Josephines ____________________________________Page

from SJC Virtus 2017

Roll Call ________________________________Pages

The Josephines’ Group was formed to help our past mothers and staff of the College to stay connected, and have an official forum where they come together and renew friendships, at the same time give ongoing support to educationally vulnerable St Joseph’s students. The way St Joseph’s College cares for students through their Educational Support Program is a testament to the Founder of the Christian Brothers, Edmund Rice, who cared for the most vulnerable in Ireland through education. Our Josephines give all money raised from our two functions, Autumn Dinner and Spring Lunch, to this Support Program so that whilst having these wonderful friendly gatherings we are helping in this small way. We gathered in March for a wonderful dinner at Truffleduck with 100 guests attending, including a number of current mothers which helped make this a vibrant atmosphere. Tony Paatsch, our new Principal welcomed everyone and spoke briefly before introducing Sarah Gore, acting Educational Support Coordinator who gave an update of the faculty and the many boys they are assisting. Our guest speaker was Michael McMahon, parent of Angus who has muscular dystrophy. Michael spoke of Angus’ journey and the support he was given throughout, that enabled him to successfully complete Year 12. Angus is currently studying Criminology at Deakin University. This was an uplifting story of a beautiful family who truly appreciated all that St Joseph’s is able to provide for young boys. Our October lunch was held at 360Q in Queenscliff, on a warm sunny day. We travelled by bus with the ladies chatting all the way. The venue was stunning, overlooking the marina with 72 guests enjoying a splendid lunch. Michelle Brodrick – Deputy Principal, spoke in Tony’s absence and thanked all present for their ongoing support of the College. Michelle introduced Julie Cole – Fundraising and Alumni Coordinator in the Foundation Office. Julie informed all present of her new role and how important it is that past parents, staff and friends continue to feel connected to St Joseph’s College. Mark Turner - Educational Support Coordinator gave a brief overview of his hard working faculty and the large number of students who receive help, before introducing our guest speaker Johanna Evertsen-Mostert, grandmother of past student, Tobias, who forged a deep connection with our Educational Support Staff. Whilst his story is an extremely difficult one, Tobias was able to attend St Joseph’s College and remain engaged in education for a number of years through a bursary generously provided by an Old Collegian. This amazing grandmother bared her soul and continues to help young Tobias through his troubled times. Joh was overwhelmed with the tremendous support given to her and Tobias by St Joseph’s College. This year our funds raised were able to provide the latest literacy and learning resources including ‘voice to text programs’. Also at both gatherings we held a raffle to raise funds for the Paul Tobias Needs Based Scholarship. Prizes were generously donated by 63 Degrees and Sheila Mansfield. As highlighted by Tobias’ story, education plays a critical role in helping students who are marginalised through circumstances they have no control over. This continues the great work done by our founder, Blessed Edmund Rice, here in our SJC community. Special thanks to all involved with our Josephines this year - Natasha Solczaniuk and Adele Wilson - Events Coordinators, Kristen Gleeson - Development Manager and Lauren Salcombe - Publications Officer/Website Manager for all their great work in pulling these events together this year for us. To Mark Turner – Educational Support Coordinator and all his hardworking and caring staff. We thank all who were able to attend our two gatherings and/ or for those who generously gave donations. Our thoughts, especially at this time of the year, are with those who are unwell or who have lost loved ones throughout the year. We look forward to seeing you all again in 2018.