Collectively, our Barbreck community was thrilled to extend our warmest congratulations to our talented students who took part in Barbreck’s spectacular production of Seussical JR. It was an absolute joy to witness the incredible talent, dedication, and creativity displayed by our young performers this week. 

From the very beginning of each show, the energy in The Jamie and Rebecca Gray Theatre was palpable, and the magical world of Dr Seuss came to life before our very eyes. With over 100 students involved in two separate casts, each student involved – whether singing, dancing, acting, or working behind the scenes – contributed to the resounding success of this production. The countless hours of rehearsals, teamwork, and unwavering commitment truly paid off in the most splendid way. 

Our vibrant casts transported the audiences into the whimsical worlds of Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, and other unforgettable characters created by Dr. Seuss. The girls’ performances were filled with passion, emotion, and an undeniable love for the art of storytelling. Their sheer enthusiasm radiated from the stage.  

I extend my gratitude to our Barbreck teachers who dedicated their time and expertise to guide our students throughout this remarkable journey; in particular, Ms Kristen Dhono Isworo, Miss Kirrilly Wootton and Ms Lucy Mason as the Directors and Choreographers. Their unwavering support and tireless efforts have been instrumental in nurturing the talent of our students and bringing out the best in each of them. 

Lastly, I would like to express my appreciation to our Barbreck parents who have also enjoyed their daughter’s journey on the home front, with many parents expressing their delight to their daughter’s, often regular, rehearsing of the amusing lyrics in Seussical JR. 

As we reflect on the incredible achievement of Seussical JR. we are reminded of the immense power of the arts to inspire, unite, and uplift our entire School community.  

On Friday, I particularly enjoyed watching our ELC children completely mesmerised by our Barbreck performers as they enjoyed the performance as audience members. It was a joy to capture quick conversations with many grandparents, who were in awe of their granddaughters’ command of the stage. As a community, we could not be prouder of our Barbreck girls and the outstanding production they have brought to life. 

Click here to access our myPhotos Album from the Seussical JR. performance.

Snowsports Swap

With the winter chill well upon us in Melbourne, the mood of our St Catherine’s Snowsports families quickly elevates in readiness for the opening of the Snowsports season. Last weekend, the Snowsports Auxiliary once again hosted a very successful Snowsports Swap. 

The Swap enables families in the wider community to equip growing children with snowsports equipment and clothing. Held last Sunday, this year’s Swap raised over $65,000 in two hours, with funds to be used to provide lessons and purchase equipment throughout our Snowsports season. 

In preparation for the 2023 Swap, over 1200 items were tagged by a busy team of St Catherine’s parents and in just over two hours 106 boots, 77 ski pants, 75 ski jackets, 73 skis, 34 helmets, 26 ski poles and 4 snowboards were sold. The Auxiliary was also pleased to donate many unsold items to Off Your Back, a charity established by Old Girl, Ms Toni Joel (Silver ‘82) over 10 years ago, along with donations to Rosebud Primary School for their ski trip later this year. 

The annual Snowsports Swap is a tremendous demonstration of recycling and sustainability by the School. Thank you to our Snowsports Auxiliary Committee members and the leadership of Mrs Julia Soutter and Mr Bruce Macintosh for their extensive preparation and organisation of the Swap. Further details of the successful Swap are available in this issue of The Blue Ribbon here.