Mount St Bernard College eNewsletter

Principal

Welcome to Term 4

As we begin Term 4, I extend a warm welcome back to all students, staff, and families. This final term of the year is always filled with energy, reflection, and celebration as we acknowledge the achievements of our students and prepare for the important milestones ahead.

Year 12 Farewell and Graduation

Last week, our school community came together to celebrate and farewell our Year 12 students in a meaningful and memorable way. The Graduation Liturgy was a beautiful reflection of their journey, highlighting the growth, resilience, and spirit they’ve shown throughout their time at school. It was a moment to pause, give thanks, and honour the contributions these young adults have made to our school culture.

Following the liturgy, families joined staff and students for a relaxed and heartfelt lunch. This gathering provided a special opportunity to share stories, express gratitude, and acknowledge the support that families have provided over the years. The atmosphere was warm and celebratory, filled with pride and hope for the future.

As our graduates prepare to take their next steps—whether into further study, training, or the workforce—we wish them every success. They leave us not only with academic knowledge but with values, friendships, and experiences that will guide them into adulthood. We thank them for the legacy they leave behind and look forward to hearing about the bright futures they will create.

Year 12 Graduation 2025

Our Year 12 ATAR students are now in the final stages of preparation for their external exams. This is a significant moment in their academic journey, and we commend them for the focus, determination, and resilience they’ve shown throughout the year. The lead-up to exams can be challenging, but we encourage each student to stay confident, trust in their preparation, and approach each exam with a calm and positive mindset.

Teachers and staff are here to support them every step of the way, and we know their families are cheering them on from home. These final weeks are an opportunity to finish strong and demonstrate all they’ve learned.

On behalf of the entire school community, we send our best wishes to our ATAR students. We believe in you, and we’re proud of all you’ve achieved. Good luck—you’ve got this!

Celebrating Excellence at Presentation Evening

Our recent Presentation Evening was a wonderful celebration of the achievements of our students across academic, leadership, sporting, arts, and cultural areas. This annual event is a highlight of our school year, and it was heartening to see so many families and staff come together to recognise the hard work and dedication of our young people.

Throughout the evening, we honoured students who demonstrated excellence, perseverance, and growth in their chosen fields. From outstanding academic results to inspiring leadership, creative performances, and sporting success, each award reflected the unique talents and contributions of our students.

It was also a chance to acknowledge the support networks—families, teachers, and peers—who have guided and encouraged our students throughout the year. Their collective efforts continue to shape a positive and thriving school culture.

We thank everyone who attended and helped make the evening so special. Your presence added warmth and pride to the occasion, and we are grateful for your ongoing support of our students and school community.

Attendance Awards:

80% Attendance:

Jarlun Sharp, Marco Canzian, Bailey Jarman, Jaymus Wailu, Ella O’Connor, Reece Pugh, Aaron Christie, Isaiah Snow, David Gibson, Stephen William, Nathaniel Ghee, Mia Ackland, Jack Jones, Meenakshi Riber, Ethel Sagigi, Keiran Bamaga, Rory Ross, Ramona Yellub, Liam Tyrrell, Yelnah Hosea, Megan Inkerman, Franchilon Gibuma, Mahalia Creek, Danielle Thiele, Elliot Feher-Holan, Nathan Wagner, Flynn Cortis, Mary Kyle-Smith, Tyler Morriss, Evander Tyore, Zolandra Brumby

90% Attendance:

Grace Hart, Hakiem Gibbo, Zena Belkessa, Yehara Edirising, Annika Feher-Holan, Hayden Crowton, Hayley Baker, Cooper Jones, Laverda Charlton, Clover Charlton

95% Attendance:

Yohan Gamia, Supreet Kaur, Bailey O’Shea, Mataias Pearson, Kailyn Josiah, Nate Pratt

80% Attendance Awards 2025

Year 7 – 10 Academic Awards

The Year 7 Academic Diligence Awards: KAILYN JOSIAH AND ZOLANDRA BRUMBY

The Year 7 Overall Academic Excellence Award: AVALON WALTHAM

The Year 8 Academic Diligence Awards: APIA JOE-GELA AND EDNA ANAU

The Year 8 Overall Academic Excellence Award: ZENA BELKESSA

The Year 9 Academic Diligence Awards: JARLUN SHARP AND COOPER JONES

The Year 9 Overall Academic Excellence Award: SUPREET KAUR

The Year 10 Academic Diligence Awards: MATAIAS PEARSON AND MARCO CANZIAN

The Year 10 Overall Academic Excellence Award: BAILEY O’SHEA

Year 7 – 10 Academic Awards 2025

Mahalia Creek: Academic Excellence in Essential English, Essential Maths and Certificate II in Cookery Skills

Tyler Morriss: Academic Excellence in Certificate II in Workplace Skills and Industrial Technology Skills

Lincoln Fitzgerald: for Academic Excellence in Information and communication Technology and Visual Arts in Practice and Academic Diligence in Essential English, Essential Maths and Certificate II in Sports and Recreation

Annika Feher-Holan: Academic Excellence in Music in Practice and Visual Arts; and Academic Diligence in General Maths and Religion and Ethics

Bailey Jarman: Academic Diligence in General English, Industrial Technology Skills and Music in Practice

Peggy Pabai: Academic Diligence in Certificate II in Workplace Skills

Tishara Tamwoy: Academic Diligence in Information and Communication Technology
Ramona Yellub: Academic Diligence in Certificate II in Workplace Skills

Grace Hart: Academic Excellence in General English, General Maths, Chemistry, Biology and Religion and Ethics and Year 11 Overall Academic Excellence

Year 11 Academic Awards 2025

Meenakshi Riber: Academic Excellence in General English, Math Methods, Chemistry, Drama and Geography

Clementine Barker: Academic Excellence in Biology, Visual Art and Geography

Danielle Thiele: Academic Excellence in Biology

Aaron Christie: Academic Excellence in Essential English, Agricultural Practices and Religion and Ethics; and Academic Diligence in General Maths and Industrial Technology Skills

Becky Purt: Academic Excellence in Essential Maths and Music in Practice

Nathan Wagner: Academic Excellence in Music in Practice

Laverda Charlton: Academic Excellence in General Maths and Modern History and Academic Diligence in Design and Geography

Liam Tyrrell: Academic Excellence in Industrial Technology Skills

Mary Kyle-Smith: Academic Excellence in Visual Arts in Practice and Certificate II in Workplace Skills and Academic Diligence in Information and Communication Technology

Clover Charlton: Academic Excellence in Design and Academic Diligence in Modern History and English

Maddison Blair: Academic Excellence in Certificate II in Sport and Recreation and Academic Diligence in Essential English

Thomas Cannan: Academic Excellence in Information and Communication Technology

Tarryn Catanzariti: Academic Diligence in Essential Maths

Maya Hutton: Academic Diligence in Math Methods

Flynn Cortis: Academic Diligence in Biology

Chelsea Webb: Academic Diligence in Drama

Jack Jones: Academic Diligence Agricultural Practices

Caitlin Murray: Award for Academic Diligence in Music in Practice

Myka Petersen: Award for Academic Diligence in Religion and Ethics, Visual Arts in Practice and Certificate II in Sports and Recreation

Megan Inkerman: Award for Academic Diligence in Certificate II in Workplace Skills

Year 12 Academic Awards 2025

The Junior Sporting Excellence Awards: Silas Baira and Binzella Anson

The Senior Sporting Excellence Awards: Oscar Wosomo and Nayita Joseph

Excellence in Hospitality Award

Mahalia Creek

Residential Awards

Junior Residential Awards: Jaytara Gibbo and Hakiem Gibbo.

Senior Residential Awards: Megan Inkerman and Nathanial Ghee.

The Mercy Residential Award: Mary Kyle-Smith and Mataias Pearson.

Performing Arts Awards

Junior Performing Arts: Yehara Edirising and Supreet Kaur.

Senior Performing Arts: Meenakshi Riber.

Special Awards

Junior Mercy Charism Award: Supreet Kaur

Senior Mercy Charism Award: Mary-Kyle Smith.

James Cook University Encouragement Awards: Marco Canzian and Bailey O’Shea.

Vocational Education and Training Award: Liam Tyrrell.

Year 11 QATSIF Young Indigenous Leader Award: Tyler Morriss

Year 12 QATSIF Young Indigenous Leader Awards to Mary Kyle-Smith.

MSB Spirit of Resilience Award: Maya Hutton

Australian Defence Force Long Tan Leadership & Teamwork Award: Shontay Anau and Danielle Thiele

Shining Lamp - Mercy Education Award: Nathan Wagner

College Dux: Meenakshi Riber

Principal Let Your Light Shine Award: Aaron Christie

Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns Year 12 Education Scholarship: Meenakshi Riber

Special Awards 2025

This term also brings the vibrant Jacaranda Festival, celebrated in the Herberton community, and with it, a series of musical performances led by the talented Mr Tobias Moldenhauer. These performances showcase the creativity and passion of our students and brought joy to the local community. We thank Mr Moldenhauer and all involved for their dedication to the arts.

Focus on Attendance and Academic Success

As we approach the end of the school year, we are placing a strong focus on improving attendance and academic success across all year levels. Every day of learning counts, and we encourage students to remain engaged, attend regularly, and strive for their personal best. Teachers are working closely with students to support their progress, and we appreciate the continued partnership with families in reinforcing the importance of consistent attendance and effort.

Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our school.

Narelle Hunt - Principal

Deputy Principal Residential

Weekend Leave

There are two exit or free weekends per term. This is in line with all other boarding schools across the country.

Designated exit weekends will be at the end of week 3 and week 6 each term. Students will be dropped off at Atherton, Mareeba and Cairns. The bus will arrive at Cairns Central, McLeod St Entrance, about 5.45 pm. The students will be picked up at Cairns Central at 3 pm on Sunday. Any student who does not make this bus must have their host return them to MSB at their earliest convenience.

Please contact the College if your student misses the bus or is late for other reasons. All families are aware that whilst a student is on weekend leave, they are completely responsible for that student. Only in exceptional circumstances will MSB staff be available to collect a student from the bus stop in Atherton.

Please ensure all leave applications are completed and sent to MSB by Wednesday, 4 pm, before the designated exit weekend.

I thank you for your understanding and cooperation with this procedure.

No Double Bunking

Parents are reminded that under our Child Safeguarding protocols we are not allowed to have students sleep in the same bed as other students. Our practice is to move the student with need to the bedroom opposite the student who will support them. We allow the curtains or doors to remain open and the lights to be left on.

Our goal is to support every student so that they feel safe whilst maintaining our child safeguarding protocols.

Cybersafety

Starting December 10, 2025, students under 16 will not be able to access many social media sites. This rule must be enforced by residential staff. We are not sure what guidelines we will be given to follow but expect that phone and laptop usage for students under 16 will need to be monitored in a public space like the common room. We asked that parents talk to their children about these changes so that all of our students are aware of the change when they return in 2026.

Malcolm Fahey - Deputy Principal Residential

Deputy Principal Curriculum & Admin

Finishing the Year Strong

As we reach the mid-point of Term 4, there is a real sense of purpose and determination across the College. Our Year 12 students are currently completing their External Assessments, marking the final step in their secondary schooling journey. We wish them every success as they demonstrate the knowledge and skills they have developed over many years of study. Their commitment and calm focus have been outstanding – a true reflection of their growth and maturity.

It was wonderful to see so many students recognised for their academic success and effort at our Presentation Evening. The evening was a celebration of persistence, curiosity, and the joy of learning. Each award represented hours of hard work and quiet determination — reminders that success comes not only from talent, but from perseverance and a genuine commitment to learning. We are incredibly proud of all students who have strived to reach their potential this year.

Meanwhile, our Year 10 students are out on Work Experience, engaging in valuable real-world learning. This experience helps them explore career pathways, build employability skills, and understand how classroom learning translates into the workplace. These insights will guide their senior subject choices and future aspirations.

It has also been encouraging to see a significant improvement in student attendance this term. Consistent attendance has a direct impact on academic progress — students who are regularly present are more confident, engaged, and able to build upon prior learning. Thank you to all families for your ongoing support in ensuring students attend school every lesson of every day, ready to learn.

As we move into the final weeks of the school year, we encourage all students to stay focused and finish strong. Term 4 provides an important opportunity to consolidate skills, complete assessments, and set positive habits for the year ahead.

Some practical advice as we work our way through the final weeks of the year: Small steps, big progress. Encourage your child to break study tasks into short, focused blocks of 25–30 minutes, followed by a quick break. This helps maintain concentration and reduces stress — a simple but powerful way to build confidence and momentum.

Let’s keep the energy and effort up as we head towards the end of the year — every lesson counts!

Dr Emma Sheppard - Deputy Principal Curriculum & Administration

Assistant Principal Wellbeing

Dear Parents and Guardians,  

We concluded last term with RUOK Day where students participated in various activities. It was a great way to conclude the term before going on holidays. The days commenced with a liturgy followed by some songs of Praise and Worship led by some of our students together with Uncle Harry and Pastor Fred. Throughout the day students played games, did some cooking and participated in dancing. The focus for RUOK day is aimed at encouraging people to connect and have meaningful conversations to help others through difficult times. It aims to promote mental health awareness and support by reminding everyone that asking “Are you OK?” can make a significant difference in someone’s life. Thangs to Michelle Davies-Griffith for organising this day.

We then commenced this term with Whaddup Day. This day focused on giving students and staff the opportunity to re-connect with each other in a less formal way before the busyness of the term commences. Students were given opportunities to participate in various activities from Totem-pole painting, cooking, artwork and weaving. The day concluded with all students being invited to participate in a game of Rob the Nest. Thanks to Mr Joe Twidale for organizing this day. The feedback from staff and students was very positive about starting the term with a day like this.

This term, whilst very busy, has a number of highlights. In week 3 we farewelled our 12 students and wished them all the best in their future endeavours. Hopefully they will take with them some of the MSB values as they move onto the next journey in their lives. This term we also start to prepare our year 11 students for their final year of schooling. Whilst many of them will accept the challenge in taking on leadership positions all will be challenged to be the future leaders of our school in 2026. In preparation for this the year 11 students will be invited to participate in a retreat during week 5 of this term.

Our year 9 students will also have an opportunity to attend a camp during the term whilst the year 8 and 10 students will participate in a full day excursion throughout the term. The year 7 students participated in an excursion earlier in the year.

The members of the student wellbeing team for this term are:  

Counsellors: Sara Gorring sgorring@cns.catholic.edu.au  

  Kayleigh Smith ksmith16@cns.catholic.edu.au  

Wellbeing Officers: Michelle Davies-Griffith   mdaviesgri@cns.catholic.edu.au  

Tim Tewhare   ttewhare@cns.catholic.edu.au  

Re-set Room:      Jade O’Shea aoshea1@cns.catholic.edu.au  

Pastoral Leaders:  

Years 7, 8 & 9    Amanda Coleman  acoleman2@cns.catholic.edu.au  

Years 10, 11, 12 Mary-Anne Weiss   mweiss2@cns.catholic.edu.au (Joe Twidale is on leave until 2026)

Assistant Principal Student Wellbeing: Greg Hoare ghoare@cns.catholic.edu.au    

 For any enquiries regarding your child's wellbeing, please contact the Pastoral Leader Wellbeing for their year level using the provided email addresses or the College phone number at 07 4096 1444.  

Our major focus areas for this term are:  

Attending classes

Engaging in learning without disrupting others from learning

As we progress through the final term for the year all students are encouraged to keep building on the values of being safe, being responsible, and being respectful. Please remember that it is through your actions that the school environment is shaped. So, I encourage everyone to take pride in our school by working hard and being supportive of each other.

Greg Hoare - Assistant Principal Student Wellbeing

Enrol Now for 2026 & 2027

ENROL NOW

~ Enrolment applications - Please note all supporting documentation must be provided via email with online application to be considered for an interview.

APPLY TODAY EXCEL TOMORROW - 2026 SCHOLARSHIPS

* Dream, Believe, Achieve with Our Scholarships.

* Scan the QR code to apply for a range of MSB 2026 Scholarships.

* Apply before the end of Term 4 - go to https://www.msb.qld.edu.au/scholarships/

To enquire, book a tour or require more information visit our website at www.msb.qld.edu.au , Email - msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au or PH: 40 961 444.

Fees & Accounts

Term 4 School Fees & Accounts

We have made some changes to the way purchases are managed at MSB. We will no longer be able to charge items to family accounts. We have made this difficult decision due to the non-payment of accounts.

For all students - uniform purchases will now have to be paid upfront and will no longer be automatically put onto account.

For day students – morning tea and lunches will have to be paid upfront and will no longer be able to be added to your account. Remember that orders should be placed before school or during first break.

Term 4 fees have been issued. Our account terms are 14 days. Unless you are using the Direct Debit facility or on an approved payment arrangement, full payment is required each term within 14 days of the invoice being issued. Fees needs to be paid in full by the end of each term. Payment can also be made at the College office via EFTPOS or cash. Online payment details are noted on the account statement, which include direct bank transfer or BPay or CentrePay. The Customer Account number, located at the top left of your statement under your name and address, is an important reference for all communication with the College Finance Office.

Please remember that we have provisions for students who are experiencing hardship, and this can be discussed with our Finance Team Leader Sharon Negri if necessary via Ph: 4096 1586 or email snegri@cns.catholic.edu.au

Lisa Caldwell - Business Manager

Year 12 Day Out

The Year 12 Day Out in Week 3 was a great way to celebrate the final week of school for our hard-working seniors. We started with Laser Tag because the best way to bond with your classmates and teachers is to try to shoot them! Split up into random teams, we got to know and respect our teammates as we dashed around, strategised and celebrated raising our flag. Then we headed to Atherton Pool for a welcome swim and a Subway lunch provided by the school. As the students floated in the pool, talking, played volleyball or splashed each other, they took the time to appreciate the friendships they had made over the years at MSB, and relaxed and laughed after the hard work of the year. We wish them the best for their exams, their travel home and their bright futures.

Sarah Riber - Teacher

Year 12 Day Out 2025

Whaddup: A Cultural Transition Day to Kick Off Term 4

To welcome our students back this term we held Whaddup, a cultural transition day on Wednesday 8 October 2025. The name “Whaddup” is drawn from Murri language, commonly used to mean “what’s up” or “what’s been happening”. It perfectly captures the spirit of the day: reconnecting, sharing, and celebrating culture in a relaxed and inclusive setting.

This day was about reconnection — with peers, staff, and culture. With so many different mobs represented in our school community, Whaddup will featured a diverse range of culture-based activities designed to reflect and celebrate our students’ heritage.

What made Whaddup truly special it was student-led. Our talented students took the lead in showcasing their cultural knowledge, skills, and creativity. Staff were encouraged to step back, observe, and learn — engaging with students in the least intrusive way possible. A chance to let their hair down, have fun, and build stronger relationships in a relaxed environment.

Staff and students were be able to move between activities, and encouraged to experience as much as possible. Activities involved totem-pole creation, a traditional cook up, clap stick and boomerang art, traditional art, weaving and library activities.

Thanks goes to Joe Twidale for arranging a fantastic Whaddup a day to remember — one of learning, laughter, and connection.

Deborah Booth - Communications & Community Engagement

Whaddup: A Cultural Transition Day to Kick Off Term 4 2025

🍎 Hats Off to Our Teachers!

🎉Australia will celebrate World Teachers’ Day today, and here at Mount St Bernard College, we’re taking the time to recognise and celebrate the incredible work of our teachers.

From educating and inspiring to supporting and guiding — our teachers do it all, and we’re so grateful for their dedication. 💛To show our appreciation, we’ll be hosting a morning tea and presenting a gift to each of our amazing teachers.

It’s a small gesture to say a big thank you for everything you do.

Happy World Teachers’ Day! 👏🍰🎁

St Carlos Day Youth Day

A Celebration of Faith & Community!

On Sunday 12 October, MSB students joined a joyful Mass and festival on the lawn at Bishop’s House in Cairns

The event was filled with uplifting music from: • Emmanuel Worship • Filipino Choir • Hannah Prassad • Holly & Caden • Kyal Keyes & Sam Santos

Stallholders added to the festive spirit, including Catholic Mission, who shared their inspiring work supporting missionaries in Zambia. A beautiful day of connection, celebration, and youth-led faith in action

St Carlos Day 2025 images Catholic Diocese Cairns

Representing the Electorate of Hill, Mahalia Creek spent an inspiring week in Brisbane as part of the Queensland Youth Parliament (QYP).

Mahalia was part of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Committee, where her group introduced a powerful bill to:

Establish a legal right to cultural safety

Create a Cultural Safety Commission

Mandate reforms across key sectors

Embed protections in Queensland law

Mahalia spoke three times in Parliament:

• Debated her committee’s bill

• Delivered a Private Members Address

• Supported another group’s bill in debate

A huge congratulations to Mahalia for her leadership, advocacy, and commitment to positive change!

Photos courtesy of Stephen Miles MP

CAIRNS DIOCESAN NEWS - OCTOBER EDITION

MSB features in the latest edition of the Cairns Diocesan News. See link below to see all the exciting news.

Cairns Diocesan News October 2025

Appointment - Deputy Executive Director CEDC

MSB in the Community - Under 8's Day

This term we had the absolute joy of celebrating Under 8’s Day with a visit to a local primary school — and what a blast it was! Our science table was buzzing with curiosity as young minds, dressed in mini lab coats, transformed into budding scientists. From exploring magnets and classifying animals to racing marbles down towering tracks and testing toy cars on different surfaces — the discoveries were endless! They even got hands-on with static electricity using wands and ribbons — sparking wonder and giggles all around. It was incredible to witness their enthusiasm, teamwork, and growing love for science. A truly inspiring day filled with imagination, learning, and lots of smiles!

Kieren Waugh

Middle Leader Curriculum, Pedagogy, Assessment & Reporting Years 7 & 8

Drama & Design

In Week 1, Year 12 students from the Drama and Design classes attended a performance of a new theatre adaptation of George Orwell’s classic novel ‘1984’. Shake & Stir theatre company created a technically brilliant piece of theatre that combined projections and innovative set design to tell the chilling story of a dystopian future state. The students were inspired by the experience and came away with lots of ideas and inspiration for their work.

In Week 4, we were very fortunate to have a visiting theatre company at MSB for a performance and workshop. Jute Theatre’s ‘Get Your Geek On’ show was a high-energy, exciting and thought-provoking drama that had our students completely captivated. The story of a young First Nations girl trying to prove herself and win a science show was highly relatable, especially with the two actors playing a range of family and friends that everyone could recognise from their own lives. The most exciting moments of the show had the audience gasping and riveted to the action, particularly when our heroine had to make a tough moral choice and when we waited for the competition winner to be announced. After lunch, the actors ran an energetic drama workshop that had students clamouring to participate. We were so fortunate to have the opportunity to see this great show, with performers who worked so well with our students and were fantastic role models. Thanks to Jute Theatre for ‘Get Your Geek On’!

Sarah Riber - Drama & Design Teacher

**Year 12 students from the Drama and Design classes attended a performance of a new theatre adaptation of George Orwell’s classic novel ‘1984’.**

JUTE THEATRE "GET YOUR GEEK ON" PERFORMANCE

JUTE Theatre Performance 28 Oct 2025

DISNEY NEWSIES JR is coming to Atherton Performing Arts — and it’s bursting with talent and energy!

Directed by Sarah Riber, choreographed by past student Emmy Riber and Year 12 graduate Meena Riber. Featuring MSB students Flynn Cortis on lighting tech and past student Mahalia Jones with graduate students Laverda & Clover Charlton, & Chelsea Webb — it’s a true community production! Meena, Clover & Laverda also helped design the promotional artwork, what amazing talent we have!

Set in New York City at the turn of the last century and based on a true story, Newsies follows Jack Kelly, the bold leader of a band of teenage “newsies” who dream of a better life. When powerful publishers raise distribution prices, Jack leads the charge in a fight for justice that will inspire generations.

Early bird discount available until 31 October 2025!

Link to buy tickets https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1470410

Show Dates: Friday 21 November – Sunday 30 November 2025

Location: Atherton Performing Arts, 6A Silo Road, Atherton QLD 4883

Come support local talent and experience Broadway magic in the Tablelands!

Industrial Technologies

MSB Workshop – Building Skills, Shaping Futures

As the year draws to a close, the MSB Workshop is buzzing with a sense of achievement and excitement for what lies ahead. 2025 has been a year of creativity, craftsmanship, and growth, as students across all year levels developed their practical skills, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.

Our Year 12 students, who have spent countless hours designing, building, and refining their projects, are now ready to take their skills beyond the school gates. They leave behind not only outstanding examples of workmanship but also a legacy of commitment and innovation. These young adults will no doubt go on to make valuable contributions to their communities and industries, carrying forward the pride and precision that define the MSB Workshop.

As we farewell our graduating class, we also look forward to welcoming our new seniors — the Year 11 cohort — who will lead by example in 2026. Their enthusiasm, leadership, and creative energy ensure that the MSB Workshop remains a place where ideas come to life and craftsmanship continues to thrive.

Congratulations to all our students for a productive and inspiring year. The future looks bright — built strong, just like the work done right here at the MSB Workshop.

Nathan Unwin -Industrial Technologies Teacher

Industrial Technologies Week 4 Term 4 2025

MSB Agriculture – Growing Together, Growing Forward

This year has been another season of growth and success for the MSB Agriculture program. From early morning feeding routines to preparing the show team for competitions, our students have shown incredible dedication, teamwork, and care for the land and animals that sustain us.

Our Year 12 Agriculture students, who have been the heart of the program, now set out on new journeys beyond school. They’ve not only been excellent stewards of the Agriculture space but also role models for younger students — demonstrating responsibility, resilience, and a deep appreciation for the environment. As they step forward into the world, they carry with them the values and experiences that will make them leaders in their fields, both literally and figuratively.

Meanwhile, our Year 11 students are ready to step into their senior roles, bringing fresh ideas and enthusiasm to the farm. With their leadership and passion for sustainability, the Agriculture program is in excellent hands.

As the year comes to a close, we celebrate the hard work and achievements of every student involved in MSB Agriculture. Together, we’ve planted seeds of knowledge, harvested success, and cultivated a strong sense of community that will continue to flourish for years to come.

Nathan Unwin - Agriculture Teacher

Diversity

Mount St Bernard College – Providing diverse pathways to meet the wide-ranging needs of students we serve

At Mount St Bernard College, we are committed to providing every learner with the opportunity to achieve success through pathways that reflect their individual strengths, challenges, and aspirations. During term 4, the Diversity Team completed comprehensive diagnostic testing in literacy and numeracy to gain a clear understanding of the learning needs of students in Years 7–9.

The insights from these assessments will guide future planning and inform the design of targeted literacy and numeracy interventions for 2026, ensuring teaching and learning are evidence-based, purposeful, and responsive to the diverse needs of our students.

Collaboration remains central to this process. Teachers, Learning School Support Officers, and specialist staff will work together to analyse results, identify key areas for development, and implement strategies that promote growth and achievement for every learner in Years 7–9.

Inclusion at Mount St Bernard College is more than a goal — it is a practice grounded in our Catholic values. By understanding the unique needs of each learner, we nurture not only academic growth but also confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging. This work reflects the College’s ongoing commitment to care for every student as a valued member of our faith-filled community.

Through these diverse pathways, we continue to empower students to thrive, ensuring each learner is supported to reach their full potential academically, socially, and spiritually.

Doris Cuda – Diversity Middle Leader and Diversity Team

Year 10 Hartley's Crocodile Adventure

During week 3 of Term 4 our Year 10’s travelled to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures for a fun filled excursion. The day provided a fantastic opportunity to experience North Queensland’s incredible wildlife up close while also learning about animal behaviour, conservation and the environment.

The students watched the crocodile feeding show and had the opportunity to go on a boat ride where students safely observed crocodiles in their natural habitat. The park rangers shared fascinating facts about how crocodiles live and hunt.

Overall, Staff and Year 10’s visit to Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures was a memorable and valuable learning experience that was full of fun and a great day had by all.

Bry Finch - Learning School Support Officer

Year 10 Hartley's Crocodile Adventure 2025

The library is feeling significantly less busy since the departure of the year 12 students, many of whom used the library as a second home for their study and their lunch time breaks. We hosted these students for one last time as a cohort before their graduation ceremony and they continued to be the wonderful supportive and kind humans that they have been all year. MSB class of 2025, the library will miss you! Good luck for your upcoming exams and the next adventures that you will have!

In other library news, we have been preparing for Day for Daniel and creating Halloween inspired hybrid animals! The competition winners will be announced in the next newsletter. So far there have been an interesting mix of entries as can be seen in the pictures!

Uno No Mercy continues to be the popular game currently though the students are really enjoying completing the 1000 and 500 piece puzzles. Especially the brightly coloured images.

Rachel Nelson - Teacher Librarian

Year 12's Last Home Form Farewells 2025

Sadistic Online Exploitation

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) led Australian Centre to Counter Child Exploitation (ACCCE) and its international law enforcement partners have identified Sadistic Online Exploitation (SOE) as a growing global threat, targeting children and young people. As such, the ACCCE is warning the Australian community about the trend and providing advice on how to take action.

The below Sadistic Online Exploitation Factsheet provides information on:
• What is Sadistic Online Exploitation
• Who is at risk
• Who are the offenders
• Where to report

If you wish to seek more information you can access the ACCCE website page https://www.accce.gov.au/help-support/sadistic-online-exploitation

Sadistic Online Exploitation Factsheet