News & Events

St Joseph’s School welcomed Bishop Karol Kulczycki SDS, back to Pt Lincoln on Wednesday 10th February for the long-awaited official opening and blessing of the Sr Catherine Clark rsj Senior Centre, which was completed in early 2020. Special guests included the Director of Catholic Education in the Port Pirie Diocese, Ms Nichii Mardon along with past Principal and newly appointed Schools Performance Leader, Dr Sandra Hewson. 

Unfortunately the guest of honour, Sr Catherine Clark, was unable to travel to Port Lincoln for the ceremony naming the new facility in recognition of her outstanding service to St Joseph’s School and contributions to Catholic Education over many years. Sr Josie Huppatz spoke on her behalf and unveiled the plaque for the dedication. Among the many tributes paid to Sr Catherine by Student Leaders, old scholars and staff, mention was made of her practicality, intelligence, inclusiveness and humour. 

Dr Hewson said, “In naming the Senior Centre after her, we acknowledge and sincerely thank Sr Catherine Clark for her service to education, and to St Joseph’s School as teacher, Principal, and member of the school board over many years. I doubt that Sr Catherine’s ministry in many fields, but particularly education, will ever be equalled. Sr Catherine brought to life in our school Mary MacKillop’s vision for education, and we thank her for who she is and all she has achieved. Every Principal builds on the legacy of those who have served before them, and I am blessed to have had the opportunity to contribute to the vision of excellent education and facilities at St Joseph’s School.”

Sr Josie spoke of the legacy of the Josephite sisters, with thousands of St Mary of the Angels and St Joseph’s families, enabling the provision of excellent learning facilities and opportunities for today’s students. Along with Acting Principal Ms Sonia Nelson, she highlighted the virtue of kindness and the importance of strong relationships as the school community continues to build for the future and work together as capable, thriving learners.

Article by Mrs Karen Browne (Deputy Principal, St Joseph’s School Port Lincoln)
Photos by Maree Easton