor and Head of House has expressed, you have been part of many “firsts” in the brief yet remarkable history of CMCC.

Today, you etch your names into the College’s story as its very first graduating class - a milestone we honour with pride and with joy.

A heartfelt acknowledgment must go to the families of our Year 12 students who, in 2021, placed their faith in a vision, a newly established Catholic College with no legacy, only promise. On that first morning, Mr Donohoe received the keys and opened the doors to our first cohort of Year 7 and 8 students. That leap of faith marked the beginning of a journey that has led us to this very celebration today.

The foundation of our College was not laid overnight. It was the result of years of thoughtful planning, staunch support from the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, all levels of government,  the Catholic Schools Office and the bold spirit of our founding staff. Through innovative building designs and learning structures and a courageous approach to contemporary education, what was built was more than a school, it was a community and the loyalty and commitment of our students, and their families has ensured that what was envisioned now thrives.

Year 12, as you look back on your five-year journey, you will recall moments of laughter, growth, challenge, and triumph. But you did not walk this path alone. Your achievements are shared with your teachers, who have guided you with wisdom and care, and most profoundly it is shared with your families, whose love and support have been your constant companions.

Year 12, I invite you now to stand and face your families and offer them your heartfelt thanks.

Year 12 - Your appreciation for your teachers and educators has shone brightly at recent events and celebrations, and you will have further opportunities to express your gratitude. Let’s also take a moment to honour the quiet heroes of our College, our support staff. From Mr Spence’s legendary BBQs to the warmth and hospitality of our office team, their contributions have enriched your experience in countless ways, and I know you will acknowledge and thank them in your own individual ways. 

I personally take this opportunity to thank every staff member across the College who in so many ways have contributed to today’s celebrations and to ensuring the occasion has been meticulously and fittingly prepared and delivered.

Year 12, you have made your families, your teachers, and your College proud. As pioneers, you have grown not only in knowledge but in faith and character, embodying our values of Compassion, Courage, Hospitality, and Faith in Action.

Throughout this week, your approach to your final days of schooling at CMCC have been exemplary. You have indeed set a high bar for all who follow you, in the way that you have conducted yourselves, celebrated and displayed community spirit reflective of all that we hope for in our students. You are to be congratulated on the high expectations you have for yourselves and that align with our College expectations.

Already, 34 of you have received early university offers in fields as diverse as Law, Education, Health, and Construction and yet continue to strive for excellence in your HSC and ATAR that will undoubtedly see you achieve your personal and academic goals and the realisation of offers in ever expanding fields such as Medicine and Engineering.

Others have secured apprenticeships, enrolled in TAFE, or are preparing to enter the workforce. Whatever path you choose and follow, you carry with you the spirit and vision that has shaped CMCC.

We look forward to staying connected and hearing of your future achievements through our Circle of Mercy Alumni platform and may you continue to be changemakers and trailblazers in your communities and far beyond.

In closing, Catherine McAuley has been your shining lamp giving light to your path for the past five years. May her words and example continue to inspire you as you navigate life’s journey and may you always “strive to do ordinary things extraordinarily well.”

God bless you, Year 12.