2 October 2026
From the Principal
Principal's Office
A Wonderful Term of Learning and Community Spirit!
As we come to the end of Term 3, I would like to congratulate our students on another outstanding term. Across the College, students have demonstrated commitment to their learning, embraced challenges, and made the most of the many opportunities available to them. Whether in classrooms, on sporting fields, musical and creative performances, during camps and excursions, in prayer and liturgy, or simply by supporting one another each day, our students have contributed positively to the life of our community.
This term has been filled with many activities and events. We have celebrated many successes, but perhaps most importantly, we have seen students continue to grow as learners and as people who strive to live our Salesian and Dominican values.
Thank you to our students for their effort, perseverance and willingness to become involved in the rich life of the College. Thank you also to our families and staff for the encouragement and support you provide each day. Thank you also to our staff for their ongoing support, nurturing and care of all students.
Online Safety Book for Families
As we head into the holidays, families may find the Online Safety Book from the eSafety Commissioner a valuable resource. The guide is designed for parents and carers that covers a range of important topics including social media, online gaming, cyberbullying, scams, digital wellbeing and emerging technologies such as AI. It also provides practical advice and conversation starters to help families support young people to have positive and safe online experiences. The guide is intended to help families understand online risks, know how to respond when issues arise, and have meaningful conversations with children about life online.
During the break, I encourage families to spend a little time exploring this resource and discussing how technology can be used safely, respectfully and responsibly. Holidays can also be a wonderful opportunity for young people to balance screen time with reading, outdoor play, creative pursuits and time with family and friends. A healthy balance between online and offline experiences supports wellbeing and helps ensure students return refreshed and ready for a successful Term 4.
Prayer for the Term Break
Dear Lord,
We thank You for the many blessings of this term, for the learning we have shared, the friendships we have strengthened, the challenges we have overcome, and the joy we have found in being part of the Dominic College community.
As we enter this term break, bless all members of our community. Grant us the spirit of St John Bosco, who believed that holiness is found in joy, kindness and everyday faithfulness.
May this break be a time of rest, renewal and gratitude. Help us to enjoy time with those we love and appreciate the gifts You have given us. Keep us safe in our travels and activities, and renew our minds, hearts and spirits for the final term ahead.
As a community where every person is loved, known and valued, may we continue to be signs of Your hope and compassion wherever we are.
Amen.
Wishing you a Safe and Restful Term Break
As the term break begins, I encourage everyone to take the opportunity to rest, recharge and spend quality time with family and friends. I wish all members of our community a safe, happy and restful holiday.
We look forward to welcoming students back for the final term of the 2026 academic year on Monday 19 October 2026.
Steve Casni
Dominic College Principal
From the Deputies
Deputy Principal's Office
Dear Families,
As Term 3 wraps up, we would like to wish everyone all the best for a safe and relaxing break before Term 4 commences on Monday 19 October. Term breaks are wonderful times to read extensively for enjoyment. Reading each day is one of the most powerful habits a young person can develop. Regular reading strengthens concentration, memory, vocabulary and communication skills while also supporting success across all learning areas.
Just as importantly, reading provides a chance to relax, reduce stress and take a healthy break from screens. Even 20 minutes of reading each day can make a significant difference. We encourage families to support this simple but valuable habit and help foster a lifelong love of learning.
Year 10 Retreat
Year 10 students will attend their final Retreat at Spring Bay Beach from 28-30 October. This is a chance to celebrate and reflect on their time at Dominic College and to spend time with friends. We wish the Year 10s all the best as they embark on their final term at the College.
Term 3 Expectations Reports
Student Expectation Reports from Prep – Year 10 became available on 1 October 2026 via SEQTA Engage. Please review them for insights into student progress and areas for improvement. Accessing SEQTA Engage will allow you to view, download or print the report.
Hobart Show Day and Student Free Day
A reminder that Thursday 22 October 2026 is Hobart Show Day and Friday 23 October is a Student-Free Day. The College will be closed on both these days.
Year 7 2027 House Information Evening
The Year 7 House Information Evening will take place on Monday 26 October in the Savio Centre. This is for all families with students enrolled in Year 7 for 2027. Come along to learn more about Year 7 at Dominic College and meet your Morning Oratory Group Teacher.
Kinder 2027 Parent Information Evening
The Kinder 2027 Parent Information Evening will take place on Wednesday 28 October from 5.45-6.30pm in the Kindergarten classrooms. This is for all families with students enrolled into Kinder 2027.
Allison Lowe - Deputy Principal (Primary)
Janet Marcenko - Deputy Principal (Secondary)
A Home that Welcomes
Creative Arts Captains' Report
We started the term off on a high after our Boys Choir, led by Mr Budgeon, performed in the Next Gen Voices in July. This concert was part of the Festival of Voices where Dominic combined with students from The Friends’ School and Hutchins for their debut. The performance was amazing and we are incredibly proud of them.
Also, our Dominic College Year 9/10 Dance Class competed in the Southern Tasmanian Dancing Eisteddfods. The piece they performed was called 'The Seed' and was choreographed by Miss Hannah Lawless. The class were awarded first place and were very happy with themselves.
The Year 9/10 Drama Class performed in Talking Heads, an evening of monologues at the start of September as part of their course. The night featured things that were funny, weird and wonderful and some that made you stop and think. The effort and preparation that went into the performance was incredible and the Year 9/10 Drama Class should all be proud of their work, it was greatly entertaining and the vibes were high.
The Music and Dance Showcase is often the highlight of Term 3, and this year was no exception. Many students devote themselves to band, choir, Taiko or dance and the Showcase is the perfect opportunity for them to show their hard work.
This being our last showcase, we wanted to show everyone just exactly what the Dominic students are capable of. This was captured perfectly through student solos, ensemble work and all performances. Showcase night was an amazing event and definitely a highlight of the year.
During Term 3, we also celebrated the Guzman and Siena Feast Day, and this year we brought back House singing. Every Feast Day has an activity designed to bring the Dominic College community together. After spending an hour and a half practicing their songs, all the Houses came together to perform what they had prepared. Every House gave it their all, putting effort into their singing and choreography, with ideas contributed by both students and teachers. In the end, it was Siena who came out on top after their incredible performance of 'Don’t Stop Believin’. Even though there was a winner, every House and every student put in so much effort, stepping outside their comfort zones and creating lasting memories together.
As the Hobart Show and College Fair quickly approaches, Dominic Visual and Media Art students have been hard at work preparing their art for the exhibitions. The Senior Art Exhibition will take place as part of our College Fair, and every student will have the opportunity to present their favourite works from their portfolio throughout the year. We hope you will come along to see the hard work and effort of our students.
Alexia Cowley, Chelsea Hawkins, Amelie McGann and Abigail McGovern - Creative Arts Captains (Secondary)
Student and Parent Support
World Mental Health Day 2026
World Mental Health Day is coming up on Saturday 10 October 2026. Recognised by the World Health Organisation (WHO), this year’s theme is: ‘Lived Experiences Heard: Real Voices, Real Change’.
According to the WHO, good mental health is when you can:

- Cope with the normal stresses of life
- Learn and work productively
- Use your talents and abilities
- Contribute to your community
You might also feel able to contribute to society (www.healthdirect.gov.au)
When we think about what mental health might look like, there are some key signs:
- Emotional Resilience
- Meaningful Relationships
- A sense of Purpose
- Emotional Regulation
- Quality Sleep (7-9 hrs per night)
This short video explains: The Big 5 Animated - MindSpot - YouTube
For further support:
Adults:
Mindspot Clinic: What we do | MindSpot Clinic
Lifeline: Lifeline Tasmania - Your source of hope and support services
Reachout.com: A Safe Place to Chat Anonymously, Get Support & Feel Better | ReachOut Australia
Young people:
Kids helpline: Kids Helpline | Phone Counselling Service | 1800 55 1800
Pulse Youth Health Centre: Youth Health Services | Tasmanian Department of Health
Headspace: headspace National Youth Mental Health Foundation
Medicare Mental Health Line: Medicare Mental Health services | Medicare Mental Health
Belinda Dooley - College Counsellor
Learning and Wellbeing - Year 3/4
Over the past few weeks in Oratory, our Year 3 and 4 students have been exploring online safety and what it means to be a safe, thoughtful and responsible digital citizen. This has led to some great conversations about technology, gaming, social media, messaging, privacy and what children can do when something online doesn’t feel right.
Technology is a normal part of childhood in a way that is vastly different from when many of us were growing up. It can be a fantastic tool for learning, creating, communicating and connecting with others. At the same time, the online world is becoming part of children’s lives from an increasingly young age, so it is important that we help them develop healthy habits and good judgement alongside their digital skills.
Recent Australian research from the eSafety Commissioner found that 84% of children aged 8–12 surveyed had used at least one social media or messaging service, and 40% of those who had used these services reported having their own account.
Screen habits extend beyond social media. Australian Bureau of Statistics data indicates that 45.5% of children aged 5–8 and 37.2% of children aged 9–11 met the recreational screen-time recommendation of no more than two hours on each of the seven days surveyed.
Bedtime is another area worth considering. Around four in ten children in these age groups were reported to use a screen in the hour before bed. The proportion with a screen-based device in their bedroom was 29.1% for children aged 5–8 and 40.4% for those aged 9–11.
These figures aren't shared to suggest that screens are inherently bad, or that all screen time is the same. Using a device to create, research, read or learn is very different from spending long periods scrolling, watching videos or gaming. Research in this area is complex, and what matters includes what children are doing on a device, how long they are doing it for, and what that time might be replacing — particularly sleep, physical activity, reading, play and face-to-face interaction.
For children aged 5–17, Australian movement guidelines recommend limiting recreational screen time to no more than two hours per day and accumulating at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity each day. For children aged 5–13, the guidelines also recommend 9–11 hours of uninterrupted sleep each night.
At home, some of the most useful strategies can also be quite simple: creating predictable times and places for recreational screens, keeping devices out of bedrooms overnight, checking privacy settings and parental controls together, and maintaining an ongoing conversation about what children are doing online.
Questions such as 'What was fun online today?', 'Who were you playing with?' or 'Did you see anything that made you uncomfortable?' can often tell us much more than simply asking how long a child has been on a device.
Perhaps most importantly, children learn a great deal from what they see us do. Putting our own phones away during meals, making time for reading and conversation, and showing that we can switch off from technology are powerful ways of modelling the habits we want children to develop.
Our aim at school isn't to teach children to avoid technology. It is to help them develop the judgement, confidence and habits they need to use it safely and well.
For families wanting further information, the eSafety Commissioner has excellent practical resources for parents and carers, including advice about gaming, devices, social media, privacy, parental controls and conversations about online safety.
I look forward to seeing where these conversations take us next in Oratory.
Michael Voss - Acting Lead Teacher: Year 3/Year 4
Learning and Wellbeing - Siena House
It has been a busy time for students with the celebration of St Catherine of Siena and St Dominic Guzman during our recent Feast Day. The festivities took on a musical theme, with a focus on singing during Mass.
Members of the Staff Choir even joined the Student Choir to provide some beautiful reflection music. The students competed in a House Singing Challenge, with a focus on the vocals, participation, and theatrics. It was a fun afternoon, with some stiff competition, but Siena came out on top winning the coveted Golden Microphone statue.
Our Year 9 students spent the last week on Maria Island, challenging themselves to various hikes, including the intimidating Bishop and Clerk, and making memories with their friends. They also spent time learning about the varied history of the island by wandering through the old buildings and ruins. Students were able to understand Maria Island’s use as an Ark Island, with time spent spotting wombats and Forrester Kangaroos, and even the elusive Tasmanian Devils.
As part of the onsite Camp Program, students participated in series of Wellbeing Days which included reflective activities designed to strengthen relationships and build a positive community culture. These sessions encouraged students to consider what they need from one another in order to feel supported, connected, and valued. They explored practical ways to show kindness, empathy, and encouragement, while also reflecting on the importance of self-care and self-compassion. The experience provided valuable opportunities for students to strengthen friendships, share positive messages, and develop a greater understanding of how they can contribute to a supportive and inclusive school environment.
The combination of celebration, challenge, reflection, and personal growth has made the past few weeks a memorable and enriching time for our students, and we look forward to seeing them continue to build on these experiences throughout the remainder of the year.
Jacquelyn Bennett - Lead Teacher: Siena House
A Parish that Evangelises
First Nation Focus
Throughout the term, students across the College have continued to deepen their understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories, cultures and perspectives through a range of authentic learning experiences.
An important part of this learning has been taking the time to acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands we visit and recognise the enduring connection Aboriginal people have to Country.
Whether attending camps, excursions or cultural events, students are encouraged to pause, reflect and learn about the places they are visiting. By acknowledging Country and recognising the custodianship of First Nations peoples, students develop a greater appreciation of the history, culture and significance of the land around them.
This term, students participated in a variety of rich cultural learning opportunities. NITA Education workshops provided primary students with hands-on experiences exploring Aboriginal culture through storytelling, art and traditional knowledge. Our K-3 First Nations students celebrated Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children’s Day at Barefoot on Country, while students attending the Laudato Si’ Schools Day explored the shared values of Caring for Country and caring for our common home.
Students also engaged with Aboriginal culture through OzBosco, where participants experienced a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony, and through the Youth Speak Out Competition, which encouraged students to explore contemporary First Nations issues and use their voice to advocate for positive change.
These experiences help bring learning to life, fostering understanding, respect and a shared responsibility for caring for the environment and the communities around us.
By embedding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives across school life and within the curriculum, we are helping students build meaningful connections, broaden their understanding of Australia’s shared history, and appreciate the richness and diversity of the world’s oldest continuing cultures.
Michelle O'Grady - Lead Teacher: Aboriginal Liaison K-10
A School that Prepares for Life
Learning and Curriculum - Year 2
Over these last few weeks, Year 2 students have taken turns visiting the Year 7-10 Animal Husbandry. The tuti classes were very excited to meet all the amazing animals, but the clear favourites were the baby goats!
It didn't take long for the students to discover that the goats were just as energetic as they were. We shared plenty of laughs as students ran up and down the paddock with the goats racing alongside them and sometimes even beating them!
Students also had the opportunity to gently pat the lizards and learn more about them, including what they eat, their unique characteristics, and what they like and don't like. Many Year 2 students were fascinated by how the lizards felt and were eager to share their observations and ask questions.
We also spent time observing the llamas and sheep, with some classes having the opportunity to feed and pat them. Students enjoyed noticing their different behaviours and learning more about how they are cared for.
The visits provided a wonderful hands-on learning experience and gave students the opportunity to learn more about animals and agriculture in a real-life setting. Most importantly, we created lots of memorable experiences filled with excitement, laughter, and learning that Year 2 will be talking about for a long time to come.
A big thank you to the Year 7-10 staff and students for giving us this fantastic opportunity and for sharing their knowledge with us!
Kellie Hills, Konnor Kunesch, Abigail Tamba and Mollie Hodge - Classroom Teachers
Learning and Curriculum - Year 3
Term 3 has been filled with exciting learning opportunities, hands-on experiences, and plenty of fun for our Year 3 students!
One of the highlights of the term has been spending time with our Kinder Buddy classes. Our Year 3 students have enjoyed building friendships, supporting their younger buddies, and participating in a range of shared learning activities together.
We have also loved our visits to Animal Husbandry, where students had the wonderful opportunity to meet and learn about the many baby lambs and kids on the farm. These experiences have helped students develop a deeper understanding of animal care and life cycles while creating some very special memories.
Another exciting highlight has been the return of Cooking this term. Students have thoroughly enjoyed developing their kitchen skills and working collaboratively to create some delicious treats, including mouth-watering focaccia and fruit tarts. We are sure many aspiring chefs are emerging in Year 3!
In Chemical Science, students have explored the three states of matter: solids, liquids, and gases. Through investigations and experiments, they have learned how materials can change and discovered the difference between reversible and irreversible changes. It has been fantastic to see students applying their scientific thinking and curiosity throughout this unit.
We were also eagerly anticipating our 1800s Day on Wednesday. Students and teachers dressed as they would have in the late 1800s and spend the day participating in activities typical of a historical classroom. This immersive experience provides a wonderful opportunity for students to learn about Australia's past and gain a deeper appreciation of the rich history of Dominic College. We are looking forward to a memorable day of learning and discovery!
It has been a fantastic term, and we are incredibly proud of the enthusiasm, curiosity, and effort shown by all Year 3 students. We look forward to finishing the term strongly and sharing more exciting learning experiences together.
Bethany Cooper, Sally Saad, Gihan Gunadasa and Tarra Downham - Classroom Teachers
Learning and Curriculum - English
A Symphony of Stories: Book Week 2026
Books took centre stage in August as our College community celebrated Book Week 2026 and this year’s theme, ‘Symphony of Stories’.
Rather than simply celebrating books in the traditional sense, students were invited to interact with stories in a variety of creative ways throughout the week. One of the highlights was a literary scavenger hunt, which saw familiar characters from well-known books appear in unexpected places around the College. Students were challenged to locate each character, scan the accompanying QR code and discover a song connected to that character, using the first word from each song to crack a code.
During break times, students could also attend our Bookmark Crafting sessions, where they designed and decorated their own bookmarks. With colourful materials, creative designs and even handmade tassels, students were able to produce something personal to take away and use with their next great read.
The highlight of the week was our Book Week Dress-Up Day. While some students chose individual characters, several senior cohorts worked together to create coordinated group costumes. The result was a College filled with characters from different worlds, from children’s classics like ‘The Very Hungry Caterpillar’ and ‘Fantastic Mr Fox’, to Australian texts such as ‘Little Lunch’ and even famous characters from the canon, such as Ebenezer Scrooge.
Thank you to everyone who helped make Book Week 2026 such a memorable celebration of stories.
Katie-Lee Crawford - Lead Teacher: English
Learning and Curriculum - HaSS
Hope for the Future: What Whales Can Teach Us About Solving Environmental Challenges
This term, our Year 10 students have embarked on their final HaSS unit for the year: Environmental Change and Management. As we began our studies, I shared an important message with students: while Australia and the world face significant environmental challenges, Geography is ultimately a subject focused on solutions.
Across the globe, and here in Australia, scientists, engineers, innovators, businesses and communities are developing new ways to reduce our environmental impact while maintaining a high quality of life. Their work demonstrates that sustainability and prosperity can go hand in hand.
Our investigation this term focuses on marine and coastal environments, places that hold particular significance for us in Tasmania. Many of our families enjoy the beauty, lifestyle and recreational opportunities our coastlines provide, making the health of these environments, especially relevant to our community.
This year has also marked two significant milestones in environmental awareness and management. Firstly, celebrated natural historian and broadcaster Sir David Attenborough turned 100. Secondly, the world is commemorating the 40th anniversary of the international moratorium on commercial whaling, a landmark achievement in global conservation.
To frame our studies, students will engage with Ocean (2025), National Geographic's documentary narrated by Attenborough. The film encourages viewers to reflect on the ocean's importance, the threats it faces, and, importantly, the solutions available to ensure its protection. One of the most powerful examples highlighted is the international effort to end commercial whaling.
Forty years ago, many whale species faced an uncertain future. Decades of intensive commercial whaling had dramatically reduced populations worldwide, pushing some species to the brink of extinction. Concern grew not only for the whales themselves but also for the health of marine ecosystems.
In 1986, the International Whaling Commission introduced a global moratorium on commercial whaling. It was a landmark moment that demonstrated what can be achieved when science, international cooperation and public support come together. Scientists provided evidence of declining whale populations, governments took action, and communities around the world supported efforts to protect these iconic marine animals.
Today, many whale populations are showing encouraging signs of recovery. Humpback whales, once heavily hunted, have returned in increasing numbers to many parts of the world. While challenges remain, the recovery of whales serves as a powerful reminder that environmental problems do not have to be permanent.
For Geography students, this story reinforces a key understanding: humans are not only capable of creating environmental challenges, but also of solving them. Around the world, innovation and collaboration are helping to address complex issues. Renewable energy projects are reducing reliance on fossil fuels, new agricultural practices are improving sustainability, and communities are restoring wetlands, protecting forests and developing technologies to reduce waste and pollution.
The story of commercial whaling reminds us that hope is not simply wishful thinking. Hope is built through informed action, evidence-based decision-making and a willingness to work together. Geography helps students understand the connections between people, places and environments while encouraging them to think critically about the solutions needed for a changing world.
As we mark the 40th anniversary of the end of commercial whaling, we are reminded that positive change is possible. When knowledge, innovation and determination come together, even our greatest environmental challenges can be addressed. Today's young people will inherit significant environmental issues, but they will also have unprecedented opportunities to create solutions and build a more sustainable future.
Bonnie Court - Lead Teacher: HaSS
Learning Reflection Term 3
Early Primary
It has been a wonderful term of learning in the pulana Precinct!
Our students have continued to make excellent progress across all learning areas and have enjoyed many opportunities to showcase their knowledge, skills and talents.
Hands-on learning experiences remain a key focus, helping students build engagement, confidence and motivation while developing their problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
One of the highlights of the term was visiting the new baby animals in Animal Husbandry, providing students with a memorable real-world learning experience. Excursions and incursions throughout the term also enriched student learning, allowing children to make meaningful connections between the classroom and the wider world.
We have also begun the Year 2 transition process, with students participating in the 2027 K–6 School and House Captain voting assemblies and spending time exploring the Year 3–6 Prouille learning spaces. These experiences have helped students build confidence and excitement as they prepare for the next stage of their learning journey.
Most importantly, we have seen impressive growth in the mindset of our Kinder to Year 2 students. We are incredibly proud of the resilience, perseverance and positive attitudes they are demonstrating each day as they approach new challenges and learning opportunities.
Upper Primary
During Term 3, students in Year 3-6 have enjoyed a wide range of enriching learning experiences, both inside and outside the classroom. Throughout the term, teachers have continued to provide meaningful opportunities for students to showcase their learning, develop new skills, and celebrate their individual talents and achievements.
Students in Years 3-6 have enjoyed a variety of engaging incursions and excursions throughout the term, providing valuable opportunities to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences. Year 5 students deepened their understanding of Australia's early colonial history through a visit to the Female Factory. This excursion has helped prepare students for their upcoming camp, which includes a visit to Port Arthur and will further enrich their understanding of Tasmania's historical significance. Our Year 3 students also stepped back in time as they experienced a day in the life of the 1800s. Through participating in traditional lessons, games, and activities from the era, students gained a greater appreciation of how education and daily life have changed over time.

We are also excited to acknowledge the beginning of the leadership journey for many of our Year 5 students. Following a thoughtful application and voting process, students have been selected for key leadership roles for 2027. We look forward to officially inducting these students into their positions in Term 4 and are confident they will be outstanding role models, making valuable contributions to our school community through their leadership, responsibility, and commitment.
In classrooms across Years 3-6, teachers continue to maintain high expectations and provide engaging learning experiences that challenge and support all students. Through differentiated learning opportunities, students are encouraged to think critically, work collaboratively, and strive for personal growth across all curriculum areas. We are proud of the effort, resilience, and achievements displayed by our students throughout Term 3 and look forward to the exciting opportunities that Term 4 will bring.
Secondary
Term 3 has been an exciting and rewarding term, providing students with many opportunities to extend their learning and showcase their talents across a variety of areas.
Several students participated in the prestigious ICAS assessments in Mathematics, English and Science, demonstrating their commitment to academic excellence and personal growth.
Our VET Hospitality students continued to develop their practical skills through authentic learning experiences, contributing to the Volunteer Breakfast and providing catering for the Music and Dance Showcase. These events allowed students to share their learning with the wider community in meaningful ways.
The Arts have been a highlight this term. Our Year 9 and 10 Drama students have worked tirelessly to develop and present their Talking Heads performances, demonstrating creativity, confidence and commitment. Meanwhile, our students showcased their talents through the Music and Dance Showcase, enriching our College community with outstanding performances and celebrating the many strengths of our young artists.
Students have also engaged in a range of valuable learning experiences beyond the classroom. Year 10 students participated in an interactive program exploring global wellbeing and the challenges of food and wealth inequality, helping them develop a deeper understanding of the issues faced by communities around the world.
They also took part in the RYDA Road Safety Education Program, where they learned about the consequences of unsafe driving behaviours, including speeding, distraction, fatigue and impaired driving. The program encouraged students to make informed decisions as future road users and highlighted the importance of staying safe on our roads. Participation in the program also enabled students to gain five hours towards their learner driver requirements.
National Science Week was another highlight, with students enjoying hands-on experiments, challenges and activities that made science both engaging and inspiring.
The term concluded with the Year 9 Camp at Maria Island. Year 9 Girls attended from 21-23 September and Year 9 Boys from 23-25 September. Students travelled to Darlington via Triabunna and stayed in the historic Penitentiary, where they experienced the island's unique natural environment and rich convict history. Through hikes, exploration and authentic learning opportunities, students gained valuable insights into both the island's heritage and ecology. While one group attended Camp, the other participated in a range of engaging activities at school. Both programs were enjoyed by students and contributed positively to their learning and personal development.
We are incredibly proud of all our students for their enthusiasm, hard work and willingness to participate in the many opportunities offered throughout the term.
Term 3 Expectation Reports
Term 3 Expectation Reports were made available to parents and guardians on Thursday 1 October. If you are experiencing difficulties accessing your child's report, please contact us using the following address: reports@dominic.tas.edu.au
Vanessa Young - Director of Learning and Wellbeing (Early Primary)
Hayley Joyce - Acting Director of Learning and Wellbeing (Upper Primary)
Sunita Kumrai - Director of Learning and Curriculum (Secondary)
Music and Dance Showcase Shines
The annual Music and Dance Showcase was a spectacular celebration of talent, creativity, and dedication, held recently at the Don Bosco Performing Arts Centre at GYC.
Close to 80 students took to the stage on Thursday evening, presenting an outstanding variety of performances including dance, Taiko drumming, bands, choirs, and some smaller ensemble acts. The evening highlighted the incredible skill and commitment of our students, who have worked tirelessly throughout the year to develop and refine their performances.
The showcase provided a wonderful opportunity for students to share their passion for the performing arts with family, friends, and members of the College community. From energetic dance routines and powerful musical performances to moving vocal pieces, every act reflected the hard work and enthusiasm of those involved.
A heartfelt thank you goes to all the students for their dedication and courage, and to the staff whose support, guidance, and countless hours of preparation helped make the evening such a tremendous success. Whether working behind the scenes or on stage, every contribution played an important role in creating a memorable and inspiring event.
Congratulations to everyone involved in a fantastic evening of music, dance, and performance. We are incredibly proud of what our students have achieved.
Katherine Denholm - Lead Teacher: The Arts K‑10
Year 9 Camp
During Week 9, all Year 9 students travelled to Maria Island to take part in their annual camp. The three-day, two-night experience provided students with the opportunity to challenge themselves, build independence, and strengthen friendships outside of the regular classroom setting.
Students stayed at the Darlington Penitentiary, a UNESCO World Heritage site, built over 200 years ago by convicts. Within the Darlington settlement, students learned about the convict and industrial history of the island in the late 1800’s.
A highlight of the camp for several students was the challenging, but rewarding hike up Bishop and Clerk. Students were treated to clear, uninterrupted views up and down the East Coast of Tasmania from the top of Bishop and Clerk. Students also completed two smaller walks around the island, heading North to Fossil Cliffs and South to Painted Cliffs.
At Fossil Cliffs, students explored amongst the 300 million year old fossil examples of shells and invertebrates that were deposited into the ocean. Fossil Cliffs is known as one the best examples of its kind anywhere in the world. One group was lucky enough to spot a migrating whale while completing their walk up the cliffs.
Painted Cliffs are named after the colours and patterns of the sandstone cliffs, which have been eroded over the years by sea spray and ground water percolating through the rock. Here students spent time exploring the tidal pools, patterns and notches of the cliffs.
Overall the Maria Island camp experience was a valuable experience for our Year 9 students. They should be proud of the way they supported one another, took on new challenges, and represented the school so positively. A big thank you to all the staff who made this camp possible.
Liam Binning - Acting Lead Teacher: Camps and Outdoor Education
Alternate Camp Program
Year 9 Alternate Program: Learning Beyond the Classroom
Camp Week provided our Year 9 students with an exciting opportunity to step outside the usual classroom routine and engage in a diverse range of experiences through the Alternate Program.
The week began with a Gender-Based Wellbeing Development Day, where students participated in activities designed to encourage self-awareness, positive relationships, personal wellbeing and respectful communication. It was a valuable opportunity for students to reflect, connect and develop skills that support their wellbeing both at school and beyond.
On the second day, students took part in an action-packed series of curriculum-based challenges. In English, students explored Shakespeare through engaging activities that encouraged creativity, collaboration and an appreciation of the Bard’s enduring stories and characters. Mathematics challenged students with a problem-solving relay, requiring teams to think strategically, communicate effectively and work together under pressure.
In HaSS, students tackled a mini escape puzzle and trivia games, putting their knowledge and teamwork skills to the test. Science saw students take on creative engineering challenges, including constructing a paper bridge and building a tower using just ten coins. These activities encouraged students to experiment, problem-solve and think outside the box.
In Religious Education, students explored the message of Laudato Si’, considering our responsibility to care for our common home and the world around us. Finally, PE brought plenty of energy and laughter through dance, movement challenges and team games.
The Alternate Program was a wonderful reminder that learning can happen anywhere—and is often at its best when students are collaborating, creating, moving and having fun together.
Sunita Kumrai - Director of Learning and Curriculum (Secondary)
Year 6 Canberra Trip
This week, our Year 6 students embarked on an unforgettable learning journey to Canberra, filled with curiosity, discovery, friendship and growing independence.
Throughout the week, students explored many of Australia’s most significant national institutions, including the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the National Archives, the Royal Australian Mint, the High Court of Australia, Questacon and the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS). Each visit provided valuable opportunities to deepen their understanding of Australia’s history, government, justice system, innovation and sporting excellence. Students engaged enthusiastically in hands-on activities, asked thoughtful questions and demonstrated a genuine eagerness to learn. As they navigated new experiences together, they developed stronger friendships, built confidence and embraced the responsibilities that come with being away from home. The trip was a memorable and enriching experience that inspired students to think critically, explore new ideas and gain a greater appreciation of Australia’s national identity and achievements.
Jennifer Hallyburton - Lead Teacher: Year 5/Year 6
A Playground Where Friends Meet
Webb v Doran Netball & AFL Gala
On 16 September, 11 Year 6 students proudly represented Dominic College as part of Team Webb at the annual Webb vs Doran Gala Afternoon.
These students were selected from our Term 3 Gala Day, where they demonstrated our school values through their sportsmanship, integrity and commitment to representing Dominic College.
Team Webb is named in honour of Mr Tony Webb, a long-serving volunteer of the Dominic Community and a Life Member of the Southern Tasmania Catholic Primary School Sports Association (STCPSSA).
It is an absolute privilege to work alongside Tony, who generously dedicates his time not only to the Dominic Community, but also to several schools and sporting associations across Hobart. Tony consistently puts the needs and experiences of students first, and his contribution to school sport is truly valued.
Our 11 students competed across Mixed AFL, Girls AFL and Mixed Netball, showcasing their skills, enthusiasm and wonderful sportsmanship throughout the afternoon. It was fantastic to see our students representing Dominic with such pride and enthusiasm.
Congratulations to all 11 students on a fantastic afternoon! We are incredibly proud of the way you represented our school.
A special thank you to St Aloysius for hosting this wonderful event on behalf of Dominic College.
Kylee Chivers - Sports Administrator
LIL Term 3
What a fabulous time we have had together at Launch into Learning (LIL) this term! Throughout our sessions, the children have continued to play and learn simultaneously. It has been wonderful to see so many friendships continue to blossom over the term and to witness so many beautiful interactions and conversations between the children and their families.
This term at LIL, we enjoyed celebrating National Science Week, during which the children participated in a variety of hands-on experiments. They put their observation and prediction skills to the test while exploring cause and effect, using their critical thinking, problem-solving, and investigative skills. I must say, what incredible, eager, and curious little scientists we have at LIL!
In Term 3, we also joined the rest of the College in celebrating the Children's Book Council of Australia (CBCA) Book Week, held in August. The costumes were incredible, and it was evident that a great deal of time, effort, and creativity had gone into them. Seeing the excitement and joy on the children's faces as they proudly showed their costumes to me and their friends was priceless!
We also recently held our very own Teddy Bears' Picnic Day, which was a highlight of the term. It was a pleasure to be introduced to everyone's teddy bear friends! To conclude our busy and fun-filled term, we went on another incursion to Animal Husbandry to visit the animals. We were very fortunate to see recently born lambs and baby goats during our visit. A huge thank you to the Animal Husbandry staff and students for facilitating this experience and for having us!
There is lots more fun to come next term, so come and join us! We hope all LIL families have a wonderful holiday break, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back for another exciting and enriching term filled with learning, friendship-building, and new experiences in Term 4!
Amelia Hill-Mundy - Launch Into Learning Facilitator
P&F News
Well, here we are at the end of Term 3. It is hard to believe how quickly the school year is flying by! As always, the Parents & Friends Committee has been busy working behind the scenes to support our school community and help create memorable experiences for our students and families.
If you have visited the Savio Centre recently, you may have noticed the brand new scoreboard installed in the gymnasium. This exciting addition was inspired by the graduating Year 10 cohort of last year, who chose a scoreboard as their farewell gift to the school. As many would appreciate, a project of this scale comes with a significant cost. Thanks to the generous contribution from the Parents & Friends Committee, we were able to assist the Year 10 students in bringing their vision to life. The scoreboard is a fantastic addition to our facilities and will benefit students for many years to come, supporting sporting events, carnivals, competitions, and everyday physical education activities.
Meanwhile, preparations for the 2026 College Fair are well underway. Our Fair Committee has been working tirelessly behind the scenes purchasing prizes for the ever-popular Chocolate Wheel and major trailer raffle, finalising food stalls and VET Hospitality menu options, and securing a range of entertainment for the day. There is certainly plenty to look forward to, and we encourage everyone to save the date: Friday, 6 November 3:30-6:30pm. It promises to be a fun-filled afternoon and evening of community spirit, entertainment, and family fun.
Finally, we would like to acknowledge and thank our incredible volunteers. Events such as the Father's Day Stall, the College Fair, and many other initiatives simply would not be possible without the generosity of parents, carers, grandparents, and community members who willingly give their time and energy to support our school. If you see one of our volunteers at an event, please take a moment to say hello, offer a smile, and thank them for their contribution. Their dedication and willingness to give up time with their own families helps create these wonderful opportunities for our school community.
On behalf of the Parents & Friends Committee, thank you for your ongoing support throughout Term 3. We wish all students, staff, and families a safe and enjoyable holiday break, and we look forward to an exciting and productive Term 4.
Amberley Harrex - P&F President
Reminders
Upcoming Events
5-16 October |
School Holidays | |
19 October |
Term 4 Commences |
Semester 2 Sport Photos |
22-23 October |
Royal Hobart Show Public Holiday & School Holiday | |
26 October |
Year 7 2027 Information Evening | |
27 October |
Year 3-6 Athletics Carnival | |
28 October |
Kindergarten 2027 Parent Information Evening | |
28-30 October |
Year 10 Overnight Retreat | |
30 October |
World Teacher Day 2026 | |
31 October - 4 November |
Year 6 Shizuoka Salesio Visit | |
2 November |
K-10 Morning Tea Tours |
All Souls' Mass Day |
2-4 November |
Year 5 Port Arthur Camp | |
6 November |
College Community Fair | |
11 November |
Remembrance Day |
K-2 Athletics Carnival |
11-12 November |
Music Soirees | |
12 November |
2027 Leaders' Induction Ceremony |
Leadership luncheon + Induction Sessions |
13 November |
Year 3-6 STCPSSA Athletics Carnival | |
16-20 November |
Year 10 End of Year Exams | |
18 November |
Year 3-6 Peace Pole Ceremony | |