A Tapestry of Connections In Our 120^th Year

As we continue to weave the rich tapestry of Kilbreda College’s 120-year history, the bonds that unite us have never been more evident. This week, 15 of our Year 11 students stood before their peers and teachers, each aspiring to become a College Captain for 2025. Their presentations were a testament to the values that lie at the heart of our community—empathy, commitment, compassion, and respect. They spoke eloquently of the brilliant diversity that exists within the walls of Kilbreda and the profound impact past College Captains have had on their own journeys. These candidates have been a part of something special from the moment they first walked through our gates, embodying the spirit of service and leadership through their actions. Whether as peer support leaders, community ambassadors, or champions on the stage and sporting field, they have shown a readiness to lead with hands-on dedication.

This week, we also celebrated Book Week with the enchanting theme, “Reading is Magic!” Our students embraced the theme with creativity, crafting cakes inspired by their favourite books. I can only imagine the burst of creativity that filled your homes last weekend, as our students prepared these imaginative tributes to the power of reading.

In sports, our Intermediate and Junior Soccer Teams excelled in their CGSAV competitions, demonstrating exceptional skill and teamwork. Our Aerobics Team also continues to impress, earning a silver medal in their latest competition, reflecting their dedication and progress. Meanwhile, our STEM MAD program remains a beacon of innovation, with three teams advancing to the state finals. A special congratulations goes to Year 9 students Amelie Baker and Matilda Exton, whose initiative has reached the state finals for an impressive third consecutive year.

On Tuesday, we joyfully welcomed 166 enthusiastic Grade 6 students as they took their first steps toward becoming part of the Kilbreda family. The warmth and sense of community in our hall during their trivia afternoon were palpable, and we eagerly anticipate the journey these future Year 7 students will embark on with us in the coming months and years, as they explore their passions and discover their purpose.

Looking ahead, we are delighted to reconnect with our alumni at the ‘Celebrate’ Past Pupils’ Showcase Concert evening on Wednesday 28 August. This special event will celebrate the remarkable artistic talents of Kilbreda graduates in dance, drama, music, and musical theatre. It offers a unique opportunity to witness their creative achievements, which continue to inspire our school community. We warmly invite you to join us for an evening filled with reflection, artistry, and the enduring bonds that make Kilbreda so extraordinary. Tickets are still available at https://events.humanitix.com/past-pupils-showcase-concert-2024

We are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to honour our ‘Gold Medal Dads’ at our Olympic-themed Father’s Day breakfast on Friday 30 August.  This meaningful gathering will be a joyful celebration of the incredible fathers and father figures within our community, recognising the invaluable support and love they provide.  We look forward to sharing a morning filled with gratitude, laughter, and the spirit of camaraderie as we pay tribute to these everyday champions in the lives of our students.

Lastly, it was truly heartening to connect with so many of you during our recent Learning Progress Meetings. These gatherings reaffirm the deep value we place on our partnership with you, our parent community. Working alongside you, we are committed to nurturing every aspect of your daughters’ growth—academically, socially, and emotionally. Together, we strive to support them in becoming the remarkable individuals they were born to be, ensuring they thrive in every facet of their Kilbreda journey.

In Remembrance

We hold the family and friends of our much-loved teacher and former staff member, Lorraine Christopher, who recently passed away, in our thoughts and prayers. Lorraine was a valuable contributor to our school community, touching the lives of many with her strength, kindliness, and compassion. Her legacy of care and dedication will continue to inspire us, and she will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Lorraine was on staff from 1980-2003 and was for many years Year 10 Coordinator. Her daughters Rosemary (1981) and Anne (1982) were students and granddaughter Caitlin was College Captain in 2010. Lorraine’s husband Ron was Principal of Cheltenham Heights School.

Graham Guilieri, who died recently, was responsible for the conversion of the convent into classrooms from 1979-81 and designed the Mary Dalton Hall, offering his services free of charge. His daughters Catherine (1982),Clare (1983) and Elizabeth (1987) were pupils here.

Dean Cowden, father of past pupil Alex (2016) also died recently.

Loving and Gracious God,

As we gather to reflect on the many blessings of our Kilbreda College community, we give thanks for the connections that bind us together in faith, learning, and service. We thank You for the spirit of hope that guides us, filling our hearts with the strength to pursue our dreams and the compassion to uplift others along the way.

May the value of hope continue to inspire our students, staff, and families, encouraging us to look to the future with confidence and trust in Your loving presence.

Bless our students as they explore their passions, our teachers as they guide and nurture, and our entire Kilbreda family as we work together to create a world where love, understanding, and peace prevail.

In this milestone year, may we be ever mindful of the rich tapestry we are weaving—one that tells a story of hope, resilience, and a shared commitment to the greater good.

We ask this in Your name.

Amen.

Stephanie Smyth

Acting College Principal