When people are on retreat, spending time with family, or in a new environment I often say, “be where your feet are”. It was often said to me by my mentors when thinking too much about the future and the ‘what if’s’. 2025 has been an interesting year with Neil Alweyn moving onto a secondment at Catholic Education Office to oversee many secondary schools in the state. In the moments of change and flux it has been useful for me to remember to be where my feet are, enjoy the moments of joy during the year and be present when supporting one another through challenges.
I hope as we conclude 2025 and students, staff and families take a break from the College that you can all be where your feet are and savour moments of celebrations and rest that can come over the Advent season.
This year has been a focus on the Jubilee theme Pilgrims of Hope where we are reminded of the Hope we can have in Christ, and the shared hope we can inspire in those around us. I have been humbled by the many hours of service students and staff have dedicated to those in our community either through fundraising or awareness efforts. There have been countless student initiatives that allowed their voices and agency to shine through, culminating in meaningful changes in the local community. Many of these initiatives have been recognised by others, even with the new gymnasium and trophy cabinet, we’re going to run out of space to display all the awards and trophies.
For Kolbe students, may you find hope in all aspects of your life; either through spreading a positive message to others or seeing within yourselves the wonderful people you can be. For those returning in 2026, may you continue to bring ideas, energy and enthusiasm to build up the community. Please find a list of 2026 Whole School Key Dates and Year Group specific dates, and other back-to-school information HERE.
There are several staff who will conclude their time at Kolbe Catholic College, I would like to thank them for their service and dedication, some for months and others for decades:
- Julie Amos
- Mel McKeaig
- Joe Stynes
- Ylenia Russo
- Abby Barraclough
- Mel Lewis
- Tom Scholfield
- Dakota Ramos
- Kane Pember
- Lexie Carter
- Bianca D’Ortona
- Monica Batista Hunter
There is one significant retirement from the College which will commence partway through 2026 at the conclusion of current leave. Mr Stephen Wheeler is the final foundation staff member to be serving at Kolbe. Initially a Design Technologies teacher he initiated the department, was the founder of MacKillop House, and later a Year 7 teacher who introduced students to the Kolbe Way, creating a lasting legacy at the College. Humble, intelligent and hardworking, Stephen quietly went about establishing the school, mentoring staff, students and families. Kolbe is the community it is today because of his influence and commitment. It has been a personal and professional honour to have been at Kolbe with Stephen, I’ve benefited from his wisdom and conversations. In 2026 we will celebrate the conclusion of the current masterplan and the conclusion of the final foundation staff member.
Thank you to the staff, students and families who have been part of Kolbe for 2025. I wish you all a joyful and hope filled Christmas and summer.