Today we are celebrating the excellent VCE results of our graduates in 2025. The students have been rewarded for their endeavours during a satisfying and memorable year, with some outstanding collective and individual performances in their Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and Victorian Certificate of Education Vocational Major (VCE VM) studies.

I am delighted to announce that the Catherine McAuley College Dux for 2025 is Zahli Waugh with an ATAR of 98.2. The Dux Proximus is Ebony Gronow with an ATAR of 97.85, followed by Liam Tyndall, with an ATAR of 97.55.

We look forward to Presentation Evening later today, where we will recognise the outstanding academic and community contributions of students in Years 7 to 11 throughout 2025.

Over the past fortnight, it has been pleasing to see learning continue right up to the end of the school year. At St Mary’s, Headstart provided two weeks of orientation and learning, allowing Years 9 to 11 students to become familiar with the expectations, content, and structure of their 2026 subjects.

The learning continued for Years 7 and 8 students right up to their final day yesterday, when they gathered for their student-led Advent Liturgy.

On Wednesday 3 December, the College was closed to allow all members of the community to celebrate the life and legacy of Monsignor Frank Marriott. Thank you to our student leaders who attended to represent the College and assist at Sacred Heart Cathedral.

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Mrs Catherine Moore, a valued former staff member, passed away recently after a short illness. Our thoughts and condolences are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.

On Tuesday we welcomed our 2026 Year 7 for their Orientation Day, giving the newest members of our community a taste of life at Catherine McAuley College Bendigo. Thank you to our 2026 student leaders who guided the new Year 7s throughout the day, and to the Year Level Leaders, Transition Team and teachers for preparing and running this day.

As our school year ends, I take the opportunity to wish everyone in the Catherine McAuley College Bendigo community a very happy and holy Christmas and pass on my deep appreciation for the work that has gone into this year. I hope you all enjoy a restful and joyful holiday break.

Catherine McAuley College Bendigo is delighted to announce the excellent VCE results of our graduates in 2025.

The students have been rewarded for their hard work and application during a satisfying and memorable year, resulting in some outstanding collective and individual performances in both the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and Victorian Certificate of Education Vocational Major (VCE VM) studies.

The Principal, Mr Brian Turner, said, “In our commitment to service in the Mercy tradition, we offer a range of pathways, and the students’ excellent results will open doors to many opportunities beyond school.”

The Catherine McAuley College Dux for 2025 is Zahli Waugh with an ATAR of 98.2.

The Dux Proximus is Ebony Gronow with an ATAR of 97.85, followed by Liam Tyndall, with an ATAR of 97.55.

Although all three students worked hard to achieve their results and were determined to do their very best, they were collectively shocked at their high scores. Zahli shared that it was "completely unexpected", but she was "over the moon".

As members of the College Student Leadership Team, Liam (Faith Captain) and Zahli (McAuley Captain) found that balancing study and social activities was an important part of their Year 12 experience. They both agreed that finding the right mix was helpful in staying motivated throughout the year.  

Zahli and Liam both hope to study biomedical science in the rural health stream at La Trobe University next year, with Liam being particularly interested in the field of psychiatry and mental health. Although Ebony intends to take a gap year in 2026, she too finds herself leaning toward biomedicine or health sciences.

Mrs Gina Giblin, Assistant Principal – Learning and Teaching, said “Congratulations to Zahli, Ebony and Liam. They have consistently demonstrated great commitment with their strong work ethic and thorough approach to all subjects. Their humble attitude to their achievements has earned them high respect from both peers and staff. Over the past six years, they have lived our College’s Mercy Values and made a valuable contribution to our school.”

Principal Mr Brian Turner thanked Zahli, Ebony and Liam for their contributions to College life beyond their studies and wished them the very best for their future endeavours.

"Their success not only reflects individual academic achievements but also highlights the strength of the bonds within our school community. The positive and inclusive culture fostered at our school has undoubtedly contributed to the exceptional accomplishments of our students.”

“As they transition to the next chapter of their lives, we are confident that the Class of 2025 will carry forward the values of resilience, unity, and kindness they've demonstrated during their time at our school. We extend our warmest wishes to each student for a future filled with continued success and personal growth.”

Mrs Suzi Kemp, Assistant Principal Campus Leader - St Mary's and Mrs Gina Giblin, Assistant Principal Learning & Teaching, congratulate Ebony Gronow, Zahli Waugh and Liam Tyndall on their outstanding results

It is with great sadness that we share the news that Mrs Catherine Moore, a valued former staff member, passed away recently after a short illness. 

Cathy was an inspirational musician and teacher at our College from 1988 to 2021, dedicating over three decades of service to our community. Her contributions and commitment during those years left a lasting impact, and she will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of working with her.

From teaching class and instrumental music, drama and religious education, to conducting numerous choirs and bands, Cathy made a huge contribution to the performing arts. She established the Musician of the Year, was involved in annual productions and led the music at countless masses and liturgies throughout her years at the College.

Her contributions and commitment during those years left a lasting impact, and she will be fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of being taught by her. 

Our thoughts and condolences are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.

Tuesday was buzzing with excitement as our incoming Year 7 students stepped into secondary school life for the very first time!

After a warm welcome, they rotated through classes like Music, PE, Agrifutures, STEAM, Art, and Humanities - getting a taste of what’s ahead. The day concluded in McAuley Square, where some brave students shared their favourite activities, new friendships, and what they’re most looking forward to next year.

Our 2026 student leaders played an important role, guiding tours, answering questions, and helping Year 6 students feel at ease. With a range of activities and our 2026 student leaders guiding each group, the day was both informative and engaging for all involved.

The next time we meet will be for the start of classes on Friday 30 January 2026. Wishing everyone a wonderful break - we look forward to seeing you in the new year.

Our Coolock students concluded their academic year with an Advent Liturgy led by our students. The focus was on the four candles of Advent – hope, peace, joy, and love.

Thank you to our choir members and Mrs Deborah Ross for the beautiful singing which enhanced our Liturgy: Alice Bibby, Victoria Tomkins, Daisy Bui, Phoebe Crowle, Hannah Torney, Willow Brown, Imogen Keller, Ellie-Rose Reidy and Clementine Field.

At the conclusion of the Liturgy, we celebrated those in our community who had thrived and served throughout Term 4. The following students were awarded the prestigious Spirit of Catherine Award for Term 4.

Year 7

Ava Giblin

Today, we take a moment to celebrate Ava Giblin, a member of our community who truly lives out the Mercy tradition and the legacy of Catherine McAuley. She has actively embraced leadership by serving on the Student Representative Council (SRC) and volunteering time as an Open Day helper, showing incredible hospitality and pride in sharing our College with prospective families. It is for her outstanding contribution to the SRC, her generous volunteering, consistent academic excellence, remarkable tally of commendations, and clear, daily demonstration of the Mercy values that we proudly present the Spirit of Catherine Award to Ava.

Ellie-Rose Reidy

Ellie-Rose has made a wonderful start to her secondary schooling at Catherine McAuley College Bendigo, demonstrating the Mercy Values of Service and Compassion daily. Her contribution to the College has been outstanding, highlighted by her involvement in the Production, Music Program, Book Week activities and as a representative of our College at the Bendigo Agricultural Show. Like Catherine once did, Ellie-Rose always gives her best and displays a positive attitude, and she has been rewarded for her efforts with eighteen commendations, making her an excellent role model for her peers and a deserving recipient of this prestigious award.

Year 8

Keighlan Grae Madalino

Keighlan is a consistent role model within the CMCB community, demonstrating all of our Mercy Values. She listens attentively to the needs of others and shows compassion for those around her by offering a helping hand and a place to sit during learning time. Keighlan demonstrated the courage she possesses by applying for a leadership role in 2026. During the interview process, it was wonderful to hear of her strong connection to faith. Keighlan does not do things by half measures; she can always be relied upon to give 100% effort, typifying the responsible type of learner she is. Through these actions, Keighlan has not only lived the Mercy Values, but she has also inspired her peers to follow her example and is a very deserving recipient of the Spirit of Catherine.

Inca Bolton

Inca is a wonderful member of our community, radiating positivity and kindness. Not a day goes by that Inca does not make the time to greet others by name and with a smile; the hospitality she demonstrates is extraordinary. When it comes to work ethic, Inca strives for greatness; she is a diligent learner who works hard for the results she achieves, much like Catherine's determination. Inca has a strong sense of what is right and wrong and possesses a presence that rubs off on others. Those who spend time with Inca will know they are with a terrific person and wonderful role model. Inca’s commitment to the College, and our Mercy Values, makes her a worthy recipient of the Spirit of Catherine.

Student Leadership 2026

The following students were announced as the student leadership team for 2026.

YEAR 8

• Year Level Captains: Ava Giblin & Sebastian Carmichael
• Faith Captain: Hannah Torney

House Captains:

• Backhaus: Preston Anfuso & Zara Grieve
• Champagnat: Grace Kentish & Xavier Rykers
• Djaara: Chelsea Wilson & Ellie-Rose Reidy
• MacKillop: Georgia Rankin & Violet Walsh
• McAuley: Isaac Manley & Alex Connolly
• Vincent: Olivia Parker & Pip Sibley

YEAR 9

• Year Level Captains: Arianna Gibson & Jordyn Rinaldi
• Faith Captain: Rose Merry Ku

House Captains:

• Backhaus: Grace Wyatt & Ava Fry
• Champagnat: Georgia Bray & April Wainwright
• Djaara: Forest Jackson-Leahy & Seb McGilchrist
• MacKillop: Keighlan Grae Madalino & Ruby Goggin
• McAuley: Jonothan Peters & Mila Childs
• Vincent: Ava Chittenden & Zander Walker

Congratulations

We also acknowledged and celebrated the Year 7 Boys Cricket State Champions and the Junior Girls Cricket State Champions.

Student leaders assisted at Sacred Heart Cathedral for Monsignor Frank Marriott's funeral.

At Coolock, 2026 leaders supported the Year 6 Orientation Day, taking tours and answering questions.

We did it! Well done students and parents. Together you have officially reached the end of your Year 7 journey. It should be a proud moment for you all. One of quiet pride and genuine celebration of achievement. It should also be one of reflection, considering what went well and what can be improved in the years to come.

As the Year 7 leadership team, we thought we would like to reflect upon the year and the wonderful milestones and achievements that have taken place.

We would firstly like to thank each and every student who has made Year 7 such a great space to work in. After settling into what became the routine of Year 7 life, including learning new subjects through electives and meeting new people as well as renewing old acquaintances, we found ourselves with a team of trusty leaders that were elected in Term 1, including Year Level Captains and House Leaders. In Term 1, we were taken out of our conform zone, heading to camp in Kyneton. This provided students and staff with the opportunity to learn more about each other and themselves, while participating in a range of challenges, team building and problem-solving activities. Overall, we were thrilled with the way students worked together and started building new connections with their peers and staff.

In Term 2, students wore their winter academic uniform for the first time and had to learn how to tie their ties (or find a helpful family member or friend to do it for them!!!) Later in the term we had our first Encounter Day, and hopefully the messages about being an “upstander” not a “bystander” will stay with them for life. The tiles the students designed on the day, which can be seen on the crosses positioned in the SAM Building entrance, will hopefully be an ongoing reminder about how important the role each of our Year 7 students can play in their school and wider community.

In Term 3, students participated in Mercy Day, which allowed them to learn about the importance of “Living Mercy”, raising money in a fun way through our carnival and fete events for people less fortunate than themselves and learning how doing “little” things can make a “big” difference.

In Term 4, students were kept very busy with the Bendigo Tech School visits, finishing off assessment tasks and enjoying the remaining weeks of the school year with their new and existing friends. It was terrific to see them all playing downball, basketball and sitting around in the sun sharing lunch and laughs.

Year 7s, you continue to learn and grow as young people. Your teachers have worked with endless patience to help you to realise your potential and be your best. Bring your best selves to Year 8 in 2026 and build upon the wonderful foundation you have laid during Year 7 in 2025. made.

Finally, we hope you and your families have a holiday that is full of all of the things that bring you happiness and joy.

Best wishes,

Mrs Hayley Lethlean, Mr Stephen Evans and Mrs Sarah Cody

The end of the year is upon us. It has been a busy final fortnight for the Year 8s, with assessments and final coursework being completed for the year.

The swimming program finished, with all the participants doing a splendid job of water safety. A huge shout out to Mr Millard’s Health and Physical Education class which had the highest participation for the term!

In STEAM the students have been putting their detective skills to good use, analysing forensics, and applying skills to case studies.

Humanities has seen the students weaving their inventor hats, developing ideas to solve a ‘first world problem’. The curriculum has been busy to say the least.

There were several students who received recognition of achievement awards at our latest assembly. All recipients should be very proud of their incredible efforts!

Thank you all for a great year. We wish everyone a Merry Christmas and good luck for 2026.

Mr Josh Hann, Ms Kim Greenwell and Mrs Marine Snyman

Reports for students in Years 7 to 12 2025 (Semester 2) will be released on PAM on Friday 12 December.

Log in to PAM

In French this semester, students have been undertaking some impressive research projects. They have investigated the history of famous iconic buildings and then tried building them with blocks.

We also dived into learning about all things French, where the students investigated how French culture has influenced Australia. French foods, cars, perfumes, art and more were explored. It has been a busy time filled with creativity, culture, and the development of various skills.

Mrs Tarli Capicchiano

SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - STATE FINALS

Junior Girls Cricket - State Champions!

After an early start, the CMCB Junior Girls Cricket Team arrived at Elgar Park eager to showcase their skills. 

State Semi-Final: CMCB vs Dromana College

Facing Dromana College in Game 1, the girls were sent into bat after losing the toss. Openers Indie Kramer (12) and Eden Rooke (11) set a steady platform before Macey White (42) accelerated the scoring at number three. Strong contributions followed from Evie Gretrix (18), Sienna Raco (15), and Greta Pollock (7), as each player batted out their allocated 20 balls. The team completed their innings with a commanding total of 3/139.

The bowling attack started spectacularly. Macey White (2/12) struck twice in her opening over, while Eden Rooke (1/15) added another wicket and a sharp run-out, which had Dromana reeling at 4/12 after just two overs. Despite a brief recovery, Dromana were dismissed for 48 in the 10th over. Tight bowling from Sienna Raco (1/10), Chelsea Wilson (1/2), and Elle Gilchrist (1/2) sealed a convincing win, earning CMCB a place in the State Final.

State Final CMCB vs Norwood Secondary College

In the State Final, the girls faced a strong Norwood Secondary College side. Once again sent into bat, openers Eden Rooke (13) and Indi Kramer (1) laid a solid foundation; however, the standout performance came from Macey White, who blasted 33 from her first 20 balls and later returned to finish with a brilliant 65. Despite regular wickets falling, smart batting from Macey and Eden in the final overs, combined with sharp running between the wickets, lifted the team to a competitive total of 109.

With confidence high, the girls attacked the bowling innings with intent. Macey White effected a remarkable run-out in her first over (with the back of her foot), while Eden Rooke struck with her very first ball thanks to a superb catch from Evie Gretgrix. The momentum continued to go CMCB’s way as Elle Gilchrist, Chelsea Wilson, and Bethany Ryan bowled with precision, restricting Norwood’s scoring opportunities.

Sienna Raco and Evie Gretrix maintained the pressure with tight spells in the final overs, backed by outstanding fielding by the entire team. Norwood were restricted to 7/71 off their 20 overs, which saw the CMC team win by an impressive 38 runs. This was achieved on the back of some incredible performances with the ball -

• Macey White – 3 overs, 1/14
• Eden Rooke – 2 overs, 1/3
• Chelsea Wilson – 4 overs, 2/18
• Bethany Ryan – 4 overs, 1/9
• Elle Gilchrist – 3 overs, 1/4
• Evie Gretrix – 1 over, 1/3

The CMCB girls secured the State Final victory with a clinical and spirited performance. Their improvement from game to game was inspiring, and the fun and enjoyment they shared made the achievement even more special.

Special thanks to Cale Polson and Solly Baker for their invaluable support with umpiring and scoring, to Ms Holly Speed for her organisation and encouragement, and to all the parents and families who cheered the girls throughout all days of competition. Your support was greatly appreciated.

Congratulations, girls, on a terrific result and a memorable journey!

TEAM: Evie Gretgrix, Elle Gilchrist, Bethany Ryan, Lucy Pollock, Indie Kramer, Paige Kristiansen, Ms Maree Pearce (Coach), Chelsea Wilson, Eden Rooke, Macey White, Sienna Raco, Greta Pollock

SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - STATE FINAL

Year 7 Boys Cricket - State Champions!

On Friday 21 November, the Year 7 Boys Cricket team travelled to McDonnell Park in Northcote to compete in the State Championship. After arriving at 8.15am, the boys shook off the early morning fatigue and prepared for their 9.15am semi-final clash against Dromana College.

Semi-Final: CMCB vs Dromana College

Conditions were cool and breezy with rain looming, and the lush outfield promised slow scoring. CMCB won the toss and chose to bat, but the start was nervy, losing a wicket in the third over. Jed Mannix and Cale Polson steadied the innings with smart running and occasional boundaries, taking the score to 2/35 before ominous clouds rolled in. At the end of the eighth over, the score was 2/50, and then the rain arrived, forcing a 45-minute delay and reducing the match to 15 overs per side.

On resumption, Jensen Sawyer and Cale Polson lifted the tempo, pushing the total to 107 in challenging conditions. Jensen top-scored with 39, while Cale added 34. With little rest, the pair opened the bowling superbly, reducing Dromana to 2/19 after 4 overs. Jed Mannix and Thomas Marasco continued the squeeze before Solly Baker, Isaac Manley, and Max Carmichael delivered brilliant death overs to seal a 42-run victory. Best figures: Thomas Marasco 2/16 (3 overs) and Solly Baker 2/5 (2 overs).

Grand Final: CMCB vs Rowville Secondary College

In the afternoon, the boys faced Rowville Secondary College for the State Championship. CMCB won the toss again, and captain Cale Polson declared: “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” (As they had batted first every game to date).

Openers Jed Mannix and Thomas Marasco laid a steady foundation before Jed fell with the score at 1/20 after 4 overs. Thomas contributed a well-made 22, but the game turned when Cale Polson and Jensen Sawyer combined for a stunning 105-run partnership. Their running was sharp, and when they shifted gears, the boundaries flowed, 11 in total, including four sixes. Cale’s innings was a masterclass: 70 off 41 balls, supported by Jensen’s 37 off 29. Late fireworks from Hamish Baker (15 off 10), including his first career six, pushed CMCB to a commanding 159 runs.

Defending the total, CMCB’s bowlers were ruthless. Jensen Sawyer struck in the first over and claimed wickets in each of his first three overs. Jed Mannix joined the party with two wickets, while Solly Baker and Miller Fletcher chipped in before Isaac Ely finished the job. Rowville were bowled out for 83, handing CMCB a 76-run victory and the State Championship title. Best figures: Jensen Sawyer 3/13 (3 overs) and Miller Fletcher 2/6 (1 over).

The entire team were praised for their skill, teamwork, and energy, their cricket was of the highest standard and their conduct exemplary. Thanks to the parents for their support, and to Ms Speed and Max Adams for umpiring and scoring. The boys should be immensely proud. State Champions 2025!

Mr Xavier Dunham (Coach)

TEAM: Archie McCullough, Solly Baker, Thomas Marasco, Isaac Manley, Patrick Ingram, Jed Mannix, Jensen Sawyer, Mr Xavier Dunham (Coach), Max Carmichael, Isaac Ely, Cale Polson, Hamish Baker, Amos Edwards, Miller Fletcher

SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - STATE FINALS

Year 8 Girls Basketball - State Champions!

On Tuesday 18 November, our team set out early, gathering at 6:15am for the journey to Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre (MSAC) in Albert Park for the SSV Basketball State Finals. Thanks to Mrs Maree Pearce’s expert driving, we arrived smoothly and in high spirits despite enduring a few energetic K-Pop tracks on the minibus.

Our opening match was against Brauer College, who, delayed by traffic, barely had time to warm up. We also took a few minutes to find our rhythm, but once we did, the team clicked into gear and delivered a commanding performance, securing a 23-point victory: CMCB 45 to Brauer 22.

Game 2 saw us face St Helena Secondary College. Their lineup featured a formidable player over six feet tall, but Izzy and Etta rose to the challenge, neutralising her impact. Our teamwork and intensity shone through, and we claimed a solid win by 14 points: CMCB 35 to St Helena 21.

The final pool game was against Catholic College Wodonga, a fast, tenacious opponent. With each match, our team’s confidence and cohesion grew. In a hard-fought contest, we prevailed by 5 points: CMCB 31 to Wodonga 26.

Advancing to the final, we met Maribyrnong College, the top team from their pool. We were surprised to see that last year’s finalists, Rowville Secondary College, had been eliminated. The determination in our players was unmistakable; they played with heart and focus, never allowing Maribyrnong a foothold. Despite the fatigue of a long day, our team’s energy never waned, and we finished with a decisive 16-point win: CMCB 41 to Maribyrnong 25.

Winning back-to-back state titles is an extraordinary achievement for this talented group of young women. It has been a privilege to witness their growth, resilience, and sportsmanship. The future is bright for each of them.

A heartfelt thank you to the families who travelled to Melbourne to support the team, and to Ms Holly Speed and Mrs Maree Pearce for their organisation and dedication in making the day possible.

Mrs Rachel Winfield (Coach)

TEAM: Etta Place, Harper Gordon, Isabella McEvoy, Evie Gretgrix, Mila Childs, Mrs Rachel Winfield (Coach), Poppy Carter, Elle Gilchrist, Sienna Raco, Ellie Macumber

Intermediate Girls - State Runners Up!

The final step of the Intermediate Girls Basketball 2025 campaign was to take on the State Finals at MSAC on Tuesday 18 November.

Led by team captain Lexi Fennell, the girls came straight out of the blocks, flew into the first game against Emmanuel College, Warrnambool and settled into some clean, thoughtful play. Excellent use of the ball saw the team ahead at half time, rotating players through the bench and comfortably coming away with a win, 36-25.

In Game 2, against Mt Ridley College, the girls were keen to keep the ball rolling. Full court pressure, great ball use and accurate shooting ensured a lead was maintained throughout the game. Some missed rebounds saw Mt Ridley mount a mini comeback, but that was quickly thwarted by some exceptional mid-court pressure that stopped them in their tracks and let the girls take another win, 43-37.

Game 3 came around, and Catholic College Wodonga came out hard in the early stages of the game. Some on-ball pressure threatened to slow the momentum; however, the girls opened up from the 3-point line and cleared ahead on the board quickly. The lead allowed some players to rest on the bench, with a 40-22 win going into the books, and locking the team in for a State Title playoff.

The final was always going to be a tight contest. Rowville Secondary College are renowned for their sporting teams, and this team carried some very talented players. Right from the jump, both teams were pressing the length of the court and playing tight and physical on defence. After the first 5 minutes, it was clear the teams were going to fight all the way, and that it would come down to small things to set the difference.

The girls were down on the scoreboard at halftime, but that didn’t stop the determined efforts from all eight players. Right to the final siren, the girls played hard and fast, but Rowville capitalised on our mistakes and got out to a lead that couldn’t be pulled back. The final score of 27-44 didn’t reflect how tight the contest was on court; the girls just couldn’t get the shots to land.

Each and every squad member, whether they played one tournament or three, should be extremely proud of their efforts, their camaraderie and their conduct throughout the campaign. To go all the way to the final and come home with a State Runner Up medal is a great achievement and will certainly encourage the team to go into 2026 with some solid motivation.

A huge thank you is extended to our emergencies, scorers and of course to Mrs Pearce and Ms Speed for their support in getting the team to all the competitions this year.

Mr Colin Hogan (Coach)

TEAM: Mr Colin Hogan, Lexie Fennell, Sophie McDermott, Mia Cox, Rylee Marsh, Lilly Teuma, Rhylee Pollock, Rhylie Jones, Alexis Arundell, Molly Beasley

Rowing Regatta success

Congratulations to James Everton, who competed at the 2025 Rowing Victoria Schoolboys St Kevin's Regatta on Saturday 29 November at the National Water Sports Centre in Carrum.

James competed in the Male School Single Skull event for Year 8 Boys Division 1, over the distance of 1000 metres. James had a fantastic day and finished the event on a high, winning the final race of the competition with a time of 5:18.44. He secured the victory with a winning margin of 7.14 seconds.

Well done, James.

With classes done, students can now dive into the 2025 College Magazine - 186 pages filled with vibrant photos, engaging stories and memories of College life throughout the year.

Congratulations to Indi Stringer (Year 8) for her striking cover design. Congratulations also to Molly Firman (Year 7), Arianna Gibson (Year 8) and Chloe McCullough (Year 10) who received Honourable Mentions for their competition entries.

Please note that if you ordered a magazine, but your child did not receive it on the second last day of term, it can be collected from the General Office. by Thursday 18 December, or from 19 January 2026.

A reminder that all 2025 Year 12 students are entitled to collect a complimentary copy of the magazine.

There are a limited number of spare copies. To request one, fill in this Waiting List form. Waitlist copies will be distributed at the beginning of Term 1 next year.

Happy reading!

Waiting List for 2025 Magazine

This enhanced program is designed to help Year 7, 8, and 9 students build strength, improve fitness, and develop healthy training habits in a safe and supportive environment. Our qualified therapists will guide students through proper techniques, ensuring they gain confidence and maximise their results.

Benefits of the Program: ✔ Increase strength and endurance ✔ Boost self-esteem and confidence ✔ Learn lifelong fitness skills ✔ Increases resilience to injures to stay injury free

Whether your child is an aspiring athlete or simply looking to improve their fitness, this program is the perfect opportunity to get started on their health journey.

When and Where:

• Dates: Monday 2 February – Wednesday 1 April
• Location: CMCB Mercy Junortoun Sporting Precinct
• Times: Monday and Wednesday Morning 7.30-8.30am

Please use the following link to get more information and sign up

Find out more about the Peak Performance Program (PPP)

If you have not already done so, please update your child's Medical Profile in the Parent Access Module (PAM). All necessary medical action plans are to be current for the 2026 school year before being uploaded. Students cannot commence the 2026 school year until their Medical Profile is updated.

1. Log in to PAM using the link below.
2. Click on the student icon beside your child’s name to update your child’s Medical Profile.

Complete Agreements and Permissions in PAM

When you log in to PAM, you will receive Notification Reminders for the items below. Click each item to view and complete the details.

1. ICT Acceptable Use Agreement (needs to be accepted prior to laptop collection)
2. Student Code of Conduct
3. Parent Code of Conduct
4. Permission to Photograph and Film

We ask all families to update this information each year and at any time your family or child’s circumstances change. Keeping records up to date enables efficient communication between school and home and allows the College to support your child’s full and safe participation in school learning activities.

Friday 20 January 2026

Official individual school photos for all students will be taken for Years 7 - 12 students and staff on Friday 30 January 2026. 

Group Student Leadership Team photos for Years 8 to 12 will also be taken on this day.

During the holidays, when preparing for return to school, please note:

• Full summer academic uniform is to be worn for photos (no jumpers).
• Students must meet dress code and uniform expectations.
• Haircuts: hair at shoulder length or longer needs to be tied up.
• Earrings: please refer to dress code and uniform guidelines for details.

Check the CMCB Dress Code and Uniform Expectations

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.

Co-curricular Update

Pastoral Care - New in 2026

Family Fees 2026

2026 Dates For Your Diary

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.

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)

• To guarantee students are provided with their learning resources prior to Headstart and the summer holiday period, all orders for Years 10 – 12, 2026, will need to be placed by Monday 3 November 2025.
• Orders for Years 10 – 12, 2026 received by this above cutoff date will be delivered in the week ending Friday 21 November 2025.
• There is an expectation that students in senior year levels will have access to their English texts over the summer break in preparation for their 2026 English classes.

BOOKLIST ORDERING

Order from Campion Education (access code B46T)

Campion Education

• Booklist items are available to be purchased from Campion Education (access code B46T).
• Online ordering and home delivery only.
• Orders placed by Friday 19 December 2025 with Campion will be posted to your nominated address, free of charge.
• Every effort will be made to deliver to your nominated address by 23 January 2026.
• Orders can still be placed after the due date by visiting the Campion website or Retail Service Centre. Full stock availability cannot always be guaranteed for orders placed after the due date.
• Due to supply chain challenges, your delivery may arrive outside of the original estimated delivery timeframe.
• For further support with ordering, please refer to Campion Support & FAQs page.

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

• Year 10 – 12, 2026 students may be required to purchase additional items from other suppliers. Refer to the 2026 Booklist Flyer below for full information.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the College by phoning 5445 9100.

Booklist Links

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:

• Students who will be in Year 7, 2026
• Students who will be in Year 10, 2026
• Applications with a status of lapsed, cancelled, removed, or declined

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:

• Students will be in Year 7, 2026
• Students will be in Year 10, 2026
• The family has changed address
• The 2025 application was lapsed, cancelled, removed, or declined

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.

Sandpiper E-News

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.