11 November 2024

A Message from the Principal

Yesterday all students had the opportunity to participate in Remembrance Day through their Learning Mentor Groups. I would like to acknowledge the dedication of Mrs Renee Wilcher and the HSIE Faculty who each year work with students to prepare a very thought provoking, respectful and engaging presentation for Remembrance Day. It is so important that our students learn about these pivotal events in our history and honour those who have offered their service and indeed their lives for the protection of freedom. I share below for your reflection, the address given yesterday by the Governor of Victoria – her Excellency Professor, the Honourable Margaret Gardner AC

“At Gallipoli, Bean wrote, they ‘joined in the holy task of locating the graves of fallen Anzacs’. ‘The six weeks they spent upon Gallipoli,’ he wrote, ‘was a season of deep interest to all ranks. All, or nearly all, the officers and many of the men had fought at Anzac, and they explored the old position with feelings of emotion stronger and deeper than any other battleground of the war could awaken in the hearts of Australians and New Zealanders.’

Bean believed Australia’s self-concept as a nation was born at Gallipoli.

But he did not think that the Australian identity was born at Gallipoli – or in any of the battles that followed.

Bean said:

‘The qualities exhibited by Australian and New Zealand soldiers in the war … were not the outcome of war; they were the product of the free, wholesome life of this country.’

That is why – when the Australian people were facing their existential moment – Bean remained certain liberal democracy would defeat fascism.

‘Whatever the merits or faults of democratic government,’ he wrote, ‘the freedom that it alone, apparently, ensures to its citizens seems to build the best soldier because it develops the whole man. (sic)’

In other words, our collective identity was – and still is – bound by the freedoms that defined the Anzacs; ….. together with the shared responsibility to defend those rights.

All of which is why – 82 years on – Bean’s words still ring true … .. because our national identity is defined not by the way we fight or where we freely differ, but what we fight for and should defend – freedom, equality, tolerance.

In conclusion, let me say this.

More was asked of the generation that fought for the Armistice than any other generation of Australians – before or since.

The debt we owe that generation – and every other generation of servicemen and women who have served in Korea, Vietnam, the Middle East and on peacekeeping operations – can never be repaid.

That is why – in our daily lives – we must always respect and stand up for each other’s freedoms.

That is why – on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month – we must always return to this sacred place.

Lest we forget.

Mrs. Patricia Hales
College Principal

Principal’s Jottings

Vinnies Christmas Appeal

Just want to add further encouragement to parents to support our Vinnies Christmas Appeal. Families have been very generous in the past and I know that many of our own school families are also ‘doing it tough’ this Christmas. Bringing the joy especially to young children and helping to provide, through Vinnies some festive food on the table is certainly a way for us to ‘never see a need without doing something about it’

Staffing 2025

We continue to move through the recruitment process for 2025 and I am pleased to share news of the following appointments

Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement – Ms Gabie Madden has been appointed for Terms 1-3 inclusive while Ms Lynch is on leave.

Leader of Wellbeing & Engagement – Part-time – Ms Brianna Callum has been appointed to replace Mr Royce Geoffrey on Wednesdays as he will undertake a Flexible Work Arrangement in 2025.

Science Teacher – Part time - Ms Lauren Dorn has been appointed to replace Ms Paulina Phillips on Mondays as she will undertake a Flexible Work Arrangement in 2025.

Ms Anabel Holle will continue to job share with Mrs Carmel Bianco in 2025 and Mr Thomas Germon will continue to job share with Mrs Alex McCormack in 2025.

Important Calendar Dates

Advanced Notice - Return to School and Pupil Free Days 2025

Ministry Musings

As we look back on our recent activities for Socktober, we can confidently say that this initiative was a success, highlighting the generosity, enthusiasm, and community spirit of our school. Together, we have supported the Don Bosco Caring Centre in Mongolia in a way that truly embodies our Josephite Spirit.

Throughout the Socktober week, students and staff engaged wholeheartedly in each event, showing creativity and joy. The Giant Sock Raffle was a popular hit, with students eagerly purchasing tickets for a chance to win the enormous sock filled with treats. Congratulations to our lucky winner Declan Osborne (Year 10) who claimed the winning ticket.

At the Crazy Sock Design Station, students unleashed their artistic side, creating colourful, unique sock designs to celebrate Crazy Sock Day. Crazy Sock Day itself saw a wonderful array of fun, vibrant socks around the school, with a competitive turnout for our Soccer Shoot Out Competition, where students demonstrated both skill and spirit as they competed for prizes. Congratulations to Lucas Miller (Year 11) taking out first place, followed by Jack Ledingham in second place, and Cooper Saxby (Year 9) in third place.

We’re delighted to share that our efforts raised substantial funds, all of which will go toward providing meals, education, school supplies, and warm clothing for families in Mongolia. Through our combined contributions, we were able to raise over $2000 for the Don Bosco Caring Centre, to continue their work in supporting the marginalised in Mongolia.

A special thank you goes to the MacKillop Team, whose dedication, careful planning, and commitment made this week possible. Their hard work ensured that each event ran smoothly and was a meaningful experience for everyone involved.

As we move forward in this final term, let us continue to carry the spirit of giving and unity as we approach the season of Advent. Thank you to everyone who participated, donated, and made a difference!

God Bless,
Mr Taylor Zahra
Leader of College Ministry

From the Assistant Principals....

Examinations

Year 9 examinations continue this week. Students in Year 9 and 10 are commended on their efforts to complete examinations in a positive manner.   Teachers are currently making significant effort to complete the marking of examinations to return to students as soon as possible.

Student results will be published with their reports in the final weeks of school. There will also be an opportunity for Parent Teacher Student Interviews on Wednesday 18^th December 2024.

Student Uniform

As we approach the remaining weeks of the year, it is important that students are wearing their correct uniform to school. A reminder that every Friday is FORMAL FRIDAY and students are required to be in full formal uniform.  If you are unsure of Uniform Requirements, please check the link here to explain our process: 

Attendance at School

In the coming weeks, parents will receive a letter outlining their child’s percentage of attendance throughout 2024. This graphic outlines the percentage of school missed and the impact on days / lessons.

Unfortunately, we can all experience periods of illness, but it is important to recognise the impact of lost days on attendance.

Parents can access their child’s attendance details in Compass. Compass is an important record that outlines day-by-day attendance.

Year 12 Formal

Last Friday 8^th November saw our Year 12 students finalise their 13 years of education, celebrating with fantastic frocks and sensational suits. A definite highlight from the evening was the speeches from our student leadership team from Ella Brennan and Xavier Wills. They captured what their education at St. Joseph’s meant to them personally on behalf of the Year 12 students and had an opportunity to also recognise the work of their parents and staff present to reach the momentous milestone in their life.

Many thanks for the evening must go to Mr Michael Hickling and Mrs Abbie Marston for their organisation, assisted by Ms Gabie Madden and Ms Alberta Kauter also. Further acknowledgement also goes to our Finance Team and Ancillary Staff at the College for their contributions behind the scenes. Finally to our parents and staff who could attend the evening to make it memorable for our students.

Year 10 (Week 5 and Week 6)

Now Year 10 have finished their final exams, we prepare starting from 18^th November with the 2025 Year 11 Leadership Day for our current year 10 students. This is the first step in promoting the leadership aspects of senior students within the College. It will also provide the opportunity to endorse potential House Captains for 2025.

After this from Tuesday 19^th November to Friday 29^th November, year 10 students will experience their Stage 6 Courses through the Alternate Program. During this time, students will get a ‘taster’ of what each course entails for next year. This will also provide an opportunity to explore other options available in other courses if they discover that their course is not what they expected. In order to change a course during this Alternate Program, students must see Mr Matthew Johns to re-direct their pattern of study which can fit within the lines available.

Mrs. Elizabeth Stokes & Mr. Matthew Johns
Assistant Principal & Acting Assistant Principal

From the Counsellor’s Desk

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

Wellbeing

As Term 4 progresses, life at St Joseph’s College is bustling with activity and opportunity. It’s a busy yet exciting time as we come together to celebrate milestones, welcome new faces, and prepare for the future.

Over the past few weeks, Year 9 and 10 students have completed their examination periods in Weeks 4 and 5. These assessments mark an important stage in their academic journey, and we commend all students for their focus and commitment during this challenging time.

On Friday 8th November, our Year 12 students celebrated their achievements in style at the Year 12 Formal held at Ben Ean in Pokolbin. This memorable evening, beautifully organised by Mr Hickling and Mrs Abbie Marston, was a wonderful way to cap off their school years and embrace the next chapter of their lives. Whilst the photo booth and gelato cart certainly got their fair share of visitors across the evening, it was the interactions amongst attendees which will be most memorable for most. Year 12 2024 have been such a wonderful group who truly care for each other and have lead this community with pride. We sincerely hope you all enjoyed your evening.

We also have the pleasure of welcoming the Year 7 students of 2025 to the College on 15th November. This Orientation Day allows incoming students to meet new friends, explore the College, and ease any nerves as they prepare for the start of high school next year.

Meanwhile, our Year 8 students will participate in their Formation Day, also on 15th November, at Tocal Agricultural College. The day centers on the themes of responsibility, blame, self-discipline, and dignity. Through a series of meaningful activities and discussions, students will explore how these values shape their relationships and actions. It will be a fantastic day of reflection and growth, guided by Leader of College Ministry Mr Taylor Zahra and the Year 8 Religion teachers.

Looking ahead, the Year 10 Transition Program, running through Weeks 6 and 7, is an exciting opportunity for students to experience new subjects as they prepare for their senior years. We encourage students to approach each lesson with an open mind, to try new things wholeheartedly, and to embrace the challenge of learning something new. While initial struggles are normal, perseverance is key, and we remind students to reach out to teachers or parents if they encounter difficulties.

Finally, we are excited that the End of Year Community Days are fast approaching. These days are a wonderful opportunity for students to connect, celebrate, and reflect on the year. Parents will receive a notification regarding consent for these events via compass, we ask that parents please consent to these events as soon as possible. The school is covering the costs for the day but students will need to pack food, water, sunscreen, a hat and sensible swimwear. The dates are as follows:

• Year 10: Wednesday, 4th December
• Year 9: Thursday, 5th December
• Year 8: Monday, 9th December
• Year 7: Thursday, 12th December

Thank you to all staff, students, and families for their continued support as we navigate this vibrant and busy term. As always, let us strive to live out the values of St Joseph’s College with kindness, courage, and respect.

Warm regards,

The Wellbeing Team

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

Curriculum News (KLA’s)

Beef Bonanza

Year 9 and 10 Agricultural Technology and Year 11 VET Primary Industries students attended Beef Bonanza, it is a massive event held up at White Park in Scone. School students travel to the event from around the state. Our students did a wonderful job preparing cattle, junior judging, and parading cattle. They represented the College beautifully. We would like to thank our producers and the many staff who do a great job supporting this big undertaking.   

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Mr. Simon Ramage
Leaders of Learning VET/ TAS Teacher

2024 Aspire DIO Script writing Event

On Thursday 24^th October four St Joseph’s Lochinvar Drama students volunteered their time to participate in the 2024 Aspire DIO Scriptwriting Event. Students from local Catholic primary schools had written short plays over a number of weeks at workshops with the Aspire team. Our students spent the day at the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre rehearsing these plays, script in hand, being directed by their primary student peers. In the evening the plays were performed for the public in the CPAC theatre. Due to the small number of actors present, our students performed in most of the plays which made it a very busy experience!

Congratulations to our talented students as well as the gifted scriptwriters from our feeder schools.  

Ms. Emma Clunies-Ross
Drama and Music Teacher

Art Exhibition

Careers – Opportunities & Notices

Seniors Newsletter

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

Yalawa Yarnings

Anikanya (Hello)!

Deadly Achievements

Best wishes to all our Year 9 and 10 students who are sitting several exams across the next two weeks. We hope they are calm, prepared and most importantly, that they do the best they can to achieve their goals whatever goals they may be.

Recent Events

Indigenous All Stars Match

Last week we held another Indigenous all stars vs Student Leaders game. This term the chosen sport was soccer. Thanks to all our deadly all stars (and Student Leaders) who joined in the game as well as Imani Brind (year 9) for designing this term’s poster.

Aboriginal Dance Group St Patrick's

On 7^th November, our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dance group performed their dance, Rain Song, at St Patrick’s Lochinvar. The students and staff at St Patrick’s appreciated the performance which set a great example for the younger students on how to perform and appreciation of cultures. An extended shout out goes to Rubi Walters and Chase Pearson who read the Acknowledgment of Country and dance introduction.

Upcoming Events

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Transition Day

On the 22^nd of November we will hold our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Transition Day for our 2025 year 7 students. The day will allow our incoming year 7 students to meet Yalawa staff members and to learn about how the Yalawa Centre can be a supportive and safe space for them during their time at St Joseph’s. We will also have several of our older students helping on the day to assist in welcoming and familiarising the students.

Welcome Back Miss Francisco

In week 6 we will welcome back Miss Francisco to the Yalawa space. Miss Francisco has been on Maternity leave since early this year and will be back a few days a week for the remainder of 2024 (which will continue to next year). She is looking forward to reconnecting with all our students and being back in the Yalawa Centre.

Community Events

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

School Fees are due on 30/11/24, thank you to families who have now finalised their fees.

Please note, it is our policy that financial hardship should not prevent a child from attending a Catholic School and no child will be denied a Catholic Education because of a family’s genuine inability to pay the required school fees. For families experiencing financial hardship or wishing to discuss other payment arrangements please contact the College Principal or Finance Office on 0249 307291 or email finance@lochinvarsj.catholic.edu.au

These discussions and arrangements regarding fees are strictly confidential.

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. 

Each school year the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, through its agency the Catholic Schools Office, reviews the fees for students in our diocesan schools for the coming year. By far the greater part of our schools’ funding now comes from State and Commonwealth government grants, but the commitment and continuing financial contribution of parents and parish communities is still essential to fill the gap between the funds provided by government and the actual cost of running our schools.

Health Care Card and Pension Card Holders / Family Discount on Tuition Fee

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.

If you are a fee payer and hold a current 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

In 2024, the family discount on full rate diocesan tuition fees are:

• 1 child family 0% - full rate to be applied
• 2 child family 15% - each child
• 3 child family 25% - each child
• 4+ child family 50% - each child

If you receive a family discount and hold a Health Care Card/Pension Card a combined total of 50% tuition discount is applied.

Mrs Cathy Duff
Finance Officer

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

Alinta Uniform Shop

Shop Opening Hours

Our opening hours have changed, please see new hours below:

New Uniform Price List