As we reach the conclusion of Term 2, we find ourselves in what is always a significant and demanding period of the College year. Across the College, students are engaged in assessment, demonstrating not only their academic learning, but also their resilience, commitment and growth. It is a time that calls for focus and perseverance, and I commend our students for the way they have approached these challenges with determination and a positive mindset.
I would also like to acknowledge the dedication of our staff, who guide and support our students through this busy period with professionalism and care. Their commitment ensures that each student is challenged, encouraged and nurtured in their learning journey.
I would especially like to thank and acknowledge our non-teaching staff. On Wednesday we celebrated School Officers Day. Our School Officers are the quiet strength behind so much of what we do each day. In their many and varied roles across administration, learning support, grounds and maintenance, IT, library services, marketing, sport, science laboratory technicians, the Kaf staff and support in the areas of Science, Design Technology, The Arts and Physical Education they ensure that our College runs smoothly, efficiently, and with care.
What is most striking, however, is not just what they do, but how they do it. They embody our values of hope, love, justice and compassion in countless ways. Through their patient support of students, their willingness to go above and beyond, and their attentiveness to the needs of others. Their work often happens behind the scenes, yet its impact is felt in every classroom, every office, and every corner of the College. Their service is a powerful reminder that every role in our College contributes to our shared mission.
On behalf of our entire community, I extend my sincere thanks to our School Officers. We are deeply grateful for your dedication, your professionalism and the generosity of spirit you bring to Mt St Michael’s College each and every day.
As we look ahead to the holiday break, I encourage our students and staff to take time to rest, reflect on their achievements, and be proud of the effort they have invested throughout Term 2.
In Faith and Love
Sharon Volp
We look forward to hosting the event on Friday 21 August from 11:30am – 3:30pm in The Podium Ballroom, Rydges Southbank. Your ticket includes a two-course lunch, premium sparkling on arrival, and a traditional MSM cupcake. Gather your friends and organise a table. Tickets will sell fast!
The funds raised at the 2026 Mothers' Lunch are directed to the MSM Foundation's Light the Way Capital Campaign to assist the enhancement of new educational facilities for our MSM students.
For more information, please contact pandfevents@msm.qld.edu.au
Our College community warmly congratulates our Principal, Ms Sharon Volp, on her nomination for a Spirit of Catholic Education Award. Across more than 20 years of dedicated service as a Catholic Principal, Ms Volp has exemplified authentic and humble servant leadership. She consistently brings our values to life and demonstrates what it means to lead with faith, compassion, and integrity. As Principal of Mt St Michael’s College, Ms Volp deeply values each young person entrusted to our care, and she often speaks of the joy she finds in witnessing their growth and flourishing. We give thanks for her steadfast commitment to Catholic education and for the many blessings she brings to our community.
As we approach the conclusion of a rich and rewarding term, we pause with gratitude to reflect on the many experiences that have strengthened and enlivened our community in recent weeks.
We congratulate our debating teams on a successful season of thoughtful and engaging competition. We look forward to the upcoming finals and wish our Year 9 and Year 11 teams every success. Our sincere thanks to Mr Saunders for his leadership and coordination of the program, and to Ms Crawford for her commitment to coaching our senior students.
Following four weeks of ballroom dance lessons at Marist College, our Year 10 students attended a special evening of ballroom dancing at City Hall on Tuesday 9 June. This experience provided a valuable opportunity for students to develop their confidence and social skills in a supportive and celebratory environment. It was a memorable occasion enjoyed by all. I extend my sincere appreciation to the staff who supported our students during these Tuesday evening sessions, particularly Year 10 Pastoral Leader Ms Lennon and Homeroom teachers Mr Hughes, Mrs Atkins, Mr Quain, Ms Ryan and Ms Humbler for their generosity of time and care. You can read more about this student experience below.
We also extend our best wishes to the students participating in the Japanese Exchange over the holiday period. This is a wonderful opportunity for cultural immersion, personal growth, and global engagement. We thank Mrs Wiseman, Dr Blackburn and Ms Kawakami who are joining our students on this exchange.
As the term draws to a close, I wish all members of our College community a restful and restorative holiday break. May this time provide an opportunity for renewal, connection with family and friends, and a moment to reflect with gratitude on the many blessings we share. We look forward to welcoming students back for Term 3, refreshed and ready to continue our journey of learning and growth together.
Last month, Pope Leo released his first Encyclical Magnifica Humanitas to worldwide acclaim. An Encyclical is a letter from the Holy Father to the People of the World. Since 1891 - when another Leo released Rerum Novarum, calling for greater worker's rights - it has been tradition for Popes to use such Encyclicals to shine a light on the pertinent social issues of the day.
For Christians, the principle of Human Dignity is at the centre of all morality. Human life, made perfect in the image of God, must be cherished and protected. From time to time, the Popes have chosen to shine a light on areas of human development where dignity has been diminished. Ten years ago, Pope Francis famously reframed the ecological crisis in Laudato Si, placing the rights of the poor at the centre of conversations about ecojustice.
It is fitting that Pope Leo's first Encyclical focuses on the moral implications of the use of artificial intelligence. In his letter, Pope Leo's central question is: How do we ensure that technology serves human dignity rather than diminishing it?
Rather than shying away from the use of generative AI tools, Leo calls for us to consider how those tools are employed. Do we wish to use AI to secure power, control and dominance, or can we use it to build communities of justice and right relationships?
It seemed somehow appropriate to use AI here to capture some of the key take-aways from this Encyclical! So, with a little help from Microsoft Co-Pilot, here are five key messages from Leo's first Encyclical:
- Human Dignity must always come first. We cannot measure human worth by productivity, intelligence or usefulness. Technology must serve the human person, not the other way around.
- AI is powerful, but it is no human. AI can analyse and generate, but it cannot love, relate or make moral decisions.
- Technology is never neutral. AI reflects the values of those who design and use it.
- We must resist a "technocratic" mindset that only focuses on data, output, efficiency and control.
- We are called to build a Civilisation of Love. The Christian response to AI should not be fear, but responsibility and hope. We can use this technology and our God-given gifts to build a society built on justice, solidarity, care for the vulnerable and peace.
Parent Lounge - Update My Details
As part of our ongoing commitment to keeping every student safe and well supported, and to ensure we can communicate with you promptly when needed, we kindly ask that you take a few moments to review and update your current information in Parent Lounge.
Please ensure the following details are accurate:
· Parent/caregiver names
· Home address
· Phone numbers (mobile and landline, where applicable)
· Email addresses
· Emergency contacts and their relationship to your child (Please note: emergency contacts should not be listed as parents/caregivers, as the College will automatically contact parents/caregivers first).
If there have been any changes to your child's living arrangements, we also ask that you update this information.
Keeping your details up to date helps us maintain a safe and well-supported environment for all students. We greatly appreciate your cooperation and prompt attention to this matter.
Sick Bay/Early Departures
In an effort to support our students to adhere to the College mobile phone expectations, we ask that parents do not respond to their daughter’s if they text wishing to be collected early. Please ensure that your daughter attends the Sick Bay for appropriate assessment and care and you will be contacted by a staff member. We will also reiterate this message to students.
MSM Foundation Career Conversations Breakfast – Book Now!
We are excited to invite our students and their families to the MSM Foundation Careers Conversations Breakfast, taking place next week on Wednesday 17 June. This special event provides a unique opportunity to hear directly from our accomplished MSM Alumni as they share the diverse career pathways they have followed since graduating from the College.
Whether your interest lies in health, law, education, the arts, trades, or business, our alumni represent a wide range of industries and experiences. It’s a wonderful chance for students to gain real-world insights, ask questions, and be inspired as they consider their own future beyond school.
Tickets are still available, and we warmly encourage students and parents to attend this valuable event. It's always a highlight on the MSM calendar and not to be missed!
Event Details:
📅 Wednesday 17 June
🕒 6:45am
📍 Sophia Centre
🎟️ Book here
We are incredibly proud of the women who return to share their stories with the next generation of MSM learners. Their generosity and wisdom help strengthen the sense of community and possibility for our students.
SET Plan Interviews (Year 10)
From the start of Term 3, Year 10 students will begin the Student Education and Training (SET) Plan process, an essential step in selecting suitable senior subjects.
Bookings for SET Plan Interviews open on 15 June at 4:00pm and will close at 3:00pm on Monday 13 July. Interviews will take place on site for students and there is the option for parents to join online via teams or to meet in person.
Semester 1 and Unit 1/3 Report Cards
As we approach the end of a busy and productive first semester, families are reminded that Semester 1 Report Cards for students in Years 5–10 and Unit 3 Report for senior students will be published on Friday, 26 June. These will be available via both Student Café and Parent Lounge, under the Academic Reports section.
In addition, Unit 1 Report Cards for Year 11 students have been published this week and are also accessible through the same platforms. These reports provide a summary of academic progress for Unit 1 of senior subjects and form part of the broader tracking of QCE and ATAR eligibility.
To access detailed feedback—including marked criteria sheets —please go to Student Details > Curricular Activities in Parent Lounge. This information offers valuable insight into each student's learning and areas for future growth.
If you have any questions or would like to discuss your child’s progress further, we encourage you to reach out directly to the relevant subject teacher. Subject teachers are best placed to provide support on academic matters, while Homeroom teachers should be contacted for any pastoral or wellbeing concerns. Teacher contact details are available in Parent Lounge by navigating to: Student Details > Email Class Teachers > Select the teacher’s name.
The Importance of Disconnecting to Reconnect
As Semester 1 comes to a close and the holiday break approaches, I encourage all students to take time to pause, step away from screens, and intentionally reconnect—with each other, with nature, with a good book, or with personal goals. The break is a valuable opportunity to slow down, be present, and recharge after a busy term.
In our fast-paced world, these moments of genuine connection and reflection are essential. They nurture wellbeing, strengthen relationships, and help us return with renewed energy and focus for Semester 2.
We have certainly not slowed down towards the end of term in the Junior School! The students have been busy finalising their Term 2 units and engaging in assessment tasks to demonstrate their learning. I commend the Year 5 and 6 students for their diligence and persistence during the assessment period. It has been heartening to witness our students embracing challenges with a positive mindset. Such attitudes not only contribute to academic growth and success, but also foster essential life skills. As always, your support at home plays a pivotal role in your daughters’ achievements and we thank you for being integral partners in their educational journey.
Year 5 Semester 1 Learning Showcase
The Year 5 Semester 1 Learning Showcase will be taking place next Tuesday, 16 June at 5pm in the Ionian Auditorium. This is a celebratory event, where students will be sharing key learning from the semester with their peers, teachers and families. Students will be performing pieces to demonstrate their learning in Languages, Drama, Dance and the Year 5 Instrumental Program.
The Year 5 students are very excited to celebrate their Semester 1 learning with their special guests on this evening!
Year 6 Open Classrooms
The Year 6 Open Classrooms will be taking place next Wednesday, 17 June from 4pm to 5pm. Year 6 families are invited into the Year 6 classrooms to see what and how the Year 6 students are learning.
Families are welcome to arrive at any time during the allocated period and stay for as long as suits their schedule; there is no expectation to attend for the full hour. Please note that the open classroom arrangement is not a formal event with scheduled presentations or performances, unlike the Year 5 Learning Showcase held last year. Instead, it is designed as a relaxed, free-flowing opportunity for families to drop in and explore the classrooms, view student work and engage with the learning environment.
We look forward to welcoming Year 6 families next week!
Junior School Positive Behaviours for Learning Awards
Congratulations to the following students for receiving Positive Behaviours for Learning Awards at our last Junior School Assembly:
Maddison (5H) - Maddy, you consistently demonstrate diligence in all aspects of your learning, whether working independently or collaboratively. You approach each task with focus and are committed to doing your best. You participate enthusiastically when working as part of a team. Your positive attitude and willingness to engage fully in your learning make you a valued member of our Year 5 classroom. You should be very proud of the effort and dedication you show each day.
Keira (5H) - Keira, you consistently demonstrate exemplary resilience in your learning, approaching each task with determination and a positive mindset. Even when challenges arise, you persevere with confidence and refuse to give up, always striving to do your very best. Your strength of character and willingness to keep trying are truly admirable. You should be very proud of the courage and persistence you show each day in our classroom.
Madeline (5L) – Madeline shows respect and kindness to everyone she works with. She demonstrates outstanding leadership by offering guidance, generously sharing her ideas and encouraging others to contribute their own thoughts. Madeline's positive attitude helps create an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. She thoughtfully keeps open circles in all that she does, ensuring that no one is left out. Thank you for being such a supportive and inspiring member of our learning community!
Sofia (5L) – Sofia consistently gives her very best effort, even when faced with challenges, showing perseverance and a positive mindset. She thoughtfully responds to feedback, uses it to improve her work and confidently seeks help when needed. Sofia's willingness to collaborate and work effectively with her peers makes her a valued member of our classroom community. Keep up the fantastic effort—you are an inspiring learner!
Georgia (6C) - Georgia, you have really stepped up in 2026. Congratulations on your steady application to learning, particularly in HASS in Term 2. It is affirming to see you confidently responding to questions and engaging with tasks with such enthusiasm. Keep up the super effort.
Abigail (6C) - Abigail completes all tasks with care and attention to detail. Abigail, your creative writing is a pleasure to read and your analytical texts are always thorough and well considered. Thank you for the effort you put into your work. Your diligence and application are a testament to your love of learning and a reflection of how you live out our College values.
Audrey (6J) - This award is proudly presented to Audrey for being a diligent learner, demonstrated through her outstanding dedication to her learning and her consistently enthusiastic participation in all classroom activities. She approaches every task with curiosity, confidently sharing her ideas and contributing thoughtfully to discussions, demonstrating a genuine love of learning. Audrey's hard work and perseverance have truly paid off, particularly during our Science unit on the physical conditions of habitats. Her research into an endangered Australian animal showcased her commitment, deep understanding and effort, making her a wonderful role model for her peers.
Madeline (6J) - This award is proudly presented to Maddie for being a diligent and respectful learner. She works independently and quietly, while always engaging respectfully and thoughtfully when sharing her ideas and understanding in both group and whole class settings. Maddie consistently applies great care, effort and attention to detail in all her work, striving to complete every task to a high standard. Her humble nature and supportive attitude towards others make her a valued and positive member of our classroom community.
Katie Jordan
Head of Junior School
YEAR 10 MARIST DANCING
Recently, some of our Year 10 students participated in the Marist Dancing program over five weeks, where they developed a range of dance skills while also building confidence and strengthening social connections.
The program concluded with a special fifth and final evening at Brisbane City Hall, where students had the opportunity to showcase their learning beneath the iconic dome. It was a wonderful occasion that highlighted the growth, enthusiasm, and engagement of all involved.
We extend our sincere thanks to the staff who generously supervised and supported the girls throughout the duration of the program. Their commitment and care ensured a positive and memorable experience for all students.
This program was a wonderful celebration of community, courage, and personal growth, and we are very proud of our students.
Olivia Lennon
Pastoral Leader - Year 10
MIDDLE SCHOOL ASSEMBLY
Our Middle School Assembly was a joyful celebration of student achievements and the many memorable moments shared across Years 7–9. From the inspiring Year 9 Altitude Day to outstanding Premier’s Reading Challenge achievements, the vibrant Year 8 Dance and so much more, the assembly beautifully captured the spirit, energy and enthusiasm of our Middle School community. Congratulations to all our MSM Middle School students on all they have accomplished.
Jo Devenish-Meares
Pastoral Leader - Year 9
2026 YEAR 9 THEME - LEADING WITH HEART
The launch of the 2026 Year 9 theme, Leading With Heart, was brought to life with energy and creativity through a powerful Hunger Games inspired presentation led by our Homeroom Captains. With passion and conviction, they challenged the narrative of competition, reminding the cohort: “We are not districts divided. We are not players competing against each other. We are a community guided by faith and love.” They called each student to embrace leadership not as status, but as service : “serving in love, serving with heart”.
Congratulations to Ella E, whose logo was selected by staff and peers as the winning design. Her thoughtful creation beautifully captures the theme, incorporating MSM’s blue and gold alongside meaningful symbols. Ella explains that the hydrangea represents understanding, empathy, and heartfelt emotion, while the jasmine reflects compassion, kindness, and care for others. Together with the inclusion of both an older and younger student, the logo powerfully reflects a community that leads with heart, who are united, supportive, and grounded in compassion, hope, love and justice.
Jo Devenish-Meares
Pastoral Leader - Year 9
GRANTULY DAY
On 1 June 1925, the Sisters of Charity opened their first school on the verandah of Grantuly Homestead. In 2026, students from Grantuly House celebrated the occasion with a special cake, with all students participating in spirited activities, honouring the history and legacy of the College community.
YEAR 9 ALTITUDE DAY
Year 9 students participated in Altitude Day, an event delivered by YLead. The day focused on empowering students to become active and inspiring leaders. Alongside students from a range of Brisbane schools, MSM students engaged in a series of interactive activities and heard from guest speakers who shared their leadership journeys. The day was both engaging and enjoyable, helping to build students’ confidence and further develop their leadership skills in preparation for future leadership opportunities.
UQ SCIENCE AMBASSADORS INTERNATIONAL BIODIVERSITY DAY
What a fantastic way to celebrate International Biodiversity Day! Our UQ Science Ambassadors - Olivia, Addie, Ava, and Josie - delivered an energetic and engaging session for Years 5 - 12 students, filled with hands-on activities and fun biodiversity trivia. It was inspiring to see so many curious minds exploring and learning about the incredible diversity of life on our planet.
Dr Mark Spanevello
Curriculum Leader - Science
YEAR 9 BUSINESS & ECONOMICS PROJECT
As part of the Year 9 Business and Economics project, students selected an Australian brand and created a museum-style display analysing its business life cycle and target market through a “Road Test” statement. As part of their research, students designed a QR code survey to collect community feedback on the brand’s future, using this data to recommend potential changes and improvements, which will be analysed in their final business report.
Teena Christofis
Classroom Teacher
YEAR 12 BUSINESS AUSTRALIA ZOO EXPERIENCE
Year 12 Business students visited Australia Zoo to investigate the organisation’s repositioning strategies firsthand, enjoying an engaging day filled with interactive learning experiences. Students began with a Roo Feeding encounter, gaining insight into the value of immersive visitor experiences and customer engagement, before exploring a variety of exhibits including kangaroos, koalas, dingoes, Tasmanian Devils and the iconic crocodiles. The day concluded with the educational Crocoseum Show, providing further understanding of the Zoo’s operations and brand experience. A fun and memorable “Crikey” day was enjoyed by our MSM students!
Jo-Anne Desailly
Classroom Teacher
YEAR 8 FRENCH IMMERSION
Year 8 students of French were recently invited to Marist College Ashgrove to experience an afternoon of French language and cultural activities. The girls joined other Year 8 students of French from schools around Brisbane to participate in sessions featuring study of animals and pets, French music lyrics, personal characteristics and Pictionary using French vocabulary. In addition to meeting other language students and indulging their love of all things French, the girls also enjoyed pan au chocolate on arrival.
Sue Wiseman
Curriculum Leader - Languages
EVOLUTION DANCE COMPETITION
Our Performance Dance Ensemble students took to the stage at the Evolution Dance Competition and delivered a strong, confident performance.
It was a great experience performing in front of a larger audience, and the group rose to the occasion. Competing against full-time dance schools, they achieved an impressive 4th place, a result they should be very proud of. Congratulations to the team, and we’re looking forward to the next competition in August.
Olivia Bond
Administration Officer - The Arts
YEAR 10 GEOGRAPHY EXCURSION
Our Year 10 Geography students conducted field work at the Manly Marina to discover the extent of microplastics in Moreton Bay. Students spent a couple of hours on the catamaran ‘Inspiration’ collecting abiotic and biotic data and identified the extent of microplastics present. This was followed by a presentation by the Port of Brisbane regarding their environmental management of the Bay. Students explored the Manly foreshore at Bayside Park and completed a survey land use map. Lastly, a rubbish audit was conducted to identify the most prevalent and amount of rubbish found.
Our MSM students enjoyed the beautiful surroundings, accompanied by amazing weather and a well-deserved ice cream.
Alison Larkings
Program Leader - Middle School
YEAR 5 HPE
In Term 2, Year 5 HPE students explored Net and Court games, with a strong focus on how skills can transfer from one activity to another. In the first few weeks, students developed their understanding through Newcomb Ball, building key skills such as positioning, teamwork, and hand-eye coordination.
These skills were then applied to Badminton, giving students the opportunity to see how their learning carries across different sports. It was fantastic to see how quickly they adapted and refined their techniques.
Our Year 5 students were lucky enough to have some of our Year 10 Sport and Recreation students lead them through warm-up activities. Seeing the different year levels come together in their learning added another layer of connection and engagement.
The students were especially eager to participate, showing great enthusiasm and a positive attitude in every lesson. Their willingness to give things a go and support one another made for an engaging and energetic Term 2!
Isabelle Robinson
Classroom Teacher
TERM 2 HOUSE GAMES
During Term 2, students took part in a series of fun house games to earn points towards the House Spirit Cup, which will be awarded at the end of the year. The competition began with tunnel ball, with Grantuly taking out the win, followed by Rush, Aikenhead and Stewart. The final game, 4 Corners, delivered an exciting and suspenseful finish that had everyone on the edge of their seats. The overall winner was Year 6 student, Sarah P from Grantuly House.
Thank you to all students for participating so enthusiastically and showing such wonderful house spirit.
Georgina Peel
Sports Assistant
YEAR 7 MUSIC BODY PERCUSSION PROJECT
Our Year 7 Music students brought rhythm to life through their Body Percussion Project!
This engaging performance task gave students the chance to showcase their creativity, teamwork, and musicianship while building their rhythmic skills and exploring the foundations of percussion instruments.
Laura Danby
Classroom Teacher
YEAR 11 ROAD ATTITUDES AND ACTION PLANNING (RAAP) PROGRAM
Year 11 students participated in the Road Attitudes and Action Planning (RAAP) program, delivered by the Queensland Fire Department. Led by operational firefighters, the session used powerful real-life insights to build awareness of road safety risks and encourage informed, responsible decision-making. This valuable experience supports students as they develop independence as drivers and passengers, reinforcing the importance of planning ahead and making safe choices.
Emily McLaughlin
Pastoral Leader - Year 11
YEAR 8 AND 9 CONSENT PRESENTATION
Students in Years 8 and 9 had the opportunity to engage with Caitlin Humphrys from Catholic Education Queensland, who shared important messages about consent. Through her presentation, students explored what consent is, what it looks like in practice, and what it doesn’t, as well as where they can seek support if needed. Caitlin encouraged students to tune into their feelings and build confidence in expressing what they do or do not want in everyday situations, empowering them to use their voice when it matters most.
Jo Devenish-Meares
Pastoral Leader - Year 9
After National Reconciliation Week is an ideal opportunity to showcase and thank the work of our Social Justice Network Community Action Group. While renowned for their lolly bags at ExtravaCANzas, this group is run as a forum for students to raise and discuss issues that they have observed about the world around them. This year, their focus so far has been to show support of reconciliation, standing alongside our Seniors and First Nations students at the national Sorry Day Ceremony recently held at Teralba Park. They also supported other activities through the week by hosting the colouring competition to continue the conversation. While this group began as a partnership with Australian Catholic University many years ago, it is now fully student-facilitated under the mentorship of Mr Marc Beavon and its leaders. They welcome new members to join in the conversation each Day 9 in I16 at second break as they prepare for their next major event, the Luminous Lantern Parade with Multicultural Australia in Term 3.
Clayton Kelly
Program Leader - Service Learning
VICKI WILSON NETBALL
Congratulations to our three High Performance Netball teams (Vicki Wilson Cup Championship, Vicki Wilson Shield Championship, and Vicki Wilson Shield Development) on an outstanding day of Vicki Wilson competition!
The courts were alive with fierce contests, incredible teamwork, and high-quality netball throughout the day.
A special congratulations to our Vicki Wilson Shield Championship team, who have earned their place at the National Finals in August at Nissan Arena. Your hard work, determination, and commitment have paid off, and we are incredibly proud of this achievement.
We wish all our athletes the very best as they continue to represent our region with pride.
Georgina Peel
Sports Assistant
YEAR 7 & 8 CaSSSA VOLLEYBALL
This term, our Year 7 and Year 8 students have proudly represented the College in CaSSSA Volleyball. With three teams competing every Wednesday afternoon, students showed great commitment, attending training sessions each week to develop their skills, teamwork, and game strategies.
Throughout the season, they have demonstrated impressive growth on the court, putting their hard work and determination into practice during every match. Their enthusiasm, sportsmanship, and resilience have been a credit to our College community.
Georgina Peel
Sports Assistant
CELEBRATING STUDENT VISUAL ART
The Visual Art Department is pleased to begin establishing a student art collection within the College. These selected works will be placed on permanent display, celebrating the creativity and achievements of our students while enriching the visual culture of our College community.
We would like to congratulate and thank the following students for allowing us the privilege of showcasing their lino prints from last year. These works were created as part of the Year 9 Art program, where students explore the themes of nature and culture through the process of printmaking.
This unit encourages students to develop both technical skill and conceptual understanding, resulting in artworks that are thoughtful, expressive, and visually engaging.
Congratulations to Chiara R, Edie L and Sophia M, your work will continue to inspire others for years to come.
David Gravino
Classroom Teacher
VISTING ARTIST WORKSHOP: CHRISTINA LOWRY INSPIRES SENIOR VISUAL ART STUDENTS
Students in Years 10, 11, and 12 recently had the privilege of working with contemporary artist Christina Lowry as they began their new units of study — Transforming (Year 10) and Alternate (Years 11 and 12), with a focus on contemporary contexts.
The program commenced on Thursday, 28 May (Week 6), with an engaging artist presentation for Years 11 and 12, followed by a workshop session. Year 10 students also attended a tailored artist presentation later in the day. The experience continued on Thursday, 11 June, with an extended hands-on workshop for Years 11 and 12 students.
Christina Lowry is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice explores the intersection of art, science, and museum collections. Her work focuses on museological archives and endangered bird species, inviting audiences to reconsider how we remember and respond to environmental change. Her project incorporates 3D scanning and printing technologies, creating alternative ways of memorialising declining avian populations.
During her sessions, Christina shared insights into her Master’s project, demonstrating how she creates a digital archive of endangered birds using 3D scans. Students were introduced to a series of critically endangered bird forms, which they were able to explore both digitally and physically through 3D printed models produced at the College.
Students also considered display methods and conceptual frameworks, drawing on ideas such as museum presentation, taxidermy, reliquaries, and cabinets of curiosity. These approaches supported deeper thinking about conservation, memory, and the role of art in responding to global environmental issues.
A key component of the workshop was experimentation with casting processes, including silicone mould-making and plaster work, as well as integrating emerging technologies such as 3D modelling software.
This enriching experience provided students with valuable insight into contemporary art practices, while encouraging them to take creative risks and develop their own conceptual responses. The opportunity to work directly with a practicing artist has been an inspiring and meaningful start to their new units.
For more information about Christina Lowry’s work, visit:
https://www.christinalowryartist.com/
David Gravino
Classroom Teacher
Senior Research
The MSM Library is a particularly busy place during this assessment period, as our senior students engage deeply in their research tasks. It is wonderful to see students making full use of our carefully curated resources, including the research trolleys and LibGuides, to support their learning and develop strong research skills. Our library staff are always on hand to guide students in locating quality information and referencing effectively.
Readers Cup
Last Friday, ten enthusiastic readers proudly represented MSM at the Readers Cup. Although the team did not progress to the finals, they thoroughly enjoyed the experience, connecting with students from other schools and engaging in some friendly literary competition. A highlight of the day was meeting author Carla Salmon, whose book We Saw What You Started inspired much excitement among our students.
Top Borrowers For Semester 1
We are delighted to recognise and celebrate our MSM Library Top Borrowers for Semester 1. Your love of reading is truly commendable:
Year 5: Greta C, Maya K, Millie P, Bethanie L, Emmeline R, Madeline L
Year 6: Adele W, Sarah P, Sahana D, Emily B, Eva S, Annaliese W
Year 7: Lucy K, Olivia C, Eliza G, Georgia M
Year 8: Megan L, Sofia S, Ella W
Year 9: Alice A, Ellie M, Akaelah W
We proudly presented our Middle School students with their certificates at this week's Middle School Assembly.
Congratulations to all students for your enthusiasm and commitment to reading!
Premier’s Reading Challenge
An update on the Premier’s Reading Challenge. As we move into June, the competition is heating up. Since May, Year 8 held a narrow lead, but Year 5 has now taken the lead with an impressive total of 135 books submitted so far.
A reminder for all students to continue recording every book you read. You may update and resubmit your reading lists as often as you like until August. Every book counts.
Holiday Borrowing and Winter Warmers Competition
As the school holidays approach, now is the perfect time to stock up on books. Students who borrow during the final week of term will be entered into the MSM Library Winter Warmers Competition.
What could be more comforting than a good book paired with a hot chocolate kit? This competition is open to all students, with prizes awarded in Junior, Middle, and Senior categories.
Celebrating School Officers Day
We would like to extend our sincere thanks to our dedicated library team at MSM. Each member brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise, supporting students with research, referencing, printing, and helping them discover their next great read. Their commitment ensures that the library remains a welcoming and supportive space for all.
Happy reading!
Rita Archard
Program Leader - Library and Information Services
BARBARA SISLEY AWARDS
We are incredibly proud of MSM Year 5 student Georgia on receiving a prestigious Barbara Sisley Award for achieving the highest result in Queensland in her 2025 AMEB Speech and Performance Grade One exam. Georgia performed at Parliament House before being presented with her award — a wonderful recognition of her talent, dedication and hard work. Well done, Georgia!
NETBALL QUEENSLAND REPRESENTATIVE CARNIVAL
Year 5 student, Airlie C recently competed at the Netball Queensland Representative Carnival, playing in both GS and GA. She had a fantastic experience, gaining valuable insight competing at this level, with the team finishing mid-ladder after a strong overall performance. We are incredibly proud of Airlie’s efforts and the way she represented MSM, her team, and her region.
WATER POLO ACHIEVEMENT
MSM is incredibly proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Year 10 student Sophie Z.
Sophie has been selected for the U18 QLD Schools Water Polo Team and will compete this August. She has also earned selection in the U16 Water Polo Australian Team, which will travel to Croatia for the World Championships.
Representing both Queensland and Australia is a remarkable accomplishment, and an exciting journey lies ahead.
The MSM community will be cheering you on every step of the way.
2026 QUT FUTURE YOU SUMMIT
MSM is proud to share that Year 11 student, Tina C has been offered a place in the 2026 QUT Future You Summit.
Chosen from a highly competitive pool of applicants, Tina stood out for her curiosity, motivation, and commitment to her future aspirations.
A special thank you to our dedicated staff, particularly Dr Mark Spanevello, for supporting and guiding students through this opportunity.
Congratulations, Tina—MSM looks forward to seeing all you achieve.
LIGHT THE WAY HEART PURCHASE
As we approach the end of the financial year, we invite you to celebrate your student’s journey at Mt St Michael’s College and contribute to a lasting legacy. By purchasing a heart on our Light the Way Legacy Wall, you can make a meaningful difference while commemorating this special connection. Act before June 30 with a tax-deductible gift and be part of our next instalment and have your heart blessed at our special Mary Aikenhead Day Mass on Friday 31 July 2026.
Find out more about securing a permanent spot on our Light the Way Legacy Wall by visiting our College website.
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
Add us to your address book
