On Wednesday l had the pleasure to attend my first Damascus Day Celebration. Damascus Day is an important day in the life of the College. It is the day when we celebrate our identity as a Catholic co-educational secondary college. It is a day when we recognise those who had the foresight and who laboured to provide the opportunities and facilities that exist today; the parents, parishioners, priests, religious brothers and sisters that created the buoyant college community that is Damascus College in 2022. And, of course, 2022 marks the 28^th year of our College, being combined from three foundation Colleges. We have much to be proud of when we think of our founding Colleges: Sacred Heart, St Paul’s Technical School and St. Martin’s in the Pines. It is in knowing and respecting our past that we can continue to grow in our next chapter.

As a new member of the community, l was delightfully surprised and bursting with pride as l watched so many of your young people engaged and actively participating in the liturgy. Ably led by Mr Tony Haintz and members of the Faith Team, so many students were able to explore our College theme ‘Abide in God’s love, and you will bear much fruit,’ each student was able to work on an aspect of the vine in RE classes, each Year 7 surrounded the altar during the consecration of the eucharist, our singers sang with joy and pride. Whilst our media students capably filmed our celebration. The Eucharist was led by Father Ed Moloney from the Cathedral. This was a significant day as this was our first full College liturgy where we could be together in over two years. The students were able to use the opportunity to reflect on the past two years and be joyful to be together.

I have included aspects of my first address as College Principal and appropriately on Damascus Day.

As we emerge from the loneliness and isolation of our COVID lockdowns, we need to remind ourselves of Christs’ love and life. A god of heart, humility, compassion and justice. The Sisters of Mercy have left a strong legacy here at Damascus. In my short ten weeks, l have seen how we at Damascus live with an open heart, not to judge, to embrace all that life presents itself with, and be joyful. Your passion for one another and life is what makes our College so vibrant. I challenge each and every one of you to feel and abide in God’s love through authentic and respectful relationships. Surround yourself with people who love unconditionally, accept you for who you are and allow you to live with honesty and integrity. Make sure you have friends and family who are willing to tell you when you’re great and also not so great! You need people to help you recognise when you need to get your priorities right and to be your best.

Today l want you to take away three messages.

Be Brave: Accept your challenges, know your flaws and work with what you have. Do not let any obstacles stand in your way; I know when l need the support of my family and friends. I know myself well enough that when l cannot solve a problem or dilemma, I consult, l talk and l talk – l go to people who may not give me the answers l want to hear. In my heart, l know l have the answers: quiet prayer and stillness helps me make a decision.

Be Strong: Know and trust yourself. You know when something does not feel right, trust your instinct and trust the whisperings of your God. I sometimes try to stand outside myself to see how my behaviour is being perceived by others – Am l proud of how l am treating myself and others?

Be The Best version of yourself each and every day. When l start my day at home and come to work, l wonder have l made someone feel better and stronger about themselves. Do l need to apologise or repair a relationship?

Today l celebrate the gift and privilege of being the Principal of Damascus College – I know l am on the shoulders of great leaders of the past. Past principals and the Sisters of Mercy, whose rich culture is palpable here at Mount Clear.

But we need to remember you, the students and learners at Damascus College, are a gift to one another and to this community. You are our future leaders.

You have a challenge to build and create a better world, to promote respect for each and every individual no matter their race, gender, ability, sexuality or faith.

Each day l am thankful as l have the privilege to laugh, to hear your stories and to be a part of your magnificent life. I have been blessed by your wisdom, your tenacity and your joy for life and one another.

Today l know that you are our future, strong young people who have a strong sense of purpose, always looking out for each other. You have an amazing future in whichever pathway you choose, whether work, TAFE or university. You have an opportunity to abide in God’s love in your service to your community and family. You will carry with you the love of your God and walk gently in the footsteps of your God.

I have felt privileged and humbled by your generous Spirit, welcoming heart and passion for life. I am looking forward to learning more about you, as individuals, as learners and how we can create a Damascus community that celebrates each person’s dignity

I urge you to abide in your god’s love, Walk humbly with your God, your loved ones, and you will ultimately be happy – you will make mistakes, sometimes stumble and even fall. Stand Tall, Stand Proud because you are Damascus, and you are a gift to your family, friends and community.

After the Eucharistic Celebration, our community participated in many wonderful events organised by the SRC and Ms Goonan. One can see through the many photos a memorable time was held by all. We are grateful for the leadership of the SRC and Ms Goonan, and a special mention to our VCAL students who contributed and co-ordinated to the organisation of the festivities.

Last week we had a number of key events, and I thank our students and staff who have made these possible and helped each one of us to live our fullness of life. Our students participated in the Year 7 & 8 Beach Party, a group of Year 11 students engaged in the Winter Sleepout, and we hosted our Music Concert – a night with the movies, whilst BAS sport continued. Students who engage in the fullness of College life have a greater sense of connection and wellbeing. I encourage you to support your child to participate in the fullness of our wonderful community.

One of the great traditions of our Damascus Day is the announcement of our College Captains for the next school year. Our 2021 school captains, Megan O’Beirne and Lewis Clarke, have been wonderful role models and ambassadors for the College. Again this year, there was an extraordinarily talented group of young leaders who expressed interest in this role. I thank all candidates for having the courage to put their hand up to lead – each of their contributions will be invaluable to the future growth of our school community. Today, I congratulate our 2022 Captains elect; Xavier Byrne and Sophie Busuttil. We look forward to Megan and Lewis handing over to Xavier and Sophie throughout Term 4. House Captain selection processes continue this week, and we look forward to celebrating all those who seek that role over the coming weeks.

Our Year 12 students are working through a heavy assessment period. The holiday period provides an opportunity for them to catch their breath and consolidate their learning, and continue revision. Our Unit 4 students have their trial exams. Families and students were sent the schedule earlier this week via email.

I deeply thank you for your welcome and hospitality in my first term as College Principal.

With every blessing