It has been some time since we last compiled the Marist Star. There has been a strong focus on communicating necessary information relating to COVID-19. Navigating the shifting tides of this issue has been interesting to say the least. At the same time, I am encouraged to hear stories where positive and growth mindsets have been presented. Potentially, in consequence of the challenges of COVID-19, opportunities will exist for staff and students to grow in some areas. Onsite at the College, we are missing our students. Schools are certainly better places with people in them!  

Last Sunday saw the commencement of Holy Week, the high point of our Christian calendar. I watched the streamed Palm Sunday Mass from St Mary’s Cathedral as presided by Archbishop Julian. His Grace’s Homily centered on the suffering, not only in the Passion of Christ as per last weekend’s reading, but also the obvious issues we are facing globally.  https://youtu.be/tFfcSO5ay8M  

The COVID-19 data from around the planet is staggering, and that from New South Wales in particular.  Combine this with what we are hearing in relation to our local hospital, it makes things very real for us here in Burnie. There is suffering in many directions this Holy Week. In this time of suffering, we are invited to gain strength from the hope that our relationship with Jesus provides.  

Our prayers are particularly with members of the Health fraternity here in our local community. The North West Regional Hospital would have to be one of the largest employers of parents of our College community. To these members of our community, we are thinking of you all, your families, colleagues and all with whom you serve.  

Suffering is not only limited to those in the Health field managing the COVID-19 situation, but those who have been implicated by needing to close businesses, both in the short term and permanently.  

Earlier in the Term, we were unfortunately forced to postpone the Marist Day of Sorrow that was to be held on Saturday, 21 March to acknowledge the historic sexual abuse that took place at this college. The College’s Seek the Truth Committee has invested significant time and energy into this important moment in our history. This work and commitment will be brought to fruition at a yet to be determined date.   

Last week, I received an email from a member of the community, sharing their consequent suffering relating to abuse in their days as a student, now living with a sense of “darkness” every day. My words may never be able to capture and truly appreciate the suffering of others. I will do my very best to authentically respond to events of the past, committing to a preferred future as your Acting Principal.  

In the final days of Lent, we are all called to especially direct and deepen our reflection, thoughts and prayers to Christ’s suffering and the love he has for us. Jesus made the ultimate sacrifice for us, motivated by love. How might we be more loving in a world full of suffering this week?  

Final Word 

Thank you, as parents and guardians, for your partnership this Term. It has been a very unusual time for us with many unexpected changes. Never underestimate the kind emails and affirmations we receive. These are appreciated, forwarded to relevant staff and inspire us to bring life and spirit to our community.  

I would like to thank our dedicated and professional staff for their work. We are “ahead of the game” with our curriculum development and the maturity of our online learning platform, M.E.L. which has held us in good stead. The development of management plans and guidelines have been produced collaboratively with staff. Well done to our Leadership Team for their work. Our support staff and administration team have been motivated to serve, regardless of the situation and setting. I evidence this every day.  

Also, to our staff, thanks for your warm welcome to me as Acting Principal. I take my work very seriously, but the sense of fun, enjoyment and positive relationships you have brought me is much appreciated. We are approaching all challenges together as opportunities to grow and flourish.  

To our students, firstly, thank you for engaging me so positively. I am disappointed I cannot engage with you more in “normal activity” throughout March and April. The first few weeks for me were settling in, which were then followed by a one in a 100-year worldwide event!  

Secondly, I would like to thank you for the commitment you are showing to Learning@Home, your use of M.E.L. and Microsoft Teams. As a College, our online learning certainly has been activated through what is a situation (mostly) out of our control. Thank you and well done.  

Wishing everyone God’s blessing this school holiday period. May the hope and joy of the Easter resurrection be with you and your families.  

In partnership  

Mr Gregg Sharman  

Acting Principal  

MRC BOARD MEMBERSHIP: CONGRATULATIONS 

Congratulations to the following new members  

Simon Angilley 

With the Senior College Wing redevelopment happening in Term Four, Simon will bring a high level of skill and experience to this agenda in his capacity as an Engineer. Simon is a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic School, Ulverstone, Advisory Board.  

Jonathan Cahill  

Jonathan is community minded, having contributed to Burnie as a small business owner/operator for many years. Jonathan’s ability to positively engage others is a strength, previously evidenced as a member of the Stella Maris Catholic School Advisory Board. Jonathan has made his mark with involvement in a long list of community groups in Burnie over a lengthy period.  

Tia Poole 

Tia and her husband Isaac have recently moved back to Burnie after spending time in Hong Kong raising their children. Both Tia and Isaac are former students, with Tia holding a number of tertiary qualifications in Information Technology, Business and Law.  

We appreciate the work of all Board members in their role of working constructively with College leadership to both effectively govern and create a preferred future for our community. This year, we look forward to regularly sharing the work of the Board through the Marist Star.