Throughout this year, quality learning and teaching have remained at the heart of everything we do, with engaging lessons taking place daily in our classrooms. Alongside academic achievement, our students have embraced the spirit of Live Fully, Act Justly by participating in various co-curricular activities. These included SACCSS sporting events, competitions, camps, excursions, incursions, faith and student development days, whole-school assemblies, Masses, and liturgies.

Our music and drama concerts, the Year 10 Formal Social, student leadership events, and the celebration of our Live Fully, Act Justly Feast Day have further enriched the vibrant life of our community. A particular highlight was our College production of The Little Shop of Horrors, performed to sold-out audiences. This production beautifully demonstrated students living fully by sharing their gifts and talents with joy and purpose.

Leadership has also been a defining feature of our community this year, with students taking on vital roles to serve and inspire others. We are proud of the responsibility, vision, and compassion demonstrated by our student leaders, embodying the values of Live Fully, Act Justly. A special thanks to College Captain Rita Youssef and Deputy Captains Tomaso Corrente, Lucas Previti, and Tileah Tabone. Their dedication to serving their peers and the wider community highlights the importance of leadership grounded in humility and service.

Our college is deeply committed to acting justly, ensuring students learn the importance of fairness, service, and kindness. Through leadership opportunities, social justice initiatives, and community outreach, our students continue to respond to the call to live with integrity.

I extend heartfelt thanks to the College School Advisory Council. In particular, I thank the SAC Chairperson, Mr. Jason Kok, and the Custodian of Mission, Fr. Richard Rosse, parish priest of St. Catherine of Siena parish. The SAC has met regularly to discuss the day-to-day operations of the college and future developments, including master planning and finance.

I am deeply grateful to our College leadership team and teaching staff for their unwavering dedication. Their diligence and generosity ensure significant College events enrich the lives of our students in countless ways. I also thank our I.T., maintenance, counseling, learning diversity, library, support, administration, and finance staff. Their hard work behind the scenes ensures the College runs smoothly, fostering an environment where learning, growth, and community flourish.

Advent Reflection

The season of Advent invites us to immerse ourselves in wonder and awe as we prepare our hearts for the birth of Jesus. Isaiah reminds us:

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light” (Isaiah 9:2).

This calls us to embrace the hope and joy Christ brings into our world. Advent teaches us to wait patiently, trust deeply, and rejoice in God’s faithfulness. It is a sacred reminder of God's profound love, offering light to guide us through life’s complexities.

Farewell Year 10s

The Year 10 Graduation Mass and Assembly was held in the College Hall on Thursday, 28 November.

This evening, we celebrated liturgy as a college community and formally acknowledged our Year 10 students, who, over their four years with us, have been guided by our motto: Live Fully, Act Justly.

I encourage our Year 10s always to remember these four simple yet profound words. Over their time at the College, they have heard them countless times. These words are truly reflected in their journey and will hopefully remain etched in their hearts.

We thank Fr. Richard Rosse for leading the Graduation Mass, as well as staff and students involved in preparing the liturgy and presentations. Special thanks to Mr. Paul Sammut and the Ministry team, Mrs. Katie Murray Fawcett, and Year Level Leader Mr. Daniel Pisani, whose efforts ensured the success of this event.

Presentation Evening: A Celebration of Excellence

Our Presentation Evening: A Celebration of Excellence was held on Monday, 2 December. This event recognized and celebrated the accomplishments of our 2024 award recipients. Students were honored with Academic Achievement, Excellence, and College Service Awards, alongside other major accolades. Special thanks to Mrs. Elise Nowak, Mr. Adam Ray, and their teams, as well as all staff and students involved in planning this memorable evening. Congratulations to all award recipients!

Farewell and thank you to departing staff

As the year ends, we bid farewell to several dedicated staff members who have profoundly impacted our community. We thank them for their commitment to inspiring our students to Live Fully, Act Justly.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude and wish them the best in their future endeavors.

Start-of-Year Arrangements for 2025

• College Office Opens: Monday 20 January (8:30 AM – 4:00 PM)
• Closed for Australia Day Holiday: Monday 27 January
• Year 7 Students Return: Thursday 30 January
• Year 8–10 Students Return: Friday 31 January

Arrival time for all students: 8:45 AM
Dismissal time: 3:00 PM

May this holiday season bring joy, peace, and cherished moments with your loved ones, and may you all stay safe and well as we look forward to a bright new year together.

Lord Jesus,
Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas.
We who have so much to do and seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day,
We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us.
We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom.
We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence.
We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light.
To you we say, "Come Lord Jesus!'

Amen.

As we enter the sacred season of Advent, we are invited to embrace a time of contemplation and anticipation. This time of the year is not merely a countdown to Christmas but an opportunity to deepen our relationship with God and cultivate the virtues of faith, hope and love that the coming of Christ brings.

Our Archbishop, Archbishop Peter Commensoli in his Sunday homily reminded us of Jesus' call to his disciples as they approached the climax of his mission: “Be watchful; stay awake; stand with confidence.” These words are not just a call to action but serve as foundational principles for our journey through Advent.

Archbishop Commensoli emphasised that to be watchful means to remain alert to the distractions and cares of the world that can cloud our hearts. As we navigate through busy schedules and seasonal temptations, it is crucial to focus on what truly matters. Advent is a time to cultivate hope. Let us open our hearts to the promise of Christ's coming, reminding ourselves that true fulfillment is not found in worldly possessions but in the lasting love of God.

May our Advent be filled with faith, hope and love as we await the joy of the Nativity, ready to transform ourselves and the world around us. Maythe God of peace, bring peace to you and your families this Christmas season.

As we come to the end of another school year, we reflect on the incredible progress our students have made, the challenges they have overcome, and the many memories they have created along the way. This past year has been filled with learning, growth, and community, and we take this moment to celebrate all the accomplishments that have shaped our students into the remarkable young people they are today.

For our Year 7 students, it has been a year of transition and change as they took the significant step of beginning their secondary school journey. For many, the year has passed quickly, and they are now looking forward to becoming Year 8 students in 2025. During the final assembly for both Year 7 and Year 8 students, I asked them to reflect on what it means to be a CRC Caroline Springs student. Many responded with values such as kindness, respect, pride in wearing their uniform, eagerness to learn, and a commitment to embracing the college motto: Live Fully, Act Justly. My challenge to them was to select two of these key attributes and focus on embracing them next year, making the most of the opportunities that lie ahead in 2025.

Our Year 9 cohort has shared many special experiences throughout the year, including camp, the city experience, and Project 9. My message to our Year 9 students as they transition into Year 10 was to recognise the importance of being an active and contributing member of our school community and to embrace the expectations that come with it. This includes attending required College events, stepping out of their comfort zones, committing to a new co-curricular activity in 2025, and understanding the dedication it takes to thrive as a student at CRC Caroline Springs.

Finally, last Friday, we had the privilege of bidding farewell to our Year 10 cohort of 2024. On Thursday evening, we celebrated with a special Mass as a College community, followed by our Graduation Ceremony, during which students were presented with their certificates and a special memento. We hope the Year 10 students have enjoyed their journey over the past four years and cherish the memories they have created along the way—whether through their learning experiences, special events, or everyday moments of laughter and friendship. These memories are an integral part of the school experience, and we are proud to have been part of their journey.

On behalf of the College Wellbeing Team, I would like to wish our students and their families a joyful Christmas and a restful break. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2025.

As the 2024 school year draws to a close, we bid a heartfelt farewell to our Year 10 students, who are completing their time at CRC Caroline Springs. This significant milestone marks not only the end of their journey at our school but also the beginning of exciting new chapters in their lives.

The celebrations began on Thursday with the Year level assembly, which highlighted their growth through a variety of videos recapturing their years at Year 7, 8, 9 and 10. Next was the Year 10 Graduation Ceremony, a memorable evening filled with pride and joy. Families, friends, and staff gathered to acknowledge the hard work, growth, and achievements of our students over the past four years. It was a time to reflect on their journey and to celebrate the remarkable young people they have become.

On Friday, the Year 10s returned to campus for a final farewell. The day began with a whole-school assembly, where our student leaders and staff shared words of encouragement, gratitude, and best wishes. The atmosphere was one of camaraderie and reflection, as the school community came together to honour the Class of 2024.

Following the assembly, students enjoyed a relaxed BBQ, where laughter and fond memories were shared. It was a fitting end to their time at CRC Caroline Springs, a school that has been their home since Year 7.

To our Year 10 students: we are incredibly proud of your resilience, determination, and the positive contributions you have made to our community. As you move on to new opportunities, remember the values and friendships you have built here. May your future be filled with success and happiness.

On the evening of Thursday 28 November Catholic Regional College, Caroline Springs, proudly hosted the Year 10 Graduation Mass, an event filled with faith and gratitude for our Year 10 students. Families, staff, and students gathered to honour our graduating class of 2024 in a heartfelt celebration of the Eucharist giving thanks to God for the many blessings during their time at the College.

The Mass, presided over by our principal celebrant, Fr. Richard Rosse, was from the Votive Mass of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, chosen by our Year 10 College Leaders. Fr. Richard’s homily reflected on the readings and encouraged Year 10 graduates to carry forth the virtues they have learned and to continue nurturing their relationship with Christ by staying connected to the Vine (Jesus) so it may lead to greater faithfulness and fruitfulness in their lives.

The Year 10 Graduation Mass was a beautiful testament to our faith and the bright futures ahead for our students. We thank all staff and students who participated and contributed to the celebration of the Eucharist. Congratulations to the Class of 2024! May you continue to carry the virtues and wisdom of Christ in your hearts as you step forward in the next journey of your lives.

Last Wednesday, 16 Year 8 students travelled to City Vista Reserve in Fraser Rise to compete in the SACCSS Premier League Grand Final against Catholic Regional College North Keilor. In trying conditions, the players battled against strong winds, managing to lead 1-0 by halftime.

Despite facing injuries and tough opposition, our team showcased remarkable resilience and teamwork. The second half saw our players step up, dominating the field with skill and determination. With a final score of 6-0, CRCCS secured a well-deserved victory, capping off an undefeated season.

This win was particularly sweet following last year's upset in the final, highlighting the growth and improvement of the team. The players demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship, skill, and unity, and should be proud of their achievements.

Special thanks to Mr. Dawson and Mr. Wilkinson for their support throughout the season. Congratulations to all the players for their hard work and dedication!

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future - Jeremiah 29:11

In 2024, the Social Justice Team truly brought our College motto, Live Fully, Act Justly, to life by reflecting the pillars of Prayer, Stewardship, Compassion, and Learning that define our community. Their efforts created a ripple effect of positive change, drawing our school closer together and inspiring a spirit of unity and mutual understanding.

Rooted in Christian virtue, the team demonstrated what it means to actively engage in social justice with purpose and heart. A heartfelt thank you goes to the 2024 team for their dedication, faith, and commitment to making a meaningful difference in our College.

As we look ahead and prepare to embrace the Jubilee Year of Hope, we are guided by the words of Scripture: "For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11). May our planning always be illuminated by the light of Christ as we journey forward together with faith and purpose.

During this sacred season, the Social Justice Committee extends our heartfelt Christmas blessings to the entire CRCCS community. May the joy, peace, and love of Christ fill your hearts and homes, and may the hope of the 2025 Jubilee Year inspire us all to act justly, love tenderly, and walk humbly with our God. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

God bless

For my breakfast assessment, my partner and I focused on creating a balanced, visually appealing, delicious plate that shows a different mix of flavours and textures. In our class, we made a brioche bagel filled with a variety of vegetables, with other savoury ingredients. We also prepared a soft, moist apple fritter balanced with topping of fresh and sweet flavours of fruits, like strawberries, blackberries, grapes, and blueberries. These fritters were also topped with icing sugar, to create a sweetness and a bumpy texture. We tried our best to incorporate both of our ideas together so it was a meal we could both enjoy.

The fun part was experimenting with the fritter to get the perfect golden crust on the outside, whilst trying to make it perfectly soft and fluffy. Also assembling the fruits, on the plate made it look fresh and vibrant. We had lots of fun playing around with the fruits and foods trying to make it look presentable. Overall, it was a memorable and fun experiment to do together, and we are looking forward to continuing food tech next year, as well as creating new assessment dishes like this.

As I reflect on this year, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and humility for all that the Social Justice Team has achieved in 2024. It has been an honour and privilege to serve as your Faith and Social Justice Captain this year, working alongside such a dedicated and passionate group of individuals who have truly embodied the values of 'Live Fully, Act Justly.' From the St. Francis of Assisi or St Patrick’s celebrations to more, we've worked tirelessly to create a positive impact in our school community and beyond. Every small action, whether it was the sale of choc tops, the sausage sizzle for Uganda, Share the Dignity initiative, brought us closer to our goal of living out our faith through service, compassion, and justice.

The events we held this year – from the Catholic Care Appeal and Uganda project for St Francis Primary School in Kizinga, are ongoing support for our charity drives – have shown the power of unity and kindness that each of these moments has made a difference in someone's life and

As I hand over the role to Charlotte Attard as the Faith and Social Justice captain 2025, it is with faith and best wishes that she will continue to lead the team with passion and that the Social Justice efforts and faith of the College will flourish in the year ahead. Charlotte, I encourage you to keep your heart open, to continue inspiring your peers through faith, compassion, and active participation in making the world a better place. Your leadership will guide the team, and I trust that the 2025 Social Justice Team will take these efforts even further. My advice is simple to always keep the needs of others at the centre of your work and know that small acts of kindness can lead to big changes and a simple happiness in a person’s life.

To the Social Justice Team of 2025 – I wish you all the best in the coming year. Continue to carry the torch with the same passion and person, dedication, and love. May God bless each of you in all that you do and every day!

Lastly, I want to extend my deepest thanks to all those who supported and worked with the team this year – it has been an honour to serve as your captain, and I am so excited to see how the next chapter unfolds. A special thank you to Mrs. Mattar and Mr. Sammut for their unwavering support, guidance, and the beautiful gifts they bring to hold this team together. Their shared gifts and talents have been a true blessing to our CRC community, and we are so grateful for their leadership. Wishing everyone a blessed and joyful Christmas, and a prosperous New Year.

With gratitude and best wishes,
Mihini Rodrigo
Faith and Social Justice Captain, 2024

The Christmas season calls us to embrace the true spirit of giving, sharing, and embodying the selfless love of our Saviour. This year, the CRCCS community has beautifully lived out this message, ensuring that kindness and compassion take centre stage in our celebrations.

Walking past the festive Christmas tree, the generosity of our community was evident in the large amount of food donations collected. On behalf of St. Vinnies-Deer Park and the Social Justice Team, we extend our deepest gratitude to the remarkable CRCCS community.

Every contribution to the food appeal has become a symbol of hope and support, nourishing families in need and reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas.

As we celebrate the birth of Christ, may the joy of this season fill your homes and hearts with love and compassion. Thank you for making this year’s Christmas Food Appeal a testament to what it means to Live Fully, Act Justly.

2025 School Fees

2025 School Fee notice and Fee Payment Agreements were mailed home. If you have not received them, please contact the finance department, or visit the school website. If you have changed home address or email details, please also update the school.

2025 Payment arrangements are due back as soon as possible to commence in February 2025 and finalised by November 2025 unless prior arrangement is in place.

CSEF 2025 (Current health care card holders)

CSEF application will be available as the start of Term 1 2025

2025 Year 9 Camp- 26-28 February 2025

Tax Invoices will be mailed out from 06 January 2025, with payment required by 14 February 2025.

Thank you
Finance Department

How long have you worked at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs?
8 years.

What is your role at the school?
Science Teacher, Daily Organiser Assistant and House & Student Leadership Coordinator.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of my job is seeing students grow both academically and personally. I love watching the "aha" moments when concepts finally click for a student, especially when they’ve struggled or doubted themselves. The excitement on their faces when they make those connections is a powerful reminder of why I became a teacher.

When you were little what did you aspire to be?
I always floated between being a Teacher, Doctor or Veterinarian.

What was your favourite subject at school?
Science has always been my number 1 (particularly Biology and Chemistry). I also really enjoyed Maths, Art and Food Tech.

If you were a superhero, what powers would you have?
Teleportation. Instant holidays whenever I feel like it. Never being stuck in traffic again.

What's your favourite holiday destination?
Singapore or Bali. Japan is next on my list to visit.

Do you collect anything?
Not currently, but I still have folders of my old Pokémon cards from when I was younger.

If you had to watch a documentary, what would you want it to be about?
A nature documentary voiced by David Attenborough.