More than 700 students and staff from 23 schools across Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese came together for Caritas Australia’s Big Water Walk in support of Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion campaign.
Beginning at Parramatta Park, students carried buckets of water along a 4km route, gaining a glimpse of the daily journey faced by people in developing communities, especially women and children, in search of clean water.
“I feel tired,” said St John’s Primary Riverstone student Rachel Song. “Now I understand how people must feel after walking such long distances for water. We should be grateful for how easily we can get water.”
St Patrick’s Primary Parramatta student Amelia Siva said, “I feel like today was a day of reflection, and to come together in solidarity and to raise awareness of the difficulties people face trying to access clean water.”
Adding to the significance of the day, Parramatta Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv joined part of the walk, offering encouragement and sharing in the experience alongside students and staff.
“I know firsthand what it’s like to have to walk long distances to fetch clean water,” said Bishop Vincent. “When I fled Vietnam and was living in a refugee camp in Malaysia, we were all focused on how we would get clean water.”
The journey took participants past local landmarks, including Parramatta Leagues Club and CommBank Stadium. They were joined by CSPD chief executive Jack de Groot for a prayer and reflection led by Deacon Adrian Gomez at St Patrick’s Cathedral. The walk continued to Noller Bridge and the Boer War Memorial before looping back into Parramatta Park.
“It was moving to see so many of our students genuinely engaging with Project Compassion and its message of solidarity,” Mr de Groot said.
“From my time with Caritas Australia, I know the profound impact initiatives like this can have on communities experiencing poverty and hardship. This is faith in action – young people showing compassion and a real commitment to others.”
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700+ Unite for Project Compassion Big Water Walk (Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese)
