Welcome to Week 10!
Sharyn Quirk
Principal
Dear Stella Maris Community
As the term nears its end, the College has been a hive of activity, with students making the most of every opportunity. From focused learning in the classroom to dedication on the sporting field, ongoing rehearsals in dance and music, and meaningful contributions to social justice initiatives, it has been a dynamic and enriching time for all.
As we enter the final two weeks of Lent, we are invited to pause and reflect more deeply on this sacred season of renewal. It is a time for prayer, gratitude, and quiet contemplation—a chance to realign our hearts with faith, compassion, and the hope of Easter. In these remaining days, may we embrace the spirit of Lent with openness, finding moments of grace in our daily lives and drawing closer to what truly matters.
Last week, our Year 10 students stepped away from their usual routines to take part in their Retreat—a time for reflection, connection, and personal growth. This experience allowed them to pause, consider what truly matters, and strengthen their sense of self and community. A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated Year 10 Pastoral Care team, Head of Year 10 Karen Dennison, and Retreat Leader Ms. Carolyn Collins, for their guidance and support in making this retreat such a meaningful and enriching experience for our students. Their commitment to the students wellbeing and personal development is deeply appreciated.
A huge congratulations to all the talented Stella Maris College students whose artistic works were selected for exhibition in the Mosman Youth Art Awards at the Mosman Art Gallery! This is an outstanding achievement and a testament to the incredible creativity and skill displayed by our students. The opening night on Friday, 28 March, was an impressive occasion, showcasing the remarkable talent of young artists, and being selected for this exhibition is truly special. We are especially proud to announce that Erica K from Year 8 was awarded the prestigious Susan Rothwell Prize for her exceptional work.
The Mosman Youth Art Awards is an annual competition organised by Mosman Council, designed to encourage the creative talents of young, aspiring, and emerging artists while providing a platform to showcase their work. Launched in 1988 by internationally renowned artist and local resident Ken Done AM, the award has grown to become one of the richest youth art prizes in Australia. Open to young people aged 12-21 years, this competition continues to celebrate and elevate the next generation of artistic talent. We couldn’t be prouder of Erica and all the student artists for their impressive achievements!
Erica K receiving the Susan Rothwell Prize
Erin R
Lola W
Ella M
Millie H
A big thank you to our incredible tennis players who participated in the Tildesley Cup last week. Watching the girls compete with skill and sportsmanship, while also enjoying the camaraderie of the event, was truly impressive. Their dedication and teamwork were inspiring to witness. We also extend our gratitude to the fantastic staff—Ms. Mia Callanan, Ms. Jenny Wickham, Ms. Izzy Rudolph, and Ms. Holly Wickham—whose support and encouragement were key to the success of the event. Your commitment to the students’ growth both on and off the court is deeply appreciated.
Earlier this week I communicated with you essential information pertaining to the increasing political advocacy for the reduction or withdrawal of government funding for Non-Government Schools. Decisions made in the coming months will shape the future of education funding, parental choice, and opportunities for the 716,000 students in Independent schools.
Independent Schools Australia (ISA) has introduced School Choice Counts to ensure parents have access to important information about school choice and education policies. With an upcoming election, decisions made by policymakers could impact Independent schools and the choices available to families.
Your support is invaluable in making a difference, not just for our school, but for Independent schools across Australia. Should you have any questions or wish to explore the resources further, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or the school office.
I wanted to highlight a Netflix series that has been generating significant discussion across different age groups and professions. Adolescence, a crime drama about a teenage boy accused of murdering a female classmate, has been described as "a portrait of modern boyhood in profound crisis."
While the show presents an intense exploration of themes such as toxic masculinity, loneliness, and the gender divide, it has also sparked meaningful conversations among psychologists, educators, and parenting experts. Figures such as Parenting Psychologist Dr. Justin Coulson and ABC journalist Amy Sheehan have shared insights on the series, emphasising the importance of engaging with young people about the challenges they face today.
In Australia, Adolescence carries an ‘M’ classification, with advisories for coarse language, violence, and mature themes, making it unsuitable for viewers under 15. Even if a teenager has not watched the series, they may still be aware of it through discussions with peers or online content.
Given the conversations emerging around the show, I believe it worth considering its themes and the discussions it has prompted within families, schools, and the wider community.
As the term draws to a close, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire Stella community for your warm welcome and unwavering support of our wonderful College. It is your dedication and involvement that make this community so special, enriching our shared journey in countless ways. Thank you for being a part of what makes Stella Maris such a vibrant and inspiring place.
Warm regards,
Sharyn Quirk
Principal
Don't miss this edition's important notices...
Mums, grandmothers and special female figures in the lives of our students - please mark Friday 9 May for our annual Mother's Day Breakfast. This beautiful morning will be held under the fig trees from 7.30am - 8.30am. Look out for further details via the App.
In Term 2, Stella will host its first Careers Discovery Morning for Years 10, 11 and 12 students.
The session aims to connect professionals in their field with students who are making key decisions about their studies and career paths, generally taking place from 7:30am-8:30am.
We would love to harness the collective expertise of our Stella community to deliver impactful sessions for our students.
We invite parents and carers to support this initiative by registering your interest to participate as a career guide in your profession. Your generous participation in small group discussions will help students learn about study pathways and related disciplines, and provide valuable insights into the day-to-day tasks, responsibilities, and required skills of your role. Additionally, the session will give students the opportunity to explore careers they may not have previously considered.
To register an expression of interest, please complete the form below.
We look forward to hearing from you via the EOI and will be in touch following receipt.
Point Break Theatre Company is super excited to announce their production of the brilliant American play, "12 Angry Jurors" (men and women) at the Star of the Sea Theatre, Manly, from 27 March to 6 April.
News from our Visual Arts and Food Technology and Textiles departments...
The TexStyle 2025 exhibition is a selection of exemplary Textile and Design projects from the 2024 Higher School Certificate from around the state. It is currently showing at Gallery 76 (76 Queen Street, Concord West) from 2 March - 24 April 2025. It was an honour to have two students selected to exhibit in this prestigious exhibition.
Madeline Elliott: Focus area - Apparel
Design inspiration drawn from Western style clothing, rodeo chaps, livestock branding and the crucifix.
The range consists of denim jeans, fully lined corduroy vest and chaps. Decorative features consist of crucifix cut-outs, machined embroidered and appliqued crucifixes, sliver “horse-bit” details, metal chains and cross rivet studs.
Stella Lynch: Focus area - Apparel
Design inspiration drawn from Gucci suits, 16th Century Renaissance fashion, women’s power dressing and Sofia Coppola’s film, Marie Antionette.
The range consists of a fully-lined tailored, double-breasted jacket and pants made from brocade, featuring organza ruffle trims, hand embroidered and beaded detachable cuffs and a matching bow tie.
Luci Kelly
Head of Department
We are still full of buzz after our Year 11 Visual Arts camp to Bundanon this year. It was a great success once again.
Nestled in the countryside overlooking the Shoalhaven River, Bundanon represents a remarkable act of philanthropy by Arthur and Yvonne Boyd, who gifted the property in 1993 to the people of Australia. The vision to create a cultural institution for artistic enjoyment has grown through the years and thrives today for school groups and the public.
Our students stayed in the Glenn Murcutt designed Boyd Education Centre The group delved into a variety of art practices led by the Bundanon Educators, and Stella’s teachers.
This experience is fundamental in offering our Visual Arts students an opportunity to really explore their art practice and is often a foundation for inspiration leading to their major works for the HSC. The students produced a large body of work including painting ‘en plein air’, charcoal drawings, tiny tins, night drawing and eco dying. We didn’t stop making art!
Apart from the educational benefits the camp offers our students, they also experience a wonderful bonding time together, forming new connections with each other and their teachers in a truly inspiring environment.
Our Stella girls were, as usual, hardworking, polite, enthusiastic and a delight to be with. The new addition of Kerstin Thompson and Associates designed ‘Bridge’ was stunning to visit, as well as the new subterranean Art Museum embedded in the landscape.
If you get a chance to visit Bundanon you will not regret the experience. It’s certainly breathtaking. It is open to the public from Wednesdays to Sundays. https://www.bundanon.com.au/ab...
We were thrilled to have 14 of our talented Visual Arts students enter their art works into the Mosman Youth Art Prize this year.
Organised by Mosman Council, the Youth Art Prize aims to encourage the creative talents of young, aspiring and emerging artists whilst providing a showcase for their works. It was initiated in 1988 by the internationally renowned artist and local resident Ken Done AM. The Prize is open to all young people aged 12-21 years and is one of the richest Youth Art Prizes in Australia.
Our talented crew consisted of:
The opening night on Friday was buzzing and bustling. It was wonderful to meet the artists and their families and celebrate their talent .
We were thrilled to have Erica K from Year 8 receive the Susan Rothwell prize on stage.
Well done all those involved.
The exhibition runs until May 4 and it is well worth a visit.
Marisa Quick
Head of Department
Erica K - Hybrid Shark Bee
Andrea N - Lizard
Cedar W
Charlie S
Denise M - The Goat
Ella M - Kicking Back
Erin R - Tea time
Frankie U - Polpa
Grace B - Self Portrait
Grayson C - Frankenstein lino print
Lola W - Cheezels painting
Lola W
Millie H - Jewels Beneath the Sea
Sanna M
Sara T
Sophia T - Ducklings
Sophie R
Welcome to Sport at Stella!
Jenny Wickham
Sports Coordinator and Teacher of PDHPE
The Stella Cross Country Carnival was held on Tuesday 1 April. After days of rain, the weather cleared just in time to create perfect conditions for running. More than 120 students from Years 7 – 12 took part in the races and had a fantastic time!
There were some amazing performances, personal bests and lots of fun out on the course. Stella is lucky to be able to hold our event in such a scenic location and the students were able to see the huge waves as they ran along the beachfront.
The Stella spirit was very obvious, with all of the students supporting each other and cheering their friends along over the course.
Well done to all of the students who participated and a special congratulations to our race medal winners. A team will be selected to represent Stella at the IGSA and CGSSSA carnivals in Term 2.
Individual Results
12 yrs |
13 yrs |
14 yrs |
15 yrs |
16 yrs |
17 yrs |
18 yrs |
|
1st 🥇 |
Sarah C |
Bella R |
Amelia M |
Madi R |
Pip Q |
Morgan A |
= Mia S = Eadie P |
2nd 🥈 |
Vegas B |
Emily C |
Andrea N |
April U |
Lulu S |
||
3rd 🥉 |
Isabel S |
Piper B |
Cate W |
Zaylee Z |
Champion House:
1. Wood
2. Smith
3. Shinnick
4. Chisholm
5. Egan and MacKillop (equal place)
7. Bashir
8. Noonuccall
It is grand final time for Term 1 IGSA sports! The Stella touch and tennis teams have had a fantastic season in IGSA. Congratulations to the three Stella teams who will play in the grand finals this Saturday:
Tennis
Touch
The CGSSSA touch selection trials were held at Santa Sabina College on Tuesday 25 March. Stella had 10 students selected to trial. The standard was high, but the Stella girls were outstanding. The final selections will be announced in the coming week, with selected players progressing the the NSWCCC Championships in May. Well done to all of the Stella girls who played:
Ellie F, April U, Zsa Zsa B, Ana T, Kayla A, Mia L, Lara M, Giselle B, Summer B and Charlotte B.
Congratulations to the Stella students who are representing CGSSSA at the NSWCCC Swimming Championships at Sydney Olympic Park on Wednesday 2 and Thursday 3 April:
Special mention to Zara who is swimming in TEN events, and Jess who has six events! Well done!!
On Tuesday 1 April, the combined CGSSSA/Broken Bay U16 rugby league trial was held at St Edward's, East Gosford. Three students represented Stella at this trial: Mia L, Lara M and Poppy F. Team selections will be announced in coming days.
Term 2 sport registrations are now open!
Information regarding Term 2 extra curricular sports has been sent to all parents and students.
Students may express interest in the sports that they would like to participate in by completing the form they have been sent. Students (and their parents) who have registered interest in sports, will be emailed sport specific information and permission notes next week. We encourage all students to sign up for their sports by Monday 7 April.
The extra curricular sports on offer in Term 2 include:
Welcome to Performing Arts at Stella
Evan Browett
Head of Performing Arts
Performing Arts at Stella Maris is excited to announce that in 2025 we will be putting on our first ever Cabaret show. The theme of the show will be:
Students were sent applications for expressions of interest in Week 8 and we are currently working through over 130 auditions across Dance, Drama and Music. There are also a number of opportunities for students in roles behind the scenes. A huge thanks to the Year 11 students who have helped in the development of this exciting new show which is scheduled for August. Watch this space for further announcements!
What's happening in Term 2?
Clare Cahill
P&F President
It is hard to believe that we are already at the end of Term 1! Year 7 parents and carers – congratulations on surviving Term 1! I am sure many of you are looking forward to the well-deserved break.
See the note at the end about what is happening in Term 2. Have a safe break.
Our Year 7 Parent Mixer held on March 20 was a delightful evening that brought together new faces and sparked budding friendships among our Year 7 parents and carers. The night was filled with laughter, engaging conversations, and a shared enthusiasm for our children's journey at Stella.
Thanks to Sarah Olofinsky for orchestrating such a warm and welcoming event, and also moderating the WhatsApp Channel. Your efforts have helped lay a foundation of community and support that will undoubtedly enrich the parent and carer experiences.
The Stella Fellas faced mixed weather on Sunday 30 March, as they gathered at the Manly Bowling Club for a fun afternoon of Barefoot Bowls. Still, it certainly didn’t dampen their enthusiasm or competitive spirit.
The highlights of the day included laughter, impressive strategic moves, and plenty of barefoot enjoyment under very gloomy skies. The friendly competition concluded with the announcement of the winning team, which demonstrated great skill and sportsmanship throughout the game.
A huge thanks to Nick Poutney, who has consistently championed this group. Nick will return in Term 3 with another event, which will be announced in Term 2.
📅 Date:
Thursday, 3 April
⏰ Time:
7:30pm
📍 Location: Library, Scholastica Building – parking best on Eurobin Avenue
Last chance to join us this evening.
🔗 Register now: click here
The full agenda is available below.
If you can’t make it in person – join us online by clicking here.
Looking forward to seeing you there!
P&F General & AGM Meeting, Thursday 5 June - Time: 7:30pm
P&F Trivia Night - Friday 13 June
SAVE THE DATE: Stella P&F Trivia Night - Tickets on Sale: Friday 2 May at 9:00am
Mark your calendars and set your alarms! Tickets for the much-anticipated Stella P&F Trivia Night will go on sale at 9:00am on Friday 2 May. Prepare to join us for a thrilling evening of trivia, laughter, and outrageous costumes at the Manly Leagues Club on June 13.
Don't miss your chance to be part of this legendary event. Gather your team, strategise on your name and theme, and be ready to claim your spot when tickets are available!
See below for some of our photos from the 2024 Trivia Night!
As we approach Term 2, we are excited to announce two fantastic fundraising opportunities: the Mother’s Day Raffle and the highly anticipated Trivia Night Raffle & Silent Auction. These events offer excellent chances to unite, celebrate our Stella parent and carer community, and support a worthy cause. Over the last two years, both events have enabled us to raise more than $15,000.
How You Can Support?
While we finalise the details of where the raised funds will be directed in 2025, we assure you that your contributions will significantly impact our community. We are exploring several meaningful opportunities and will announce the chosen cause as soon as it is confirmed.
How You Can Contribute?
To donate a prize, please fill out the form: https://forms.office.com/r/LDkvyGddeV.
These events offer an opportunity to make a real impact. Stay tuned for more updates on our plans and how the funds will be utilised to enrich our community.
Welcome to the Stella Uniform Shop
Gail Hickey
Uniform Shop
The Uniform Shop is open Tuesdays to Thursdays from 8.00am to 4.30pm during term and can be emailed on:
uniform_books@stellamaris.nsw.edu.au
Year 7 and 10 can purchase their winter uniforms. Blazers and skirts are not available online as they need to be fitted in the Uniform Shop.
Please attend prior to April 10 in case I need to place an order for your daughter for blazers or senior skirts.
Year 11 students are required to purchase the pink senior blouse for winter.
Many online orders are to be collected. Orders are ready for collection from Recess after the order has been placed. Reminders are only sent as a last resort.
Dresses have been packed away to make room for winter stock. A small number of most sizes can be purchased instore if required.
Please follow this link to the P&F Facebook second hand page:
Term 1 Calendar Dates
Term 1 | ||
Thursday 3 April | P&F Meeting: Q&A with Sharyn Quirk | |
Wednesday 9 April | Student Learning Conference 1 | |
Term 2 | ||
Tuesday 6 May | Student Learning Conference 2 | |
Wednesday 7 May | Stella Athletics Carnival | |
Thursday 8 May | Year 7 Study Skills Online | |
Friday 9 May | Mother's Day Breakfast | |
Tuesday 13 May | Careers Discovery Morning (Years 10 - 12) | |
Wednesday 14 May | Student Learning Conference 3 | |
Wednesday 21 May | Student Learning Conference 4 | |
Friday 30 May | Stella Day | |
Wednesday 4 June | College Photo Day 1 | |
Thursday 5 June | P&F AGM | |
Monday 9 June | King's Birthday Public Holiday | |
Friday 13 June | P&F Trivia Night |
Term 1
Friday 11 April | Term 1 Concludes |
Term 2
Tuesday 29 April | Term 2 Commences | ||
Friday 27 June | Term 2 Concludes |
Term 3
Tuesday 22 July | Term 3 Commences | |
Friday 26 September | Term 3 Concludes |
Term 4
Tuesday 14 October | Term 4 Commences | |
Tuesday 2 December | Term 4 Concludes |
Thank you to next fortnight's Canteen volunteers.
Majella Brady
Canteen Manager
We have a lot of misplaced lunchboxes and containers looking for their owners. Please remind your daughters to check the box outside the Canteen.
Please also remind your daughters to bring their student cards with them to the Canteen when making purchases.
Thank you - Majella and Cheryl
Monday 7 April |
Tuesday 8 April |
Wednesday 9 April |
Thursday 10 April |
Friday 11 April |
Joanne Robinson |
Sarah Olofinsky |
Amanda Smerdon |
Peta Pickup |
Lisa Hung |
Barbara Gardiner |
Chloe Palmer |
Daniel Jones |
Lorelle Gina |
Samantha Campbell |
Sara McHugh |
Leesa Shannon |
Natalie Moschou |
||
Carmel MacLeod |
Monday 28 April |
Tuesday 29 April |
Wednesday 30 April |
Thursday 1 May |
Friday 2 May |
Laura Sun |
Elle Weeden |
Catherine Nel |
Simone Selinas |
|
Nell Laime |
Claire Taverner |
Jeremy Stubbs |
||
Kelly Hindman |
Renae Fallshaw |
|||
Carryn Masluk |
Alexandra Gardiner |
Social Justice News
A busy term for Social Justice...
Sarah Metcalfe
Social Justice Program Coordinator
Youth Ambassador Program with Zali Steggle
On March 11, a group of Year 12 students attended the Student Leaders Youth Ambassadors Program at Mosman High School. Hosted by Zali Steggall, our Federal Independent Member for Warringah, the event provided an opportunity to engage with student leaders from across the Northern Beaches on key community issues.
Discussions covered topics such as mental health challenges surrounding the HSC, traffic congestion and public transport disruptions, volunteer opportunities, and university pathways. Students shared insights and explored potential solutions to common concerns in their schools and local communities.
The highlight of the event was the chance to present these concerns directly to Zali and hear about the Government’s ongoing initiatives to address them. It was a valuable and inspiring experience, fostering collaboration and leadership among student representatives.
by Rosa G, Year 12
Harmony Mufti Day & Project Compassion
Our recent Harmony Mufti Day was not just a celebration of cultural diversity but also a powerful fundraiser for Project Compassion and our sister Good Samaritan Education (GSE) school, Mater Dei. The generosity of our school community has been tremendous, with donations pouring in through our online fundraising page.
Currently, our total stands at just over $3000, with Ms Aspiotis’ PC Class 7.4 leading with over $305 and setting a fantastic example. Thank you to everyone who has contributed. Your support is making a real difference.
This Friday, Year 10 will be holding a cake and bake stall at lunchtime. Please contribute baked goods to the stall if you are able. Delivery of these will be in the morning before PC to the Hospitality classroom next to the Canteen. We kindly ask that baked goods are nut-free.
A shout out to Ivy P from Year 10 who is the driving force to instigate this initiative on behalf of Year 10 towards Project Compassion. This is an excellent example of social justice in action and student leadership – thank you Ivy P.
Peace Eggs are selling like hot cakes at the Canteen. All proceeds go towards Mater Dei. There are still many Peace Eggs available to purchase in time for your Easter gifts.
Gift Cook Program - 6 March
Thank you to Ms Mezger and nine Year 10 students - Ava W, Carys P, Amy H, Zara B, Amelia S, Isabella S, Ivy V, Chloe R and Alexis H. The team cooked up a big pot (two pots actually!) of minestrone soup to provide just over 100 servings that were packaged up for people in the local community in need of a nutritious meal at this time of financial stress and food insecurity. This cook was a particularly long one with the pasta taking longer than anticipated – thanks for your effort girls and Ms Mezger, it is highly appreciated.
Prophetic Voices Symposium - 12 March
A group of Year 10 students volunteered to be a part of the Prophetic Voices Symposium that was held online between all 10 Good Samaritan Education schools spanning NSW, Queensland and Victoria. The students actively participated in online discussions about key mental health issues, emphasising the critical need to de-stigmatize mental health challenges and establish supportive structures to foster self-care and mutual support. The students heard from guest speakers and were given sobering statistics and positive solutions to tackle this societal wide issue.
Thank you for your engagement with the other schools and your insightful points on the topics of discussion: Roisin O’N, Molly F, Ivy V, Natalia B-F, Charlotte B, Isabella S, Isabella M, Grace E, Alexandra G, Keily B, Gabriella H, Lola O, Leili M and Alexis H.