The Emmaus Awards was the highlight of the Catholic Schools Week in the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle.
Bishop Michael Kennedy celebrated with teachers, students and parents, the contributions of individuals
and communities to the life and mission of the Schools.
People from across the diocese came to recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals and
communities to the life and mission of the Catholic Schools.
Sisters of St Joseph Emmaus Award is given each year recognises women’s outstanding, innovative
leadership in faith. Sr Patricia McCarthy presented the 2025 award to Veronica Rolfe from St Joseph’s
Aberdeen.
Members of the community of St Joseph’s College Lochinvar were surprised to hear that the College had
been given the Award for Catholic School Community, 2025.
The Principal, Mr Peter Antcliff and the College Executive were thrilled and honoured with this Award as
the College has a commitment to fostering a strong community spirit.
College Staff members, Mrs Karen Hickling and Terry Wilson, were recipients of individual Emmaus Awards
for Excellence in Teaching, and for School Support, respectively.
Below are extracts from the Community Award citation read at the ceremony –
“St Joseph’s College Lochinvar is a vibrant, faith-filled Catholic learning community grounded in the
Josephite tradition and guided by the Gospel values of humility, hospitality, and service. ….
Since evolving from a Year 7–10 campus to a comprehensive Years 7–12 college, it has developed a strong
and distinctive identity shaped by its motto, Strength in Difficulties and inspired by the spirit of St Mary
MacKillop and Fr Julian Tenison Woods.
The College places a strong emphasis on belonging, aspiration, and resilience, affirming effort and growth
alongside academic achievement.
Service and social justice are integral to the College’s Catholic identity …
The College demonstrates a deep commitment to cultural respect and inclusion, particularly through strong
support for Indigenous students…. through practices that honour Aboriginal culture and heritage…..
Together, students, staff, families, and parish form a faith community committed to excellence, service, and
living the Josephite spirit.”
The evening was one of joy, gratitude, and shared pride in the work of our school communities.