As we come to the end of the year I would like to thank you for your ongoing support of St Anthony’s. There have been a number of positive initiatives that have built on the important partnership between home and school. As a Catholic community, we pray that each family is able to embrace  the important message of Christmas of celebrating the birth of Jesus by spending joyous time together in prayer and celebration.

This year, as a school, the staff have felt the privilege of becoming a part of this community.  The dedication and commitment of the staff are to be commended as they strive to meet the needs of all students. I am grateful every day at St Anthony’s for the contribution of our community to the learning and faith journey of our students. A sincere thank you to Fr Peter for his leadership of the community, his everyday faith witness and his enduring wisdom. 

At the end of this year we say farewell to a number of staff members. To Miss Pamela Di Domizio, Miss Kellie Rogan and Mr Andrew Birkett I would like to thank them for their contribution to the growth of all the students they have taught. Miss Rochelle Downs, who has been on a year of leave and Mrs Stehanie Brown, who has been working at St Michaels Thirroul as the Religious Education Coordinator, will also not be returning to St Anthony’s and we acknowledge them for their professionalism and wonderful dedication to the life of our school. I would especially like to acknowledge the work of Mrs Anne Cordingley, Mrs Therese Neilson and Mrs Lisa Vidler who will be retiring from their positions at St Anthony’s at the end of the year. Anne, Therese and Lisa will leave a lasting impression on the families and staff of St Anthony’s. Their professional manner and dedication over many years have made them well respected members of our community. To all the staff that are leaving we wish them well on the new endeavors.

Thank you to the P&F this year for their innovative approach to ensuring our students and community all had an opportunity to be involved in various activities throughout the year. The community is in your debt. 

Thank you also to the canteen and uniform committees who have continued to provide a valuable service to our community. We are very fortunate to have you volunteer in this capacity. 

On behalf of the staff of St Anthony’s I wish you a wonderful time with your family over the holiday break and a very happy and holy Christmas.