Catholic communities across western Victoria came together from 25 to 29 May 2026 to celebrate Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Ltd (DOBCEL) Catholic Education Week, gathering under the theme "Peace be with you all" (Romans 15:33) to reflect on the faith, learning and belonging that lie at the heart of Catholic education.
Schools across the Diocese embraced the week in ways that reflected their own unique character; liturgies, prayer experiences, student-led activities and acts of hospitality brought students, families and staff together in celebration. A highlight was the historic Mass celebrated at Sovereign Hill's recreated
St Alipius Tent Church for the first time since COVID, connecting today's students and educators with the rich heritage of Catholic education in Ballarat.
The celebrations culminated on 29 May with the annual Catholic Education Week Mass and Awards Dinner at Damascus College Ballarat - the first such gathering held under the leadership of Bishop Mark Freeman since his appointment as Bishop of Ballarat. The evening recognised 28 staff members who reached 30 years of service to Catholic education, alongside recipients of the Bishop Paul Bird CSsR Spirit of Catholic Education Awards.
Tom Sexton reflected on the significance of the week:
"Catholic Education Week is a chance to pause and give thanks for the students, staff, families and communities who make our schools such vibrant and hope-filled places. Across the week, we have seen joyful, thoughtful and deeply local celebrations that reflect the spirit of our school communities and the strength of Catholic education across the Diocese of Ballarat."
Tom Sexton
Executive Director, Diocese of Ballarat Catholic Education Limited (DOBCEL)
As a first-time partner of Catholic Education Week, CDF was honoured to support the celebrations, a partnership made all the more meaningful as CDF marks its 70th anniversary in 2026. For seven decades, CDF has worked alongside Catholic schools, parishes and agencies across Victoria and beyond, helping provide the facilities and resources communities need to build, serve and grow.
Representing CDF at the Mass and Awards Dinner were John McClusky, Gerard Bibile, Aaron Gupta and Maxine Vallance.
Congratulations to DOBCEL, Bishop Mark Freeman, school leaders, educators, students and families across the Diocese on a wonderful Catholic Education Week celebration.
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