On Thursday, the College community came together to honour and commemorate ANZAC Day, marking a moment of reflection and respect for those who have served. 

Our ceremony was enriched by the heartfelt stories of soldiers recounted by our student leaders, alongside Ms Glenny and Ms van Wees. This provided a meaningful context for our gathering, reminding us all of the bravery and sacrifice shown by those who fought for our freedoms.

We were privileged to hear reflections from students who participated in the 2024 Art History Tour, sharing their experiences from significant sites such as Gallipoli, Ypres, and the Sir John Monash Centre in Northern France. Their testimonials connected our students with the history of the ANZAC spirit.

The ceremony was solemn yet powerful, with wreaths laid by College Principal Dr Michael Davies and College Captain Hayden McDonald and Deputy Principal, Ms Wilson, reciting the Ode of Remembrance. Following this, our Head of Music, Mr Romeo, played The Last Post, creating a moment of deep reflection as we observed a minute of silence. The ceremony continued with our talented SBC Voices leading us in the Australian National Anthem.

As the ceremony drew to a close, our Deputy Principal shared insights into the symbolism of the Rosemary twig— a traditional tribute to remembrance—and spoke about the significance of the ANZAC biscuit, linking our present to the past in a very tangible way.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved, the efforts of staff and students created a memorable event to honour those who have served, ensuring that their sacrifices are never forgotten.

Lest we forget.

On Wednesday, our Year 10 and Year 12 Italian students had the opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history of Italian immigration during a COASIT workshop. The workshop, held at the Museo Italiano on Faraday Street, provided valuable insights into the experiences of Italian immigrants and their contributions to Australian society. Students engaged with various exhibits, deepening their understanding of the cultural and historical context of Italian migration.

Following the workshop, the students enjoyed a delightful lunch at Universal Caffè on Lygon Street. This experience allowed them to savour authentic Italian cuisine while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Melbourne's Italian district. The meal was a perfect complement to their educational excursion, offering a taste of Italy right in the heart of the city.

After lunch, the students explored the Italian district, comparing its present-day charm to its historical roots. This walk through the neighbourhood provided a tangible connection to the past, highlighting the evolution of the area over time. The excursion was a memorable and enriching experience, leaving students with a greater appreciation for Italian culture and heritage.

Our Year 9 Food Safari class recently completed their bread-making assessment. Students made a variety of breads, including Sicilian bread, cinnamon rolls, banana bread, and focaccia. Their efforts resulted in an impressive selection of delicious breads.

The activity was a great success, with students demonstrating their baking skills and creativity. It was wonderful to see them engaged and enjoying the process.

Overall, the students did an excellent job, and we look forward to seeing their continued progress in future culinary projects.

In the last week of term, our Year 12 student leaders embodied our school's theme for the year, "Be Bold," by guiding Year 11 students during the Student Council Formation Day. The event, themed "Be the Voice, Not the Echo," aimed to build connections between the two year groups and enhance their leadership journey. This initiative provided an excellent opportunity for Year 12 leaders to apply the skills they acquired during their leadership camp earlier this year.

The primary goal of the day was to establish strong connections between Year 12 and Year 11 student council members, fostering a collaborative leadership environment. It was heartening to see students feeling comfortable to share with one another, creating a safe and supportive space. One of the highlights of the day was an obstacle course where students had to guide a blindfolded peer, emphasising trust and communication.

The day included a series of workshops focused on essential leadership qualities such as humility, self-awareness, adaptability, vulnerability, empathy, and coachability. These sessions were designed to equip the students with the necessary tools to lead effectively and confidently.

Our Year 12 leaders excelled in their roles, demonstrating remarkable leadership and commitment. Their efforts not only facilitated a successful event but also set a positive example for their peers. We look forward to their continued guidance and leadership throughout the year, as they continue to inspire and support the next generation of student leaders.

On the last day of term, the school community came together to observe Catholic Easter traditions at both the Essendon and Resurrection House campuses. This gathering allowed staff and students to take part in important rituals that reflect our faith.

The liturgy began with the washing of the feet ceremony, led by Fr Bernie Lane. This act, engrained in Holy Thursday traditions, symbolises Jesus’ humility and His call for us to serve one another. Participants took turns washing and having their feet washed, highlighting the significance of service and community.

Following this was the reading of the Stations of the Cross, which reflects on the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion on Good Friday. This tradition emphasises the themes of love, grace, and forgiveness, reminding us of the importance of these values in our lives.

The ceremony was further enhanced by our talented musicians, who provided beautiful music throughout the proceedings, adding to the overall solemnity of the occasion.

We extend our gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this event possible. 

The 2025 Australian Athletics Championships, held in Perth, showcased the exceptional talents of several young athletes from St Bernard's College. Among them, Jude, Charles, and Finn delivered remarkable performances, contributing to the state's athletic prestige.

Jude competed in the U17 Boys 2000m Steeplechase, achieving a personal best time of 6:34 and securing 12th place. This performance highlights his dedication and potential in middle-distance events.

Charles distinguished himself as the Australian Champion in the U20 5000m, completing the race in an impressive 14:38. Additionally, he demonstrated his versatility and endurance by finishing second in the U20 1500m with a time of 3:50. Charles's achievements underscore his status as a formidable competitor in long-distance running.

Finn contributed to the Victorian team's success by being part of the bronze medal-winning U20 4x400m relay team. His participation in this event exemplifies the collaborative spirit and teamwork essential in relay races.

These athletes' accomplishments at the national level are a testament to their hard work, dedication, and athletic prowess. Their performances not only bring pride to our College and Victoria but also inspire future generations of athletes.

Year 11 student, Tyler, recently underwent a rigorous trial process and has been selected to represent Victoria in rowing as part of the 2025 Pathways Team. This program aims to identify and develop rowers with the potential to be selected for Rowing Australia’s National Training Centres.

The Rowing Victoria crews, comprising two male and two female teams (4X and 8+), competed from 13-15 April at the Interstate Pathway Regatta held at the Sydney International Rowing Centre (SIRC).

Tyler’s quadruple scull achieved a commanding gold medal performance, finishing 8 seconds ahead of South Australia's silver and the Australian Capital Territory's bronze crews. The Victorian team’s exceptional results continued with gold medals in both the girls' 8+ and boys' 8+, and a silver medal in the girls' 4X!

Congratulations, Tyler, on this remarkable achievement.

Join Us for the St Bernard’s College Foundation 2025 Gala Dinner.

You are cordially invited to an evening of fine dining, celebration, and reminiscing at the State Library Victoria, Conversation Quarter, on Friday, 30 May 2025, starting at 7.00 pm.

We will induct two distinguished alumni into the Hall of Fame:

• Mr. Terry Tobin KC (Class of 1960); and

• Dr. Anthony Slavin, PhD (Class of 1985).

We are also excited to introduce the SBC Rising Star Award, with the inaugural recipient being Dr. Jameson Trainor (Class of 2014).

Don't miss this premier event! Tickets are $180 per person or $300 per couple, including a 3-course dinner and drinks.

Book your tickets now: https://www.trybooking.com/DALVX

We look forward to seeing you there!

The St Bernard’s College community has proudly supported the Live for Lily foundation for several years, with former student Oliver Hester serving as a key ambassador. Oliver has participated in three Live for Lily endurance rides, raising an impressive $70,000 for childhood cancer research in memory of his sister Lily. He dedicates six months to training and fundraising in preparation for each challenging 1,000 km ride.

About the Live for Lily Foundation

Live for Lily focuses on raising awareness and funds that directly contribute to research aimed at finding a cure for childhood cancers. As a not-for-profit foundation that donates 100% of all donations made to fund research, it is committed to the goal of eradicating childhood cancer.

You’re invited!

The St Bernard’s College community is invited to support the incredible work of the foundation by attending the Live for Lily bi-annual Butterfly Ball. This event promises to be an enjoyable evening while also raising essential funds for childhood cancer research.

To discover more about the remarkable efforts of Live for Lily, purchase tickets for the Butterfly Ball, or to make a donation, please visit www.liveforlily.org.au

St Martin de Porres, Avondale Heights, is launching regular youth masses organised by young people. This initiative aims to engage our youth in meaningful ways and foster a strong sense of community and faith.

Who can get involved? All young people from Grade 6 to university age and those in their 20s are invited to participate. This is a unique opportunity to make a difference and take ownership of your faith journey.

Ways to contribute:

• Attend a monthly youth mass.
• Bring up the gifts at the offertory.
• Play an instrument or sing – drums, bass, electric guitar, keyboard, brass, woodwind, or strings.
• Train as a special minister to distribute communion.
• Develop confidence reading at Mass.
• Join a team to organise, plan, or coordinate a Mass.
• Take up the collection plate during Mass.
• Help with promotion on social media.

Upcoming Youth Masses:

• First Youth Mass: Saturday, 3 May at 6pm.
• Second Youth Mass: Saturday, 14 June at 6pm, with special guest Archbishop Peter Comensoli.

For more detailed information, please refer to the below flyer: