Dear Parents and Carers,

A Time for Reflection and Gratitude

As we move through Week 5 and settle into the rhythm of Term 4, our College community pauses to honour Remembrance Day — a moment to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and enduring hope of those who have served in times of war and peace. Their stories remind us of the price of freedom and the strength of the human spirit. We hold in our hearts all who have served, and we pray for peace in our world, in our homes, and in our hearts.

This call to peace sits beautifully within our Benedictine tradition, which invites us to balance prayer and purpose in all that we do. St Benedict’s reminder to “pray as though everything depended on God; work as though everything depended on you” encourages us to live with both faith and action — to be people of compassion, diligence, and hope, striving each day to make a difference through our words and deeds.

Honouring Their Service and Sacrifice

On Monday 11 November, two of our Year 10 students, Ava W. and Ivy V., together with Ms Bridie Docevski, represented Stella Maris College at the Manly Remembrance Day Service held at the Manly War Memorial on The Corso. Attending at the invitation of the Northern Beaches Mayor, they joined local schools, community members, and dignitaries in paying tribute to those who have served and sacrificed in times of war and peace.

The service was both solemn and uplifting — a moment of unity and gratitude. Standing alongside veterans, serving defence personnel, and the catafalque party, our students witnessed the deep respect and reverence that continues to surround this important day. The haunting sound of the bugle, the silence that followed, and the wreaths laid in quiet remembrance served as powerful reminders of the cost of peace and the courage of those who defend it.

We are proud of Ava and Ivy for representing the College with such grace and respect, embodying the compassion and gratitude that lie at the heart of our community.

Our Year 12 students have now completed their HSC examinations, and we hold them warmly in our prayers. Their courage, focus, and determination throughout this demanding time have been remarkable. The entire Stella Maris community is immensely proud of all they have achieved — not only in their studies, but in the character, leadership, and friendship they have shared. We ask God’s blessing upon them as they close this important chapter and prepare for the exciting possibilities ahead. To our girls: stay strong, trust in the effort you have put in, and know that your resilience and dedication will guide you as you step into the next stage of your journey.

Across the College, our Years 7–10 students are finalising assessments, drawing together the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout the year. This is a time to stay focused and to give their best, but also to pause and recognise how much they have grown. Beyond their studies, students continue to contribute richly to College life — through sport, creative arts, leadership, and service. Their enthusiasm, talent, and generosity of spirit are a daily source of inspiration and joy for our community.

Celebrating the Performing Arts at Stella

The performing arts have taken centre stage at Stella Maris this term, shining a light on the extraordinary creativity, confidence, and collaboration of our students.

Evening of Drama – A Showcase of Talent and Imagination

Tuesday evening's Drama Gala was a joyful celebration of storytelling and performance. Audiences were treated to a diverse and entertaining program that captured the humour, depth, and imagination of our students. From the clever satire of Who Killed the Internet? to the quick-thinking hilarity of Whose Line Is It Anyway?, and a vibrant reimagining of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory by our Musical Theatre group, the evening was a testament to the students’ growing confidence, creativity, and flair for the stage.

Beyond the laughter and applause, these performances highlighted the invaluable skills that drama nurtures — teamwork, communication, and the courage to take creative risks. We are so proud of our young performers and deeply appreciative of the staff who guide and inspire them.

Celebration of Dance – This Friday

This Friday evening, the spotlight turns to our Celebration of Dance, one of the most anticipated events of the year. The program promises an inspiring display of artistry and energy, as our dancers bring stories to life through movement and music. Each piece reflects dedication, collaboration, and the sheer joy of expression that defines the Stella spirit.

Music Showcase – Tuesday 18 November and Fig Day Out - Wednesday 26 November

Rounding out this remarkable season of creativity, are our Music Ensembles Showcase evening on Tuesday 18 November and Fig Day Out (under the fig trees) on Wednesday 26 November which will celebrate the incredible musical talent that fills our College with sound and soul. From our concert band to vocal performances and solo recitals, the evenings will highlight the breadth of musicianship and passion nurtured within our community.

Our students’ commitment to their craft — the hours of rehearsal, the courage to perform, and the joy of sharing their gifts with others — is truly inspiring.

We offer heartfelt thanks to our dedicated Music, Drama, and Dance teachers, whose expertise, encouragement, and vision make these performances possible. Special appreciation also goes to our technical team, whose mastery of lighting and sound transforms each event into something truly magical. Together, they ensure that every Stella performance not only entertains but uplifts, connecting our community through creativity, courage, and joy.

Upcoming Changes to Social Media Access for Young People

From 10 December 2025, new regulations will come into effect requiring age-restricted social media platforms — including TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube — to take reasonable steps to prevent Australians under 16 from creating or keeping accounts.

These changes are designed to promote safer online environments for young people. We encourage all parents and carers to familiarise themselves with what this means for their families and to support their children as these adjustments take place.

The eSafety Commissioner has developed a range of excellent resources to assist families in understanding and navigating these changes. You’ll find a webinar for parents, short videos, and fact sheets here:
www.esafety.gov.au/parents/social-media-age-restrictions

For First Nations families, there are also culturally responsive materials available, including a Parent Yarning Guide, student workbook, and community flyers, accessible here:
www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/industry-regulation/social-media-age-restrictions/campaign#first-nations-community-resources

Please take some time to explore these resources and begin preparing your family for the upcoming social media changes. Together, we can continue to help our young people engage online safely, responsibly, and with confidence.

Year 7, 2026 Welcome Evening

On Wednesday, 12 November, we were delighted to welcome the parents and carers of our incoming Year 7, 2026 students — the Class of 2031 — to Stella Maris College. The evening was filled with warmth, anticipation, and community spirit as families gathered on the deck for refreshments before moving into the Theatre for the formal presentation.

The program offered an inspiring glimpse into the Stella journey — highlighting our culture of belonging, learning, and faith, and the many opportunities awaiting our newest students. A particular highlight was hearing from one of our current Year 7 students, who shared her heartfelt reflection on the friendships, confidence, and joy she has found in her first year at Stella.

The evening beautifully captured what it means to be part of our College community — a place where every girl is known, valued, and encouraged to flourish. We thank our staff, the Community Engagement Team, and the Parents and Friends Association for helping create such a memorable and welcoming start for our new families.

A Generous Contribution from our P&F

It was with immense gratitude that I recently accepted a cheque for $10,000 from Parents and Friends (P&F) Vice President, Linda Rowe, on behalf of the College. This generous donation represents the outstanding fundraising efforts of our P&F throughout 2025, and we are so thankful for their continued commitment to supporting our students and staff, and bringing our community together.

These funds will go towards the fit-out of a new catering space on the fourth floor of the Polding Centre, as part of our Raise the Roof Campaign. This space will enhance the way we gather and celebrate as a community — from student events to parent and alumni functions and College celebrations.

Final concepts and plans for the area are currently being refined, and we look forward to sharing these with our community soon.

On behalf of everyone at Stella, I extend heartfelt thanks to Linda and the entire P&F team for their hard work, generosity and enthusiasm throughout the year.

With Gratitude and Hope

As we journey through Term 4, we pause to celebrate the learning, courage, and generosity that continue to shine so brightly in our students. Their achievements — both great and small — reflect the strength of a community grounded in faith, care, and purpose.

We are deeply thankful for our parents and carers, whose partnership helps us shape young women of compassion, confidence, and conviction — ready to bring light to the world around them.

May the weeks ahead be filled with joy, gratitude, and a renewed sense of hope for all that lies ahead.

Warm regards,

Sharyn Quirk
Principal