Dear families and friends,
The College community has had a whirlwind start to Term 2. Our students continue to amaze me — not only with what they achieve, but with the character and commitment they show along the way. Whether it’s through performance, creative expression, sporting events, or everyday learning, they are demonstrating what it means to be courageous, flexible, connected, and deeply engaged in their growth. This term has already offered many opportunities for students to rise to challenges and contribute to College life in meaningful ways. It’s been wonderful to witness their energy, their willingness to step forward, and the genuine care they show for their peers and the wider community.
ANZAC Day Assembly
Our College gathered to commemorate ANZAC Day on Wednesday, 30 April — an occasion that connects us to our history, honours great sacrifice, and reminds us of the enduring values of courage, mateship, and service. Led with great respect by our students that are also Australian Defence Force Cadets, the assembly invited the whole school community to pause, reflect, and give thanks. From the solemn readings to the haunting tones of the Last Post played by College Music Captain Alex, the assembly spoke to the deep gratitude we hold for those who served — and continue to serve our nation in times of conflict and peace. It was especially moving to witness our students lead this event with such maturity and reverence, showing their understanding of its significance.
College Production – Oliver!
The theatre lights dimmed, the curtain rose, and what followed was a spectacular reminder of just how talented our students are. Our College Production of Oliver! left audiences thoroughly entertained. As one parent shared:
“I just wanted to say that we were absolutely blown away! The standard of production, the costumes, the music and the energy of the kids were just incredible! I kept having to remind myself that the beautiful, faultless music was coming from school children! I knew it was going to be good, but I could never have imagined it would be as good as it was.”
This unforgettable production was the result of countless hours of dedication from our students—attending rehearsals, refining their performances, and supporting one another along the way. Their hard work, resilience, and collaborative spirit were evident in every scene, every note, and every step they took on stage. Our students have been well supported on the journey by our dedicated, passionate, and talented staff: Ms Shellie Rodriguez (Director), Ms Samantha Ashman (Musical Director), Ms Virginia Bochrinis (Choreographer), Ms Heidi Lake (Vocal Director), Ms Ella Van Raak (Costume Designer), Mr Aaron Massang (Audio Visual Support and Lighting) and Mrs Helen Gordon (Administration). There were also many other staff members involved in the production team, and I extend my sincere thanks to all of them for helping bring this ambitious work to life.
As many of us know, large-scale productions also rely on generous community support. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible parent volunteers for the countless behind-the-scenes tasks they completed. This shared effort made the magic possible.
Artistic Excellence – The Lester Prize & Pulse 2025
I am delighted to announce two exceptional achievements from our Visual Arts program.
Beatie Lee has been awarded the School Workshop Prize at the 2025 Lester Prize for Portraiture Youth Awards for her oil painting Lunch in the City. Her work is currently on public display at the WA Museum Boola Bardip (Old Gaol Building) until 20 July—a wonderful honour and a testament to her talent and creativity.
In addition, alumni Evie Holdscroft (Class of 2024) artwork was selected for inclusion in The West Australian Pulse 2025 exhibition at the Art Gallery of Western Australia. Evie’s work is currently on display and will remain part of the exhibition until 20 July. Pulse celebrates the most engaging and accomplished works by Year 12 Visual Arts graduates from 2024 across Western Australia, and Evie’s selection places her among the state’s top emerging artists.
I congratulate both students on these outstanding achievements and thank our dedicated Visual Arts staff, whose guidance and belief in their students’ creative potential continues to shape futures.
Beatie Lee and her Oil on Canvas Lunch in the City
Evie Holdcroft and her etching on paper Moving On
Parent, Student and Teacher Interviews and Upcoming Assessments
Thank you to all the parents and caregivers who attended our Parent, Student and Teacher Interviews on Monday 28 April. Your presence and partnership play a vital role in your child’s learning and overall growth. These conversations are far more than progress updates—they are opportunities to strengthen the connection between home and school, celebrate achievements, and work together to support each student’s unique learning journey. As we approach the midpoint of the term, students across all year levels are beginning to turn their attention to upcoming assessments and exams—particularly those in Years 10 to 12. This period can be demanding, requiring focus, perseverance, and balance.
To our students: pace yourselves, plan your time wisely, and remember that you are not alone. Support is always available—from your teachers, Pastoral Care Advisors, Leaders of Learning and Wellbeing, and our College Counselling Team.
To our families: thank you for the many ways you support your child’s wellbeing and learning—by encouraging routines, creating calm spaces for study, and being a listening ear when it’s needed most.
In conclusion, I thank you once again for your continued support of our College. Whether on stage, at the easel, on the sports field, or in the classroom, our students continue to grow into the young people they are called to be—creative, resilient, and full of heart.
In the first words of our new Pope Leo XIV “Peace be with all of you!”
Ms Giovanna Fiume | College Principal
