It is with great sadness that we learnt of the news earlier this week of the passing of Sr Margaret Mines on Saturday 12 June. Sr Margaret was a part of the fabric of Mt St Michael’s College.  

Sr Margaret is one of five children and grew up in Ashgrove. She attended Mt St Michael’s College along with her two sisters, Maureen and Sr Agnus, graduating from the College in 1951. Sr Margaret has three great nieces who are current students of Mt St Michael’s. She was one of the last Sisters to reside in the Convent (the building now known as our Innovation Centre) when the Sisters left the College in 2016. Sr Margaret loved this College and the students and her life is a true example of servant leadership – devoting herself to the service of the poor and the marginalised.  She inspired us when she shared some of her life story with us at the 2018 Mary Aikenhead Day Mass.  Today we thank God for the life of Sr Margaret and thank her for her contributions to MSM and to our world. Sr Margaret will be greatly missed. We hold Sr Margaret, her family and the Sisters of Charity in our thoughts and prayers. 

Congratulations to Meg Harris (Class of 2019) who last night was named in the Tokyo Olympic Swimming Team.  As a “Woman of Commitment” Meg achieved a balance between her studies and her huge swimming program that included being a member of the Australian team.  I would like to thank the many members of staff who supported Meg during her time at MSM.  Well done, Meg, we are so proud of you and will be cheering for you in Tokyo! 

I would also like to extend by congratulations to two students who are achieving amazing things in sport on the world stage.  Congratulations to Hannah Casey who has been competing in the Olympic Swimming Trials in Adelaide. This is a fantastic achievement - we are so proud of you, Hannah!  Zoe Sullivan competed in the Australian Gymnastics’ Championships in May where she won an individual gold medal and the title of The Level 9, National Champion for vault.  Zoe’s vault scores were very impressive.  Congratulations, Zoe! We will watch the progress of both Hannah and Zoe with great interest!

I am aware that we have many students who are excelling in a range of different sporting endeavours. This “aspiration to excellence’ is to be applauded and we recognise the tremendous effort and sometimes great sacrifices that you make. We look forward to continuing to share the success stories of our student’s achievements.

Yesterday, at the Interhouse Athletics Carnival there were many impressive efforts by our potential Olympians of the future. We were blessed with blue skies and a glorious day. Congratulations to all participants. Thank you to Ms Roy and Ms Page for their organisation of the Carnival and to the staff who assisted in running the event and accompanying students on the buses to UQ.

As Term 2 draws to a close, I thank students and staff for a great term.  There has been so much achieved in classrooms and through the various co-curricular activities.  I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday and look forward to seeing everyone next term.
In faith and love,

Sharon Volp
Principal
MSM is excited to announce Dr Michael Carr-Gregg as guest speaker for our Parenting Session on Wednesday 21 July. Dr Michael Carr-Gregg is one of Australia's highest profile child and adolescent psychologists. He will present on the topic of “Raising Happy and Resilient Girls”. This event is free for all MSM parents and caregivers. Tickets are limited and bookings are essential.
Thank you to the MSM community for supporting our Term 2, 2021 College Fees Raffle with proceeds supporting the Sisters of Charity Scholarship Fund. Congratulations to our winner, MSM Alumni, Maria Greenhalgh (nee Alati) - Class of 1977.

Here's what Maria had to say about winning our raffle...
"I can’t believe I won the raffle!! So exciting! The last time I won something was a jar of jellybeans after guessing how many beans were in the jar! haha. It was such a lovely surprise thank you very very much".
Support our Scholarship Fund

Thank you to the many families who have supported our building fund. 

With the end of financial year approaching, you may wish to consider making a tax deductible contribution to the Mt St Michael’s Scholarship Fund, supporting girls and families who would otherwise not have an opportunity to attend Mt St Michael’s College.
Indigenous Reconciliation Liturgy

At our Indigenous Reconciliation Liturgy to conclude Semester One this morning, we celebrated our Indigenous Australians – our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Reconciliation and Christian unity were the underlying themes of our liturgy.

They are the very foundation of genuine unity and require constant effort and a generosity and willingness of heart that enables us to work together for the good of all.

There is also the recognition that reconciliation and healing is needed for all Australians, Indigenous and Non-Indigenous.

We welcomed many special guests to our liturgy, including Elders from the Teralba Park Stolen Generations Support Group. We also welcomed our guest speaker for the morning, Mr Peter Jackson, Co-Chair for Reconciliation Queensland. 

 
Athletics Carnival

Well done to all MSM students who took to the track and field to participate in the annual Interhouse Athletics Carnival. Our students demonstrated grit and determination throughout the day as they competed in their events and college spirit when cheering one another on from the stands.  

After a very close day of competition, Rush House were victorious in claiming the title of 2021 Athletics Champions! 🏆 
Champion of Champions
Annika J.

Sprint Champion
Elli H.
House Points
First Place: Rush
Second Place: Grantuly
Third Place: Stewart
Fourth Place: Aikenhead
Under 12s
Age Champion: Julia B.
Second Place: Freya O’S.
Third Place: Grier E.
 
Under 13s
Age Champion: Izzy C.
Second Place: Emillie S.
Third Place: Lucy D.
 
Under 14s
Age Champion: Annika J.
Second Place: Lily T.
Third Place: Zoe B.
Under 15s
Age Champion: Aspen T. 
Second Place: Elli H.    
Third Place: Imogen M.
 
Under 16s
Age Champion: Jess McG.
Second Place: Scarlett B.
Third Place: Chloe V.
 
19 Years and Under
Age Champion: Claudia L.
Second Place: Ellie B.
Third Place: Charlize C.
Luminous Lantern Parade

MSM Community Action Network groups’ senior representatives, along with staff and family, illuminated the pathways of Southbank at the Luminous Lantern Parade, creating the most heartfelt welcome to new Queenslanders, celebrating hope and diversity. Smiling proudly, MSM students helped lead the parade with their handmade lanterns made from formal school blouses that would otherwise be landfill – a creative collaboration between the second-hand uniform shop, the Environment Group, Social Justice Council, and the Arts. Mt St Michael’s College is proud to continue its long-standing relationship with Multicultural Australia, through being sponsors of this wonderful community event.
MSM's Got Talent

Students showed great support for MSM’s Got Talent. The event raised over $1,200 for Downs and West Community Support while showcasing the talents of students from across the school. Congratulations to our Senior School winner, Emily who entertained the audience with the song, “Blah, Blah, Blah” from the musical, “Nice Work If You Can Get It” and to our Middle School and overall winner, Matilda who wowed attendees with her rendition of “Almost There” from Disney’s “Princess and the Frog”. A huge thanks to all of the performers, the judges and the staff who made this possible.
Overall Winner & Middle School Winner
Matilda
Senior School Winner
Emily
Year 10 Tertiary Pathways Day

On Wednesday, Year 10 students participated in Tertiary Pathways Day. Based on their preferences, students either visited Griffith University and the University of Queensland, or the Australian Catholic University and Queensland University of Technology. Forming part of the careers program, this enabled students to start their research into potential career paths through an immersive experience across two campuses. Students were able to explore some of the resources, speak with current students, and hear about the opportunities each university has to offer. 
REACH - Maths

On Wednesday, the Year 8 cohort completed the online Mathematics REACH assessment. The REACH Mathematics assessment is an online examination conducted by an external provider. It tests general mathematical skills based on the Australian curriculum. Items range from recall and routine application, through to more demanding questions.
 
Since this cohort did not complete the NAPLAN assessment last year due to Covid-19, this REACH assessment allowed students to familiarise themselves with an online testing platform in preparation for next year’s NAPLAN. Further, the results will provide the Mathematics department at Mt St Michael’s College diagnostics of the Year 8 cohort’s ability in each field of Mathematics to assist with the planning of the Curriculum delivery for Semester 2 and Year 9.
 
More information about REACH can be found under the following link: https://www.icasassessments.com/products-reach/.
 
STEAM Day

On Wednesday, our Year 7 students were tasked with a project to design a Year 7 sustainable building, a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) challenge they thoroughly enjoyed. This blended learning environment focusing on real-world applications of problem solving provided a platform to extend many 21st century skills. Students collaborated and effectively communicated in teams to deliver innovative, creative, research-based enterprises that were amazing. The students also demonstrated leadership and flexibility when reflecting and evaluating their final project design.  
 
The Year 7 classrooms were filled with busy laughter  in order to complete their task as the winning homeroom. Our Year 7 students created colourful rooms for mental health, waste hubs, roof top gardens, energy efficient appliances and insulated walls from recycled materials.
 
Ms Volp had the very difficult decision to announce a winning homeroom, congratulations 7B.
Student Vs Teacher Volleyball Match
 
On Tuesday our Sports Captains, Audrey and Ellie, hosted a student vs teacher volleyball match in the Sophia Centre. House points were on the line for students and staff who embraced house spirit and displayed their colours at this event. The student team was made up of “elite” Year 12 volleyballers.  They were beaten convincingly by the teacher team. With no warm up or preparation, our teachers dominated this match in three straight sets!  What a fun way to spend a lunch time! Thanks for organising, Ellie and Audrey.  Congratulations to Aikenhead who once again win the House Spirit points at this event!
*|END:WEB_VIDEO|*
Year 7 Dragonfly Race

Year 7 fundraising for Term 2 culminated with a homeroom race to design the best dragonfly from the coins they have collected over the term. The symbol of a dragonfly recognises the help Downs and West Community Support offers our rural communities in the form of Health and Wellness Retreats. Another fantastic effort from Year 7 who are clearly walking in the footsteps of Mary Aikenhead.
MSM College Community Groups
Parents and Friends Association
Meetings


Monday 7 June - 6pm
Monday 16 August- 6pm
Monday 6 September- 6pm
Monday 8 November (meeting and AGM)- 6pm

For more information about the
MSM Parents and Friends Association,
please click here 

Follow the P&F on Facebook

 
Alumni Association
Meetings


Monday 19 July - 6pm
Monday 23 August- 6pm
Monday 13 September - 6pm
Monday 11 October - 6pm
Monday 29 November - 6pm

For more information about
MSM Alumni Association,
please click here 

Follow our Alumni on Facebook
Alumni Association
*|END:WEB_VIDEO|*
Alumni Success - Sarah Morrison (Class of 2007)

Congratulations to MSM Alumni, Sarah Morrison (Class of 2007) who is currently appearing in the Australian premier company of Come From Away in the role of Janice and Others at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney. Sarah graduated from MSM in 2007, having studied Music, Music Extension and sung in the Choir and MSM Singers, and has had a thriving music and theatre career ever since. The MSM community is very proud of Sarah’s accomplishments. 

Please click on the video below to see Sarah perform with the Come From Away cast at the Australian Open.
P&F Association
P&F Parents' Golf Day

Thank you to the parents and caregivers who attended 2021 P&F Parent’s Golf Day. The day was a great success. Congratulations to the 'closest to the pin' winners, Andrew, Joe and Jason and to the overall winners for the day, Glen, Patrick, Jason and Peter. We extend a special thank you to the P&F for organising the afternoon's activities. We look forward to hosting again in 2022! 
A Message from your 2021 Mothers' Lunch Committee

Calling on the generous spirit of the MSM Community to assist with prize donations and sponsorship of the upcoming MSM Mothers' Lunch on Friday 20 August, 2021. This wonderful event is open to mothers of current MSM students and is a major fundraiser for the College.

If you are a business owner or family that can support this event by donating valuable products and services, we would love to hear from you. The funds raised at the Mothers' Lunch contribute to the Mt St Michael's Sisters of Charity Scholarship Fund, improving the education of young women.

We hope that you are able to contribute to this year's event and appreciate your ongoing involvement in our school community. Please email pandf@msm.qld.edu.au. 
Notices

Supporting our Community -
Ministry Care Programme

Our College is aware that there are students and families within our community who, from time to time, are in need of support due to a variety of factors. As a community, we respond through preparing meals for families experiencing difficult circumstances. If you would like to contribute to the Ministry Care Programme and support those who are going through difficult times, please contact Stephen Campion: scampion@msm.qld.edu.au
Now available on the College APP!
Mt St Michael’s College is pleased to bring to you the MSM Business Directory. Accessed through our website and APP, this online portal, profiles businesses and provides opportunities to connect with the wider MSM community to promote your services, sales and special offers. 

Many business owners profiled in the MSM Business Directory are long-term friends of the College. They include current and past parents, local businesses and alumni who, together show a commitment to Mt St Michael’s College and support for MSM events, fundraisers and initiatives. 

If you would like to be included in the online MSM Business Directory, simply email msmnews@msm.qld.edu.au

For more information please click here
Winter Shopping with Downs and West Community Support
 
Cold weather is coming and we have the answer to keeping warn on those windy, cold days - Downs & West Community Support charity stall!  Yes, we are back again on Tuesday 22nd JUNE to Friday 25TH JUNE at Brookside with a variety of beautiful handcrafted winter woollies including items for sale for children and babies. Our crocheted rugs are amazing. All proceeds go to supporting individuals & farming families in Southern Queensland struggling through the impact of drought, flood, fires and COVID19.

The stall will be at the BROOKSIDE SHOPPING CENTRE, Mitchelton and will be located outside Terry White Chemist and TK Maxx from 8.30am to around 2.30pm except on Friday 25th when we close at 1.30pm.  For any further information please contact Sr Christine Henry, Mobile 0414324682.

For more information about Downs and West Community Support, please click here
St Ignatius Parish’s
Annual Women’s Night of Spirituality

 
With great pleasure, we will be presenting our 15th Annual Women’s Night of Spirituality.
This year’s speakers are FR RICHARD LEONARD SJ, World renowned Author and Speaker & DR DANIELLE ANNE LYNCH, Theologian | Musician | Teacher at Marist College, Ashgrove.
This year, you will need to book to attend this event to be held 
at St Ignatius Church, Kensington Tce, Toowong,
on Wednesday 28th July 
(6pm Dinner | 7.30pm Event),
or view from the comfort of your own home by streaming the event.
 
~ Click here to Book your tickets
~ Live Stream Link: Click here
 
All Welcome.
 
Contact details:
Allison King pw.toowong@bne.catholic.net.au | 3870 7818
2021 Term Dates
Term 1
Wednesday 27 January -
Thursday 1 April (concluding at 3:05 pm)

Term 2
Tuesday 20 April -
Friday 18 June (concluding at 12:30 pm)
Term 3
Tuesday 13 July -
Friday 17 September (concluding at 3:05 pm)

Term 4
Tuesday 5 October -
Friday 19 November
(Year 12 students)

Tuesday 5 October to Friday 26 November
(Years 7-11)  (concluding at 12:30 pm)

Mt St Michael's College Merchandise

Available at the Secondhand Uniform shop
Fabric Tote Bag with words $12
Handtowel $5
Both items for only $15 (save $2)

Fabric Tote Bag also available at The Kaf
Parents are reminded, for the safety of everyone, to DROP students off in the LOADING ZONE area outside the Ionian Centre and avoid areas marked with yellow lines which is against road safety rules. This is dangerous as it blocks other driver’s visibility and obstructs cars from moving around.
Onsite parking in the College grounds; Grantuly, undercover in the Ionian Centre and within the campus near the Sophia Centre is only permitted for staff. In consideration of our neighbours, please refrain from parking across driveways, adhere to the 40 km speed limit and be considerate of those living around the College when dropping and picking up students. Please do not drop off or pick up students within the College grounds.

In consideration for our neighbours, where possible please avoid leaving your motor running, especially when parked outside a home.
Important Links
Copyright © 2021 Mt St Michael's College, All rights reserved.
Mt St Michael's College - MSM News

Our mailing address is:
Mt St Michael's College
67 Elimatta Drive
Ashgrove, QLD 4060
Australia
Add us to your address book
Follow Us On
For archived copies of the Spirit Newsletter
Click here