By now, you may be aware that from 10 December 2025, many social media platforms won’t be allowed to let Australians under 16 create or keep an account. This is to protect them from design features that encourage them to spend too much time online and over-expose them to content that can harm their health and wellbeing.

Many parents and carers have mixed feelings about delaying access to social media accounts. They welcome the opportunity to give their children more time to build their digital, social and emotional skills, but they’re also concerned about under-16s being cut off from their friends and support networks.

The e-Safety Commissioner has developed a great 8-step guide that will help you support under-16s to get ready. The guide includes information in relation to:

1. Understanding what’s changing and why
2. How to start chatting with your children about the changes
3. Helping your children map their digital world
4. Encouraging children to keep connecting with their friends
5. Exploring safer ways to belong to and connect with their communities of interest
6. Helping them to save their digital memories
7. Starting to reduce social media use together
8. Knowing where to find support

You can read more about the steps and download or print the action plan via the following link:

Social Media Restrictions - Get Ready Guide 

You can also access webinars to learn more about the upcoming changes and can register via the following link:

Social Media Restrictions - Register for Webinars 

God bless

Angela Myles | Executive Principal 

Week 4 - Getting down to Business

Week 4 is a critical week in the term. The end is in sight - but we’re not there yet, and there is still a lot of learning and assessment to be completed. Our Secondary school continues to be a busy and vibrant place of learning, celebration and curriculum supporting experiences.

2025 Year 12 Final Events and celebrations

At the end of this week our Year 12 students will have completed their HSC examinations, marking the culmination of thirteen years of schooling. We congratulate them on their commitment and perseverance throughout this challenging period. The feedback from the presiding officers has been complimentary of the mature and considerate way they have approached the exams. We look forward to celebrating their achievements together at the Graduation Dinner, a wonderful opportunity for students, parents and staff to come together and recognise this significant milestone. This year the decision was made that younger siblings could not purchase a ticket to the Graduation Dinner. Instead Year 12 students have been welcomed to invite adult guests to help them celebrate. We appreciate all families' support and adherence to this rule.

Year 11 start their HSC courses

On Wednesday evening, 5 November, we will hold our Stage 6 Parent–Teacher interviews and HSC Parent Information Session. The intent of both are to provide families with valuable opportunities to meet teachers, discuss progress, and gather important information about senior studies, expectations, and support available as students commence their HSC journey.

Year 10 Subject Selection Interviews - Confirming HSC Patterns of study

Thank you to all the families who have made the effort and time to support this important element of our subject selection process - there was a 61% take up of this opportunity. The upcoming interviews will confirm their HSC patterns of study for the next two years. These conversations are crucial in helping students make informed decisions that align with their interests, strengths and future goals.

As the term continues, I thank all families for their ongoing support and engagement in their children’s learning whether it’s through Parent Teacher Interviews, Information sessions or other forms. The partnership between home and school remains vital in helping every student achieve their best and is at the heart of the community we continue to foster and commit to, at St Matthews

Year 9 and 10 Exam Week - Week 5

Years 9 and 10 will enter their exam period in Week 5, a time to demonstrate their learning and consolidate the knowledge and skills developed over the year. We encourage students to approach their exams with focus and persistence - to strive for excellence. We wish them all the best in their preparations and examinations.

Farewell and Thank you Fr Cong

During our Monday Mini Assembly we farewelled Fr Cong our Assistant Priest. Fr Cong has been such a vibrant member of the community and a great support to us here at St Matthews. He has been an integral member of the staff futsal team that took out the championship last term and helped lead many spiritual days and retreats. We will miss him very much and wish him all the best in Dubbo.

Bishop’s Christmas Appeal

Meet Verongo, a dedicated teacher on the island of Espiritu Santo in Vanuatu. Each day, Verongo works tirelessly in a simple UNICEF tent with a dirt floor, teaching children whose lives were uprooted after volcanic eruptions forced their families to flee from neighbouring islands. Her students learn in overcrowded, makeshift shelters, yet their dreams for a brighter future remain alive.

For the past six years, the Diocese of Bathurst has fostered a strong partnership with the Diocese of Port Vila, supporting initiatives that strengthen both educational and community foundations. This relationship has led to meaningful projects, from improved financial stewardship to providing young people from Port Vila the opportunity to attend World Youth Day. 

Now, Bishop Michael McKenna, in collaboration with Bishop John Bosco Baremes SM of Port Vila, has pledged to focus the Bishop’s Christmas Appeal on constructing cyclone-resistant classrooms.

Bishop Bosco is eager to offer these children and their families a safe, stable place to learn – a crucial step towards restoring a sense of normalcy and hope. 

By supporting the Bishop’s Missionary Appeal, you can help make Bishop Bosco’s vision a reality for Verongo’s students. This Christmas, please consider a donation. Together, we can provide children with a place to learn and build a future they deserve.

You can make a donation via this link, the appeal envelopes provided in your copy of the Observer Magazine or in your local Church, during one of the Christmas Masses. You can also donate by scanning the QR code below.

Funds raised from this year’s Christmas Appeal, and those in the future, will be administered and dispersed by Catholic Mission, which is providing project support to both Dioceses.

“Together, we can provide children with a place to learn and build a future they deserve,” Bishop Michael said, in launching the appeal.

Your support to help change lives is greatly appreciated.

2024 Bishop's Christmas Appeal

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

Term 4 Liturgies and Events

Belinda Redden | Leader of Mission 

Year Group Administration Classrooms

Just a reminder to keep checking your Administration classrooms. They are updated frequently with all things related to year groups- Eg Scholarships, Work opportunities, SBAT, Upcoming events, Work experience etc

2026 Women of STEM Scholarships

Applications Open - 18 December 2025

• Scholarships are available for female students between the ages of 17-20 who will be commencing their first year in a STEM-related degree in 2026 at an Australian University.
• To confirm your eligibility, please visit our website womenofstem.com.au to verify if your chosen degree qualifies for the Women of STEM scholarship programme.
• Women of STEM is a nationwide initiative that offers the chosen recipient $5,000 annually throughout their university studies (up to 5 years). In 2025, four outstanding female students across Australia received scholarships.

Applications for 2026 Scholarships Close @ 5pm(AEDT) 06/02/2026

www.womenofstem.com.au

Year 10 Work Experience

Work Experience placements closing soon!

If your child is interested in completing work experience this term, please encourage them to see Mrs Tink in her office during break times.

It is a great idea to undertake work experience if your child is looking to gain experience in their preferred industry before undertaking senior studies in 2026.

Job Trends

  

SBAT Opportunities 2026

 

Jacinda Tink | Transition Coordinator 

 Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza 

Saturday was another early start as our team hit the show ring for the judging of our steers. Nellie was leading Poh and Alannah was leading Winnie in their classes. Junior paraders followed in the afternoon, with two of our students representing our school. Will H competed in the 14 years and Flynn competed in the PeeWee's (under 8's), with Flynn bringing home a Highly Commended  We finished the day with more parading and junior judging practice.

  

Sunday brought another early morning, with Junior Judging up first followed by Parading. In Junior Judging, students assessed three classes - an unled Shorthorn bull class, a prime led heifer class and a led steer class. Two of our students, Emmaline and Leon, were chosen to deliver an oral presentation based on their judging. Emmaline received 5th while Leon received a Highly Commended in the 15 years Junior Judging  

  

Parading then followed with more ribbons for our show team! In the 15 years Paraders class, Alannah placed 5th in Heat 5, Riley placed 5th in Heat 9 and Layla received a Highly Commended in Heat 2, while in the 16 years paraders, Will M placed 5th overall 

  

At the conclusion of the competition, our steers were loaded and sent to JBS Scone for processing for the hook component, while our heifers were loaded and brought home.

  

Congratulations to all students for proudly representing St Matthews in our first ever cattle show. Your exceptional work ethic and enthusiasm over the weekend contributed to our overall success.

  

The St Matthews Cattle Show Team extends a big thank you to all teachers, students and supporters who made this opportunity possible. Special thanks also to Moondoogundi Charolais and Queenie Limousins; your support makes these opportunities possible and continues to inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders 

  

      

Kimberley White | Agriculture Teacher and Cattle Club Coordinator 

Throughout the 10 week trading period, 54 students participated in the ASX Stockmarket Game at St Matthews. Of these 54 students, 15 individuals were able to successfully generate a profit. Throughout this period students learnt about the components of trading and strategies to make a return on investment, however, as some students found out, “by the end of the 10 weeks we decided to leave it to the professionals”. Year 9 and 10 students encountered many risks with trading including “the joys and heartbreak of investing in volatile stocks”. 

This year, our top investors were Hunter, who took out third place with a return on investment of $1,441.75. Second place went to Rex generating a return of $2,211.58. Finally, congratulations to our first place winner Lainey with a profit of $7,587.55, equating to an earnings of $758.75 per week over the 10 weeks. 

Congratulations to all students who participated in the ASX Schools Sharemarket Game, in particular to Hunter, Rex and Lainey for their successful trades as part of the ASX Stockmarket Game. 

Karla Croake | Commerce Teacher 

Last week Mrs Skinner, Mrs Swift and Mr Hull took the elective Drama and Music classes to Sydney for a cultural excursion.

The Drama students experienced a NIDA workshop in physical theatre and students a workshop at AIM - each building on the practical performance skills essential for success in these performing arts courses.

Students also enjoyed a night at the theatre seeing Back to the Future the musical - a fabulous production. We also had the pleasure of seeing the Opera House from all angles with a back stage tour before we headed home to Mudgee.

Mrs Kirsty Skinner | Leader of LEarning - CAPA 

St Matthews Shines at Forbes Touch Rugby Gala Day!

Last week, 47 of our talented St Matthew’s students made the trip to Forbes for an action-packed Touch Rugby Gala Day— and what a day it was! With teamwork, sportsmanship, and plenty of try’s, our students represented the school with pride, passion, and true St Matthew’s spirit.

U14 Girls – Year 8 Team: Top of the Pool and Full of Heart

The Year 8 girls were a force to be reckoned with, finishing top of their pool without dropping a single game. They claimed strong wins over MacKillop College and La Salle before receiving a bye that secured their spot at the top. Their consistency and communication on the field were second to none.

In the semifinals, they faced none other than the Year 7 St Matthew’s girls in a thrilling all-St Matt’s clash — a game that truly showcased the depth of talent within our school.

U14 Boys Teams: Fighting Hard and Playing Fair

Both of our U14 boys’ teams showed grit, heart, and determination all day.

Team 1 kicked things off with a great win over St Ralph’s before falling to Red Bend. They bounced back with a convincing victory in their next match, earning a semifinal spot. There, they faced Red Bend again and bowed out respectfully after a tough contest.

Team 2 faced a challenging draw, going down to La Salle and James Sheehan but showing great improvement throughout the day. They also enjoyed a friendly match against the other St Matthew’s boys’ team — a spirited contest full of smiles, teamwork, and sportsmanship!

Senior Boys: Skill, Speed, and Spirit

Our senior boys delivered some high-quality touch rugby, drawing 3–3 with La Salle, securing a solid 3–0 win over James Sheehan, and narrowly losing to Red Bend in a close battle. Their strong performance earned them a semifinal rematch with James Sheehan, who just edged them out this time around.

The boys bowed out with pride, having played fast, smart, and fair rugby all day. Red Bend went on to claim the Opens title overall.

Senior Girls: Never Giving Up

Our senior girls faced tough opposition from both MacKillop College teams, as well as James Sheehan and Red Bend. Despite some tight calls not going their way, the girls never stopped fighting and played with true St Matthew’s spirit — encouraging one another, staying positive, and showing great resilience.

Their teamwork and attitude made us proud from the first whistle to the last.

U14 Girls – Year 7 Team: The Mighty Seven!

Saving the best for last — what a story this was! Our incredible Year 7 girls’ team, made up of six players and one sub, were nothing short of inspirational. Despite having the smallest squad of the tournament, they stormed through the pool stage unbeaten, drawing only with James Sheehan — the very team they would later meet again in the grand final.

The final was a true thriller! The match finished 2–2, sending it to a tense drop-off that had the sidelines holding their breath. Earlier in the day, the two teams had drawn 3–3 in the pool stages — proving just how evenly matched they were.

To make it even more special, their semifinal saw both St Matthews U14 girls’ teams face off in a fiercely contested but friendly encounter, refereed by two St Matthew’s students. It was St Matthew’s spirit on full display — teamwork, respect, and a whole lot of heart.

These Year 7 girls showed remarkable resilience and determination, playing every minute with courage and pride. Their effort, sportsmanship, and teamwork made them true ambassadors for our school.

More Than Just a Game

Beyond the scores and tries, what made the day so special was how our students carried themselves — respectful, enthusiastic, and proud representatives of St Matthews from start to finish.

A huge congratulations to every one of the 47 students who travelled to Forbes. You embodied our school values in every sense. These are the moments you’ll look back on fondly — the friendships, the bus rides, and the thrill of giving it your all on the field.

Remember: life isn’t a spectator sport — keep taking opportunities, having a go, and cherishing these incredible experiences.

Well done, St Matthews! You’ve made us all incredibly proud.

Jack Elston | PDHPE Teacher

Week 2

Our Year 7 Rugby Leadership students took part in another fantastic session this week, engaging positively and showing great enthusiasm throughout. The focus of the session was on how the St Matthews Way values — Courage , Compassion , Respect , Excellence , and Service — can be applied not only on the rugby field but also in the classroom.

Students also learned how to tackle safely and correctly, building confidence and applying their new skills in a controlled contact situation. It was wonderful to see the boys identifying and demonstrating the value of Courage, both in their sporting performance and approach to learning.

The group continues to grow in confidence, leadership, and teamwork each week — we’re proud of their progress and look forward to seeing them continue to apply these values across all areas of school life.

Week 3

Showing Courage in Action

This week, our Year 7 Rugby Leadership group continued to build on their progress with a session focused on safe and effective tackling techniques. Students showed great courage, focus, and teamwork as they developed their contact skills in a controlled and supportive environment.

Following last week’s challenge to demonstrate the St Matthews Way across all areas of school life, the group rose to the occasion — achieving an incredible 50 merit awards in just one week!  This achievement highlights how the students are living out the values of Courage, Compassion, Respect, Service, and Excellence both on and off the field.

It was a fantastic session filled with energy, effort, and positive attitudes — well done to all involved! The challenge is now on to see if they can continue this standard and take their leadership and values even further next week.

Check out some highlights from the sessions below!

Jack Elston | Rugby Leadership Program Coordinator

Year 8 Rugby Leadership Group – Displaying Courage and the St Matthews Way

The Year 8 Rugby Leadership Group had a fantastic session this week, putting The St Matthews Way values into action — particularly courage.

Students took part in a full-contact session that required confidence, discipline, and teamwork. It was great to see them encouraging one another, demonstrating resilience in challenging situations, and applying the skills they’ve developed over the term.

The session concluded with a competitive game where students showcased not only their growing ability but also their respect and sportsmanship — key elements of The St Matthews Way.

This program continues to provide opportunities for our young leaders to grow both on and off the field, reinforcing the importance of service, courage, respect, and integrity in all they do.

Well done to the Year 8 group for their effort and enthusiasm throughout the session!

Jack Elston | Rugby Program Coordinator 

PPEP Talk® Next Steps is a FREE online session for students who have identified a complex pain concern or would like their caregiver to know more. It’s a brilliant opportunity for students who are struggling. 

The upcoming Next Steps session is scheduled to take place on 19 November.

Students attend with a caregiver and have the opportunity to ask questions with our Gynaecologist and Pain Specialist Dr Susan Evans.

Students can register here: https://www.pelvicpain.org.au/ppep-talk-schools-program/ppep-talk-next-steps/

The PPEP Talk Next Steps flyer has more information.

Ryan Barnett | Stage 5 Coordinator 

ABC National Top 100 books of the 21st Century - What’s everyone reading?

The ABC has released its Top 100 Books of the Century list — and it’s packed with stories that have shaped the way we see the world, sparked powerful conversations and inspired readers of all ages. From fantasy adventures and dystopian futures to powerful true stories, this list celebrates the books that have left a mark on our generation and the world.

Why does it matter?

Reading isn’t just about turning pages — it opens doors to new ideas, cultures and perspectives. The books on this list remind us how stories can:

• Challenge the way we think
  
  
• Boost creativity and imagination
  
  
• Help us understand people and experiences different from our own
  
  
• Entertain us (yes, even more than TikTok — sometimes)
  
  
• Plus, being able to discuss trending books is a serious pop-culture flex.

Highlights

In the Learning Centre we have many of the titles on the list…..

Harry Potter series — Magic, mischief and unforgettable characters
The Hunger Games — Survival, rebellion and big “fight the system” vibes
The Book Thief — A powerful story that stays with you
Tomorrow, When the War Began — Aussie teens who find bravery when their world changes overnight
The Fault in Our Stars — Love, loss and life’s big questions

How many books from the Top 100 have you read?

Set a goal this term — could you read one from the list? Or try a genre you don’t usually pick?

Library Displays

Jacinda Sugden | Teacher/Librarian

Students at the Secondary campus have embraced the opportunity to learn new skills each Monday morning at Craft Club. From learning how to knit during the cooler weather to embroidering some Christmas-themed projects as the year progresses, our students have enjoyed the opportunity to connect, learn, and even teach each other.

Most recently, we have been developing our ability to crochet - something that Mrs Thorn is happy to be taught how to do by some very adept student teachers. She’s taken on some constructive feedback, but has a long way to go before she can be trusted with a bigger project!

Thank you to those students who come along for a morning of learning and connection, demonstrating the St Matthews values of Courage as they take on new challenges.

Emily Thorn | Craft Club Coordinator