Term 3 Week Ten 2025
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past, present and emerging and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Dear Families,
We are nearing the end of the term and a time when we all start to drag our feet and maybe doubt or compare our abilities to others. This story reminds me of how we are all so different, with different gifts, talents and skills and yet, in the eyes of God, we are all the same.
In was a Friday night, and the local footy oval was buzzing. Families sat on the sidelines with hot chips, kids ran around with their jumper half on, and the floodlights shown down bright. In the middle of the field, Kai, a Year 9 student, was having a rough game. He’d missed a kick, missed a pass, and by halftime, he was on the bench with his head in his hands.
He muttered to himself, “I’m useless. Everyone must think I’m a joke.”
From the stands, his dad noticed. He walked down, crouched beside him, and said quietly, “Mate, no matter how many goals you kick or how many mistakes you make, you’re my son. Nothing changes that. I love you. Just give it your best, that’s all I ask.”
Something in Kai shifted. He jogged back onto the field – not suddenly perfect, but lighter. He played with freedom, laughed with his teammates, and even managed a decent kick or two. He knew he was loved, no matter the scoreboard.
That moment is a glimpse of what Jesus is saying in John 3: 13 - 17. God doesn’t love us because we’re flawless, or because we “score goals” in life. God loves us because we are God’s children. God sent Jesus not to condemn us for our dropped marks or mistakes, but to lift us up, to show us what eternal life looks like – a life where we know we’re loved beyond measure.
For families, for schools, for communities, this story is real. Kids, parents, teachers, – we all have days when we feel like we’ve failed, like we don’t measure up. But the heart of our faith is this: “God so loved the world that God sent us Jesus.” That love is steady. That love heals. That love gives us the courage to get back out there, live fully, and share hope with others.
As this is our final newsletter for the term, I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who makes St Carthage’s such a special place.
To our wonderful students—you inspire us with your enthusiasm, kindness, and eagerness to learn. We are truly fortunate to have such bright and caring young people in our school community.
To our dedicated staff—thank you for your unwavering commitment and passion. Your hard work and care make a positive difference in the lives of our students every single day.
And to our families—thank you for your ongoing support and involvement. Whether volunteering your time, participating in events, or simply encouraging your children at home, your generosity and partnership are vital to our school’s success. Without your help, we could not achieve the positive outcomes that make St Carthage’s a nurturing and thriving environment.
Together, we continue to build a strong and caring community, and for that, I am truly grateful.
I hope all our students, students and families have a very enjoyable and restful break and I look forward to seeing all our students on Tuesday, 14th October.
Sacrament of the Eucharist
We congratulate our students who are receiving First Communion for the very first time on Sunday afternoon at the Cathedral. This is a very special sacrament for them and one they can receice regularly throughout their lives.
We thank Mrs Atlee, Mr Matthews and Mr Camilleri for prepaing our students and Mr Tickle for his organisation.
I know you join me in praying for these children.
School Disco
There was much fun and excitement last night as the students gathered to celebrate the end of term with our Colour Explosion Disco! It was a wonderful night with Mr Camilleri providing our music and lights.
We congratulate our students on their wonderful behaviour throughout the evening!
New Playground
It is with great excitement that we are able to share with you the news that our new playground has begun! This process is led by the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools Property Services. Students in Years 2, 3, 4 and 5 were shown 2 playgrounds last week and, supported by staff and a very small number of parents at our School Community Group Meeting, we are excited to confirm that we will be installing Roamer.
The strudents are really enjoying watching the machinery as it prepares the ground in readiness for the installation in January.
Please see the image below.
The new playground will be built on the hill next to the ramp going down to the bottom playground. To prepare for this, significant earthworks will commence on Monday 22nd September. Sandstone blocks will be used to create a 3 tiered wall. This will elevate the playground out of the moderate flood level. Temporary fencing will be installed on the bottom playground during this period to keep the students away. The earthworks are expected to take approximately 3–4 weeks, after which the ground will be remediated.
The installation of the playground will take place during the Christmas holidays, ready for students to enjoy in the new school year.
We are looking forward to this long awaited project getting underway.
Regional Poetry and Public Speaking Finals
Yesterday St Carthage's students attended the Regional Poetry and Public Speaking Finals at Holy Family Primary School. Students from our local Richmond schools competed in both Poetry and Public Speaking. We congratulate all finalists and, in particular, the finalists who represented our school so well. We are very proud of you!
We thank Mrs Matthews for practising and supporting our students in the lead up to these finals and yesterday.
Please see Mrs Deeps' section of the Newsletter for further details on those students who made the finals.
Father's Day Celebration
Thank you to our families who were able to come along and celebrate Father's Day with us. This was a wonderful celebration with many of our families coming along to share some fun, food and social time with our school families. Over 900 sausages were cooked and enjoyed throughout the afternoon.
Thank you to our wonderful staff who helped to set up, serve and pack up. May this be the start of many more to come!
Professional Development Days
Just a reminder that we have a Professional Learning Day (PUPIL FREE DAY) on Friday, 26th September.
Our last Professional Learning Day for 2025 will be on Monday 13th October.
Active Kids will be operating on these days. If you wish to take advantage of this service go to the Active Kids tab on our School Website for information on how to enrol and make a booking.
We thank you for supporting us in our Professional Development opportunities.
Poetry and Public Speaking Regional Final
We are incredibly proud of the outstanding achievements of our students at the Regional Poetry and Public Speaking Finals held at Holy Family Catholic Primary School in Skennars Head last Thursday. The event showcased the remarkable talent and hard work of young public speakers and poets from across the region, and our school was well-represented by a group of passionate and articulate students.
The following students represented St Carthage's at these finals:
Early Stage One Poetry: Maisy Crowley-McHattan & Layla Hancock
Stage One Poetry: Phoenix Bright & Jack Hughes
Stage Two: Poetry: Lucy Pereira & Hugo Hogan
Stage Two Public Speaking: Ella Andrews & Abigail Moore
Stage Three Poetry: Nashua Loadsman & Holly Ellem
Stage Three Public Speaking: Princess Obioha & Isabella Mullington
The following students impressed the judges and earned a well-deserved placement in their final:
Early Stage One Poetry: Layla Hancock - 2nd Place
Stage One Poetry: Jack Hughes - 2nd Place & Phoenix Bright 3rd Place
Stage Two Public Speaking: Ella Andrews 3rd Place
We want to extend our congratulations to all the students who participated. Their courage to stand on a public stage and share their voices is truly commendable. They not only represented our school with grace and distinction but also demonstrated the power of words to inspire, inform, and move people. Their success is a testament to their dedication and the strong support of their families and teachers.
A big thank you to Mrs Matthews, who attended the finals and supported our students on the day and in the lead-up to the event.
We look forward to seeing what these talented students will accomplish next.
Year 1 Retreat - Caring for Creation
Recently, our Year 1 students participated in a retreat, which was beautifully centred on the theme of Caring for Creation.
The morning invited students to reflect on the gift of God’s creation and the responsibility we all share to look after our world. Through prayer, scripture, stories, and hands-on activities, the children explored how even the smallest actions can make a big difference.
The retreat was a wonderful opportunity for our Year 1 students to deepen their understanding of faith in action, while growing together. Their joy, curiosity, and enthusiasm shone throughout the day.
A big thank you to the Year 1 teachers for preparing such a thoughtful and engaging experience for the students. The values of stewardship and care for creation were brought to life in a way that was meaningful and memorable for all.
R U OK? Day
On Thursday, 11th September, St Carthage’s joined with schools and communities across Australia to recognise R U OK? Day—a national day of action reminding us all of the importance of looking out for one another.
Our students showed their support by wearing yellow, creating a sea of brightness across the school as a visual reminder of hope, kindness, and care. Throughout the day, students engaged in activities and conversations about the power of a simple question, and how checking in with friends, family, and classmates can make a real difference.
As a school community, we are committed to creating a safe and caring environment where every person feels seen and valued. R U OK? Day was a meaningful reminder of the role we all play in supporting each other’s well being.
Together, we can make sure no one has to face their challenges alone.
Winsome Hotel & Lismore Soup Kitchen
A huge thank you to all our families who generously contributed to our recent toiletries drive in support of the Winsome Hotel and Lismore Soup Kitchen.
The response from our school community was overwhelming, and the donations were received with deep gratitude. The staff at the Winsome and Soup Kitchen expressed how appreciative they are of the support and asked us to pass on their heartfelt thanks to all who contributed.
Your generosity makes a real difference to those in need within our local community. This initiative is a powerful reminder of how we can live out our call to serve others and show compassion in practical ways.
First Eucharist
On Sunday, 21st September, our school community gathered at St Carthage’s Cathedral for the celebration of First Eucharist. It was a truly beautiful and faith-filled occasion as our young candidates received the Eucharist for the very first time, surrounded by their families, friends, and parish community.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Fr Philip and Sr Evelyn for their guidance, preparation, and for leading us so prayerfully in Mass.
Special thanks also go to Mrs Donna Atlee, Mr Brendan Matthews, and Mr Andrew Camilleri for their time and commitment in preparing the students and supporting them on the day.
It was a wonderful celebration of faith, family, and community, and we congratulate all the children who received their First Eucharist.
Grandparents Day
On Friday, 12th September, we had the great joy of celebrating Grandparents’ Day at St Carthage’s. The morning began with a beautiful liturgy in the hall, where students, staff, and families gathered to give thanks for the gift of grandparents and the invaluable role they play in the lives of our children.
Following the liturgy, everyone came together for a shared morning tea on the bottom playground. It was a wonderful opportunity for grandparents to connect with one another, enjoy time with their grandchildren, and feel the deep appreciation of our school community.
Grandparents hold a special place in our hearts. Their love, guidance, and wisdom enrich the lives of our students in countless ways, and we were delighted to honour them with this celebration.
We thank all the grandparents who joined us for this special occasion—it truly was a beautiful morning of faith, family, and community.
Year 6 Community Service
Our Year 6 students recently had the opportunity to take part in community service across a range of local venues, giving their time, energy, and care to support others in our wider community.
Students visited:
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Our House
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Caroona Nursing Home
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St Joseph’s Nursing Home
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Gingerbread House
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Parish Preschool
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East Lismore Cemetery
At each venue, students engaged in different acts of service—from spending time with residents, assisting with activities, lending a hand with practical tasks, and connecting with younger children. Their willingness to help and their respectful, compassionate approach reflected the values of our school in action.
Community service is a powerful way for our students to live out our faith. We are incredibly proud of the way our Year 6 students embraced this opportunity, showing maturity and generosity beyond their years.
A heartfelt thank you also goes to the staff and community members who supported these experiences and welcomed our students so warmly.
Paintings
This term, our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have been on a powerful artistic journey, exploring and expressing their culture through the creation of incredible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art. The students have delved into the symbolism and storytelling embedded in traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander art forms.
This project has been a testament to the students’ creativity and a wonderful opportunity for them to share their cultural heritage with the school community. We are so proud of the talent and passion they have poured into every piece.
Netball Schools Cup
On Wednesday, 17th September, our St Carthage’s netball team proudly represented the school at the NSW Netball Schools Cup Far North Coast Finals.
The girls had a fantastic day on the court, showing determination, teamwork, and spirit. They won five of their games, setting up a thrilling final round clash with Yamba, who were also undefeated. In a nail-biting contest, the two teams could not be separated, finishing with an 8–8 draw. On countback based on for and against, Yamba progressed to the final.
While our girls just missed the chance to play in the final, we are incredibly proud of the way they represented our school. Their effort, positivity, and sportsmanship shone through in every game.
A huge thank you to Mrs Michelle Sudiro for the time and dedication she gave to coaching and preparing the students for this event. We are also very grateful to Trinity Catholic College for their support in providing umpires and coaches throughout the competition.
Well done, girls—you should be very proud of your achievements!
Richmond Zone Football Gala Day
On Wednesday, 10th September, our boys and girls football teams represented St Carthage’s at the Richmond Zone Football Gala Day held at Weston Park, Goonellabah.
Both teams had an outstanding day of football, remaining undefeated across all their matches and showing exceptional skill, teamwork, and determination. Even more impressively, neither team conceded a goal throughout the carnival.
Beyond the results, what truly stood out was the way our students played with sportsmanship, respect, and humility in victory. Their encouragement of one another and positive attitude on and off the field made us extremely proud.
With these results, both teams have now qualified for the Lismore Diocesan Finals, which will be held on Wednesday, 24th September in Grafton.
Congratulations to all players on such an excellent achievement, and good luck in the next stage!
Richmond Zone Cricket Trials
On Wednesday, 17th September, several of our students attended the Richmond Zone Cricket Trials held after school at Woodlawn. Representing St Carthage’s were Mitchell Dann, Levi Shailes, Cooper Johnson and Archie Green.
All boys gave their best efforts and showcased their cricketing skills against strong competition. We are proud of the way they represented our school with commitment and sportsmanship.
A special congratulations goes to Mitchell Dann, who has been selected to progress to the Diocesan Cricket Trials on Friday, 7th November.
Well done, boys, on your efforts and achievements
Diocese of Lismore - Job Opportunity OSHC Coordinator
School Holiday Multi-Sport Clinic
Hockey & Multi-Sport Holiday Camp
Richmond Tweed Regional Library Holiday Program
- Tuesday 30th September, from 10am-11.30am in the Lismore Library Youth Zone - design and create puzzles at Word Wizards. For ages 6+.
- Thursday 2nd October, from 3pm-4pm in the Lismore Library Youth Zone - dive into the world of Do-It-Yourself publishing at the Zine workshop. For ages 11+.
- Tuesday 7th October, from 3pm-5pm in the Lismore Library Youth Zone - transform pages of text into striking visual poems at Blackout Poetry. For ages 11+.
- Wednesday 8th October, from 10am-11.30am in the Lismore Library Youth Zone - play theatre games and bring stories to life with the pros from Theatre Theatre Productions. For ages 6-12.
- Thursday 9th October, from 10am-4pm at Goonellabah Library - learn everything you need to know to become a Dungeon Master and run your own Dungeons and Dragons games. Bookings are essential for this one and can be made by calling Goonellabah Library on (02) 66215 1235. For ages 14+.