Dear Marist Regional College Community, 

As the festive season approaches, we reflect on the incredible year we’ve had at Marist Regional College. It has been a year filled with growth, learning, challenge, and memorable experiences for our students. 

Year 9 Camps: Exploring Tasmania’s Beauty 

This week, our Year 9 students embarked on adventurous camps to Coles Bay, Scamander, Greens Beach, Derby, and Hobart. These experiences not only provided students with an opportunity to connect with nature and with one another, and also fostered teamwork, resilience, and a love for the great outdoors. On Wednesday, I spent the day at Coles Bay on and in the water with the students. The students were outstanding and a credit to the families, teachers and the College.  

On Thursday, I had a real spring in my step after such a great experience. Looking forward to next year’s camps already. Thank you to Mr Filz for his coordination and the many staff who attended to make this experience a reality. A special mention to our WHS Manager, Ms Jan Scott, whose skills and critical friendship ensures these experiences are coordinated responsibly with diligence.  

Student Leadership Development: SRC and House Captains Camp 

This week the Student Representative Council (SRC) and House Captains attended a leadership camp at Camp Clayton. This immersive experience allowed them to enhance their leadership skills, build strong bonds, and develop strategies to make a positive impact within our college community. Sessions were facilitated by JCP Youth – Empowering Tomorrows Leaders and from all reports, was an amazing experience.  

Year 7 and 8 Activities Week: Building Connections 

Our Year 7 and 8 students participated in a week full of engaging activities aimed at building friendships, discovering new talents, providing service and creating lasting memories. These experiences contribute to a vibrant and supportive school environment. Our Year 8s held their camp on Tuesday and Wednesday at Camp Clayton, and yesterday, students worked on a variety of community projects in different settings, including some students returning to their Catholic primary schools to make a contribution.  

 

Year Ten Celebration Dinner: A Night to Remember 

Last week, the College celebrated the achievements of our Year 10 students at a spectacular Celebration Dinner at the College. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend due to illness, however, I have had many reports that the night was full of joy, reflection, and recognition of their hard work, resilience and dedication. Congratulations to all our Year 10 students on reaching this significant milestone!  

There are some students that have received apprenticeships, and we wish them well.  It is worth noting we have never had more students transitioning into Senior College, and in fact, we have 11 new students joining us next year in these senior years!  

Gratitude to the College Advisory Board 

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the College Advisory Board for their unwavering support and guidance throughout the year. Your dedication to the betterment of Marist Regional College is truly appreciated. Please see below if you might like to join us as a dynamic and cohesive Advisory Board.  

Appreciation for Staff and Students 

A special thank you to our dedicated staff, whose passion for education and our unique spirit has inspired and guided our students. This college is not an ordinary place; it has a special atmosphere that is inspired by our founder’s intent.  

We also express our gratitude to our students, who continually demonstrate enthusiasm, curiosity, and respect, making Marist Regional College a vibrant and welcoming community. 

As we approach the holiday season, let’s cherish the moments of togetherness, reflect on our accomplishments, and look forward to a new year filled with promise and opportunities. 

I want to express my deepest appreciation to the entire Marist Regional College community for making 2023 a positive year. Our shared commitment to excellence and the spirit of collaboration have truly set our college apart.  

Wishing you all a joyful Christmas and a rejuvenating holiday season. May the coming year bring continued success and fulfillment to each and every one of you. If I may conclude with a short prayer….  

Gracious and Loving Creator, 

As we stand on the threshold of the year’s end, we lift our hearts in gratitude for the journey we’ve shared at Marist Regional College. In this Advent season, we reflect on the anticipation and hope that the birth of Christ brings to our lives. 

We thank you for the blessings of learning, growth, and community that have filled our days. May the spirit of the Marist and Mercy Charism continue to guide us in compassion, understanding, and service to others. 

As we look ahead to a new year, we ask for your guidance and wisdom. May the lessons learned in the past year inspire us to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. 

Bless our Marist Regional College community – students, staff, families, and friends. May the bonds of friendship and the values of faith, humility, and solidarity strengthen us in the coming year. 

In this season of Advent, we await the light of Christ to illuminate our hearts and minds. May His presence be a source of joy, peace, and hope in our lives and within the walls of Marist Regional College. 

Amen. 

Warm regards, 

Gregg Sharman
Principal
 

 College Advisory Board 2024 

Again, we wish to thank the Board of MRC for the positive contribution they have made this year in an advisory capacity on the strategic direction of the school. The Board has explicitly explored the following:  

  • College Mission, Vision and Values 
  • Strategic Direction and Planning 
  • Pastoral Care and Wellbeing 
  • Student Support/Students with Disability  
  • Learning and Teaching  
  • Finance Benchmarks  
  • Capital Works, Facilities, and Student Enrolment Projection 
  • Workplace Health and Safety 

MRC Board 

Mrs Maree Collins – Chair 

Mr Jonathan Cahill – Vice Chair 

Fr John Girdauskas – Parish Priest 

Mr Peter Johnstone – Board Member 

 Mrs Jackie Wickham – Board Member 

Mrs Clare de Haan – Board Member 

Mr Andrew Leary – Treasurer (Ex-Officio) 

Mrs Jennine Williams – Secretary (Ex-Officio) 

Furthermore, we are seeking expressions of interest for Board Membership commencing in 2024. If you are interested in becoming a member of the College Board, please express your interest to: 

Principal’s Office 

Tel: (03) 6432 7612  

Email:  principal@mrc.tas.edu.au