Over the weekend we had our inaugural PTFA Christmas Market at the college.  Thankfully, there was a break in the weather and the event was a fantastic success.  The Christmas Market was a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together with over 2,500 people attending the event.  Oak Tree Lawn was transformed into a magical environment that buzzed with Christmas joy and cheer as people perused the stalls.  Others appeared to enjoy the oyster and champagne terrace and listening to live music, which also included an appearance by the Carmel and St Mary’s staff singing carols.  $12,000 was raised through the event and this will contribute to enhancing the outdoor environment for our students.

The Christmas Market was made possible by our amazing school PTFA parent members – Kelly Cullum, Leanne Chinnery, Tracey Tucker, Lisa Smith, Sandra Fernandes, Katie Krueger, Monica Seo, Tatiana Strudwick and Mel O’Leary.  Your vision, time, passion and dedication ensured this event was a huge success.  I know each of you have other commitments, but you made this event a priority for our students and our community.  Thank you.  The college truly appreciates all you have done and the continuing work that the PTFA does to support and provide opportunities for our students.

A big thank you to our student reps –  Catherine Sole, Rona Costello, Bridey Mehrtens, Briana Wells, Ana Antic, Shana Singh-Anderson, Briana Walker, Lucia Kim, Francesca Quintos, Maya Perera, Hannah Macdonald, Maia O’Callaghan, Mia Morris, and our student photographers – Analise Collis, Emily Li and Kate McGruer.  Your service to the college and our community in ensuring the market was a success was noticed and appreciated.  Last, but certainly not least, thank you to our staff PTFA rep, Karen Mitchell.

To our students and staff who also contributed, thank you.  In Year 7, students and staff created a Christmas grotto with each class creating and decorating trees.  In Year 8, Joy Jars were made and sold and our students in Year 9&10 contributed to an extremely delicious bake sale.  Finally, a big thank you to all those who donated goods for the raffles.  The college appreciates and values your support.

As we come to the end of the year and Christmas and other celebrations begin, we are also reminded of our duty to assist those in our community who are less fortunate.  On this note, we have had a request for support from De Paul House.  Instead of the usual Christmas food and gift collections, De Paul House is requesting monetary donations that will be used to purchase vouchers to support those in need.  If you are able to, we encourage you to make a donation through ‘My Monitor’ online, or if you are attending our Junior Prizegiving on Thursday, 8 December, we will have a donation bucket should you wish to make a monetary donation then.

The week ahead will be busy for our students in Year 7-10 with Year 10 camp, retreats for Year 8&10 students, and a range of other exciting activities planned.  I encourage all students to participate and make the most of the many opportunities that our staff have organised.  It is in taking part that they develop the skills and attributes to be equipped and empowered to pursue their personal excellence, where they will develop and will be prepared to challenge and shape the future, whilst being a young woman of Mercy who acts justly, loves tenderly and walks humbly with our God.