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- Strategic Plan (2025-2030): Fostering Greatness
- Reflection
- Principal's Message
- Election Information - A Fair Go For Catholic Schools
- Spirit of Jesus Awards
- Mother's Day Afternoon
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- RE News @ STM!
- Setup for Success Program
- Community News
- Parish Bulletin
- Upcoming Events
HONOURING THE LIFE OF POPE FRANCIS
This week, the world mourns the passing of Pope Francis — a shepherd of simplicity, courage, and conviction. As the first Pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to assume the papacy, Jorge Mario Bergoglio brought with him not only the weight of global expectation, but also the unmistakable humility of a servant leader. And he carried both with grace.
I was personally inspired by Francis long before the world knew him as Pope. In the early hours after his election, stories quickly surfaced of him walking the dimly lit streets of Buenos Aires — comforting the sick, serving the poor, tending to the lowly. These were not carefully curated anecdotes but long-held truths whispered among the people he had quietly served for years. From the very start, it was evident: he was a man of Christ.
But while I was moved by his actions, I was just as moved by his words. After all, a man's words are a window to his soul. In his very first papal exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium, he wrote with striking clarity:
“I prefer a Church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a Church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security.”
That one sentence has never left me. It is a challenge to the Church — and to us all — to move outwards. To serve. To get our hands dirty in the work of mercy and justice, rather than remain safe and silent behind the stained-glass windows.
Over the years, I have read and re-read all of his papal writings, but none touched me more deeply than his third encyclical, Fratelli tutti. It is, at its heart, a call to fraternity and social friendship — a sacred reminder that we are made for one another. In it, Francis writes:
“Life exists where there is bonding, communion, fraternity; and life is stronger than death when it is built on true relationships and bonds of fidelity.” (Fratelli tutti, 87)
This is more than a political or philosophical statement — it is a theological one. For Pope Francis, the wellbeing of each person is not a side issue. It is central to our shared faith. The care we show for others — especially the most vulnerable — is not a nice extra. It is the Gospel made visible.
So, what can we learn from his life?
At St Thomas More’s, we learn that greatness is not measured in titles, power, or prestige — but in tenderness, humility, and the courage to accompany others. We learn that the Church is not just something we go to; it is something we are. A people walking together, not inwardly focused but outwardly present in a world that is aching for light.
May we be a school community marked by joyful service, bold compassion, and unshakable hope — the kind Pope Francis modelled so beautifully for us all.
Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.
Amen.
Mr Casimir Douglas
Friday 2nd May, 2025
Dear Parents and Carers,
SALUTATION
Grace to you and peace.
GAGA BALL IS HERE!
There’s been a buzz of excitement around the school this week with the arrival of our brand new Gaga Pit, installed over the Term 1 holiday break by Island Recreation. The inspiration came directly from our recent Grade 6 cohorts, who discovered the fast-paced fun of Gaga Ball while on camp at Riverbend Youth Centre in Smithton.
On Monday, our Grade 5/6 students were the first to dive in, learning how to play in their PE lessons with Mr Stacey. The joy was infectious – and it didn’t stop there. Throughout the week, every class across the school had their chance to jump into the pit and give Gaga Ball a go. Thanks to Mr Stacey for guiding our students through the rules and bringing the energy all week long!
We're thrilled to share that the Gaga Pit will be officially open for student play from Week 2! Please note that the pit will remain closed before school, and is available only during First Break and Second Break. A weekly roster has been established to ensure equitable access for all year levels:
Day | Year Level | First Break | Second Break |
---|---|---|---|
Monday | Grade 5/6 | Boys | Girls |
Tuesday | Grade 3/4 | Boys | Girls |
Wednesday | Grade 1/2 | Boys | Girls |
Thursday | Prep | Boys | Girls |
Friday | Mr Douglas’ Choice | Boys | Girls |
Thank you to our Parents & Friends Association for their generous $10,000 contribution to this project! The Gaga Pit is more than just a game – it’s a celebration of student voice, community partnership, and our shared commitment to making play at STM dynamic, inclusive and fun!












EVA LEWIS - BRIXHIBITION 2025!
We are delighted to share the exciting news that Eva Lewis, winner of our recent STM LEGO Competition, has gone on to achieve 3rd place overall at Brixhibition 2025!
Eva’s creation, titled “GORGE-ous”, is a beautifully detailed peacock made entirely from LEGO bricks. Her work was selected from among entries submitted by students across more than 50 schools, showcasing outstanding creativity, design, and storytelling.
This is an exceptional achievement and a wonderful celebration of student voice, imagination, and perseverance. Eva’s accomplishment reminds us of the incredible things that can happen when we foster creativity and provide our learners with the opportunity to shine.
A special thank you to Ms Cassie O’Neill for her incredible support of all students who entered this year’s competition, and for leading our school’s engagement in such a joyful and energetic way. Her efforts brought fun, creativity, and positivity to every corner of our community.
We also extend our thanks to Eva’s parents, David and Kendra, for their wonderful support — and for sharing this triumphant image of Eva’s success with us all!




CHAZ MOSTERT - SCHOOL VISIT!
We’re thrilled to announce that next Thursday 8th May, St Thomas More’s will welcome Chaz Mostert, one of Australia’s most recognisable Supercars drivers, to speak with our Grade 5/6 students as part of the Optus Digital Thumbprint program.
Chaz, a Bathurst 1000 winner and fan favourite, will deliver an engaging session focused on digital citizenship, online safety, and responsible technology use. As an ambassador for Optus, Chaz uses his real-life profile and racing career to inspire young people to make safe and respectful choices in the digital world.
The session will take place from 11:00am–12:00pm in Josephite Hall and will include a 45-minute presentation followed by a 15-minute student Q&A. This exciting initiative brings national attention to the positive digital habits we’re encouraging at our school.
Adding to the excitement, Chilli FM and the Optus media team will be onsite to capture the event and interview some of our students about what they learned from Chaz’s message. It promises to be a moment of pride for our community!
And there’s more...
Thanks to the generosity of Optus, 16 of our Grade 5/6 students and four staff members will attend a fully funded Pit Lane Tour at Symmons Plains Raceway on Friday 9th May. Students will get an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience of the Supercars environment — an unforgettable opportunity made possible through Optus' support, which includes covering all transport and expenses.
We’re incredibly grateful to Optus for partnering with our school and for helping us bring learning to life in such dynamic, real-world ways!
PLACE - COMMUNITY ROADSHOW & LISTENING TOUR
On Wednesday 30 April, St Thomas More’s Catholic School was honoured to host a national PLACE Community Roadshow and Listening Tour event in Josephite Hall. This inspiring gathering brought together students, staff, and community leaders to celebrate the power of community voice in shaping the future of our school environment.
PLACE – a national organisation committed to place-focused and person-centred design – selected STM as a key stop on their national tour following our 2023 community consultation with Village Well. Their visit acknowledged the depth and authenticity of our school’s engagement in reimagining our learning and play spaces.
We extend our sincere thanks to Fiona Graham from Catholic Education Tasmania and Kim Barker from Village Well for leading and organising the event, and for spotlighting the work we are doing at St Thomas More’s. Their vision and support have been instrumental in helping bring our community’s hopes and ideas to the forefront.
We also wish to thank members of our School Advisory Board, including Board Chair Derek Bye and Rhiannon Menegon, for attending and supporting this important milestone in our school's journey. Special mention must go to our Grade 6 School and House Captains, who represented the student voice with pride and maturity.
It was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on our shared story, to listen with open hearts, and to celebrate the unique character of our school as we continue fostering greatness – together.
A MAGICAL MATINEE - MIDNIGHT AT THE PRINCESS THEATRE
On Thursday 1st May, 180 excited Grade 3–6 students from St Thomas More’s Catholic School had the joy of attending the student matinee performance of Midnight — St Patrick’s College’s sensational musical production at the Princess Theatre.
The energy was high and the applause loud as our students and staff were swept up in the story, the music, and the sheer talent on display. What made the experience even more special was seeing many familiar faces — former STM students shining on stage in lead roles, dancing in the ensemble, and working behind the scenes on lighting, sound, ushering, and more. It was truly inspiring!
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to the Principal of St Patrick’s College, Mrs Liz Illingworth, and the Director, Mrs Mallory Schipper, for bringing this tremendous production to life. From music and singing to acting, dance, set design, lighting, and hospitality — Midnight was a triumph in every respect.
I was fortunate to receive the VIP treatment at Opening Night, thanks to Mrs Illingworth’s warm hospitality, and I can confidently say the show is outstanding. I am so proud of all the students involved — both past and present — who made this unforgettable experience possible.
GRADE 3/4 @ AGFEST!
Today (Friday 2nd May), all 90 of our excited Grade 3/4 students travelled to Quercus Park for AGFEST 2025, and what a brilliant day it was! Not only were we surrounded by the very best of Tasmania’s agricultural innovation and hands-on learning experiences – but for once, it didn’t rain at AGFEST! That alone is worth celebrating!
Students explored a world of fascinating displays and activities. From flying drones and investigating soil health to discovering the science of potatoes and learning about sustainable farming practices, AGFEST delivered an educational adventure like no other. Highlights included the University of Tasmania Pavilion with its interactive STEM challenges, livestock demonstrations, and the ever-popular machinery showcase – big tractors are always a hit!
A massive thank you goes to our dedicated Grade 3/4 teaching team who coordinated the day with care and enthusiasm. We’re also incredibly grateful to our wonderful parent volunteers who accompanied the group – your support helped make the experience even more enjoyable and smooth.
FINAL GREETING
May the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all.
God bless,
Mr Casimir Douglas
Principal
Awarded by |
To |
For |
Mr Davie |
Louie Mulholland |
Louie consistently contributes to class discussions with insight and curiosity. He is a valued contributor during our 4 Corners discussions, where he shares his opinions with clarity and respect, enriching the conversation for everyone. |
Mr Davie |
Cruz Atkinson |
Cruz approaches reading and writing tasks with focus, creativity, and a strong understanding of the content. His written work is always thoughtful and well-structured, making it a joy to read. Well done, Cruz! |
Mrs Wheeler |
Hamish Moore |
For demonstrating dedication and commitment to practising their Launceston Competition poems. Your efforts in both home and classroom settings have not gone unnoticed, as you gave 100%. |
Mrs Wheeler |
Cate Viney |
For demonstrating dedication and commitment to practising their Launceston Competition poems. Your efforts in both home and classroom settings have not gone unnoticed, as you gave 100%. |
Mrs Wheeler |
Isla Smith |
For demonstrating dedication and commitment to practising their Launceston Competition poems. Your efforts in both home and classroom settings have not gone unnoticed, as you gave 100%. |
Mrs Hodgetts |
Billie Bassett |
For her wonderful interest in our class novel Runt, which is evident in her thoughtful responses during discussions and written tasks. Billie listens carefully, asks great questions, and shares ideas that show she really understands the story and its characters. Great job, Billie! Keep up the fantastic work! |
Mrs Hodgetts |
Tom Speirs |
For showing great improvement in his attitude and effort towards learning. Tom is working hard to stay focused and to be respectful in all his interactions with teachers and his peers. Well done, Tom! Keep it up! |
Mrs Hodgetts |
Lucy Cocca |
For always showing a positive attitude and never being afraid to give anything a go. Lucy consistently shows determination and a willingness to learn, no matter the challenge. Great work, Lucy – keep it up! |
Miss McLauchlan |
Lincoln Kirschbaum |
For the quiet and self motivated way he goes about his work each day. He is an excellent role model to his peers |
Miss McLauchlan |
Jayla-Lee Wrankmore |
For her positive and insightful contributions to classroom activities and discussions |
Miss McLauchlan |
Harrison Geale |
For always showing great dedication and effort when practising our Launceston Competition poems, giving 100% every time. |
Ms Nichols |
Aria Rainsford |
For showing interest and enthusiasm in all our classroom activities. Thanks for your hard work, Aria! |
Ms Nichols |
Louie Crumpton |
For constantly going out of his way to help others in our class. Thanks for everything, Louie! |
Ms Nichols |
Ava Hodgetts |
For her outstanding effort in our class poems, as well as being a kind and supportive friend. Amazing work, Ava! |
Mrs Wahl |
Billie Spiers |
For working very hard in class, especially in her handwriting |
Mrs Wahl |
Murphy McInerney |
For working hard on his handwriting, resulting in a big improvement |
Mrs Wahl |
Frankie Hodgetts |
For working very hard in all areas and taking pride in her work |
Mrs Hartley |
Ivy Angelia-Taylor |
For her methodical approach to every task and her consistent effort to extend herself in all areas of learning. Ivy shows great focus, perseverance, and a strong drive to get the very best out of herself. Well done, Ivy. |
Mrs Hartley |
Eddie Crawford |
For displaying focus in all he does, especially in mathematics where he shows great determination. Eddie can always be relied on to give his best and consistently pushes himself to do well. Great work, Eddie – keep it up! |
Mrs Carr |
Luke DeSilva |
For working so hard during our maths lessons, you are doing a great job of writing your numbers and show great enthusiasm, well done Luke! |
Mrs Carr |
Hazel Donahoo |
For working so hard during all areas of our learning. Hazel, I am proud of you for having a go and not giving up even when things get tricky! Well done! |
Mrs Osborne/Mrs Foot |
Ollie Cuthbertson |
For showing improved focus in his learning. It was wonderful to see Ollie’s determination to complete his holiday writing. A great effort, Ollie! |
Mrs Osborne/Mrs Foot |
Jack Newton |
For the focus and effort you display in all of your learning. It was great to see Jack apply his knowledge of sounds to improve his holiday writing. Well done, Jack! |
Mrs Chugg |
Hugh Anderson |
For his consistent effort to show a strong commitment to learning. Your focus and listening has set a great example for others. Keep up the great work, Hugh! |
Mrs Chugg |
Ava Carr |
For always striving to do her best everyday. Your determination and positivity is shining so brightly in our classroom. Proud of you, Ava. |
Mrs Chugg |
Scarlett DeVirieux |
For her amazing start to Term 2! I am so proud of the way you have embraced each day with confidence and courage. Keep smiling and believing in yourself, Scarlett! |
Looking for a joyful, educational start for your little one? Our Joeys Playgroup at St Thomas More’s Catholic School is the place to be!
✅ FREE sessions for children aged birth to 4!
✅ Fun, learning & play in a school environment!
✅ Run by experienced, accredited educators
✅ Tuesdays 9:00am - 10:30am during term time!
Come along to Josephite Hall and watch your child’s curiosity and confidence grow! Plus, connect with other local families and share in the joy of learning together!
No bookings required — just turn up & have fun!
St Thomas More’s Catholic School
Every Tuesday (School Term)
3/4 Team MJR day with Marty
All day |
|
1/2 Excursion to Clarendon House
All day |
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Set up for Success/Joeys
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Recurring event |
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5/6 Team MJR day with Marty
All day |
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P&F meeting- All welcome
5:30 PM - 6:30 PM |
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STM Cross Country
All day |
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Set up for Success/Joeys
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Recurring event |
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Grade 5/6 Futsal Titles
All day |
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Grade 3/4 Futsal
All day |
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Set up for Success/Joeys
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Recurring event |
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Whole School Mass - Pentecost
All day |
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STM Band Soiree
All day |
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Student Free Day
All day |
|
Public Holiday
All day |
|
Set up for Success/Joeys
9:00 AM - 10:30 AM Recurring event |
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Grade 6 Reflection Day
All day |
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NIJSSA Cross Country
All day |