On Friday May 5, the Catholic Education Sandhurst community celebrated the outstanding contribution of seven committed staff who have given 25 years plus service to Catholic Education. 

The Jubilarians gathered with family and friends at Sacred Heart Church Wodonga, including Fiona Barrett, Gina Nero, Helen Rafferty, Maria Rinaldi, Louise Symons and Joanne Sellwood. Loretta Casey, who was in absentia, was also acknowledged at the Mass for her 25 year’s service.

The Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Education Sandhurst, Mr Paul Desmond paid tribute to the seven Jubilarians.

“I acknowledge the richness that each Jubilarian has brought to our Catholic schools. In so doing, we recognize their remarkable contribution which we know is so often borne of long hours and overt commitment to the young people and families which comprise our school communities,” he said.

“These men and women have been authentic gifts to Catholic education here in the Diocese of Sandhurst and beyond,” said Paul.

Each Jubilarian was presented with a commemorative badge during the Mass to celebrate the significant milestone. Following the service, the celebrations continued over dinner where each Jubilarian was honoured with a personal tribute about their contribution to Catholic education.

The Jubilarian concept has a rich tradition in Catholic life in celebrating silver and golden anniversaries of ordinations, professions, ministry and service in the Church's missionary activities. The Diocese of Sandhurst extends this laudatory practice to teachers and ancillary staff in the schools within the Diocese who have dedicated 25 years of service to Catholic Education. 

Congratulations to the Sandhurst Jubilarians for 2023.