Newsletter 9 - 19th June 2025

Mini Vinnies

Last week, our Mini Vinnies group had the pleasure of visiting a local family who generously shared their beautiful fruit and vegetable garden. The students picked a variety of fresh produce, which was then donated to Gran’s Van at Devonport. To help support those in need. 

On Wednesday, the group hosted a heartwarming Winter Woollies Day. Students came
in their cozy winter gear and contributed a gold coin donation. At lunchtime, students enjoyed a delicious homemade soup, adding to the warmth of the day. Families are still welcome to donate blankets and warm clothing, which will be passed onto St Vincent de Paul to help keep others warm this winter. A big thank you to our Mini Vinnies group for their inspiring efforts and compassion in reaching out to those who need it most.

P&F Donut Fundraiser

The Parents and Friends Committee are having a Donut Fundraiser. Orders can be made via the QKR App and close on 29th June. We thank our local

Banjos Bakery at Latrobe for generously supporting St Patrick’s in this fundraiser.

Celebrating Catherine McAuley: A Legacy of Mercy and Service

Catherine McAuley, born in Dublin in 1778, dedicated her life to helping those in need. After losing both parents at a young age, she became the companion and household manager for a wealthy Quaker couple. Upon inheriting her estate in 1822, Catherine used her resources to open the House of Mercy on Baggot Street in 1827 - a place of education for poor girls and refuge for homeless women. 

Despite criticism, Catherine’s work flourished. In 1831, she and her companions formally became religious sisters, founding the Sisters of Mercy. Their mission was unique: they served outside convent walls, teaching, visiting the sick, and supporting vulnerable women. Known as the ‘walking nuns’, they inspired many and quickly expanded across Ireland and beyond. Catherine McAuley died on 11th November 1841. Catherine McAuley’s vision of compassionate service continues to influence communities around the world today. In 1978, the cause for the beatification of the Servant of God Catherine McAuley was opened by Pope Paul VI. Catherine McAuley was declared Venerable by Pope John Paul II, on April 9th, 1990.

Our Foundress – Catherine McAuley | Institute of Sisters of Mercy of Australia

Mercy Sisters

Catholic education in Latrobe traces its origins to 1863, when the community began gathering at St Patrick’s Church. The official establishment of St Patrick’s Catholic School occurred in 1887, with Miss Ellen Hartnett serving as the first employed teacher.

In December 1892, the Sisters of Mercy arrived from Bendigo, Victoria, marking a significant chapter in the school's history. They took over the school's management, providing both primary and secondary education, along with private music instruction.

The Sisters continued to lead the school until 1971, when the first lay teacher was employed to teach Prep in the Church Hall. After a century of stewardship, the Sisters of Mercy relinquished management in 1992. The following year, Mr. Philip Robinson became the first lay school leader in a century.

Living Our Mercy Values at St Patrick’s

At St Patrick’s, we proudly uphold the values of Mercy, Hospitality, Respect, and Compassions - guiding principles that shape our community and daily interactions.

Mercy reminds us to be kind and forgiving.

“God blesses those people who are merciful.”  Matthew 5:7

Respect is shown in how we treat others with dignity and care.

“Treat others as you want them to treat you.” Matthew 7:12

Hospitality encourages us to be friendly, generous and  welcoming.

“Whenever you did it for any of my people, no matter how unimportant they seemed, you did it for me.” Matthew 25:40

Compassion is about understanding others’ needs and giving selflessly.

“God loves you and has chosen you as his own special people. So be gentle , kind, humble, meek and patient.” Colossians 3:12

These values are at the heart of everything we do, helping us grow as a caring and faith filled community.

Carmen Aylott

Principal.

Our Parents & Friends are thrilled to announce their Term 2 fundraiser – The Donut Box! Each box is packed with 6 tasty treats, including:

• Original Glaze

• Chocolate Glaze

• Chocolate Sprinkle

• Strawberry Sprinkle

• French Vanilla

• Raspberry Jam

All that yumminess for just $15 per box!

Orders are open now through QKR! and will close on Sunday, 29 June, so don’t miss out. The donuts will be baked fresh and delivered on Wednesday, 2 July.

Thanks for supporting our school in the sweetest way possible!