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- St Joseph's School Vision
- Principal's Message
- Prayer
- 1/2 Neighbourhood
- 3/4 Neighbourhood
- Performing Arts - 1/2 Neighbourhood
- Healesville Sanctuary Excursion
- Religious Education News
- Footsteps Dance - Parents Welcome
- Italian Day
- 100 Days of Prep
- Book Week 2022
- St Joseph's News Podcast
- Prep Orientation 2023
- eSafety News
- St Joseph's SchoolTV
- Parish News
- Bass Coast Cycle Challenge
- 2022 Fish Creek Children’s Festival of Stories
- Wonthaggi Basketball
- Wonthaggi Theatrical Group - School Of Rock
Every Child, Every Day,
Learning and Achieving in a Faith - Filled Environment
Dear Parents, Students, Staff and all associated with St Joseph’s Community
The new Victorian Child Safe Standards and Ministerial Order No. 1359 – Implementing the Child Safe Standards – Managing the Risk of Child Abuse in Schools and School Boarding Premises (Ministerial Order No. 1359) came into effect on Friday 1 July 2022. The Order outlines minimum requirements schools and school boarding premises must meet to comply with the new 11 Child Safe Standards.
Please watch the following brief video from the Commission for Children and Young People Victoria regarding these new Child Safe Standards
Consequently, with support from DOSCEL, a great deal of work has been done to ensure that our policies and guidelines are reflective of the new Victorian Child Safe Standards. Please refer to our school website under the Child Safety and Wellbeing tab to access the updated and revised policies and procedures at any time. My thanks to Joanne Coldebella and Jen Lawlor for their work with these updates.
At St Joseph’s we are committed to upholding the care, safety and wellbeing of children and young people as a central and fundamental responsibility. For resources and support for parents and carers, please visit the Commission for Children and Young People website.
Parents are advised that a copy of the school’s Annual Report to the School Community for 2021 is now available on the school website. The document fulfills part of the required annual reporting procedures that feeds back to parents and caregivers as well as wider community stakeholders, a summary of the school’s progress across a number of key elements of school life.
Our 2023 Prep students will begin their first orientation session this Wednesday, August 3 and welcome our new students and new families into the school community. Prep numbers for 2023 are very strong and are filling fast so if you know anyone who is still in the process of deciding, please get them to contact the school office for a tour. We all know how great St Joseph's is. Spread the word!
We have started another busy term full of events that benefit your children. If you have any concern, no matter how small, please let your class teacher know, or contact the office. The sooner concerns are addressed, the less anxiety and stress can happen. Communication is important to ensure we are all on the same page. Don't sit on an issue. Let someone know. You will feel better for it.
Yours in Catholic Education
Ronan O’Mahony
Principal
Lord, inspire me to live in such a way
that my choices each day
and my commitment to live in a positive way
may transform
the negative into something positive,
and the ordinariness of daily life
into something extraordinary.
Amen.
This week, we have been learning about multiplication strategies, Diwali Festival and Information Reports.
At school, we are really enjoying learning new things in Inquiry and Religion.
We have been creating Rangolis in Inquiry and writing all about the different ways that Diwali Festival is celebrated.
In Religion, we have been talking about how we are all unique.
Elisha and Alessandra 1/2T
It has been another fantastic start to term for the 3/4 students, and our classrooms are looking amazing! Each class has decorated their areas as a different habitat for our integrated studies topic (focusing on animals and the environment).
In other curriculum areas we continue to learn about making predictions, writing information reports and learning about division.
Students have engaged in the Resilience, Rights and Respectful Relationships program in class, with some fun and interesting ways to develop social and emotional learning.
This week we celebrated our first recipients of handwriting awards and pen licences. There has been significant development in the presentation and pride taken in work as students strive towards these goals.
A highlight for the beginning of term is our excursion to Healesville Sanctuary. This excursion allows students to immerse in nature, getting up close to endangered Australian animals and learning about their habitats, life cycles, diet and features. Students also explored the sanctuary, learning how to care for wildlife and the environment.
3/4 Team
Performing Arts - 1/2 Neighbourhood
The 1/2's have had a wonderful celebration of their learning in Performing Arts by bringing together all the animal dances they've composed during Term 1.
Healesville Sanctuary Excursion
On Monday as part of our learning around caring for the environment and its animals the 3/4 students visited Healesville Sanctuary. We got up nice and early and met at school at 7:30 am. Once we arrived we had the opportunity to learn from the staff at the Sanctuary about animal life cycles and what we can help do to help the endangered animals of Australia. One of the highlights of the day was the ‘Spirit of the Sky’ show. It was exciting, yet terrifying when the birds of prey flew so close to our heads! It was a great day and we would like to thank our parent helpers for coming along and making the day possible.
3/4 Team
St Vincent de Paul - Winter Appeal
Like last year, each year level will be asked to donate within a particular category. The Prep-2's are asked to donate non perishable "breakfast" goods. Grade 3/4's are asked to donate non perishable "pantry" items. Grade 5/6's are asked to donate "toiletry" items. We will be taking donations in your child's classroom during this term.
See the images below for donation ideas. Your generosity to those in need is appreciated, thank you.
Footsteps Dance - Parents Welcome
Our Footsteps dance sessions are happening this week and we warmly invite parents to come and observe your child/ren during their last session in the School Gym (not the Hall as previously advised) on Friday August 5 at the times listed below. Look forward to seeing you all there!
Prep 11:40 am -12:10pm
1/2 12:10pm -12:40pm
3/4 12:40pm-1:10pm
5/6 1:10pm-1:40pm
On Tuesday August 23, St Joseph’s will celebrate this year’s Italian Day. Students are encouraged to dress up in an Italian themed costume or just simply come along in Italian colours of verde (green), bianco (white) and rosso (red). More details will follow on PAM soon regarding our Italian Day Festivities. Students will be treated to a fun live show, Pinocchio presented by Make a Scene, Theatre Arts Education.
The Prep children are super excited to celebrate 100 days of getting smarter on Thursday 4th August. It's going to be an awesome day of fun with lots of exciting activities planned such as a disco, activities with our Grade 6 buddies, and party food. The children are coming to school dressed up as what they want to be when they grow up!
Prep Team
On Monday August 22 we will hold our annual whole school Book Week Parade in the school gym at 9:15am.
Students may choose to dress as their favourite book character, this may include wearing a mask or a hat if you don't have a complete costume or if you don't have a costume you may wear your school uniform.
(Please ensure your child has warm clothing and appropriate footwear etc. for playing outside at recess and lunchtime)
In their new podcast Luke, Lincoln and Jessie give you more news about everything going on at St Joseph's.
Click below to check out their channel and all their episodes!
Prep Orientation for our first and second session have been sent to families. These sessions will take place on Wednesday August 3 and Wednesday August 31.
If you have not received an email to notify you of your child’s session time please check your junk or spam email otherwise please contact the office on info@stjwonthaggi.catholic.edu.au or 5672 1052.
The eSafety Commissioner provides opportunities for parents to be more engaged in their children's safety online through information and a series of webinars on specific topics that are challenging for parents to monitor and manage.
SchoolTV is a service offered to parents with new material offered each month based on topics relevant to helping parents help their children survive and thrive at school. You are encouraged to explore the St Joseph’s SchoolTV website at - St Joseph's SchoolTV
Here, you can explore many topics with advice, reports, articles, videos and more from professionals in adolescent psychology and education.
From this homepage, you can explore the many topics now available to you as parents at St Joseph’s. We encourage you to explore the site, which has something for everyone.
IMPORTANT NOTICES REGARDING Weekday Mass/Liturgies:
Whilst Father Darren is away for the month of August, Father Martin Dixon will be celebrating the Weekend Masses.
There will NOT be Mass during the week, but Liturgies will take place at the following times.
Tuesday 11:00 a.m. Our Lady Star of the Sea, Inverloch (Liturgy) Wednesday 9:30 a.m. St. Joseph’s Wonthaggi (Liturgy) Friday 9:30 a.m. St. Joseph’s Wonthaggi (Liturgy)
If there is an emergency, please contact Fr. Manny Lomagno on 03 59 525 418 or Kristine on 04999 15 784.
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 those affected by the Ukrainian War. For John Duyndum, who passed away recently and for the anniversaries of Bernie Banks, Fr. John McGirr and our loved ones. May God’s merciful love shine on them and on their loved ones left behind
Prayer for Peace and Justice in Ukraine.
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.
PRAYER SHAWL GROUP: We meet on the 3rd Monday of the month where we knit or crochet shawls and rugs that are then blessed and wrapped, ready to be freely given to those who are struggling with life in any way. New members are always welcome. After the recent blessings at all Masses, there are shawls, rugs and some bed socks at both Wonthaggi & Inverloch that are available to be given.
Please contact: Kristine (Parish Office) 03 56 721 111, Maureen Maartensz:0407 055 447, Philippa Warby: 0408 331 340, Julie de Bondt: 0407 535 032.
MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER WEEKEND: An opportunity to spend a weekend improving your communication.
This experience gives you the tools to keep your passion alive in a gentle, nurturing environment, away from pressures and distractions of daily living.
The weekend we offer is based around Catholic Values but couples of all faiths are welcome. Please check our website for more details.
We have two options: An on-line/virtual weekend: 19-21 August 2022 in the comfort of your own home or a non-residential parish-based weekend: 22-23 October 2022 in Niddrie. (Book early to avoid disappointment) Information/Bookings: Phone Mercy & James 0409 183 676 or Email: vicbookings@wwme.org.au Website: wwme.org.au
HEART OF LIFE AT HOME RETREAT: Heart of Life is offering an “At-home Retreat: Held in Hope”- over five weeks, beginning Monday 1st August and concluding 29th August 2022. This at-home retreat invites you to spend time in prayer at home each day pondering your experiences of the day and to be accompanied by a retreat-companion weekly, via Zoom for 45 minutes, on how God might have been present for you. A small donation will be welcome. To register your interest please call 9890 1101 or email info@heartoflife.melbourne, no later than 18th July 2022.
St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal; Each year we run a winter appeal, asking for your assistance to provide food and other basic necessities for those in our community who are really struggling to make ends meet.
Every day at the St Vincent de Paul Society, we see that ordinary people are able to make an extraordinary difference in their local communities. We are inspired by the joy of the Gospels and our Catholic social teachings to do things that matter. The spirit to feed, heal, shelter, nurture, and inspire-the power to change lives – is in everyone. As we enter this winter in the shadow of coronavirus, your commitment to helping those experiencing disadvantage, poverty, loneliness and homelessness is still very much needed and appreciated.
If you are able to make a contribution to the Vinnies Winter Appeal, please do so by visiting www.vinnies.org.au or calling 13 18 12.
Alternatively, you may wish to make a cash donation at a special collection on the weekend of 30th, 31st July or in the St. Vincent de Paul box in the foyer of the Church.
In the last quarter, in our parish, we made 166 visits, assisting 232 adults and 161 children.
In the last financial year, GIPPSLAND CENTRAL COUNCIL provided $1,427.080.00 worth of assistance to people experiencing disadvantage, assisting 17,466 adults and children. Please help us to help others. Thank you.
DIOCESE OF BROOME: KIMBERLEY CATHOLIC VOLUNTEER SERVICE
NEEDED URGENTLY-VOLUNTEER WORKERS. The Diocese of Broome, WA, urgently requires volunteers to assist with the work of the local Church on Aboriginal Missions. There are various important voluntary tasks: administration, building maintenance, gardening, shop staffing, cooking, cleaning etc. Placements are preferred for a period of 6 months plus.
In return for being part of the team, we offer accommodation, living expenses and an allowance. For further details, and an application form, please contact:
Volunteer Coordinator, Janet Ryan: 08 9192 1060 Email: volunteers@broomediocese.org Web: www.broomediocese.org Mail: PO Box 76, BROOME WA 6725 PALMS AUSTRALIA: CELEBRATING A RETURN TO GLOBAL MISSION:
Our sister church in Africa, Asia and the Pacific are requesting Australia Catholics to join them to build the skills of those in their community who have had less opportunity than ourselves. Please consider these Mission opportunities abroad.
The Australia Catholic Bishops Conference provide support. Palms Australia, who have prepared Australian Catholics for global mission since 1961, will ensure accommodation and a living allowance is provided to you during your time away.
Enquire online or Ph: 0422 742 567 about a placement to engage your skills and Register for a Webinar on Monday August 1st at 7:00pm for the chance to talk directly with Palms’ partner communities abroad and two Australian program participants recently posted to work with them. Invite your friends. The stories will inspire.
Mary MacKillop Australian Pilgrimage:The Sisters of Saint Joseph have prepared an Australian Pilgrimage. “In the Footsteps of Mary MacKillop” commencing in Melbourne on 18th October, journeying through Victoria and South Australia and ending at Mary MacKillop Place, North Sydney on 29th October 2022. During the pilgrimage we visit many places associated with Mary MacKillop’s life and ministry.
I am happy to answer any questions and provide an itinerary and application form, and may be contacted at
National.pilgrimage@mmp.org.au or 02 891 24818.
Annie Bond rsj Assistant Director-Responsible for Ministries. CATHOLIC THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE: online unit via Zoom. AGEING PERSONS AND PASTORAL CARE: Six Saturdays: 30th July; 31, 27 August; 17 September; 8, 22 October: 10am-12pm plus 2pm-4pm
To enrol or for further information: Email: registrar@ctc.ed.au Phone 03 9412 3309.
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 include 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
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.
CARITAS AUSTRALIA: There is still time to support our global neighbours as they tackle the challenges of poverty.
Your generosity today can help create a better tomorrow for people living in some of the most remote and marginalised communities in the world.
All donations over $2 are 100% tax deductible.
Caritas Australia: www.caritas.org.au
CATHOLIC CARE: New self-help mental health service for parents, families and individuals.
Teaching children and young people how to keep safe online (on how to use technology wisely) is important for their mental health and wellbeing.
But as a parent or carer, ensuring eSafety for kids and teens can feel overwhelming or unachievable. Whether you’re worried about cyberbullying, privacy, online content, social media, or time spent using technology, there’s things parents and carers can do to help keep kids safe.
To learn more please contact CatholicCare Victoria.
Aid to the Church in Need Australia
ACN is the Pontifical Foundation dedicated to supporting the suffering and persecuted Church. Our Brothers and sisters in Lebanon are suffering due to ongoing financial and political instability. As the body of Christ we called to support one another. Will you join us as we help them by providing food parcels to 500 needy families in the diocese of Baalbek, Lebanon? To read about the project, or to make an offering visit: www.aidtochurch.org/monthlyproject.
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.
WORKING WITH CHILDREN: AS WE ARE HOPING TO RETURN TO A ROSTER SYSTEM FOR READERS AND SPECIAL MINISTERS, THIS IS JUST A REMINDER TO CHECK THAT YOUR WORKING WITH CHILDREN HASN’T EXPIRED AND IF IT DOES NEED RENEWING, PLEASE CONTACT THE PARISH OFFICE FOR ANY ASSISTANCE WITH THIS.
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.
Father Darren Howie Mrs. Kristine McRae
Parish Priest Parish Secretary
St. Joseph’s Parish Wonthaggi
Bass Coast Cycle Challenge will be held on Saturday November 5 and has a range of course distances for all ages and rider abilities. Challenge yourself with hills, the coast or both! See below for further information.