Gilroy College’s Portrait Prize winner by Yr 9 Serene Lobo
Meraki (verb): to do something with all your heart, with love, with your soul, with complete devotion. To put a little bit of yourself into the task at hand.
Gilroy Catholic College in Castle Hill has a proud tradition of celebrating student talent and creativity. This year’s creative and performing arts and design showcase was no exception.
The newly reimagined and rebranded showcase, Meraki, captivated audiences with its expanded display of outstanding student work.
Meraki is a most fitting title for this showcase, as it describes a person doing something with soul, creativity or love. It explores the idea of putting “something of yourself” into an artwork or design.
Gilroy Catholic College People Choice Photography award by Yr 10 Bronte Monger
Every piece of art, design or construction, revealed something of the heart and soul of its artist. Covering a range of subjects including: Visual Arts, Photography, Music, Drama, Design and Technology – Timber and Textiles, and Society & Culture, the night was well attended and the caliber of creative talent revealed the enormous commitment of students, and the extraordinary expertise of the Gilroy teaching staff.
Proud parents, families and staff members shared in celebrating the talent and dedication of the Gilroy students, and added a buzz to the atmosphere of the night.
Gilroy Catholic College looks forward to next year’s Meraki and to seeing the wonderful talent the school’s budding artists and designers have to offer.
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12 Sep 2025
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12 Sep 2025
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Gilroy Catholic College Embraces RUOK? Day with Compassion and Connection Yesterday, Gilroy Catholic College wholeheartedly embraced RUOK? Day, with both staff and students actively participating in this vital mental health initiative. The campus was alive with meaningful conversations as the community united to promote well-being and encourage open, supportive dialogue. The day began with a comforting Milk and Milo station, bringing warmth and smiles to the morning. Our dedicated school leaders welcomed peers at the gates, offering friendly greetings and small tokens of support — including stickers, wristbands, and yellow ribbons — setting a positive tone for the day ahead. Throughout the day, interactive discussions unfolded across the playground, creating safe spaces for students to share, listen, and connect. These open conversations reminded everyone of the strength found in simply asking, “Are you OK?” Adding a light-hearted touch, a Lolly Jar Guessing competition sparked excitement and the yellow items/clothing worn by students and staff amplified the spirit of unity and the powerful message of RUOK? Day — that reaching out can truly make a difference. The event was a meaningful reminder of the impact of community, compassion, and genuine conversation. #RUOK?Day #mentalhealthsupport #CSPD
11 Sep 2025
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Today, Gilroy Catholic College will be showing support for RUOK? Day — a national day of action reminding us that every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?” and to start a meaningful conversation about mental health. There will be a range of activities throughout the day, led by our College Leaders, to help raise awareness and encourage open conversations. Let’s come together to support one another and help make a difference — because a simple question can change a life. Are YOU ok? #RUOK #CSPD
10 Sep 2025
From Facebook
A massive congratulations to our Intermediate Girls and Boys teams for an incredible season! Girls Team: They clinched the grand final with a thrilling 2-1 win! Special shoutout to Paige L, who scored the winning goal just 30 seconds into extra time! What makes this victory even more impressive is that the girls played most of the season WITHOUT any substitutes — true resilience, endurance, and determination every single week! Boys Team: What an amazing effort all season long! Though they didn’t take home the trophy, their passion, teamwork, and fighting spirit were on full display right until the final whistle. We’re proud of you! Well done to both teams! #GilroyCatholicCollege #PDSSSC #TeamSpirit #Resilience #CSPD
09 Sep 2025
From Facebook
09 Sep 2025
From Facebook
PDSSSC Chess Gala Day Recently 23 Gilroy Catholic College students competed in the PDSSSC Gala Day. represented our school exceptionally well, displaying courtesy, respect, and great sportsmanship throughout the event. It was particularly interesting to see our Year 10 and Year 9 teams face off against each other twice—an unexpected twist that they embraced with enthusiasm and good spirit! Our students also went above and beyond by helping with the setup and pack-up of equipment, which was greatly appreciated by the event organisers. While our teams didn’t place this year, they played very well and, most importantly, had a lot of fun! Well done also, to the following students who stepped out of their comfort zones on the day. Mitchell (Year 7) and Lucas (Year 8) Both boys agreed to play up in a Year 9 team—an impressive display of courage and adaptability. Sean (Year 10) Sean volunteered to play for the Year 11 team with very short notice the evening before—an outstanding effort! Well done to everyone involved!
08 Sep 2025
From Facebook
Inquisitive Minds Workshop Inspires Gilroy Catholic College Students Recently, Year 7 and Year 9 students at Gilroy Catholic College had the exciting opportunity to participate in the Inquisitive Minds: Problems, Patterns, Pictures, Puzzles Workshop. The atmosphere throughout the event was electric, with students enthusiastically embracing the mathematical challenges and problem-solving tasks presented to them. This dynamic workshop introduced students to a variety of problem-solving strategies. These techniques were embedded in engaging activities that encouraged students to think critically and creatively. The highlight of the day was the Hands-on Problem Solving Activity, where students worked in pairs to tackle as many problems as possible. Collaboration, communication, and quick thinking were key, and it was fantastic to see students fully immersed in the tasks. Congratulations to all the prize winners—your efforts and teamwork truly stood out! Maths staff were delighted to witness such high levels of participation and the rich mathematical conversations that took place throughout the workshop. It was clear that many students left with a renewed appreciation for Mathematics, sparked by the energy and enjoyment of the day. #inquisitivemindsworkshop #cspd
08 Sep 2025
From Facebook
08 Sep 2025
From Facebook
This Thursday, 11 September, Gilroy Catholic College will be showing support for RUOK? Day — a national day of action reminding us that every day is the day to ask, “Are you OK?” and to start a meaningful conversation about mental health. To show your support, we invite all students to wear a yellow item on the day. There will be a range of activities throughout the day, led by our College Leaders, to help raise awareness and encourage open conversations. Let’s come together to support one another and help make a difference — because a simple question can change a life.
05 Sep 2025
From Facebook
Fathers’ Day Breakfast at Gilroy Catholic College This morning, we had the pleasure of celebrating our Gilroy fathers, grandfathers, and carers at our annual Fathers’ Day Breakfast. It was heartening to see so many of you join us, and the warmth of our community was felt throughout the gathering. Mrs Rodriguez warmly welcomed everyone, acknowledging the many roles fathers and carers play — from taxi driver to doctor, mentor, teacher, ATM, and coach. She reminded us that your presence is a testament to your dedication, and that your nurturing spirit is at the heart of what fatherhood truly means. “Your presence here,” she said, “is a reminder of your commitment to your children... and provides an opportunity for you to connect with each other.” Ms Merryweather also shared heartfelt reflections about her own father, highlighting the vital role fathers play in providing safety, support, laughter, and unconditional love in their children’s lives. We also took the opportunity to support Jersey Day, with fathers, students, and staff proudly wearing their favorite jerseys to raise awareness and show support for organ donation. A sincere thank you to everyone who attended, our dedicated staff and our Parent Council for their collaboration in bringing this event to life. We hope you enjoyed the opportunity to connect with fellow members of the Gilroy community — and, of course, the delicious food! Wishing all our fathers, grandfathers, and carers a very Happy Fathers’ Day! #happyfathersday #cspd
05 Sep 2025
From Facebook
Last night, Gilroy Catholic College proudly showcased the incredible talents of our students at the 2025 Arts & Design Exhibition. From major projects in Industrial Technology Timber, Design and Technology, Visual Arts, and Photography, to stunning works from elective subjects and junior TAS and CAPA our wonderful new space was filled with creativity and inspiration. A huge thank you to the Hospitality staff and to the students - who prepared the delicious food; the music students who performed; the dedicated student helpers and the TAS and CAPA staff who supported our students in meeting NESA deadlines. The evening was a fantastic success, with a packed house buzzing with Gilroy students, their families and friends. Congratulations to all award winners in the People's Choice categories, including Visual Arts, Industrial Technology Timber, Design and Technology, Student Portrait and Photography, and Staff Landscapes — your entries were impressive! Winners: Student Portrait Prize - Julia K Year 12 Student Photography - Aiden M Year 9 HSC Visual Arts Teacher Choice - Gabriela C Year 12 HSC Visual Arts Peoples Choice - Julia K Year 12 Design and Technology People's Choice - Amorette D Year 12 Design and Technology Teacher's Award - Elizabeth S Year 12 Industrial Timber Technology People's Choice - Noah W Year 12 Industrial Timber Technology Teacher's Award - Jaylen B Year 12 Teacher Landscape Photography - Natalie Woodridge Congratulations to all the winners and here’s to celebrating creativity and hard work across our community! #gilroyartsdesign #cspd
04 Sep 2025
From Facebook
Congratulations to Gilroy Catholic College Year 8 students who have achieved 100% school Attendance for Semester 1 2025, as well as those students who have received a Principal's Award. Fantastic effort and a well-deserved acknowledgement!
04 Sep 2025
From Facebook
Last week, Gilroy Catholic College students Nathan and Aiden were featured in an article in the Hills Shire Times, titled “80+ Players to Watch in NSWRL Conference Boys Grand Finals. This is what they had to say: NATHAN Hills Bulls – Parramatta U19 Gold - Fullback “A recent addition to Parramatta’s Flegg side, Nathan has enjoyed a busy year with the ASSRL as well. Always moving at the back and giving their attack a new dimension.” AIDEN Hills Bulls – Parramatta U19 Gold - Centre “Played junior reps with the Bears. Is a big, strong physical player who likes the contact. Doesn’t say too much but defends very well.” On Sunday Nathan successfully debuted in the centres, for the Under 19s Jersey Flegg Parramatta Team, scoring an amazing try with a kick and chase! Congratulations to both Nathan and Aiden and we look forward to seeing the next chapter in their Rugby League journey!
03 Sep 2025
From Facebook
03 Sep 2025
From Facebook
Gilroy Catholic College Students Make a Difference at Foodbank On Monday, a dedicated group of students from Gilroy Catholic College took part in a volunteer mission day at Foodbank, representing the Mary MacKillop Service Awards Program and Learning for Mission classes. With sleeves rolled up and hearts full of purpose, students worked tirelessly in the warehouse, packing orders to support regional community partners who provide vital assistance to individuals and families facing financial hardship. By the end of the day, the team had packed an outstanding 16,258kg of food — the equivalent of 29,264 meals — for some of the most vulnerable members of our community. Their impact didn’t stop there. Students also packed 1,300 loaves of bread, ensuring schools across Sydney received fresh food essentials. We are incredibly proud of our students’ generosity, energy, and commitment to serving others and living out the core values of Gilroy Catholic College. #MaryMcKillopServiceAwards #foodbank #gilroyvalues #cspd