2021 in Review - Term 4 2021 Magazine

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.

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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!

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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