2 September 2024

A Message from the Principal

Announcement of New Principal - St Joseph's Lochinvar 2025

All parents received a Compass notification recently regarding the announcement of the appointment of our new principal. I would like to extend my congratulations to Mr. Peter Antcliff on his appointment, and warmly welcome him to the College.

Mr. Antcliff is currently the Foundation Assistant Principal of Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie, a position he has held since 2020. Previously, Mr. Antcliff was Assistant Principal at St Mary’s Catholic College, Gateshead from 2013 to 2019.

Mr Antcliff has been in various teaching roles over his 22 years serving in the Diocese, beginning his career at St Joseph’s Catholic College, Aberdeen.

Over the course of Term 4, I will meet with Mr Antcliff on a regular basis to ensure a smooth transition of leadership and to give him the opportunity to learn about the unique nature of St Joseph’s Lochinvar. Mr Antcliff is excited about this next step in his career and importantly about the opportunity to work with all members of St Joseph’s community.

Mrs Patricia Hales
College Principal

Principal’s Jottings

Year 12

Congratulations to Year 12 on completing their Higher School Certificate Trial Examinations - we wish them well in the final weeks of their studies. Students who study a subject with a major project or performance element will be doing their actual HSC Examination in these domains or presenting their projects that make up a significant proportion of their final HSC Mark in the next few weeks – we wish all those students in Industrial Technology, Music, Visual Art, Drama, Languages all the best!

Sunnyside Up Week

Congratulations to Year 12 and the Wellbeing Team for their energy, drive and vision in leading our annual Sunnyside Up Week Activities. There was such joy and enthusiasm for all the activities and the culmination was the Assembly where students were on the podium for achieving medal status in competition such as Musical Chairs!. We also had a fantastic speaker – Meg Southcomb a former student of St Joseph’s Aberdeen who shared her story and her determination to look at life through a lens of hope. Well done everyone.

Pupil Free Dates 2024

All Catholic Secondary Schools in Maitland Newcastle Diocese are entitled to 7 pupil free days each year for staff to complete required training and professional learning. This year St Joseph’s will have 8 pupil free days as we are in the 6^th year of our Child Protection Training.

• Term 1 – Monday & Tuesday 30^th & 31^st January and Tuesday 2^nd April
• Term 2 – Monday 29^th April
• Term 3 – Monday 22^nd July
• Term 4 – Monday 14^th October, Thursday 19^th December & Friday 20^th December

Important Calendar Dates

Ministry Musings

Bishop's Ordination to the Priesthood Mass

On Wednesday, 14th August 2024, a significant milestone was celebrated at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Hamilton—the 25th Jubilee of Ordination to the Priesthood of Bishop Michael Kennedy. This special Mass was an opportunity to congratulate Bishop Kennedy, and also recognise the contributions of other Jubilarians who have reached remarkable milestones this year:

• Bishop Michael Malone, celebrating 60 years.
• Fr. Robert Searle, with 50 years.
• Fr. John Tobin, marking 40 years.
• Fr. Terry Horne, who also celebrated 25 years.
• Deacon Lawrence Caelli 25 years of service
• Deacon John Taylor, 25 year service.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to these clergy members for their unwavering commitment and spiritual leadership.

Our college was honoured to have two of our students, Isabelle Dixon and Rhys Kelly, accompany Mrs Hales and myself at this special occasion. We particularly recognize Isabelle for her significant role as an altar server during the Mass. Her participation in the liturgy is a testament to her dedication and the values upheld by our school community.

Congratulations once again to Bishop Kennedy and all the Jubilarians for their remarkable achievements. May their example inspire us all.

                                                  Isabelle Dixon                                                      Rhys Kelly

Sunnyside Up Week - Mackillop Team Bake Sale

Last Tuesday, 27th August, during Sunnyside Up Week, the MacKillop Team hosted a highly successful bake sale, embracing the Socktober theme “Go and invite everyone to the banquet” (Matthew 22:9). The purpose of the event was to raise funds for Catholic Mission’s Socktober initiative, with this year’s proceeds supporting the Don Bosco Caring Centre in Mongolia. The funds raised will help provide nutritious meals, education, school supplies, and warm clothing to families in need.

Thanks to the incredible efforts of the MacKillop Team, who organised and prepared every aspect of the event, the bake sale raised over $1000—a remarkable achievement! We are deeply grateful to the staff and students who contributed their delicious baked goods, adding variety and flavour to the sale.

I also want to extend a special thank you to the Hospitality Team and Mrs. Cullity for generously sharing their space and café facilities, allowing the MacKillop Team to prepare and sell the baked goods efficiently.

As a community we have made a meaningful difference in the lives of those supported by Catholic Mission. Thank you to everyone who played a part in this successful event!

Dadirri Reading and Reflection

The birth of Jesus the Messiah happened like this.

His mother, Mary, was betrothed to Joseph, but before they came to live together, she was found to be with child through the Holy Spirit. Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to disgrace, decided to dismiss her quietly. He had this in his mind when suddenly an angel of God appeared to him in a dream saying,

‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife because the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son and you will name him Jesus for he will save the people from their sins.’

All this took place to fulfill what had been spoken by God through the prophet:

‘The virgin is with child and will give birth to a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel – which means ‘God is with us’.

When Joseph woke from sleep he did what the angel of God had commanded him and he took her as his wife. He had not had intercourse with her when she gave birth to a son, and they named him Jesus.

After Jesus had been born at Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of Herod, some astrologers from the East came to Jerusalem asking, ‘Where is the child born king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to worship him.’ When Herod heard this he was perturbed, and the whole of Jerusalem with him …

After the astrologers had left, an angel of God appeared to Joseph in a dream and said, ‘Get up. Take the child and his mother, flee into Egypt and stay there until I tell you, for Herod intends to search for the child to destroy him.’ So Joseph got up and, taking the child and his mother by night left for Egypt and stayed there until the death of Herod. This was to fulfil what had been spoken by God through the prophet, ‘I called my son out of Egypt.’ …

When Herod had died, an angel of God appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt saying,

‘Get up. Take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were seeking the child’s life are dead.’ Joseph got up, and, taking the child and his mother went to the land of Israel. But when Joseph heard that Archelaus was king of Judea in place of his father, Herod, he was afraid to go there, and, being warned in a dream, he  withdrew to the region of Galilee. There he settled in a town called Nazareth so that what had been spoken by the prophets should be fulfilled: ‘He will be called a Nazarene’.

Reflection: Pope Francis - An extract from the Apostolic Letter Patris Corde. Chapter 7. A Father in the shadows.

The Polish writer Jan Dobraczyński, in his book The Shadow of the Father,[24] tells the story of Saint Joseph’s life in the form of a novel. He uses the evocative image of a shadow to define Joseph. In his relationship to Jesus, Joseph was the earthly shadow of the heavenly Father: he watched over him and protected him, never leaving him to go his own way.

We can think of Moses’ words to Israel: “In the wilderness… you saw how the Lord your God carried you, just as one carries a child, all the way that you travelled” (Deut 1:31). In a similar way, Joseph acted as a father for his whole life.[25]

Fathers are not born, but made. A man does not become a father simply by bringing a child into the world, but by taking up the responsibility to care for that child. Whenever a man accepts responsibility for the life of another, in some way he becomes a father to that person.

Children today often seem orphans, lacking fathers. The Church too needs fathers. Saint Paul’s words to the Corinthians remain timely: “Though you have countless guides in Christ, you do not have many fathers” (1 Cor 4:15). Every priest or bishop should be able to add, with the Apostle: “I became your father in Christ Jesus through the Gospel” (ibid.). Paul likewise calls the Galatians: “My little children, with whom I am again in travail until Christ be formed in you!” (4:19).

Being a father entails introducing children to life and reality. Not holding them back, being overprotective or possessive, but rather making them capable of deciding for themselves, enjoying freedom and exploring new possibilities. Perhaps for this reason, Joseph is traditionally called a “most chaste” father. That title is not simply a sign of affection, but the summation of an attitude that is the opposite of possessiveness. Chastity is freedom from possessiveness in every sphere of one’s life. Only when love is chaste, is it truly love. A possessive love ultimately becomes dangerous: it imprisons, constricts and makes for misery. God himself loved humanity with a chaste love; he left us free even to go astray and set ourselves against him. The logic of love is always the logic of freedom, and Joseph knew how to love with extraordinary freedom. He never made himself the centre of things. He did not think of himself, but focused instead on the lives of Mary and Jesus.

Joseph found happiness not in mere self-sacrifice but in self-gift. In him, we never see frustration but only trust. His patient silence was the prelude to concrete expressions of trust. Our world today needs fathers. It has no use for tyrants who would domineer others as a means of compensating for their own needs. It rejects those who confuse authority with authoritarianism, service with servility, discussion with oppression, charity with a welfare mentality, power with destruction. Every true vocation is born of the gift of oneself, which is the fruit of mature sacrifice. The priesthood and consecrated life likewise require this kind of maturity. Whatever our vocation, whether to marriage, celibacy or virginity, our gift of self will not come to fulfilment if it stops at sacrifice; were that the case, instead of becoming a sign of the beauty and joy of love, the gift of self would risk being an expression of unhappiness, sadness and frustration.

When fathers refuse to live the lives of their children for them, new and unexpected vistas open up. Every child is the bearer of a unique mystery that can only be brought to light with the help of a father who respects that child’s freedom. A father who realizes that he is most a father and educator at the point when he becomes “useless”, when he sees that his child has become independent and can walk the paths of life unaccompanied.

When he becomes like Joseph, who always knew that his child was not his own but had merely been entrusted to his care. In the end, this is what Jesus would have us understand when he says: “Call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven” (Mt 23:9).

In every exercise of our fatherhood, we should always keep in mind that it has nothing to do with possession, but is rather a “sign” pointing to a greater fatherhood. In a way, we are all like Joseph: a shadow of the heavenly Father, who “makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the just and on the unjust” (Mt 5:45). And a shadow that follows his Son.

Reflection Questions

• What qualities of Joseph stand out to you, and how can you apply them in your own life?
• How do you understand the idea of "fatherhood" or "being a father figure" in your own experiences?
• In what ways can we practice a love that gives others freedom, as Joseph did with Jesus?
• How can we find joy in giving of ourselves to others, rather than feeling like it’s just a sacrifice?
• How can we be supportive guides in our communities, helping others to grow and become independent?
• How can we, like Joseph, reflect God’s love and care in our everyday actions?
  

Prayer

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer, Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary. To you God entrusted his only Son; in you Mary placed her trust;

with you Christ became man. Blessed Joseph, to us too, show yourself a father

and guide us in the path of life.

Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage, and defend us from every evil. Amen.

Mary Mother of God … Pray for Us

St Joseph… Pray for Us

St Mary of the Cross… Pray for Us

Fr Julian… Pray for Us

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. All: Amen

Ministry Calendar

God Bless,
Mr Taylor Zahra
Leader of College Ministry

From the Assistant Principals....

Year 11

Congratulations are extended to Year 11 students who have nominated to become a College Captain. During the week ahead we will work with students and hear speeches and some students will move through to the interview phase with College Captains being announced later this week. The number of applicants this year is unprecedented and indicative of the leadership skills evident in year 11. We are proud of the students who have nominated and believe all students have the qualities of a great leader. Best of luck to all involved.

School TV

We would like to encourage all parents to access the school TV resource on our web page. The school TV resource has excellent clips from world-leading parenting experts to help navigate some of the challenges of being a parent of teenagers. This week we would like to the cyber safety series available on the school TV website which includes information about online gaming highlight, keeping your child safe online, and importantly managing screen time. We will continue to focus on sharing this resource with you regularly and you will find a school TV link on our school web page.

Sunnyside Up Week

We would like to recognise all students who were involved in Sunnyside up week and particularly to the staff involved.  During the week, it was a fantastic celebration of spreading kindness I'm finding joy and there were a number of students who embraced the concept with enthusiasm. As you 12 approached their final few weeks of schooling life it is hoped that Sunnyside up week was a reminder of the wonderful aspects of school. Hearing our musicians play on Friday it was another opportunity to see showcase the wonderful talent that exists at St Joseph’s.

Mr Paul Dart  & Mrs Elizabeth Stokes
Assistant Principals

From the Counsellor’s Desk

Ms Caitlin French & Ms Julia Preistley
St Joseph’s Professional Officers

Wellbeing

Sunnyside Up Week: "When You Can't Find the Sunshine be the Sunshine!

In Week 6, St Joseph's College held its annual Sunnyside Up Week—a celebration of wellbeing, positivity, and community spirit. This week was all about lifting each other up, spreading joy, and reminding ourselves of the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. Student’s are challenged through the week’s motto - “When you can’t find the sunshine, be the sunshine!”

The week was packed with fun activities and events designed to boost mental health and wellbeing. From Senior music performances, bake sales run by the Mackillop Team, staff affirmations, Sunshine Trivia and Old School Olympics, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Our school leaders and the Student Representative Council (SRC) played a pivotal role in organising these events, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication.

A special mention goes to the College Leaders and SRC for their enthusiasm, hard work, and creativity in making Sunnyside Up Week a success. Your leadership and dedication truly shone through, and your efforts helped create a vibrant and supportive atmosphere that everyone could feel, especially at the school gates each morning welcoming fellow students with good tunes, hopscotch or skipping and a friendly smile.

Thank you to all students who participated and contributed to the spirit of the week. Your positivity and energy were contagious, and it's clear that we have an amazing community here at St Joseph's College. Sunnyside Up Olympics Champions were recognised at Friday’s Assembly:

Let’s carry the spirit of Sunnyside Up Week with us throughout the year, continuing to support each other and promote positivity in everything we do.

Guest speaker Meg Southcombe of Where There’s A Will, also addressed students at the Sunnyside Up Assembly. Meg is an impressive young lady who while attending school at St Joseph’s Aberdeen experienced what it is like to live with a family member experiencing mental health struggles. She has devoted herself to working closely with young people across NSW to positively shape the future. Meg is studying to be a PDHPE teacher and works for Hunter New England Health in the Secondary Schools Research Team. Meg was invited by our College Leaders to speak after impressing them at their Diocesan School Leaders Retreat at the end of 2023. One of many meaningful takeaways from the day for all who were lucky to hear from Meg was to not dread the things that we have ‘GOT’ to do, but rather to enjoy the things that we ‘GET’ to do.

St Joseph's College will come together to participate in RUOK Day on Thursday 12^th September. This national day of action is dedicated to inspiring and empowering everyone to meaningfully connect with the people around them and start a conversation with those who may be struggling. At St Joseph's, we understand the importance of looking out for one another and fostering a community where every student feels heard, supported, and valued.

In the lead up to and on September 12, students will engaged in various activities that promote mental health awareness and peer support through LMG. These included workshops on how to recognise the signs when someone might not be okay, training sessions on starting supportive conversations, and interactive discussions that highlighted the importance of empathy and kindness in our everyday interactions.

For further information regarding RUOK Day, including how to ask “R U Ok?” go to 

Our annual RUOK Day BBQ will be on the morning of Thursday September 12 and will replace the usual Friday BBQ for Week 8. A big thank you must go to Mr Hickling and Mr Mills for being so accommodating. Bacon & Egg Rolls will be available for $4 and the Café will be available as per usual. There will be competitions run at the BBQ, students are encouraged to come along with friends and compete for some delicious prizes.

Mr Chris Johns, Miss Alison Lynch, Ms Alberta Kauter, and Mrs Abbie Marston
Leaders of Learning-Wellbeing

Careers – Opportunities & Notices

Seniors Newsletter

Ms Vikki Jordan
Careers Advisor
vikki.jordan@mn.catholic.edu.au

Yalawa Yarnings

Anikanya (Hello)!

Deadly Achievements

This month one of our year 7 students, Taireeq Jackonia, attended the Talented Athlete Program (TAP) in Sydney in his chosen sport of basketball. Taireeq spent the week being coached by some of the country’s best basketball coaches and was one of only 25 country players identified for this program. Congratulations on this amazing achievement, Taireeq!

Congratulations also goes out to Coen Cremona, Taylem Grieve, Seb Howlett, Harrison Hawke and Fred Richardson who gained selection to attend the Diocesan Athletics carnival at Glendale Sports Centre on the 21^st August. These students competed in a range of track and field events and should be proud of their efforts. Coen Cremona has progressed to NSW CCC level after placing in the 200m, 400m, relay as well as winning the 100m event. We wish Coen the best of luck next month when he will travel to Sydney to compete at State trials.

Recent Events

Aboriginal Dance Performance at St Nicholas Early Education Centre

Last week our Aboriginal dance group performed for the students and staff at St Nicholas Early Education Centre. The dance group performed for the toddler group which was followed by a performance and teaching session with the preschool group. St Joseph’s students were polite and engaging when teaching students to use clapsticks and how to perform some of the movements involved in the dance.

Community Events

Barkuma Neighbourhood Centre are offering its Jarjum Nandhu program in term 4 for children aged 5-13. This program focuses on building cultural knowledge, cultural pride and self-development. More information can be found below.

This event is for students in year 5 or 6 so if you know anyone in this age group, please feel free to pass on this information.

Student support

If there are any issues that we can support students with or that you think that we need to be aware of please do not hesitate to contact one of us.

If your student is also doing amazing things in the community, please let us know so we can give them a shout out in the ‘Yalawa Yarnings.’

Mrs Hannah Allen, Ms Anabel Holle and Mr Thomas Germon
Aboriginal Education Teachers

Message from the Finance Office

2024 School Fees can be viewed at any time through Compass and updated statements are emailed at the beginning of each month, please check your emails and also your junk emails.  Families who have a nil balance will not receive a statement. 

Thank you to the Families who indicated a lump sum payment and have now paid. Please contact finance to discuss if needed as this is now overdue.

It is important to pay weekly, fortnightly or monthly payments regularly which are due in full by 30/11/2024, thank you to the families who continue with these regular payments.

If you have any concerns in meeting the 30/11/2024 due date please contact me on 0249 307 291 or email finance@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au 

Bpay is our preferred method of payment, however payment can also be made via Credit Card, Cash, Cheque and Centrepay.

Health Care Card and Pension Card Holders - 2024 Tuition Fee Discount

If you are a current holder of an Australian Government Health Care Card/Pension card you may be entitled to a discount on your school fees, please email a copy of your card to finance@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au

Catholic schools in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle offer a lower tuition fee to ‘means tested’ low income families such as Health Care and Pension Card holders. This rate is 50% of the Diocesan Tuition Fee full rate for each child.

Mrs Cathy Duff
Finance Officer

General News

Canteen News

Lunch Orders

Lunch Orders are still available through the QKR app. Orders made via QKR need to be placed by 8.15am.

Canteen Menu

Qkr! – Getting Started

Mrs Tania Cullity
Food Operations Manager

Contact us (Email addresses)

In order to keep our records up to date:

FOR STUDENT SERVICES – Please email studentservices@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au 

FOR FINANCE – Please email finance@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au

ALL OTHER MATTERS (other than Finance) - please use the email admin@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au

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