Debating Success

by Alison Tedman and Jess Willson, Acting Debating Coordinators for 2025

Last term, Stella Maris had two debating teams who participated in the Masters Academy Australian National Virtual Debating Competition. Representing Year 8 were Sophie M, Millicent C, Mabel B, Alana H and Genevieve O. Representing Year 9 were Erin R, Sophie O, Violet P, Lauren O and Ella M.

Both teams did very well and made the finals this term.

The Year 8 team debated against Regents Park Christian School. The topic was “That Antarctica Should be Protected from Tourism”, Stella being the negative team. Our students raised some excellent points and teams were tied in the clash count, only narrowly defeated in the final adjudication.

The Year 9 team debated against Al Sadiq College. The topic was “That no one should be allowed to post on the internet anonymously”, Stella being the negative team. Again, our team worked hard and raised insightful and interesting points but were unfortunately defeated.

Congratulations and thank you to these students for doing such a great job in debating this year. Information about the debating program at Stella in 2026 will be released early next year.

Library News

Stella's Unsung Hero Award

Mrs Mia Callanan is Head of Year 10.

Mrs Callanan’s father, Max Hitchins, generously donated two well-loved books to the Stella Library. Year 12 English students will be immersed in 'Chasing Gold' in 2026, while 'How to Develop a Memory Like an Elephant' offers valuable memory techniques—perfect for students looking to enhance their study habits.

Term 3: Enrichment Reading for Year 7: Medieval Europe

Why Pair Historical Fiction with Research?

Reading historical fiction deepens empathy, letting us walk in someone else’s shoes—even from a different time—which helps us understand their struggles and emotions better.

It builds wisdom and critical thinking, encouraging us to question what we read, differentiate fact from fiction, and recognise lessons that still resonate today

Most importantly, it brings the past to life.

• Access Stella’s Encyclopedia Brittanica

• Pinterest reading recommendations list

The Persistent Puzzle Pit Award

This prestigious award goes to Erin R and Evie W, our Puzzle Pit high achievers! It has been fun to watch the 1,000-piece puzzle grow. This is the sixth puzzle to be completed in 2025, by Stella students.

Monday's Tutor - Amelia Wall (Class of 2024)

My HSC subjects: Biology, Advanced English, Standard Mathematics, Religion 2 unit, Textiles & Design, (and can provide tutoring for all Junior subjects).

Studying at UTS: Bachelor of Engineering (Biomedical) and Creative Intelligence and Innovation.

To Book a Tutor

Students can easily book a tutoring session by writing their name on the Tutoring Booking Sheet, which is available for viewing at the library desk. Tutors are available free of charge from Monday to Thursday after school.