As we conclude Term 1, I extend my gratitude to our Damascus College community for the spirit of warmth, commitment and shared purpose that has characterised the beginning of our year. Grounded in our College Vision — Inspired by Christ’s Mercy, we are a welcoming community, transforming self, others and the world — we have journeyed together with faith, hope and a deep sense of belonging.

Our term began in reverence and unity at our Opening Mass, setting a tone of reflection and purpose for the months ahead. This sacred beginning has been enriched through our Lenten journey and Easter liturgies, where we have paused to reflect on Christ’s message of sacrifice, compassion and renewal. I am so proud to see that we have raised seven thousand dollars for Project Compassion. Across Year 7, 8 and 11 Reflection Days, students have engaged thoughtfully with their faith, exploring identity, relationships and spirituality. These experiences have been further deepened through an appreciation of Indigenous spirituality, reminding us of the sacred connection between people, land and story, and inviting us to walk gently and respectfully in our shared world.

This term has also been marked by moments of deep sorrow within our community. We remember Annabella Elliott, and we pray that she may now find eternal peace with her God. We hold closely in our hearts her parents, Paul and Nicole, and her sister Eliza-Jane, asking that they be wrapped in the peace and love of our God during this time of profound loss.

We also acknowledge with gratitude the life and contribution of Sr Berenice Kerr RSM, whose leadership and care as co-governor of Damascus has left a lasting legacy. We also remember Sr Pat O’Brien RSM, whose lifelong commitment to Mercy education, faith and service touched many lives and enriched the broader Mercy community. Along with these significant losses, we recognise the broader experiences of grief within our community this term, holding all those affected in our thoughts and prayers, and committing ourselves to being a community of care, compassion and presence.

We have been blessed by the leadership and pastoral presence of Bishop Paul, whose generosity of spirit was evident in the time he spent with our Year 12 Youth Ministry students over afternoon tea. His witness to faith in action has been deeply appreciated. We also extend a warm welcome to Bishop Mark, and we look forward to his guidance and leadership within our Diocese.

There is much to celebrate in the life of our students this term. Our Year 7 students have made a positive and confident transition into secondary school life, embracing new routines with maturity and openness. The strong attendance and spirit of connection at the Year 7 Family BBQ highlighted the importance of partnership between home and school. Our Junior students have enthusiastically participated in BAS sport, demonstrating teamwork, resilience and pride in representing the College. We also commend those Year 8 students who participated in the St Brendan’s Experience, embracing this opportunity for growth, reflection and community with openness and courage.

In the Middle School, students have embraced a wide range of opportunities that foster confidence, voice and leadership. Public speaking and debating have provided platforms for students to articulate their ideas with clarity and conviction. The Farmers Market continues to be a wonderful example of student initiative, sustainability and community engagement. As too has participation in the Hands On Learning Program in Year 10; my visits to the shed bring joy and awe. Our involvement in the Youth Summit has enabled students to engage with broader social issues, while many continue to represent the College with pride as tour guides and ambassadors, generously sharing their experiences with prospective families. Events such as the Athletics Carnival have also showcased strong participation, house spirit and camaraderie.

Our Senior students have approached their VCE and VM pathways with focus and determination. The VM Camp provided valuable opportunities for connection and personal growth, while the Swimming Carnival highlighted tenacity, encouragement and emerging student leadership. The energy and passion displayed at Head of the Lake was another proud moment for our College, reflecting commitment, discipline and team spirit. We also celebrate the outstanding achievement of Marlin Phillips, who was selected as one of only ten students across the state to perform at Top Class — a remarkable accomplishment that reflects both individual excellence and the strength of our Arts program at Damascus.

I would also like to acknowledge and thank our dedicated staff, whose professionalism and care underpin all that we do. We warmly welcome new members of our team and thank them for the gifts they bring to our community. At the same time, we acknowledge those who will be moving on from Damascus College, particularly Ellie Meade in her leadership of Sport and Paul Blanchfield in Rowing. We thank them for their significant contributions and wish them every blessing in their future endeavours.

This term has also marked the introduction of our new leadership structure, which has been embraced by staff and the wider community with honesty, openness and fidelity. This shared commitment has strengthened our collective purpose, ensuring that each student and staff member is truly known, valued and supported in their learning journey. It has also reinforced our dedication to building excellence for all students, recognising and celebrating the diverse pathways across our College. Through this work, we continue to foster a culture where every learner is encouraged to grow, achieve and flourish.

As we move into the Easter season, we are reminded that even in times of challenge and loss, we are people of hope. The resurrection of Christ calls us to renewal — to live with courage, to act with compassion, and to continue to grow as individuals and as a community. May this Easter bring peace to our hearts, strength to our spirits, and a renewed commitment to living out our faith in all that we do.

Wishing all members of our Damascus College community a blessed and hope-filled Easter.

Steven Mifsud