Dear Parents and Carers

COVID update
At the risk of tempting fate, it seems that the spike in COVID numbers amongst our student population appears to have declined during the past two weeks. The predictions offered up by Health Authorities though, that we will experience another spike before the end of this term, should remind us not to become complacent.

For the time being we are maintaining COVID safe restrictions, meaning that parents are allowed on our playground but not inside the building. Similarly, we have restricted all external participation in excursions and non-essential sporting activities in line with advice from Catholic Education. These measures have been implemented to restrict the spread amongst our community and minimise the disruption to the Teaching and Learning program.

Wendy Ricks
We have been privileged to have Wendy Ricks, a highly regarded Aboriginal artist visit our school during the past two weeks.

Wendy has repainted our Story Poles at the front of our school and painted a brand-new mural on the east facing wall of the building. This creation includes the handprint of all staff and students of St Matthew’s. If you are visiting the school site over the next few days please have a look.

Our Community Council has plans to develop a garden of Indigenous shrubs and plants in the bed opposite the mural.

Wendy’s final piece of artwork will be the painting of a cross on the wall adjoining the gates where children assemble each afternoon.

Building Update
Progress on Stage One has been slowed due to the late decision to include new energy efficient windows. The builders are attempting to progress other aspects of the Project which do not require the windows to be installed, such as the installation of insulation and air conditioning.

Unfortunately, the completion of the demountable building has also been slowed whilst the builders await approval from Icon Energy.

May God bless you and your families

Graham Pollard

Principal