Dear St Michael’s College Community,

As you might be aware, it has been the most difficult of weeks for the College community following the passing of St Michael’s College Year 12 student Hamish O’Callaghan.  No words can describe the loss of this wonderful, talented young man with a beautiful and humble heart.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with Hamish’s loving family and friends, as well as all those who have been deeply affected by his passing, including the staff and students of the College. The St Michael’s community stands as one with them at this difficult time and trust there is some comfort in our love, compassion and support.

Hamish’s family have reflected that “… as seen on social media, the enormous amount of support is evidence to the number of lives that Hamish influenced or connected with”.

The family wish to advise that Hamish’s celebration of life will be on Friday 13 August at 1:30pm.

As COVID restrictions will make a central gathering quite challenging, the service will therefore be streamed to YouTube allowing friends and family to be present through online mediums. The YouTube stream can be accessed on mobile devices, as well as laptops and computers.

The link will be released as soon as possible. The College will be offering an opportunity to celebrate Hamish’s life for students and staff on campus.

Even as they manage their own grief, Hamish’s family continue to think of others, and ask that “we look out for each other, our family and community at this difficult time and remember it’s moments like these where we learn and recognise the value of people”. 

In this spirit, I again thank the staff, students and families of St Michael’s College, as well the Lasallian and Catholic communities, for your ongoing and heartfelt support of each other and know that we will continue to care for and value those around us.

Hamish will be fondly remembered and sorely missed.

May he Rest In Peace.

Live Jesus in our hearts.

Kind regards,

John Foley
Principal