We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People as Australia’s First Peoples and the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land on which we work to build a stronger, more equitable, kinder society, that values children, young people, families and individuals.
We honour the wisdom of and pay respect to, Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge the spiritual culture of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples across Australia.
The Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle is located on the traditional lands of the Awabakal, Biripi, Darkinjung, Kamilaroi, Wiradjuri, Wonnarua and Worimi people.
Our Diocese
The Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle extends along the east coast of New South Wales from Lake Macquarie to Taree and inland to Merriwa and Murrurundi. It covers 10 local government areas, outlined in the map below. The Diocese represents almost 150,000 Catholics and is organised into 38 parishes across 10 pastoral regions.
Our Vision
To live the joy of the Gospel and share it with the world.
Our Mission
We are committed to serving all in the community so that they may experience life to the fullest.
Our Values
Upper Hunter
MidCoast
Dungog
Singleton
Our Strategic Direction
Cessnock
Lake Macquarie
Maitland
Muswellbrook
FR SOLOMON OKOVIDO ORDINATION
BISHOP’S STAFF DAY CELEBRATIONS
NATIONAL POLICE REMEMBRANCE DAY SERVICE
2024 reflection
BISHOP MICHAEL KENNEDY
The end of the year provides a timely opportunity to reflect upon the blessings and challenges we have experienced and how these can strengthen one’s faith.
Now in my second year as Bishop of the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, it has been both an honour and privilege to be leading the mission of the Church in our region. This year provided me with opportunities to experience the myriad of activities and services offered across the breadth of the Diocese. From visiting schools and services, to parishioners in every far corner, I have continued to be welcomed with open arms.
As I make my way through the Diocese, the curiosity of our children never ceases to amaze me. Inquisitive young minds ask me interesting questions about my role as Bishop and I love learning about their day-today activities as they walk in God’s footsteps.
As Bishop, I am privileged to participate in many moments of joy and celebration across the year.
Father Solomon Okovido’s ordination in November was a highlight, and, on a personal note, my Jubilee celebration held in August, marked 25 years of my priestly service. What an honour to commemorate this milestone while surrounded by my brother priests, religious sisters, parishioners, friends and broader community.
It was a privilege to bless our new spaces including new offices, the refurbished Diocesan Resource Centre and the latest stages of Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie and St Bede’s Catholic College, Chisholm. Seeing these beautiful modern spaces filled with God’s dear people is truly heartwarming.
Our annual services to mark Reconciliation Week, Perpetual Day of Remembrance and the National Police Remembrance Day were important
occasions for reflection and contemplation.
This year marked substantial change for our Diocesan Pastoral Ministries Team which underwent a transformation to become Mission & Evangelisation. I was pleased to welcome James Camden in his appointment as Director and look forward to working together to build and strengthen our missionary efforts and support our Diocese, our clergy, parishes and our people, as well as those beyond the margins.
Finally, Bishop’s Staff Day held in October, was a personal highlight in my calendar. This day was an opportunity to introduce staff to the many agencies and works of the Church here in the Diocese.
Commencing with a liturgy in Sacred Heart Cathedral, the day culminated in staff coming together to share in engaging cross-agency activities, allowing relationships and connections to be built.
As we look back on the achievements and reflections from across our Diocese in this Year in Review, I encourage you to join us in our journey of faith. Together, let us remain united in our mission and dedicated to serving as disciples of Christ. May the coming year, which is a special Jubilee year, bring growth, unity, blessings and hope to all of us in the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle and beyond.
“Together, let us remain united in our mission and dedicated to serving as disciples of Christ.”
– BISHOP MICHAEL KENNEDY
As another year draws to a close, it provides the opportunity to reflect upon the significant achievements of the Diocese over the past 12 months. As an organisation now boasting over 5,500 employees, it is humbling to look at the sheer quantity and quality of work undertaken, and the impact this work continues to have across our Diocese.
ST DOMINIC’S CATHOLIC COLLEGE, MAYFIELD
CATHOLICCARE’S COMMUNITY KITCHEN
BISHOP’S STAFF DAY 2024
2024 in review
SEAN SCANLON, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
As I look at the highlights over the following pages, I identify a thread that connects our work, we are growing connected Catholic communities. Whilst our agencies stand alone, there is a strong sense of togetherness that unites our staff to serve all in our communities so that they may experience life to the fullest.
It is with a sense of pride that I reflect on the progresses each of our agencies has achieved this year.
Led by 4,000 staff, our 58 Catholic schools provided education for more than 21,000 students. The growing demand for Catholic schooling led us to, this year, revise the Catholic Schools Enrolment Policy and broaden the scope to include enrolment pathways from our St Nicholas early education centres.
St Nicholas again saw growth and success in 2024, providing quality education and care to over 6,000 children. The launch of St Nicholas ‘Commitment to Educators’ emphasises our commitment to creating environments where our educators feel valued and supported.
CatholicCare Social Services Hunter Manning continued to meet growing demand for its services.
Our Community Kitchens served a staggering 85,000 meals, revealing a strong local need for support for people under financial pressures. Our CatholicCare appeal raised $16,500 to support unfunded services.
Our newest agency, Hunter Community Housing added 22 affordable housing properties to its portfolio, and progressed a number of housing development projects.
The results from the Catholic Diocese of MaitlandNewcastle Safeguarding Audit Report demonstrated our commitment to a safeguarding culture, scoring 98% in the indicators measured. Led by the Office of Safeguarding, and conducted by external bodies, the assessment indicates that the Diocese is successfully implementing policies and practice.
We saw the Catholic Community Fund deliver a surplus of $13.3 million, important funds then made available to be invested into the services and facilities we provide.
Alongside this array of achievements, 2024 also marked a year of change. While change can sometimes evoke a sense of uncertainty and trepidation, it could be argued that if you aren’t changing, you aren’t progressing.
Change challenges us to rethink, improve, and grow. It invites us to step outside of our comfort zones and reaffirm our commitment to the work we do and the communities we serve.
The changes within our Diocese this year are varied, and their impact have likely been felt in different ways and to different degrees.
Whatever the change may be, it’s fuelled by our mission to serve all in the community so they may experience life to the fullest.
By approaching our work with genuine intention, guided by the trust in our mission, each of us has the power to embrace change and look to a strong future of the Church in our region.
Whether it be through establishing or improving our school and early education offerings, creating more housing opportunities for those in need, supporting parishioners in their faith journey, or creating jobs across the Hunter, our mission has always been, and will always be, to contribute to the region and provide access to services for people from all walks of life.
With this as our foundation and a strong faith in our collective vision, I look forward to seeing what the 2025 iteration of the Catholic Diocese of MaitlandNewcastle will hold.
Catholic Schools Office
STEVEN LEMOS, HEAD OF CATHOLIC SCHOOLS
This year, we continued to embrace our mission and commitment to excellence in education underpinned by the teachings of Jesus Christ.
The new Religious Education curriculum continued to roll out with positive teacher feedback and increased levels of student engagement.
A highlight in 2024 was the re-launch of Positive Behaviour 4 Learning (PB4L) in Term 2 across our Diocese. This program has also generated positive staff feedback, with follow-up sessions to embed learning in our schools.
ASPIRE, our creative and performing arts program, produced a variety of projects and performances. ‘Disconnected’ wowed over 5,000 audience members and included a host of popular music punctuating the storyline, with over 150 talented students uniting for a show that delved into various themes within our contemporary social landscape.
ASPIRE continues to grow its programming list, with major programs such as Song Competition, Junior and Senior Theatre Makers projects and the ASPIRE Concert Band, being joined by new initiatives such as the Manning Creative Arts Program, WOW Gallery and Choirs at the Civic – the first diocesan musical showcase featuring primary school choirs.
Additionally, ‘DioSounds’ created by the Secondary Music Teachers allowed interested students the opportunity to be part of a music showcase at the Civic Theatre.
Our sporting programs continued to offer opportunities for students to display and develop their talents at a school and diocesan level, as well as experiences to compete at state and national levels. Outstanding breakthrough performances in 2024 from Torrie Lewis and Caoimhe Bray are testament to the sporting pathways offered.
Work continued on the Newcastle secondary schools transitioning Years 7 to 12. The changes to school admissions and curriculum offerings began this year, with the first cohort of Year 7 students commencing at St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton. St Pius X High School, Adamstown is preparing for life as Trinity Catholic College in 2025, whilst San Clemente is preparing for the introduction of Year 11 in 2026.
The Growing Minds Inspiring Readers project continues to help students share in the magic of reading, culminating with St Pius X, Windale and St Paul’s, Rutherford students working with a children’s author to co-publish their own books.
After the provision of free sanitary products across all Secondary Schools in the Diocese in 2023, the Period Positivity initiative has been rolled out across Diocesan Primary schools, from Term 4.
In recent years our Diocese has received unprecedented demand for enrolment across our schools. This demand, combined with the desire to offer families a pathway for their children from kindergarten through to Year 12, led to the Diocese revising and adjusting the Enrolment Policy.
The new policy sets out the prioritisation for enrolment in schools and has resulted in enrolment increases across the board.
Supporting this growth is a commitment from the Diocese to ensure we have the buildings, facilities, maintenance programs, cleaning and physical assets and resources in place so our students and staff can continue to learn in the best possible environments.
The program of works in 2024 totalled over $100 million and includes major refurbishment and capital works such as new buildings, classroom replacements, specialist
rooms, playground areas, facilities and amenities.
As the Head of Catholic Schools for the past two years, I am deeply conscious of what a privilege it has been to work with our students, families and our staff to continue to cultivate an environment where our faith flourishes, learning thrives, and well-being is paramount.
As I sign off, I want to personally thank all the hard-working staff for your dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to making a profound and lasting difference in the lives of our students and our school communities.
ASPIRE’S ‘DISCONNECTED’ SHOW
‘GROWING MINDS INSPIRING READERS’ BOOK LAUNCH, WINDALE
BUILDING WORKS AT CATHERINE MCAULEY CATHOLIC COLLEGE
St Nicholas
DAVID HEALY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
St Nicholas has seen continued growth and success in 2024. Our mission of supporting children, families, and communities to flourish through quality education and care has been at the forefront as we introduced new initiatives and evolved our existing ones.
One of our standout projects this year was the launch of the St Nicholas’ ‘Commitment to Educators’ statement. This statement reinforces our dedication to creating an environment where our educators feel valued and supported through recognition and opportunities for career growth and professional learning, alongside a workplace culture that truly values each team member’s contribution.
A key moment came with the Catholic Schools of Maitland-Newcastle’s introduction of a new enrolment policy, prioritising children of St Nicholas Early Education families for school enrolment. This policy exemplifies the importance of continuity in early education and primary learning, helping our families feel a greater sense of security and connection with the Diocese’s broader community. It’s a partnership that reflects our shared commitment to the children and families we serve and strengthens our ability to offer a seamless transition for our students.
In 2024, we conducted our first-ever full-scale family feedback survey with our Early Education families. This initiative was an invaluable opportunity to hear directly from our families, gathering insights into their experiences and expectations of St Nicholas Early Education. The feedback has provided us with a foundation to make informed improvements across our services and will help shape our strategies as we continue to grow and adapt in response to the needs of our community.
Professional learning remains a core component of our mission, and this year we launched a revamped professional learning program through St Nicholas Pathways. The new program offers regular, fullyfunded professional learning opportunities that are available to all team members. Our calendar of events has covered a wide range of topics relevant to early education and OOSH, empowering our educators with ongoing skill development and creating clear pathways for career growth.
In August, we hosted our Evolve Conference, a unique gathering focused on embracing change, exploring new possibilities, and expanding horizons in early childhood education. The event provided an inspiring platform for our teams to connect, learn, and continue their work with a renewed sense of motivation. With an array of keynote speakers, workshops, and engaging discussions, Evolve highlighted our collective vision and reaffirmed our dedication to providing the best possible education and care.
To further support families, we’ve streamlined several key systems, including our OOSH Vacation Care booking system and our re-enrolment process, to enhance ease of use and simplify interactions. These improvements have been instrumental in creating a seamless experience for families, ensuring that their time with St Nicholas is both convenient and supportive.
Looking ahead to 2025, we have several new projects in development that will allow us to continue to innovate and adapt. We remain committed to making St Nicholas a trusted partner for families and a rewarding workplace for our educators, all while fostering the growth and wellbeing of every child in our care.
ST NICHOLAS EARLY EDUCATION RAYMOND TERRACE
‘EVOLVE’ CONFERENCE
Hunter Community Housing
JESSICA BENTLEY, GENERAL MANAGER OPERATIONS
Now in its second full year, Hunter Community Housing (HCH) has made significant strides in refining its operations and strategic planning. The focus has also been on expanding our housing portfolio and engaging in the community housing sector.
In July, we added 22 affordable properties into our tenancy management portfolio. These Newcastle properties were originally built by the Diocese in 2014 under the National Rental Affordability Scheme. Now that this scheme has ended, HCH and the Diocese have made a commitment that these homes will be retained as affordable housing, with existing rebates in place for current tenants for a minimum of 12 months – welcome news for these 22 households.
Alongside affordable housing, HCH continues to offer a range of housing options including supported independent living for young people exiting out of home care, group homes for people living with a disability, as well as a market residential program.
The ongoing housing affordability crisis has meant increased funding opportunities on offer from both Commonwealth and State governments. Our team has been proactive in applying for various grants and tenders, ensuring that our housing development projects are ready to proceed as soon as new funding rounds are announced.
Hunter Community Housing’s involvement in community engagement and sector advocacy work continued. We participated in NAIDOC Week celebrations in July, and were involved in the Hunter Homeless Connect Expo in August. With over 2,000 guests attending the expo to access support, it was clear that local housing needs are still a pressing concern.
We prepared a detailed submission for the NSW Parliamentary Inquiry into Essential Worker Housing and were invited to participate in a public hearing. While we recognised essential worker housing as distinct from affordable housing, there are similar challenges across both, and we provided key recommendations to address availability and affordability.
Finally, the annual compliance report required for the Community Housing Registrar as part of our Community Housing Provider registration provided a timely opportunity to refresh our policies and procedures to ensure they remain relevant as our operations expand.
HCH remains dedicated to addressing the housing needs of our community through strategic growth, effective advocacy, and a firm commitment to housing affordability and support.
AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROPERTY
HUNTER HOMELESS CONNECT
CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning
LAUREN FISHER, ACTING EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
As we reflect on the past year, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunities we have had to serve our community, uphold our mission, and live out our values as a Catholic not-forprofit organisation. Guided by the principles of compassion, dignity, and respect for all, CatholicCare remains dedicated to providing essential services to vulnerable individuals and families across the Hunter-Manning region.
Despite facing funding challenges, our Community Programs have continued to respond, addressing the pressing needs of those experiencing hardship across our region. This year, our Community Kitchens served an incredible 85,000 meals, which is a stark reflection of the increasing challenges many families face due to the rising cost of living. In response to these needs, our 2024 Make a Difference Appeal was a success, raising over $16,500, and will directly support our unfunded services and help us continue this vital work in the community.
Our partnership with the Catholic Schools Office has proven instrumental in promoting student wellbeing. In February, we had the honour of presenting the Beyond the Gates Program at the Catholic Social Services Australia conference. This innovative program showcases the power of cross-agency collaboration and sparked significant interest from dioceses and services across the country. Additionally, our collaboration with St Dominic’s Catholic College, Mayfield provided valuable work experience opportunities for students in their Café Club, reinforcing our
commitment to youth development and support.
With the support of Tim Crakanthorp MP, State Member for Newcastle, CatholicCare spearheaded an upgrade of playground equipment in the Hamilton South community. This initiative aims to create a safe and inviting space for families to connect and enjoy outdoor play, fostering a sense of community and belonging that aligns with our mission of nurturing relationships.
In a concerted effort to respond to the growing need for foster carers in the Newcastle and Hunter region, CatholicCare partnered with Allambi Care to collaborate on a campaign aimed at increasing the number of available foster homes across the Hunter region. Our involvement in the Newcastle Lord Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast and former Mayor Kay Fraser’s Prayer Dinner in Lake Macquarie further highlighted the urgency of this issue. It helped raise awareness about the vital role foster care plays in our community.
Always seeking to meet the evolving needs of our community, CatholicCare successfully launched several new programs in 2024. Among these initiatives is the Rosewood Centre’s Family Engagement and Assessment Services, along with the expansion of Clinical Care Coordination into the Upper Hunter and Central Coast. We also introduced a Specialist Aftercare Program and the Local Support Services Safer Pathways Program, which provides critical support to men who have experienced domestic violence, complementing our existing services for women and children.
As we conclude this year, we reflect on our mission to uphold the dignity of every individual and respond to the needs of our community with compassion. Our achievements are a collective effort made possible by the dedication of our staff, volunteers, and partners. Together, we are committed to making a difference, nurturing hope, and building a brighter future for everyone in our community. Thank you for your continued support as we embark on another year of service in faith and action.
CATHOLICCARE’S FOSTER CARE FUNDING LAUNCH
STUDENT VOLUNTEERS AT TAREE COMMUNITY KITCHEN
Office of Safeguarding
SEAN TYNAN, DIRECTOR OF SAFEGUARDING
February of 2024 saw the publication of the results of the Catholic Diocese of MaitlandNewcastle Safeguarding Audit Report conducted by Australian Catholic Safeguarding Ltd (ACSL) and Prolegis Lawyers.
The Office of Safeguarding (OoSG) was the lead agency in preparing the Diocese for audit. Prior to it commencing, Bishop Michael met with ACSL and asked that the audit be particularly rigorous. Thirtyfour per cent of the Diocese’s parishes were visited, as were three schools and the Diocese’s head offices and over 100 people were interviewed.
Maitland-Newcastle was the first Diocese to be assessed against the revised (Version 2) Standards which includes indicators of safeguarding vulnerable adults as well as children.
The Diocese achieved excellent results, with the assessment finding the Catholic Diocese of Maitland Newcastle has fully implemented or has substantially progressed in the implementation of 96 (98%) of the relevant indicators to its operations.
In April representatives of the OoSG and Vicar General Rev Greg Barker participated in the Stronger Together – Roundtable on Domestic, Family & Sexual Violence for Religious and Community Leaders, hosted by the NSW Women’s Safety Commissioner and the NSW Children’s Guardian. In May the Director of Safeguarding was invited to participate in a Roundtable to Discuss Responding to Historical Allegations, which was also hosted by the NSW Children’s Guardian.
The OoSG continued to host the Promoters of Safeguarding Network Day, offering an opportunity for parish promoters of safeguarding and parish leaders to be provided the latest developments in the area of safeguarding. External presenters for 2024 included Prof. Darryl Higgins (Australian Catholic University) and Dr David Treanor (Director, Safeguarding and Compliance for ACSL).
National Child Protection Week 2024 saw another outstanding level of engagement within the Diocese and the ‘Decorate Your Space’ competition brought out highly original and artistic expressions of this year’s theme ‘Every conversation matters’.
The year has seen another period of unprecedented growth in the level of demand for safeguarding services. The expansion of the safeguarding standards to include vulnerable adults was a contributing factor, as was an increasing rate of reports of self-harming, peer-on-peer abuse and exposure to family and intimate violence.
During the second and third quarters of 2024 the OoSG recruited a number of new personnel. To assist the new and existing members of the OoSG form an effective and efficient team, a staff development day was held in November.
DECORATE YOUR SPACE THE ROSEWOOD CENTRE, MAITLAND
DECORATE YOUR SPACE ST CATHERINE’S, SINGLETON
Catholic Community Fund
JENNY CHUNG, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AND FUND MANAGER
In 2024, the Catholic Community Fund (CCF) has much to celebrate. It has been a year of strong performance, dedicated service, and impactful contributions to the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle and its wider community. Among the many highlights for the financial year ended 30 June 2024, the CCF generated a record surplus of $13.3 million, reflecting the strength of its operations and commitment to financial stewardship.
A significant achievement was the distribution of $11.5 million to the Diocese and its agencies, which ensures the ongoing support of critical programs. This included $1 million allocated to CatholicCare’s essential services and $500,000 dedicated to supporting parish communities across the region.
Additionally, the CCF provided $51 million in loan funding to support diocesan projects, including acquisitions and the development of new facilities.
The CCF supported the work of the Catholic Schools Office through the funding of various school development projects which included the expansion of
facilities over various sites including Catherine McAuley Catholic College, Medowie, St Bede’s Catholic College, Chisholm and St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton. Furthermore, the CCF provided loan funding to support acquisitions by the Diocese for the future development of St Nicholas Early Education Centres and properties for use as community housing.
2024 also saw the successful implementation of several strategic process improvements, including automation programs like eLockbox and Credit Card Manager. These initiatives have enhanced efficiency, ensuring the CCF continues to deliver high-quality service to the community it serves.
In all these achievements, the CCF remains dedicated to supporting the mission of the Church and serving the community.
The CCF provided $51 million in loan funding to support diocesan projects, including acquisitions and the development of new facilities.
myccf.com.au
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CATHOLICCARE’S
Mission & Evangelisation
JAMES CAMDEN, DIRECTOR
2024 was a journey of significant discovery which included a change in team name from Pastoral Ministries to now be Mission & Evangelisation. This period of listening and discernment has helped to focus and shape an approach to supporting our faith communities in the mission of the Church in a more refined and realistic way that reads the signs of the time and meets people where they’re at.
I was welcomed into the role of Director of Mission & Evangelisation in June. This coincided with right sizing of the team, complemented by a full revision and revitalisation of position descriptions and structural change within the group. The re-positioned, forwardfacing posture of Mission & Evangelisation, has been challenged to use resources more equitably and in a collaborative way – truly role modelling to our communities a way forward that reflects a culture of accompaniment, synodality and co-responsibility.
The call to missionary discipleship among the faithful “is based on our common baptismal identity and is rooted in the diversity of the contexts in which the Church is present.” The team has been exploring best practice across Australia and the world to ensure that all people of God in our region will have access to a consolidated handful of high quality and contextualised programs and initiatives that meet the emerging needs of parishes wishing ‘to grow’ and ‘share their faith’ with others.
Much of the well-embraced work will continue from this talented and dedicated group of individuals but expect to see the team shine at its best, for the good of the Diocese, across a range of futurecentred, parish-focused accompaniment in the areas of formation, worship, outreach, children’s ministry, special religious education, rural ministry and youth ministry.
Bishop Michael Kennedy has invited us all into a journey that seeks to accompany and support the implementation of a vision where faith communities:
1. Thrive in liturgy, worship and prayer
2. Engage in genuine faith formation
3. Seek opportunities for mission in word and deeds.
Like the disciples on the road to Emmaus, we are strengthened by the encounter with Jesus as we embark on this deeper journey of mission and evangelisation into the future. Our journey has only just begun. We have great challenges in a secular and even post-Christian society. However, we have the assurance of the Lord who promised to be with us always to the end of time.
MAGDALENE AWARD CEREMONY
PROJECT COMPASSION
BISHOP’S STAFF DAY MASS
The Diocese’s first ‘Tiny Forest’
More than 300 St Paul’s Primary School, Gateshead students came together to plant hundreds of native trees and shrubs to create a ‘Tiny Forest’.
Originating in Japan in the 1970s, Tiny Forests are created to increase biodiversity in urban spaces by mimicking natural ecosystems.
Made up of concentrated planting that spans the size of a tennis court, they provide numerous environmental and social benefits that create longterm impact. Research has shown these forests grow 10 times faster, 30 times denser, and are 100 times more biodiverse than a traditionally planted forest.
In September, the entire school community gathered for a mass planting
event with students working in pairs to ensure at least three trees were planted per square metre. In total, 440 plants from 13 native species, including banksias, acacias, and eucalypts, were introduced to the new Tiny Forest.
Increasing our biodiversity is a key strategy within the Diocese’s Sustainability Plan 2022-2025 and it is anticipated that the success of this project will inspire many more Tiny Forests.
As a testament to the success of this project, Lake Macquarie City Council Mayor Adam Shultz presented St Paul’s Primary School, Gateshead with the Council’s School Environmental Award in November.
Watch the video to find out more
School milestones – a cause for celebration
Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Tarro celebrated its 80th anniversary in September, coinciding with Grandparents Day. Students were invited to dress up as 80-year-olds to celebrate the 80 years, donning crocheted vests, oversized glasses, walking sticks and strings of pearls to get into the senior spirit.
The school was opened on 12 September 1944 and founded by the Sisters of Mercy. This milestone was a perfect opportunity to honour the dedication and hard work of past community members who have built and nurtured the school over the past eight decades.
Over in Lake Macquarie, there was also cause for celebration, as both St Paul’s Primary School, Gateshead and St Mary’s Catholic College, Gateshead
marked 60 years of Catholic education.
The Sisters of St Joseph established the schools after recognising the need for Catholic Education in the East Lake Macquarie region. Without any money or land to begin with, it was a combination of the Sisters’ blood, sweat and tears, and many prayers that got the schools off the ground.
The school communities came together to celebrate the 60-year anniversaries with a Mass and array of other activities, with students also making crosses to represent each of the six decades.
These milestones are a testament to the enduring spirit and commitment of the school communities, celebrating their rich histories and looking forward to a bright future.
Pilgrims head to Ireland
In September, a selection of 35 people from across the Diocese, set off on a pilgrimage of Ireland to explore ‘The Way of Mercy.’
This Irish spiritual journey draws inspiration from Catherine McAuley, the founder of the Sisters of Mercy in 1831. Fr Joseph Figurado, Sr Cath Williams and Erin McCort led the pilgrims across seven cities of Ireland – cities that were instrumental in building the foundations of our Christian faith.
Braving the chilly conditions of Ireland’s autumn, the group visited some of the country’s sacred sites and immersed themselves in Catherine McAuley’s legacy. The pilgrimage focussed on the Mercy Charism which embodies the values, mission, and distinctive characteristics that define the Sisters of Mercy and guide their work in serving those in need.
See a video of pilgrims on their journey
A place to call home
A vacant presbytery in Tighes Hill was given a new lease on life this year when Hunter Community Housing, St Benedict’s Inner Newcastle Parish and local disability services provider Muru Pathways came together to provide much-needed accommodation for people with a disability.
The presbytery, a historic building with eight bedrooms, was identified as having potential to be suitable place for Muru’s NDIS participants to call home. Hunter Community Housing played a pivotal role in liaising between Muru as the prospective tenant, and the Parish as the property owner, to bring a shared vision to life.
Hunter Community Housing helped to prepare the property for tenancy by providing essential support, including lease agreements, safety regulations, and trade
contacts. After some minor modifications, including a new kitchen and bathroom refresh, the property became a welcoming home for five young men living with psychosocial disabilities.
The tenants have been gradually acquainting themselves with their neighbourhood, enjoying activities like fishing in Throsby Creek and playing basketball at the local park. These independent living arrangements, coupled with a focus on personal interests, education and employment opportunities, are preparing the tenants for an eventual transition into mainstream housing.
The tenants have also had a positive impact on the parish community, highlighting the success of this collaborative effort.
School alumni shine at Paris 2024 Olympics
The 2024 Olympic Games in Paris marked an exciting year for our Catholic school alumni, with an incredible array of athletic talent on display.
Two past students competed for the Australian team, showcasing their hard work, determination, and talent on the world stage.
Rose Davies, former St Pius X High School, Adamstown and St Francis Xavier’s College, Hamilton student excelled in Athletics. She reached the final of the women’s 5,000m event, finishing 12th. Rose’s remarkable year also included setting a national record for the 5,000m at Tokyo’s Golden Grand Prix in May.
Also in Athletics, St Paul’s Primary School, Gateshead alumni Torrie Lewis competed in the sprint events. She advanced to the semifinal of the women’s 200m, and her relay team placed 10th in the women’s 4 x 100m. Torrie also broke the women’s 100m national record earlier in the year, clocking a time of 11.10 seconds in Canberra.
With such inspiring performances, we look forward to seeing more of our alumni on the Olympic stage in Los Angeles 2028.
Read more about our inspiring athletes
Opening of Diocesan Resource Centre in Newcastle West
Thanks to a generous bequest, in 2024 an underutilised space at Newcastle West underwent a significant refurbishment to officially become the Diocesan Resource Centre.
In May, the Diocesan Resource Centre officially opened its doors to the local community, with Bishop Michael providing a blessing of the space.
The renewed space, which sits behind Sacred Heart Cathedral, welcomes people to study, learn, read, relax and feel the connection of being part of the family of God. It houses a vast array of resources relating to Religious Education,
Scripture, Theology, Liturgy and more.
Its history spans back to 1957 when the Adult Education Institute and Legion of Mary opened and operated a library at the Newcastle West location. It then went on to face many iterations at differing locations over the decades including at the Lambton Parish, the St Laurence Centre in Broadmeadow, and the St Joseph’s Convent in Lochinvar.
Now returning to its original site, but sporting a new name, it remains as a space where people are welcomed and can find a sense of community, or a quiet place for reflection.
Building our future
St Bede’s Catholic College, Chisholm celebrated the completion of another construction stage in 2024, unveiling the Chisholm oratory. This intimate space for prayer and liturgy, seating 200 people, is conveniently located between St Bede’s Catholic College and St Aloysius Catholic Primary School. The circular oratory features the Stations of the Cross in its interior, and is surrounded by landscaped gardens, a reflection pool, and statues of St Bede, St Aloysius, and Mary.
The final stage of site works at St Bede’s is well underway, with completion expected early next year. This stage will introduce sports and playing fields, a recreation area for basketball and netball, and grassed areas for various activities, enhancing the contemporary educational environment.
Across the Diocese, significant construction projects were also
completed this year. St Patrick’s Primary School, Lochinvar finished its third and final stage, delivering new learning spaces, flexible offices, additional amenities and refurbished canteen and OOSH facilities. Rosary Park Primary School, Branxton unveiled new classroom blocks to further enrich the learning environment.
Additionally, St Francis Xavier’s Catholic College, Hamilton and St Pius X, Adamstown welcomed new facilities as they continue the transition to accommodating Years 7-12. These upgrades include senior lounges and study spaces, catering to the curriculum needs of all senior students.
These construction projects, overseen by the Diocese’s Property Services Team, reflect a commitment to providing modern, well-equipped educational spaces for students across the Diocese.
Investing in the next generation of educators
In October, the Catholic Community Fund provided a generous donation to St Nicholas Pathways which enabled the purchase of new resources to enhance training facilities.
The $10,000 contribution brought a refreshed and inspiring touch to the play session environments, which emulate the St Nicholas Early Education setting.
The funds were used to purchase larger pieces of furniture, including shelving, dramatic play area furniture and supplies, as well as resources supporting construction and loose parts play. Additionally, new pieces were added
to the quiet book area, creating a more inviting space for learning and reflection. These enhancements benefit the educators, teachers, and trainees who use this space during Immersion, School Based Traineeships (SBAT), Early Childhood CONNEX, and professional learning programs. It also extends St Nicholas Pathways’ community reach, partnering with local families, secondary schools, and the wider St Nicholas community to help each child flourish in their educational journey.
New playground for Hamilton South
In September, the Hamilton South community celebrated the opening of a much-anticipated new playground, replacing the old and neglected equipment.
The project was led by the CatholicCare Social Services Hunter-Manning team who have a proud history and strong connection with the community. For many years, CatholicCare has provided the onsite Community Kitchen program which serves free meals each week to those who need it.
Through community consultation, CatholicCare got an understanding of the community’s vision for the space. Once a design was chosen, Moduplay were engaged to deliver the playground
upgrades over a four-month period.
The project received $70,000 funding through the NSW Government’s Local Small Commitments Allocation program, aimed at strengthening local communities.
An official opening ceremony was held in September and attended by State Member for Newcastle, Tim Crakanthorp MP.
The CatholicCare team, alongside the Hamilton South community showed passion and dedication to make this playground a reality. The new playground is more than just equipment; it serves as a vital hub for grounding, learning, community, and connection.
2024 HIGHLIGHTS
NAIDOC Week activities
Across the Diocese, NAIDOC Week activities were in full swing throughout July.
NAIDOC Week occurred from 7 July to 14 July and celebrates and recognises the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
2024’s theme was ‘Keep the Fire Burning! Blak, Loud & Proud’, honouring the enduring strength and vitality of First Nations culture – with fire representing connection to Country, to each other, and to the rich tapestry of traditions that define Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Hundreds of people gathered at Foreshore Park in Newcastle on 8 July, to celebrate the Awabakal Newcastle NAIDOC Community Day. Staff from Mission & Evangelisation, CatholicCare, St Nicholas, Catholic Schools and Hunter Community Housing were all on hand
Take a look at the activities
to paint faces, help with arts and crafts and share information about the work of the Diocese.
The event started in Civic Park for the official Welcome to Country and flagraising ceremony, before the crowd marched their way into Foreshore Park. The atmosphere at the park was buzzing with rides, music, cultural activities, food stalls and traditional dance performances.
Further afield, Catholic Schools also celebrated NAIDOC Week in various ways. St Pius X Windale, St Patrick’s Swansea and St Francis Xavier’s Belmont joined forces as members of the Powaikaliko Malang (“Grow Together”) Catholic Community of Schools, to celebrate NAIDOC Week together. Their day kicked off with a powerful opening ceremony followed by various workshops including traditional dance, music, art, bush tucker tasting and weaving.
Shared Services
In October, 200 staff from the Diocese’s Shared Services team came together to review their Operational Plan and celebrate some of the achievements from across the year.
The Shared Services team supports the work of all agencies across the Diocese and comprises Administration, Communications & Marketing, Data & Analytics, Enterprise Portfolio Management, Finance, Governance, People & Culture, Property, and Technology Services.
Across 2024, the Shared Services delivered several key operational objectives and exciting projects including:
• Successful rollout of the Performance Review and Development process, mnpeople.
• Implementation of the new policy management system.
• New dashboards that were developed to provide greater insights into school student performance and the demand of St Nicholas Early Education centres.
• Property Services worked on approximately 188 Capital & Major Maintenance projects during 2024, with overall expenditure for the year being $99.9 million.
• The replacement of all desktop phones with an online solution via Microsoft Teams.
