Mikaylah Dimech from Bede Polding College Windsor first in NSW for Studies of Religion II.
In an outstanding achievement, two students from Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CPSD) have earned First-in-Course honours for Studies of Religion I and Studies of Religion II in the 2024 HSC exams.
Genevieve Sing from Gilroy Catholic College Castle Hill, placed first in NSW in Studies of Religion I and Mikaylah Dimech from Bede Polding College Windsor first in NSW for Studies of Religion II. This remarkable accomplishment highlights the students’ dedication and passion for faith and academic studies and reflects the high standard of excellence in Religious Education within the Parramatta Diocese.
The accomplishment of Gilroy student, Genevieve, is impressive on another level as she sat the exam as a Year 11 accelerated student. Principal of Gilroy, Cheryl Merryweather, expressed her pride and that of the whole college community.
“Genevieve is part of our Year 11 accelerated Studies of Religion cohort and has shown exceptional commitment to her studies. Genevieve has earned this well-deserved recognition through her hard work. Her success is an inspiration for our community!” she said.
For Bede Polding graduate, Mikaylah Dimech, the news came as a big surprise but has reinforced her commitment to learning.
“It was really surprising to receive the news but it was such a great feeling,” Mikaylah said. “It just goes to show that if you try your best and work hard, you will get the results.”
Mikalya has received early entry to UNSW to study Law/Commerce next year and thanked her teachers for making Studies of Religion II interesting and engaging.
Bede Polding Principal, Greg Malone congratulated Mikaylah on her dedication, acknowledging the support of her great teachers.
“We are extremely proud of Mikaylah for her achievements in the HSC. She is an extremely hardworking student who left no stone unturned in her pursuit of excellence,” he said.
She was consistently working with her teachers to improve her understanding and responses. Mr Brendan Lazaroo and Mr Joshua Rodricks-Testa are highly experienced, talented and dedicated teachers who know their students well and what they need to do to improve.
“They tailor their lessons to meet the needs of each and every student to make sure learning is engaging, relevant and purposeful,” he said.
Mark Smith, CSPD’s Executive General Manager - Mission highlighted the exceptional support and teaching of Religious Education within CSPD.
“Congratulations to Genevieve and Mikaylah for their outstanding academic achievements. This is a credit to their diligence and application to academic rigour and excellence,” said Mark.
It is a credit to the expertise and commitment of their current Studies of Religion teachers and to their Religious Education teachers over their entire schooling, who helped to build their foundational knowledge and understanding.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese congratulates Mikaylah and Genevieve on their incredible achievements.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
Instagram | Gilroy
More News
24 Nov 2025
From Facebook
We’re excited to announce a special OzTag charity match taking place this Thursday between Year 10 and Year 11! This event is more than a friendly competition — it’s a chance for our school community to come together and raise awareness for Men’s Health, with a particular focus on mental health. Many men face challenges silently, and events like this help spark important conversations and remind us to check in on the people around us. May the best year group win!
24 Nov 2025
From Facebook
21 Nov 2025
From Facebook
See what Gilroy Catholic College students think about their experience playing PDSSSC Badminton!
21 Nov 2025
From Facebook
High Tea Success! Last week, our Year 11 Hospitality students treated College staff to a wonderful High Tea — and what an experience it was! The students showcased their amazing skills in food preparation and service, with every dish looking and tasting absolutely delicious. All of it was delivered with big smiles and plenty of warmth! The students truly went above and beyond to make the event special. It was a fantastic opportunity for them to build confidence, show off their talents, and gain real-world experience as they work towards their future careers in hospitality.
20 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Gilroy College Adventurous Journey — 12–14 November 2026 Last week, Gilroy Catholic College students spent a rewarding three days in the Lower Hawkesbury area completing their Duke of Edinburgh Silver Qualifying Journey. Starting at Cowan, the group hiked to Brooklyn, paddled to Patonga, and then returned to finish at Parsley Bay via Refuge Bay. Thanks to good preparation and expert navigation, they kept on track throughout the expedition. The students embraced the challenge of the 15 km paddle to the finish — half of which was against an outgoing tide! Congratulations to all participants for their teamwork, resilience, and determination.
19 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Recently, our students had the amazing opportunity to step into the world of the Royal Australian Navy and experience what it’s like to serve at sea! The day began at the Navy Life Expo 25 at the ICC in Darling Harbour, where students explored interactive and hands-on exhibits showcasing life and careers in the Australian Defence Force. From testing out flight simulators, practising sutures in an artificial limb to learning about the technology behind nuclear submarines, there was no shortage of excitement. Students also had the chance to chat directly with serving Navy personnel, gaining valuable insights, advice, and a glimpse into the teamwork, discipline, and adventure that comes with life in the Navy. Afterwards, students boarded the impressive HMAS Canberra, one of Australia’s largest naval ships, for an exclusive behind the scenes guided tour. They explored the bridge with the ship’s senior pilot, discovered how signalling systems work when communications are cut, and saw up close the enormous engines that power the ship. The sheer size of the vessel meant we definitely got all our steps in that day! It was an unforgettable experience, inspiring our students to think about the diverse career pathways and skills that can come from a future in the Australian Defence Force. A huge thank you to the Royal Australian Navy and all those involved for such a memorable and inspiring day. #CareersSuccess #RANLifeExpo #HMASCanberra #CSPD
18 Nov 2025
Western Sydney Catholic Schools hold the phone
Student mobile phone use will be banned across 80 Western Sydney Catholic schools from the beginning of the 2026 school year. The restriction presents a positive opportunity to enhance student outcomes, both in academic excellence and wellbeing.
18 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Gilroy Catholic College Year 7 and 8 students recently took part in their PDHPE Swim Days—a fun, active and educational experience focused on developing vital water-survival skills. Throughout the program, students practised a range of survival strokes and rescue techniques designed to equip them with the knowledge and confidence to respond safely in aquatic environments. The day also offered an excellent opportunity for students to strengthen their teamwork, build confidence and develop essential water-safety awareness. Most importantly, students enjoyed themselves while learning how to feel safer and more capable in the water.
17 Nov 2025
From Facebook
17 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Congratulations to Helena – Representing Australia at the ICU World Championships! We are pleased to share that Gilroy Catholic College Year 11 student, Helena, has been selected to join the Australian National Cheerleading Team. She will proudly represent Australia at the ICU World Cheerleading Championships in Orlando, Florida, in April next year. This is an incredible achievement and a tremendous honour, offering Helena the opportunity to train and compete at an elite international level alongside athletes from around the world. Helena is extremely proud to represent both her country and the Gilroy Catholic College community through this remarkable experience. We congratulate Helena on this outstanding accomplishment and wish her every success as she prepares to take the world stage!
14 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Walk the Talk Awards Night at NSW Parliament House Year 11 Students, Ella, Nicholas, Brayden, and Sam proudly represented Gilroy Catholic College at the Walk the Talk Awards Night held recently at NSW Parliament House. Gilroy was recognised for our involvement in the Walk the Talk program—part of a pioneering Respectful Relationships initiative run by Women’s Community Shelters—as well as for our ongoing support of Beecroft House, a Women’s Community Shelter. We are especially proud to be the first (and only) school supporting this vital service. Our students reflected on the evening, saying: “It was an enlightening and eye-opening experience that instilled in us a feeling of hope for the future, seeing so many young people dedicated to improving our world. Meeting people from other schools and learning about the initiatives they have participated in inspired us to think about more ways we can make a difference as a school community.” #walkthetalk #gilroyvalues #beecrofthouse #womenscommunityshelters #CSPD
13 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Bible Studies Off to an Encouraging Start! We are delighted to share our excitement about the launch of our new Bible Studies initiative! It has been wonderful to see so many new faces at the sessions — including students who have not previously attended iLive or Prayer Group. A special thank you goes to our Year 12 students, Sophie McMahon and Marcus Thian, who kindly returned to lead discussion groups. This has been a truly encouraging beginning, and we’re looking forward to seeing how Bible Studies continues to grow and flourish in the weeks ahead.
13 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Recently, Gilroy Catholic College students completed their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Qualifying Adventurous Journey. Over four days they kayaked and hiked through the Myall Lakes National Park. During the journey , the students had the opportunity to develop skills to help them grow as individuals, and as a team. Carrying all of their gear and supplies for the trip, the students had to be extremely savvy in packing their kayaks to ensure everything would fit. Well done to these students for their commitment! #DukeofEdinburgh #gilroyvalues
12 Nov 2025
From Facebook
Recently, our Year 7 & 8 Girls Basketball Team competed at the NSWCCC Championships at Penrith Valley Regional Sports Centre. The team put in an incredible effort, winning 2 of their 5 pool games and narrowly missing a semi-final spot after a tough 3-point loss to an undefeated St Patrick’s College. The girls showed amazing teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the tournament. We’re so proud of the way they represented Gilroy! A big thank you to Mrs Kaur, Miss Victor and Mr Garland for assisting with the managing and coaching of the team. #NSWCCC #gilroysuccess
11 Nov 2025
From Facebook
This morning the Gilroy Catholic College school community gathered to commemorate Remembrance Day. During the Liturgy, lead by our College Leaders, Ms Merryweather shared a story about her great-uncle — a man who served bravely all over the world during the war. Just before the end of the conflict, he was tragically killed in action. She reflected that today is a day to honour all those who have died in wars past and present — the men and women who gave their lives so that we might live in freedom, and have the ability to make our own choices today. As we paused in silence, we remembered their courage, their sacrifice, and the peace they fought to preserve. #lestweforget #remembranceday