Welcome to the 2026 College year! I always love the buzz that is generated with the arrival of students on campus. As we commence 2026, we welcome our second cohort of Year 5 students (the Class of 2033) and our Year 7 students (the Class of 2031) and the new students in other year levels and their families. Our Year 5 – 12 College is also now complete with our first cohort of Year 6 students (our foundation Year 5 classes).
This year, our College value is Justice and our is theme Act Justly, Love Tenderly, Serve Courageously which invites every one of us, no matter our age, our year level, or our talents, to shape a world where justice is lived, tenderness is shared, and courage is exercised for the good of others. It is a theme rooted in Scripture, inspired by the charism of the Sisters of Charity, and made real through the way we choose to treat one another each day.
At our Opening Assembly last week, I shared a reflection on Katherine Bennell‑Pegg, the 2026 Australian of the Year. I have been quite intrigued about Katherine’s story as Australia’s first qualified female astronaut. She is an incredible role model for our young women. In her interview, she has shared that when asked as a young student to list three future careers, she wrote only one word: astronaut. Many might have said this dream was too big, too unrealistic, too far out of reach, but she held firm. Her story invites every student to recognise that your dreams, too, are worthy. Whether you are beginning Year 5 or stepping into your final year of schooling in Year 12, the world needs your curiosity, your passion, and your courage.
Katherine also spoke of the “overview effect”; the way astronauts describe seeing Earth from space without borders, barriers, or divisions. She says, “From above, you see only a fragile shared home… and the powerful truth that we are all in this together.” This insight resonates beautifully with our Catholic identity and our 2026 theme.
To Act Justly means to make choices that uplift others, even in quiet ways. To Love Tenderly means to treat every person with dignity, patience, and kindness. And to Serve Courageously means stepping forward when someone needs you, even when it is difficult or inconvenient.
Just as Katherine sees Earth more clearly from space, we are called to see each other more clearly here on Earth—in our classrooms, on our sports fields, on the stage, in our grounds and in our community.
Just as astronauts rely on their training, their teams, and their values, so too do we rely on one another. This year, our community will work together in faith and love to build a place where every student feels seen, supported, and encouraged to reach for the stars, whatever “space mission” your life may hold.
Staffing Updates
I would also like to extend a warm welcome to our new staff members:
- Michelle Gyde (Business Manager and Company Secretary)
- Joanna Belich (Program Leader - Career Pathways)
- Clayton Kelly (Program Leader – Service Learning)
- Bernadette Ryan (Drama and Mathematics)
- Samantha Weston (Year 5 Teacher)
- Monique Wild (Year 6 Teacher)
- Teena Christofis (Business and Religion)
- Caitlin Edwards (English and Humanities)
- Allison Blake (English and Humanities)
- Jane de Git (Religion and Humanities)
- Christopher Tone (Facilities Manager)
- Leah McGahan (Student Wellbeing Reception)
- Georgina Peel (Sports Assistant)
- Charlotte Christie (Learning Assistant)
- Hannah Carden (Administration Officer – The Arts)
We also have several staff members on long service leave during Term 1. Congratulations to Megan Paterson who has been appointed as Acting Director of The Arts while Linda Statham is on long service leave. I also congratulate Jess Garrahy who has been appointed Acting Curriculum Leader – Religious Education while Ellen Bow is on long service leave. Vivienne Peut is supporting our staff and students as the Science Laboratory Technician replacing Lorrae Broadley and Sarah Noonan is supporting our staff in Nicky Romeo’s position of Administration – Teacher Services.
I also congratulate Jane Tesch who has been appointed as Sports Coordinator, a new position in the Sports Department. Laura Danby has resigned from her position as Administration Officer – The Arts and has moved into a music teaching role.
We also welcome back Sherry Mulligan (Physical Education and Religious Education Teacher) from her long service leave. We also welcome back Jeni Emblem who is teaching in the Science department and Carmel Hickey who is teaching in the Science and Maths departments.
Sadly, over the holidays we received resignations from these staff members:
- Dom Cawood – Mathematics and Science Teacher who will be finishing her time with us next week.
- Dylan Koning – Humanities and Religious Education Teacher
- Rebecca Valmadre – English Teacher
- Irena Haze – Learning Assistant
- Kirrily Gofton – Marketing Officer - Digital and Design.
We thank them for their valued contributions to MSM and wish them all the best for the future.
I wish all members of our community a wonderful 2026!
In Faith and Love
Sharon Volp
We look forward to welcoming our Year 7 students and their fathers for this much-loved tradition. Bookings for this event have now closed.
We look forward to celebrating at our 2026 International Women’s Day High Tea on Sunday 8 March from 2pm to 4pm in the beautiful Marquee at Victoria Park. Join us for an elegant afternoon featuring a delicious high tea service. Guests will be welcomed with a glass of sparkling (for parents) or a soft drink (for students), with a variety of juice, tea, and coffee available throughout. Limited tickets remain for this not to be missed event!!
The commencement of a new school year is always a special and exciting time. It brings the joy of reconnecting with friends and staff across our MSM community, as well as the opportunity to welcome new families into the life of the College. I extend a very warm welcome to all students and families joining us in 2026. Regardless of year level, I know that each new student will be embraced with kindness and care as they settle into our community.
BRAINways QUEST Competition
Over the Christmas holiday period, our Gifted and Talented students represented MSM at the BRAINways QUEST National Finals. Congratulations to Alice A, Gianna R and Elakkiya S, who approached the competition with impressive preparation, enthusiasm and determination. Their achievements were outstanding: first place in Humanities, third place in Science, fourth place in Mathematics and Overall 3rd place in Australia. We are immensely proud of these exceptional results. Thank you to Ms O’Neill, whose dedication and support were instrumental in guiding and preparing our students throughout this journey.
Next week, we will come together to celebrate and acknowledge our 2025 graduates at the annual Principal’s Honours Assembly. Hearing our graduates reflect on their journeys and offer advice to our current students is always a highlight and a powerful reminder of the many pathways and possibilities available at MSM.
Co-curricular activities are now well and truly underway and are communicated to students through daily notices. I strongly encourage all students to get involved and try something new. These experiences play an important role in building confidence, friendships, resilience and a sense of belonging.
I extend my very best wishes to all members of our community for a positive and successful Term 1. I look forward to connecting with you throughout the term and meeting many of you at our upcoming College events.
Our College theme for 2026, inspired by the writings of the Prophet Micah, is "Act Justly, Love Tenderly, Serve Courageously". As people of justice, and people called to continue the work of the Sisters of Charity, the poor and forgotten are especially close to us. We accompany them on their journey, empower them to speak, and we listen deeply with tender hearts. To adopt a mindset of loving justice is a countercultural thing, but it is desperately needed in our world, as it was in Jesus' time and in Mary Aikenhead's.
As we journey through this special year of Justice, MSM has partnered with Emmanuel City Mission to develop a special year-long fundraising & advocacy project. ECM is a ministry that supports people experiencing homelessness. At their headquarters in Peel St South Brisbane, they welcome more than 300 visitors every day, providing a day sanctuary space where visitors can access showers, laundry facilities, nutritious meals and medical care in a safe and supportive place. In late 2025, ECM also opened a night sanctuary, providing 40 safe beds for people needing a place to sleep. The team at ECM are humble and caring, and are totally committed to their mission to serve the poor. It is a very special place.
We have named our project "Safe Haven" because that is what ECM is: a sanctuary for some of Brisbane's most vulnerable people. Across the year, MSM has committed to raising at least $15,000 to allow ECM to purchase a new multi-cooking catering oven. The current oven, which produces more than 1000 hot meals a week, is currently being held together with electrical tape and hope! Our contribution will ensure that ECM can continue to provide the dignity of a hot meal to their visitors.
We will also have the opportunity for some of our Year 10 and 12 students to visit ECM as part of a new service learning program. We will provide more information in the coming weeks.
I am delighted to welcome Mr Clayton Kelly to MSM. Mr Kelly has been appointed to the newly created role of Program Leader Service Learning.
Mr Kelly has a deep passion for service work and brings many years of experience working in this sector to this role. He will work closely with me, and lead our CAN service learning program and Community Service and Outreach Programs. We look forward to our offerings expanding over the coming years.
If you have any questions about your daughter's participation in CAN or Service programs, you are most welcome to contact Mr Kelly.
Opening Eucharist
Our academic year formally commenced with a beautiful Opening Eucharist, presided over by Fr Gerry Kalinowski (PP Jubilee Parish).
Mindful of our theme for the year, a small tent was set up in front of the Altar, and when the offertory gifts were brought forward, they were brought forward from that tent. The granddaughter of Catholic Social Activist Dorothy Day once said: "always remember, the Eucharist lives in the poor."
As part of this Mass we blessed and commissioned our Year 12 students and presented them with their senior badges. May God bless them on their journey.
Welcome to 2026
We’ve had a truly positive beginning to the 2026 school year. Last Wednesday, our Year 12 students and staff warmly welcomed our newest families as their daughters in Years 5 and 7 arrived for their first day. The smiles were abundant, and I’m pleased to share there were only a few tears—mostly from proud parents as they waved their children off for the start of this exciting new chapter.
A standout moment was the official MSM Welcome Assembly. Our Year 5 and 7 students were met with cheers as they made their way through a guard of honour into the Sophia Centre—an uplifting and memorable sight. This special tradition marks the beginning of each girl’s journey at MSM and remains an integral experience as we enter our 101st year.
House and MSM Pride at The Valley Pool
On Tuesday, our community came together to celebrate the House spirit and College pride that make the MSM Swimming Carnival such a highlight. The atmosphere was vibrant, with students embracing the theme through creative costumes—everything from inflatable sumo suits to blinged out rappers. Staff also joined the fun with bright Hawaiian shirts, and tutus once again made a joyful appearance across the pool deck. Our House Captains, supported by the Year 12 cohort, led the way with enthusiastic cheering and spirited war cries that echoed throughout the day.
Our swimmers demonstrated determination and skill, with their dedication to training evident in every race. The quiet hum of encouragement from peers helped propel competitors from the starting blocks to the finish. Mrs Roy currently holds the official results, and the whole community is eagerly anticipating the announcement of age champions, record achievements, and of course—this year’s winning House.
No MSM swimming carnival would feel complete without the iconic Year 12 performance, and this year’s seniors certainly delivered. Even a few musical hiccups couldn’t deter them; their polished choreography and confident vocals, kept the crowd captivated. A heartfelt thank you goes to the House Captains, Year 12 students, their Homeroom teachers, and Mrs Brydon for producing such an entertaining and beautifully rehearsed finale.
I would also like to commend our older students for the way they encouraged and guided the younger girls throughout the day, modelling the spirit of pride and support that defines MSM.
A sincere thank you to Mrs Roy, Ms Tesch, and all staff who worked tirelessly to organise, supervise, and uplift our students during this thoroughly enjoyable celebration of College community.
MSM Expectations – Friendly Reminders
- In an effort to support our students to create healthy social habits, all mobile phones are to be placed in lockers from 8:30am – 3pm. Mobile phones are not allowed to be used for payments at the Kaf.
- All students are to wear their formal uniform, including the College bag and hat, to and from the College each day.
- No false eyelashes, nails or make up to be worn.
- No helixes, multiple ear piercings, or nose piercings. If ‘clears’ are visible, students will be asked to remove them. Should students present with an infringement they cannot correct on the spot, they will be sent home to have the issue rectified.
- Laptops MUST be carried in laptop bags at all times.
The digital space remains a constant source of concerns regarding the wellbeing of our students in terms of their relationships, engagement with inappropriate content and exposure to a world they are simple not prepared for. To this end, I implore you as parents, to engage with the monitoring system provided by the College. We are working tirelessly to protect our girls here at school, however they need your support beyond the College gates. Please see the information provided by Mr John Hamilton to set Qustodio up and protect your daughter online.
Qustodio allows you to link both your daughter’s school-provided laptop and one additional personal device (such as a phone, iPad, or Kindle). It provides valuable insights into her online activity and gives you access to tools that promote positive digital behaviours.
With the Qustodio parent app, you'll have the ability to apply:
- Content Filtering – Control which websites and content categories your daughter can access.
- Custom Schedules – Set tailored rules for different times of the day, such as Homework or Bedtime.
- Internet Pause – Temporarily turn off internet access on the school device outside of school hours.
- Comprehensive Activity Reports – Gain insights into your daughter’s online behaviour to allow you to have informed conversations.
- Expert Online Safety Advice – Receive guidance from professionals to support your child’s digital wellbeing
Parent Lounge - Update My Details
As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping every student safe and supported and to ensure we can communicate with you promptly, we kindly ask you take a few moments to review and update your current contact information. Please ensure the following details are correct:
- Parent/caregiver names
- Home address
- Phone numbers (mobile and landline, if applicable)
- Email addresses
- Emergency contacts and their relationship to your child
College Photos
A reminder to order your daughter’s College photos following the instructions below:
Visit: www.advancedlife.com.au
And enter online order code: H68 9QH LZK
School photography information:
- Online orders - do not require an envelope returned to your school
- Late fees - a late fee will be applied to each package purchased more than 7 days after photo day due to the additional cost of producing these packages separately
- Package delivery - School photographs will be returned approximately 6 weeks after the day of photography. Please note this delivery timeframe is dependent on proofing and additional photography days at your school.
- Previous Years’ photos - Past years’ photographs including sports, co-curricular and representative groups are also available to order under the 'previous years or group photo' tabs at your school’s advancedorder site when you click on the 'Order School Photos Here' button above. You can also order past packages, portrait images and gifts from your child’s unique, individual and secure advancedyou image archive site using the unique 9 digit image code found on packages you have ordered in the past.
Buses – Tap and Go
Please ensure that your daughter’s GoCard is topped up and ready for use on buses to and from the College. Unfortunately, staff have already been alerted to the disappointing news that numerous MSM students are not tapping on and off when using public transport. Please remind your daughters of the importance of being organised and honest when catching the bus or train.
As we commence the new academic year of 2026, I would like to extend a heartfelt welcome to all students returning to the College, as well as a warm welcome to our new Year 5 and 7 students and those who have joined us in 2026. We are excited to have you as part of our MSM community.
Each year brings with it a wealth of new opportunities, challenges, and the potential for remarkable achievements. As we embark on 2026, let's embrace these possibilities with open minds and determined spirits. At MSM, our dedicated teachers are committed to delivering high-quality education and fostering a supportive community where students can truly thrive.
I encourage all students to actively engage in your classes, seek help whenever needed, and collaborate with your peers. By participating fully in your education, you will not only enhance your own learning experience but also contribute to the vibrant and dynamic community that MSM is known for.
Looking ahead to 2026, we are filled with hope and anticipation. This is a time for growth, exploration, and discovery. Let us make the most of every opportunity and support one another in our journey towards academic and personal excellence.
Elevate Education - Parent Webinar Series
Elevate Education provide a series of parent webinars to help parents support your child through school. Upcoming Parent Webinars in Term 1 include:
February 11, 5:30-6:30pm (AEST)
How You Can Help Your Child Manage Their Time
February 25, 5:30-6:30pm (AEST)
How You Can Make Technology an Ally
(& Not the Enemy!)
March 11, 5:30-6:30pm (AEST)
How You Can Help Improve Your Child's Memory
March 25, 5:30-6:30pm (AEST).
Click here for further details or to register.
It has been a wonderful start to the year in our Junior School! Our Year 5 and 6 students have settled in beautifully, and we are already seeing the beginnings of strong friendships, confident learning and positive leadership emerging across the Junior School.
A highlight of the first day for Year 5 was the College Welcome Assembly, where they were honoured with a warm and enthusiastic Guard of Honour by the Year 12 cohort. This significant tradition helps our newest students feel seen, supported and embraced by the wider College community. On the first day of school, our Year 5 cohort also had the joy of meeting their Year 9 Big Sisters – an important connection point for our girls as they begin their Mt St Michael’s journey.
Our Year 6 leadership process is also underway. At our Year 6 Assembly this week, we impressed on the students that every student in Year 6 is recognised as a leader. We emphasise this message because leadership, in its truest form, is not defined just by titles but by the way we act, speak and treat others each day. For students who have been interested in nominating for a formal Class Captain or MSM Cares Leader role, it has been heartening to see them reflect on their leadership qualities with maturity, courage and integrity.
We congratulate our Junior School students on their enthusiastic participation in the MSM Swimming Carnival this week. We extend our very best wishes to the Year 5 and 6 students on the MSM Swim Team who will be attending Swim Camp on Sunday.
Thank you to all families who joined us for our Parent Information Sessions on Monday. These sessions are a valuable opportunity for parents to connect with class teachers, understand expectations for the year ahead and learn how we can work together to support each student’s learning and wellbeing. You would have received communication on Thursday about booking a Term 1 Parent-Teacher Conference with your child’s teacher.
I wish all Junior School families a successful and joyful 2026!
Katie Jordan
Head of Junior School
Our auditorium buzzed with excitement as our new Year 7 students were presented with their laptops by the Computer Services team. These devices will support them not only in classwork but also in staying connected, managing their timetables, and keeping their school life running smoothly. We have no doubt our Year 7 students will become true digital citizens throughout their time here at MSM.
Excited Year 5 students received their school laptops and an informative training session from Mr John Hamilton, our Director of Innovation and Technology. We loved watching their faces light up as they began to explore their new resource and discover all the ways it could help them learn. A big step in their digital journey.
Our enthusiastic Year 7 students received a warm welcome from our four house captains, each proudly presented with their house badge, ribbon, and a swimming cap in their house colours. Excitement was in the air as our newest students selected their swimming events for the Inter-house Swimming Carnival and got their first taste of MSM house spirit!
The library continues to be a hive of activity during lunchtime, filled with conversation, collaboration, and curiosity. After 3.00pm, the space transitions into a calm and quiet environment, ideal for focused study and reflection.
There are many exciting events to look forward to this year, including National Simultaneous Storytime and Book Week. Next week, we will also celebrate Queensland School Library Week and ALIA’s Library Lovers’ Day, two occasions that highlight the important role libraries play in supporting learning, imagination and community.
QLD School Library Week Artwork Competition
Each year, the Queensland School Library Association hosts an artwork and photography competition inspired by the annual theme. This year’s theme is School Libraries ‘light the way’. Students are invited to submit an artwork or photograph that reflects this theme by Monday 23 February. We look forward to seeing the creativity and talent of our MSM students.
Library Lovers’ Day Competition
What book or book series do you love? That is the question we are asking MSM students this week. Visit the library to submit your response and go into the draw to win a sweet prize to share with a friend. The winner will be announced on Thursday 12 February.
We look forward to another year of learning, creativity, and connection in the MSM Library. We warmly invite all students to make the library their space. Whether to read, study, create, or simply enjoy the joy of books.
Ms Archard
Program Leader - Library and Information Services
Our Light the Way legacy wall illuminates our valued donors who are assisting us to light the way for future generations of MSM students through the enhancement of new educational facilities.
Find out more about securing a permanent spot on our Light the Way Legacy Wall by visiting our College website.
Unpacking NAPLAN - A FREE Webinar for Parents
The Queensland Joint Parent Committee is hosting a free, live webinar Unpacking NAPLAN: A Webinar for Parents on Monday 9 February 1pm-2pm. MSM Parents and Caregivers are encouraged to join online.
Support the MSM Environment Group by donating your eligible containers! Bring your containers to school or use our scheme ID when returning to your local depot. Your donations will go towards funding our current and future environmental initiatives.
Mt St Michael's College scheme ID: C10333591
67 Elimatta Drive
Ashgrove, QLD 4060
Australia
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