Mater Christmas miracle
13 December, Brisbane
A Central Queensland couple are celebrating their own Christmas miracle after their premature twin baby girls finally came home after 125 days in hospital.
Melissa and Matthew Heald had to relocate more than 500km from their home in Gladstone to South Brisbane before welcoming identical twins Lucy and Lilly on 6 September at Mater Mothers’ Hospital. Mrs Heald said her daughters were born via an emergency caesarean section 31 weeks into her pregnancy due to fetal distress.
Mrs Heald said being able to hold both her baby girls in her arms this Christmas was a dream come true and thanked Mater’s multidisciplinary team for caring for her “little miracles”.
The Mater’s caring and compassionate staff took the time to ensure Mr and Mrs Heard understood the details of every scan and attentively listened to their concerns, making them feel valued and supported.
Mercy Community residents make ‘Grandfriends’
16 December, Brisbane
Mercy Community were blessed to have the wonderful children from St Ambrose’s Primary School visit their aged care residents as part of the ‘Grandfriends’ program. The initiative has helped the students form lasting connections with the Mercy Community residents throughout the year and culminates in a special Christmas gathering. Gifts and laughter were shared along with Christmas carols and heartfelt conversations, the residents were delighted by the kindness and warmth of the children.
It’s a beautiful reminder that the spirit of Christmas shines brightest when we come together, no matter our age.
Mount Alvernia College say thank you to their staff
10 December, Brisbane
Mount Alvernia College students are lucky to be surrounded by incredible staff members who constantly give their time to create genuine and well-resourced Co-Curricular programs for their students. These staff members ensure students are able to relish in these opportunities, igniting students’ unknown passions.
The College extended our deepest gratitude to all staff who have supported the College’s Co-Curricular program this year and wished them a well-earned rest!
Monte students support Ignatius Children’s Holiday Camp
8 December, Sydney
Both past and present students from Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy College, annually volunteer at the Ignatius Children’s Holiday Camp held each year at Riverview.
Students and staff welcomed Santa and the families of these wonderful children to a joyful Christmas lunch including gift giving and lots of singing.
Our Lady of Mercy College celebrates their students
6 December, Parramatta
Each year Our Lady of Mercy College holds their Celebration of Achievement event. This event brings the school community together to honour the outstanding accomplishments of their students. This event is a celebration of not only academic excellence, but also personal growth, resilience, and the spirit of collaboration that defines OLMC.
This year, the students have excelled academically, athletically, and creatively – achievements that reflect their hard work, determination, and the values instilled in them. At OLMC, they are committed to nurturing young women who are not only learning to succeed but also to lead, challenge the status quo, and make a meaningful difference in the world.
“Through education, women are empowered to make a difference – to address issues that have impacted them their whole lives, to change the world for the better. Accessible education empowers women in one simple yet unforgettable way – it gives them control.” – Jennifer Wang, Year 11.
Whitefriars College staff participate in wheelchair basketball
6 December, Melbourne
Whitefriars College Health and Physical Education staff participated in a wheelchair basketball workshop to better understand the challenges faced by students with disabilities. By taking part in wheelchair-based drills and games, teachers gained first-hand experience of the adaptations needed for inclusive sports.
This hands-on experience helped staff develop a deeper appreciation of the importance of modifying activities to ensure all students, regardless of ability, can participate.
Mater’s Marina celebrates 53 years of caring
4 December, Brisbane
After 53 years of caring for people as a diabetes and endocrinology clinical nurse consultant and Mater staff member, Marina Noud is hanging up her stethoscope.
Marina’s compassionate care and dedication to patient wellbeing have left an indelible mark on her colleagues as well as countless patients. She was instrumental in introducing patients to the Australian Dose Adjustment for Normal Eating (OzDAFNE) program for people living with type 1 diabetes, transforming and improving the lives of people living with the condition.
Congratulations Marina on serving your community for 53 years!
St Rita’s embark on an enriching immersion experience
4 December, Murgon, Queensland
St Rita’s College students had the privilege of visiting St Joseph’s in Murgon, a Presentation ministry school, as part of an enriching immersion experience.
The students delivered Christmas hampers to families in need, explored the Ration Shed to learn about Cherbourg’s Indigenous history, and reflected on culture and identity. They also assisted in classrooms and enjoyed a game of footy with the local children.
