From the Principal
In my address at the College Assembly, I spoke with our girls about the true significance of sisterhood in a girls' school. But the message is really one for us all, staff, parents, and students alike.
I am reminded of a line from St Matthew’s Gospel which many of us know from praying the “Our Father”:
"Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us."
On the surface, this sounds like good diplomacy. It suggests a kind of truce that spares us the exhausting work of remaining vigilant against every little slight. But there's a deeper layer within these words. Saint Benedict noted, in his wisdom for community life, that letting go of resentment is, above all, a gift we give ourselves.
St Benedict's insight was a generous one. Holding onto a grudge rarely changes anything for the other person. It is not uncommon to discover that they have long forgotten the moment that stayed with us. But choosing to let it go changes everything for us. It is a reminder that is resonant in our year of Pax that this act of letting go frees up space in our hearts and minds for what really matters: friendship, connection, and belonging. That's the real reward of forgiveness because in extending it to others, we also reclaim something for ourselves.
It's a wonderful thing to reflect on together, because it says something important about what our girls call the ‘Bennies Sisterhood’. It isn't about everyone being best friends with everyone else, real sisterhood is bigger and more generous than that. It's a spirit of goodwill that holds our community together. It is the freedom to move between friendship groups, to grow and change, to disagree without it becoming a wound, and to extend warmth to one another simply because we belong to the same community.
That's what makes the kind of relationships that exist at our College something worth celebrating: not a perfect, uniform closeness, but a genuine culture of generosity, respect, and lightness of heart among our girls, and among all of us as a school community. As adults, it's a reminder we can carry into our own friendships and relationships too, not just our daughters'.
You might ask your daughter what sisterhood means to her at school, and where she sees it in action - in the classroom, on the sporting field, or simply in the everyday kindness between friends.
Thank you, as always, for partnering with us in building a community to which we are all proud to belong.
Michael Hanratty
Principal
Mission News
Celebrating Connections With Good Samaritan Foundation House and Community Partners
Celebrating Connections With Good Samaritan Foundation House and Community Partners
We had a wonderful couple of weeks with the opportunity to connect with our Good Samaritan House Partners and Community partners.
Good Samaritan Foundation hosted a Zoom Immersion this week which was attended The Year 10 and Year 11 students who attended were genuinely thankful for the opportunity to connected with stories of where their fundraising efforts go and how, in the spirit of the Sisters, they can help. We had a wonderful Immersion to four Good Samaritan Foundation initiatives: Philippines, Kiribati, Good Sam Inn and the Haven. I encourage you to read Isabelle reflections below.
We also connected with Vinnies and our friends from St Edmund’s College, Wahroonga at the annual Busking for Vinnies event in Parramatta. Our collaboration with St Edmunds College has been a wonderful initiative for both our schools. The students bought great joy to the everyone in Parramatta Square and raised a significant amount of money. In total $1624 was collected, money which will assist Vinnies to support those in need.
We are also delighted, that Year 12 students, Lilah and Carys, will receive the Vinnies Service Bronze Medallion for their involvement in the VSM program in 2025 and 2026. The Vinnies Service Medallion recognises students who have extended their involvement in social justice and community service by contributing to a major Vinnies initiative and an additional practical service activity, such as Busking or the Vinnies Stay Out. This award celebrates the time, effort and compassion they have contributed, as well as developing commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
It is wonderful to see our students making a difference in the live of others.
Our Virtual Immersion with our Good Samaritan sister schools was an amazing and insightful experience, giving us a closer look at the incredible work of the Good Samaritan Foundation. We began by hearing John’s story from Kiribati, who was able to read ‘Pig the Pug’ through donations from Good Samaritan schools like ours. We learnt about the Foundation’s three core programs: education, food security and safe haven. In North Tarawa (Kiribati), the Good Samaritan Sisters’ Early Childhood Centre supports around 70 children each year, while the Bacolod Kinder School in the Philippines provides vital education and disaster support. We also learnt about Good Sams Haven in Melbourne, which supports women and children. It was inspiring to see how our school donations can create such meaningful opportunities and encourage us to live out the Good Samaritan mission.
Isabelle, Year 11.
Kerry Bailey
Dean of Mission
From the Dean of Wellbeing
The Many 'Lasts', and the Enduring Hope of Graduation
As graduation approaches, our Year 12 students find themselves experiencing a season of 'lasts'. The last Assembly, the last Class, the last time wearing the College uniform, the last House event, the last school photograph, the last walk through the gates as a student of Mount St Benedict College after Immy, Sophie and Nehansa ring the bell.
These moments can be bittersweet. For the graduating students, each 'last' is a reminder that an important chapter is drawing to a close. For parents, there is a mixture of pride and nostalgia as they reflect on the remarkable journey from that first day at the College to this significant milestone. For staff, there is the joy of seeing young women ready to step confidently into the next stage of their lives, coupled with the awareness that the relationships formed over many years are about to change.
Cocurricular News
2027 Hellas Greece Cultural Learning Tour Expressions of Interest
2027 Hellas Greece Cultural Learning Tour Expressions of Interest
Please note, an email was sent to all current Year 8, Year 9, Year 10 students with information regarding the 2027 Hellas Greece Cultural Tour expressions of interest this week.
As part of the Mount St Benedict College Global Enrichment Program, we are delighted to offer students the opportunity to participate in the 2027 Hellas Greece Cultural Tour.
The Hellas Greece History Tour has been developed as the next evolution of the College's highly successful European History Tours. Greece provides students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in one of the world's most historically significant civilisations while offering a more affordable alternative to previous tours through Western Europe. Students will explore the foundations of Western civilisation through visits to world-renowned archaeological sites, museums and ancient cities. Beyond its historical significance, the itinerary also includes opportunities to experience traditional Greek culture through local cuisine, cooking experiences, music, dance and authentic cultural interactions. The tour has also been designed to highlight Greece's sporting heritage, including the origins of the Olympic Games, while showcasing the country's spectacular landscapes and geographical diversity. Travel has been planned with student wellbeing in mind, with proposed flight routes via Asia where possible, and students will be accompanied throughout Greece by experienced local licensed guides who provide cultural insight and logistical support.
Eligible Year Groups: open to students who will be in Years 9, 10 and 11 in 2027.
Dates: Sunday 26 September – Friday 8 October 2027
Estimated Cost: $9,900.00* price may change pending on flight variation costs.
Tour Brochure: Academy Travel Brochure, MSB brochure
EOI Form: Expression of Interest - Hellas History Greece Tour 2027 – Fill in form
EOI Due Date: Monday 14th September
We look forward to working with our students and families as we prepare for another exciting year of global learning opportunities.
If you have any further questions please email me: nwalker@msb.nsw.edu.au.
Kind regards,
Mr Nick Walker
Deputy Dean of Cocurricular
Netball Tour of New Zealand, 2027
Netball Tour of New Zealand, 2027
Please find further information about the upcoming Netball Tour to New Zealand during the April 2027 school holidays.
Students of all abilities are encouraged to apply, however, it is recommended that students have some previous Netball experience if they wish to get the most out of the tour.
The New Zealand Netball Tour offers students an exciting opportunity to combine sport, culture and personal growth through an immersive experience across Auckland, Hamilton and Rotorua. Students will participate in high-performance coaching and testing, compete against New Zealand opposition, and experience the country’s unique sporting culture, all while developing their Netball skills in a challenging and supportive environment.
Beyond the court, students will take part in authentic cultural experiences that provide a deeper appreciation of New Zealand’s history, traditions and people. These experiences will encourage students to broaden their global perspective while developing an understanding of the connection between sport, culture and community.
The tour will also provide valuable opportunities for students to develop self-confidence, independence and resilience while building new friendships and strengthening existing ones. Through shared experiences and teamwork, students will develop their communication, cooperation and leadership skills, returning with lasting memories and valuable life experiences.
More detailed information including costs and itineraries, was emailed to families earlier this week. Please read through the information carefully. If you are interested in the NZ Netball Tour, please click the link below to complete the Expression of Interest form.
Mr Darren Nosti
Sport Academy Coordinator
Term Four Social Sports and Physical Activity Registrations are OPEN!
Term Four Social Sports and Physical Activity Registrations are OPEN!
Term Four Social Sport and Physical Activity registrations are now OPEN on Clipboard!
Next term, the Academy of Sport will have the following programs on offer:
Social Sport:
🏓 Racquet Sports (Friday Afternoons) - social games of racquet sports including Badminton, Table Tennis and Pickleball at school on Friday afternoons, one sport will be played each week. No previous experience or skill level is required to participate.
Physical Activity:
🥊 Self-Defence (Wednesday afternoons) - learn Self-Defence strategies at school on Wednesday afternoons, no previous experience or skill level is required to participate.
🏋️♀️ Bennies Fitness Centre (Monday, Wednesday, Friday AM/PM) - Now also open to Year 9 students: Improve or maintain your fitness under the supervision of our certified Strength and Conditioning Coach. Available for Years 9,10 and 11 students.
Detailed information is available on Clipboard, which is also where your parents/guardians can complete your registration. If you are interested in participating, please speak with them and ask them to register you.
For enquiries regarding Social Sport or Physical Activity programs, please contact Mrs Trofa.
Registrations close Friday 4 September.
Upcoming Events
Representative Sport
CGSSSA ATHLETICS:
On Friday, August 14, our track and field athletes delivered a spectacular showing at the CGSSSA Athletics Carnival at Sydney Olympic Park Athletic Centre (SOPAC). Displaying incredible sportsmanship, and true Benedictine spirit, the squad secured an impressive collection of podium finishes across track, field, and relay events.
From explosive sprint victories to powerhouse field throws, our students pushed their limits against top competition from across the association.
College News
Jersey Day Friday 4 September
Jersey Day Friday 4 September
Jersey Day has been inspired by the story of 13 year old Nathan Gremmo, who tragically lost his life in an accident in 2015. Nathan's family chose to give the gift of life to others through organ donation to honour the legacy of Nathan's generous personality.
Each Jersey Day schools and workplaces across Australia ask students and employees to wear their favourite sporting jersey to school or work to encourage conversations with family.
On Friday 4 September, students and staff are encouraged to wear their favourite sporting jersey to school and begin the conversation with their family and friends about the importance of becoming an organ and tissue donor.
Students may wear a jersey or sports top along with a pair of jeans or pants. These clothes may we worn to and from school.
Appropriate footwear must be worn, students with a practical PDHPE lesson MUST be able to participate or will need to bring PDHPE uniform to change into.
All other uniform expectations remain the same regarding hair, makeup, jewellery, nail polish etc.
Students will have an opportunity during Homeroom to complete some activities and learn more about this important topic.
Emily Visnjic
Wellbeing Team
Student Attendance Procedure - Sentral Parent Portal
Student Attendance Procedure - Sentral Parent Portal
If students are going to be absent from school, parents should inform the College via Sentral, in the College's Parent Portal by 8am, so we know if a student does not attend her first lesson that she is safe and cared for.
The former SMS number is being phased out and should no longer be used.
All leave, including sick leave, should be applied for via the College's Parent Portal in Sentral:
Login to the BenniesLink and click on the Sentral tile, or, go directly to the Sentral Parent Portal
Within Sentral select the Absences button from the main menu on the left-hand side.
• Select Submit a Future Absence Request (green box).
• Complete the relevant fields and submit the request. Medical Certificates can also be uploaded here.
If your daughter will be arriving late or leaving early, then select the whole day absence but note the partial absence in the comments section, noting that appointments should be made out of school hours, where possible, to ensure continuity of learning.
Thank you for your assistance in our management of accurate student attendance records.
Advanced Life Group Photos "Extra Security Step for your Privacy"
Advanced Life Group Photos "Extra Security Step for your Privacy"
The following group photos were taken this year.
- Mission Captains
- Faculty Captains
- House Captains
- College Captain and Vice Captains
- Portfolios - Sport, Learning, SRC, Culture and Arts, Stewardship, Hospitality and Social Justice.
- Year 12 Group and Fun photo
- Homeroom photos
Please note that whilst you are not able to preview images in the ordering portal, all purchases are fully refundable for a period of 21 days.
Order your group photos here [use the code to login MFY 5A1 4FR]
Advance Life Group Photo Orders [Change on how to order these photos ]
Order online before 31 October 2026 and pay just $16 per print (saving a minimum of 20%).
After this date, prices will revert to the standard $20–$25 per print.
How to Order
Step 1: Create or Log in to Your Account
Visit the advancedlife website and select Login to create an account or sign in.
Step 2: Add Your Child [if first time user]
Once logged in:
• Select My Account
• Click + Add a Child
• Enter your school code: MFY 5A1 4FR
• Enter your child's details exactly as they appear on their photo pack
Step 3: Verify Your Child
Select Add Unique Code and enter the 9-digit SIC code located on the back page of your child's photo pack. This unique code remains the same each year and serves as a secure method of verifying your child's profile. If you no longer have access to the code, you can request it through your school, which acts as an authorised intermediary between advancedlife and parents or guardians for authentication purposes.
You may need to refresh your browser after verification.
If the profile remains greyed out:
• Select Edit Child
• Confirm your child's name, date of birth, and/or student ID match the details shown on the photo pack
Step 4: Access Your Child's Profile
Once verified:
• Select View & Re-Order under your child's profile
Step 5: View Available Group Photos
Scroll down within your child's profile to view all sports and co-curricular groups associated with your child that are currently available to purchase.
Please note that any additional teams or groups photographed later in the year will appear once they become available.
Important
Group photos can only be purchased online. PLEASE DO NOT return payment to your school.
Photos will be returned to your school for distribution approximately six weeks after the discounted early order period has closed.
Past years' photographs, including sports, cocurricular and representative groups are also available at your school's advanced order and your child's advanced you photo sites.
If you have any questions, comments or feedback relating to your advancedlife experience, please contact us at www.advancedlife.com.au/contact
Library Newsletter
Library Newsletter
The latest Library Newsletter is out now. The top story is still the mystery of Mrs Shiels' missing copy of Anne of Green Gables. The evidence is piling up! Can you help solve the case? Have your guesses in by Friday 28 August. Also inside: student writing, new books, featured author, and genre of the week.
Ami Seymour
Librarian
College Shop
Tote bags
Tote bags
The College shop now has College tote bags available for purchase for $6.
They can be purchased directly at the College Shop or via Flexischools.
Woollen Jumpers Sale
Woollen Jumpers Sale
The College woollen jumpers are now available at the discounted price of $50 (previously $78) as we are no longer stocking the woollen fabrication.
Limited sizes are available, so please visit the College Shop to try on a jumper or check Flexischools for available sizes.
Please note that all discounted jumpers are final sale and cannot be returned or exchanged, please try on before purchasing.
Mrs Cheng
Uniform Shop Manager
