Dear members of the Mount Lilydale Mercy College community,
As we bid farewell to the closing chapter of Term 3 2023, I am filled with a profound sense of pride and gratitude. My reflection on the last fortnight on behalf of Principal Mr Philip Morison, who is on a Year 10 trip to Tasmania, and the term as a whole is best summed up in two words — “wow” and “whoosh”.
When I look back on the past fortnight, I can’t help but expand on the themes of celebration, diverse talent and a sense of community. These were the ‘wow’ moments. When I think of how fast paced it all unfolded, I must admit it felt like it went past in a ‘whoosh’.
Mercy Day
Last Friday (8 September), was Mercy Day. Despite the inclement weather, we adapted and in the true spirit of Catherine McAuley simply got on with things. Between the homeroom stalls, food vans and rides there was a hum of ‘togetherness’. The much-anticipated Mercy Idol concert, which included the legendary staff band, followed by the Year 12 Parade, was pure, unadulterated fun. Together, we literally ‘weathered’ the challenges and created a rich tapestry of experiences that will add another chapter to our rich cultural heritage in this event. I would like to acknowledge the leadership of Ms Elizabeth Keogh, Deputy Principal — Mission, who coordinated this event with staff and students with unfailing faith and energy. You can read more about Mercy Day HERE.
Performing Arts
On Tuesday evening, I had the pleasure of attending the annual Performing Arts Showcase. I was literally tapping my toes and moving my lips along to an incredible plethora of music. The audience was taken on a journey from western classical to pop, with a dip into musical theatre, a sharp drop into pulsating rock, balanced out with some smooth jazz. The voice of angels in solo, ensemble and choir formation brought a tear to the eye of some. Performing Arts Faculty Learning Leader Ms Wendy Anderson and the Performing Arts staff are to be congratulated on inspiring and fostering these talents.
Market Day
Yesterday, our VCE Vocational Major (VM) students showcased their talents in their annual VM Market Day. I was cajoled into buying a burger with the lot, then forked out for raffle tickets for a high quality craft hamper and then indulged in two very delicious cake pops … which I really did not need but was too weak to resist. Congratulations to Mrs Kristy Brown, the Applied Learning Leader, and her team of VM teachers for facilitating this event and making it a rich experience for us all.
Trips
In other news, the much-anticipated Term 3 trips and tours to Tasmania, Central Australia and Japan are underway. We wish all the staff and students a safe journey and we look forward to tales of their travels.
Personal pars
On a more solemn note, I wish to inform you of two families in our community who have experienced recent loss. We pray for the souls of Mrs Pam Dunn (wife of past staff member Mr Terry Dunn), who passed away on Thursday, and for the soul of Rolf de Betue, father of Stephan de Betue and grandfather of Lauren (Year 12 Green) and Aidan (Year 10 Purple), who passed away last week. We keep the Dunn and de Betue families in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. May their souls rest in peace.
Trial exams
Looking ahead, please note that next week our Unit 3-4 students will be doing their trial exams. This is a critical time in their preparation for their final written exams, which will commence on Tuesday 24 October. Please refer to the communications already sent regarding this by Barak Campus Director Mr Kamahl Russell.
Term 4
A reminder that the start of Term 4 commences for staff and students on Monday 2 October and it marks the return to our full summer uniform. Please review the College calendar for further key dates.
So, as we break for this well-deserved respite, let us carry forward the learnings and memories from all the ‘wow’ and ‘whoosh’ moments of this term. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support and commitment to our shared Mercy education values.
Wishing one and all a restful and rejuvenating break, and I look forward to the exciting opportunities to do our best and give our best that await us in Term 4.
