The term ahead is another busy one, jam-packed with activities and events to ensure our students have many opportunities to grow and develop as young people.

NAIDOC WEEK: 7 – 14 July 2024

This week is NAIDOC Week, a time to celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year’s theme is ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud and Proud!’.

We acknowledge and respect that the land we live, learn and play on is traditionally owned by the Djaara People of the Kulin Nation. Together, we seek to learn more about Djaara culture and histories, walking beside First Nations peoples towards reconciliation.

Today we witnessed the unveiling of a new mural designed by Palawa Trawlwoolway artist Josie Gower, with the support of CMCB First Nations students and headspace Bendigo Youth Ambassadors. We were delighted to host this special headspace Bendigo NAIDOC Week event at St Mary’s Campus.

CONGRATULATIONS

Term 2 ended on a high note as we celebrated our students who model the Mercy Values and demonstrate Living Mercy. Congratulations to all who received Spirit of Catherine Awards for their outstanding contributions to our school and the wider community (see below for Award Winners). We also witnessed the commissioning of new student and staff FIRE Carriers (Friends Igniting Reconciliation through Education) and thank them for taking on this responsibility.

AMSSA CONFERENCE

The Australasian Mercy Secondary Schools Association (AMSSA) Student Conference, was another a highlight in the final week of term. We welcomed 140 delegates from twenty-one Mercy schools across Australia, including nine of our own Year 10 and 11 students, who were wonderful ambassadors for CMCB. The Mercy Junortoun Sporting Precinct was home base for the conference sessions, workshops and activities. Delegates also enjoyed visits to iconic Bendigo landmarks, celebrated Mass in the Sacred Heart Cathedral led by Bishop Shane Mackinlay and gathered for the Conference Dinner in the ornate Bendigo Town Hall.

The camaraderie that developed between the delegates over such a short time was a delight to see and we wish them well as they return to their own Mercy schools full of enthusiasm and great ideas for ways to put what they have learned into action.

Congratulations and thank you to our staff who helped make the conference such a great success. Read more about the AMSSA Conference.