SJRC Newsletter: Term 2 Week 6 - 6th June 2025

Walking Together Towards a Reconciled Future

This week, our school community embarked on a significant journey of understanding and solidarity as we participated in National Reconciliation Week. This annual event, observed from May 27 to June 3, is a time for all Australians to learn about our shared histories, cultures, and achievements, and to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. The theme for National Reconciliation Week 2025, "Now More Than Ever," reminds us that the fight for justice and rights of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples must continue with renewed urgency and determination.

Our Catholic Studies classes engaged deeply with the meaning of reconciliation, exploring its complexities and profound importance for our nation. Students thoughtfully developed individual leaves, each representing their learning and commitment to this vital process. These leaves then formed a powerful and symbolic bridge, displayed prominently near our Canteen, serving as a visual representation of connection and hope.

This "Reconciliation Bridge" became the starting point for our Reconciliation Walk this week. It was a moving experience to see a large number of staff and students join together in a walk of solidarity, demonstrating our collective commitment to reconciliation. During the walk, we were privileged to hear from our student leaders, Gideon, Ashton, and Esther. They shared invaluable insights into the history of National Reconciliation Week and the profound significance of our walk. Their eloquent reflections helped us all to better understand the journey towards reconciliation.

Our student leaders, and our Catholic Studies curriculum, highlighted key historical moments that have shaped the reconciliation process. They spoke about the 1967 Referendum, a pivotal moment when over 90% of Australians voted "Yes" to amend the Constitution to allow the Commonwealth to make laws for Aboriginal people and include them in the census. This overwhelming support was a significant step towards recognising Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples as citizens in their own country.

Another landmark case discussed was the Mabo decision of 1992. This High Court ruling overturned the legal fiction of "terra nullius" (land belonging to no one) and recognised that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have a pre-existing connection to the land that existed before British colonisation. This decision paved the way for Native Title claims and was a crucial step in acknowledging the rights of Australia's First Peoples.

These historical events remind us that reconciliation is an ongoing journey built on truth, justice, and respect. Our Reconciliation Walk was more than just a symbolic gesture; it was an active demonstration of our school's commitment to fostering a community that values and respects all cultures.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Gideon, Ashton, and Esther for their leadership and insightful contributions, and to all staff and students who participated in the walk. By engaging in these meaningful activities, we are collectively working towards a more just, equitable, and reconciled future for all Australians.

Mrs Tanya Daley
Principal

Exciting Launch of Stage 5 Short Course Subjects at St Joseph’s Regional College

On Monday evening, St Joseph’s Regional College proudly hosted the official launch of our exciting new Stage 5 Short Course subjects, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to student-centred learning. The event was a resounding success, with students, parents, and staff coming together to explore a diverse and innovative range of elective offerings designed to ignite curiosity and foster real-world skills.

These new Short Courses, tailored for Years 9 and electives in Year 10, provide students with the flexibility to pursue areas of personal interest and passion across a variety of disciplines, including creative arts, technology, business, and wellbeing. With a strong focus on engagement, relevance, and future pathways, the program is a testament to the College’s dedication to preparing students for both academic and vocational success.

A reminder to all students: the Stage 5 Short Course survey must be completed by Friday 13th at 4pm. Students are encouraged to carefully read the Short Course Handbook to make wise, considered choices that reflect their interests and future goals.

We are excited to see how these new opportunities will enrich our students’ learning journeys and empower them to take ownership of their education. Congratulations to all involved in bringing this innovative initiative to life!

Year 12 Trial Preparation Seminar – Wednesday 2nd July

As the Trial HSC exams approach, St Joseph’s Regional College is pleased to announce a dedicated Year 12 Trial Preparation Seminar, scheduled for Wednesday 2nd July, from 3:30pm to 5:00pm in the College Library.

This important seminar is designed to support Year 12 students as they enter the critical final phase of their HSC journey. The session will focus on practical skills and essential tools that will help students prepare effectively for the Trial exams. Areas of focus will include effective study techniques, time management strategies, managing exam stress, maximising performance under pressure, and understanding how to make the most of feedback from practice tasks.

Led by experienced staff, the seminar will also provide students with opportunities to ask questions, share study tips with peers, and access useful resources tailored to each subject area. It aims to empower students to approach the Trial period with confidence, clarity, and a clear plan for success.

Afternoon tea will be provided, and all Year 12 students are strongly encouraged to attend. This is a valuable opportunity to set the tone for the remainder of the year and refine preparation strategies before the Trials begin.

We look forward to seeing our senior students take full advantage of this support. Parents and caregivers are welcome to contact the College if they have any questions about the event or their child’s exam preparation. Together, we can help our students feel ready and confident for the challenges ahead.

Embracing Compassion: Our College Supports the Vinnies Winter Appeal

As the crisp air of winter begins to settle, it's a time when many of us look forward to the comfort of warm homes, cozy blankets, and hot meals. Yet, for thousands of Australians, winter brings a stark and often brutal reality: homelessness. This year, our College is proud to launch our annual Vinnies Winter Appeal, an initiative close to our hearts, aimed at making a tangible difference in the lives of those experiencing hardship.

It's easy to perceive homelessness as a distant issue, something that doesn't touch our immediate community. However, the truth is far more confronting. The ABS Census in 2021 revealed that over 122,000 people experience homelessness on any given night across Australia. These aren't mere statistics; they are individuals – people just like you and me – facing immense challenges.

The face of homelessness is also more diverse than many might imagine. While the image of "sleeping rough" on the streets often comes to mind, a significant number of people experiencing homelessness are in severely crowded dwellings, staying in crisis accommodation, or even "couch surfing" with friends or family. This complex issue is driven by a multitude of factors, including the critical shortage of affordable housing, the pervasive impact of family violence, mental health challenges, and unemployment.

This is where the St Vincent de Paul Society, or Vinnies, plays an incredibly vital role. Vinnies provides a comprehensive and holistic safety net for those in need. They offer far more than just a bed for the night; they provide wrap-around support, advocacy, and crucial community connection to help individuals exit homelessness permanently. They are truly on the front lines, addressing immediate needs while tirelessly working towards long-term solutions for those doing it tough.

How our College can make a difference this year:

We are thrilled to announce several fantastic opportunities for our entire College community to get involved and support Vinnies in their vital work this winter:

• Out of Uniform Day! On Thursday of Week 9, students are invited to come to school in their casual clothes by making a gold coin donation. Every coin, no matter how small, helps Vinnies provide essential services to those in need.
• Warm Clothes Collection: It's not just about monetary donations. We are also collecting donations of warm clothes. Please consider those jumpers, scarves, and coats you may have outgrown or no longer wear. If they are in good condition, clean, and warm, please bring them in! Your generous donation can make a world of difference to someone braving the cold this winter.
• Vinnies School Sleepout: For those seeking a truly impactful experience, we invite you to join the Vinnies School Sleepout! This incredible opportunity allows participants to gain a deeper understanding of what it might be like to experience homelessness. You’ll spend one night "sleeping rough" – typically on cardboard, with just a sleeping bag, and a simple dinner of soup and bread. It's not about replicating homelessness, but about fostering empathy, challenging perceptions, and raising crucial funds for Vinnies' homelessness services right here in our local community. Our College Sleepout will be held on August 1st here at the College. Keep an eye out for more details, and if you wish to sign-up, please see Emily or Mr. Hyland in the coming days.

Imagine the collective difference we can make together. By participating in these initiatives, we are not just raising money; we are raising awareness, fostering empathy, and demonstrating our unwavering support for those in our community who need it most. Every action, whether big or small, contributes to Vinnies' inspiring mission of creating a more just and compassionate Australia where no one has to endure the harsh realities of homelessness.

Let’s come together as a College community and make this Vinnies Winter Appeal our most successful yet! Your generosity and compassion can truly warm a life this winter.

St Agnes' Church Gospel Reflections

Fr Paul Gooley is continuing to provide Gospel readings and reflections via email and online Monday to Saturday for those interested in connecting with their faith in this way.

Click to watch Fr Paul's Gospel Readings and Reflections.

St Agnes' Parish News Bulletin

The Parish news bulletin will now be published monthly.

The latest edition is available via this link Parish News Bulletin

Mr Matthew Bushe
Assistant Principal - Mission

This week, at the College Assembly, students heard from Nick Prior, Coaching Director from Port Macquarie Basketball Association. Nick was joined by this seasons international players, Tiffany Reynolds, Sean McCurdy and Jaylen Nixon.

Nick highlighted the numerous opportunities at the club to be involved in playing, coaching, refereeing and watching. Three Year 9 sport classes were then involved in a 1 hour clinic run by the players which involved technical skills around passing, dribbling and shooting. We sincerely thank Nick, Tiffany, Sean and Jaylen for their time and encourage any students interested in being involved to reach out.

Information about the Dolphins programs for all ages can be found on the flyer below or by contacting Mr Kelly at the College.

--

Damien Kelly

Leader of Representative Sport

Encounter Youth

The Encounter Youth Program is held every Friday at the Youth Hub. 

Come along and join in the fun.

Encounter Kick-on’s (Sunday’s after the 5:00 pm Mass)

 Group games and supper. Come join us.

Zac Parnell

Cameron Hunt - Class of 2020

Having grown up in Port Macquarie, Cameron commenced a Bachelor of Secondary Health and Physical Education at the University of Sydney in 2022, having spent a year as the PDHPE trainee at St Joseph’s Regional College. Also in 2022, he was awarded the Walter Reid Memorial Prize. When asked what it was that he loved about his chosen path, Cameron’s reply was thus: “Teaching is something I’m extremely passionate about and cannot wait to commence full time. I was lucky enough to have shared my schooling experience with some of the best teachers in the world, and its my goal to honour these people by providing my own students with the same level of diligence and care I received”.

It’s a wonderful testimonial to your teachers, Cameron, and an inspirational comment on your goals moving forward. Best wishes!

#aHSC4opportunity #wherearetheynow #teacher

We have a delicious variety of 'Lunch Specials', available for $7.00 from Tuesday to Friday, and an everyday menu.

CLICK HERE to view the Canteen's everyday menu.

Breeanna Stone
Food Services Manager

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