Term Three Wrap-Up

As this will be the final Newsletter for Term Three, I would like to take the opportunity to express my appreciation and gratitude to all who make our school community one to be proud of. This Term has been jam-packed with extracurricular activities, visitors, fundraising, representative opportunities; academically and sporting, and lots of dedicated learning.

I am especially grateful to our P& F working party and a small band of helpers who organised and supported catering for the Shearer's Showdown last weekend. My thanks to all involved.

I hope you take the time during the holidays to refresh and recharge for the always busy final Term of the year.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back in summer uniform for Term Four on Tuesday 14 October. Please ensure all students have a HAT in readiness for their return.

Kindergarten /Year One Showcase

Please join us for our Term Three Showcase tomorrow at 12:30pm. Year One and Kindergarten have been busily rehearsing and fine-tuning their performances and can't wait to share them with you.

St Mary's Feast Day

On Friday, September 5th, we celebrated our school's feast day with great joy and enthusiasm. The Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is a special occasion that holds significant meaning in the Catholic faith, and to us at St Mary's Primary School, and our students made sure to honour it in a memorable way.

Our celebration began with a beautiful Liturgy guiding us to reflect on the virtues of Mary. 

Following the Mass, our students engaged in various Mary-themed fun activities. The students decorated biscuits with images and symbols associated with Mary, made Rosary bracelets, did some mindful Mary colouring and made bookmarks.

As we celebrated the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, our students learned about the virtues and qualities that Mary exemplified – kindness, humility, compassion, and faith. These values serve as a guiding light for us all as we strive to be better individuals and members of the St Mary's School community.

I would like to thank all the teachers and staff, especially Mrs Rachael Croker, our Religious Education Coordinator, who made this celebration possible. 

Archdiocesan Public Speaking 

CONGRATULATIONS to Year Five student, Max Strode, who was successful as winner of the Year Five event at Cootamundra last Friday. Max spoke with confidence and gusto about his machine that was actually disguised as a notebook that could take you to any date you wrote in it. He worked hard to convince his audience that there were many events he would like to travel back to, including verifying the hardships his grandparents claim they endured as children, and meeting up with past greats like Elvis, Leonardo daVinci and Albert Einstein.

SPORTING STARS

Next week Year Five student, Jesse Costello will take part in the NSWPSSA Golf in Barooga as a member of the MacKillop Team. We eagerly await his results and hope his game is on point every day !!

We also have two Year Five students, Rory Bensley and Flynn Storrier, attending the NSWCPS - MacKillop Championships at Sydney Athletic Centre next Wednesday as members of the Canberra Goulburn Track and Field team. Flynn is running 100m, 200m and 800m while Rory will compete in the Discus event.

We wish all three gentlemen the best of luck.

GRANDPARENTS DAY 2025

Join us on Friday 31st October for our annual Grandparents and Special Friends Day. This year we have planned something a little different. Further details with times and activities will be shared early next Term.

 

Important dates to note:

Fri 19 Sep - Kinder/Year One Showcase 12:30pm

Fri 25 Sep - Final day of Term Three for students

Tues 14 Oct - First day of Term Four for students

Wed 22 Oct - School Photos

Fri 24 Oct - Boorowa Touch/Netball

2026 TERM DATES

The dates below are student attendance dates.

Term One - 2 February - 2 April

Term Two - 21 April - 2 July

Term Three - 21 July - 25 September

Term Four - 13 October - 17 December

A kind reminder that Term 3 school fees are now due, unless you have a periodic payment already in place.

Head Office has sent the mid-term statements. Please check your emails (junk and spam) if you do not have it in your inbox.

If you would like to discuss the amounts required for a regular payment, please contact Belinda.

School Photography Date: 22/10/2025

School photography day is coming up soon. Group and portrait photographs can be purchased by following the link below or by returning the order envelope with your payment (these haven't been received at school yet) to our photographer on school photo day.

Two easy ways to purchase:

1. Visa, MasterCard or PayPal
2. Cash – complete the envelope supplied and return it to our photographer on photo day

Or visit: www.advancedlife.com.au
And enter online order code: AN3 WE9 3JZ

School photography information:

• Online orders - do not require an envelope returned to your school
• Sibling Photos - Don’t forget to pre-order your sibling photos online up to 24 hours before photo day. We provide your school with a list of sibling orders right up to the day of photography, so no one misses out. If you miss the online order deadline, you can submit a completed sibling order envelope first thing in the morning of the day of photography, so your school is aware you want the photo taken and can bring your children together in time for it. Sibling photographs only apply to children enrolled at your school. 
• Late fees - a late fee will be applied to each package purchased after photo day due to the additional cost of producing these packages separately
• Package delivery - School photographs will be returned approximately 6 weeks after the day of photography. Please note this delivery timeframe is dependent on proofing and additional photography days at your school.
• Previous Years’ photos - Past years’ photographs including sports, co-curricular and representative groups are also available to order under the “previous years or group photo” tabs at your school’s advancedorder site when you click on the “Order School Photos Here” button above. You can also order past packages, portrait images and gifts from your child’s unique, individual and secure advancedyou image archive site using the unique 9 digit image code found on packages you have ordered in the past

** Sibling envelopes are available from the Office if you would like one **

Do Not Photograph/Publish

If you have selected in your child's enrolment form that they must not be photographed or their photo published, these students will not be presented for traditional group photographs with their Class Or Year, nor can a separate group photo only featuring their child be taken. A portrait of the student will be taken for school records only, and a portrait package will be available for purchase by the parent, but that portrait will appear only in that student’s package and will not appear in other students’ packages, nor will the student appear in any group or composite presentations of their Class or Year.

Please contact Belinda urgently if you have any questions or concerns regarding this.

Mary’s Birthday

Thank you to our school community who joined in our wonderful festivities to celebrate the birthday of Mary, mother of Jesus. The day commenced with a beautiful mass performed by Father Dermid. Students then spent the remainder of the day enjoying many Mary themed activities:

• Rosary bead bracelet making
• Mary biscuits
• Mary art and craft

Thank you to our amazing staff who assisted in running groups and ensuring the day was a great success.

SRC UPDATES

Our SRC have been very busy over the past few weeks, taking on the role of environmental warriors, creating many different projects to create a more sustainable environment at St Mary’s.

The SRC have some big plans to refurbish our Peace Garden with a chicken coop and vegetable beds.

Please see the notice regarding the Working Bee tomorrow.

SAMARITAN PURSE CHRISTMAS CHILD BOXES

Each class has been provided with a Samaritan Purse Christmas Box. We are seeking donations of small items to fill the boxes to bring some joy to those less fortunate this Christmas. Items can include stationary, toiletries, small toys, books, socks etc. Please get in contact with your child’s classroom teacher if you have any queries. These boxes will be collected next Wednesday, so please have any items in by then.

SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION

We keep in our hearts and our prayers our students who will be receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation this coming weekend in Goulburn. Congratulations to Anna Munro, Tommy Picker and Imogen Hewitt.

PYJAMA DAY

Online Safety for kids

With the holidays coming up, some children may spend more time on line. Click the link below for some basic steps to assist your child in safely navigating the online world.

https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents

Beyond Screen Time: How to Coach Kids to Become Savvy & Safe Digital Citizens

The digital world is a new frontier for all of us, and it can feel like a daunting place to navigate as a parent.

The rules we grew up with—"be home before dark," "don't talk to strangers"—don't quite fit when the wild west is accessible from a device in our own homes.

It’s easy to feel the pull to simply control or restrict everything. To lock down devices, impose strict time limits, and police every click.

But true digital discipline isn't about control—it's about teaching.

It’s about coaching our kids to be smart, responsible, and resilient digital citizens. Just as we teach children to cross the road safely, we must also teach them to navigate the online world wisely.

Here are seven essential tools to have in your digital parenting toolbox to guide, not control, your children under 12. Each tool is linked to a research-backed discipline approach that parents should draw on. There’s an explanation at the end of the session.

1. Model the Behaviour You Want to See

This is the most powerful tool of all.

Children are great imitators, and they're watching your every move.

If you're constantly scrolling at the dinner table or on your phone while they're talking to you, guess what they'll do?

Your habits become their habits.

Social learning theory shows that kids copy what we do, not necessarily what we say.

• Example: When it's family mealtime, put your phone in a basket out of sight.

• Expert Tip: Announce what you're doing. "I'm putting my phone away now so we can all chat and be together." This shows them that you value your time together more than your device.

2. Establish a Tech-Free Zone

Just as we have rules for where we can and can't run inside the house, it's wise to have clear rules for where devices are used.

A designated tech-free zone, like the dining table or bedrooms at bedtime, reduces friction and sets a clear boundary.

Research suggests that consistent routines and rules can help reduce conflict and promote cooperation.

• Example: “In our family, we keep all screens out of the bedroom at night. The bedroom is for sleep and relaxation.”

• Expert Tip: Make it visual. Use a simple chart or a 'phone parking' station to remind everyone of the rule.

3. Use the When/Then Strategy

This straightforward sequencing tool maintains transparency and fairness without coming across as a threat or a bribe.

It helps kids understand that responsibilities come before privileges.

• Example: “When you’ve finished your homework, then you can have 30 minutes of screen time.”

• Expert Tip: Be consistent and state it calmly like a fact. Kids will learn that getting their work done is the key to unlocking their fun time.

4. Co-View and Co-Play

Don't just hand them the device and walk away. Sit with your child and engage with what they’re watching or playing.

This is your opportunity to teach and connect.

By being there, you can point out positive and negative behaviours, ask questions, and share your own values.

It also helps you understand what they're doing and who they might be interacting with.

• Example: "What’s that game about? Can you show me how to play?"

• Expert Tip: Use this time to open up conversations. "What would you do if a stranger messaged you in this game?" This builds their critical thinking skills in a safe environment.

5. Teach Them to Be a Good Digital Citizen

The internet is a community, and kids need to learn how to be respectful members of that community.

This includes being kind, thinking before they post, and understanding the impact of their words.

These are the same lessons we teach them on the playground, just applied to a new context.

• Example: “I feel worried when you talk about other people in a mean way online because those words can really hurt them.” (This is an 'I' statement).

• Expert Tip: Use real-life situations as teaching moments. If they see a mean comment online, ask, “How do you think that person feels after reading that?” This helps build empathy.

6. Repair and Reflect After a Mistake

Mistakes are going to happen. Your child will click on something they shouldn't, or say something they regret.

When they do, what matters is how you handle it.

It's not a show of weakness to admit you made a mistake; it’s a sign of a strong, empathetic person.

• Example: "It's a mistake we all make. Let's talk about what happened and how you can do it differently next time.”

• Expert Tip: Turn conflict into an opportunity for learning. Ask, “What did you learn from that, and what can we both do differently next time?”

7. Natural Consequences Are Great Teachers

Children learn best from the real-world consequences of their actions. Provided they are safe and age-appropriate, these moments can be more powerful teachers than any lecture.

• Example: If they break a family rule about screen time, they lose the device for a set period. That's a direct, logical consequence.

• Expert Tip: Resist the urge to shield them from every discomfort. Let the consequences do the heavy lifting. If they lose their progress in a game because they didn't follow a rule, that soggy memory will do more teaching than any lecture.

Finally:

The most powerful guidance is quiet, calm, and connected.

It’s about raising kids who are emotionally intelligent and self-aware, not just obedient.

You don’t need to be perfect, just present. And every small, consistent effort makes a difference.

(Extract taken from Parenting Toolbox).

To see this article or others, please go to Michael Grose- Parenting Toolbox

Oztag Clinics

As our school term finishes on Thursday in Week 10, our sports day will be moved to Wednesday 24^th September. Please ensure students come to school in their sports uniform next Wednesday, Week 10. For our last sports session, we are lucky to have ACT Oztag visit our school to deliver Oztag clinics to each class. These clinics focus on teaching Oztag skills, running fun and some engaging games for the students. We are super excited and grateful. Thank you ACT Oztag!

Boorowa Touch Football and Netball Carnival (Yr 2- 6)

The Compass event for the Boorowa Touch and Netball Carnival was sent out last week. The details are below:

• Who: Compulsory event for Years 2-6 students
• Where: Boorowa Showground, Ballyryan Road
• When: Friday 24 October 2025 (Week 2, Term 4)
• Time: Bus will leave St Mary's at 7.00am sharp

League Stars Day for students in Kindergarten to Year 2 (LAST CHANCE)

Date: Tuesday, 11th November
Venue: North Park, Goulburn (private transport)
Time: Students are to arrive at 9:30 am for a 10:00 am start, concluding at 2:10 pm

On the day, we are able to nominate mixed tag teams. The students will play in year groups of K/1 and 2. Can you please express your child’s interest by the end of Term 3.

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfdymHsKErXBH6pLzzIfkT8O5R5dYMOdRtYcfRQbG0WEIkv0g/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=107268297601984138813

MacKillop Athletics

We wish Flynn S and Rory the best of luck as they travel to Sydney on the 24^th September September as members of the MacKillop athletics team. We can’t wait to hear how you both go!

NSWCPS Golf

Jesse will travel to Barooga from Tuesday 23^rd - Thursday 25^th September to compete in the NSWPSSA Golf Championships! We wish you the best of luck. We can’t wait to hear how you go!

Upcoming Trials

31^st Oct - Cricket trials for 2026

21^st Nov - Tennis trials for 2026

21^st Nov - Basketball trials for 2026

Where can I find trial dates?

The Canberra Goulburn Sports webpage has the full calendar for Primary, Secondary and SSA events. https://www.sport.cg.catholic.edu.au/calendar

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

Kind Regards,

Annie Cummins & James Edwards

School Sports Coordinators

Congratulations to our week 9 award winners!

Awards will be presented at our assembly tomorrow, Friday, 19 September at 9.05am.

Kindergarten: Riley Cummins, Amelia Towell, Ella Wheelwright

Year One: Quinn Haynes

Year Two: Lukus Hall, Alyssia Lewis

Year Three Gold: Mason Allport, Adrian Pickett

Year Three Green: Thaddaeus Camilleri, Khloe Pickett

Year Four: Henry Butler

Year Five: Mylah Burfitt, Bodi Cooper, Harry Day, Jobe Seaman

Year Six: Spencer Charnock, Tommy Picker

Performing Arts- Josh Fraser

Congratulations to the following students for wearing their uniform correctly and with pride:

Riley Cummins

Elsie Hills

Ellie Smart

Amelia Towell

Professional learning for parents & teachers  

Some of the best Professional learning I have completed is offered by OLT Australia. To support our students & their families, I have completed courses with OLT in Understanding Autism, Understanding ADHD, Dyslexia & Significant Reading Difficulties, Dyspraxia & Motor Coordination Difficulties, Speech, Language & Communication Needs, Attachment & Trauma Theory, Understanding & Supporting Behaviour, Mental Health and Student Wellbeing and Understanding Hearing Loss. 

I am also a tutor for these courses, and so many of the staff at St Mary’s have also completed a number of the professional learning courses to further develop skills in identifying, planning & preparing resources for students in their care.

This organisation also offers free parent courses & access to free resources on Autism & ADHD. You simply register & then work through the course at your own pace.

https://aus.oltinternational.net/free-parents-courses

Email: Crookwell@cg.org.au

Website: http://cg.org.au/crookwell/Home.aspx 

Phone: 0403 631 797 

SUCCESS FOR HARRY AND CAMAC

More success for the boys!

Very exciting news to share again from the National All Breeds Junior Heifer Show held in Blayney last weekend. The All Breeds is the pinnacle youth show and most competitive, bringing competitors from states across Australia. 

Harry competed in the Pee Wee division consisting of 23 kids aged between 5-8 years Harry had another successful show.

He was awarded Champion Pee Wee Junior Judge. Harry was judged on a public speaking component where the competitors spoke about their favourite toy. The competitors then had to judge 4 Hereford heifers and provide comments over the microphone to explain their placings. 

When Harry was awarded Champion, he competed against the Champions from 5 older age divisions for Grand Champion. This is a real public spectacle where the division winners judge another class of mixed breed heifers, place them and provide their comments over the microphone to 6 different judges, 233 competitors and around 150 spectators watching from the stands. The Senior Division Champion and current NSW State Champion won the Grand Champion title. Harry made us all very proud with his confidence and keen eye for cattle.

 Harry also was awarded 4th in Herdsman, Highly Commended in Paraders and his heifer placed 5th in her class. 

Camac Wilson also had a fun show and received an encouragement award for Herdsman. 

Taralga Sports Club Spring Fair- this Saturday!

Taralga Daffodil Tea and Flower Show

Muster for Travelling KAOS (Kids Acting On Stage)

Monday 13^th October at the Crookwell Memorial Hall!

KAOS (Kids Acting On Stage) is putting out the call for singing/acting talent!

We are always happy to have new faces!

Travelling Kaos have been asked to perform at CADS Musical Muster on 22/23^rd November and a Xmas Skit at Viewhaven date TBA & Crookwell’s Xmas in the Park 6^th December, 2025.

Young people from school age Year 2 and up are invited to come along for a rehearsal Monday 13th October at the Crookwell Memorial Hall from 4:30pm – 6.00pm. Rehearsals will then be every Monday until 17^th November.

Any questions, please reach out to Brenda 0419 639 152 or Rechell 0448 564 764 for more information.

 

Upper Lachlan Shire Performing Arts

Goulburn Performing Arts- IN THE ZONE 

On Wednesday 1 October we’ve got In the Zone—a high-energy hip-hop dance show that mixes gaming technology with incredible live performance. It’s fun, interactive, and perfect for kids and parents to enjoy together. Tickets are just $15.

And for those who want to jump in themselves, there’s a Hip-Hop Dance Workshop straight after the show for ages 8+ ($20). Kids will learn cool moves and get to dance on stage—a great way to burn some energy and have fun these holidays! Spots are limited, so be quick to secure a place. 

If you’d like to share this with your parent community, we'd greatly appreciate it!

? School holidays at Goulburn Performing Arts Centre

In the Zone brings hip-hop dance and gaming tech together in an unforgettable family show – just $15 per ticket. Stay on for the on-stage Hip-Hop Dance Workshop for ages 8+ ($20 bookings essential).

? Wednesday 1 October | 1pm show, 2:30pm workshop

Book tickets for the show here

Grab a spot at the workshop here

Free family fun at the Parliament of New South Wales

Friday 10 October 9:30 am to 3:00 pm

Visit us at Australia’s oldest Parliament as it opens its doors for Family Fun Day, an open day packed with fun educational activities for families with children aged up to 12 years. This year’s highlights include:

• Visiting our heritage chambers
• Playing music and drawing with Blak Douglas
• Having your say in a committee role play
• Travelling through time with historical storytelling  
• Making craft animals and objects
• Learning how to vote 
• Enjoying live music and engaging with roving historical figures

Discover, learn and have fun at this free one-day-only event!  

Parents/carers can learn more and get their free ticket by visiting our website: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/visit/events/Pages/Family-Fun-Day-2025.aspx 

Or book directly with Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/1329207227599?  

Save the Date- International Day of People with Disablity Community Event

Positive Partnerships is a Federal Government funded initiative. Interested parents are invited to attend a one-day workship for families to learn about autism. This a free event, in Goulburn on 23 September.

Register here: 
https://www.positivepartnerships.com.au/workshop/?eventtemplate=69-1-day-parent-carer-workshop-nsw&event=2150

Learn more:    
https://www.positivepartnerships.com.au/about-us/what-we-do

Upper Lachlan Shire Council Australia Day nominations

Nomination Form- Sportsperson

Nomination Form- Sportsperson 198.16 KB

Nomination Form Event of the Year

Nomination Form Event of the Year 210.09 KB

Nomination Form Citizen & Young Citizen

Nomination Form Citizen &amp 198.47 KB

Nomination Guidelines

Nomination Guidelines 1,017.45 KB