Catholic Debutante Ball

The 89th Catholic Debutante Ball was held last Friday night, and it was a perfect blend of tradition, celebration, and joy. I had the pleasure of attending this glorious evening with our Year 11 and 12 students as they took another step toward their bright futures. The Catholic Debutante Ball continues to be an adored tradition at Holy Spirit College, reminding us that it is okay to step outside our comfort zone, have fun, and share unforgettable moments with our family and friends.

From the moment the music started, the Grand Amaraoo Ballroom came alive with energy. The students, dressed in their finest attire, took to the dance floor with grace, embracing the night with enthusiasm and big smiles. Parents and Grandparents beamed with pride as they watched their children being presented to Bishop Michael McCarthy by the Matron of the Ball, Mrs Anne Miles - Assistant Principal (Curriculum).

While I must admit that compared to our Debutants, I felt like I had two left feet as it has been quite some time since I last danced the Progressive Pride of Erin. The students were nothing short of exceptional teachers as they guided me through the steps with determination and impressive teaching skills. Their kindness turned my hesitation into laughter and an unforgettable experience. It was an absolute pleasure to witness this joyful occasion and be part of an evening that will be remembered for years to come. Thank you to our wonderful students for their patience, encouragement, and for reminding me just how much fun dancing can be!

As the evening came to an end at almost midnight, it was clear that the Debutante Ball was much more than just an event on our calendar; it was an experience that brought everyone together. The camaraderie shared by our students with St Patrick’s College students made it truly a spectacular evening. 

Thank you to Lesley Fraser - Assistant Principal (Mission) for supporting our students every Monday evening during Terms 1 and 2 and for also being the Master of Ceremonies at the Debutante Ball. Without your support and generosity of time, this event would not have occurred. Thanks, Ms Fraser!

Year 10 Retreat

Our Retreat program at Holy Spirit College is essential to the spiritual development of our students. Last week, our Year 10 students participated in their Year 10 Retreat with Michael Fitzpatrick. Retreat Days receive positive feedback from students and are an important part of Catholic Education. Thank you to Matthew Baisden - Dean of Students (Year 10), Lesley Fraser - Assistant Principal (Mission) and Jeanette Refalo - Mission Support for coordinating this Retreat for our Year 10 students. Thank you to the following staff/teachers for supporting our students during the Retreat: Michelle Bohne, Zoe Borg, Wayne Huntley, Juanita McGrath, Alison Smith, Christine Vanderlinden, Mitchell Wadsworth, and Lynn Wainwright.

Feast Day

Feast Day is a special time for our College community to come together and celebrate Pentecost. It reminds us of God’s love and the gifts of the Spirit that guide us every day. In the morning, we will celebrate Mass with Father Andrew and Father Raju and then travel by bus to the Mackay Harbour. Our Feast Day is a beautiful opportunity to pause, pray, and celebrate God’s presence in our lives. This day is about more than just having fun, it is a chance to reflect on the values that bring us together as a Catholic school: faith, community, peace and unity. We are looking forward to celebrating Feast Day with our College community. Let’s make this a Feast Day one to remember! 

Rock Pop Mime

Good luck to our Rock Pop Mime students and their teachers with their performance tonight at the MECC. May you all enjoy the experience. I am looking forward to cheering you on!

Staffing News

Welcome back, Greg Duncan - Business Manager, from your leave. It is great to have you back with us. Thank you to Scott Clark, who took on this role for the past year.  We wish Scott well for the future.

Congratulations to Sam Harris and Kelsey on the safe arrival of their son, Rohan. We wish Mr Harris all the best while he is on paternity leave, and we look forward to welcoming him back next term.

Cold and Flu season

A friendly reminder to our parents/carers to keep your student at home if they are unwell. If a student presents with any contagious symptoms, parents/carers will be contacted and required to collect their student. Teachers will continue to remind students about the importance of good hygiene. Hand sanitisers have been provided in each classroom to assist.  

Mabo Day

Mabo Day is celebrated annually on June 3, and it commemorates the landmark 1992 Mabo decision that overturned the legal fiction of terra nullius and recognised Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ connection to their land. This decision, led by Eddie Koiki Mabo’s legal challenge, overturned the long-held legal fiction of terra nullius, meaning "land belonging to no-one," and acknowledged the traditional ownership and unique connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to their land. This day serves as a reminder of resilience, advocacy, and the ongoing fight for justice.

Prayer

Loving God,
We give thanks for the life of Eddie Koiki Mabo and his unwavering determination in seeking justice for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

May his legacy inspire us to stand for fairness, to honour the deep connection of First Nations peoples to their land, and to walk together in reconciliation and unity.

Amen.

Blessings,

Alison Wales - Principal