Term 2, Week 10B - Monday 30th June, 2025

What's On This Week

Principal's Report

Dear Parents and Carers, 

Last Tuesday we commemorated Father Dong’s final days in Cowra with a beautiful staff morning tea. And on Sunday, numerous staff and students joined our Parish for a final Mass with Father Dong, and a wonderful morning tea together. We are truly blessed as a community to have had father Dong with us over the last few years. We are now looking forward to Father Thao joining our community. The students are hoping he is into handball and basketball. 

Last week Year 12 student Laura Price received formal correspondence about receiving the Order of Australia Association's Community Service Award. This is an extraordinary achievement and well deserved. Out of 69 applications from schools across Independent, Catholic and Public Schools, only 25 have received this honor. Laura will receive her award in August at Government House from the Honourable Margaret Beazley, Governor of NSW. 

As we head towards the winter break, I encourage all parents to ensure they know what their children are doing online on their devices. Recent professional learning I have undertaken has highlighted many more causes for concern which I will share with you next Term. In particular innocent games such as Minecraft has predators talking to our children. I would encourage all parents to ensure their children are only using devices around adults, and encourage children to talk about what they are doing online as well as letting an adult know if there is something that frightens them or makes them feel uncomfortable. 

Attendance is a focus in every school. Every day a student is absent is a great deal of learning missed. Obviously we all get sick at times or have other reasons for absences. We thoroughly encourage all students to stay at home if they are unwell. The P&F have brought forward concerns regarding Attendance Awards. These awards are given every 5 weeks. There are two awards: 100% attendance and 90% or more attendance (up to 5 days absence). The awards are frequent to enable every child to have the awards at some point, since it would be unlikely a student is absent more than 5 days every 5 weeks. To ensure students do not come to school unwell, we will be reiterating this message to primary and secondary students. Over time the awards are a great way for students to demonstrate to future employees, early entry to university, scholarships etc. that the student is committed to their learning. 

It has come to our attention that local stocks of girls' winter stockings do not tend to cater for taller girls. We have been trying to resolve the situation with local businesses, however the most immediate solution is to make families aware of online options from the following website: www.startswithlegs.com.au  Further information on design, cost and sizing is provided in this Newsletter. 

This week, Years 9 and 10 have headed to their 5 day Camp at Cobbitty. This will be an exciting adventure for our students who will be able to experience numerous challenges and engaging activities. We wish them well!

I hope all of our students have a warm and relaxing winter break. 

God Bless, 

Michelle Deschamps - Principal

From the Desk of the Assistant Principal

As we head into the last week of Term 2 we need to do two things. Firstly, it is a time to reflect over the term and celebrate our successes. Secondly, we also need to ponder what we could do better and what we can improve upon, whether that be next term or next year.

Our successes speak for themselves. We continue to offer educational opportunities in our classrooms that equal if not better other schools in our Diocese. This is reinforced with our NAPLAN results across the board that once again show significant improvements in all key learning areas. NAPLAN is but one external assessment in addition to continual internal assessments, the results of which also demonstrate significant improvement and success. Our staff have clear pathways for our learning, and are guided by our Annual School Improvement Plan which has a clear focus of continuing to develop a positive culture and build  our collective efficacy. The desired outcome is consistency across the school and the development of strong connections across the entire school community.

Could we improve? Of course we could! But this is part of the Catholic tradition: to constantly reflect and see what we can do to improve our practise. An example of this has been seen over the past week, where the school executive has undergone a review giving staff the opportunity to give feedback. This process is extremely valuable as we once again consider where we can improve. So as we head into our holidays we reflect on what we have accomplished and we look forward to next term and improving on who we are as a school.

To continue the theme of reflecting upon performance and what we have achieved; students will receive their Semester reports this week. This is a further opportunity for students and families to reflect upon the learning that has occurred throughout the term and put into action plans for next term and how we can improve for Semester 2.

Next term we start with a Staff Development Day on Monday 21st July so students will return for their first day of learning on Tuesday 22nd July. Staff Development days are important to work on our Annual School Improvement Plan and to put into action the plans we have reflected upon, which we believe will further enhance the learning opportunities at St Raphael’s.

So on that note I wish everyone a rejuvenating break and look forward to what Term 3 brings!

David Wickham - Assistant Principal

Faith, Mission & Learning

Farewell to Fr Dong

We say farewell to a very special member of our school and parish community, Father Dong. Over the past two years, Father Dong has not only been a spiritual leader but also a true companion in the joys of school life. He has joined us on the sporting field, strummed his guitar or answered Q&A’s from students, and always greeted us with warmth and encouragement.

What has made Father Dong's presence so special is the way he brought faith to life, not just from the altar, but in every kick of the ball, every shared laugh and every quiet moment of support. His ability to meet people where they are, especially young people, has left a lasting impression on all of us.

His joyful spirit, willingness to get involved and unwavering care remind us that the Church is not just a place, but a living, breathing community. And for that, we are incredibly grateful.

Father Dong, thank you for being a shining example of faith in action, for sharing your many talents with us, and for walking alongside us as a friend, mentor and shepherd. As you move on to your next chapter, know that you take with you our prayers, our gratitude and the deep appreciation of all those whose lives you’ve touched.

Gabrielle Bruin - Leader of Faith, Mission & Learning

Key Notices

Infants and Primary Assembly - Friday 4th July (Week 10)

The Infants and Primary end of Semester Awards Assembly will be held this Friday, 4th July, 2:05pm in St Brigid's Hall.  Year 4 are presenting their class item.  Award recipient's parents have been notified via email and all families are welcome to attend.   

100 Days of Kindergarten!

Kindergarten families are invited to celebrate 100 Days of Kindergarten on Friday 25th July.  Kindergarten students are to come dressed up as a 100 year old version of themselves! Please have your child come to school dressed up, and they will stay in their outfits for the remainder of the day, while the rest of Infants and Primary join in for Grandparents' Day actitvities.  

Celebrating our Student's Achievements!

Photographic Excellence by Erin Rutledge

Just look at this exquisite photo, captured by Year 8 student Erin Rutledge! Erin took this photo of her sister, on her family's property, and using her mother’s phone during last autumn school holidays.  The photo was then chosen for the cover of the June edition of AWI’s Beyond the Bale. Approximately 30000 copies have been distributed to woolgrowers across Australia, and the publication is also available for digital download. Excellent work, Erin!

Ex St Raph's Student Brady Kurtz Excells at World Speedway Championships

Brady Kurtz, in his “SGP Rookie year” won his first FIM Speedway GP in Gorzow, Poland last Saturday night (21 June 2025).   The FIM Speedway GP series is run over 10 rounds in 7 countries.  Brady is currently running 2^nd in the World Speedway Championships with 4 GPs to go.  The last GP is on 13 September 2025 in Vojens, Denmark and we can't wait to hear how he wraps up the series!

Administration

School Fees - Instalment #2 Now Overdue

Families are reminded that Instalment #2 of School Fees are now well overdue. If you haven't already done so, please arrange for prompt payment, or contact the school to discuss your circumstances. 

Senior Winter Skirts

Families are advised that Senior Girls Winter Skirts are now back in stock at Mr Embroidery.

Secondary Girls Tights

We realise that local stocks of girls' winter stockings do not always cater for senior and/or taller girls. We have been working to resolve the situation with local businesses, and in the meantime we can guide families to the following website: www.startswithlegs.com.au, for online purchases of grey tights in sizes from small to  maxi, and in the following warm and long lasting styles:

• Cashmere wool Castor Grey tights (70 Denier)  @$35 a pair
• Trasparenze Jennifer Wool Denier tights (100 Denier) @ $40.00 a pair
  

From the Library

Chess Comp

This is the last week to sign up and practice for our annual Chess Comp. The 2 Comps will commence Week 1 next term. The Stage 2 Comp (Yrs 3 & 4) will be held each Wednesday and the Stage 3(Yrs 5 & 6) will be held on Thursdays both at lunchtime.

Library Opening Times

The Library is open from 8:30am-8:50am and 1:30pm-1:55pm Monday-Thursday. All students K-12 are welcome to come to the Library at these times to borrow books, read a book, complete activities and play games in a quiet place. 

Book Week .... BOOK IT IN!

Our annual Book Week Parade will take place in Week 6 next term on Wednesday 27th August. This year’s theme is Book an Adventure. Definitely lots of ideas for costumes using the theme. Can’t wait to see the amazing, adventurous and all star costumes this year. More details to come.

Nicole Twohill-Scott - Librarian

Primary Sport

Polding Rugby Union Trials and Touch Footy Trials

Will O'Reilly from Year 6 has a big week ahead of him this week! Yesterday, he headed to Forbes to train with the Bathurst Diocese team for Rugby Union. Today, he plays against the other six Diocese trying to earn a spot into the Polding Rugby Union team. Then tomorrow, he jumps in the car and heads to Port Macquarie for the Diocesan Touch Footy trials where he trains Wednesday afternoon, then plays all day Thursday for the Bathurst Diocese team. We wish him safe travels and the best of luck across these two sports. Remember not to tackle on Thursday, Will!!!

Rugby Tens in Orange

The Rugby Tens originally planned for last week has been rescheduled to the first week back next term, Thursday 24th July. Apparently the weather was too wet and cold last week for the Rugby boys??? Ah, contact winter sport guys!!! That bag of cement has been ordered for the Orange boys to harden up!

Southern Region Athletics

A reminder that on Friday of Term 3, Week 2 (1st August), St Raphael's has 56 students attending the Southern Region Athletics Carnival. The day is hosted by St Joseph's Molong, but will be held in Canowindra. Keep training future track and field stars!

Todd Woodbridge Tennis Cup

Also happening in Week 2 of next term is the Todd Woodbridge Cup Tennis competition for both Stages 2 and 3. Stage 2 will be sending three teams of eight on Monday 28th July, with Stage 3 doing the same on Wednesday 30th July.  We have seen lots of training happening over the last two weeks in the playground. Luckily for us, both days are being held at the Cowra Tennis Club.  Good luck to our teams competing.

Term 3 Sport - Infants and Primary

All of Kindergarten to Year 6 will be completing lessons in Gymnastics across Weeks 1-5 of Term 3.  Year 1 and 2 will wear their sports uniform on Tuesdays for these weeks. Kindergarten sport will be on Wednesday (as always) and Primary, Years 3 to 6, will keep with Thursday as usual. 

Then in the second half of the term, Helen Garratt will be in to do some Tennis coaching with the Infants classes, whilst the Primary classes will be choosing from eight options offered by the teachers to do across Weeks 6-10. The children will nominate early next term which one they would like to participate in. Every effort is made to give the students one of their top three preferences. The sports being offered over the five week period are: 1) Golf ($6 per week), 2) Tennis ($3 per week), 3) Ultimate Frisbee, 4) Soccer, 5) Touch Footy, 6) Park Run, 7) Volleyball, 8) Netball. 

Secondary Sport

Diocesan Soccer Gala Day

Our Open Boys and Girls Soccer teams had a great day out in Orange for the Diocesan Soccer Gala Day. The girls team finished the day with 2 wins, 1 draw and a loss, whilst the boys had 1 win and two losses.

NSWCCC Cross Country

Congratulations to Laura, Cohan and Thomas for representing our school and the Bathurst Diocese at the NSWCCC Cross Country Championships that were held at Sydney international Equestrian Centre.

Upcoming Events 

Diocesan Netball Gala Day -  (Stage 4, 5 & 6 girls) at Orange PCYC on Friday 25th July

Attendance, Wellbeing & Enrichment

Canteen

Community Connections

As part of their Winter Health campaign, the NSW Health Department has provided the following information to Schools:

Call health direct campaign – campaign resources found here

NSW Health is pleased to share with you the new call health direct Campaign toolkit. The campaign aims to promote the health direct number as the first step to access health advice, care and treatment for non-life threatening conditions.

When you call health direct, you’ll speak to a registered nurse who will help you get the care you need. They can find you a nearby doctor, pharmacist, urgent care service, or even connect you to specialist virtual care. We’re encouraging people to save this number, 1800 022 222, for free, easy access to health advice and care whenever they need it.

 The key links are:

• For more information about health direct: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Hospitals/Pages/healthdirect.aspx
• Campaign launch Ministerial media release: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/news/Pages/20250521_01.aspx

 Vaccination education campaign – campaign resources found here

NSW Health is pleased to share with you the 2025 Vaccination Campaign toolkit. This campaign aims to raise awareness, support and encourage proactive information-seeking so individuals can make informed decisions about immunisation. These materials are evergreen and can be used throughout winter and beyond.

 The key links are:

• For more information about vaccinations: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/vaccinationinfo
• Translated information about vaccinations: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/vaccinationinfo#translations

 2025 Influenza Vaccination campaign – campaign resources found here

NSW Health is pleased to share with you the 2025 Influenza Vaccination Campaign toolkit. This campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of flu vaccination during winter, to help increase uptake of the flu vaccine among all of population in NSW, particularly at-risk audiences. The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and over and offers the best protection from getting really sick.

 The key links are:

• Book a flu vaccine: www.healthdirect.gov.au/nswfluvaccine
• For more information about influenza: www.health.nsw.gov.au/flu
• For more information about respiratory illness: www.health.nsw.gov.au/respiratory

 2025 Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) campaign – campaign resources found here

NSW Health is pleased to share with you the 2025 Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) Campaign toolkit. This campaign, which runs until the end of winter, includes budget-friendly and accessible ways for families to:

Eat healthily – tips to eat healthily and drink water, including free low-cost winter recipes and lunchbox ideas

Get active – ideas and tips to help you stay active during winter such as at-home exercises or connecting with nature

Support – free programs to help you and your family keep up healthy habits. 

 The key links are:

• NSW Healthy Eating Active Living website: Healthy Eating Active Living - Getting healthy starts with small steps

Raising Children Network: Introducing an app to support student wellbeing

The Raising Healthy Minds app is a free, personalised, pocket resource to help parents and carers raise confident, resilient children. Co-designed with parents and experts and funded by the Australian Government, Raising Healthy Minds aims to support children’s social and emotional wellbeing with evidence-based information.  

You’ll find information on topics like dealing with worries and making friends, as well as ideas for day-to-day life, like creating family routines, looking after yourself as a parent, and building strong relationships.  

The app offers a mix of quick-read articles, videos and animations aimed at parents and carers of children aged 0-12 years. You can tailor information to the age of your child and opt-in to receive helpful tips.  

Raising Healthy Minds provides simple-to-use information at your fingertips with clear actions you can start today.  

Download from Google Play or the App Store or go to raisingchildren.net.au/rhm to learn more and raise a healthy mind