End of Term Message

Dear Colleagues, Parents, and Friends of Catholic Education WA,

It is difficult to believe that we are now at the halfway mark of 2025. I want to thank our Principals, teachers, and staff in our schools and offices across the state for their dedication in providing a quality Catholic education to our more than 83,000 students.

As we know, this term saw the passing of Pope Francis and the election of a new Pope, Leo XIV. This historic moment for our church is a reminder of the enduring strength of our Catholic community and I was encouraged by the strong expressions of faith shown during this period. At the heart of our Catholic schools is an unequivocal commitment to being Christ centred. The Pope, as the head of the universal Catholic Church is not only the Bishop of Rome but the spiritual leader of 1.4 billion Catholics.

This is an important tradition for Catholic schools, stretching back over a quarter of a century. It is heartening to see the dedication our students continue to show in finding creative and inspiring ways to raise funds for this important cause. Each student involved in fundraising has committed time, and care to produce their project – and I am inspired by the spirit of service which is so central to our Catholic school communities.

Our newest Catholic school, St Marcellin Catholic College is now on its permanent site in Madora Bay, and I was pleased to attend the blessing and opening ceremony on 10 June. I commend the strong and inclusive culture inspired by our Catholic identity and Marist charism developing at the College under Principal, Anita O’Donohue and her staff. I know that the College will go from strength to strength and serve the growing community in Madora Bay and its surrounding area into the future. As a strong symbol of our Catholic schools’ link to the Church, the College was blessed by Bishop George Kolodziej SDS, Bishop of Bunbury.

As you are aware, the Bishops of Western Australia have appointed Mrs Annette Morey, currently serving as Deputy Executive Director, as the new Executive Director. Annette is a highly respected and experienced Catholic education leader, and it has been a privilege to work closely with her over the last 18 months, I know that Annette will bring great passion, dedication and commitment to leading Catholic education across the State. Annette is a woman of great faith, and I wish her all the best in her leadership of CEWA.

May God continue to bless you and keep you safe. I will continue to keep everyone in my thoughts and prayers as I embark upon retirement. I wish you all a safe and restful break.

Yours sincerely

Wayne Bull AM