Donna Davis MP, State Member for Parramatta with Catherine McAuley student leaders and staff.
Catherine McAuley and the current student leaders have been recognised in NSW Parliament for the school’s strong history of school leadership and determination.
The Student Leaders of Catherine McAuley have been recognised in NSW Parliament by local member Donna Davis MP, State Member for Parramatta.
Donna presented a Community Recognition Statement in Parliament where she recognised and congratulated the students in their leadership roles. The names of the student leaders were read out and will now forever be in Hansard, the official written record of proceedings and debates.
The student leaders joined Donna for a special Community Recognition Lunch last Thursday, 21st August held at the school. Also in attendance were School Principal Ms Refalo and members of the school leadership team.
Donna read out to the students the Community Recognition Statement which acknowledged that Catherine McAuley Westmead has a strong history of school leadership and determination. “Demonstrating values of faith and service is so important to being a school leader, as it presents a great opportunity for students to develop leadership and communication skills that they will utilise throughout their lives,” said the statement.
The role of school leader is so important to everyone within the school community as these young people are often the conduit between teachers, parents and their fellow students.
Donna also took the opportunity to chat with the students about their future plans, the need for more females in some professions, and current social justice issues the school is supporting.
Jacqui Hamilton | School Development Officer
Catherine McAuley Westmead
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09 Jun 2026
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AROUND THE CLASSROOMS ➡️ Year 11 Textiles and Design students in Mrs E. Maher’s class have designed and created a range of unique bags inspired by historical, cultural and contemporary influences as part of their Design Unit. Each student incorporated fabric manipulation techniques and key elements and principles of design into their bag to bring their creative ideas to life. Fantastic work and impressive creativity on display!
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YEAR 9 MEDIA TEAM 📸 At the recent Mother’s Day Liturgy and Morning Tea for Year 9 students, the newly formed Year 9 Student Media Team had the opportunity to put their photography skills into practice using the school cameras. Students enjoyed capturing photos with a custom social media frame created as a fun photo prop for the event. Well done to the students on their fantastic start and we look forward to seeing more photos and news stories from the Year 9 Media Team throughout the year.
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ENVIRONMENT WEEK 🌿 Today’s ‘Repurpose Pop-Up Stall’ showcased a range of handmade items created by students in the Earth Action Committee (EAC), encouraging the McAuley community to consider the environmental impact of mass production and the value of repurposing materials. Under the leadership of the Student Environment Leaders, the stall, held in Mercy Square at lunchtime, featured crochet bags, keychains, pouches, earrings, bookmarks, hair ties, AirPods cases and more, all thoughtfully handcrafted by students. All funds raised will support this term’s social justice cause, the Parramatta Women’s Shelter.
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BUILDING CONNECTIONS 🤝 Connections continue to form across year groups as the Year 7 students buddy up with Year 12. Last week, Clare and Veritas came together in Mercy Square as they sat down for a chat and a catch up. A simple but meaningful way to build connections, confidence and a strong sense of community. 🧡❤️ - Ms S. Malek
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From Facebook
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