18 January 1938 – 23 November 2025
"Good and faithful servant"
This week our community is mourning the loss of Monsignor Frank Marriott, who passed away on Sunday 23 November.
This week our community mourns the loss of our friend, pastor and alumnus Monsignor Marriott, who passed away on Sunday 23 November. Mons Marriott was a former student of St Mary's College (Class of 1954) where he attended the primary school until Grade 3 (1942 to 1945), then Marist Brothers’ College from 1946 to 1947.
Monsignor Frank was a loved and respected member of our College community. He was generous with his time and support, regularly celebrating Masses with us and visiting to talk with students and staff. Everyone associated with Mons Frank will have a personal story. He was a great mentor and friend to countless people across the Diocese, both Catholic and non-Catholic. We keep him in our prayers.
A Pontifical Concelebrated Funeral Mass for Monsignor Frank Marriott will be held at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Bendigo on Wednesday 3 December at 1.00pm. Families will have recently received an email notification that Catherine McAuley College Bendigo will be closed on this day.
Last Thursday, we had the privilege of celebrating the graduation of our Year 12 students with a beautiful Mass at the Cathedral, followed by a memorable gathering at the Bendigo Town Hall. The Year 12 Graduation is a significant milestone, a time to reflect on the journey, growth, and achievements of our students as they complete their secondary education.
This celebration highlighted the resilience, character, and commitment developed through six years of learning at CMCB. Such success is not achieved in isolation; it is the result of the combined efforts of dedicated staff, supportive families, and the determination of our students.
Last Friday marked the final day for our Year 9 students at Coolock. Their transition to St Mary’s for the Headstart program, running this week and next, provides structure and support as our 2026 Year 10 cohort encounters new learning spaces, content, and teachers.
***
On Monday, at the Sports Awards Night, we celebrated excellence in sport across 2025. Congratulations to Charlie King and Harriett Whiteacre, winners of the Tim Ledwidge Memorial Medals for senior football and netball, to our Sports Stars of the Year, and to the individuals and teams who won state titles. Thank you to Mrs Simon Ledwidge and Mr Liam Ledwidge, who attended and presented the medals during the ceremony. We also express our appreciation to our Activities Coordinators, Mrs Maree Pearce and Mrs Holly Speed, for organising the evening, and for their work managing our extensive co-curricular sport program throughout 2025.
18 January 1938 – 23 November 2025
"Good and faithful servant"
18 January 1938 – 23 November 2025
After a lifetime of service to the Diocese of Sandhurst, Monsignor Frank Marriott died peacefully on Sunday 23 November 2025, surrounded by his family and members of the Sandhurst clergy.
Frank Marriott was born in Bendigo on 18 January 1938 to Frank and Rita (nee Kelly) Marriott. His father, who originally came from Shepparton, was a baker and a pastry cook. His mother was from a farming family near Narrandera in NSW.
In 1942, Frank joined the prep class at St Mary’s College, Bendigo. Among his classmates in the junior school were Mary Duffy and Peter Jeffrey (later to become Sr Mary Duffy and Monsignor Peter Jeffrey, respectively). Frank’s younger sister Ruth also followed to St Mary’s a few years later. From Grade 4, Frank attended the Marist Brothers’ College in McCrae Street until the family moved to Elmore in 1947. After two years at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart, Elmore, he completed his final secondary schooling at Assumption College, Kilmore.
In 1955 Frank decided to enter the seminary, beginning his studies at St Francis Xavier in Adelaide in 1956. He was ordained by Bishop Stewart at the Sacred Heart Cathedral on a cold, wet day on 29 June 1962, the same church where he had been baptised.
Monsignor Frank served in thirteen parishes of the Sandhurst Diocese, with his first appointment to Cobram, followed by Rushworth, then Beechworth, Shepparton, Heathcote, Nagambie, Kennington and finally to Wodonga. Monsignor Marriott returned to Bendigo from Wodonga at the request of Bishop Joe Grech after the death of Monsignor John Duffus in 2008.
Monsignor’s early career was focused on a commitment to building community, with strong support for the Young Christian Workers organisation, marriage support groups, and he served as Chair of the National Council of Priests between 1976 and 1982.
As Parish Priest, he took a keen interest in the local primary schools, and he appointed the Diocese’s first lay principal in Heathcote in the 1970s, in order to save Holy Rosary Primary School, leading to the establishment of the Lay School Board. His connection to Heathcote remained strong, with Monsignor Frank being instrumental in rallying local residents to oppose a toxic liquid-waste dump at Dargile.
Throughout his career, Monsignor Frank travelled extensively, with his first visit to Asia in 1972.
After the death of Bishop Joe in 2010 and before Bishop Les Tomlinson was appointed, Monsignor Frank was appointed Diocesan Administrator, and as the acting Bishop of Sandhurst, he became the only alumnus to serve as a Governor of our College.
In 2012, Bishop Les Tomlinson appointed Monsignor Frank Vicar General of the Diocese. During this time, he served as Director of the Sandhurst Youth Ministry Team and as a member of the College of Consultors.
His service was recognised with a rare papal honour when he was bestowed the highest rank for a Monsignor: Protonotary Apostolic by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012.
He also celebrated his Golden Jubilee in June 2012. At that time, he held the official title of Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia of the Diocese of Sandhurst and administrator of the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
In 2014, in response to the growing agitation surrounding the anti-mosque movement in Bendigo, Monsignor Frank co-founded the Bendigo Interfaith Council to foster respect and understanding between diverse faiths. He encouraged cooperation between members of the religions represented in Bendigo, including Christian, Jewish, Islamic, Buddhist, Hindu and Sikh faiths.
Co-founder of the Interfaith Council, Heri Febriyanto, paid tribute to Monsignor Frank: ’His tireless work as the founding Chair of Bendigo Interfaith Council and his dedication to interfaith action have made a lasting impact on our community.’
Monsignor Frank celebrated his last Sunday Mass as Administrator of the Sacred Heart Cathedral on 18 January 2015 – his 77th birthday. Earlier in January, the parishes of the Cathedral, St Joseph’s Quarry Hill, St Mary’s Golden Square and St Monica’s Kangaroo Flat hosted a farewell at the Catholic Education Office.
Still busy in retirement, Monsignor Frank continued his ministry, visiting prisons, advocating for the Sandhurst Priests’ Retirement Foundation, other faith-based boards, and remaining in contact with activities at Catherine McAuley College. He was active on the Board of the Aspire Cultural and Charitable Foundation, which was set up to oversee the development of the Cathedral precinct.
In 2022, his lifetime of service to the Catholic Church was recognised when he was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
Monsignor Frank’s health declined as he battled prostate cancer, and on Sunday 23 November 2025, on the Feast of Christ the King and in the 63rd year of his religious profession, Monsignor Frank Marriott entered his eternal life.
The Diocese of Sandhurst stated: ‘Many will remember Monsignor Marriott for his sharp mind, his love of history, his deep curiosity and his unmistakable sense of humour. Monsignor Frank Marriott was, in every sense, a man for all – a steadfast priest, a principled community advocate, and a generous presence in the lives of thousands across central Victoria. He will be profoundly missed.’
Monsignor Frank was a loved and respected member of the Catherine McAuley College Bendigo community. He was generous with his time and support, regularly celebrating Masses with us and visiting to talk with students and staff. He was a great mentor and friend to countless people across the Diocese, both Catholic and non-Catholic.
Fr Brian Boyle, Administrator of the Diocese said: ‘He was a proud and vocal supporter of the Collingwood football club, and an enthusiastic participant in social activities with his brother priests. Monsignor Frank gave his whole life in faithful service to Christ and his church. We pray that he is currently being welcomed into the arms of the Father with the words “Well done, good and faithful servant”. A giant of our Diocese has passed.’
140-year celebrations with Alumni
2012 Catholic Education Sandhurst Conference
Commissioning leaders at the 2011 Opening Mass
St Vincent's College 2023 Reunion
Year 12 students celebrated the end of their school years with a joyful Graduation Mass and Celebration
The Sacred Heart Cathedral was a fitting backdrop for the grand occasion of the Graduation Mass of the Class of 2025 on Thursday 20 November.
With loved ones and special guests present for the joyful celebration of the end of their school years, Faith Captains Holly McColl and Liam Tyndall and College Captains Jaida Raco and Caleb Tobin led the procession of graduands. House banners and meaningful items symbolising the past six years were brought forward by the students.
The mass was concelebrated by our own alumni, Fr Jackson Saunders and Rev Dr Jake Mudge, along with Fr Junray Rayna. The students took an active role in the parts of the mass while the music was beautifully provided by a combined choir and musicians from Coolock and St Mary’s
Melissa and Tony Ryan, parents of graduating student Oliver Ryan, reflected on the education of their children in a faith-filled environment where young people are encouraged to follow their dreams and passions, while building lifelong friendships. Students Jay Thacker and Isabella Makris spoke on behalf of the Class of 2025 with a nostalgic reflection on memorable moments from their past six years.
In Fr Jake’s homily urged the graduands to hear Jesus’ call to be salt and light to those they meet, bringing meaning and community to the lives of those around them. He compared school life to a sacred journey or pilgrimage, filled with purpose. He encouraged students to give thanks to the friends, family and teachers who accompany them on their journey of life.
During the Graduation Blessing, each student from the Class of 2025 received a mission cross, certificate and Class of 2025 lapel pin. The cross represents the unique call and mission of each student in going forward from the College community of faith.
The ceremony concluded with one of the most memorable elements of graduation – the Ceremony of Light. The light symbolises an ending and a beginning – the Easter light, the symbol of Christ. It is also the light of love, wisdom, faith and of hope. Tarah Frawley performed an emotion-filled version of ABBA’s ‘Slipping Through My Fingers’ before the graduates processed out of the Cathedral and into their futures.
Following the Graduation Mass, graduates, their parents and carers, as well as staff, celebrated the occasion at the Bendigo Town Hall.

| SPORT |
The annual Sports Awards Night included presentation of the Tim Ledwidge Memorial Medals, Sports Stars of the Year Awards, and Outstanding Achievement Awards for state title winners.
Recognising Excellence in Sport at CMCB
On Monday 24 November, the Catherine McAuley College Bendigo (CMCB) community gathered in the Marian Theatre for the annual Sports Awards Night, which celebrated individual achievements and fostered a sense of community and pride amongst the students. This annual event brought together athletes, coaches, families and friends for an evening dedicated to excellence, inspiration and mutual admiration.
The formalities began with the presentation of the Sports Star of the Year Awards to two students at each year level. Students were recognised for their contributions to the CMCB Sports Program and for promoting a culture of excellence in sport within the College. The students represented the College at multiple sport days, showcasing talent, dedication and commitment to teamwork and sportsmanship. They inspired their peers through their hard work and enthusiasm, embodying the spirit of competition while fostering a supportive environment for others.
Sports Stars of the Year
Many Outstanding Achievement Awards were presented. 2025 has been a hugely successful year of competitive sport for CMCB teams and individuals, with many reaching state finals. These awards celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of students who have shown exceptional talent in achieving the prestigious distinction of winning a State Title, either as an individual or as a member of a team. All of these recipients demonstrated incredible resilience, hard work, commitment and team spirit, inspiring others with their passion and achievements.
INDIVIDUAL
TEAMS
A highlight of the night was the traditional Tim Ledwidge Memorial Medal Vote Count. This award is presented in honour of past staff member, Tim Ledwidge, whose legacy is synonymous with the College. Medals were awarded to the best netballer in the Senior Netball Team and the best footballer in the Premier League Football Team. Votes were given across all games played in each sport, with the winners being the players who accrued the most votes from all games and competitions played.
Following thrilling vote counts, the winners were announced; congratulations to Harriett Whiteacre, the Netball Medal winner, and Charlie King, who won the Football Medal. They were honoured to receive their medals from Simone and Liam Ledwidge. The winners had inspiring journeys, and their dedication will leave a lasting impact on their peers and teammates, as well as the broader community.
A recent addition to the College’s sport opportunities is the new Sports Development Program, commencing in 2026. Through participation in this program, students will gain skills and knowledge to develop their overall ability to play their selected sport and contribute to their local community. The program runs for the full year for Years 7 and 8 students and is timetabled during the school day just like other classes.
The night concluded with a slideshow that highlighted a plethora of the College’s sporting successes in individual and team competitive sport throughout 2025. These photos of achievement emphasised the importance of teamwork, perseverance and the values that participation in sport builds in young athletes.
Ledwidge family with winners of the Tim Ledwidge Medal
2025 - all awardees
The College will be closed for the funeral of Monsignor Frank Marriott, on Wednesday 3 December.
We remind families that the College will be closed on Wednesday 3 December, due to the funeral of Monsignor Frank Marriott. This was advised in an emailed letter to families on Tuesday 25 November.
Year 7s have thrown themselves into their learning and activities during a busy Term 4.
Year 7 Term 4
Welcome to the final week of assessments for students. It has been a busy, fast-paced year. On Friday 28 November. a pupil-free day, teachers are finalising results and writing reports.
Mercy In Action Day
Sadly, we have to report that the Mercy in Action day planned for next Wednesday, 3 December, has had to be cancelled due to the College being closed on that day for the funeral of Monsignor Frank Marriott.
Donations for Foodshare - Term 4 Fundraising supporting our local community
This term, we’re teaming up with Bendigo Foodshare to support our local community through a Food Drive. We’re asking students to donate non-perishable pantry items whenever you can. Every item counts. Let’s live our Mercy values and help those in need together.
Drop off points: General Office at Coolock and Library at St Mary’s.
Bendigo Foodshare - What to Donate poster
OUT AND ABOUT
Textiles and Study Sessions
Recognition of Achievement
Congratulations to our Year 7 students who have received awards this term.
Ready to Learn

One of our favourite photos of the year is the one above, which was taken at 9:05am, in Week 7 of Term 4. This is because our Year 7 students are still 'Ready to Learn', despite how close they are to the summer holiday break. There is excitement on their faces as they begin a new day full of possibilities. They are relaxed and happy with our staff, including Ms Hannah Lewis.
Year 7 English and Humanities
Although we are nearing the end of this school year, it has been pleasing to see our Year 7 students engage in their ‘Ride Like a Girl’ assessment tasks and storyboards, and Year 7 Humanities students completing Business and Economics tests.
Mrs Sarah Cody, Mrs Hayley Lethlean and Mr Stephen Evans, Year 7 Leadership Team
It is a busy time for students and teachers, and we wish students all the very best in striving to reach their potential.
This term, the Year 8 students visited the Bendigo Tech School creating videos using a green screen. This was all part of their 'A Hero's Journey' unit in their English classes. This experience was exciting for all involved and a taste of what La Trobe University has to offer.
We have had several students represent the school at the Bendigo Show through our Agriculture program; they engaged with the community and breeders in a professional and positive way!
The swimming program has been in full swing with students demonstrating their ability to be safe around water and execute lifesaving skills. This is such an important lifelong skill, and the program has been tackled with positivity and enthusiasm by all.
With the end of term in sight, students are encouraged to keep up their work habits. It is a busy time for students and teachers, and we wish students all the very best in striving to reach their potential.
Mr Josh Hann, Mrs Kim Greenwell and Mrs Marine Snyman, Year 8 Leadership Team
Parent/Carer Updates - Term 4
The following Parent/Carer Updates about end-of-year arrangements provide all the information you need to know as we finish the 2025 school year.
| CMCB 2026 |
Read about the exciting opportunities, changes, and key information for the 2026 school year.
Below is information about the Camps, Retreats and Excursions co-curricular program for 2026. Also, in response to extensive consultation this year, we are introducing Mercy Homegroups as a key element of our Pastoral Care.
The 2026 Family Tuition Fees have now been set. Despite financial challenges, the College has managed to keep fee increases to a minimum whilst still maintaining a fee which incorporates tuition, ICT (laptop) levy, camps, excursions, Encounter days and retreats.
Throughout 2026, Catherine McAuley College Bendigo will celebrate 150 years since the arrival in 1876 of Sister Aloysius Martyn and the Sisters of Mercy to commence their ministry of Catholic education in Bendigo. We look forward to celebrating with our whole community during this sesquicentenary year.

For many students, these are the highlights of their year. It is an opportunity for them to engage in learning activities beyond the classroom and experience the many positive benefits of spending time away with their peers.
Mercy Homegroup is designed to connect every student and their family with a specific teacher, providing a consistent point of contact and daily support. By fostering strong relationships and clear communication, we aim to create a connected and caring environment that promotes wellbeing and engagement for all.
Whilst the cost of fees includes camps, excursions, reflection days and retreats, refunds do not apply for non-attendance at any of these activities.
Please note that subject-specific fees, as noted on the booklist, are additional.
Download the flyer below for 2026 Fee Amounts, Payment Schedules and further information.
LEARN MOREhttps://www.cmcb.vic.edu.au/uploads/Newsletters/251113_2026-News-Update-1/CMCB-Family-Fees-2026.pdf
KEY DATES
TERM DATES
PUPIL-FREE DAYS
CLASS TIMES
With the introduction of Mercy Homegroups, there are slight adjustments to the Class Times at each campus in 2026. Download the flyer below for full details.
| LEARNING & TEACHING |
Over two action-packed days, Agriculture students had some big wins showing cattle and built valuable connections with breeders.
A huge congratulations to our eighteen talented students and six beautiful Lowline cattle who proudly represented CMCB at the annual Beef Cattle Bendigo Agricultural Show.
Over two action-packed days, students competed in:
Big wins for our team!
We’re thrilled to share that our students brought home multiple awards, including:
Beyond the ribbons, students built valuable connections with breeders and many are inspired to continue their journey in cattle showing.
A heartfelt thank you to the incredible mentors who made this experience possible: Ken Lorains, Phil Hogan, Rod Bowles, Matt Cooney, Gavin Wall and Teleah Thorne.
| LEARNING & TEACHING |
Semester 2 finished in a flurry of activity for the Year 10 iGEN classes and the residents from Mercy Health Bethlehem Home for the Aged and Golden Rise Senior Living.
Meaningful connections were fostered through projects and activities designed by students and residents working together to bring new ideas to fruition. Forming part of a co-designed assessment task, the groups worked through the process of proposing, planning, and executing their idea, which came in all shapes and sizes.
When a group of students and residents shared their mutual appreciation of exercise and the outdoors, excursions to the Botanical Gardens or Lake Weeroona facilitated positive experiences and interactions. Enthusiasm to learn more about history saw another excursion head to the RSL Museum in Pall Mall for shared learning, while the sharing of life experiences saw another group create symbolic representations of significant aspects of a resident’s life on a guitar, painted and decorated by the group.
Shared stories identify that we all have many things in common and enrich the connections between generations. Stories of life on the farm prompted a visit to the Trade Training Centre, and an experience with the sheep and cattle being prepared for the Bendigo Show. With excitement and laughter a common thread in all activities, our students were demonstrating growth in their interpersonal capabilities and understanding of another generation.
Our students thrive on these opportunities to live out our Mercy charism, extending the hands of hospitality and compassion. In a joint project with our Year 10 Hospitality group, our students welcomed residents into the College for High Tea in the beautiful St Mary’s Courtyard. Stories, delicious food, laughter and even a few flowers from the garden were shared, ending the year on a high note.
An afternoon of games, activities and singing marked the end of October at Bethlehem, as students found creative ways to serve the Mercy community. As the semester drew to a close, we appreciated the opportunity to celebrate Class Masses together, sharing our faith experiences in both the St Mary’s Chapel and the Bethlehem Chapel. To mark the occasion of the final visits, our families were invited to join us at Bethlehem and experience the power of intergenerational connections firsthand, putting faces and voices to the names heard in many a story throughout the semester.
Meanwhile, our Year 11 classes concluded their online program, having the final video meetings with residents from Mercy Place Shepparton and Mercy Place Ave Maria Shepparton. The Year 11 students built on their Year 10 experience, continuing to serve the Mercy world by creating meaningful engagements with residents from afar. Despite the distance, conversations were enjoyed and connections created. A highlight of the semester was the onsite visits early in the term, connecting students and residents face-to-face.
While fun, laughter and positive energy filled the air, the iGEN program continues to empower students to thrive and serve in our Mercy community and live out the values of our College. Personal growth, improved skills and experiences that change lives were all part of the program in 2025, and we look forward to new and exciting ideas in 2026.
Two weeks of orientation and learning allows students become familiar with the expectations for the upcoming year and find their way around St Mary's.
At St Mary’s this week, our current Year 9s, 10s and 11s stepped up to begin the 2026 academic year early. Two weeks of orientation and learning allows them to become familiar with the expectations, content, and structure of their upcoming subjects.
The week began by gathering for a whole-campus assembly and Year 9s also had the opportunity to tour the campus and find their way around.
| LEARNING & TEACHING |
The St Mary's End-of-Year Arrangements flyer below outlines all the details for upcoming Exams and the Headstart program.


| LEARNING & TEACHING |
Emails with individual subject timetables for 2026 were sent in the week of 13 – 17 October.
Students were sent an email from ‘CMCB Timetable’ with individual subject timetables for 2026 (excluding Year 7 2026 students) during the week of 13 – 17 October. Please see further information below relevant to your child’s year level.
YEARS 10 – 12, 2026 HEADSTART REQUIREMENTS (for current Years 9 – 11 students)
BOOKLIST ORDERING
Order from Campion Education (access code B46T)
Campion Education
PLEASE NOTE: the Campion platform may suggest additional resources that are related to studies. If they are not on the booklist, then these are not texts that the College has recommended and families should not feel obliged to purchase them.
Other Suppliers
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the College by phoning 5445 9100.
| PARENT & CARER OPPORTUNITIES |
Final Elevate Webinar for 2025 - 10 December: How to help your child set goals for the future and develop a realistic plan to achieve them.
How You Can Set Your Child Up for Success
| PASTORAL CARE & WELLBEING |
The Australian Government is protecting young Australians at a critical stage of their development, through world-first social media age restrictions taking effect on 10 December.
Recently, eSafety launched new pages on the social media age restrictions hub, designed to support parents and carers, educators and young people, as we prepare for the restrictions to come into effect.
Find information in this hub to help you understand and prepare for the change.
Information for young people: Explore advice for under-16s, including what to do with existing accounts.
Information for families: Find resources and conversation starters for your family.
| SPORT |
Year 7 Boys faced Viewbank College in the State Quarter Finals
SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - STATE SEMI FINALS
On Thursday 20 November, the Year 7 Boys faced Viewbank College in the State Quarter Finals under perfect conditions.
CMCB won the toss and elected to bat first, making the most of the ideal conditions. Openers Thomas Marasco and Jed Mannix set the tone early with a strong 43-run partnership for the first wicket. When Cale Polson joined the crease, the momentum continued, pushing the score to 1/61 at the halfway mark, a great platform to launch from.
However, the innings stalled as wickets fell at crucial moments, and CMCB couldn’t fully capitalise on the promising start. The team finished with a total of 119 runs, leaving the bowlers with a challenging but defendable target.
With the ball in hand, Nash Campbell and Cale Polson opened brilliantly, conceding just 7 runs in the first 5 overs, putting Viewbank under immediate pressure. The attack was sustained by Jensen Sawyer and Thomas Marasco, who kept the run rate in check. Heading into the final overs, Viewbank sat at 3/65, still needing a big push.
CMCB’s bowlers held firm. Jensen Sawyer, Jed Mannix, and Cale Polson closed out the innings with disciplined spells, aided by some crucial overs from Solly Baker, as Viewbank finished 99 all out. CMCB claimed victory by 20 runs to book their spot in the State Finals.
The Finals are to be played in Melbourne on Wednesday 26 November.
A special thanks to Max Adams for his assistance with the umpiring duties.
Mr Xavier Dunham (Coach)

TEAM: Max Adams (Helper), Solly Baker, Jed Mannix, Nash Campbell, Jensen Sawyer, Patrick Ingram, Thomas Marasco, Cale Polson, Isaac Manley, Mr Xavier Dunham (Coach), Yuvraj Suri, Max Carmichael, Isaac Ely, Archie McCullough, Hamish Baker, Amos Edwards, Miller Fletcher
| SPORT |
Intermediate Boys played against McKinnon Secondary College in Mont Albert North
SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - STATE SEMI FINALS
CMCB travelled to Mont Albert North on Friday 14 November to play in the Cricket State Semi-Final against McKinnon Secondary College.
McKinnon Secondary College won the toss and elected to bowl.
The CMCB boys struggled to build any momentum in the early stages of their batting innings, as regular wickets fell at key moments, preventing significant partnerships from forming. As a result, they were never able to take control of the game. Griffin O’Shea did manage to provide some stability by batting through the entire innings, top-scoring with 42no, whilst Zav Ralphs and Charlie Macumber added some handy lower-order runs, coming in at different stages and hitting some boundaries to provide some hope. Despite the challenges, the boys managed to post a moderate target of 8/114.
Once McKinnon took to the crease, it was the complete opposite as they got off to the perfect start, hitting boundaries with ease and putting pressure on our bowlers. Their batsmen were hitting the ball to all parts of the field, spreading our fielders and making it difficult for our bowlers to find their line and length. Unfortunately, McKinnon Secondary College successfully chased down CMCB’s innings total with 10 overs to play. In the end, the boys were outplayed by a very impressive cricket team.
Mr Xavier Walsh (Coach)

TEAM: Archie Stevens (Helper), Callan Orr, Aydan Hand, Riley Travaglia, Elliot Ryan, Charlie Macumber, Zavier Ralphs, Mr Xavier Walsh (Coach), Henry O’Callaghan, Quinlan Cody, Chad Mannes, Jaxon Kelly, Jacobi Kramer, Tyce Griffin, Griffin O’Shea
| SPORT |
The Junior Girls played Kyneton High School at the MJSP
SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - STATE QUARTER FINALS
CMCB won the toss and elected to bowl first. The innings began with an early breakthrough as Macey White clean bowled one of the Kyneton openers to get the girls up and about. Despite the early setback, Kyneton High School regrouped quickly, capitalising on some overthrows to build momentum.
At the halfway mark, Kyneton were in a strong position at 2/63. CMCB then turned the tide in the final 10 overs with a disciplined bowling display. Chelsea Wilson (1/1), Elle Gilchrist (0/2), and Indie Kramer (0/4) delivered tight spells. With two brilliant run outs, the girls found their groove and restricted Kyneton to just 28 more runs. Kyneton finished with a total of 91 – a competitive but reachable target.
In reply, CMCB’s batting innings got off to a flying start thanks to Eden Rooke (10) and Indie Kramer (6), who made the most of their 20 balls, as well as picking up extra runs from wides and no balls. Macey White then stole the show with a blistering 36 off 20 balls, putting CMCB firmly in control. With solid contributions from Paige Kristiansen, Evie Gretgrix, and Sienna Raco, the team chased down the target with 8 overs to spare.
With this emphatic win, the CMCB girls have now qualified for the State Finals, to be held in Melbourne on Thursday 27 November.
Ms Maree Pearce (Coach)

TEAM: Lucy Pollock, Elle Gilchrist, Macey White, Indie Kramer, Paige Kristiansen, Ms Maree Pearce (Coach), Evie Gretgrix, Sienna Raco, Greta Pollock, Chelsea Wilson, Eden Rooke
| ALUMNI |
All past students are invited to join our new Alumni network for improved engagement opportunities and a more enriching experience that is fun and private.
ALUMNI - ONLINE PLATFORM
As part of our ongoing efforts to enhance and strengthen the CMCB Alumni community for the long term, all past students are invited to join our new Alumni network for improved engagement opportunities and a more enriching experience that is fun and private. The new platform provides endless opportunities to connect, engage, reminisce and stay informed. It will be the main way to promote upcoming events and reunions.
| SESQUICENTENARY 2026 |
Throughout 2026, Catherine McAuley College Bendigo will celebrate 150 years since the arrival in 1876 of Sister Aloysius Martyn and the Sisters of Mercy to commence their ministry of Catholic education in Bendigo.
Join us as we celebrate and honour the pioneering spirit of the foundation Sisters and the thousands of children and educators who have been part of the Mercy story.
With something for everyone, we invite you to mark your calendar and start planning the many ways you will walk down memory lane, rekindle old friendships and give thanks for the past and future success of CMCB.


Catholic Primary School Discount
CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL DISCOUNT
A Catholic Primary Discount of $150.00 applies to families that have two or more children at Catherine McAuley College Bendigo (CMCB) and are paying Catholic primary school fees. This will be applied to fee accounts in Term 3.
Please complete the form linked below and have the Principal of the primary school your child/children attend authorise this application.
(Repeat) The bucket hat with College crest is part of the summer uniform. The College hat must not have any additional writing or graffiti on it and must be in good repair. All students are expected to wear the College bucket hat throughout breaks and for class activities where they are outside.
Hats are $18.50 each can be purchased from:
Thank you for your support.
Mrs Suzie Kemp and Mr Len Watson, Assistant Principal Campus Leaders
(Repeat) As part of our ongoing commitment to support students in balancing their academic responsibilities with personal, family, and extracurricular commitments, we’d like to remind parents and carers about the process for notifying the school of extended student absences.
If your child will be away from school for an extended period - whether due to family matters, sporting commitments, travel, illness, or injury - please complete the Application for Extended Leave before their departure.
(Repeat) The College is aware that families may need to collect their child from school during the day due to appointments or family emergencies. We ask parents and carers to please ensure that:
the General Office is notified in advance (this will be entered as a Leave Pass)
students are collected in the appropriate break time prior to the appointment.
To reduce the impact of class disruptions, preferred collection times are:
CMCB has a comprehensive EMP tailored to manage bushfire risks.
Bushfire Season Preparedness at CMCB
There are a variety of measures taken by Catherine McAuley College Bendigo (CMCB) to protect students, staff and our community during bushfire seasons. Your safety is our top priority.
Key Information
Emergency Management Plan (EMP)
CMCB has a comprehensive EMP tailored to manage bushfire risks. This includes preparedness, situational awareness, and clear response procedures during elevated fire danger.
Fire Danger Ratings (FDR) and School Closures
Catastrophic FDR Days: (Please note that as of 1 Sep 2022 the FDR ratings have changed and Extreme is now Catastrophic)
If the Bureau of Meteorology forecasts a Catastrophic FDR in our district, the school will close, and all school bus routes will be cancelled.
Communication
We will do our best to notify families the day before a forecast Catastrophic FDR via email, SMS, and our website.
Bushfire At-Risk Register (BARR)
Our school is listed on the Bushfire At-Risk Register, as a Category 3. The College has pre-emptive actions to follow to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Student and Staff Safety
On days of elevated fire risk, activities such as excursions or outdoor events may be rescheduled or cancelled.
Ongoing Preparedness
Regular maintenance ensures our grounds are clear of fire hazards.
Staff receive training on emergency bushfire response procedures.
How You Can Prepare
Stay informed about daily Fire Danger Ratings via the CFA website or app.
Ensure your contact details are up to date with the school office to receive timely notifications.
Discuss your family’s bushfire survival plan and practice it regularly.
If you have any questions about CMCB’s bushfire preparedness, or require assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your continued support and cooperation in keeping our school community safe.

| PARENT ACCESS MODULE |
Important Update regarding reinstatement of access to the Parent Access Module (PAM).
Access to the Parent Access Module (PAM) has been reinstated and is now available online via your web browser.
Full details are in the letter below, together with documents to guide you with signing into PAM and changing your PAM password.
[BUS NOTICES]
Student Travel Assistance Program (STAP) – Term 1, 2026 Travel Update
We wish to inform families of the upcoming renewal process for the Student Travel Assistance Program (STAP) for Term 1, 2026. Please note the following key information:
Automatic Renewal: All active 2025 travel applications will be automatically renewed by STAP, with the exception of:
No Action Required: Families do not need to log in or take any action to renew eligible applications.
New Applications: A new application must be submitted if:
Updating Details: Families are asked to ensure that all personal and travel details in the STAP portal are current and accurate.
Travel Offers: Offers will be emailed to families by 17 November 2025. Please ensure that offers are accepted before the expiry date listed to secure your child’s place.
| SANDHURST DIOCESE |
Sandpiper e-News is the official communication platform for the Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst.
Sandpiper e-News is the official communication platform for the Catholic Diocese of Sandhurst. It features news from the Bishop, the Chancery, the Mission and Pastoral Life Team, parishes, schools and Catholic entities across the Diocese of Sandhurst.
Important dates for your calendar, including Pupil Free Days, camps and major College events. Click on the link below and download the poster for the current term.
Information is correct at the time of publication, but families are advised to log in to the Parent Access Module (PAM) for the latest College Calendar updates.