The joy of reaching the summit of Bluff Knoll together was one of many highlights during the Year Seven Challenge last week.

Under sunny skies, the enthusiastic and energetic Year Seven group headed to their first stop, Castle Rock, in the Porongurup Range on Wednesday morning, with many conquering their fears and climbing the daunting ladder to the Granite Skywalk. They enjoyed the panoramic views, before a quick descent and lunch before making their way to the campgrounds at Stirling Range Retreat.

The afternoon was spent rotating through group activities so students could gain an understanding of the land they were on and the importance of communication when working with others. With dinner served and the Quiz Night done (it was Table Three in a sudden-death knockout), it was lights-out and time to rest ahead of the big event – Thursday’s climb up Bluff Knoll.

Fuelled by bacon and egg burgers for breakfast, the entire group made it to the summit and enjoyed the inspiring achievement together, and the bucket-list view. The positive attitude the group took to the challenging climb was not lost on other hikers, who commented to staff on their enthusiasm and consideration.

After returning to camp a little weary, somehow the students found an extra energy reserve and were soon scattering in all directions during a game of Predator/Prey.

One of the collective highlights of the camp (besides the weather we had all been praying for) was Mass under the stars that was presided over by Fr Joel, who had earlier joined the students on the Bluff Knoll hike. Again, the students were respectful of their surrounds, and took the opportunity to reflect reverently on their achievements of the past few days.

The camp finished with rotations through Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre on Friday, where the last of any remaining energy was spent. The bonus pizzas for lunch ensured the happy campers made it back to school with a smile on their face.

Big thanks go to all staff who attended the camp at any stage over the three days: Ms Ferrell, Mr O’Donnell, Mr Mola, Ms Rowe, Mrs Trichilo, Miss Evans, Mr Probert, Ms Keenan and Fr Joel, and the army of support staff back at school, particularly Mrs Leusciatti and Mrs Williams. Despite the efforts of all staff and the positive approach from all students, the camp would not have succeeded without the generosity of parents who contributed to the preparation, simply by overseeing the packing of bags and equipment, or the supply of delicious and heart-warming baked goods!

On Friday last week, the 2024 Mother’s Day Breakfast was held at St Joseph’s College. From 7:30, a steady stream of mums and their children flowed into the Junior Undercover area and enjoyed a breakfast of croissants and fruit. Mass was also celebrated in the Church and a number of families made their way up the hill to celebrate the Eucharist. It was an excellent turn out, and we look forward to seeing mums and their children again next year. A big thanks is extended to College staff who made an early start, as well as our student leaders and other student volunteers.

On Thursday, 9 March, Mathematics Enrichment students from Year 5 and 6 participated in the first Olympiad competition. The competition includes four ‘competition’ sessions where the students attempt five problems with a half hour time limit. The students meet each week with College Head of Mathematics, Mrs Coutts, and practice problem solving strategies to prepare them for the competitions. The students’ scores are added over the year to determine the winners. The problems involve critical thought and cover concepts such as number patterns and algebra. The students found the first competition challenging, but enjoyable. 

The Communion parent and child meeting is to be held on Thursday 16th May, 2024 commencing at 6.00pm. It is not expected to go later than 7.30pm. The meeting will be held in the Junior School Undercover Area.

As part of the meeting families will be given an activity to be completed and returned and, information will be given about Communion Day (2nd June, 2024, 9.30am Mass Holy Family Church).

If you are unable to attend please contact the parish on 98 41 1129 or message Chris Palfrey, chris.palfrey@cewa.edu.au so that alternate arrangements can be made.

Chris Palfrey

Sacramental and Liturgy Co-ordinator

Get ready to enter a world of “Pure Imagination” and join ALOTCO as we present a mesmerising production of this much-loved story of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. An amazing chance for theatre goers of ALL AGES to join this incredible production, an experience not to be missed!

Director – Lachy McLean

Assistant Director – Fiona Kuiper

Musical Director – Neville Talbot

Co-Assistant Musical Directors – Matthew Clarke & Will Elms

Choreographers – Kelly Seaton & Lachy McLean

Based on the famous novel by Roald Dahl, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory features an original score composed by Marc Shaiman with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman (Hairspray) and a book by David Greig. The score also pays homage to the Leslie Bricusse/Anthony Newley score from the 1971 film with songs from the motion picture including "Candy Man", "I've Got a Golden Ticket", "Oompa Loompa Song" and "Pure Imagination".

The world-famous Willy Wonka is opening the gates to his mysterious factory... but only to a lucky few. Charlie Bucket, an imaginative boy with a knack for making something out of nothing, dreams of acquiring a golden ticket to tour Willy Wonka's over-the-top chocolate factory and can't believe his luck when it actually happens. Fellow contest winners: the gluttonous German, Augustus Gloop; Daddy's spoiled rotten princess, Veruca Salt; chewing gum celebrity, Violet Beauregarde; and over-amped computer hacker, Mike Teevee, have no idea what they're getting themselves into as they each learn lessons about selfishness and greed from Wonka who is not only out of his mind but potentially dangerous. With Wonka's world of pure imagination including chocolate waterfalls, nutty squirrels and the great glass elevator, all to be revealed by Wonka's army of curious Oompa Loompas. You'll devour this family friendly adventure that's full of mouth-watering visuals that "Must be Believed to be Seen".

Information Night: Thursday 13th June 6pm

Auditions: Saturday 29th of June and Sunday 30th of June

Performance Dates: October 4th, 5th, 6th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 25th, 26th and 27th

Stay tuned for more information and the Audition Pack coming soon! https://www.alotco.com.au/charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory-australia

It is that time of year again when we are getting the kids out and about! Please see our Term 2 kids club.

This year the Go for 2 &5 Albany Kite Fiesta will be held at Anzac Peace Park, Albany from 10am to 4pm Sunday 2 June 2024 (Long weekend).

This free, popular event includes the spectacle of giant kites being flown as well as kite making workshops where families can make their own kites.

This annual, public event, supported by Healthway and the City of Albany, is attended by many hundreds of families each year, and provides a fun, educational outing during the September long weekend for young people, their parents and grandparents who live or are visiting Albany.

Please contact Basil Schur on 0429481019 or email bschur@greenskills.org.au if you require further information.

Saver Plus is a FREE 10-month matched savings and financial education program funded by ANZ and the Australian Government Department of Social Services and delivered by The Smith Family. The program aims to help participants to learn how to better manage their money and develop long-term savings habits.

Saver Plus is available to anyone who is eligible across Australia.

Eligible participants learn money skills and receive up to $500 to help with their school expenses.

* 10 month program (commence at any time)

* Save $50 a month for 10 months and receive $500 towards educational costs

* Complete up to 10hrs of Virtual workshops called MoneyMinded (support provided)

More information at www.saverplus.org.au

After a couple of months of uncertainty, it is with great pleasure that I am writing to let you know that the foundation finds itself sailing again. Although Minderoo Foundation are now providing financial assistance for the next few years, this does not cover sponsored voyage places. This funding is only for maintaining the ship.

Leeuwin Ocean Adventure Foundation provides a range of tailored programs suitable for various ages, backgrounds and abilities. Our voyages aim to

1. Foster Leadership: Develop leadership skills through hands-on experiences and challenges aboard our iconic tall ship, STS Leeuwin II.
2. Promote Teamwork: Encourage teamwork and collaboration in a dynamic and engaging maritime environment.
3. Enhance Personal Development: Unlock hidden potential, boost self-confidence, and instil a sense of responsibility and accountability.
4. Inspire Environmental Awareness: Connect students with the marine environment, fostering a deep appreciation for our oceans and promoting sustainable practices.

This is a fantastic course for free and online.

MyTime is a facilitated peer support program for parents and carers of children with disability, developmental delay or chronic medical conditions.

Parents/Carers are welcome to attend even if they are yet to receive a diagnosis and would like to meet parents/Carers who may be in a similar situation to theirs.

MyTime groups are for all parents and family carers of children under the age of 18 who need a higher level of care than other children.

We meet weekly on a Tuesday afternoon from 12:30-2:30 during the school term.

MyTime now meets at the Child and Parent Centre near Mt Lockyer Primary School. Click link here.

WE WILL ROCK YOU

Musical by

QUEEN and Ben Elton

‘Guaranteed to blow you mind!’

Tickets on sale NOW! Row Seating only!

12 performances over 4 weekends May/June

Book: https://paperbark.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/129832

Since 2002 over 16 million theatregoers in 28 countries have been thrilled by this awe-inspiring production which is based on the songs of Queen with a book by Ben Elton (The Young Ones, Blackadder, Popcorn).

Elton fashioned this hilarious futurist comedy around more than 24 of Queen’s biggest hit songs including 'We Are the Champions', 'Radio Ga Ga', 'I Want To Break Free', 'Somebody To Love', 'Killer Queen', 'Don’t Stop Me Now', 'Under Pressure', 'Bohemian Rhapsody', 'Another One Bites The Dust' and of course, 'We Will Rock You'.

The musical takes place in a future age on a planet once called Earth that is now controlled by a mighty corporation...rock music is unheard, and all musical instruments are banned. The hope of breaking free rests with an unlikely resistance-an alliance of rebel Bohemians.

Directed - Donna Markovic

Musical Director - Jen Graham-Taylor

Choreography - Andrea Le Page and Carmen Fasolo