Index
From the Principal
PAGE 4
Introducing our New College Leaders
Principal Alan Connah introduces the new and familiar faces in College Leadership for 2025.
PAGE 6
The Ripple Effect
Deputy Principal Celia Mara shares insights from Dr. Adam Fraser’s session on fostering a positive school culture.
PAGE 10
Celebrating the 2024 DUX
We speak with 2024 College DUX, Emily Fraser, about her Year 12 experience and what’s next.
PAGE 12
Blessing of the Backpacks
Reception teacher Jen Buckland explains the significance of the ‘Blessing of the Backpacks’, an annual tradition at St Martins for our Reception and Year 12 students.
PAGE 16
Year 9 Rite Journey Calling Ceremony
Year 9 Wellbeing Leader, Courtney Lewis, shares about the Rite Journey Calling Ceremony held at Port MacDonnell in Week 5.
PAGE 18
Indigenous Learning at St Martins
Allison McDonnell, our R-12 Indigenous Education Coordinator, shares the importance of Indigenous learning and the programs we have in place at St Martins.
PAGE 22
Year 12 Retreat
At the start of the year, our Year 12s have a quick getaway to Robe to prepare them for the year ahead. Organiser and College Counsellor, Jane Savage, shares what it’s all about.
PAGE 24
Artists’ Efforts Rewarded
Two St Martins students have been selected to have their works exhibited in the 2025 SACE Art Show—we hear about their works and future artistic endeavours.
PAGE 28
Pushing Limits and Building Bonds
Our Year 6 classes kicked off 2025 with a day at Noorla Yo-Long. We hear from students and Camp Manager Geoff Yates about what challenges the students tackled.
PAGE 30
Ministry Report
Wesley Olivier, Director of Ministry, reflects on the past term and takes a look ahead to next term.
PAGE 34
Photo Galleries
Year 7 to Year 12 Swimming Carnival
PAGE 8
Sport
PAGE 14
Camps & Outdoor Education
PAGE 15
Reception-Year 6 Sports Day
PAGE 20
Around the College
PAGE 26
In the Community
PAGE 32
Meet the Staff: Dale Domleo
Say hello to Dale Domleo, who works four days a week as the Learning Leader for Inclusion and Diversity (R-6).
PAGE 37
Term 2 Calendar
Get all the key dates and information for school events happening in Term 2.
PAGE 38
Introducing our New College Leaders
It is a great pleasure to introduce our new College leaders for 2025.
Mrs Jo Patterson HEAD OF LEARNING, TEACHING, AND INNOVATION R-12
Jo Patterson, our new Head of Learning, Teaching and Innovation R-12, has over 20 years experience in education. She brings a wealth of skills to her new role at the College, having previously worked in several different schools and systems.
Jo’s educational philosophy is underpinned by a belief that everyone can grow and flourish in an environment that combines quality teaching and learning programs with effective pedagogies and high expectations.
Reflecting on her first term in her new role, Jo shares, “My highlights have been the times when the whole College has come together. From Worship, when our most senior students dance and sing in unison with our youngest, to the Community Connect night, when families and students from across the College met the teachers and had picnics on the school lawns. It is at these whole College events when I feel the St Martins Spirit coming alive.”
Mr Josh Hein HEAD OF WELLBEING
R-12
Josh Hein, our new Head of Wellbeing R-12, is an experienced educator with a strong background in wellbeing and pastoral care. He has held various
leadership roles in wellbeing across R-12 Lutheran schools in South Australia, with his most recent position being College Chaplain at Faith Lutheran College in the Barossa Valley.
“I look forward to more opportunities to build relationships and thank everyone for being so welcoming.”
Josh believes deeply in the value and uniqueness of everyone, as created by God, with special gifts and potential. He is driven by a keen desire to assist students and staff to realise their own potential and achieve success. Josh therefore sees a key part of his role as promoting a supportive and inclusive environment within the College, where students and staff can flourish.
When asked about his time at St Martins so far, Josh reflected: “A highlight of this term has been getting to know our students, staff, and families. From the Community Connect evening and Worship, to the College sporting events, and even a quick trip to Adelaide with some of our College captains, it has been fantastic to meet and connect with so many members of our College community.
“Whether it’s sharing a chat, teaching a class, cooking sausages, or gathering for Worship, these moments have all shown me different parts of the St Martins community. I look forward to more opportunities to build relationships and thank everyone for being so welcoming.”
Mrs Sharn de Nys
DIRECTOR OF STUDENT WELLBEING R-6
Sharn de Nys, our new Director of Student Wellbeing R-6, has over 25 years experience as a teacher, having taught every grade from Reception to Year 7. She has held various school leadership roles, with her most recent being as Assistant Principal at St. Anthony’s Catholic Primary School in Millicent.
Due to her professional experience and the influence of faith and family, Sharn greatly values the concept of a holistic education, that nourishes a young person’s academic, social, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.
As Sharn settles into her role, she has been particularly moved by the student engagement and faith focus: “One of the biggest highlights of my term so far has been visiting all the classes and seeing the incredible learning happening across the school. It’s been great to watch students engaged in creative projects, thoughtful discussions, and exciting challenges with their teachers.
“A highlight has been learning the actions to the songs the children sing during worship and devotion.”
“I’ve also enjoyed learning about the St Martins Spirit and seeing it in action—whether it’s in the way students support one another, show kindness, or approach challenges with resilience. Another highlight has been learning the actions to the songs the children sing during Worship and devotion. It’s been wonderful to hear their singing and see them doing the actions together—it really brings a great sense of community and makes me proud to be a part of such a faith-filled College.”
Mrs Romana Quintel DIRECTOR OF STUDENT WELLBEING 7-12
Humanities, English and interdisciplinary subjects across the secondary years. Having held several leadership roles at the College, including Faculty Leader for Humanities, English and LOTE, Middle School Wellbeing Leader and Acting Head of Middle School Wellbeing, she has developed a passion for student wellbeing and engagement.
Romana has a particular interest in how neurodiversity, mental health, and disability can impact student engagement and learning. In 2024 Romana completed a Graduate Certificate in Wellbeing and Positive Mental Health in Education.
“The
Wellbeing Team and I were thrilled to see how everyone supported one another when the 7-12 Village Sports Day was unfortunately cancelled.”
When asked about her highlights this term, Romana said: “As a result of stormy weather, the 7-12 Village Sports Day unfortunately had to be cancelled. We recognise that it was disappointing for some students to miss out on such an important annual event. Despite this, the Wellbeing Team and I were thrilled to see how everyone supported one another. It was a true example of our St Martins Spirit, with staff modelling flexibility, adaptability and resilience in managing the dynamic situation. The students made the most of their time back here at school, and we thank parents for their support.
“This bodes well for our ability to navigate other challenges throughout the year – such as the new Senior Student Hub build, which is both exciting and impactful; as well as the other social-emotional aspects of Wellbeing within the 7-12 Village.“
Romana, our new Director of Student Wellbeing 7-12, has worked at St Martins for thirteen years and has taught
Year 7-12
Swimming Carnival
Creating a HighPerformance Culture: The Ripple Effect
As we commenced a new school year, our staff had the privilege of working with Dr. Adam Fraser on “The Ripple Effect,” exploring what it means to create a high-performance culture. This session set the tone for the year ahead, reinforcing our commitment to fostering a positive and supportive environment for both staff and students.
Dr. Fraser introduced us to the science behind mood, motivation, and stress management. We examined the impact of key neurotransmitters:
Elevates mood, promotes calmness, optimism, and connection with others.
Drives attention, clear thinking, satisfaction, and happiness.
Enhances motivation, focus, and energy levels.
Triggers stress responses, alertness, and rapid thoughts.
Linked to aggression, stress, impaired memory, and lowered immunity.
Understanding how these elements influence our daily interactions was crucial in reflecting on the ripples we send out into our school community— both positive and negative.
A key takeaway was the importance of regular recovery to prevent burnout. Rather than relying on extended breaks, Dr. Fraser focused on the power of short, consistent bursts of recovery throughout the day. He challenged us to embed recovery habits into our routines, encouraging:
Engaging in activities that bring deep calm and relaxation.
Doing something that energizes and rejuvenates us.
Taking a day with no responsibilities to fully reset.
Dr. Fraser also shared a powerful quote:
“Culture is the character and personality of your organisation. It’s what makes your organisation unique and is the sum of its values, traditions, rituals, symbols, beliefs, interactions, behaviours, and attitudes.”
This resonated deeply as we reflected on “How we do things around here.”
Do we create a culture that supports, uplifts, and empowers? Or do we unintentionally contribute to stress and shame? Each of us was challenged to consider the ripples we send—ensuring that our actions align with our College’s vision and values.
Our Executive Team is taking this challenge seriously. This year, we have developed a strategic vision for 2025, which will also inform our new strategic plan moving forward. This vision is built around three key commitments: Community, Wellbeing, and Learning, Teaching & Innovation. These commitments, guided by our principles of faith, communication, data-informed decision-making, and continuous improvement, will shape the culture we cultivate at St Martins.
As we move forward, let’s all be intentional about the ripples we send. Together, we can foster a thriving, high-performance culture that reflects our values and enriches our entire community.
Mara Deputy Principal
Celia
Dr. Adam Fraser training the St Martins staff at the beginning of 2025.
STRATEGIC VISION 2025
COMMITMENTS
COMMUNITY
A strong, connected community fosters a sense of belonging and mutual support, which is essential for personal growth and collective success. Building relationships and living out our faith-based values strengthens this foundation, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
WELLBEING
Prioritising wellbeing is vital to ensuring the emotional, mental, and spiritual health of students and staff. By focusing on wellbeing, we empower individuals to cope with challenges, build resilience, and fully engage in their learning and personal development.
LEARNING, TEACHING & INNOVATION
In a rapidly changing world, fostering a culture of high expectations, innovation, and continuous improvement in teaching and learning ensures that our students are wellprepared for the future. This commitment drives academic excellence and equips students with the skills needed to succeed beyond school.
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
LIVING THE ST MARTINS SPIRIT
Foster a culture of belonging and respect, promoting faithbased values in all interactions.
ENHANCING COMMUNICATION
Strengthen transparent and meaningful engagement with students, families, and staff.
DATA-INFORMED DECISION MAKING
Utilise feedback from stakeholders to improve initiatives within each commitment.
CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT
Regularly evaluate and refine strategies to ensure sustained growth and effectiveness.
Celebrating the St Martins Lutheran College
2024 DUX
St Martins Lutheran College is proud to celebrate the outstanding academic achievements of Emily Fraser, who has been named the 2024 DUX after attaining an impressive ATAR of 98.25.
At the start of Year 12, Emily was determined to aim high with her ATAR. “Obviously, the primary use for an ATAR is to get into university, and that was really important to me,” Emily said. “But I was also curious to see how well I would do if I applied myself completely to my classes.”
Despite her aspirations, Emily was surprised to achieve such a high ATAR, as she admits she’s not the most confident exam-taker.
“My family were super proud of me, and Mum says it was really good to see the hard work from the year actually pay off,” she added.
“I achieved my results thanks to a number of brilliant teachers, along with continued support from my parents and friends.”
Emily’s dedication and perseverance have paved the way for her next academic journey as she begins a Bachelor of Science at the University of Melbourne—her first step towards a career in chemical engineering.
Chemical engineers apply principles of chemistry, physics, and mathematics to solve problems related to the production and use of chemicals, fuel, food, and many other products. They work in industries such as pharmaceuticals, energy, and environmental science,
developing efficient and sustainable solutions to real-world challenges.
Emily chose the field of chemical engineering because she enjoys chemistry and maths and finds designing processes and streamlining them for efficiency satisfying. She was also drawn to the industry’s stability and steady demand for skilled professionals.
As for a specialisation, Emily is still exploring her options. “Mineral refinement and anything in the mining industry are widespread in Australia and would pay well, but environmental sciences align more with my values. If I ever get the opportunity to live abroad, I think working in the nuclear industry would also be amazing—something in fusion technology or quantum computing.”
Reflecting on her success, Emily expressed gratitude for the unwavering support she received throughout her studies. “I achieved my results thanks to a number of brilliant teachers, along with continued support from my parents and friends,” she said. “I would
like to thank these teachers for the invaluable work that they do, along with everyone else at St Martins who has helped and supported both me and the Class of 2024.”
Acknowledging the challenges of Year 12, Emily shared some valuable advice for the incoming Class of 2025.
“Year 12 is a particularly challenging year, with a heavy study load and a stressful exam period. I have full faith that the Class of 2025 can handle everything this year will throw at them, but I’d also like to pass on some study advice for those who want to achieve academically.
“First of all, do as well as possible on tests and assignments in the first semester. It’s often tempting to do less work at the start of the year, thinking you can make up for it later. But by the later part of the year, you’ll be exhausted and unable to perform at your best, so don’t count on getting higher grades then. Instead, make sure to do as well as possible while you still have the energy.
“Secondly, finish all your assignments as soon as possible after you get them. Otherwise, I can guarantee they will pile up, and all of a sudden, you’ll have to write three essays in a night. Year 12 has a lot of written work and tests, and if you put everything off, not only will you get completely overwhelmed, but you’ll also miss drafting dates and other opportunities to improve your work.
“Finally, remember to look after yourself. You will use your ATAR once to make getting into university easier, and while it’s important, it’s not worth sacrificing your health for.
“I wish everyone luck for the school year and 2025, especially the new Year 12s, and all the best for the next step in your journeys.”
The St Martins Lutheran College community congratulates Emily on her remarkable achievement and looks forward to seeing where her passion for science and engineering takes her in the future.
St Martins top ATAR scorers with Principal Alan Connah; Emily Fraser, Lauren van Eeden, Annabelle Mossford MacGregor, Maddison Stafford, Shae Delaney, Remy Duckworth and Lucy Edwards. (Absent: Piper Chant)
Camps & Outdoor Education
Blessing of the Backpacks
The Blessing of the Backpacks is a lovely tradition that our College has instigated over the past few years. This involves the students in their final year of schooling (the Year 12 students) welcoming the students in their first year of schooling (the Reception students). We gather together on our College oval, with words of affirmation and blessing spoken by members of College leadership over all the students and, as a final welcoming gesture, the Year 12 students placing a College keyring on a Reception student’s backpack that they are buddied up with.
The tradition started to acknowledge students in these milestone years–students that are beginning school and the students that are finishing off their schooling–and that the year ahead is one of a special nature for these students.
“It is lovely to witness the patience and the interaction of the Year 12 students with their younger buddy.”
The Reception and Year 12 “buddies” will have opportunities to meet over the year, as in past years students have participated in an Easter scavenger hunt– reflecting on the importance of Christ’s death and resurrection. As a lovely moment of reciprocation of blessing and appreciation, the Reception students, in Term 4, design a keyring for their Year 12 buddy and write them a letter wishing them well for their exams and in their future endeavours.
The keyring and letter is then presented to their Year 12 buddy on their official last day of school, before Year 12 exams.
The buddy relationship between the Receptions and Year 12 students is so beautiful to see. It is lovely to witness the patience and the interaction of the Year 12 students with their younger buddy and I think it is particularly touching that at the end of the year, the Reception students, that have grown with a year of schooling, farewell the Year 12 students with a similar gift. I pray that these small signs of encouragement and blessing continue for years to come.
Jen Buckland Reception Teacher
Year 9 Rite Journey Calling Ceremony
At St Martins, The Rite Journey is designed for our Year 9 students and involves a range of activities, teachings, camps, and discussions to support their personal growth and development. The Rite Journey program partners with families to help students navigate the complex journey from adolescents into the young adults God has created them to be. Young people often seek their own
ways to demonstrate their readiness for adulthood, marking this transition with a sense of uncertainty or a struggle to find clear purpose and direction.
The Rite Journey program consists of seven stages and each stage of the journey is marked by a memorable event to honour the students transition into young adulthood. The Calling
Ceremony which was held on Thursday 6th March was the first stage and marked the beginning of this journey.
The Rite Journey teachers welcomed the students on this journey with words of wisdom and reassurance, that this journey is not to be walked alone and their village is there to support and guide them; ‘Every great journey begins with a call. This is your call. Along this path, you will face challenges that test your courage, resilience, and strength. But know this: you do not walk alone. Your teachers, your families, and your friends walk beside you, cheering you on.’ The students began their journey, walking along the foreshore, reflecting on childhood emotions and behaviours which are no longer needed when we reach adulthood. Stones were given to the students to write these childhood behaviours on and say goodbye to. The students are not taking this path to adulthood alone and are encouraged to support one another. We gathered in our Rite Journey classes and lined the shore line, thinking about the words we wrote on our stones. Taking the next step together, the students threw these stones into the ocean. ‘Adulthood
All Year 9 students gather, before splitting into their Rite Journey groups.
Reception-Year 6 Sports Day
Indigenous Learning at St Martins
It’s my privilege to share with you a snapshot of a few programs we undertake at St Martins Lutheran College that explore Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures. These programs support our work for all students within the Australian Curriculum but more importantly, they show respect for and commitment to the interests that our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have shown for these experiences.
Bush Tucker Cooking Program
The Bush Tucker program offers a cooking experience using locallysourced Indigenous ingredients. Many of the ingredients are grown on-site. The tailored sessions encourage all students to touch and smell the ingredients, to read recipes, prepare the food, clean up after themselves and most importantly, share the food and experience with each other. We find opportunities to adapt food experience sessions to any age-group. Popular ingredients include wattleseed and lemon myrtle and for some, kangaroo has become a familiar taste. Cooking sessions have included biscuits, slices, ice-cream tasting sessions, curry, BBQ, platters of finger-foods and damper. Early in the program’s development a Bush Tucker Garden was planted by staff and students under the guidance of Uncle Doug Nicholl. Those original plants thrive and are still used in our cooking.
“Students are encouraged to learn from and listen to the world around them, to ask questions and to consider the environment.”
Year 7 Walking the Seasons Program
Uncle Doug has also been central to our Year 7 program, Walking the Seasons. Staff and students meet on
Aunty Michelle Jacquelin-Furr speaking with the Year 4 students about message sticks.
Uncle Doug Nicholl speaking with Year 7 students during ‘Walking the Seasons’.
Year 12 Retreat
Looking Back and Moving Forward
The final year of school can be a daunting time, and often there are mixed emotions for our Year 12 students. These feelings can range from excitement about the possibility of finally completing school, to worry about the next steps and what lies ahead.
In recognition of this important milestone in their educational journey, each year at St Martins we facilitate a Retreat for the Year 12 students. The purpose of the Retreat is to provide opportunity for the students to spend time with their peers in a relaxed environment, to reflect on their educational and life journey to this point, and to prepare themselves well for the year ahead.
This year our Retreat was held at Robe in the week prior to school returning. We were blessed to have stunning weather as a backdrop to the two day event, which allowed for fun outdoor activities, sitting in the sunshine and walks into town for ice-cream. Students heard from the Class of 2024, who offered advice and suggestions for coping with the demands of Year 12; Mrs Polomka spoke about future pathways, and Mrs Quintel offered words of wisdom about her own Year 12 experience and wishes for the graduating class. There was opportunity to offer affirmation and support to peers as well as to receive words of love and support from parents, family members and caregivers.
Thank you to the amazing staff who came along to support and care for our students, as well as to offer their insights and expertise in a number of areas. In particular, we are grateful to Mrs Liz Beames for giving up her time to ensure students were well fed. We are so fortunate to have such supportive and caring staff and community members at St Martins.
I wish all our Year 12 students every blessing for the year ahead.
Jane Savage College Counsellor
“Feelings can range from excitement about the possibility of finally completing school, to worry about the next steps and what lies ahead.”
Around the College
Artists’ Efforts Rewarded with SACE Art Show Selection
Two exceptionally talented St Martins Lutheran College students, Eleanor and recent graduate Shae, have been selected for the 2025 SACE Art Show. Their remarkable pieces, “Armoured” and “The Place,” will be exhibited alongside works from 134 other students, celebrating the creativity and dedication of those who completed SACE Art Visual and Design in 2024.
The SACE Art Show is an annual exhibition that showcases a diverse range of artistic disciplines, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, costumes, and multimedia works. This event not only highlights the incredible talent of young South Australian artists but also offers the public a chance to appreciate the artistic achievements of SACE students.
This year’s exhibition will take place at Light Square Gallery, Adelaide College of the Arts, running from Tuesday, 18 March to Thursday, 10 April 2025. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore an inspiring collection of works that reflect the passion, creativity, and technical skill of emerging artists.
Eleanor’s sculpture, “Armoured,” is a striking depiction of a pangolin crafted from recycled spoons. She was inspired by metalwork artist Cindy Chinn, specifically her piece ‘Oneida ‘, a life-sized crane made out of cutlery.
Through “Armoured”, Eleanor aims to promote recycling and raise awareness about pangolin conservation. Her choice of materials carries deep symbolism— while pangolin scales serve as natural armor, protecting them from predators, they remain vulnerable to human poaching. Pangolins are often falsely
Eleanor, Year 12, with her sculpture ‘Armoured’.
Pushing Limits and Building Bonds
In Weeks 3 and 4, our Year 6 students embarked on an exciting journey at Noorla Yo-Long, an outdoor education facility near Millicent. Each class spent a day pushing their limits, building self-confidence, and strengthening their bonds in preparation for their final year in the R-6 Village.
The day began on the ground with obstacle course challenges that encouraged teamwork and trust. Students were paired with someone outside their usual friend group, with one blindfolded while the other guided them through the course—an exercise in communication and reliance on others. As the day progressed, they tackled even greater challenges, moving to the high ropes course, where they faced their fears, broke self-imposed limitations, and cheered each other on.
“I learnt that teamwork almost always helps— supporting each other makes things easier.”
Many students arrived at Noorla Yo-Long with an ‘I can’t’ mindset but left beaming with pride, having accomplished more than they thought possible. The experience wasn’t just about overcoming physical obstacles—it was about conquering doubts and realising their true potential.
At the start of the day, Year 6 student Rosie was excited and ready for the challenges ahead, saying, “I was feeling quite motivated, ready to go climb some trees.” In contrast, her classmate Nathaniel admitted, “I was extremely nervous; I’m so bad with heights.”
However, as the day went on, Nathaniel’s confidence grew, and he reflected, “I did feel better at the end. For the treetop climb, I just climbed the ladder as high as I could.”
Using their voice, noise and consented physical guidance, it was the student’s job to help their blindfolded partner through a series of obstacles.
The experience also reinforced the importance of teamwork. Rosie noted, “I learnt that teamwork almost always helps—supporting each other makes things easier.”
When asked if they’d participate in Noorla Yo-Long activities again, both students were quick to say “yes”!
Noorla Yo-Long is part of the Blue Light Outdoor Adventure Education Program, run by Blue Light SA Inc., a charity founded in 1982 by members of South Australia Police (SAPOL). The program provides young people with engaging activities in a safe environment, free from drugs, alcohol, violence, and bullying,
while fostering positive relationships with police and the wider community.
The Camp Manager at Noorla Yo-Long, Senior Constable First Class Geoff Yates, is also the husband of Year 6 teacher Michelle Yates. With 18 years of experience as a police officer on shift work, Geoff took on the role for a change of scenery, bringing his passion for youth development to the forefront. Geoff has been running the camp for over five years now. Watching him in action with the students, it’s clear that he is committed to helping young people push past their comfort zones and challenge their self-doubt.
When asked what he finds most fulfilling, Geoff shared, “It has to be when I hear back from the students or staff that we have had a positive impact on them. Particularly when they see Police Officers in a positive view instead of the negative we are often associated with, and when they realise many of their personal challenges are self-imposed and can be overcome with their own courage and the support of others.”
For our Year 6 students, this experience at Noorla Yo-Long was more than just a fun day out—it was a journey of growth and resilience that will stay with them long after their feet are back on solid ground.
Senior Constable First Class Geoff Yates climbs up the wall to reassure Nathaniel. For some students, it was more confronting to tackle the heights without a blindfold.
The final obstacle for the blindfolded partner activity was to climb a tall wall.
Ministry Report
Hello St Martins Family,
As we begin our journey through 2025, our theme for the year is Everyone Has a Story. This theme resonates deeply with us because stories—whether personal or shared—are an incredible human trait that set us apart from all of creation. When we reflect on “My Story,” we are reminded of who we are and who we are becoming. When we think about “Your Story,” we are inspired by others, encouraging us to be the best versions of ourselves. Ultimately, as we consider “God’s Story,” we realise that all stories find their true meaning in the ultimate narrative of God’s love, mercy, and compassion.
Life is made up of countless stories, and throughout this year, we will focus on different themes each term. For Term 1, our focus has been on stories of adventure, using the life of Moses as our guide. Moses’ story reminds us that every adventure begins with God calling us to follow Him. We are invited to say “yes” with hope and anticipation for the incredible things God has in store. In Week 4, Class 3MW impressed us with a skit on the 10 plagues of Egypt, teaching us that when God has a plan, He will make a way for it to unfold. The more we resist His plan, the more we encounter struggles—just like Pharaoh did. As we continue to explore Moses’ adventure, we learn that when God sends us on His journey, we are transformed, we
are worthy, and He will send others to support us along the way.
Some of the highlights of Term 1 included the two Ash Wednesday services we held for both the R-6 and 7-12 Villages. These services gave us an opportunity to reflect on the enduring nature of God’s love. In a world where we are often tempted to find meaning in wealth, power, or popularity, we were reminded that only God’s love provides the true everlasting value we seek. Each student had the chance to receive a cross of ash on their forehead as a symbolic reminder of God’s eternal love. Another memorable moment came when we shared a “Gospel” message through the story of Iron Man from the Marvel Cinematic Universe. It’s always fun to use pop culture to reveal God’s truth, and who knows? Maybe we’ll have more superhero-inspired lessons in the terms ahead!
Looking ahead to Term 2, we will explore stories of compassion, using the story of Esther as a model for Godly compassion. We’ll also take part in the Schools Ration Challenge, run by Acts for Peace, which our St Martins community has supported for many years. This challenge invites the 7-12 Village to experience a glimpse of what others live through daily, and as we do so, our hearts grow in compassion.
In Term 3, our theme will be Stories of Purpose, as we seek to understand why God has called us to be part of His greater story. Finally, in Term 4, we will focus on Stories of Relationship, learning how meaningful connections with others bring deeper purpose and value to our individual stories. This year’s ministry journey will guide our students and staff as they create their own meaningful life stories.
As we approach the Easter season, I encourage you to reflect on the hopeful words from 1 Peter 1:3:
“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! According to His great mercy, He has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead.”
This Easter, may you be reminded that because Jesus has conquered death, darkness, and suffering, we too can find hope in knowing that He desires to rewrite our stories—helping us overcome the challenges we face. Jesus wants each of us to have the best life stories possible.
From the St Martins Ministry Team, Isaac and myself, we wish you a blessed holiday with your loved ones.
Faith in Grace,
Olivier
Meet the Staff
Learning Leader for Inclusion & Diversity (R-6)
Dale Domleo
Describe yourself in three words. Approachable, fun, and purposeful.
Where did you grow up and what was life like? Growing up in South Africa was a deeply enriching experience, shaped by the country’s diverse cultures and languages. I was exposed to a rich tapestry of traditions, from music and dance to culinary practices, which reflect the nation’s multicultural heritage. The natural beauty of South Africa, from coastlines to mountains, offered a playground for outdoor activities. I was blessed to belong to a lovely small-town community in my younger years and went on to study near Cape Town in the scenic town called Stellenbosch. My further studies took me to Pietermaritzburg, which is where I did the majority of my teaching.
When and why did you move to Mount Gambier? We moved to Mount Gambier in 2019. My husband and I
were newly married and decided that we wanted to travel. We were able to come to Australia with our skill set and decided that this was where our adventure would take us.
“I have the privilege of working with students and teachers to create an environment where all students can feel a sense of belonging and flourish.”
What did you pursue first - teaching or counselling? And how were you led to the other? My first degree I completed was in Commerce, and I soon realised that this was not for me. I started volunteering to teach music and movement at the local primary school. I loved it and then decided to study further in teaching. I had been teaching for a number of years at this point and was doing professional photography in my spare time. I started counselling when an opportunity came up at the school I was teaching at where they needed someone who had a good rapport with the students to give
counselling support. I absolutely loved it! I started my counselling studies whilst still in South Africa and completed them online once we had moved to Australia.
What drew you to working in education? Having lived in many rural areas in South Africa, I came into contact with many young poverty-stricken children whose only ticket to a better life was an education. This really encouraged me to be a part of this solution.
When did you start at St Martins and what does your role involve? I started here this year. In my role as the Learning Leader for Inclusion and Diversity, I have the privilege of working with students and teachers to create an environment where all students can feel a sense of belonging and flourish regardless of ability or disability.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job? Seeing students realise that they can grow and achieve past what they thought might be holding them back. Also being a part of team who put such true passion and dedication into their roles.
What are your interests outside of St Martins? Family - walks and laughing with my hubby, spending time loving my kids, cooking, playing tennis, travel, wave watching.
Dale with her son Cooper who is also new to St Martins.
Term 2 Calendar
GIJ Band and Choir Workshop
Tertiary Financial Information Presentation (Yr 11/12 Parents) - 6:00pm
Rostrum Voice of Youth - Mt Gambier High School Boandik Buddies
Mother’s Day Stall
Generations in Jazz Drama Workshop with State Theatre Company - 9.40am11.10am
South East Cross Country Day 2025 at Naracoorte Primary School
ALIA National Simultaneous Storytime - 11.30am
Veta Morphus Retreat 2 in Adelaide
Pedal Prix Round 2Tailem Bend
Calendar correct at publication, for an updated copy please visit stmartins.sa.edu.au.
3/6
Flinders University Year 12 Presentation9-9.45am 9/6 Public Holiday 23/6 5/6 SAPSASA Cross Country Championships 19/6 3/7 Student Free Day 11/6
Year 10 Immunisation Program - Second Visit (+ catch ups) 17/6 1/7
Boandik Buddies 18/6
9-12 Drama Production SAPSASA Boys & Girls Netball State Carnivals
Boandik Buddies
New Reception Visit9am-11.30am 2/7 Student Free Day 10/6
Last day of Term 2 for students
Parent Information & New Reception Visit9am-11am
New Reception Visit9am-11.30am 13/6
Free Day 20/6 4/7
Student Free Day End of Semester 1
Contact
CAMPUS 3 St Martins Drive, Mount Gambier
WEBSITE stmartins.sa.edu.au
PHONE (08) 8725 1430
EMAIL office@stmartins.sa.edu.au
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