St Mary’s College commenced the 2026 school year with two deeply meaningful Smoking and Blessing Ceremonies held across both the Primary and Secondary campuses.The ceremonies were led by Aunty Di Appleby alongside Father Liam and Father Brian, bringing together the ancient First Nations practice of smoking with the Catholic tradition of blessing with holy water. This powerful combination reflected St Mary’s College’s commitment to honouring culture, faith and community.
The smoking ceremony, an ancient ritual of cleansing and renewal, was conducted to clear negative energy and invite positivity, strength and protection. This was followed by a Catholic blessing with water, symbolising new beginnings and God’s presence within the College community. Together, these rituals created a shared space for reflection, unity and hope, with the intention of getting liyarn — spirit and heart — strong, and setting the foundation for a happy, positive and successful 2026 school year.
St Mary’s College extends its sincere gratitude to Aunty Di Appleby, Father Liam and Father Brian for guiding our community through these sacred ceremonies, and for supporting the spiritual and cultural wellbeing of our students and staff.
