Principal's Report service stewardship hospitality excellence dignity

OLMsCene Semester 1, 2016 Semester justice

compassion Mercy t here is excitement around the on our Mission Statement that focus on College in anticipation of the learning: Tcompletion in Term 4 of our newest building, the Ailsa Mackinnon Centre. A Mercy Education: This new addition to OLMC will be a • provides innovative learning and teaching multipurpose facility catering for sport that is contemporary, dynamic and and other events with a full sized indoor challenging; a l 's Rep or court, four learning spaces, a rooftop • is committed to excellence and enables indoor / outdoor area and a fully furnished every student to achieve her potential by gymnasium. This facility will bring a whole developing her unique gifts and talents; new dynamic to OLMC and a host of new • is empowering, equipping young women opportunities for Mercy Girls. to be critical, creative and reflective Prin c i p thinkers; Earlier this year, the College purchased • occurs in a caring and supportive the 1837 cottage Roseneath located on environment where human dignity is the corner of O’Connell and Ross Streets. valued and respected; We will shortly begin the development • empowers young women, through application process to sympathetically involvement in Mercy action projects, restore the cottage to allow us to utilise to lead with courage, freedom and the space as a centre for Mercy learning responsibility, making a significant and excellence. The development will include positive difference; and four internal spaces and outdoor learning • encourages young women to live their spaces including herb and vegetable lives in respectful relationship with gardens for the girls to tend to and use in all of creation and with responsible areas of the curriculum. Specific details commitment to care for the earth. of the use of Roseneath will be conveyed to the OLMC community as they are The Masterplan should allow us to design developed. a unique Mercy curriculum that engenders what we want our students to develop and Both these projects bring to conclusion excel in; it should represent our values, the current College Masterplan. I would mission, history and traditions while also like to thank the previous Principal, being responsive to continuous change. Mrs Kitty Guerin, Ms Kerrie Walshaw, Chair of the OLMC Board, fellow Board The new Masterplan should respond members and College staff for all their to the learning needs of the girls over work implementing the plan over the past the next ten years. It should focus on ten years. Thank you also to all the recent providing facilities and spaces that allow past and current OLMC families for your for effective and dynamic teaching that financial support of the College which has fosters student learning. It should allow for allowed for these facilities to be built. It a range of innovative teaching and learning has provided OLMC with many new and strategies that focus on critical thinking, contemporary facilities. collaboration, creativity and innovation. Our learning spaces should enable a diversity of Notwithstanding this, over this same time learning experiences for the girls; learning period, much has changed in education as that is purposeful, allowing for exploration, have the skills required by our students to discovery, reflection and positivity. be able to respond to the many changing demands of the 21st century. It is timely, In the midst of exciting changes at our therefore, for OLMC to begin the process site in 2016, we embark on this important of discussion, consultation and planning process of planning and reflection to for a new Masterplan that will continue to shape the future of Mercy Education. I am provide the most contemporary learning certainly excited about what the future environment for our young Mercy learners. holds for our wonderful College.

Our new Masterplan will be developed Stephen M Walsh around the following principles based Principal

2 OLMsCene student ac h i eve m e n t s

ear 12 student Nathalie Rabinovici OLMC Teams have begun training for the Ferrari and Madalyn Incognito (Year 12). performed in the cast of West Australian Debating and Public Speaking Cailley Culnane came 1st in the 12 years YSide Story at Riverside Titles to be held in Canberra in September. 50m Freestyle and the 12 years 100m Theatres in February 2016. The girls selected for the senior team are Freestyle (breaking the old record set in Daelo, Emily Dwyer, Amishi 2002 by 1.5 seconds) while Kyah Day came Poems by Stephanie Arulthasan (Year 8) Handoo and Gabby Scollard (all in Year 1st in the 12 years 50m Butterfly and the were selected by Rotary to be included in a 11). The junior team includes Stephanie 50m Breaststroke. Remembrance Book to record the sacrifices Arulthasan and Lily Tambrchi (both Year 8) of World War I. Stephanie accepted her copy and Gabrielle Mizzi and Lisa Khouri (both OLMC was represented by Cailley Culnane, from local member for Parramatta, Julie Year 9). Kyah Day, Olivia Towle (Year 7), Justine Owens, at the book’s launch. Kim (Year 8), Renee Lee, Alexandra Mercy Girls Madison Noud (Year 12), Younes (both Year 9), Jessica Grubba and In May, Mercy Girl Shayna Correa (Year Shauna Naaman (Year 12) and Sophie Gabrielle Mansour (both Year 11) at the 10) was announced as a winner of the Elliot (Year 9) were selected to compete in NSWCCC Swimming Championships at Honouring Australian Vietnam Veterans the NSW Junior State Touch Competition Sydney Olympic Park in April. Competition. All winners will participate at Port Macquarie. The Junior State in a three day Canberra Commemorative Cup is one of the largest Touch Football At the NSW All Schools Swimming Programme in August where they will tournaments in the world. Championships, OLMC was represented attend official commemorations on Vietnam by Cailley Culnane and Kyah Day (both Veterans’ Day to mark the 50th anniversary of Saskia Brothers (Year 8) recently competed Year 7). Both girls swam exceptionally well the Battle of Long Tan. They will also have the in three major Judo qualifying events to with Kyah powering home in the 12 years opportunity to meet with Vietnam Veterans make the State Team for the Nationals 50m Butterfly to finish 4th and Cailley and visit Parliament House, the Australian event. In February, she competed in the ACT finishing 3rd in the 12 years 50m Freestyle War Memorial and other cultural institutions. International Open and placed 3rd. In early (both girls swam a Personal Best time). Kyah March, she competed in the Queensland also finished 7th in the 50m Breaststroke Sydney Daelo (Year 11) and Bethany Leise International Open placing 1st. Later she and Cailley finished 5th in the 100m (Year 12) both won their heats to advance competed in the NSW State Titles and Freestyle. to the Regional Final of Rostrum Voice of is now the NSW State Title Holder, after Youth. Marinelle Juan (Year 7) was runner- placing 1st once again. She will compete at An OLMC team travelled to Eastern Creek up in her heat. Sydney Daelo qualified for the the Nationals event in Geelong in June. Raceway for the PDSSSC Cross Country State Final of Rostrum Voice of Youth in June. in May. Summer Giddings (Year 8) won The PDSSC Swimming Carnival was the 3km Parra Athlete event and Gabrielle In February, the NSW Combined Catholic held in March at Sydney Olympic Park. Mansour (Year 11) finished 4th in the 17 Colleges Sports Blues Awards were held at The OLMC team consisted of Cailley years event. Both girls will be competing St Patrick’s College, Sutherland. OLMC was Culnane, Kyah Day, Olivia Towle (Year 7), at the NSWCCC Cross Country in represented by two students: Jordan Forbes Thalia Lake, Justine Kim, Alex Younes, June. Sophie Brown (Year 9) and Riley (Year 11) who received her award for Netball Renee Lee (Year 9), Juniper Riordan (Year Rodewald (Year 7) are the 1st reserves for Umpiring and Sarah Marvin (Year 12, 2015) 10), Gabby Mansour, Jessica Grubba, their age groups. who received her award for Cross Country. Johanna Cusack, (Year 11) and Annabel

OLMsCene 3 A Message of Mercy at the New Cocurricular Clubs in Mother Daughter Mass 2016 Mercy Girls, Mothers, Grandmothers, Aunts There are a number of new cocurricular and significant female carers packed into groups available for girls to join in 2016. the Mother Mary Clare Dunphy Chapel Nutrition Club is open to Year 10 Physical on Monday May 9 for the Annual Mother Activities and Sports Studies (PASS) students OLMC news Daughter Mass. Maria Giglio gave a very and Year 11 and 12 PDHPE students. The moving speech about her experience of Asian Culture Club explores Asian pop being a Mercy Mum, speaking passionately culture, drama, Anime and Manga with fun about her devotion to Mary and her games, prizes, karaoke and more. These experience of the Mercy Values. are in addition to a host of other new groups including EcOLMC, the Hip Hop Dance Crew "I have witnessed my daughters not only and the Genealogy Group which all started learn Mercy Values but bring them to bear last year. in everyday life, affecting themselves and those around them. It has been a blessing to be part of their spiritual journey into this Ex-student and Staff rapidly developing world and I believe, despite the adversities they are facing or are Member Making Waves in yet to face, that, with the Mercy Values as a AFL Scene strong base, they will maintain a consistent Ex-student and OLMC staff member can-do attitude and find a way." Amanda Farrugia has been making waves in the NSW AFL scene. After winning the Mostyn Medal for the Best and Fairest Player in the AFL Sydney Women's Premier Division competition in 2015, Amanda was invited to attend the 2016 AFL season launch in April and was Sharing our Faith and Talents interviewed on stage to give her thoughts on women's football and the upcoming Mercy Girls have been sharing their faith season. and talents with primary school students in Parramatta and Blacktown. Ta’Lim On Saturday April 9 the first ever Homework Help is a popular cocurricular women's game was played at the Sydney activity that sees students in Years 8 to Cricket Ground between the Sydney 12 travel to the All Saints African Centre in Swans Academy and the GWS Giants Mercy Girl on The Voice! Blacktown to provide assistance to young Academy, as the curtain raiser to the students. Year 9 girls are also sharing their men's game between the Swans and Ex-student Brianna Holm (HSC 2013) was faith by assisting Catechists teaching Giants. Amanda was Vice Captain for the a contestant on the latest season of The Years 3 to 6 children at Giants in that game and will be playing Voice! Brianna is a super talented Mercy Primary School each Wednesday morning. in the NSW/ACT team against South Girl who was very involved in the music The girls took part in a workshop run by Australia in June. OLMC is both proud of and performance element of the College, the Confraternity of Christian Doctrine and excited for Amanda, a pioneer and including Variety Night. We wish her all the Office before they commenced Scripture role model during this history-making time very best in her journey on The Voice and Teaching. Director of Mission Claire Thomas for women in AFL. for her future career. commented that, whilst walking back from the primary school to OLMC, she often hears Shakespeare Carnival students say how they valued the welcome makes a Comeback they received from the students and staff; “I recall one student said that the children had The Shakespeare Carnival made a so much faith and this was so humbling.” magnificent return to OLMC in April with a series of truly exceptional lunchtime With over a hundred girls registered for performances in the Edith Angel Hall. public speaking competitions in 2016, there Mercy Girls filled the hall to encourage was no shortage of talented students to their friends, as students performed in the help when OLMC was approached to train categories of Duologue, Group Scene, Year 6 students at St Patrick’s Primary Mashup Scene, Dance and Movement, School in the art of public speaking. In the Music Composition and Set and first of three afternoon sessions, Year 6 Costume Design. students were taught the finer points of public speaking. This was followed up by twelve accomplished speakers from OLMC assisting and encouraging the younger students in writing speeches selected from a choice of topics. Finally, each Year 6 student was then given the opportunity to deliver their prepared speech in small groups, again led by OLMC student mentors.

4 OLMsCene OLMC news Mercy Engaged Program Launched The new Mercy Engaged community engagement program was launched in early 2016. The pilot program, running with Year 9 students, sees the girls complete a Mercy Engaged Journal and take time to be with people in need in the local community. Some placements include delivering food hampers to families in need across Western Sydney, assisting with the Jesuit Refugee Service's Arrupe Place Foodbank, assisting adult catechists at the local state primary school and participating in the All New-look College Hat Saints African Centre Ta'Lim Homework Help program. Students reflect on these The College’s brand new hat was moments in Pastoral Care lessons and on distributed to Mercy Girls during a retreat. lunchtime in mid-March. The hat has proved very popular with Mercy Girls and “Ongoing reflection about features a close weave which provides great the Mercy Engaged Program Mercy Community Digs sun protection. The College Hat can be provides students with the purchased from the Uniform Shop. Deep for Jesuit Refugee Service Foodbank skills to acknowledge within Open Day a Chance to Share themselves how they were Mercy Excellence Through Arrupe Place, the Jesuit Refugee challenged, inspired and Service provides assistance to refugees strengthened when stepping On Sunday February 28, the College held living in Western Sydney in a number of out of their comfort zones and its annual Open Day, giving hundreds ways, including through a Foodbank. This of visitors the chance to experience the initiative sees free fortnightly supplements reaching out to others. For contemporary learning and rich tradition that provided to refugee families to assist them some, it is also an opportunity is at the core of a Mercy Education in the with their grocery needs. This allows them to notice God's Spirit and 21st century. to spend their grocery money on other Mercy within the experience.” important needs such as rent payments, Claire Thomas, Director of Mission It was an opportunity to meet staff, students bills and medical care. and alumnae and hear from College Principal, Stephen Walsh. The two new Mercy Girls and their families have been members of the Leadership Team, Deputy generously donating many items such Principal, Marie Wood, and Director of as fresh food, non-perishable food and Teaching and Learning, Gemma VandePeer, toiletries to the Foodbank every fortnight. were also introduced.

“Open Day is special for the whole OLMC community. One of the most common things ex-students tell me is how privileged they feel to have attended the College and how they will treasure this for life. I think students, staff, our families and our alumnae love the opportunity not only to come together, but also to showcase the College and share their passion for OLMC.” Stephen Walsh, Principal

OLMsCene 5 t s Achieveing Excellence

Highlights of the 2015 HSC High Achievers

• Top 100 school Justine Maroun studied Chemistry, English Chelsea is aiming to study Dentistry and hs c Re sul • Top ATAR 99.45 Advanced, Mathematics Extensions 1 and possibly become an orthodontist: “I like that • Rebecca Ibrahim achieved 5th place in 2, Physics and Studies of Religion 1 and its hands-on and you have to think outside the State in Hospitality. achieved the highest ATAR for the class of the square.” • 24 % of ATARs were above 90. 2015 of 99.45. • Chelsea Briot, Rebecca Ibrahim and Karuna Narang achieved an ATAR of 98.35. Justine Maroun all made it onto the All Justine’s advice to younger Mercy Girls is She studied English Advanced, Chemistry, Rounders List after achieving a top band to have a goal in mind: “know what you are Studies of Religion 1, Mathematics in at least 10 units working toward and have a clear mindset.” Extension 1 and 2 and Economics. • 65 OLMC students were named on the Distinguished Achievers List, achieving a Justine has her sights set on studying a Her advice to those embarking on the HSC Band 6 or E4 in at least one course. Bachelor of Applied Science in Radiography is not to let setbacks irritate them: “learn • A total of 133 Band 6s or E4s were at Sydney University: “I love Physics, from them and move on – be prepared achieved by Mercy Girls in 2015. Science and Maths. I would like to become a for setbacks and have a way to deal with radiographer and maybe a doctor one day.” them.”

Chelsea Briot achieved an ATAR of 97.8 Karuana pictures herself as a UNSW student studying Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics for the next phase of her life: “I really want Extension 1, English Advanced, Studies of to study at UNSW – I love the campus, the Religion, Modern History and Mathematics. reputation and the atmosphere."

Where are they now?

The class of 2015 is embracing the opportunities that a Mercy Education has made possible by embarking on new challenges. 98 percent of students are going on to higher education and 89 percent are heading to university to complete a Bachelor’s degree. The tables below show that UTS, Macquarie University and Western Sydney University are the most popular choices for Mercy Girls, with a high proportion of girls pursuing studies in Business, Economics, Communications and Education.

“I want to thank OLMC for the support shown to me throughout my whole education, not just in the HSC year. My educational experience was holistic and the great community spirit at the College made for a memorable education.” Karuna Narang, HSC 2015

6 OLMsCene Achieveing Excellence A Commitment to Mercy staff Service: OLMC Staff Welcome Thank You New staff members Marie Wood, Gemma In September last year we congratulated VandePeer, Ruth Attard, Jessica Gibbs, Ann Corr for 30 years of service to Mercy Shinwon Lucraft, Rachael Peet, Gabby Girls and staff in the support roles she has Scanlon and Michaeli Witney were held at the College. Principal Stephen Walsh welcomed to the OLMC community and says Ann Corr has been a great example presented with a Catherine McAuley Rose of a Mercy Woman. Ann says she values at the beginning of this year. her colleagues, the students and families: "OLMC has taught me that it's not what I have in my life, but who." Meet the New Leadership Team Members At the end of the 2015 school year, OLMC Joining the College's Leadership Team in For the last four years, farewelled some dedicated staff members 2016 are Marie Wood, as Deputy Principal, Gemma VandePeer who have been a treasured part of our and Gemma VandePeer, as Director of led the English community. Retiring long serving staff Teaching and Learning. Department at Loreto members Mrs Stockwell, Mrs Morrow, Mrs Normanhurst. Prior Lynch and Mr Endicott were each presented Before OLMC, Marie was to this, she worked with a Catherine McAuley Rose at the final teaching at Kincoppal Rose for three years at St College assembly for the year. Bay School of the Sacred Aloysius College in Heart where she was Kirribilli as the Assistant The community also farewelled Miss Booth the Director of Students, Head of English. Her and Deputy Principal Mrs Appleby, thanking responsible for the academic early teaching and leadership experience them for their constant dedication to Mercy care of students in Years was gained in London where she taught Girls, their wonderful contributions to our 7-12. Most recently, she was for ten years, including at St Aloysius community and wishing them the best in teaching Modern History, College in North London where she was their new roles. Ancient History, History Extension and Head of English. Studies of Religion. Gemma says you know a Mercy Girl Marie says that, even though she has only when you meet one because she is been at the College a short time, she has genuine and respectful of others: "I have already experienced the Mercy charism many friends who are old girls of OLMC and the strong sense of community that and the commonalities they share are pervades the College: "I know that I will authenticity, respect and gratitude for the enjoy working here." wonderful education they received." A New Era for the Mercy Tree

n the centre of the Brigid Shelley In 2016, the Sisters of Mercy, Playground stands the Mercy Tree, a together with the College, Isymbol of the growth of Mercy Values in selected Mercy Works as m er c y t r ee the College community. the ‘College charity of choice’ for the Mercy Tree. Each Year The 2015/2016 Mercy Tree campaign raised Group will raise funds for the funds for Jesuit Social Services. projects of Mercy Works.

The General Manager of Jesuit Social Sister Ailsa Mackinnon, Services in Western Sydney, Dave Executive Director of Mercy Hammond, says that building a just society is Works, says OLMC Parramatta at the very core of the Jesuit Social Services has been a faithful supporter of Mercy Goroka, Mt Hagen and Kiunga. An vision: “We look for ways to create new Works: "As we receive no government exciting development this year has been and innovative approaches to help build job funding, we are entirely dependent our ability to support PNG students in skills with the long term unemployed, assist on the generosity of supporters. Our their tertiary studies. OLMC values the those caught up in the justice system and work expands each year: the work education it provides for girls. Likewise, help refugees who have come from war-torn with refugees and asylum seekers is Mercy Works engages in this valuable countries to find a new home." continuing, as is our ongoing work in ministry. Thank you for your generosity.”

OLMsCene 7 One of the most respected architects and heritage consultants firms in Australia, Clive Lucas, Stapleton & ag e Partners PTY LTD, have been appointed by the College as the heritage architects for Roseneath Cottage. They have worked on many of the most important historic buildings in the country including Old Government House in Parramatta, the Rum Hospital (present Parliament House and the Mint), Kirribilli House, University of Sydney campus buildings and the World Heritage- co tt r o seneath listed Hyde Park Barracks. They have won numerous awards for their work specialising in conservation, adaptation Back to the Future and restoration, as well as conservation planning. The basis of the firm’s work n late January 2016, the keys to the What’s in a name? has always been thorough historical historic Roseneath Cottage were research and detailed analysis of the Ihanded over to Principal Stephen Walsh, Researcher Kathy Reith has surviving building fabric. Clive Lucas is as this local treasure became a part of the investigated the origins of the name known for his encyclopaedic knowledge College’s 127 year old campus in the heart of Roseneath. of Australian colonial architecture. Parramatta. Growing up visiting his grandparents “My road map of Great Britain and in Parramatta, he was familiar with Located on the corner of Ross Street and Ireland has no town named Roseneath Roseneath Cottage and is very pleased O’Connell Street, Roseneath Cottage is but does have Rosneath (no ‘e’), a to be working on this beautiful, intact considered to be one of the best surviving town in Scotland, and Rosneath Point colonial house. examples of a colonial cottage exterior in the on the western shore of Gare Loch. Parramatta/Cumberland area. The simple Janet Templeton was the widow of yet elegant sandstock brick cottage was Glasgow banker Andrew Templeton; built in 1837 for Janet Templeton who is perhaps they were associated with believed to have been responsible for the Rosneath. Mrs William Blair, who died introduction of the Merino Sheep to the at Roseneath Cottage in May 1842, colony of . The building has particular was ‘late of Greenock, Scotland’ historical significance therefore due to its which lies directly opposite Rosneath association with the early Australian wool Point. Was Mrs Blair related to, industry. Roseneath’s heritage significance or a friend of, Janet and were the was recognised early when it was proclaimed Templetons connected in some way to to be "a place of historic interest" under the Rosneath, Scotland?” (Reith, 2011). County of Cumberland Planning Scheme in 1960. It was also amongst the first 50 places in NSW to be listed under the Heritage Act Janet Templeton 1977 (from Heritage Branch files). Janet Templeton (c.1790-1857) migrated to Australia in 1831 The College plans to establish a Centre for as a free settler widow with eight children, limited capital and Mercy Excellence at Roseneath Cottage: a flock of 63 merino sheep purchased from Leipzig in central “A commitment to cultivating excellence is Germany. She initially rented a home in Concord and pastured at the core of all our decision making and the sheep on land she was granted near Goulburn, a property planning at OLMC. This new Centre will still known as Kelburn (Roxburgh, 1974; Pearson et al, 2010). foster excellence with a focus on innovation She is understood to have lived at Roseneath Cottage for a and adaptability, creating new and different few years around 1840 but, following her bankruptcy in the mid-1840s (Sydney learning spaces. The acquisition is also Morning Herald 13/2/1844 p. 2), she moved in with her son to a southern pastoral an opportunity to reflect on best practices property known as Seven Creeks. She was buried at St Kilda Cemetery in in creative and innovative 21st century in 1857 (The Argus 23/8/1934). learning and professional development and then seek to purpose-build the necessary In 1965, Janet Templeton's granddaughter, Nancy Adams, published an historical facilities. A detailed and thoughtful process novel based on her grandmother’s experiences entitled Saxon Sheep: a novel of investigation, research and consultation based on the activity of the Templeton and the Furlonge families in the early days will commence to consider restoration and of Australian settlement (Pearson & Lennon, 2010). According to this account, renovations plans. We are constantly striving Templeton’s sons attended the nearby Kings School, while her younger daughter to deliver the absolute best in contemporary had a governess, and they were invited as guests to functions at Government education for Mercy Girls," says Principal House in nearby Parramatta Park (Taperell, 1988). Stephen Walsh.

References Reith, Kathy, 2011. “Roseneath,” “4-6 Ross Street, a history,” “Land Title notes for Roseneath” and “4-6 Ross Street Documents”- Four unpublished research papers written by independent researcher Kathy Reith, who previously owned and renovated a nineteenth century house on Ross Street, built on part of the original Roseneath allotment (Lot 11, Section 10), kindly shared with CLSP in 2016. Reith is a former architect and experienced architectural historian and researcher who has published research on local heritage places with the Ku-Ring-Gai Historical Society for many years. Cameron, Michaela Ann, 2015. “Roseneath Cottage” Dictionary of Sydney Online, viewed March 2016. Pearson, Michael and Jane Lennon, 2010. Pastoral Australia: Fortunes, Failures and Hard Yakka - A Historical Overview 1788-1967, CSIRO Publishing. Roxburgh, Rachel, 1974. Early Colonial Houses of , Ure Smith, Sydney.

8 OLMsCene Expanding Mercy

OLMC community. The girls spent time at two orphanages where they learnt about the difficulties and challenges faced by local children.

Immersion Coordinator Kristen Sunner said the level of need in Cambodia is great: “Poverty is a daily reality. Australian dollars go a long way in Cambodia. The College has established partnerships with local organisations through direct assistance with building support and uring the April holidays, a group of 24 “When you are here, you provision of basic needs, such as food. The students from Visual Arts, French and can see what they saw. partnerships enable our students to engage DElective History classes from Years 9 in discussions with Project Coordinators to to 12 set off with three staff members on the It makes us reflect on what better understand the issues in Cambodia, OLMC trip to France to develop their language happened and gain even including future needs for specific projects. skills, immerse themselves in French culture more respect for those who Upon their return to OLMC, students and enjoy the country's highlights. died here." Rachael Ross, Year 10 actively engaged in educating our community about social justice and human It was a very busy trip which saw the group Day. The girls were also interviewed at the rights issues in Cambodia.” visit Nice, Provence, Antibes, Eze, Paris, Villiers battlefields by a Channel 7 News Crew. Bretonneux and Amiens. “This immersion experience In December 2015, a group of students allows Mercy Girls to witness, After their French language lessons, they set and staff travelled to Cambodia for first-hand, the plight of many about taking in the many sites including the an immersion. This 17-day immersion Picasso and Matisse museums, Flagonard included visits to the city of Phnom Penh, Cambodians, but also the Perfumery, Notre Dame Cathedral, the the port town of Sihanoukville, Siem outstanding results which Champs Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe, the Reap and the temples of Angkor. On this can be achieved by giving Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, Versailles Palace, community service focused trip, students generously to projects Montmartre, Sacre Coeur, Musee D'Orsay and participated in building projects and learnt that assist impoverished Monet's Garden. about the conditions that impoverished Cambodians to establish Cambodian villagers face and the efforts in At the end of the trip they visited the Somme place to alleviate this situation. The group initiatives that offer a way out and other battlefields which was a very moving also made multiple donations to a number of poverty.” experience for all as it was close to Anzac of organisations from funds raised by the Kristen Sunner, Immersion Coordinator

OLMsCene 9 Mercy

Ex-students in Community Development & Social Justice

o rs m e rcy communi t y warri over the years has been vital. We often use the words of St Francis to encourage all to be involved in justice: preach the Gospel, use words if necessary." “OLMC influenced my passion in so many ways “I think it is important to always remember in this work that it is about people. For - not only through the example, climate change is affecting our curriculum, such as my environment but it is also impacting on passion for Geography, people living in areas where drought and but also in the way the rising sea levels may force them to leave community was nurturing, their homes. We need to remember these ,welcoming, forward people.” thinking and committed to Rita Zammit graduated from OLMC in service." Sarah Rose 1963. After school she was awarded a Teaching Scholarship to study the Junior Secondary Geography-Commerce course at Sydney Teachers’ College.

During her 40 year career as a teacher, arah Rose currently works for the Sarah was motivated to move into social she contributed to various organisations in Order of Friars Minor (Franciscan justice work because she wanted to help a voluntary capacity. This included raising SFriars) as the Animator of Justice, people but also wanted to help others over three million dollars for the Matthew Peace and the Integrity of Creation understand how to help people: “I really Talbot Hostel, raising funds to rebuild (JPIC) for the Province of the Holy Spirit enjoy educating young people in the area a school that was demolished by an (Australia, New Zealand, Singapore and of justice and development. Sarah has earthquake in a small town in her region in Malaysia). Her role involves working with volunteered with The House of Welcome, Italy, serving on the Board of a number of a Committee to engage Franciscans in worked with students at soup kitchens Italian associations which give assistance their ministries to develop a vision and and taken school groups to work with to the aged, volunteering on music boards enact a response to major social and communities in Cambodia. and committees to help young singers, environmental challenges. She works being a Patron of the Burwood Blind to support and resource JPIC activities, In many ways, Sarah feels OLMC Citizens and the Royal Blind Society (now ministries and initiatives. In 2015, she prepared her for the work she was Vision Australia) as well as fundraising for represented the Order of Friars Minor to eventually undertake: “The service Rotary, Lions Clubs, Interact and a number at COP21 in Paris, the United Nations component of my education was of other organisations. Framework Convention on Climate influential, in particular, Year 10 Service Change, as part of a Franciscan Week. When we fundraised at school, Delegation. we also learnt about why we were fundraising. Amnesty International letter After completing her HSC in 1995, Sarah writing was another good initiative; we Rose went on to study a Bachelor of were encouraged to be advocates for Education and then a Certificate in those who could not speak up.” Religious Education. When she began teaching, she also commenced a Masters Sarah feels that educating young people of Arts in Theological Studies and held the in the area of social justice is one of role of Liturgy Coordinator. After five years her greatest achievements: “Doing this of teaching she became a Geography through the stories of St Francis of Assisi Head of Department and also studied has been wonderful. Supporting refugees a Masters of Educational Leadership. and asylum seekers through projects and She has worked on various BOSTES programs at the Franciscans and also our committees for 12 years. work in the area of environmental justice

10 OLMsCene m e rcy communi t y warri o rs Picture: Parramatta Sun “I have given voluntary service to causes that came my way especially but not exclusively after my husband became the State Member of Parliament for Strathfield (1984-1992) and then the Federal Member for Lowe (1993-1997). Being exposed to so many groups in the community provided me with many opportunities to be of service whenever I could.” Rita Zammit

Continuing funding for the causes she Sophie is very passionate about refugee particularly in Western Sydney. My team has worked with is important to Rita: “I and asylum seeker rights: “During university, at Evolve Housing has been the lead saw, first-hand, the debilitating impact of I volunteered with the Vinnies SPARK organiser for Western Sydney Homeless domestic violence on women and children program, tutoring primary school children Connect. WSHC is an annual event for when I was on the Advisory Committee at who have come to Australia as refugees. people experiencing homelessness, or Claffy House, a refuge run by St Vincent de I volunteered with the House of Welcome those at risk of homelessness, to connect Paul. Funds are important to provide the in Carramar, a drop-in centre and support with support providers from across Western capital infrastructure but also for training service for asylum seekers in Western Sydney. Meals, clothing, health checks and volunteers and staff." Sydney. In my roles, I met many people who resources are all provided free to guests had experienced severe trauma. Volunteering on the day. OLMC was very supportive According to Rita, OLMC definitely here fuelled my passion for refugee and of the event last year, collecting items for influenced her passion: “The ethos of asylum seeker rights and opened my eyes to hygiene packs which were given to women Mercy and compassion and helping the lack of support and resources available.” experiencing homelessness, including some those less fortunate in our society was who have escaped domestic or family ever present at OLMC. The sisters were For a number of years, Sophie worked violence.” strong, inspirational women who led by with St Vincent de Paul in the fundraising example and we, the students, wanted to and communications team promoting the Sophie says it can be a challenge to follow suit. The underlying message to us Society’s advocacy work across a range balance a passion for social justice with a was that, as fortunate young women, we of issues. These included housing and career but she has been fortunate to work had a responsibility and this permeated homelessness, refugee and asylum seeker in an area about which she is so passionate. our studies, meetings, volunteering and policy as well as the local work of Vinnies Another challenge is talking to people in activities. OLMC (and my family values and members who visit people experiencing the community who may be misinformed moral ethics) have provided me with the disadvantage in their homes to provide about social justice issues. "I’ve learnt tools to forge ahead and put something financial and material support. that education is the key to overcoming back into a society that has been good to prejudice.” me.” Her exposure to the issues surrounding homelessness and housing affordability It is important, Sophie feels, for funds and Sophie Bawden left OLMC in 2009 and in that role led her to her current role with resources to be directed toward supporting studied a Bachelor of Communication Evolve Housing, a community housing people experiencing homelessness and (Social Inquiry) at UTS. Always involved provider that offers social and affordable refugees because this is investing not with social justice initiatives throughout housing: “We advocate around the issue only in their future, but also in the future her high school years, she was Mercy of housing affordability and homelessness, of the community: “By giving someone Action Leader in Year 12 which she says the opportunity for education, training and motivated her to stay involved in social access to housing you are showing that justice once she left school. “I was lucky enough to be you believe in them. We often see stories of part of the first Cambodian people who are given an opportunity and Sophie joined MAGnet - Mercy Action Immersion in 2009 and this then give back to their community so much Network Group, which is now known was a life-changing experience. more than was given to them. Investment as the Young Mercy Network. This is a It not only sparked a passion in these areas helps to break the cycle of group of ex-students from Mercy schools for travel but put my goals disadvantage.” around Sydney who meet regularly to discuss social justice issues and organise and post schooling life into “In my experience, social justice is very fundraising events to support projects of perspective. Two years entrenched in the culture of OLMC and is the Sisters of Mercy around the world. after that trip, I returned to a part of daily life. Being an all-girls school, Through YMN she has been involved Cambodia with a small group OLMC teaches young women to be in International Women’s Day activities, of fellow Mercy Girls and spent leaders and that, if you see an issue, you fundraisers for birthing kits in Papua New time at the same orphanage do something about it. When you leave the Guinea, raising money to send young safe comforts of school, I think that mindset women to university in Peru and ongoing we visited, helping them stays with you and you truly believe that support of a breakfast program for children out around their school and there’s no reason women can’t go out and in Wilcannia in regional NSW. grounds.” Sophie Bawden get what they want."

OLMsCene 11 After leaving OLMC in 1999, Monica In terms of volunteering, in 2006, Monica Doumit studied a combined Medical was a Parish Coordinator for World Science and Law degree at UTS. In an Youth Day and then became Deanery attempt to connect the medical and Coordinator for about five years. Not long legal aspects of her studies, she took after World Youth Day, she travelled to an interest in bioethics and worked Peru as part of a mission team, working as a research assistant to one of the on construction projects and assisting university lecturers while studying. with a summer camp for underprivileged children. With continued involvement in Following graduation, she spent volunteer youth ministry, she was given two years at Sydney law firm Corrs the opportunity to lead a pilgrimage to Chambers Westgarth and then joined Rome and Madrid for World Youth Day Challenger Limited as in-house legal in 2011. Monica feels privileged to have counsel: “I spent almost 8 wonderful made great friends along the way: “I have years at Challenger, specialising even travelled to Uganda and Rome for in mergers and acquisitions and the Ordination of some of the guys I met finance law, a role which included during World Youth Day.” Recently, Monica a secondment to the company’s served on the Sydney Archdiocese’s UK office.” She also studied a Diploma Committee for the Year of Consecrated After Rachel Whitely left OLMC in 2010, in Financial Services and a Masters in Life (alongside Sister Ailsa Mackinnon). she commenced a Bachelor of Arts with Bioethics during that time. a Diploma of Education at Macquarie “I am passionate about speaking the truth. University but changed her degree and In 2013, she became involved with I think debate and even disagreement graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor of Catholic Talk, an initiative aimed at are healthy, but I am often dismayed by Environment. She is now considering a presenting a Catholic perspective on how much of our public conversation Masters in Planning for Natural Hazards. important community issues in mainstream is based on misunderstandings and and social media. After a year of working misrepresentations. As people interested in Rolling up her sleeves and putting Mercy with Catholic Talk on a voluntary basis, she the betterment of society, we need to be in into action, Rachel has volunteered with a came on board full-time. active pursuit of the truth and we need to number of organisations: “I’ve volunteered be involved in every aspect of public life. I with Oxfam at the Oxfam Shop and for The tagline for Catholic Talk is “Catholic am also passionate about the Church - my their Trailwalker event. I am also currently commentary on the important issues... life is rich and full because of getting to a volunteer firefighter with the NSW with charity and clarity” and Monica feels know Christ through His Church and the Rural Fire Service and volunteering at the this sums up their mission well: "Catholics Sacraments,” says Monica. Newtown Neighbourhood Centre. This have so much to offer society as a whole, Centre provides services for the homeless and so Catholic Talk tries to ensure the The biggest challenge people in advocacy and the Newtown Festival held each year Catholic voice has a firm place in the face, Monica feels, is the temptation to is a fundraiser for them.” public square.” be discouraged: “We can want to see immediate results of our efforts, particularly Rachel feels it was very meaningful "Where appropriate, I offer commentary when we are advocating for the less to volunteer at the Oxfam Shop given on issues on a variety of platforms and fortunate, and we can feel like giving up. her studies: “Studying a Bachelor of provide others with the encouragement Another challenge is that people can Environment with like-minded people and the tools to do the same. This can sometimes be apathetic about important gave me in depth understanding of how either be in written form or by giving issues. It is easier to respond to opposition important our planet is. In many ways the speeches – I get to speak at schools, than apathy. But I don’t mind the environment and social justice go hand in parishes, universities, pub theology events challenges, they only make us stronger.” hand.” and other places, which is really fun."

Without a doubt, Rachel feels OLMC influenced her passion: “From Year 7 to 12, every teacher influenced me in some way. I loved my Environmental Earth “There were so many great Science and Geography classes with Mrs teachers at OLMC who really McNulty and Mr Turl; they helped shape encouraged me to strive for the way I’ve directed my career and my excellence, and they always approach to volunteering. I remember Mr Turl asking me in Year 12 if I’d ever seemed to take the broadest considered being a teacher - that’s possible view when it came definitely where my interest in community to learning. We weren’t just engagement began!” learning something for the sake of an exam mark, but "In Year 10 I volunteered at St Vincent de Paul for a week. I understand now that my we were inspired to think contribution helped out an organisation about how what we were which runs on volunteers. OLMC also doing was important for our encourages awareness about major world own lives, and the lives of issues and Mercy Girls are definitely able others." Monica Doumit to empathise in the real world," says Rachel.

12 OLMsCene “I definitely feel that studying Gabby Scanlon was thoroughly involved in m e rcy communi t y warri o rs Drama at OLMC helps social justice during her time at OLMC. She was in the Amnesty International Group, me now on a daily basis! organised fundraisers and went out to Thinking creatively in order feed the poor with Vinnies on Night Patrol. to engage people, public “I loved my six years at OLMC and fully speaking and presenting, embraced every opportunity that came my improvising and networking way.”

and communicating big After graduating in 1995 she went on to ideas are all things I learnt in study a Bachelor of Education (Secondary BG04 (my Drama classroom Science and Religion) at ACU. She began back in the day).” working at Mount St Josephs, Milperra Kate Freeman graduated from the College Kate Freeman and was the Social Justice Coordinator. in 2010 and went on to study a Bachelor of She then travelled to Bangladesh for three Communication majoring in Social Inquiry weeks with Caritas Australia on a Think and minoring in Transnational Media at UTS. Kate feels that a big challenge of the non Globally Act Locally (TGAL) immersion. Kate says that, though she found her degree profit sector is being under-resourced: Upon her return, she embarked on tough at the time, she is grateful for having “This affects my role daily: I manage a Masters of Education (Community studied it: “It was very geared toward grass- the communications for a national Education and Human Relations) which roots, community based, ground-up change, organisation with a huge reach and included a mini thesis on the impact of while still focusing on innovation in the field of multiple stakeholder groups but also find globalisation on developing countries. communications.” Kate took a break whilst myself doing the smaller social media studying for a year and volunteered full-time tasks and photography as well just to In 2004 she travelled to East Timor to set with the Youth Mission Team Australia and save on resources and time.” up a program to teach English. “We lived lived in Melbourne. there for three months and this was another “I left OLMC feeling really empowered life-changing experience. Travelling to She is currently the Communications and because of the way our teachers didn’t India, Nepal, Bhutan and East Timor really Recruitment Coordinator for YMT Australia. patronise us. They really seemed to challenged me. I was out of my comfort YMT has teams around the country made up believe in us. That’s a core value I live zone and in foreign lands where life was of young people who have chosen to defer by in my work with teenagers now: the different. Being immersed in a new culture work and study for a year to go into high golden rule of leadership is to empower really allowed me to see the world through schools and conduct seminars, reflection those who you serve." different lenses.” days and retreats. The themes include social justice, leadership, relationships and knowing Kate describes the most inspiring But Gabby’s social justice activities are by God. "After completing a year of full time moment of her life so far as the two days no means limited to immersions. She has mission work with YMT in schools around she spent visiting a Juvenile Justice been part of several different social justice Victoria and , I saw the difference Centre in Townsville whilst on a two groups including the Sydney Archdiocesan this work made in the lives of young people. week mission trip: “I got to hang out with Social Justice Group and the Sisters of St While I studied full-time, I completed a young boys and girls who did not have Joseph Social Justice Group. She founded number of volunteer short-term mission a sense of their inherent dignity. Being a group that went out on night patrol to feed and aid trips with the Asia Pacific School of able to share with them that a loving God the homeless in Liverpool and also wrote Evangelisation to Fiji and Townsville. I also created them for a purpose only they online articles with social justice classroom speak at events when I am invited to - the could fulfil was a really powerful and yet activities for Caritas Australia. Gabby has most recent being the Australian Catholic completely humbling moment.” been assisting St Vincent de Paul since Youth Festival in Adelaide in December she was in Year 11, including through Night 2015.” Patrol and helping to organise Buddies Days.

“I have always known that there is an uneven distribution of wealth in our world and to this day, I will never forget a small Bangladeshi girl asking me: 'What makes me be born a girl in Bangladesh and you born a girl in Australia?' My life experiences and opportunities are all possible because of the geography of my birth place.”

To be effective in her work, Gabby cites organisation skills as being crucial as well as genuine passion: “You cannot feign interest or passion in social justice work, nor in teaching. Time management and being able to meet deadlines is crucial to ensure that I am effective. Good communication and an ability to listen are really important also, as there are so many people you come into contact with on a daily basis and all are deserving of your time and respect.”

OLMsCene 13 “OLMC taught me that if I this is because the College staff always worked hard at something believed in us and our potential to make and really wanted it, I could go a difference. My prescribed text in Year 12 English was The Justice Game by out and achieve it. The school Geoffrey Robertson. My English teacher, was happy to allow us to try Ms Vidot, taught this novel with such new things: in fact, we were passion, that it quickly became my encouraged to.” Gabby Scanlon favourite book and is part of the reason I decided to do law. My ultimate dream would be to work for the United Nations.” with social justice. My well rounded Gabby considers starting up social justice education at OLMC afforded me so many groups in schools as some of her greatest For Alex, leadership at OLMC taught her opportunities. I am so proud to be a achievements, as well as educating confidence and team work: “I was Liturgy Mercy Girl: it is why I am so passionate people through sharing stories of her time Leader which meant I was involved about everything that I do.” overseas and helping to get families out of o rs m e rcy communi t y warri crisis accommodation and into permanent housing. “OLMC always encouraged us to strive for excellence, After graduating in 2013, Alex O’Grady went on to study a Bachelor of Laws/ particularly in terms of our careers. I would not be the Bachelor of Arts in Communication person I am today, nor would I have studied Law and (Journalism) at UTS. Journalism at UTS if it wasn't for the continual enforcement that we can achieve anything we set our minds to. The Alex feels that social justice was always teachers always pushed me to reach my goals and work to a key part of College life: “I decided to my potential. This work ethic has been integral to helping pursue a career in law because of the values instilled in me at OLMC. I want me get where I am now.” Alex O'Grady a career where I can help people and

"It is a dynamic, social and enthusiastic group of young adults who share a common interest in being more informed on social justice issues and taking action."

adults who receive, hold and give Mercy in their lives are welcome to attend.

Past members of the group have been involved in a number of initiatives including an immersion to Peru, fundraisers for Mercy Works, annual national gatherings and local social justice initiatives. Young Mercy Network There are meetings every second month where the group plans fundraising Opportunities to Live Mercy Beyond the Gates and advocacy activities and organises participation in volunteering projects. Founded as a collaborative initiative of and creative ways, working in collaboration the Sisters of Mercy Parramatta and with and through local, national and Meeting Dates For 2016 North Sydney, Young Mercy Network is international communities. (Sunday Evenings 7.00pm till 8.15pm) a Sydney-based group of young women • Sunday August 7 (aged 18-35) who have attended Mercy The network draws mainly from the Mercy • Sunday October 16 schools or wish to be associated with the High Schools of Sydney (Mercy 5) - Catherine • Sunday December 4 Mercy tradition. McAuley College Westmead, Mercy College Chatswood, Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy If you are interested in coming along to Young Mercy Network aims to give life to College North Sydney, Our Lady of Mercy these meetings please contact Caitlin Catherine’s legacy, living out the mission College Parramatta and Our Lady of Mercy [email protected] or Gabby of Mercy in the 21st century in practical College Burraneer, however other young [email protected].

14 OLMsCene a l u m nae Alumnae

The OLMC Alumnae exists to facilitate the College Principal to support current established to function as a point of a link for the ex-student community to students and College projects. connection between the Alumnae and past friendships and acquaintances the OLMC Archives. Sister Barbara formed during school days, to present At the Annual Reunion Day particular McDonough was elected to this position expressions of Mercy Values and to effort is made to invite ex-students from and is ready to assist all Alumnae play a role in current College life. An the milestone year graduate classes interested in making contact with past Alumnae Committee is elected for a two to come together and celebrate their classmates or researching the history of year term and meets three times a year. shared memories and friendships formed relatives who attended OLMC. The Committee has three functions: to while attending the College. In 2016, the organise the gathering of ex-students at milestone years are 1956, 1976, 1986, Ex-students are encouraged to contact the Annual Reunion Day (traditionally held 1996 and 2006 – the leaving years that Alumnae Committee members by in September), to promote the Catherine end in ‘6.’ email via [email protected] McAuley Alumnae Award (including or speak to them at the Reunion Day receiving nominations and selecting the At the 2015 AGM, a new committee to share their ideas for the work of the successful recipient) and liaison with position, Archives Liaison, was Committee. Keeping Alumnae Records Up-to-Date

Linkages and contacts amongst past students and teachers of the OLMC community are essential for the Alumnae to function effectively. If you are in contact with past classmates, please encourage them to connect with the College community by sending in their contact details and attending Annual Reunion Day. By registering contact details with the College, alumnae can receive the bi-monthly Alumnae E-newsletter and the OLMsCene magazine which is sent twice a year.

To register or update your details, complete the OLMC Alumnae Application Form in the Alumnae section of the College website then scan and email it to [email protected]. Please use Attn Alumnae Data Base in the subject line. If you have no computer access, please phone the College Reception on 9683 3300 and ask for an Alumnae Application Form to be mailed to you then post the completed form to: OLMC Alumnae – Membership c/- LMB 14 PO, North Parramatta NSW 1750.

OLMC

A dedicated group of ex-students and friends gather eight mornings a year during school terms to work on identifying and cataloguing photos and other memorabilia covering the many decades of the College. The morning workshop generates much laughter as memories are recalled and anecdotes shared.

If you are interested in contributing your photographs or mementos of special events associated with your College years to the Archives, or you would like to organise a display in conjunction with your class reunion event, please email Sister Barbara at [email protected] using Archives in the subject line.

OLMsCene 15 2015 Catherine McAuley Alumnae Award a l u m nae

Social Worker Ann O’Brien was went on to study a Bachelor of Social announced as the 2015 Catherine McAuley Studies at the University of Sydney where Alumnae Award recipient at a special she majored in Social Work. Ann’s first assembly at the College on Tuesday March job was at the Royal Children’s Hospital 15, 2016. at Camperdown which gave her a solid grounding in paediatric health and the vital Currently the Director of Marriage Support importance of a loving and stable family for and Specialist Services at Catholic Care children. She then moved to Parramatta in the Diocese of Parramatta, Ann has Psychiatric Centre where she provided care devoted herself to the service of others and assistance to patients suffering from throughout her 30 year career as a social mental illness. Her next roles were with worker. Centacare as a generalist social worker and counsellor and with the Department Principal Stephen Walsh says Ann of Community Services in the areas of embodies the College’s Mercy qualities; Adoption and Permanent Care. In 2008, she “In particular, she has shown great obtained a Graduate Certificate in Catholic compassion and care throughout her life Identity and Leadership at the Australian and work. Ann has practised her Catholic Catholic University. faith as a disciple of Jesus, including through involvement in her local parish Ann recalls that during her time at OLMC, community. She has served those who are there was both a spoken and unspoken marginalised, vulnerable and in need of expectation that you would grasp every support and has followed in the footsteps opportunity given to you: “Education was of Catherine McAuley, by living out our to be cherished and, as women, we could Mercy Values.” aspire to anything that we were prepared to work towards. OLMC was a place to learn, Growing up in North Parramatta, Ann to be nurtured, to know that God loved us attended St Monica’s Primary School and to understand that whatever gifts we before coming to OLMC Parramatta. had been given, we had the power to use She was Head Girl at the College and these in many different ways, especially by completed her HSC in 1972. She then bringing love and care to others.”

“I’m a Mercy Girl and I continue to draw on what formed me through my Mercy Education. This includes the importance of compassion and caring, positivity and hope, charity, responsibility, acceptance, leadership, team work skills, discipline and clear boundaries. I will always remember that, as a woman, I have immense possibilities to influence through everything that comes from me – my words, my actions and my conduct.” Ann O’Brien

16 OLMsCene Catherine Alumnae a l u m nae McAuley Bernadette McCarthy (HSC 1998) Margaret Radford (nee Crossin) attended married Mark Stanley in March. OLMC as a country boarder from Dunedoo. Margaret joined the school when she was Alumnae Jillian Lawrence (née Dennis-Smither, 16 and, after leaving, she began a nursing HSC 1998) gave birth to her fourth son, vocation at St.Vincent’s Hospital in Sydney. Zachary. Award 2016 Margaret moved to London in 1961 and Do you know a wonderful In February Annette Vitetta (HSC lived there for the rest of her life. Her two woman whose good works fly 1999) got engaged. sons, David and Michael were born in under the radar? London and, whilst settled in London, she Rebecca Ford (HSC 1999) married always had a hankering to return to Sydney Nominations for the 2016 Catherine Matt Johnson in February. to live. While she never did, the birth of her McAuley Alumnae Award are now open. two Australian grandchildren gave her many Georgina Leggett (HSC 2011) got opportunities to visit Sydney and spend Catherine McAuley stated that “no act of engaged on New Years Eve 2015 to time with her friends and extended family. charity can be more productive or good to Marc Townsend. Margaret took great pleasure in her family society, or more conducive to the happiness and in particular her five grandchildren of the poor and needy, than the careful Ex-student Jen Ryall (HSC 2001) will and daughters-in-law instruction of women… since whatever be shortly be leaving her role as Australian whom she loved as her the station they are destined to fill, their Editor of Mashable, after being own daughters. example and advice will always possess appointed as Senior Editor, Real Time influence.” News, a role based in the New York Margaret passed away City Mashable office, reporting to the peacefully on December For 127 years, OLMC has been providing Chief Content Officer. 18, 2015 and was laid to a Mercy Education inspired by the spirit of rest in Surrey beside her Catherine McAuley. As beneficiaries of this Natalie Hayduk (HSC 2002) married loving husband John who education, we have all been empowered Steve Siemsen in September 2015. predeceased her. to be compassionate, to lead with courage and act justly, and most importantly, to make a difference in whatever sphere of life we have chosen.

For the 2016 Catherine McAuley Alumnae MERCY LINKS: Award, we are seeking nominations of an ex-student who deserves to be New Career Alumnae acknowledged for making a difference to those whose lives she touches - at home, in her local community or on the national or Networking Program international stage. This could be through her leadership, example, innovation or A new alumnae career networking program has been launched in 2016 to tap into creativity, her participation in activities the wealth of experience in the OLMC Alumnae. The new initiative, called Mercy motivated by Mercy Values, through Links, is the chance for young alumnae to connect with alumnae who are at later voluntary work or in her chosen profession. stages of their career, in the industry of their choice.

We urge all readers to spend time Starting out can be hard in those first few years post school. The OLMC Alumnae considering wonderful ex-students who wants to give graduates a chance to connect with other Mercy Women who have serve as examples of the spirit of Catherine 'been there, done that' and get tips and connections for the industry they want McAuley. Should you require any assistance to join. or have any questions regarding making a nomination, please contact the Alumnae The program is very simple and informal and only involves exchanging email Committee or Archives Liaison by email or addresses and phone numbers. It is completely up to the mentor and mentee phone College Reception. how they want to proceed from there. There is no ongoing commitment required (though this is welcome if it suits both mentor and mentee): you may decide to Nominations are accepted only via meet or exchange emails only once or twice - it’s all worthwhile networking! written submission and should be sent to [email protected] or LMB 14 If you are looking for a simple, non time-consuming way to give back to your PO, North Parramatta NSW 1750. community by helping out a recent graduate with some tips and connections in your industry and the idea of an occasional coffee date or email exchange takes The closing date for nominations is your fancy – please do get in touch. Similarly, if you left OLMC in the last three September 30, 2016. The 2016 recipient will years and are looking for a way to benefit from the wealth of knowledge and be determined by the Alumnae Committee experience of our alumnae members, this is the perfect program for you. and the College Leadership Team and will be notified following the decision. Please email your name, contact details, work role or study/desired industry The Award will be presented at a College to [email protected] and we will match you with a relevant assembly early in 2017. mentor/mentee.

OLMsCene 17 a l u m nae

OLMC Alumnae Reunion: Sunday September 18, 2016 Registration Reunion Day Program Reunion Day Mass

• Registration is required by Friday • 10.00am: Entry to College grounds by You are invited to assist with the September 9. Registration is Ross Street gate. Reunion Liturgy: essential for seating and catering Welcome Table - confirm registration • By providing the names of deceased purposes. and payment. Alumnae, especially since the last • Luncheon Fee: $20 payable College Tours - Prior to Mass, members reunion, to be read out during the beforehand by direct deposit to: of the Student Leadership Team will Mass. Please notify the Committee Westpac 032-078 Account 35-9781 be available to answer questions and beforehand via email at (Please make sure your surname escort groups to the newer sections of [email protected]. appears in the description field); the College grounds. • 2016 Milestone Year Groups (1956, OR • 11.00 am: Mass in the Chapel 1976, 1986, 1996 and 2006) are p ayment can be made in cash on commences with acknowledgement invited to: the day but registration beforehand of the Milestone Years. OLMC strings - bring items that are symbolic of is still essential. and cantors will provide musical your Year Group and which can be • oT Register please email accompaniment for the Mass. acknowledged during the Entrance [email protected] • 12.15 – 1.00pm: Alumnae AGM (non- Procession, or using Reunion Day in subject line or election year) in Edith Angel Hall. - prepare written intentions of the phone College Reception • 1.00 – 3.00 pm: Light Luncheon and Year Group to include in the Prayers (9683 3300). reunion catch-up in Edith Angel Hall. of the Faithful. • In your RSVP, please remember Alumnae I am a Mercy Girl mugs will be to include any special dietary on sale for $5 each. All registered ex-students are invited to requirements or disabled parking nominate to participate in the Mass as needs and/or any other requests. Readers or in the Offertory Procession. Ex-students wishing to participate or supply information are invited to email [email protected] or phone College Reception (9683 3300) by September 9, 2016. Milestone Year Reunions The milestone year is taken to be when the group completed the Leaving Certificate or HSC. Those who left in earlier classes are all included in each of the year invitations. Class of 1956 The 1956 group has been invited by the Alumane Association to come and be feted as special guests and celebrate their 60th anniversary at the Annual Reunion Day on September 18. We have several coming already but we would love to see the numbers grow. For more details, contact Sister Barbara McDonough (details below).

If you wish to organise a special reunion for the classes of 1976, 1986, 1996 and 2006, please contact Sister Barbara McDonough at [email protected] or phone 9831 4675.

18 OLMsCene OLMsCene 19 20 OLMsCene