Dear Mercedes College Families
Over the past fortnight it has been wonderful to see the engagement and enthusiasm of our students who continue to embrace a multitude of experiences, representing our College with confidence, commitment and pride.
Our First Nations students were warmly welcomed by Trinity College to participate in their NAIDOC Assembly on Friday 31 July. Joining Trinity students in a cultural dance performance provided an opportunity to share culture, celebrate together and strengthen connections between our communities.
Students from McAuley, Serisier and Wright Houses also gathered for their House Liturgies, spending time in prayer, reflection and gratitude. I thank our House Leaders for creating opportunities for students to pause and reflect on the importance of faith, compassion and service. Week 4 saw the College celebrate Languages Week, with students embracing French and Italian language and culture through a variety of activities. Loto and Tombola, a French and Italian-themed photobooth, Just Dance, Bocce and Pétanque, along with visits from a crêpe van and gelato cart, brought language learning to life and encouraged students to engage with different cultures in a fun and practical way.
HASS Week has provided students with opportunities to celebrate learning across the Humanities and Social Sciences. Activities commenced with the annual HASS Quiz in honour of Mrs Swee Johns, and we were pleased to welcome Dr Katie Thiveos and 12 final-year ECU Education Students to Mercedes College as they explored the teaching profession.
Congratulations to all students who participated in this year’s Australian Mathematics Competition. By tackling a series of mathematical reasoning and problem-solving challenges, students demonstrated their willingness to engage with complex problems and extend their thinking.
Five Year 10 students travelled to Melbourne to represent Mercedes College in Debating at the inaugural Frayne Writers Festival alongside students from other Mercy Education Colleges. The team won their opening debate before narrowly missing a place in the next round against the eventual competition winners. I congratulate the students on both their debating achievements and the confident and respectful manner in which they represented the College.
At the All Schools State Rowing Championships at Champion Lakes, students competed admirably in difficult conditions and secured four podium finishes. Our Junior League Volleyball season concluded, with five teams competing throughout the term. Congratulations to all students who participated, and to those who progressed through to the finals.
Our Elite Dancers enjoyed outstanding success at the School to Stage competition. The Senior Elite Lyrical team placed first, Senior Elite Jazz placed second and Junior Elite Jazz placed third, while the Year 11 Trio also secured first place. These achievements reflect the dedication and commitment of our dancers and coaches.
At our recent whole-school Assembly, students who received five or more commendations in Term 2 were recognised for their consistent effort and commitment. We also celebrated participants in the annual Music Eisteddfod and enjoyed a preview of our upcoming production of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast: The Broadway Musical. With opening night now only two weeks away, excitement continues to build across the College. I encourage families and friends to support our students by securing tickets through Ticketek.
We were delighted to welcome back Paul Dillon from Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia this week, who presented to our Year 10, 11 and 12 students. Using practical and engaging sessions, Paul encouraged students to make informed decisions about alcohol and other drugs. His ongoing partnership with Mercedes College continues to provide valuable support for our students.
Our Crazy SOCKer Day was another wonderful expression of our Mercy values in action. Students and staff wore colourful socks while supporting The Big Issue Street Soccer Program through donations of new sports socks. A Staff versus Student Soccer Match also raised funds for Mercy Works Cambodia and the provision of sporting equipment for children. It was a positive reminder that small acts of generosity can make a meaningful difference.
Beyond the classroom, our Year 7 students enjoyed their annual Barn Dance Social with Trinity College. The evening provided opportunities for students to learn new dances, share a meal and continue building connections with their Trinity cohort in a fun and welcoming environment.
There is much to anticipate across our College community in the coming weeks. Alongside the excitement of Beauty and the Beast, our Parents and Friends Association is preparing for the 2026 Bogan Bingo fundraiser on Saturday 29 August. I encourage our parents and friends to gather a table, embrace the theme and join us for what promises to be an enjoyable evening while supporting the important fundraising work of our P&F.
It continues to be a privilege to witness the breadth of opportunities available to our students and the way they engage with each experience. Thank you to our staff for their care, expertise and generosity, and to our families for your ongoing support. I look forward to the exciting weeks ahead.
Warm regards
Dr Lucie McCrory
PRINCIPAL
Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD)
All Australian governments implement an annual national data collection on school students with disability. This data collection does not apply just to students with an identified disability, but for all students in the College community that receive learning adjustments. Please click here for detailed information on NCCD.
Parent Code of Conduct
Our Parent Code of Conduct helps us identify how we interact and engage in partnership whilst keeping the best interests of students at the centre of our decision-making and care. Details of which can be found by clicking HERE.
