We gathered as a school community to celebrate National Reconciliation Week (NRW), a significant time for all Australians to reflect on our shared histories, cultures, and achievements. It is also a time to explore how each of us can contribute to achieving reconciliation in Australia. This year's theme, “Now More Than Ever,” resonates deeply within our Catholic values of justice, compassion, and respect for all people. It reminds us of our moral duty to stand in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, to listen, learn, and advocate for their rights and dignity. Through prayer, education, and action, we can make a meaningful contribution to reconciliation and foster a more just and inclusive society for everyone.
Throughout the week, we hosted a variety of engaging and inspiring events. Each day featured something special: daily quizzes, bush cooking, mindfulness activities through Indigenous colouring, games, puzzles, Rainbow Serpent rock painting, and fundraising initiatives for the Opening the Doors Foundation, The Indigenous Literacy Foundation and the Victorian Aboriginal Child Care Agency (VACCA).
A standout moment was our whole school assembly, where we had the honour of welcoming keynote speaker Michellie Charvat, a proud Palawa Tasmanian Islander woman and Partnerships Manager for Australians Together. Michellie shared her personal journey, unpacked the NRW theme, and inspired us all to take meaningful action towards reconciliation. The assembly concluded with a powerful performance by our choir, singing the anthem 'Blackfella/Whitefella,' an Australian rock song written by Neil Murray and George Rrurrambu. Our choir was also invited to perform at the Celebrating Interfaith Connections and Reconciliation Leadership event in Williamstown, hosted by the Hobsons Bay Interfaith Network in partnership with Holy Trinity Anglican Church and the Hobsons Bay City Council.
Another memorable highlight was our 'Morning Tea for Culture,' where we successfully raised $489. Our dedicated Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) working party and enthusiastic supporters brought an array of delicious treats, including some Indigenous food, to support Victorian Aboriginal children, young people, families, and the community.
Our RAP Working Party was established to drive forward reconciliation efforts, gather feedback, and plan various initiatives. These initiatives encompass a range of activities such as creating permanent displays featuring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture in the Learning Resource Centre, acquiring symbolic items and hosting cultural events. Additionally, the College actively participates in national events, organising cultural activities, workshops and inviting guest speakers to promote understanding and dialogue. These efforts reflect a commitment to fostering respect, understanding, and reconciliation while honouring and celebrating Indigenous heritage and culture.
We are excited to unite in solidarity by giving up one night in our warm, comfortable beds to raise funds for the St Vincent de Paul Society and increase awareness about homelessness and disadvantage in our community. All participants will sleep in our gym on cardboard to gain insight into the challenges faced by those without homes.
An expression of interest form has been distributed to all students via SIMON and must be completed no later than Friday 28 June 2024. Once students sign up, parents/guardians will receive a PAM consent form with more details, including the program of events.
Date: Friday 2 August - Saturday 3 August 2024
Time: 5:00pm - 8:30am
Venue: Mary Mackillop Centre (MMC) - Gym
What to Bring: sleeping bag, pillow, a water bottle, wear warm clothing, an extra blanket if you feel the cold.
Please note, all participants will be encouraged to donate to the St Vincent de Paul Society via the College fundraising dashboard. If you have any questions, please contact Ms Courtnee Doering, Faith & Identity Leader - Social Justice, at cdoering@msj.vic.edu.au
In honour of our 60th anniversary, the College is delighted to offer a unique opportunity for all staff, graciously supported by the principal. Staff members are invited to choose between two enriching experiences: a pilgrimage to Penola, South Australia, or attendance at two staff formation days scheduled for 15-16 July.
The pilgrimage presents a profound opportunity for staff to delve into the life and work of St. Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Staff will explore key sites connected to her ministry, gaining deeper insights into her profound contributions and enduring legacy.
For those who opt to remain on campus, the College has planned a comprehensive program centred around the pilgrimage's themes. This includes engaging keynote speakers, interactive workshops, and a visit to the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre in East Melbourne.
These experiences are designed to foster both professional growth and spiritual enrichment among staff, furthering their understanding of Catholic and Josephite teachings.
We are pleased to announce that Fr Binh Le has been appointed as the new parish priest for Holy Trinity Catholic Parish, which includes Altona Meadows, Laverton, and Point Cook. Fr Binh joins us from St. Margaret Mary’s in Spotswood and Sacred Heart in Newport. Additionally, Fr Trac will be assisting Fr Binh in his parish duties. We look forward to welcoming Fr Binh and Fr Trac to our future College liturgies and events.
Anne Severi - Director of Catholic Identity
