Dear Parents / Carers
Earlier this week the Prime Minister announced the date for the Referendum on an Indigenous Voice to Parliament will take place on October 14. St Joseph’s has been engaged with the ongoing debate regarding issues surrounding the Referendum. In line with position articulated by our governing body, Edmund Rice Education Australia, (EREA) we support The Voice to Parliament; at the same time, we are conscious of our primary role as educators and our obligation to provide students with the information required for them to form their own fully informed view.
Two weeks ago, we welcomed Senator Sarah Henderson and Mr Warren Mundine to promote the case for the ‘no’ argument to senior students. Earlier today we welcomed Deputy Prime Minister Mr Richard Marles and local indigenous elder uncle Glenn Shea to speak to students promoting the case for a ‘yes’ vote.
For those accessing this newsletter in print please find a letter from Dr Liam Smith National Executive Director of EREA and Ms Philomena Billington President of the EREA Council of Trustees outlining position of EREA on the voice referendum.
One important element of the College strategic plan is ‘student voice’ and an integral part of this is having effective student leadership structures throughout the school. Earlier this week I was delighted to announce our senior student leadership team for 2024. Process for identifying this team is extremely comprehensive and includes written application, address the students, vote from current yr 7 and year 11 students and staff and interview with a panel of senior staff.
Congratulations to College Captain Michael Ahearn, Deputy Captains, Jude Payne and Kaine Shaw, and Touchstone Prefects: David Iosefo and Danu Lakey (Inclusive Community), Ben Parish and Luke DiLisio (Justice and Solidarity), Josef Paatsch and Ky Berends (Gospel Spirituality), and Luke Stacey and Matthew Suhandi (Liberating Education).
This outstanding group of young men will be joined by House Captains and elected leaders from other year levels and will continue to provide the strong, principled and effective student voice in the College we have experienced with our 2023 senior student leadership team and those of previous years.
Each year the College is required to undertake the MACSIS Survey. Survey is undertaken by all students and staff and a representative sample of 450 families. Data provides an important snapshot into what we are doing well and areas where we need to focus on improvement. If you were one of the ‘lucky’ families randomly chosen receive survey will have arrived by email earlier this week and we would be very grateful if you would complete the survey at your earliest convenience.
Our current Year 12 students are rapidly approaching their final classes with approximately four weeks remaining for VCE students. Much can be achieved during this time with a committed and diligent approach to exam preparation. Students are also strongly encouraged to access the VCE revision lectures provided College during the term break. The current year 12 cohort have been onside and have worked really positively throughout the year and we look forward to seeing individual and collective excellence in their outcomes.
God Bless
Tony Paatsch
Principal
Identity News
‘Mukwano’ Welcome Fr Emma Friend of St Joseph’s College
Over these past two weeks, we have welcomed Fr Emmanuel Kiwanauka, known to us as Fr Emma to St Joseph’s. He is the parish priest of Mannya, in Uganda. Fr Emma spent time visiting the Year 7 Gathering, followed by a tour visiting classrooms. He enjoyed a coffee made by students at the VCAL café and was given a tour of the VCE VM students projects. Fr Emma met with the Year 11 Religious Education classes to hear the progress being made at the St Joseph’s Vocational school and the challenges of daily life, many students’ families face. Westcourt staff and students immersed Fr Emma in the welcoming features of the campus and their projects. Our 2023 College Captain, Jaeger Fawcett, and a group of student leaders shared their Touchstone initiatives over a shared lunch. Fr Emma expressed his thanks on behalf of his community for our financial support of the Edmund Rice Day celebrations to enable St Joseph’s Vocational Secondary School in Kensekka to grow and gift students with an education out of poverty. Fr Emma will celebrate Mass with our Year 12 students in the morning in our Chapel. He will also be a guest at the Josephine’s Spring Luncheon which supports our Learning Diversity initiatives for many of our students, with thanks to our dedicated Learning Diversity Officers and staff.
We look forward to joining many of you in our community who are gathering together for our annual College Parents and Friends Fashion Dinner at Mt Duneed Estate on the 20th of October, where all proceeds will be going towards supporting the ongoing development of the St Joseph’s Vocational School in Kensekka, Uganda. This is another example of how we are living out the Touchstones and the charism of Blessed Edmund Rice, to provide access to education for those most in need.
I would like to congratulate the 2024 Student College Leadership Team and Touchstone Leaders who are all a shining example living the touchstones and gospel values through servant leadership, that includes the elements of: empathy, stewardship, empowering others, a balance of focus and flexibility, attentive listening and serving with humility.
Advice given by Pope Francis to a staff member on the recent Emerging Leaders Program in Rome for the World Youth Day, when asked, ‘What advice he had for us in being able to serve our small communities?’ He said it’s not about imparting an idea, but imparting a relationship … guiding your students and allowing them to make mistakes and be themselves and to grow into their own.
https://www.macs.vic.edu.au/Ne...
Friends Ignited in Reconciliation Education
Last Sunday’s reading was from Matthew 16: 13–20. When Jesus came to the region of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples Who do people say the Son of Man is? They replied: Some say John the Baptist; others say Elijah; and still others, Jeremiah or one of the prophets. But what about you? He asked: Who do you say I am? Simon Peter answered: You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God. In this Gospel reading, Jesus is in the town of Caesarea Philippi, which is situated at the head of the Jordan River. Jesus gathers here with his followers and begins a discussion about his identity. People think he may be John the Baptist reincarnated or perhaps Elijah, a prophet of the Old Testament who has returned to earth after leaving it in a fiery chariot. And others think he is one of the many other prophets. But it is Peter’s faith that helps him to see and to say that Jesus is more than a prophet – he is the Messiah, the Son of God.
Last weekend, our Catholic Parishes observed Social Justice Sunday. On this Social Justice in 2023, Australia’s Bishops are asking us to renew our engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, who are questioning their identity in our constitution. In their Social Justice Statement, Listen, Learn, Love: A New Engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, they join with the National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Catholic Council (NATSICC) to call on us to develop relationships of humility and love with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Here is a link to the statement.
The Bishop’s statement tells us about the painful experiences of many First Nations people.
We are followers of Christ whose central message is that love is the way. Prominent Aboriginal lawyer, Noel Pearson, says, ‘It is very challenging reading in parts…We can’t just turn a blind eye to this.’
We are going to vote in the Voice referendum before the end of the year. NATSICC supports a Yes vote, but the Bishops will not tell us how to vote. However, they do urge us to inform ourselves about the issues and to engage in respectful dialogue about the issues, especially with First Nations People. This is one moment when we can try harder to listen to First Nations People and learn from them about their experiences and hopes.
The referendum is an important moment in our history. Just as important is what happens in the months and years following. As the Bishops and NATSICC say, we, in the Church, can model how Jesus’ way of love can make a difference. As this week of Social Justice Sunday continues, let’s commit ourselves to reaching out to First Nations people in love and humility, to listen to them and learn from them and walk the journey of healing together – first in relation to the referendum and, then, in the period that follows.
Edmund Rice Education Australia supports the establishment of a First Nations Voice to Parliament enshrined in the Constitution, and the establishment of a Makarrata Commission for the purpose of truth-telling is at the centre of this justice. We support this road to Treaty. We commit to spread awareness of and support for the Uluru Statement from the Heart in all of our schools and communities. The Uluru Statement from the Heart will be displayed in all of our school communities as a sign of our commitment to these imperatives.
As we prepare to vote in the referendum on a Voice to Parliament, as a FIRE Carrier College, who has a Reconciliation Action Plan, may we continue to listen with deep respect.
Mary Malone
Director of Identity
Deputy News
As we make further progress into Term 3, week 7 concluded with parent teacher student interviews. Thankyou to all families who either came into the College or connected online to discuss their child’s learning progress this semester. If any family missed the opportunity to meet with a specific teacher I encourage you to contact that teacher directly via email, for further follow-up or discussions as needed.
The 2024 student leadership process was recently launched at a Mt Sion assembly. The College called for Year 11 students interested in serving the College as Captains or Touchstone Prefects to apply. Students were taken through a multi-step application process including an initial application letter, recorded speech and an interview with a senior leadership panel. The applicant pool was of an extremely high calibre, and I have no doubt that they will all lead the College with exceptional integrity in 2024. This process will continue through the term as we call upon 2024 Year 10 and 11 touchstone leaders and Year 9 Campus Captains. Families of students who secure a leadership position for 2024 will be informed prior to the commencement of term 4 and invited to the College’s annual Leadership Investiture ceremony.
With three weeks remaining in the term it is a pertinent time to remind all students and families of the expectations the College has in regards to behaviour. At this later time of the year we can often find student yard behaviours become more physical and students on buses behaving in an unsafe way. It is important that even outside of the classroom, we are respectful of all persons and places and that we conduct ourselves with compassion and integrity, particularly when on school site, school buses or representing the College in public.
Finally, our term will conclude with student and group photos scheduled from September 11-13. In preparation for these photos, we ask that all families ensure that their child has correct winter uniform, including a blazer and tie. All students will be reminded to be clean shaven and have long hair neatly tied back for the photos. Family photos and group photos will be scheduled throughout the week, with a specific schedule being provided to students in our daily bulletin notices.
Cassandra Gleeson
Deputy Principal - Wellbeing
Heritage Centre Visit
Our school’s Heritage Centre is a labyrinth of artefacts that visually explains just how school was in its early days. There sure has been some significant changes over the years with a Boarding House operating in the existing A and B Blocks, once there was a swimming pool located near the PAC plus many more!
The Heritage Centre is a hidden treasure tucked away in a corner of the campus. Each year I take my Homeroom down to the Heritage Centre so that they can gain a greater perspective of the proud and vast history of our school.
Special thanks to Susan Belluzzo who is always accommodates the students warmly, presents past photos / articles in interesting fashion and shares her vast knowledge of the school’s history so well.
The Heritage Centre is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:30am - 4:00pm.
Ashley Crook
Year 8 Homeroom Teacher
SUSTAINABILITY NEWS
UPCOMING EVENTS TERM 3
September 7 National Threatened Species Day
EDDY’S PRELOVED – CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES SALE
Following season three of the “War on Waste” series (recently screened on ABC TV), on Friday 18 August, St Joseph’s College hosted our first “Eddy’s Preloved” clothing sale during lunchtime in the gymnasium. Led by student leader Benjamin Starinskas, the event was a great success, comprising 15 staff and student stall holders selling preloved clothes, shoes and accessories. With items selling from $1 and no item over $50, it provided students and staff alike, a wonderful opportunity to purchase a few new treasures. Vinnies was selected as the recipient for proceeds from stall holder booking fees and donated post event clothing. I would like to acknowledge and thank the stall holders for their support and efforts; Students: Benjamin Armstrong, Ashton Bryan, Owen McCloskey, Jediah Salmon, Benjamin Starinskas and Staff: Andrew Branchflower, Tom Cashin, Charlie Purdy, Lauren Hall, Jules Holt, Leah Irving, Laura Martin, Nicole Lucas, Tania Talevski, and Natalie Welsh. A special mention also to students; James Hayward, Jackson Kenny and Lachlan Lamb & staff; Janine McLean, Laura Martin & Maintenance staff, for their support and involvement in setting/packing up and/or supervision during the event.
CUT THE WRAP
We wish to thank families that have made the transition to adopt the CUT THE WRAP approach to making lunches. Making that one simple change to our daily routine not only raises awareness of our individual contributions to waste, with a unified goal, it can have a significant impact at school and in the yard in particular. A reminder that we encourage students of all year levels to CUT THE WRAP on a daily basis. Lunchbox inspections occur on a weekly basis for Year 7 students (typically during their Wellbeing period on Mondays (with the exclusion of the last week of each term).
COMMUNITY NOTICES
TREE PLANTING WITH THE FRIENDS OF WAURN PONDS CREEK– SUNDAY 3 SEPTEMBER - SERVICE LEARNING OPPORTUNITY
All families are invited to join the “Friends of Waurn Ponds Creek” on Sunday 3 September for tree planting activities. They will gather from 9.00am on the creek to plant grasses and shrubs at a site between Brearly Reserve bridge and Winter St. You may access the site via the walking track from Winter St. Morning tea will be provided at approximately 10.15. Volunteer may simply turn up and register on the day. Please take your own gardening gloves.
Service learning hours will be assigned in accordance with the number of hours of service.
For more information, visit the following website; https://friendsofwaurnpondscreek.org.au/aa%202023/07%20July%2030%20NTD.html
Kelly Jenkins
Sustainability Coordinator
Waterford Football Friendlies - Game 3
A fantastic day of football unfolded on Tuesday as both the Year 7 and Year 8 teams clashed with Iona Geelong in two captivating friendly matches. These matches not only spotlighted the skills of the young athletes but also underscored the essence of sportsmanship and camaraderie on the field.
The Main Oval at Iona College set the stage for a riveting showdown in the Year 8 Football Friendly. With players drawn from 8H, 8I, and 8J homerooms, the contest promised a display of exceptional teamwork and athletic prowess. With scores level at ¾ time, St Joseph's seized their chances in the last quarter to emerge triumphant in the very blustery conditions with a final score of 6.16 (52) against Iona's 4.6 (30).
Toby Duckett, Riley McLure and Will Morrison all kicked goals and were amongst the best players whilst Tighe Morrissy, Tai Moorfort, Billy Smith, Leonard Ireland and Luca Raju were also solid contributors.
Meanwhile, Carey Oval at St Joseph's was the arena for an intense battle in the Year 7 Football Friendly. Featuring players from 7G, 7H, and 7I homerooms, the match showcased the diverse talents within the Year 7 cohort. Iona emerged victorious in an absolute shootout with a final score of 19.15 (129) against St Joseph's 11.15 (81).
With goal-scoring the highlight, Sonny Rutley nailed three whilst Tate Smith kicked two along with 6 other goal kickers on the day. Hamish Isbister, Hamish Uebergang, Angus Knight and Austin Fuller were outstanding contributors whilst Charles Harriott, Sonny Rutley, Tate Smith and Giorgio Grivas were also in the best players.
Central to these matches was the football program's ethos of providing an enjoyable sporting experience and fostering connections among student athletes. The focus was on creating a fun and engaging atmosphere through sport, enhancing the sense of camaraderie among players from different homerooms.
As the sun set on a great day of school football, the enduring memories of the matches will stand as a testament to the promising talent of our Waterford cohorts. The rematch against Emmanuel College Warrnambool in Geelong in week 10 will give our final set of students the chance to represent the College.
We would like to wish the best for all students at St Joseph's College representing their local clubs in the AFL Barwon Grand Final's this weekend.
Last meeting for the term
Last Parents & Friends meeting of the term is on Tuesday 5 September at 7.00pm in the Staffroom. Great opportunity to hear about what has been happening around the College and what is coming up on the SJC calendar. Everyone welcome, drinks and refreshments provided.
Fashion Dinner
TICKETS NOW ON SALE
Tickets are selling fast for the SJC Fashion Dinner this year. https://events.humanitix.com/sjc-fashion-dinner-2023
$120pp includes 3 courses, SipSip cocktail on arrival, a donation to the SJC Vocational School in Kensekka and a $100 voucher for Eyewear on Pako.
The impact the St Joseph’s Community support has on the people of Kensekka was seen firsthand by our Principal, Tony Paatsch this year. The Vocational School continues to grow each year, with expansion of subjects and learning opportunities for not only the students but their families too thanks to our continued support.
This year the focus of the St Joseph’s College Fashion Dinner is to raise funds to build a Science and Agricultural Science building on school grounds. As a vocational school, students will be taught brick making and bricklaying (along with tailoring) and will help construct the Science blocks themselves, putting to use the skills they have developed throughout their classes.
Get in quick to grab your Individual tickets or tables of up to 10 available today. Fill a table or organise a few friends to join another table, it is a fantastic night to catch up, see some amazing Spring Fashion and support a worthy cause.
Any questions regarding, donations, table sponsorships, ticketing or being involved in the Fashion Dinner Committee, please contact Jodie Warrick [email protected]
Jodie Warrick
Events and Community Engagement Coordinator
Upcoming School Photos for Years 7-11: Important Details and Dates
Mark your calendars! School photos for Years 7–11 are just around the corner and are scheduled for the final week of Term 3. This year, we are thrilled to offer not just portrait photos, but also group photos capturing your extra-curricular activities.
Key Dates
- Portrait Photos for Years 7-11: Monday 11 September
- Family Photos: Monday 11 September
- Group & Sport Photos: Tuesday and Wednesday 12 & 13 September
Catch-up Sessions
If your child is absent on Monday 11 September catch-up sessions for portrait photos will be available on September 12 and 13.
Dress Code
Students must wear their winter uniform, comprising the College blazer, long-sleeve shirt, long pants, and tie. Students will be notified of the uniform requirements for their sporting/group photos.
Grooming Requirements
To meet the College's grooming standards, students must be clean-shaven and have long hair tied back. Students who do not meet the clean-shaven requirement will be asked to shave at school, which we would like to avoid. We appreciate families' support in this matter.
Ordering Photos
Students will receive a flyer during homeroom containing instructions on how to order photos from Arthur Reed.
We look forward to capturing these memorable moments!
SJC Revision Lectures 2023
The 2023 SJC Revision Lectures are once again upon us! These lectures see an opportunity for our Unit 3 & 4 VCE students to kickstart their revision with lecturers from outside the College coming into provide another perspective. Students have been emailed the discount code, which is also available on the student notices. Bookings close on Tuesday 12 September, so get in quick to secure your spot.
https://events.humanitix.com/vce-revision-lectures-2023
Band Tour
August 16 – 18 saw the SJC senior and stage band headed off on our first band tour since 2016. Philip Island was the destination for this year’s rehearsal camp and tour. We headed to our accommodation in Newhaven, to begin our rehearsals which would prepare the ensembles for upcoming Victorian School’s Music Festival and SJC Live events in the coming weeks.
After our senior band had worked through a solid rehearsal on the first afternoon, we headed out to the famous penguin parade to see the little penguins make their way in to shore. No matter how many times you witness this event, it’s still quite incredible watching these tiny little creatures navigate the waves to make their way onto shore to feed their families with the days catch.
On Thursday, the bands headed off to Leongatha Primary school, to an audience of over 400 excited young students. It was wonderful to see how much the students enjoyed the performance, with some having the opportunity to assist Mr Collinson with conducting the senior band. Colby McCallum wowed the crowd with his rendition of “My Shot” from Hamilton, which was a concert highlight.
In the afternoon, we headed back to Newhaven to participate in combined band workshops with the students and staff of Newhaven College. SJC students worked with the Newhaven College Orchestra, intermediate band and stage band to produce an afternoon performance for staff and parents of the college.
It was a wonderful opportunity for students to collaborate with other young musicians and hone their performance skills for upcoming events.
We finished the day with the inaugural band tour trivia night, which starred Mrs Young and Miss Hepworth in some of their best work yet, with our year 12 students taking home the virtual trophy and some movie tickets.
Heading home on Friday, after a morning rehearsal and a quick stop to visit The Knobbies, in the freezing cold and rain, our young musicians were tired but happy and definitely much improved in their performance skills.
A big thanks to Mr Collinson, Miss Hepwoth, Mr O’ Callaghan for their work with the students whilst on camp, and to Laura Martin for her work in preparation for the camp.
Amy Young
Director of Music
Message from Ed USA for students interested in studying in the US.
Upcoming EducationUSA Australia programming for August and September has been set.
Note – none of the Ivy league sessions will be recorded to watch later.
Summary of programs details for the upcoming IVY League sessions for your convenience below.
Student and family sessions:
Session 1:
Tuesday, August 29, 7:00-8:00 a.m. EDT
Tuesday, August 29, 9pm - 10pm AEST
Register now at: https://apply.college.columbia.edu.mcas.ms/register/?id=79aa34a9-d217-4e8e-a648-3b25477198c9
Session 2
Friday, September 8, 8:00-9:00 p.m. EDT
Saturday September 9, 10am - 11am AEST
Register now at: https://apply.college.columbia.edu/register/?id=b411bee7-56cc-45de-9dfb-4e588ac3c857
Session 3
Wednesday, September 20, 8:00-9:00 a.m. EDT
Wednesday September 20, 10pm -11pm AEST
Register now at: https://apply.college.columbia.edu/register/?id=d1930b9f-3fbb-411b-9759-7898a225caa9
EducationUSA Australia Sessions:
Date: Monday 4th September
Time: 6:30pm - 8pm AEST: In-person session
Venue: Scotch College Melbourne - 1 Morrison Street, Hawthorn, Geoffrey McComas Theatre, James Forbes Academy
Registration link: http://bit.ly/EdUSAInfoSessionSept4
Register by: Thursday 31 August 5pm
Date: Wednesday 13 September
Time: 6:30pm - 8pm AEST: Virtual Session
Registration link: https://statedept.zoomgov.com/webinar/register/WN_-AFjqfLFT-61oZG-x8BOXw?fbclid=IwAR1oUMn1yLg1zKn5XKg8i-KkPyBoiy41Y95KaB14M1CW7KXwapiSwHKoUrg
Register by: Tuesday 12 September
Note - there are limited places and registration will close when full.
August - September Program
Download2024 Kokoda Immersion Information Night
An information evening will be held on 2 October in the PAC for parents and year 10 & 11 students who are interested in participating in the 2024 Kokoda Immersion. Mick O’Malley from Australian Kokoda tours will provide an overview of the experience, costings and what can be expected. At the end of the evening, parents and students who wish to commit will be able to pay a deposit to secure their place in the 2024 trek group.
MYKI Student Passes
If you have purchased a MYKI and live more than 4.8km from St Joseph’s College you are able to claim the cost of the yearly or half-yearly MYKI you have purchased. Please forward the receipt to Lisa McDine ([email protected]) or bring it into the College.
MYKI student passes can be purchased from the train stations or at the PTV stand in Westfield. You will need a student concession card, which your son’s student card with the PTV logo on it is acceptable.
Year 9 students may or may not be eligible depending on how far they live from the Westcourt Campus.
Any queries please contact Lisa McDine.
