Welcome back to our students, staff, and parents/carers. I hope you all enjoyed a relaxing holiday with family and friends.

Despite the chilly start to Term 3, the vibrant spirit at Kilbreda College has been truly uplifting. The remarkable talents showcased in the St. Bede’s and Kilbreda College production of Shrek have been a source of inspiration. The dedication and creativity of the cast and crew were nothing short of outstanding.

Our recent whole-school assembly was a standout event of the term. College Captains Lola Martin and Alicia Noble delivered inspiring speeches on the power of our voices and how we can use them to drive positive change in the world.

We also took the opportunity to honour the profound contributions of First Nation people to Australian society. Ruby Dyett and Taylah Devenport shared their reflections from the recent Indigenous Immersion camp, while Taylah Bell and Annabelle Chapman, from the Reconciliation Action Plan Working Party, presented their insights and vision for Reconciliation.

Additionally, Alicia Vu reflected on her memorable Year 11 Central Australia trip, our Year 12 student leaders articulated their vision for the term ahead, and Yzabel Mariano, along with the Kilbreda Chorale and Orchestra, delivered performances that were truly breathtaking.

During my Acting Principal address, I reflected on the significance of our 120th anniversary by focusing on the theme “Your name in our story.” Here are some excerpts from my speech:

“Since my appointment as Acting Principal, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with many of you about what this role entails.  Whilst I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude, my response has always been that every person in this school matters and that no one is more important than another.  Whether it’s Tim, our maintenance man, who greets me each morning with a conversation about the mighty Hawks; Sister Lia, with whom I share a passion for the Camino de Santiago; your dedicated teachers who invest countless hours to help you to achieve your best and believe anything is possible; the members of 7.74, excited about the next 6 years; or each of you, our remarkable students – every member of our school community contributes to the one story – the story of Kilbreda College.

Together, we weave the rich tapestry of Kilbreda College’s history, with each of us adding a unique thread to our shared narrative. Every role, every effort, every individual contribution shapes the story of our school.

Recently I have been reflecting on the strength of our traditions.  The handprints on our walls and the creaks in our floorboards, created by generations of Kilbreda students, tell the tale of a vibrant and enduring community.  For nearly 120 years, Kilbreda students have gathered in these spaces, sat together, and wondered about their futures. 

As we look back on our 120-year journey, we see a community that has weathered many storms and emerged stronger each time. We are a testament to resilience and perseverance, having navigated through two world wars, the Great Depression, an era when women’s education was undervalued, the rise of technology, and the global pandemic. Our strength lies not only in overcoming these challenges but in how we have done so together. We have built a community grounded in a strong work ethic, an unwavering awareness of others, and a profound capacity to both love and be loved.

As we celebrate our 120th anniversary, let us remember that every chapter of Kilbreda College’s story is enriched by each one of you. Your dedication, compassion, strength, and capacity to love all contribute to our school’s rich history. Whether through upholding our traditions, embodying a strong work ethic, supporting one another, or demonstrating our profound capacity to love and be loved, every action and effort helps to shape our collective narrative. As we look forward to the future, let us embrace the understanding that “Your name in our story” is not just a phrase but a reflection of the unique and invaluable contributions each of you makes.  Together, we are writing the next chapter of Kilbreda’s story, weaving each of our stories into the fabric of this extraordinary school and creating a story that is truly our own. Thank you for being an integral part of this journey and for adding your name to the remarkable history of Kilbreda College.”

As we move forward into Term 3, let us carry with us the spirit of unity and resilience that has defined Kilbreda College for the past 120 years. I am excited about the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead for each of you. Together, we will continue to build upon our rich history, celebrating our achievements and facing challenges with courage and determination.

I am very much looking forward to catching up with many families at our 120-year anniversary celebration of the Eucharist on Wednesday, 7 August at 10.30am, at St Patrick’s Cathedral. Please take a moment to view the video below for further details.

Thank you for your ongoing support and dedication to our school community. Let us make this term a memorable one, filled with growth, learning, and a deep sense of connection to one another.

Let us light the fire of

Peace

Justice

Concern

Education,

And may the gentle spirit of Brigid give us strength

And inspire us with hope and perseverance

For the days and years to come.  Amen.

Stephanie Smyth

Acting Principal