Newsletter 6: Monday 7 July

For the Calendar

Week 1, Term 3 2025

• Monday 21/7/25: Student Free Day
• Tuesday 22/7/25: All students return, All Schools Cross Country (TBC), All Schools Touch Football Gala Day (7-10 Boys & Girls)
  
• Wednesday 23/7/25: MacKillop House Fundraising, Community Time (NAIDOC Week), NAIDOC Activities, HSC Artmaking Afternoon Session
• Thursday 24/7/25: Year 10 Boys GOAT Retreat
• Friday 25/7/25: Year 10 Boys GOAT Retreat, Year 7-10 Semester 1 Reports available after 4pm, Country Cup Rugby League, Year 10 & 11 Visual Arts Excursion to Lismore Regional Gallery, Year 10 & 11 Visual Arts Workshop

Week 2, Term 3 2025

• Monday 28/7/25: Year 10 You Choose Presentation
• Tuesday 29/7/25: Country Cup Rugby League, NRCC Junior Football Gala Day (Boys/Girls), Year 7 & 10 Bell Shakespeare, Year 11 Northern Rivers Careers Expo, Years 7-10 Semester 1 Awards
• Wednesday 30/7/25: Year 9 Pastoral Day (TBC), Community Time (including Ignatius & MacKillop House Liturgies), HSC Artmaking Afternoon Session
• Thursday 31/7/25: Feast of Ignatius Loyola, Year 11 Pastoral Day (TBC), Year 7-10 Parent/Teacher Conferences
• Friday 1/8/25: Year 12 Trial HSC Briefing, Championship Track Athletics
• Saturday 2/8/25: Feast of St Peter Faber
  

Principal's Message

Dear Parents, Carers, Students, and Friends of the Xavier Catholic College Community,

As Term 2 comes to an end, I take this opportunity to reflect on what has been a demanding, yet deeply rewarding and successful term at Xavier Catholic College.

This term has seen our community rise to meet a range of challenges with resilience, determination, and a strong sense of purpose. Across every year level, students have settled into a consistent pattern of focused and engaged learning. Our classrooms have been places of genuine inquiry, collaboration and growth. The delivery of quality teaching and learning has remained at the heart of all we do, and our students have responded with maturity and motivation.

A significant emphasis has been placed on high-quality assessment this term, encompassing both formative and summative assessments. These assessments have not only guided our teaching practices but have also empowered students to take increasing ownership of their learning. It has been heartening to see so many students reflecting on their progress and identifying the steps they need to take to continue improving.

Beyond the classroom, Xavier has continued to offer an impressive range of opportunities that speak to the whole development of our students. From the sporting fields and cross-country tracks to creative and performing arts showcases, STEM activities, social justice initiatives, retreats, camps and excursions, our students have been actively engaged and generously supported by our committed staff. These experiences have contributed to building confidence, leadership skills, teamwork, and a deeper sense of community.

I want to take this opportunity to thank the outstanding staff of Xavier Catholic College for the many ways they care for and support our students, not just academically, but pastorally and spiritually. Whether in the classrooms, the playgrounds, on the sporting field, or while leading excursions and cultural events, their professionalism, generosity of spirit, and collegiality continue to shape our College into the vibrant and inclusive learning environment we are proud to be part of.

As a Catholic school in the Jesuit tradition, we continue to strive to "find God in all things" and to reflect Christ’s love through our actions. The work of this term has laid strong foundations for further growth and development as we move into Semester 2. We are well-positioned for a successful Term 3, with key academic and co-curricular events, subject selections, and formation experiences ahead.

Now, it is time for a well-earned mid-year break. I encourage all families to take this opportunity to rest, reflect, and enjoy time together. Term 3 commences on Tuesday 22 July, and we look forward to welcoming our students back refreshed and ready for the journey ahead.

Thank you for your continued support, partnership, and encouragement throughout the term.

25 Years of Xavier Jubilee Mass

On Wednesday 2 July, the Xavier Catholic College community came together to celebrate a deeply significant milestone – 25 Years of Xavier. Our Jubilee Mass was a joyful and moving occasion that honoured the life and journey of the College over the past quarter-century.

It was a moment to reflect on all that has been achieved, the challenges we have overcome, and the many high points that have shaped our story. This was not just a celebration of years, but of people – students, staff, families, and supporters – whose commitment, faith and generosity have built a community rooted in excellence, care, and the Ignatian spirit.

We are deeply grateful to Bishop Greg Homeming for leading us in this sacred celebration and for his continued support of our College. We also thank our concelebrating clergy for their presence and prayerful leadership.

It was a privilege to welcome so many special guests, including past staff and College leaders, friends of Xavier, and community members who have been part of our journey.

A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of service awards to long-standing members of staff who have given 20 and 25 years of dedicated service to the College. 25 staff members received these awards and received a blessing from the Bishop. The combined total years of service to the Xavier College community totals 572 years! These awards were presented by our Foundation Principal, Mr Eric Littler, whose pioneering leadership laid the foundations for the vibrant community we see today.

The Jubilee Mass was a wonderful reminder of what we can achieve when we walk together in faith and hope. We now look forward with confidence to the next chapter in the life of Xavier Catholic College.

Unbroken Attendance Awards

I am pleased to acknowledge and congratulate the 92 students who received Unbroken Attendance Certificates for Term 1, 2025. This is a remarkable achievement and a clear reflection of their resilience, commitment, and grit throughout the early part of the school year.

Regular attendance is a key ingredient in academic success and personal growth, and we are proud to celebrate students who make it a priority. I would also like to extend a sincere thank you to our parents and carers for your continued support in helping your children arrive at school each day ready to learn.

These awards are not only a recognition of consistency, but also a celebration of the strong partnership between home and school. Let's aim even higher in the terms ahead – we hope to see even more students achieving this prestigious recognition in the coming months.

Well done once again to our Term 1 recipients!

Staff Farewells

We take a moment to acknowledge and farewell several valued staff members who will be leaving us, either temporarily or to pursue new journeys.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms Erin Buie, Inclusion Teacher, who will be taking 12 months' leave. Erin has made an outstanding contribution to our Inclusion and Diversity team, showing deep care and commitment to the students she has supported. We wish her all the best for her time away and look forward to her return mid-2026.

We also farewell Mr Harry Cunynghame, Teacher Aide, who is moving to Queensland to commence university studies. Harry has been a calm, caring and reliable presence within our College, and we thank him for the compassion and support he has shown to so many of our students. We wish him every success in this exciting next chapter.

Finally, we send our warmest wishes to Mrs Tash Toigo, Executive Assistant to the Principal, who begins 12 months' leave to welcome the arrival of her first child. Tash has brought professionalism, kindness and generosity of spirit to her role, and her presence within the Administration Office will be greatly missed. We offer our blessings to Tash and her husband as they prepare for this joyful new addition to their family.

To Erin, Harry, and Tash, thank you for your contribution to Xavier Catholic College. You leave with our gratitude, our prayers, and our very best wishes.

Ethos & Identity Review

I am pleased to share with you the very positive outcomes of the recent Ethos and Identity Review of Xavier Catholic College, conducted by representatives from Jesuit Education Australasia. This comprehensive review was a significant moment in the life of our College, offering both affirmation and inspiration as we continue to grow as a Jesuit Companion School.

The review team extended their congratulations to our entire College community, highlighting the strength and depth of the broad, holistic education we provide. In particular, they praised our commitment to the Jesuit value of striving for the Magis—always seeking the greater good in all that we do.

The reviewers offered a strong endorsement of the spiritual life of the College, noting our continued refinement of programs that nurture faith, formation, and service. These affirmations reflect the dedication of our staff, students, and families to living out the Ignatian vision of education in both word and action.

I wish to extend particular congratulations to Mrs Glenda Brown, our College Leader of Catechesis and Leader of Ignatian Spirituality, whose outstanding leadership and preparation played a central role in the success of the review process.

The full outcomes of the review will be shared with our Xavier community throughout Term 3. These insights will help shape the next chapter in our mission, as we look to future strategic directions in areas of mission, service, and outreach.

Student Punctuality

As we look ahead to the start of Term 3, I would like to take this opportunity to address an important area that requires our collective attention — student punctuality.

In recent weeks, we have observed a growing number of students arriving between 5 and 15 minutes late to school each morning. This is particularly concerning as it means students are missing valuable time at our Monday morning assemblies and/or their Pastoral Care classes from Tuesday to Friday. These moments are vital in setting a positive tone for the day, fostering connection, and ensuring key messages are communicated.

It is disappointing that many students arriving late appear to take little ownership of their tardiness. As a school committed to educating young people for their future roles in the world, we know that punctuality is not just a school expectation, it is a life skill. Employers in the future workforce will not be as accommodating of lateness, and now is a crucial time for our students to form strong and responsible habits.

Punctuality is just one of the many habits that contribute to what we call the ‘X’ factor — those qualities that help young people stand out in a positive way, whether in further study, the workplace, or community life.

I am asking for the support of all parents and carers to ensure that students arrive on time every day. The morning bell rings at 8:50am, and by that time, every student should be on site and ready to move to their scheduled classes. Consistent routines at home and open conversations about the importance of punctuality can make a significant difference.

Thank you for your continued support in working in partnership with us to develop habits that will serve our students well, both now and into the future.

Student Mobile Phones

I would like to address a matter of growing concern at the College — the use of mobile phones and personal IT devices during the school day.

In recent weeks, we have experienced a spate of incidents involving students using their mobile phones inappropriately. This includes having phones out during class time or breaks without permission, denying use when questioned by staff, and, disappointingly, showing little ownership of their behaviour. In some cases, this misuse has caused distress to other students, which is entirely unacceptable in our College environment.

At Xavier Catholic College, we are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and focused community. Our expectations regarding mobile phone and device use are clearly outlined in the College’s policy and procedures, which all students and families are expected to understand and follow.

I strongly urge all parents and carers to review the College policy with their son or daughter, and to reinforce the importance of using technology responsibly and respectfully, both on and off campus.

Beginning in Semester 2, there will be a strict blitz on poor mobile phone and online etiquette. This is not simply about enforcing rules; it is about educating our young people to act with integrity, responsibility, and care for others in a digital world.

Thank you for your continued support as we work together to uphold the standards and values that define our Xavier community.

Semester 2 Dates for 2025

Term 3 – 2025 (10-week term)

• Students in Years 7 – 12 commence on Tuesday 22 July
• Students in Years 7 – 12 conclude on Thursday 25 September
• School holidays – Friday 26 September – Monday 13 October

Term 4 – 2025 (10-week term)

• Students in Years 7 – 11 commence on Tuesday 14 October 
• Students in Years 7 – 11 conclude on Wednesday 17 December
• School holidays – Thursday 18 December to Wednesday 28 January 2026 (to be confirmed later in 2025)

Xavier Parent Community Group Meeting — Term 3

We are very pleased to invite all parents and carers to a special Term 3 Parent Community Group session, featuring guest speaker Chris Hudson. Chris will be presenting on the topic:

"Communicating Effectively with Teenagers"

Chris is a parent, coach, speaker, and trainer who specialises in helping adults connect with young people in ways that are constructive, respectful and effective. His presentation promises to be both practical and insightful—especially in the often challenging area of parent-teen communication.

We will be hosting this event on:

• Wednesday 3 September
• Xavier Catholic College Ballina
• Time and venue details at the College will be confirmed closer to the date.

Please note this event replaces our regular Term 3, Week 5 Parent Community Group Meeting, originally scheduled for 21 August.

There is no cost to attend, and all parents and carers are warmly encouraged to come along. We believe it will be an evening of great value for anyone raising teenagers in today’s world. For more information about Chris and his work, you can visit his website: understandingteenagers.com.au

We hope to see a strong turnout and look forward to welcoming many of you there.

We Have Space for Student Enrolments in 2025

The College is currently accepting additional enrolments for Years 7 to 12 for the 2025 academic year. We encourage parents and carers to share information about our College within the community to inspire additional enrolments. Interested families can contact our Enrolments Team for more details or to arrange a meeting with the Principal to discuss enrolling at Xavier this year. We look forward to welcoming new families to our Xavier community.

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May this Jubilee Year inspire us all to be Pilgrims of Hope, walking together towards a future filled with promise.

Mr Lee MacMaster
College Principal

Assistant Principal: Learning & Teaching

Thank You

As we reach the midpoint of the academic year, I reflect on life in our College community - what we have accomplished together, the challenges we have overcome, the lessons learned, and the way in which we have supported one another. I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank students, parents, carers, and our dedicated staff for their contribution to our dynamic and ever-evolving community.   I wish each of you a safe and joy-filled holiday.

As we celebrated our Jubilee Mass this week, I was flooded with a myriad of memories and felt great pride at the College we have co-created, literally from the ground up! While I am proud of the College’s many achievements, the aspect that brings me the most joy is knowing that our students have taken their place in the world, each contributing in their own unique way to forging a better future.  Inspired by our Jesuit heritage, we have worked to empower students with the competence to excel, a conscience to discern, compassion to serve, and a commitment to act justly.   We are proud of our first twenty-five years and look forward with confidence to the future.

Year 11 Awards Ceremony

It was with great pride that we recently celebrated our Year 11 students, presenting them with awards for academic excellence, consistent effort and application. Inspired by the Magis - to do more and be more - we are confident that our students will use their learning to be agents of positive change in the world.

Year 7-10 Reports

Year 7-10 Reports will be made available via Compass on Friday 25 July. Parents and students will be provided with an overview of progress in all courses, including indicators of the commitment to learning. I strongly encourage all parents and caregivers to read the report with their child, to celebrate their efforts and achievements, and to set new goals for the semester ahead.

I would like to acknowledge the work of our dedicated teachers who work long hours to collaboratively create, moderate, and mark assessment tasks, to provide the feedback that is vital to students’ learning growth. Staff are also responsible for data management, nominating students for awards, and report writing. I thank our staff for their commitment to excellence in learning and teaching, assessment and reporting.

Year 7-10 Parent/Teacher Conferences

Parent/Teacher Conferences for Years 7 to 10 are scheduled on Friday 31 July, from 3:40 pm to 8:00 pm. This is an excellent opportunity to meet with your children’s teachers, to discuss areas of strength, and consider recommendations for further development. Parents and carers are invited to book appointments via Compass. Students are encouraged to attend the conferences with their parents and participate in the learning conversation and goal-setting. 

Subject Selection

It is the exciting time of the year when both Year 8 and Year 10 students participate in subject selections. As a College community, we invest a great deal of time and effort in supporting students’ wise discernment.  We want all of our students to enjoy their learning and feel confident that they are investing their time wisely to prepare for their future beyond school. 

Year 10 students are to be commended on the preparation and positive approach displayed toward the senior subject selection process. Thank you also to parents and guardians of our Year 10 students for supporting your child by attending the teacher/student parent conference and for assisting with the subject selection discernment process. 

Behind the scenes, the Timetable Committee will focus their attention on the construction of the 2026 timetable. Our commitment is to keep our students at the centre of decision-making and ensure that as many students as possible are provided with their preferred subjects. Other key factors occupying the committee include ensuring suitable staffing and specialist rooming arrangements are in place. This is a lengthy and complex process; we thank students and parents for your patience as we work to finesse the details of the new timetable, with due consideration for its many interrelated parts. Students will be notified of their study pattern next term, and support processes will be provided for further consultation as needed.

Year 12 Trial HSC Examinations

Year 12 students will complete their final internal assessment tasks during the Trial HSC Examination period. Examinations commence on Monday, 4 August and conclude on Monday, 18 August. All Year 12 students are encouraged to consolidate their course material and focus on a program of study to ensure they are well-prepared for the upcoming examination block.

Students are reminded to carefully review the Trial HSC Examination timetable and ensure they attend all examinations at the scheduled time. Students are only required to be on-site when they have a scheduled examination and are encouraged to arrive at least 30 minutes before the examination begins. If a student has two examinations scheduled on the same day, they must remain at school during the lunch break and may not leave the College between examinations. If they do not have an examination scheduled on a particular day within the examination timetable, students may study at home or access the College library. Any student who wishes to access the library to study is required to sign in at the front office and attend in uniform. All students are required to wear their full school uniform for all scheduled examinations.

Please be mindful that some afternoon examinations will not conclude until late in the afternoon. On these occasions, alternative transport may need to be arranged. If a student is unable to attend a Trial HSC examination due to illness or misadventure, please call the College office on the morning of the examination. Medical certificates and additional paperwork will be required and must be submitted with an Absence from Assessment/Request for Special Consideration form available on the College website (see below). A sense of balance is particularly important at this time, and students are reminded to take time for relaxation and nurture their wellbeing in the lead-up to and during the Trial HSC Examinations.

A range of holiday workshops and classes are scheduled for our Year 12 students throughout the two-week break.  I would like to acknowledge and thank our dedicated teaching staff for making themselves available for this valuable revision opportunity, and I encourage students to attend if possible.

I wish the Year 12 students every success for the examination block, and during the period of preparation, and assure them of the support of the entire College community. Please do not hesitate to contact either Mrs Emma Smith (Leader of Curriculum) or me if you have any questions or concerns.

Ms Carmel Zuino
Assistant Principal: Learning & Teaching

Assistant Principal: Mission

Farewell & Welcome in College Ministry

This term we bid a fond farewell to Fr Anselm, who has faithfully served as our College Chaplain for the past six years. We are deeply grateful for the joy he brought to our Eucharist celebrations and the way he reminded us all to “Say Amen.” His presence, dedication, and care will be greatly missed by our community.

At the same time, we extend a warm welcome to Fr Erick, who has already been actively supporting our College Ministry Team and celebrating class Masses with us. Fr Erick brings a rich personal story of faith and resilience. Born in El Salvador, he and his family came to Australia as refugees in 1987. He was ordained in 1998 after years of study and service and has ministered in parishes across Wagga Wagga, Albury, and Griffith. Despite serious health challenges, including years of dialysis before receiving a kidney transplant, Fr Erick has continued his ministry with dedication and good humour.

May Fr Anselm’s next chapter be blessed, and may Fr Erick’s time with us be fruitful and enriching for our whole College community.

Thank You for Nagle House Mass

A sincere thank you to all the staff and students who braved the cold last Saturday to celebrate the Nagle House Mass at the parish. It was a wonderful occasion and a great example of the strong connection between our College and parish community, something we are committed to nurturing and growing.

Next term, we look forward to our final two House Masses for the year with MacKillop and Faber Houses.

NAIDOC Week Celebrations

NAIDOC Week is a significant time across Australia to recognise and celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year marks the 50th anniversary of NAIDOC Week, with the theme “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy.” This theme celebrates the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and looks towards the future, highlighting the importance of young leaders, community vision, and honouring the legacy of ancestors.

As NAIDOC Week falls during the school holiday break, we encourage all families to get involved in local events and activities in our community.

At school, we will celebrate NAIDOC in Week 1 of next term. On Wednesday, students are invited to wear casual clothes in Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander colours. MacKillop House will be selling native themed foods, and there will be a range of activities to help students learn more about First Nations cultures. We will also hold our annual House competition of Mangrook football, a highlight for many.

We look forward to coming together to celebrate the strength, vision, and legacy of Australia’s First Peoples.

Thank You and Holiday Wishes

As Term 2 draws to a close, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all our families and staff for your commitment, generosity, and support of the College community. Your dedication to the growth and wellbeing of our young people is at the heart of what makes our College such a special place.

In the spirit of Ignatian spirituality, may we continue to find God in all things; in our learning, in our relationships, and in the ordinary moments of each day.

I hope the upcoming holiday brings you the chance to rest and enjoy the unique joys of winter in the Northern Rivers: the cold westerly winds, crisp early mornings, and the wonder of whales making their annual journey along our coastline.

Wishing everyone a safe, joyful, and refreshing break.

Mr Peter Fear
Assistant Principal: Mission

Catechesis & Evangelisation News

Welcome, Father Erick!

On the afternoon of Wednesday 18 June, two Year 10 Religion classes had the special privilege of celebrating the Sacrament of the Eucharist in our College chapel. This occasion marked not only Father Erick’s first Mass at Xavier College, but also the first class Mass held at the College in quite some time.

Students from Ms Dwyer’s and Mr Blair’s classes came together to share in this meaningful experience, enjoying the opportunity to connect in a spiritual setting beyond the regular classroom environment. Following the celebration, Father Erick took a moment to share insights into his background and vocation, offering a personal glimpse into his journey of faith.

We look forward to many more opportunities to celebrate Mass with Father Erick and deepen our spiritual life as a community.

A Message from our new Priest and College Chaplain, Father Erick Quinteros

A Little About Myself

I was born in El Salvador in 1969. In March 1987, my family and I were so pleased to arrive in Australia as refugees.
Unfortunately, my father was in danger of death at his workplace, receiving death threats on a regular basis.

In 1989, under the guidance of Father Geoffrey Jarrett, I entered a seminary in Melbourne, and I was ordained to the priesthood on ANZAC Day 1998 in Wagga Wagga. In the Diocese of Wagga Wagga, I served in different parishes within Wagga, as well as Albury, Leeton and Griffith. In 1991, I discovered that I was suffering from renal failure due to a condition from birth.

In September 2010, I arrived at Coffs Harbour to work in the Diocese. I had requested Bishop Jarrett to move to the Diocese of Lismore as my whole family lives in Brisbane. On the night I arrived at Coffs Harbour, Father Peter Padsungay welcomed me with a big smile.

In 2011, I suffered complete renal failure and had to move to Lismore for medical care. I received dialysis for six years at St Vincent’s until a kidney transplant on 12 January 2017. For the past 12 years, I have worked in the Parish of Kyogle, after serving two years at the Cathedral Parish.

When Bishop Homeming requested that I move to Ballina to assist Father Peter, I was completely shocked and greatly surprised. However, as I had celebrated a number of Healing Masses in Ballina before, I knew it was a wonderful place, but really busy in comparison to Kyogle.

I am now enjoying this new ‘adventure’ and looking forward to getting to know everyone in the Parish.

Father Erick Quinteros

College News

Tech Tales in the Library

One of our more recent displays featured Techno Tessie, who ably showcased some of our technology resources —  fiction, non-fiction and even some old scanners and phones, much to the amusement of the young folk! Her favourite was a laptop highlighting digital literature pieces, available on the internet. These works are of high interest to students who enjoy the interactivity and challenge to linear storytelling that this style of literature provides.

While on the subject of technology, a reminder to students that laptops are to be used for educational purposes only in the library. From Term 3, the lounge area is going laptop-free. Students using a laptop will need to sit at the table sections of the library. This will assist with our supervision of correct use of technology. Your cooperation is appreciated.

Sport News

Opens Football Gala Recap

Opens Boys

The boys played four games of football today and put in an incredible effort across the board.

In Game 1, we came out strong with a solid 1–0 win over Grafton. Game 2 was a tight contest against Woodlawn, ending in a 0–0 draw. I felt we played better football in this game, creating more chances and dominating possession. Game 3 was a must-win against Trinity, and the boys delivered, taking it 1–0.

In our final match against Mount St Patrick College, we stayed composed and secured yet another 1–0 victory.

That meant we went through the tournament undefeated, winning three games and drawing one, and impressively, we didn’t concede a single goal all day.

We then had to wait for the result of Woodlawn’s final game. Due to the goal difference, a win for them would see them advance. In a dramatic finish, they scored from a free kick in the last two minutes, pushing them into first place and leaving us runners-up.

Still, it was a fantastic day and a huge effort from all the boys. The Year 12s led by example. Everyone gave their all, including the lads who didn’t get as much game time — we had a huge squad, and their support made a big difference.

Plenty to be proud of — and hey, there’s always next year.

Coach: Mr Michael Raeburn 

Opens Girls

The girls put in an outstanding performance today, playing four games of football and delivering incredible effort across the board against several strong opponents.

The day began with a confident win over Mount St Patrick College, setting the tone for what would become a highly successful campaign. The momentum continued with impressive victories against Trinity College and Woodlawn, demonstrating the team’s consistency, skill, and teamwork.

After three round-robin games, we found ourselves tied at the top of the table with McAuley Catholic College, Grafton. This set up a high-stakes final game against McAuley, with the winner progressing to the next stage of the competition. Rising to the occasion, the girls delivered a determined and composed performance to claim victory and secure their place in the next round.

Congratulations to the team on a perfect day of football—four games, four wins, and a spot in the next round well and truly earned!

Coaches: Ms Erin Buie and Ms Matisse Anderson

Junior Football Championships

Junior Girls

On 18 June, our Junior Girls (7–9) proudly represented Xavier at the Girls Soccer Gala Day. What a sensational day it was! The team went undefeated in all three of their pool games against Mount Saint Patrick College, McAuley College, Grafton, and Banora Point High School. Each match saw solid teamwork, sharp passing, and strong defence that helped secure their top spot in the pool.

A special mention goes to our top goal scorer, Lily B, who showed incredible talent up front, scoring a total of three goals, including an impressive double in one match. A great performance from the team's goalkeeper, Sunnee, saw some great saves in crucial moments of the round games. 

The excitement reached its peak in the grand final against Trinity College. Both teams locked in a tight battle, and the match pushed into extra time. In the final moments, Molly earned a penalty inside the box, which sealed the victory for Xavier.

Congratulations to all the girls for their dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship throughout the day. 

Coaches: Ms Erin Buie and Ms Olivia Voss 

North vs South Final in Coffs Harbour

Open Girls Game 

The Senior Girls' team put on a spirited performance in their match against St. John's Coffs Harbour. Dominating possession throughout the first term, the girls set the tone early, but a couple of unlucky goals saw them trailing at halftime.

Refusing to give in, the team rallied in the second half with determination and teamwork, applying relentless pressure and scoring three unanswered goals. Their comeback effort turned the tide, showcasing their resilience and skill.

Although they narrowly missed out on the win, the second-half display was a powerful reminder of the heart and fight this team brings to the field every game.

Coaches: Ms Erin Buie and Ms Matisse Anderson

Junior Girls Game

The Junior Girls faced a tough challenge in their match against St. John's Coffs Harbour. For many of the players, it was their first time taking the field together, but they rose to the occasion with impressive teamwork and a positive attitude throughout.

Despite the result, the girls fought hard until the final whistle and demonstrated great potential. With such a young and determined squad, the future looks bright for this emerging team.

Coaches: Ms Erin Buie and Ms Matisse Anderson

Junior Boys 

Although they had a tough 1-0 loss to MacKillop College, the boys played extremely well, being the better team for the majority of the game and creating plenty of chances to score. We stuck to our game, keeping possession and dominating the midfield, but just lacked in the end product. 

As the game went on, the opposition couldn't get into our half, and our defensive structure was fantastic down to the very last whistle. We kept pushing for the equaliser, with Cian going up from keeper for a corner to try everything to score. But with a resilient effort from MacKillop, our attempts were cleared off the line and they held onto the 1-0 win. However, the boys should be proud of their performance, and they represented the College well. 

Coaches: Mr Steve Edmonds and Mr Archie Power 

Len Diett Shield Rugby Union

The cool weather at Casuarina Beach couldn’t hamper the Xavier Catholic College Opens and Under 16s Rugby Union teams as they successfully defended their respective Len Diett Shield crowns against all comers. Led by Captain Thomas Williams, the Open Boys kicked off their title defence with a hard-fought win against a spirited Lindisfarne team, in the at times extremely windy conditions, points were hard to come by for both teams. Xavier eventually ran out as 7-5 winners in the first round.

The Opens would back up this performance with another hard-fought win against Lindisfarne in the final, despite conceding the first try off a technically sound rolling maul, Xavier would return serve, running in two tries before half time. With a successful conversion by fly-half Jed Lyon, XCC went into the break with a 12-7 advantage. The final half showcased more Xavier brilliance, with halfback Zac Thick beating 4 Lindisfarne defenders to run in a try that would push XCC out to a 19-7 lead. Lindisfarne fought back bravely, reducing the score line to 19-12, but the Xavier Opens muscled up in defence, forcing a knock on in injury time and ending the game as winners of the Len Diett Shield for the third year running.

A similar story would play out for the Xavier Under 16s boys team; against Saint Mary’s Catholic College, the Xavier boys would run in three tries and kick three conversions within the first half, posting a score of 21-0 at halftime. The dominance continued with Saint Mary’s kept scoreless in the second half, and Xavier secured their place in the finals in the first leg of the tournament. Similar scenes would play out as the Xavier 16s faced off against Evans River High School, keeping their opponents scoreless and racking up over 8 tries in a single half. The Xavier 16s also continue the trend of previous teams retaining the Len Diett Shield for a third consecutive year.

Coaches: Mr Luke Sullivan and Mr Taylor Jermolajew 

AFL Queensland Cup

On Thursday 12 June, I had the pleasure of taking a group of Year 11 and 12 students to the Cavanbah Centre in Byron Bay for the twice-rescheduled AFL Queensland Cup Carnival Day. Having coached these students over the past four years, this was a particularly special occasion, marking the Year 12s’ final opportunity to represent the College in the game so popular down south.

Our first match was the much-anticipated Ballina grudge match, with Xavier taking on Ballina Coast High School. It was a hard-fought contest, with Ballina narrowly claiming the win by a single goal. In our second game, we faced Kingscliff High School, who proved too strong on the day and went on to become the eventual champions of the competition.

The final game was a playoff for third place against Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School. The Xavier boys started strongly, and although Lindisfarne mounted a comeback, a brilliant moment from Sam Patch sealed the victory. Dashing down the wing, he out-contested his opponent, gathered possession, and slotted a remarkable running goal from 40 metres out.

I would like to thank all the students who played and represented the College with such pride and sportsmanship. A special thank you goes to our Year 12 players, who have been part of the team since Year 9. Well done, boys.

Coach: Mr Peter Fear

Individual Achievements

Congratulations to Jacob Miletic, who has been selected to represent the NSWCCC football team at the All NSW Schools Selection Tournament in Lake Macquarie on Tuesday 17 June. This is an outstanding achievement, as Jacob was chosen from among players representing the 10 Catholic dioceses across the state at the recent NSWCCC tournament in Sydney. His selection highlights not only his talent and dedication, but also the growing strength of football at Xavier and in our region. Well done, Jacob! 

Mr Clint McCarthy (Leader of Sport) & Ms Matisse Anderson (Sport Trainee)

Volunteer Hub

At Xavier Catholic College, we believe in the power of giving back to the community and making a tangible difference. Our school motto, Act Justly, serves as a constant reminder that justice isn't just about fairness in the classroom or on the playing field but also about creating a society where we care for one another and work together to build a better world. Volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways we can live out this commitment to justice in our local community. Volunteering is more than just lending a helping hand. It's an opportunity to actively contribute to the wellbeing of others. 

Are you ready to act justly? Here are some local opportunities:

• Volunteering at the Australian Pro Adaptive Surfing Championships
• Australia Seabird and Turtle Rescue
• Ballina Coastcare
• Parkrun
• Vinnies

Canteen News

Volunteering in the Canteen is a great opportunity to meet other parents and to be involved in your child/children's school life.

• Arrive at school by 8:45am and park on the street.
• Go to the Office to sign in and receive your Visitor Badge.
• Head to the Canteen where you can prepare for the day’s lunch orders.
• Volunteers receive lunch, and their children receive a $5 canteen voucher.
• Finish time is approximately 1:30-2:00pm, depending on how busy the day is.
• If you cannot make your rostered day, please email xcccanteen@lism.catholic.edu.au or phone the College beforehand on 6618 0180.
• Text message reminders are sent on Wednesdays the week before your rostered day.
• Reminder: All Canteen volunteers need a volunteer Working With Children Check before starting with us. This is free for volunteers, and you can apply via Service NSW. 

Our recess and lunch order cutoff time is 8:45am.

Please visit our website for the 2025 Canteen Roster.

Community News