Year 7 Students Brave the Cold for the St Vincent de Paul Winter Sleep Out

On Friday 26 June, around 70 of our Year 7 students swapped the comfort of their own beds for sleeping bags on the Mercy gym floor as they took part in our St Vincent de Paul Winter Sleep Out.

The experience was designed to raise awareness of homelessness while encouraging students to live out the Mercy values of Compassion, Hospitality, Service and Justice.

The evening began with a powerful presentation from Maija Hildebrand, General Manager of Vinnies WA, who travelled from Perth to speak with our students.

Homelessness is not a choice, it is a reality for many. Jack

Through personal stories and real-life examples, Maija helped students gain a deeper understanding of the realities of homelessness in Australia. She explained that homelessness can affect people of all ages and backgrounds and outlined the many ways St Vincent de Paul supports individuals and families experiencing hardship across Western Australia.

Her presentation challenged students to look beyond stereotypes and consider how small acts of kindness and generosity can make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

One night for us, but many nights for others worse off than us. Aniela

As part of the evening, our Year 7 Mercy Ambassadors presented Maija with the warm blankets generously donated by Year 7 families. These blankets will be distributed to people in need within our local communities during the winter months.

It was a privilege to be there. Sophie

The Winter Sleep Out is one of the initiatives led by our Year 7 Mercy Ambassadors. Established in 2026, the program provides leadership opportunities for students entering secondary school. Throughout the year, the ambassadors meet regularly with staff mentors to explore leadership opportunities, discuss community needs and plan initiatives that promote the Mercy values.

Following the presentation, students shared a simple meal of warm soup and a bread roll and enjoyed time together around the campfire. A disco rounded out the night before everyone settled into their swags and sleeping bags for what proved to be a very chilly night. While there may not have been much sleep, there was certainly plenty of laughter and a shared sense of purpose.

Great fun hanging out with friends and raising awareness of a good cause.  Kade

The Winter Sleep Out offered students far more than an overnight adventure. It provided an opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, develop empathy for those experiencing homelessness and recognise the importance of serving others with dignity and compassion.

We extend our sincere thanks to Maija Hildebrand and Vinnies WA for sharing their time, as well as to our Year 7 Mercy Ambassadors, staff and families whose generosity and support made this meaningful experience possible.