A Week of Energy, Achievement and Community

From the Jazz Band lighting up the yard at lunchtime to students showcasing their mathematical prowess by reciting Pi to 140 decimal places, the past week at Kilbreda College has been filled with energy, enthusiasm, and achievement. Our 3×3 Basketball team made us proud, winning their tournament and securing a place in the state finals, while preparations are in full swing for two exciting events next week – Year 7 Camp and Harmony Day. Amidst all of this, we also took time to honour and celebrate the incredible contributions of women at our International Women’s Day Breakfast and reflect on faith and self-discovery during the Year 12 Retreat. These moments, big and small, remind us of the rich and vibrant spirit of our College community – one that fosters learning, leadership, and lifelong connections.

International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day is a powerful reminder of the strength found in community – an opportunity to reflect on our shared call to challenge the status quo and be people of action. It was wonderful to gather as a Kilbreda College community on Friday 7 March, to celebrate this significant occasion, embracing the spirit of the United Nations theme, ‘Accelerate Action.’

At our International Women’s Day Breakfast, we were privileged to welcome back Alice Kett (Class of 2006) as our guest speaker, a dedicated health professions educator who shared raw and authentic insights from her journey – reminding students that, “If you let it, Kilbreda can light a fire in you… You don’t have to do everything, but you most certainly can do anything.” Alice’s words were a call to action – a challenge for our students to dream boldly, take risks and embrace their unique potential. Her inspiring presentation was complemented by thought-provoking student reflections from Lara Mhanna and Chloe Veneris, both reinforcing our commitment to uplifting the next generation of women to chase their dreams, lead with confidence, and create meaningful change.

As we celebrated the achievements of women past and present, we also took a moment to honour the Brigidine Sisters, whose unwavering commitment to justice and education has shaped the foundation of Kilbreda College and so many Catholic schools across the country. These unsung nation-builders saw need and ran toward it, creating opportunities where none existed and responding with courage and practical action. Their legacy continues to challenge us today: Where is the need? How can I help? Their optimistic, can-do spirit is a powerful reminder that change begins with those who dare to step forward and make a difference.

The Kilbreda Chorale’s stirring performance of Natasha Bedingfield’s Unwritten resonated deeply, reminding us that our stories are still unfolding, and the future is ours to shape.

At Kilbreda, we believe in the power of our students to shape the future. Every day, we foster an environment where they are encouraged to lead, to challenge, and to make a difference. Events like this Breakfast reaffirm our shared commitment to empowering the next generation – to giving our students the confidence to challenge, contribute and create meaningful change in the world. Together, we are not just imagining a better future – we are building it with courage, conviction, and the unwavering belief that change is possible.

Year 12 Retreat

Last week, our Year 12 students embarked on a deeply meaningful Retreat at Rutherford Park. It was an opportunity to step away from the busyness of daily life and immerse themselves in self-reflection, connection and spiritual growth. The Retreat provided students with the space to develop a deeper awareness of themselves, their spirituality, and their relationships – with each other and with God.

Through presentations delivered by our dedicated College staff, students explored each of Kilbreda’s core values, enriching their experience through shared stories of struggle, resilience, and vitality. A highlight of the Retreat was the celebration of the Eucharist, led by Father Peter Matheson, which was thoughtfully created by our students. Centred on Pope Francis’ Easter theme of ‘To Journey Together in Hope,’ the Mass was a powerful reminder of faith, unity, and the shared road ahead.  The Retreat provided precious moments for students to pause, reflect, and consider the road they have travelled, the companions who have walked alongside them, and the guiding presence of St Brigid’s flame as they prepare to step beyond the gates of Kilbreda.

A heartfelt thank you to John Riddle, Bill Fitzsimons and Trish Moloney for their exceptional leadership of the Retreat, and to Natalie Burke, Peter Blackshaw, Sarah Chuck, Giovanni Di Fabrizio, Carmel Fraser, Christine Vaughan and Jane Watkins for accompanying our students on this deeply spiritual journey.

Years 7 to 9 Meet the Teacher Evening

On Wednesday 5 March, we warmly welcomed students, parents, and teachers to our Years 7 to 9 Meet the Teacher Evening, an event that highlighted the strong partnership between home and school at Kilbreda College. It was wonderful to witness the energy and engagement in the Hall as meaningful conversations unfolded, reinforcing our shared commitment to each student’s growth and success.

At Kilbreda, we deeply value the role of parents and carers as the first and most influential educators in their daughters’ lives. Your support, encouragement and presence are the foundation upon which their learning journey is built. Thank you for taking the time to connect with our teachers, ask questions, and experience firsthand the dedication and passion that shape your daughters’ education every day.

Together, as a community, we are committed to empowering young women – encouraging them to approach challenges with confidence, embrace new opportunities and become leaders of positive change. We are grateful for your partnership and trust and look forward to continuing this journey with you.

Vale

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Tricia Benson, a much-loved and valued past staff member of Kilbreda College, who passed away on Saturday 8 March, following a courageous battle with illness. Tricia was a dedicated and passionate educator, whose warmth, kindness, wit and commitment to her students left a lasting impact on our community. She was also a cherished mother to past pupils Bridget (Class of 2006) and Caitlin (Class of 2003).  We extend our heartfelt condolences and prayers to her family and loved ones during this difficult time. May she rest in peace.

Prayers are also requested for Mrs Moira Kelly, mother-in-law of staff member Damian Smith, grandmother of staff member Julia Smith, and great grandmother of Bella Cormick (Year 7). Moira was the mother of a record eight daughters to attend Kilbreda: Anne, Clare, Michelle (Mrs Cormick), Kerrin (Mrs Smith), Angela, Susan, Margaret (Mrs Heenan) and Deborah.

We also hold in our hearts and prayers Nicole Thompson (Class of 1993) and Zarah Kucinic (Class of 2014) who died recently.

Lenten Prayer for Strength and Gratitude:  Week 2

Heavenly Father,

Thank you for the small blessings you give us every day,

As well as the incomprehensible miracles we have witnessed.

Help us to never take for granted your goodness,

Especially when life is difficult,

And the darkness feels overwhelming.

Amen.

Stephanie Smyth

Acting Principal