Principal's Post

This week is Reconciliation Week. This week is about strengthening relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and non-Indigenous peoples, for the benefit of all Australians. The 2025 theme – Bridging now to Next – urges us to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us, as a symbol of our collective strength and the possibilities of renewal. The theme reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future, and encourages all Australians to step forward together.

I learnt very little about First Nations history and culturewithin my own primary and secondary schooling – is this a similar story to your own?  I am so pleased that our students have an Indigenous curriculum incorporated through all subject areas. Like many things in life, the more I know the more I realise I do not know. Teaching First Nations History to our Year 8 students and working closely with Indigenous Educators has fuelled my curiosity. Our current Year 9 students are invited into the lives of First Nations families in August as they participate in the Red Earth program. I, like many of our staff and students, am a FIRE carrier – where FIRE stands for Friends Igniting Reconciliation through Education. We are proudly committed to promoting respect, fairness and inclusion for Aboriginal people.

Tomorrow, FCJ College hosts the Reconciliation Mass on behalf of the Diocese of Sandhurst. Bishop Shane Mackinlay will lead the congregation with Father Vijay and Father Brian Boyle concelebrating. Sister Liz fcJ and Charlie will also be in attendance. Students from all over the diocese will join with students from FCJ College and St Joseph’s Primary within the familiar setting of St Joseph’s church. Our school captains will welcome all guests and Sophie Hammond will offer a reflection to those at the service and online. Donna Willcock, Director of Catholic Identity, and her team, have worked hard to organise this event - we thank all those involved in anticipation of this special day.

We were also honoured to recently host the FCJ Principals’ Meeting here in Benalla. In attendance were Sr Barbara Brown-Graham fcJ, FCJ Leader in Australia; Professor Marie Emmitt, Chair of the FCJ Education Australia Board; Loretta Wholley, Principal of Genazzano FCJ College;  and Elizabeth Maguire, Executive Officer of FCJ Education Australia. These gatherings, which occur multiple times a year, offer a vital opportunity for leaders across our FCJ schools to come together in shared mission. The meetings are a platform to reflect on our collective identity, share insights and initiatives, and discuss strategic directions for the future. By working collaboratively, we continue to strengthen the spirit of companionship that underpins FCJ education, ensuring we remain faithful to the vision of Marie Madeleine d’Houët while adapting to the evolving needs of our communities.

FCJ College stands on the lands of the Yorta Yorta Nation.Our acknowledgement of country, particular to FCJ Education Australia, says beautifully: “May we always open our eyes to see the stories that have been written, open our ears and hear the songs that have been sung and feel the sacredness of the land. In the footsteps of Marie Madeleine d’Houët, may we walk as Companions celebrating the continuing culture and rich history of the First People of this country. In our words and deeds we commit ourselves to work towards reconciliation and justice for all Australians.”

Pro Deo Semper

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