Dear Parents and Carers,

Welcome Back to Term 3 – Semester Two Begins!

We’re delighted to welcome all students and families back to St Mary's for the start of Term 3.

A reminder to please drop off and pick up safely at the beginning and end of each school day. When parking opposite the school, please use the pedestrian crossing to ensure the safety of all children and families. Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our community safe.

As the winter season continues, the correct winter uniform is expected to be worn each day. With colds and winter lurgies going around, please help us keep everyone well by ensuring your child is healthy enough to attend school. We also appreciate your support in contributing a box of tissues to your child’s classroom.

At St Mary's, our Whole School Approach to Positive Behavioural Support (WSAPBS) is rooted in responsibility, respect, and safety. This means that students are encouraged and supported to make positive choices, take responsibility for their actions, and contribute to a calm and caring school environment.

We’re also excited that the Eisteddfod is just around the corner! Students in Grades 1–6 will present class recitations, while vocal groups and dramatic plays are well underway in preparation. It’s always a highlight of our calendar and a wonderful way to celebrate creativity, confidence, and community spirit.

I will be taking leave for the week beginning July 28th. Debra Owens and Anthony Sheedy will be Acting Principals in my absence.

We look forward to a busy and fulfilling term ahead!

Maria

Happy Pyjama Day! 

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS

We hope you have a wonderful day. 

Mental Health and Wellbeing News

Dear Parents and Carers,

Eisteddfod season is an exciting time in our school community! It gives students the chance to express themselves, build confidence, and develop performance skills. But for some children, it can also come with a case of the nerves — and that’s perfectly normal.

? Helping Children Manage Eisteddfod Nerves

Here are some simple ways families can help children feel calm and confident as they prepare to perform:

? Practice regularly, not perfectly

Encourage short, consistent practice at home. Familiarity builds confidence — the more they practise, the more secure they'll feel.

? Turn nerves into excitement

Feeling nervous is just a sign that something matters. Help your child reframe their nerves as “energy” or “excitement” instead of fear.

? Keep it playful

Keep the atmosphere light when rehearsing at home. Celebrate progress, laugh off little mistakes, and remind your child that performing is about having a go.

?️ Breathe it out

Teach simple calming techniques like slow breathing or imagining a “happy place” before they go on stage. Even a big deep breath can make a difference!

? Celebrate courage, not just results

Whether they receive a ribbon or not, performing in front of others takes bravery. Let them know you’re proud of their effort and resilience.

It’s not about being perfect — it’s about being proud. Every child who steps on stage has already achieved something special.

Eisteddfods are about growth, expression and fun. With your support, children can learn to shine through their nerves and enjoy the journey!

If you would like further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Deb Owens

Mental Health and Wellbeing Leader

We are so excited to announce that we are in the process of switching to a new official uniform supplier.

Very soon, parents will be able to order all our uniform items directly from one place. Beleza Uniforms in Traralgon will stock all our uniform items, including socks, tights and school bags.

Beleza is a trusted, family-owned manufacturer and supplier with an impeccable reputation for quality and customer service.

Parents will have the option to order uniforms online or in-store at their Traralgon outlet:

Beleza Traralgon Store
16A Seymour Street
Traralgon, VIC 3844

(03) 5176 5077

Monday – Friday: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm
Saturday: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm

This change comes due to the high costs and logistics involved in maintaining our current uniform shop in school. We prioritise providing high-quality, affordable, and accessible uniforms for all students.

Transition Period:

We will let you know when online ordering becomes available. 

We appreciate your support and cooperation as we make this positive change for our school community.

If you have any questions, please contact the school office at: 03 5182 5659.

We also have a uniform secret that will be revealed very soon. Watch this space....

Religious Education

The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be celebrated on Wednesday, August 14th, at 5:00 pm, in St. Joseph's room adjacent to the church.
We keep Kaiden and Noah in our thoughts and prayers as they prepare to receive this special sacrament.

What is the Sacrament of Reconciliation?

The Sacrament of Reconciliation (also known as Confession or Penance) is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It is a time when we come to God with a sincere heart to say sorry for the times we have turned away from His love. Through the priest, we receive God’s forgiveness and the grace to try again, to grow closer to God and others.

This sacrament reminds us that God's love and mercy are always available, no matter how many times we make mistakes. It’s a powerful moment of healing and peace.

How Do We Recognise Reconciliation in Our Everyday Life?

Even outside of the Church, we live out the spirit of reconciliation when we:

• Say sorry when we hurt someone
  
  
• Forgive others when they hurt us.
  
  
• Try to make things right after we’ve done wrong.
  
  
• Show kindness and compassion to those who need it.
  
  
• Let go of anger and grudges.
  
  

Every time we choose love, forgiveness, and peace, we reflect God's mercy and take a step toward reconciliation in our daily lives.

Let us support Kaiden and Noah with love and prayer as they prepare to experience God’s healing in this beautiful sacrament.

Maria and Deb

Religious Education Leaders