From the Principal: Term 1, Week 9 2026

Dear Mercedes College Families, 

As we come to the conclusion of Term One, I would like to acknowledge the many moments that have brought our Mercy community together in faith, learning and connection. It has been a vibrant, busy, and rewarding term, and I commend all students for their commitment, resilience and engagement across all aspects of College life. 

Over the past fortnight, we have seen our students embrace opportunities that strengthen both relationships and community. Our Year 11 students gathered at Beaumonde on The Point for their Dinner Dance, an evening defined by fun, connection, celebration, and a strong sense of spirit. It was wonderful to hear about the students enjoying time together, whether on the dance floor or sharing quieter moments overlooking the city, marking an important milestone in their senior journey. Thanks is extended to our Head of Year 11 Miss Giuttari and our Year 11 Pastoral Care Team for their support of the students and the event. Similarly, our Year 8 students came together with Trinity College for their social event, participating in a range of activities such as Just Dance, Silent Disco and Team Games. The afternoon provided a valuable opportunity to build friendships and connections across both Colleges, with students engaging with enthusiasm and positivity. Our Head of Year 8, Mr Rathmann and the Year 8 Pastoral Team are appreciated for their work in supervision for the afternoon.  

Our students have continued to represent the College with pride through co-curricular and community experiences. Participation in the Murlpirrmarra Indigenous Tennis and Learning Program provided a meaningful opportunity for students to engage with culture, develop skills and explore future pathways, reflecting the importance of connection, identity and learning beyond the classroom. 

In The Arts, it has been a particularly special time for our Music Program. Our senior ensembles joined Trinity College for a combined performance at the Quarry Amphitheatre in City Beach. It was a beautiful outdoor setting and students shared their musical talents with the wider community. The annual Cabaret Night at His Majesty’s Theatre occurred on Wednesday, where our vocal students performed alongside a professional band in an intimate and engaging venue. These experiences are invaluable in building confidence in real life performance spaces, and showcasing the depth of talent within our College. I extend my sincere thanks to Mrs Waterhouse and the entire Music Department for their exceptional organisation, dedication and support in providing these outstanding opportunities for our students. 

Our student involvement in Sporting pursuits had many highlights over the last couple of weeks, with our students competing in the ACC A Division Swimming Carnival, demonstrating determination, teamwork and pride in representing Mercedes College. It was also wonderful to see our students participate in the ACC Inclusive Swimming Carnival, where the focus on participation, encouragement and shared success created a positive and uplifting experience for all involved. Our Senior ACC Basketball Team made it to the Grand Final on Tuesday this week, whilst they lost the final game, they played with heart and inspired determination. Thank you to our students, the Head of Sport, Mrs Munro, and all supporting staff and coaches for facilitating these wonderful competitions.   

We also celebrate the artistic achievements of our students beyond the classroom. Congratulations to Mathilda on being named a finalist in the Lester Prize for Portraiture Youth Awards, an outstanding accomplishment that reflects both her talent and dedication to her craft. 

As we closed the term, our whole College community came together for two significant and deeply meaningful experiences. The Frog Jog once again provided a wonderful opportunity for students and staff to walk, run and connect as one Mercy community, crossing Matagarup and Boorloo Bridges in a shared celebration of fitness, fun and purpose. With funds raised supporting Mercy Works and Caritas, the event reflected our ongoing commitment to service and making a difference beyond our College. This was followed by our Lenten Liturgy, a reverent and reflective gathering that invited us to pause and consider the journey of Lent.

Through prayer, dramatisations of the Stations of the Cross, alongside the story of the Sisters of Mercy, we were reminded of our enduring story, one grounded in mercy, faith, courage and hope. Mrs Grazia Redolatti, Alumni, former Head Girl, and current parent of Year 12 student Marcella, delivered a powerful and thought-provoking address outlining her inspirations on what it means to be a woman of mercy in the world today. As a community, we were called to carry the many faces of our mercy value forward, recognising that each of us plays a unique role in responding to needs, and continuing our mercy legacy.  

Beyond the classroom, our students continue to demonstrate enthusiasm and teamwork through a range of co-curricular opportunities. Our Inclusive Education students recently participated in the No Limits Netball and Soccer Carnivals, enjoying supportive and welcoming environments where participation, encouragement, and community are experienced. 

There is still much to look forward to as the term draws to a close, including one of our most anticipated community events, the Frog Jog. This much-loved tradition brings students together in a spirit of fun, participation and House pride while supporting important causes through fundraising. 

As we conclude Term One, I thank our students, staff and families for the energy and commitment you all bring to our College. I would like to particularly honour the commitment and contributions of Senior Leader, Director of Community Relations, Mrs Leili Marshall, as she moves on from Mercedes to join a new chapter in supporting her family business. Mrs Marshall will remain connected to our community and I have no doubt that her mercy heart will continue to serve her and others in all her future pursuits.  We also farewell Mr Smith as he was called overseas to tend to a personal matter, and Ms Blessas and Mr Roberts who finish their short term contracts this term.