This week, I’d like to shine a spotlight on the theme of ‘Just do it,’ encouraging everyone in our community to tap into their inner strength, take on challenges, and seize opportunities. Growth occurs when we step outside our comfort zones, and the events of this week have beautifully illustrated how participation and creativity can unlock new possibilities and foster personal development.

As part of Visual Arts Week, students enthusiastically embraced a wide range of creative activities. Among them, students created scratch art cards, writing heartfelt gratitude messages to those who hold a special place in their lives. Meanwhile, Media students extended their artistic outreach by crafting and producing cards for the Royal Children’s Hospital using Canva, building on the earlier hand-drawn card initiative led by our Community Action Group. These projects demonstrate how the arts can be a powerful medium not only for self-expression but also for making meaningful contributions to the community. Students also took on the exciting challenge of designing the front cover for our 2025 student planner, and it was wonderful to witness the enthusiasm and imagination they brought to this task. At Kilbreda, we continue to nurture a love for the visual arts, recognising creativity, self-expression, and innovation as essential skills that help shape well-rounded individuals. We look forward to further celebrating student artistry at the upcoming Design, Technology and Art Show in Term 4.

One of our Year 12 VCE VM classes also celebrated their showcase evening this week, where they reflected on their secondary schooling journey and the significant role their families have played in their lives. It was a privilege to hear about their aspirations for the future, with career goals ranging from early childhood development, joining the mounted branch of the police force, and working in interior design, to careers in commercial cookery, paediatric nursing, youth work, and more. Their contributions to the broader community, through initiatives such as coaching sports teams and mentoring students at St Patrick’s Primary School and Yarrabah Community School, are truly commendable and a reflection of their leadership and generosity.

We are grateful to have shared this journey with our students, their families, and loved ones. A special thank you to the dedicated teachers who have worked closely with these students, guiding and supporting them along the way. Your commitment has been instrumental in helping them reach this milestone, and we are excited to see all that they will accomplish in the future. We look forward to the second showcase evening next week.

On Wednesday 28 August, we welcomed back past pupils for ‘Celebrate,’ our performing arts showcase. It was a joy to witness the incredible talent, dedication, and creativity of our past pupils, with performances that ranged from Miller Soding’s original song “Start Again” to Shayna Sampieri’s contemporary dance and Liliana Dalton’s portrayal of Phoebe from As You Like It. Each performance was a powerful testament to the enduring spirit of Kilbreda and the golden thread our alumnae continue to weave into the fabric of the College. Amanda Hargreaves’ beautiful rendition of “Climb Every Mountain” perfectly captured the essence of our journeys, reminding us all to pursue our dreams with courage and determination. We are deeply grateful to the talented performers and to Mrs Keryn Holden and the Past Pupils’ Network Committee, whose vision and dedication made the evening possible. Together, we continue to celebrate the arts as a powerful force that unites and inspires us all.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the following past pupils for giving their time and inspiring our current students: Amanda Hargreaves, Nicole Marshall, Rachel Jones, Caitlin Gellie, Ellie Carter, Miller Soding, Jaz Brown, Shayna Sampieri, Liliana Dalton, and Sienna Koop. Their performances provided moments of joy, inspiration, and rousing applause, reminding us of the limitless possibilities that arise when we take a leap of faith and just do it!

Last week, we also celebrated our wonderful Father’s Day Breakfast—’Gold Medal Dads’—where we reflected on the significant role that fathers and father figures play in our lives. It was a fantastic opportunity to acknowledge the love, support, and guidance they provide. We were honoured to have Olympian Margaret Crowley as our guest speaker. Margaret shared heartfelt reflections on her father’s remarkable journey as a first-generation Australian, highlighting his unwavering commitment to providing his children with the opportunity to explore their passions. His dedication to nurturing Margaret and her sister Ann’s athletic talents, leading both to become Olympians, is a testament to the profound influence and support of a dedicated father.

As we reflect on the week’s activities, we are reminded of the importance of moving forward with courage, creativity, and determination. Whether through the arts, leadership, or personal growth, each of us has the potential to make a lasting impact on our community. Let us continue to draw on our inner strength, take risks, and embrace the opportunities ahead with confidence and optimism. Together, we can create a vibrant and inspiring future for Kilbreda College.

Stephanie Smyth

Acting Principal