Dear Parents and Guardians

A reminder to all parents that the Fight MND beanies are a valued part of the Columba school uniform. Students are free to wear these beanies as part of their winter uniform.

As a school, we deeply value the Fight MND charity as it funds vital research into Motor Neurone Disease, provides care and support for those living with MND, and ultimately seeks a cure for this devastating condition. Beyond its direct impact, supporting Fight MND also unites us as a community, encouraging us to work together in fighting issues, diseases, or problems that we or a loved one may face. Our children connect with this because many of them love footy, so we as a school can use this opportunity to teach our children how important it is to care for the 'other'.

This spirit of collective care and action resonates deeply with the teachings of Christ. Jesus consistently demonstrated compassion and actively sought to alleviate suffering, particularly for those who were vulnerable and in need. He taught us to love our neighbours as ourselves (Matthew 22:39) and to care for "the least of these" (Matthew 25:40).

By supporting initiatives like Fight MND, we embody these Christian values, extending a hand of hope and solidarity to those battling immense challenges.

This year, the school has purchased a digital Fight MND beanie as a way of donating to the foundation, but also as a visible way to show our solidarity and connection to the wider community.

The challenge I put to you is: How can you help your local community and the people in it? How can you reach out to those who need the most help, just as Jesus did?

On Monday, June 2nd, our Grade 6 students proudly represented Columba at the Tarago District Interschool Sports Day. It was a fantastic day filled with energy, teamwork, and school spirit. Our students competed in a range of sports, including netball, soccer, and football, and did an outstanding job across the board. Well done to all who participated!

A special congratulations to our Netball B Team, who played an incredible game to win the District Grand Final. In a tense and thrilling match, they came out on top and have now qualified for Division. What an amazing effort!

We’re so proud of all our students for their sportsmanship, determination, and teamwork.

Go Columba!

Last Friday, we celebrated Columba Day. Students caught buses to St. Jospeh's Church in Iona for Mass. This Mass was very special, as we came together as a school to honour the life of Mrs. Rosemary Ahrens, who recently passed away. Although this is a sad time for students and staff, we are very blessed to be able to reflect on how Mrs. Ahrens made a positive difference to our school and our lives. We will cherish our memories of her and the time we have shared.

After recess, students participated in activities with their House Group. This was a great chance for them to mix and engage with peers from other grades and age groups. A sausage sizzle for lunch is always appreciated by everyone, too!

The afternoon entertainment was a little different this year. You could even say it was kept a little hush-hush as it was the Columba staff who were asked to put on performances to show their talents! Shenanigans were on show, with The Enormous Turnip Act, an Alpaca on the loose, Card Tricks, Ballroom dancing, and various efforts of singing! It was wonderful (as well as a relief) to have been entertaining enough to see the smiles on the students' faces!

We officially congratulated Ms. Janine Kilmartin for 25 years of service in Catholic Education! She received her plaque from Mr. Greco, who awarded it to her on behalf of the Diocese of Sale Catholic Education Limited.