A Year in Review
TSV .CATH O L IC . E D U . A U
Executive Director’s Welcome
C ON TENTS
Executive Director’s Welcome 2
As Term 4 draws to a close, we reflect
A special thanks to Bishop Tim Harris for
on the extensive list of achievements
his support and to our parish priests for
accomplished this year. Behind every
their continued support of our schools.
accomplishment is a dedicated group of teachers and staff who prepare,
Bishop's Message
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counsel and guide our students. I thank you all for motivating and coaching our students towards their successes,
Our 2021 Good News Stories
large or small throughout 2021.
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To celebrate the achievements accomplished this year, this edition of
Australia's 5th Plenary Council Assembly
the term magazine will highlight the
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To the graduating class of 2021, I wish you every success in the next chapter of your lives, and I offer my best wishes to continuing students for a productive and unforgettable new school year in 2022. To all, a very happy, safe and holy Christmas season, and God’s blessings for the New Year.
good news stories that our school communities have achieved this year.
Weather Warnings
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Throughout the year, I have had the pleasure of visiting our schools and
Our School Chaplains
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meeting with many of our staff. Our schools are both unique in their spirit and united in their expression of Catholic
Guidance Counsellors Prepare with “Stormbirds” 23
values. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for their hard work. I have enormous respect for our teams of
Solar Project Update
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dedicated people who ensure our students
Jacqui Francis EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
come to school in an environment that is welcoming, nurturing and safe.
A message from The Bishop The world needs the peace and hope
These visits give me hope that the
of Christmas more than ever.
message of the Gospel is alive in the
2021 has been a challenging year for many communities in Australia and around
Townsville Catholic Education acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and future. All information and images are subject to copyright. No part of this publication can be reproduced, stored or transmitted without the prior permission of the Townsville Catholic Education Office (TCEO). While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of print, TCEO takes no liability for any errors, omissions or subsequent consequences on information within this publication. © Copyright 2021
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world and that our Catholic Schools are making a difference in the community.
the world. Pope Francis said earlier this
Christians believe that Christmas brings
year during the Easter Vigil Mass “In
the Good News of peace and hope
these dark months of the pandemic, let
into full focus. In Jesus Christ, the child
us listen to the risen Lord as he invites
born at Bethlehem, God has spoken
us to begin anew and never lose hope.”
definitively to all of us and all creation.
Renewal has certainly been a central message across the Diocese in 2021. Our
God’s word is: “You are loved deeply by the God of all love and mercy.”
Parishes, including our Catholic Schools and agencies have been reflecting how they can be more missionary focused and renew to become more like Jesus. Our Catholic Schools have continued to be that face of Jesus to their families and communities during the year. As I have visited schools and met with students and staff, I am heartened by their welcoming hearts and smiling faces.
Most Reverend Timothy Harris BISHOP OF TOWNSVILLE
Our 2021
GOOD NEWS STORIES 3
GOOD NEWS STORIES
Gilroy Santa Maria College
INGHAM
We held our Annual Awards night to
We will be waiting to announce the
acknowledge the outstanding academic
Year 12 Dux award until the beginning
achievements of our students in 2021
of the year Induction Mass when all
on Thursday, 21 October. At Gilroy Santa
results have become available. This
Maria College, we value both Academic
announcement will follow the release of
and Vocational Education for our students.
Subject results by QCAA and the ATAR
To celebrate these achievements, two
scores by QCAT in late December.
special awards were presented during
YOUNG VINNIES GROUP In 2021, a dedicated group of students once again formed a “Vinnies group” and came up with ideas on ways to help our community throughout the year. With the help of Mrs Rita Martin, our Young Vinnies group arranged “Cook Ups” to make meals to donate to the
the night, the Excellence in Vocational
2021 Excellence
Hinchinbrook Community Support Centre.
in Vocational
Students happily gave up their time after
Education and
school to do this. These meals were then
The Excellence in Vocational Education
Training Award
distributed to those in the community
and Training Award is presented to a
Joe Exelby
who may be experiencing difficulties.
Education and Training Award and the College Scholar of the Year Award.
student who demonstrates initiative and excellence in this field. The College Scholar of the Year is an award that acknowledges and celebrates the outstanding academic and industrious
2021 College
achievements of the top achieving year
Scholar of the Year
12 ATAR student. This student has the
Darcie Spina
highest combined score across their best five ATAR contributing subjects, inclusive of all assessments to the end of Term 3.
Holy Spirit Catholic School C R A N B R O O K Excited and relieved perhaps best
of reconnection as the young and more
described the beginning of the 2021
experienced in life enjoyed a night out.
school year. We were excited to know that events cancelled in 2020 were back on the calendar for this year.
allowed our students to showcase their musical and theatrical talents.
Year one parents and carers became
Family members and friends
a priority, as they had missed the
applauded the progress of the
opportunity to meet other parents
students who also performed at the
and enjoy the luxury of helping in the
Holy Spirit Parish celebration.
classroom and at school events. A ‘Catch Up Cuppa’ and an afternoon of classroom activities was organised to allow parents to get to know each other and offer some Holy Spirit hospitality. The date for the Holy Spirit Fete, one of the favourite community events, was set and plans were in motion. The fete proved to be a wonderful celebration drawing together current and past students, their families and staff members. It was a night
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The return of 'The Festival of the Arts'
NAIDOC Celebrations and the Colour Run were undoubtedly included in the crowd-pleasing events this year. Thanks to the generosity of staff members and parents, these events were midyear highlights for the students. We are grateful to see the return of events that help our Holy Spirit Catholic School Community to grow and thrive and look forward to a bigger and better 2022!
, St Benedict s Catholic School Camps and excursions are an integral part of teaching and learning at St Benedict’s. The experiences gained during field trips enhance the curriculum by giving relevance and meaning to learning, often foster bonds between students and teachers as they work together, allow for new experiences, and are highly engaging and motivating. St Benedict’s has developed partnerships with
SHAW
Year 2: • St Margaret’s Creek Farm • Charlotte’s Web Performance at the Civic Theatre Year 3: • JCU Library (Eddie Koiki Mabo Timeline Wall) and TropEco Community Gardens
Along with excursions and camps, classroom visitors are also highly valued at St Benedict’s. This year, some of the partnerships welcomed into the school have been the Townsville District Beekeepers, Townsville City Council for water bug testing, Tangaroa Blue for a school waste audit, RACQ Streets Ahead, Louise Costanzo JCU Scientist in School, Life
many different community organisations
Year 4/5/6:
Education Healthy Habits, Junior Landcare,
to implement excursions that are both
• Port of Townsville Tour and
and many more. Building these partnerships
engaging and enhance the curriculum. This year, students at St Benedict’s have participated in the following excursions:
Police Maritime Water Police • Magnetic Island Apex Camp
helps bring the curriculum to life and engages students in real-world learning.
Prep: • Sacred Heart Cathedral with Sister Judy • Pete the Sheep Performance at the Civic Theatre Year 1: • Townsville Museum and Historical Society • Billabong Sanctuary
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GOOD NEWS STORIES
, St Catherine s Catholic College
T H E W H I T S U N D AY S
This year has certainly highlighted
We then worked together to raise funds
for our guests. Our country’s Indigenous
what an incredible community we have
and awareness for Project Compassion,
culture was celebrated on NAIDOC Day
at St Catherine's Catholic College. We
highlighted awareness with Cyber Safety
with traditional dance moves, art, sharing
started the year with Tea and Tissues as
talks for our parents and students, and
stories, and much more across our College.
we welcomed our new Preps into our
gathered as one for Masses and Liturgies.
College, as well as Year 6 Leadership Retreat, elections, and Year 12 Camp.
Our Mercy and Secondary Athletics
Term 2 brought with it the opening night
Carnivals were full of colour and fun in Term
of our College musical 'Mary Poppins'
3. Our Year 11s headed off to James Cook
which our students sang, danced,
University to see what uni life is like, while
acted, and shone in. Mini Vinnies visits
our Year 10s headed out into the workforce
to our local Nursing Home were a hit
for work experience, bringing back more
with both young and old as was the
than just knowledge to the classroom. Most
Secondary Swimming Carnival.
recently our students had the enjoyment
We came together to celebrate 200 years of Catholic Education in Australia and
of checking out over 40 local business and industry stalls at our inaugural Careers Day.
our Year 8s turned back the clock for our
We hope our St Catherine’s students
annual Medieval Day enjoying games and
and staff have a lovely Christmas
a traditional feast. Eat Street was a culinary
holiday with their loved ones.
treat as our Secondary Hospitality students cooked up delicious dishes from across Asia
, St Joseph s Catholic School Beachathon is a yearly walk for St
Through their efforts, Joey’s kids raised
Joseph’s students from Pallarenda back
over $5,000. Together, with a donation from
to the school. Usually, this walk involves
a P & F event, St Joseph’s School was able
raising funds for school resources. This year,
to donate $10,000 to St Vincent de Paul.
the focus was what kids CAN do to make
This financial assistance provided money
a difference. Students were encouraged
for emergency relief through blankets and
to think about ways they CAN make a
warm clothing for families experiencing
difference in our school through the Mercy
homelessness during the winter months.
Values of Love, Community, and Excellence. Beachathon was an opportunity for Joey’s students to showcase their genius ideas to collectively raise money to support the Vinnies’ Winter Appeal. Each class used its skills to produce goods or services for the school community. Students held movie afternoons, created a market and art gallery, sold baked goods, decorated bags and hair ties, and wore PJs to school. This year, students were invited to design a logo that represented the focus of kids CAN. Over 100 students submitted a logo design. Students voted for their favourite design, which was created by one of our Year 6 students.
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THE STRAND
This year, Joey’s kids showed kids CAN make a difference!
, St Anthony s Catholic College 2021 was a wonderful year of growth.
BILINGUAL SUCCESS!
Here were some of the highlights from
Another successful year for our bilingual
our students on the Padua Campus.
VISUAL ART SHINES
DEERAGUN
program, with the Year 2 students demonstrating their Japanese Literary work.
IN PREP & YEAR 1
KITCHEN GARDEN DELIGHTS
Wonderful artworks showcased Prep
Our Year 3 and 4 students flourished in the
and Year 1 students as they participated in a specialist Visual Art program for the first time in 2021. Our Year 1 students background and using plasticine to create a
Our Year 5 and 6 STEM Club students
grumpy, angry and surprised faces.
tower building challenges and designing and creating catapults and windmills.
challenges over the course of the year, including the Townsville Grammar School
AY R
What a year we have had at St Francis
Term 3 saw the introduction of our Learning
Ayr! In Term 1 we welcomed His Excellency
Breakfasts. This was a great opportunity
the Honourable Paul de Jersey AC,
for our students to share their learning
Governor of Queensland to our school. His
with their families. We have had an
Excellency joined us for a special assembly
amazing turnout of families joining us to
before visiting with our Year 1 and 2 students
celebrate their child’s learning journey.
where he read them a book called 'Gavel
And it's not over yet! In Term 4 we have
Finds His Place – Becoming Queensland’s
been busy preparing for the opening and
Vice-Regal Dog'. Before leaving, our
blessing of our new school buildings.
special Governor of Queensland medal.
coding and designing a pedometer, mini
relished the opportunity to face many
St Francis School
school leaders were presented with a
Other school-based challenges included
Alexander Kitchen Garden program.
STEM STEM, YES WE CAN!
‘emotions’ and created collages of happy,
Australian STEM Video Game Challenge.
kitchen and in the garden for our Stephanie
created dinosaur dioramas, collaging the 3D model while our Prep classes explored
Bridge building competition and the
This has been another amazing year in the long history of our wonderful school!
In Term 2 we held our first ever FLEC Expo where we showcased the amazing work completed by our students who competed in the FLEC Challenges. Our students took out the weekly top prize on several occasions. It was wonderful to have Mayor Lyn McLaughlin at our FLEC Expo along with the Education Team from GBRMPA.
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GOOD NEWS STORIES
, St Mary s Catholic School
BOWEN
This year, Catholic Education celebrated
a musical workshop with our Year 5
200 years in Australia, marking the
and 6 students. He then performed the
bicentenary of the first Catholic school
music for the Mass, aided by students
established in Parramatta in 1820.
from each of the schools involved.
Over the past 200 years, Catholic schools
This is one of our fondest and proudest
have grown to become the largest provider
memories of the 2021 school year.
of schooling in Australia (outside of government) with one in five school-aged students attending a Catholic school. Our school was privileged to be chosen to host the celebration Mass for all of the Southern Townsville Diocesan schools on Wednesday, 26th May. On Wednesday, we hosted students, staff, and dignitaries from Townsville Catholic Education, St Colman’s Catholic School (Home Hill), St John Bosco Catholic School (Collinsville), and St Catherine’s Catholic College (The Whitsundays). We were also very lucky to have renowned liturgical composer Andrew Chinn conduct
Good Shepherd Catholic School Good Shepherd Catholic School celebrated
As part of the anniversary celebration,
their 25th Anniversary on 10 September
classes also created commemorative
2021. Father Dave Lancini, Parish Priest
pots to be placed in the anniversary
since the school opened, presided over
garden and were gifted a plant
the anniversary mass. The celebration was
during the mass celebration.
attended by Foundation Principal Paul Cosgriff (1996-2005), former Principal Ed Burke (2006-2017) as well as a number
RASMUSSEN
All current students also received a commemorative anniversary keyring.
of former staff, students and families.
Acknowledgement of Country
Fr Dave, Paul Cosgiff, Ed Burke and Glenda Scrase
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Former and current staff
Marian Catholic School
CURRAJONG
Rapidly, the finish line is drawing
parent engagement this year was Learning
as individuals, teams of students or in
nearer for 2021. The school year at
Breakfasts across all year levels. Parents
family groups, with the only rules being that
Marian has been filled with many things
and carers were invited into classrooms
projects had to be safe, involve some new
to be grateful for, including a variety of
to engage with their child and see what
learning and fun. Approximately 40 student
opportunities to encounter God and further
they had been learning. These 30-minute
projects were completed, and displayed or
develop our faith, engaging learning and
windows proved to be some of the most
demonstrated at the fair. Projects included
teaching experiences for both students
rewarding experiences, with students able
interactive hands-on experiments, such
and staff, as well as opportunities in
to proudly show off what they had been
as erupting volcanoes and elephant's
the cultural and sporting arenas.
learning, some challenging their parents to
toothpaste, mini bots, geodes, light,
have a go at some school work themselves
electricity and water experiments, instant
(some parents seemed to have forgotten
snow, fossil digs and so much more.
One of the focus areas for Marian this year has been on increased opportunities for parent and community involvement and engagement. Parents have been invited and encouraged to take part in many aspects of school life. From volunteering with, or attending, various activities and
how hard Year 5 maths can be) and, most importantly, further opportunity for connection between family and school life.
STEAM FAIR
Families also had the opportunity to engage in other hands-on activities and displays from various community groups and organisations. Popular activities included the Virtual Reality room,
events across the year, to engaging in
The inaugural STEAM (Science Technology
Lego display, Bunnings woodwork and
student learning and providing valuable
Engineering Arts & Mathematics) Fair was
SMMC Dance workshop. Highlights also
input and feedback through the various
held at Marian recently. The idea, born
included the ‘Are you Smarter than a
parent groups, including P&F, Board,
from suggestions put forward by Marian’s
Marian Student’ parents versus student
Finance, and our newly formed FAME
FAME Team, began as something quite
quiz (the answer is that Marian students
(Families @ Marian Engagement) Team,
small, however, blossomed into the event
were smarter on the night) and the hotly
parents have welcomed these opportunities,
of the year, supported by many Marian
contested Lego construction challenge.
making what has always been a wonderful
families and others new to the school.
school community even richer.
Students were invited to submit a project,
event on the Marian calendar, with
Just one of the additional, and perhaps most
based on one or multiple areas of STEAM.
a STEAM program being introduced
successful, opportunities introduced for
Projects were completed at home, either
from Prep to Year 6 in 2022.
STEAM Fair is set to become an annual
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GOOD NEWS STORIES
, St Joseph s Catholic School We started the year with a very exciting
of differentiation for our learners as we
Meditation. This has been a rewarding and
new learning space for our Prep students.
responsively plan with Universal Design for
fulfilling experience for students to link our
Renovations occurred in the Christmas
Learning (UDL) strategies. This has not only
Christian Faith to the Mitakoodi Country.
Holidays last year to join two learning
fostered our teaching and learning but has
spaces together to create a larger
also catered for Kinesthetic learners through
classroom for our 2021 Preps. In structuring
play-based learning inside the classroom.
the classroom this way we have been able to create both formal and informal learning spaces to offer a wider range
We have also utilised our outdoor learning
In 2022 we look forward to continuing this connection with Country through the development of an Outdoor Sacred Space that showcases the heritage of Cloncurry.
areas this year to engage in Christian
St Francis Catholic School
HUGHENDEN
2021 has provided us with time to adjust to
Our 3/4 students did a walking tour of
sounds that are within our own district.
the 'new norm'. With venues and borders
the town, visiting historical and significant
We were also able to have our fun run
opening up we have been able to get
cultural sites. In Term 3,the 3/4 class took
around Hughenden Lake and with our pool
out and about. Our 5/6 students had the
along our three year 2 students to Winton
reopening, after a 12-month closure, we
opportunity to attend the Gumburu camp at
to visit the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, the
commenced swimming lessons again.
Paluma and then spend a week with their
Waltzing Matilda Centre, the Musical Fence,
diocesan peers performing at Mulkadee.
and Bladensburg National Park. St Patrick's
This really was a great opportunity for
School, Winton played hosts and ensured
our students to meet students from
we were well fed and had a great night.
other schools, particularly as some will head off to boarding school next year.
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CLONCURRY
It has been a big year and we have achieved so much. We are looking forward to our big break at the end of term, where a lot of us will head off to
Our Prep/1/2 students visited our very own
family properties out in the bush or to the
Discovery Centre to explore the sights and
coast to spend Christmas with family.
, St Teresa s College
ABERGOWRIE
NAIDOC at St Teresa’s has always held
The day began when the St Patrick’s
an important place on our College
students arrived, followed by a beautiful
calendar. Due to COVID 19, we had to
Acknowledgement, cultural dance, food,
postpone the event from earlier in the
and entertainment by Mr Sean Choolburra.
year but were very relieved to be able to reschedule the event for Term 4.
The students had planned the day with a Yarning Circle, sports, games, cultural
INDEPENDENT LIVING SKILLS During St Teresa's after-school activities, students are able to choose from a variety of co-curricular learning opportunities. Independent Living Skills is a course that
This year, the students from St Teresa’s
art, and craft. Once the sun started to go
were joined by students from St Patrick’s
down on Warrgamay Country, Catercare
College who worked collectively to plan
and our families served traditional food.
and bring to life a celebration that focused
The large crowd from both schools, local
on the theme, ‘Heal Country’, celebrating
community members, and families then
culture, family, and traditional food.
gathered around a fire for cultural dance.
The weekend began with families
It was a beautiful day, planned by
Tea, that was organised and prepared
arriving from home communities as far
students, that celebrated the essence
by the students, was welcomed by staff
north as Saibai Island and as west as
of our world’s oldest, living culture.
who were able to sit back and enjoy
Lockhart River. The families immediately
students can undertake as part of their afternoon activities. Students commit to completing theory and practical modules while being guided and supported by Ms Leeann Napier. Throughout the year, the students showcase their skills. A High
some very tasty home made delights.
began preparing traditional food and the students and staff rallied around to provide needed materials like banana leaves, coconuts, and locally caught fish.
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GOOD NEWS STORIES
, St Joseph s Catholic School Here is a snapshot of life at
Term 2 we had a team place first, and at the
supported by our families who generously
St Joey’s this year!
recent Robotics Gala Day, one of our Year
provided donations for the stalls.
The school has many events which are celebrated with special liturgies each year. On Friday 19th March, the school
5 teams went the whole day undefeated. We also had teams place second, third, and fourth in their respective competitions.
celebrated St Joseph's Feast Day and also
St Joseph's Catholic School, Mundingburra
used the role model of St Joseph to lead
excelled at the Interschool Sports Carnival
into our Anti-Bullying Rally. Together we
held at the Townsville Sports Reserve in
demonstrated the courage of St Joseph to
Term 3. We won the overall carnival as
say ‘NO’ to bullying and violence. The day
well as the Aggregate trophy. Our girls
consisted of a special St Joseph Liturgy
came first overall and our boys second.
followed by Joey’s own ‘Flash Mob’ who
There is so much pride in what our
sang the song 'Brave'. Students and staff
students achieved at this year’s carnival.
stood up and joined in, with the whole
They were outstanding in their effort,
school getting into the energy of this event
attitude and performance. Staff worked
and singing and dancing to songs such
hard to prepare students for this event
as 'Roar' and the 'Fight Song'. We finished
with early morning training sessions
with the Year 6A RAP and the launch of
held twice a week and lunchtimes given
our anti-bullying video. Across the day
up to ensure students could practice
students spent time with their buddy
High Jump, Shot Put, and Long Jump.
classes and enjoyed some Feast Day cake.
Mission Stalls Day took place in Week 3
Throughout the year there are multiple
of Term 4, and what a wonderful event
opportunities for students to participate
it was. Organised and run by the Year 6
in a variety of competitions and extra-
staff and students, the aim of our Mission
curricular activities. In the STEM space, the
Stalls is to raise money for Catholic
school has Junior Engineers which students
Missions. This organisation assists
attend Monday mornings before school,
women and men in the most vulnerable
and students in Years 5 and 6 can join Tech
communities to survive and recover from
Club which meets weekly. These students
crisis and to live in a safe and secure
participate in Robotics competitions each
environment. Our Year 6’s did an amazing
term where they compete against teams of
job organising the day and were well
students from other schools in Townsville. In
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MUNDINGBURRA
We are looking forward to the many special times which signify the end of the school year and the approach of Christmas and the school holidays.
, St Clare s Catholic School
BURDELL
It was worth the year wait for our 10-year
other things. The day finished with the
We cannot wait to see what the
celebration! On Thursday 12 August, not
annual Student verses Staff game of
next ten years of St Clare’s holds,
only did we celebrate our Patron Saint’s
Touch. This year once again, the staff came
including introducing a new
Feast Day, but we also celebrated ten
away victorious, but not without a fight!
principal next year, Helen Wade!
years of St Clare’s. The day began with a Liturgy co-celebrated by Fr Giles and Bishop Tim, and then we had a picnic on the lawn. The grounds were decked out
We loved looking back on where it all started and how far we have come as a school.
with children on picnic blankets with their special treat and guests in a marquee. One child from each year level designed a cake topper for their classmates to devour! St Clare is the Patron Saint of numerous causes, and each year we focus on one of these. In 2021, the theme was eyes and eye disease, so the children completed an obstacle course blindfolded and tried their skills at optical illusions and many
Good Shepherd Catholic College A SPOTLIGHT ON
who they are. And today, I stand before,
STUDENT LEADERSHIP
not just our grade 12 cohort, but the entire
The Year 12 class of 2021 have finished their classes and are preparing to sit their external exams. Before the exam block commenced, it was wonderful to hear about the students’ perspectives on leadership at their final assembly.
Good Shepherd community proud of every leader up on that stage for what they’ve accomplished this year, even if all they’ve accomplished is showing up, talking with someone they wouldn’t have talked to, showing up to something they wouldn’t usually have shown up to. So thank you,
This very small section of a wonderful
each and every one of you because it's all of
speech from our School Captains Jake
you that made me want to be a leader and
Russell and Amie Pemble really sums up
it's because of you that I stand here safe in
the importance of student leadership,
the knowledge that this year couldn’t have
and the potential that all young people
been any better… Whatever you choose to
within our schools have to be leaders.
do in life, do it well. You only have one life to
“At the end of last year we were given the task; go and be leaders in your community.
MOUNT ISA
live, so live it. Do what makes you happy”. God Bless
And I think we did that. Through Valentine's Day, Swimming Carnival, Athletics Carnival, Good Shepherd Feast Day, RUOK? Day, we were leaders. We led our houses, we made a ton of biscuits, we sang our hearts out, and lopped our hair off. For me, being a leader in the Good Shepherd community is to be someone that will go out and show people that it's okay to embarrass yourself at a sports carnival, show people that appearances don’t matter for a cause as great as fighting cancer, show people...
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GOOD NEWS STORIES
Columba Catholic College
CHARTERS TOWERS
In the September holidays, after eighteen
looks to the future, certainly took some
months of planning, the new Columba
visioning and collaboration of all who have
entry icon was finally erected on the Mt
worked to build our wonderful College.
Carmel campus. The concept for this icon grew out of the need to recontextualise the images and statues on our campuses that represent our founders and who we are at Columba Catholic College today – an amalgamation of the past, firmly grounded in the present and looking to the future. This was an important task when
Over the last 18 months, input was sought from the Student Representative Council, our RE Advisers at TCE, students, staff, and parents about the design. Then world-renowned artist, Ziggy Pawlikowski, was commissioned to develop the design and create this masterpiece.
you consider that we essentially have four founders: the Christian Brothers and Blessed Edmund Rice, Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy, Archbishop John Bede Polding, and the Good Samaritan Sisters, and of course, St Columba. Creating an icon that represents all our founders, our College motto ‘Light to the World’ and encapsulates the past, in terms of the three schools of St Mary’s, Mt Carmel and St Columba’s Primary School, the present, Columba Catholic College, and
Southern Cross Catholic College In 2020, Southern Cross made the bold
the end of the year, each student had
Our Year 5 Immersion String Orchestra
decision to run classroom music in
the opportunity to learn both one band
of 35 students came in 4th place, with
Year 4 as a band and string instrument-
and one orchestral stringed instrument.
the Primary string orchestra (including
based learning program. It began with over 100 students and seven teachers working together to achieve Australian Curriculum music standards, instrumental learning immersion, and a culture of appreciation for music.
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ANNANDALE
In 2021, the program extended into Year 5, with more than 200 students bringing in their instruments each Wednesday to play together. We now have eight teachers and have included percussion and keyboard options for the Year 5 students. This cohort
many of our year 4 and 5 immersion students) taking 1st place in the senior primary orchestra section. The students, though initially nervous, were ecstatic at firstly, their achievement of performing so well on stage and secondly, the acknowledgment of this through placement.
Before Term 1 was over, we were hit with
was given the task of preparing for the
the COVID monster, challenging the way
Townsville Eisteddfod, in either String
We are so pleased with the participation
we were to run the lessons and continue
Orchestra or Concert Band. It was an
of students and the joy found during our
these new musicians' learning. Moving into
absolute shock, but a great testament to
Wednesday primary immersion music
online classes, video-based lessons, and
the dedication of students and teachers,
at Southern Cross that the program
back to socially-distanced instrumental
that the Year 5 Beginning Concert Band of
will extend into Year 6 in 2022.
lessons kept everyone on their toes. By
75 students took 1st place in their section.
St Margaret Mary's College REFLECTION FROM OUR YEAR 12 GRADUATING SENIOR SEVASTI ARENDS
H Y D E PA R K
Through my constant commitment and
come together as one community. This year
achievements in Rowing to becoming the
has also made me realise that we are one.
2021 SMMC Sports Senior Leader, I feel
As we conclude 2021, and move forward
as though I have made my 11-year-old self
onto the next stage of our lives, I have
Six years at St Margaret Mary's College
proud. By being a leader this year, I now
realised that my sisters here at SMMC are
has truly made me a woman of spirit and
understand the importance of being a role
all in the same boat as me, from challenging
purpose. Since Year 7, St Margaret Mary's
model to those you surround yourself with.
exams to fast approaching adulthood,
College has provided many extracurricular
As I continue my studies at University next
we are all here in support of each other.
activities that I have actively participated in,
year, I am glad that my leadership role
That's what the Maggie’s spirit is all about
this allowed me to build strong foundations
has provided me with these skills as I can
– community, hospitality, and compassion.
and develop a stronger bond with students
guarantee that, along with the knowledge
and staff members. Now, as a Year 12
I have gained from all my lessons, it's the
student, finishing my high school journey,
life skills as well that will stay with me.
I truly believe I have built my confidence,
In saying that, ‘I will miss the community at St Margaret Mary's College’ would be an understatement. This College has
In my final year of schooling, St Margaret
nurtured me and given me the chance to
Mary's College has made me realise many
succeed, a chance to develop and grow
things. Through liturgies, rituals, and our
into anything I wanted to be. Even though
When I first enrolled at St Margaret Mary's
Year 12 Retreat, I have allowed myself to sit
next year, I will not be guided by my
College in 2016 I was a timid young girl
quietly and reflect on my individuality. As
teachers and fellow peers, I know that my
who knew nothing of algebra and organic
many other girls and I have found at SMMC,
second family will always be one visit away.
compounds. Fast forward, six years later
everyone is inclusive and supportive and
and I am about to start a new chapter of
through prayer and faith, we are able to
leadership skills and made lifelong friendships with people at the College.
Once a Maggie always a Maggie.
my life outside the SMMC community.
15
GOOD NEWS STORIES
, St Joseph s Catholic School
MOUNT ISA
All schools in the Western region promote
culminating event on Thursday 29 October,
Mission Month within their individual
which was our crazy sock day and Sock
schools. On Friday 22 October, we
Ball shoot out which Bishop Tim, Fr Mick,
launched our 2021 Socktober appeal with
Fr Emene, and Fr Vitalis joined us for.
a combined school’s Mass hosted by St
They loved being the 'goalies' and kicking
Joseph’s Catholic School, Cloncurry. As
around the soccer balls and the 'sock
a part of our 2021 campaign, students
balls’ which were made by each class.
have been learning about what Catholic Mission does and also learning about how they help individuals, families, and communities all over the world. At St Joseph's, we have also hosted a range of fundraising opportunities for both staff and students who support the Catholic Mission. This concluded with our
St John Bosco Catholic School This year at SJB the focus has been
The school has also engaged with
on engaging the school and wider
local Indigenous Elders in our NAIDOC
community in the life of our school.
celebrations, our parish, visits from the
During the year a variety of events
community police officer and PCYC,
and opportunities were presented that
CWA ladies, St Vincent de Paul, Meals
allowed students, families, and the
on Wheels, local mining companies, and
wider community to come together and
the local kindy. These activities enable
celebrate important days during the year.
the students and families of our school
Mother’s Day celebrations saw a large number of mothers, aunties, and grandmothers come along to SJB to be spoiled and reminded of how important they are. Many of our SJB mums and women from the wider community enjoyed the activities on offer and experienced a lovely morning tea, liturgy, and concert. The men of our school community were not forgotten either. For Father’s Day a “Big Boys Toys” show and share was held on our school oval that gave many of our fathers, uncles and grandfathers the opportunity to show off some of their toys – we had a large variety of ‘toys’ from motorbikes and cars to cranes and water tankers. They too were spoiled with some activities, a liturgy, and a sausage sizzle.
16
community to make connections with each other and the wider community.
COLLINSVILLE
Ryan Catholic College
KIRWAN
CAREER PATHWAYS AT RYAN
TOWNSVILLE CATHOLIC
This is the first year Ryan Catholic College
This year the Career Pathways Program at
SCHOOLS SPORTS CUP
has submitted a nomination for the Schools
Ryan Catholic College (RCC) has developed a strategic approach across Years 10, 11, and 12 to provide support, assistance, information, and resources through this journey of career exploration and decisionmaking. Career Pathways at RCC focuses holistically on the student first to understand their strengths, passions, interests, and subjects that they enjoy and succeed in. From this, particular career options are explored that will support and clarify students' post-school pathways options. The success of this program has seen
Award. Tracy Blanchard, Ryan’s School One of the exciting additions to the sporting calendar this year was the introduction of the Townsville Catholic Schools Sports Cup. This year the cup was fought out over four sports (rugby league, volleyball, basketball, and touch football). We are pleased to announce that at the end of the year, the inaugural winner was Ryan
Wellbeing Coordinator said “this is a great achievement for the College to be nominated as a finalist in Queensland’s only state-wide mental health awards. The Awards recognise the great work that individuals, groups, and organisations are doing to reduce stigma and support those living with mental illness.”
Catholic College. Thank you to the other schools involved in the competition this
“Wellness at Ryan” is the College’s
year, we are looking forward to many close
strong commitment to prioritising
sporting contests in the years to come
proactive wellness initiatives as part
as the competition develops further.
of the development of the academic, social, physical, spiritual, and emotional
a number of Year 12 students gain
potential of each of the 2000 students
apprenticeships and traineeships, with
from Prep to Year 12. This commitment is
Ryan Catholic College becoming a
realised through a strategic plan whereby
school of choice for employers seeking
the College consistently prioritises a
competent employees. Additionally,
range of wellness initiatives from large
over 60 students have been successful
events to daily interactions between staff
in gaining early offers for their chosen
and students. The aim of this program
course at James Cook University.
is to provide safe spaces for learning, Our strong relationship with JCU continues
expression, mindfulness, and connection.
to grow with the university offering the Rising Star Scholarship to a Ryan student for the second year in a row. Ryan Catholic College is proud to award the $10,000 James Cook University Rising Star Scholarship to Year 12 student, Jade Wilson. Jade has demonstrated consistently
RYAN CATHOLIC COLLEGE
high levels of academic achievement
ANNOUNCED AS A
and upholds the school's ethos, as well as a commitment to regional Australia.
FINALIST IN THE QLD MENTAL HEALTH WEEK ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS Ryan Catholic College was shortlisted in the 2021 Queensland Mental Health Week Achievement Awards for their incredible work and achievements in mental health! Ryan was one of only three schools in the state to be shortlisted for the award, along with Mountain Creek State School and Tamborine Mountain State High School. Paula Mayson, CEO of Open Minds said: “This year we saw a record number of entries for the awards, and they were of a very high calibre.”
17
GOOD NEWS STORIES
Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School Our school has had a very busy year
long-distance running events, with the
in 2021. Semester One began with our
O’Connor House claiming victory.
Welcome Mass which was a time for our school to introduce our new preps and staff to the returning Lourdes family. Our year continued with a splash. Each day a different grade walked from our school to the pool to participate in a range of fun swimming activities. In Semester One, we also participated in Bullying, No Way! Day. This is one of the most important activities that our school participates in each year. It is a
INGHAM
Semester Two was overflowing with sports events. We had opportunities to participate in inter-school sports carnivals for cricket, soccer, athletics, and touch. These were in addition to the numerous school-based sporting events offered in PE lessons. Another highlight for our school was Book Week. This celebration allows all students and staff to dress up and celebrate a range of children’s literature.
time for students to experience first-hand
Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School
how to deal with bullying. The annual
is excited to see what the remainder
Cross Country carnival saw Ryan House
of the year has in store!
and O’Connor House compete in the
, St Colman s School 2021 saw various changes occurring
Our Year 4/5/6 students visited Gumlu
Although we are a small school, we
through our St Colman’s school
Camp and enjoyed the challenging activities
provide a unique learning experience for
community, including a new Principal
while our Prep – Year 2 students had a
all students to ensure they succeed.
in Term 3! The year also saw a focus
wonderful experience visiting the Burdekin
on community building with the first
Theatre and watching Pete the Sheep.
Grandparents Day being held as well as our Year 6 class visiting with our Kindy and Daycare twice a term to complete reading activities with the students. Our Father’s Day Breakfast was also a success, with dads enjoying bacon and eggs in the Shed with their children.
In sport, St Colman’s continued to excel winning the Small School Carnival and taking out nearly every age group champion. In the Arts, our Prep/1 and Year 2/3 classes all won awards for their singing and speech recital. Our Year 4/5 students also participated in the
Reading became a focus in
Ecowarriors Day and came back with
our school this year resulting
ideas for how to look after our reef!
in resources centralised and also professional development undertaken on how to form Guided Reading sessions.
18
HOME HILL
, St Peter s Catholic School
H A L I FA X
A highlight of the school year at St Peter's has been the biennial school camp! This year, Year 3-6 students, staff, and 5 parents went to Mungalli Falls. Despite the fact that it rained and rained and rained, the students had a great time. Due to the rain, a number of plans were changed, but this meant the students were able to tour the Gallo Dairyland and other significant places on the Tablelands including the Curtain Fig and the Avenue of Honour at Yungaburra. We hope everyone has a safe Christmas break and look forward to a big 2022!
, St Kieran s Catholic School
MOUNT ISA
This year has seen some very exciting
One of our regular highlights this year has
works undertaken at St Kieran's. Students
been the early morning games with John
(and teachers) watched in excitement as a
Doyle. He encourages all the students
set of much-needed toilet blocks was built
to have a go and it has been great to
alongside our end classroom. Along with
see students enthusiastic about coming
a new toilet block, the undercover lunch
to school in the mornings. As a result,
area has been renovated so we will have
many students have joined outside local
no more uninvited guests taking over.
sporting clubs. John even has many of our
After being cancelled last year due to
teacher’s training with him at his gym.
COVID, St Kieran's once again participated
On Saturday the 16th of October 94 teams
in the Apex Rock Pop and Mine Show. The
and just less than 700 Opti-people came
Junior group gave a great performance
together to compete in the Qld State Finals
around the book "Giraffe’s Can Dance"
for Opti-MINDS. The St Kieran’s team came
and the Senior group took us on a musical
away with a Spirit of Opti-MINDS Award,
journey through the story of Moana.
one of only 10 out of the 94 teams.
It was an amazing effort on behalf of both the teachers and the students.
We have had an amazing year, and cannot wait to see what 2022 brings!
19
Australia’s 5th Plenary Council Assembly The 5th Australian Plenary Council
Mick Lowcock, Helen Melarekere and
Assembly was held earlier this term.
Stephanie Sullivan at the Assembly.
Assembly members were to meet last year in Adelaide and then in clusters in our respective states but COVID restrictions relegated the whole experience online – a first for the Catholic Church. At the Assembly, 320 religious and lay people came together online over eight days to pray, listen, discuss and discern 16 questions within 6 themes, and provide responses each day leading to 16 drafted recommendations – one per question. Director of Catholic Identity and Indigenous Education Services, Louise Vella-Cox, joined Bishop Tim Harris, Fr
Plenary is a canonical meeting of the entire Catholic hierarchy in the country and convenes from time to time to address a sweeping agenda which – in Australia’s case – examined the Church’s fundamental missionary orientation and its internal institutional structures. This year’s assembly
Through Plenary, God is calling us to be a Christ-centred Church that is missionary and evangelising; inclusive, participatory, and synodal; prayerful and eucharistic; humble, healing, and merciful; open to conversion, renewal, and reform and as importantly, a joyful, hopefilled and servant community.
is the 5th Plenary Council in Australia’s Catholic history, however, the first since
The Plenary Council meets again next
1937. A plenary council takes care that
year in July to rubber-stamp the 16 reports
provision is made for the pastoral needs of
and the actions associated with the
the people of God and possesses the power
listed proposals.
of governance, especially legislative power.
Weather Warnings Queenslanders may experience an
best place to find the latest information
average, or slightly above average,
is online at the TCE Facebook page, and
number of tropical cyclones this season,
our website www.tsv.catholic.edu.au or on
with an increased risk of widespread
your school’s Facebook page or website.
flooding, according to the Bureau
• If a decision is made the day before to
of Meteorology's Severe Weather Outlook released 11th October 2021. We know that cyclones can develop at any time throughout the tropical cyclone season, which runs from November to April. This means that we need to stay prepared and stay informed during this time.
will, where possible, contact all parents/ carers by note, SMS and social media. • If a decision is made overnight to close Catholic schools, Townsville Catholic Education will issue advice and information by local radio, on
be communicated to parents/carers wherever possible by SMS, social media, websites, local radio stations and school transport companies. Principals will make arrangements for any child who does not have a safe means of reaching home, or appropriate supervision to be cared for at the school.
Flooding can also occur during this
the TCE and school websites and
season, Townsville Catholic Education
on TCE social media channels
If the school is open, parents can make
(TCE) use a range of methods to advise
(Twitter, instagram and facebook).
their own judgement on whether it is safe
of school closures in the lead up to, and following a severe weather event. The
20
close Catholic schools, the principal
• If a decision is made during school hours to close a school, information will
to send their child to school before or after a severe weather event or warning.
Our School Chaplains As the year draws to a close, it is a timely reminder to acknowledge the great work our Chaplains do within our schools and to thank these wonderful people who reach out to others with the love, care, and concern of Christ. We have a number of Chaplains appointed across our school communities who assist the principal and school leadership teams in delivering some of the pastoral care opportunities and Christian spiritualitycentered activities in schools.
Some of the many important contributions that Chaplains regularly make to our schools include sporting and cultural activities and programs before, during, and after school, as well as providing a listening ear and a caring presence for all students. Including those who are in crisis, those who just need a friend, those who are stressed and anxious,
or those who just want to have a chat – their network extends to the staff and parents too! Chaplains are often instrumental in preventing the ‘bruising and injury’ by being a safe and supportive influence to those who need it. They are worthy influencers in the areas of pastoral care and the spiritual dimension of life.
! ou y k Than 21
Guidance Counsellors prepare with “Stormbirds” Children and young people can be
Victoria, NSW, SA, WA and QLD cyclones
were trained and supported by The
particularly vulnerable when their
and floods and in Christchurch, New
MacKillop Institute to enable them to
families and communities are exposed
Zealand, following the earthquake.
deliver the 4-session program directly
to natural disaster events. Exposure can effect their mental health and impact their educational outcomes both in the short and longer-term. However, evidence suggests that most children will cope effectively following a disaster given support, time and the appropriate intervention.
foundational principles of the Seasons for Growth evidence-based loss and grief program. The program invites children and young people to learn and practice ways of identifying and responding to significant life events and disasters, with an emphasis
Good Grief and The MacKillop Institute
on understanding the effects of change,
delivers an early intervention education
loss and grief. This provides children and
program “Stormbirds” that trains staff
young people with the skills to manage
to provide tailored support to children
and overcome their trauma and builds their
and young people affected by natural
resilience to cope in the likely event of
disasters. Developed in 2009 in response
tough times ahead in their communities.
to the Black Saturday Bushfires in Victoria, “Stormbirds” has supported many regional communities following bushfires in
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“Stormbirds” is embedded in the
Across 2021 all Guidance Counsellors employed by Townsville Catholic Education
to small groups of children and young people. This amazing collaboration with The MacKillop Institute and Good Grief was facilitated by the Queensland Catholic Education Commission and rolled out across multiple Dioceses.
Across our schools, Guidance Counsellors are now well equipped to support our students should there be future disaster events where appropriate intervention is required to reduce the impact on their educational outcomes.
Solar Project Update The Solar Project is a major
system commissioned and operating
step towards a 100% renewable
at Southern Cross Catholic College,
energy future for our schools.
Annandale. Since its installation, the school
The third stage of the project commenced at the end of 2020, which will see over 4,000 kWs of solar panels and
has seen a reduction in grid-sourced energy, reducing reliance on nonrenewable sources and electricity costs.
7,000 kWs of Tesla battery storage
The graphs below show the
installed across the Diocese.
changes in grid energy reliance and
The project has reached a key milestone with the first solar panel and battery
consumption charges since successfully installing the new solar system.
BEFORE NEW PV WAS COMMISSIONED Note: Large proportion of energy consumed was grid sourced energy, very small amounts of solar generated energy.
AFTER PV WAS COMMISSIONED (MAY) Note: Energy from solar panels powering most of the College during daylight hours. Some grid sourced energy required during cloudy parts of the day.
AFTER BATTERY WAS COMMISSIONED (END OF JULY) Note: No grid sourced energy required even during the night. Excess solar generated energy is being diverted to the batteries (no exports). Almost 100% green energy. Bill impact: Minimal to no consumption charges, greatly reduced peak demand charges, potential in the future to change to a better tariff and greatly reduce service charges
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G O D NE VE R GI VE S S O M E ONE A GI F T T HE Y A R E NOT C APAB LE O F R EC E I VI NG. I F HE G I V E S US T HE GI FT OF IT IS B E C A U S E W E ALL HAVE T HE A B I L I T Y T O UNDE R S T AND A N D R E C E I VE I T .
Christmas, Pope Francis
TSV.CATHOLIC.EDU.AU
