The Holy Cross Parents & Friends (P&F) met regularly throughout 2023 to provide forums for parent discussion, school/community collaboration and the planning of fundraising activities which support school resourcing for student learning and wellbeing. This year, the P&F supported numerous fundraising initiatives which simultaneously promoted community spirit, such as the School Disco, Mother’s and Father’s Day Stalls, Pie Drives, 2nd Hand Uniform Shop and the Dad’s Day Out. Thanks to the many volunteers and supporters of these activities we funded resources to support student learning such as the purchasing of 10 new iPads, student magazine subscriptions, art displays and new library books. The P&F also used these funds to support student, staff and parent wellbeing such as subsidising family Bibles, purchasing flowers for the sacraments, providing Tea & Tissues on the first day of Kindergarten, funding the Gumarra cultural incursion and purchasing gifts for staff farewells and Teacher Appreciation Week.  

Our biggest fundraiser of 2023 was the famous Holy Cross School Fete. The 2023 family fun day brought together many of our parents, taking on various responsibilities to provide an enjoyable day out in the sun with rides, stalls, activities, raffles, music, delicious food and a vibrant community atmosphere. This event was the talk of the children and of the town, drawing large crowds to generate significant funds towards creating a sustainable school, beginning with replacing all lighting to an LED setup schoolwide. We extend our gratitude to all those who contributed to the success of this day, and to Allison Wallace who will be coordinating the 2024 event set to take place on Saturday 2nd March. 

The P&F would also like to take this opportunity to thank Kaylene Duffin on behalf of all the parents and families of Holy Cross for her work as Principal. We recognise the positive impact Kaylene has had in our school community. Her leadership has facilitated a warm, welcoming place of educational excellence, where learning, wellbeing and faith are integrated in holistic vision and practice. Kaylene has been an approachable and visible Principal who has built strong relationships with children and families and will be very missed. We wish Kaylene all the best for the future.

Our Annual General Meeting will be held in the school library at 6pm on 19th February.