Principal's Message

This week, Year 12 celebrated the culmination of their six years at St Joseph’s Regional College. The Year 12 cohort had a fitting end to their formal lessons on Monday with a special lunch and informal awards ceremony in the Library. The theme of celebration continued on Tuesday with a trip to Stoney Aqua Park, a great way to conclude their last full day as students at the College.

On Tuesday night, our Year 12 students and their families joined in a wonderful celebration with the Graduation Mass at St Agnes’ Church. This Mass, celebrated by Fr Paul, was a wonderful spiritual event that brought together all elements of our College community to recognise the connection this special cohort of students has with both the Parish and the College.

Wednesday saw the celebrations continue with our Major Awards Ceremony, where we celebrated the outstanding academic and cultural achievements of our Year 12 students. As part of this ceremony, the staff, under the leadership of Mr Matthew Bushe, Assistant Principal - Mission, sang a special blessing to the students, a moving moment that brought tears to the eyes of many students and parents alike. Finally, the highlight of the day was the final procession of our Year 12 cohort through a Guard of Honour lined by all the students across Years 7-11.

As we conclude the term, I'd like to share the following more detailed overview of the final events that took place for our Year 12 cohort this week.

On Tuesday evening, students, families and staff came together at St Agnes’ Church to give thanks to God for our graduating Year 12 Class of 2025. It was truly a beautiful and meaningful celebration for all in attendance.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Father Paul Gooley for his support and the invaluable words of wisdom he shared during the Mass. A special thank you also goes to Deacon Shane Hyland for his organisation and for being an important part of this celebration.

During the Mass, Fr Paul offered profound reflections on the students' time here at St Joseph's Regional College. He reminded the Year 12 cohort that while graduating is a great achievement, there is something even greater to strive for: happiness and contentment in life by simply being the best you can be.

Most importantly, as we send you into your future, he urged you to be a witness through how you live and act, reflecting all that you have learned and been given during your years at the College.

Our appreciation also goes to our commentator, Mr Matthew Bushe, Assistant Principal - Mission, for organising the Mass. Thank you to the Year 12 students who willingly stepped forward to take on various roles throughout the Mass: Ella Hurrell, Z Cabrera, Christie Preston, Audrey Cassegrain, Brooke Instrell, Lilah Hawkins, Jeremy Auckram, Madalyn Scott and Joshua Kobelke.

Special recognition goes to Year 11 students Phoebe White and Adam Jennings, whose thoughtful farewell speech to Year 12 students was a highlight of the evening. Our talented musicians and singers further enriched the celebration. We are grateful to you all for enhancing the atmosphere of the evening with your musical gifts. 

I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank the local businesses, organisations, staff and families who so generously sponsored our awards. Your support plays a vital role in recognising and celebrating the hard work, dedication and achievements of our graduating students.

On behalf of the College, we express our sincere appreciation
to every one of the sponsors.