Mother's Day Breakfast - save the date!

Mums, grandmothers and special female figures in the lives of our students - please mark Friday 9 May for our annual Mother's Day Breakfast. This beautiful morning will be held under the fig trees from 7.30am - 8.30am. Look out for further details via the App.

Careers Discovery Morning

In Term 2, Stella will host its first Careers Discovery Morning for Years 10, 11 and 12 students.

The session aims to connect professionals in their field with students who are making key decisions about their studies and career paths, generally taking place from 7:30am-8:30am.

We would love to harness the collective expertise of our Stella community to deliver impactful sessions for our students.

We invite parents and carers to support this initiative by registering your interest to participate as a career guide in your profession. Your generous participation in small group discussions will help students learn about study pathways and related disciplines, and provide valuable insights into the day-to-day tasks, responsibilities, and required skills of your role. Additionally, the session will give students the opportunity to explore careers they may not have previously considered.

To register an expression of interest, please complete the form below.

We look forward to hearing from you via the EOI and will be in touch following receipt.

Community Notices

12 Angry Jurors - now playing at Star of the Sea Theatre

Point Break Theatre Company is super excited to announce their production of the brilliant American play, "12 Angry Jurors" (men and women) at the Star of the Sea Theatre, Manly, from 27 March to 6 April.

Textiles News

TexStyle 2025

The TexStyle 2025 exhibition is a selection of exemplary Textile and Design projects from the 2024 Higher School Certificate from around the state. It is currently showing at Gallery 76 (76 Queen Street, Concord West) from 2 March - 24 April 2025. It was an honour to have two students selected to exhibit in this prestigious exhibition.

Madeline Elliott: Focus area - Apparel

Design inspiration drawn from Western style clothing, rodeo chaps, livestock branding and the crucifix.

The range consists of denim jeans, fully lined corduroy vest and chaps. Decorative features consist of crucifix cut-outs, machined embroidered and appliqued crucifixes, sliver “horse-bit” details, metal chains and cross rivet studs.

Stella Lynch: Focus area - Apparel

Design inspiration drawn from Gucci suits, 16^th Century Renaissance fashion, women’s power dressing and Sofia Coppola’s film, Marie Antionette.

The range consists of a fully-lined tailored, double-breasted jacket and pants made from brocade, featuring organza ruffle trims, hand embroidered and beaded detachable cuffs and a matching bow tie.

Luci Kelly
Head of Department

Visual Arts News

We are still full of buzz after our Year 11 Visual Arts camp to Bundanon this year. It was a great success once again.

Nestled in the countryside overlooking the Shoalhaven River, Bundanon represents a remarkable act of philanthropy by Arthur and Yvonne Boyd, who gifted the property in 1993 to the people of Australia. The vision to create a cultural institution for artistic enjoyment has grown through the years and thrives today for school groups and the public.

Our students stayed in the Glenn Murcutt designed Boyd Education Centre The group delved into a variety of art practices led by the Bundanon Educators, and Stella’s teachers.

This experience is fundamental in offering our Visual Arts students an opportunity to really explore their art practice and is often a foundation for inspiration leading to their major works for the HSC. The students produced a large body of work including painting ‘en plein air’, charcoal drawings, tiny tins, night drawing and eco dying. We didn’t stop making art!

Apart from the educational benefits the camp offers our students, they also experience a wonderful bonding time together, forming new connections with each other and their teachers in a truly inspiring environment.

Our Stella girls were, as usual, hardworking, polite, enthusiastic and a delight to be with. The new addition of Kerstin Thompson and Associates designed ‘Bridge’ was stunning to visit, as well as the new subterranean Art Museum embedded in the landscape.

If you get a chance to visit Bundanon you will not regret the experience. It’s certainly breathtaking. It is open to the public from Wednesdays to Sundays. https://www.bundanon.com.au/ab...

Mosman Youth Art Prize

We were thrilled to have 14 of our talented Visual Arts students enter their art works into the Mosman Youth Art Prize this year.

Organised by Mosman Council, the Youth Art Prize aims to encourage the creative talents of young, aspiring and emerging artists whilst providing a showcase for their works. It was initiated in 1988 by the internationally renowned artist and local resident Ken Done AM. The Prize is open to all young people aged 12-21 years and is one of the richest Youth Art Prizes in Australia.

Our talented crew consisted of:

• Amelia H - Year 12
• Sara T - Year 12
• Grace B - Year 11
• Grayson C - Year 12
• Erica K - Year 8
• Ella M - Year 9
• Denise M - Year 8
• Sanna M - Year 11
• Sophie R - Year 11
• Erin R - Year 9
• Sophia T - Year 8
• Frankie U - Year 9
• Lola W - Year 9
• Eddie T - Year 9

The opening night on Friday was buzzing and bustling. It was wonderful to meet the artists and their families and celebrate their talent .

We were thrilled to have Erica K from Year 8 receive the Susan Rothwell prize on stage.

Well done all those involved.

The exhibition runs until May 4 and it is well worth a visit.

Marisa Quick
Head of Department

Youth Ambassador Program with Zali Steggle

On March 11, a group of Year 12 students attended the Student Leaders Youth Ambassadors Program at Mosman High School. Hosted by Zali Steggall, our Federal Independent Member for Warringah, the event provided an opportunity to engage with student leaders from across the Northern Beaches on key community issues.

Discussions covered topics such as mental health challenges surrounding the HSC, traffic congestion and public transport disruptions, volunteer opportunities, and university pathways. Students shared insights and explored potential solutions to common concerns in their schools and local communities.

The highlight of the event was the chance to present these concerns directly to Zali and hear about the Government’s ongoing initiatives to address them. It was a valuable and inspiring experience, fostering collaboration and leadership among student representatives.

by Rosa G, Year 12

Harmony Mufti Day & Project Compassion

Our recent Harmony Mufti Day was not just a celebration of cultural diversity but also a powerful fundraiser for Project Compassion and our sister Good Samaritan Education (GSE) school, Mater Dei. The generosity of our school community has been tremendous, with donations pouring in through our online fundraising page.

Currently, our total stands at just over $3000, with Ms Aspiotis’ PC Class 7.4 leading with over $305 and setting a fantastic example. Thank you to everyone who has contributed. Your support is making a real difference.

This Friday, Year 10 will be holding a cake and bake stall at lunchtime. Please contribute baked goods to the stall if you are able. Delivery of these will be in the morning before PC to the Hospitality classroom next to the Canteen. We kindly ask that baked goods are nut-free.

A shout out to Ivy P from Year 10 who is the driving force to instigate this initiative on behalf of Year 10 towards Project Compassion. This is an excellent example of social justice in action and student leadership – thank you Ivy P.

Peace Eggs are selling like hot cakes at the Canteen. All proceeds go towards Mater Dei. There are still many Peace Eggs available to purchase in time for your Easter gifts.

Gift Cook Program - 6 March

Thank you to Ms Mezger and nine Year 10 students - Ava W, Carys P, Amy H, Zara B, Amelia S, Isabella S, Ivy V, Chloe R and Alexis H. The team cooked up a big pot (two pots actually!) of minestrone soup to provide just over 100 servings that were packaged up for people in the local community in need of a nutritious meal at this time of financial stress and food insecurity. This cook was a particularly long one with the pasta taking longer than anticipated – thanks for your effort girls and Ms Mezger, it is highly appreciated.

Prophetic Voices Symposium - 12 March

A group of Year 10 students volunteered to be a part of the Prophetic Voices Symposium that was held online between all 10 Good Samaritan Education schools spanning NSW, Queensland and Victoria. The students actively participated in online discussions about key mental health issues, emphasising the critical need to de-stigmatize mental health challenges and establish supportive structures to foster self-care and mutual support. The students heard from guest speakers and were given sobering statistics and positive solutions to tackle this societal wide issue.

Thank you for your engagement with the other schools and your insightful points on the topics of discussion: Roisin O’N, Molly F, Ivy V, Natalia B-F, Charlotte B, Isabella S, Isabella M, Grace E, Alexandra G, Keily B, Gabriella H, Lola O, Leili M and Alexis H.

Stella Cross Country

The Stella Cross Country Carnival was held on Tuesday 1 April. After days of rain, the weather cleared just in time to create perfect conditions for running. More than 120 students from Years 7 – 12 took part in the races and had a fantastic time!

There were some amazing performances, personal bests and lots of fun out on the course. Stella is lucky to be able to hold our event in such a scenic location and the students were able to see the huge waves as they ran along the beachfront.

The Stella spirit was very obvious, with all of the students supporting each other and cheering their friends along over the course.

Well done to all of the students who participated and a special congratulations to our race medal winners. A team will be selected to represent Stella at the IGSA and CGSSSA carnivals in Term 2.

Individual Results

Champion House:

1. Wood

2. Smith

3. Shinnick

4. Chisholm

5. Egan and MacKillop (equal place)

7. Bashir

8. Noonuccall

Grand Finals

It is grand final time for Term 1 IGSA sports! The Stella touch and tennis teams have had a fantastic season in IGSA. Congratulations to the three Stella teams who will play in the grand finals this Saturday:

Tennis

• STM02: vs Mt St Benedict at 7.45am at Pymble Ladies College

Touch

• STM01: vs Monte at 9.00am at Santa Sabina College
• STM02: vs Monte at 10.00am at Santa Sabina College

CGSSSA Touch

The CGSSSA touch selection trials were held at Santa Sabina College on Tuesday 25 March. Stella had 10 students selected to trial. The standard was high, but the Stella girls were outstanding. The final selections will be announced in the coming week, with selected players progressing the the NSWCCC Championships in May. Well done to all of the Stella girls who played:

Ellie F, April U, Zsa Zsa B, Ana T, Kayla A, Mia L, Lara M, Giselle B, Summer B and Charlotte B.

NSWCCC Swimming

Congratulations to the Stella students who are representing CGSSSA at the NSWCCC Swimming Championships at Sydney Olympic Park on Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 April:

• Zara D
• Jess O
• Charlie C
• Mila C
• Lily L
• Alice W

Special mention to Zara who is swimming in TEN events, and Jess who has six events! Well done!!

CGSSSA Rugby League

On Tuesday 1 April, the combined CGSSSA/Broken Bay U16 rugby league trial was held at St Edward's, East Gosford. Three students represented Stella at this trial: Mia L, Lara M and Poppy F. Team selections will be announced in coming days.

Term 2 Sport Registrations

Term 2 sport registrations are now open!

Information regarding Term 2 extra curricular sports has been sent to all parents and students.

Students may express interest in the sports that they would like to participate in by completing the form they have been sent. Students (and their parents) who have registered interest in sports, will be emailed sport specific information and permission notes next week. We encourage all students to sign up for their sports by Monday 7 April.

The extra curricular sports on offer in Term 2 include:

• Athletics
• Basketball
• Cross Country
• Group Fitness
• Hockey
• Netball
• Pilates
• Run Club
• Sprint Training
• Tennis lessons
• Tennis squad
• Water polo

Performing Arts at Stella Maris is excited to announce that in 2025 we will be putting on our first ever Cabaret show. The theme of the show will be:

Broadway Through the Ages

Students were sent applications for expressions of interest in Week 8 and we are currently working through over 130 auditions across Dance, Drama and Music. There are also a number of opportunities for students in roles behind the scenes. A huge thanks to the Year 11 students who have helped in the development of this exciting new show which is scheduled for August. Watch this space for further announcements!

On a beautiful evening by Dee Why Beach last Friday, our international students gathered for a special Welcome Dinner, marking the beginning of another exciting year at Stella Maris College. This event wasn’t just about enjoying a delicious Chinese meal - it was about warmly welcoming our new students and also reconnecting with returning ones. We aim to build connections between one another and foster a sense of belonging within our school community. We want every international student to feel valued and supported as they settle into their studies and life in Sydney. This dinner helps to create a welcoming community where students feel comfortable, encouraged, and ready to embrace the year ahead!

We were thrilled to have our College Principal, Mrs Quirk, two Assistant Principals, Mrs Yeates and Ms Smith, and our Heads of Year, join us for the evening. Their presence, along with their warmth and support, made the dinner even more memorable. Our international students truly appreciated the opportunity to engage with our supportive staff and enjoyed chatting with them about life at school and beyond.

For international students, settling into a new country, adapting to a new school system, and overcoming language barriers can be challenging. However, through moments like this, we are reminded that we are not alone - Stella Maris is a place where we are seen and strongly supported.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making the night so special.

It is hard to believe that we are already at the end of Term 1! Year 7 parents and carers – congratulations on surviving Term 1! I am sure many of you are looking forward to the well-deserved break.

See the note at the end about what is happening in Term 2. Have a safe break.

Delightful evening had at the Year 7 Parent Mixer

Our Year 7 Parent Mixer held on March 20 was a delightful evening that brought together new faces and sparked budding friendships among our Year 7 parents and carers. The night was filled with laughter, engaging conversations, and a shared enthusiasm for our children's journey at Stella.

Heartfelt Thanks to Sarah!

Thanks to Sarah Olofinsky for orchestrating such a warm and welcoming event, and also moderating the WhatsApp Channel. Your efforts have helped lay a foundation of community and support that will undoubtedly enrich the parent and carer experiences.

Stella Fellas Barefoot Bowling – Sunday 30 March at Manly Bowling Club

The Stella Fellas faced mixed weather on Sunday 30 March, as they gathered at the Manly Bowling Club for a fun afternoon of Barefoot Bowls. Still, it certainly didn’t dampen their enthusiasm or competitive spirit.

The highlights of the day included laughter, impressive strategic moves, and plenty of barefoot enjoyment under very gloomy skies. The friendly competition concluded with the announcement of the winning team, which demonstrated great skill and sportsmanship throughout the game.

A huge thanks to Nick Poutney, who has consistently championed this group. Nick will return in Term 3 with another event, which will be announced in Term 2.

Join us tonight for the P&F General Meeting – Thursday 3 April

📅 Date: Thursday, 3 April
⏰ Time: 7:30pm
📍 Location: Library, Scholastica Building – parking best on Eurobin Avenue

Last chance to join us this evening.

🔗 Register now: click here

The full agenda is available below.

If you can’t make it in person – join us online by clicking here.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Term 2:

So, what is happening in Term 2?

P&F General & AGM Meeting, Thursday 5 June - Time: 7:30pm

P&F Trivia Night - Friday 13 June

SAVE THE DATE: Stella P&F Trivia Night - Tickets on Sale: Friday 2 May at 9:00am

Mark your calendars and set your alarms! Tickets for the much-anticipated Stella P&F Trivia Night will go on sale at 9:00am on Friday 2 May. Prepare to join us for a thrilling evening of trivia, laughter, and outrageous costumes at the Manly Leagues Club on June 13.

• Time: 7:00pm - 11:00pm
• Location: Manly Leagues Club
• Fantastic Prizes: For our trivia champions!

Don't miss your chance to be part of this legendary event. Gather your team, strategise on your name and theme, and be ready to claim your spot when tickets are available!

See below for some of our photos from the 2024 Trivia Night!

We need your help with the upcoming Mother's Day and Trivia Night Events!

As we approach Term 2, we are excited to announce two fantastic fundraising opportunities: the Mother’s Day Raffle and the highly anticipated Trivia Night Raffle & Silent Auction. These events offer excellent chances to unite, celebrate our Stella parent and carer community, and support a worthy cause. Over the last two years, both events have enabled us to raise more than $15,000.

How You Can Support?
While we finalise the details of where the raised funds will be directed in 2025, we assure you that your contributions will significantly impact our community. We are exploring several meaningful opportunities and will announce the chosen cause as soon as it is confirmed.

How You Can Contribute?

1. Donate a Prize: Gift items, gift cards, services, or experiences are all fantastic contributions that will make our raffles and auctions exciting.
2. Spread the word: Share this with friends, family, and local businesses to help us engage more potential donors and participants.

To donate a prize, please fill out the form: https://forms.office.com/r/LDkvyGddeV.

These events offer an opportunity to make a real impact. Stay tuned for more updates on our plans and how the funds will be utilised to enrich our community.

The Uniform Shop is open Tuesdays to Thursdays from 8.00am to 4.30pm during term and can be emailed on:

uniform_books@stellamaris.nsw.edu.au

Year 7 and 10 can purchase their winter uniforms. Blazers and skirts are not available online as they need to be fitted in the Uniform Shop.

Please attend prior to April 10 in case I need to place an order for your daughter for blazers or senior skirts.

Year 11 students are required to purchase the pink senior blouse for winter.

Many online orders are to be collected. Orders are ready for collection from Recess after the order has been placed. Reminders are only sent as a last resort.

Dresses have been packed away to make room for winter stock. A small number of most sizes can be purchased instore if required.

Please follow this link to the P&F Facebook second hand page:

2025

Term 1

Term 2

Term 3

Term 4

We have a lot of misplaced lunchboxes and containers looking for their owners. Please remind your daughters to check the box outside the Canteen.

Please also remind your daughters to bring their student cards with them to the Canteen when making purchases.

Thank you - Majella and Cheryl

Week commencing Monday 7 April

Term 2: Week commencing Monday 29 April