Josephines 2016 has proved to be another successful year with our two gatherings having a warm and friendly atmosphere. Our Josephine’s dinner was held in March at Truffleduck with 80 people coming together for a lovely evening together. We gathered in the garden for drinks and a quick catch up on a lovely warm evening before moving into the dining area. Kristen Gleeson, Development Manager, welcomed everyone and introduced Paul Tobias, Principal, who gave an update on activities around the Edmund Rice and Westcourt Campus’. Preparations were underway for the opening of Mary’s Chapel later in the year. Mark Turner gave a report on the Educational Support Program and activities being undertaken at the College. As you will be aware, the Josephine’s contribute to this essential program which helps our students who most need support and guidance. This year there are 109 funded students who are a part of this program and a further 100 plus students who need support in their classrooms. Our guest speaker was a former St Joseph’s College student, Dr Kevin Murfitt who is a lecturer at Deakin University. His specific teaching and research interests revolve around human rights, diversity and employment. Kevin is also currently Chair of Vision Australia, Australia’s largest blindness and low vision service provider. Kevin lost his sight in his mid-20s after a penetrating eye injury. Another area of life where Kevin had outstanding success is water-skiing. After winning his first World Championship Gold medal in France in 1993, Kevin accumulated 10 World Championship titles and two world records in the blind skier category. He says his greatest achievement is breaking the world jump record in 2005 at the world championships in Belguim. He jumped 19 metres and added another 2 metres to the former record. All present were overwhelmed with his story and power to overcome adversity.
Kate invited Susan Belluzzo, Archivist in our Heritage Centre to chat briefly about the work being undertaken in the Centre on Shannon Avenue (in the old Chilwell Library). Susan welcomes visitors to join her to either visit or help if you have some spare time. All present enjoyed a relaxed atmosphere and chatted the afternoon away.
Mark Kennedy speaking at the Spring Lunch Autumn Dinner
Dr Kevin Murfitt speaking at the Autumn Dinner
After our delicious meal some of the ladies shared their news which provided light entertainment and fun for all present. Truffleduck was once again a most enjoyable experience for all present. Our Spring gathering was held on Wednesday 5 October at Black Salt Restaurant, with 51 enjoying a pleasant atmosphere overlooking Corio Bay. In Mark Turner’s absence, Nerrida Holland spoke about activities in the Student Support area.
Great weather for the Autumn Dinner!
Our new Deputy Principal, Mark Kennedy introduced himself and shared his life story and how he came to move to Geelong from Cairns, being originally from Skipton. All present appreciated his openness and warmth and gained a good insight into this new member of our College Staff for 2016.
As we are all aware this is Paul’s final year after an outstanding 22 years at St Joseph’s College. Paul has attended most of our gatherings giving us the updates and insights on all aspects of the College. He cares deeply about his staff, students and families past and present, as well as the wider community. We have been blessed to have this special leader and mentor in our lives. We will miss Paul and wish he and Dianne peace and happiness for the years ahead with their precious family. Once again we thank Natasha Solczaniuk, Events Coordinator and Kristen Gleeson, Development Manager for their great work in organising these events and Lauren Salcombe, Publications Officer / Website Manager, for her creative genius in designing our invitations and promotional material. The Josephine’s provides a great opportunity for past and current mothers and staff members, other family members and friends of the College to come together in a friendly atmosphere, enjoy a meal and stay connected to our great College. So thank you for taking the time to attend our gatherings and for your ongoing support. St Joseph’s College is like one big family and we are all a part of this amazing journey. Thank you for being a part of our Josephine’s.
We take this time to reflect on those who have been unwell or have died throughout 2016 and we ask God’s blessings on each and every one of you, those you love and who are in your care. We look forward to seeing you all again in 2017. Kate Parke & Maureen Bryant – Coordinators
Enjoying the gardens at Truffleduck for the Autumn Dinner
A lovely lunch at Black Salt
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