Community News

Big Sing for a Big Cause

Presented by Australian Catholic University in partnership with St Patrick's College (Ballarat) and St Patrick's Cathedral (Melbourne), led by conductor Dr Kathleen McGuire, the project advocates for people – including ACU students – who are homeless or experiencing housing insecurity. 

The number of people affected by homelessness is increasing, due to the economic crisis and family and domestic violence. This is an opportunity to help, raise awareness, and raise funds for direct services including 'Peplow House Crisis Accommodation Support' (CatholicCare Victoria) in Ballarat. Peplow House provides short-term crisis accommodation for single men aged 18 years and over who are homeless. Support is also provided to help individuals access longer term accommodation, and address issues that are impacting opportunities for longer term accommodation. Funds raised will also benefit the ACU Urgent Financial Hardship Grants.  

Volunteer singers, choirs and instrumentalists from Victoria and Auckland, New Zealand, will combine in this special international event. The program features the 10th anniversary performance of STREET REQUIEM – For Those Who Died On The Street, which was co-created by Kathleen McGuire, Jonathon Welch and Andy Payne in 2014. The work, which is highly accessible, multi-faith and multi-language, has been performed more than 30 times in several countries. STREET REQUIEM was awarded a Judges Citation by The American Prize for “Dignifying the homeless through song.”

Next Saturday’s concert will be a rare opportunity to hear an expected 80+ voices accompanied by a minimalist orchestra in our Performing Arts Centre.

Tickets: ACU's BIG SING for a BIG CAUSE (Ballarat) | Humanitix

Marriage Encounter Weekend

The next Marriage Encounter Weekend will be held from 4-6 October at St Paul's Retreat Centre, Wantirna South. Every married couple deserves this very special weekend. Time-out to nurture your most precious relationship away from daily distractions.  The two of you will come away from your weekend feeling more deeply connected and with tools to help keep the passion alive. No group sharing required. The weekend is based around Catholic values. Couples of all faiths are welcome.

For further information and bookings, contact Mercy and James on 0409 183 676 or email vicbookings.wwme.org.au.