A STORY OF TWO MARY'S 
FEAST OF ST MARY MAGDALENE AND THE FEAST OF MARY MACKILLOP

A woman of strength, presence, resilience, hope and love. On Saturday 22 July we acknowledged a woman from within our tradition who epitomises these qualities. Saint Mary Magdalene has always been regarded as the first witness of the Lord’s resurrection and the first evangelist.

Mary Magdalene’s story is a moving and inspiring one. After Mary encountered Jesus and experienced some healing, she followed him throughout his active ministry. Mary Magdalene was there when Jesus was nailed to the Cross; she was there when he died. Mary Magdalene was the first one to see that the stone had been rolled away from the tomb. She was the first to meet Jesus after his resurrection and was the first to go out and tell others about this. Mary Magdalene was a loyal friend and a true disciple of Jesus. She loved Christ and was loved by Christ.

Friday 8 August is the solemnity for St Mary of the Cross Mackillop and we celebrate MacKillop Day. Two of my favourite quotes of hers are “never see a need without doing something about it” and “we have much to be thankful”.

Mary was a determined woman who set about making a difference in the lives of the children on Penola, South Australia. Together with Reverend Julian Tennison Woods she founded the sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart. While setting up schools for the rural poor and changing lives her order grew.

After a period of great growth and success with her order, Mary suffered the humiliation of excommunication from the Church. Later, an episcopal commission completely exonerated her. Her life of devotion to doing God’s will is an example for all.

Mary MacKillop was Canonised on October 17, 2010 at St Peter's Basilica, Rome. Pope Benedict XVI proclaimed Mary's sainthood during the Canonisation Mass. Over 8000 pilgrims from Australia and New Zealand attended the ceremony.

 The Church does not make a saint – it recognises a saint. Canonisation is the act by which the Holy Father declares in a definitive and solemn way that a Catholic Christian is actually in the glory of heaven, intercedes for us before the Lord and is to be publicly venerated by the whole Church. Canonisation is a double statement – about the life of the person and also about the faith of the people who are alive at this moment. They are as much a part of the canonisation as the person who is being recognised.”

If any parent or student has not had the opportunity to travel to North Sydney, to Mary MacKillop Place, I urge you to do so. A short walk from the train station and close to the Catholic University Campus, this tranquil and prayerful place is where Mary lived much of her life, died and is buried.

 HSC TRIAL EXAMS

I wish the Year 12 group of students all the best for their exams over the next two weeks. We have a talented group of seniors who, if they perform to their ability, will do themselves proud.

These exams can be stressful for many so managing self through them is important. If your child is in Year 12 please support them during the next few weeks.

We also approach the due dates of the MAJOR PROJECTS. These students have been dedicated and hard working in developing, constructing and completing these.

SCHOOL PLAY

I had the opportunity to watch the school play – Fight With all Your Might, the Zombies of the Night – several times. Each time I witnessed the confidence and quality of performance improve as the students lost their initial fears of performing in front of crowds. Congratulations to all involved, especially Mr Burian and Ms McKay.

 

CROSS + GENERATION TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

A Cross + Generation Technology program, created and coordinated by CatholicCare and Catholic Education Diocese of Wollongong and partnered with students and staff of St John's High School to support senior community members with their use of technology.

The program will run for 4 weeks and our first workshop was held Monday 24 July.

If you are a senior in the community that would like to join our students for the next 3 sessions of technology information sharing which includes morning tea please contact Jane Hollier-Parish the Community Officer CatholicCare on 0417 018 152 or email her at jane@catholiccare.dow.org.au.

Sessions and times:

* Monday 31 July 9:15 - 11.00am

* Monday 7 August 9:15 - 11.00am

* Monday 14 August 9:15 - 11:00am

NETBALL CARPARK

This project is finally complete and we can return to our normal use of this wonderful resource. As always I ask parents and carers who pick up students to be patient and careful driving around the pick up areas. The ‘peak’ traffic issues last less than ten minutes and a small amount of patience will be rewarded.

FINALLY

I wish all well as we progress throughout these colder months and head toward spring. At the recent School Assembly I reminded students that as we pass the half way mark of this year, to reflect on their learning and judge whether they have grown in the learning by the same – or more. Learning growth is a journey that never ceases, it also has varying paces. Make the most of this and life opportunities open up.

I wish all families and staff a wonderful few weeks until the next Newsletter.

Mr Wayne Marshall

LATEST EVENTS

NAVY AVIATION PROSPECTS SCHEME (NAPS) QUICK LOOK

Year 10 students embraced the inaugural NAPS program's first day with unwavering excitement at the end of Term 2. Immersed in survival drills at the Naval Aviation Sea Survival Centre and exploring FAA Squadrons, they gained insights into Aircrews, Engineers, and Technicians' roles. Overwhelmingly positive feedback echoed through their ranks, with all eagerly anticipating the upcoming "NextStep" day in August. Congratulations to everyone involved!

UPCOMING EVENTS

JMC Song Writing Competition 2023

Closes 27 August 

We invite participants to submit a demo of an original song (that they’ve written individually or as a team) and the lyrics to the song in written form (i.e. your lyrics written out in a word document). JMC Academy is proud to announce the 2023 songwriting competition for students across New South Wales, ACT, Victoria and Queensland in years 9-12. The aim of the competition is to highlight the talent of high-school songwriters from across the country and to showcase the creativity of young people.   The demo can simply be recorded on your phone (we just want to hear the song performed!) and only include the vocals however instrumental accompaniment is encouraged. You’re welcome to record the demo in other ways too if you have the means.

YEAR 11 & 12 

UOW Early Admissions Closes August 11

Please ensure you submit your application by Friday, August 11. If you require assistance with the questions, please contact Ms Arenas in the Careers Office

A significant difference this year is that there will be *no interviews* or any sort of in-person engagements. Our faculties have facilitated Early Admission for a very long time and have reached a place where they’re confident to make offers based on the information supplied in the students’ application

UOW Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership scholarship

Is this you?

• You’re a natural leader, and you play a pivotal role as an influencer, and a role model at your school and in your community. 
• You can demonstrate academic excellence and achievements throughout high school. 
• You have big ideas and goals, and you want to collaborate with others to bring them to life. 
• You strive to inspire others to achieve great things. 
• You’re determined to bring positive change to your community and the world. 
• You attend high school in the Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven, Eden-Monaro and Wingecarribee local government areas.

https://www.uow.edu.au/study/scholarships/domestic/vc-leadership-scholarship/

UAC - University Admissions Centre

Career mapping: where to after school?

Many students are uncertain about their next steps after Year 12. But – as Phillip Williamson, Head Teacher Careers for the NSW Government’s Educational Pathways Program, writes – it’s vital to go easy on yourself, self-reflect and do your research. Here are Williamson’s practical tips for starting your career journey. The most important thing, he advises, is to focus on your direction, not your destination.

https://www.uac.edu.au/media-centre/news/career-mapping-where-to-after-school

St Andrew’s College (University of Sydney) Scholars Program Applications

Closes 20th August

The St Andrew’s Scholars program seeks to support our future leaders by awarding up to five scholarships each year. The Scholarships will provide financial support of full fee-relief (currently $38,048 per annum for first year students) and will be awarded for the length of each student’s undergraduate degree, whilst they live in St Andrew’s. The Scholars will be exceptional young men and women who will thrive academically, are ‘engaged in life’ and have the potential to make a significant positive contribution to College and, in the future, the wider community.

https://www.standrewscollege.edu.au/scholars/

2023 Tertiary Open Days

To find up-to-date information on Tertiary Open Days, go to the Year 12 Careers Google Classroom or check the SJE Careers Website.

Macquarie Leaders and Achievers Early Entry Scheme

Apply By 31 July for Round 1

Apply By 31 August for Round 2

You could receive an early entry offer to study at Macquarie if you have performed well academically in Year 11 and demonstrate leadership skills, personal development and dedication through your extracurricular activities. To apply for Macquarie Leaders and Achievers entry scheme, you must meet both academic and leadership criteria.

https://www.mq.edu.au/study/admissions-and-entry/pathways/schemes/leaders-achievers

ACU - Guarantee - Early Offers

Applications Open 24 July Guarantee your place at ACU, even before your Year 12 exams. The ACU Guarantee program offers eligible Year 12 students a place at ACU based on your Year 11 results

University of Sydney - The Gadigal Program - Closing Soon

7 August

The Gadigal Program is our Indigenous student pathway that supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander

students to study at the University of Sydney.

Through the Gadigal Program you will have:

• the opportunity to apply for a Gadigal early conditional offer
• lower minimum ATAR requirements
• access to an academic skills program before commencing University
• ongoing academic and personal support throughout your degree.
• up to $5,000 global mobility award  for eligible exchange programs. 

Year 12 and post-high school applicants are eligible to apply.

https://www.sydney.edu.au/study/how-to-apply/undergraduate/admission-pathways/aboriginal-and-torres-strait-islander-pathways.html

 Western Sydney University FREE HSC Study Sessions\

25-29 of September Registrations Now Open

Delivered by highly qualified senior teachers with 25 free sessions across 16 key HSC subject areas, the sessions will include content analysis, tips and strategies, and a detailed exploration of key syllabus and curriculum areas. Students will also have the opportunity to sit a practice exam and deconstruction, with feedback and advice from experts. 

Subjects covered include: English (Advanced and Standard), Community and Family Studies, Economics, Mathematics (Advanced and Standard 2), Geography, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Legal Studies, PDHPE, Modern History, Visual Arts, Physics 

UTS Up to 5 Adjustment Point for Work Experience

You may be eligible for up to five adjustment points if your work experience relates to the course you are applying for. Complete the employment question in your UAC application so your work experience can be considered for specific courses in:  • Engineering and IT • Business  • Science

ACU I am an elite athlete or performer

We’re here to help level your playing field. If you take part in high-level activities in sports or the arts, you might be eligible for ACU’s Elite Athlete and Performer Program (EAPP). Learn more about EAPP benefits and services, check your eligibility and find out how to apply. The Elite Athlete and Performer Program (EAPP) is designed to give students who are top sporting or artistic performers the tools they need to achieve balance across their active and academic lives. The program comes with a range of benefits, including: • adjustment factors to your entry score • priority class allocation • academic support and flexibility (deferred exams, extensions, special considerations) • access to financial scholarships and competition/travel grants • networking and career development opportunities.

TAFE

TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) courses help students build practical skills and industry-specific knowledge, and count toward school outcomes, with some courses contributing towards an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).

TAFE NSW TVET Guide 2024

Information Sessions for Students & Parents

BiG Day In Newcastle | 30 August 2023 BiG Day In IT Careers Conference for students Years 9-12 @ University of Newcastle on 30 August 2023. Speakers include Microsoft, Mudbath, WiseTech Global, Westpac, Glencore Mining, & more talking about careers & the future of technology. Exhibitors include ACS, Wisetech Global & more. Tickets $10 for students. http://www.thebigdayin.com.au

OELLEN | A Day in the Life of a Hydrographer Find out about what it’s like to be a Hydrographer in this video https://youtu.be/MXTyezFV5dU

Hydrographer in this video https://youtu.be/MXTyezFV5dU

NSW Police Force - Eligibility Quiz

Take the quiz to see if you may be eligible to commence an application to the NSW Police Force. ‘Aquatic Rescue Sequence’ certification: Applicants are required to provide certification of successful completion of the Aquatic Rescue Sequence. First Aid certification: Applicants are required to supply certification of completion of an approved ‘Apply First Aid’ course with at least 12 months currency remaining on certification. Typing certificate. Applicants are required to supply a recognized         certificate of typing proficiency equivalent or greater than 25 words per minute at 98 percent accuracy.

GAP YEAR OPPORTUNITY 

CCUSA CAMP COUNSELOR 2024 APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN!

Summer camps in the USA are a tradition dating back more than 100 years. Every year almost 300 New South Wales participants head to the USA between June and August to work as camp counselors.

Check out Careers Google Classroom for more information.

APPRENTICESHIPS - BLUESCOPE

The advertisements for the 2024 HVTC Apprentice intake are now live!!

This year, HVTC will be recruiting Apprentices in the Electrical and Mechanical fields. The adverts close on Friday the 11th August 2023.

A flyer detailing the recruitment timeline is attached to the Careers Classroom, and the links for applicants to apply are below:

Mechanical – Seek & HVTC

Electrical – Seek & HVTC

Electrical & Mechanical (Female identified) – Seek & HVTC

Electrical & Mechanical (Indigenous Identified) Seek & HVTC

If you have any questions or need any further information then please do not hesitate to contact Tracey on 0429 657 843 or Michael Schipp from HVTC 02 4271 7051.

CSS Engineering PTY LTD - Apprenticeship

CSS Engineering Pty Ltd is a metal machining workshop in South Nowra and they are seeking a full-time apprentice.

The job will involve:

• Cutting and preparing material for machining
• Using a variety of workshop machines, such as manual and CNC lathes and mills, grinders, guillotines and bandsaws
• TAFE course; Cert III Engineering-Mechanical Trade (MEM302205)

Sound knowledge of Mathematics is required to fulfill this role.

Contact Christina on:

Ph: 4421 2155

Email: christina@cssengineering.com.au

Superior Cabinets South Coast

Superior Cabinets South Coast is seeking a keen, hardworking apprentice. If you enjoy woodwork, this might be perfect for you. 

Contact Anthony on: 0412 179 552

Sydney Trains Expression of Interest - Apprentice and Traineeship Programs (2024 Intake)

Register your interest in our Apprentice and Traineeship Programs.

Are you looking to start a new career where you can combine hands-on practical learning with theoretical technical training that will develop your skills and set you up with a well-paid job and rewarding career for life? Then becoming an apprentice could be just for you. 

The Apprentice Program combines paid work and structured training, allowing you to learn a trade and receive a nationally accredited qualification while working.

Possible trades:

•       Telecommunications
•       Signal Electrical/ Electrical
•       Substations 
•       Rail Traction
•       Rail Maintainers (Electrical and Mechanical)
•       Bridge Carpentry
•       Business Traineeship
•       Civil Construction
•       Heavy Diesel Mechanical
•       Electrical
•       Project Management

https://jobs.transport.nsw.gov.au/job/Wagga-Wagga-Expression-of-Interest-Apprentice-and-Traineeship-Programs-%282024-Intake%29-NSW-2650/937834510/

JOB VACANCIES!

Job Vacancies! 

Guzman y Gomez in Nowra (Plunkett St and Princes Highway)

Currently Guzman y Gomez is seeking staff for their new store. If you are interested, please contact:

Marcela Soler Grillo on 0402189168.

Pelican Shores

Ms Marcia Arenas

Transition and Pathways Specialist

CLASS MASS - TERM 3

WEEK 1

Mass on Wednesday 19 July was celebrated by Fr Tiziano and attended by 11AGR.1, 11CFS.2, 11CHE.1 and 11EES.1. in the St John's Chapel.

WEEK 2

Mass on Wednesday 26 July was celebrated by Fr Tiziano and attended by 11LST.1, 11PDH.1, 11SAC and 11CON.1 in the St John's Chapel.

Mr David Comensoli

Religious Coordinator

SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM 2023
A brief note to inform parents/guardians and students about the Sacramental Program
running this year at St John’s.
Any students that would like to be baptised into the Catholic faith or receive the Sacraments
of Reconciliation, First Holy Communion or Confirmation, are invited to participate in the
Sacramental program that will be running during the year and in school time.
Please see the attached letter that accompanies this newsletter for further information.
Mark Fuller
Sacramental Program Facilitator

NOWRA PARISH 

 Click here to access Nowra Parish

Click here to access Nowra Parish Facebook Page

MILTON PARISH 

Click here to access Milton Parish

Click here to access the Milton Parish Facebook Page

ST JOHN'S STUDENTS - SHOALHAVEN NETBALL REPRESENTATIVES

Congratulations to St John's students who represented the Shoalhaven at the Hart Junior NSW State Netball Titles recently. Ella Douglas and Emily Handly also represented but are missing from the photo.
All teams achieved great results and all players are to be commended!

HARPER SUTTON - YEAR 9

Congratulations to Harper Sutton of Year 9 for being the C Grade Small Bore Champion at Nowra Rifle Range.
Harper has been shooting small bore bench rest 50 metres for nearly 2 years now at Nowra Rifle Range. He attends Nowra Rifle Range with his grandfather Paul Sutton and comes from a long line of Small Bore and Big Bore Champions.

BROOKE PEARSON - YEAR 10

Congratulations to Brooke Pearson of year 10 for winning the 15 to 17 years 2nd Dan Black belt girls NSW State Championships. This is the second year running that she has won this title. Brooke trains and instructs children aged 3 to 14 years & adults at Eclipse Taekwondo in South Nowra.

Brooke will now travel to Western Australia in mid October to compete at the National Championships.

ISABELLA McCONVILLE - YEAR 12

Isabella McConville of Year 12 recently played in the U19 girls Australian Futsal team who went to Spain for two weeks and played in the Costa Blanca Cup. They competed in the Open women's category and Isabella was chosen by the coach to captain for the tournament. The team came runners up in their draw only losing to Spain in the finals.

MADI DOOSEY - YEAR 12

Madi Doosey of Year 12 competed in the Surf Life Saving NSW IRB Premiership and  NSW State Titles which saw her take home 7 gold, 4 silver and 3 bronze. Madison was also selected for the NSW State Team to compete at the Australian Surf Life Saving Titles.

Madi competed last week and over the weekend at the Australian IRB Championships held in Kingscliff for NSW and took home silver and with her Kiama Downs team she obtained 3 silvers and two 4th places.

Congratulations of your very impressive results Madi!

PAT BUTLER - PAST ST JOHN'S STUDENT

Congratulations to Paddy Butler who last week was crowned Hobie 14 World Champion in Italy. Pat is a past St John's student and school captain and a member of the Vincentia Sailing Club. What an awesome achievement!

Keeping in touch with the Catholic Primary Schools within the Shoalhaven District.

Please select below links to the Shoalhaven Catholic Primary Schools websites.

St Michael's Primary School

St Mary's Star of the Sea Primary School