SWIMMING CARNIVAL

Our annual Swimming Carnival was held at Fairfield Pool this year and had all the ingredients of a great day—spirited competition, enthusiastic participation, and plenty of fun. What we didn’t expect was the challenge of grey skies and heavy downpours at times, but in true school spirit, students and staff embraced the conditions, making the most of the day.

With competitors from Years 3 and 4 joining in alongside all students from Years 5 to 12, the carnival featured a mix of serious racing and novelty events and activities. Despite the rain, students showed great determination in the pool, giving their best effort for their houses. On the sidelines, there was no shortage of encouragement, with cheers ringing out from under umbrellas and sheltering gazebos.

Year 12 students added their own flair to the day with their always-popular dress-ups, bringing colour and humour despite the grey skies. Away from the main pool, students rotated through a range of games and water-based activities, ensuring everyone had the chance to be involved.

A huge thank you to Ms. Laskaris and Mrs. Pavlovich for their efforts in organising the day, ensuring everything ran smoothly despite the weather. Thanks also to the staff for their tremendous support and to the students for their energy, participation, and resilience.

It may not have been a picture-perfect summer’s day, but the spirit and enthusiasm on display proved once again why this event is such a highlight of the year.

FRIENDS OF FRANCIS MEETING - 24th February

On Monday night, 24th February, our first Friends of Francis meeting of the year was held. It was a great opportunity to share updates on current events within the College community while also exploring ideas for future social and fundraising activities.

The evening was filled with positive discussion and a strong sense of community, reflecting the generosity and commitment of those who give their time to support the school. Thank you to all who attended—your involvement makes a real difference, and we look forward to seeing these ideas take shape in the months ahead.

I encourage all existing and new parents/carers at the College to attend future meetings across the year.

COLLEGE OPEN NIGHT

Our recent Open Night was a fantastic opportunity to welcome prospective families considering Kindy 2026 and Year 7 in 2026 and 2027. The strong turnout of parents/carers, and extended family members was a testament to the deep interest in our College and the strong bonds within our community.

The feedback from the hundreds of visitors was overwhelmingly positive, with many commenting on the welcoming atmosphere and the clear pride and enthusiasm of both staff and students. It was clear that the sense of connection and commitment within our College was on full display, reinforcing why St Francis Catholic College continues to be a school of choice in the region.

I would like to sincerely thank our staff and students for their efforts—not only on the night but in the lead-up as well. From preparing learning spaces and displays to greeting guests, organising enrolment materials, catering, and ensuring everything was set up beautifully, it was a true team effort. A special thank you also to our Friends of Francis parent volunteers for running the barbeque—your generosity and support added to the welcoming atmosphere and was greatly appreciated by all.

It is through moments like these that we see the strength of our College community. Thank you to everyone who played a part in making the night such a success.