GET TO KNOW OUR POPE LEO XIV
We thank the Lord for giving us Pope Leo XIV as our new Pope, head of our Catholic Church. Please find below the links where you may be able to learn more about him. Have a wonderful week ahead. God bless you all.
“The Catholic Church in Australia assures Pope Leo XIV of our prayers, loyalty, and joyful anticipation of his spiritual leadership. May his pontificate be marked by peace, unity, and a deepening of the Gospel message throughout the world,” ACBC President Archbishop Timothy Costelloe SDB said in a statement.
READ the media release:
https://mediablog.catholic.org.au/australian-bishops...
READ the Vatican News article:
https://www.vaticannews.va/.../cardinal-elected-pope...
READ the new Pope's first words:
https://www.vaticannews.va/.../pope-leo-xvi-peace-be-with...
KNOW more about Pope Leo:
Saint of the Week!
Our Lady of Fatima
Feast Day: May 13
Patron Saint of: Humanity
Life:
Between May 13 and October 13, 1917, three portuguese children - Francisco and Jacinta and their cousin Lucia, received visions of Mary near Fatima, Portugal. Mary asked the children to pray the rosary for world peace, for the end of World War I, for sinners and for the conversion of Russia. While Francisco and Jacinta died shortly after, Lucia became a nun and died in 2005 at the age of 97. The message of Fatima is simple: Pray.
Prayer:
Mary, take under your motherly protection the whole human family, which with affectionate love we entrust to you, O Mother. May there dawn for everyone the time of peace and freedom, the time of truth, of justice and of hope. Our Lady of Fatima, pray for us.
Local Author Dianne Wolfer Visits Our School
St Joseph’s College was thrilled to welcome local author Dianne Wolfer for an inspiring visit with our students last week. Dianne shared insights into her writing process and gave students a glimpse into her exciting year—she has had three new books published in 2025!
A special highlight of the visit was being the very first school to hear a reading of her newly released books, The Colt from Old Regret and Cattle Muster. Students were captivated by the story and enjoyed the chance to ask Dianne questions about her inspiration, characters, and how books come to life.
It was a memorable experience, enjoyed by students and staff alike.
Following her visit, Dianne shared how impressed she was with our students’ respectful behaviour and how well-prepared they were, thanks to the efforts of their teachers. She also commented on the unique and welcoming atmosphere at St Joseph’s, describing it as “a gentle air of kindness” that she feels each time she visits—a truly beautiful thing.
We thank Dianne for sharing her time and talent with us, and for encouraging our young readers and writers to follow their creative passions!
Celebration of Talents (A Variety Show) 2025 Audition starts next week
Welcome back to Term 2!
Thanks to those who already booked their audition. Please be reminded to Direqt Message Mr Habal or click the link below if you need the Audition form for Celebration of Talents so you can book it on Week 3 or 4 for Week 5 is already fully booked. The performance will be on August 16 at 6pm in the Port Theatre. Thanks.
Here is the audition form link https://docs.google.com/document/d/1ebzZwW9lWx7xeuuKj5p6umFXvhTVmScC/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115788568252160064161&rtpof=true&sd=true
Mr Habal, Ms Rowe and Mr Collins
Event Coordinators
HABEMUS PAPAM! - We have a new Pope!
It is with great joy that we welcome Cardinal Robert Prevost of the United States who was elected as the Vicar of Christ in Rome on early Friday morning.
We congratulate his Holiness who has taken on the Pontifical name of Pope Leo XIV and pray that he may lead the Church with courage and be a shining example of Jesus love and mercy to all.
First Communion update
The Communion Enrolment and Commitment Mass has been set for Saturday the 17th May at the 6.00pm Mass and Sunday the 18th May at the 9.30am Mass. Both Masses will be held at Holy Family Church, Spencer Park. If you are unable to attend either of these Masses, please contact Chris Palfrey or Fr Joel to make further arrangements.
You will need to bring the Presentation and Commitment Ceremony booklet that was distributed at the General Sacramental Meeting, as it contains the responses both you and your child need to make during the commitment process. There is also a form at the back of the booklet that needs completing and handing in at the Mass.
Secondly, the parent and child meeting for the Sacrament of Communion is to be held on Thursday 29th May commencing at 6.00pm. It is to be held in the Junior School Undercover Area and will not go longer than an hour and a half. You will need to bring with you the completed family activity book.
Looking forward to seeing you soon.
Chris Palfrey
Sacramental and Liturgy Co-ordinator
A Culturally Rich Community!
St Joseph's College is proud to be a multidiverse community with staff, students and families whom come from different countries, speak different languages and practise different faiths.
The data above was originally collated by the College in 2024 and has been updated in preparation and celebration of Harmony Week. It shows off the richness that we have here in our community which we hope continues to grow in the years to come.
About FACE Kids
About FACE Kids '25
About FACE Kids will be holding auditions later this month for singers aged 9-14 years. Don't miss the chance to be part of this dynamic, fun-filled choir camp. Registrations close on May 20th.
May - The Month of Mary
For centuries, the Catholic Church has set aside the entire month of May, dedicated in a special way to honouring and seeking the intercession of Mary as the Mother of God and Mother of the Church.
"She is a woman who rejoiced in the presence of God, who treasured in her heart, and who let herself be pierced by the sword. Mary is the saint among the saints, blessed above all others. She teaches us the way of holiness and she walks ever at our side. She does not let us remain fallen and at times she takes us into her arms without judging us." - Pope Francis
May is also dedicated to recognising Mums, grandmothers, stepmoms, mothers-to-be and all men and women who in and through their lives encompass the qualities of motherhood.
It's also important to realise that Mother's Day can be difficult and painful for women longing to be mothers, those who struggle with the loss of a child and those who may be estranged from their mothers.
Mary is our spiritual mother and she cares for all of us day-in-day-out, interceding for us even in the tiniest of matters. May we be inspired and as trusting in the Lord as she was.
Holy Mary, mother of God... Pray for us.
Mr Luke Bogoni - Religious Education Coordinator
Learning Fractions with Fairy Bread!
In Mrs Wright’s Year 6 class this week, students discovered that maths can be just as delicious as it is educational! The group used some cooking creativity to learn about fractions using none other than everybody’s favourite – Fairy Bread.
Students began by carefully cutting each slice of bread into equal parts: halves, quarters, and Eloise even managed eighths and tenths. They explored how one whole slice could be divided into 2 equal halves, 4 quarters and saw how each part got smaller as the number of pieces increased as well as how 5 tenths equal a half.
It became a brilliant way to make math meaningful, sparking creativity and a few giggles too!!
“It was easier for me to concentrate with the sprinkles and encouraged me more about learning maths!” said Saffy.
Activities like this help students see how maths is part of everyday life—and sometimes, even part of lunchtime. And of course, after the maths was done, everyone enjoyed a well-earned bite (or two) of their hard work.
Term 2 workshops at Vancouver Arts
Term 2 art making workshops are starting next week at the Vancouver Arts Centre!
We have great opportunities for different age groups to extend art education.
1. Paint and Play. 5yrs and under
Wk 1 Theme Colour: Wed 14 May
Wk 2 Theme Shapes: Wed 21 May
Wk 3 Theme Textures: Wed 28 May
Wk 4 Theme Form: Wed 4 June
2. Afterschool Art 6-9yrs.
Wednesdays 4.30-6pm. Over 6 weeks
3. Afterschool Art 10-13yrs
Thursday 4.30-6pm. Over 6 weeks
For more information and bookings https://artsandculture.albany.wa.gov.au/workshops/workshops.aspx
Keep Compliant with Approved Child Protection Training
Approved Child Protection Training
At EPEC Education, we’ve made it easier than ever to stay compliant with our updated Approved Child Protection and Refresher Training courses.
You can choose between:
- CHCPRT025 - Identify and report children and young people at risk
- CHCPRT026 - Support the rights and safety of children and young people
Both are approved training options to help you meet your obligations while gaining the knowledge you require to keep the children and young people in your care safe.
Help Your Families Save for School Camps with Saver Plus
School camps offer incredible experiences for students, but we understand that the costs can be challenging for some families.
The Saver Plus program can support them in saving and budgeting for camp expenses. Please share the following information with families whose children may attend a school camp in 2026.
About Saver Plus
Saver Plus supports parents to save $50 per month for 10 months with online financial education workshops. The savings are then matched dollar-for-dollar, providing up to $500 extra for education-related costs*—potentially giving families $1,000 to help cover school camp fees.
Families can join anytime throughout the year and have funds ready to pay for camps or other education-related costs after completion of the program.
*Education-related costs include camps, laptops, school uniforms, stationery and more.
Eligibility criteria for parents include:
- Holding a Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card
- Receiving a Centrelink payment
- Having a regular income from employment, carer’s payment, or child support
- Have a child in school
To check all eligibility families can visit our website or request a callback at 1300 610 355.
Lead with Impact – Apply for the Youth Leadership Program in Southwest WA
Applications open for RAC Ignite Leadership Program
RAC is seeking up to 15 aspiring leaders aged 18-24 to take part in the free RAC Ignite Leadership Program.
Across two immersive retreats in Bunbury throughout June and July, you’ll work alongside inspiring industry experts, learn how to lead with purpose and pitch new ideas with impact.
You’ll build practical skills, grow your confidence, connect with other young change makers and have fun, all while exploring how you can help make roads safer in your community.
Here’s 5 good reasons to apply:
1. It’s free
2. You’ll meet inspiring mentors and change makers
3. Have fun at two immersive retreats in Bunbury, all included
4. You’ll gain leadership and pitching skills that actually matter
5. There’s a big prize pool up for grabs
Check out this amazing opportunity!
Applications are open until 19 May.
Spots are limited, apply now or send this to someone who should.
Workshops, Albany 2026 More!
To view this newsletter online, please visit: Online Newsletter.
Grant Management and Acquittal Workshop
You were successful in your grant application, but what now?
Join us for a practical and informative workshop designed to help community groups effectively manage their grant obligations. Learn how to stay on top of reporting requirements, deliver on project outcomes, and communicate with funders in a way that builds trust and long-term partnerships. Whether you're new to grant funding or looking to refine your approach, this session will provide tools, tips, and real-world insights to ensure your group maintains a positive, professional relationship with funders.
Date: Thursday 12 June, 2025
Time: 5.30pm - 7.30pm
Where: City of Albany Civic Rooms, 102 North Road
Cost: Free
Register for the workshop here: https://albany-events.bookable.net.au/#!/event-detail/grantmanagement
For more information, contact the Community Development Team on 6820 3023 or commdevel@albany.wa.gov.au
Volunteer Retention Workshop
Volunteers are the heart of many community groups—keeping them motivated and appreciated is key to long-term success. These workshops will share strategies to help your organisation retain volunteers by making them feel valued, supported, and recognised. Whether you’re a volunteer coordinator or part of a small team, you’ll leave with practical ideas to boost volunteer satisfaction and strengthen your organisation’s volunteer culture.
These workshops are delivered in partnership with Albany & Regional Volunteer Service as part of National Volunteer Week
Date: Monday 19 May, 2025
Session 1: 2.30pm - 4pm
Session 2: 5.30pm - 7pm
Where: City of Albany Civic Rooms, 102 North Road
Cost: Free
Register here: https://tiny.expert/KmcsB
For more information, contact the Community Development Team on 6820 3023 or commdevel@albany.wa.gov.au
Disability and Inclusion Awareness Training
Join us for FREE Disability & Inclusion Awareness Training designed to help Albany businesses create more inclusive environments. Delivered by Inclusion Solutions and individuals with lived experience, this interactive workshop will cover:
Accessibility tips for physical and digital spaces
Inclusive language and communication strategies
Practical steps to improve inclusivity
Date: Wednesday 21 May
Session 1: 1.30pm - 4pm
Session 2: 5pm - 7.30pm
Where: City of Albany Civic Rooms, 102 North Road
Light refreshments provided
Register here: https://tiny.expert/xzJPL
If you can't attend in person, online seminars are available upon request. Please email us at commdevel@albany.wa.gov.au for further details and to receive the resources.
This training is part of the Good Access is Good Business project, supported by the City of Albany, Albany Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Department of Communities.
For more information, contact Ross Evans at commdevel@albany.wa.gov.au or call 6820 3008.
Job Opportunities – South Coast NRM
We’re currently recruiting for two roles and are eager to connect with people who are passionate about making a difference in natural resource management. The positions are based in our Albany and/or Esperance office and are suited to individuals who value collaboration, sustainability, and community impact.
You can find all the details here: https://southcoastnrm.com.au/vacancies/
Term 2 Tuition and Master Classes for Years 7- 12
Term 2 - Tuition for Years 7-12
Receive one-on-one support from experienced teachers to improve understanding and boost school results.
Why choose Academic Task Force Tuition:
- Expert high school teachers
- Small group (max 4 students)
- Targeted and individualised help to develop your skills each term
- Tuition aligned with the WA syllabus
- End of term feedback on your childs' progress
Enrol online: www.academicgroup.com.au | Phone: 08 9314 9500
Term 2 - Master Class for Years 10- 12
Specialised courses to help maximise grades and strive for a top ATAR score.
Why choose Academic Associates Master Classes:
WA’s top teachers
In-depth syllabus teaching
Enrich your understanding of course concepts
Weekly coaching
Receive exam preparation & success strategies
Interactive online & in-class options
Enrol online: www.academicgroup.com.au | Phone: 08 9314 9500
ADHD Parent Training Program -Susan Hughes ADHD Coach
A great opportunity for parent who are raising children with ADHD to expand their knowledge.
Maggie Dent
St Joseph’s College P&F are SO EXCITED to announce that MAGGIE DENT is coming to St Joseph’s College on Saturday 24th May from 10am-12pm to present her “Mothering our Boys” seminar!!
Tickets are on sale NOW via https://www.maggiedent.com/events/mothering-our-boys-albany-wa-may-2025/
Get your tickets early as this event will no doubt, sell out!
Our P&F will also run a raffle leading up to this fabulous event - with Free Tickets!!