We were blessed with sunshine this week, and it was gratefully soaked up by our students on the oval. Soccer fever has definitely hit the College!

Next week is Harmony week at St Joseph's and the Peer Support Team, led by Wellbeing Prefect, Febin, has put together a schedule of activities. In particularly, on Tuesday is a lunchtime dance performance and lesson, and on Wednesday, students and staff are encouraged to wear their National Dress. We are a very special school with families from all parts of the world - so let's celebrate it!

St Joseph - Pray for us

Amen

Rachael Keenan

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:

https://www.vaticannews.va/.../biography-of-robert...

#PopeLeoXIV #CatholicAU

Wellbeing Prefect, Febin Saji, along with his fellow prefects & Peer Supporters, have developed a week of Multicultural events for students across the College to embrace the cultural diversity of our school. The events are as follow:

Monday - Decorate your classroom in a Multicultural Theme

Tuesday - International Dance Albany will be perform and teach a traditional Italian folk dance to our students, at Lunchtime in the Junior School Undercover Area. All students and staff are welcome to attend.

Wednesday - Multicultural Dress Day! Come to school wearing traditional dress of your ethnicity or in the national colours of where you were born (ie. Australia - Green & Gold)

Thursday - Cultural Games at Lunchtime. Games for Years 1 to 3, 4 to 6 and Secondary Students.

Friday - Multicultural food - Come to the Peer Support Food Stall at lunchtime for some Curry Puff or Spring Rolls. $5 each. No pre-orders. There will be a line for both Junior and Senior School Students.

Friday - For Secondary only - A Multicultural Kahoot - 1pm in the Glasshouse. Break some Cultural Stereotypes to win prizes!

Please encourage your children to embrace diversity by participating the week's events!

The overall sense of achievement from surviving three sun-soaked days and two chilly nights in the Stirling Ranges/Koi Kyenunu-ruff was palpable among the Year Seven students as they filed off the bus at the end of camp on Friday afternoon.

With the faint drizzle in the rear-view mirror on Wednesday morning, the energetic group departed for their first stop, Castle Rock, in the Porongurup Range, with many conquering their fears and climbing the daunting ladder to the Granite Skywalk where the views seemed to roll on forever.

After some group activities ranging from Bush Volleyball to a talk from Menang man Larry Blight, the sea of tents and swags was set up at the Stirling Range Retreat campsite later in the afternoon, and it was time for dinner. Ms Meuzelaar’s Famous Potato Bake was a new addition to the menu this year, and it did not disappoint, although the recipe may require tweaking as a few of the boys tents were a little noisy after lights-out.

Fuelled by an all-you-can-eat buffet breakfast to start Day Two and spurred on by hike leaders Mr O’Donnell, Miss Markham and Mr Williams, the entire group headed for Bluff Knoll/Boolar Miyel in conditions which can only be described as blessed. Views to the end of the earth and the massive sense of achievement of tackling the summit made the aches and pains worth it. The positive attitude of the group was not lost on other hikers, some of whom had travelled from across the globe to scale the mountain, earning students an international reputation for good manners, resilience and pure toughness.

One of the collective highlights of the camp was Mass under the shade of the eucalypts that was presided over by Fr Joel, who had earlier joined the students on the big hike. Again, the students were perfectly respectful of their surrounds and took on board Fr Joel’s inspired message of care and kindness for others.

Mrs Dechief then led the perennial favourite, Predator vs Prey, which finished off the day’s activities before Ms Meuzelaar’s Famous Burgers were no sooner served than gone at dinner time.

Drawing on the individual talents and abilities of staff members is one of the keys to running a successful camp. This was evident as Mr Severin’s millimetre-perfect carpentry skills were soon revealed in the form of a gigantic flat-pack outdoor cinema screen. The inaugural Cinema Under the Stars outdoor movie event was the perfect way to unwind from a massive day. Once again, cook-extraordinaire Ms Meuzelaar and the effervescent Mrs Bogoni delivered the goods with popcorn and a warm Milo, the perfect accompaniment to the oldie-but-goodie “Finding Nemo”.

The group finished camp with rotations through Albany Leisure and Aquatic Centre on Friday, where the last of any remaining energy was spent before they demolished a stack of pizzas you couldn’t jump over. To bring it home, the Year Sevens blared the usual camp-bus repertoire (tough luck if you’re not a Neil Diamond fan), marking the completion of their three-day rite of passage.

Big thanks go to all staff who attended the camp over the three days and helped make it such a memorable event: Mrs Bogoni, Ms Colmer, Mrs Dechief, Miss Markham, Ms Meuzelaar, Mr O’Donnell, Mr Severin, Mr Williams, Ms Keenan and Fr Joel. 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 heart-warming baked goods.

-   Mr Probert (Camp coordinator)

Vinnies WA has launched its annual Winter Appeal for 2025!

The theme of this year's Winter Appeal shines a spotlight on the unprecedent demand for assistance across Western Australia with more people than ever being forced onto the streets.

Each year Vinnies assists more than 61,000 Western Australians by providing vital support such as food, furniture, clothing and assistance with bills and rent and delivers a range of specialised services and programs in the areas of homelessness, housing, mental health, youth services, and financial counselling.

As part of our Catholic commitment to respect the human dignity of all, St Joseph's College works to assist those less fortunate in our community through our annual winter food drive. Collection boxes will be in each classroom and homeroom for any non-perishable food items that you wish to donate. This year we will also be collecting blankets and warm clothing (jumpers, trackies, beanies, scarves) that are clean and in new or good condition - these can be dropped in at either Library.

On behalf of the College, I would like to thank you all for your generosity and commitment each and every year to those doing it tough in our community.

Mr Luke Bogoni

Religious Education Coordinator

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.

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!

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

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.

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

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 '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.

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

Year 10 General English students have been busy working on their latest assignment. They have been given the task of designing a new brand of bottled water, aimed at a specific audience. Their job is to think about the interests and values of this target audience, and try to connect with them through the creative choices they make in their design. The work produced has been fantastic so far, with students showing their creativity and critical thinking skills. Once the assignment is complete, staff will be invited to an exhibition where they can vote on their favourite design!

Our kind and caring Year One students created some pictures in the hue of blue for Do It For Dolly Day. Their cute little creative images remind us of the need for kindness and respect for others.

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.

P&F Mother’s Day Stall & Raffle.

Changes to school bus routes 731 and 733 from St Joseph's College commencing Monday 26th May 2025.

Route 731 will now travel along Rocky Crosssing Rd in Warrenup.

Route 733 has been deleted and two new routes, 743 and 744 have been created to serve Bayonet Head and Lower King Suburbs creating shorter journey times overall.

The WA All Abilities Football Association warmly invites you to join us for an evening dedicated to promoting inclusion in sport within the Great Southern community.

This is a fantastic chance to network with other community members who are enthusiastic about creating an inclusive atmosphere in our local community and sporting organisations and athletic events, learn more about our programs, and exchange ideas.

We will talk about the value of inclusivity in sports and look at how we can carry out our initiatives locally that evening. This event will give us all important insights on how we can help make opportunities more accessible for everyone, whether you're a coach, volunteer, or just want to make a difference.

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

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:

1. CHCPRT025 - Identify and report children and young people at risk
2. 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.

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:

1. Holding a Health Care or Pensioner Concession Card
2. Receiving a Centrelink payment
3. Having a regular income from employment, carer’s payment, or child support
4. Have a child in school

To check all eligibility families can visit our website or request a callback at 1300 610 355.

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.

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.

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 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:

1. Expert high school teachers
2. Small group (max 4 students)
3. Targeted and individualised help to develop your skills each term
4. Tuition aligned with the WA syllabus
5. 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

A great opportunity for parent who are raising children with ADHD to expand their knowledge.

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!!