Year 12s chosen theme of Laudaoto Sea, saw these voyagers dressed in all sorts of sea regalia for their Farewell Assembly to students and staff.  I commend them for the good grace and good relationship they have nurtured with peers and staff in the years at the College evident in their leaving us. Their tears of nostalgia and joy, their good-natured banter and their exuberant enthusiasm have been companions to their intellect, creativity and generosity. The girls have been guided by the gentle and encouraging care of their Dean of Senior Secondary Ms Samantha Newbond, to farewell us with the wit and humour we know them for. Whilst a few were still longing to come back through the doors of Victoria Street as Mrs Fry rang their final bell, we look forward to ‘ seaing how far they go’ in their lives to follow.

I share in this Bulletin the parting words of the 2025 College Co-captains Jemima Hickey and Tara Sukumaran to their community of students and staff.  As the Class of 2025 hand over the baton to the Class of 2026, this cohort of students have already engaged in leadership formation and have articulated their desire to lead together – drawing on the strengths of many. Today’s lunchtime saw the ritualistic movement of Year 11s from waving goodbye at Victoria Street doors to racing onto the Year 12 deck. Indeed this cohort is ready to assume responsibility as our senior students. We congratulate the newly appointed Student Leadership Team of 2025 – 2026 who will lead with commitment and service, and we extend our support to them as a community.

We have one ceremony to go - our Graduation and Prize-giving Ceremony tomorrow evening. Whilst it is an occasion to recognise the many achievements and contributions of these students, it is also opportunity to recognise the parents and care-givers, the nurturers and first educators of your daughters and our trusted partnership in educating together.  At the Boarders and Parents Dinner last night I found myself reminiscing with very proud parents reflecting on just how much growth and accomplishment they have seen their daughter achieve throughout her years at the College. A memory of this young girl’s delight in heading home to the country each holiday, enjoying skiing on the local dam, has transformed to a new horizon on big ships having been accepted into the navy, her independence and confidence shaped by her years as a boarder.   To all Year 12 parents and carers, I look forward to tomorrow evening's conversation and of course good energy on the dance floor.

It is my hope that the experiences of each member of the Class of 2025 have been enriched by encounters of Christ’s love, a growing in each young person’s understanding of her inherent worth, and that she has been empowered to be the heart and hands of Christ in her future encounters in whatever endeavours they may be. The gifts these young women have given our College community are rich and diverse - they have been given with generosity and joy. Our rituals of farewell have been marked by mutual affection and a sense of gratitude for and from them. We wonder where their journeys will take them, and do so with confidence. May they always be Vinnies courageous women of action.

A reminder that students return to Term 4 in their summer uniform on Tuesday 14 October . This means the school hat is compulsory and must be worn to and from school as well as at break times outside at school. Students are reminded to have their uniform items labelled and ensure that uniforms are checked for correct sizing. Please support the College expectations in that the uniform unifies the students without the need for adornment of jewellery and makeup. School is a place for each student to belong to a shared culture, to share her individuality through relationships and learning, not through a rejection of uniform standards. We will be clear and consistent in our expectations of uniform and appreciate your support as parents and carers. We will also be hosting our Year 7 2026 Orientation Day on this day. Having just farewelled our Year 12s, we are buoyed by the excitement and anticipation on the faces of these young girls awaiting their journeys at the College.

Mrs Elizabeth Brooks
Deputy Principal

College Co-captains Address - Farewell Assembly

“The more that you read, the more things you will know.
The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go”

Here we are. Gathered at our last assembly, standing in front of a community that has had our backs since day one. We don't want to say that cliche line, but it truly must be said, ‘It feels like only yesterday we started our high school journey’, and now here we are ready to embark on a new chapter of our lives. We have grown together, learnt our values, and truly have become women for others. And for that, we give thanks to the school that has been a second home for the last 6 years.

Looking at our time in these walls, there have been so many memories that we hold close to our hearts, and instantly put a smile on my face, filling me with so much love and warmth. In our years we have walked through these hallways, made life-long friendships, discovered a part of ourselves, and learnt what it means to be a true Vinnies girl, and within the fear, excitement, and bitter-sweetness, being a Vinnies girl, means recognising we are ready to embark on a new chapter of our lives, no matter how scary that might feel. Vinnies has never been a place of JUST subject learning, but instead a family, and the thing about family is that no matter how far you are from each other, or where you might end up, family always has each other for life and will always find each other. So to our Vinnies family, this is not goodbye.

When I think back to our very first day here, l picture a sea of oversized uniforms, nervous smiles and year 7s clutching their timetables like treasure maps. We were so small, and yet everything seemed so big: our classrooms, the seniors, even the idea of high school itself. But slowly things shifted. We found our way and we found our people. We found a confidence we didn't even know we had. And looking out at us now, l cant help but feel proud of every girl sitting here today because we've all grown into the people our year 7’s selves would look up to, shaped by the values we live by each day.

To the younger years, we wanted to say this: don’t wish the time away. It’s easy to look ahead and say ‘l can’t wait until this year is over or l can’t wait until i’m in year 12”. But the truth is, every year has something special to give, with so many opportunities to make new memories. Soak up the little things like jokes during tutor time, or setting up your tent in the pouring rain during camp. Say yes to the musical, debating, or an event at the athletics carnival, even if you're not sure you’ll be good at it. Just keep showing up. Or, in the words of Dory from finding nemo “just keep swimming”. Sometimes that’s all you need to do: to keep going, to trust that one day you’ll look back and realise that those small moments turned into lifetime memories.

High school is also not supposed to be easy or simple. It is supposed to be challenging, awkward, and even nerve-racking. But we want you to embrace all these moments, even the ones that are hard; this is how to grow and become more and more yourself. Except for the failures and disappointments, they are inevitable, but if you dwell on them, you will never grow.

Also, never forget to be there for your friends, because without friendships, high school would be nothing. These girls around you are your family, who know you inside and out, so always treasure them, because they are special and unlike any other. For my year group, in the words of Bruno Mars, “if you ever get stuck in the middle of the sea, I’ll sail the world to find you.

It has been an honour to lead you this year, as your college captains for 2025. As we leave today, in our SVsea style - it feels like we’re setting sail on our own journeys. Some of us charting calm waters, others braving the waves of the unknown. But no matter where the tide takes us, we will always be anchored to Vinnies, to the friendships, lessons and the memories that have shaped who we are. So, to our Vinnies family: may you always have the courage to dive into new opportunities, the resilience to ride out the storms, and the joy to keep swimming toward the horizon.

Nothing stays the same, and while school might, at times feel like a neverending experience of lessons, assessments and new concepts, at the end of Year 12 it can feel like this period has gone by very quickly.

In their time at the College, our Year 12s have engaged in far more than just the accumulation of knowledge. They have wrestled with complex ideas, refined their skills, and learned how to think critically. Each class, assignment, and discussion has contributed to their growth, not just as learners, but as young adults who understand that true learning often happens in the process, not just the outcome.

Like all experiences, there have been periods of challenge. Yet Year 12 has shown us that impermanence is not a limitation, it is a chance to grow. This group has met obstacles with determination and resilience, proving that strength lies not in avoiding hardship but in supporting one another. They have learned persistence, empathy, and adaptability, all qualities that will serve them in the shifting landscapes of work, study, and life.

Keats’ urn reminds us that beauty lies in moments of change, and this is most apt when it comes to graduation. There is beauty in the joy of celebration and beauty in the poignancy of nostalgia knowing that many experiences are coming to a close. But more than anything there is great beauty and value in the friendships, connections and values that bind this cohort.

We thank them for their energy, leadership, and spirit. They have embraced learning and achieved growth. They are ready for their HSC examinations ahead and all the opportunities beyond.

Alison Boyd-Boland

Director of Teaching and Learning

The College photos have now been distributed through Tutor groups this week. Parents who requested photos be collected directly from Student Services are advised that these are now available.

Boarders, Leaders and Daughters of Ex-Students can now be ordered.

These group photographs are available for families to purchase at 20% off the normal price until 11/09/2025.

Advancedlife are pleased to advise that online ordering is now open for the groups listed above. If you would like to place your order before 11/09/2025 you will receive a 20% early order discount by simply clicking on the link below. Please note that whilst we are not able to preview images in the ordering portal, all purchases are fully refundable for a period of 21 days. The 20% discount will be automatically applied at checkout.

LINK TO ORDER PHOTOS

Important

• These group photos can only be purchased online, PLEASE DO NOT return payment to your school
• Photos will be returned to your school for distribution approximately six weeks after the discounted early order period has closed
• Past years' photographs including sports, co-curricular and representative groups are also available at your school's advancedorder and your child's advancedyou photo sites

advancedlife would like to express our appreciation to St Vincent's College for placing your trust in us. Please remember we offer a 100% money-back guarantee on our products to ensure your peace of mind. We would also love to receive your feedback or resolve any issues you may experience, to ensure your satisfaction. If you have any questions, comments or feedback relating to your advancedlife experience, please contact us at www.advancedlife.com.au/contact

College Dates for 2026

Term 1:

Monday 26th January - Boarding House opens (Year 7 & 12 and siblings) at 4 pm

Tuesday 27th January: Years 7&12 First Day of Term 1 & Boarding House opens for Years 8-11

Wednesday 28th January: Years 8-11 First Day of Term 1

Monday 20/4 - Tuesday 28/4: Year 9 Endeavouring

Thursday 2nd April: Last Day of Term 1 – Boarding House closes at 4:00 pm

Term 2:

Monday 20th April - Boarding House opens at 4 pm

Tuesday 21st April - First Day of Term 2

Friday 25th April – ANZAC Day

NB: Friday 5th June - Student free day (Parent-Teacher Meetings)

Monday 8th June – King’s Birthday Holiday

Friday 26th June - Last Day of Term 2 - Boarding House closes at 4 pm

Term 3:

Monday 20th July - Boarding House opens at 4 pm

Wednesday 22nd July - First Day of Term 3

Monday 17th August TBC (depending on College requirements) - Mid-term Teaching Break (Boarding School remains open – no travel days)

Friday 25th September - Last Day of Term 3 - Boarding House closes at 4 pm

Term 4:

Monday 12th October - Boarding House opens at 4 pm

Tuesday 13th October - First Day of Term 4

Tuesday 8th December (12:30 pm) - Last Day of Term 4

Wednesday 9th December - Boarding House closes at 4 pm

Mr Bob Anderson
Director of College Operations

It’s been a remarkable year under the leadership of our two Mission Co-Captains, Sadie Adair and Teigan Cloete. They have truly set the world on fire with their generous deeds and inspiring leadership, guiding our school through numerous initiatives and embodying the values of the Sisters of Charity and Ignatian spirituality. Their hard work and dedication have been a privilege for us all, and the College is deeply proud of all they have achieved. We wish them every success for the future as they continue to be courageous women in action, leading as agents for change in the world.

As we look ahead, we warmly welcome our future Mission Captains for 2025–2026, Satine Gallardo Walker and Louisa Mitchell. We are excited to see how these exceptional Year 11 students will continue to inspire and lead our community.

We also encourage ongoing support for the Sandwich Project. Your donations of Woolworths gift vouchers are vital in helping us continue to support Night Patrol and those in need. Please send any contributions to Student Services or directly to me via email.

Another exciting initiative ahead is the JRS Table Talks, a collaborative event hosted in partnership with Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS) Australia. This session, titled Stories of Strength , will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 3:15 PM to 4:30 PM at St Vincent’s College Potts Point. It will be an inspiring opportunity for students to hear powerful stories from people seeking asylum, learn more about the global and national refugee context, and engage in a lively Q&A with speakers. Afternoon tea will be provided. More details can be found in the attached flyer.

In addition, our Environmental Committee continues to lead the way in living out Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ . This year, we are aligning our work with World Maritime Day (Thursday 25th September), which focuses on shipping safety, maritime security, and the marine environment. The 2025 theme, “Our Ocean, Our Obligation, Our Opportunity,” speaks powerfully to our shared responsibility for creation.

Given the busy schedule of farewell Year 12s, we will instead provide Tutors with a short video and slideshow on the 25th, highlighting our College’s commitment to caring for our Common Home and introducing the Environmental Bake Sale. The sale will take place in Week 1 of Term 4, on Thursday 16 October (Day 9) from 10:40–11:00 AM in the Paved Area. Proceeds will go to Caritas Australia, supporting coastal communities most affected by rising sea levels. If you would like to contribute to baking or selling goods for the bake sale, please contact Mr Harvey or Ms Hamilton to assist.

We look forward to seeing the passion and energy of our students continue to grow as they lead us in faith, service, and justice.

Michael Harvey
Social Justice Leader

What stood out to me at all the finals was not only the wonderful sportsmanship and competitiveness but also the humility and Vinnie's spirit shown in defeat. We can't all be winners but we all can definitely learn from our mistakes and grow as athletes and as people. A huge thank you also to all of our wonderful coaches who have trained our teams this term, we look forward to seeing you all again soon. We wish all of our Year 12 students a great study break and hope that you all smash the HSC! Don’t forget to keep active and let us know if you’d like to come back to coach next year!

IGSA HOCKEY

SVC 2 are the Champions!!

In a thrilling and hard fought Grand Final, SVC 2 were crowned champions after extra time! The team came out firing, making a circle penetration within the first 30 seconds of the opening hooter and only narrowly missing the goal. This early burst of energy set the tone, forcing the opposition to dig deep and apply sustained pressure. A smart structural adjustment to player on player marking allowed the team to break down counterattacks quickly and build impressive depth across the field.

Remarkably, many players only picked up a hockey stick for the first time this year, making their debut championship victory an extraordinary achievement. It has been a positive and rewarding season for hockey, filled with growth, determination, and lasting friendships. We can’t wait to see what the 2026 season brings.

Best of luck to our Year 12 students as they head into their HSC and the exciting opportunities ahead!

Ms Marcia Scally - Head Hockey Coach

IGSA FOOTBALL

This past weekend, our SVC teams gave their all in the IGSA Football Grand Finals, with results that truly highlighted the spirit, determination, and sportsmanship that have defined their seasons. Congratulations to SVC 3 and SVC 4 – our champions! In two exhilarating Grand Finals, our girls triumphed 1–0 over long-time rivals St Scholastica’s and 2–1 against Danebank. What an incredible achievement  well done, girls!

A huge thank you to all our Vinnies footballers for an unforgettable season. With record levels of participation and half of our teams reaching the Grand Finals, this has been one of our most successful years yet. We hope you enjoy a well earned break before summer sport begins, and we look forward to seeing you all back next year for another exciting season of IGSA Football. Finally, a heartfelt thank you to our parents and carers. Your commitment and support have been invaluable, and this season would not have been possible without you.

Mr Nick Schroeder - Head Football Coach

IGSA NETBALL

As we wrap up the 2025 Netball season, it’s the perfect moment to celebrate our incredible achievements while looking ahead to even greater success. A special congratulations to SVC 4, SVC 6, SVC 9, SVC 10 and SVC 16 for their outstanding performances last Saturday, where they were crowned champions of their divisions! Their teamwork, dedication, and growth throughout the season have been truly inspirational, raising the bar for all our teams.

I also want to recognise our runners up teams – SVC 14, 21 and 22 for their fantastic efforts. Their sportsmanship, competitive spirit, and determination made their games thrilling and enjoyable for everyone involved.

Looking forward, our focus will be on building from this season’s strong foundation, emphasising strategic gameplay, teamwork, and fitness. We’re excited about the potential 2026 Netball holds and are confident that the dedication shown this term will continue to bring success.

To all our Netball students, stay committed, keep practising, and approach the next summer sports with passion, perseverance, and team spirit.

Ms Georgie Mugridge - Head of Netball

SPORTS STAR OF THE WEEK

SPORTS STAR OF THE WEEK

If your daughter has represented her state or country recently in her chosen Sport, please send us any results, photos or blurbs on her performance to elyse.harmanis@stvincents.nsw.edu.au

Congratulations to: Niamh Mackenzie Yr 12 & Billie Rollo Yr 7 - who competed at the NSWCIS Athletics Carnival at Homebush on Tuesday. Niamh is now the 17 years  High Jump Champion and Billie is the 12 yrs Hurdles Champion.  Well done girls!

Performing Arts report Sept 15 2025

Recently in the Bulletin I was able to congratulate Year 12 Dance and Drama students on completing the Practical and submissions components of their HSC. Now I can add congratulations to our Year 12 Music students as they have now completed their Music HSC Practical examinations .

We received some very exciting news last week as nominations for Dance and Drama students started rolling in. Having a student from your school nominated for an NESA HSC Showcase is an incredible achievement. It is rewarding for any student and school to even get 1 nomination for the NESA HSC Showcases but I am proud to announce Dance received 9 nominations and Drama 10. CALLBACK presents a selection of outstanding major works by HSC Dance students in NSW including core performance and composition. OnSTAGE presents a selection of outstanding major works by HSC Drama students in NSW including individual and group performance, and individual projects.

The following students received the following nominations for CALLBACK :

For Core Performance :

Abbie Burnell

Caitlin Hoggett

For Core Composition:

Abbie Burnell

Molly Griffin

Emily O’Connor

For Major Study Performance :

Abbie Burnell

Matilda Gallagher

Molly Griffin

Caitlin Hoggett

CALLBACK is an annual showcase of HSC Dance works and will be held at the Seymour Centre on Thursday 12 and Friday 13 February 2026.

Yearr 12 Music student nominated for Encore!!!

Samara Alexandratos - Music Performances have been nominated for possible inclusion in ENCORE. Having a student from your school nominated for an HSC Showcase is an incredible achievement. Congratulations!

ENCORE presents a selection of outstanding major works by HSC Music students in NSW including performance, composition and musicology. It will be held at the Sydney Opera House on Monday 2 March 2026 .

Congratulations to Samara and a thank you to her Music teacher Steve Samyia.

Catherine Johnson - Drama Teacher
Head of Performing Arts

Career News September 26

University of Wollongong

Summer Master Classes

Applications Close 26 October

With a range of subjects to choose from, UOW’s three-week Summer Master Class program allows students completing Year 12 in 2026 the opportunity to study a university subject.

The program will run from 5 to 23 January 2026.  Interested students will also be required to attend an Orientation afternoon on Monday 8 December, 2025. For more information, use the link found here .

UNSW

Current Affairs in Aviation Short Course 2025

7-8 October

Join UNSW’s two-day Current Affairs in Aviation short course on 7 & 8 October 2025 and discover where the industry is heading, gain insider insights from professionals shaping aviation’s future, learn how industry-taught courses can fast-track your career, and make real connections with aviation leaders. For more information, use the link provided here .

Charles Sturt University

Virtual Parent Information Evening ‘Thinking Ahead: Supporting your Teen's Journey to University’

The Online Parent Information Session on Wednesday 22 October 2025 (6.30pm to 7.30pm) offers expert guidance to help parents support their teens exploring university options at Charles Sturt. It will cover early offers, scholarships, accommodation, and include insights from current students and their parents. Register your interest here .

Helen Marshall
Careers Adviser