Student leaders from twenty Catholic schools across the Geelong region came together for a special Jubilee Year 2025 pilgrimage, walking in faith and celebrating Catholic education’s lasting impact on the community.
The journey began at East Geelong Cemetery, specifically the Venerable Archdeacon Slattery Chapel, where students set out on a symbolic 4km pilgrimage, passing Old Geelong Gaol, the oldest school in the area St Mary’s as a school for boys in 1850s, before gathering for a Mass at St Mary of the Angels Basilica.
St Robert’s Newtown Acting Principal, Rebecca O’Leary, said the pilgrimage was a profound journey of faith, history, and unity.
‘For staff and students alike, it was an opportunity to walk in the footsteps of those who shaped our Catholic heritage, deepen our connection to the land, and reaffirm our shared commitment to service.
‘Sharing the experience with so many Principals, staff, and students from the Geelong area was inspiring, and was an opportunity to strengthen our community bonds.’
The pilgrimage concluded with a shared meal, followed by a talk from guest speaker Julia Roach. Roach spoke about the significance of the Jubilee Year and called on students to embrace its themes of hope, renewal, and love in their own school communities – a ‘call to action!’
This event, held as part of Catholic Education Week 2025, was a powerful reminder of Catholic education’s role in shaping compassionate, faith-filled leaders for the future.
