Finishing The Term With Gratitude
As Term 1 draws to a close, it is a timely moment to pause and reflect on what has been a busy and rewarding start to the year for our College community.
Across the term, our students have embraced a wide range of experiences—from camps and carnivals to classroom learning, co‑curricular activities, and our annual Open Day. Each of these moments has contributed to the rich life of the College and to the growth of our students as learners and young people. I have been particularly encouraged by the way students have settled into routines, taken on new challenges, and supported one another as they found their rhythm in the school year.
The College Theme and Excellence
This year, our College theme calls us to be a faith‑fuelled community of excellence. Throughout Term 1, this has been evident in many ways: students showing courage as they attempt new learning, curiosity as they ask thoughtful questions, craftsmanship in the care they take with their work, collaboration in classrooms and teams, and a shared commitment to doing their best.
Excellence, as we understand it, is not about perfection or comparison. It is about growth, effort, and integrity. It is about the choices we make each day—in learning, in relationships, and in how we contribute to our community. Whether in the classroom, on the sporting field, on the stage or in the playground, these values shape who we are.
The Hope of Easter
As we approach the Easter season, we are reminded of the very heart of our Christian faith. Easter proclaims the good news that through Jesus Christ’s death on the cross and His resurrection from the grave, God has made a way for forgiveness, hope and new life. At our Easter chapels, students are hearing again the message of the event that changed human history—that Jesus is alive, and that through Him we can know restoration and lasting hope. As the Bible reminds us, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:16
Carpark Safety Reminders
I would also like to take this opportunity to address an important matter concerning safety and care within our College community.
Recently, there have been a small number of incidents in our carpark where vehicles have made contact with other cars and the situation has not been acknowledged or addressed. This is disappointing, as it has a negative impact on trust and care within our community. More importantly, it raises concerns about attentiveness and responsibility in an area where student safety must always come first.
I ask all parents and carers to please exercise heightened vigilance and patience when moving through College grounds—particularly during drop‑off and pick‑up times. Safe speeds, careful observation, and a willingness to take responsibility for our actions are essential as we work together to keep our students and community safe. Thank you for partnering with us in modelling the respect, integrity and care we expect of our students.
Gratitude for the OPAC Community
Throughout the term, students have been recognised through Recognition Awards and Principal’s Awards for living out our College values in consistent and meaningful ways. These moments of celebration are important—not only because they acknowledge individual effort, but because they reinforce the type of community we are striving to be.
I extend my sincere thanks to our staff for their dedication and care this term, and to our families for the ongoing partnership you bring to the life of the College. The shared commitment between home and college makes an enormous difference in the lives of our students.
As the holidays approach, I encourage everyone to take time to rest, reconnect with family and friends, and enjoy the opportunity to pause and refresh. May this Easter be a time of peace, hope and renewal for you and those you love.
I wish all our families a safe and restful holiday break, and I look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 2.
God bless,
Mrs Naomi Wilkins
Principal