The College Capital Development Project will be commencing this term under the management of Devlyn Construction and Parry & Rosenthal Architects. This is a very exciting time for our school, particularly the Secondary School, as we embark on a what I hope to be the first of a three-stage project for the De Vialar building. Stage 16 will entail extensive utility service upgrades for the building, the installation of a lift, floor levelling and additional toilets which included universal access toilets.

The southern side of the Secondary School will become a building site and the front grassed area on Martin Road (in front of flags) will be the building site office area. The Administration carpark area will be very busy, so it is preferred for late drop-offs to use the general carpark. The builders will be putting up fencing and temporary internal walls to accommodate the renovation.

We anticipate challenges, with the noise especially, and we will do our best to work collaboratively with our community to ensure disruption is kept to a minimum. If you have any questions, please contact me directly via Seqta or arrange an appointment to discuss any concerns. 

For Secondary School

1. Southern entrance and thoroughfare into the undercroft will be blocked off. Students to use the sliding undercroft doorways.
2. The Canteen undercroft external door and Administration entrance adjacent to Ave Maria Chapel are not to be used by students.
3. Home Economics, Drama room and 116 to be entered via courtyard (palm tree) doorways.
4. Science lab 202 accessible via courtyard stairway.
5. End of day bus area to be moved to Cunningham grass. Drive-way still accessible. One staff member at roadside to call out buses and direct students, other staff member on Cunningham grass supervising.
6. Classrooms affected – 205, 206, 300 and 301.
7. The Maths and Science offices and Digital Technology storeroom relocated.

For Junior School

1. Southern entrance and thoroughfare into the undercroft will be blocked off. Students to use the sliding undercroft doorways.
2. The Canteen undercroft external door and Administration entrance adjacent to Ave Maria Chapel are not to be used by students.
3. End of day bus area to be moved to Cunningham grass. Drive-way still accessible. One staff member at roadside to call out buses and direct students, other staff member on Cunningham grass supervising.

A select group of Year 9 and 10 students had the opportunity to attend Zero2Hero's In Your Head Youth Forum at the Perth Convention Centre last week. Here's a snapshot of what the day had on offer, by attendee Reuben S.

"Our recent trip to Perth was an unforgettable experience! As soon as we stepped into the convention centre, we were greeted by hundreds of students and a wide variety of interactive booths. I had the chance to explore services available to young people dealing with mental health challenges and there was no shortage of engaging activities and exciting prizes! One highlight for me was the push-up challenge which was super fun and energetic! The event was well-organized, and the atmosphere was buzzing thanks to Joel Jackson, one of the best MCs I’ve ever seen. He really brought the energy. We also heard from psychologist Chris Harris, who gave us fresh insights into how our brain influences our decision-making. It was eye-opening. Then came an inspiring talk by former Australian netballer Caitlin Bassett. Seeing a sports figure up close was amazing, and her message about grabbing opportunities and not waiting for the perfect moment really stuck with me. The breakout sessions that followed were equally powerful. I heard stories that reminded me of two key things: take opportunities when they come and always push yourself beyond your comfort zone. To top it all off, we even got to meet Olympic boxer Harry Garside—what an incredible experience! This trip was more than just a day out—it was inspiring, motivational, and definitely one we’ll never forget."

By Reuben S

ADHD children hear a LOT of corrections and criticism – in school and in our communities.
“Sit still.”
“Focus.”
“Why can’t you just…?”

And over time, they start to believe they’re not enough. 😔

Here’s your Wednesday Wisdom tip:
Start building your child’s “inner coach,” not their inner critic.

Try to consciously think about this:

     •  Praise their effort, not just outcome: “I saw how hard you tried.”

     •  Teach them affirmations: “I am learning. I am loved. I can do hard things.” 

     •  Catch the good—especially the small stuff

     •  Be specific in your praise e.g. “I see how kind you were to your sister when you allowed her to choose what she wanted to watch on TV” rather than “Good boy”.

Confidence comes from being seen and celebrated—even in moments when things don’t go as planned.

You are your child’s best mirror. Reflect back the good. 

Susan Hughes

ADHD Parent Coach, M.Ed, ACC

1. Susan offers Wednesday Wisdom in her weekly newsletter, as well as numerous ADHD parenting resources, webinars and courses. You can more information about the great strategies she offers here: https://susanhughes.com.au/adhd-parent-resources-page/

The College is seeking interested applicants for a Groundsperson. Please contact the Principal if you would like more details or wish to submit an application. Negotiable start time after 25 August 2025.

Saint Teresa of the Cross

Feast Day: August 9

Patron Saint of: Christian converts

Life:

Born in 1891, Teresa was a brilliant thinker and was inspired by Saint Teresa of Avila, that she began a spiritual journey that led to her baptism in 1922, aged 31 and became a Carmelite Nun twelve years later. She worked as a University teacher and lecturer in Germany before moving to the Netherlands in 1938. After the Nazis came in 1940, Teresa, along with her sister Rosa were captured and sent to the gas chamber at Auschwitz on August 9, 1942. Pope John Paul II canonised her a Saint in 1999.

Prayer:

Lord, fill my soul with holy joy, courage and strength to serve You. Walk with me along the next stretch of road before me so that doors will open before me and I shall be met with peace. Saint Teresa, pray for us.

Students from St Joseph’s College delivered some strong performances in the 2025 Royal Australian Chemical Institute Titration Competition, which attracted 320 students from 41 schools across the state.

The team of Hoa Nguyen, Naijal Santhosh and Peter Smit earned a High Commendation for their impressive team result. Individually, High Distinctions were awarded to Sophia Villanueva, Abbey O'Donnell and Peter Smit, who achieved remarkable state rankings of 3rd, 12th and 25th respectively.

Hosted by the Royal Australian Chemical Institute (RACI), the competition challenges students to perform precise chemical titrations, with awards based on how closely their results align with true values.

These achievements highlight the scientific talent and dedication of the students at St Joseph’s College.

Congratulations to all involved.

You are all cordially invited to join us for the 2025 Open Night to be held at the College on Monday 18th August 2025 from 5 - 7pm.

See you all there!

Tickets are now available on https://www.stickytickets.com.au/C660P for our Celebration of Talents (A Variety Show) with one show only on August 16 at 6pm in Port Theatre. Let's support the students from Pre-primary to Year 12, Staff Dancers and Parents who passed the audition and ready to perform and entertain us. Buy your tickets now and don't forget to invite your family and friends too. Thank you in advance for your support. 

Mr Richard Habal, Mr Mark Collins and Ms Hiedi Rowe

Events Coordinators  

Please be advised that the date set for Confirmation and all activities have been changed from Term Three to Term Four.

Confirmation Commitment Masses: Term Four, week two, Saturday 25th October, 6.00pm Holy Family Church AND Sunday 26th October, 9.30am Holy Family Church

Parent/child workshop: Term Four, week three, Thursday 31st October 6.00pm - 7.30pm

Retreat afternoon for students and to meet the Bishop: Term Four, week five, 12th November 1.30pm - 3.00pm

Sacrament of Confirmation: Term Four, week five, Sunday 16th November 9.30am Holy Family Church.

Thank you to the families who have sent in their sacramental initiation forms. For other families, if you wish your child to make the Sacrament of Confirmation and have forgotten to complete a form, please let me know and I will forward one to you.

Chris Palfrey - Liturgy and Sacramental Co-ordinator

Our Year 4 students have been working hard this term to design and build their STEM projects in preparation for the Katanning Showcase in Week 9. Their creativity, problem-solving skills, and teamwork have been on full display as they bring their ideas to life.

Parents are warmly invited to our Open Morning on Wednesday of Week 7 (September 3rd) from 8:45am–9:15am in the undercover area to view the projects and celebrate the students’ achievements.

Upcoming dates:

Reconciliation Commitment Masses: Week 3, Saturday 9th August, 6.00pm Mass at Holy Family Church OR Sunday, Sunday 10th August, 9.30am, Holy Family Church. Please bring with you the enrolment booklets handed out at the General Sacramental Meeting. 

Parent/Child workshop: Week 5, Thursday 21st August 6.00pm - 7.30pm in the Junior School Undercover Area.

Sacrament of Reconciliation: Week 8, Wednesday 10th September 5.30pm Holy Family Church.

If you are unable to attend either of these dates, please contact me to make alternate arrangements.

Chris Palfrey - Liturgy and Sacramental Co-ordinator

Please click here for Player Expression of Interest Form

Visit our Facebook Page here https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562968123849

Or can email us at admin@royalsbasketballclub.org

It is an informative/interactive workshop of sorts to get young people ready to vote in the upcoming local government election, or even just to find out more about what the council does and how important the elections can be.

There will be an election specialist present, who can answer all questions related to council, and it gives young people a chance to share their thoughts on the whole process. It would be extremely valuable for young people’s voices to be heard about what would encourage them to vote but also talk about their experiences with local government.

This session is to be held on September 3 from 4pm, at the Albany Public Library and is open to anyone aged 10-25 years old.

We have four amazing evenings designed to help students and their families discover courses and explore their future opportunities.

Our Open Nights allow students to engage with their future lecturers and mentors, meet current students who are studying the same course they’re interested in,

tour our facilities and get hands-on with interactive displays.

Come along to one or attend more! Register for your night/s below.

Murdoch University Nursing Open Night

Wednesday 27th August, 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Murdoch University Health & Education Open Night

Tuesday 2nd September, 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Murdoch University Sciences, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics Open Night

Wednesday 3rd September, 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Murdoch University Business, Law, HASS & Creative Media Open Night

Thursday 4th September, 5:30pm – 7:30pm

Visit the links above to find out more.

We look forward to seeing you there!

In partnership with the Department of Health, the Better Health Company offers a variety of programs that provide up to 10 free health coaching appointments with a health professional that focus on improving nutrition, physical activity and health behaviour change. These programs are funded by the WA Department of Health and are tailored to a variety of age groups.

We believe that the Better Health Program is the most relevant and valuable to your school community. This program is tailored towards children aged 6-12 and their families and runs FREE and online all year round. Families can expect tailored support to build healthy family habits around nutrition, active movement, and reducing screen-time.

At the BHCo, we want to empower individuals and families in Western Australia to make sustainable and healthy lifestyle choices. Your help amplifying these services to your school community would go a long way in making this a reality! 

Enrolments for the October and summer holiday programs (December/January) are opening on Tuesday 5 August 2025, and we want as many of your families to benefit from the programs as possible.

This year, we want to make sure regional families can secure lessons in their local area. By providing you with this information ahead of time, we hope to give your families the best chance to book early and not miss out.

As we head into summer, many families will be spending time at the beach, rivers or swimming pools. VacSwim lessons help children 5 to 17 years of age stay safe in and around the water. These programs build confidence and develop vital swimming and water safety skills, with options available for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced swimmers.

Further information, details of locations and information on how to enrol is also on our website.

WA WOMEN’S HALL OF FAME EXHIBITION - ALBANY

Free Entry

ALBANY TOWN HALL

LOCATION: 217 York Street, Albany

DATES: 2 – 12 September

TIMES: Tuesday – Saturday: 10.00am – 5.00pm

Soroptimist International of Albany Inc and Inner Wheel Albany are hosting the 2025 WA Women’s Hall of Fame (WAWHOF) travelling exhibition. This display has been brought to Albany with the kind assistance of Abany Town Hall, City of Albany and Camtrans Transport.

The WAWHOF Exhibition displays portraits and the contributions of 2025 Inductees and its history. The Hall of Fame in WA was first established in 2011 in recognition of the International Women’s Day centenary to acknowledge those women who have been instrumental in the development of Western Australia. Nominations are received each year for Induction into the Hall of Fame and the Roll of Honour. Nominees are considered in the categories of Community, Business, Health, Education, The Arts, Culture, STEM (Science, Technology Engineering & Mathematics) and Sport. ( www.wawomenshalloffame.com.au)

SI Albany and Inner Wheel are encouraging the local community especially women, and the young girls in our school and community organisations, to visit this Exhibition and be inspired to make a difference.

Facebook event: www.facebook.com/share/172EAqNXyx/

Facebook Albany Soroptimists:www.facebook.com/SIAlbany

www.soroptimistinternational.org/

www.innerwheelaustralia.org.au

Can you believe it’s already Term 3?

It’s the perfect time to remind parents about the Saver Plus program—a great opportunity to receive up to $500 in matched savings to help cover their child’s education costs.

Not only does Saver Plus provide financial support, but it also helps families build lasting budgeting skills. These benefits ensure children are equipped with the resources they need for school, while also supporting long-term financial wellbeing.

If you know a family on a lower income who could benefit, let them know about this fantastic program!

Here’s a quick summary you could include in your school newsletter and/or share with your wellbeing team:

Saver Plus – Get $500 for Education Costs

Saver Plus is a free 10-month savings and financial education program that helps eligible families save for education expenses. Developed by ANZ and the Brotherhood of St Laurence, and delivered by The Smith Family and receives funding from the Department of Social Services, it’s designed to build long-term financial wellbeing.

Program Highlights:

1. Save $50/month for 10 months and receive $500 matched savings
2. Use funds for laptops, uniforms, books, camps, excursions, and more
3. Complete MoneyMinded financial education online workshops
4. No fees to join
5. Support provided throughout the program

Eligibility:

1. Must be 18+ years old
2. Hold a Health Care Card or Pensioner Concession Card
3. Receive an eligible Centrelink payment
4. Have a child in school or be studying yourself
5. Have regular income from work (you or your partner) inc child support and carers payments
6. Not completed the program previously.

Contact & More Info: To learn more visit the Saver Plus program page or call 1300 610 355.

Join us at Jandakot Airport for an immersive day designed exclusively for teachers, educators, and career advisors who are passionate about connecting students and clients with real-world aviation career opportunities.

Location: AirFlite, 35 Eagle Drive, Jandakot Airport WA 6064

Dates: Friday 29 August 2025 & Friday 31 October 2025

Time: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

What you will experience:

1. Industry speakers
2. Practical resources
3. Career pathway insights
4. Behind-the-scenes tour
5. Information pack
6. Morning tea, lunch and refreshments

Plus, a BONUS Free Altitude Membership (valued at $249) for each attendee!

Cost: $165.00 pp (including GST)

Spaces Are Limited are limited so BOOK NOW!

For more information or to register online visit skycareers.com.au/events/aviation-professional-development-day

With a focus on preventing body dissatisfaction and serious eating issues, this session provides information and practical tips to help parents better understand and promote positive body image and healthy relationships with eating and physical activity in the home. It provides practical strategies to be a positive role model, reduce the impact of risk factors in a child's environment. The session also explores when to be concerned and what you can do, including referral and support information.

Date: 1st September 2025

Time: 7pm – 8.15pm (AEST)

Via Zoom (time-limited recording available)

Cost: $15pp

Register HERE copy this full registration link into your URL: https://events.butterfly.org.au/portal/event/?id=EP_Raising_Body_Kind_Teens4046978637&Name=01/09/25%20RBBC