Newsletter | Work hand in hand, be the light that heals the Earth

Celebrating the Class of 2026

Over recent weeks, our College community has gathered for two significant milestones in the life of Our Lady of Sion College, our Term 4 College Assembly and Investiture of the 2027 Student Leaders, and the Graduation Ceremony for the Class of 2026. Together, these occasions marked both an ending and a beginning as we celebrated the contribution of our graduating students and commissioned those who will help lead our community into the future.

The College Assembly provided an opportunity to farewell the Year 12 cohort and formally commission our 2027 student leaders with the responsibility of service and leadership. Inspired by the theme from the song Seasons of Love, we reflected on how the value of a year, and indeed a life, cannot simply be measured by time or achievement, but by the impact we have on one another.

For the Class of 2026, their Sion journey has been shaped by countless moments of courage, friendship, perseverance and growth. They have contributed much to our community through their leadership, enthusiasm, generosity and spirit. As they prepare to leave through our Cherry Red Gates, they do so knowing that the relationships they have built and the example they have set will continue to shape our College long after they leave.

The Investiture of our 2027 student leaders was a powerful symbol of continuity within our community. As one generation of leaders concluded its service, another accepted the responsibility of helping create a community where every student feels welcomed, valued and known. It was a reminder that leadership is measured not by titles, but by influence; by the culture we help create, the opportunities we provide for others and the difference we make in their lives.

I also take this opportunity to congratulate the following students who received awards at the Graduation ceremony on Wednesday evening:

Valedictorian: Bani K (12 Purple)
Simone Richardson Award: Georgia D (12 Blue)
Mollie Holman Award: Diya P (12 Gold)
St Cecilia Award Choral: Sarita T (12 Red)
St Cecilia Award Bands & Orchestra: Amy F (12 Silver)
Excellence in VCE Vocational Major Award: Holly L (12 Silver)
ADF Leadership & Teamwork Award: Samantha O’D (12 Blue)
Rotary Citizen Award: Anria A (12 White)
Sion Spirit Award: Elana V (12 Red)
Sion Woman of the Year Award: Cecilia B (12 Red)

Wisdom Leaders of Catholic Religious Institute and Ministerial Public Juridic Person Victorian Schools (CRMV)

At the end of last term, Sister Mary Barbuto was recognised by CRMV as a Wisdom Leader. This honour acknowledges individuals who have made a significant contribution to Catholic education in Victoria through their leadership, wisdom and commitment to mission.

The recognition celebrates those who have helped preserve and strengthen the legacy of their founding congregations while guiding Catholic education with insight, collegiality and a spirit of service. We warmly congratulate Sister Mary on this well-deserved recognition and thank her for her outstanding contribution to our College and the wider Catholic education community.

Sowing Seeds of Hope Through Action

One of the most powerful expressions of our College vision, Sowing Seeds of Hope, has been the remarkable generosity demonstrated by our students, staff and families through Sion Day 2026.

I am delighted to share that together our College community raised an extraordinary $24,667 in support of education and humanitarian initiatives in the Holy Land and Gaza.

The funds have already been distributed to assist Palestinian students attending primary and secondary schools in Jerusalem, as well as students studying at Bethlehem University. As the new academic year commenced, our support helped provide students with the assurance that their education could continue and their school fees had been paid.

In addition, we made a significant contribution to the Caritas Gaza Appeal, supporting those whose lives have been affected by ongoing conflict. This assistance will help provide essential food, clean water, emergency shelter and healthcare to individuals and families facing immense hardship.

Recently, we received a letter from Bethlehem University expressing heartfelt gratitude for the College's continued support of the Our Lady of Sion College Annual Scholarship. In acknowledging our contribution, Vice President for Advancement, Brother Jack Curran FSC, wrote that it is especially meaningful to know that scholarship recipients Christy and Dana can continue their studies with the encouragement and support of the Our Lady of Sion College community.

He noted that our generosity provides important financial assistance while also reminding these young women that their education and future are valued and supported. Perhaps most movingly, he thanked our College community for continuing to stand with Christy and Dana and with Bethlehem University and recognised that our friendship and support are an important part of providing educational opportunity for young people.

These words are a powerful reminder that the impact of Sion Day extends far beyond a fundraising total. Through our collective efforts, we have helped create opportunities, support aspirations and strengthen hope for young people whose access to education is often shaped by circumstances beyond their control.

As a community inspired by the values of justice, compassion and service, we can take great pride in knowing that our actions have made a genuine difference. The funds raised on Sion Day are more than a donation; they are a tangible expression of solidarity and a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together in support of others.

Thank you to every student, staff member, family and supporter who contributed to this remarkable achievement. Together, we have sown seeds of hope that will continue to bear fruit in the lives of others.

2026 ACU School Leaders Program to Rome and London

Congratulations to Amelia W (11 Blue), who has been selected to participate in the 2026 ACU School Leaders Program to be held in Rome and London, commencing in November.

Amelia will join Year 11 students from Catholic schools across Melbourne for three weeks of leadership formation, cultural immersion and exploration of the Catholic tradition and Western civilisation.

This is a wonderful opportunity for Amelia to deepen her understanding of leadership, faith and culture while experiencing two of the world’s most significant cities. We wish Amelia all the very best for this incredible journey!

The start of Term 4 always brings a sense of transition, and last week was no exception as our school community gathered for the annual Investiture Assembly. The event served as a heartfelt tribute to our outgoing College and Portfolio Captains, whose steady guidance and enthusiasm have shaped the past year. As we honoured their contributions, we officially commissioned our newly appointed student leaders, passing the torch to them as they step into their roles through the remainder of this year and into 2027.

Our new student leaders then spent two days on retreat in Warburton, where they engaged in discussions surrounding the Sion charism and the College’s vision and mission, inspiring them to explore how their leadership can make a meaningful impact on the broader College community. They creatively reflected on who they are as leaders through the construction of lanterns. These were used as a part of the closing liturgy which was centred around the scripture from Isaiah 6: 8-Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I; send me!'.

Thank you

This week, a thank-you lunch brought together our Social Justice, Liturgy and FIRE Carrier year level representatives and outgoing Portfolio Captains for one final moment of shared reflection. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the milestones achieved through their collective efforts and allowed our Captains to thank the students who supported them.

We offer our special thanks to Lorena G (12 Blue), our Liturgy Captain, who poured her heart into enriching our spiritual life and helping the Liturgy Team lead chapel prayers and celebrations that were deeply reflective and faith filled. We also recognise and thank Anria A (12 Purple), whose compassionate leadership as Social Justice Captain continuously challenged us to put our school's mission into action and advocate for others. We thank Ananya D (12 Silver) for her deep commitment to reconciliation and raising awareness of First Nations cultures and histories within our school community as FIRE Carrier Captain.

2027 Captains

We now extend our congratulations and a warm welcome to our new Liturgy Captain, Amelia W (11 Blue), Social Justice Captain, Zara D (11 Silver) and FIRE Carrier Captain, Biddy B (11 White). We look forward to the leadership and inspiration they will bring in the months ahead.

Year 12 Graduation Eucharist

Finally, the Year 12 Graduation Eucharist, celebrated by our College Chaplain Fr. Mark Reynolds was held on Wednesday evening. Reaching the end of a six-year journey at Our Lady of Sion College, our graduating students reflected on their growth and offered sincere thanks to their families, friends, and staff who nurtured them along the way. Reflecting scripture from Joshua 1:5-9 and Matthew 5:13-16, the eucharist delivered a clear message to our Year 12 students about stepping forward with hope and courage, holding fast to their faith, and letting their kindness be felt by others as they move forward into the future.

Wishing all members of the College community many blessings.

Welcoming Our 2027 Student Leaders

We are delighted to welcome our 2027 Student Leadership Team and congratulate the students who have put themselves forward to lead, represent and serve our College community. These young women bring enthusiasm, hope and a genuine desire to make a positive difference to the life of Sion.

Our College Captains and SRC leaders, Violet D and Simona C, will lead alongside a dedicated team of students who will represent their peers, champion student voice and contribute to the rich academic, sporting, creative, spiritual and social life of the College.

We congratulate our 2027 leaders:

College Captains/SRC: Violet D (11 White) and Simona C (11 White)
Liturgy Captain: Amelia W (11 Blue)
Social Justice Captain: Zara D (11 Silver)
Debating Captain: Kayla G (11 Gold)
Drama Captain: Leticia G (11 Gold)
Environment Captain: Molly P (11 Gold)
Fire Carrier: Biddy B (11 White)
Music Captain: Charlotte R (11 Purple)
Sport Captains: Maddison R (11 White) and Isabelle A (11 White)
Visual Arts Captain: Grace C (11 Blue)
Carmel House Representatives: Freya B (11 White) and Jiajia D (11 Silver)
Fatima House Representatives: Kayley C (11 Purple) and Ava R (11 Purple)
Loreto House Representatives: Alessia G (11 Blue) and Claire R (11 Gold)
Lourdes House Representatives: Lara W (11 Purple) and Ava K (11 Gold)

We look forward to seeing these students embrace their responsibilities, listen to the voices of others, collaborate with their peers and bring their ideas to life. Leadership at Sion is an opportunity to live out our College values, demonstrate compassion, act with integrity and contribute to a community where every student feels valued and connected.

In a world where young people are constantly exposed to competing messages and influences, good leaders and positive role models matter more than ever. By putting themselves forward with enthusiasm, hope and a genuine desire to serve their College, our 2027 leaders have taken an important first step. We encourage them to lead with courage, kindness and humility, inspiring others not simply through what they achieve, but through how they treat people and the difference they make in the lives of others.

We congratulate all our student leaders and look forward to a wonderful year of leadership, service and shared purpose in 2027.

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families resource

The Happy Families article for this edition is: The Screen Time Problem Doesn't End When Kids Start School

As the Class of 2026 concluded their classes this week, their final weeks have been marked by a number of significant events and milestones, highlighting how special this time is for our school community.

Upon their return to school, the Year 12s were touched by the welcoming display of encouraging and thoughtful messages from the Year 7 students. This heartfelt gesture is a reminder of the great sense of community at the College.

Investiture Assembly

Last week, at the Investiture Assembly, our 2026 leaders officially handed over their responsibilities to the incoming 2027 leaders. I would like to congratulate and sincerely thank our leaders for the outstanding work they have undertaken this year across their various portfolios. I would also like to thank Kate Apostolopoulos for her guidance of these students in their roles.

As part of a cherished tradition, the Year 12 cohort presents a gift to the College community as a token of gratitude. This year, the students chose to support local female artist Artwork by Caz, commissioning an original painting that celebrates growth, friendship and womanhood.

Year 12 Gratitude Morning Tea

With a continued sense of gratitude, Monday also marked a special celebration of the teachers who have played a significant role in both the educational and personal growth of our students throughout their years at Our Lady of Sion College. The students hosted a morning tea for all the staff within the school which was greatly appreciated.

Vinnie's Soup Van

As part of their Personal Development Skills unit, our Year 12 Vocational Major students baked muffins and quiches for the Vinnie's Soup Van. While this week marks a time of celebration and milestones, their generosity also shows they are prepared to enter the world with compassion and a drive to make a difference.

Graduation Mass and Ceremony

On Wednesday evening, we acknowledged each individual student at our Graduation Mass and Ceremony. As part of this evening some special awards were announced and I congratulate all the recipients. Thank you to all who attended for making this such a memorable evening for our students.

On behalf of the Class of 2026, I would like to acknowledge and thank the Year 12 Homeroom team, Karen Read, Stephanie Mainwaring, Carolyn Anderson, Chris Wilkes, Kate Apostolopoulos, Melissa Walsh and Amy Garnham for their ongoing care of our Year 12 students throughout the year. I would also like to thank the Year 12 subject teachers who have supported our students with their academic endeavours. We are also grateful for the ongoing guidance and expertise given by Dale Hunter and Brooke O’Hara to our students.

To the Class of 2026, I wish you all the very best in the weeks ahead. To those preparing for final exams, I wish you success in your revision and study. For those who are not sitting exams, I hope you enjoy a well-earned and restful break before embarking on your future pathway. It has been a privilege to walk alongside you during this final stage of secondary schooling.

Significant People, Significant Lives Project Launch

This week the Year 9s hosted the annual Significant People, Significant Lives Project Launch. This project, which is part of the AYIN program, welcomed people of significance in the lives of our students to the College to celebrate their contributions to the community through art and an accompanying biography. Each student selected someone of significance, interviewed them about their life and then created a canvas artwork for display. While the project looked slightly different in design this year, the quality of the work continued to show the outstanding artistic talents of our students.

This year we heard from Kirsty Porter, the founder of Umbrella Dementia Cafes, and Clarissa Iacobucci, who is the CEO of DSI Autobody. Both spoke about how their lives involved twists and turns that they had to work through - both positive and challenging - and that through courage and curiosity they experienced success, not only in their lives but through the support they provide to others as well. Kirsty and Clarissa both spoke about their experiences of Year 9, that their sense of 'who they would be' in the future was much different to what they probably expected at 15, but valued the journey along the way.

Diaz C (9 Blue) and Tessa C (9 White) proudly introduced their Significant People, with their introduction shared below:

Today, we are lucky to have Clarissa Iacobucci here with us to share her experiences and tell us about her journey in the automotive industry. Clarissa is the CEO of DSI Autobody and the owner of two panel shops. She has built a successful career in an industry that is traditionally male-dominated, making her a great example of determination, confidence and strong leadership. As one of the few women in her field, she has shown that your gender should never stand in the way of achieving your goals. Today, Clarissa will talk to us about her career, the challenges she has faced and what it has been like to succeed in the automotive industry. Diaz C (9 Blue)

I’m very grateful to welcome my significant person, Kirsty Porter, to our school today. Kirsty is the founder of the Umbrella Dementia Café, which helps people living with dementia and their families feel connected and included. Kirsty is an inspiring person who has shown how one idea and a passion for helping others can make a real difference. I’m very excited for her to share her story with us today. Tessa C (9 White)

We thank all of the Significant People who were able to join us on Tuesday and to members within our community who continue to positively contribute to the lives of our students. Through this project, students are able to recognise the role models in their lives and to make deeper connections to the possibilities of their futures.

Term 4 Vocal and String Soirées

Congratulations to all students that performed solo and chamber music items at the Vocal Soiree and String Soiree earlier this week. There were so many students who showed off some excellent performance skills in solo, small group and large ensemble settings.

Sion Intermediate Concert Band at the St Luke's Primary School fete – Sunday 18 October

Our wonderful Intermediate Concert Band will perform at the St Luke’s Blackburn South Primary School fete this coming Sunday 18 October at 12.00 pm. Information has been sent to those students and families involved.

2027 Instrumental Music lessons at Sion

Enrolments are now open and available on-line for Instrumental Music lessons in 2027. All the details including fees, instrument hire charges and conditions are available via this link. Confirmation of enrolment needs to be completed here. Please note that charges will be applied to your College fees statement in early 2027. Address any enquiries to the Head of Music.

Instrumental Music Lesson Scholarship Applications

A limited number of instrumental music lesson scholarships, lasting two years, will be made available in 2027 to students currently in Years 7 and 8 for the following instruments:

Viola
Cello
Double Bass
Electric Bass
French Horn
Euphonium
Trombone
Percussion
Guitar

Interested students/families should email Mr Macaulay for an application form.

Term 4 Music Soiree

Our upcoming Term 4 Music Soiree, is the final performance opportunity for our students to perform. Parents/carers are most welcome to attend. See details below.

Year 7 Junior Concert Bands – Monday and Tuesday Concert Bands

Both Year 7 Concert Bands (the Monday morning group and the Tuesday afternoon group) will be representing Sion at the Victorian Schools Music Festival (VSMF) on Monday 9 November, at the Hawthorn Arts Centre. This event is open to the public, free and live-streamed, with more details to be announced in coming weeks. String and voice students will have a special program on-site at Sion that day.

Year 7 Spring Concert – Save the Date

All Year 7 musicians, ensembles, small groups, and those Year 7s in Intermediate level ensembles will be performing at the annual Year 7 Spring Music Concert, on Tuesday 10 November at 7.00 pm in the Louise Humann Centre. Look out for your EdSmart consent form, as well as the TryBooking link for your free tickets that will be sent to you on Tuesday 20 October.

Sion First (Year 6) Music Program 2027

Those families with students currently in Year 5 (Year 6, 2027) are invited to the Sion First Music Program launch on Wednesday 11 November 7.00 pm in the Miriam Theatre. This is an opportunity to find out about this terrific program, students can trial a number of string, woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Please see below for further information and details on how to register.

Auditions for College Vocal Ensemble (CVE)

Calling all singers! Those wishing to audition to be a part of our top choir, the College Vocal Ensemble (CVE), are asked to prepare a song and make a time to audition with Jane Murone (CVE director) by emailing her. Auditions will take place in week 3, on Thursday 22 October.

All Schools Track and Field Results

Eight Sionians headed to Albert Park over the holidays to compete in the Athletics Victoria All School Track and Field Championships at Lakeside Stadium.

Our students performed exceptionally, including six podium finishes and ten top ten finishes.

We would like to acknowledge our 2026 Sports Captains Erin M (12 Red) and Sam O D (12 Blue), who have undertaken their last Track and Field races with Team Sion, it has been amazing having you involved and seeing you improve each season. We hope you maintain a lifelong passion for Track and Field beyond the Cherry Red Gates, and return to Sion to coach the next generation of athletes in the coming years!

Results

U20 100m - 3rd Sam O (12 Blue)
U15 100m - 17th Carla P (9 Red) and 32nd Olivia W (8 Gold)
U20 200m - 3rd Sam O (12 Blue)
U15 200m - 10th Carla P (9 Red)
U15 400m - 6th Olivia W (8 Gold) and 14th Carla P (9 Red)
U20 800m - 1st Erin M (12 Red)
U20 1500m - 2nd Erin M (12 Red)
U18 1500m - 7th Sophie F (11 White)
U15 1500m - 6th Molly D (8 Gold)
U20 100m Hurdles - 2nd Sam O (12 Blue)
U17 400m Hurdles - 3rd Olivia W (8 Gold)
U14 Discus - 13th Alexandra P (7 Red)

Congratulations to everyone who participated on an incredible effort!

AFLW State Draft - Maeve Gill

Congratulations to Maeve G (12 White) who participated in the 2026 AFLW State Draft Combine during the holidays, our fifth student to participate in an AFLW Draft Combine in the last four years.

Testing was held at the State Netball and Hockey Centre, with participants completing a standing vertical jump, running vertical jump, 20m sprint and agility test. A 2km time trial was completed on the opening day of each Combine.

Well done again Maeve on such a terrific achievement!

Diving Australia Junior Elite Championships

Olivia M (12 Gold) and Ella R (12 Purple) competed at the Diving Australia Junior Championships last week. Both finished all A grade events within the Top 8 in Australia, with Liv finishing 3rd in the 3M Team Synchro.

Our preseason diving kicked off at PLC on Wednesday morning. It will run for three weeks in preparation for our Term 1 Swim and Dive season. It is a great opportunity to give diving a go or continue your development.

Victorian Junior Golf Open

Over the holidays, Adele P (9 Purple) did exceptionally at the Victorian Junior Open finishing as runner-up in the Under 16 (nett). The Open was a four-day event, and in one round, she scored 78! Adele has moved her handicap to single figures with strong commitment to training and competitions in rain, hail or shine.

Her next golfing event will be at the end of November for the Victorian Junior Masters, our community will be cheering you on Adele!

2026 GSV Rep Team Celebration Evening

Katie D (12 White) presented to GSV Rep families last week at the Rep Team Celebration Evening held at MLC. We had six students selected in the GSV Rep program this year. Please see below a recap from Katie:

The GSV Awards Night was a great opportunity to reflect on my experiences within the GSV Soccer Representative Team and celebrate the growth of girls’ sport. At the beginning of the night, I shared how being selected for the team for the third time has allowed me to see how much the program has grown, particularly through the increasing number of girls trialling and getting involved. I also shared how much I value the supportive and encouraging environment that GSV creates, bringing together talented girls from different schools and clubs who all share a passion for their sport. I enjoyed every second of this opportunity and will miss being in the team again. Katie D (12 White)

Well done Katie, we look forward to seeing you continue your Soccer journey in the years to come!

Welcome to Term 4!

As we begin our final term of the year, there are plenty of opportunities to get involved, support others and put social justice into action. It is a chance for us to come together as a College community and continue to live out our Sion values through acts of compassion, justice and service.

Farewell lunch and welcome to new Captains

We recently hosted a lunch to farewell our Year 12 Liturgy Captain, Lorena G (12 White), Social Justice Captain, Anria A (12 White), and FIRE Carrier, Ananya D S (12 Gold) and to thank all our Year Level Representatives from Years 7 - 11 for their wonderful contributions this year.

I would like to take a moment to thank Anria A (12 White) and Ananya D S (12 Gold) for all they have contributed to our College. Both have given their time, energy and enthusiasm to their roles and have helped make a difference in our community. We are grateful for their commitment to social justice, reconciliation and living out our College values.

We wish them all the best for the future and invite you to read their reflections on their time as Captains.

Reflection by Anria A (12 White), Social Justice Captain

"Never see a need without doing something about it." Mary Mackillop

Displayed in the assembly hall of my primary school, these words stayed with me long after I first discovered them. When I first arrived at Sion in Year 7, I was drawn to the Social Justice Program and how committed the students and staff involved were in promoting justice and compassion. I still remember how nervous I was for my interview with Jordin, the 2021 Social Justice Captain, visiting Homerooms while reading information about initiatives from an iPad and the joy of helping out at the McFlurry stall on Sion Day.

Since then, I’ve had the privilege of participating in, coordinating and promoting various initiatives over the years. This year was particularly significant for Social Justice, with more than $13,300 raised for Project Compassion through our online portal, bake sale and Easter Raffle. Our Vinnies Conference has also continued its wonderful work, regularly gathering to create scrunchies, tote bags and Christmas cards for donation. In addition, we promoted women’s health through initiatives such as the Colour Fun Run and Pink Accessories Initiative.

As the 2026 Social Justice Captain, I am so proud of the kindness and generosity of our school community whether through the enthusiasm of students participating or volunteering their time or the dedication of staff who help bring these initiatives to life. I would especially like to thank Mrs Miotello who has worked tirelessly behind the scenes this year, writing up countless proposals, planning events and boosting student engagement.

I would also like to thank my Social Justice Representatives, Charlotte D B (11 Purple), Clare N (10 White), Alice D (10 Purple), Tiffany E (9 Red), Maia F (9 Silver), Harriet A (8 Purple), Genevieve W (8 Gold), Alona A (7 Silver) and Eloise N (7 Silver) who have dedicated numerous lunchtimes to meetings and assisting with events. I am so grateful to have worked alongside you all! Anria A, Social Justice Captain

Reflection by Ananya D S (12 Gold), FIRE Carrier Captain

As my time as a FIRE Carrier Captain comes to an end, I want to take a moment to reflect on how grateful I am to have been given this incredible opportunity. Being a FIRE Carrier has been such a meaningful aspect of my time at school with opportunities that I'll carry with me long after I leave the role.

I am especially grateful to all the FIRE Carriers, teachers and Mrs Miotello, whose support helped make these initiatives possible. I am also thankful to everyone who supported my initiative to create a Wurundjeri Seasonal Calendar, which will be displayed soon!

It's been an absolute privilege to hold the position, and I'm so happy to now pass the role on to the 2027 FIRE Carrier Captain, Biddy B (11 White). I wish Biddy all the very best and know she'll do an amazing job carrying the role forward.

Thank you for an unforgettable year! Ananya D S (12 Gold), FIRE Carrier Captain

Welcome 2027 Captains

I am delighted to welcome our new Year 12 Captains for 2027:

Zara D (11 Silver) - Social Justice Captain
Biddy B (11 White) – FIRE Carrier Captain

Handover HeARTwork Project Workshop

Our Year 8 students recently took part in their final workshop for the Handover HeARTwork Project. This project gives students the opportunity to show compassion and care for families who are going through the loss of a loved one in a healthcare setting.

During the workshops, students decorated paper carry bags that will be provided to healthcare facilities. These bags are used to return a patient’s belongings to their loved ones after they have passed away. While it may seem like a small gesture, it is a thoughtful way to show care and respect for families during a very difficult time.

A big thank you to all the Year 8 students who have been involved in the four workshops throughout the year. Your time, care and effort will make a difference to families when they need it most.