16th Eastern Link - Province 20 Catenians of Western Australia

CHRISTMAS EDITION 

1908 The Catenians 2012 

Strengthening family life 

through friendship and faith 

THE 

EASTERN LINK 

NEWS & EVENTS OF… 

CATENIAN CIRCLES AND GROUPS OF 

PROVINCE 21 

VICTORIA AREA COUNCIL 

THE YEAR OF GRACE 2012 – 2013

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21 

IN THIS EDITION… 

EASTERN LINK Page 2 DECEMBER 2012


EASTERN LINK 

Volume 2 Issue no 16 

DECEMBER 2012 

News from 

Circles and Groups 

Of Province 21 

& Victoria Area 

Council 

Please send all copy to 

Editor: Peter Cash 

3 Greenhaven Street 

Clifton Beach Qld 4879 

Telephone: 4055 3529 

Email: petercash@btinternet.com 

Contents: 

Page 4-5………………Provincial Director 

Brother Kevin Doherty 

Page 6……………….Provincial President 

Brother Paul Despoges 

Pages 7-14……………………. News from 

Provincial Council 

Pages 15-42……………….Miscellaneous 

Pages 43-50…………………………...VAC 

Page 51………..……..Employment Page 

Pages 52-54...........Mary’s Rosary Chain 

Pages 55-58………….…..Miscellaneous 

Pages 59-60.......................In Memory Of 

Pages 61-62…………..……….Obituaries 

Page 63……………………Miscellaneous 

Page 64………………Let’s Have a Laugh 

PLEASE VISIT: 

www.catenamagazine.com 

AND: 

www.thecatenianassociation.org.au/ 

Dear Brothers. 

I would like to welcome you to the 16 th edition, 

volume 2 of Eastern Link. 

Congratulations to the organisers of The 3 rd 

Australian National Conference. As you will be 

aware I have already sent out a Special Edition 

covering the Conference, the response has been 

very positive. 

It could not have been easy to arrange the venues, 

Masses, accommodation etc. Many new friendships 

were forged and will continue to flourish. 

Although I personally could not make the 

Conference owing to a family wedding, some 

Brother’s travelled over from the UK, Harare 

including Brother Gil Whale Editor of Catena. 

Another Brother, Jacob Muchochomi who is a 

Brother of Harare Circle also travelled to the 

Conference from Zimbabwe. 

I would like to thank all the Brothers who contribute 

to this newsletter, without your input, it would not 

exist. 

Being a Catenian is like being part of a huge family, I 

have made so many friends in the Association who 

are always there to help fellow Brother’s when they 

need it most. Strengthening family life through 

friendship and faith is so appropriate for our 

organisation. 

I would like to wish you all a very Holy, Spiritual and 

Happy Christmas. Kind wishes for 2013. 

Sincerely & Fraternally, 

Peter 

Please be advised that the contributions in the 

newsletter are not necessarily those of the Catenian 

Association. The Editor reserves the right to amend 

any contribution. 



FROM…. 

PROVINCE 21 DIRECTOR 

BROTHER KEVIN DOHERTY 

THE CATENIAN ASSOCIATION 

My Dear Brothers, 

I am a very proud Catenian! At the Grand Council meeting held in the UK at the beginning of 

November, my fellow Director in Western Australia, Gerry Barton, and I presented a proposal to 

the Council, which for the first time in the history of the Catenian Association was a proposal 

that had been endorsed by the whole of the Australian Membership. We went to the meeting with 

a proposal that had been discussed by the majority of Circles in both Australian Provinces and 

by the Circles in the Victorian Area. The representatives of each of the three Catenian structures 

took their relevant summaries and concerns to the Third Australian Catenian Conference, which 

was held in Melbourne on October 27 th and the following proposal was adopted. The proposal 

reads: - 

That the 3 rd Australian National Conference supports the development of an Australian National 

Council with functions and responsibilities as specified in Attachment A to the circulated paper, 

subject to the costs to Australian members being neutral or preferably reduced and subject to 

constitutional issues being addressed by Grand Council and the Association’s membership, and 

urges our Great Britain Brothers to consider the formation of a Great Britain National Council 

and an International Council to modernise the Association. 

Attachment “A’ referred to above can be found in the Provincial Council Report section in the 

previous edition of Eastern Link. 

I want to thank every brother involved. I know that the short notice that the Circles were given to 

discuss this subject irritated some brothers. I can understand the feelings that a subject of this 

importance should be discussed at length and I have no doubt that as we proceed we will be 

discussing more aspects of how this restructure will best suit Australia. 

Grand Council has adopted our proposal and thanked the Australian brothers for their cohesive 

approach to this subject. We now wait whilst the British Province Directors do a similar exercise 

with the brothers in their respective Circles. We are not sure what form the Great Britain Council 

will take but it needs to be formed at the same time as the Australian National Council. This 

exercise could take some time. 

My congratulations must go to the Brothers in the Victorian Area Council for their organisation 

and running of the third Australian National Catenian Conference. They did a good job. The 

Conference was very interesting and the points put forward showed that the Attendees had put a 

great deal of thought into the question of restructure. It was not just a question of rubberstamping 

the Motion. The wording of the motion to be put to Grand Council changed several 

times during the conference before finally being passed. 

/Continued on next page… 



Brother Kevin’s Report continued from previous page… 

The number of brothers from Province 21 who attended was disappointing, in spite of the fact that 

the Melbourne Cup was being held the following week. Those who did attend met many of their 

fellow brothers from Victoria and WA and I am sure that their lives were enriched from the 

experience. I know that mine was. It was an absolute pleasure to meet so many Victorian and 

Western Australia brothers and I hope that I get meet them again 

The next National Conference will take place in Sydney in 2014 so please be ready to billet our 

interstate visitors when they come. I stayed with Paul McCulloch and his wife, Pat in Melbourne, 

Tony, and Joan Smurthwaite in Busselton WA (when I attended the Inauguration of the Busselton 

Circle) and I can honestly say that it was so much better than staying at a hotel or a motel. My 

hosts were marvellous and the conversations were very interesting. The WA brothers were so “full 

on” with their hosting of the Grand Presidents visiting party in WA that a few visitors were unable 

to keep up the pace. They were wonderful hosts and all credit to them. 

We will have the opportunity to show our hospitality in September 2014. Not only will we host the 

fourth Australian Conference but also there is every chance that Grand President, Bob Butler, will 

join us on that occasion. Bob is the Provincial Director for Province 13. This Province covers the 

English South West Counties, Somerset, Devon and Cornwall (and yes he does speak with a 

pronounced “West Country” accent). He was voted by Grand Council to the position of ”Vice 

President Elect” at the November meeting. Following tradition, he will become the Grand 

President at the UK Conference in May 2014 and will follow John Rayer who will become Grand 

President next year 

In addition to his role as Director, he is currently the Chairperson of the Grand Council RRPP 

Committee and this Committee is currently looking to change the Associations Rules and 

regulations into a constitution. In addition and at the request of a UK Circle, they are currently 

looking at ways to make the Circle meetings less traditional. Watch this space. 

I would like to wish you and all your families the holiness, joy and peace of Christmas. 

Fraternal Regards 

Brother Kevin Doherty 

Director Province 21 

THE DIRECTOR, PROVINCIAL PRESIDENT 

& PROVINCE 21 OFFICER’S 

WOULD LIKE TO WISH ALL CATENIAN BROTHERS, 

THEIR FAMILIES AND LOVED ONE’S 

A VERY SPECIAL AND HOLY CHRISTMAS 



From. . . 


President Province 21 

The Catenian Association 

STRENGTHENING FAMILY LIFE THROUGH FRIENDSHIP AND FAITH 

The ethos of our Association revolves around three components.The Faith/Family/Friendship. Each 

as important to us if we are to be true Catenians. 

It is our Faith which brings us together as Catenians ,just as does the friendship and bonding of our 

families. In turn our friendship can evolve due to our faith. As for the family, it is strengthened by 

having the faith and the friendship. 

Why the explanation when our ethos is so clearly spell out. Maybe it is not so clear to as many of us 

as we may like it to be or believe it . 

Our Association is clearly struggling to broaden its presences within the Catholic Church so why is 

it that we are content to belong to an Association that is less and less practising its ethos. This can 

only take us down one path, the witnessing of an association not being able to assist with a greater 

belief in our faith and less bonding within our membership and friendship. 

It certainly does not have to be the way of the future for us or our Association. I witness recently 

just how we can practice our ethos and maybe reverse the decline, when I made a long overdue visit 

to Cairns Catenians. They exhibited the true meaning of our ethos. To have the welcome extended is 

and given, but the sincerity with which the welcome was delivered, the apologies extended for not 

making one welcome within in minutes of arrival was a welcome of true spirit. But why does this 

spirit exist there? No doubt it is that common link of their faith that delivers their success and pride 

of belong to an Association with purpose at the same time ensuring the support of their Bishop and 

Chaplain, with their works. 

Likewise the spirit displayed at the 3 rd Australian Conference by our Victorian Brothers only 

reinforces what is achievable, if we are prepared to work at it. 

On the negative side the majority appear to be disinterested as was exhibited at the recent Province 

21 evening at Castle Hill with less than 10% or only five of our 14 Circles present. This trend has 

been developing over the past year or more. 

We can strengthen our faith and commitment to our Association and its ethos if we have the desire 

and motivation. Maybe it is about time the latter came to the fore and the sleeping dog woke up and 

voiced their wants and needs to ensure this association becomes the body of men wanting to value 

their faith, their friendship and strength of a united family. 

ON BEHALF OF DENISE AND MY FAMILY MAY I EXTEND TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES A VERY 

HAPPY AND A HOLY CHRISTMAS, ALONG WITH A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR. 

God Bless 

Paul Despoges 

President Province 21 



NEWS FROM 

PROVINCIAL COUNCIL 

PROVINCIAL COUNCIL REPORT 

PROVINCE 21 

PROVINCIAL COUNCIL 

Provincial President: 

Paul Despoges 

Provincial 

Vice-President: 

John Tweedie 

Provincial 

Past President: 

Ron Daly 

Provincial Secretary 

George Kazs 

Provincial Treasurer: 

Peter Gialouris 

Provincial Chamberlain 

Phil Davies 

Provincial 

Membership Officer: 

TBA 

Provincial 

Publicity Officer: 

Peter Cash 

Provincial 

Record Officer: 

Pat Moran 

Province Director: 

Kevin Doherty 

Provincial Council Meeting No 102 

held at the offices of APICS – 111 Phillip Street Parramatta 

on Monday 8th October 2012 

Membership Developments 

The position being vacant, there was no report. Council noted, 

however, that a number of brothers had been approached without 

success to fill this important position. Council agreed that 

members should go back to their Circles and solicit nominations. 

These should be submitted to Bro President as soon as possible. 

Council noted the growth strategy at item 5(i) and the membership 

data sheets circulated by Bro Pat Moran, the Provincial Records 

Officer, at item 5 (iii). Bro Pat Moran noted that recent growth in 

the Province had occurred as a result of Circles being formed, 

such as Cairns and Gold Coast Tweed, rather than as a result of 

increased membership within existing Circles. All aspects of 

growth should be explored, assessed and developed given 

Council’s primary responsibility for such matters. 

Bro Pat Moran spoke to the membership audit and provincial 

directory. He noted that he now had an excel spread sheet on 

each Circle’s membership and subject to receiving advice about 

variations from Circle Secretaries through the web portal, he would 

be able to maintain the currency of the data. He thanked all Circle 

Membership Officers and Secretaries for completing the audit. In 

reviewing options for the directory’s publication and distribution, 

Council resolved that an email copy be provided to all Circle 

Secretaries with a view to allowing them to distribute the document 

electronically and / or printing off as many copies as required at 

Circle expense, if so desired. 

Reports: Director 

Bro Kevin Doherty reported on developments with the proposed 

restructure noting that Grand Council’s Executive is very much in 

favour of Australian developments and has offered to do whatever 

it can to assist. He noted that the proposed composition of the 

Australian National Council was that of the current AUSCOM. He 

also noted that the UK was keen to learn the Australian lessons as 

part of their own consideration of the best way forward. The 

challenges are, however, different but we are all part of the same 

Association. 

/Continued on next page 


EASTERN LINK PROVINCE 21 

The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith 

PROVINCIAL COUNCIL REPORT CONT. 

Reports: President 

Council considered the range of issues identified by Circles at length and reflected on a broad range of issues 

including the following: 

• There was concern expressed at what was perceived to be the imposition of another layer of 

bureaucracy through the establishment of the Australian National Council (ANC) and that this may be 

both costly and lead to greater complexity. A response to this concern was that it would largely be 

alleviated if it could be demonstrated that the powers and functions of an ANC would replace those of 

Grand Council and not be additional to them. It was suggested that this would be the intention of the 

proposed International Council which would operate at a different level allowing the proposed ANC to 

manage the Association’s affairs in Australia; 

• The relevance of the governance reforms to most members who are more concerned about the health 

and wellbeing of their Circles. Provincial and Circle leadership have been given the responsibility of 

developing and managing the proposed restructure; 

• The financial impact of the proposals. Concerns were expressed by many Circles about the costs of 

the ANC and how it and Provincial Councils will manage their affairs effectively within existing 

resource levels; 

• The connection between the stated objective of enlivening and reinvigorating the Association in 

Australia and the proposed restructure which is governance focussed. There is an expectation that 

progress will need to be real and demonstrated in the restructure’s impact on Circle membership, its 

growth and development, particularly among younger members; 

• The mechanisms through which the ANC would be established and the proposed timeframe. 

Members were concerned that the existing rules and regulations of the Association are such that an 

ANC could not be established without their amendment. They appreciate that a new constitution for 

the Association may be some time off and that without an appropriate legal basis for its establishment, 

ANC members might be personally liable for their actions. Members do not consider that such matters 

can be satisfactorily addressed in the lead up to the proposed implementation date of 1 April 2013 

• The openness of communications concerning the proposed restructure. Members appreciated that 

there are a number of stakeholders in this process and strongly urged more regular and open 

communications to ensure member ownership and to provide for appropriate feedback mechanisms; 

• The suggestion that the Association’s objectives to be revisited. Some members felt that an important 

issue was to review the Association’s objectives rather than to focus solely on changing structures; 

• The importance of recognising the cultural differences between the UK and Australia; 

• The need to provide certainty to avoid a destabilising effect on members, particularly new members. 

Council discussed the proposed functions of the ANC and the database management approach outlined in the 

papers. Council noted the need to revise the draft conference paper to better reflect the concerns expressed 

by Circles and by Provincial Councillors. Council resolved that the proposed conference resolution should be 

redrafted as follows and that appropriate advice be provided to AUSCOM accordingly. Council appreciated 

that final decisions about the conference documentation rested with AUSCOM advised by its National 

Restructure Committee (NRC) and would take into account comments provided by Province 20 and Area 

Victoria: 





That the 3 rd Australian National Conference support the development of an Australian National Council 

with functions and responsibilities including those at Attachment A, subject to the costs to Australian 

members being neutral or preferably reduced and subject to constitutional issues being addressed by 

Grand Council and the Association’s membership. The conference endorses the need for appropriate 

consultation to be maintained on developments and the need for timely and regular communication 

with members. 

Reports: Vice President 

Council agreed to certain amendments to the Committee membership and functions as reflected in the 

revised summary at Attachment A. The role of the Church Liaison and Social Committee in relation to current 

Provincial social events should reflect the following: 

• Province Mass – provide advice and practical assistance to the organising Circle, attend to matters of 

protocol; eg. Promotion, Mass Booklet, Vestments, Ciborium, Entrance Procession, Readers, Stipend 

etc.; 

• Province Contests and Golf Day – provide any practical assistance requested by organising Circle; 

Rules for Contest; arrange adjudicators for a contest; 

• Grand Presidential Tours –organise tour programme, accommodation, informal entertainment and 

Provincial events; 

• Australia Conference - provide supplementary resources to AUSCOM when Conference venue is 

within Province 21, particularly in relation to associated social functions; 

The Committee should also consider the scope for further Provincial social events and activities (including 

retreats and immersion programmes). Particular emphasis should be placed on events and activities in which 

Brothers in the ACT and Queensland Circles could participate. The Committee should also consider an 

appropriate response to any requests for assistance from any Diocesan or Church Ministry, without 

commitment. Requests for assistance from these sources should be referred to the Committee for initial 

consideration and report to Province Council. 

Council noted the provincial activities as follows: 

• Truthful Jones Castle Hill Tuesday 27 November 2012 

• Little John Mug Manly Wednesday 20 March 2013 

• Provincial Golf Day Muirfields Friday 15 March 2013 

• Provincial Workshop TBA …… TBA 

• Provincial Mass Parramatta St Joseph’s Retreat Centre, Baulkham Hills 

Sunday 28 July 2103 

• O’Connell Cup Mosman………TBA 

Council agreed to support the proposal from Manly circle to have the Little John Mug preserved and suitably 

mounted on a polished wooden base, at an estimated cost of less than $100.00. 





Reports: Treasurer 

Council resolved to accept the Treasurer’s report noting that he would give consideration to consolidating our 

reserves with the Diocesan Development Fund. Council noted that consideration of budget proposals would 

be deferred to next meeting and that the Finance and Budgets Committee had not had an opportunity to meet. 

In relation to the variation to travel policy, Council resolved to accept the variations proposed as follows: 

by deleting the following reference to the reimbursement of motoring expenses: 

• Motoring costs will be reimbursed at the vehicle allowance rate per kilometre determined for the particular 

tax year by the Taxation Commissioner; 

and substituting in its place the following: 

• Motoring costs will be reimbursed. The cost will be limited to the direct additional cost of petrol for the 

journey. 

by adding after the term business: 

• (as approved by Province Council either by the Province President or at a Council Meeting). 

A revised policy is attached at Attachment B. 

Reports: Public Relations Officer 

Council noted the report from the Public Relations Officer. Council resolved to accept the Dropbox protocol 

subject to documents being saved in pdf format where possible. Council also agreed that for future meetings, 

the Dropbox system should be used in lieu of sending out email attachments. 

A copy of the agreed policy is provided at Attachment C. 

Reports: Supply Officer 

Council agreed to defer consideration of the Circle meeting audit until its next meeting. 

Reports: Provincial Councillors 

Council noted the report and received reports from Castle Hill and Parramatta as tabled. 

Other Business 

Council agreed to accept travel expenses (ie airfares and cost to and from airport) from Cairns to Melbourne 

and return for our publicity officer / editor Eastern Link to enable his presence at the Melbourne Conference 

thereby ensuring a full and accurate coverage of events at such a critical conference. This is to be a one off 

expense. 

Council also noted a proposal concerning possible charitable assistance to the Rev Father Venansio Busobozi 

of the Bishop’s Office in Uganda. Council agreed that this was essentially a matter for Castle Hill Circle. 

Next Meeting: the next scheduled meetings were 

Monday 21 January 2013; 

Monday 13 May 1013 (include AGM) 

Meeting closed with prayers at 10.50pm 




Province 21 Corporate Governance: Committee Structure 

All committees are advisory and do not detract in any way from the responsibilities of Council office bearers. 

Executive Committee (i) To oversight the activities of the 

Association in Province 21 and to manage the 

affairs of Provincial Council between its meetings; 

(ii) To assist Provincial Council with the 

development and implementation of strategies for 

the good of the Association; 

President -PD 

Vice President- JT 

Secretary- GK 

Treasurer- PG 

Membership and Strategic 

Committee 

Church Liaison and Social 

Events Committee 

Communications and 

Publicity Committee 

Finance and Budgets 

Committee 

(i) To develop strategies for the growth and 

development of the Association in Province 21; 

(ii) To develop and maintain such 

information systems as may be appropriate for the 

efficient and effective management of 

membership records in the Province; 

(iii) To oversight and provide guidance on 

Circle procedure and strategies to enhance the 

membership experience; 

(i) To develop and oversight Church liaison 

and social events within the Province 1 ; 

(ii) To maintain established relationships and 

to identify potential new relationships with Church 

Ministries which Province Council may consider 

pursuing. 

(i) To develop and oversight suitable 

communications arrangements, including through 

the internet and Council web sites, which promote 

best practice in the Province and facilitate good 

communications among Circles; 

(ii) To develop and maintain the Council web 

site; 

(iii) To develop suitable strategies for 

enhancing the profile of the Association in the 

broader social and Church community. 

(i) To assist Council with the development 

and oversight of its finances and budgets; 

Membership Officer 

Provincial Records Officer - PM 

Chamberlain 

Rob Haddad 

Robin Wells 

Peter Huby 

Laurie de Ambrosis 

Alan Gorman 

Vice President JT 

Past President RD 

Tom Lyons 

Peter Tilbrook 

Publicity Officer - PC 

Webmaster - CP 

Rob McLeod 

Peter Moriarty 

Treasurer- PG 

Pat Moran 

Noel Tobin 

Ray Finnegan 

1 the role of the Committee in relation to current Province social events be as follows: 

• Province Mass – provide advice and practical assistance to the organising Circle, attend to matters of protocol; 

e.g. Promotion, Mass Booklet, Vestments, Ciborium, Entrance Procession, Readers, Stipend etc.; 

• Province Contests and Golf Day – provide any practical assistance requested by organising Circle; Rules for 

Contest; arrange adjudicators for a contest; 

• Grand Presidential Tours –organise tour programme, accommodation, informal entertainment and Provincial 

events; 

• Australia Conference - provide supplementary resources to AUSCOM when Conference venue is within 

Province 21, particularly in relation to associated social functions; 





Management of Expenses Policy 

– Director and Province 21 Council Officers 

Province Council Visitation to Groups and Circles 

Responsible Officers 

The responsibility of visitation to Groups or Circles will be discharged by: 

• The Director, Province 21; 

• The Province President, 

or an Officer delegated by the Province President to visit for him; 

• The Province Secretary or the Province Membership Officer, 

when requested by either the Director or the Province President to accompany either of 

them (or the Province President’s delegate) on a visitation. 

Visitations 

This Policy applies to the following visitations: 

• Annual Visitation - One visit in each Catenian Year by each Responsible Officer for supervisory 

purposes; 

• Supporting Visit - One additional visit in each Catenian Year by each Responsible Officer where an 

Annual Visitation discloses that the Group or Circle requires particular support; 

• Social programme visit - A visit by each Responsible Officer when a Circle is hosting an event 

which is part of the annual social programme of the Province; PLUS a visit by either the Province 

Secretary or the Province Membership Officer where the rules of a contest require their presence; 

• Invited visit – Where a Circle invites the Director or a particular Province Officer to visit; 

• Special Visit - A visit by any Officer participating in the inauguration of a Group or Circle. AND 

A visit by each Responsible Officer when a Circle is visited by the Grand President or by the 

Ordinary or an Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese in which a Circle operates. 

• Promotion and Development Visit – A programmed visit by an Officer or approved Member of 

Province Council to a Group or Circle during its formation and initial development period. 

Obligations arising from Visitation 

• Groups and Circles will meet the catering costs for all visitations, except a Promotion and 

Development Visits; 

• Province Council will meet the catering costs for all Promotion and Development Visits 

• Province Council will reimburse the reasonable and necessary travel and accommodation costs for 

all visitations where this Policy provides for reimbursement of those costs. 






Reimbursement 

Travel for Visitations and on Province Council Business 

Reimbursement for travel and/or accommodation expenses incurred by responsible officers or approved 

members of Province Council may be claimed where the visitation or business (as approved by 

Provincial Council either by the Provincial President or at a Council meeting) requires: 

• travel outside the boundaries of the three Diocese forming the greater Sydney area, where the 

Responsible Officer or approved Member of Province Council resides in the greater Sydney area; 

• travel exceeding 350km return, where the Responsible Officer or approved Member of Province 

Council does not reside in the greater Sydney area. 

Reimbursement for accommodation expenses may be claimed where the visitation or business cannot 

be completed, or conveniently and safely completed, within a single day. 

Travel and Accommodation Arrangements 

• All reimbursable travel exceeding 350km return may be undertaken by air. 

• Where air travel is not used, either public transport or a motor vehicle may be used, provided that 

reimbursements will be limited to the cost of air travel. 

• Airfares or public transport fares will be reimbursed at the actual cost incurred. 

• Flight bookings are to be made directly with the carrier using the internet and are to be at the 

lowest available fare which does not incur forfeiture in the event of cancellation. 

• Motoring costs will be reimbursed. The cost will be limited to the direct additional cost of petrol for 

the journey. 

• Where billeting is not available, accommodation bookings are to be made either through the flight 

carrier or directly with the venue using the internet, and are to be at the lowest available rate 

which does not incur forfeiture in the event of cancellation. 

• The usual standard of accommodations is 3.5 on a scale of 5; however a higher standard may be 

booked where Brothers travelling together share accommodation. 

• Actual meal costs may be claimed, however reimbursement will be capped at the nonsubstantiation 

rate for the meal and location determined for the particular tax year by the Taxation 

Commissioner. 

Claims and Reporting of Travel & Accommodation and Other Expenses 

• Claims for reimbursement of travel, accommodation and other expenses must be made to the 

Province Treasurer using the form approved by Province Council. 

• Claims must be supported by tax invoices or other acceptable documents. 

• The Province Treasurer may pay all claims complying with this Policy. 

• Claims for reimbursement of other expenses not dealt with by this Policy must be approved by the 

Province President prior to payment. 

• The Province Treasurer must include a schedule of reimbursements of travel, accommodation and 

other expenses in his Report to each meeting of Council. 





Communications: Dropbox Access Protocols 

Dropbox is a cloud based free software application which allows storage and sharing of documents 

among designated users. For P21, the designated users are all members of Provincial Council; the 

administrator of the application is Bro Chris Pitts. The administrator will invite individual Councillors to 

sign up and join the application – to do so each user will need an identifiable email address and will 

need to set a unique password to gain access. 

2. The categorisation of folders will be a matter for the administrator and the Provincial Secretary. 

Documentation related to meetings will be added from time to time and advice provided to Councillors 

by the Provincial Secretary in lieu of emails attaching the said documentation. It will be the 

responsibility of Councillors to familiarise themselves with the application and to have read the 

documentation prior to the designated meeting. 

3. It is agreed that the documentation is read only for Councillors. It is agreed that changes can be 

made only by the author of papers included in the Dropbox and then only with advice to members prior 

to the papers being finalised. For meeting documentation, the Provincial Secretary has responsibility 

for preparing / coordinating all documentation. No changes will be made to that documentation after 

the meeting. All documentation in the Dropbox should be regarded as draft until such time as formal 

notice of its finalisation is provided by the author. Any Councillor is able to add documentation to the 

Dropbox but in so doing needs to advise the Provincial Secretary and or all members of Provincial 

Council of its existence. – the same rules apply. All documentation is confidential to Provincial 

Councillors at all times. Where practicable, files should be in pdf format. 

4. This protocol may be varied as necessary from time to time by the Provincial Secretary and / 

Administrator in collaboration. Advice of such variations will be provided to all Councillors. 

PROVINCE 21 


AUSTRALIA 

PC agreed 8/10/1012 

Strengthening family life 

through friendship and faith 



Dear Brothers 

Provincial Golf Day - 15th March 2013 @ Muirfields Golf Club ,North Rocks NSW 

As I advised at Provincial Council the poor attendance at the Provincial Golf Day has 

necessitated action to indicate if the Golf Day will go ahead in 2013. 

Attendances as from 2006 - 2012 

06 07 08 09 10 11 12 

40 26 40 30 29 37 21 

As it stands the numbers from 2012 are not sustainable to support current green fees, lunch 

and trophies which cover Catenians, Visitors and as well as those present who do not win a 

trophy receive a golf ball. 

I ask for a Liaison Brother from each Circle to assist my request. I propose to carry on with 

2013 by asking for an expression of interest of those who may play on this day by the 15 th 

February, one month before the actual day. If numbers are lower than 30 it is not viable. If the 

numbers correspond to 2012 I propose to cancel 2013. 

I would not refuse applications after the proposed date of cut off but it would enable me to have 

a clearer picture of numbers. There are financial commitments and as businessmen you 

understand making decisions on the eve of the day becomes impractical. Should numbers be 

suitable at the 15th February it will allow time to circulate entry forms and finalise activities for 

the Golf Day on the 15th March. 

This is not a plea but a factual issue put to you as Convenor and if change 

needs to be made I ask for practical input. 

Fraternally 

Malcolm Clow 

Dear Brothers, as you can see from the above message, Brother Malcolm has been running the 

Provincial Golf Day for many years. There has been a decline over the last few years, but I ask you 

and your Circle to try and attend this event as team players or individuals. It would be a shame if we 

were to lose this very important day in our Province calendar. Editor 



MANLY 

CIRCLE 

322 

3 December 2012 

Dear Bro President and Brothers 

Our Provincial Council recently initiated a number of committees to better manage the workload. One 

of those committees is the Membership and Strategic (MAS) committee that has met twice so far. It 

has resolved to foster another approach to membership and to that end is arranging an evening at a 

hosting circle, focusing on a number of local Catenian circles, but all circles are invited. 

Manly Circle has accepted the invitation from the MAS committee to host such a meeting. Bro Ric 

Camilleri, former Membership Officer and immediate Past President of Ku-ring-gai Circle, will address 

as many circle members as possible and particularly circle Council Officers on the topic of membership 

recruitment. Ric is prominent in the advertising world of radio, TV and Newspaper and was also a wellreceived 

keynote speaker at the Province Workshop in 2011. 

Ric is available to come on our meeting date: Wed 20 February 2013. 

Ric’s Circle, Ku-Ring-Gai, has been one of the most successful circles at recruiting and aims to have 

the highest number of Brothers in the Province (58 plus). The system, that Ric and his Council 

introduced, works well. The particular focus for the 20 Feb talk and discussion at Manly would be the 

Pittwater, Warringah and Mosman Circles but all others are welcome. The general possibility has been 

that Ric’s talk and discussion should try to address as many Circle reps as possible (particularly the 

Membership Officers and other Council Officers). I am told that there is a chance there will be another 

such meeting later in the year, situated further across Sydney, but Ric’s family and work demands 

make his time quite precious, and so I’d encourage you to come along on this occasion to Manly for 

this valuable opportunity to hear him and share with brothers this topic important to us all. 

Accordingly, I am now writing to formally invite members of your Council and Circle to attend our 

meeting and dinner on Wednesday, 20 February 2013 to listen to Ric’s address and to for an open 

discussion concerning recruitment ideas. I would be grateful if you could advise your members of this 

meeting date with plenty of advance warning. Further communication will occur very early in the New 

Year. 

Fraternally, 

Romano Di Donato OAM 

President Manly Circle 



Truthful Jones Cup – 26 th November 2012 

From left; Phil Gallagher, Victor Gauci, Kevin Doherty, Gary McIntosh, Bob Butler (winner), 

Mike Maynard, Peter Finn & Paul Despoges 

Castle Hill Circle hosted Province 21 Circles on Tuesday 26 th November at St Joseph‘s Reflection 

Centre for the Truthful Jones Cup contest. A contest where by a representative of each Circle within 

the Province is invited to deliver a Truthful story within four minutes. The subject matter being of 

their choice. To score the speeches, the judges look for humour; audience reaction; presentation; 

originally; timing; authenticity!!! 

Of the 14 Circles within the Province, five Circles had representatives presenting – Lou Lazzari (Ku 

Ring Gai); Frank Slade (Carlingford); Noel Braun (Pittwater); Graham Short (Mosman) and Rob Butler 

(Castle Hill). Each Brother delivered a very truthful story, but according to the judges, being the 

President or V-P from each Circle, Brother Rob Butler, won on the evening with a convincing story of 

the origins of the Cup and where we are today with it. 

Present for the evening 45 Brothers from Sydney Circles all agreed once again a great evening was 

had by all, unfortunately more Circles and brothers were not present to enjoy the event. 




News from City of Sydney Circle... 

A CATENIAN NIGHT WITH A DIFFERENCE!!! 

Brother President Tony Wales and Gai opened their beautiful home to the brothers and wives of the 

City of Sydney Circle on Friday 23 rd November 2012. Their newly decorated apartment was a fantastic 

venue for our evening with a breath taking view over Sydney Harbour. We were blessed this year with 

a clear night to appreciate the view after the torrential rain last year. We were even treated to the 

spectacle of a huge cruise ship leaving Circular Quay during the evening. Brother Tom Mazzei 

(Denise & Tony’s son) was extremely knowledgeable in his presentation of the wines to complement 

the delicious cheeses and crackers. To follow the presentation we were treated to a great array of 

ante pasta, a delicious Christmas ham on a carving stand, crunchy bread then trays of tempting petit 

fours to sweeten our palates. It was good to have Brother Jim Smythe and Pat attend the evening 

after his long battle with ill health. Also Bro. Ron Masson and Pat were there after Ron’s recent bout 

in St Vincent’s hospital. Pat Sidgreaves and Pat Bradbury came together and renewed friendships 

with the Circle. 

We had the pleasure at the night to meet Denise & Tony’s lovely daughter Lizzie and her tall 

American husband Chris who are in Australia visiting with their baby. Chris is a gastroenterologist 

and they are living in Bosie in Idaho. Lizzie is very proud of her brother Tom who is now a renowned 

figure in the wine appreciation in Sydney. In fact he has just been made the wine critic for a Fairfax 

supplement to be published soon. 




A CATENIAN NIGHT WITH A DIFFERENCE 

Continued… 

Brother Tom Mazzei (Ku-Ring-Gai Circle) presents the wine 

The Wine and Cheese menu: 1: An Italian goat, cow and sheep - milk cheese with Brown 

Brothers Prosecco sparkling wine.2: Cabot cloth bound cheddar with Cypress Vineyard 

Sauvignon Blanc from the Napa Valley 3: Saint Augur blue vein cheese with Tim Adams 

Botrytis Riesling from the Clare Valley. 4: Prim Donna Dutch Gouda cheese with a Main 

Divide Cabernet Merlot from the Marlborough New Zealand. 

Bro. Tom Mazzei had personally picked the wines to complement the very tasty cheese. 


CITY OF SYDNEY CIRCLE 

Strengthening family life through friendship and faith 




Continued… 

A SELECTION OF PICTURES TAKEN ON THE EVENING 

MORE PICTURES ON THE NEXT PAGE… 

EASTERN LINK Page 20 DECEMBER 2012



Continued… 

It was good to have Pat Sidgreaves and Pat 

Bradbury at the wine & cheese night. Moira 

Levey had been contacted with an 

invitation to attend but she had a night 

planned with her sister. Moira is still in the 

same house at Mascot and is keeping in 

good health. Pat Sidgreaves is planning to 

downsize to an apartment close to Bro. 

John Hope-Allan and Faye. She is having 

difficulties with her renovations and the 

body corporate but hopefully they will be 

resolved soon. 

Brother Peter O’Reilly 




More News from Sydney Circle… 

HAPPY 

GOLDEN WEDDING 

ANNIVERSARY TO YOU BOTH 

Brother Peter O’Reilly and 

Lorelie celebrated their 50 years 

of marriage on the 17 th 

November 2012. They received a 

blessing from Father Robert 

Doohan at St Finbar’s Church 

Sans Souci exactly 50 years 

later, at the same altar as they 

were married in 1962. Brother 

Ron Daly was an acolyte for the 

Mass, Elaine Daly, Michael 

O’Reilly, Gabrielle and Georgia 

assisted with the readings. Ron 

(groomsman) & Elaine 

(bridesmaid) were in our 

wedding party in 1962! The 

family organised a party at the 

Georges River Sailing Club on 

the Sunday with lots of old 

photos in a power point 

presentation and speeches. It 

only seems like yesterday! 

SYDNEY SNIPPET… 

Brother Guy Cassar and Cecile are well in their country retreat although they are right in the midst of the battle with 

the coal mining juggernaut which is taking over our farmlands. Trust Guy to be involved in the negotiations with the 

government about the properties in their area being unsaleable except to the mining companies. Guy is still involved 

in the Buckett’s Way committee and is meeting with Bishop Wright from Maitland/Newcastle with the aim of 

commencing a Circle in Newcastle. Bishop Wright is a friend of Brother Gerard Sutton. Guy is finding the work on the 

farm difficult as he has a “frozen shoulder” and is having cortisone and physio. Cecile is having treatment from a Dr 

Arnold a rheumatologist who is practicing locally. 

Brother Mike Tighe helps organise a golf day at Moore Park when the parish of Saint Francis at Paddington plays the 

parish of Saint Mary Magdalene at Rose bay. It was held last Friday on a perfect day and Mons. Tony Doherty led his 

Rose Bay team to another victory. Brother Peter O’Reilly played for Paddington with Brother Mike Tighe, It so 

happened that Brother Ian Milne was also playing at Moore Park with some friends and we caught up at the 19 th hole. 



KU-RING-GAI CIRCLE – PITTWATTER CIRCLE!!! 

Congratulations to Ku-Ring-Gai on 

winning the Kupitt Shield… 

Above; the winning Ku-Ring-Gai golf team with the Kupitt Shield. Left to right; Rejimon Punchayll 

John Stone, John White, Paul Rubenach (captain), Martin Stebbings, Gerry Hoy, Ron Burke. 

Since 1992 Ku-Ring-Gai and Pittwater Circles have played an annual golf match for the Kupitt 

Shield. Ku-Ring-Gai managed to win it back this year by a close margin on Sunday 14th 

October. Brother’s and guest players had an enjoyable day and the event was held at Palm 

Beach Golf club at Sydney’s North Shore. The tournament was followed by presentations and 

lunch. 

The Kupitt Shield continued on next page… 



The Kupitt Shield continued… 

Paul Rubenach (left) receives the Kupitt shield from Tony Regan of Pittwater who is the main organiser of the event 

The Kupitt Shield continued on next page… 



The Kupitt Shield continued… 

Robert McLeod from Pittwater was the overall individual 

winner on the day seen here (left) receiving his trophy 

from Tony Regan of Pittwater Circle 

John Stone, best for Ku-Ring-Gai is congratulated 

by his captain Paul Rubenach 

Ron Burke of Ku-Ring-Gai (right) was also a winner 

and received a bottle of wine from 

Tony Regan of Pittwater 

Martin Stebbings of Ku-Ring-Gai on debut was a 

winner for the most improved on the back nine 

and selects a vintage bottle of wine as his prize 

strengthening family life through friendship & faith 



News from Gold Coast Tweed Circle… 

VISITING BROTHER FROM WIGAN CIRCLE… 

Brother John Reilly and his wife Doreen visited the Gold Coast, staying with Doreen’s sister, Ann 

Shaw. Brother John is President of Wigan Circle No. 16 (inaugurated 13 July 1913 – centenary on the 

horizon!). 

Brother John and his wife, Doreen, were visiting the Gold Coast before joining the Grand President’s 

Tour in Western Australia. Because Brother John had limited time here, he was not able to coincide 

his visit with one of our Circle Meetings. So in true Mountain to Mohammed style, representative of 

Gold Coast Tweed Circle 357 met John, Doreen and Ann for lunch at one of the tallest structures on 

the Gold Coast, known as Q1 on Tuesday, 11 th September 2012 

VISITING POTENTIAL BROTHER 

FINDS TIME TO SMILE!!! 

Potential visitor Peter, our newest managed a 

smile in Circle Chamberlain Brother Don 

McLellan’s company. HaHa!!! 

From left; Brother Don and visitor Peter 



News from City of Sydney Circle’s newsletter… 

CITY OF SYDNEY’S SEPTEMBER MEETING… 

Bros. Ian Milne, Prov 21 Director Kevin Doherty, 

Tom Boyce, Douglas Wilson, Tony Mazzei 

A WELCOME TO 

PROVINCE 21 DIRECTOR 

BROTHER KEVIN… 

The Circle meeting in September was 

attended by 19 brothers which was 50% of 

our membership. We welcomed our Brother 

Provincial Director Kevin Doherty (Pittwater 

Circle). He admitted he was remiss in not 

visiting the City of Sydney Circle more often 

and commented on such a wonderful 

traditional hotel venue for our meetings. He 

reported on the meetings and decisions of 

Grand Council in the UK with the good news 

that they are discussing the definition of 

“practicing Catholic” as a qualification in 

joining the Association. He also reported on 

the proposed sale of the old “Head Office” in 

Chesham Place in the heart of London. 

Brothers John Crawford, Bob O'Mara 

George Newton, Ron Daly, Joe McGuinness 

Brothers Charles DiNatale, Tony Stagnitta 

Frank Filocamo, Peter Gialouris, Peter Tilbrook 

John Barclay, Terry McNamara 

Bro. Plunkett Sweeney sends his regards to all in the Circle. He does get out of the house mainly to play bridge 

with Joyce. He reads all his Catenian correspondence and was quite adamant in his belief that we have the utmost 

respect the clergy but that they are completely separate from our Association. Do you agree? Plunkett thinks 

often about “Catenians” and is quite worried about the future of the Association and especially the City of Sydney 

Circle with its ageing membership and lack of new younger brothers. 



More news from City of Sydney’s Circle newsletter… 

Brother Peter O’Reilly and Lorelie have finally found a buyer for their home in Sans Souci after 

nine months of open houses, an auction and disruption of their routine! Our frequent prayers 

have been answered in that the buyers are a couple with three young children who attend Mater 

Dei school at Blakehurst. We are so thrilled that our cherished family home is being recycled 

with a family with young children. The husband is originally from Alexandria in Egypt from 

whence Brother Guy Cassar came to this wonderful land of Australia! We will be moving to an 

apartment at Dolls Point in early October downsizing from our family home. And everyone tells 

us “you leave your house but take your home with you!” Our new address will be 302/172 

Russell Avenue Dolls Point and hopefully still have the same phone number. Peter O’Reilly 



More news from City of Sydney’s Circle newsletter… 

still working tirelessly… 

ST 

MARY’S 

ROSARY 

CHAIN 

Brother Greg Smyth is still working 

tirelessly on Mary’s Rosary and 

has close liaison with the Church 

and schools in Uganda. Our City of 

Sydney Circle is helping with the 

Rosary beads to the children in 

their schools. 

Brother Greg & Colleen with family on father's day 

Father Stephen is the priest in the 

parish of St Joseph’s Church in the 

Lweza archdiocese Kampala, 

Uganda and Brother Greg is in 

regular contact with him. 

VISITING BROTHER JOHN FROM HARTLEPOOL CIRCLE 93… 

Bros. Peter O'Reilly & John Forsythe 

Bro. Peter O’Reilly had the pleasure of 

meeting Bro. John Forsythe a Catenian 

(Hartlepool 93) from the UK. John is the 

father of Richard Forsythe who you may 

remember came to Australia with his family 

some time ago. His plight in finding 

employment was broadcast through the 

Catenian Circles in Province 21 and 

through the help and suggestions from the 

brothers; Richard found a position with 

Caritas Australia in Sydney. 

Bro. John and his wife Iris were staying 

with the family at Kogarah Bay so we 

arranged to meet for coffee at the St 

George Motor Boat Club. John presented 

Peter with a Catenian tie from the Annual 

Conference at Newcastle Gateshead 2011. 

As you can see from the picture it was a 

perfect sunny day on George’s River. 



News from Ku-Ring-Gai Circle… 

SEPTEMBER CIRCLE MEETING… 

President of Ku-Ring-Gai Circle 

Malcolm McEwen congratulates new brother 

Paul Friend with a welcome kit 

Ku-Ring-Gai brother Tony Chatfield (front right) 

with other members and wives 

Past Pres of K-R-G Circle Claude Jugmans congratulates 

guest speaker Dan Fleming Ass. Dean of Theology & 

lecturer in Christian Ethics at Broken Bay Institute 

Brother Ron Burke of Ku-Ring-Gai Circle 

and his wife Barbara enjoying the evening 




More news from Ku-Ring-Gai Circle… 

OCTOBER CIRCLE MEETING 

WELCOME KEVIN… 

New enrolled Brother Luke with his sponsors Brothers Jim Phelan left and Charlie Thomson right 

"Vice President Ku-Ring-Gai Circle Garry McIntosh congratulates guest speaker Kevin Callanan 

on his talk to the Circle's October meeting on the Man's Shed Organisation." 

"Kevin Callanan, guest speaker at Ku-Ring-Gai Circle October Circle meeting spoke to the 

Brothers about his work with the Men's Shed organisation in Australia and its' growth overseas. 

Kevin is Secretary of the Men's Shed Association and is involved in the Ku-Ring-Gai historical 

Society, St Vincent de Paul and Father Chris Riley's Youth “Off The Streets.” His talk covered how 

the Men's Shed organisation is a community based non-profit, non-commercial organisation 

accessible to all men. The various sheds around the country have tools and equipment to make 

furniture and other items which go to good causes. One major objective is to advance the wellbeing 

and health of members and encourage social inclusion". 




OCTOBER CIRCLE MEETING Continued 

All smiles at the Ku-Ring-Gai Circle October Circle meeting enjoying the evening, from left to right, Brother 

Mike Kelly, visiting gentleman John Holdsworth, Membership Officer Vince Caldeira and Brother Luke Keighrey 

Visiting Gentleman to the Ku-Ring-Gai Circle October meeting 

Alain La Touche with Brother Martin Stebbings 



News from Canberra 331 Circle Newsletter… 

SEPTEMBER MEETING… 

“A Complex Man…” 

After dinner, Bro Myles Hannan spoke on 

the life and works of Maurice Blondel. A 

complex man and a complex subject that 

had intrigued Myles since his 

undergraduate days. 

Myles spoke of his abiding interest in 

Blondel and has studied his subject 

thoroughly in both French and English. 

From left; Brother’s Myles & Russ 

The result was an absorbing tale of a 

different kind of Faith journey, one taken 

over a lifetime. Many thanks to Bro Myles 

for sharing this journey and his insights 

with the Circle. 

38 th BROTHER… 

OCTOBER MEETING… 

Brothers of Canberra Circle 331 

welcomed Mr Peter Sharman as their 38 th 

member in October 2012. Peter is an IT 

product manager and lives in the 

Tuggeranong Valley. He was 

congratulated by Bro President Jeff 

Cowley and Bro Membership Officer Peter 

Polkinghorne. The meeting was followed 

by a ladies dinner with the Executive 

Director, Culture and Communications, 

Chief Minister and Cabinet Directorate, 

Jeremy Lasek as guest speaker. In 2013, 

Canberra celebrates 100 years since Lady 

Denman, wife of then Governor-General 

Lord Denman, stood upon the newly laid 

Foundation Stones and announced that 

the name of the new Australian capital 

would be Canberra. 

From left; Brother President Jeff, Brother Peter 

& Brother Peter Polkinghorne MO 

Mr Lasek spoke about the Centenary Project as an opportunity for all Australians to celebrate this 

occasion in our country’s history and to explore the many facets – local, regional, national and 

international – of our nation’s capital. He noted a number of special activities being planned that will 

showcase the very best of Canberra. The ambition behind the program is to create lasting legacies 

that will benefit generations of Australians to come and lead Canberra confidently into the journey of 

the next hundred years. Of course, one of those special projects is the national arboretum which now 

includes the Catenian tree planted by past president Tony Godden. More details are at 

http://www.canberra100.com.au 



More news from Canberra 331 Circle Newsletter… 

Down to business! (L-R): Olga, Peg, Norm, Geoff, Brian, Pat, Frank & Elaine 

On Saturday 3 rd Nov, Br George threw open his wine cellar and invited some Brothers around 

to share in some fellowship with Kevin & Lorraine Parker from WA. Kevin is a Catenian from 

the Swan Valley Circle. 

A wonderful afternoon of Catenian fellowship spent in an eye-catching garden with great food 

and wine. Many thanks to George & Elaine Kazs for showing us the Catenian spirit in action. 

The Catenians, wherever they gather, are always strengthening life through friendship and 

Faith. 

MORE B-B-Q Pictures on the following page… 



News from Canberra 331 Newsletter… 

George & Elaine’s B-B-Q continued… 

Bob Wilson, Mine Host George & Therese Weiss 

Jeff, Sue & Lorraine 

Bro. Kevin Parker from Swan Valley Circle, WA 

Elaine & Olga admire the Peony Rose 




NOVEMBER CIRCLE MEETING 

Brother John’s journey… 

From left; Brother John & Brother Mike 

Brother Mike Kelly, introduced guest speaker for the night, Brother John Symanski. Brother 

John, a long-time member of Ku-Ring-Gai Circle, gave an interesting talk to the Brothers at 

the November Circle meeting, when he discussed his life’s journey which ended up with 

migration to Australia. Born in Poland, his family was forcibly removed during the war, and 

were sent to Russia before moving to Persia then New Zealand. He lost his father during the 

war. He graduated as an engineer in New Zealand, and was invited to Australia to work on 

water supply, and has spent most of his life here. Now retired he resides in the Blue 

Mountains west of Sydney. 

NOVEMBER CIRCLE MEETING 



News from Manly Circle… 

Brother Tony & Marg 

Meet 

Prince Charles & Duchess of Cornwall… 

Brother Tony and wife Marg recently met HRH Prince Charles and Camilla Duchess of 

Cornwall on their recent tour of Asia and Australia. 

Prince Charles spent part of his schooling here in Geelong. 

Brother Tony as Leader of the Opposition met Prince Charles and Camilla in Canberra when 

the couple visited the capitol city of Australia. 

THE CATENIANS 

strengthening family life 

through friendship & faith 



News from Manly Circle… 

CARE OPTIONS ON NORTHERN BEACHES... 

Many Circle Brother’s had Marina Whitting 

as their guest speaker recently. Manly 

President Romano DiDonato OAM 

presents Marina with a token of 

appreciation for her enlightening talk on 

some respite care options on the northern 

beaches. Marina gave a thoroughly 

entertaining speech. 

Left; President Romano OAM thanking 

Marina for joining the Circle Brothers for 

the evening. 

BROTHER TONY MEETS 

PRIME MINISTER OF SINGAPORE... 

Brother Tony Abbott meeting – on arrival at Parliament House – the Prime Minister of 

Singapore, His Excellency Lee Hsien Loong on a visit to Australia 



JOINT EFFORT FROM PITTWATER & WARRINGHA CIRCLE’S 

TO HELP REFURBISMENT IN NEPAL… 

Brother Evan Godfrey presenting the cheque to Christian 

on behalf of both Pittwater and Warringah Circles 

Pittwater President Michael Maynard and Michael's wife Cheryl look on 

One of our young parishioners at the Lakes Parish, Christian Barwell, travelled to Nepal on the 23 rd 

September with 19 other Saint Augustine year 10 students. While there will participate in two 

refurbishment projects – the first for a school for the blind in Kathmandu and the second for a remote 

primary school in Gorkha district of Nepal. This is funded by the fundraising efforts and financial 

support given to Christian by friends and family. 

Many of you may know Christian’s grandfather brother Peter Barwell of Warringah Circle and 

Christian’s father Gerrard, a member of the Lakes parish for many years. PPC member and regular 

lector. 

Warringah and Pittwater Circles decided to make a donation to this worthy cause, brother Evan – a 

member of both Circle’s – had kindly agreed to make the presentation which was a combined cheque 

for $500. 

Brother Evan asked the brother’s to pray Christian to have a safe, rewarding and enjoyable journey 

and an experience he will always remember with great satisfaction. Brother Peter McGoldrick 



News from Hornsby Circle… 

CARDINAL PELL 

HONOURS BROTHER MICHAEL… 

Retiring governors William Belkovskis and Richard 

d’Apice (both papal knights), Peter Ward, and 

Michael Whitbread have led the way in helping 

establish world-class facilities for the greater 

population of Sydney, said Catholic Cemeteries 

Board CEO Peter O’Meara. 

The four were honoured for their combined 80 years 

of service to the Catholic Cemeteries Board with a 

dinner hosted by the Archbishop of Sydney, George 

Cardinal Pell, at Cathedral House on 15 November. 

“Their lasting legacy is that they really understood 

the critical issue of how Sydney was going to cope in 

the future with an ageing population and everincreasing 

number of ‘baby boomers’ about to exit 

the world in the next 30 years, and they set about 

investing heavily into infrastructure and facilities,” Mr 

O’Meara said. 

“Go back 15 years ago, we ran one cemetery; now 

we run seven. There has been a massive investment 

made in terms of facilities for the Catholic 

community, and more recently we have expanded 

into a mandate to cater for other denominations. 

Cardinal Pell with the retiring governors 

(from left) Peter Ward, William Belkovskis, 

Richard d’Apice and Michael Whitebread 

“Their lasting legacy is they really set about a growth 

strategy to cope with growing demands for these 

sorts of services into the future, and led the way in 

many respects to what are world-class funeral 

facilities for the greater population of Sydney.” 

Sydney accountant William Belkovskis (Knight of the Order of St Gregory the Great) described his 34 years 

as a trustee and governor as “interesting, very enjoyable and at times challenging”. 

“My overall thoughts have been that I have been part of a team that has brought many changes of great 

improvement at Rookwood, Field of Mars and Liverpool cemeteries,” he said, “such as Stations of the Cross, 

building of the crypts, the mausoleum, the crematorium, and, of course, Mary MacKillop’s Memorial Wall. 

“Also the creation of the Catholic Cemeteries Board has been very important to the Catholic Church and the 

Catholic community.” 

• REPRINTED FROM THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY 



News from Pittwater Circle… 

An extract from Pittwater Circle’s minutes….Enjoy!!! 

11 Welfare Bro Barry reported Noel Carrig in Blue Mountains Hospitals. 

Thanks for concerns / and / or prayers. But to steal one from Mark Twin News of my demise is greatly 

exaggerated. Blue Mountains Hospital has a Unique World Class treatment to get Real Estate Agents 

to lie straight in bed. Alas it didn't work - the Specialist diagnosed that I had worked with Keith 

Norms too long for the treatment to be of any real effect. 

In truth I went up to Katoomba to visit Beck and Rob (daughter and husband) for the weekend. 

Changed trains at Redfern ( must be the only ^&*&^% station in Sydney without lifts ) hurrying up and 

down the stairs to change platforms and catch the train to the Blue Mountains ( which was arriving 30 

seconds after I alighted from my train ) with two crook knees and a heavy bag I did something to my 

back. When I arrived it was hurting so I lay on Beck's bed and did some stretching ( like we used to do 

when I played footy). Bad idea Noel! VERY BAD IDEA NOEL!!! Muscles went into spasm and to cut a 

long story short I needed to be taken to Hospital in an ambulance as every muscle in my stomach 

back and core went as stiff as a board. When the Emergency Doctor came to review me I said Doc 

do what you can to ease the pain but whatever you do try to keep the six-pack. 

I am back on deck with the unfortunate reality that until I get my knee/knees replaced I am prone to 

collateral damage of the back hips legs etc. 

Sincere thanks & kindest regards, 

Noel 

PS the only six pack remaining after the muscles relaxed was from the bottle shop. 

On that - spirit ( if not spiritual) note, one of my fellow casualties in the early hours of Saturday night 

had a mishap I thought I should pass on as a precautionary measure. He had a bottle of Jim Beam 

in his back pocket and whilst getting into a cab ( probably via the quarter window judging by his state 

of inebriation upon admittance ) fell backwards on to his rear end. He will be doing his drinking 

standing for some time to come. So to any brothers taking the surplus wine home post meetings it 

might be safer to pour it into a hot water bottle then if you do go apex over base you will have some 

extra padding and won't waste a drop. 


PROVINCE 21 

AUSTRALIA 




WELCOME LADIES… 

Over 40 Brother’s and Guests of 

Castle Hill Circle recently 

enjoyed their Christmas Dinner 

at Dural Country Club on Friday, 

7 th December. 

They all had a most enjoyable 

evening with plenty of catchingup 

to do. 

It was also a chance of some of 

the Circle Widows to attend one 

of the Circle functions. 

Pictured from left is; Marie Field 

& Liliana Bonello 



EASTERN LINK 


V.A.C. 

VICTORIA AREA COUNCIL PALESTINIAN INITIATIVES 

During the last twelve or so months the Spirit has been moving in mysterious ways in 

Victoria. Two projects have sprung up completely independent of each other, both aimed at 

relieving the oppression suffered by Palestinians in Israel and Palestine, Christian and 

Moslem alike, at the hands of the Israelis. 

Readers may recall reading about the “Jericho Project” last year. However the Nazareth 

initiative will be completely new to them… 

The following two articles provide a summary of their activities to date. 

The School at Jericho 

JERICHO PROJECT Continued on next page... 


EASTERN LINK 


V.A.C. 

JERICHO PROJECT Continued... 

JERICHO PROJECT UPDATE 

New School Principal Sister Columba flanked by pupils 

Readers may recall that arising out of a Victorian Area pilgrimage to the Holy Land last year a 

project was established to try in some small way remedy the massive injustices and economic 

strangulation being inflicted on the Palestinian and Christian communities by the Israeli 

authorities. In particular, Jericho is an area sealed off from the rest of Israel so that its residents 

are unable to go out to work or trade and Palestinians are unable to enter to trade. Consequently 

the economic situation in Jericho is dire for many of its citizens. Unemployment is running at 

around 55% and more than 50% of the population is living below the poverty line. 

During its visit there, the group learned of a Franciscan girl’s school where there were significant 

losses of students due to the inability of the parents to pay the school fees. Whilst the Nuns were 

carrying a number of non fee paying students, staff salaries have to be paid and inevitably some 

students were obliged to leave. It was resolved that a project would be established to fund the fees 

of students whose parents had little or no income and were unable to pay for school fees. 

JERICHO PROJECT Continued on next page... 

SEPTEMBER Page 44 DECEMBER 2012

EASTERN LINK 


V.A.C. 

JERICHO PROJECT Continued... 

The well-turned out pupils at the Franciscan girl’s school 

At this point the project has forty donors, thirty Catenians and wives and eight children or friends 

of Catenians. The Project and is now paying the school fees of thirty children who may otherwise 

have been forced to leave the school. In addition it was discovered that in a school of 630 

students, they had only 15 computers, and some of these were ten years old. This meant that a 

typical class of 36 students would be forced to share the computers, with half the class sharing 

three to a computer and the other half, two to a computer. A separate fund raising effort at 

Christmas time raised enough to purchase four computers. This means that now all students share 

only two to a computer. 

Like any school anywhere, there is one constant, change; last year’s school principal, Sister 

Magida Haddad has been transferred to the Franciscan sister school in Nazareth, the same city, 

where the City of Melbourne are supporting the Terra Santa school via their local parish initiative. 

St Mary’s school has a new principal, Sister Columba who joined the school from Syria at the end 

of August. Sister Luigina has moved into care at a Franciscan Sisters house in Bethlehem. We are 

keeping in touch with Sr. Luigina because of her keen interest in our project 

Whilst the project, which has the endorsement of the Victorian Area Council, has exceeded its 

initial goals, there remains an enormous need for more assistance. Any Catenian who would like to 

participate should contact either Ian Predl at ipredl@satlink.com.au or George Little at 

george@little.net.au 

NAZARETH PROJECT starts on next page... 


EASTERN LINK 


V.A.C. 

The City of Melbourne Circle was founded over 30 years ago and included Brothers from a 

number of parishes across the southern and eastern suburbs of Melbourne. As other 

Circles have developed across Melbourne the membership of City of Melbourne has 

concentrated into the Parish of Nazareth at Rickett’s Point, comprising the churches of 

Stella Maris, Beaumaris and St Joseph’s Black Rock. 

Typical of Catenian Brothers, the Brothers in City of Melbourne are active in most areas of 

the Parish of Nazareth including a recent initiative that commenced in 2011. The Parish 

initiated a relationship with the Catholic community in Nazareth in the Holy Land initially 

providing rehabilitation equipment for the local hospital. Formed to provide support to the 

“Living Stones”, the Christians whom Pope Benedict XVI asks us to support, as they are 

under economic pressure and being slowly forced away from their traditional homes, 

NAZARETH PROJECT Continued on next page... 


EASTERN LINK 


V.A.C. 

The Terra Santa School in Nazareth continued... 

A typical class room at Terra Santa 

and being slowly forced away from their traditional homes, the parish has focussed on 

two areas. Firstly to increase tourism in Nazareth, a city with numerous Holy sites but not 

a regular stopover on most Pilgrimages. Secondly to develop a link between the children 

of both cities that will increase awareness in Australia of the limited future of children in 

Nazareth. 

The Terra Santa School is situated in the old city of Nazareth adjacent to the Basilica of 

the Annunciation accepting both Christian and Islamic students but receiving no 

government funding and as a result have limited resources. In January 2012 two primary 

school teachers from Stella Maris parish school spent ten days at the Terra Santa School 

in Nazareth sharing teaching ideas from Australia and observing practices within Terra 

Santa. 

At the May Circle meeting, the two teachers Sharon Selleck and Jess Brumby made a 

presentation on their experiences at Terra Santa. Sharon and Jess provided a great 

insight into the challenges facing Terra Santa where resources are limited and the 

NAZARETH PROJECT Continued on next page... 


EASTERN LINK 


V.A.C. 

The Terra Santa School in Nazareth continued... 

Left; Jess Brumby, Roxan Isbanyoli, Sharon Selleck, Samar Abu Nassar the four teachers involved in the exchange 

Style of teaching is different to that which is seen in Melbourne. Their presentation also 

showed the differences between a government funded school and Terra Santa 

highlighting the economic gap between Palestinian Christians and Israelis. Being 

welcomed into the homes of teachers from Terra Santa, Jess and Sharon saw closely the 

deep faith and strength of family lived by the people of Nazareth. 

The July Circle meeting coincided with the reciprocal visit to Melbourne of Samar Abu 

Nassar and Roxan Isbanyoli, teachers at Terra Santa which provided an opportunity for 

the Circle to personally present funds raised for Terra Santa. While thanking the Circle for 

its support, Samar and Roxan spoke about the importance of family, living in the place 

where the Holy Family spent most of their life. The exchange of teachers has provided 

valuable ideas for Samar and Roxan to implement at Terra Santa while their faith and 

commitment has provided inspiration for the teachers in Melbourne. 

The next exciting step in what is recognised as a first for schools in Australia will see four 

Grade 5 students, with parents, spend two weeks in October at the Terra Santa School. 

This immersion into school in Palestine will be a memorable experience and it is planned 

to be a regular event bringing the awareness of the situation in Nazareth to Bayside 

Melbourne. 

Besides this effort, Brothers from other Circles in Melbourne have set up a fund to 

support the Franciscan Primary School in Jericho. Moved by the plight of Christians in 

Jericho after their Pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 2011 the Brothers have setup a number 

of scholarships allowing up to twenty students to attend the school. 


EASTERN LINK 


V.A.C. 

Maroondah’s, Decanter Night, Deceased Brother’s Mass 

And 150 th Meeting… 

Area President Will Kininmonth presenting Maroondah President John Klein with an Area Certificate for their 

150th meeting. On right; Brother Greg Lynch City of Melbourne President getting ready to share the Port 

Melbourne made a very special effort and pipped Boroondara in the Decanter Challenge. They 

wanted it for their 350 th celebration, which will be held next year despite it being officially this 

November! They turned up with 10 Brothers to our eight (we were expecting nine). So it was a big 

night with some 35 brothers and one Priest. Our Joint meetings in January pale against it, and I 

suspect will again be down in January 2013 

Brother Tibor 


EASTERN LINK 


V.A.C. 

SPAIN & PORTUGAL – THE WAY OF SAINT JAMES… 

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST 

SPAIN & PORTUGAL 

– THE WAY OF ST. JAMES 

20 days/19 nights. 

Approximate cost of land content $3,200 

EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN A CATENIAN 

PILGRIMAGE ALONG THE WAY OF ST. JAMES. (SANTIAGO IN SPANISH) 

The Recent film “The Way” depicted much of the scenery to be encountered on the 

journey, the one big difference being that we will be travelling by coach and train and 

staying in three or four star accommodation in various local village hotels. 

We will be following “The French Way”. To be able to take in the atmosphere of the 

Camino, the option of walking the last 5 or 6 kilometers to the Cathedral steps in Santiago 

de Compostela has been included. Mass is held in the Cathedral every day at 12 noon. 

We start our tour in Barcelona, arriving on May 20 th . We follow the French Way to Santiago 

de Compostela, sample the wines at Porto, on to Lisbon via Fatima then cross over to 

Spain again to visit Seville and surrounds, on to Grenada and then Madrid via Toledo. 

An optional front end to the tour comprises a spectacular six day visit to Morocco 

commencing 14 th May in Casablanca for those who are interested. Cost of the land content 

for this tour is approximately $850 per person. 

The tour is being organized by Edwina Mallia of Jetset Travel. Edwina is the wife of a 

Waverley Circle Catenian, she will accompany the tour. 

We are looking to keep the numbers down to around the mid 20s for maximum comfort. 

For detailed itineraries etc please advise your interest as soon as possible to Brother 

George Little at george@little.net.au 




Brothers who are seeking employment are invited to post their details below. Replies will be passed 

onto the concerned Brother discreetly through the Editor. They will only be identifiable on the page 

through a code number which only the Editor and the Brother concerned knows. 

DAUGHTER OF CATENIAN… 

from the UK seeking sponsorship to stay in beautiful Australia. UK legal degree (Hons) Westminster 

University and diploma in both Secretarial skills and EA skills searching for sponsored EA/Office 

Management role. Previous experience as EA to Directors at The Royal College of Surgeons of England, 

The Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in London and Epworth HealthCare in Melbourne. 

Recently obtained a positive Australian VETASSESS assessment of skills as Office Manager. Prepared to 

relocate anywhere in Australia. 

/REFEL101 

CATENIAN SEEKS… 

Experienced General Manager looking for employment in an administration role in sales, marketing, or 

general administration in wholesale sales, manufacturing, logistics or warehousing environment. 

More than thirty years senior management experience in a wholesale sales environment working with 

overseas manufacturers. 

Experience includes sales management (up to 40 staff), marketing, inventory planning and procurement, 

warehousing, financial budgeting and reporting, debtor’s management, and general business 

administration. 

Qualifications in Quality Assurance and General Business administration including MBA (University of Hull 

GB) 

/REF EL102 

SON OF CATENIAN… 

YOUR DETAILS COULD BE HERE FOR 

POTENIAL EMPLOYERS TO SEE… 

/REF EL103 

Prospective Employers; please contact me by telephone or email, if you would like to get in touch with 

any of the above Brothers/Families who are actively seeking employment. Everything will be handled 

in a discreet manner. A reminder of my telephone no’s:- Home: 0740553529 – Mobile: 0415846565 – 

Email: petercash@btinternet.com 



PROVINCE 21 AUSTRALIA 

SPECIAL DEVOTION 

The Catenian 

“Mary’s Rosary Chain” Division 

Membership is open to Brothers, Wives, Widows & Family Members. Widows find it 

especially helpful as it gives them a connection with their late husband’s Circle. 

Obligation of membership; to pray One Decade of the Holy Rosary every day. (One Our 

Father, Ten Hail Mary’s and One Glory Be). No penalty if a decade is missed. The petition 

can be for ‘Our Lady’s Intentions’ or member’s Personal Intentions etc. 

All Participants are invited to have their names placed permanently under the Blessed 

Sacrament in the Monastery of St. Paul The First Hermit. 

The Order for Intentions of all names listed, prayers will be celebrated daily and Mass 

weekly in the Monastery for all the participant’s. 

Catenian Brother’s we need you!!! 

Any Catenian Brother, Circle or Group who is interested in joining or need any 

further information please contact our Mary’s Chain Co-ordinator:- 

Brother Greg Smyth 

(City of Sydney Circle) 

Telephone: 02 9522 0034 

Email: smythgc@bigpond.com.au 



A HUGE THANK-YOU TO… 

THE BROTHERS OF CITY OF SYDNEY CIRCLE 

FROM THE CHILDREN OF 

ST. JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC PARISH, LWEZA, UGANDA 

They were children from St. Joseph's Catholic parish Lweza receiving the Rosary Beads & Cards 

Father Stephen Ssekiwunga of St. Joseph's Catholic Parish, Lweza, sends this picture of 

some of the children in his parish receiving the Rosary Beads and Rosary Cards sent over 

by the Brothers of City of Sydney Circle, who have adopted the Lweza parish first-holy 

communicants and are going to provide them with future Rosaries and Cards. Brother Greg 

has organised this marvellous gesture and has the blessings of Sydney Circle. Father 

Ssekiwunga has asked Brother Greg to thank all who helped to organise and pay for this. On 

the following page is a list of the children who have received the Rosaries & Cards. /Cont. 



A HUGE THANK-YOU TO… 

THE BROTHERS OF CITY OF SYDNEY CIRCLE 

FROM THE CHILDREN OF 

St. Joseph's Catholic parish, Lweza, UGANDA Continued… 

LIST OF CHILDREN IN LWEZA PARISH MAKING THEIR FIRST COMMUNIONS… 

Jovita Nandaula 

Angela Nakalema 

Mwesigwa Eugene 

Emmanuel Wabbi 

Marvin Ssewanyana 

Nalweyiso Emilina 

Catherine Nakawesi 

Noerina Nakigozi 

Victoria Namaganda 

Ssenkungu Fred 

Joan Nalukenge 

Christine Cissy Kabejja 

Nakiyengo 

Jonathan Ssenjala 

Jacquline Draioru Kisakye 

Komukyeya Divina 

Karuhanga Dicker Kimera 

Imelda Phillipa Nnabwiire 

Ssenyonjo Herbert 

Joseph B. Ssenyange 

Deogratious Ssenyonjo 

Nabwato Hellen 

Luyimba Arthur Driane 

Birungi Olivia 

Nankya Nakimuli 

Joseph Benedict Kaye 

Wasswa M. John Mary 

Namagembe Elizabeth 

Colline Mugerwa 

Mary Goretti Nampiima 

Eric Bwogi 

Hellen Nakesa 

Abaayo Aloysious 

Christine Nnakayi 

Joanita Namuli 

Ssazi Ronald 

Cloud Dazangapai 

Ronald Atibuni 

Nakibuuka Jane 

Francis Bukenya 

Arnold Asiimwe 

Gaaniko Emmanuel 

Stella Adia 

Gloria Epiangisa 

Aimbic Susan 

Ssemwanga Ronald 

Kawooya Martin Kiyego 

Nakazzi Angella 

Mary Kevin 

Maureen Nangooba 

Vincent Ssemuyaba 

Nagujja Jane 

Vianney Edrin Jjumba 

Kato Vincent Kyaga 

Alvin Wcycliff Ssempebwa 

Namuyiga Jane 

Francis Kato Keya 

ST. JOSEPH'S CATHOLIC 

PARISH LWEZA 

UGANDA 



St Mary of the Cross MacKillop Prayer… 

Ever generous God, 

You inspired Saint Mary MacKillop 

To live her life faithful to the Gospel of 

Jesus Christ and constant in bringing hope and Encouragement to those who were disheartened, 

lonely or needy. 

With confidence in your generous providence and through the intercession of Saint Mary MacKillop. 

We ask that you grant our request………………. 

We ask that our faith and hope be fired afresh by the Holy Spirit so that we too, like Mary MacKillop, 

may live with courage, trust and openness. 

Ever generous God hear our prayer. 

We ask this through Jesus Christ. Amen. 

Do you know Any Catholic men In the Adelaide area??? 

And you think they could be Potential Catenian Brothers 

Please contact Brother Michael P Cogman, Joondalup Circle No 339 

Telephone (08) 8278 1443 

Brother Michael is trying to start a new Group in Adelaide 

and needs to find Potential Brothers 

PROVINCE 21 WEBSITE… 

Brother Chris Pitts has upgraded the Province 21 website 

please visit it at:- 

http://www.thecatenianassociation.org.au/ 

Plenty to see there with numerous links to other Catenian websites 



M[ry’s Dr_[m 

“I had a dream, Joseph. I don’t understand it, but I think it was about a 

birthday celebration for our son. 

The people in my dream had been preparing for about six weeks. They had 

decorated the house and bought new clothes. They’d gone shopping many 

times and bought many elaborate gifts. 

It was peculiar, though, because the Presents weren’t for our son. They 

wrapped them in beautiful paper and stacked them under a tree. Yes, a tree, 

Joseph, right inside their homes! They’d decorated the tree with sparkling 

ornaments. There was a figure like an angel on the top of the tree. 

Everyone was laughing and happy. They gave the gifts to each other Joseph, 

not to our son. I don’t think they even knew him. They never mentioned his 

name. 

I had the strangest feeling that, if our Jesus had gone to this celebration, he 

would have been intruding. How sad for someone not to be wanted at his 

own birthday party! I’m glad it was only a dream. How terrible, Joseph, if it 

had been real!” (Author Unknown) 



SPECIAL EDITION Page 57 DECEMBER 2012


WHAT DOES THE YEAR OF GRACE ASK OF US? 

The Catholic Bishops of Australia) invite you to walk this journey with them in hope. We commit 

ourselves to: 

Pray daily seeking the mind and heart of Jesus Christ 

Repent for the areas in which we have failed individually and together 

Pursue the path of holiness cultivating the gifts of the Spirit and seeking to grow as disciples of 

Jesus 

Seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit so that the Church of Australia will be transformed by the 

power of Christ’s resurrection in our lives. 

(Excerpt from the Year of Grace Pastoral letter of Archbishop Wilson on behalf of the Catholic Bishops 

of Australia 20 November 2011.) 

All Brothers are encouraged to visit other Circles. If the opportunity 

arises please contact the appropriate Catering Officer listed below. 

CITY OF CAIRNS 3 rd Thu 

Peter Cash 07 4055 3529 – petercash@btinternet.com 

CANBERRA 3rd Thu. 

Russell Sweeney 6291 4604 

CANBERRA/MOLONGLO 1st Wed. 

Julian Flynn, 6255 1579 

CARLINGFORD 3rd Tue. 

Stan Burgin 9871 2449 

CASTLE HILL 4th Tue 

Paul Despoges 8850 0956 

GOLD COAST TWEED GROUP 3 rd Tues 

Errol Daranjo 07 5576-0019 

HORNSBY 1st Thu 

Peter Andersen 0412 669 462 

KU-RING-GAI 2nd Mon 

Phil Davies 9440 4299 

MANLY 3rd Wed 

Michael van Ommen 9452 5282. 

MOSMAN 2nd Thu 

Mike McEvoy 9968 1777 

PARAMATTA 4 th Thu 

John Green on 02 96307094 

PITTWATER 2nd Wed 

Rex Harding 9944 0886 – rexharding@optusnet.com.au 

CITY OF SYDNEY 1st Wed 

John Crawford 9240 4975 

WARRINGAH 4th Wed 

Bill Carney on 9451 2144 

VICTORIAN CIRCLES 

CITY OF MELBOURNE 4th Mon 

Adam Trajer 03 9584 1134 

WAVERLEY 1st Tue 

George Little 03 9803 7907 

MAROONDAH 3rd Wed 

Paul McCulloch 03 9802 0725 

PENINSULA 2nd Fri 

Peter Christie 03 5985 7515 

BOROONDARA 4 th Wed 

Tibor Puhl 03 9890 0474 

CASEY GROUP 3 rd Mon 

Con Lilley 03 8794 9513 

JESUS 

YEAR OF GRACE 

PRAYER… 

Invite Jesus to walk with you this day 

as you pray. 

Jesus as I contemplate 

your face: let me experience 

your great love for me. 

Reveal your saving 

grace and give me 

a grateful heart. 

Heal me of my weaknesses 

and sin and fill me with 

compassion for others. 

Gift me with the wisdom of the 

Spirit and encourage me to be a 

Faithful witness to the Gospel. 

I ask this through Christ our Lord. 

Amen. 



IN MEMORY OF... 

Lloyd Tidmarsh City of Sydney 13 th June 77 

Bill Wells City of Sydney 27 th February 83 

Alan Laird Ku-Ring-Gai 18 th August 87 

Frank Hagan Ku-Ring-Gai 21 st December 87 

Godfrey (Goff) Gunn Pittwater 31 st December 88 

Darcy Crowe Castle Hill 9 th June 89 

Mick Love Ku-Ring-Gai 1 st October 90 

Peter Bradbury City of Sydney 12 th July 91 

George Lafferty Ku-Ring-Gai 25 th January 92 

David Burke Ku-Ring-Gai 9 th March 92 

Joe Levey City of Sydney 24 th July 92 

Luis Esteban Ku-Ring-Gai 26 th September 93 

John Williams Ku-Ring-Gai 19 th January 94 

John Carter Carlingford 27 th January 95 

John Mountain Pittwater 24 th July 96 

Peter McDermott Hornsby 6 th March 97 

David Muir Pittwater 22 nd April 97 

Laurie Ryan Ku-Ring-Gai 16 th July 97 

Norbert de Rome City of Sydney & Manly 4 th November 97 

Barry Corry Ku-Ring-Gai 30 th November 97 

John Field Castle Hill 8 th May 98 

Reg Joyce Ku-Ring-Gai 12 th June 98 

Michael Killan Mosman 4 th September 98 

John O’Loughlin Carlingford 2 nd January 99 

Ray Weekes Carlingford 6 th June 00 

Peter Garrity Pittwater 2 nd April 00 

Peter Seery City of Sydney 20 th October 00 

Laurie Gray City of Sydney 1 st January 01 

Hugh Gallagher Carlingford 17 th March 01 

Peter Hinchey Warringah 16 th April 01 

Maurice Boylson Pittwater & Warringah 5 th October 01 

Roger de Bryon-Faes Canberra 12 th October 01 

Henry Hudson Ku-Ring-Gai 4 th November 01 

Eric Bokeyar City of Parramatta 11 th March 02 

John Cunningham Hornsby 27 th May 02 

John Pike Manly 18 th June 02 

Adam Groves Canberra 8 th September 02 

John Fox Ku-Ring-Gai 10 th November 02 

James Jude Ku-Ring-Gai 20 th April 04 

Dennis Wood Warringah 13 th June 04 

IN MEMORIUMS CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE… 



IN MEMORY OF... 

Colin Dahl Canberra 10 th February 05 

Kevin Johnson Pittwater 30 th July 05 

Kevin Moyle Canberra Molonglo 21 st August 05 

Ralph Taylor Canberra 7 th December 05 

Jim Mason Pittwater 12 th March 06 

Peter Lawler Manly 9 th May 06 

Kevin Gately Carlingford 11 th December 06 

Alan Powell Warringah 06 

Ray Overs City of Sydney 16 th October 07 

Neil Simm Ku-Ring-Gai 15 th December 07 

Mike Clarkin Manly 5 th April 08 

John Wright Carlingford 19 th May 08 

John Jamieson Pittwater 19 th June 08 

Bryan Keaney Ku-Ring-Gai 4 th September 2008 

John Galbraith Mosman 28 th September 08 

John Kenny Carlingford 21 st December 08 

Harry Goodman City of Sydney 8 th February 09 

Terry Gallagher Hornsby 14 th March 09 

Henning Harders Pittwater 19 th July 09 

Pat McEneaney Hornsby 20 th September 2009 

Martin Crick Warringah 30 th October 2009 

Frank Sullivan Warringah 5 th November 2009 

Carl Martin Manly 3 rd December 2009 

John Doyle Ku-Ring-Gai 7 th July 2010 

Richard Basto Hornsby 18 th July 2010 

Desmond Rosa Pittwater 21 st July 2010 

Peter Griffiths Manly 14 th January 2011 

Anthony Girard Pittwater 23 rd January 2011 

Ron Dunphy Pittwater 25 th March 2011 

Barry Noonan Carlingford 12 th April 2011 

John Woods Manly 30 th June 2011 

Phil Virgona Mosman 19 th November 2011 

John Cameron City of Parramatta 28 th November 2011 

Peter Kiely Ku-Ring-Gai 2 nd December 2011 

John Sidgreaves City of Sydney 16 th December 2011 

Michael Brown Canberra Molonglo 20 th June 2012 

Bernard Sullivan Castle Hill 5 th August 2012 

Bill Bullen City of Sydney 7 th August 2012 

Noel Hanger Boroondara 8 th August 2012 

John Bonello Castle Hill 4 th September 2012 

Kevin Harrold Mosman 27 th September 2012 

Otto von Schomburg City of Parramatta 2 nd December 2012 

MAY THEY REST IN PEACE. AMEN 




OBITUARIES... 

BROTHER JOHN BONELLO RIP 

Late of Castle Hill Circle 

Peacefully passed to eternal life 

Please remember Liliana his Family in your prayers 

"It was Beautiful as long as it lasted" 

A tribute to our friend John Bonello R.I.P. 

Victor Gauci (President Castle Hill Circle 308) writes a few words about his dear friend, John 

Bonello who passed away on the 4th September, 2012 at the age of sixty seven. 

"it was beautiful as long as it lasted , the journey of my life. I have no regrets whatsoever save the pain I'll leave behind”. 

This was John Bonello's final declaration as quoted on the booklet of the order of his funeral service. 

Truer words were never spoken in respect of John's life. His sixty seven years were packed with adventures and experiences 

at both ends of the globe. John was an astute businessman with an eye for opportunity and until quite recently often spoke 

about yet one more venture. 

"If only I was in better health” he would tell me, "I would be back doing what I love most, working hard at my business” 

Although John had lived in Sydney Australia for nearly fifty years, he still missed Malta, his country of birth which he referred 

to as Paradise on Earth. Were it not for his total love and devotion to his family, his wife Liliana, his son Brendan and his 

daughter Natasha, his daughter-in –law Rachel, son-in-law Vince and, of course, his five grandchildren-Justin, Sarah, 

Christian, Marcus and Victoria - he may well have retired there. But he would never leave his family for too long and satisfied 

his longing by taking a short holiday in Malta every now and then. 

John Gavin Bonello was born in Msida, Malta on the 14 th March 1945, the third-born of four boys. He attended Saint Albert 

the Great College in Valletta and subsequently completed a radio officer's course at the Nautical College in Mosta. He was 

not destined to use this qualification however, as in August 1963, at the tender age of eighteen he decided to emigrate to 

Australia to join a childhood friend, Victor Gauci, who had emigrated there three months earlier. 

The two young men initially worked together for Cahill's Restaurant Chain, at their bakehouse in Chippendale. They shared a 

bachelor flat and numerous adventures in Balmain, then Leichhardt and in 1966 they moved to Fairfield where John met 

Liliana, his future wife. 

John and Liliana were married in 1968 and initially lived in Fairfield West. A few years ago they moved to Beaumont Hills so 

as to live closer to their children. John and Liliana attended mass every Sunday at Our Lady of the Rosary Parish, Kellyville. 

During the first few years of their marriage, John held a number of jobs including process work at ACI Glass, Borg-Warner 

and clerical work at the wharves. But he was never comfortable working for a boss and was keen to own and run his own 

business. His initial foray was a pizza shop in Lidcombe followed by a delicatessen in Newport. Both businesses did quite 

well. But his most successful venture by far was as a cheesemaker. He went back to "school "and obtained a cheesemaker's 

certificate. John's strong work ethic backed up by his business acumen and the support given by his family ensured that this 

business prospered for many years. 

Brother John’s RIP Obituary continued on next page… 



BROTHER JOHN BONELLO RIP Continued… 

Socially, John was a jovial, larger than life character. He was highly regarded, made friends easily and was involved with various 

activities. Notably, he belonged to the charitable Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem where he recently held a number 

of offices including Knight Commander, Marshall Adjutante and he was recently awarded the Knight Grand Cross. 

Though he worked hard and led a busy social life throughout his relatively short life, John's main focus was his family whom he 

treasured. He was, according to his son Brendan, an exemplary role model, a good husband and great Dad. He was openly proud 

of their achievements at school when they were growing up and in sport later on in life. 

He became a Catenian Brother when he joined Castle Hill Circle 308 three years ago and although he did not hold office he was 

highly regarded and made a significant contribution to the running of the Circle. In fact most of his Catenian Brothers from 

Castle Hill attended John's funeral service which was presided by Father Alberic at Our Lady of the Rosary on the 10th 

September. 

John will be sadly missed but not forgotten by Liliana, his family and friends. May he rest in peace. 

Brother Victor Gauci 

BROTHER OTTO VON SCHOMBURG RIP 

Late of City of Parramatta Circle 

Peacefully passed to eternal life on 2 nd December 2012 

Please remember Hilary and family in your prayers 

May he rest in peace Amen 

ANNIVERSARIES: 

Your prayers are requested for the repose of the souls of our deceased Catenian Brothers 

and of all our relatives and friends, especially those whose anniversaries occur at this time. 

PLEASE PRAY FOR 

THE RECENTLY DECEASED… 

God of faithfulness, in Your wisdom You have called Your servants out of this world; release 

them from the bonds of sin, and welcome them into Your Presence, so the they may enjoy 

eternal light and peace and be raised up in glory with all Your saints. AMEN. 



PRAYER 

FOR PEACE 

IN THE 

MIDDLE EAST… 

God of Mercy & Compassion, of Grace and reconciliation, 

Pour your spirit on all your children 

in the Middle East. 

Jews, Muslims and Christians, 

Let hatred be turned into Love, fear to Trust, 

Despair to hope, 

Oppression to Freedom and occupation to Liberation, 

May Peace & Justice be shared by all. 

Lord Hear Us! 



LET’S HAVE A LAUGH. . . . . . 

A strong young man at the construction site was bragging that he could outdo anyone in a feat of strength. He 

made a special case of making fun of Morris, one of the older workmen. After several minutes, Morris had 

enough. 

"Why don't you put your money where your mouth is?" he said. "I will bet a week's wages that I can haul 

something in a wheelbarrow over to that outbuilding that you won't be able to wheel back." 

"You're on, old man," the braggart replied. "It's a bet! Let's see what you got." 

Morris reached out and grabbed the wheelbarrow by the handles. Then, nodding to the young man, he said, "All 

right. Get in." 

A large, well established, Canadian lumber camp advertised that they were looking for a good Lumberjack. The 

very next day, a skinny little man showed up at the camp with his axe, and knocked on the head lumberjacks' 

door. 

The head lumberjack took one look at the little man and told him to leave. "Just give me a chance to show you 

what I can do," said the skinny man. 

"Okay, see that giant redwood over there?" said the lumberjack. "Take your axe and go cut it down." 

The skinny man headed for the tree, and in five minutes he was back knocking on the lumberjack's door. 

"I cut the tree down," said the man. The lumberjack couldn't believe his eyes and said, "Where did you get the 

skill to chop down trees like that?" 

"In the Sahara Forest," replied the puny man. 

"You mean the Sahara Desert," said the lumberjack. 

The little man laughed and answered back, "Oh sure, that's what they call it now!" 

The worried housewife sprang to the telephone when it rang and listened with relief to the kindly voice in 

her ear. "How are you, darling?" she said. "What kind of a day are you having?" 

"Oh, mother," said the housewife, breaking into bitter tears, "I've had such a bad day. The baby won't 

eat and the washing machine broke down. I haven't had a chance to go shopping, and besides, I've just 

sprained my ankle and I have to hobble around. On top of that, the house is a mess and I'm supposed to 

have two couples to dinner tonight." 

The mother was shocked and was at once all sympathy. "Oh, darling," she said, "sit down, relax, and 

close your eyes. I'll be over in half an hour. I'll do your shopping, clean up the house, and cook your 

dinner for you. I'll feed the baby and I'll call a repairman I know who'll be at your house to fix the washing 

machine promptly. Now stop crying. I'll do everything. In fact, I'll even call George at the office and tell 

him he ought to come home and help out for once." 

"George?" said the housewife. "Who's George?" 

"Why, George! Your husband!....Is this 223-1374? 

"No, this is 223-1375." 

"Oh, I'm sorry. I guess I have the wrong number." 

There was a short pause and the housewife said, "Does this mean you're not coming over?"

16th Eastern Link - Province 20 Catenians of Western Australia

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