Dear Parents and Carers,

Mrs Murray and I have returned from a fabulous experience in The Philippines last week. The Philippines is a most diverse and beautiful place to visit but our favourite time was visiting the City Gate Academy School, volunteering our time to support the daily reading program. We were also extremely privileged to be invited to visit one of the students’ homes. This was a very heart wrenching experience, where we witnessed first hand, the extreme poverty and harsh conditions these families were living in. It helps put in perspective the great need to continue to support the missionary work of churches and other volunteer organisations who provide support for the needy. We will share some of our experiences with the students and staff during the next few weeks.

The Principal, Lyn, of City Gate Academy School, asked Mrs Murray and I to pass on their very grateful thanks to all those who were able to send school supplies and or donate money towards the school. It was wonderful to be able to deliver these items first-hand to the school and know that they would be utilised. Lyn also told us that they would forward photos of the items they purchased using the money that was donated. Thank you to everyone for their generosity.

A special thank you to Mrs Richards for keeping everything running smoothly while I was on leave last week. It was wonderful to keep track of the great happenings at St Mary’s via the Face Book page. I am sure everyone enjoyed the fantastic experience of the author visit and honouring the 100^th Anniversary of Armistice Day.

This week Years 2-6 will have the wonderful opportunity to experience a Cricket Program on Wednesday. Our 2019 Kindergarten Orientation program continues on Thursday and our final golf lesson on Friday.

Wishing everyone a very happy week ahead.

Christine Baron

Principal