Dear Parents and Guardians, 

Reflection 

This week is Holy Week, a time when we are invited to reflect on the core beliefs of the Christian faith. It begins with Palm Sunday, recalling Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem. It continues through the Last Supper on Holy Thursday, moves to the sorrow and sacrifice of Good Friday, and culminates in the hope of Easter Sunday, the resurrection, and the promise of new life and forgiveness. 

For many, including myself, this story is foundational to our faith. At the same time, I recognise that within our community there are many different beliefs, and for some, no religious belief at all. 

Yet, when we reflect more deeply on the Easter story, we encounter something that transcends belief, a story of sacrifice for the good of others. 

Across cultures and throughout history, there are countless examples of people who have given of themselves so that others might live in freedom, safety, or hope. In Australia, we will soon pause to commemorate ANZAC Day, honouring those who made profound sacrifices for the freedoms we enjoy today. For others, these stories are found within families, in the courage of those who have fled persecution, endured hardship, or worked tirelessly to create a better future for those they love. 

These stories remind us of a shared truth: the freedom to live without fear of persecution is not something we can take for granted. 

Easter invites us into this reflection. It challenges us to consider not only the sacrifices that have been made for us, but also how we might respond in our own lives. 

This Easter, we might take time to pray for peace, not only in places that capture global attention, but also in those parts of the world where suffering often goes unseen. We might also reflect on how we can contribute, in our own way, to a more just and compassionate world. 

The Easter story reminds us that while we may not be called to make the ultimate sacrifice, we are each called to act with courage, to stand up for what is right, and to make a difference where we can. God Bless you this Easter. 

Our Year 7 Enrolment Information Evening was a wonderful success, with approximately 160 families in attendance. It was encouraging to see such strong interest in Marist Regional College, while also highlighting the challenge of meeting demand for places. 

The evening was filled with energy as prospective students enthusiastically explored the College and shared their subject interests. I thank our students and school leaders for their outstanding contribution, presenting, guiding families, and providing entertainment, as well as our staff and families for their support behind the scenes. It was truly a whole community effort. 

Our girls’ MSA basketball team recently competed in Perth, finishing strongly with a 48–16 win over Newman College to secure 5th place in the Championship Division. Congratulations to Libby and Ke’ala on their selection in the Marist X team, recognising the top players of the tournament. Thank you to Mrs Shivvaan, Mr Mackie and Mr Burr for their leadership. 

Congratulations to Brandon and Christina, who represented Marist with pride at the North West Tasmania Regional Final of the Lions Youth of the Year. While they did not progress to the State finals, they demonstrated confidence and character. Thank you to Mrs Rogers for her coordination. 

It has been a big fortnight of athletics, with NSATIS held last week in Penguin, and SATIS this week in Launceston. At the NSATIS Athletics Carnival, our students demonstrated great determination despite challenging weather conditions, with strong effort evident across the day. Piper set the tone early in the opening 3000m, and it was pleasing to see such commitment from all involved. 

I was also fortunate to attend SATIS on Tuesday, where I witnessed some outstanding performances. Jayla broke the Under 15 girls’ 100m record, while Cameron delivered a dominant run to win the 800m. Congratulations to all students who participated; your effort, commitment, and pride in representing the College are to be commended. Thank you to our staff and families for their ongoing support, with full results available in the sports section. 

I wish you and your family a blessed break over Easter. 

Warm regards, 

Mr Shayne Kidd 

Principal