Commitment to Children in Need

It is always a real delight to be a part of the CGS team attending at Backpacks 4 Vic Kids each term holidays. Once again, we had a fantastic response from staff and students who enthusiastically did a wide range of jobs. Some were even selected to ‘pick’ an entire backpack of items for a child, which is a humbling task, filled with care and love. It is always wonderful to have new students attending, as well as many students and staff who have been before.

If we have any individuals within our parent community who are looking to volunteer at a very worthwhile, local organisation, any assistance is welcomed! Alternatively, you may wish to look at their ‘high needs’ list on Facebook (updated regularly) and purchase some itemswhich may be dropped off at my office (just next to the Chapel) — please clearly label them and I will ensure they are delivered next time we volunteer.

This week’s list is:

Some of our Year 9 students are participating in the Duke of Edinburgh program and are going to commence some sewing for the stationery bags and Santa sacks this term as well.

A huge thanks to all the staff and students who attended in their own time over the holidays. We look forward to continuing to support this excellent organisation, which fits so well with our school values of compassion, respect and inclusion.

Time on Country

Last week ten students and six staff across Junior and Senior School visited Willum Warrain Aboriginal Gathering Place. We were so grateful for the time spent with Uncle Peter and his generosity in sharing with us. Here is a reflection from Allysha in Year 11.

This opportunity was such a valuable and engaging way to learn about First Nations People’s culture, customs and community involvement. I thought the connection First Nations People create via gathering places like the one we visited today was truly inspirational, and I learnt so much about their open-hearted customs that invite everyone into their community. Not only am I now able to utilise this knowledge throughout my VCE First Nations coursework but I also came away with kind and caring values that I could implement in my own life. (Allysha, Year 11)

Every blessing to you all in the week ahead.

Monique Riviere-Pendle

Chaplain