Our Diocesan Community - March 2013 1 - Catholic Diocese of ...

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Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

IN THIS ISSUE
From the Bishop
Taking a New Direction
Ageing Gracefully Prayer Day
A Warm Welcome
Indonesian Immersion
Choices Made
Year of Grace
Clergy from the Northern Zone
Annual Art Exhibition
Parish News
Sixty Year Celebrations
Open-Air Mass
Centacare Toy Drive
Community Involvements and
Awards
Sr Pam Farewelled
Silver Jubilee Celebrations
Clergy Annual Retreat
From Catholic Education
Brother Breach
Scholarship Scheme
Book Launches
Rite of Election
From the Archives
The Northern Zone
OUR DIOCESAN COMMUNITY (ODC)
A joint publication of the
Catholic Diocese of Ballarat and the
Catholic Education Office of Ballarat.
FROM THE BISHOP- YEAR OF FAITH
THE YEAR OF FAITH: I BELIEVE IN LOVE
In the latter part of his time as Pope, Benedict XVI announced a “Year
of Faith”. The “year” will actually be somewhat longer than a year. It
began on 11 October 2012 (the fiftieth anniversary of the opening of
the Second Vatican Council) and will continue till 24 November 2013
(the feast of Christ the King). In this article, Bishop Paul offers some
reflections on this special year.
When I first heard that the Pope had announced a Year of Faith, I was puzzled. Why
just a Year of Faith? What about hope? What about love? What about the other virtues,
like honesty and justice? Nominating this year as a Year of Faith seemed to be rather
restrictive. Surely every year should be a year of faith and all the other virtues as well!
After a while, though, I realised that the Year of Faith was not intended to be restrictive.
Rather, it was meant to highlight faith as a key element of the Christian life, an element that
should lead on to hope and love and all the other virtues. We can see this in the letter that
Pope Benedict wrote to announce the Year of Faith. There he referred to faith as a “door”,
a door through which we enter the life of communion with God and with others. In fact, this
is the title of the Pope’s letter, “The Door of Faith”.
The background to the Pope’s announcement was his sense that many people today have
lost sight of the value of Christian faith. Whereas in former times many grew up in societies
where the Christian faith was an accepted part of life; this is no longer the case. The Pope
sees “the need to rediscover the journey of faith so as to shed ever clearer light on the joy
and renewed enthusiasm of the encounter with Christ.” So the Year of Faith is meant to be
a year when people rediscover faith, or perhaps discover faith for the first time, when they
find the door of faith, or find that door again.
If we see faith as a door to the Christian life, it is surely a door that leads to love, for love is
at the heart of Christian living. In fact, faith and love go together from the very start of the
Christian journey. In a profound sense, Christian faith is a belief in love.
Over the past few decades, there have been a number of songs called “I believe in love”.
While these songs might not have an explicitly religious message, we could certainly
borrow the title to express a basic element of Christian teaching. In a very profound sense,
a Christian can say “I believe in love!” The Christian faith is a faith in love, first of all a faith
in a God who is love and has shown immense love for us and secondly a faith in our call to
respond with love of God and love of neighbour.
In the first paragraph of his letter announcing the Year of Faith, Pope Benedict writes of
Christian faith as belief in God who is Love. “To profess faith in the Trinity – Father, Son
and Holy Spirit – is to believe in one God who is Love (See 1 John 4:8).” The message that
“God is Love” is one of the most striking messages in the New Testament. In this context,
to say “I believe in God” is equivalent to saying “I believe in Love”.
Towards the end of his letter, the Pope refers to the link between faith and our obligation to
show practical love for our neighbour. He recalls the strong words from the letter of James
that faith, without charity, is dead. He also highlights the role of faith in helping us respond
to those in need as we would respond to Christ himself. “Through faith, we can recognise
the face of the risen Lord in those who ask for our love.” (paragraph 14)
The Editorial Committee of ODC wishes to
thank the many people who have contributed
to this issue. We also acknowledge the
support through sponsorship of the Ballarat
Catholic Development Fund, Catholic Super
& Australian Catholic University - Aquinas
Campus.
EDITORIAL BOARD
Mr Allen Moloney, Sr Geraldine Mugavin,
Mr Peter Schreenan, Mrs Julie Boyd, Ms
Kate Lawry, Ms Fiona Tonkin, Dr Susan
Crowe, Mrs Jane Collins, Sr Anne McMillan
The next ODC will be in July 2013.
All contributions to ODC may be forwarded
to:
OUR DIOCESAN COMMUNITY,
PO Box 576, Ballarat 3353.
Phone: (03) 5337 7179 Fax: (03) 5333 5148
Email: odc@ballarat.catholic.org.au
Web: www.ballarat.catholic.org.au
More recently Pope Benedict has written a message for Lent and this message is devoted
precisely to the relationship between faith and love.
The Pope compares the link between faith and love to the link between Baptism and
Eucharist. “Baptism (the sacrament of faith) precedes the Eucharist (the sacrament of love),
but is ordered to it, the Eucharist being the fullness of the Christian journey. In a similar way,
faith precedes charity, but faith is genuine only if crowned by charity. Everything begins
from the humble acceptance of faith (knowing that one is loved by God), but has to arrive
at the truth of charity (knowing how to love God and neighbour), which remains forever, as
the fulfilment of all the virtues (see 1 Corinthians 13:13).”
The Pope concludes his message with a wish and a prayer “that all of you may spend this
precious time of Lent rekindling your faith in Jesus Christ, so as to enter with him into the
dynamic of love for the Father and for every brother and sister that we encounter in our
lives.”
To this, we can surely say “Amen!”
+ Paul Bird CSsR
Bishop of Ballarat
This article appeared in CathNews Perspectives on February 1, 2013
http://www.cathnews.com/article.aspx?aeid=34595
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Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

taking a new direction
Gemma Perkins is a teacher at St Michael & John’s Catholic
Primary School, Horsham and is about to commence a course
in Theology and interfaith dialogue. This course is part of the
Young Catholic Women’s Interfaith Fellowship and is through
the University of Newcastle. The Fellowship is an initiative of the
Office for the Participation of Women, under the auspices of the
Australian Catholic Bishops Conference. She is looking forward
to commencing the two year course this month. Gemma shares
some of her thoughts here:
Being a Christian
As a Christian I have a strong commitment to faith and try to live a
Godly life. I am a Eucharistic minister and was a founding member
of the Hamilton Catholic Youth Group (Leadership Committee).
Two years ago with many other pilgrims I made the trip to Spain
for World Youth Day. I have been a mentor for University students,
I volunteered at a local Catholic primary school before completing
my degree, as well as being an active member of a foster care
family working with troubled children. God is at the centre of my
life and I try to reflect this through my actions and beliefs.
Having the potential to engage in critical thinking about one’s
own religious tradition and the processes of interaction with
other faith traditions.
As a teacher I employ critical thinking skills to evaluate issues of
justice and morality. I also evaluate and critically analyse my own
religious traditions. I majored in history and thus I am fascinated
to learn about the history of different religions.
Last year I spent five months teaching in Thailand and was able
to have many insightful and interesting conversations about
Buddhism. To me this experience has highlighted the similarities
between our religious beliefs. For example both faiths try to live
appropriately according to our various religions and both faiths
would like to see a culture of peace globally.
Communication and interpersonal skills in working in
community settings.
As mentioned above I have spent five months in Thailand
teaching English. During this time I was able to further develop my
understanding about Buddhism, as well as develop a repour with
the school community I worked in. We (the school community)
were able to work together for the benefit of the students, working
side by side (both Christian and Buddhist people).
I have had many roles over the years which have required me
to use communication and interpersonal skills while working
in community settings. People have often complimented me
about the way I can relate to others and my ability to give time
and energy to worthy projects and groups. I believe that this is
a reflection of living a Godly life. God gives everyone different
talents and he has blessed me with the ability to relate well to
people from all different walks of life.
A capacity to engage in a leadership role in the field of
interfaith relations.
Being a teacher I have encouraged people to be understanding
and tolerant of each other. Part of this is respecting and
understanding different faith traditions.
People often fear the unknown. By encouraging discussion
and interaction between different faiths, similarities are often
highlighted. Especially when it comes to issues of morality and
justice. Like many people I want to contribute to and assist with a
culture of peace and as a teacher and member of many different
groups I feel it is my job to promote interfaith dialogue.
Passion for learning about one’s own and other faith
traditions and for discovering possibilities and benefits of
interfaith dialogue.
I am always fascinated to learn not only about the journey of the
Catholic Church but also about the journey of other faith traditions.
By creating interfaith dialogue it allows us to not only reflect on
our own beliefs and religious traditions but it also highlights the
similarities in beliefs.
For example, while in Thailand last year it was evident that
Christian and Buddhist faiths are both working towards the same
goal of developing a culture of peace globally. I had several
discussions with monks who visited YES (Youth Exchange
School 2) and discovered that many Thai people who practice
Buddhism live very basic lives, with their faith being at the centre.
They incorporate prayer into many parts of the day and generally
act morally and Godly according to their religious beliefs and
traditions. I am just the same and so are other Christians, God is
at the centre of our lives and we try to live our lives in a Godly way.
I think interfaith conversations help us not only to think about
our own personal beliefs and traditions, but it also helps us to
appreciate and understand the traditions of other faiths. By
networking and creating interfaith dialogue we are able to work
together towards a culture of tolerance, understanding and peace.
May I live this day
compassionate of heart,
clear in word,
gracious in awareness,
courageous in thought,
generous in love.
J. O’Donohue
Gemma Perkins
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
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AGEING GRACEFULLY PRAYER DAY
The Year of Grace is a particular opportunity for individuals and parishes to reflect on the love of God, and to make positive changes in
our lives which open us to God’s grace, and draw us closer to Him. All Saints Parish Portland has been offering a variety of prayerful
events, and the recent ‘Ageing Gracefully’ Day was one such opportunity.
Thirty two parishioners gathered at the Yacht Club late last year, overlooking the lovely Portland Bay, for a day of remembering,
reflecting, sharing and thanking God for the lives we have lived, and for the life which is still ahead of us as we move into old age.
Under the direction of Mary Brown from Horsham, we prayed together, for ourselves and for one another. Mary guided us through
an individual reflection where we briefly drew our life timeline, selected events or moments from our past and saw where God was
with us in those times, whether they were joyful, sorrowful or seemingly mundane moments. We journeyed forward to the present
day acknowledging the daily struggles which we all encounter as we grow old, and in small and large groups we shared these life
experiences and affirmed those amongst us who are called to courageously deal with their own or a partner’s growing health issues.
We acknowledged the strength necessary to get through some days, and called on Our Father to be with each of us in these times and
on the journey forward in the latter years of our lives. We expressed gratitude for the graces and blessings we have received, and we
went our way at the end of the day feeling grateful for time-out to reflect - to give prayerful thanks for friends within our community who
shared the day with us, and for the ever present God we rely on for everything at every stage of life. It is a grace which we cannot earn
but through His Fatherly love, it is gifted to us.
It was a wonderful day sharing with parish friends. Many thanks to the organisers for the planning and for providing a lovely meal; thank
you to Fr Peter for being such an encouraging supporter and thank you to Mary Brown for making the day a thoughtful break in our week.
We are truly benefiting from the additional activities being offered in our parish, in this Year of Grace.
Kerry Picard-Arnott
Parish of Portland
Children’s Liturgy
The parishioners of St Patrick's Gordon were blessed with a
sunny morning and a few more little smiling faces on Sunday,
February 17. The Children's Liturgy has commenced and is to
continue on the third Sunday of the month.
Parents had an opportunity to relax and listen to Fr Shane
Mackinlay, Visiting Priest, while their little ones were comfortably
located in the St Patrick's foyer. Time was spent producing some
imaginative art inspired by group discussion, their thoughts of
Lent and this time of kind gestures - a truly pleasant way to start
the week.
Narelle Conroy - Parish Secretary
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A WARM WELCOME
A recent Mass to pray for blessings on the school year became
a double celebration with a welcome visit by Bishop Paul Bird to
St Mary’s in Hamilton.
Parishioners, staff, students and families from St Mary’s Primary,
St Joseph’s Penshurst, Monivae College and surrounding district
state and private schools assumed various ministries during the
Mass to celebrate the beginning of another school year. Bishop
Paul concelebrated with Fathers Patrick Mugavin, John Corrigan
and Mark McGuinness MSC. Mass was also significant for
our parish sacramental children who were formally enrolled for
sacraments, as well as the staff within our schools who were
blessed by Bishop Paul for the work they will undertake in the
teaching and care of the children of the parish.
Following the Mass what better way to prepare for a new
educational year, than to first join in with friends at the Hamilton
Botanical Gardens. The venue and warm climate provided the
perfect setting to gather for a picnic lunch and meet with the
Bishop and other school families. For the young students, the
ever popular face painting, hair colouring and outdoor games
were the favourite activities on the day.
In the evening Parish Council members responded to an
invitation to share a meal and conversation with Bishop Paul,
who affirmed the hospitality of the St Mary’s parish community.
It was acknowledged that our parish is enriched by the gifts of
many parishioners. However the ageing factor plus family and
other community commitments, could also become contributing
factors to a decline in future parish participation. The Bishop
supported Council’s priority to maintain a vibrant and active parish
community. Monday was ‘school day’ for the Bishop who visited
and was delighted by pupils and staff of St Joseph’s Penshurst,
St Mary’s Hamilton and Monivae College Hamilton.
Anne Slattery
Parishioner
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
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Indonesian Immersion
Monivae College students embarked on the trip of a
lifetime in the lead-up to the start of the school year,
as they visited their BRIDGE Project School and
their Sister School in Indonesia. The students were
excited as they flew into Palembang, the capital city of
the province of South Sumatra, where they received
a welcome from the Principal of the Kusuma Bangsa
school, located in Palembang. The students and staff
were then taken for a meal overlooking the picturesque
Misu River that is central to the city of Palembang.
The next day, Monivae students and teachers were
paired up with their host families (students who had
stayed with them in Australia during 2012) and went off
to join in family activities for the afternoon. That night, an elaborate performance and dinner was held for the Monivae group by one of
the host families. The night included traditional dances, gamelan performances and a wayang kulit show.
Everyone was up early for school the next day, with the flag raising ceremony beginning at 7:30am; this was after students had already
completed Period 1 classes! The students and teachers were treated to an inside look at an Indonesian high school for the day.
Teachers were also working very hard with the Kusuma Bangsa staff, discussing their relationship and its continuation in the future.
Saturday morning, the group went on a cruise down the Misu River, singing karaoke and taking lots of photos. That evening the students
celebrated in true 'Aussie' style with Miss Jess Turton and Mrs Maria Patience, Monivae Indonesian teachers, having decorated the
tables in an Australian theme to commemorate Australia Day back home.
The students followed their trip to Palembang with a visit to their Sister School, Madania located in Bogor, on the island of Java. The
Monivae students were able to sit in on classes at the school with some of the students leading 'story time' in Grade 1, much to the
delight of the Madania students.
Following visits to Istana Cipanas, a Presidential Palace and Taman Mini, a large park with traditional Indonesian houses from across
the archipelago, the Monivae students were busy preparing for Madania Day - a day of celebration, much like Sacred Heart Day is
celebrated at Monivae. Madania Day was one of the many highlights of the trip, with the students performing various songs and dances.
The Monivae students then put on a slideshow of "We Are Australian" and "Waltzing Matilda," both of which were a big hit with Madania
students and staff.
The cultural exchange was very important for the Monivae students, as Indonesian is the language students at Monivae study from Year
7. Studying the language in the classroom is a long way from the immersion experience that the students were able to gain from visiting
and talking with students from the two schools.
The trip was only possible through the support of the Commonwealth Government funding BRIDGE project. The BRIDGE program
promotes partnerships between Asian and Australian schools. The partnerships formed allows students to engage with the history,
cultures, societies and languages of their partner school. School partnerships also work collaboratively on curriculum programs that
develop shared understandings and an appreciation of cultural similarities and differences.
The trip was something that the Monivae students and their new Indonesian friends will not forget.
Simon McKinley
Director of Development & Marketing - Monivae College
Christmas Choir
Christmas may seem like a distant memory; however this picture
of the Ballan St Brigid’s Primary School Choir performing carols
might rekindle the festive spirit.
The children can be seen singing for the Ballan kindergarten prior
to their concert and at the Senior Citizen’s Christmas gathering.
The children practiced for most of the year under the direction of
Maggie Sheehan, a mum at the school.
Peter Johnson
Principal
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Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

College Recognised
Marian College Ararat has been recognised for its outstanding
focus on student mental health and wellbeing at a national
awards ceremony. Assistant Principal and Head of Wellbeing
at the school Ros Pretlove, along with student Alicia Patterson
attended the event in Canberra at the beginning of November.
Thirteen schools from around the country were officially
recognised for their work in promoting mental health in the
classroom and the schoolyard. The presentations included a
focus on building resilience and wellbeing strategies to cope
with bullying and loss. Alicia, a Year 11 student, gave a five
minute presentation on a Cyber Safety Mission Statement
the school established as part of its work in the MindMatters
initiative. MindMatters is the leading national mental health
initiative for secondary schools. Its purpose is to help schools to
promote and protect the mental health, resilience and social and
emotional wellbeing of all the members of school communities.
MindMatters was so impressed with Alicia's presentation she
has been asked to become a Youth Ambassador for MindMatters
Victoria. Mrs Pretlove said the school has worked hard over
time to develop a number of programs that demonstrate positive
change. "It was a good celebration and recognition of the
number of programs we have put in place over the years but
particularly the work we have done since the end of 2010," she
said.
Some of the initiatives the school has implemented over time
include improved pastoral care and mentoring through a
Teacher Adviser Program, a full time school psychologist, Tribal,
Leadership, Cyber Safety and SCADE (School and Community
Approaches to Drug Education) projects. "Another example is
that we have a very pro-active 'Justice and Democracy' group
and a 'Minnie Vinnies' group which empowers students to make
decisions and make a difference," Mrs Pretlove said. "Student
empowerment is one of my passions and that is what a lot of
these programs are designed to foster," she said.
In 2011 wellbeing referrals at the school were increasingly linked
to distress due to 'digitally' delivered abuse and harassment or
misuse of technology. This was an increase from 30 per cent to
80 per cent of referrals in two years. Following the sharp rise,
an action research project was established that included talking
to all corners of the school community. The action research
project involved asking students, parents and staff what they
believe a Cyber Safety Mission Statement should say and the
changes to school policy that were needed as part of it.
Above L-R: Senator Louise Pratt, Alicia Patterson and Ros Pretlove.
Mrs Pretlove said the resulting Cyber Safety Mission Statement
created by the students is based on mutual trust: "At Marian
College we value equal learning opportunities. "We believe that
with mutual trust, we can achieve innovative and responsible use
of modern technology for the benefit of everyone. "We strive to
achieve this in a safe, respectful and welcoming environment."
One of the biggest changes in school policy that came from the
discussions and research has been the allowance of students
to now not only bring mobile phones to school, but use them in
class as educational tools. "We notice a lot of students don't
actually wear watches anymore, they consult their phones for
the time and they can use their phones as a dictionary and
research tool while in the classroom," she said. "This is quite
a big turn around from the days when mobile phones were
banned or required to be turned off and left in a bag or locker."
Mrs Pretlove said it was important to recognise the rapid growth
of technology. "Whereas in the past parents have been more
aware and in control of emerging trends and influences, this time
it is the other way round," she said. "In most cases students
know a lot more about the new technology than what their
parents do. Mrs Pretlove said families, students and even police
depend on schools to resolve 'after hours' conflict that develops
'on-line' among students. "This represented a challenge for us
as many of the incidents were occurring outside of school and
outside of school hours," she said. "Through the program we
hoped to adopt an approach to technology that promotes a safe
and responsible use of it."
According to the school, wellbeing referrals linked to distress
due to 'digitally' delivered abuse and harassment or misuse of
technology make up less than 40 per cent of all referrals in 2012
following the Cyber Safety project.
Article courtesy of The Ararat Advertiser
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
Sisters helped to transform lives
Religious Sisters have transformed the lives of generations of Ballarat women through
their tireless work in education and social justice, a new book has revealed. The
Challenge of Change traces the contribution of the Sisters of Mercy and the Loreto
Sisters to Ballarat from 1950 to 1980.
Launching the book on Friday February 15, former premier Steve Bracks said the
Sisters had transformed lives by assisting young women to aspire to things they
wouldn’t have otherwise. He said the story of the Sisters was one close to his heart.
“My family, my ancestors went to Sacred Heart College Ballarat East and I taught
there,” Mr Bracks said. “The story in here is the story of my family and their education
that helped shape me.”
Author Heather O’Connor said the sisters had left behind infrastructure, educated
generations of women in the community and were to this day still involved in issues of
social justice. By 1980, they were arguably the most educated cohort of women in the city, emerging from Vatican II as professional
women in new apostolic work. “They reinvented themselves,” Ms O’Connor said. The Challenge of Change is available in bookstores
now.
Article courtesy of the Ballarat Courier: Text by Rachel Afflick; photo by Adam Trafford.
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Choices made lead to significant contribution
Thursday 14th February was the last formal day of a long association for Sr Anne McMillan with the Diocese of Ballarat. After thirtyfive
years of service, Sr Anne has retired. Over the years Sr Anne has played an important role within the Diocese, in regard to liturgy,
communications, pastoral ministry to name a few. Sr Anne has provided many people with great support and information through the
diverse range of duties that she undertook. Her absence will be felt for a long time after she leaves. We thank Sr Anne for all she has
contributed over the years and we wish her all the best in her retirement. Sr Anne was farewelled at a gathering recently. Fr. Barry Ryan
has written this reflection:
The choices we make in life reach beyond boundaries that our minds cannot
comprehend. These choices travel through the years and leave an impact,
sometimes big, sometimes small, sometimes good and sometimes bad.
Two choices that have made lasting deep impressions for good were the
ones taken by Anne McMillan in her early days. One of these was to study
for qualifications as a Librarian after leaving school. The second was her
entry into the Congregation of the Sisters of Mercy, Ballarat East. After her
entry into the Mercy Congregation, Sr Anne followed a call as a teacher in
both primary and secondary schools.
In 1977, I was the Director of the Religious Education Centre and, with the
newly established Religious Education Centre staff, who worked in primary
and secondary schools, adult education and the state school apostolate, we
decided that the development of a Resource Centre was essential.
Sr Anne was chosen for this task and through the generosity of Sr Valda
Ward, was offered a position with the Religious Education Centre (REC) in
1978 and, as they say, the rest is history. With the combination of her library
and teaching knowledge and skills, she laid the foundation and set in place
a magnificent resource for the whole Diocese.
Sr Anne, while still a member of the Religious Education Centre, studied
at Notre Dame University, USA, for a Master’s Degree in Theology. She
returned and worked in the Religious Education Centre until 2001. Sr Anne
made a significant contribution in the Adult Education programs conducted
by the REC. She helped schools throughout the Diocese establish their
religious studies libraries and began to lead the way in the use of computer
programs as a tool for knowledge and formation.
For many years, Sr Anne has been well known in developing, “Our Diocesan
Community” into the quality magazine enjoyed by thousands in the Diocese.
She has established E-News and the Diocesan website as we know it today.
She has been Executive Officer for the Diocesan Pastoral Council and
Liturgical Commission, and has been a force in liturgical ministry. Each
week in the Diocese where Lay Led Assemblies are held, use is made of
material supplied by Sr Anne.
Bishop Mulkearns, Bishop Connors, Bishop Bird & Sr Anne
As Sr Anne moves into retirement, she can look back with gratitude for
the choices she made along the way. They have borne much fruit. She
acknowledges too, the gifts and talents of the people she has encountered along the journey. She is very conscious of the people who
have supported her. With them, she has made an extraordinary contribution in a Diocese which has so many talented and enthusiastic
workers for the new world envisaged by Christ.
Left: Peter Schreenan, Eddie Schreenan & Sr Anne
Sr Anne pictured here with Stacey Atkins,
Jane Collins & Julie Boyd
Fr Barry Ryan
Below: Enjoying the proceedings
7 Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

Year of Grace - Swan Hill
Participants in a Year of Grace
Reflection Day spent time in quiet prayer
in St Mary's Church, Swan Hill. The
Reflection Day was held on Sunday 3rd
March, beginning with a cuppa after the
parish Mass. Twenty people took part in
scripture reflections, guided prayer, and
a shared lunch. The gathering concluded
with Evening Prayer and Benediction.
A number of Year of Grace Reflection
Days are being held in parishes around
the Diocese this year.
New student accommodation for Ballarat students in regional locations
The first of eleven new accommodation facilities for nursing students from Australian Catholic
University (ACU) and the University of Ballarat (UB) has been opened at East Wimmera
Health Service, St Arnaud. The Grampians Clinical Training (Nursing) Capacity Building
Project was formed in 2010 as part of Health Workforce Australia’s Clinical Training Funding
program. It is a collaborative initiative by ACU and UB, the Department of Health, and thirteen
regional health services and organisations of the Grampians region of Victoria. The project
is focused on building clinical training capacity for undergraduate student nurses in the
Grampians region.
The majority of capital funds made available by Health Workforce Australia are funding
capital works projects in each of the health services outside of Ballarat to provide new
student accommodation. Dr Val Goodwin, Associate Head, School of Nursing, Midwifery and
Paramedicine, ACU Ballarat said that as enrolments in Bachelor of Nursing programs at ACU
and UB grow, there is a need to build additional capacity for clinical placements within Ballarat
and to better utilise the regional capacity outside Ballarat.
“Within Ballarat, the demand for clinical placements for undergraduate student nurses has
been outstripping capacity, while clinical placement capacity in regional health services
outside Ballarat has been under-utilised,” she said. The Project has also implemented a new
model for clinical training which is also anticipated to increase the clinical training capacity for Bachelor of Nursing students in the
Grampians region and to increase the utilisation of that capacity.
Health Workforce Australia, as an Australian Government Initiative, is providing $2.8 million in recurrent funding over 2011-13 and
$2.4 million in capital and establishment funding. “We are grateful to Health Workforce Australia for not only the funding, but also
for recognising the important role that student accommodation plays in building clinical training capacity,” Dr Goodwin said. By the
end of 2013, the combination of these innovations is expected to increase clinical training capacity for student nurses across the
Grampians region by 45% and approximately 50% of the increase in clinical training placements will be in rural settings.
Sarah Boswell, Marketing Coordinator - ACU
World Youth Day 2013
World Youth Day is being held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 23-28 July. The Ballarat
Diocese contingent of pilgrims will include two groups of young adults: teachers from
CEOB led by Stacey Atkins from St. Colman’s School Mortlake and health professionals
from St John of God Health Care, led by Michael Trainor from Ballarat SJOG.
Each of these groups will have a professional development focus to their pilgrimage, as
well as celebrating their personal faith with the thousands of pilgrims from around the
world, including attending Mass with the new Pope. Several other individual pilgrims
from our Diocese will be travelling to WYD to join with all the Australians staying at
“Aussie Central” in Rio.
Frs. Andrew Hayes and Matthew Thomas will accompany the group as chaplains and
Bishop Paul will commission the pilgrims at 5pm Mass in St Patrick’s Cathedral on
Sunday, 16 June. Updates will be posted on the Diocesan website and Ballarat Youth
Ministry facebook.
Amanda Smith - youth@ballarat.catholic.org.au
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
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Clergy from the Northern Zone
FR EUGENE McKINNON
Where were you born? Tell us about your childhood.
I was born in Terang and grew up on a dairy farm at Port
Campbell. I travelled to school by bus for eleven years.
Timboon Consolidated, a state school, was the centre for
my education. Sport and family were very much to the fore. I
enjoyed the space and freedom of a farming life.
When did you know you wanted to become a priest?
When and where were your ordained?
The idea of priesthood was introduced in my fourth year of
secondary school when I was 14 years old. I then went as a
boarder to St Patrick’s College in Ballarat, with the expressed
aim of learning Latin. I was ordained in the Timboon Public
Hall in 1975.
If you were a colour what would it be? Why?
Light blue…the sky is the limit, in fact there is no limit as it
reaches into eternity.
What was the best thing about becoming a priest, what
was the hardest?
I enjoy the opportunity to share closely with people at so
many important times in their lives. Also, to be a source
of hope and life for people in so many different ways. It is
difficult to be ever open to what the world challenges when sometimes the official church seems to speak a different language.
If you chose a song which most represented you at this time, what would the song be? Why?
Abba, “I have a Dream”. Somehow my belief in God helps me face the future, come what may.
Where have you been previously as a parish priest? What are some of your favourite memories?
I have been lucky to move through so many areas of the Diocese, all great opportunities to find the Spirit of Christ. Schools, homes,
sport and people all add unique flavours to my journey as a priest.
If you could choose anyone from any time, who would you most like to be in conversation with and why?
Bill W. and Dr Bob, two Americans who hit the bottom, but from there started an organisation that has brought so much hope and
recovery to so many (Alcoholics Anonymous).
Tell us about the Northern Zone? How long have you been in that part of the Diocese? What makes it special? What
challenges you?
Two years in the 70’s, four years in the 90’s and now my second year at Donald/Birchip, means that I have experienced the River and
the Mallee. The openness of the land is reflected in the openness of the people. Sure it is warmer than the South, but most people
die of something other than the heat. Distance is both a challenge and a bonus. I drive many hours, but find people of faith and warm
welcomes at the end of the trip.
What are your hopes and visions for the Catholic Church in the Ballarat Diocese?
A new Bishop, a new Pope and the bigness of God’s Spirit, means that we have a future, despite the woes of the past. As an old Divine
Word priest once said to me while I was in Papua New Guinea, “Eugene, you will find God here, if you open your eyes.” That axiom
holds true wherever I happen to be.
Finally, anything else you would like to add?
I thank God for the privilege and chance to be a part of the Diocesan team. May God bless each of us as we work into the future.
INVEST IN THE FUTURE
The CATHOLIC DEVELOPMENT FUND - DIOCESE OF BALLARAT (CDF) is an integral
source of income for the pastoral services offered by the Church across the Diocese.
The CDF allocates half of its annual operating surplus to the Diocese for pastoral and
welfare work. In addition, the CDF also provides funding for accommodation for retired
priests. The CDF enables your investment to combine with those of other parishioners
and catholic agencies and assist the Diocese through loans to parishes, schools and
other diocesan entities.
For more information please contact:
Catholic Development Fund, ‘Free Post’ PO Box 576, Ballarat 3353
Phone: 1800 134 100 Email: cdf@ballarat.catholic.org.au
9
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

Clergy from the Northern Zone
FR NEVILLE STANISLAUS
My name is Neville C G Stanislaus (my two middle names are
Christus Gnanarajah) and I am originally from the Northern
Province of Ceylon (Sri Lanka). It is a Peninsula and the city
is called Jaffna. I was born into a middle class family of six
children, four boys and two girls - I am the third son in the family.
I commenced my primary education at our home town called
Mirusuvil, which is situated 18 kilometres from Jaffna. For my
secondary studies I went to College, first to Drieberg’s College
then to St Patrick’s College in Jaffna. The only difficulty I faced
in studying in the city rather than at my home town was I had to
get up early to catch the school bus. I was lucky to grow up in the
city with a country lifestyle. I am still proud and happy about my
secondary education at St Patrick’s College where I was able to
nurture my priestly vocation.
After completing Year 12 in 1982, I joined the seminary. My Dad
wasn’t very happy about me joining the seminary. Mum and
Dad had decided not to send their children to a boarding school
because they both had been in a boarding school. Dad explained
about the meals which they provided and the timetable that I
would have to go through. I still wanted to go to the seminary
and didn’t pay much attention
towards Dad’s reasoning.
At some point in my time at
the seminary I realised that
my Dad was very honest
about conditions there and
none of my brothers would
have survived the seminary
formation. It might have had
something to do with having
servants at home to do the
house work. In my seminary
years I missed all my tasty
meals at home. It was a
hard life in the seminary
particularly washing, ironing
and working manual labour
one hour everyday before we went to more leisurely activities.
The academic curriculum (Philosophy and Theology) for the
priesthood was very similar to that of the old school where we
had a one year preparation course (Pre-Philosophy), two years
Philosophy then one year break before we commenced three
years Theology with one pastoral year, so a total of eight years
study. I was ordained in 1990 at St Mary’s Cathedral, Jaffna.
On the evening before my Ordination, St Mary’s Cathedral was
bombed. It was partly damaged. The Bishop changed the time of
my ordination from 11.00am to 6.30am. He wanted to finish the
ceremony before day light because of the air-strike. I mention
this incident because I learnt a lesson for my priesthood. Nothing
is permanent except God and I made a total surrender to God.
From the day of my Ordination I have been living with all kinds of
violence until I landed in Australia, 2002.
I asked the Bishop of Jaffna if I could go and do some studies in
Canada or America. The reason I asked him was to be closer to
my family in Canada. He ignored my request and sent me here
to Australia. Can you believe, for the first time, I realised that the
good fortune was starting to come my way.
I came to Australia in 2002 and started my ministry as a Chaplain
to the Indian and Sri Lankan Tamil community, who live in the
Archdiocese of Melbourne. My family migrated to Canada due
to the civil war that has been going on between Sinhalese and
Tamils for the last forty years in Sri Lanka. Actually, the ethnic
aggression was started by Sinhalese towards Tamils just after
independence (1948) and in later years it became more severe.
Being a Tamil from the northern part of the country, we were
very much affected by the civil riots and later by civil war which
compelled my family to migrate to Canada.
Towards the end of my term in the year of 2007, I was to go back
to Sri Lanka. I made a request to my Bishop of Jaffna to stay
for another two years so that I could continue my ministry in the
Archdiocese of Melbourne. I was afraid to go back to my country
at that time, where the Tamil people have been fleeing the country
to save their lives. They still are even now forced to leave the
country. You would hear in the media that they have been coming
by boats to Australia. I didn’t get any favourable reply from the
Bishop of Jaffna but he wrote to the Archbishop of Melbourne
asking him to send me home. The Archbishop called me and told
me that I have to leave the Archdiocese.
At this point, I decided to stay in Australia. With the help and support
of two Melbourne Priests, Fr John McCarthy and Fr Malcolm
Crawford, I was able to follow this through and it is because of
them I was able to survive in Melbourne. They encouraged me to
meet Bishop Peter Connors. I
approached Bishop Connors
and made a request to work
in this Diocese in 2008. He
welcomed me and accepted
me to do my priestly ministry
in his Diocese.
Though I approached the
Bishop in August 2008,
I started my ministry at
Camperdown in February
2009. In between this
time I took six months off
and stayed with my Mum
and family in Canada for
that period. Camperdown
is where I enjoyed the
friendship and support of two priests, Fr Michael O'Toole at Colac
and Fr Eugene McKinnon at Terang. Fr Michael had introduced
me to Bishop Peter, whom I met at Ballan with a Tamil family Dr
Antony and Anna Mariampillai. Fr Eugene took the trouble to
visit my family in Canada in 2011. These two priests helped me
to settle in the Diocese. I call Camperdown home and I think that
the parishioners of Camperdown will agree with me, as it was
the place where I had my learning process and came to know
the priests and the people of this Diocese. I am very grateful
to the people of Camperdown for their kindness, tolerance and
friendship.
Now I am happy in this Diocese and singing the song, “Looking
forward, looking back and I have come a long way down the
track” from the album called ‘Slim Dusty’. I sincerely thank the
former Bishop of Ballarat, Most Rev Peter Connors, the priests
with whom I started my priestly ministry, Fathers Tom Brophy,
Mick McKinnon, Jim McKay, Peter Hudson and all the clergy and
the people of this Diocese for accepting me to work here.
In a special way I sincerely thank current Bishop of Ballarat, Most
Rev Paul Bird, for having appointed me to a parish and all the
parishioners of Warracknabeal, Nhill and Hopetoun for welcoming
me to this parish. I enjoy the hospitality and the friendliness of the
country people.
I am a great fan of the lions, not Lankan Lions, but the Brisbane
Lions. I pray every day that they may have a good season this
year. Go Lions!!!!
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
10

Successful Art Exhibition
Last year, Years 7 & 8 from St. Mary’s School, Robinvale held their 15th
Annual Art Exhibition in the Narthex. The exhibition was officially opened
by Mrs Pam Burton who works as an Educational Advisor, and as a School
Reviewer in the Ballarat Diocese. Her comments focused on the importance
of creativity; “It is wonderful to see students display their creative talents
in so many ways and I congratulate the community for their support and
encouragement of artistic expression.”
P-8 Art teacher Mr Frank Zappia, who is also a local artist said one of the
learning intentions behind this project was for students to plan an exhibition
for public viewing, thus connecting the school to the community. “It is a
great opportunity for the year 7 & 8 students to showcase their creative
talents. A unique experience which is more commonly achieved in Years
11 and 12,” he said.
There were over one hundred and twenty artworks on display including
portraits, landscapes, still life, photography, ceramics, abstract and religious
artworks. Congratulations to Stefan Gallo (pictured left) for winning First
Prize for his colourful and vibrant mosaic work titled “The Hand of Christ”.
Thanks to Mr John Neale who donated the $50 prize money and Fr Denis
who also helped with the judging for this section. Stefan’s work will be
displayed in the Narthex for the next twleve months. Also in this category a
special mention must go to Maria Lenco who was in second place with her
imaginative work titled “Torn Apart” and Bella Pisasale who received third
place for her symbolic work titled “The Road”.
A large crowd attended the opening including many of the exhibiting
students. Also present were family and friends, parishioners and the school
personnel. A great atmosphere was created with people interacting with each other while listening to quiet background music
by Miles Davis. Delicious nibbles and light refreshments were served.
This Exhibition was the culmination of a variety of creative and imaginative works produced during the year. There were
twelve artworks sold at the opening night with the proceeds going to the students. People were encouraged to leave their
personal thoughts in a comments book, so that students could receive some feedback on the Exhibition.
Thanks to all the staff, students, parents and parishioners who helped with the Exhibition. It was also great to see former
students and past guest speakers at the opening. The night concluded with a lovely meal together at the Chinese restaurant
for those who could attend.
Overall twenty pieces of art were sold altogether from the Exhibition. Mr Zappia is already looking forward to next year’s
Exhibition. He is planning to include a “People’s Choice Award” for Best Religious and Best Original artwork.
Mr Frank Zappia
St Mary’s School Robinvale
News from Robinvale
11 Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

GRADUATION MASS
On December 11, 2012 a special Mass was held for nine students,
who were leaving St Mary's Robinvale after completing their nineth
year at our school. St Mary's is a P-8 School which is rare in the
school system.
In attendance at this celebration was the Director of Catholic
Education, Ms Audrey Brown and Ms Amanda Smith, Pastoral
Services Consultant. The Mass was a great celebration with the
school choir, under the direction of Mrs Clare Jury, lifting the roof
with their singing which did so much to enhance our celebration
of the Eucharist.
The Church was full and a special highlight came at the end of
Mass when the nine graduating students, each carrying a balloon,
left the Church in procession. They were farewelled by the whole
school who were lined across the sanctuary singing the Irish
Blessing to them. It was a very moving moment. The participation
of all present for this celebration was excellent and our school has
much to be humbly proud of.
The nine graduates were a blessing to so many over their nine
years at St Mary's, and this was shown in the good leadership they
showed to other students. A special feature was the care they
displayed to the junior part of our school.
An appropriate farewell was given to these students on this evening
in front of their parents, brothers and sisters, school teachers and
staff and other students They will certainly be missed.
May God be with them as they start a new phase of their journey
in life.
turning thirty
On December 4, 2012 St Mary’s Parish, Robinvale,
celebrated thirty years since the new Church and
Presbytery were built. In order to help us reflect on
this, slides were shown from the last celebration of the
Eucharist in the old Church, the building stages of the
new Church and Presbytery, as well as slides of the
community at worship in the new Church. After the two
weekend Masses, refreshments were served and people
shared stories about being part of the worshipping
community at that time.
The Church and Presbytery are simple buildings and
good ones at that, but it is what the buildings represent
that counts. The Presbytery is a reminder of the care the
Priests show for the people, and the Church reminds us
how people share their Catholic life through Baptism,
experience Reconciliation, are confirmed in their faith and
how they became full members of the Church when they
make their First Communion. The happy marriages, the anointings of the sick, as well as the burial of loves ones at funerals
are all occasions shared with faith. In short, the church building speaks for many special spiritual moments when people
encounter the presence of the living God in so many varied ways.
St Mary’s Robinvale has much to be grateful for, as it remembers its past thirty years.
“Faith is both a personal and a communal act: it is a gift from God that is lived in the
communion of the Church and must be communicated to the world.” William Cardinal Levada
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
12

Hard work pays off at Monivae
Former Monivae College student, Monique Edwards, has been rewarded
for her hard work in 2012 by being awarded a full boarding scholarship
from International House, a residence at Melbourne University. The
Scholarship, worth approximately $22,000 per year for three years, will
allow the 2012 Monivae student to begin her Melbourne University studies
without the financial burden that many rural students face when studying
in Melbourne.
The Dawn Wade Scholarship provided by the Dawn Wade Foundation,
was established to support a student from a rural or isolated area in the
transition to living in Melbourne to study at Melbourne University. It must
be used at one of the residential colleges on-campus - Monique will attend
International House.
Monique and her family were very excited to receive the Scholarship.
“It was great news, it means I can focus on my studies knowing that my
accommodation is all taken care of, especially as the Scholarship is for
the next three years.”
Monique was honoured at Monivae College, along with several of her
classmates at the beginning of the school year, with an assembly to
recognise high academic achievement from the previous year.
Principal, Mark McGinnity, congratulated Monique on her achievements, "It is wonderful to see the hard work of students like Monique
Edwards rewarded with very pleasing results. In particular, this quite substantial scholarship is a very fitting reward for the commitment
that Monique showed to her studies throughout her time here at Monivae College."
Simon McKinley
Director of Development & Marketing
St. Malachy’s School began their sixtieth birthday
celebrations by participating in the local Edenhope Henley
Parade on Saturday, 9th February. The students made a
huge birthday cake with sixty candles and a sign to match.
Students also made many, many, tiny birthday cupcakes to
offer to spectators as they walked in the parade. The staff
dressed up as Sisters of Mercy in recognition of the sixty
years the Sisters of Mercy have contributed to St. Malachy’s
School and Parish.
Sunday, 3rd March, St. Malachy’s School saw the celebration
of the opening of the 2013 school year and further celebration
of sixty years at the 11:00am Mass. There were fifty-five
Sisters of Mercy who have been involved in the school and
parish ministry since 1953 and in honour of these special
women students added fifty-five figs to the fig tree as part of
the Gospel Reading. A plaque was also unveiled at Mass
to remember the fifty-five Sisters of Mercy who have been
involved in the faith journey of the school. A BBQ lunch was
held back at school after Mass.
sixty year celebrations
Angela Kealy
Principal – St Malachy’s School Edenhope
13
Sisters of Mercy at the Celebrations
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

Open -Air Mass
It was during discussions at our Parish Leadership Team meeting
in July, that we suggested having a day of remembrance for
friends and loved ones who have passed away around the time of
All Souls Day. It was decided to celebrate the Eucharist within the
Bungaree Cemetery grounds at Pootilla on Sunday, November
11, which fortunately coincided with Remembrance Day.
Fr Shane Mackinlay celebrated Mass on the cemetery grounds,
together with many parishioners from the Bungaree and Gordon
districts, their families and visitors to our Parish.
Our Parish open-air Mass at the Bungaree Cemetery began with
the remarkable sound of the bagpipes playing “The Skye Boat
Song” on a sunny spring morning.
Seven of the Clan Macleod Pipes and Drums from Bendigo,
together with our three local guitarists, Mary, Kaylene and Fiona,
beautifully led the music and singing during the Mass.
Members of the congregation were in no hurry to move on as
they enjoyed the warm sunshine, the company and a reflective
walk through the cemetery with their families sharing memories
of their loved ones.
In light of the many positive comments by those present, as they
were emotionally touched by the celebration, it has been decided
to celebrate Mass there again this year on Sunday, November
10.
Helen Mahar
Bungaree Parish
TOY DRIVE
Centacare Family & Community Services Northern team
set out to support families at Christmas time last year by
undertaking a toy drive. As Christmas gets closer, many
families find themselves in tough circumstances, especially
in these trying times. Centacare work with many families
and we provide a strength-based family support service that
we wanted to complement by also being able to brighten up
Christmas, by means of assisting families in their gift giving.
The Family and Community Services Team recognise that
Christmas can be a very difficult time for some of our most
disadvantaged and vulnerable families. So to support these
families and to raise awareness within the local community,
the team set out to run a toy drive leading up to Christmas.
This was well received in the community, with Kmart offering
Centacare the opportunity to join in the Christmas promotions
they were running by delivering a BBQ to customers, which
helped us raise a considerable amount of money that
supported us in purchasing toys for disadvantaged children.
Many local businesses and organisations also got on board
with this worthwhile and rewarding project, such as the
Mildura Police Department, Department of Human Services
and Hudak’s Bakery to name a few. With the support of a
very generous community, the team was able to provide
eighty-two Christmas presents to children in need.
Allison Cliffe
Regional Manager Family & Community Services Northern
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
14

BUDDY PROGRAM!
Sacred Heart Primary School in Mildura has established a wonderful “Buddy” program
over the years with many benefits, not just for the Foundation child and the Year 6
child, but also for the parents and teachers!
Each year during October, the Year 5 children go to the kindergartens to meet their
new little Buddy. We also take with us the current Foundation children so they have
the opportunity to see their kinder teacher again and show them how ‘grown up’ they
are in their school uniform after nearly a year at school!
After the kinder visits,
we then have three
Orientation Days, where
the little children come
to experience time in the
classroom and spend time
with their special buddy.
During the Christmas
holidays, the Year 6
child writes a letter to
their buddy and includes
a
photo of them together
that was taken during the
Orientation Days.
At the start of the school year the big buddies are at the classroom door ready
to greet their new little friend, spend some time at school with them and give
support if needed.
The relationships that are developed through this ‘Buddy’ program are invaluable and can sometimes last until the little person has
grown and is in Year 6 (about to receive their own new buddy) and their big buddy is graduating from Year 12.
A day of mixed emotions for SPC
Chris Carmichael
Foundation Unit Co-ordinator
It was a day of mixed emotions at St Patrick’s College Ballarat this year when
the school celebrated St Patrick’s Day on March 17.
On the one hand it was a day of incredible joy for the school as it celebrated
its 120th anniversary with a Mass and luncheon in the Old Collegians Pavilion.
With a record enrolment of 1375 students in 2013, there is much reason to
celebrate such a significant milestone.
However, on the other hand, it was also a time of reflection and sadness for
the College as it officially farewelled the Christian Brothers, who have had
an ongoing presence on school grounds since 1893. The Christian Brothers’
community in Ballarat officially closed at the end of 2012 and St Patrick’s
College honoured those many decades of wonderful service during this year’s
St Patrick’s Day festivities.
Just one Christian Brother, Br Evan Zoch, will remain living on the College
grounds. Preparations are underway for the school to make full and appropriate
use of the grand old Brothers’ House, which is so prominent and outstanding
facing the College entrance.
As St Patrick’s Day fell on a Sunday, the school organised two separate
celebrations. A special Mass for the staff, students and Old Collegians
Association was held on Friday, March 15 while an invitation only special
Mass and luncheon took place on March 17 to acknowledge both the 120th
anniversary and to farewell the Christian Brothers.
Mr Paul Nolan
Director of Community Development
A rarely seen view from inside the Brothers’ House Library looking out over the front entrance to St Patrick’s College. Photo: Jeremy Bannister
15 Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

EMMANUEL COLLEGE OPENING MASS
Under a brilliant blue sky, approximately 1300 students and 175
staff members gathered on the oval at the McAuley Campus
on February 6 for the 2013 Emmanuel College, Warrnambool,
Opening Mass. A contingent of parents were also able to join in
this special event, where the new students and staff members
were officially welcomed to the Emmanuel College family and
student leaders were inducted.
A special guest at this event was Br Paul Oakley who, at the
conclusion of the Mass, officially welcomed Emmanuel College
to Edmund Rice Education Australia as a member school and
presented a plaque to Principal, Peter Morgan. The mission of
Edmund Rice Education Australia is to reinforce the distinctive
values of Edmund Rice Education through a national and
unified network of Australian schools and educational entities.
The theme of the Mass was ‘Actions Speak.’ This was
developed by Emmanuel College student leaders as the theme
for the College for 2013. College Captains, Maria Moloney and
Matthew Bushell, spoke about the theme and Principal Morgan
implored the students to be people of action and to become fully
involved in College life throughout the year.
Jean Christie
Director of Marketing - Emmanuel College
Top Picture: Approximately 1700 students, 175 staff members and a
contingent of parents attended the outdoor Mass
Middle: College Captains Maria Moloney and Matthew Bushell, Principal
Peter Morgan and Br Paul Oakley with the certificate welcoming Emmanuel
College as an Edmund Rice Education School
Below: Emmanuel Home Room representatives collect a candle for their
rooms
PRAYER FOR THE YEAR OF FAITH
Lord Jesus, You entrusted your Church
with the mission to proclaim the Good News to all the nations.
You sent the Holy Spirit to strengthen those who would bear the message of salvation.
In this year may the same Holy Spirit strengthen our faith and inspire us with the words
and deeds that, by our efforts and through your grace, the people of our time
will hear of You, will believe in You and will come to the beauty of knowing You.
Who live and reign with God the Father in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
One God, for ever and ever.
Amen.
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
16

Service Congratulations Community Contribution Generosity
TEAMWORK EARNS COMMUNITY ACCOLADES
Two Colac and District teams have shared this year’s
Colac Otway Shire Community Service Award. Mayor Lyn
Russell presented Apollo Bay Sisters of Mercy Sr. Margaret
Kelly and Sr. Patricia O’Brien and community broadcaster
OCR FM with the accolades recently. The radio station’s
volunteers were also at the Apollo Bay ceremony to do a live
broadcast of the festivities.
Sr. Margaret Kelly has helped runaways, victims of domestic
disputes, the poor and disabled since moving to Apollo Bay
in 1987. She also collects for charities, delivers Meals on
Wheels and helps with street stalls. Sr. Pat O’Brien arrived
at Apollo Bay in 1999 as a Parish Assistant and is involved
with the Lions Club’s low-cost accommodation, the St
Vincent de Paul Society and visits sick and elderly people at
the Otway Health hostel.
Sr. Pat said her role often presented challenges but gave
her satisfaction for helping others. “We were educated
by the Sisters of Mercy; we were inspired by our teachers
to follow their footsteps,” she said. “It’s a privilege and a
pleasure to live in this part of the world – apart from being a
very beautiful place, it’s a very supportive community.” Sr.
Margaret said the award was also a credit to the Sisters of
Mercy. “We just love people,” she said. “Being the Sisters
of Mercy, it’s our whole life.”
HUGE SHOCK FOR BOB
Sr Margaret Kelly and Sr Pat O’Brien
Article courtesy of Colac Herald. Text by Jennifer Chiu
Bob Pollock says he was “shocked” to receive an Order of Australia for his eighteen years of service to the St Vincent de Paul Society.
Mr. Pollock from Red Cliffs, said it was an honour he never expected. “It was a big shock when I got the letter from Canberra,” he said.
“I wasn’t’ going to accept it because I don’t like the fanfare, but it’s an honour to be recognised for the work you’ve done.”
Mr. Pollock’s involvement with Vinnies began about seventeen years ago. “A friend of mine was in it and they asked me to go along,”
he said. “I didn’t think it was for me and about a year later I was Conference President and a few years later I was North West Council
President.”
Mr. Pollock has been a St Vincent de Paul Society member since about
1995, held the position of Sunraysia Regional Council President from 2004-
2006 and founded the Hopetoun St Vincent de Paul Conference in 2005.
He said one of his biggest achievements was helping with the establishment
of nine independent living units for people in need in Red Cliffs and starting
the Mildura Vinnies Budget Groceries store.
“I just enjoy helping people out,” he said. “And there’s always a need here. I
saw the Vinnies stores in Melbourne and Ballarat and thought we should do
it here, so we put it to the State Council and made it happen.” Mr. Pollock
said helping people and seeing the success of people gaining employment
through volunteering at the store kept him going.
His willingness to help others has also been passed on to his son Barry, who
is the Regional Council President and is involved with Vinnies along with his
wife and two daughters. Mr. Pollock said the Order of Australia recognition
was a chance for him to reflect on his achievements and the things he’d
done.
17
Article courtesy of Sunraysia Daily
Text by Megan Frankel-Vaughan: Picture: Clancy Shipsides
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

LENDING AN EAR
SR PAM FAREWELLED
A local man has been
recognised for his
contribution to the
community through
social welfare
organisations with
an inclusion in this
years Australian
Honours List.
For years, Thomas
Donohue spent
much of his time
lending an ear to the
people of Ballarat,
that today has
been recognised
for his input to the
community with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM).
Mr Donohue said he never expected to be recognised for
what he considers only a small contribution to Ballarat.
“It’s a real surprise for me, for a little person in the community
like me to receive this; I am very grateful,” he said. “You
don’t expect things like this to happen to you and in a way
I don’t feel I deserve it because there are so many people
doing so many good things in the community.”
What started out as fortnightly visits to the local jail, continued
with visits to the local hospitals and eventually to aged care
homes where Mr Donohue spent his time listening to those
who rarely had anyone to talk to. “You had to listen and
not talk; I have met some beautiful people because of it,”
he said.
Mr Donohue said he is humble to be part of a community
like Ballarat and that it is the generosity of the townspeople
that have made his award all the more worth it. “It gives me
a great lift to know that someone has nominated me for this
award and to receive it is even more gratifying,” he said.
“Ballarat is a great place, they talk about the beauty of the
lake and the gardens but it’s the beauty underneath the
people that counts most.”
Thomas Donohue (OAM)
Volunteer, Nazareth House since the 1950s; includes visiting
residents and fundraising
Member, St Patrick’s Conference, St Vincent De Paul
Society from the 1950s to 2002, served as President and
Secretary during the 1970s and 1980s; President O’Collins
Youth Centre Management Committee for years.
President, Ballarat Regional Council, St Vincent de Paul
Society for three eyars
Inaugural president St Vincent de Paul Store for five years.
Early times with the Society included fortnightly visits to the
local jail, later days involved weekly visits to the hospitals
and finally a weekly visit to aged care homes up to 2011.
Article courtesy of the Ballarat Courier
Prior to Christmas and in early January, the very popular Sr Pam
Barlow was farewelled by parishioners and school children from the
Gordon Parish.
Sr Pam was appointed as the Gordon Parish Leader in 2010 to
help the parish develop an appropriate structure to meet their
organisational and spiritual needs, after Father Michael O’Toole
moved to the Colac parish.
In her three years in the parish and local community, Sr Pam has
been very active meeting the needs of people in Gordon, Ballan,
Springbank and the wider communities. She would also be seen
helping with the Lion’s BBQ and popping into local functions. Each
week she visited the three Catholic schools in the parish to talk with
the children, parents and teachers.
After three years as Parish Leader, Sr Pam has received another
appointment. She has facilitated the structural changes in the
Gordon parish and after a short retreat in New Zealand, Sr Pam will
be moving to Edenhope.
Peter Johnson
Principal - St Brigid’s Primary School, Ballan
Top Photo:
Sr Pam receiving an Irish Blessing from the children and
staff at St Brigid’s school
Bottom Photo:
Sharing a cuppa with Fr Barry Ryan and Fr Shane
Mackinlay after a farewell Mass in Springbank
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
18

Catholic Education welcomes in a new year
A NEW VISION FOR CATHOLIC EDUCATION OFFICE BALLARAT (CEOB)
During 2012, the Catholic Education Office Ballarat - in liaison with the Ballarat Diocesan Schools Advisory Council (BDSAC) and school
leaders from across the diocese - re-defined our vision of service and leadership. It is to this new vision that each CEOB staff member
has made a commitment in 2013 – and we look forward to aligning our work more fully with the new vision as the year unfolds.
VISION
With Jesus Christ as our source, the Catholic Education Office Ballarat strives, through service and leadership:
• to nurture respectful and trusting relationships,
• to facilitate learning that builds capacity and promotes flourishing,
• to enable effective stewardship.
BEGINNING OF SCHOOL YEAR MASS 2013
Principals, teachers and support staff from the seventeen Primary and three Secondary schools in the local Ballarat area, gathered with
staff from St Alipius Catholic Kindergarten, the Australian Catholic University, the Catholic Education Office and the Diocesan Office to
begin the 2013 school year. Bishop Paul commissioned all who attended the Mass, asking them to support Catholic Education and all
who have a role in this important aspect of our Church life. The Mass was con-celebrated with Priests of Ballarat who were encouraged
to continue to sustain the staff, students and parents in each of our Catholic schools.
In his Homily, Bishop Paul reminded us that “The Scriptures teach us that if we ask for wisdom, all the other gifts we need will be given
to us as well.” For as we heard in our first reading today from the Book of Wisdom: "I prayed, and prudence was given me; I pleaded
and the spirit of wisdom came to me. I deemed riches nothing in comparison with her. Beyond health and beauty I loved her. Yet all
good things came to me with wisdom, and countless riches at her hands." As teachers and those who work in education, we should be
asking for the wisdom to guide our students in their life journeys.
This gathering of staff involved in Catholic education was one of a number of such gatherings around the Diocese. It is an important time
to welcome and commit Staff who are new to our schools. It is also a time for those who have been involved in Catholic Education for
some time to reflect upon the important role that each one plays in the lives of young people in our schools.
At the various celebrations across our Diocese, we welcomed the following Principals in 2013 and wish them every blessing in their
school leadership:
• Catherine (Kate) Harney, St Patrick’s Primary School, Stawell
• Margaret Timms and Noreen McLeish (Co-Principals), Sacred Heart Primary School, Casterton
• Michael Mahoney, St Mary’s Primary School, Colac
• Michael O'Riley, St Francis Xavier Primary School, Ballarat East
• Paul Delahunty, St Patrick’s Primary School, Nhill
• Peter Morgan, Emmanuel College, Warrnambool
• Sonia Turner, St Augustine’s Primary School, Maryborough
• Vince Muscatello, St Paul’s Primary School, Mildura
New staff members were also welcomed to the Catholic Education Office
• Tony Perkins – Educational Consultant – Primary
• Kevin Cummins – Education Officer – ICT
• Jesse McCluskey – Speech Pathologist
• Leesa Battistello – Religious Education Officer – Primary
• Carmel McCormick - Religious Education Officer – Primary
• Jo-anne Van Der Voort - Religious Education Officer – Primary
• Jim Waight - Religious Education Officer – Primary
We wish to take this opportunity to hope and pray that each of us, whether new to our role or one who has been in a role for some time,
will be people Journeying together in Faith and in Grace.
Peter Kerwan and Susan Crowe - Catholic Education Ballarat
Working together for the system
Four education leaders from our diocese are participants in a new Masters in
Educational System Leadership being offered by Australian Catholic University.
During January, Audrey Brown (Director of Catholic Education), Julie Duynhoven
(Manager, Finance and Administration, Catholic Education Office), Daniel
Gooch (Principal, St Mary’s School, Donald) and Leigh Mitchell (Assistant
Director of Catholic Education), joined a cohort of school and system leaders
from across Australia at a summer school in Sydney to commence the study.
The week-long residential enabled participants to reflect on their leadership,
explore how school and system leaders can work more effectively to maximize
student learning and discern how they might address the challenges facing
Catholic education now and in the future. Project work for the course will engage
participants in problem solving with leaders from other states and overseas.
19
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

From the Director
A warm welcome to all the families
commencing with or returning to a Catholic
school in the Diocese of Ballarat in 2013.
Thank you for making the commitment to
Catholic education and for joining in the
continuing mission of Catholic education - to
ensure that every student will flourish and
that every student, staff member and family
will experience the presence of the risen Christ in our schools. The
partnership between families, schools, parishes and the Catholic
Education Office is one which we take very seriously because we
care about the learning, spiritual formation and growth of every
student.
Catholic education faces many challenges in this election year.
You will be aware that Catholic schools in Victoria educate nearly
one-in-four Victorian students. You may not be aware, however,
that on average, Catholic students receive 20 per cent less
government funding than students in government schools. When
fees from parents are included, Catholic schools operate on
around 90 per cent of the cost of Victorian government schools.
Celebrating 25 years
On Friday, February 8, St Mary MacKillop College
Swan Hill celebrated the very special occasion of their
25th Anniversary as a Year 7-12 Secondary School, in
conjunction with the Opening School Mass at St Mary’s
Catholic Church. The Mass was celebrated by Bishop Paul
Bird and concelebrated by Frs Marcello Colosante, John
Monaghan and Peter Ferwerda.
The report on the Australian Government’s Review of School
Funding was published early in 2012. As a deadline for a decision
on school funding approaches in 2013, the government’s response
to that review is still unclear. The exact amount of funding that
Catholic students might receive is still uncertain. If funding is
frozen or fails to keep pace with funding to government schools,
school fees may increase and this would make Catholic education
more difficult for many families to afford. In Catholic education, we
are continuing to work with the Australian Government to secure
equitable and sustainable funding for our schools.
Along with all current students and staff, many past
students, parents and staff were in attendance. More than
seven hundred people filled the church, which began with
a short DVD of the history of the school, compiled by the
school’s archivist, Mrs Karen Teal. Included in the guests
were the school’s first and second principals, Sr Lyn Young
and Tim Bennett.
Following Mass, guests joined in a luncheon in the Parish
Function Centre, whilst the students shared a BBQ in the
school grounds. For those of us who have been here a
while, it was lovely to see old faces returning after so many
years.
Alison Wright
Acting Religious Education Co-ordinator
The Catholic Education Office looks forward to working with all our
families and schools in 2013 as we create the conditions for every
student to flourish. Whilst there are challenges ahead, we know
that we can achieve much together.
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
Audrey Brown
Director of Catholic Education
Leadership Students receiving their name
badges at the Silver Jubilee Mass
20

Silver Jubilee Celebrations
Horsham's Ss Michael and John's Catholic Church celebrated its 25th anniversary recently. The anniversary coincided with a reunion
for former Brigidine Convent students. Committee member Marie Foley, launched a book at the reunion of the convent's history,
Journey from Acorn to Oak. More than one hundred and twenty past students attended the reunion, while about five hundred people
joined in a special Anniversary Mass.
Molly Morrissey and her daughter Phoebe Davies travelled from Melbourne for the events. Mrs Morrissey was a boarder at the convent
between 1940 and 1941, while Mrs Davies was a day student from 1951 to 1961, before her family moved to Melbourne. The pair
said there had been several changes since they left the Wimmera. "There is no convent and I still remember the old church,'' Mrs
Davies said. She said she recognised names at the reunion but not many faces. The pair said they had also noticed several changes
throughout Horsham mainly the expansion of the town.
Fathers John McKinnon and Frank Madden
returned for the anniversary celebrations. Fr
McKinnon attended school at the convent
from the end of 1939 to 1946. "It's a bit of a trip
down nostalgia lane,'' he said. Fr McKinnon
was also a parish priest at Ss Michael and
John's Catholic Church a decade ago until
his retirement four years ago. He said it was
great to see everyone's smiling faces at the
special Mass.
Parish Priest Peter Hudson said the reunion
and book launch were highlights of the
weekend. "People reminisced on times in
the convent and what the whole Brigidine
spirituality meant to them all,'' he said. There
were a lot of memories being shared.'' The $1
million church opened on May 10, 1987.
From back, Fr Peter Hudson, architect Gregory Burgess and Fr Frank Madden, front,
Fr John McKinnon and planning committee chairman Denis O Brien celebrate Ss
Michaels and John’s Catholic Church’s 25th anniversary after a special Mass.
.
Article courtesy of The Wimmera Mail-Times
Text by Cassandra Dalgleish
Picture: Samantha Camarri
clergy annual retreat
“Enlarge the place of your tent,
and let the curtains of your habitations be stretched out;
hold not back, lengthen your cords
and strengthen your stakes.
For you will spread abroad to the right and to the left,
and your descendants will possess the nations
and will people the desolate cities.” (Isaiah 54:2,3)
Josephite Sister, Genevieve Ryan, used this quote for her inspirational and
challenging addresses during the annual clergy retreat for the priests of the
Diocese. It was a piece of Scripture which was very important in the spiritual
formation and insight of Saint Mary Mackillop.
Sr. Genevieve drew from the life and letters of Saint Mary and her associates to show how the saint had lived out this message and she
challenged us as priests of the Diocese to likewise enlarge our vision, but at the same time to ensure that our spirituality is well grounded
in the ‘soil’, the history and culture, of this land. Sr. Genevieve reminded us of the many obstacles which Saint Mary Mackillop faced,
but also of the faith, courage and resolution with which she faced them.
Thirty two priests participated in the retreat held in beautiful and awe inspiring Halls Gap and came away refreshed by the opportunity
to rest and pray and to enjoy each other’s company. We were grateful for the wisdom and story telling gifts of Sr. Genevieve who used
the life and times of Saint Mary Mackillop to draw us into a deeper consideration of our times and our mission.
Fr. Adrian McInerney
Parish Priest of Ballarat East
21
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

college mourns a great brother
St Patrick’s College is mourning the loss of former long-serving staff
member Br Herbert Theodore Breach who died peacefully, aged 96. Br
Breach will be remembered by many former staff and students as one of
the most influential and popular Christian Brothers to have served at St
Patrick’s College.
Br Breach joined the College for his first stint in 1974 as a Senior French
Master. He also coached the First XI cricket team with distinction and
provided valuable assistance to the hurdlers, shot putters and senior
hockey team.
After six years in Ballarat, Br Breach was transferred to Treacy College in
Melbourne. In 1984, he returned to St Patrick’s College where he remained
on staff until retirement in 2002. In retirement, Br Breach continued to live
in residence in the Brothers’ House, before moving to Nazareth House
where he spent his final days.
Alongside his teaching and coaching, Br Breach also cultivated the
College’s annual Purton Oratory competition and today junior students
compete for the Br H.T. Breach Oratory Cup. St Patrick’s College
Headmaster Dr Peter Casey said Br Breach would be remembered
fondly by generations of former students and parents for his wisdom and
kindness.
“The College extends its sympathies to the Christian Brothers, and to Br
Breach’s family and friends at this time,” Dr Casey said.
“Br Breach will be remembered as one of the most popular teachers to
have ever worked at St Patrick’s and his passing will be mourned by
thousands who have studied and played sport under his guidance.”
A Requiem Mass, celebrated by Bishop Peter Connors, was celebrated on
Thursday, February 21 at in the College Chapel.
Mr Paul Nolan, Director of Community Development
St Patrick’s College Ballarat
“Light our Way”
The students, staff and community of St Patrick’s Primary School, Camperdown, celebrated the start of the school year on
Thursday, February 7. Our theme this year was “Light Our Way”. This celebration was a chance to introduce our Prep children
and their families to our school community. The Prep children were blessed by the Grade 6 children using our Irish Blessing.
We welcomed four new staff members, Leah Sinnott, Fran Bateman, Sara Rollings and Leah Buckle, as well as a number of
other new students. The staff were commissioned by Fr Matthew Thomas PP, and the children gave a special blessing to the
staff members. Each class was given a blessed candle to use in their classroom throughout the year to ‘Light their Way’.
After Mass, our School Principal,
Mr Michael McKenzie, spoke to the
congregation about his hopes and dreams
for St Patrick’s School in 2013. The
Grade 6 students, House captains and
Student Representative Council members
received their badges. To conclude the
celebration our School and Vice Captains
Sidney Bradshaw, Ella Gleeson, Maddie
Penry and Zach Sinnott, gave their
opening speeches. It was a wonderful way
to start our journey together for 2013.
Michael McKenzie
Principal - St Patrick School Camperdown
Children receiving their class candles for 2013
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
22

Knights break new ground
with scholarship scheme
The Ballarat Branch of the Knights of the Southern Cross
is delighted to report that all three Year 5 applicants for its
inaugural Secondary Education Scholarships Scheme, that
was explained in ODC in November 2012, were successful.
The purpose of the $2000 scholarships is to assist Catholic
families that lack enough resources to afford Catholic
secondary education for their children, with ‘seed’ money to
enable enrolment. The awardees were Jack Seamons, a
student at St Columba’s, Ballarat North; Matthew Harbour, Our
Lady Help of Christians, Wendouree and Lilia Manok, Lumen
Christi, Delacombe. They can now proceed to enrolment at
the regional Catholic secondary school of their choice with
financial confidence.
The KSC is grateful for the generous collaboration of the CEO
with this project and is planning to continue this education
support program with similar grants in future.
The Branch can also report on the success of another
scholarship scheme that it helped conduct in 2012, again
in collaboration with the CEO, on behalf of State Council of
the Knights, the J J Tomlinson Scholarship program, which
embraced the whole of the Diocese of Ballarat. While the
number of applications received from the 50+ Catholic primary
schools was rather disappointing, the two successful Year 6
awardees for the $1000 grants and their chosen secondary
schools were from St Augustine’s School, Creswick: Keighan
Wray (St Patrick’s College) and William Grawich (Damascus
College) . These scholarships will be available next in Ballarat
Diocese in 2016.
Peter Finlayson
KSC Branch Chairman
Catherine King Award
for retiring teacher
Yvonne Horsfield was a worthy recipient of the annual
Catherine King MHR Community Award at St Brigid’s Primary
School, Ballan. At St Brigid’s, Yvonne was affectionately
called Senora Ivana by all her classes in which she taught
Italian. Presenting the award on behalf of Catherine was Di
McAuliffe.
Pictured below: J J Tomlinson Scholarship awardees with their
proud parents, from LtoR: Keith and Leonie Wray, Keighan Wray,
Peter Finlayson, KSC Branch Chairman, William Grawich and Maria
Grawich.
During Signora Ivana’s many lessons to the children, she
has shared her love and passion for everything that is Italian.
We have experienced Carnevale, Italian pasta, Renaissance
dancing and “happy Birthday” Italian style. Each Tuesday we
have welcomed Yvonne who has kept us guessing with the
latest colourful hair style, the most intriguing stockings and life
experiences she weaves into her lessons.
Recently Yvonne took up the challenge to document the
history of St Brigid’s school – the school that has been a very
important part of her life this last decade. It is a factual account
of how this school has grown over the years and is a valuable
source of information about early Ballan.
Yvonne has been actively involved in the Royal South Street
competition – not as a participant but as one of the behind the
scenes helpers. She records the comments of the judges to
provide feedback to the participants.
Yvonne has had a long association with the Ballarat Fine Art
Gallery – providing informative tours and conducting education
to the visitors.
Yvonne has retired from teaching to spend more time with her
husband, Linton, her grandchildren and to research a book on
her Chinese ancestry
Peter Johnson
Principal - St Brigid’s Ballan
23
www.prayertoons.com.au
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

Vintage Vogue at Sea Lake
Sea Lake was transformed into the Mallee’s ‘fashion capital’
recently when a large crowd gathered at the Community Centre to
witness a vintage fashion parade. Hosted by St. Mary’s Catholic
Parish, the parade featured an extensive collection of vintage
fashions from Swan Hill fashion house ‘The Wardrobe’.
Local business ‘Country Chicks’ also took part in the fashion
extravaganza with items from the Lorna Jane and Vigorella
collections making their debut down the Sea Lake catwalk. An
appreciative crowd enjoyed a complementary glass of champagne
or punch upon arrival before settling in for an afternoon of
fashion and frivolity. The long room at the Sea Lake and District
Community Centre had been transformed for the event with
ornaments and clothing from Jo Brady’s extensive collection
adorning the tables and walls.
Wendy Maher and Petria Wooding
The organising committee for the fashion parade, Jenny Newell,
Nancy Summerhayes, Maria Dorigo, Kate Bibby, Jo Brady and
Chris Sewell.
1940’s bridal gown featuring a lace hooded cape and short train
was modelled by Georgia Martin who was flanked by Ash Roberts
in a flowing peach bridesmaid gown. However it was when the
final outfits were modelled that the crowd really erupted. Strutting
the catwalk in striking ‘mother of the bride’ ensembles were
local fashion icons, Margaret Rinaldi, Marion Daniels and former
Stubbs’ Drapery model, Shirley Willey. This trio was nothing short
of ‘elegant and refined’.
After the parade guests were invited to enjoy refreshments at the
bar and everything modelled, plus a range of accessories, were
available for sale. The event raised well in excess of $1,500 for
St. Mary’s Catholic Parish and was a credit to the organisers, a
sub-committee of St. Mary’s Parish Council.
Article courtesy of Bernie Clohesy
Sea Lake & Wycheproof Times Ensign
The show, which was hosted by Nancy Summerhayes and Simon
Severin, featured more than eighty outfits that were paraded down
the runway by a contingent of professional and elegant models
who represented a range of ages, shapes and sizes. During the
vintage segment of the show, the crowd was taken for a nostalgic
trip down memory lane with ensembles from the 1920’s through
to the retro and current fashions, expertly put together by fashion
icons Wendy Maher and Petria Wooding from ‘The Wardrobe’.
Among the many memorable pieces to feature was a pair of long
white 1960’s lace up boots that were teamed with mini-dresses
popular during that era. Other crowd favourites included a 1950’s
black velvet and white tulle gown and a Parisian inspired 1940’s
button up navy blue dress and matching hat. More modern
fashionistas enjoyed the Lorna Jane and Vigorella collections
which are designed to be both practical and flattering and are
locally available from ‘Country Chicks’.
The day included a sumptuous afternoon tea that almost won as
many compliments as the fashions. Following the intermission
Woomelang singer Denita Donnan (who was also one of the
models) sang a bracket of songs, interspersed with some
amusing and cheeky banter that added to the jovial atmosphere.
Returning to the podium in a specially selected outfit, host Nancy
Summerhayes expressed her disappointment that her co-host had
not noticed. With some expert ‘back peddling’ Simon attempted
to rectify the situation, humbling and publicly apologising for his
oversight.
The fun continued with dozens more outfits on display and the
parade concluded with a bridal-themed finale. A long white
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Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
24

DOCTORS’ STORIES REVEALED
Sister Assumption Neary has witnessed decades of doctors make
a huge contribution to St John of God Ballarat Hospital. Sr Neary
started with the hospital in 1959 and has seen ‘enormous change’
and growth over the years. “The doctors have made an enormous
contribution”, she said. “They have referred patients to St John of
God Hospitals around Australia.
The story of the doctors has now been compiled into a historical
book, Decades of Doctors by St John of God Health Care.
Arunsasalan Ambikapthy, one of the doctors depicting Ballarat’s
history in the book, said the hospital had grown from a general to
a specialist hospital and now it was a teaching hospital. “We’ve
got residents here now and they’ve made a huge contribution to
the quality of care,” he said. St John of God Ballarat Hospital
Chief Executive Officer Michael Krieg said the book provided a
“fascinating insight” into the evolution of the practice of medicine
and nursing care. “Doctors associated with St John of God Health
Care working alongside of sister nurses, and later our lay nursing
staff, have both pioneered and embraced this evolution, touching
the lives of countless patients and their families along the way,”
he said.
Decades of Doctors also reveals the heart-warming stories of
our doctors pro-bono work with overseas patients and those less
fortunate closer to home, which we are proud to encourage and
support”.
Article courtesy of the Ballarat Courier
Text by Rachel Afflick; Photo by Jeremy Bannister
St Brigid's in Ballan Celebrates
Ballan’s historic St Brigid’s Catholic Church celebrated its
100th birthday late last year. More than five hundred people
came to blow the birthday candles out and joined in on a
special morning service. However, for many in the Ballan
community, the remarkable milestone meant much more than
just a birthday.
Four years ago, the church was completely gutted by fire
and it wasn’t until late 2010 that it was fully restored. Ballan
resident Tom Mullane said the anniversary was made all the
more special after what the community went through to get
the church back to what it was. “It was a massive clean-up
task but when I look at it now, the church looks almost the
same, but just a little more modern,” the 88-year-old said.
Margaret Green and Tom Mullane with Bishop Paul at Ballan’s
St Brigid’s Catholic Church’s 100th birthday celebration.
Dr Arunsasalan Ambikapthy, Sr Assumption Neary and CEO Michael
Krieg at St John of God Health Care’s launch of the Decades of
Doctors book.
Mr Mullane, who was baptised at St Brigid’s twelve years
after the church opened, said it felt like a home away from
home. “There were nine kids in our family and we used to
ride our horse and cart four and a half miles to church every
Sunday,” he said. Throughout his life, Mr Mullane said the
church remained a constant in not only his life, but now his
family’s.
“Three of my granddaughters were married here and four
of my grandchildren have been baptised here as well,” he
said. The last wedding to be held before the fire was one of
the Mullane granddaughters and the first wedding after the
church was restored was also a Mullane wedding. “The 100th
anniversary was a very special day for me. “This church
means a lot to me and I have so many wonderful memories
from here,” he said.
Article courtesy of the Ballarat Courier
Text by Sharni Carroll
A Centenary – 100 years worth celebrating
Early notice
In October 2014 St Francis Xavier School (formerly ‘Villa Maria’), Fortune Street
Ballarat East will celebrate 100 years since the registration of the school as as
an educational institution.
The celebrations will take place on the weekend of 25/26 October. To date a
small group of school community members have been meeting to animate what
might happen to mark this occasion.
Keep your eye on the school website www.sfxballarat.catholic.edu.au for
ongoing information and please spread the word.
25
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

Well Done and Thank You!
We acknowledge and pay tribute to Jim Watson who has served on the Catholic Development
Fund Board for twenty –five years and retired at the end of last year when his term as a
member of the Board expired.
Jim joined the board on 16th June 1987, and as far as the world goes, this was a pretty
insignificant day everywhere except for the Ballarat Provident Fund (now CDF) because on
that day twenty-five years ago Jim Watson joined Mons Leo Fiscalini, Fr Frank Madden, Denis
Westbrook, Ray McCluskey, Jim Griffin and Jim Ryan on the board of the CDF. Fr Peter
Hudson also joined on this day. Jim joined illustrious company as all these men are highly
respected in the catholic community.
Twenty-five years is a great achievement. Jim became Chairman of the CDF in 1996 having
first served as “Acting Chair” for 12 months from December 1995 until December 1996. In
Jim’s first year as chair, the Fund made $475k, set $75k aside as a provision for doubtful debts
and distributed $188k to the diocese. Assets at the time were $20m. Advance to today and assets exceed $120m and over $7.75 million
has been distributed to the diocese. And the $75k for doubtful debts wasn’t needed!!
Jim’s experience in the financial world came from working with Byrne Jones and Torney (now BJT Legal) beginning in 1952 and
remaining there until his retirement in 1997. At BJT he was part of the establishment of Ballarat Securities, a massive success over a
long period of time. This was later to become Victorian Securities and again later sold to Bendigo Bank. As Geoff Torney has said he
was a “money man”. He understood lending.
Jim brought a quiet wisdom to all meetings. Meetings were never unruly although a laugh was often shared. The debate was open and
frank and everyone had a chance to participate. Yet at the end of the discussion Jim had a way of bringing all those comments together
in such a way that everyone seemed happy with the outcome.
Apart from Jim’s contribution to the Catholic Development Fund, he has been very involved in the local community with organisations
such as YCW Creswick, St Patrick’s College Advisory Board, Nazareth House Committee, St Columba’s Credit Union, Cathedral
Finance Committee, just to name a few.
His commitment to the church and community is to be commended and we wish Jim and Maureen all the best in retirement.
Mark Bromley
Manager - CDF
SPIRITUAL DIRECTOR FAREWELLED
On November 14, 2012 at our weekly Legion of Mary meeting, we farewelled our Spiritual Director of ten years service, Br Jim Ward.
He will be sadly missed for his attention to our work of service throughout Ballarat and surrounding parishes. The spiritual advice in his
allocutions was appreciated by all. We wish him all the best in his new home in Melbourne, and pray that Our Lady will bless him always,
for all the work that he has done for us in the Legion.
Events for the Legion of Mary in Ballarat are:
Meeting every Wednesday from 2.00pm - 3.30pm in the Parlour at Nazareth House; Rosary at St John of God Hospital Chapel for the
sick, every Wednesday at 1.00pm; 1 hour at the tabernacle at St James Church, Sebastopol, every Monday from 1.30pm - 2.30pm;
Novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help, 2nd and 4th Thursday from 5.30pm – 6.00pm at St. Patrick’s Cathedral; 1st Saturday Devotion
9.15am; Visiting 2 hours per week, most Ballarat parishes;
The Legion is looking for a new
Spiritual Director for 15 minutes
per week. Bishop Peter Connors
is temporarily filling this position.
If you are interested please
contact the Legion. Enquiries
most welcome.
President: Irene Murnane
5336 0868
Secretary: Sarah Kuek
5332 7227
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
26

RITE OF ELECTION
On Saturday February 23rd the people of the Diocese of Ballarat gathered at St Patrick’s Cathedral to celebrate the Rite of Election.
Bishop Paul Bird CSsR welcomed Catechumens, Candidates and children enrolled in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Children together
with Priests, Parish Delegates, Godparents, Sponsors, Catechists and RCIA team members to the ceremony.
Catechumens and candidates presented for election were from the Parishes of Ararat, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Ballarat, Ballarat East,
Ballarat North, Colac, Hamilton, Maryborough, Redan, Sebastopol and Warrnambool with apologies from the Parish of Mildura.
Seventeen adult Catechumens and twenty nine children of catechetical age were accepted as members of the Elect to be initiated into
the sacred mysteries at the coming celebration of Easter. Also presented to the Bishop were sixteen baptised candidates who wished
to be received into full communion and participate fully in the sacramental life of the Catholic Church.
Following a great liturgical celebration the Elect, together with Bishop Paul, their families and Parish support groups, gathered in St
Patrick’s Hall for lunch. This Diocesan celebration provided a great social opportunity to welcome the Elect and enjoy hospitality over
a shared meal.
Kay Curran
St Patrick’s Cathedral
Left:
Cherie Robinson,
Bishop Bird,
Neale Robinson,
Siena Robinson
and Kade
Robinson
ACU WELCOMES NEW STUDENTS
Australian Catholic University’s (ACU) Ballarat Campus
welcomed new students to the campus to begin the academic
year. From Sunday 17 to Friday 22 February, more than three
hundred first year students from all over Victoria converged on
the campus to take part in Orientation Week.
The campus was buzzing with fun activities including an
inflatable slide, photo booth and live music for the students to
enjoy. Both staff and current students participated in a range
of activities to welcome the first year students to university and
campus life.
A highlight of the Orientation program was the Outdoor Cinema
Night held on Tuesday evening in the campus’s picturesque
front garden, where undergraduates had a chance to mix with
new students in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Katie Jones,
Campus Life Coordinator, said this was the first year the
Outdoor Cinema had been included in the Orientation Program
so many students enjoyed this new experience.
“The scavenger hunt was also a great way for the students
to familiarise themselves with the university campus and
surrounds; as many of the students come from outside Ballarat,
it is a good way to get them familiar with the city,” she said. “The
year ahead is a very exciting one for ACU and we look forward
to welcoming all commencing students to the Ballarat Campus.”
Sarah Boswell, Marketing Coordinator ACU
27 Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

Sacred Beginnings
On Thursday, 28th February we celebrated the ‘Sacred Beginnings’
Opening Mass for 2013 at St Joseph’s College Mildura, marking the
beginning of a new school year. For the new Year 7 students, it was a
nervous start that has transformed over the preceding four weeks to
a more relaxed existence, having learnt how to find their way around
the College and forming new relationships with their peers.
For our Year 12 students it is the beginning of their final year at St
Joseph’s College. We hope that they are wise in all of their choices
and plans for 2013.
This year marks the beginning of a new House at St Joseph’s College;
MacKillop House, named after Mary MacKillop, the first Australian
Saint. Mary was a woman who worked with the poor and uneducated
of Australia endeavouring to give them more opportunities in life.
The intention behind creating a new House was to reduce student
numbers per Homeroom.
The House environment is then more compatible for
interconnectedness of both students and staff. ‘Pastoral Care in the
Church draws inspiration and strength from the life of Jesus Christ.
In Jesus we see God’s paramount expression of love, compassion,
reconciliation and justice. In Jesus we experience God as a caring
shepherd who is faithful to the flock, who knows them ultimately, who
frees and saves’ (CECV Document).
We are now well into the Lenten season. Lent is an opportunity to
begin anew in ourselves and in our relationships with others, the
world and God. It is time to really think about our words and actions.
“A clean heart create in me, Lord.” It is also a time to support our
Project Compassion activities within the College.
Andrea Higgins - St Joseph’s College Mildura
Father Greg Tait
Kasey Humphrey & Morgan Butler-
Kerridge with the Choir
a
Right:
College
Specialist
Leaders
Above: Captains of St Joseph’s College
new house, MacKillop; Lachlan Cumming
& Ashley Niutta
Right: Gathering for Mass
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
28

from the archives
People often ask what the archives are about and what I do. I hope this puts some perspective into the diocesan archive:
Christians are blessed to know that this life is a preparation for a great coming together with the Lord. Nothing on this earth is forever,
everything has a limited lifespan. A key task of an archivist is to conserve and maintain documents and objects for as long as possible
for the understanding of the generations. The Vatican archives document in word and through artefacts, over 1500 years of Catholic
faith life. These relay all the ups and downs of the church over millennia. In the present socio/political climate this is good to know as
there have always been good times and bad but we are reminded that ‘the gates of hell shall not prevail’.
The archive of our own diocesan church reaches a mere two hundred - three hundred years, as the oldest documents in our archive
outlining Catholic thought, date to the mid sixteenth century and those dealing specifically with our part of the world only to the mid-
19th century. Many of these documents reveal the hardships not only of the pioneers of western Victoria but those early priests who
served them. Many of these clerical pioneers lived into our own or our parents’ lifetimes. The archive preserves the memory and the
record of these people who have worked and lived the faith in our particular patch of the world.
The writings of Fr John Coughlan our first diocesan historian tell of parish
histories across the diocese from Portland to Charlton. Fr Couglin died
in Horsham in 1949. He records the first Mass at Donald as 1874 before
Ballarat’s first Bishop had even arrived. Many will know the story of Frs
Doyle and Barry who established the old Watchem presbytery and St
Mary’s at Donald respectively. Fr Coughlin as those in the district will
know was the first parish priest of Donald in 1922.
Another tale in the archive is of the settlements further north at Merbein,
Mildura, Ouyen and out into the sunset country. There are the plans
for the church/school at Merbein and its growth over the years. The
progression of these archival treasures tell much of the efforts of the
earlier priests to give the people more than just a church building but to
transport something of a Catholic European heritage into their lives at
a time when Australia was often still subconsciously an emotional and
psychological challenge.
We tend to think of the distant past in terms of archives but the Catholic Life
Exhibition in Mildura in 1960, opened by Coadjutor Archbishop Simmonds
at the Drill Hall, put the church of the day out in the public domain. Twenty
three years later the first National Priests Conference ever staged outside
a capital city was held at Mildura. This was organised by Fr Les Sheahan,
Mildura, Fr Bill Brennan, Wentworth and Fr William Wauchope from over at
Renmark.
Last year ODC featured some activities in 1950s Culgoa and I later happened
to visit Murrayville and took a photo of the church of St Therese there which
was opened in 1938. These activities were guided by priests and priests
who sought to serve. But we need people to record the happenings of today
as did Fr Couglin among others. The various diocesan papers and journals
over the years have always preserved much of our past in reporting on the
present, the pages of ODC will be valuable to future historians.
St Theresa's Church Murrayville
Michael Taffe, ASA, MPHA.
Diocesan Archivist
Photos above from Presentation Album of the
Mildura Catholic Life exhibition
29
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013

the northern zone
During 2013 each issue of Our Diocesan Community
will focus on one of the zones of the Diocese. This issue
looks at the Northern Zone. The Northern Zone covers
almost half of the Diocese and has unique landscape and
products. The zone begins in the north with the Murray
River country and the irrigation areas of Sunrayisa,
Robinvale and Swan Hill. It also includes the wheat and
sheep farms of the Mallee and covers the flats of the
Wimmera across to the South Australian Border. Rich
in produce, grapes, wine, citrus fruits, olives, wheat and
wool, the faith fillied people of the Northern Zone treasue
their communities and contribute greatly to the life of the
Diocese.
The Northern Zone is made up of the parishes and Mass
communities of Birchip, Charlton, Wedderburn, Donald,
Hopetoun, Beulah, Rainbow Horsham, Dimboola,
Murtoa, Rupanyup, Merbein, Werrimul, Mildura, Irymple,
Nhill, Jeparit, Kaniva, Ouyen, Patchewollock, Tempy,
Underbool, Walpeup, Quambatook, Boort, Lalbert,
Redcliffs, Robinvale, Managatang, St Arnaud, Banyena,
Sea Lake, Culgoa, Nandaly, Swan Hill, Lake Boga,
Nyah West, Tooleybuc, Ultima, Warracknabeal, Minyip,
Wycheproof and Nullawil.
The Zone is also blessed with Catholic primary schools in
Charlton, Donald, Hopetoun, Horsham, Merbein, Mildura,
Murtoa, Nhill, Red Cliffs, Robinvale, Sea Lake, St Arnaud,
Swan Hill, Warracknabeal and secondary schools in
Horsham, Mildura and Swan Hiill.
The cover images depict the Northern Zone and include
Ss Michael and John Church Horsham, the paddlesteamer
‘Melbourne’ on the Murray near Mildura and the Crucifix
by Leopoldine Mimovich located in St Mary’s Church, Sea
Lake.
Four churches from the Northern Zone
Below Top: Sacred Heart Mildura
Below Bottom: St Mary’s Birchip
Below Right top: Sacred Heart Culgoa
Below Right bottom: St Joseph’s Ouyen
Our Diocesan Community - March 2013
30