In recent newsletters I have made reference to the impending social media ban for children under the age of 16. Information released in the last week has started to provide some more clarity around the rules that will govern how this change will be implemented. 

The CathNews Website reported on 16 September that social media platforms will not be able to simply rely on users to self-declare their ages under the incoming ban for children under 16, and will need to create a layered approach to prevent minors from accessing their apps. 

With the ban due to start on December 10, Communications Minister Anika Wells has released the steps platforms will have to take to ensure they are complying with the laws, or risk penalties of up to $49.5 million.

Social Media platforms such as TikTok, Instagram and Snapchat will be expected to detect and deactivate or remove existing underage accounts, and put in measures to prevent underage users from re-registering or flouting the rules.

This is to be done through a layered approach that gives users options on the verification process. It will not be able to solely rely on the user inputting their birth date.

Social media companies will also be required to disclose information and statistics to the office of the eSafety Commissioner and the public.

While the rules do not enforce a specific age-verification method, platforms are explicitly banned from solely asking for government-issued ID to verify a teenager’s age; however, platforms can request ID if used with other options.

Ms Wells said “This industry guidance makes clear our strong expectations that social media platforms step up to the plate to implement the minimum age in a way that is effective, private, and fair on Australian users.” 

To develop your understanding of the intention of this upcoming change and how the social media age restrictions will help keep under-16s safer, you may be interested in watching the E-safety Commissioner’s message

Wishing you a safe and joyful break over the next two weeks. I hope that you and your family are able to find some time to rest and rejuvenate before we head back for Term 4.

I would also like to wish our Year 12 students the best for their upcoming HSC Examinations. They have done the hard work necessary to reach their goals, so I am praying that God will give them the strength, determination and confidence to keep striving for their best through the coming weeks.

God bless

Angela Myles | Executive Principal 

Farewell Year 12

This week we celebrated our Year 12 students and their 13 years of schooling in a beautiful Graduation Mass led by our Leader of Mission, Ms Belind Redden and celebrated by Father Cong. Our Graduation Presentation Ceremony followed, recognising our students contribution to the life of St Matthews including formally recognising students who achieved ‘First in Course’ for their subjects and also a series of Special Awards. The special awards are voted by the staff of St Matthews, whilst the recipient of the Keith Baker Benevolence Award is determined by the Year 12 cohort. A list of recipients of the Special Awards follows:

2025 Year 12 Special Awards:

Every year saying goodbye to Year 12 has an element of sadness - not just for the students but for staff too. For many of us, we have watched these students from when we were all together on the Primary campus, all the way through their secondary years. The relationships that are fostered between teacher and student are precious and it’s always a privilege to be a part of a person's educational journey, helping them develop into young adults ready to face the world. On behalf of all the staff at St Matthews I again wish all our Year 12 students the best of luck in their upcoming HSC exams and for all their future endeavours. Whilst we are sad to see Year 12 walk through our gates for the last time, we are excited for them and the future that lies ahead…( and there’s always the dance floor at the Graduation Dinner in November). I have included one of my favourite quotes, which I often reflect on in times such as these - I think it’s particularly pertinent for our Year 12 students,

“A ship in the harbour is safe ….

But that’s not what ships are built for”

We will notify families and share the professional photos when we receive them.

Have a wonderful holiday

I would like to wish all families a wonderful spring break - such a great time of year. For those travelling, stay safe, and I hope all students have a time to recharge ready for Term 4.

Blaney Mccarthy-English | Head of Campus - Secondary

St Matthews Way Value Term 3

“and be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ has forgiven you.”    

Ephesians 4:32

Parish Prayer Partners

On Thursday September 18, we celebrated the final Parish Prayer Partner Mass and morning tea. We give thanks for the special relationship shared between our parish prayer partners and our Year 12 students. Throughout the year, prayer partners have walked alongside our students, offering encouragement, support, and prayers as they have prepared to step into the next stage of their journey. This Mass is an opportunity to express gratitude for these faith-filled connections and to entrust our graduating class to God’s loving care, supported by the ongoing prayers of our parish community.

Mission Frolic

St Matthews Day Mass and Mission Frolic 2025

Friday 26th September

A day to celebrate St Matthew and St Matthews Way!

Money raised will go to Catholic Mission

2025 - Zambia

This year we were raising awareness and funds for communities in Zambia, to help ensure children have access to food and education, giving them the chance to build a brighter future.

Zambia, a country of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant communities, lies in the heart of southern Africa. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the wildlife-filled plains and warm-hearted people, Zambia is a land of beauty and resilience. Despite its natural wealth and strong spirit, many families face daily challenges, especially in rural areas. Today, one of the most urgent issues is the severe hunger crisis that threatens the wellbeing of millions.

With your involvement we can

  
RISE

We have six students attending RISE during the school holidays. RISE is a Diocesan Youth Festival filled with games, music, workshops, and opportunities to encounter Jesus. Our students will join others in the Diocese from Years 6-9. We are delighted that one of our students has stepped forward to be a Youth Leader

Upcoming  Liturgies and Events

Pope’s Prayer Intention

September 2025 Intention

For mutual coexistence

For our relationship with all of creation

Let us pray that, inspired by Saint Francis, we might experience our interdependence with all creatures who are loved by God and worthy of love and respect.

Belinda Redden | Leader of Mission 

Community Service – Term 4 Update

•  For repeat offences, a parent or carer will be required to collect the device from school.

• If collection is not possible, Executive or Wellbeing staff may use their discretion to return the phone where there is a significant safety concern. In these cases, an alternative consequence may apply—such as arranging a parent meeting or setting a future confiscation.

The updated policy aims to ensure a consistent approach while balancing safety and wellbeing considerations. A full copy of the revised policy will be published on our   school website during Term 4.

       

Year 8 Boys Rugby Programme

The Year 8 Boys Rugby Programme has been a huge success this term. Under the guidance of Mr Elston, the boys have not only developed their rugby skills but also strengthened their understanding of how our school values shape their actions both on and off the field. Each week, Mr Elston has spoken with the group about the importance of maintaining high standards at school, reinforcing that the discipline, teamwork, and respect shown on the rugby pitch are equally vital in the classroom.

We are so pleased with the positive impact of the programme that plans are already in place to expand it to Year 7 next term. We look forward to seeing even more students benefit from the opportunity to grow in character, teamwork, and school spirit.

Dillon Price | Leader of Wellbeing 

This week, our school community has joyfully celebrated Year 12 as they conclude their formal schooling.

On Tuesday, students set off on a Mystery Picnic Day excursion to Dubbo, where they tested their courage and teamwork in an adrenaline-filled day of paintball. Students and staff alike ducked, darted, and laughed their way across the field before enjoying a delicious BBQ together. The return trip to Mudgee was filled with stories, smiles, and a few colourful bruises to remember the day by.

On Wednesday, the Secondary School gathered for a heartfelt farewell assembly. This special occasion featured photo and video highlights of the students’ journey, touching Tutor Group messages, a farewell video from the Primary Campus, a beautiful Kindergarten Blessing, and performances from Stage 4 and 5. A crowd favourite—our staff dance video—rounded out the celebration, adding plenty of laughter and joy to the day. A highlight of the morning was the presentation of a $10,000 cheque to the Mudgee Men’s Shed—a remarkable fundraising effort by our Year 12 students over the year. Their generosity and community spirit were on full display.

We are so proud of Year 12 and all they have achieved. On behalf of the school, I wish them every success as they begin their HSC exams and step into the next exciting chapter of their lives.

Warm regards,

Emma Kurtz | Stage 6 Wellbeing Coordinator

Our futsal tournament has officially wrapped up after a fantastic run of games! It was wonderful to see such strong participation from so many students, with their peers showing great support from the sidelines all the way through.

A big congratulations goes to the teachers, who claimed victory in the final against a very strong Year 9 team. The tournament was played in great spirit, and it was fantastic to see so many students getting involved, having a go, and enjoying the competition.

Nick Hammond | Futsal Coordinator 

The Year 8 Rugby Leadership Program has gone from strength to strength this term, with students showing buy-in and commitment. The most recent session consolidated and showcased the immense progress the boys have made throughout the program, both in their skills and in their leadership.

Across the session, the boys lived out the St Matthew’s values:

 Compassion
  Respect
Courage
 Service
  Excellence

What has been even more impressive is seeing these values carried beyond the program and into wider school life, where their positive attitude and effort have been noticed by staff and reflected in school data.

We are proud of the group and the way they are embracing the St Matthews Way. The program will continue next term, and we look forward to seeing the boys continue to excel both on and off the field.

Mr Jack Elston & Mr Dillon Price | Rugby Program Coordinators

Congratulations Stage 5 Drama on an amazing performance last Thursday night in their Production of Stories in the Dark by Debra Oswald. The show was well received by friends and family. Students demonstrated excellent performance skills and worked well as an ensemble. The audience commented on the sophistication of the production elements, the students ability to perform a large variety of roles and their capacity to bring serious issues to life on stage with a subtle blend of humour, fantasy and drama. 

We’d like to thank Mrs Donna Mitchell and her Visual Arts class for designing and painting the evocative ‘Stop War’ scenery flat. Mr Dan Hull and his two Year 11 VET Entertainment students, Noah Caligari and Lacey Malone, operated the sound and lighting cues on the night and for that we are truly grateful as they did an incredible job. 

Mrs Kirsty Skinner | Drama Teacher 

EFTPOS only, no cash

Enjoy the convenience of online shopping. Save time and energy by ordering your uniforms online in six easy steps:

1. Go to midford.com.au
2. Select St Matthews Catholic School from the Online School Shops tab
3. New users to click the ‘Register New Account’ button
4. Start the registration process by selecting St Matthews Catholic School from the drop-down menu and add the unique school pass phrase: “Matthews1912”
5. Add your personal information, create a username and password
6. Order the items you need, select pick-up in store/deliver to school.

If you have any queries please contact the uniform shop directly:
Phone: 0439 442 509 or by email

Katie Ruth | Uniform Shop Manager