13th Eastern Link - Province 20 Catenians of Western Australia

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21IN THIS EDITION…March Page 2 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21EASTERN LINKVolume 2 Issue no 13MARCH 2012News fromCircles and GroupsOf Province 21& Victoria AreaCouncilPlease send all copy toEditor: Peter Cash3 Greenhaven StreetClifton Beach Qld 4879Telephone: 4055 3529Email: petercash@btinternet.comContents:Page 3…………………Provincial DirectorBrother Paul DespogesPage 4……………….Provincial PresidentBrother Ron DalyPages 5-6 Extract from Grand SecretaryBrother Jim Quinn ReportPages 7-14………...News from ProvincialCouncilPages 15-18……….. ..Grand President’sTour of Western Australia 2012Pages 19....................Australian AusComPages 20-30………….News from CirclesPage 31-33…………......LJM CompetitionPages 34-37…………….. ..MiscellaneousPages 38-42…...........Provincial Golf DayPages 43…………………...MiscellaneousPages 44-49……………………………VACPage 50…………….Mary’s Rosary ChainPages 51-52………………...Kelly GoddenPages 53-57 Obituaries & MiscellaneousYou can read Catena online at:www.catenamagazine.comFROMPROVINCE 21 DIRECTORPAUL DESPOGESAs I come to the end of my term as Director of Province21, I would like to reflect, on the health of our Province,based on comment given to me over the past two years.It would appear no matter where we travel within ourProvince, the issue of major concern is centred on ourmembership strength, coupled with an aging group ofmen. Average age of 65 has now gone to 68.Certainlynot a healthy situation to find ourselves in.Often raised was the subject of what is our Associationall about and what does it do. Maybe if we cannotanswer these questions, it could give us the answer tothe first concern, lack of growth and ability to attractyounger members. As I have previously documented inmy columns, we are in urgent need to get back to thetrue understanding and implementation of our ethos“Strengthening the family through friendship andour faith”Unless we apply ourselves, each and every one of us, toour ethos, our Association cannot survive the test oftime.All too often we witness individuals self wants beingplaced ahead of our Association’s ethos only toeveryone’s detriment.Let’s refocus on our purpose of existence, by renewingthe desire to help our neighbour ,be that a fellow Brother,his family or even those outside of our Association ,letthem witness by our actions how meaningful ourAssociation is and worthy of belonging.In conclusion, I thank you for giving me the opportunityto have been your Director over the past two years. Ithas truly been a period of learning and strengthening ofone’s faith .The friendship extended to both Denise andI will long be treasured.God bless and thank youPaul DespogesDirector Province 21March Page 3 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 211. News ItemsExtracts from Grand Secretary’sBrother Jim Quinn’s recent newsletter…Restructure Commission Report Phase IIInformation for All MembersInformation relating to the consideration of the Restructure Commission Report Phase II by Grand Council 10/11February 2012The delivery of Phase II of the Restructure Commission Report has caused very considerable thought and activity atGrand Council. Almost half of the meeting on 10/11 February was set aside by Grand Council to absorb the contents ofthe Report and to plan the way in which Grand Council should administer its findings and suggestions.What was abundantly clear to all members of Grand Council is that the Report cannot be circulated to the membershipas a proposal of Grand Council at this stage. What the Report represents is a body of hugely detailed advice to GrandCouncil. It relates to a matter - restructuring the Association - that Grand Council identified as in need of contingencyplanning on a major scale as long ago at November 2008 at its Strategy Meeting at Hinsley Hall. The Committee hasdone wonderfully intense work and provided Grand Council with a template that the Committee advises will meet thecontingency planning need.How is the advice intended to help Grand Council? Grand Council now needs to consider and discuss reorganising theAssociation with the benefit of that advice.Grand Council has now to decide;• In the light of the matters in the Report, whether to ask the Association membership to consider the federalstructure and reduction in the size of Grand Council as recommended.• Whether is it the right time to advise the Association to increase the independence of Australia and if so how todo it?• With the help of the work and advice of the Commission, what is the solution that Grand Council will wish tosuggest to the Association and how will the Association be approached, consulted and advised?• Whatever conclusion that the membership or Grand Council may reach, what use can the Association make ofthe work and template that the Commission has provided?Grand Council gave preliminary consideration to the question of publication of the Phase II Report. In the short time thatit had to consider this, Grand Council decided that it would be inappropriate merely to publish the report without anexplanation of the way that it should be considered by, firstly Grand Council, then subsequently the entire membershipof the Association. Such publication would encourage the view that this Report represents the proposal of GrandCouncil, which at the moment it does not. Further any debate needs to be systematically encouraged and set against abackground of firm and formal proposals to be prepared by Grand Council. At the moment the document contains thesuggestions of the Commission that arise from a very serious examination of hypothetical and contingent planningrequested by Grand Council.In May, Grand Council will be able to consider further and report to the membership how it proposes to identify theneeds of the Association and how it intends to suggest the way in which the Report is used to advise the membership ofthe Association. A further report will then be issued to ensure that the membership is kept fully advised as to the waythat this crucial period for our Association is being administered./Continued on the next page…March Page 5 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21Extracts from Grand Secretary’sBrother Jim Quinn’s recent newsletter continued…So that the membership has the opportunity to see how Grand Council is approaching the Report, Grand Council agreedthat the Power Point presentation that was made to it to guide it through its initial consideration of the Report should be putonto the web site with a short briefing note. It is hoped that this will be helpful to all who wish to follow the administration ofthe Report. It appears in the membership section under the heading ‘Restructure Commission’.Jim QuinnGrand SecretaryGrand Council AppointmentsGroup ChairmenMembership GroupFinance CommitteeHead Office & Administration GroupLiaison GroupMarketing & Communications GroupRules Regulations Policies and Procedures GroupStrategy GroupBro Bernard NoakesBro Odran SteedBro Jim QuinnBro Paul MainonBro Peter WoodfordBro Bob ButlerBro John RayerNational Web OfficerBro Charles Huthwaite, Droitwich & District CircleNew Directors ElectedProvince 6 Bro Tony Stevens, Wolverhampton CircleProvince 12 Bro Stephen Lake, Swindon CircleProvince 17 Bro John Hogan, Ringway, Didsbury and Manchester South CirclesProvince 21 Bro Kevin Doherty, Pittwater CircleProvince 22 Bro George Brand, Aberdeen and York Circles and Inverness GroupGRAND COUNCILTHE CATENIAN ASSOCIATIONMarch Page 6 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21NEWS FROMPROVINCIAL COUNCILProvince Council Meeting No 99PROVINCE 21PROVINCIAL COUNCILProvincial President:Ron DalyProvincialVice-President:Kevin DohertyProvincialPast President:Phil DaviesProvincial SecretaryPeter TilbrookProvincial Treasurer:Peter GialourisProvincial ChamberlainPhil DaviesProvincialMembership Officer:Pat MoranProvincialPublicity Officer:Peter CashProvince Director:Paul DespogesLots of information availableatwww.thecatenians.comResolved:6 February 2012DecisionsThat Province Council express its appreciation to Brother NoelWhite of Carlingford Circle for his generous contribution to thebrothers of the Province through his work in preparing the Province21 Directory, 2010/11 and that Council reflect its appreciation byan appropriate presentation.[Action: Brother Provincial Secretary]Resolved:1. That Province Council accept the Catenian Chaine as aProvincial Trophy to be contested in conjunction with theTruthful Jones Contest.That, in the interest of fairness, the Catenian Chaine infuture be awarded to the Circle (other than the defendingCircle) with the highest percentage of its membershipvisiting the defending Circle on the occasion of the annualTruthful Jones Contest.That Province Council thank Brother Gavin Williamson, ofPittwater Circle, for his presentation of the CatenianChaine, advise him that it has been accepted as aProvincial Trophy and inform him of the terms on which theTrophy will in future be contested.2. That Province Council adopt the policy that a trophy to becontested as a Provincial Trophy and the rules under whichit is to be contested are to be agreed to, in advance, byProvince Council.[Action: Brother Provincial Secretary]Resolved:That Province Council invite the two Circles in the AustralianCapital Territory to jointly assume full responsibility for developinga Catenian presence for those Australian Defence Force membersresiding in the Canberra/Queanbeyan area in such manner andcircumstances as the Circles deem appropriate.[Action: Brothers Provincial Secretary and Provincial MembershipOfficer]/Cont.March Page 7 2012

EASTERN LINK PROVINCE 21The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithMORE FROMPROVINCIAL COUNCIL CONT.Agreed:That Brothers Councillor should encourage Circle Councils to follow Meet & Greet practices at Circle meetingsas a means of increasing the experience of brotherhood and should bring the template suggested in theMembership Officer Report to the attention of their respective Circle Councils.[Action: All Brothers Councillor]Resolved:That a Province 21 Workshop for Circle and Provincial Officers be held in May 2012 and that arrangementsfor the Workshop be undertaken by the Provincial Membership Committee.[Action: Brother Provincial Membership Officer ]Resolved:That Brother Provincial President’s Report be received and adopted.(Programme for visitation of those Circles outside the Sydney Metropolitan Area during April and May 2012adopted.)Resolved:That the Proposal that Australian Provinces and Areas jointly sponsor the PROCLAIM 2012 conference beaccepted by Province 21 Council.That each Circle in the Province be invited to support Catenian sponsorship of the Conference by contributinga minimum of $200 to a fund to be established by the Provincial Treasurer and that Province Council considerthe quantum of its contribution to the fund in the light of the response from Circles.That, as an initiative of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference, the Conference be promoted bycirculating information supplied by the organisers to brothers through Circles.That the Proposal be referred to Province 20 Council and Victoria Council through the AusCom Secretary,together with advice of this decision .[Action: Brothers Province Secretary & Treasurer, All brothers Councillor]Agreed:That it be indicated to the organisers of PROCLAIM 2012 that Province Council would be willing to assist inidentifying brothers who would be willing to provide assistance in kind at the time of the Conference.[Action: Province Secretary]/Cont.March Page 8 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21MORE FROMPROVINCIAL COUNCIL CONT.2. That the Bylaw be submitted to Grand Council for consideration of its consent.[Action: Brother Provincial Secretary]Resolved:That Province 21 Council adopt Membership Records procedures identical to those developed andpresently in use by Province 20 and summarised in the Paper by brother Membership Office circulatedwith the Papers for the meeting and advise Grand Council of this decision.That, in that absence of any objection to such an adoption by Grand Council, Province Council appoint aRecords Officer responsible to the Council for the administration of the procedures and that theappointment and the procedures take effect from the 2012-13 Catenian year.[Action: Brother Provincial Membership Officer]Agreed:That the offer by Mosman Circle to arrange the Province 21 Mass for 2012 be accepted, with thanks.[Action: Brother Alan Gorman]Resolved:That, consistent with the wishes of the Australia Committee (AusCom), Brother Provincial Presidentprovide copies of Province 21 Council Decisions, Minutes and any necessary supporting Meeting Papersto the Secretaries of AusCom, Province 20 Council and Victoria Area Council.[Action: Brother Provincial President]Agreed:Province Council being advised that the St Thomas More’s Forum is to launch the second volume of itsCollected Papers in which three of the Catenian Centenary Fora Papers will be included, approvesBrother Provincial Secretary attending the event.[Action: Brother Provincial Secretary]March Page 10 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21FROM PROVINCIALMEMBERSHIP OFFICER PAT MORANATTENTION!!!All Circle Presidents, Vice-Presidents, Secretaries, Treasurers, MembershipOfficers, Chamberlains, Marshalls and Provincial CouncillorsYou are invited by Province 21 Council to aPROVINCEWORKSHOPThis will be held onSATURDAY, 5 th MAY 2012At: St Joseph’s Centre, 64 MacKillop Drive, Baulkham HillsAll details from:-Province 21 Membership Officer Brother Pat MoranEmail: edmorpz@netspace.net.auPROGRAMME OUTLINE ON NEXT TWO PAGES…..PROVINCE 21THE CATENIANASSOCIATIONMarch Page 11 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCE WORKSHOP CONTINUED……10:30 Morning TeaPROGRAMME OUTLINE10:50 Welcome + Prayer, Gospel Reading Paul DespogesCatenians - Present and the Future11:00 Session 1IntroductionReview of Annual Visits to Circles (comments)Membership updateOur Province :Building on 2011 Workshop Lessons –Importance of Circle Councils – All as Membership OfficersIdentifying things that have workedLatest statistics –Association and Province 21Pat MoranRon Daly tbcPat MoranProtocols - Process of Reporting New Members:QuestionsAny changes to system?Restructuring the AssociationLatest Update from the Restructure CommissionPresentationQuestions / follow-upPaul Despoges11:45 Open ForumIntroductionGeorge KazsThis is a chance to –• Evaluate service delivery and effectiveness of communication by Provincial Council,Grand Council, Grand Secretariat and Australia Committee• Tell others what has really worked in your Circle during 2011-12 andwhat hasn’t worked (we hopefully will learn from our mistakes)• Raise any other matters of concern . . . .Thanks byKevin Doherty12:30 LunchSoup, Sandwiches, Wraps, Fruit, Tea, Coffee, Cordial/Continued on next page…March Page 12 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCE WORKSHOP CONTINUED……1:15 Session 2PROGRAMME OUTLINECircle ManagementIntroductionApplication for MembershipMembership WaiversSome examples of sound management practiceBursary FundCircle Benevolent BoardQuestions / FeedbackDuties/responsibilities of office bearersPowerPoint PresentationQuestions / FeedbackKevin DohertyPaul DespogesPeter Tilbrook15:00 Short Break Afternoon Tea15:20 Session 3IntroductionSome ideasGeneral SessionLaurence LawlorLaurence Lawlor (and others)Planning for the future- Open to the Spirit1. Making Catenians better known:• Proclaim 2012• menALIVE movement – can we tap into this and where possible, work with them as atPittwater?• 20 Catenian Ushers wanted at St Mary’s Cathedral – Corpus Christi Procession• other . . . . . .2. Any Ideas for the Australia Conference (October 2012 in Melbourne)Some examples of what might be discussed relating to the future governance of the AustraliaCommitteea. “…may decide matters of dress, regalia and ceremony as befits Australian custom…”b. “The Australian National Committee may inaugurate Groups and Circles in Australia”.c. other ideas for the Australian Conference 2012 . . . . . .[You may wish to send ideas in, so they may be circulated and considered by all participants beforethe day and then more directly discussed on the day. This also includes the session before lunch].16:20 Conclusion Robert McLeod16:30 Finish (this will be punctual)March Page 132012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCIALMASS2012Provincial President Elect - Brother Paul Despoges,invites all Brothers of Province 21together with their wives & families to join him forprovincial massatSacred Heart, Cnr Military Rd & Cardinal St. Mosmanon Sunday 1 st July 2012 at 12.00 noonCelebrated By the Rev Philip LinderPlease advise Mosman Circle of your attendance numbersIt is suggested for Circles to organise their Brothers attendance and arrange a lunch at one ofthe many restaurants within walking distance of the Church.March Page 142012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21Grand President’s Tour of Western Australia…5 th October – 22 nd October 2012Tour Programme HighlightsGuided Walk through the magnificent gardens at Kings ParkIf you haven’t been to Perth before you will want to see Kings Park. Kings Park and Botanic Gardenoverlooks the Swan River and Darling Range and showcases an outstanding collection of Western Australiaflora. It is a popular place for picnics, pleasant walks, cultural and ceremonial events. Brother Tom Alfordfrom Liwara Circle will lead you on a walk through the gardens and show you the magnificent flora native toAustralia.Provincial President’s Mass at St Mary’s Cathedral followed by the famous lunch on the Tennis courtat Terry and Jan O’Neill’s home.Mass at the recently reopened Cathedral in Perth will be celebrated in memory of our deceased brothersand wives of Province 20. We will then move to the home of Terry and Jan O’Neil in the Swan Valley forlunch./Cont.March Page 152012

EASTERN LINK PROVINCE 21The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithGrand President’s Tour of Western Australia…Boat Cruise to FremantleBrian Kerman from Dianella Circle has offered to conduct cruises to Fremantle on board his fabulous boat. Youwill be treated to the wonderful sights of the Swan River from Perth to Fremantle while being wined and dinedand made to feel very special. There will be two or three of these cruises with only 8 couples per trip, so pleaseensure you book your spot early.Visit to New NorciaNew Norcia - The Benedictine Community of New Norcia is the official title of the group of Roman Catholicmonks who have owned and operated the small town of New Norcia, which is located 132km north of Perth inWestern Australia, since 1847. New Norcia is Australia’s only monastic town, with the Monastery, where themonks live, work and pray, at its heart. The monks of New Norcia live according to the guidance and rhythms ofThe Rule of St Benedict, which has been followed by monks since the sixth century AD. See websitehttp://www.newnorcia.wa.edu.au for more info.BBQ at Rocco Zampogna's OrchardThe brothers of Swan Valley Circle have organised an outdoor barbecue with a difference at Brother Rocco’sorchard. Don’t miss it.Visits to the Perth Mint, the Maritime Museum, the Cultural Centre and Historic Village in KalamundaWe haven’t forgotten the cultural side. We have scheduled visits to the magnificent Perth Mint where you cansee gold being poured and have a commemorative Catenian medallion struck while you wait. The Maritimemuseum at Fremantle is fantastic and the Cultural Centre and Historic Village at Kalamunda is a great outingwhich has been specially organised by the Kalamunda Shire President – your own Brother Don McKechniefrom Dianella Circle.First we take in Penguin Island and get to see the little penguins andseals, then lunch and off to visit Mandurah and Bouvard. MandurahA was 5 Day a small trip taking holiday in town the sights a few years of the ago; South but West with the of population WAgrowth in WA, it has turned into a magnificent showpiece withMandurah wonderful /Bouvard waterways, canals and fabulous houses and buildings. TheDawesville cut at Bouvard has rejuvenated the estuary and nowMandurah/Bouvard is a very sought after residence with a largeproportion of the population being retirees. A full day and a half ofsightseeing is planned.On the way to Busselton from Mandurah, we will stop at the Bunbury Cathedral.In May 2005, the destructive fury of nature in the form of a tornado brought about the sudden and surprising endto the eighty four year old St Patrick’s Cathedral precinct. The Cathedral has now been rebuilt and theCatenians of WA were pleased to be able to make a substantial contribution to the rebuilding costs. /Cont.PROVINCE 20strengthening family lifethrough friendship & faithMarch Page 162012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21Grand President’s Tour of Western Australia…BusseltonBusselton is the location of the newest group in Province 20.Nestled in Geographe Bay, 229km south of Perth, Busselton is just threehours south of Perth. Beautiful beaches, excellent fishing, caves, coastlinescenery, unspoiled bushland surrounds and world-class wineries are all inclose proximity to this delightful seaside town. Busselton is one of WestAustralia’s earliest settlements and northern gateway to the Margaret RiverWine Region, offering a diverse range of attractions.The Heritage-listed Busselton Jetty is a wooden structure that extends 2km out into Geographe Bay. TheBusselton Jetty was badly damaged in the 1970s by cyclone Alby. The jetty has been restored by the efforts ofa fantastic group of Busselton volunteers and kids of all ages enjoy the Underwater Observatory at the base ofBusselton Jetty.The itinerary planned for your visit to Busselton and the Margaret River Region will take you as far afield asAugusta where you will see the joining of the Indian Ocean with the Southern Ocean and encompass thedelights of wine tasting, fabulous forests, wood artists and plenty of opportunities to take those fantastic holidayphotos so you can show your friends what they missed.A highlight of the visit will be mass at Our Lady of the Bay in West Busselton on Sunday followed by a light lunchbefore departing Busselton and travelling back to Perth.Grand President’sTour ofWestern Australia…th October– 22 nd October 20125 thProvince 20 Council & Brother’slook forward to welcomingBrother’s and their loved ones to Western Australia !!!List of events, charges etc on next page…March Page 172012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21Grand President’s Tour of Western Australia…Function Request for Grand President’s tourDateFunctionOrganisingCircleCostPer PersonSat 6 th Oct Kings Park Walk Liwara FreeSat 6 th Oct Welcome Get Together in Hotel Province $ 50.00Sun 7 th Oct Provincial Lunch Province $ 50.00Mon 8 th OctMon 8 th OctSwan River Cruise on Brian Kerman'sboat (Max 15 people)Joint MeetingFremantle/Como/CanningDianellaFreeComo $ 50.00Tue 9 th Oct New Norcia Visit Dianella $ 30.00 for bus @40Tue 9 th Oct New Norcia Visit Dianella Own LunchWed 10 th OctTour and BBQ at Rocco Zampogna'sOrchardSwan Valley $ 30.00Thu 11 th Oct Visit to Perth Mint City of Perth $ 15.00Thu 11 th Oct Joint Meeting Liwara/Joondalup Joondalup $ 50.00Fri 12 th OctSat 13 th OctSat 13 th OctSwan River Cruise on Brian Kerman'sboat (Max 15 people)Provincial Meeting with GP and TouringParty200th Meeting Swan Valley/DarlingRange/Avon ValleyDianellaProvinceFreeFreeSwan Valley $ 65.00Mon 15 th Oct Maritime Museum Fremantle $ 15.00Mon 15 th Oct Lunch with Fremantle Circle Fremantle Own LunchMon 15 th Oct Joint Meeting Dianella/City of Perth Dianella $ 35.00Tue 16 th OctTue 16 th OctWed 17 th OctKalamunda Shire Visit. Cultural Centreand Historic VillageLunch organised by Darling Range inKalamundaBus for South West Trip – 5 days(Based on 30 people)McKechnie $ 10.00Darling Range $25.00Province $ 200.00Wed 17 th Oct Trip to Penguin Island McKechnie $ 17.50Wed 17 th Oct Penguin Island - Lunch McKechnie Own lunchWed 17 th Oct Joint Meeting Bouvard/Mandurah Mandurah $ 50.00Thu 18 th Oct Sightseeing – Mandurah and Bouvard Mandurah FreeFri 19 th OctFri 19 th OctTravel to Bunbury Cathedral thenBusselton and LunchSightseeing – Busselton Train toObservation ChamberOwn lunchBusselton $ 30.00Fri 19 th Oct BBQ at Tony Smurthwaite’s Busselton FreeSat 20 th OctSightseeing – Busselton, Augusta andMargaret River. Extra $17.00 to climbLighthouseBusselton $ 5.00 Own LunchSat 20 th Oct Busselton Group Meeting Busselton $ 40.00Sun 21 st OctMass at Our Lady of the Bay andLunchBusseltonSun 21 st Oct Farewell Function at Hotel Province $ 50.00FreeTotalNo ofPeopleCostMarch Page 182012

EASTERN LINK PROVINCE 21The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithMarch Page 19

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21“Spicy” Old Speckled Hen & “Cherry” Beer etc…Hornsby and Ku-Ring-GaiCircle’s Joint Meeting &Beer Appreciation Night…What a marvelous way to start the new 2012calendar year. 50 brothers from Hornsby andKu-ring-gai Circles attended a joint meetingplus four visitors.Hornsby and Ku-Ring-Gai Brothers enjoying the mealThey enjoyed a lovely meal and very nicebeers, (tasting glasses only) with a runningcommentary by our Master Brewer, Brother PatGoddard. The Brothers and guests attendingnow know more about hops, yeast, lagers,ales, coloring, bottle shapes and many otherthings.The menu for the night was as follows:Pre-Dinner: Cheese and biscuits served withXXXXEntrée: Calamari and salad served with TooheyExtra Dry (4.6% alc.) and James Squire FourWives (5.0% alc.);Main Course: Steak and vegetables served withCoopers Sparking Ale (5.8% alc.) and OldSpeckled Hen (5.2% alc.);Desert: Chocolate Cake serviced with CoopersBest extra Stout (6.3% alc.) and TimmermansKriek (4.0% alc.).Our Master Brewer, Br Pat GoddardAll was done in moderation.There was much discussion on the tablesabout the beers. Some liked the “spicy” OldSpeckled Hen and enjoyed the “cherry” beerwith desert. Others had different preferences.Our Master Brewer thinks that the Cooper’sStout is the best in Australia. It is all a matterof opinion and taste. It all made for a greatnight.The Beers!!!To finish off with one of Pat’s openingcomments: If Christ was born about 300 milesto the west, we may now be consecrating beerinstead of wine at mass.March Page 21 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21News from Canberra 331 Circle…AN EXTRAORDINARY STORY FROM AN EXTRAORDINARY PRIEST!The January “Come Casual” meeting saw post-Christmas Catenians still in a festive mood. Wewere joined by Bro Paul Despoges, member ofCastle Hill and Director of Province 21; RussellCooper, Frank Long, Vic Gilles and Mike Trevethan,(all from Circle 340); and Tony Butler guest of VicGilles.Bro Paul Despoges is nearing the end of histenure as Provincial Director and gave a briefsummary of some of the issues facing allCatenians from the Provincial perspective.The Guest Speaker was Fr Brian Ebert who gave anentertaining and thought-provoking account of hisjourney to the priesthood. Certain that he wanted tobe a priest, Fr Brian was devastated when asked toleave the seminary prior to ordination. His life’sjourney then took him to country towns and even theCommonwealth Public Service. He shared manyanecdotes and lessons learned along the way.Eventually, in God’s good time, his opportunity forordination arose again and he grasped it with bothhands. An extraordinary story from an extraordinaryPriest.March Page 23 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21Bishop David Walker, of Broken Bay Diocesewelcomed by Hornsby Circle…Brother Louis Hortense, Brother Kevin Doherty (Provincial Director-Elect), Bishop DavidBrother Paul Despoges (Provincial Director) & Peter Pearson (Hornsby President)Hornsby Circle welcomed Bishop David Walker,Bishop of Broken Bay Diocese, to our Ladiesnight meeting in March. We were privileged tohear Bishop David talk about ecumenism andinterfaith dialogue. His message was very clearand practical. Bishop David encouraged us to“come out” as Catholics in little ways and do nothide our faith. One of his examples was to saythings like “We will come after mass on Sunday”.It was also interesting to hear the dialogues thatare taking place between the different faiths,especially with Muslims (who also share thecommon person of Jesus). This is much differentthat which we read in the papers about Muslimterrorists. In all, a good night was had by all.Pictured left; Brother Kevin Doherty (ProvincialDirector-Elect), Bishop David, Brother PaulDespoges (Provincial Director) /Brother Geoff YoungMarch Page 25 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21News from Pittwater Circle…New Brothers Joe & Graham welcomed into Pittwater Circle…From left; Brother Joe Maiolo, Pittwater Circle President Brother Hans van Schie& Brother Graham BakerNew Brothers Joe and Graham Baker were enrolled into Pittwater Circle on 8th February 2012by Circle President Hans van Schie.Joe is 53 and married to Lorenza. They are the proud parents of four boys, the eldest of whomis in final year at school, and the youngest is eight years old. Joe is in the gardeningbusiness.Graham is 69 and married to Rosemary. They have two adult daughters. Graham has retiredfrom the Automotive Industry, but maintains an active residual interest with an old Lotus carand a Ducati motorcycle.Both members came to Catenians through the "Men Alive" program held at Lakes Parish lastyearMarch Page 26 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21News from Manly & Mosman Circle on their joint initiative…The Griffiths Virgona Trivia ChallengePhil Virgona RIP and Peter Griffiths RIP at last year’s January meeting at Mosman CircleMosman Catenians, at the suggestion of Brian Hamer and Graham Short, have created aperpetual trophy as an ongoing commemoration of Manly President Peter Griffiths andMosman past President Phil Virgona.The inscription on the shield is –Joint Manly and Mosman Circles’Perpetual Trophyin memory ofPeter Griffiths, (R.I.P. 14 January 2011),President of the Manly Circle andPhilip Virgona, (R.I.P. 19 November 2011)Past President of the Mosman Circle.Absent in body but present in spirit (1 Corinthians 5:3)March Page 272012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21The first winners of The Griffiths Virgona Trivia Challenge are:-MOSMAN Circle…“Spirited Battle”Quiz master Manly President Gary O’Sullivan, winner Alan Gorman,Mosman President Peter Finn and visitor Brendan Mucahy fromShrewsbury Circle UK celebrate the (choke) Mosman win at anotherfantastic Mosman/Manly joint meeting in January.Mosman Circle werethe victors at theinaugural challenge todecide the holders ofthe “Joint Manly &Mosman Circles’Perpetual Trophy inmemory of PeterGriffiths and PhilVirgona”. Mosman’sAlan Gorman was thevictor in a spiritedclose fought battle inthe January jointmeeting. Manly’s PaulPearson came insecond with anotherManly brother, TerryHayes third. Thechallenge continuesnext year at Mosman.The Griffiths VirgonaTrivia ChallengeMarch Page 28 2012

EASTERN LINK PROVINCE 21The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithA note from Nino Trapani to Manly Vice-PresidentRomano DiDonato who attended Manly’s our November Novembermeeting;-Dear Romano,Please thank Gary for being so welcoming andallowing me to show up totally inappropriatelydressed for the meeting. I had a wonderfulevening and will treasure the tie I was given andwill wear it with pride at our Circle meetings in thefuture.Mike (McMahon) was fantastic from the momentwe met and was very kind to take me all the wayback to my hotel in Sydney after the meeting. Iappreciated your company during the evening (two genuine Italians as VPs of Catenian Circles,what next?) and can only apologise for feeling somuch at home in your overall company that Idrank most of the excellent red wine - onlyrealising later that I had not made a contribution toits payment! Drinks on me should any ManlyBrother visit the UK!The visit to Manly Circle is a treasured memory ofmy visit to Australia and I can only thank you allfor making it so.Nino is on the left with Manly Vice PresidentRomano DiDonato who presented Nino with thefamous Manly Circle Catenian TiePlease convey my best wishes to Gary, Mike andall in the Circle for a Holy Christmas and a HappyNew Year. Fraternally, Nino, VP WokinghamCircleMANLY CIRCLEMeeting at Manly Golf Club, Every 3rd Wednesday at 6:45 for 7:15pmPresident: Gary O’Sullivan Mobile: 0415 604 959. Email: gosullivan@skm.com.auVice President: Romano DiDonato Mobile: 0407 153 626. Email: romlaw1@tpgi.com.auSecretary: Paul Pearson Mobile: 0410 311 376. Email: paul.pearson@wieck.com.auMarch Page 29 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21News from City of Sydney Newsletter…Father John was “shown the door”Father John Larsen, a Marist priest and a very proud Kiwi,who is Gabrielle Milne’s brother, was Brother Ian’s guest atour February meeting and dinner. He had the brothers in thepalm of his hand as he told us about his many years in themission fields of the Philippines, Thailand and Burma(Myanmar). He had been 18 years in the Philippines and hadworked many years in prisons. Asia is predominantly nonChristian with Buddhism the major faith. He has been inThailand & Burma for 8 years but learning the language wasvery difficult. The missionaries were not welcome in Burmaand Father John was “shown the door” after 12 months. Inthis time he had seen how conditions were beyond shockingfor the ordinary people. The abuse of power, especially by themilitary, fear of the soldiers, children being taken away fromtheir parents, no medical facilities to speak of, lack ofeducation makes the children ignorant. The Burmese peoplewere coming into Thailand where they were “second classcitizens”.Father’s work in Thailand was with the migrants and HIV withso many of them dying of AIDS. Their main mission waseducating and health care and information on the reasonsand spread of AIDS.Recent visitor to Sydney Circle Fr JohnFather John was on his way to Rome to form a team to comeback to Asia to help these disadvantaged people. It was afascinating insight to S E Asia and their problems bothpolitical and health.We have two important birthdays in March. Brother Bill Bullen turns 93 on the 9 th March. He is keeping wellin the hostel accommodation and can be reached by phone on 8969-3608. Brother Mike Tighe has been tovisit Bill and says he always wants to know about the Catenians and brothers. The other birthday is BrotherJohn Hayes who turns a spritely 91 on the 2 nd March. John’s vision is very impaired but he is still as sharp asa tack and has very clear memories of the Circle’s formation and events over more than 40 years! John andJoan’s phone number is 9419 3458 Our founder President Brother Plunkett Sweeney celebrated his 91 stbirthday on the 9 th February. We will have to look at the record books to see if any other Circles can boast ofhaving three brothers in their 90’s.While on the subject of birthdays Brother Peter Wall has had messages from his Weybridge 129 Circle inthe UK, on his turning 80 on the 5 th April 2012. This Circle is a non-dining group and they meet at Peter’sBurhill Golf Club in Surrey. Peter has been laid low for 14 weeks after a full knee replacement. The pain hasbeen significant and he has had bad reactions to pain killers. He apologises for his absence from meetings ashe catches the bus from Vaucluse to the city and the walk to the Occidental has been beyond him. Hopefullyhe and Gabrielle will join a group of Riverview old boys for a get together down the South Coast in the nextfew weeks.Peter O’ReillyMarch Page 30 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21Dear Brothers,Thanks to the fantastic efforts of Mosman Circle, the Little John Mug was decided for 2012.Mosman Circle had made a supreme effort to have speakers from the Gold Coast Tweed andCairns Circles participate via Skype but unfortunately due to some technical problems thisfell down at the last minute. However Graham Short from Gold Coast Tweed was able todeliver an excellent speech prepared by Kevin Devine the President elect for Gold CoastTweed.Excellent speeches were also presented by Pat Goddard (Hornsby Circle), Victor Gauci(Castle Hill Circle), Mike Maynard (Pittwater Circle), Xavier Lim (Parramatta Circle), PhilGallagher (Carlingford Circle) and Romano Di Donato (Manly Circle).The judges had a difficult time in trying to separate the winner from such high classpresentations. However in the end it was decided to award the Little John Mug for 2012 to:-Brother Romano Di Donato (Manly Circle)We look forward to March 2013 when Manly Circle will be hosting the Little John Mug.During the evening Mosman Circe President, Peter Finn announced that the Provincial Massfor 2012 will be held on Sunday 1st July at Mosman and Pat Moran the ProvincialMembership Officer announced the Provincial Workshop will be held on Saturday 5th May atthe Baulkham Hills Centre.Special thanks again to Mosman Circle for hosting a most enjoyable evening.Fraternally,Br Robert McLeodActing Provincial Secretary for Peter Tilbrook (away overseas)LITTLE JOHN MUG!!!March Page 31 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21More news about LJM from Manly Circle Newsletter…MANLY BRINGS HOMELITTLE JOHN MUG…Manly president-elect Romano Di Donato accepts theLittle John Mug from Province 21 Director Paul Despoges aftervanquishing the other presidents-elect in a close fought competitionheld at Mosman Circle. See next page for details.March Page 32

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21LITTLE JOHN MUG COMPETITION CONTINUED…From left; Graham Short, (Gold Coast Tweed Circle), Phil Gallagher (Carlingford Circle), MikeMaynard (Pittwater Circle), Brother Romano (centre with the Little John Mug), Victor Gauci (CastleHill Circle), Pat Goddard (Hornsby Circle), Xavier Lim (Parramatta Circle), all Presidents-ElectHosted by Mosman Circle, the Little John Mug competitionwas another great Catenian gathering, with speakerschallenged to speak on the topic:-“Is there any chance that we can blame this onthe Sheriff of Nottingham?”Congratulations to Brother Romano Di Donato from all yourfellow Catenian Brothers in Province 21.Pictured left; Brother John McCarney presents new Province21 Director-Elect Brother Kevin Doherty with a very much sortafter Manly tie at the Mosman meetingMarch Page 33 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21Chaotic traffic, plus cows and water buffalo!!!Above and left;Manly Circle President Gary O’Sullivanand friends on theirrecent cycle tour in CambodiaPedalling out ofyour comfort zone…Chaotic traffic, plus cows and water buffalo;extreme poverty; the humbling experience ofwalking over exposed bones and teeth at theKilling Fields (the Choeung Ek GenocidalCentre); the daily sight of landmine victims;+35 o C heat and humidity; gorgeous beaches;the amazing jungle temples at Angkor Wat andthe unmistakeable smell of Asia – a blend ofmotorcycle exhaust, fresh jasmine, ginger andfish sauce, dung, incense and rancid trash.Cambodia is an assault on the senses and ourPresident Gary O’Sullivan revelled in his 12-day adventure In February pedalling aroundthe country with two mates.March Page 342012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21News from Canberra Circle 331…“Catenians using Facebook”The February “Come Casual” meeting saw a sizeable roll-up of Catenians eager to find outmore about Facebook. The President welcomed our Guest Mr Geoff Smith, the guest ofBrother George Kazs.The Guest Speaker was Brother Arthur Ringer who spoke on the advantages of Cateniansusing Facebook to add to their tool-box as a means of expanding the Catenian experience.There are many ways to reach out to our fellow Catenians. Facebook does not replace anyof them, but is simply another way. We have our web site. We have emails, telephones andpersonal visits. Facebook is simply another way. Rather than re-hash the points made at themeeting, if anyone wants some more detailed follow-up, please feel free to contact Arthurdirectly.You can see all the photos from the February meeting by clicking on the control key and theleft-hand button on the mouse at the same time.http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.186748034771429.38526.100003087026372&type=3&l=1a7541ba70As always, let us pray for sick and deceased brothers, the continuing strength of our Circle, andhealth of its members and families.In particular, please pray Pat & Bob Wilson and their families. Pat’s Mum passed away recently.March Page 352012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21News from Canberra Circle 331 newsletter…CANBERRA CIRCLES’ 331 & 340JOINT WEEKEND AWAYShell Harbour 25-27 27 FebruaryReport compiled by Canberra 331 Circle Secretary Brother George Kazs:We had 22 starters for the weekend and then unfortunately Bob and Pat pulled out due to familyillness so we were 20. Bob and Pat were missed. Most of us met at the Elling Forrest Winery inSutton Forest for lunch on the Saturday. Wonderful location and great food. We left the wine for thegroup of bikies who joined us! Departing in convoy we set off for Primbee and the motel, arrivingabout 4:00 pm. Mass with Fr Pat Vaughan at 5:30 was enlightening although we did lose Olga andGeoff for a little while.We had dinner in the conference room to ourselves that night and plenty of space to move around.Great fellowship. It turned out to be a long night for some!Sunday after breakfast saw the group heading off to Unanderra train station to catch the CockatooRun – a restored heritage train that runs on selected days from Sydney to Moss Vale and Robertson.It climbs 600m up the Illawarra escarpment though rainforests and past waterfalls. We had carriageNo 2 to ourselves – fabulous. We transferred from the train station at Robertson to a coach to drivethe short distance to the Illawarra Fly tree top walk – some 25m above the rainforest. It was cloudyand misty but not yet raining which made for an interesting, and somewhat romantic, walk through thetree tops. Some of us even climbed the giant viewing platform to gain a better view above the mist.Not for the faint hearted. Back to the train and down the escarpment to Unanderra by 5.00pm.BBQ dinner that night was a treat thanks to all. We certainly produced a great spread of food. Andthe three master chefs did good. Outside near the pool and no mozzies! Bro Frank gave a movingspeech about how we were able to support him following the recent death of Pat. Thanks Frank. Anot so late night.Monday saw the group break up and depart for home. Some of us travelled via Jamberoo and hadBro Frank show us the graves of his first Australian ancestors – Francis and Bridget McNamara.The weekend provided a wonderful opportunity for the development of our Catenian fellowship,friendship and faith; not to mention fun.See all the photos by clicking on the link below by pressing the control key and the left-hand button onthe mouse at the same time:-http://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.183053475140885.37627.100003087026372&type=3&l=8204d796e3March Page 36 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21News from Gold Coast Tweed Circle…SOME THOUGHTS AROUND THE INAUGURATIONAND THE ROLE OF PAST PRESIDENT BROTHER PAUL BELLHOUSE…Gold Coast Tweed Circle Inauguration, Catenian Association…It is interesting to note how God demonstrates the power of his relationship or communion with theuniverse from small groups, where two or three are gathered in the name of Jesus, to the “deeperlevel where we are in communion with all people because of our shared humanity. As such we areall brothers and sisters in the family of God” (Former Archbishop Bathersby of Brisbane).The Catenian Association is a world-wide organisation of Catholic men which has a structure andarticles of association to be followed universally. The principles are simple for the ‘brothers’ who areenrolled: Faith, family and mutual benevolence. A very special event occurred on Saturday, 24September 2011. When a Group reaches 25 members, it is eligible to be enrolled into theestablished universal linkage of a Circle. We were privileged to have in our presence the GrandPresident of the Catenian Association, Tony Godden, his wife, Kelly, and other visitors from the UKheadquarters as well as Interstate visitors from all over Australia. The Gold Coast Tweed CatenianGroup which began in August 2010 became the Gold Coast Tweed Circle thanks to the attendanceand dedication of its members and the tireless and persistent work of its founding President, BrotherPaul Bellhouse.The Grand President, (we call him Brother) Tony Godden, Knight Commander of the Holy Sepulchre,is not on salary nor derives any personal benefit from the office (other than claiming some expenses).But in discussions he states that he visits many Circles, particularly in the UK where he is based,providing support, encouragement and guidance and can be away from home on itineraries that takeup to 17 days to complete.Brother Ron Daly, our Province 21 President at the time of the Inauguration of the Gold Coast TweedCircle in Australia, visited Groups and Circles across the Eastern seaboard of Australia, includingCanberra and Cairns. You might think, “That would be wonderful!” and it is, in one sense. But herepeated it continually out of faith and commitment. The wives of these men support their husbandsin this commitment to their great credit.It was in this spirit of commitment and communion that gave the founding President, Brother PaulBellhouse, the inspiration to begin the formation of the Gold Coast Tweed Circle of the CatenianAssociation. Paul had been a member both in Sydney and in Brisbane and when he moved to theGold Coast, he felt the lack of brotherly communion and set out to correct that. He approachedparishes, gave talks at Masses and persisted doggedly until a fledgling group was formed. With thesupport of his cohort, Tom Lyons (who acted as secretary, treasurer, purchaser, cleaner upper, etc.),they sacrificed their good looks and gradually brought the new Circle to the splendid inauguralceremony which coincided with one of the Grand President’s many itineraries.Hats Off I say! To Brother Paul and all the Catenians from the Grand President, through each Circleto the smallest Group who keep the spirit of Faith, Family and Friendship alive. And well done all younew Office Bearers for 2012!Brother Peter CossinsMarch Page 37 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCE 21ANNUAL GOLF COMPETITIONDIRECTOR’S CUP WINNERS…The Directors Trophy being presented by Province 21 Director Brother PaulDespoges to Ku-Ring-Gai Circle winning Brothers Patrick Raper (33) and CharlieMerton (39) watched by on the left Competition organiser Brother Malcolm ClowMORE ABOUT THE GOLF COMPETITION CONTINUED ON FOLLOWING PAGES…March Page 38 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCIAL GOLF COMPETITION Cont…Ray Weekes Trophy Winner’s Brothers Peter McDonald (31) and Tony Reagan (34), both ofPittwater Circle; extreme right, Brother Malcolm ClowProvincial Golf Day 16 th March 2012 at Muirfield Golf Club North RocksBrother Malcolm Clow (Castle Hill Circle 308) had organised perfect weather for our AnnualProvince 21 Golf Day at the very well presented Muirfield Golf Club (a famous Scottish golf name).It was a smaller field this year with only 15 brothers and five visitors teeing off from 7:30am! Noteveryone was a proficient golfer but they all attacked the course and all agreed it was a mostpleasant day with excellent social mingling over lunch and refreshments!The winners on the day from Ku-Ring-Gai Circle 284 with a combined stableford score of 72 pointswere Brothers Patrick Raper (33) and Charlie Merton (39). Brother Provincial Director Paul /Cont.MORE ABOUT THE GOLF COMPETITION CONTINUED ON FOLLOWING PAGES…March Page 392012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCIAL GOLF COMPETITION Cont…Despoges presented them with the Director’s Cup which, donated by Brother Phil Davies, was firstplayed for in 1999.The Ray Weekes trophy for the runners up was won by Pittwater Circle 312 with a score of 65points, ably represented by Brothers Peter McDonald (31) and Tony Reagan (34). This trophy wasdonated in memory of Brother Ray Weekes who was a wonderful Catenian in the early years of theAssociation’s expansion in Sydney.The best Individual Catenian winner was Brother Malcolm Clow (Castle Hill) with a very honest scoreof 35 points. Malcolm also won a nearest the pin at the 6 th hole and also the longest drive on the 12 thhole. This must make him our Catenian Champ! The runner up was Brother Peter O’Reilly (City ofSydney Circle 263) with 32 points.Other Catenian winners were best 1 st 9 Brother Charles Di Natale (City of Sydney), best 2 nd 9Brother Albert Pinelli (Mosman 330).We finished the day with an enjoyable lunch and the awarding of trophies and many prizes donatedby the Circles. It is a first class way of meeting the brothers from the other Circles in Province 21.Brother Peter O’Reilly (City of Sydney Circle)COMPETITION RESULTS…DIRECTORS TROPHY:-Patrick Raper & Charlie Merton – Ku-Ring-Gai CircleRAY WEEKS TROPHY:-Peter McDonald & Tony Reagan – Pittwater CircleINDIVIDUAL CATENIAN:-Malcolm Clow – Castle Hill CircleINDIVIDUAL CATENIAN RUNNER-UP:-Peter O’Reilly – City of Sydney CircleOTHER CATENIAN WINNERS:-Best 1 st 9 Brother Charles Di Natale (City of Sydney)Best 2 nd 9 Brother Albert Pinelli (Mosman)MORE ABOUT THE GOLF COMPETITION CONTINUED ON FOLLOWING PAGE…March Page 40 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCIAL GOLF COMPETITION Cont…Brothers and Visitor’s receiving their prizes from Brother Paul… Top left; Brother Peter Moriarty, topright; Brother Peter O’Reilly, bottom left; visitor Alf Field and bottom right; visitor Bernard BouchardMORE ABOUT THE GOLF COMPETITION CONTINUED ON FOLLOWING PAGE…March Page 41 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCIAL GOLF COMPETITION Cont…More pictures from the Annual Golf Competition; top left; visitor Doug Bebbington receiving his prizefrom Brother Paul, top right; another welcome visitor Les McGuiness receiving his prize also fromBrother Paul, Bottom left; competition organiser Brother Malcolm reading out the final results, bottomright; the array of fantastic prizes to be given outstrengthening life through friendship and faith…March Page 42 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCE 21 WEBSITE…Brother Chris Pitts has upgraded the Province 21 websiteplease visit it at:-http://www.thecatenianassociation.org.au/Plenty to see there with numerous links to other Catenian websitesDo you knowAny Catholic menIn the Adelaide area???And you think they could bePotential Catenian BrothersPlease contact Brother Michael P Cogman, Joondalup Circle No 339Telephone (08) 8278 1443Brother Michael is trying to start a newGroup in Adelaide and needs to findPotential BrothersA reminder that THE our October CATENIAN meeting has ASSOCIATIONbeen moved forward to SaturdayThe 1 st October to PROVINCE proceed the Provincial 21 AUSTRALIAdinner at The Lakes Golf ClubMarch Page 43 2012

EASTERN LINKThe Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithV.A.C.NEWS FROM VICTORIA AREA COUNCILThe Christmas photograph shows the school’s three nuns and the children we aresupporting (one missing). The principal, Sister Magida is second from the right!JERICHO PROJECT UPDATE Continued on next pageMarch Page 44 2012

EASTERN LINKThe Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithV.A.C.JERICHO PROJECT UPDATE Continued…Brothers may recall that arising out of a Victorian Area pilgrimage to the Holy Land last year aproject was established to try in some small way remedy the massive injustices and economicstrangulation being inflicted on the Palestinian and Christian communities by the Israeliauthorities. In particular, Jericho is an area sealed off from the rest of Israel so that its residentsare unable to go out to work or trade and Palestinians are unable to enter to trade. Consequentlythe economic situation in Jericho is dire for many of its citizens.During its visit there, the group learned of a Franciscan girls school where there were significantlosses of students due to the inability of the parents to pay the school fees. Whilst the Nuns werecarrying a number of non fee paying students, staff salaries have to be paid and inevitably somestudents were obliged to leave. It was resolved that a project would be established to fund thefees of students whose parents had little or no income and were unable to pay for school fees.The initial goal was quite modest; it was considered that it would be achievable to find at least tendonors who could support the fees of five children. At this point the project has recruited forty twodonors, thirty four Catenians and wives and eight children or friends of Catenians. The Projectand is now paying the school fees of twenty five children who may otherwise have been forced toleave the school. In addition it was discovered that in a school of 630 students, they had only 15computers, and some of these were ten years old. This meant that a typical class of 36 studentswould be forced to share the computers, with half the class sharing three to a computer and theother half, two to a computer. A separate fund raising effort at Christmas time raised $3061,enough to purchase four computers. This means that now all students share only two to acomputer.Whilst the project, which has the endorsement of the Victorian Area Council, has exceeded itsinitial goals, there remains an enormous need for more assistance. Any Catenian who would liketo participate should contact either Ian Predl at ipredl@satlink.com.au or George Little atgeorge@little.net.auDid you see Brother Will Kininmonthon Sunrise Television recently…Brother Will was called on by SunriseTelevision to give his expert opinion onthe Climate Change.Will gave a super explanation of howclimate change was affecting thecurrent weather and floods that weredevastating New South Wales andparts of Victoria.Well done Brother Will.March Page 45 2012

EASTERN LINKThe Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithV.A.C.LADIES OF BOTH PENINSULAR AND WAVERLEY CIRCLE’S TRIUMPH OVERBROTHERS AT PRESIDENT’S DAY ‘BAT & TRAP’ TOURNAMENTS!!!BAT AND TRAPLIVES ON…Back in 1984 a presentation of Bat andTrap was made to the City of MelbourneCircle in memory of Frank Howe byCanterbury Circle 175 and London S WCircle 101.Readers may be mystified as to just whatis Bat and Trap. It may well have been aforerunner of the game of cricket, having(as we understand it) originated in Kentin the 1700’s. A ball is set on a lever atone end, the other end of the lever isstruck with a heavy bat, the ball pops upin the air and is then hit (hopefully)through some distant goal posts, with thedefending team desperately trying toprevent a score.The ancient game is resurrected eachyear and played at one or more ofVictoria Area Circles’ President’sSundays. This year the girls took on theboys at the Peninsula Circle President’sSunday picnic in Sorrento Park, in almostperfect sunny and mild conditions. Aftera spirited struggle, combined with a fewdubious umpiring decisions, the girlsbeat the boys 6-5, last year it was a 6 alldraw! A week later at the Waverley CirclePresident’s Sunday, held in Jells Park, inwarm and humid conditions, once againthe girls triumphed over the boys 4-3.Needless to say there has been muchsoul searching as a result of thesehumiliations and a sub committee hasbeen formed to modify the rules for nextyear’s challenge.George LittleMarch Page 46 2012

EASTERN LINKThe Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithV.A.C.Victoria Area Bowls/Golf dayand Peninsula Circle MeetingBOWLS GROUP…L-R Brother Laurie Dillon (Circle 335) and wife Eileen, and Brothers Tom Peck (Circle 335)Bill Annesley (Circle 334), Bernie Cosgriff (Circle 334), George Little (Circle 311),Denis O'Gallagher (Circle 311) and Bill Symons (Circle 335). Winners were; Bro’s Bill and Bro LaurieVictoria Area Bowls/Golf day and Peninsula Circle 335Meeting held on Friday, 9 th MarchBoth the tournaments were held at the Rosebud Country Club.There were also a number of individual prizes for:-Best Male individual score - Brother Dick Gorman (C335)Best Female individual score Tie between Geraldine Croagh (C345) andGeraldine Peck (C345)Best Front Nine - Brother Frank Peck (C345)Best Back Nine - Brother Dick Gorman (C335)Best score off the Stick - Brother Frank Peck (C345)Nearest the Pin on Par 3 holes - 3rd - Brother Rob Young C311) and14th - Brother Michael Croagh (C345)Encouragement Award - Brother Noel Hanger (C345)/Continued on next pageMarch Page 47 2012

EASTERN LINKThe Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithV.A.C.Victoria Area Bowls/Golf dayand Peninsula Circle Meeting ContinuedGOLF GROUP…The winning Circle's (Peninsula Circle No. 335) representatives:-From left; Brother’s Tony Harford (CPR), Frank Hegarty, Dick Gorman, Dan Murphy and Des WhelanApart from many good jokes and some not so good, the other highlight of the dinner was the drawing ofrooms for the Bright Chalet for the Mystery Weekend away. This was considered a fairer way of roomallocation (varying types and quality) as the whole Chalet had been booked for the weekend of the 23-26March. Organiser Brother George Little, ably assisted by two of the Ladies, one drawing the room number,the other the name of the couple to be allocated to it.The weekend away is held each year, and this time an extra bus will need to be organised because thenumbers exceed what one can legally carry.The Peninsula Meeting was its 105th meeting, and the highlight of the meeting was the enrolment of BrotherJohn Buck, their 35th Brother. There were nine visiting Brothers, five from Boroondara Circle No. 345 andfour representing Maroondah Circle No. 334.21 Brothers from Peninsula attended.The dinner, at the Rye Hotel, was attended by 30 Brothers and 24 Ladies./More pictures on next pageMarch Page 48 2012

EASTERN LINKThe Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faithV.A.C.Victoria Area Bowls/Golf dayand Peninsula Circle Meeting Continued"The face-off: How did they win without clubs?""No payment, no card - no play!"The Ladies helping with the “Chalet for theWeekend” draw!!!More player’s for the gathering of the numbers andpayments, and looking for more support!Pictures and text supplied by Brother TiborMarch Page 49 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21PROVINCE 21 AUSTRALIASPECIAL DEVOTIONThe Catenian“Mary’s Rosary Chain” DivisionMembership is open to Brothers, Wives, Widows & Family Members. Widows find itespecially 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 OurFather, Ten Hail Mary’s and One Glory Be). No penalty if a decade is missed. The petitioncan be for ‘Our Lady’s Intentions’ or member’s Personal Intentions etc.All Participants are invited to have their names placed permanently under the BlessedSacrament in the Monastery of St. Paul The First Hermit.The Order will pray for Intentions of all names listed, also, Holy Mass will be celebrateddaily 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 anyfurther information please contact our Mary’s Chain Co-ordinator:-Brother Greg Smyth(City of Sydney Circle)Telephone: 02 9522 0034Email: smythgc@bigpond.com.auMarch Page 50 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21KELLY GODDEN’SGESTURE BRINGS RELIEFAND HELP TO VICTIMSDEVASTATED BY FLOODSIN THE PHILIPPINES…Prior to the Grand President's visit to the four Circles in Sydney's North-West(Carlingford 304, Castle Hill 308, Hornsby 317 and the City of Parramatta 333) on 27September 2011, his wife, Kelly, advised that, as much as she loves flowers, theywere an impractical gift whilst she was travelling and she suggested that any moneytraditionally used for a bouquet for her should instead be donated to charity.The four Presidents originally agreed that each Circle would donate $250 to acharity to be chosen by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (the "MSCs") and thatbaskets would be placed on each table to allow attendees to make furtherdonations. When the table donations amounted to $750, the Circles agreed to top upthe Circle donations so that a total of $2,000 was available for the MSCs.Father Adrian Meaney, the Director - MSC Mission Office - has written, (see nextpage), to convey sincere thanks for the very generous donation of $2,000 that hasbeen allocated for Emergency Relief in a very poor area of the Philippines that hasrecently been devastated by floods.The donation will be used for food, clothing and clean water for 956 familiesseverely impacted by this natural disaster.Father Meaney describes the donation as "a real blessing" that will be "ofsignificant assistance."The four Circles would particularly like to pass on the MSC words of appreciation toKelly Godden whose gesture prompted collection of the donation."Phil GallagherCarlingford Circle SecretaryNB. Father Meaney’s letter continued on the next page…March Page 51 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21MISSION OFFICEP.O. BOX 177KENSINGTON, NSW 1465Phone: (02) 9697 0983Fax: (02) 9697 0984Email: mscmisio@acon.com.auMarch Page 52 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21Dear Brothers, Welcome to our current edition of Eastern Link and greetings from a very wet humidCairns.As usual, there is a lot of going on in Province 21 and Victoria Area. I think that I have covered most of it.I would like to thank all the Provincial Council for their tremendous support in enabling the Eastern Linkis produced. It is not an easy position being an officer bearer in any organisation, well done to you all.Brother Ron Daly has done a marvellous job as Provincial President.A warm welcome to all the new Provincial Council members’ from April onwards.A grateful thank-you to Brother Paul Despoges who is standing down as Director Province 21. BrotherPaul has made sure Eastern Link received the many reports from around our Province and AusCom.Good luck for your future role as Provincial President.A warm welcome to Brother Kevin Doherty who is taking over as Director of Province 21. Brother Kevincomes with a mountain of experience in the Catenian Association.Once again, Brothers, thank-you for all your contributions and support.God Bless you All.Peter (Editor)St Mary of the CrossMacKillop Prayer…Ever generous God,You inspired Saint Mary MacKillopTo live her life faithful to the Gospel ofJesus Christ and constant in bringing hopeand Encouragement to those who weredisheartened, lonely or needy.With confidence in your generous providenceand through the intercession of Saint MaryMacKillop. We ask that you grant ourrequest……………….We ask that our faith and hope be fired afreshby the Holy Spirit so that we too, like MaryMacKillop, may live with courage, trust andopenness.Ever generous God hear our prayer.We ask this through Jesus Christ. Amen.VISIT MARY’STOMB...If you go to thefollowing website clickon the link saying; visitMary’s Tomb & Praywith her, you will beable to see otherprayers submitted byothers!!!www.marymackillop.org.au/prayerspace/index.cfm?loadref=4The Prayer Space has many petitions fromPeople who need help!!!SAINT MARY OF THE CROSS MACKILLOPAUSTRALIA’S 1 st SAINTSNIPPET FROM MOSMAN CIRCLE…At our April meeting installation of new officer holders will take place. Whilea number of our Circle Officers are continuing in their roles, we will be installing three new officers at the Aprilmeeting - Robert van Aalst as Vice President; Len Lozina as Registrar and John Punch as Marshall. In additionJohn Tweedie will be speaking at the April dinner on his recent trip to Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand withmembers of the 2/20 th Battalion Association on the occasion of the 70 th Anniversary of the fall of Singaporeand on the experiences of his father as a POW in Singapore, then on the Burma - Thailand Railway and finally inJapan.March Page 53 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21You never know who you will run into…City of Cairns Brother Simon Coolican (pictured right),recently ran into Queensland Premier Candidate CampbellNewman.Simon quotes; “He was in constant demand withcommunity members and the media. So many peoplewere asking him questions or requesting he makechanges to the Public Sector that his poor brain musthave been in melt-down. He seems to have immenseenthusiasm towards his prospective job andoverwhelmingly can’t wait for Saturday night to comealong.All Brothers are encouraged to visit other Circles. If the opportunityarises please contact the appropriate Catering Officer listed below.CITY OF CAIRNS 3 rd ThuPeter Cash 07 4055 3529CANBERRA 3rd Thu.Russell Sweeney 6291 4604CANBERRA/MOLONGLO 1st Wed.Philip O'Meara 6288 4793CARLINGFORD 3rd Tue.Stan Burgin 9871 2449CASTLE HILL 4th TuePaul Despoges 8850 0956GOLD COAST TWEED GROUP 3 rd TuesErrol Daranjo 07 5576-0019HORNSBY 1st ThuPeter Andersen 0412 669 462KU-RING-GAI 2nd MonPhil Davies 9440 4299MANLY 3rd WedMichael van Ommen 9452 5282.MOSMAN 2nd ThuBrendan O’Connell 9449 3720PARAMATTA 4 th ThuJohn Green on 02 96307094PITTWATER 2nd WedKen Halliday 9999 4675CITY OF SYDNEY 1st WedJohn Crawford 9240 4975WARRINGAH 4th WedBill Carney on 9451 2144VICTORIAN CIRCLESCITY OF MELBOURNE 4th MonAdam Trajer 03 9584 1134WAVERYLEY 1st TueJohn Chambers 03 9708 1066MAROONDAH 3rd WedJohn Klein 03 9723 2869PENINSULA 2nd FriAdrian Carroll 0412 533 651BOROONDARA 4 th WedTibor Puhl 03 9890 0474CASEY GROUP 3 rd MonEdmund George 03 9017 4235A VERY INTERESTING STORY FROMCITY OF CAIRNS SECRETARYBROTHER MARK FREEMAN…Last year, my nephew, Thomas, was stompedby a horse. In a serious condition, my brotherrushed him over 30km to the local hospital.On examination, it was recognised that he wasin a critical condition and required specialisthelp. The Air Ambulance (through Search andRescue) air lifted Thomas from one hospital toa more adept hospital in a Critical condition.The chain of events that unfolded through thecorrect and quick thinking of the main playersultimately saved his life.Thomas has recovered somewhat, and hasbeen the pin up boy for the Air Ambulancesince then. He and my brother David havebeen invited to attend community events asAmbassadors for the Air Ambulance.A TV ad has been produced and can be seenon the link below showing the Funding (througha winner of Lotto), The Crew and both Davidand Thomas.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=US56p8v1vhY&feature=gupl&context=G250ff9aAUAAAAAAAAAAEditorial Note: If you run your mouse over theabove three lines and press Control and clickat the same time it will open the file for you.March Page 54 2012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21OBITUARIES...BROTHER JOHN SIDGREAVES RIPLate of City of Sydney CirclePeacefully passed to eternal lifeon 16 th December 2011Please remember Patricia & Family in your prayersMay he rest in peace. AmenBrother John Sidgreaves died on Friday the 16 th December 2011 after a short illness. He was born onthe 31 st May 1936 at Brighton-le-Sands in Southern Sydney. He received his early education from theSisters of Charity at Saint Thomas More primary school close to their home and then attended MaristBrothers High School Kogarah for his secondary schooling where he matriculated in 1953 excelling inMathematics.John attended Sydney University in 1954 to commence a degree in medicine but disliked it and after ashort while, made two of the most significant decisions of his life. The first was to switch to Pharmacyand he was apprenticed to his cousin Jim Matthews in his pharmacy at Caringbah.Around this time he made the other and most significant decision in his life. He attended a friend’sengagement party at St Thomas Mores’ church hall and met Pat, who lived about 500 metres awayfrom John’s house and had attended the same primary school as John.After graduation John worked in pharmacies in Sydney and surrounds where he interspersed with theCatholic Youth Organisation dances and functions with Pat. After gathering experience in all thesepharmacies he purchased his first business in Cronulla.The romance with Pat blossomed and their lives were blessed in marriage which lasted for 49 yearswith a family consisting of Timothy (also a pharmacist) and Anthony.John had a lifetime commitment to pharmacy but it was never about himself. He achieved so much inthe industry that even his family were unaware of, as he never spoke about his achievements. Whenpharmacies were traditionally closing at 5:30 pm he showed his vision by moving to establish a cooperativeafter hour’s pharmacy in the district to serve the needs of the community.John founded HBA, which was a bulk buying distributor for pharmacists and this changed later toChem-mart, a franchise and wholesaler to the pharmacy of which he was chairman. He voluntarilyresigned in 1979 to devote his time to travelling all over the state of NSW as President of the Guild.Brother John’s RIP Obituary continued on next pageMarch Page 552012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21Brother John’s RIP Obituary continued…He was elected in 1967 to the NSW Pharmacy Guild which was the commercial arm of the professionand rose to President from 1979 to 1984. He served for 17 years on just about every possible pharmacycommittee including a role on the Australian National Council of the Guild.A commendation from the Guild: John Sidgreaves is a man of conviction and a man who when his mindwas made up, could not be shifted and he was usually right. He is a man given to detail and was brilliantwith commercial assessments and valuations and above all else, he liked helping young people.In the early 1980’s John was the founding chairman of the Blooms Chemist Group where he continuedto encourage young pharmacists to purchase their own pharmacies and believed that it was a greatprofession for women.John was not an active sportsman but loved following all sports especially St George Rugby league andhad shares in racehorses over the years.John was enrolled in the Catenian Association, the City of Sydney Circle (the first in Australia) inOctober 1973 in the period when many of the brothers joining were pharmacists and attended MaristBrothers Kogarah. He was a diligent attendee of the Circle, volunteered for the role of secretary formany years and was President in 1988-89. Brother John and Pat attended all our social functions andhe brought along his son to our Father & sons nights.He and Pat were tireless workers in support of Monsignor Brian Rayner’s valuable work supporting thepeople in Fiji. In fact their cars were parked in the open as their garages were crammed with donatedgoods and clothes waiting to be transported to the needy in Fiji.John and Pat were honoured by his Holiness Pope Benedict XV1 on the 21 st September 2009 with the“Crucis Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice” (the Cross for the Church and Pontiff) for their service to the Churchespecially the missions in Fiji. (See picture).Unfortunately John was too ill to attend the Grand President Tony Godden’s dinner last October for the40 years of the Association in Australia.Brother John was buried from his parish church of Mater Dei at Blakehurst on 21 st December 2011. Hehad been on the Parish Council for many years. The Requiem Mass celebrated by seven priests and hisclose friend Monsignor Brian Rayner in a packed Church, which was a wonderful tribute to John, Patand their family. There were 20 brothers (including Provincial Director, President & Vice President) andmany wives attending and the brothers formed a guard of honour as the cortege left the church grounds.May John Vincent rest in peace.Peter O’ReillySecretary, City of Sydney Circle, Province 21PLEASE 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 mayenjoy eternal light and peace and be raised up in glory with all Your saints. AMEN.March Page 562012

EASTERN LINK The Catenian Association Strengthening family life through friendship and faith PROVINCE 21LET’S HAVE A LAUGH. . . . . .How do you decide who to marry? Written by CHILDREN!!!1. -You got to find somebody who likes the same stuff.Like, if you like sports, she should like it that you like sports, and sheshould keep the chips and dip coming.-- Alan, age 10-No person really decides before they grow up whomthey're going to marry. God decides it all way before, and you get to findout later who you're stuck with.-- Kristen, age 102. WHAT IS THE RIGHT AGE TO GET MARRIED?Twenty-three is the best age because you know theperson FOREVER by then.-- Camille, age 103. HOW CAN A STRANGER TELL IF TWO PEOPLE ARE MARRIED?You might have to guess, based on whether they seem tobe yelling at the same kids.-- Derrick, age 84. WHAT DO YOU THINK YOUR MOM AND DAD HAVE IN COMMON?Both don't want any more kids.-- Lori, age 85. WHAT DO MOST PEOPLE DO ON A DATE?-Dates are for having fun, and people should use themto get to know each other. Even boys have something to say if you listenlong enough.-- Lynnette, age 8(isn't she a treasure)-On the first date, they just tell each other lies andthat usually gets them interested enough to go for a second date.-- Martin, age 106. WHEN IS IT OKAY TO KISS SOMEONE?-When they're rich.-- Pam, age 7-The law says you have to be eighteen, so I wouldn'twant to mess with that.- - Curt, age 7-The rule goes like this: If you kiss someone, thenyou should marry them and have kids with them. It's the right thing to do.- - Howard, age 87. IS IT BETTER TO BE SINGLE OR MARRIED?It's better for girls to be single but not for boys.Boys need someone to clean up after them.-- Anita, age 9 (bless you child )8. HOW WOULD THE WORLD BE DIFFERENT IF PEOPLE DIDN'TGET MARRIED?There sure would be a lot of kids to explain,wouldn't there?-- Kelvin, age 8March Page 57 2012