EMPOWERING CHANGE | On October 31, a group of Year 11 students attended an inspiring Environmental Symposium at Waverley College, led by Stewardship Captain Rawaan Matar and Environment Club Captain Gabi Tortorici. Here’s what they had to say: "We joined other students in a sustainability conference where we were inspired by powerful presentations from local MPs and environmental experts. A highlight was hearing Costa, the award-winning TV host, who spoke passionately on sustainable agriculture and stewardship. We took independent action by writing to MPs and corporate companies to advocate for impactful environmental changes. We also explored critical issues like climate change, sea level rise, and emissions reduction. Key topics included practical initiatives like ‘Take 3 for the Sea’ and large-scale goals like achieving 100% renewable energy, investing in solar power, and promoting electric vehicles. Together, we envisioned a future where schools and communities adopt these sustainable practices, keeping our streets and oceans clean." Thank you, Rawaan and Gabi, for your leadership and passion for a greener future! #Sustainability #FutureStewards #EnvironmentalAction #StMarys #WaverleyCollege #Take3ForTheSea #Year11

YEAR 7 ORIENTATION DAY | Today, our newest students experienced a warm welcome from our Staff and House Captains, who guided them through a day filled with activities, information sessions, and team-building. The energy and enthusiasm at the College was incredible, as our incoming Year 7s took their first steps into life at St Mary’s! From meeting their future classmates to familiarising themselves with the College grounds, today was all about connection, discovery, and belonging. Here’s to an amazing journey ahead – we can’t wait to see all that the Class of 2030 will achieve! #Year7Orientation #Classof2030 #NewBeginnings #StMaryStarOfTheSea #Welcome

NRMA CHALLENGE | Congratulations to our talented Year 9 students, Madeline Plunkett and Claudia Weeks, for their outstanding win at the NRMA Future of Transport Challenge (Stage 5 category)! Yesterday, they travelled to the NRMA office at Sydney Olympic Park, where Madeline and Claudia presented their innovative idea to a panel of judges. They tackled the alarming statistic that around 10 million wildlife lives are lost annually on Australian roads. Their prototype features a specially designed road paint and a water-based spray aimed at deterring animals from crossing busy roads. Notably, they highlighted that 52% of roads in Australia are either unsealed or unpainted, projecting an 85% reduction in wildlife-related accidents if implemented nationwide. The girls delivered their pitch with remarkable confidence, impressing the judges with well-prepared responses to all questions. We couldn’t be prouder of these young innovators and their dedication to a safer, more sustainable future. #NRMAChallenge #FutureOfTransport #SustainableInnovation #StMarysStaroftheSea