Published by the DIOCESE OF BROOME PO Box 76, Broome, Western Australia 6725 Tel: (08) 9192 1060 Fax: (08) 9192 2136 E-mail: [email protected] www.broomediocese.org FREE

ISSUE 01 APRIL 2010 Multi-award winning magazine for the Kimberley • Building our future together

Lord, bless the sinner who asks for your forgiveness and bless all those who receive these ashes. May they keep this Lenten season in preparation for the joy of Easter.

[From the Mass of Ash Wednesday]

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 1 Many Happy Returns: 90 On 4 February 2010 Bishop Johannes Jobst DD, the Emeritus Bishop of Broome, celebrated his 90th birthday with a special Mass at Wilten Abbey. Following the Mass was a concert of a baroque ensemble, playing on original musical instruments, in honour of the occasion. We join in wishing Bishop Jobst many blessings in this his 91st year and we keep him in our thoughts and prayers. Photo: CAS

Ash Wednesday at Warlawurru Catholic School, Red Hill, near Talking up BoysTown at Balgo Halls Creek, East Kimberley, was a prayerful community celebration for Nutting out matters the seventy or so adults and children gathered in the undercroft. to do with BoysTown In this photo, Elder Philomena operations and Minga, gave out the blessed ashes infrastructure at Balgo to Shania Willett. Photo: CAS were from left (front) Tracey Adams (CEO of BoysTown), Brother KIMBERLEY Ambrose (De La Salle COMMUNITY PROFILE Provincial) and Brother is a publication of the Rick (Principal Balgo), Roman Catholic Diocese and (back) Bernie O’Shea of Broome, published eight times a (Catholic Education), year by the Bishop of Broome. Bishop Saunders and Articles to do with the Kimberley are welcome to be submitted for Ron Dullard (Director publication. of Catholic Education Office WA). ENQUIRIES Diocese of Broome, Photo: J Grimson PO Box 76, Broome WA 6725 Tel: 08 9192 1060 Fax: 08 9192 2136 Email: [email protected]

SUBSCRIPTIONS Caritas Appeal for Haiti Subscription Rate $25.00pa The opinions expressed INSIDE Australia's First Saint in this publication are not necessarily This Issue those of the Bishop of Broome. Bran Nue Dae review www.broomediocese.org

Ten steps towards being witnesses to the Gospel

Step 1. Take seriously the call to be witnesses to the Gospel of life Witnessing to the Gospel of life challenges us to address the human need before us, and to be a force for change to institutions and policies that divide society, undermine human dignity and cause human poverty and disadvantage.

[Australian Catholic Social Justice Council]

2 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 Flying Easter Message off to By Bishop Christopher Saunders DD EASTER – THE SUPREME school GIFT OF FAITH Thumbing a ride or I have been looking for an image of the resurrection – a painting, a catching a lift comes in a sketch, a mosaic or a block-print. I wanted to use it in our magazine to variety of forms in the accompany an article and a prayer-card for Easter and I wanted Kimberley. Here Pipi something that went beyond the pious, shallow art that so often adorns Tataya gets a ride on the the pages of our press this time of the year. Bishop’s plane from I have looked far and wide for an art form of any kind that Gibb River to high communicates graphically and wonderfully Christ’s rising from the school at Kalumburu. dead. It will be no surprise that I have found nothing that captures the gravity and mystery of that moment, or even comes near the Photo: CAS expectations of my imagination of what that gospel scene may have looked like. I have seen some wonderful paintings recorded in art books and on the web. I have looked at oils, water-colours and Visitors farewelled crayons, even at scenes constructed in soft light by world renowned photographers as they tried to seize that sacred second when Christ Father Bill Christy (L), Peninsula Parish Priest, farewells Fr breathed anew and humanity was saved. However, each image seemed Kevin Matthews (centre) from Port Pirie Diocese in SA and incomplete as the magnitude of what it proclaimed could never be volunteer worker, Glen Groves (R), from Sydney. contained or captured within the physical limits of a piece of art. I have examined many memorable renditions of the crucifixion of Christ found in the great galleries of the world. They evoke an appreciation of Jesus as the one who has given everything, even unto death, for a sinful world. I am convinced of the authenticity of the rigours of the scourging at the pillar and the crowning with thorns portrayed in great works by the masters, and in modern films by directors such as Mel Gibson in his The Passion of the Christ. I remember flinching through gruesome scene after scene of the Passion in a city cinema and looking forward to the resurrection ‘finale’, wondering then how it might look from Gibson’s perspective. Cleverly he avoided it. Well, almost. Bandages lay abandoned on the cold stone slab and an eerie light beckoned us to appreciate that something super-significant had happened. It was as close to the real thing that Gibson dared venture. I don’t blame him. I am sure he knew we would all feel severely disappointed with any attempted celluloid portrayal of such a mystery. No artist can recreate the magnificence of the resurrection so as to do it justice. Similarly, the theologians simply haven’t the words to craft an explanation of the resurrection of Christ that satisfies us, nor can they explore in their conjectures the details of this profound occurrence; one that so changed humanity and humanity’s relationship

Photo: CAS with God. And neither can any of us with the most fertile of imaginations ensnare for a moment the full meaning of this mystery. Easter, it would seem, is nothing less than pure faith. It is a time for the true believers. “Blessed are those who do not see and yet believe.” Award What a superb gift to us is faith. Our faith compels us to believe in the risen Christ, one who winner demands that we love as he loved. “This is my commandment: love one another as I have loved you.” He now awaits our response to his Emma Sibosado has won the supreme gift of love. He who has loved us to the point of death gathers Bishop’s Leadership Award for us in this new life which he breathes into us through the power of the 2009 at St Mary’s College Broome. Spirit and urges us to live and love as he did. The Award was presented by Easter is a remarkable time that leads us to the edge of pure Bishop Saunders at the mystery and begs us to contemplate our relationship with God and Presentation Night held at the with each other… and set it right. With this in mind I wish you a College in early December. Emma happy and a Holy Easter. May the joy that your faith promises you lift is well known in the community you up in happy expectation of new beginnings in the company of the and is a wonderful ambassador for resurrected Christ. young people in the Kimberley. Photo: S Di Maria

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 3 Briefly Speaking

GLEN GROVES from Sydney is a fireman who spent some time in the Kimberley recently, doing repairs and renovations using his skills in carpentry and fabrication. We are grateful for his time of volunteering and look forward to his return.

Photo: J Martin

PETER MCARDLE, Research Officer at the Australian Photo: CAS Catholic Bishops Conference in THE KIMBERLEY has a new Congregation of Priests working in Canberra, was in Broome in the Apostolate – The Heralds of Good News (HGN), a society of late 2009 to put together a apostolic life from India that has just celebrated its 25th year submission to a House of since foundation. Appointed to Kununurra-Wyndham are (L) Fr Representatives committee on Raphael Koppula and, the Parish Administrator, Fr Jes Katru. Photo: J Martin the matter of juvenile justice.

OUR THANKS go to outgoing FR DENIS DENNEHY has Religious Education Consultant, been appointed Administrator Gerard Tonti Filippini, who of the Parish of Halls Creek and concluded five years in the job comes to us from the Diocese at Catholic Education, Broome of Ballarat in Victoria. Fr Denis office. He is now Principal at St has already settled into a busy Rita’s Primary School, Babinda, schedule in the Parish which in the Diocese of Cairns Qld. includes the small remote community of Ringer Soak, south of Halls Creek.

Photo: J Martin

FR ANTONY SAVARIMUTHU, a priest from the south of Photo: J Martin India, has offered his service BEN STEPHENS is a on mission in the Broome volunteer working at Balgo. Diocese. Presently he is Ben has just completed an working in the East Kimberley Honours Degree in Commerce and brings a wealth of at university in Perth which will experience to his ministry after come in handy in the desert some years working in the which has its own unique Photo: J Grimson Middle East. Photo: C Lord economy of life.

MARION WHITBREAD, a Let us all resign ourselves into His new volunteer, from hands, and pray that in all things He Tamworth NSW has taken up her appointment at may guide us to do His Holy Will... Kalumburu in the State’s remote north. She is looking When thoughts of this or that come I forward to helping out turn to Him and say: "Only what you wherever she is needed in the tropical location. will, my God. Use me as You will".

Photo: CAS Blessed Mary MacKillop

4 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 New look entrance Vatican Dossier

When a new gate was needed at the Diocesan office in Broome, Peter Kelly of PMK Fabrication was contacted. Peter designed, Pontiff Suggests Best fabricated and erected the distinctive and attractive gates at the Chancery entrance on Barker Street. Gift Children Can Get Notes Their Need to Be Loved by a Mum and Dad

VATICAN CITY, FEB. 8, 2010 (Zenit.org)

The greatest help that can be given to children is a family where mother and father love them and each other, Benedict XVI says. The Pope made this affirmation as he addressed the Pontifical Council for the Family, which Photo: J Grimson recently held a three day plenary assembly in Exploring possibilities Rome. The Holy Kim Courtney (L) and Gay Marsden (rear) chatted with Kalumburu Father noted the personality Gertrude Waina during their visit to the northern mission. theme of the They explored the possibilities of aquaculture projects to be assembly, "The Rights of Childhood," chosen with reference to the employed in the remote settlement to alleviate unemployment and to 20th anniversary of the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child. introduce a training regime for young people. "In the course of the centuries, the Church, following the example of Christ, has promoted the protection of the dignity and of the rights of minors and, in many ways, has protected them," he said. "Unfortunately, in some cases, some of its members, acting in contrast to this commitment, have violated these rights: a conduct that the Church does not cease and will not cease to deplore and condemn." The Pontiff reflected on the consequences of Christ's teaching regarding children: that they are models "to imitate to enter the Kingdom of God." Benedict XVI noted how the U.N. convention points to the family as the "natural environment for the growth and well-being of all its members, especially children." "Certainly," he said, "it is precisely the family, founded on marriage between a man and a woman, which is the greatest help that can be given to children. They want to be loved by a mother and a father who love one another, and they need to dwell, grow and live together with both parents, because the maternal and paternal figure are complementary in the education of children and in the construction of their personality and their identity. "Hence, it is important that everything possible is done to make them grow in a united and stable family." To protect this model of family, the Pope said, spouses must be encouraged "never to lose sight of the profound reasons and sacredness of the conjugal pact and to reinforce it with listening to the Word of God, prayer, constant dialogue, mutual acceptance and mutual forgiveness." Photo: CAS

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 5 Office of Justice, Kimberley Volunteers Ecology and Peace

By Dr David Brennan, Editing and Publications Officer Wet Season volunteers of the Australian Catholic Social Justice Council The power of a single voice

As I’m writing this, the remarks by Senator Barnaby Joyce at the Press Club in Canberra are still comparatively recent news. To remind you: Senator Joyce, the Opposition finance spokesman, suggested that Australia was experiencing such high debt levels (or might be experiencing them very soon) that it needed to reconsider the amount of foreign aid it contributes. In particular, he suggested, it is more important to deal with problems such as the inflation of food Photo: V Baudry costs in Australia than to send aid overseas. I’m not referring to these remarks to make any political point. Christmas is always a difficult period for the supply of They are significant only because ideas like this can attract a lot of volunteers into our Diocese for two main reasons: firstly this is the support from some people in the community and in the media. At “wet” season and the levels of heat and humidity can be difficult to first sight, such comments can seem quite convincing. handle; secondly this can mean being away from family and friends. Jack de Groot, the CEO of Caritas Australia, the Catholic agency So we were delighted when we received a message from for international aid and development, pointed out that problems several-times volunteer Nic Tesselaar (R) offering to return to connected with rising food costs in Australia need to be seen in the Kalumburu Mission to help during this period. Plus he was context of the plight of a billion or more people facing profound bringing a friend, Robert Rex, who was offering his services for the poverty. first time. Australia’s contribution to foreign aid, he said, makes up a very We thank both Nic and Robert for their time and hard work at small part of its budget. In fact, even if Australia lived up to the Kalumburu Mission, and we also thank their families for being so promise it made in connection with the United Nations Millennium understanding. Development Goals, it would be contributing only 0.7 per cent of its gross national income to international aid and development. Yet for me, the most convincing rebuttal of the ‘charity begins at home’ philosophy came a week or so later, when I was privileged to be invited to the launch of Caritas’s annual Project Compassion appeal. The guest speaker was Lulu Mitshabu, an employee of Caritas Australia who comes from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and is a passionate speaker for justice for her people and all those who are oppressed. Lulu quietly described her years of terror: her flight with two young daughters in her arms without time even to go home to get clothes or find her husband, and her struggle alone in a refugee camp Nånå#ARITASå!USTRALIASåMAJORå 9OURåDONATIONåTOå0ROJECTå#OMPASSIO until finally reunited with her husband. She also spoke of Caritas’s ANNUALåAPPEALånåHELPSåALLEVIATEåPOVERTYåANDåBRINGSåHOPEåTOå campaign for justice in Africa, especially for vulnerable women and VULNERABLEåCOMMUNITIESåINåMOREåTHANååCOUNTRIESåWORLDWIDEå girls – a campaign of which she has been a prominent part since 0LEASEåGIVEåGENEROUSLYåTODAYåTOåHELPå coming to Australia. COMMUNITIESåHELPåTHEMSELVESåOUTåOFåPOVERTY In the face of Lulu’s witness that afternoon, the idea that Australia can’t afford overseas aid seemed to shrivel up like a dead leaf. PHONEååå When we think of overseas aid, we often think of relief for the BYåMAIL ONLINEåWWWCARITASORGAU victims of disasters – people struggling with the agonies of the Haiti NAME MR/MRS/MS/MISS/OTHER ______earthquake or the 2004 tsunami. That relief is urgently needed, ADDRESS ______SUBURB ______STATE ______P/CODE ______

Caritas is an important part of it, and Australians are justifiably proud PHONE ______EMAIL ______of their contribution. But we need to remember the everyday agonies PARISH ______DONOR No (if known) ______

Please accept my donation of: $25 $50 $100 $250 Other $ ______that don’t make the headlines – the daily struggle for food and justice Cheque or money order enclosed (payable to Caritas Australia) by billions of people worldwide. The Gospel calls us to be part of Please debit my: VISA MASTERCARD AMEX DINER’S CLUB that struggle, both as individuals and as members of the Australian NAME ON CARD ______community. It’s not that we can’t afford to give international aid. It’s CARD NUMBER ______/ ______/ ______/ ______EXP DATE ______/ ______CARDHOLDER SIGNATURE ______that we can’t afford not to give it. CARITAS AUSTRALIA 24-32 O’Riordan St, Alexandria NSW 2015 ABN 90 970 605 069 GODDEN CINDY PHOTO: PCKC

6 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 Youth Challenged to Be Caritas Kimberley Ambassadors for Change Caritas delivers Caritas Australia is setting a new challenge to the youth of Western Australia with its Be More Ambassador Program launched this month. ‘Be More’, an interactive online campaign, calls participants to set, emergency track and realise five challenges that contribute to change and social justice in their communities. Culminating in the Be More Weekend in assistance in Haiti August each year, the campaign empowers young people to be the leaders of today, not tomorrow. The Be More Campaign has been running nationally for twelve as appeal is opened months but this year participants in Western Australia will be the first to “It is a disaster of the century. We should be prepared for take the campaign to new heights. thousands of dead and injured”, said Caritas USA staff member Karel In addition to creating a personalised Be More profile for Zalenka from Port au Prince. Mr Zalenka, who works with USA themselves, young people between 18 and 30 will now have the Caritas member Catholic Relief Services, said Port-au-Prince was opportunity to take a leading role in shaping the future of social justice covered with a plume of dust from damaged buildings. “I’ve been in action in Australia through the Be More Ambassador Program. earthquakes before, but I’ve never felt anything like this before,” he Campaign said before communications were cut off. Coordinator Ms Jamie Davies, Director of Caritas Australia’s Programs team, Margareta Brosnan who has extensive experience in Haiti said, “An initial priority for said, “Be More Caritas will be to assess the damage and our local capacity to provide Ambassadors will aid to survivors of the quake. Caritas runs over 200 hospitals and participate in medical centres in Haiti. It is experienced and prepared to respond to training, promotion humanitarian disasters there as a result of the frequent hurricanes. and support for the “Communication with our staff on the ground is difficult, but we campaign, inspiring are piecing together a picture of desperate need. Haiti is the poorest their families and country in the Western hemisphere. Conflict, recent natural disasters, friends to challenge and poverty have left Haitians with a weak infrastructure. Working in themselves in 2010. that environment will be difficult,” concluded Ms Davies. “Oscar Romero You can support the Caritas Australia Haiti Emergency famously said that Response Appeal by calling 1800 024 413 or through your local we should ‘aspire parish. Donate online: https://www.caritas.org.au/source/Donation/ not to have more, but to be more’. Building the campaign on this premise really fosters a culture of meaningful Photo: S Di Maria change. “We hope the program not only empowers ambassadors to engage with Caritas in social justice advocacy throughout the year, but also equips them with skills to face the ongoing challenges of global poverty, climate change and inequality worldwide.” For more information please contact Margareta Brosnan 1800 236 673 or visit www.bemore.org.au/ambassador

Caritas Search and Rescue teams and medics in Port-au-Prince. Photo: Courtesy Caritas

Caritas Kimberley. 13 Barker Street (PO Box 76) Broome, WA 6725 Ph: 08 9192 1060 Email: [email protected] www.caritas.org.au

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 7 Notre Dame Kimberley Notre Dame commences by Lyn Quince, Campus Manager a new year Br Shane Wood, cfc Moving Forward On 17 and 18 February, One of my strong beliefs twenty-five higher education is that everything I’ve done in students new to the Broome the past has led me to where Campus of the University of I’m now in relation to where I Notre Dame Australia live, work and how I see attended the Orientation others. As a staff member Program that offered them the who is also studying, a chance to become familiar burning question for me when with the Campus, its staff and I began studying was ‘Why do its facilities. Library I want to do this? Is it simply resources, computer my need to understand what technology, Campus services Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof Lyn Henderson- and academic requirements went before?’ and ‘Can I really make any difference?’ Yates (R) welcomes Elle Massina to the Campus. About ten years ago I introduced my mother to an Aboriginal were all on the agenda. Photo: Notre Dame Broome friend; afterwards she asked what nationality he was. When I told There was time as well her, she replied in a very surprised tone, “Oh, he was very nice for meeting fellow students in wasn’t he?” Who did she think an Aboriginal person was? An Course groups and across all offerings, as well as time for sharing Aboriginal person was a foreigner to her and her views were lunch and morning tea. Students came from as far away as Tasmania stereotypical. I once asked students to research an Indigenous topic and the south of Western Australia. Many have taken up residence in when a non-Indigenous student said, “Why is it always about the Student Village, which is at capacity, while others are blackfellas, why can’t it be about us?” accommodated in town with family or independently. I often reflect on whether we have moved forwards in relation There are other newly enrolled students who were not in to Reconciliation. A basic premise of Christianity is forgiveness. attendance as they are studying externally through online technology, Reconciliation is all about forgiveness. I see Christianity as being an increasingly popular way to access tertiary studies. Overall, the the foundation from which Reconciliation can grow. If Christianity students found the days full of new information, and a great way to be is about God, love and a relationship with humanity, how can the ready for classes which began on 22 February. expression of this love work for a relationship of love and forgiveness between Aboriginal people and non-Aboriginal? Is there hope that injustice and disadvantage can be overcome Takeaway Turkey Treat through man’s love for both God and man? The message of the Any time of the year is turkey-time for these Ranges boys, in Gospels is one of God’s love for humanity. The challenge for the hills on the Gibb River Road, near to Imitji - (from left) humanity is to decide if we are ready to accept what has gone Jonathon, Thurston and Thomas, ready for a feast. before and to seek forgiveness and ultimately achieve Reconciliation.

The 47th World Day of Prayer for Vocations is to be celebrated on the Fourth Sunday of Easter – Good Shepherd Sunday – 25 April 2010

May this World Day once again offer many young people a precious opportunity to reflect on their own vocation and to be faithful to it in simplicity, trust and complete openness. May the Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church, watch over each tiny seed of a vocation in the hearts of those whom the Lord calls to follow him more closely, may she help it to grow into a mature tree, bearing much good fruit for the Church and for all humanity. From Pope Benedict XVI’s Message for the

47th World Day of Prayer for Vocations. Photo: CAS

8 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 Year of the Priest Recovering our Priestly Mysticism for the Kimberley By Fr Mark Ai It is perhaps unrealistic or even ironic to speak of ‘Mysticism’ in the context of ‘Life in the fast lane’ yet it was Jesus’ own method of relating to the Father and to the world. Jesus lived a perfect balanced life of prayer and activity. The Kimberley Region in particular is a land of mysticism, like Year Pictured are altar servers, brother and sister, Tex India, where life and Jodene, processing out with Fr Mark following revolves around the for PRIESTS Mass in Kununurra. Photo: A Fyfe mystery of nature. Karl Rahner once said: “The Christian of tomorrow would need to JUNE 2009 – JUNE 2010 be a mystic or else cease to be even a believer”. Rahner’s statement has proved to be prophetic. We have witnessed the loss of faith amidst Prayer for Priests large sections of Christian believers in different parts of the world. The Lord Jesus you have chosen your priests from among us and sent Aboriginal communities of the Kimberley are no exception. We have them out to proclaim your word and to act in your name. discovered also that those who tried to set the world right without Christian principles have found themselves ill equipped. For so great a gift to your Church, we give you praise and Speaking of mysticism, I am not suggesting the traditional thanksgiving. We ask you to fill them with the fire of your love, reference to a person who withdraws from the field of action. A that their ministry may reveal your presence in the Church. modern mystic is one who moves into the thick of events to assist and Since they are earthen vessels, we pray that your power shine out save, to suggest and guide, to inspire and lead, to suffer and if need be, through their weakness. In their afflictions let them never be lay down his life. Priests today need to be heroes who stir human crushed; in their doubts never despair; in temptation never be hearts, hold out ideals, and hitch their wagons even beyond the stars. destroyed; in persecution never abandoned. Inspire them through Maybe our approach is too human and scientific. Local leaders prayer to live each day the mystery of your dying and rising. who can make a difference in their communities have not emerged as envisioned. We sometimes mistakenly take delight in helping our flock In times of weakness send them your Spirit, and help them to praise ad infinitum. A mystical leader knows when to disappear from the your heavenly Father and pray for sinners. By the same Holy Spirit scene at some point of his or her involvement. That people need us put your word on their lips and your love in their hearts for the continuously and that we feel the need to be ever present with them broken hearted. And may the gift of Mary, your mother, to the and make decisions for them is not at all a good indicator. disciple whom you loved, be your gift to every priest. The mystical approach envisages a life of strong personal prayer life, Grant that she who formed you in her human image, may form reflection and quiet meditation, like Jesus did before launching every them in your divine image, by the power of your Spirit, to the glory ministry of the day. The Year of the Priest invites us to recover our of God the Father. Amen. mysticism which demands us to be centred in Christ. This, please God, I feel will hasten the process of social and religious transformation. (Clergy Life and Ministry)

Saint News

St John Baptist de la Salle (1651-1719) Feast Day – April 7 John Baptist de la Salle was born in 1651 at Rheims in France The Congregation and its work prospered in and belongs to what is known as the French school of spirituality. He spite of numerous trials and difficulties. St John studied at the major seminary in that city and was ordained to the Baptist resigned as superior in 1717 and dedicated priesthood in 1678. He was at first a canon but renounced that office himself to the instruction of novices and the in order to dedicate himself to the education of poor youth. Out of publication of some books, including a method of mental prayer. He this grew the Congregation of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, died on Good Friday of 1719, was canonized in 1900, and declared popularly known as the Christian Brothers. patron of teachers by Pope Pius XII in 1950.

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 9 Catholic Mission Centacare www.catholicmission.org.au Blessing the Caring Centre Mission in action Bishop Christopher Saunders recently blessed the new Icon installed at Centacare Kimberley and he also blessed the building on the Tiwi Islands and prayed: “May all who work here in this building meet the needs of those they seek to serve, and care for their wellbeing with selfless Back in 1965 a young Vietnamese man, love and unending kindness.” Peter Huan saw first hand the plight of the Indigenous mountain people of the Diocese of Kontum and how they were excluded from mainstream Vietnamese society. This empathy was to return many years later when Father Peter Huan MSC would return to work with a different Indigenous community excluded from mainstream society in many ways – the Indigenous community on Bathurst Island right here in Australia. Bathurst Island is part of the Tiwi Islands just Photo: J Martin north of Darwin. Before he reached the Tiwi Islands Father Huan’s life had many chapters to Father Peter giving communion. unfold. Father Peter Huan Photo: Catholic Mission began his studies as a priest in the major seminary in Kontum, Vietnam, but was imprisoned by the government back in 1979 for one year because of his work with the Church. Father Peter’s eldest brother was also imprisoned for three months due to his association with a priest, his own brother. Father Peter spent three months in a cell just three by four metres, not big by any stretch of the imagination, but he shared this cell with 60 people. During his time in prison, Father Peter was beaten severely, many LIFE times. Forced by the government to leave Vietnam in 1981, Father Peter originally thought he would like to go to Holland, but God had other plans with his visa applications rejected three times. This was when he knew he It is sacred should come to Australia, first settling in Melbourne, then Sydney where he finished his theological studies with the MSCs. Spending time in various parts of Australia, Father Peter spent six years working with the indigenous community at Daly River in the Northern Territory. He felt that he had a missionary calling to people of different ethnic backgrounds, particularly with the Indigenous community of Australia. He is happy and comfortable working with the people of the Tiwi Islands. Father celebrates a school mass once a fortnight and at Rankou community every other Sunday. There is no church at Rankou so mass is celebrated in the open air. Father Peter says of his role as a priest amongst the Indigenous community, “I am not here to teach the people, I am here to be with the people as a missionary and by the blessings of God they will experience conversion; not in the white way, not in the black way but in the way and time it is willed to be.” Catholic Mission supports Father Peter and his parish on Bathurst Island with funding from Catholic Mission’s work with communities. You too can support Catholic Mission projects here in Australia and around the world. Send donations to: Catholic Mission, PO Box 76, Broome WA 6725 At just 10 weeks

10 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 film review Bran nue film is another dae

Starring Geoffrey Rush, Jessica Mauboy, Rocky McKenzie, Stephen Albert and Ernie Dingo

Directed by: Rachel Perkins

Produced by: Robyn Kershaw & Graeme Isaacs

By Mary Mack

Bran Nue Dae is a film to do The original production with a young boy and his was something like a revue girlfriend, Rosie. The boy, Willy, and as a result the making of is sent down south to school from a film demanded a new Broome and promptly gets script. Unfortunately, like so himself expelled. He then begins many Australian films, the a memorable journey home with script was woefully his reprobate uncle and some inadequate. Baz Luhrmann’s hippies. It is loosely based on the AUSTRALIA is a good story of Jimmy Chi, a Broome example of this. Sadly, the identity, who wrote and produced script written for Bran Nue the original stage play which Dae failed to tell Jimmy premiered in Broome and then Chi’s story and to toured nationwide twenty years communicate the joy and The stars and guests gather for the premiere of the film at Sun Pictures Broome. ago. richness of the original Photo: J Grimson The question has been asked - work. Some of the dialogue “Which did you like best – the just wasn’t Broome and did inappropriate behaviour involving away from the performance of Stage Musical of Bran Nue Dae not convey a picture of the town children, overt sexual activities; it Jessica Mauboy who was totally or the Film?” For someone not so clearly and colourfully just could have been so much engaging and refreshing in her familiar with the Jimmy Chi portrayed by the Broome actors better. In addition to this, much of role as Rosie. Rocky McKenzie musical written for stage in the employed in the stage show of the original score was cut, gave a credible performance as late eighties, the film has a mildly happy memory. At its worst, many including many of those songs Willy and as usual Stephen Albert attractive aura about it. As one of the characters in the film were which made the play memorable, gave a memorable rendition of commentator put it: “It’s a nice mere stereotypes and many of the while other tunes were given what was asked of him. Geoffrey little film!” But for those people scenes provided ammunition to minimal attention. To add insult to Rush must be wondering at the very familiar with the stage show reinforce old prejudices. Drunks injury more music, not part of the economy of his lines and while there is something sadly lacking lying under bridges, repeated original score, was written as an the part he played did his career in the cinematic creation. scenes revolving around alcohol, unwelcome addition to this film. no harm neither did it do it any Speaking of the stereotypical, it good. It needs to be noted that, as was painfully obvious that the with many Australian films, the producers and writers of the cinematography was movie were not at all familiar accomplished although obviously with the workings and culture of achieved on a tight budget. the Catholic Church. They would We should be grateful for the have done well to have taken recognition given to Broome and some professional advice before Australia’s colourful north, so the project got underway. often neglected by the art world, Is the film worth seeing? including those who make films. Well, yes. It is something of a We can only hope that the testimony to the talent and Australian film industry, when it creative ability of Jimmy Chi as a does try to bring a northern look musician and story teller. His to the big screen, will take the positive contribution to Australian trouble to make sure to get it art will be recognized in spite of right. One of the props from the film – Tang Wei’s Kitchen. Photo: CAS the film. And nothing should take

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 11 Mary MacKillop Australia's First Saint

By Sr Anne Porter RSJ and Sr Alma Cabassi RSJ

Pope Benedict has announced Penola, felt God calling her to that on the 17th of October Mary dedicate her life to God and the MacKillop will be canonised St service of God’s people. With the Mary of the Cross MacKillop. She support of Father Julian Tennison is the first Australian to be Woods she began the honoured in this way. Congregation of the Sisters of St Mary MacKillop was born in Joseph of the Sacred Heart. Melbourne in 1842, the eldest of Mary MacKillop began this eight children to Flora MacDonald new group of sisters to teach and Alexander MacKillop. The children who were not able to go early years of Mary’s life were to school and to care for the ‘poor troubled. Her father was unable to and neglected’ of her time. She keep a job which meant the family encouraged her sisters to “never was poor and often had to move see a need without trying to do to new places. Her mother something about it” and so she set believed that ‘God will provide’ up schools, orphanages, women’s and she taught her children to refuges and other works that trust in God. Mary’s personality would help the poor and showed aspects of both her homeless. parents. From her father she Mary MacKillop stands out as received her love for education, one of our Australian heroes. her understanding of God and a There is something in her passion for justice. From her character and spirit that captures mother she learned how to depend what it is to be Australian. She on God in the most difficult stood on the side of the things. Her mother’s faithfulness, vulnerable, she gave a ‘fair go’ to warm and sensitive heart as well everyone and she had the courage as strength of will are evident in to go to isolated places. She was Photo: “Mary 1882” Mary MacKillop Place Archive, North Sydney. Used with Mary’s story. From an early age full of goodness and very practical permission of the Trustees of the Sisters of St Joseph. Must not be reproduced without permission of the Trustees. Mary had to work to provide for in her approach to life. She had an the family. She worked as a ability to bring hope where there As we celebrate this great God has done and is doing in us governess, a clerk in a stationery was suffering. Her life has woman and what God had done in in this land of the Southern Cross, firm and a teacher in Portland. touched the heart and soul of all her and through her, we will also the Great South Land of the Holy Mary, while teaching at Australians. celebrate our own goodness, what Spirit. Pallottine Director on a grave mission…

Father Ray Hevern SAC, head of the Pallottines in Australia, paid a visit to the Kimberley in February to plan a renovation and restoration of graves in Beagle Bay belonging to deceased members of the Society. While in Broome, exploring a number of options for the project, he visited the graves of the St John of God Sisters and said a prayer at the grave of Sr Immaculata who, like Father Ray, served at Balgo for many years. At Beagle Bay there are ten graves of Pallottine Brothers and Priests who served in the north, some of them for more than thirty years. Their dedication and hard work in the Kimberley Mission will be recognized in part through this Photo: CAS reconstruction of their graves and headstones. Photo: R Hevern sac

12 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 Fr McKelson returns Kimberley Wild Olive Python to his home town [Liasis Olivaceus]

Former Kimberley Lay Missionary, Danny Fyffe (L), visited The Olive Python is one of Australia’s largest snakes and can Fr Kevin McKelson SAC at the Pallottine Centre, Perth, in January. grow to more than four metres and weigh 25 kgs. Their range in the Fr McKelson has since returned to Melbourne where he is in acute north of the country extends across far north Queensland, the aged care. Fr McKelson had left Melbourne, his home town, in the Northern Territory and the Kimberley, where they are usually found 1940s to study for the priesthood and devote his life to the people of near water. the Kimberley. The Olive Python mates in the dry months and lays up to 25 eggs that hatch before the Wet. They develop strong jaws and use their muscular bodies to suffocate their victims which may include ducks, fruit bats, small marsupials, rodents, birds, other reptiles and even small wallabies. They need to eat only a few times a year and spend much of their time in hollows in trees and logs and holes under rocks – living up to 20 years. Location Map

Photo: M Digges No stranger to rural or isolated areas Sr Kathleen McSweeney RSJ is from Victoria where she spent many years teaching in rural areas. When it was time to take on a new ministry Sr Kathleen studied counselling and took up a role as Family and Child Counsellor for MacKillop Family Services in Melbourne. Following this Sr Kathleen went to Swan Hill, Vic, and continued as a Family Counsellor working from two schools. It is from there, with all the gathered life-experiences, knowledge and love, that she answered the call to be of service in the East Kimberley. Sr Kathleen still works from two schools though many more kilometres apart than she is used to – Warlawurru Catholic School at Red Hill, Halls Creek, and

Ngalangangpum Chris Henggeler with an Olive Python on his Kachana property. School in Photo: R Henggeler Warmun. Photo: A Porter rsj

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 13 Obituary Fr Roger Joseph McGinley sac Born 8 April 1922

Entered Eternal Life 12 December 2009

Roger Joseph McGinley was to Kew. Then, in 1958, his return for some born in Sydney NSW in 1922. ‘whole world was turned upside months to southern He was the youngest of six down’ when he was asked to India, to an ashram children – Moya, Madeleine, replace Fr Bruno Kupke in India. inspired by the noted Sheila, [Fr] Brian and Barry. “As so often happens in our lives English Benedictine Their parents, in Roger’s own what I did not want at all turned Fr Bede Griffiths words, were “a mixture of Irish out to be one of the greatest osb, Roger moved and French. Our father, Frank, experiences of my life and a into the less stressful was born in Killibegs, Donegal great spiritual education for me.” surrounds of his and our mother, Madeleine, was His companion there, Fr Bryan beloved Montserrat. born in Lille, France, to a Tiernan, records that Roger’s There, apart from a French father and an Irish principal work was in the parish possum nuisance, he [1988-2009] he tried to shake off mother. Quite a good mix of Bhilai, in the expanding seemed to be very content the busy-ness and aimed to altogether!” Raipur area. “Together we establishing a copycat ashram, become much more reflective, ministered to the many ‘migrant’ which Griffiths himself later Roger was the product of a valuing people and God’s Catholics from various areas of visited and blessed. God used very Catholic education – creation more sensitively, and India who had come there to find him to do much good there until, initially with the Loreto Sisters more joyously. employment” [the daughter of in 2006, Roger graciously at Kirribilli, then the Jesuits at one of those Bhilai families was accepted that the time had come Roger enjoyed an Milson’s Point. After a year of present at his requiem!] to accept professional care and indomitable spirit which, while work, at AGC, he was inspired took up residence at Corpus not beyond being offended, by the influence of Fr Ernest In 1962 Roger became the Christi Home at Clayton. To the always resurfaced with kindness, Worms to enter religious life. At Spiritual Director of the Novitiate surprise of all he maintained a forgiveness and a smile. His the end of 1938 he travelled to at Millgrove [Vic], transferring vibrant energy and enthusiasm good humour and frequent jokes Melbourne to complete Yr 12, with the student community, two for living for another three years. were a much appreciated tonic again with the Jesuits at Xavier years later, just up the hill to the for souls that were ‘down’, and College. At the beginning of newly completed Pallotti College – Roger reflected in 1991: his presence was invariably 1940 he entered the Novitiate first as Novice Master, then Rector. “I joined the Society in 1939 appreciated. His disposition together with Frs Joseph Elected as the Region’s because I wanted to work as a became almost childlike in its Kearney and John Hennessy. leader in 1966 he fulfilled that priest for the Australian simplicity, and every new Roger was ordained by Cardinal role for one term before again Aborigines. I was attracted to experience became ‘the best’ he Gilroy on 20.07.1946. plunging into pastoral work ‘in this life because of an inner had ever enjoyed. His first appointment was to various capacities’ [retreat work, conviction that it was what I had Attached to his last will is a the North-West. “I was sent to prison chaplaincy, school to do with my life. I was also comment addressed to his Beagle Bay without even being chaplaincy, spiritual direction attracted because I was ashamed brothers: told what I was supposed to do! and counselling etc etc] around that no Australians were at that I was in Beagle Bay, Derby and Melbourne. time working as Pallottines”.” “To all my confreres I offer Broome, from 1947-1953. While my sincere thanks for their love 1976-1981 saw him again in Obviously, however, it was a in Derby [2 years] there was and patience with me. I thank the West, as pastor of Riverton case – as it so often is! – of man constant contact with the them for their brotherly love and Parish. It was then back to his proposing, but God disposing. Leprosarium, Wyndham and kindness and inspiration, and I ministry to candidates for our He enjoyed only six of his 63 Cockatoo Island.” ask forgiveness for any hurts I Society, priests and brothers, for priestly years in that ministry. may have inflicted. He returned East to take up which he resolved he needed Through the many subsequent an appointment as Rector of the more preparation himself and twists and turns of his journey he …thanks be to God for all House of Studies at Strathfield thus undertook courses at Yarra appears to have been drawn back His mercies and graces and NSW, but only a few months Theological College, Box Hill. to the spirit of that blessings!” later, was relocated as pastor of transformative time – his ‘great Roger’s health began to fail And for Roger! the Sydney parish of Silverwater spiritual education’ – in India. In in 1988 when he needed a triple the final quarter of his life May he rest in peace. In 1956 he went south again bypass. After a recuperative

14 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 Kimberley Kitchen Justice Matters Jennifer By Shane Wood cfc Cambridge is Community Liaison Officer at St Mary’s Issues aplenty for 2010 College in Broome It is good to be back on the pages of the KCP after twelve and is originally from months ‘in recess’. I trust that I can approach the task with Melbourne. Jennifer’s renewed enthusiasm after the break from writing. I have not been connection with St away from the Kimberley, however, and have kept a close watch Mary’s College started on the happenings from the viewpoint of social justice, ecology, when she became and peace. involved with the Cultural Exchange The year has begun with a number of relevant issues Program in 2000 and simmering away. We were treated to high expectations for accompanied outcomes from the Copenhagen Climate Change Summit. Melbourne students to Unfortunately, the results were less than many would have hoped. the Kimberley over Nevertheless, the door is still open for further meetings and more the next eight years. ambitious targets and international commitments in the not-too- Jen and her husband distant future. Barry moved to Broome in 2008. They Closer to home, the Northern Task Force has handed down its have a daughter at report on the potential for the North of Australia to become a food university in bowl for the nation. While there is plenty of scope for the Melbourne and a son expansion of the Ord River irrigation area, the report seems to working in the USA. have put an end to the plans of some politicians and developers to Jen enjoys being with people and maintaining contacts with dam the larger rivers such as the Fitzroy and to capture and communities across the Kimberley. She loves cooking for family, interrupt the natural flows and environmental flushing functions of friends and visitors when they come to Broome. these waterways. Let’s hope that the science and the common sense displayed by the report writers are accepted. THE PERFECT LEMON TART Also related to agriculture was the decision by the Western 125 gm butter Australian Government to lift its ban on genetically modified 2 tblsp finely grated lemon zest canola. Again, there has been much debate on this issue, but there 1 ¾ cups plain flour seems to have been little time given to allow research on what 1 ¼ cups castor sugar effects these genetically modified crops have on the humans who 2 pinches salt consume them. Certainly there are justice issues around the scant 6 large eggs protections given to those farmers who do not wish to have their 1 cup fresh lemon juice – need about 4 biggish lemons crops contaminated by GM, and around the centralisation of ½ cup thickened cream control of seeds and fertilisers by a limited number of Icing sugar multinational conglomerates. Preheat oven to 180 C. Have ready a 28 cm tart pan with removable base. Last, but not least, is the continuing debate over the Pastry: Filling: establishment of a gas processing hub at James Price Point and the division that this has caused in the Kimberley community, and Melt the butter in a small pan, Process remaining sugar and among Indigenous groups as well. Of grave concern is the add 1 tblsp lemon zest and let remaining 1 tblsp of zest in possibility that Indigenous groups will sever their connection with stand for 5 mins. processor until finely ground. local environmental groups over this issue. It would be a rather Whisk together the flour, ¼ cup Add eggs, lemon juice and ironic outcome if the traditional owners and custodians who pride of the sugar and a pinch salt in a another pinch of salt and process themselves on ‘caring for country’ find that they are at odds with medium bowl. Pour in the butter until smooth. Beat the cream in the largely non-Indigenous sector trying to preserve the natural gradually, stirring with a fork a medium bowl until it forms environment from the predations of the rich and powerful oil and until it begins to come together. soft peaks and then gently stir gas companies. Press mixture into pan pressing the egg mixture into it. it evenly up sides and into base. So, all in all, 2010 is shaping up as a year when many of these Bake for 20 minutes and cool on issues will come to a head in the Kimberley. In some cases, once wire rack. the decisions are taken to move in one direction and the ‘machinery’ rolls out, there will be no going back and the damage Place the crust, still in the tart pan, on a baking sheet and pour the will be irreversible. Surely in these cases that will have serious filling into the still warm crust. Bake for 25-30 minutes until the consequences well beyond the current or next electoral cycle, we filling is just set in the centre. Let the pie cool on a wire rack. To should adopt the precautionary principle and aim to at least ‘do no service sift icing sugar over the tart and cut into wedges. For extra harm’. class, serve with a berry coulis, drizzled around the plate, and cream.

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 15 Parish News

Broome

Seen here enjoying the Christmas Pageant and Carols held in the Steve grounds of Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral, Broome, on Sunday Boniwell and 13 December are, from left, Katy Ishiguchi, Rita Augustine, Nyin Henry Sofie Harrison and Roger Henry. will be missed by the members of the Cathedral Choir and all those in the Parish who have appreciated their contribution to the faith community at Our Lady Queen of Peace Broome. They are off to North Queensland where they will be married in the Catholic Church at Mareeba, outside of Cairns, Photo: CAS Photo: J Grimson in early October. At a parish Mass in February Bishop Saunders wished them well for the future and thanked them for their contribution to Catholic life in the Remembering the sick Kimberley. The World Day of the Sick, on 20 February 2010, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes, was celebrated at Germanus Kent Hostel in Broome. Every Thursday up to fifty residents and visitors gather for Mass at the PLEASE REMEMBER Hostel, which has outgrown the centre's chapel and is now held in a larger gathering space. Ashes were distributed for the beginning of Lent THE CATHOLIC and amongst those receiving the ashes from Fr Matthew Digges, Administrator of the Cathedral Parish, was May Howard, who at 104 is CHURCH OF THE the oldest woman in the Kimberley, and Frances Ward (at back). KIMBERLEY IN YOUR WILL

A bequest to the Roman Catholic Bishop of Broome for the religious, educational and charitable works of the Church allows funds to be applied where the need is greatest.

❑ I would like more information about remembering the Please mail Church in my will. coupon to: ❑ I have already included the The Finance Officer, Church in my will and wish to Diocese of Broome, PO Box 76, have this noted. Broome WA 6725 ❑ I would like to be contacted for a Tel: (08) 9192 1060 confidential talk about my will, or or a gift to the Church in my lifetime. Fax: (08) 9192 2136

Name:______

Address: ______

______ABN 37 040 099 127 Photo: F Chi

16 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 Parish News

Derby Sr Antoinette moves to Subiaco Written by Sr Sheila Murphy SSJG and read by Ann Hogan on the occasion of the farewell. Sixty years ago a young Irish Sister of St John of God arrived on the shores of Australia, half way around the world. Like so many Irish missionaries she responded to the gospel challenge of leaving ‘father and mother and family’ to go where she believed God was calling her to bring the Good News. She first went to Subiaco where she did her nursing training and shortly afterwards volunteered to go North and arrived in Derby in 1956. This energetic and committed Sister worked tirelessly for the next 53 years caring for the sick in the Derby area except for one year that she spent on the Beagle Bay mission. I am of course referring to Sr Antoinette Kelly to whom we are saying a sad farewell this morning. No words of mine could pay adequate tribute to the enormous contribution she has made here in Derby, particularly to those who were sick and needed nursing care and she will be very much missed by all of us. In addition to being an outstanding General and Midwifery Nurse she had those added qualities of being a very gentle and caring person. She commenced her work here in Derby in the Native Hospital (now Numbala Nunga) where the Sisters worked until its closure in 1966. She then moved on to the Derby District Hospital where she worked mainly in the Maternity Unit. I am sure that many of the local mothers have Sr Antoinette (R) receives a gift of a beautiful book on the Kimberley from Derby fond memories of Sr Antoinette delivering their babies. This move Shire President Elsia Archer. Photo: S Murphy ssjg brought with it many changes for the better as now there was sufficient staff to allow Sr Antoinette and her companions to enjoy regular days off! She also enjoyed the comfort of their lovely new purpose built The Sacred Heart Granada Convent. She is widely known and loved by many, especially Church Beagle Bay the Aboriginal people of the Kimberley. Both she and Sr Frances used to love meeting the people in Woolies when out shopping. Conservation and Later on, in the early seventies, Sr Antoinette was appointed Restoration Appeal Regional Superior of the Kimberley region and she also took a career change in moving to live at the Leprosarium, where she looked after the Please make donations patients until its closure in 1986. Then she and Sr Frances moved into payable to: town where they took responsibility for operating the Infectious THE NATIONAL TRUST OF AUSTRALIA (WA) and post to: Diseases Unit, where Sr Antoinette continued to work tirelessly until The Sacred Heart Church her retirement in 1996. During this time she also became computer Beagle Bay Conservation and Restoration Appeal literate and enjoyed corresponding with her family in Ireland by email. PO Box 76, Broome WA 6725 It has been a long journey for Sr Antoinette from far away County Clare in Ireland to Derby in Australia, where she replaced the exquisite MY DONATION: ❑ $25 ❑ $50 ❑ $100 ❑ Other flora and fauna of the famous Burren with the flora and fauna of the Kimberley region. Her love for nature is evident in the beautiful My/Our cheque/money order/cash is enclosed flowering garden she tended so lovingly in her home in Holman Street. OR ❑ Mastercard ❑ Visa ❑ Bankcard It is not surprising then that on her retirement she undertook the Card No. arranging of the flowers in the church until very recently! On behalf of all of us here I would like to thank Sr Antoinette for ... all she has done down through the years and in the many ways she has Expiry Date Signature touched the lives of all of us. Her tireless commitment to the Lord’s work has been an inspiration for us and we can only thank Almighty Name: ______God for having sent her our way. Postal Address: ______May God continue to shower His blessings on you and I am sure that ‘the many cups of cold water that you have given in His name’ will Donations of $2 and over are tax deductible. Receipts will be issued. not go unrewarded.

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 17 School News

Red Hill Broome

On the first Wednesday of Term 1 a large group of parents and families joined students of Warlawurru Catholic School Red Hill, East Kimberley, to begin the new school year in prayer. Students sang songs of praise in the local Jaru language. Maureen Mosquito lit a fire covering it with leaves to make purifying smoke through which students, staff and family members walked.

Photo: J Cambridge

It’s off to school for these young students who have begun in Kindergarten at St Mary’s College Broome - anti-clockwise from top left, Taezha, Tallara, Shaun, Rachel, Daithi, Amica and Alexander.

Students of Warlawurru process through the cleansing smoke. Photo: D Savoia

By Dean Savoia, Principal

Staff at Warlawurru Catholic School, Red Hill (Halls Creek) made good use of the Staff Day on 29 January to re-familiarise themselves with the school’s Evangelisation Plan. Together with the Parish Administrator, Fr Denis Dennehy, staff members considered the topics of Witness, Primary Proclamation and Catechesis, reviewing current practices and considering future endeavours in each area. A scaffolding activity was employed to challenge staff to correctly identify aspects of our Evangelisation Plan.

Photo: J Cambridge

Joining many new students on the Secondary Campus are Eddie Nulgit and Jacinta Clifton, from Warmun in the east Kimberley who are in Year 8. Betty Carrington and Vanessa Clifton accompanied Eddie and Jacinta in to St Mary’s College and the Broome Residential College where they have joined other students from across the Kimberley.

Enjoying pancakes on Pancake Tuesday at St Mary’s College Primary in Broome is Hudson Bell who is in Year 1J.

Photo: S Millar Staff members, from left, Lorraine Reid, Kylie Marsden and Peggy Naylon at the Staff Day. Photo: D Savoia

18 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 School News

Broome Warmun

Friday is healthy stew day at Ngalangangpum School Warmun in the East Kimberley. These young students certainly enjoy their helping of a beef stew made by community members.

Photo: CAS Enjoying some tucker and a few quiet moments in the grounds of St Mary’s College Broome were Joseph Victor, Kheshan Sampi, Jermaine Daylight and Imran Paddy. Photo: L Hodge

Wyndham Warmun Community, East Kimberley, marked the start of Lent with Students at St Joseph's School Wyndham have been beating the an Ash Wednesday liturgy where Community Elders distributed the heat and learning how to swim. Byron Cigobia (centre) demonstrates blessed ashes to students, parents and other community members. the new swimming strokes he has been learning.

Photo: L Hodge

Students, staff and families of St Joseph’s School Wyndham welcomed the start Women of the Community pray over the ashes. Photo: R Johnson of the new school Ngalangangpum School in year with a special Warmun, East Kimberley, Mass celebrating welcomed the start of a new ‘One Family’. Fr year and also their new Mark Ai, Parish Principal, Mr Peter Roguszka Administrator, (pictured). Peter is joined by gave blessings to his wife Dianne, who will also all who attended teach in the school, and a and there was number of other new staff Lazarus Edwards, assisted by Teacher Mr David, read praise for such a members including Mrs Nicki the special prayers written by students in Year 3-4. special occasion to Schell and Mr Phillip Pedley, Photo: S Davey commence 2010. who returns after 14 years. Photo: L Hodge

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 19 School News

Balgo Beagle Bay Off to boarding school A season for new growth By Robert Ninkama By T Sarah Twenty three secondary students from Luurnpa Catholic School, Balgo in the East Kimberley, left for boarding schools around the country earlier this year. It was an emotional farewell on Sunday 31 January as students going to La Salle College in Perth were farewelled by family and friends. Other students are attending boarding schools elsewhere including St John’s College in Darwin and St Brigid’s in Perth. They have settled in and started off the school year well. We pray that the Father in Heaven (Mama Kankarra) takes care of them and gives them strength in their new schools.

New staff at Sacred Heart, from left, Meghan and Glen Donovan, Ben Doyle and Robert Scott. Photo: D Wilkinson

With ‘The Season for New Growth’ as the theme for our opening Mass for the year, Sacred Heart School in Beagle Bay begins a new era as we welcome our new Principal, Ben Doyle. Ben comes to us, with his wife Lise and three boys Nicolas, Luke and Henry, from Our Lady Queen of Apostles School in Riverton WA. We also welcome on staff Meghan Donovan (Pre Primary/Year 1) and her husband Glen from Melbourne. Robert Scott joins us from Students bound for La Salle College, from left, Kiki Whisputt, Marcus Mosquito, Barry Wombi, Arena Sunfly, Darren Mudgedell, Navarone Galova, Jayden Chungerai, Todd Colac in Victoria and he has the Secondary Class, which he is finding to Hector, Joshwyn Sturt, William Farrer, Clifford Sunfly, Francis Nagomara Watson and be a great experience. After a warm welcome to our community, Miranda Farrer. Photo: R Ninkama members of staff are very excited about the year ahead.

Ringer Soak

Following the Celebration of the Eucharist on Ash Wednesday, in Yaruman/Ringer Soak (East Kimberley), Fr Denis Dennehy, Administrator of Halls Creek Parish, was welcomed by Nida Tchooga on behalf of the Community. Fr Denis announced that he would be a regular visitor to the Community, much to the delight of everyone.

Photo: C Lord

Former students from Birlirr Ngawiyiwu Catholic School in Yaruman/ Ringer Soak, were farewelled by the whole Community as they departed after the holidays to continue with their secondary education at boarding school. Bottled water and nibbles for the trip were provided by local store manager, Leslie Fraser, pictured here with some of those travelling. Fr Denis with Nida. Photo: C Lord

20 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 School News

Billiluna/Kururrungku Kununurra

Kururrungku Catholic Education Centre held a Fun Day in mid February to raise funds for Caritas and Project Compassion. School New staff welcomed Principal, Pat Holden (L), was assisted in the drawing of the raffle by By A Fyfe Jack Gordon (R) and Ronnie Tourbrook. New staff of St Joseph's Catholic School Kununurra were commissioned and welcomed to the school community during Mass in St Vincent Pallotti Church on Sunday 7 February. Pictured with Parish Administrator, Fr Mark Ai, are from left, Miss Erin Healy Mrs Joy McInnes, Miss Angela Brown and Miss Melina Johnson. Unable to attend were Mrs Megan Garland and Mrs Judy Giess. It was fitting that the Gospel was about Jesus commissioning the four fishermen, calling them to carry out his work just as the six new staff members have accepted to do in our school.

Photo: A Fyfe

A school doesn't exactly march on its stomach but a happy Photo: J Lee healthy canteen like St Joseph's Kununurra is a great help to keeping the learning process on the move. Here Eileen Watkins works hard to prepare the lunches. Photo: CAS

At St Joseph's Catholic School Kununurra in the East Kimberley Erin Healy teaches the pre- primary children and gets a great deal from her Dono Wilson/Padoon enjoys cooking pancakes. Photo: P Holden laptop, which At Kururrungku Catholic Education Centre, Billiluna in the East takes pictures and Kimberley, younger students, helped by the senior students, made stores them with pancakes for Shrove Tuesday. These were then shared by all at Recess. ease. On Ash Wednesday there was a Liturgy and ashes were distributed by Father Eugene who came in from Balgo. It was two wonderful days of sharing in prayer and reflection to begin the Season of Lent. Photo: CAS

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 21 The Easter story goes on: And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met them, say- ing, “Rejoice!” so they came and held him by the feet and worshiped him. (Matthew 28: 9) Fill in the puzzle with every word of the verse

22 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 Media Notes

and numerous ethnic Bishop Anthony Fisher OP communities. Parramatta may be one of our youngest appointed third dioceses but it is already the fifth most populous in Australia and has many Bishop of Parramatta exciting possibilities.” The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, has named Most Rev In his role with WYD08, Anthony Fisher op as the third Bishop of Parramatta. He succeeds the largest international Most Rev Kevin Manning who has been Bishop of Parramatta since gathering and largest youth 1997 and is retiring. event in Australia’s history, Bishop Anthony found many Bishop Anthony is a Dominican friar and ethicist. He was young people, parishes, Coordinator of World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney. For the past seven schools and families from the years he has been Parish Priest of Watson’s Bay and an auxiliary Parramatta Diocese were bishop of Sydney. At 49 Bishop Anthony Fisher is the youngest involved. “World Youth Day Catholic bishop in Australia. Photo: Diocese of Parramatta brought home to me the “It is a very great privilege to be entrusted with this role of importance of youth ministry leadership and service in the vibrant young diocese of Parramatta,” and the major contribution young people can make to our Church Bishop Anthony said. “Western Sydney is one of Australia’s fastest today. I will be bringing that experience and energy to my new growing areas, with a median age of only 32, many young families role,” Bishop Anthony said.

Yesteryear Images from our past

A large group gathers outside Sacred Heart Church, Beagle Bay, following First Communion. Circa 1920s Photo: Archives of the Diocese of Broome

KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010 23 ■ Celebrating sixty years of marriage. Peggy and John Clements, long time residents of One Arm Point, were joined by a large crowd of family and friends at the RSL in Broome for a memorable night of festivities. Our congratulations and prayers go out to Peggy and John on the achievement of a remarkable milestone in their life together. Photo: CAS

■ Celebrating fourteen years a Bishop (8 February), thirty five years in the Kimberley (in July), and sixty years of life (January) - Bishop Saunders with (L) ■ Monica Deblegiers is holding some Barbara Pearl Hamaguchi, interesting friends chosen from a huge collection of dolls Agnes Martin (centre) and and like creatures that usually decorate the walls of the Trish Jones (R), Centacare St Mary's Halls Creek Op Shop. Monica takes pride in Manager. Photo: J Martin presenting great service and affordable clothes and other items to the people of the remote East Kimberley town. Photo: CAS

■ The first Mass at Gibb River for 2010 was celebrated by Bishop Christopher Saunders at the Wanalirri Catholic School. During the Mass there were three baptisms indicating something of a baby boom at the ■ Guess who got married recently? In Syracusa, Sicily, small remote settlement in the ranges country between Derby and Wyndham. From left are Daly Ann White ex staff member Stefania Di Maria and, Broome ALS with her son, Dalton Wungundin, Vanita Shaw and baby Sheranie Shaw, and Jasmin White with baby lawyer, Dominic Brunello, on a beautiful January day.

Tatyiana White. Photo: CAS 6725 DESIGN, BROOME W.A. DESIGN BY RED LOGIC Photo: J Grimson

24 KIMBERLEY COMMUNITY PROFILE APRIL 2010