Dear Parents, Students, Staff and Friends of Chisholm Catholic College,

The start of a new term is always a time of fresh opportunities, new challenges and shared aspirations as we continue our journey together as a school community.

One undeniable highlight for me in this first week of the new semester, was to represent our College at the Wheelchairs for Kids factory in Wangara, along with Mrs Bell and Mr Swindells. The occasion was to celebrate the remarkable milestone in producing the organisation’s 70,000th wheelchair. This extraordinary achievement represents far more than a number. It speaks to decades of dedication, compassion and service, transforming the lives of children and families around the world through the gift of mobility and independence.

A special announcement was made during the presentation in naming the wheelchair workshop in Wangara, the Brother Ollie Pickett Factory, in honour of the inspiration and tireless dedication of this wonderful man, who has such a strong relationship and affinity with Chisholm.

Br Ollie was clearly humbled by this gesture and made a wonderful speech in accepting the honour, emphasising more, the work of tireless and dedicated volunteers known as the “Blue Army”, the benefactors and generous donors who have made this vision an unheralded dream.

Of note for all in the Chisholm community was the special mention from Br Ollie in his speech, highlighting from our College community, the innumerable hours of service from staff and students and the donation of more than $100,000 over the years. This wonderful contribution equates to approximately 595 wheelchairs for children around the world.

There is a powerful connection between these two occasions. Just as each new term is built on the daily efforts of students, staff and families working towards a brighter future, the 70,000 wheelchairs produced by Wheelchairs for Kids are the result of countless small acts of commitment coming together to create something truly life-changing. Both remind us that meaningful impact is achieved one step at a time, through persistence, collaboration and a shared belief in the potential of others.

It is always a pleasure at the beginning of the new term to welcome new staff to our College and a special privilege to have people join us in this educational endeavour. This week, we welcome Ms Antonia Holub, who graduated from Chisholm with the Class of 2022, Ms Liz Sloan, Mr Zachary Inglis and Mr Uday Singh, to our teaching staff.

As we embark on another term of learning, may the example set by Wheelchairs for Kids inspire us all to approach our work with generosity, purpose and determination, knowing that the contributions we make each day can have a lasting impact on the lives of others.

God bless.

Mr Simon Harvey
Principal