2025-16 Newsletter - Term 4 Week 1

Principal's Message

As we return for our final term of 2025, there’s a wonderful buzz in the air at St Joseph’s! Our classrooms are alive with energy, laughter, and the sounds of rehearsals echoing through the halls as we put the finishing touches on our whole-school musical, The Billabong Prank.

This term is one of celebration, creativity, and community. It’s a time when we see our students shine—on stage, in the classroom, and in the many special moments that mark the end of another rich year of learning.

As a Catholic school, we are reminded that our gifts and talents are given to be shared. Each song sung, line rehearsed, and prop painted is a reflection of teamwork, dedication, and the joy that comes from creating something together. In this, we truly live out our faith—using our abilities to bring joy, laughter, and connection to others.

Thank you to our wonderful staff and families for your ongoing encouragement and support. Let’s make Term 4 one to remember—filled with faith, fun, and a celebration of all that makes our St Joseph’s community so special.

Reflection- October – The Month of the Rosary

October is known in our Catholic tradition as the Month of the Holy Rosary — a time when we are invited to draw closer to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, and to reflect deeply on the life of Christ through her eyes. The Rosary is a simple yet powerful prayer that reminds us of God’s love, mercy, and presence in our everyday lives.

As we pray each decade, we journey through the joyful, luminous, sorrowful, and glorious moments of Jesus’ life — moments that reveal faith, hope, and love at their fullest. For children, families, and staff alike, this month offers a gentle opportunity to pause, pray, and find peace in our busy days.

At St Joseph’s, may we follow Mary’s example of faith and trust. Just as she said “yes” to God’s call, may we also respond with open hearts and generous spirits. Through the Rosary, we are reminded that prayer connects us — to God, to one another, and to the hope that guides us forward.

Let this October be a time for reflection, gratitude, and renewal of our faith in the loving presence of Jesus and Mary in our lives.

“The Rosary is a prayer that always accompanies me; it is also the prayer of the ordinary people and the saints.”
— Pope Francis

Loving God,
In this month of the Holy Rosary,
we thank You for the gift of Mary,
our gentle Mother and faithful guide.

As we hold each bead in our hands,
may our hearts be filled with peace and gratitude.
Help us to see, through Mary’s eyes,
the love and mercy of Your Son, Jesus.

When we pray the Joyful Mysteries,
fill us with hope and happiness.
When we pray the Sorrowful Mysteries,
teach us compassion and strength.
When we pray the Glorious Mysteries,
renew our faith and trust in Your promise of new life.

Lord, may the rhythm of the Rosary
remind us to pause, to listen, and to love more deeply.
May every prayer draw us closer to You,
and may Mary, Mother of God,
always lead us to her Son.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Bishop Michael McKenna Visits SJS

Beautiful Reflection by Fr Reynold Jabonetta

Diary Entry – Wednesday, 15th October
Visit of Bishop Michael to St Joseph’s Portland

Before recounting the day’s events, I must first express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire St Joseph’s School community — to our wonderful students, dedicated staff, and the ever-supportive leadership of our Principal, Ms. Simone Taylor. Their warmth and hospitality made today’s visit truly memorable.

Bishop Michael arrived at the school at 11:00 a.m. He was warmly welcomed by Ms. Simone Taylor, our School Captains, Blair and Lexie, and myself as Parish Priest. After a brief exchange of greetings and introductions, we moved to the Art Room where Bishop Michael joined the staff for morning tea, setting a warm and friendly tone for the day.

Our first stop was with the Kinder, Year One, and Year Two students. Bishop Michael joyfully introduced them to St Teresa of Avila, whose feast day we were celebrating, and spoke to them about prayer. The children eagerly engaged in a lively Question and Answer session. One child asked, “What is your job as a bishop?” Bishop Michael explained that one of his important roles is visiting schools throughout the Diocese, and he challenged them to guess how many schools there are. After several guesses, he revealed the number — 34 schools, including Stannies.

Their questions continued, full of curiosity and humour. When asked if he had ever been bitten by something, Bishop Michael shared stories of a dog bite and being stung by a bee he had mistaken for a fly. Another student asked if he knew “Garry the Goat,” which made everyone laugh when he admitted he didn’t. When asked about footy, he proudly said he supports the Parramatta Eels, and explained that “Parramatta” comes from the Aboriginal word for “eels.” His favourite sport, he shared, is Test cricket.

We then moved on to Year Three and Four. This group was a little more reserved, but their respectful attentiveness was wonderful to see. At 12 noon, we paused to pray the Angelus together — a simple yet meaningful moment in the midst of a lively day.

Our final classroom visit was with Year Five and Six, where Bishop Michael led more of the conversation, especially about Confirmation and the students’ chosen saints’ names. He shared that he chose Saint Augustine for his own confirmation name. Blair mentioned being a Sharks supporter, and James (I hope I got this one right.) recalled their day filled with lessons in Fractions, Religion, and English. The Bishop also chatted with them about the Bathurst 1000 car race, confessing his preference for Holden cars and, if given the choice, a Jaguar for himself.

Three students expressed their love for St Joseph’s, calling it “the best school ever,” particularly as they had come from other schools. There was also a lovely moment of looking ahead, as some students shared their future plans to continue their education at La Salle, Stannies, Mudgee, or Lithgow High School. Bishop Michael closed his time with the students with a final prayer, bringing the day to a meaningful and prayerful close.

The visit concluded with a shared lunch in the Art Room with the staff — a time of gratitude, light conversation, and fellowship.

As I reflect on the day, I am deeply thankful for the joy, curiosity, and faith that filled our school. Bishop Michael’s presence was a blessing to our community, and I pray that his visit will continue to inspire our students in their faith and learning. Thank you, too, for remembering my birthday. May God bless you.

Fr Reynold

Year 6 Fundraiser

Footy Colours Day

A big congratulations and thank you to our wonderful school community for taking part in Footy Colours Day and raising over $150 to assist children with cancer to continue their education while they are unwell. It was fantastic to see the playground filled with team colours, smiling faces, and plenty of in depth discussions about who was the best team to support. The enthusiasm and generosity truly made the day a success – well done to everyone involved!

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Ganguddy - Dunns Swamp Year 4-6

Next Friday, our Year 4–6 students will enjoy a wonderful day exploring Ganguddy (Dunns Swamp) as part of their outdoor education and environmental learning program. Students will participate in a range of activities including bushwalking and canoeing, developing teamwork, resilience, and an appreciation for our beautiful local environment.

A sincere thank you to the parents who have kindly offered to help with transport and spend the day with us – your support makes these experiences possible and so memorable for our students.

Mrs Slattery, Mrs Bettison and Mrs Taylor will accompany the students for what promises to be a day of fun, learning and adventure in the great outdoors!

Miss Burke, Mrs Clancy and Mrs Nicholson will remain onsite with the students in Kindergarten - Year 3. 

Musical Updates ... The Billabong Prank

Our excitement is building as we count down to our whole school musical, The Billabong Prank, on Thursday 30th October 2025 at the Crystal Theatre!

Over the coming weeks, students and staff will be busy polishing their performances, perfecting their lines, and finalising costumes. A heartfelt thank you to all our parents and carers for your wonderful efforts in helping your children find and prepare costumes – your support is truly appreciated and adds to the magic of our performance.

In preparation for the big night, students will be attending rehearsals at the Crystal Theatre from Monday 27th to Thursday 30th October.

• Kindergarten to Year 2 will attend selected practice sessions throughout the week.

• Years 3–6 (main cast) will be involved in the full dress rehearsal on Tuesday 28th October and will continue practicing throughout the week.

We can’t wait to bring this fun, uniquely Australian story to life and celebrate the creativity and teamwork of our students. It’s sure to be a night full of laughter, colour, and joy—another proud moment for our St Joseph’s community!

TICKETS TO BE SOLD AT THE DOOR

• ADULT - $20 
• PENSIONER/CONCESSION $10
• CHILD (16 and under) $8
• Children 3 & under free.

Mrs Washbrook - "Portland Vibe on the Green"

This Sunday, Mrs Amelia Washbrook, who is currently runing music therapy sessions with some students teaching guitar and ukulele will be performing at Portland Golf Club's "A Vibe on the Green". Everyone is welcome to come along and enjoy the fun and watch our talented Mrs Washbrook. Entry costs are around $10 per adult. 

Graduation Mass & Annual Awards Presentation

An important date for your calendar.

P & F Meeting - Monday 6pm

This coming Monday 20th October there will be a Parents and Friends Meeting to be held at 6pm. At this meeting we will be discussing fundraising on the night of the Musical and end of year items. 

Everyone is welcomed to attend

NEWSLETTER - WEEK 2

Due to the upcoming Musical there will be NO EDITION of our School Newsletter in Week 2 of this Term . Our next Newsletter will be distributed in Week 5.