Written by Mr Patrick Donnelly - Assistant Principal Mission and Identity

Founder's Day

On the last day of term, we gathered as one community to celebrate Founders’ Day - a day that honours the lives and legacies of Catherine McAuley, Edmund Rice, and Mary, the Mother of Jesus. These three figures, though from different times and places, shared a common vision: to respond to the needs of the world with faith, courage, and compassion.

Catherine McAuley saw the face of Christ in the poor and the sick, and founded the Sisters of Mercy to bring education and care to those most in need. Edmund Rice, moved by the suffering of the marginalised, dedicated his life to educating young boys and empowering them through faith and knowledge. Mary, the first disciple, trusted in God’s plan and gave her whole life in service to love.

Their stories are not just history - they are the foundation of who we are as a College. Their charisms shape our identity, our mission, and our daily actions.

Students spent the day celebrating the three through fun activities, starting with a liturgy.

Written by Isabelle Sulivan - Inclusivity Leader 

NAIDOC Week 2025

The 2025 NAIDOC week theme is something that gives great insight into the legacy I want to leave at Assumption College Warwick. ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision, Legacy’ is inherited by the strong desire for elders to care and nurture the young, but I also believe this year's theme is multifaceted. For one, it invites the ‘next generation’ to step forward into a new light, invite them into a new role of leadership, connection to culture and unity. I also believe it is important for non-First Nations peoples to recognise and reflect upon the role the youth have within our society. If we start at a grassroots level, teaching and educating the vital connection to culture, then a real impact can be made within our contemporary society.

This year's shirt design is reflective of the NAIDOC week theme and the Assumption College school theme of ‘Light the Lantern.’ The 7 Days of Creation is illustrative of Jesus as the shepherd who leads his sheep along the right paths, which is why Christ is represented at the start of the design.

The main focus point is the three circles representing ‘community.’ As Assumption College recognises the vital role the Students, Staff and wider community have within our positive school culture, which can be seen as two on the front of the shirt and one on the back shoulder. The interlinking waves represent the impact that one has on another, it goes to show that connection is just as vital as our education. A strong connection between all the key members creates a well-rounded education for all. We are also reminded of Christ's strong presence within our school community.

Traditionally, the NAIDOC painting is reflective of the shirt design, however, I wanted to do something a little different this year. Presenting the school with an image of a fish, connected by three circles. The fish is simply another way to express the theme, still holding the core values of connection, support and wisdom. Using the form of dot painting creates a collaborative approach which is the essence of the 2025 NAIDOC theme. With the three schools, Assumption College, St Mary's and St Mary's Kindergarten, this initiative highlights our ongoing commitment to nurturing a connection to culture for all First Nations students—both past, present, and future. These portraits symbolise hope and strength, leaving a lasting legacy for years to come.