Filter Content
- St Joseph's School Vision
- Principal's Message
- Prayer
- Prep Neighbourhood
- 5/6 Neighbourhood
- Assembly Award Winners
- Religious Education News
- Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour
- End of Term 1
- Canteen Closed Last Day of Term 1
- Winter Uniform
- Confirmation 2022
- Prep Tours / Application for Enrolment 2023
- Easter Raffle Draw
- School Fees Term 1
- Parish News
- Bass Coast Kindergarten
- Dalyston Football and Netball Club - Auskick
- Wonthaggi District Netball
- Wonthaggi Auskick
Every Child, Every Day,
Learning and Achieving in a Faith - Filled Environment
Dear Parents, Students, Staff and all associated with St Joseph’s Community
As Term 1 draws to an end, we can only reflect on how lucky we have been to undertake most of this term without major disruptions and challenges. How fortunate that our programs and events have unfolded as planned during the term and we are somewhat optimistic and hopeful that this landscape will continue into next term.
I wish to thank each and every one of you for your connection to our school and for the commitment and hard work you show every day in supporting your children to be ready for learning. I am most grateful to the amazing staff who have worked tirelessly to provide the stability and consistency needed to ensure the entire student group has begun their learning with rigour and intent, and continue to work hard to undertake their extensive planning for term 2. I know we are all eagerly waiting for the break ahead. My wish is that both staff and students will be able to have some time to recharge their batteries and enjoy their families at this special time of the year.
This break is different in so much that Easter does not occur until the middle of our holiday. We still have time to prepare ourselves for the great celebration of Easter. Remember that it is through Jesus' death and resurrection that we have "new life". Easter is the climax of the church's year. Everything about us is centred on Jesus' Last Days. It is the fundamental essence of our Christian Faith. May you all prepare well and experience the joy and fulfilment of Easter in your homes. May it bring peace to you all.
Assemblies
Our fortnightly assemblies will recommence in the Gym at 9.05am from Monday May 2, with parents welcome to join us with the relevant COVID restrictions in place at the time. So if you are able, please come and join us. I know your children love you there.
Change of Sports Uniform Shirt
Over the years we received parent feedback on various aspects of our school uniform. Many have commented on the practicality of our white sports uniform shirt, as it is very hard to keep clean and presentable.
With this in mind, we have begun the process of looking at an alternative option for our students to wear. Below is an image of the new polo shirt (currently without our logo), which would replace the white shirt, phasing it out over the next 12 months to 2 years. The material is similar to our current sports shirt, and contains our school colours – navy, red and white - ensuring that it continues the St Joseph’s identity.
We are in consultation with Totally Work Wear to source and supply this new-look shirt for our community and will communicate further when they are in stock and available for purchase.
5/6 Neighbourhood Building Update
The current building project, involving the upgrading and extension of the current 5 /6 building is on track for handover in early June. I know staff and students alike are looking forward to moving in and the opportunities the new spaces will bring in enhancing the students’ educational experiences here at St Joseph’s
Thank you once again for being part of this great school. We value the trust you place with us in looking after your children. I look forward to working with you all when Term 2 commences on Tuesday April 26.
Have a great break and I hope you will be able to spend some time with your children.
Yours in Catholic Education
Ronan O’Mahony
Dear Lord,
may I realise afresh today what Your death and resurrection mean for me.
Forgiveness, freedom, and the ability to walk with You through this fallen world into eternity.
May I always find my satisfaction in You and Your willingness to offer Yourself to me.
In Jesus' Name,
The Prep Neighbourhood has had a very successful Term One. We have all had a fabulous term as we have made new friends, met and got to know our Year 6 buddy, settled into our new school life so beautifully and learned so much already.
The Prep children will be bringing their work books home this Friday. Parents, we hope you enjoy looking through your child's work with them and we're sure your child would love to tell you all about their work.
Parents, we would like to thank you for a very successful first term and look forward to working with you all in Term Two.
We wish you all a very happy and safe Easter and holiday period.
Prep Team
In celebration of the end of our Integrated unit on Democracy, the grade five and six students have formed their own electoral campaign. Collaborating together to work in small groups, the students have created a fictional character that is running for ‘class premier’. Developing their collaboration skills has been a key focus as they create promotional flyers, speeches and even some videos highlighting the leadership assets and electoral promises of their candidate.
5/6 Team
Well done to our award winners who were presented with their certificates at our last assembly, congratulations on all your hard work.
Reconciliation
On Tuesday 29th March, the Grade 3 students celebrated the Sacrament of Reconciliation at St Joseph's Church with Father Darren and Father Manny assisting. It was a special evening for the children and their families and a wonderful beginning to their sacramental journey at St Joseph's. I congratulate them all for the reverence they displayed on the evening.
Bel O'Brien
Religious Education Leader
Artwork Inspired during our Lent Journey
Stations Of The Cross
On Monday our Grade 4 and Grade 6 Students gave a beautiful presentation of the Stations of the Cross. Well done to all those students who participated and did a wonderful job in the retelling of the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion and death. Thank you to all the parents and friends that attended.
Fifth Week of Lent
(Week beginning Monday 4th April)
Shaniella's story - Solomon Islands
Shaniella from the Solomon Islands was determined to forge a path out of poverty, moving away to a rural vocational school. With your support, she was able to overcome the challenges of natural disasters, and gain the skills she needs to create a brighter future for herself.
Shaniella grew up in a remote village in the Solomon Islands in a province which has limited educational and job opportunities – and one of the country’s highest poverty rates.
After leaving school, she decided to move closer to the capital city, Honiara, to study hospitality and tourism.
However, her vocational training school was hit by a landslide and cyclone in quick succession, destroying its water supply system and the vegetable garden that it relies on for food. The landslide destroyed the school’s main source of water, damaged school buildings and devastated the garden which the school relies on for food. With your kind support, Caritas Australia Solomon Islands (CASI) was able to help the school to install eight water tanks. This restored students’ access to clean drinking water and the tanks also supply water to nearby schools, health centres and the wider community.
Watch a short film about Shaniella's story here
Please support Project Compassion: lent.caritas.org.au
Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour
St Joseph’s School strives to ensure all children feel cared for and valued by all the adults working within the school.
Research evidence informs us that -
- Students achieve better outcomes when they are accepted, valued, respected and included.
- Students’ value teachers who have clear boundaries and expectations, demonstrate a friendly, fair and respectful manner, see the good in all (regardless of behaviour) and take a genuine interest in them.
Building positive relationships involves at our school involves:
- Understanding each student’s background and context (social, emotional, cultural, societal, academic)
- Conveying to students that they are worthwhile and accepted as individuals, despite any difficulties they may be experiencing
- Knowing the interests and strengths of each student
- The belief that every student is capable of making progress
- Creating an environment where challenge is expected, normal and safe
- Building and fostering strong relationships across the whole school community
- Working collegially to share expertise
- Using interpersonal skills to establish and maintain respectful relationships
- Teaching and modelling respectful relationships through appropriate language, teaching practice and decision making
- Encouraging students to collaboratively participate in social action and leadership initiatives that contribute to the culture and reflect the charism of the school
Whole School Approach to Positive Behaviour Co-ordinators
Trish Martin and Travis Newton
Just a reminder to families that Term 1 ends on Friday April 8 at 2:25.
We wish you all a happy and safe Easter and Look forward to seeing you all back in the beginning of Term 2 Tuesday April 26.
Canteen Closed Last Day of Term 1
Please note the canteen will be closed on the final day of Term 1, Friday April 8.
The Canteen Team
Term 2 brings the transition to our winter uniform. Whilst not compulsory until Monday May 9 it is important that students wear either full Winter uniform or full Summer uniform during this time and not a mixture of both.
As noted in the newsletter previously Totally Work Wear has some supply of Winter Pinafores on hand and has been taking orders for additional sizes if needed.
Please call 5672 5878 or visit instore if you wish to place an order. Pinafores will take approximately 4-6 weeks to arrive, Pinafore sizes can be measured by current summer uniform sizes.
We are very pleased that the Grade 6 students can celebrate this special milestone as a group, with sponsors, families and friends in attendance.
The Sacrament of Confirmation will occur on Tuesday May 31 at 7:00pm with Bishop Greg Bennet officiating. Grade 6 Students have been sent this information on PAM could you please indicate if your child/ren will or will not be participating in the sacrament by Friday April 8.
If you are having trouble accessing PAM or need further information please contact the school office.
Prep Tours / Application for Enrolment 2023
We are now taking bookings for Prep tours and accepting Applications for student enrolments for 2023. Please contact the office on 5672 1052 to make a time. Current families with students attending in 2023 should book a tour and return an application to ensure all details are current and up to date. The application form can be found below. Email completed forms to jblair@stjwonthaggi.catholic.edu.au
This years Easter raffle draw will take place Friday April 8 at 1:00pm in the gym, Parents are welcome to attend (must be fully vaccinated or hold a valid medical exemption) we are looking forward to a fun way to end a great Term!
Thank you to all our families for your support in what is one of our most popular and most loved fundraisers.
Families not on a direct debit, fees for term 1 have are now due. if you have any queries or have not received your statement please contact the office or email kcarew@stjwonthaggi.catholic.edu.au
AS OF FRIDAY 25TH FEBRUARY,2022 AT MIDNIGHT, THE WEARING OF MASKS AT MASS BECOMES OPTIONAL, YOU NO LONGER NEED TO QR OR SIGN IN.
PLEASE NOTE: THAT ALL HELPING TO CONDUCT THESE MASSES HAVE BEEN DOUBLE VACCINATED, HAVING ALSO RECEIVED THE 3RD BOOSTER, INCLUDING FATHER, THE SACRISTANS, CLEANING STAFF AND PARISH SECRETARY.
IMPORTANT LETTER: AT THE END OF THIS BULLETIN PLEASE SCROLL DOWN TO READ THE LETTER FROM BISHOP GREG BENNET, BISHOP OF SALE.
A list of live streams across the Diocese is on www.cdsale.org.au/coronavirus page. This page has listed the Mass times which occur regularly, ie. Don’t change from week to week. JUST A REMINDER THAT MASS FOR YOU AT HOME IS AN OPTION FOR THOSE LOOKING FOR MASS ON TELEVISION (6am on Channel 10, 10am on Foxtel Aurora Channel 173) or online at www.massforyou.com.au or https://www.youtube.com/massforyouathome anytime from 7a.m. AEST
PLEASE PRAY: For the people of Ukraine. The anniversaries of Debra Michelle Fowles, Fr. Patrick O’Brien and our loved ones. May God’s merciful love shine on them and on the loved ones left behind.
PRAYER FOR PEACE AND JUSTICE IN UKRAINE.
God of peace and justice,
who change the hardened heart and break the power of violence, we entrust the people of Ukraine to you.
Protect them in this time of peril;
let them know not death but life, not slavery but freedom.
You are Father of all;
we are brothers and sisters.
Give us the strength to live that truth in love,
choosing peace not war.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
CATHOLIC WOMEN’S LEAGUE:
Cuppa Sunday– Everyone is invited to join us after 9:00 a.m. Mass at Our Lady Star of the Sea, Inverloch.
EASTER SERVICES:
This year we will be able to conduct Easter Services in Wonthaggi and Inverloch simultaneously. Father Martin Dixon will be at Our Lady Star of the Sea for Holy Thursday 6:30pm and Good Friday 3:00pm.
Please include your name and contact number on the Rosters at both Churches for an opportunity to participate with readings, washing of the feet, special ministers etc.
2ND RITE OF RECONCILIATION; WILL BE AT ST. JOSEPH’S WONTHAGGI ON TUESDAY 12TH APRIL, 2022 AT 7:30PM.
CHRISM MASS: Bishop Greg Bennet and the Clergy of our Diocese St. Mary’s Cathedral, Sale Tuesday 12th April, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. You are invited to participate in this celebration.
BAPTISM: We welcome Saige Williams into the Christian Community. May God Bless Saige and her family.
MARY MACKILLOP HERITAGE CENTRE (MMHC) -‘Cuppa with Mary’ When visiting Melbourne, please include a visit to the Mary MacKillop Museum that tells Mary and the SOSJ’s story. Entry is free. Do a walking tour of the Mary MacKillop Heritage trails and Mary’s place of birth. Consider organising a Parish group and have a ‘Cuppa with Mary’. Group bookings which includes a presentation, tour and prayer reflection in the Chapel where Mary prayed, cost $20 per person. Contact Kate on 03 9926 9300 for a group booking.
Learn about the Mary MacKillop’s story and ministry through participation in a two-day program at the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre. Titled Mary MacKillop “Daughter of Melbourne” in this program, you have opportunity to explore the Life and Spirit of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop as well as have a guided tour of places in Melbourne that were connected with Mary and the Sisters of Saint Joseph Victorian Story and time for personal reflection. While this is an opportunity to learn about and be touched by the life and spirit of Mary MacKillop, it is also an opportunity for you to explore and share the challenges and stirrings in your own heart as you respond with others to action today. You can access more information, obtain a brochure and register for this two-day event.
Mary MacKillop Gift shop- With Easter coming up, please consider supporting the work of the Sisters of St. Joseph by purchasing a present from the Museum Gift Shop (communion and confirmation gifts, devotional items, Vatican Library collection, rosary beads, holding crosses, candles, cards, statues, crucifixes, books and Peruvian handmade items).
Accommodation Specials- With Melbourne opening up again, book a stay at the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre Accommodation in the heart of Melbourne. Contact Kate on 03 9926 9300.
PATHWAYS VICTORIA: Bishop Greg Bennet said: I join the Catholic Bishops of Victoria in our renewed and sincere apology to all victims of sexual abuse by clergy and Church personnel. We pledge ongoing commitment to ensure all those who have allegations of abuse have an appropriate independent process in order for them to tell their story in safety, and to have an appropriate pastoral response which respects their particular individual needs and circumstances. For further information about Pathways company and the new model is available in the Pathways website: www.pathwaysvictoria.com
ASSSEMBLY: PLENARY COUNCIL: Keep up with the latest Plenary news:
- On our Sale Diocesan website or Facebook page
- Via the Plenary Council Facebook, website or YouTube channel.
- Use the Mass booklets for your parish celebrations visit https://plenarycouncil.catholic.org.au/ or the Plenary Council YouTube channel.
- Listen to daily podcasts from Plenary Council members at https://anchor.fm/plenarypodcast
Cry of the Earth the Social Justice Statement can be read on https://socialjustice.catholic.org.au/2021/06/24/social-justice-statement-2021-22/.
MISSAL ON LINE: ‘An App’ which Father Darren Howie finds very helpful is Universalis. This will allow you to follow the Daily Mass.
PRAYER SHAWLS: There is a good supply at both St. Joseph’s Parish Office and also now at the Church in Inverloch so please keep this in mind and simply contact anyone below if you see a need. Kristine McRae (Parish Office) 0356 721 111 Maureen Maartensz 0407 055 447 (Wonthaggi) Philippa Warby; 0408 331 340, Julie de Bondt; 0407 535 032.
CATHOLIC CARE: New self-help mental health service for parents, families and individuals.
The demand for mental health services is becoming more and more prominent across the State, and for many regions, waiting lists to access services are becoming overwhelmingly long.
As a response to the increased need for mental health support, we’ve recently commenced a new state-wide mental health service with minimal wait times, called the Psychological Wellbeing Service (PWS).
Using evidence based therapies, our PWS clinicians provide parenting support and mental health support focused on self-help skill learning to aid in recovery, such as problem-solving skills, progressive muscle relaxation, and traditional cognitive behavioural therapy as a more intensive support.
We’ve also launched a free Mental Health and Wellbeing Guide created by our PWS team.
Read more about our new service and download the guide from CatholicCare Victoria.
Aid to the Church in Need Australia Aid to the Church in Need has launched a national emergency appeal for Ukraine. ACN is committed to strengthening and supporting the Catholic Church in Ukraine, as we have done for the past 70 years. The immediate emergency help will support the work of the Church in Ukraine by assisting priests, brothers and religious sisters to continue their pastoral and outreach programs. We will continue to stand by our brothers and sisters in faith as they undergo trying times and seek to bring peace to a country that is surrounded by turmoil and unrest. Can you provide aid to the Catholic people in Ukraine? They need your help! Visit www.aidtochurch.org/ukraine
P.O. BOX 335, PENRITH NSW 2751
1800 101 201/ 02 9167 9517
We have been emailing and sending out important communications from the Diocese and if you would like to be involved and receive this information then please contact the Parish Office on 56 721 111 or email your details to wonthaggi@cdsale.org.au.
We are a Child Safe Parish. Any children, young persons and vulnerable adults have a right to feel safe and be safe. If you are concerned about any form of abuse, or believe that someone is at significant risk, you should immediately raise your concerns with one of our Parish Safeguarding Officers. Contact Kristine McRae via the Parish Office: 03 56 721 111 or St. Joseph’s School Safeguarding Officer 03 56 721 052. Take care, we are here to help.
If you are in need of urgent assistance, please phone eithe Father Darren Howie 0356 722 923 or Kristine on 03 56 72111 or 04999 15 784.
Bishops Message of prayer for Ukraine
Father Darren Howie Mrs. Kristine McRae
Parish Priest Parish Secretary
St. Joseph’s Parish Wonthaggi