In this Issue
From the Principal
As we reach the end of another full term, trying to fit the usual Term One events into nine weeks makes for busy times - I write to you on the eve of the most important event in the Christian calendar. Not as is widely believed, Christmas - though its beauty endures - but Easter. The Resurrection of Jesus Christ is the very heart of our faith, the foundation upon which everything else rests. It is the event that changed the world, and it is the event we celebrate together this week.
As a Benedictine school, we are guided by a Rule written fifteen centuries ago, yet astonishingly alive in our daily life here at Mount St Benedict College. St Benedict opens his Rule with a single word: Listen. Before anything else, before learning or labour or achievement, comes the humble act of listening. Benedict writes:
"Listen carefully, my child, to your master's precepts, and incline the ear of your heart. Receive willingly and carry out effectively your loving father's advice."
THE RULE OF SAINT BENEDICT, PROLOGUE
This call to listen with the ear of the heart is not passive. It asks us to be attentive - to God, to one another, to those we might otherwise walk past. It asks us to be present. During this Easter season, we are invited to listen again to the story of the Resurrection - not merely as an account from ancient history, but as a living word addressed to each of us today.
Jesus himself offers us a pattern for that attentive, listening love in one of his most beloved parables. When a scholar of the law asks, "Who is my neighbour?", Jesus does not answer with a definition. He tells a story.
"A Samaritan traveller who came upon him was moved with compassion at the sight. He approached the victim, poured oil and wine over his wounds and bandaged them. Then he lifted him up on his own animal, took him to an inn, and cared for him."
LUKE 10:33–34
The Samaritan did not first ask whether the man deserved his help, or whether helping was convenient, or whether it was strictly his responsibility. He saw, and he was moved, and he acted. This is the Benedictine heart made flesh in the parable - an attentiveness so deep that it cannot look away from a person in need.
In our community at Mount St Benedict College, we see this spirit every term: in students who include a classmate who is sitting alone, in teachers who stay at recess, lunch, and after school to support a struggling learner, and in families who quietly help others through difficulty. Easter reminds us that this love - the love that gives without counting the cost - is not simply an ideal. It is the nature of the God who walked out of the tomb on Easter morning.
In a recent homily, I heard the Resurrection described not only as a past event but also as an ongoing promise. Just as the stone was rolled away, Easter calls us to roll away whatever weighs heavily on us - anxiety, grudges, the weariness of a long term - and to step, however tentatively, into the light of new life.
To each of you and your families, I wish a very Happy and Blessed Easter. May the joy of the risen Christ fill your homes. May you find genuine rest over the coming break if you are having a break with your daughters - rest that restores the spirit as well as the body. And we look forward to the girls returning to the College, refreshed and ready for all that the coming term holds.
He is risen. Alleluia!
Michael Hanratty
Principal

From the Dean of Mission
Our College community recently gathered for a deeply moving Liturgy organised by Mr Le Grand and his Year 9 Ministry class. The reverence and care with which the students prepared the Stations of the Cross created a powerful prayer experience for all in attendance. Each station invited us to reflect more deeply on Christ’s journey, encouraging stillness, compassion, and gratitude. A special thank you to our Choir and Mrs Abbot for leading us in “Jesus, Remember Me,” adding greatly to the sacredness and beauty of the Liturgy. The students are to be commended for the maturity and faith they demonstrated as they led our community through this sacred time.
At lunchtime last week, a wonderful spirit of service was on display as 80 students came together to make palm crosses. These crosses will be taken to St Agatha’s Parish and distributed to local nursing homes, bringing comfort and connection to those who may be unable to attend Palm Sunday celebrations. This initiative reflects our Benedictine values of community and outreach, and it was heartening to see so many students generously giving their time for others.

We were also delighted to welcome Sr Judy Foster sgs, who visited the College to investigate the heritage of the upstairs stained glass windows in our Chapel. Her interest has sparked an exciting joint project. Sr Judy has kindly offered to investigate the history and significance of the other beautiful stained glass windows in the Chapel and Regenbah as well. We look forward to discovering more about these treasured features of our beautiful Chapel and sharing this knowledge with our community. It was just wonderful to have Sr Judy with us for the day!
Year 10 students recently visited McQuoin Park Catholic Healthcare, where they engaged warmly with residents and gained valuable insight into the life and mission of aged care services. The visit proved both meaningful and enriching, offering students the opportunity to form genuine connections across generations while living out our Benedictine call to serve with compassion and dignity. A highlight of the day was meeting Fr Terry, aged 96, whose wisdom, gentle presence, and deep faith left a lasting impression on our visiting group.
It is hard to believe that we have already arrived at Easter, the term has passed remarkably quickly. These past weeks have been rich with opportunities for reflection, inviting us to pause, pray, and prepare our hearts as we enter this most sacred time in the Church’s year.
As we journey into the Easter Triduum, may the hope, peace, and joy of the Risen Christ bless you and your families abundantly.
Kerry Bailey
Dean of Mission
From the Dean of Wellbeing
Fact or Feeling? Why It Matters for Our Girls
At Mount St Benedict College, we are committed to nurturing young women who are critical thinkers, compassionate leaders, and confident communicators - all essential qualities reflected in our Graduate Attributes. One of the most powerful ways we can support this growth is by helping our girls develop strategies to discern whether something is a fact or a feeling.
Why Is This Important?
In today’s fast-paced, emotionally charged world, our students are constantly navigating information from social media, peers, and the wider community. Without the ability to distinguish facts from feelings, they risk:
- Misinterpreting situations, leading to unnecessary conflict or anxiety.
- Making decisions based on emotion alone, rather than evidence and reason.
- Struggling to communicate effectively, especially in leadership roles.
Research highlights that emotional regulation and critical thinking are key predictors of resilience and success. For example:
- CASEL (Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning) emphasises that social-emotional learning improves academic performance and wellbeing.
- Studies in adolescent development show that teaching metacognitive strategies - like questioning the source and validity of information - enhances decision-making and confidence.
Helpful Phrases for Everyday Use
As adults in their lives - parents, teachers, mentors - we can model and encourage language that promotes clarity. Try these:

- “Is that a fact or a feeling?”
- “What evidence do you have for that?”
- “How do you know this is true?”
- “What might someone else say about this?”
- “Let’s separate what we know from what we think.”
Strategies to Share
1. Pause and Reflect
Encourage girls to take a moment before reacting. A simple question like “What do I know for sure?” can shift perspective.
2. Use a Two-Column Approach
On one side, write down Facts (observable, verifiable). On the other, Feelings (emotions, interpretations). This visual tool helps clarify thinking.
3. Check the Source
Teach them to ask: “Where did this information come from? Is it reliable?”
4. Practice Empathy Without Assumption
Validate feelings while still seeking truth: “I hear you’re upset. Let’s look at what happened together.”
Connecting to Our Graduate Attributes
By giving our girls these tools, we empower them to:
- Think critically and ethically.
- Communicate with clarity and confidence.
- Act with integrity and compassion.
These skills are not just academic - they are life skills that prepare them to lead with wisdom and courage, and that is what we want for them within and beyond the walls of home and school. So, during these holidays, practise your discussions at home about whether what your daughter is concerned about is a fact or a feeling, as a way of helping her actively problem-solve and understand her emotions.
Sheri Upasiri
Dean of Wellbeing
Cocurricular News
Public Speaking Competitions in Term One
Public Speaking Competitions in Term One
In Term One, 20 students from Years 7-12 participated in inter-school public speaking competitions. The students were selected via an audition process, with the emphasis on originality as well as matter and method. They then had two weeks to prepare for the competitions. This involved choosing a topic, then writing and practicing their speeches. Younger students were expected to speak for four minutes and older ones for eight minutes. A highlight of the preparation process was small group tuition with Ms Tricia Morosin, the Speech and Drama Tutor at the College. Ms Morison provided expert and specific feedback that helped the students refine their speeches and gave them confidence in their delivery.
Students all experienced personal triumphs in the competition heats. For the CSDA Public Speaking Competition, more than half the students were selected for Semi Finals and two students, Jessica (Yr 9) and Sophie (Yr 12) presented in the Grand Final. Sophie was awarded third place in the Yr 12 category which is an incredible accomplishment. Six students competed in the Rostrum Voice of Youth Competition, and Amelia (Yr 11) was selected for the next round, to be held next term.
The students were proud representatives of the College. They were competitive with high personal standards, but also respectful and collaborative. They supported one another and celebrated each other’s successes.
The students provided some reflections on their experiences as well as favourite excerpts from their CSDA Public Speaking Competition speeches.

From Alexis, Yr 11, ‘Crisis What Crisis’, on the educational crisis being experienced (and ignored) in Australia.
Speech remains one of the most powerful tools in our twenty-first century world. Competitions such as the CSDA Public Speaking Competition give students the opportunity to develop the skills needed to engage an audience, present ideas with clarity, and support their perspectives with evidence and sound reasoning. The ability to argue respectfully and listen thoughtfully to opposing views is an essential yet declining skill in our society. As Evelyn Beatrice Hall famously wrote, “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” True freedom of speech does not simply protect ideas we agree with; it requires us to uphold the right of others to express different perspectives. If students learn to articulate their views clearly, and engage respectfully with disagreement, they will be far better prepared to contribute meaningfully to the complex conversations that shape our world.
Normally when I write a speech, I know exactly what I’m going to say. But I had no idea. I had no idea how bad it was. Because the education system is like a frog boiling to death. It has no idea it’s dying. There is no explosion, no tragedy. It’s a series of small, unrelated news stories that pop up now and then, and don’t come on until 6:45 when most people have already turned off their TV’s. And the only people who really know, who will be affected by this crisis, is students. And we can’t vote. And if you can’t vote, politicians don’t care.
From Amelia, Yr 10, No Need to Speak, You Only Have to Look
The first two rounds of CSDA Public Speaking were both exciting and challenging. In my speech, “No Need to Speak, You Only Have to Look,” I explored how even a single look can have a powerful impact, influencing others and the world around us. One of my favourite parts of the speech was discussing how technology and artificial intelligence can influence the way people consume information, often making it easier for them to be drawn into fake news, the government and misleading media. Rounds One and Two were great opportunities to hear different perspectives from other speakers. I focused on using expression, tone, and personal examples throughout my speech. In Round Two, it was great to see how everyone improved and refined their speeches. Listening to others also gave me an insight into presentation techniques and how to connect to an audience. Overall, the first two rounds have been a positive, thrilling, and wonderful experience. Public speaking pushes you out of your comfort zone, but it’s also a great way to build confidence, make new friends along the way and share new ideas.
From Ipsa, Yr 10, The Danger of a Single Story
The CSDA Public Speaking Competition was a wonderful chance to connect with Bennies students and compete in a competition filled with like-minded individuals. For us Bennies girls, we did not know each other, however, by the end of the competition, we formed a close-knit bond filled with memories and a passion for public speaking.
I challenge you; I challenge all of us. The next time you hear someone’s story, treat it as a draft, not a verdict. Ask one more question than you normally would. Look for one more detail that complicates your first impression. Notice what DOESN’T fit the neat version.
Mikhaella Yr 9, Last year’s words belong to last year’s language
Public speaking for me was never just a cocurricular program or a chance to win an award. Rather, it was an opportunity to express my authentic voice and inspire others. This competition has brought me closer to other students, encouraged me to keep improving my craft, and shown me the incredible capabilities of so many young people across NSW.
I have found that voice. It does not speak in "corners" or "edges". Last year's words are the vocabulary of a person I have outgrown. So let the photograph capture who I was, the shadows, the uneven light, and all. But it will never have the power to confine who I am becoming.
Aliana Yr 8, CSDA, Last year’s words belong to last year’s language
It was a great opportunity to be surrounded by my peers who share the same passion for public speaking. We did not just compete, but we lifted each other up, and turned the challenge into a lasting memory. It taught me as much about the spirit of Bennies girls as it did about my goals.
The words you speak today become the story you live tomorrow. And next year’s words? They are not written yet. But they are forming now- in the choices you make, risks you take and in the language you decide to keep or let go.
Emma Hopkins
Public Speaking Coordinator
Interschool Sport - Term One Wrap Up
Interschool Sport - Term One Wrap Up
What a fantastic term it has been for cocurricular sports at MSB! Across Badminton, Tennis, and Volleyball, we saw 183 students take to the courts, representing our school with enthusiasm and integrity.
IGSA Badminton:
In Badminton, 56 students across 13 teams competed throughout the term, with an impressive five teams claiming winner honours - congratulations to:
- MBS02 - Siheli G, Shreya G, Saheli L, Danya M, Crystal Z
- MSB05 - Celine C, Alison N, Victoria N, Chloe W, Zara X
- MSB06 - Yerina C, Aradhya G, Madelyn H, Evy T, Yeji Y
- MSB10 - Hannah K, Ashley L, Marissa L, Olivia W
- MSB13 - Rachel C, Alice G, Karis H, Tanya T
MSB08 and MSB12 also had outstanding seasons, finishing as runners-up in their respective divisions.
IGSA Tennis:
Our Tennis program welcomed 33 students across 6 teams, and while no outright winners were crowned this term, MSB03 and MSB06 both had strong finishes, earning runners-up positions in their competition.
Interschool Volleyball:
Volleyball rounded out a huge term of sport, with 94 students across 12 teams hitting the court. Congratulations to our winners:
- MSB02 - Khiara H, Leila K, Mellissa M, Lucia N, Georgia R, Annabelle R, Tanisha S
- MSB06 - Annelise A, Amelia D, Aliana E, Christina L, Eunice L, Kayla L, Larissa L, Dylian T
Congratulations to every student who participated this in a sport term - your commitment, teamwork, and competitive spirit made for a brilliant season.
A huge thank you also to the parents and caregivers who supported our students this term, whether through early morning drop-offs, sideline cheering, or simply encouraging your child to get involved, it makes a real difference.
We look forward to seeing even more students becoming involved in Term Two!
Bronte Finegan
Sport Academy Convenor




Social Sport and Physical Activity
Social Sport and Physical Activity
Term One has been an active and engaging start to the year, with a range of co-curricular activities on offer for students. Social touch football was a highlight, with over 80 Year 7 and 8 students playing each Friday afternoon, showcasing strong teamwork and a competitive spirit.
Yoga continued to be a popular activity this term, with two sessions running and 27 students enjoying the opportunity to build flexibility and mindfulness. Our new Run Club was a great success. We had 20 students participating in weekly sessions to help build their aerobic fitness.
Another exciting addition this term was the Bennies Fitness Centre, providing senior students with a valuable opportunity to train in a safe and supportive environment while developing their strength and cardiovascular fitness.
Overall, it has been fantastic to see so many students involved in a range of activities. Thank you to the teachers, instructors and coaches who made this all possible.
Stephanie Kelleway
Sport Academy Convenor
College News
The Year 11 Play - Tickets Now Available
The Year 11 Play - Tickets Now Available
Year 11 Drama are excited to present their production of The Playhouse by Kristen Doherty in Term Two Week Two for two performances on Thursday 30 April and Friday 1 May at 6pm in the Hildegard Theatre.
On a school excursion to the Globe Theatre, five wayward students slip away from their teacher and find themselves backstage. Unable to resist the lure of the costume rack, they try some on, but are spotted and chased into the tiring house, where a portrait of Shakespeare proudly dominates the space. The Globe’s motto is emblazoned on the frame:
'Totus Mundus Agit Histrionem' - The Whole World is a Playhouse.
The teens recite the iconic words and are suddenly thrust back in time to Shakespeare’s original Globe Theatre in 1599, where they are mistaken for actors, costume mistresses, nobility and groundlings (stinkards). The befuddled students are engulfed in the very first production of ‘As You Like It’ and thrust out on the streets of Ye Olde London Town. The group need to find their way back to each other and Shakespeare’s portrait if they are ever to return to their own time.
Gabrielle Fonteyne
Teacher, CAPA Faculty

Year 7 Parents and Students Dancing with the Stars
Year 7 Parents and Students Dancing with the Stars
Year 7 students accompanied by their parent/s are invited to a special evening of fun, laughter, and dance at the College!
This is a fantastic opportunity to meet other Year 7 families and become part of the Bennies community while learning some classic dance moves - including the Cha Cha, Waltz, Line Dancing, the Bus Stop, and the Nutbush.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Mark Wilson , renowned dancer, dance teacher, and judge from Channel Seven's Dancing with the Stars , leading us for the evening.
No prior dance experience is necessary - just a willingness to have a great time!
Date: Wednesday 13 May 2026
Time: Light refreshments 5.30pm-6.15pm
Daughter/Parent Dance Lesson 6.30pm-8.00pm
Venue: College Hall
Cost: $25 per person
Dress: Students should wear their school sports uniform, including sports shoes.
RSVP: Click here to RSVP by 9am, Monday 11 May.
Please note:
This event is exclusively for Year 7 students and and their parent/s.
There is limited parking at the College; parking on side streets near the College is encouraged.
Ms Sheri Upasiri
Dean of Wellbeing

Student Success
Student Success
Congratulations to Year 8 student Sophie V on achieving 7th female, in her final, in the Triathlon School Championships!
Such a brilliant achievement after striving so hard in your training and events over the years.
We are so proud of you.
Congratulations to Year 7 student Sachie P who came 9th in NSW for the 11 years girls 200m backstroke event.
We are very proud of you!
Melina Moyes
MC6 Homeroom mentor
This season, Shanaya (Year 8) was selected to represent the Parramatta Under 13 Women's Cricket Team in the prestigious Mollie Dive Shield competition - a significant honour that reflects both her exceptional skill and the high regard in which she is held by the selectors. I am incredibly proud to share that her team went on to win the championship, a testament to the dedication and talent within the squad, with Shanaya playing her part with great distinction.
At club level, playing for the Hills Barbarians, Shanaya produced one of her finest batting performances of the season - scoring an impressive ‘61 (out of 30 balls) Not Out’, demonstrating her composure, technique, and match-winning ability with the bat.
With the ball, Shanaya has been equally outstanding. In her representative cricket, she claimed three wickets in just two overs a truly explosive and controlled bowling spell that showcases her growing confidence and capability as an all-round cricketer.
Shanaya's achievements this season reflect her hard work, resilience, and passion for the sport.



NSW Health School Vaccination Program
NSW Health School Vaccination Program
In the NSW School Vaccination Program 2026, the following vaccines will be offered free of charge to students at Mount St Benedict College:
Year 7 students:
- diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (whooping cough) (dTpa) vaccine – 1 dose.
- human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine – 1 dose.
Year 10 students:
- meningococcal ACWY vaccine – 1 dose.
Vaccinations will only be administered at school if parental/carer consent has been received.
The Vaccination Program will also offer catch up HPV and dTpa vaccines to Year 8 students who have previously consented but missed the vaccination day, and meningococcal ACWY vaccine to Year 11 students who had previously consented.
Please see the image for details and a QR code to provide consent.
Students can collect a paper copy of the flyer from Student Services if required.
Upcoming Events
| Upcoming Events | Date |
|---|---|
| Beginning of Term Two | Monday 20 April |
| Year 12 Retreat | Wednesday 22 April - Friday 24 April |
| College Assembly incl. ANZAC Day Ceremony * | Thursday 23 April |
| ANZAC Day Public Holiday - College closed | Monday 27 April |
| Year 11 Drama Production The Playhouse | Thursday 30 April and Friday 1 May 6pm. Click here to book. |
| Mother's Day Community Breakfast | Wednesday 6 May 7.30 - 8.30am |
| College Assembly * | Thursday 7 May |
| MSBESA Ex-Student Association AGM - meeting to be held in the MSB Centre | Monday 11 May 6.30pm |
| Year 7 Students and Parents Dance Class | Wednesday 13 May 5.30pm - 8.30pm Click here to book. |
Representative Sport
CGSSSA Swimming Championships
Recently, our students participated in the CGSSSA Swimming Championships held at the Ryde Aquatic Centre. Congratulations to all competitors for their pride in representing our College and for their outstanding efforts! Many students earned medals by finishing in the top three of their events.
- Special congratulations to Hannah C (U16s) and Evelyn S (U15s) for being crowned age champions!
- Good luck to the following students who qualified to represent CGSSSA at the NSWCCC Championships: Sophia B, Emma C, Hannah C, Olivia G, Ava H, Michela I, Tessa K, Sachie P, Onelly R, Evelyn S, Alannah S, Lily S, and Sophie V.
School Sport Australia National Championships Triathlon
Sophie V (Year 8) recently represented our college at the National Triathlon Championships on the Gold Coast. The competition spanned five days and included multiple qualifying runs, rides, and swims to determine final seeding in the Triathlon.
Sophie has aspired to qualify for a National Schools event since primary school, and this year, she achieved her goal and finished 7th in the B final. Congratulations, Sophie! We are incredibly proud of your accomplishments and look forward to supporting you on your journey throughout high school.
CGSSSA Touch Football - team announcement
Congratulations to the following students who have been selected to represent CGSSSA at the NSWCCC Championships (selection trials) early in Term Two at Tuggerah. We wish you the best of luck in the upcoming championships!
Under 15's Team: Amelia B, Claudia M, Elise W, Mia S, Zoe L.
Opens Team: Millie K.
CGSSSA /Sydney Metro AFL - Team announcement
Congratulations to the following students who have been selected to represent Sydney Metro at the NSWCCC Championships (selection trials) early in Term Two at Wagga Wagga. We wish you the best of luck in the upcoming championships!
Under 14's Team: Emma B, Grace C.
NSWCCC Under 15's Volleyball - Team announcement
Congratulations to the following student who was earlier this term selected in the NSWCCC under 15's Volleyball team to compete at the NSW All Schools Champiosnships (selection trials).
Under 15's : Aleisha C.
Representative Sport Trials Now Open
Registrations for Representative sport trials in Term Two are now open on Clipboard. The following sport trials will take place in term two:
- AFL (Junior Y7-9 and Senior Y10-12, teams selected)
Closes: Monday, 27 April at 9 AM
Students must have experience playing contact sports such as AFL, Rugby Union, or Rugby League.
- Futsal (Junior Y7-9 and Senior Y10-12, teams selected)
Closes: Monday, 27 April at 9 AM
- Touch Football (Y7/8 and Y9-10, teams selected)
Closes: Monday, 27 April at 9 AM
- Cross Country
Students must compete in the College Cross Country to qualify for the CGSSSA Championships. Registrations close: Monday, 27 April 9 AM.
Students should have a minimum of two years of experience playing the sport, and it is advantageous to be competing at a representative level outside of school, as trials are highly competitive. Ensure you complete registrations by the closing date, as late registrations will not be accepted. Parents must handle the clipboard registrations.
Darren Nosti
Sport Academy Coordinator



College Shop
Winter Uniform
Winter Uniform
Students will change to winter uniform from the beginning of Term Two, Monday 20 April 2026.

MSB Uniform Donations
MSB Uniform Donations
We are pleased to announce that the College Shop will now be taking donations of unwanted MSB uniforms.
Any items that are in a sellable condition will be taken to the Uniform Exchange Shop in Pymble, these will then be sold on behalf of the College. Funds from these sales will then be used to fund a fabric recycling services for those items that aren’t fit for a second life.
Items that can no longer be worn will be sent off to Textile Recycle Australia (ww.texrecaus.com) where they will be turned into recycled yarn.
Any items donated will need to be freshly laundered.
Please note this service is only available for MSB uniforms and is a donation only service we won’t be buying or selling second-hand uniforms.
Mrs Cheng
College Uniform Shop
Community Notices
Knox Careers Night
Knox Careers Night
Knox Grammar School would like to invite MSB students from Years 9 to 12 and their parents/guardians to our annual Careers Night on
Tuesday 26 May 2026, commencing at 5.30pm.
This year, there will be two events occurring concurrently throughout the night:
Careers Expo in the Great Hall – commencing at 5.30pm
A series of career presentations from various presenters in the Knox Wenkart Theatre, commencing at 5.30pm: Information on presentations will be sent out early next term.
Both events are free and open to all members of our community. No bookings are required.
Mrs Linda Gomez
Director of Career Education & Development |
Knox Grammar School


