A Powerful Celebration of Compassion, Connection, and Community

On Friday, 5 September, the College participated in something truly special: a vibrant and heartfelt Staff Community Service Day that brought together 200 staff members in a collective effort to give back, connect, and care. The day was filled with meaningful acts of service that rippled across our community, leaving behind not just tangible contributions, but a renewed sense of unity and purpose.

The Staff Community Service Day is more than a calendar event, it is a living expression of the College’s values. Staff members rolled up their sleeves and dove into a wide range of activities, each one with the aim of making a real difference:

• 20 Clothing Boxes donated to Baby Give Back, supporting vulnerable families with essential items for their little ones.
• 24 Joey Pouches sewn, offering comfort and care to orphaned and injured wildlife.
• 85 cards and gifts created for the Star Appeal, spreading joy to children facing serious illness.
• 2.5 litres of blood donated - a life-saving act that will benefit up to 15 individuals in need.
• Multiple bags of rubbish removed from local beaches, helping restore the natural beauty of our coastline.
• Countless animals cuddled and cared for at the local shelter, reminding us of the healing power of kindness.
• 90 meals donated to a community cause, ensuring nourishment and dignity for those doing it tough.
• Busy Bees Garden and Gumnut Garden rejuvenated and replanted, breathing new life into cherished green spaces.
• A College mural painted, strengthening ties with Winton and celebrating our rich Australian heritage.

Beyond the physical impact, Staff Community Service Day was a celebration of connection, between colleagues, with the community, and within ourselves. The act of serving side by side fostered camaraderie and deepened relationships across departments and roles. The mural, in particular, became a symbol of shared identity and pride, linking the College to the broader story of Australia.

And what better way to conclude the activities that by gathering together? Up to 200 staff shared a meal, reflecting on the day’s efforts, exchanging stories, and simply enjoying each other’s company. It was a moment of warmth and gratitude, a reminder that service not only helps others, it nourishes us too.

In a world that often feels fast-paced and fragmented, taking time to serve is a radical act of care. This day reminded us that giving back is a privilege, it is how we build bridges, foster empathy, and create a culture where everyone feels seen and supported. Whether planting gardens, painting murals, or supporting our local shelter, each act of service was a thread in a larger tapestry of compassion. And together, those threads wove a powerful message: that when we come together with purpose and heart, we can transform not just our surroundings, but ourselves. Thank you to all staff who contributed to the day.

Charlotte Brook | Deputy Principal