Laureate Assembly

The 2026 Laureate Assembly, held on Friday 13 February in the Marian Centre, was a wonderful celebration of excellence and recognition of the outstanding achievements of our senior students and the Graduating Class of 2025. Congratulations to all award winners and thank you to Zahli Waugh (College Dux 2025) and Sam Kane (Class of 2016), who delivered heartfelt addresses to our senior students, staff and guests. (READ ARTICLE)

Year 7 Connect Week

Last week saw Year 7 students engaging positively in all activities. From connecting to faith, community activities, settling into their Mercy homegroups and finishing up with a day out at Funfields, students participated in each session with enthusiasm. Thank you to all families who attended the Welcome Evening, it was a great opportunity for staff to meet you. We hope you found this a useful opportunity to learn more about the year ahead. (READ ARTICLE)

Swimming Carnival

The Swimming Carnival is a significant event in our College calendar, and we recognise that many students were eagerly anticipating it. Therefore, there has been great disappointment that we could not go ahead. As always, the safety and wellbeing of our students and staff remain our highest priority, and proceeding with the event under these conditions would not have been responsible or safe. Every effort has been made to re-schedule the event, without success.

Year 7 Enrolment for 2027

We are making an important shift in how we welcome prospective families. In 2026, Catherine McAuley College Bendigo is replacing our traditional Open Day with Learning Walks and Discovery Days, so that families can see our classrooms in action and prospective students can have an immersive taste of what student life at our College is like.

• Learning Walks: these personalised tours give parents and carers the chance to experience real classrooms, meet staff, and see how students learn at our junior campus. (Term 1: 23–30 March and Term 2: 21-24 April (9am, with some 4pm sessions. Bookings open Monday 23 March 2026)
• Year 7 Discovery Days: are designed for current Year 6 students who want an immersive taste of the learning, friendships and opportunities at CMCB. (30 April-6 May 2026)

This ‘Opening our Doors’ approach reflects our commitment to authenticity, allowing families to see real learning in action and experience the school exactly as it is every day. (FIND OUT MORE)

The 2026 Laureate Assembly, held on Friday 13 February in the Marian Centre, was a wonderful celebration of excellence and recognition of the outstanding achievements of our senior students and the Graduating Class of 2025.

The Laureate Assembly is a special moment in our calendar, traditionally held following the Opening Mass. However, a change in arrangements in 2026 to accommodate the Sesquicentenary Opening Mass at the Sacred Heart Cathedral meant that this year’s ceremony was held as a special assembly at St Mary’s for the senior students, with each award recipient offering an inspiring example for our 2026 students.

Students and families witnessed the graduates and current Year 12 students receive recognition for their exceptional creative and academic success in their VCE Units 3 and 4 and VCE Vocational Major, with the announcement of 2025 Subject Dux recipients and other special awards.

2025 Subject Dux and other special awards recipients

Guest speaker Sam Kane, Class of 2016, delivered a heartfelt address, reflecting on how his experience at Catholic College Bendigo shaped his life beyond school and how he allowed his passions and interests to take him in unexpected directions during the past ten years.

As well as working for the Victorian Government, Sam is a community advocate, President and General Manager of the Golden Square Pool, and has previously worked in the not-for-profit sector at Bendigo Foodshare and as a journalist at the Bendigo Weekly.

Sam was the recipient of the Seeds of Justice Award in 2014 and the Bishop Noel Daly Award in 2016. He was College Captain in 2016, a CCB trainee in 2017 and is currently a member of the Catherine McAuley College Bendigo Advisory Council.

In 2019, Sam was the City of Greater Bendigo Young Citizen of the Year, in recognition of his community advocacy and leadership of the Golden Square Pool and is currently a Churchill Fellow.

The 2025 College Dux Zahli Waugh shared her approach to her Year 12 campaign with the assembled students. She explained how she set her goals and ‘manifested’ her study scores and ATAR. She adopted the mentality of someone who had already achieved so much, which helped her stay motivated and focused.

She also reflected on the Year 12 year is a time of change and transition into adulthood. She believes that maintaining a balanced life is essential: a balance between studying, family and friends, as well as between serious work and enjoyable subjects.

CLICK HERE to read Zahli's speech in full

Other awards presented included the Australian Defence Force Long Tan Youth Leadership Award, awarded to Jude Mappeson, who has already taken up a place at the Defence Force Academy in Canberra. The Australian Defence Force Long Tan Youth Leadership Award was presented to last year’s College Captain, Caleb Tobin.

In arts awards, the recipient of the Art Acquisition Award was Chloe Maher, whose artwork ‘Sanctuary’ was a gouache piece. In her artist’s statement, Chloe wrote that the piece “aims to evoke feelings of peacefulness, curiosity and immersion within the vivid, lush world the main figure itself is surrounded with. By utilising vivid, vibrant colour usage to illustrate the natural environment, I aimed to emphasise the beauties and purity of the flourishing landscape; alongside the life within it. Ultimately, this piece reflects on how there are endless unique, individualised ways through which the living world can be interpreted through an artist's own artworks.”

The JRS Award, a cash prize donated by professional artist and past student, Marcia King, and named in honour of former art teachers, Josie Lowerson, Rhonda Alexander and Sharon Cruise, was awarded to Mason Biggs. Mason’s passion is for animations and cartoons. Due to work commitments he was not able to attend the presentation, but recently took time to visit his past art teachers. 

Mercy Education Limited Shining Lamp Award is an annual prestigious award offered to one student at a Mercy affiliated College each year. The award aims to foster leadership in the Mercy tradition. The recipient of the 2025 award was Sophie Hughes.

In conclusion, the Principal, Mr Brian Turner, congratulated the students on their achievements and reflected on the importance of having vision and continually moving forward in one's life. He endorsed Sam’s comments that having a passion or feeling motivated by a cause will help with your journey, just as the founding Sisters had their vision and passion when they came to Bendigo from Ireland in 1876.

Mr Turner also thanked the families for their support of the students throughout their education and for being present to celebrate their successes. He also wished every student success for their futures, in gap years, work and further education.

Following the presentation, award recipients and their families enjoyed afternoon tea in the St Mary’s Courtyard.

Friday 6 March 2026, 7.30 am – 9.00 am

St Mary’s Hall, Barkly Street, Bendigo

GUEST SPEAKERS

Enjoy a delicious breakfast while being inspired by the personal journeys of some of our remarkable alumnae, who will offer insightful reflections on gender and leadership.

• MC: Grace Aicken
• Panellists: Cr Andrea Metcalf, Justine Sharkey Minne, Leila Gurruwiwi and Abbey Milligan

Tickets: Bookings essential | $40 adults; $15 current CMCB students, includes breakfast

Enquiries 03 5445 9100; event@cmcb.vic.edu.au

Speakers

MC: Grace Aicken (Class of 2015)

After undertaking a Master of Journalism at the University of Melbourne, Grace interned at the Herald Sun and worked at WIN News in Bendigo and later, Nine News in Melbourne. She is currently a media and communications adviser with Fire Rescue Victoria, helping to shape important public communications and support community safety.

PANELLISTS

Andrea Metcalf (Class of 1977)

Andrea had a successful career at Centrelink before being elected to the Whipstick Ward of the City of Greater Bendigo in 2016. She has since served three terms as Mayor and is currently still serving on the Council.

Justine Sharkey Minne (Class of 1993)

Justine began her career at Bendigo Bank as a Customer Service Officer and is now the Head of Community Banking. She leads the strategic direction of over 300 community-owned branches and director networks across Australia.

Leila Gurruwiwi (Class of 2005)

Leila commenced her career in radio before joining the television program The Marngrook Footy Show as a reporter and presenter. Along with her media roles, she is also an Indigenous Support Worker.

Abbey Milligan (Class of 2018)

The inaugural CMCB Faith Captain is currently a PHD candidate in Biomedical Science at La Trobe University, where she uses advanced microscopy techniques to better understand the human immune response.

Join us throughout the year 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.

• International Women’s Day Breakfast | Friday 6 March
• Jubilee Community Art Show | Saturday 2 May
• Sesquicentennial ‘Back To’ Day | Saturday 2 May
• Performance Gala | Friday 22 May
• Sesquicentennial Gala Dinner | Saturday 5 September

The inaugural Connect Week program for our Year 7 students was an enormous success. Across an entire week and through a range of activities, our students and staff strengthened connection and understanding, while at the same time having a great time.

We must acknowledge the enthusiasm of the students throughout the week. Thanks also to our wonderful staff who brought energy and passion to each day: your work was incredible. Finally, a massive thankyou to our students and families for your support and participation all week.

Monday started with faith-based experiences and an inspiring session with Father Rob Galea. The energy lifted on House Day on Tuesday. Wednesday’s Ash Wednesday Liturgy and the activities at the Faith Leech Aquatic Centre brought wonderful moments of teamwork and connection. Thursday’s community scavenger hunt through St Mary’s Campus and the Bendigo CBD showcased the spirit, collaboration and sense of adventure that helped to make this week so special.

Today’s grand finale at Funfields Themepark was a fantastic way to celebrate the new friendships and connections formed throughout the week.

Watching students support one another, try new things and enjoy the experience together has been a highlight for all involved.

Thanks to our School Captains, Issy and Sam for their leadership this week, the St Mary’s Student Leaders as well. Having our senior students mentor our Year seven cohort was a real highlight.

Thank you once again for your ongoing support in helping make Connect Week such a memorable and meaningful beginning to your child’s secondary school journey with Catherine McAuley College Bendigo. We will provide the opportunity for feedback in coming days. Please take the time to reflect and provide us with ideas moving forward.

We look forward to the many moments of growth, learning and connection still to come.

Mr Sebastian Greene and Mrs Kim Greenwell, Year Level Coordinators

Monday - Connect to Faith

Tuesday - Connect To House

Wednesday - Connect to Community

Connect to Mercy Homegroup

Connect to Each Other

Year 8 News

Year 8s are settling comfortably into their routines, classrooms and working on great projects that the curriculum has to offer. Some of these will be highlighted at the end of this article. We encourage you to jump onto PAM and check your child’s progress and, as always, reach out to your child’s class teacher or Mercy Homegroup Leader if you have any questions.

Camp Information

Please be reminded that you need to send in your child’s medication as soon as possible so that this can be correctly labelled and ready to take on camp in Week 8.

Notices have gone out for the Year 8 Camp, including lists of what to bring on camp and the camp groupings. Download the Information Sheet below for details.

Out and About - Showcase

This week’s photos are from an array of classes, including Food Technology, STEAM, Drama and Humanities.

• STEAM: Students modelling tectonic plate movement using Saladas on icing.
• Humanities: Students learning about geomorphic landforms.
• Food Technology: Students learning to make sushi.
• Drama: Students participating in theatre sports activities.

We look forward to a wonderful fortnight ahead.

Mr Josh Hann, Mrs Hayley Lethlean and Mrs Marinè Snyman

This week our Year 9 students had a visit and presentation from Dave Arnup, School Manager from Adventure Plus Adventure Group.

Dave spoke to our students and staff about each of the camp locations, the activities students will undertake, and the food and equipment provided by Adventure Plus. He also outlined the items that students need to bring from home. The main points raised during the presentation included:

• Students need to bring 2 x 1-litre bottles of water. The bottles only need to be plastic bottles from the supermarket, as they are lightweight. Students should avoid bringing Frank Green drink bottles due to their size and weight.
• Sleeping bags should be compact so that they fit in the backpacks. Ideally sleeping bags should zero to -5 rating.
• Head torches are recommended, as they are easier to use when walking, cooking and cleaning dishes.
• No phones are permitted on camp. This is school policy and students will not have any reception on camp. Camp leaders will have satellite phones that can be used if needed.
• Avoid cotton hoodies and instead bring thermals and layer-up.

Over the next couple of weeks, group leaders will meet the students in their groups and continue their preparation for camp.

Everyone is really looking forward to a fantastic camp experience together.

Mr Stephen Evans, Mrs Jo Tobin and Mr Dean Carmody

This week we look back again at the Year 12 3-day Retreat in Ballarat, this time through reflections by students. The time spent away from the College, living together as a community of peers and teachers, really strengthened relationships and prepared this cohort for a positive year ahead.

Mrs Jo MacDonald and Ms Kate Watts, Year Level Coordinators - Year 12

“I found the Year 12 Retreat to be a fun, rewarding experience that allowed me to connect with others in my year level. It was great to hear from guest presenters from different organisations and hear their journeys and experiences. It has assisted me going back to school this year and will assist me in the leadership team with all the new ideas we created.”

“A really eye-opening experience, that allows self-reflection on your identity.”

“I made special memories and strengthened connections.”

“A great experience that all future Year 12s must participate in!”

“A good opportunity to make new friends and deepen connections in our year level.”

“Definitely made some enjoyable memories with friends.”

“Why couldn’t we have done this before?”

‘Great opportunity to connect and have fun with my peers’

“A core memory that I’ll never forget; grateful we had the opportunity to go.”

“Year 12 Retreat was a really great experience that allowed us all to get to know each other better.”

“It was a fun experience.”

Introducing the 2026 Student Leadership Team

• College Captains: Issy Byrne and Sam Gibson
• Faith Captains: Rose McSweeney and Chloe Vincent
• reGEN Captains: Diana Napoleon and Tobias Sexton
• Sport and Community Captains: Charlize Pinder and Zain Al-Rawi
• Arts Captains: Rory Thompson and Sophie Gurung
• Backhaus Captain: Jack Oldham
• Champagnat Captain: Bailey Holland
• Djaara Captain: Milla Sherriff
• MacKillop Captain: Charlie Bombardieri
• McAuley Captain: Ned Howe
• Vincent Captain: Zaidee Khong

College Captains

I want to get involved in the behind-the-scenes work that builds our school community. I want to ensure that I am true to the people I represent, bringing forward any issues they want changed. I cannot wait to see what else the year has to offer and I am ready to face the challenges it brings head-on. Issy Byrne

A key focus for 2026 is to strengthen the connection between both campuses. This is off to a great start with the introduction of buddies between Year 7s and 12s, as well as cross-campus trips to exchange ideas with all leaders. Becoming a Eucharistic Minister during Opening Mass and handing out pancakes for Caritas on Shrove Tuesday, have been some awesome experiences thus far. Sam Gibson

Read more from the College Captains

Faith Captains

I believe that when students feel connected and inspired, they are more likely to get involved and make a difference. I want to help students grow in faith, confidence, and compassion. I am especially enthusiastic about social justice, service, and encouraging students to live out the Mercy values in meaningful ways. Throughout this year, I hope to inspire students to see faith as active and relevant in everyday life. Rose McSweeney

Read more from the Faith Captains

reGEN Captains

As a reGEN Captain, a major goal this year is to educate students about sustainability and caring for our common home. Being a leader isn’t about the title, it’s about being willing to make positive change and talking with those around you about how to achieve it. Diana Napoleon

I want to build on the efforts of previous leaders in raising awareness about sustainability and environmental issues within our community. I hope to increase awareness of our school’s environmental impact and act with students and staff towards reducing our footprint and meeting these challenges. Tobias Sexton

Read more from the reGEN Captains

Sport and Community Captains

As Sports and Community Captains, we want to create a school culture where every student feels supported, confident and inspired to try out new things. We are planning for lunchtime activities, friendly competitions and community-driven events that increase participation and build a powerful sense of belonging. Above all, we hope to strengthen school spirit and pride in our community. Charlize Pinder and Zain Al-Rawi

Read more from the Sport and Community Captains

Arts Captains

We intend to foster the arts at CMCB this year by organising and promoting events, creating artistic opportunities, encouraging student participation, showcasing artwork and performances, and building a bridge between campuses through the arts. We aim to support students and make the arts accessible and valued. Rory Thompson and Sophie Gurung

Read more from the Arts Captains

House Captains

As Backhaus Captain, I aim to make the Year 12 cohort a tight group and support other year levels with bonding and getting to know each other better. I hope to put lots of time and effort into my role, to maximise House Cup participation whilst balancing the work of Year 12. Getting to know the other leaders and helping run major College events is extremely rewarding. Jack Oldham

I am keen to be a voice for other students. We have started to engage well with Coolock students, and plan to continue this through the year. A highlight so far has been organising and running fun events at our recent Year 12 Retreat. I hope together we can win the House Cup for Djaara! Milla Sherriff

I was involved with leadership through Years 10 and 11 and want to make a lasting impact this year. I aim to lead my house to the House Cup. We are off to a good start, with MacKillop winning the house day during Year 7 Connect Week. Go MacKillop! Charlie Bombardieri

Inspired by previous CMCB leaders, I chose to be a leader because it gives me an opportunity speak up and be a voice for my peers. I am passionate about including everyone and making sure CMCB is a community where everyone feels they belong. My goal is to create a positive, memorable year for Vincent members, and hopefully lead Vincent to the House Cup win! Zaidee Khong

Read more from the House Captains

Year 12 Captains 2026

Wondering what Catherine McAuley College Bendigo has to offer your child? Come and see for yourself! Book to attend one of our Learning Walks (23-30 March and 21-24 April 2026) and Discovery Days (30 April-6 May 2026).

These Learning Walks and Discovery Days replace our Annual Open Day for 2026, so that families can see our classrooms in action and prospective students can have an immersive taste of what student life at our college is like.

2026 College Theme: Mercy in every moment

As we celebrate our sesquicentennial year, our 2026 College theme, ‘Mercy in every moment’, invites us to reflect on the heart of who we are and who we are called to be. Across 150 years of growth and momentous change, the spirit of Mercy has remained constant, shaping our community and guiding each generation. This milestone honours the countless moments - both ordinary and extraordinary - where compassion, courage and service have defined our story. As we look to the future, we are called to live Mercy in every moment, continuing the legacy entrusted to us by Catherine McAuley, Mother Aloysius Martyn, and the Sisters of Mercy.

The theme was launched at our Opening Mass on 12 February.

Shrove Tuesday and Project Compassion Launch

Our leaders worked with Caritas community members to launch Project Compassion within the Sandhurst Diocese. The day included cooking and serving pancakes to the Bendigo community, performing and promoting Project Compassion.

At St Mary's Campus, Mr Waterman's Year 12 Living Mercy class cooked pancakes, which were very popular with our senior students.

Ash Wednesday

On the first day of Lent, Wednesday 18 February, all students and staff gathered for Ash Wednesday liturgies. The marking of the ashes on our foreheads is a public expression of our faith and humility. Lent is a time of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Sharing what we have, or ‘almsgiving’, is a sign of our commitment to justice and our thanks for all that God has given us. This Lenten season we continue to support Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion and Unite Against Poverty.

The College is aware that families may need to collect their child from school during the day due to appointments or family reasons. We ask that parents and carers please ensure that:

• the General Office is notified in advance by email, phone call or PAM notification (this will be entered as a Leave Pass)
• students are collected in the appropriate break time prior to the appointment.

Please note that without prior notice, General Office staff may not be able to ensure your child can exit in time, as staff are not always immediately available to leave the space to collect students.

To reduce the impact of class disruptions, preferred collection times are:

• St Mary’s: 10.44–11.09am OR 1.15–1.55pm (5445 9100 | absencesstmarys@cmc.vic.edu.au)
• Coolock: 11.26–11.51am OR 1.15–1.55pm (5445 9100 | absencescoolock@cmc.vic.edu.au)

How to Order Photos

Order before midnight Sunday 1 March 2026.

(You will still be able to order photos after this date by calling MSP Photography, however an archive retrieval fee will apply.)

Please refer to the two flyers below from MSP Photography to order your photos online. (No shoot key required.)

Enquiries: MSP Photography

P: 03 5482 3190; admin.mrr@msp.com.au

Year 10 Art: Painting Unit - Life Still or Still Life?

Year 10 students are learning about how artists, past and present, have used Still Life to create paintings and photographs. They look at the hidden meanings and messages in still life artworks. They research and analyse why this genre has survived and even thrived into contemporary times. Students develop skills in observational drawing, painting and colour theory whilst exploring the age-old genre of Still Life Painting and Photography throughout history. The final assessment will be an original acrylic painting on canvas.

“What I really like about Year 10 Art so far is that it is relaxed in the classroom and we get to use different materials.” Emme Harrington Year 10

Ms Emma-Jane Kelly, Teacher

VCE Art Students Explore 'Le Ceol' at La Trobe Art Institute

Our VCE Art Making & Exhibiting students headed to the La Trobe Art Institute (LAI) on Wednesday 11 February for an inspiring look at the exhibition Le Ceol. The exhibition showcases how artworks can be used as voice, song, movement, painting and film to explore language and culture.

Students heard directly from the LAI team, who explained how artists turn big ideas into real artworks. They learned how creative stories become paintings, prints, sculptures and performances. This was all documented in their visual arts journals for use throughout the semester.

Back at school, our students will now experiment with different art forms and build the skills they need to create their own final artworks later this semester.

It was an eye‑opening trip that showed just how exciting and imaginative the world of Art can be - we hope it inspires many younger students to explore Art in future years!

Mr Peter Hughes, Arts Learning Leader

Meet the Arts Captains

We’re Rory and Sophie – your Arts Captains for 2026!

Hi, my name is Sophie. I chose to apply for Arts Captain because I want to contribute more to the school community through my passion for arts and helping others. I want to be more involved in art activities within and outside school. I think being an Arts Captain and member of the leadership team will enable me to carry this out.

Hi, I’m Rory. I’ve been passionate about the arts my whole life and am currently studying Drama, Music, and Media, as well as being involved in the arts outside school, through theatre and dance. I decided to apply for the role of Arts Captain because I’ve loved being a member of the SRC in the past, and because I want to help the arts grow at CMCB.

As Arts Captains for 2026, we see our role as representing and supporting the arts sector - promoting and organising events, representing the student body and encouraging student participation in the arts at the College.

We intend to foster the arts at both campuses through creating artistic opportunities, increasing participation, showcasing artwork and collaborating on ideas by ‘building a bridge’ between campuses. We aim to support students and make the arts accessible and valued.

We would love to hear from you. If you would like to contact us or get involved in any arts activities, please contact with us through the Assistant Principal Campus Leaders, Mr Watson at Coolock or Mrs Kemp at St Mary’s, or your Mercy Homegroup Leaders.

We hope to see you around this year!

Sophie Gurung and Rory Thompson, Year 12 Arts Captains

The creative team welcomed our over 100-person cast to their first rehearsals over the past two weeks, on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. This gave the cast a chance to get to know each other, and the show, and get started on our first two songs!

Rock of Ages Teen Edition follows Los Angeles natives Dennis Dupree and Lonny Barnett as they guide wannabe rocker Drew Boley and aspiring actress Sherrie Christian in their pursuits of fame. When the threat of gentrification and the stamping-out of rock and roll comes from German real estate developers, rockstar frontman Stacee Jaxx is convinced to swing by and save the day – but has he really got LA’s (and Sherrie’s) best interests at heart? The show is full of classic ‘80s rock music, featuring famous songs like We Built This City, I Can’t Fight This Feeling, and Don’t Stop Believin’.

Don’t miss our shows on 4 and 5 June at the Ulumbarra Theatre. Tickets on sale soon!

Rock of Ages Rehearsals

On Tuesday 17 February, the VET Business class visited Thales Bendigo to see how their classroom learning about Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) applies in a real industrial environment. 

Thales, well-known for producing the Bushmaster and Hawkei defence vehicles, welcomed our students for an engaging and insightful tour of the facility.

During the visit, students observed a range of key WHS practices in action, including safety signage, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), the use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and the digital systems used to monitor and support safe work processes. Seeing these elements functioning in a high‑risk, highly-regulated environment helped students connect theory to practice in meaningful ways.

Students were particularly impressed by the sheer size of the Bendigo site, the scale of production, and the precision involved in building vehicles used around the world. Many commented on how seeing a large manufacturing operation up close deepened their understanding of workplace expectations, safety responsibilities, and industry standards.

It was a valuable experience that enriched their VET Business studies and expanded their awareness of career pathways in manufacturing and defence industries. We thank Thales Bendigo for their hospitality and the opportunity to learn from real professionals in the field.

High Achiever Program

The CMCB Year 11 and 12 High Achiever Program is off to a flyer! Renowned Sport Scientist, Deakin University lecturer, Corporate Leadership Coach and CMCB Alumnus Kris Hinck (CCB 1990-95) is leading the groups in discussions about Vitality, Self-mastery and Systems Awareness. 

Students have been given the opportunity to learn about themselves - where sources of energy are generated from and how choices lead to actions and successful outcomes. The students are very much looking forward to continuing the journey this year, aspiring for great academic results, inspiring the other students in their Year 11 and 12 cohorts and setting themselves up for successful post-schooling study and careers.

Years 11 and 12 Elevate Education Sessions Begin

Year 11 and 12 students have started the year very positively with a specialist ‘Student Elevation’ session from Elevate Education. Students were introduced to specialist research information about how students can maximise their chances of success in 2026. The session was reflective of the needs of both Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and VCE Vocational Major (VCE VM) students. 

Topics introduced covered goal setting, positive growth mindset and action items that lead to statements beginning with ‘I can…”. The students were very positive and took many ideas that will support ongoing success in the senior years.

Elevate Study Skills Program at CMCB

Within the classroom, Catherine McAuley College Bendigo has implemented the Elevate Education study skills program, grounded in seventeen years of global research into student performance. Elevate has identified the habits that distinguish top-performing students, and its seminars and resources are designed to help students of all abilities adopt these habits. This leads to more effective learning outcomes and improves overall academic performance. Students sequence through all of the program across Years 11 and 12.

Elevate for Parents and Carers Too

Elevate Education were pleased to see many parents from Catherine McAuley College Bendigo attending their recent webinar on time management – along with 4100 others across the country!

The next webinar coming up is one of the most popular sessions that Elevate run. Covering technology and focus, this session covers how parents and carers can help their child break their addiction to social media and use productivity-boosting apps.

Live Parent Webinar: How You Can Make Technology An Ally (and Not the Enemy!) 

• Wednesday 11 March, 2026 from 6.30-7.30pm (AEDT)

Demonstrating speed, stamina, and serious grit, our Sports Development Program (SDP) students crushed their YoYo Intermittent Recovery Sprint Test and have been powering through their strength and conditioning training too. Well done on your strong start to the year! 

2026 is the inaugural year of the CMCB Sports Development Program. Through participation in this sports-based 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 and applicants need to re-apply each year. The program is timetabled during the school day just like other classes.

The 2026 program is for Years 7 and 8 students, with football and netball streams. In 2027, the program will expand to include a basketball stream and will run in Years 7, 8 and 9. 

SDP Strength and Conditioning

Over the past few weeks, our Year 1 Sport and Recreation students have been attending Body Fit Training and FS8 Pilates as part of their unit Participate in Conditioning for Sport.

These sessions gave students the opportunity to experience different types of conditioning in real-world environments. At Body Fit Training, they completed high-energy, functional workouts focused on strength and endurance. At FS8 Pilates, they worked on core stability, control, flexibility, and posture through reformer-based sessions.

This practical experience helped students connect classroom theory to real training settings, while building their confidence, fitness, and understanding of effective conditioning methods.

A big thank you to Body Fit Training and FS8 Pilates for supporting our students’ learning.

SCHOOL SPORT VICTORIA - SANDHURST DIVISION

CRICKET – SENIOR BOYS

Game 1: CMCB vs Bendigo Senior Secondary College (BSSC)

CMCB Captain Finn Millar lost the toss and BSSC elected to bat. CMCB’s bowling innings started slowly with a dropped catch early on, but Sam Scott did manage to secure the opening wicket off the last ball of the first over. BSSC then steadied as they built a good partnership before Miller Armstrong picked up a key wicket as he finished with 3/28 off his 3 overs.

While the ground fielding was pretty good, another couple of missed catches were keeping BSSC in the game. In the end a stumping off the last ball by Jackson Harris off Riley Travaglia saw BSSC finish their 15 overs at 5/106.

Bowling:

• S. Scott 1 – 0 – 1 – 14
• R. Travaglia 3 – 0 – 1 – 12
• M. Thompson 3 – 0 – 0 – 14
• T. Smith 2 - 0 – 0 – 14
• J. Balic 1 – 0 - 0 – 16
• M. Armstrong 3 - 0 – 3 – 28
• Z. MacDonald 2 – 1 – 0 – 8

With the run rate set at 7.13 per over, the boys got off to a rough start as Miller Armstrong departed in the first over for a duck. Finn Millar at the other end however, settled into the chase well. Max Thompson came in at number 3 and proceeded to plunder 4 boundaries in 8 balls before being caught at point to a ripping catch. After Aydan Hand went first ball without scoring, Finn Miller and Riley Travaglia then put together a 67-run partnership to take the game away from BSSC. Finn duly raised the bat with a well-compiled 51 from 39 balls, which included 7 boundaries and a 6. Travaglia and Jackson Harris then saw the team home for a 6-wicket win with 12 balls to spare.

Batting:

• F. Millar 51 (39)
• M. Thompson 17 (9)
• R. Travaglia 29no (23)
• J. Harris 2no (3)

Game 2: CMCB vs Castlemaine Secondary College

Game 2 saw Finn win the toss and elect to bat against Castlemaine. Despite Finn being dismissed on the second ball, a consistent approach to the batting saw the boys build a strong total. Riley Travaglia compiled 43 from 25 balls, while Max Nicholas hit 29no out off 21. Jackson Harris also got going with the bat, hitting 21 from 17 balls, as the boys finished at 6/117 off their 15 overs.

A strong opening spell with the ball from Max Thompson and Riley Travaglia (3/2) saw Castlemaine 4/8 after the first 4 overs. Maxwell Nicholas was outstanding at mid-on with 5 catches as Castlemaine were bowled out for 71, which saw CMCB secure a 46-run victory.

The win has secured the team a place in the Loddon Mallee Regional Finals, which are to be played in Rochester on Tuesday 3 March.

Batting:

• M. Armstrong 7 (7)
• J. Harris 21 (17)
• M. Thompson 8 (11)
• R. Travaglia 43 (25)
• M. Nicholas 29no (21)
• Z. MacDonald 1(2)
• A. Hand 5 (3)

Bowling:

• M. Thompson 2 - 0 - 0 – 5
• R. Travaglia 2 – 0 – 3 – 2
• T. Smith 2 - 0 – 0 – 20
• J. Kramer 2 – 0 – 2 – 18
• S. Scott 2 – 0 – 1 – 14
• Z. MacDonald 1.1 – 0 – 1 – 10

TEAM: Mr Michael Van Dorsser (Coach), Aydan Hand, Maxwell Nicholas, Samual Scott, James Balic, Riley Travaglia, Miller Armstrong, Zane MacDonald, Jacobi Kramer, Finn Millar, Max Thompson, Tom Smith, Jackson Harris

We’re so proud of our former student Campbell Evans (Class of 2024) who has graduated from the Richmond Institute with a Diploma of Sport and a Diploma in Leadership and Management. 

Congratulations Campbell on a fantastic achievement and an exciting step towards a bright future in the sports industry!

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 CELEBRATIONS

Join us throughout the year 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.

• International Women’s Day Breakfast | Friday 6 March
• Jubilee Community Art Show | Saturday 2 May
• Sesquicentennial ‘Back To’ Day | Saturday 2 May
• Performance Gala | Friday 22 May
• Sesquicentennial Gala Dinner | Saturday 5 September

Seasons for Growth supports children and young people who have experienced change and loss, including, although not limited to friendship changes; family separation; loss or death of someone they care about; loss of a pet; relocation and forced migration; living away in out of home care; physical or mental illness; or impacts of war, terrorism or pandemics.

Trained facilitators known as ‘Companions’ deliver the program for small groups of six to ten children and young people aged six to eighteen years.

The program provides a safe learning environment for children and young people to:

• Acknowledge their experiences and recognise they are ‘not the only one’
• Understand that their feelings and other behavioural reactions are normal
• Develop skills for coping, positive choices, goal setting and decision making
• Build a peer support network and a felt sense of belonging and connection
• Help restore self-confidence, self-esteem and self-respect

If you would like further information, please contact Ms Jo Porter in Wellbeing at the Coolock Campus.

The Family Relationship Centre and CatholicCare Victoria are running free workshops to support stepfamilies.

Bendigo: Tuesday 10 March – 5.30 – 8.30pm

Stepfamilies – through your children’s eyes is 3-hour workshop focusing on the experience of living in a stepfamily through the children’s eyes. It aims to assist parents in developing a greater understanding of what their children need and how they can best support them. It is designed for couples or individuals at any stage of their stepfamily journey. All genders, sexualities ages (18+) and cultural backgrounds are welcome.

This workshop covers:

• Stepfamily myths
• Stepfamilies through the eyes of children – the good and the tricky bits
• Supporting children with adjusting to new family relationships
• Transitioning between homes
• Ways to support and strengthen your relationship with your child/ren
• Parenting approach
• Common difficulties for couples

CatholicCare Website and Booking

At the annual Suicide Awareness Walk, community walks together for healing and hope.

This year it will be held on Sunday 15 March, starting at 10.30am. Meet at Dai Gum San, Bridge Street, Bendigo

CMCB students regularly assist with the walk, in roles such as being marshals for the walk and serving the community barbecue.

Class Times 2026

Key Dates for Term 1, 2026

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.

The canteen menus and instructions on how to order are available in PAM.

In addition to the CDFpay app, EFTPOS facilities are available ($5.00 minimum). The canteen also accepts cash.

Please note - mobile phones and other personal digital devices may not be used to make payments at the canteen.

CDFpay ONLINE ORDERING is available for the Coolock Canteen.

Catherine McAuley College Bendigo has expanded the use of the online payment system for canteen orders, uniform extras, events, Graduation tickets, fundraising and more, to make it even easier for families.

FAQs for CDFpay powered by Flexischools

Due to a recent system error, the Connect Fields section in PAM has been incorrectly updating for some families. To resolve this issue, we have reset all Connect Fields for all students.

To ensure we have accurate information for the 2026 school year, we kindly ask families to log in to PAM and complete the Connect Fields again at their earliest convenience.

We apologise if this has resulted in multiple alerts being sent to parents and carers.

Thank you for your understanding and patience as we work to correct this issue. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.

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.

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.

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.

As parents and carers will know from your booklist purchases, this year each student has a hard copy College diary. 

In addition to the weekly spreads, there is plenty of useful information about learning and College life. These information pages can be viewed and downloaded below.

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

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.