Newsletter Term 3 Week 9 (Wednesday 17th September 2025)

Front Page Feature

Year 5 Showcase!

Year 5 performed their showcase last Friday. We had two performances that Year 5 worked together to create, to share with their audience. A dance to 'That's who I praise' by Brandon Lake. Our Year 5 Bucketeers performed to Bastille Pompeii. The students showed great teamwork to create their performances. We finished our showcase by performing Taba Naba with our Kinder buddies. Taba Naba is a joyful song from the Torres Strait Islands performed with a 'sit down dance'. Thank you to everyone who came to watch our showcase.

Reflection

John 3:13-17

Today we concentrate on the power of the cross in our lives. It is the ultimate demonstration of the nature of God. Christ gave of himself even to death on the cross. This is characteristic, not only of the man Jesus, but of the Godhead. Creation is the first example of divine emptying; redemption is the ultimate example. Unlike Good Friday when we stand before the stark cross and mourn the death of our innocent messiah, today we stand before the glorious cross and praise God for God’s incomprehensible goodness toward us. God’s graciousness is poured out indiscriminately, prodigally as only profound love can be given. Such is the nature of our God, and the cross is the symbol of this nature.

Jesus compares the pole in the wilderness on which was fixed the serpent to the cross which becomes the source of our healing. It was through the cross that Jesus conquered sin and death and won for us access to God. It is through the cross that we die to sin and rise to new life in Christ. As painful as life’s crosses may be, they serve to transform us. It can be our hope in the midst of pain and suffering and brokenness, because it promises to carry us into new life.

Through the goodness of God, which has been poured out for us, we have been granted eternal life. It is incomprehensible to think that death is the way to life, but that is the message of this feast. The cross, which is a sign of shame and misery, is now a symbol of glory and exaltation.

Principal

We are fast approaching the end of the term and it has been both an exciting and full one for our school community. Next week we look towards the end of term with Rewards Day for those students who have followed the SERS at school. We will also have our Mercy Day Mass and the Year 3 Showcase. The Year 3 students have been M.A.D this week by spreading the message of Making A Difference. It certainly has made a difference at school this week!

The Canonisation of St Carlo Acutis 

On September 7th, the Church witnessed a momentous occasion: the canonisation of Carlo Acutis, making him the first saint of the 21st century. Carlo died at just 15, but in his short life he showed a profound devotion to the Holy Eucharist and an inspiring way of integrating his faith with everyday life.

What makes Carlo such a powerful role model is how he spoke to people like us in a world shaped by digital connections and modern challenges. He used his talents—especially working with computers—to share stories of Eucharis­tic miracles and help deepen people’s love for Jesus.

Although Saint Carlo’s life was brief, it teaches us that holiness isn’t about doing something huge—it’s about being faithful in small things, loving others, choosing kindness, using our gifts well, and always being close to Jesus, especially in the Eucharist. 

May Carlo Acutis inspire our students, families, and staff to live with courageous faith in our own lives—to be saints in our time. As a school community, may we look to St Carlo Acutis as a model of youthful faith, Eucharistic devotion, and everyday holiness.

Supporting Children Experiencing School Refusal 

School refusal can be stressful for both children and parents. For some primary-aged children, mornings bring worry, tears, or even stomach aches when it’s time to leave for school. Experts such as the Raising Children Network and psychologist Dr Michael Carr-Gregg remind us that early, gentle support makes a big difference.

One practical way families can help is by focusing on organised, calm mornings. When children feel rushed, or sense parent stress, their own anxiety can increase. Being on time and having predictable routines, like laying out clothes the night before, preparing lunches early, and leaving a buffer for travel, takes the pressure off everyone. This gives parents space to be present, to listen, and to reassure their child, rather than racing against the clock. (Of course, this is easier said than done—but even small adjustments can help.)

Tips for parents:

• Prepare as much as possible the night before.
• Keep mornings calm and consistent, even if challenges arise.
• Stay positive and encourage small steps toward attending school.
• Reach out early to teachers or the school counsellor if worries persist.

R4L Kindergarten Transition Program

This transition program for Kindergarten students starting in 2026 will begin on Friday 17th October. These full days will replicate a ‘normal’ school day beginning at 8.50am and finishing at 3.15pm. Students will need to bring a water bottle, hat and a full lunch for the day at school. This program will run up until the last Friday in November. We look forward to welcoming our new students and their families as they begin their transition into our community.

Professional Learning Day

A reminder that the last day of term, Friday 26th September is a Professional Learning Day for the staff of St Brigid's which means it is a pupil free day.

Community Conversations

Please take note that the community conversations date will now be held alongside the AGM meeting at the end of Term 4. More information about gaining voice around the initial planning for 2026 will be sent through to parents early next term.

Have a wonderful week ahead, the weather has certainly turned it on for us of late!

Have a wonderful week ahead!

Vanessa Walters
 Principal

APLT

Poetry and Public Speaking Competition

Best of luck to all our Finalists at the Zone Poetry and Public Speaking Competition this Thursday, 18th September at Holy Family Primary School, Skennars Head. Mrs Lynch will meet students at the venue. The details are below.

If you have any questions, please contact me.

Warm regards,

Samantha Lynch,
Assistant Principal - Learning and Teaching

APM

Family Parish Mass 

You are warmly invited to our Parish Family Mass this Saturday at 5:00 pm. We’re looking forward to coming together as a school and parish community to celebrate our faith. Our staff and students will be involved in the liturgy, making this a truly special occasion for everyone. After Mass, please stay and enjoy a relaxed pizza dinner with other families – a great way to connect and share friendship. We’d love to see you there and make this evening a joyful gathering for all.

Please RSVP to choose your participation and order pizza!

Rewards Day 

We are excited to let you know that our Rewards Day will be held on Wednesday, 24th September, from 9:00–10:45 am. Students will take part in fun rotations within their class groups, with each activity being game-based. Our SRC representatives have done a wonderful job selecting the games and activities for the morning, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

At this stage, all students are on track to attend, which is very exciting! We encourage you to chat with your children about consistently following our SERS expectations so they can continue to make positive choices and celebrate their efforts together. Thank you for your ongoing support in helping make Rewards Day a memorable event for our students.

Sisters of Mercy Feast Day

We warmly invite you to join us for a special celebration of the Sisters of Mercy on Wednesday, 24 September at 12:30 pm in the Our Lady of Sorrows Church.

This feast day is an important occasion for our school community, as St Brigid’s was founded by the Sisters of Mercy. Their legacy inspires us every day as we strive to live out the values of mercy in all that we do and say.

Our Mass will be a wonderful opportunity to give thanks for the dedication and service of the Sisters, and to acknowledge the significant role they have played in shaping the life of our school.

We look forward to welcoming you as we come together in prayer and gratitude for these remarkable women who continue to guide and inspire us.

The original gates to the entrance of the Sisters of Mercy Convent were opened on 26th February 1961.
This artwork by Vanessa Flipse was created to celebrate the centenary of St Brigid’s (1914–2014).

MJR & PB4L

Office

Year 6 Canberra Excursion

Year 6 students from our school will soon be undertaking an education tour of the national capital. Students will be given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia's history, culture, heritage and democracy. The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding to our school in the amount of $135 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.

Sport

DIO Athletics

Congratulations to Lola, Eedie, Peyhton, and Hamish for shining bright at the Diocesan Athletics Carnival in Coffs Harbour! These fantastic athletes represented St Brigid’s with energy, spirit, and determination, making our school proud every step of the way. Well done to all four for showing what teamwork and hard work can achieve— Keep up the great work, sports stars!

Matt King Challenge- League

Get ready for some fun with the Matt King League Challenge next Thursday! This exciting event is a fantastic way to wrap up our school term with plenty of laughter and friendly competition. The event details are live on Compass—please make sure to confirm your child’s attendance by Thursday. Remember, travel is private, so plan accordingly. Let’s finish the term on a high note together!

Awards

One of our school goals this year is to have an average weekly attendance of 90% and above. The class with the best average each week receives the  “Stars of the Week” trophy and certificate to display in their classroom.

Whole School Average Week 8 79.78%%

Congratulations to the following students who have shown tremendous effort and were presented with their awards at our assembly in Term 3 Week 8.

Congratulations to the following students who received MJR Awards!
Abigail, Summer & Carter.

The MJR theme for weeks 7 & 8 was to Reflect and Celebrate the Journey!

Celebrations

Wakakirri

We had an amazing time at the Logan Entertainment Centre for the Wakakirri State Awards! Our students and staff shared unforgettable moments filled with excitement and pride that are still buzzing around. A huge thank you to all the parents for your fantastic support—whether you cheered at the live events or were there bright and early to collect the kids from the bus. To relive the magic, enjoy the professional recording from Wakakirri at the first event, plus the staff’s special rehearsal recording from the awards night. Chookas to everyone who made this experience so memorable!

Wakakirri Professional Recording Night 1

Wakakirri Awards Night Rehearsal

Wakakirri Night 1 photo

Award Night photo

Show Awards Achieved!

• Ensemble Award for Dancing and Acting
• Storytelling Award for Story Theme and Concept
• Creative production award for Creative Reuse of Materials with Sets and Props
• Production award for Projection
• Creative production award for Overall Costume Design

Vinnies Winter Appeal

We are pleased to share that our school community raised $346.70 for the Vinnies Winter Appeal! The donation was presented to Trish, a representative of the St Vincent de Paul Conference, at our Friday Assembly.

Thank you to everyone who supported this important cause.

Wishing all our birthday students a joyful day filled with God’s love and blessings. May the year ahead bring happiness, health, and many special moments.

Dates

Parish

Parish Information
Our Lady of Sorrows Parish established 1916. Our Parish Family includes the town of Kyogle and the villages of Urbenville and Woodenbong. Parish Priest: Fr Joe Holloway | Parish Office Phone: 02 6632 1074 | Email: kyogle@lismore.catholic.org.au | Facebook: @OurLadyofSorrowsCatholicChurch

Service Times
Kyogle Weekday Masses: Tuesday 5.15pm, Wednesday & Thursday at 9am. Friday is at 12:30pm. Please note that this schedule is subject to change. Saturday Vigil 5pm | Sunday 9am.
Adoration and The Sacrament of Reconciliation begins 30 minutes prior to Mass on Friday's & Saturday's. Morning tea is served every Sunday after Mass, hosted by the parishioners. Everyone is welcome!

Community

There's lots going on in our community!

Parent Resources

Educational Games

Toy Theatre | Educational Games for Kids
Math Games
Hidden Pictures Games and Puzzles

Quick Links

St Brigid's Facebook Page
Parent Assembly Facebook Page
Supporting Learning - Primary
Faith and Family
Tips for Parents – Supporting your Childs attendance at School
NSW Government Facebook Page