FAREWELL

It is with very mixed feeling that I say farewell for the final time. I have reached a point in my career where I feel that I have no more to offer the OLV community and look forward to the prospect of more time with family and hobbies. I am very grateful for the wonderful support I have received over the 30 years at OLV.

I have seen many people come and go and the support of the P&F Executives over those years has been invaluable. As we move to the new Diocsean model of FACE (Family and Community Engagement) I am excited to see s many intyerested and involved parents in community activity. We tried a few new things and had some great success with our electronic fundraising platform with over $2000 raised which is supporting the purchase of new soccer and netball goals.

I appreciate all the well wishes and words of congratulation – and the special gifts. I look forward to heading out on the lake to pursue my favourite pastime and put my feet up for a while.

I left Yr 6 with these words at their Graduation last week and I would hope you might also apply them to part of your own life philosophies: It is my favourite Bible reference, and it comes from the Old Testament of Micah who was a prophet for the ancient kings of Judah. He tells us to:

“… act justly, and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

So, my wish for you all is that we be people of integrity and honesty, to do unto others what you would have them do unto you, with forgiveness and gentleness and to always remember that when you achieve something, do is with humility and know God walks with you in all your difficult times.

CAPTAINS’ ANNOUNCEMENT

The Year 5 children are excited to learn the outcome of the votes for School Captains. I was extremely impressed with the way the children presented themselves and how all of them showed school spirit and leadership qualities. Unfortunately, some children will not be “badged” as captains but it is important to know that they are and will be seen as school leaders in 2025.

The Captains for 2025 are:

CAPTAINS:                      Pippa Morrissey & Max Bax Barrett

VICE CAPTAINS:              Isabelle Thomson & John Hermosura

BLUE HOUSE:                  Sienna Scott & Toma Vaisima

RED HOOUSE:                 Kasey Spazzal & Luka Stankovski

SWIMMING CHAMPIONS

We had a great day at the pool last week and the children really showed off their swimming skills and spirit. This year’s champions are:

Junior Girls Champion:         Annabelle Hannan       Runner Up:        Ruby Hughes

Junior Boys Champion:         Thomas Okenhall        Runner Up:        Israel Lolohea

Senior Girls Champion:         Maddison Humbles      Runner Up:        Mille Hughes

Senior Boys Champion:         Heath Ference            Runner Up:        Isziah Lawson

Children who performed well in the 50m events will be eligible for selection to represent the school at the Regional Carnival on February 12 in 2025.

Thanks to the parents that were able to help on the day. And to Mr Watmore for his organisation.

Well done to everyone.

HOLIDAY DATES

Please lock in the following dates for the return of school in 2025:

Friday 31 January2025 – PUPIL FREE DAY – Staff Induction

Monday 3 February 2025 – PUPIL FREE DAY – Staff Induction

Tuesday 4 February 2025 – Year 1-6 Commence

Thursday 6 February 2025 – Kinder Commence