ERC Newsletter - Week 8 Term 1 2023

Dear Parents and Carers,

Earlier this week at the College Assembly, we acknowledged Harmony Week. I would like to thank our Liturgy Coordinator, Ms Helen Knowles, for her thoughtful preparation of the opening liturgy, which our senior student leaders ably led. Harmony Week has been celebrated in Australia since 1999 to acknowledge our country’s rich cultural diversity. Australia is a vibrant and multicultural country — from the oldest continuous culture of our first Australians to the cultures of our newest arrivals from around the world. Our cultural diversity is one of our country’s greatest strengths and is at the heart of who we are. Harmony Week is also closely aligned with our College Touchstones of Inclusivity and Gospel Spirituality.

During this Assembly, I used the example of the NRL’s recent Harmony Round in expressing my message about the importance of teamwork. I shared with the students’ examples of my previous experiences coaching various teams in the NRL and the value of working hard. I also stressed my views and deep appreciation of the high-quality ‘coaches’ – the ERC teaching and support staff.

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Following this week’s Annual General Meeting for the Parents and Friends (P&F) Association, we congratulate the following parents and carers who accepted the nominations as the 2023 P&F Committee:

Presidency (shared): Francis Fenech, Tom Cuoco
Vice President: Kathy Hicks
Treasurer: Martin Carolan,
Secretary: Ainsley Eckermann

On behalf of the ERC community, I sincerely thank our P&F Committee for their strong commitment and ongoing generous support of our College community. I also would like to thank outgoing President Robert Tomasiello for his outstanding service to ERC. Rob has been a member of the P&F Committee for the past ten years and has generously held various key positions. Together with Anna Tomasiello, they have been instrumental in leading many community events. Thank you!

Thank you, also to the many Year 7 parents and carers who were able to attend our recent Welcome BBQ. This event provided a valuable opportunity for our new parents and their families to gather and establish supportive connections within a social setting with other parents and carers.

Save the date: Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea – Thursday 11th May, 3.00pm-5.00pm.

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This a reminder to parents and carers of Year 5 and Year 6 students that Year 7, 2024 and 2025 applications are currently being taken. Due to the high interest in attending ERC, the College has increased the availability of family tour bookings and staggered enrolment interviews. Current and prospective parents and carers are invited to access the College website for enrolment processes or to contact Ann Preston apreston@erc.nsw.edu.au directly if you have any questions about the enrolment process.

Stephen Gough
Principal