From the Principal
There is a phrase at the heart of our Benedictine tradition that speaks of hospitality - of welcoming all who come to us as if they were guests of the greatest honour. Over the last two weeks, our College community has lived that spirit fully. From the warmth of a Mother’s Day breakfast to the wisdom of women who walked these corridors decades before our current students, and the excitement of performance lighting up our stage - it has been a fortnight that reminds us of what makes this school so extraordinary.
The Good Samaritan Benedictine charism is not simply a philosophy we study in Religious Education classes. It is a living reality - one nurtured by every family who brings their daughter to our gates each morning, every alumni who carries our values into the world, and every member of this community who gives their time, their heart and their presence to this school. This past week has offered us a beautiful glimpse of that community in action.
We were delighted to welcome more than 500 mothers to our annual Mother’s Day Community Breakfast. The Hall was filled not only with the wonderful aromas of a beautiful breakfast, but with laughter, conversation and the unmistakable joy of community.
To all our mothers, grandmothers, aunts, carers and every person who mothers with love and devotion - a very happy (belated) Mother’s Day. You are the heartbeat of our families and the quiet strength behind so much of what our girls achieve. We see you, we appreciate you, and we are so grateful you are part of this community.
One of the most cherished gifts we can offer our Year 7 students is a sense of belonging to something far greater than their own school years. Last week, that gift was given generously and joyfully as a wonderful group of alumni - many of whom travelled from across New South Wales - returned to school over two remarkable days to speak with our youngest students in the MyBennies program.
These women came bearing something no textbook can provide: lived memory. They spoke candidly and generously about the history of our school, about the profound legacy of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan and their enduring influence on our identity and mission. They reminisced about school subjects, friendships forged and kept over decades, memorable excursions, the particular joys - and occasional trials - of school discipline, and the values that have remained constant across generations.
And yes - in the spirit of full transparency that we so admire in our alumni - there were some rather entertaining conversations about how the school uniform was, shall we say, “creatively interpreted” in days gone by. Our Year 7 students listened with wide eyes and knowing smiles. Some things, it seems, never entirely change.
Community events continue this term: the most significant being parents and community members being able to “Follow the Yellow Brick Road” because our biannual College Musical is almost here! We are thrilled to announce that tickets are now on sale for our spectacular production of The Wizard of Oz, featuring a cast of hundreds of our very talented young women. You can purchase your tickets here .
This is one of the great community events in our school calendar - a joyful reminder that the arts thrive when families and friends fill the seats. The energy of a full house is something our performers feel deeply, and it lifts every performance to something truly memorable.
We look forward to welcoming our wider Benedictine family to showcases of student performances. The recent Year 11 Production “The Playhouse” was a great example and played to enthusiastic houses each night. For many of our Year 11 students it was their first public performance and they certainly covered themselves with glory. There is no better way to support our girls than to be present and cheering them on.
Mr Michael Hanratty
Principal
From the Dean of Mission
Over the past fortnight, our students have continued to live out our Benedictine values through acts of compassion, justice, creativity and reconciliation. It has been inspiring to witness so many opportunities where our young women have stepped forward, or as Mr Hanratty has coined, “turned up” with generosity of spirit and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others.
In the lead up to Mother’s Day, students came together to create beautiful handmade cards for their mothers and significant women in their lives. This simple but meaningful activity provided an opportunity for gratitude, reminding us of the importance of acknowledging the love and care offered by others.
Our commitment to social justice was also evident through the recent Social Justice Forum hosted by Brigidine College, St Ives. Mrs Beacroft, Mr van der Meer and I had the privilege of attending the forum with our students, who showed great insight and maturity. Thanks to Mrs Wells for coordinating this important opportunity. The forum brought together Year 10–12 students from a number of schools to engage in thoughtful discussion around contemporary issues such as Stewardship of Creation along with the issues faced by Refugee and First Nations communities. Grounded in Catholic Social Teaching, the forum challenged students to recognise the dignity of every person and encouraged them to become informed and compassionate advocates for justice in our world.
Another wonderful example of service in action was our recent Baking for Vinnies initiative. Under the expert guidance of Mrs Johnson, the students, alongside Mrs Wells and me, worked together to bake over 200 fresh muffins in just an hour and a half. Quite a feat! These were distributed through the Parramatta Vinnies van service. To accompany the baked goods, students also wrote heartfelt notes of encouragement and support for the recipients. The Monday night Vinnies team expressed particular gratitude, as there were no snack packs available that evening. It was a powerful reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a significant impact on the lives of others.
This week, our Year 10 students also participated in the Prophetic Voices program, where they heard from ACRATH - Australian Catholic Religious Against Trafficking in Humans. ACRATH has been a pioneering voice in the Australian Catholic sector since 2005, working tirelessly to eliminate human trafficking and modern slavery both in Australia and globally. Students were shocked and moved to learn that an estimated 41,000 people in Australia are living in conditions that would be classified as modern slavery, with 72% being women and children. The presentation challenged students to consider how awareness, advocacy, and informed action can help protect the dignity and freedom of all people.
Curriculum News
Engineering Excursion
Engineering Excursion
Year 10 and 11 Engineering students visited the UTS Testing Lab to get hands on experience about Material Testing.
They conducted concrete slump tests, watched tensile and compressive tests, witnessed earthquake testing and entered the anechoic chamber.
This was a really worthwhile experience as students were able to see firsthand how materials behave under load.
Mrs Melina Moyes
TAS Faculty Teacher
Year 11 Geography Excursion
Year 11 Geography Excursion
On Friday 8 May, Year 11 Geography students explored the rich and diverse culture of Marrickville, as part of their People, Patterns and Processes unit. Fieldwork is a mandatory component of Geography coursework and helps develop student inquiry into contemporary human and environmental issues.
Through a variety of fieldwork methodologies, students investigated the cultural characteristics of the suburb, including its multicultural community, vibrant food culture, street art, places of worship and local businesses. They examined how migration has shaped Marrickville over time, with waves of people from different cultural backgrounds contributing to the suburb’s unique identity and sense of community. Students also investigated how human wellbeing is reflected in the area through access to community spaces, cultural events, recreation facilities and inclusive public environments. They considered differing perceptions of cultural continuity and change, exploring how Marrickville balances preserving cultural traditions with ongoing urban development and gentrification.
This fieldwork helped students develop a deeper understanding of the significance of creating sustainable urban communities that value cultural diversity, social inclusion and a strong sense of place while adapting to change and future development needs in Australian communities.
Mrs Colleen Burke
HSIE Faculty
From the Dean of Wellbeing
Celebrating Body Positivity: “We Are Not All Meant to Look the Same”
At Mount St Benedict College, we believe that every girl deserves to feel confident and proud of who she is. In a world saturated with images of “ideal” beauty, it’s easy to forget that our bodies are wonderfully diverse - and that’s something to celebrate! The truth is simple: we are not all meant to look the same.
Why Body Positivity Matters
Body positivity is about embracing the uniqueness of our bodies and rejecting unrealistic standards. Research shows that positive body image is linked to higher self-esteem, resilience, and overall wellbeing. For adolescent girls, this is especially important as they navigate social pressures and media influences.
Language for Parents: How to Support Your Daughter
Parents play a vital role in shaping healthy attitudes toward body image. Here are some practical tips:
Wellbeing News
Parent Webinar
Parent Webinar
Wellio free Parent Webinar - Raising Confident and Resilient Kids.
Supporting parents through the challenges of raising children today.
In this session, we explore how parents can:
- Understand the pressures kids face today: Why school, friendships, and social life can feel more intense than ever.
- Spot early signs of belonging and identity struggles: How disconnection and self doubt can show up as anxiety, withdrawal, or resistance to school.
- Build confidence and resilience over time: Practical ways to help children cope, adapt, and feel more capable as they grow.
Wednesday 20 May 6.30pm - 7.30pm, Click here to book
Cocurricular News
The Wizard of Oz - Tickets On Sale Now!
The Wizard of Oz - Tickets On Sale Now!
We are delighted to announce that tickets for this year’s College Musical, The Wizard of Oz, are now officially on sale!
Our talented cast and crew have been working incredibly hard to bring this much-loved classic to life, and it promises to be a truly magical production. We encourage you to bring along family and friends to enjoy the performance and celebrate the incredible efforts of our students.
Tickets are $38 per person.
This year, we are also excited to introduce a new show night dining initiative, with optional pre-ordered Wizard of Oz themed boxed salads prepared by our Senior Hospitality students. Orders must be placed via TryBooking by Thursday 28 May, with meal collection available from one hour prior to each performance. Arrive early, enjoy a meal and refreshments, and make the most of the full show night experience.
Access tickets here.
Don’t miss your chance to follow the yellow brick road with us - we can’t wait to see you there!
College News
Photo Day
Photo Day
A reminder that school photographs are scheduled to be taken by Advanced Life on Wednesday 20 May.
Online Order link: Click here for all photo orders, including sibling photos.
If you are unable to pay online, please collect an envelope for Portrait or Siblings Photos from Student Services. This envelope should be brought to school on Photo Day and given directly to the photographers.
Mount St Benedict College School Photography
Date: Wednesday 20 May 2026
ONLINE ORDER CODE: MFY 5A1 4FR
Online Order link:
Click here for all photo orders.
Orders for packages and sibling photographs can be placed securely online at Advanced Life using our school’s unique 9 digit advanced order code [MFY 5A1 4FR]. Portrait and sibling package orders are due by Tuesday 19 May COB. Orders placed after this date will be charged a late fee by Advanced Life.
Should you wish to purchase a sibling photograph online, the order must be placed no later than the day before Photo Day (Tuesday 20 May). Sibling photographs will only be taken if an order has been placed.
Please note: this is a regular school day and students are required to pack according to their timetable. Students will be advised of the scheduled time for their House group for individual and homeroom photos and must be wearing full winter uniform including blazer. Jumpers and scarves are not to be worn in photos.
Important Information:
A late fee will be applied by Advanced Life to each package purchased after Photo Day due to the additional cost of producing these packages separately.
Photos from previous years including student leadership groups, are available to order under the “previous years or group photo” tabs on your school’s site when you click on the “Order School Photos Here” button. You can also order past packages, portrait images and gifts from your child’s unique, individual and secure advanced you image archive site using the unique nine digit image code found on packages you have ordered in the past.
Photos will be returned to the College for distribution via Homerooms approximately six weeks after photos are taken.
Advanced Life offer a 100% money back guarantee on their products to ensure peace of mind.
Queries:
Should you have any queries concerning school photographs or online ordering, please contact www.advancedlife.com.au/contact.
Queries relating to the schedule of Photo Day can be directed to Michelle Blackman in the College Advancement Team mblackman@msb.nsw.edu.au
Mrs Michelle Blackman
Advancement Team
Upcoming Events
Cocurricular Sport
MSB Swimming Carnival Results
We held our Swimming Carnival back in the early stages of Term One and the winners have remained a well-kept secret until now. This past Thursday, we were thrilled to announce the House winners and Age Champions of the 2026 MSB Swimming Carnival at the College Assembly.
Congratulations to the following Houses and students on their achievements:
Winning House for Participation: Maredsous
Winning House for Competition: Terracina
Overall Winning House: Terracina
Age Champions:
12 years:
Sachie P
13 years:
Onelly R
14 years:
Tessa K
15 years:
Evelyn S
16 years:
Hannah C
17 years +:
Sophia B
MSB Cross Country Carnival Results
The MSB Cross Country was held just over a week ago on the College grounds. It was one of the toughest courses we have seen in quite a few years, and our competitors showed tremendous determination and grit in completing the course.
Thank you to everyone who participated, and a special congratulations to those students who have progressed to compete this week at the CGSSSA Cross Country Championships.
Champion House: Terracina
Age Champions:
12 years:
Rosie A
13 years:
Charli S
14 years:
Charlotte H
15 years:
Hannah R
16 years:
Sophie P
17 years +:
Alice L
Representative Sport
NSWCCC Touch Football Championships/Trials
Last Tuesday and Wednesday, six students represented CGSSSA at the NSWCCC Touch Football Championships.
Amelia B, Claudia M, Elise W, Mia S and Zoe L were members of the Under 15s team, who progressed to the semi-finals before being defeated by Sydney Catholic Schools.
Millie K competed in the Opens team, who went through the entire tournament undefeated, defeating Sydney Catholic Schools 3–1 in the final. Congratulations, Millie, on this outstanding achievement.
Well done to all students who represented the College.
CGSSSA Football (Soccer)
Last week, our Junior (Years 7–9) and Senior (Years 10–12) Representative Football teams competed at the CGSSSA Football Championships, held at the Macquarie University Sports Fields.
Juniors:
Our Junior team had an excellent tournament, progressing through the round games undefeated, with only a draw against Domremy. Finishing first in their pool, they advanced to the semi-finals, where they recorded a 2-1 win over Monte.
In the final, they faced a strong Stella Maris side. The team performed admirably but were narrowly defeated, finishing as runners-up.
Well done to the following students: Rosie A, Savannah C, Olivia D, Ava D, Olivia G, Charlotte G, Chelsea G, Eleanor H, Charlotte H, Sienna M, Chloe R, Hannah R, Emma S, Olivia T and Annabel VH.
Seniors:
Our Senior team also enjoyed a strong tournament, progressing to the semi-finals after finishing second in their pool, with their only loss coming against Loreto Kirribilli.
They secured a hard-fought 2–1 golden goal victory over Stella Maris in the semi-final. With Monte defeating Loreto Kirribilli in the other semi-final, the team entered the final with confidence. Delivering their best performance of the tournament, they dominated possession, created multiple scoring opportunities and claimed a convincing 3–0 victory.
The team will now progress to the NSWCCC knockout stage, where they will compete against other diocesan winners from across NSW in 60-minute matches.
Congratulations to the following students: Zara A, Sophia A, Sienna B, Emelie C, Isabella D, Emily D, Annika F, Yvette F, Emily G, Chloe C, Charlie J, Tahlia M, Scarlett R, Olivia R and Lucy VH.
A special mention to Emily D, our leading goal scorer for the tournament and the only junior in the senior team, an outstanding achievement.
Darren Nosti
Sport Academy Coordinator
