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Newspaper of the Anglican Diocese of Grafton, New South Wales
North Coast Anglican Transforming lives through Jesus Christ
December 2019 | Issue No 6
Tell someone who cares
Special schools sustainability edition
Page 6
To be the trusted financial services provider of the
Anglican Diocese of Grafton, enabling ministry growth
More details page 12
December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 1
From the bishop
celebrated this at Epiphany. calling upon this knowledge new, unchartered territory. the months to come? Are
The Feast of Christmas was of the night sky and a For the Magi, the star you prepared to offer up
not introduced until the decision to follow the star. represented the will of God to others the things you
Fourth Century. The Scriptures tell us that for their lives. Following it treasure?
One of the things I appreciate the Magi were overjoyed by involved significant sacrifice. Like the Magi, we too have
about living in Grafton is the the sight of the star (Matthew In what ways are we as set out on a quest, not
darkness of the night sky. 2:10). The King James version individuals and communities knowing the details of where
Set against a jet black sky, states that they “rejoiced with open to seeking out and the journey will lead us, only
the stars are breathtakingly exceeding great joy”. The following his will with all the knowing that we are seeking
beautiful. Having lived most journey of following the star, sacrifices this will imply? Does God’s will, guided by faith and
of my life in a big city, this of seeking out what God is seeking out and following his hope.
is something new to me. doing, is one we’re all called will give us great joy, despite Lord God, you guided the Magi
In the time of King Herod… wise For the ancients, to look at to make. the cost involved? to your beloved Son, Jesus
men from the East came to the stars was to peer into This year our spiritual journey In order to follow the star, Christ. May your blessing come
Jerusalem, asking, “Where is the the dark future. Yet for through Advent to Christmas, the Magi needed to keep upon us, your light guide us,
child who has been born king those who could interpret it New Year, Epiphany and their eyes fixed on it. Every your strength uphold us, and
of the Jews? For we observed properly the dark night sky beyond is happening single day God wants to lead your love protect us, so that
his star at its rising, and have held endless possibilities. alongside another journey us to Jesus. Are our eyes fixed we too may grow in wonder at
come to pay him homage”. Navigation was largely by - our journey as a Diocese on him? the glory of God. We ask this
(Matthew 2:1-2). stars and constellations. It through the Consultation through Christ our Lord.
On their journey, the Magi
held the possibility of travel Process for the proposed Amen.
These words from Matthew’s bore gifts for the Christchild.
by sea or land to distant restructure of parishes and
Gospel remind us that we What are your gifts and the
regions well beyond the worship centres. Like the
are preparing for the annual gifts of your parish, school +Murray
safety and familiarity of the Magi, we need to walk by the
celebration of the Birth of or other ministry unit? How
local. Yet the Christian story light of faith as we traverse @MurrayAHarvey
our Lord. The early Christians might you offer these up in
begins, in part, with the Magi
Reading the Scriptures
By The Venerable Matthew that I agreed with and in a way firmly believe that, when we
Jones, Archdeacon of the that I myself have preached are reading Scripture and we
North about in the past. However, allow ourselves to be led by
they then went on to propose the Spirit, we can discover new
I read with great interest the
a completely different view for insights every time we delve
articles by Bishop Murray
us, the listeners, to consider. into these sacred stories.
and Archdeacon Stuart about
I had never thought of that When I was a theological
reading the Scriptures in the
passage in that way before and student, one of the subjects
last edition of North Coast
I found myself being drawn we studied was Homiletics, i.e.
Anglican. I found myself
into the story in a completely learning how to preach. In the
engaging deeply with their
new, and I must admit, rather textbook Prate, Prattle or Preach
words and it got me thinking
exciting way. the author, Ivor Bailey, told a
about my own response to the
Bible. John Donne was an English story about a Bible study group
priest and poet and Dean that was divided into four
As someone who regularly
of St Paul’s, London in 1621. smaller groups. Each group
preaches, I often come upon the end that, to their surprise, living with this reality right
He is quoted as saying, “One was given a different imaginary
different interpretations of they had approached the text now. From the security and
opinion makes not catholic setting in which to look at the
Bible passages when I am from four totally different comfort of my armchair, can
doctrine,” (Love’s Redeeming text, “Looking to Jesus the
researching for my sermons. points of view. The point was I really understand the plight
Work. Oxford University Press, pioneer and perfecter of our
Some of these stimulate my clearly made that “where you’re of the Israelites escaping from
2001). In the context of the faith.” (Hebrews 12:2) NRSV.
thinking and some challenge coming from determines what the Egyptians, or the refugee
sermon I heard recently, I He writes: “The first group
some of my long-held views. you see.” (Prate, Prattle or status of the Holy Family
agree wholeheartedly with were to consider the text from
However, I must confess Preach, JBCE, 1987). fleeing from King Herod and
Donne and can see the value in the viewpoint of a Christian
that there are times when his soldiers? However, I am
listening to the views of others politician in Uganda at the I am very mindful of my
I find that anything really sure there would be millions
which can both encourage time of Idi Amin. The second upbringing and cultural context
radically different to my who can relate to these Biblical
and challenge me. Different group were to see themselves when I read Bible stories about
views gets dismissed and I passages from their own lived
opinions can be stimulating as a small group of Christian people from other parts of the
keep looking for articles and experience today. Maybe the
and educational. students, meeting secretly in world and from other times in
commentaries that I can agree above quote is true in relation
Samuel Taylor Coleridge, Moscow University. The third history. I cannot really resonate
with that support the points to reading the sacred texts,
writing of the Bible says, group looked at the text from with the idea of slavery, which
I am making in my sermon. that, “Where you’re coming
“In the Bible there is more the position of a small group of is mentioned a lot in the Bible,
Recently however, I have been from determines what you
that finds me than I have elderly ladies in a poor inner- but I am sure there would be
challenged to explore more of see.”
experienced in all other books city area, one having been many today who can, especially
the views which may be very
put together; that the words recently widowed. The fourth in places where human I pray that I will continue to
different to mine.
of the Bible find me at greater group was set in an affluent trafficking and kidnapping is be challenged to read and
This came about when I was prevalent. I cannot really relate understand the Scriptures
depths of my being; and that American church, discussing
listening to a sermon that to war and hostile invasions, in new ways. I pray that I will
whatever finds me brings with the text over a Prayer
one of my colleagues was such as we find in parts of the not block my ears or shut my
it an irresistible evidence of Breakfast.
preaching. In the sermon, Old Testament and Psalms, eyes to things I disagree with,
its having proceeded from the The four groups believed each
which was referring to a but I am sure there are many just because they make me
Holy Spirit”. (S.T. Coleridge, had been given the same
passage of Scripture that I was today in other parts of the uncomfortable. I pray that I
Confessions of an enquiring background briefing; it was
very familiar with, the preacher world who can see this as may have “ears to listen” as
Spirit, Letter 11, A&C Black, not until they came together at
explained the passage in a way their story, those who are Jesus says. (Mark 4:9) NRSV.
1956, pp 42-3). I have come to
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Grafton
Page 2 North Coast Anglican December 2019
Special Meeting of the Diocese
By The Venerable Tiffany
Sparks, Diocesan Archdeacon
& Ministry Development
Officer
On November 9 the Anglican
Diocese of Grafton had a
special meeting at Coffs
Harbour to begin the
consultation process towards
restructuring the Diocese.
As a result of many years
discussing restructuring the
Diocese, Bishop Murray was
asked to develop a proposal.
The Bishop, along with the
Senior Leadership Team and
Bishop-in-Council, has spent
many months developing a
proposed restructure with the
primary focus on mission, and
inviting parishes to look at how
they do church and mission in
their community with a vision
for the next 20 years.
The proposal looks at how we
can do team ministry better,
not just the clergy, but on a
parish-to-parish level.
The models from ministry are
encouraging parishes to work
with each other as a “hub”
rather than as stand-alone
islands. Photo by David Ford
By creating new ministry units,
parishes can benefit from the
different gifts and energies that
what has been and that is we want to do). process we can free up the the restructure proposals and
team ministry can bring and
understandable. We believe in a God of people of God to strategically imagine new ways in which
support and inspire each other
However, it was the vision of abundance who desires us to be the people of God in this they can do ministry.
in the mission of God in this
this diocese that change and have life to the full. We need to diocese. People are invited to give
region.
restructure needed to occur find where God is calling us to During this consultation feedback to Bishop-in-Council
With any change, there
in order for this diocese to be in 2019 and beyond. process, people are by the end of March 2020.
is always some grief for
flourish (and flourishing is what The hope is that through this encouraged to engage with
Wellbeing Hub for Bishop Druitt College
Wellbeing is a central focus to build and sustain the
at Bishop Druitt College and wellbeing of the whole school
is based on ensuring that community. This new space will
the physical, emotional and support at-risk students and
social needs of everyone reduce stigma around mental
in the community are met, health issues. The Wellbeing
taking into account individual Hub will be supported by
requirements. After consulting our two school counsellors,
with the BDC community to two Chaplains and the K- 12
see if a Wellbeing Hub was Director of Student Wellbeing.
something that would be of It will contain five offices, a
great support and benefit to small group counselling room
the students, the decision was and a large activity room. The
made to bring this space to activity room is called The Oasis
life. BDC’s vision is to create a and will be used by various
wellbeing environment through BDC student groups. Some of
the construction of a brand these groups are Mindfulness,
new K-12 Wellbeing Hub. Goori Group, Breakfast Club,
Art for Wellbeing, LQBTQI+, Simon Doyle – Assistant Principal, Rev’d David Morgan – Chaplain, Jane Mosco – Counsellor,
The Wellbeing Hub will be a
Rock and Water, Human Rights Nick Johnstone – Principal, Saskia Klop – Counsellor, Sue O’Connor – Director of Student
one-stop-shop for information
and Environment Groups to Wellbeing K-12, Rev‘d Naomi Cooke – Chaplain.
and resources on strategies
name just a few.
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December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 3
Welcome to the Labyrinth
By Bryan McClelland and I needed before a
Anna Mulholland challenging overseas
“I’ve started walking the labyrinth trip. I particularly
every day,” Uki woman, mid 30s. related to the art in
the church and what
“It is wonderful that the church
the artist has written
has opened this for the whole
about his personal
community to use,” Several Uki
life journey,” said
locals.
one of Uki’s creatives
On October 18, a wonderful about to depart on
cross generational mix of more a trip to Europe to
than 70 people from the Uki record for a musical/
community gathered at the narrative creation with
opening of the Labyrinth, and his equally creative
“Absence”, an art exhibition partner.
hosted in the church. Locals
The original idea came
and parishioners together
from members of
walked the labyrinth, admired
the congregation. A
the art and embraced the
team of parishioners
peace and tranquillity of the
created the labyrinth
garden.
- some did the hard
The Labyrinth was designed labour, others worked
by Peter Abraham, artist on labyrinth design,
and regular at Holy Trinity, planning the garden,
Uki. Peter also created the donating rocks, plants,
contemplative and illustrative mowing, weeding and
art exhibition inside the church. more.
The church has been Thank you to the
overwhelmed by the way the Parish Council for the
local people have embraced gift for the purchase
this church initiative, and of bricks.
believe it will continue to build see the continuing deeper
“The kids have already been,
bridges in Uki for a long time. development of relations
and want me to come down,
The school librarian is really between the church and the
so I will do so soon,” said a
keen, and has been teaching local community as a result
local single mother of two.
classes about the worth of of the gift of the Labyrinth to
After hearing of its mediational
the labyrinth and taking them our beautiful Uki community,
purpose, “Ooh - I think I need
across to use it. including more seekers
to go down on my own too!”
“The labyrinth was just what attending services at Holy
It has been encouraging to Trinity.
Christmas in a Shoebox
By Rebekah Erga, Christian To date, 143 shoeboxes have
Studies Teacher and been returned to the school
Primary Chaplaincy team for the SCAS Operation
Every year the generous Christmas Child collection.
SCAS school community These boxes have been
participates in Operation lovingly filled with gifts
Christmas Child (OCC) which will ultimately bring
project, run by Samaritan’s joy to children in developing
Purse. Samaritan’s Purse countries.
partners with local churches A special thank you to
in developing nations you and your family for
to reach out to children participating in delivering the
by providing gift-filled Good News of Jesus Christ
shoeboxes and bringing the around the world.
Good News of Jesus Christ.
We are blessed to have Mr
After receiving shoebox Graeme Kightley, from the
gifts, many children are also St Columba Anglican School
invited back to participate Council, as the regional
in The Greatest Journey – an coordinator for this program.
evangelism and discipleship
A special thank you also to
program. Since 1993, the
our special “secret angel”
Samaritan’s Purse project,
who has been lovingly hand-
OCC, has collected and
making carry bags to be
delivered more than 135
added to the shoeboxes. She
million shoeboxes to children
has made hundreds for us
in more than 150 countries
over the years.
and territories.
Zero Tolerance for Sexual Misconduct
Grafton Diocese has established formal procedures to deal with sexual misconduct. Persons aggrieved by the sexual misconduct of a church worker -
whether they are an ordained or lay person - should report it. If you wish to speak to someone about sexual abuse by a church worker
please phone 1800 370 757 or email dps@graftondiocese.org.au
to reach our Director of Professional Standards who can receive your report with confidentiality.
Page 4 North Coast Anglican December 2019
All Creatures Great, Small, Fluffy and Scaly
Many Parishes of the Grafton Diocese held
Blessing of the Animals throughout the end of
October. Check out the adorable photos.
Bangalow
Ballina Cathedral Ballina
Cathedral Macksville
Snapshot
All Saints Friends Murwillumbah recently sent 19 shoeboxes filled with toys, Brother Geoffrey and Brother Wayne, Little Brothers of Francis, came to speak at
books, games etc to Drake for the families in distress from drought and fires. They All Creatures Great and Small, an occasional service of reflections, words and music
also sent bags of clothes, sheets, doonas and four newly made patchwork quilts. on October 6 at All Souls’ Bangalow. Following the Feast of St Francis, they told
“We hope that this will let families know we are thinking of them and that the us more about their Franciscan Hermitage at Tabulam and their lives as religious
boxes help bring smiles to the children’s faces.” brothers.
December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 5
Special schools sustainability edition
Tel someone who cares
Students from St Columba Anglican School generate awareness of the declining koala population
The BDC Climate Change Position
By Nick Johnstone, Principal This increase will cause coastal with students and
Bishop Druitt College erosion and the loss of arable staff involved in
There has been much written land as well as a lowering our Environmental
about climate change in the of the ocean pH (increasing Group and other
media in recent days and acidity). Both of ocean acidity environmental
therefore it was important and ocean warming have initiatives are
that the Bishop Druitt College negative connotations for our being planned
position is added to the coral reefs. for the 2020
conversation. This information is school year and
discouraging, to say the least, it will be integral
As many of you know I have
is essential that while we think to our school
a tertiary background in
globally we must act locally. improvement plan.
science and theology as well
as education and there is a Why is Bishop
What is Bishop Druitt
natural crossover between the Druitt College
College doing to care for our
scientific method and theology. taking action in a
planet?
This crossover pertains to practical way?
reasoned argument and The college has replaced all
our lighting with LEDs which The college sees
reasoned logic. The scientific
have a longer life and reduce the ethical and
argument is as follows.
electricity consumption. In moral imperative
As it currently stands, the
a campus of our size that that the current
Intergovernmental Panel on
equates to over 4400 LEDs. generation has in
Climate Change notes that
The college is in the process of forming part of the
the world is likely to warm by
installing a 98kW solar system ecological solution.
1.5°C at its current rate by 2030
on the roof of the Branson From a theological
or soon after. This is mainly
Centre. This will reduce our perspective, as an
due to an increase in carbon
consumption by over one third. Anglican school,
dioxide in the atmosphere. This
We are also planning on setting we also have a
increase in CO2 creates both a
up our shared farm (Farnworth) responsibility
thermal atmospheric blanket
with solar power when phase to care for each
and is also partly absorbed by
two is actioned in the new year. other and for
our oceans.
Our college is also working the earth. Ms
From a scientific perspective, Greta Thunberg
through our Sustainability
this increase in CO2 creates is, as we know, of thousands of students (and public.
Committee (a subcommittee
an increased frequency of a passionate climate change teachers) worldwide who are At Bishop Druitt College, we
of Council) to develop policies
heatwaves, droughts, and activists who has captured the taking action on this issue. applaud Greta’s integrity,
and practices to reduce our
flooding. It will also result in world’s attention through her We need a little controversy courage and her sense of social
waste and to focus future
the melting of ice sheets and school strikes and her speech to create the environment for justice. It should also be noted
purchases using ecologically
glaciers resulting in a 5 to 10cm at the United Nations. I truly change and Greta has opened that these three values are part
sustainable materials. The
increase in sea levels globally. thank Greta and the hundreds the discussion to the general of our set of college values.
college is also socially active
Page 6 North Coast Anglican December 2019
Special schools sustainability edition
Sustainability at St Columba Anglican School
“Sustainability” is a term that A fortnightly sustainability
sometimes seems as in vogue item in Primary assembly.
as Pete Evans’ Paleo diet, Request accepted for
but at St Columba in 2019, removal of paper towels
sustainability is something that in staff bathrooms in
has become far more than a 2020.
word.
A fundraiser for the Koala
It has become a part of our Hospital, through the
School and is growing from production of bag tags
the ground up like a newly and “No Junk Mail” signs in
emerging seedling in the Term 4 2019.
Primary vegetable patch.
Koala Smart participation
With the inspiration and for all Primary students
passion of two very special to generate awareness
Primary teachers, Mrs and understanding
Rosenbaum and Ms Kiehn, of the declining koala
our Primary School students population.
have developed the Primary
And last but not least, a
Sustainability Committee with
BIC writing instruments
over 50 students committing
recycling program
their own time to improve
included in all Primary
SCAS each and every week. Just
classes.
take a look at the achievements
the Committee has achieved The Secondary School, under
this year alone: the guidance of HSIE teacher,
Mr Tejcek, has also been
Recording all students’
forging its own path on the
names in Years 3 to 6 who
sustainability trail, and has
bring nude food lunch
laid the foundation for growth
boxes, every day of the
over the years to come. Our
week.
Secondary School has been
Using the House points involved in projects and
system and Boost Juice Blue International Marine
initiatives such as: Debris Database.
vouchers as incentives for
Year 10 students being Students from throughout
nude food lunch boxes.
a part of the School’s the Secondary School
Years 3 to 6 bringing over first “Chairman’s Climate
1100 nude lunch-boxes participating in a number
Change Forum” and of international student
this year. contributing to the climate strikes. With Ivy
A beeswax wrap workshop School’s response to the Moore (Year 11) and Mr
for all Sustainability global climate crisis. Tejcek being selected
Committee members. Every Year 10 Geography and trained by former US
Green bins being student writing and Vice-President Al Gore as
included in all Year 5 and illustrating their own “Climate Reality Leaders”
Year 6 classrooms and children’s book to educate in Brisbane.
playgrounds. children on issues relating Our departing senior
Red bin removal from to environmental change students continued the
the playground and and management. tradition and added
classrooms in Years 5 and Koala Smart participation to SCAS’s carbon
6 areas in Term 4 2019. by students to sequestration program
The collection of data generate awareness by planting an Illawarra
on reusable coffee cup and understanding Flame tree as part of
usage at the Cafe, and of the declining koala the School’s growing
targeted communication population. arboretum on the back
and support to increase Every Year 9 student oval.
further usage. participating in a week- Sustainability is alive and well
Multiple classroom long marine debris and at St Columba, but we still have
presentations for the ocean awareness week a long way to go in becoming
whole of Primary on and cleaning rubbish a more energy-efficient,
sustainability (green off every single beach waste-free and overall more
bin usage, nude food, in Port Macquarie and environmentally friendly school
sustainable food then recording the debris and we are looking forward to
production etc). collected to the Tangaroa the challenge.
STEM talk and career paths for students
STEM in Schools was held for Cowper and Dr Mel Conaghan said.
at Bishop Druitt College Coleman, Marine Ecologist at “STEM skills are being used to
in November. Year 10 the National Marine Science solve global challenges and
students participated in Centre to the Q&A panel. new research frontiers are
a classroom activity with Students posed challenging being frequently discovered
CSIRO and special guest questions on a range of with new technologies.”
panellists in an effort to topics, including Australia’s
Dr Coleman outlined her
demonstrate the diverse and future energy security, the
role at the National Marine
rewarding career journeys use of genetically modified
Science Centre in Coffs
that come from pursuing crops, our involvement in the
Harbour. Her research
STEM subjects (science, space race and cybersecurity.
includes experimental marine
technology, engineering and “Students interested in ecology, population genetics
mathematics). STEM subjects have a broad and seaweed ecology and
BDC welcomed Mr Pat range of potential career conservation.
Conaghan, Federal member paths ahead of them,” Mr
December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 7
Special schools sustainability edition
The Future Is In Their Hands
By Jo Hethrington, Director
of Early Learning, Lindisfarne
Anglican Grammar School
At Lindisfarne we are on
a journey to integrate
sustainable values, actions, and
features in every facet of our
school environment. It is our
hope to ingrain this message
in the developing minds of our
future youth, and to support
their passion in ensuring the
ongoing sustainability of our
world.
The Stephanie Alexander
Kitchen Garden at Sunshine
Avenue continues to
expand and flourish – now
including a beautiful outdoor
classroom and kitchen area
along with pizza ovens and
additional herb gardens. The
lessons undertaken and the
experiences in our garden are
part of what makes Sunshine
Avenue special.
These experiences were
recently shared at the
Sustainable Schools
Symposium which was held
in May at Somerset College,
where some of our Year
4 students presented our
school’s journey in developing L to R: Year 4 student Kiki Dorsey, Holly Somerville Knox founder of environmental start-up “Tell Someone Who Cares”, Year 4
the Stephanie Alexander student Phoenix Carpenter and Year 4 teacher Lauran Turnbull.
Kitchen Garden Program at
Sunshine Avenue. Ms Lauran
Turnbull, myself, and our
and mathematical problem around Bali and how they have
kitchen garden specialist,
solving. We concluded motivated other young people
Mrs Maria Roberson; along
the workshop by teaching to action.
with students Simon Hodges,
participants how to make a pot We all left the day feeling
Logan Douglas, Kiki Dorsey and
from recycled newspaper and moved by the myriad of
Phoenix Carpenter, presented
planting a seed to take home incredible young speakers who
a workshop to approximately
and grow. were so enthusiastic about the
50 students and teachers from
across the Gold Coast and The students present also left causes they supported and
Northern NSW. inspired as they heard from nourishing the future of our
role-models such as 18-year- beautiful planet.
The students ignited the
old Melati Wijsen who, along Thank you to the Lindisfarne
thoughts of the people present
with her sister, have driven Parents and Friends
by exploring possible ways
the campaign to ban plastic Association who have
of integrating learning into a
bag use in Bali. Melati spoke generously supported the
school garden. Ideas included
passionately about their kitchen garden program from
science experiments, cooking
journey as young ambassadors inception to its fruition.
incursions, entrepreneurship
for “Bye Bye Plastic Bags”,
through the selling of produce,
helping to clean the oceans
BDC and Prosper work together to reduce plastic pollution
Prosper Coffs Harbour’s in the fundraising efforts for waterway so there is no litter
Protection of the Environment the seabin over the coming escaping into the wider ocean
Trust is taking a stand against months.” environment.
ocean plastics. Together, with The seabin is a cleaning “We need to support
the support of Bishop Druitt device that will operate 24/7 organisations doing great
College, the trust will aim to collecting floating debris in things in our community and
raise enough money to bring the water, reducing litter the seabin project is one of
a seabin to Coffs Harbour. escaping into the estuary and them. We are very pleased to
The Fundraising Manager the wider ocean environment. be working with Prosper Coffs
from Prosper Coffs Harbour, The seabin can collect up to Harbour to bring a seabin to
Melissa Nunn says, “We 1.5kgs of floating debris per the Jetty,” said Nick Johnstone,
need to do something about day. This includes large plastic Bishop Druitt College
plastic pollution now and bags, bottles, plastic straws, Principal.
by fundraising to purchase coffee cups, food wrappers, If you would like more
a seabin we can all make surface oils and micros information about the seabin
a difference to reduce our plastics down to 2mm small. campaign please visit the
plastic pollution impact on Once the funds have been www.prospercoffs.org.au and
the ocean and maintain a raised for the seabin it will be to donate visit https://give.
clean waterway. We are very donated to the Jetty Marina everydayhero.com/au/seabin- Pictured from left: Matt Newberry, Chloe Braun, Imogen
excited to have the support of where it will be maintained for-coffs-harbour Lamont, Melissa Nunn, Nick Johnstone
Bishop Druitt College to assist and continue to clean the
Page 8 North Coast Anglican December 2019
Special schools sustainability edition
Tel someone who c
ares
Living Sustainably at CVAS
Clarence Valley Anglican School water bottles, etc to collect the
recently received a Highly 10 cents through Return and
Commended award from the Earn, as well as sorting rubbish
Clarence Valley Council for in the Primary classrooms and
being a sustainable school. turning lights off when not in
Part of what how makes CVAS use.
a sustainable school is the The interviewing committee
extensive use of solar power, were impressed and this is
collecting rain water and using an encouragement to look at
it in the school gardens and further ways we can support
oval. our environment.
The school also takes on the
initiative to recycle poppers,
SCAS Students Doing it for the Koalas
The Lake Innes Nature reserve
in Port Macquarie is home to
St Columba Anglican School
(SCAS) as our campus backs
onto the Googik Heritage Trail.
It is also home to a colony of
up to 600 koalas. New South
Wales continues to experience
high intensity bushfires, the
blaze of which devastated parts
of our Lake Innes Reserve,
decimating the habitat of our
koala neighbours.
The Year 6 class of 2019 at
SCAS have been motivated
to make change to protect
our local koala population,
especially as they become
under threat from the fires.
Having formed their own
“Sustainability Committee”
earlier this year, they have
tackled environmental issues
by taking action in an array of
school-based initiatives.
Their most recent enterprise
raised funds for the Port
Macquarie Koala Hospital.
Using sustainably sourced St Columba Anglican School Sustainability committee donates to Sue Ashton from the Port Macquarie Koala Hospital
timber, they created bag tags
and “no junk mail” signs and
sold them to their peers. sign, we are also helping put “A lot of kids think they don’t Their sales raised an initiative of these empowered
Year 6 student Indi saw the a stop to people cutting down have a voice and they can’t impressive $700 for the Port young students. They are the
initiative as not only raising trees to make mail that people change anything. I think they Macquarie Koala Hospital, future.
important funds, but also are only throwing away,” Indi really can, and kids do make a which will be used to purchase “And do not forget to do good
increasing awareness of the said. lot of impact on a lot of what water stations that will be and to share with others, for
plight of our koala community. Fellow Year 6 classmate, Sura, we do. We should have a say. placed within the burnt with such sacrifices God is
“Koalas are losing their believes their efforts are a That is the reason why we did bushland for koalas and other pleased.” (Hebrews 13:16)
habitat and they are dying. By testament to the power of this, because we want change,” wildlife. The SCAS community
purchasing a “no junk mail” young people to make change. Sura said. is incredibly proud of the
December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 9
Commissioning of The Rev’d Dway Goon Chew
By Yvonne Turner from Lindisfarne Anglican
The commissioning of The College were among the
Rev’d Dway Goon Chew as large community leaders who
the Priest at Tweed Heads attended.
took place at St Cuthbert’s on Debra Pinkerton from Twin
November 17. Towns Uniting Church
The service began quietly spoke on behalf of all other
with a Welcome to Country by denominations, welcoming
Auntie Ruth Conlan. Dway to the district.
Then the roof was raised and Rev’d Dway and his wife Leeza
the atmosphere set as The have warmly been welcomed
Servant Song, Brother, Sister into the parish.
let me serve you was sung to Archdeacon Matthew Jones
commence the commissioning when delivering the “Sermon”
service. It was electric and gave Dway a bright red poster
the feeling of absolute joy – with the message “KEEP
overwhelming! CALM AND CARRY ON”. A
Rev’d Dway Goon Chew, very informative and amusing
whose last parish was address, with the message that
Ayr in North Queensland, we must know that God is in
was commissioned by our the midst of all of this. Don’t be
Bishop Murray Harvey with a afraid.
congregation of about 150 as St Cuthbert’s singing group
witnesses. added to the atmosphere of
The local member of state the very inspirational service.
parliament Geoff Provest, many Drinks and nibbles in the
priests and deacons from the breezeway and a terrific supper
Diocese, ministers from other followed. The next chapter in
denominations, headmaster the life of St Cuthbert’s begins.
Stuart Marquardt, chaplain and Good luck Rev’d Dway.
student leader Abby Rynehart
A Light Hearted Journey of Harps
In an exquisite October Featuring an astonishing
concert, the Byron Music range of seven harps including
Society presented The a green Irish, blue electric
Harp’s Journey with Louise and superb concert harp,
Johnson, one of the most Louise was able to let each
prominent Australian and instrument sing with its own
international harpists, in a distinctive voice of nuance and
rare and outstanding musical colour thus creating a magical
performance at St Mary’s connection with the audience.
Church, Ballina. This was the fourth concert at
From medieval to modern, St Mary’s this year in an active
from classical to jazz, from effort of the parish to connect
acoustic to electric, Louise took to the wider community
the audience on an exciting through music.
journey through the ages. Our next event is a Christmas
Journeying from an ancient Concert by Vox Caldera
Syrian Hymn and Medieval Chamber Choir on 14
Music to the 20th Century, the December.
audience was transported to
different places in time.
Launch of New Pioneering Ministry at South Grafton Anglican
The last three months have new family service. of ministry as presented to all
been busy for the Parish of “One of the gaping holes that is parishes recently.
South Grafton. With a new prolific in Anglican churches is “Our parish sees the
rector comes new vision family attendance”, said Rev’d opportunities of becoming part
and change. It has been a Tim. of a blend with Maclean and
challenging period for all. The Grafton. It gives us, like the
“Building into the lives of our
Saturday night service had its other parishes, the opportunity
communities is not rocket
final send off, to make way for to offer our region a wider
science, but it is not a given
new ministry. spectrum of Anglican worship
either. We have to intentionally
South Grafton Anglican have change the way we present and theology.
a new logo, new website, ourselves - The Body of Christ “We are a broad church and
and a new family service to to the world around us in a way there is scope and space within
go with them. The Rev’d Tim that they can engage with. our future region of Clarence
Waghorn has a passion for new for us to make an impact for
“For many churches, this is our
ministries and seeing God’s the Gospel. We do not vie for
last opportunity to be relevant,
Kingdom grow in the local parishioners who go to other
so we should not hold back on
church. churches in our new model
asking what needs to change.”
In less than 100 days of his but reach out to those who are
South Grafton Anglican is also
induction, South Grafton yet to experience the love of
preparing for the new model
Anglican launched TEN30, their Christ.”
Page 10 North Coast Anglican December 2019Alstonville Anglicans support Heartfelt House
By Johnny Sernberg,
Treasurer and Susan
Fitzpatrick, Rector’s Warden
Alstonville Anglicans
together with Bishop Murray
Harvey, during his visit to St
Bartholomew’s on October 13,
presented a donation of $5,300
to Heartfelt House.
Bishop Murray had preached
on Luke 17:11-19, referring to
isolation, healing and moving
forward.
He acknowledged the worthy
donation and the excellent
work of Heartfelt House
enabling people to heal and
look to the future.
This donation was a result of
the very successful Auction of
Promises fundraising event
held on March 9.
With the strong ties that have
developed over many years
between St Bartholomew’s and
Heartfelt House, it was only
Caroline Maunder, Heartfelt House; Bishop Murray, Susan Fitzpatrick, Rector’s Warden
fitting that funds raised at the
Auction of Promises be given to
this very worthy cause.
The night was very entertaining for donations to the on paper against each item and played well-known pieces It would be a shame to miss
and exciting as many worthy cause. during the evening. from international operetta to the opportunity presented by
experienced for the first time As well as personal bidding in Entertainment was delivered much enthusiastic applause. a novel popular fundraising
the frantic elements of bidding the main auction, there was a by the Ballina Pipe Band and Some say the evening was so activity, wouldn’t it? So, watch
in person for services and very successful silent auction our very own in-house musical successful that we must repeat this space!
offers of assistance in return where guests wrote their bid guru, Marius Mulder, who sang the night again next year.
Moving into the neighbourhood
2019 CHRISTMAS APPEAL
Please donate this Christmas to help us move in times of disaster
anglicanoverseasaid.org.au 1800 249 880
December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 11Baby Show and Fête Music supports Affordable Housing
All Saints Church Jumping castle and face- On October 20, Alstonville The evening presented the and songs by several young
Murwillumbah recently held painting provided fun for the Anglicans presented a donation best of voice, keyboard and aspiring musicians. Everyone
a most successful Baby Show children. of $1,400 to the Anglicare instrumental music. The commented on the wonderful
and Fête. The Fête had 16 stalls, Northcoast Affordable Housing audience was entertained with talents of all involved and
35 babies were entered into including flowers, cakes, plants Foundation. The donation the keyboard recitals of Marius departed the evening with
the show, creating a church full BBQ, hot pies and much more. resulted from an Evening of Mulder, the excellent acapella joyful music resonating in their
of happy families and smiling An enjoyable day reaching out Rhythm held on September 21 harmonies of the Headliners memories. A great evening and
faces. to the community. at St Bartholomew’s church. Chorus and the instrumental one worthy scheduling again.
L-R: Rev’d Dr Desiree Snyman, Roslyn Felch (Anglicare NC), Susan Fitzpatrick and
Jenny Noble (Wardens)
Page 12 North Coast Anglican December 2019The Bells of St Mary’s In Brief
APPOINTMENTS
By Rev’d Matthew Jones
With the visit of Dr Lindy Crocker The Rev’d Daryl McCullough has been appointed
from Sydney to holiday with the as the next Priest at Coffs Harbour Parish.
Browns nearly two years ago The Rev’d Anne Goode has been appointed as
came some tuition on hand bells the next Priest at The Bellinger Parish.
and the first opportunity to play
bells during a Service at St Mary’s, The Rev’ds Bob & Christine Woolner have been
Ballina. Lindy has remained our appointed Intentional Locums in the Parish of
mentor and gives advice and Nambucca Heads for a term of one year.
guidance at each further visit.
FAREWELL
Jennifer has been able to purchase
bells from various sources. Our Roz Rogers concluded her ministry at CVAS as Lay
first set of 13 bells was an octave Chaplain and her fixed-term appointment for her
of bells from middle G up. Jennifer Cathedral ministry finishes in December.
was very fortunate to find these
second hand bells in excellent RESIGNATION
condition. This enabled us to get
started on forming a bell choir and Lawrence Outridge has resigned as a Stipendiary
practising as a group, gradually Left to right: Yvonne Wright; Rosalind Latimer; Jennifer Brown (Bell Lay Minister in the Parish of Port Macquarie and
becoming more experienced and Captain); Ian Brown (Associate Organist); David King. his last day in the Parish will be 1 December 2019.
focused on each other.
The music has to be specially PERSONAL
arranged for a hand bell choir and in memory of someone or in Not everyone is able to practice
most of what we play has been The Rev’d Margaret Rose and Bob have moved
gratitude for their bell choir. with bells at home. It is suggested
arranged by Ian Brown. Only one from Mullumbimby to Queensland.
Many bell groups play “off the this can be done with wine glasses.
octave somewhat limits the scope There are no broken wine glasses
table”, where each player lifts bells DEATHS
of music which can be played, so to report yet, just a scratched table
sharply upwards to ring them. We
Jennifer purchased new another which ought to have broken the
play bells “in hand”. We are taught The Very Rev’d Dr Greg Jenks’ mother died on 30
octave of bells to add below the glass.
that the bells contain Champagne October in Brisbane. Please keep Greg and his
original ones.
which must not be spilled, and We have been playing for services family in your prayers.
The range of our bells is now the bell is thrust forward to ring. and special occasions about four to
all that we could ever wish for. Our more experienced players are six times each year, either before Mrs Carol Holbeck died on 30 October. Carol was
This last set has inscriptions in becoming expert at three or four a service or during Communion or the wife of the Rev’d Jim Holbeck and the sister-
each handle. Reading these has in hand. The handles are looped both. Currently we are practising in-law of Mrs Del Ezzy. Please keep the families in
enabled us to discover that the together, one bell is rung forward Christmas Carols to play at the your prayers.
bells were once owned by Pilgrim and one is rung with a sideways Festival of Lessons and Carols and The Rev’d Alf Gurlack died in Toowoomba on
Presbyterian Church, San Antonio, flick of the wrist. at St Andrews Nursing Home. 11 November 2019. Alf was a past Rector of the
Texas. Several had been given Bellinger Parish. His wife Shirley died six days
before him. Please keep the family in your prayers.
New Independent School for Woolgoolga
OFFICE ARRANGEMENTS OVER
CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR
An exciting development has Mr Johnstone has commissioned growth regions and all are seeking Registry
occurred with Bishop Druitt the Independent Schools another school to meet the The Registry Office will close on the afternoon of
College Council endorsing Association to conduct a shortfall,” Mr Johnstone said. Monday 23 December and will re-open at 9am on
both the Principal, Mr Nick demographic study of the region College Chair, Mr David Ford, Monday 6 January 2020.
Johnstone, and the college Chair, with positive results. The regional stated, “We are vigorously
Mr David Ford, to investigate growth has been endorsed by Anglican Funds Grafton Diocese
exploring a Pre-school to Year 4
the establishment of a second renowned demographer Bernard campus in the region and have AFGD will be providing a part-time operation
campus in the Woolgoolga region. Salt. already investigated a number of during that period with the exception of weekends
This campus will initially focus on “The Northern Beaches region potential sites.” and Public Holidays.
Preschool to Year 4. and Woolgoolga, in particular, are
Dates for Your Diary
23 December 2019 – Bishop’s Registry closes for
the Christmas holidays
6 January 2020 – Bishop’s Registry reopens after
the holidays
7 February 2020 – Clergy Conference
8 February 2020 – LLM Formation Day in the
north
29 February 2020 – LLM Formation Day in the
south
11-14 May 2020 – Clergy Retreat
27 June 2020 – Special Synod
22-23 August 2020 – LLM Conference
24-26 August 2020 – Ministry School
4-6 September 2020 - Synod
Anglican Diocese of Grafton
Do you have an up-to-date will? Please consider giving to the work of the Church in your will.
Our diocese has been blessed by the generosity of benefactors in times past. As we seek to expand Christ’s Mission in the 21st century, please consider
how you might contribute. You should get legal advice before making your will. You may wish to consider the activities of the Anglican Diocese of
Grafton as the recipient of either a specific gift or the residue of your estate.
The following wording may be useful for you and your legal advisor when making your will: “I bequeath to the Corporate Trustees of the Diocese of Grafton
in the State of New South Wales the sum of ..... to be used for the general purposes of the Diocese of Grafton in such manner as the said Trustees may approve.”
December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 13Reflections
Reflection on Formation Program
By The Venerable Tiffany other interesting topics. It was
Sparks, Diocesan Archdeacon pleasing to see the depth of
& Ministry Development thought and conversation that
Officer occurred. This intensive was
“live-in” so the students got to
In early November, we were
know each other by sharing a
delighted to host a formation
residence and breaking bread
intensive for four people in
together.
search for God’s call on their
lives and the possibility of “Many of our sessions
ordained ministry. It is always a touched on a common topic of
privilege to be part of people’s “What does it mean to be an
faith journeys and to hear Anglican?” and we gave much
their story. Bright and early thoughtful consideration on
Tuesday morning we started being a Christian in a largely
out with Morning Prayer at the secular Australia, and on
Cathedral as a lead in to the being an Anglican Christian in
week of reflection, learning Grafton,”
and discussion. The students Grant added.
were “invited” to lead and read It was intense as the title
at both morning and evening proclaims, but it was enriching
prayer. Over the course of to see people who are faithfully
the week, this aspect of the exploring God’s call on their
intensive came to be a giant lives to ordained ministry. It
part of the conversation, is also good to see parishes their experience.
with much speculation about raising up future leaders “Spending time with ministry
how to read the psalms. Do for the church. If you have leaders taught me a lot and
you pause? How long do you someone in your parish gave me new perspectives on
pause? How do you know if the who you think is called for everything from music in the
pause is long enough? Who ordained ministry, tap them on liturgy, pastoral care for people
leads the pause? It is funny a shoulder and affirm them. in sickness and grief and how
how the little things can be One of the most common to read and understand the
great topics of conversation movements of the Spirit is lectionary and Prayer Book
and consternation. However, through people identifying for a variety of liturgies. It was
this way of bonding over gifts and calls in others and great to be able to learn not
worship set the tone for the encouraging them. just theology but also practical
next few days and positively We finished up on Friday with knowledge that we can really
impacted the group. a pizza lunch at Epic Assist use in everyday ministry,”
“My favourite part of each day Job Seeker Agency for people Grant said.
of the formation intensive was with disabilities (part of the “In simple prose I loved this
beginning with Morning Prayer Anglicare group). It was good experience. I loved each of
at the Cathedral. Everyone for the students to connect the instructors and their
was very welcoming to us even with the community and hear instruction. I loved meeting
though we had varying levels of some of the needs people Aaron, Kassimiro and Grant
of experience in doing Morning have and contextual issues. We and pray God’s blessing as Mr Grant, David, and Aaron,” the incredibly wonderful
Prayer,” Grant said. were warmly received by the they proceed along the path to Kassimiro said. “I was actually accommodation and food,
staff and clients at Epic and it ordination. I am hopeful that happy to be refreshed in my and the wealth of knowledge
“I came away with a
was a great way to finish four the new bonds of friendships service to God and to do it with shared. The time together was
commitment to thoughtfully
days of intensive learning and that were created in our week wisdom and reverence I need indeed a blessing. Thanks be
incorporate the practice of
formation. of community together will days like those days”. to God for the time together,
Morning and Evening Prayer
mature and grow, and that our “When people come together for all that was provided and
into my daily contemplative Many thanks to all who
paths will intersect on many in the name of Christ, for the to the hands that brought it
and reflective regime,” David contributed their time for
occasions in the future” David purpose of Christ. Great things all together. Through their
said. these formation days, for
said. can and do happen. Such is considerable efforts, Grafton
David from Ballina parish, their observations, learnings
“The welcoming, the the case with the final Grafton Diocese gave an exemplary
Aaron from Kawana parish, and accommodations. Also
accommodation, the food, and Intensive for the year. As one example of Christian
Kassimiro from Coffs Harbour many thanks to the students
all the presentations by all our who attended, it is certainly no stewardship and fellowship
and Grant from the Cathedral who took time out of their
formators were all beneficial to exaggeration to state that the and showed just how truly,
were invited to sessions on employment to explore God’s
me personally. I also enjoyed entire time was full of blessings wonderful things can happen
liturgy, music, ministry to the call for ordination and for being
the accompanying of my shared. From the blessing when people come together in
sick and dying, Anglicanism in open to learn. Here are some
three brothers in Christ Jesus of new friendships gained, the name of Christ,” Aaron said.
the Australian context amongst thoughts by the participants of
Praying with the saints Richard Baxter, Pastor and Spiritual Writer
By Rev’d Camellia Flanagan master of the free grammar Baxter’s Puritan writings which nonconformist, he is now earth. Despite our unworthiness,
school at Dudley in 1638 and remain in print is not easy described as an English Puritan you have invited us through our
Died 1691
ordained and licensed by the to measure; The Reformed church leader, poet, hymnodist, mediator, Jesus Christ, to present
Feast Day 8 December
Bishop of Worcester. Pastor published in 1656 is theologian and controversialist, ourselves and our prayers to you.
Born on November 12, widely read. Baxter’s views on and he endured persecution, Receive us graciously. Help us by
His best-known ministry was
1615 Richard had a limited justification and sanctification imprisonment and illness. your Spirit. Let us stand in awe of
17 years at Kidderminster
education. Mentor and are considered controversial you. Put your law into our hearts
where the town of about Among his notable sayings
schoolmaster John Owen and unconventional within the and write it on our minds. Let
2000 were converted, (apart are, “Prayer must carry on
persuaded him not to attend Calvinist tradition because his your word come to us in power,
from five years as a chaplain our work as well as preaching”
university. Life in his time was teachings seem to undermine and help us receive it in love, with
in Cromwell’s army). It was and “Pastors must shepherd
influenced by The English the doctrine of salvation by attentive, reverent, and teachable
impossible for Baxter to get themselves before they can
Civil War, the ousting of the faith, emphasising the necessity minds. Through your word, allow
to know them all. His ministry shepherd their flock”.
monarchy in the 1640’s and of repentance and faithfulness. us to taste the flavour of eternal
style of house-to-house In our time can we pray
its restoration which affected life. Make us fervent in prayer
visiting, discipleship, teaching In 1662 Richard married Richard’s prayer?
church and society. Richard and joyful in praise. Help us serve
catechism and pastoral Margaret Charlton, who was
studied theology with Francis “Eternal, Almighty, and most you this day without distraction,
counselling, transformed the like-minded, and when she died
Garget, the local clergyman and gracious God: heaven is your that we may find that a day
town into a vibrant Christian in 1681 he wrote the hymn Ye
read widely, including Calvinist throne, and earth is your in your courts is better than a
community, and set an example holy Angels Bright (TIS 108).
writers, orthodox Church of footstool; holy and reverend is thousand elsewhere, and that it is
of thoroughness and urgency He became alienated from
England theology, writings your name; you are praised by good for us to come near to God;
in proclaiming and applying the church, regarded as a
from conforming puritans and the angels of heaven, and in through Jesus Christ our Lord and
the gospel. The influence of Presbyterian, and moderate
nonconformists. He became the gathering of your church on Saviour. Amen.”
Page 14 North Coast Anglican December 2019Threads laid bare Water, Water Everywhere
By Rev’d Camellia Flanagan about 70% of the earth’s with Christ - drowning and substance from which all cisterns. Mentioned in the
surface. It is the earth’s most rising to new life - so we can things are made. We read in Bible is the pool of Bersheba
In time of drought and
abundant natural resource begin a new life guided by Genesis 1:2, “In the beginning (Genesis 21:19), Isaac’s well
subsequent fire we realise
and is essential for life to the Spirit of Christ. We have when God created the (Genesis 24:11) the waters
just how precious water is.
survive and thrive, but if it is parables and stories in the heavens and the earth, the of Nephtoah (Joshua 15:9)
And if we are surrounded by
unavailable, all life perishes Bible about water, such as earth was a formless void and The pool of Siloam (John
water which is not drinkable,
and not all water can sustain Jesus walking on water and darkness covered the face of 9:7) and Jacob’s well (John
we may have cause to think
life. Understandably water turning water into good the deep, while a wind from 4:6). Significant is Jesus’
of Samuel Taylor Coleridge
can be a symbol for life, and wine. These stories point to a God swept over the face of conversation with the Woman
and The Rime of the Ancient
as Christians we are baptised transcendence of our earthly the waters.” from Samaria at Jacob’s well
Mariner. The Old Sailor on a
in water used as a symbol condition demonstrated by Given enough time water can when he told her, “The water
becalmed ship is surrounded
of life, but also a symbol of the one who created it. And wear away stones and water that I will give will become
by salt water that he cannot
cleansing or purifying of our in Greek philosophy water in may places is collected in them a spring of water
drink. Water makes up
soul, and a symbol of dying is thought to be the original in stone lined wells and gushing up to eternal life.”
St Columba Anglican School
“Expect great things from God; attempt great things for God”
By Mr Terry Muldoon, that prepares a student for a
Principal, St Columba world that no longer exists.
Anglican School, Port “We’ve always done it that way”
Macquarie can no longer offer us comfort.
In fact, doing things the same
Members of our Diocesan
old way can result in our
community who have not
students being left behind and
stepped onto a school campus
refusing them opportunities
over the last decade might
for the future that they so
be shocked to find how much
richly deserve. An act too
today’s teaching and learning,
catastrophic to contemplate.
and how much the schools
themselves, have changed. While we adults may mourn
the loss of certainty and the
At first glance the buildings
comfort of a style of education
are somewhat bigger and
that gave them success in the
better designed, the learning
past, we cannot betray the
environment more alive and
future of our children by failing
energetic and the students
to acknowledge that the world
more actively engaged in their
has changed and that the way
learning.
education is structured must
Underpinning these changes change with it.
is a truly significant shift in
St Columba will not do this!
the educational environment
“Yearning for a new way will
and I am happy to say
not produce it. Only ending the
that our Diocesan schools
old way can do that.”
are determined to remain Today’s Successful Learners throughout their lives; collegial wisdom across
educational leaders, refusing In a society where the world of
(MCEETYA) • Are motivated to reach the entire Diocese;
to accept the “truism” that work continues to evolve at a
regional schools lag behind rate never seen before, we can • Develop their capacity to their full potential. • Looking to grow so that St
their city counterparts. and will offer our children an learn and play an active Further than that, we are Columba does not allow
education that focuses on the role in their own learning; looking at ways of ensuring its educational offerings
I reflect on the words of Bishop to be denied, through
skills, knowledge and attitudes • Have the essential skills our students are successful
Murray in his invitation to limited enrolment places,
that we know will offer our in literacy and numeracy after they leave our learning
our community to the special to the growing number of
students, your children, the and are creative and community. We are moving
Synod to discuss the future families who seek to be
opportunity to rise to the productive users of into partnership with Charles
of the Diocese: “The thought part of our educational
challenge of achieving success technology, especially Sturt University to ensure that
of restructuring can produce story.
in this increasingly competitive ICT, as a foundation for the old silo approach that sees
uncertainty and even fear for
and globalised world. success in all learning schools and universities as “It shouldn’t be that the
the future. However, it is my
impression that, given that the At St Columba, we will continue areas; separate and even disparate family you are born into that
“old models” are not working to offer our students the • Are able to think deeply entities no longer applies to the determines your life chances,
as well as they used to, many foundational skills of literacy and logically, and obtain lives of our students. but to some extent they do.
are waiting expectantly for and numeracy, continue to and evaluate evidence In terms of our wider Lives are not predictable,
the opportunity to do things help them develop positive in a disciplined way as community, there are a human beings surprise. There
differently and embrace new attitudes and skills that will the result of studying number of priorities that St may be a really good teacher.
models.” make them valued members of fundamental disciplines; Columba will be addressing You might have access to a
the wider community, but we over the next year. These really good school.” Dr Dina
The Bishop might just as • Are creative, innovative
will go further than that. include: Bowman, the Brotherhood
well have been talking about and resourceful, and are
of St Laurence study that has
education. Over the past two years, St able to solve problems • Increasing and improving
followed a group of Australians
Columba has been planning in ways that draw upon our involvement with
As we rush towards 2020 for the past 29 years provides
to meet this challenge. We a range of learning areas the education of our
it may come as a shock to a fascinating insight into who
have reviewed and changed and disciplines; indigenous community;
some that many schools and gets a leg up in society.
our teaching and learning • Are able to plan • Working in partnership
educators are still talking about Our schools are:
leadership structure to activities independently, with the Local Nautilus
how we can incorporate the
allow for greater innovation, collaborate, work in teams Senior College, who • Future-focussed
so-called 21st century learning
coordination and flexibility. and communicate ideas; work with the most • Actively responding to
capacities into our education
system. We have researched • Are able to make sense marginalised students in the needs of their varied
educational movements, and of their world and think our community; communities in ways that
We are 20% into the “new”
visited schools and systems about how things have • Working with our only independent schools
century and many educators
that have allowed us to see the become the way they are; local Council to be an can - not shackled by an
are still just talking!
best and learn from the best. energetic participant in urban-based bureaucracy
In today’s world, any school • Are on a pathway towards
We have benchmarked our continued success in the development of the • Lively, innovative and agile
that claims to prepare its
planning, efforts and goals further education, training Health and Education • On a mission to bring a
students for success cannot,
against the very best in the or employment, and precinct; lived Anglican ethos to
should not and must not,
world. acquire the skills to make • Working with our the thousands of students
be shackled to an outdated
teaching and learning system informed learning and Diocesan Schools to who walk through their
employment decisions ensure that we share our gates each day.
December 2019 The North Coast Anglican Page 15You can also read
