Dear Families,
Last Sunday was the Feast of Pentecost. I was searching for a reflection to share with you about Pentecost when I came across this, written by a fellow principal. I think it is very relevant for our community:
Pentecost is one of the most powerful and inspiring moments in the Christian calendar. It marks the day when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples, filling them with courage, wisdom, and the ability to speak in many languages so they could share the message of Jesus with people from all nations.
But Pentecost is more than just a historical event – it’s a reminder that the Spirit of God is still alive and active in our world today.
A Spirit of Unity
On that first Pentecost, people from many different backgrounds and cultures gathered in Jerusalem. When the disciples began to speak, everyone could understand them in their own language. It was a moment of deep unity – a sign that God’s love is for everyone, no matter where they come from.
In our school community, we are also made up of many different people, each with unique gifts, stories, and perspectives. Pentecost invites us to celebrate that diversity and to work together in harmony, just as the early followers of Jesus did.
A Spirit of Courage
Before Pentecost, the disciples were afraid. They stayed behind closed doors, unsure of what to do next. But when the Holy Spirit came, everything changed. They were filled with boldness and joy, ready to go out and share the Good News.
We all face moments of fear or uncertainty – whether it’s speaking up in class, trying something new, or standing up for what’s right. Pentecost reminds us that we are never alone. The Spirit gives us strength to face challenges and to live with purpose and confidence.
EXPLORATION LEARNING COMMUNITY NEWS
This week, our Explorations students had an exciting visit from Fire Rescue Victoria. In our Investigations, we have been learning about our community and the people who help us. The firefighters taught us about good fires and bad fires, smoke alarms and what to do when we see smoke. We practised getting down low and crawling to safety.
We talked about what an emergency was and when to call 000. Finally, the firefighters gave us some homework to complete with our families to decide on a safe meeting place where we can go in an emergency to stay safe from the fire, and the firefighters can see us. We are excited for the firefighters to come back next Friday for their second visit, where we will get to learn about their equipment and see the fire truck.
FROM VICTORIA POLICE
We have been asked by Victoria Police to include the following information in our newsletter:
Below is an example of a compliant and non-compliant E-bike.
A power-assisted bicycle is identical to a pedal-powered bicycle, except it has an auxiliary motor.
EPACs are the most common type of e-bike available today. They have:
At least one auxiliary propulsion motor
A maximum continuous rated power of 250 watts
A motor that provides power assistance when the rider is pedalling, and only up to 25km/h
A motor that does not provide power at speeds higher than 25km/h.
Power-assisted bicycles that meet the above definition are allowed to be ridden in Victoria as they are classed as bicycles.
Road rules: E-bike riders must follow the same road rules as regular bicycle riders, including wearing a helmet, not using a mobile phone while riding, and using lights in low light.
No registration or license required: E-bikes do not require registration or a license, provided they meet the specified requirements
E-bikes with the following characteristics are illegal to ride on public roads and road-related areas:
E-bikes with toggle switches that allow the bike to override the legal power and wattage limits outlined above
An EPAC that continues to provide motorised power above 25km/h
Any bicycle with a combined maximum continuous rated power output greater than 250 watts
A device with no functional pedals
A bicycle fitted with an internal combustion engine (e.g. petrol-powered).
E-bikes with these characteristics can only be ridden on private property. They are considered an unregistered motor vehicle, and heavy fines apply for riding in public areas.
Warning: E-bikes typically use lithium-ion batteries, which can pose a fire risk, particularly if they are improperly used, stored, charged, or manufactured.
UPCOMING DATES
TERM TWO
June
18/06: Prayer Service: Exploration & Discovery Grade One/ Curiosity Grade 4 – Challenge Grade 5 & 6 @ 2.40pm
Eucharist Sacramental Retreat (Grade Three students)
19/06: Junior School Assembly: Exploration
21/06: Eucharist Masses @ St Anthony’s @ 5.30pm
23/06: Semester One Reports to Go Home
25/06: Three-Way Learning Conversations: 12.30 – 6.00pm
26/06: Three-Way Learning Conversations: 12.30 – 6.00pm
30/06 – 2/07 Dental Van Visit
July
30/06 – 04/07: NAIDOC Week Celebrations
02/07: Prayer Service: Discovery Grade Two & Curiosity Grade Three / Curiosity Grade 4 – Challenge Grade 5 & 6 @ 2.40pm
04/07: End of Term Two: Early Close @ 1.30pm
God bless,
Bill Hill
PRINCIPAL