Term 3, Week 10

Year 12 Graduation

The MCCP student community farewelled Year 12, 2025 with a wonderful College Assembly. During the Assembly the 2025 Leaders handed over the symbols of the College to the 2026 Leadership Team. A tremendous occasion for all.

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Graduation Assembly - Leader of Wellbeing Final Address

Good evening Mrs Frino, Members of the Senior Leadership Team, Staff, proud families & friends both here with us tonight or via live-stream and the remarkable Graduating Class of 2025. I am so thrilled for each of you and I hope that you feel a great sense of gratitude for your education that MCCP and your parents have offered you. I am equally thrilled for your families who have joined us here tonight.

Today is a special one for your parents and for those who have raised you. They are so very, very proud of you. This is a day for our families to be together and to celebrate the good things in life. We recognise and thank all your teachers who have contributed to the young women and men you are today. This evening, on behalf of the entire College community - your fellow students, your teachers, your parents, and the thousands of previous Marist graduates you now join – I want to thank you for what you’ve given MCCP over your time at our school and wish you a blessed life in the years ahead. As you leave the gates of Marist, know how proud we all are of you. We love you! You are a special group of graduates, our first group of students who initiated our chapter of the dual campus in 2020 and transitioned seamlessly to Mortdale in 2022. From the moment you entered the gates at Mortdale, I knew you were all a vibrant, unique, and special cohort of students.

We have loved having you as our leaders of our college over the last 12 months, and tonight is the opportunity to recognise each of you individually. We will have this special honour throughout the evening. As I said to you recently at a Year Assembly, you will be a part of the Marist heart forever. You are bonded, spirited, and passionate. We have witnessed how you loved your school. From the classroom, sporting events, social justice initiatives and retreats. When given an opportunity to lead a College event, the school spirit and pride within you was always evident. You rose to every occasion especially when given the chance to play dress-ups.

Your future is brimming with possibilities as you step into the different pathways of further education, entering the workforce, or pursuing your passion. Remember that education doesn’t end here. Learning is a lifelong journey, and the Marist charism has provided you with the tools to light the path before you in your future endeavours. The challenges in life are also inevitable. It is the nature of the world. When those tough times arrive, it is your faith, your family and your friends that will be what is most valuable to you and where you will be comforted.

A huge thank you to Mr Arthur Stathopoulos, the Assistant Year 12 Leader of Well-Being for his unwavering support over the past 12 months to myself and the students. Special thanks to Ms Samantha Ison for preparing today’s beautiful graduation mass, Ms Christine Mamo for organising your graduation packs and photo montage, and Mrs Vania Bejjani and Mrs Connie Frino for their work in ensuring the smooth running of today’s events.

This is my 23rd year of working in education. I want you all to know that being your Leader of Well-being for the past 2 years has been a highlight in my career. Seeing each of you flourish into the young ladies and gentlemen you are today, witnessing your victories, and supporting you through the tough times has been an honour beyond measure and an absolute privilege.

My final message to you all: I pray you have a life that is loving. That your relationships are deep and authentic and forgiving, Embrace the future with open arms, and Most of all as I always say - Embrace the spirit of carpe diem and ‘Always Seize the Day’. Make your lives extraordinary!

The world awaits you; I have no doubt that each and every one of you will make the world a better place. Congratulations, graduates. Now, I would like to leave you with a final blessing:

God bless the earth beneath your feet. God bless your destination. God be a smooth way before you, a guiding star above you, a keen eye behind you. This day, this night, and forever.

Mrs Nicole Katrib - Year 12 Leader of Wellbeing

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Year 12 Graduation Awards

MAJOR AWARD RECIPIENTS

HIGH ACHIEVERS

ASPIRATION AWARDS

SENIOR COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS

HSC SHAPE & ENCORE Nominations

Religious Education News

IN OUR CHURCH

Feast of St. Padre Pio

Feast Day: 23 September

Patron of: Civil defense volunteers, adolescents, and those suffering from stress, illness, or spiritual trials

Born: 25 May 1887, Pietrelcina, Italy

Died: 23 September 1968, San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy

Canonised: 16 June 2002 by Pope John Paul II

Padre Pio, born Francesco Forgione, was an Italian Capuchin friar known around the world for his holiness, humility, and extraordinary spiritual gifts. He bore the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, on his hands, feet, and side for fifty years, which drew thousands of pilgrims seeking his prayers and guidance. He spent long hours in the confessional, guiding people back to God, and was deeply devoted to the Eucharist and the Virgin Mary. Despite suffering ill health and many trials, Padre Pio lived a life of prayer, sacrifice, and service to others.

St Padre Pio’s life reminds us of the power of prayer, patience, and trust in God’s will. His famous saying, “Pray, hope, and don’t worry”, continues to inspire millions of people around the world. His deep love for the sacraments and compassion for all who came to him make him a saint who speaks powerfully to both young and old today.

Dear St Padre Pio,

You loved Jesus with all your heart

and bore His wounds with patience and faith.

Help us to trust in God’s love, to stay faithful in prayer, and to live with courage and compassion.

Intercede for us, that we may grow in holiness

and bring peace to those around us.

Amen.

Mary Our Good Mother…pray for us.

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop…pray for us.

St Marcellin Champagnat...pray for us and bless our school.

IN OUR COLLEGE COMMUNITY

Year 9 Pope Francis Gold Award

On Tuesday the 16th September, the Pope Francis Gold Award students went to St Declan's Primary school to assist the Year 6 students in their learning. When we first arrived we helped the students with trivia that consisted of practice questions in relation to the Archdiocesan Religion test. With lollies as the prize, the competition was intense. After that, we went out to the playground for recess with the students and it was nice for some of us to reconnect with old peers, whilst the rest of us made new friends. We then helped some Year 4 students with math, helping them take photos of various angles around the school. Overall we had a lot of fun and I thoroughly enjoyed this visit, and I am looking forward to coming again!

Florence Cai - 9-8

Year 12 Graduation Mass

On Wednesday we celebrated the Graduation class of 2025 with a beautiful Eucharistic celebration. We are so grateful to all the students and family members who joined us in celebrating the Graduating Class of 2025. It was the final time that these students gathered together for mass as a cohort and it was so lovely to hear the students sing the Sub Tuum and our College song so proudly.  We thank all staff who were involved in the Graduation Mass and a very special thank you to Fr Vijay MGL for celebrating this beautiful Eucharistic celebration with us. We pray that all students continue to be men and women of faith, inspired by the example of Marcellin Champagnat.

Prayer for the Graduating Class of 2025

God, we ask that you bless each student of the graduating class of 2025. We pray that the graduating class takes with them on their journey the Marist Characteristics of Simplicity, Presence, Love of Work, Family Spirit and always act in the way of Mary.  May you all continue to be people of faith, inspired by the witness and example of St Marcellin Champagnat, living a life that strives to make Jesus known and loved.

Amen.

IN OUR PARISH COMMUNITY

Attending parish events is a great way to connect with others and grow in faith. Everyone is welcome at these upcoming events. See upcoming events page here for further information.

• Emmaus Nights, Friday, September 26, 2025, 7:00PM - 8:30PM - St Joseph's Catholic Church Oatley
• Anointing of the Sick Mass, Saturday, September 27, 2025, 8:00AM - 8:45AM - St Declan's Catholic Church
• Parish Morning Tea, Friday, October 3, 2025, 10:00 am - 12:00 pm - St Joseph's Oatley, Marian Hall (21c Frederick St, Oatley)
• Stay Steady on your Feet - a 6 week Program, Monday, October 13, 2025, 9:30AM - 11:30AM - St Joseph's Catholic Church Oatley
• St Declan's Parish Volunteer Thank You Night, Wednesday, October 22, 2025, 7:00PM - 9:00PM, Marist Catholic College, South Hurstville Campus
• Heavenly Heroes, Friday, October 31, 2025, 5:00PM - 7:30PM - St Declan's Church
• Altar Server Training, Saturday, November 8, 2025, 2:00PM - 3:00PM - St Declan's Church, Penshurst

IN OUR ARCHDIOCESE OF SYDNEY

Click here for Archdiocese of Sydney events. 

The Scaffolding Newsletter:  Bishop Tony Percy

Sydney's newest Auxilary Bishop, Bishop Tony, shares thoughts and reflections on Scripture and contemporary topics through his Substack newsletter.

The most recent 200 word article, titled Hope, can be found here.

Subscribe to his Substack newsletter and podcast here.

Ms Samantha Ison - Religious Education Coordinator

STEM News

SHARK TANK 2025

On Monday 22 September the annual MCCP Shark Tank was held as a celebration and showcase of the hard work the Year 7 students have been doing in STEM. Through the Integrated Curriculum, students have been exploring the concept of ‘Global Inequality’ and this STEM project exposed students to water inequality at a more national level by providing them with the problem of access to clean water in remote Australian Indigenous communities. Students were tasked with planning, creating and modifying an effective purification device that would enable these communities access to clean water. Students were also challenged with ensuring the device was cost effective for manufacturing and distribution. Students drew on their Science knowledge of different purification methods to design and create the device. They tested the effectiveness of their device in Technology focusing on conductivity and light levels, making comparisons to tap water; and finally, they used their mathematical skills to calculate the affordability of their device. Through an integrated approach, the students were able to successfully create devices that, through multiple tests and modifications, were able to purify water. These devices were showcased and pitched to investors during the Shark Tank, with many groups creatively displaying their device and data to attract the eye of investors. A huge thank you to the Science, Maths and Technology departments for guiding the students through the process to create their devices, in particular Mrs Jill Ferrari, Ms Annika Debono and Mrs Jeannie Bedwell for the leadership.

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SCS STEM MAD COMPETITION

This year the College entered 3 groups into the SCS STEM Mad Competition. This competition “seeks to extend and recognise students' creativity and innovative thinking in Science, Mathematics, Engineering and Technology. In small groups, students utilise the design process to craft a product, environment or service that looks to solve a real-world issue and Make A Difference (MAD).” (SCS STEM Mad) As part of the Catholic Community, students are provided an opportunity to action the Catholic Social Teachings of Stewardship, Solidarity, Citizenship, Humanity, The Common Good and Wellbeing and through their product, service or environment, make a difference in the world. Below is an outline of the groups submissions:

Home Ember Safety System - Highly Commended

During 2019–2020 the “Black Summer,” bushfires destroyed over 3,000 homes. With 45,000 to 60,000 bushfires occurring annually in Australia, ember resistance on roofs is critical. Our product aims to reduce bushfire damage by targeting embers, burning debris that can ignite homes. We began our research by exploring fire risks in rural Australia, focusing on common bushfire zones and how sprinkler systems disperse water to help protect houses. This is the premise behind the Home Ember Safety System.

Lucas Morgan, Benjamin Dooner, Dylan Tan, Nicholas Grouvas

School Compost Bin - Certificate of Achievement

A worldwide issue is food waste. One third of all food produced is wasted annually, this results in significant greenhouse gases and resource depletion. Our design is a worm bin to help minimise food waste in schools and encourage students to be stewards of creation.

Conor Vincetic, Patrik Fako, James Macchia, Alexander Magin

Mind Pilot - Certificate of Participation

Over 30 million people worldwide live with severe paralysis that prevents them from speaking or using their hands. Being unable to move or speak strips people of control over their lives. Without ways for the disabled to communicate, they often become cut off from friends, family, and the world. Over time, many experience loneliness, anxiety, or depression because their thoughts and feelings aren’t heard. With the creation of the Mind Pilot, a renewed form of BCI technology, we are aiming to address and solve the issue of mobility constraints linked with disabled-personnel.

Ivana Gjurovski, Athena Viskadourakis, Lauren Wang

Mrs Lisa Farrelly - Stage 4 English and HSIE Coordinator

Italian News

BENVENUTI A LEICHHARDT!

 On Tuesday 23rd September, Leichhardt welcomed our Marist Penshurst Year 10 Italian class,

and what a ‘bellissimo’ day we had! After a nice walk from Petersham station, we visited The Italian Forum and learnt about the typical features of an Italian ‘piazza’ found there. Our next stop was the Community of Italian Assistance. We found out that among many things, this association provides many services for the elderly, Italian adult classes and has a Bilingual Primary School!

From the 18th of September to the 15th of October the St Ali Italian Film Festival will be showing Italian films at Palace Norton St.

Today we watched NAPOLI - NEW YORK, a compelling and hopeful coming-of-age story about two children trying to survive in Naples, after the devastation of WWII. Like many Italians at that time who emigrated to America for a better life, they secretly stowed themselves away on a ship bound for New York.

The students thoroughly enjoyed this film, which was connected to the Unit of Italian Migration we have studied this year.

Then came lunch at Dom Panino in Marion St. , Sydney’s first Paninoteca (Italian sandwich shop), who specialise in Italian gourmet and classic panini - definitely brought some of us who were in Italy this time last year, back there!!

Mrs Tina Gulisano - Italian Teacher

Science News

SLEEK GEEKS SCIENCE EUREKA PRIZE

Congratulations to Jethro Manigsaca (10-8) who received a Highly Commended Award In the University of Sydney Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize for his video creation: How Do Satellites Up Above Help Us Down Below?

Well done Jethro! 

Miss Rachel Thompson - Stage 5 & 6 Science Coordinator

Gold Award Recipients

Congratulations to the following students who received College Medallions:

Representative Sport

EUROPEAN HANDBALL REFEREEING 

On Tuesday 9th September, 22 Year 7 & 8 students had the exciting opportunity to referee at the SCS Primary Schools European Handball Gala Day at St George Netball, Rockdale. They officiated games played by Stage 2 students from local primary schools, demonstrating leadership, confidence, and a strong understanding of the game’s rules.

This experience not only allowed our students to contribute to the success of the event but also helped them develop important skills such as communication, teamwork, and decision-making under pressure. Their professionalism and enthusiasm were praised by both staff and players, reflecting the excellent training and sportsmanship fostered at the College.

A huge thank you to Mrs Leanne Mamo for accompanying the students on the day.

BASEBALL GALA DAY

Marist Penshurst was proudly represented at the Baseball Gala Day on Wednesday 17th September, with teams competing in both the Junior and Intermediate Boys divisions. The event brought together schools from across Sydney Catholic Schools for a full day of competitive baseball, showcasing incredible talent and sportsmanship. Our students demonstrated strong teamwork, strategic play, and impressive skill development throughout the tournament. Each game presented unique challenges, but the boys played with great determination and pride, reflecting the hard work they have put into training. The Gala Day was not only a chance to compete, but also an excellent opportunity for students to connect with others who share their passion for the sport.

A huge thank you to Mrs Nardeen Salib and Mr Damien Tudjman for supervising, coaching, and supporting the students during the day. Their dedication ensured a smooth and successful event for all participants.

NSWCCC 7-9 GIRLS KNOCKOUT SOCCER TEAM

The Years 7–9 Girls Soccer team has had a phenomenal season in the NSWCCC Knockout Competition, achieving second place across all Catholic schools in New South Wales—a truly outstanding result. The team progressed through the knockout stages with style, securing key victories over Clancy Catholic College and Marist Sisters Woolwich to earn their spot in the semi-finals. Held at Valentine Sports Park on Wednesday 10th September, the semi-final saw our girls deliver a commanding 5–0 win over Trinity Catholic College, Adamstown, with a clinical display of teamwork and attacking flair. In the final, they faced Stella Maris Manly in a tightly contested match. Despite a strong performance and a late push, they narrowly lost 3–2. Finishing as runners-up in a state-wide competition is a remarkable achievement, especially given that the team had only played together on three occasions. Their commitment, resilience, and chemistry on the field were truly inspiring. Well done to every player for their dedication and sportsmanship.

A special thank you to Mrs Farrelly and Ms Baker for their excellent coaching and support, which played a crucial role in guiding the team to success.

YEARS 7 & 8 GIRLS RUGBY LEAGUE 9'S GALA DAY

In Week 9, the team had the exciting opportunity to train with NRLW Bulldogs player Tayla Preston, who ran a special skills and strategy session to help the girls prepare for the tournament. Her insights, experience, and encouragement gave the players a boost of confidence and sharpened their game awareness leading into competition day.

On Monday 22nd September, the Years 7 & 8 Girls Rugby League team delivered a powerhouse performance at the 9’s Gala Day, held at Todd Park. Competing against some of the top teams in the region, the girls played four high-intensity round games. They opened the day with a commanding 22–4 win over St Patrick’s College, followed by a 12–4 victory against Marist Sisters Woolwich. Their momentum continued with a dominant 30–0 shutout against Domremy, showcasing their strong defence and explosive attack. Although they suffered a 20–10 loss to All Saints Catholic College Liverpool in the final round game, they finished at the top of the table, securing a spot in the grand final. In a thrilling rematch against All Saints, the team bounced back with fierce determination, producing an incredible 38–14 win to take home the gold medal. Their teamwork, discipline, and physicality were outstanding across the tournament. A special thank you to Ms Winchester and Ms Baker for their excellent coaching and support, which played a crucial role in guiding the team to success.

SCS CONFERENCE FINALS

Well done to our Rugby 7s teams on their efforts in the SCS Conference Finals!

Junior Boys vs De La Salle Revesby: 21-34, 3rd Place
Junior Girls vs OLMC Burraneer: 7-21, 2nd Place
Senior Boys vs St John Bosco: 14-31, 2nd Place
Senior Girls vs St John Bosco: 12-5, Champions

Congratulations to all teams and their coaches for their great performances.

SOFTBALL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP

Congratulations to Zoe Winn from Year 7 who participated in the State Championships for softball last weekend as part of the U14 Georges River Girls Team. The competition was tough but the girls finished in 4th place, winning 3 out of their 4 games all the way to the finals. 

Well done Zoe!

Ms Jordan Baker - Stage 4 Sports Coordinator

Uniform Shop News