Mount St Bernard College eNewsletter

Principal

Term 3 is a busy time of year for students and staff. We are approaching assessment deadlines and preparing to develop student Progress Reports. This time of terms reinforces the importance of student participation and engagement in learning. It is important for students to participate actively in class discussions and group activities. Sharing thoughts, asking questions, and responding to others' ideas can demonstrate students’ engagement and understanding of the material. Respectful relationships are crucial as students start to get tired and stressed with assessment deadlines looming. The ability to develop resilience to meet deadlines is a fabulous life skill and will benefit students in the future. Being punctual and attending all classes will support the students to succeed. Students are only learning important curriculum content if they are present in their lessons. Being punctual, prepared, and ready to engage needs to be prioritised by all our students. We understand that there are valid times when students will be late for class due to a scheduled appointment. In these instances, it is essential for students to follow the correct process and advise student reception of the appointment they are attending.

Cultural Community Visit to the Torres Strait Islands

The MSB Community visit to the Torres Strait Islands aims to strengthen connections with the local community and promote the College for potential future enrolments. The visit also aimed to engage with community members and understand their needs while showcasing the College's commitment to education and holistic development. The delegation engaged with community members through various activities, including meetings, discussions, and interactive sessions. This allowed the team to establish a greater understanding of the island's cultural values, educational aspirations, and challenges.

This cultural exchange engenders a sense of cultural understanding and respect. Our MSB representatives participated in cultural exchanges, sharing traditions, stories, and experiences with the residents. This exchange contributed to building positive relationships and mutual respect. Deputy Principal Kieran Ryan, Assistant Principal Mission Janet Wigan, and Transition Support Officer Andrea Gower delivered informative presentations about the College's educational offerings, values, and commitment to academic excellence. They highlighted the benefits of studying at MSB and how the College supports students' growth both academically and personally. The team conducted virtual tours of the MSB campus, showcasing its state-of-the-art facilities, classrooms, laboratories, sports facilities, and recreational spaces. This allowed the community members to visualise the learning environment and resources available to students.

The visit aimed to promote the College as an excellent choice for future enrolments. The team discussed scholarships, financial assistance, and other support services available to potential students. This information was shared to encourage parents and students to consider MSB as their preferred educational institution. The discussions also centred around potential collaboration opportunities between MSB and the local community, such as workshops, community projects, and cultural events. These collaborative efforts could benefit both the College and the community. The MSB Community visit to the Torres Strait Islands was successful in building stronger connections with the local community and promoting the college as a desirable educational institution. The delegation's efforts in engaging with community members, sharing information about the college, and participating in cultural exchanges contributed to a positive and productive visit. The visit laid the foundation for potential future enrolments from the island and opened avenues for meaningful collaborations between MSB and the community. A similar visit is planned for the Cape communities later in the school year.

Cultural Exchange with The First Junior High School, Tokyo University of Agriculture

The recent visit of students from The First Junior High School, Tokyo University of Agriculture to Mount St Bernard College marks another successful year of cultural exchange and collaboration. During their visit, the Japanese students embarked on a creative journey, expressing themselves through art projects. They had the opportunity to engage with various art mediums, enabling them to showcase their creativity and unique perspectives. Furthermore, a special culinary session took place, where the students from both schools collaborated in preparing ANZAC biscuits infused with lemon myrtle. This culinary experience not only enriched their knowledge of Australian cuisine but also provided a platform for sharing culinary traditions.

The MSB campus, known for its lush and picturesque surroundings, provided the perfect setting for the Japanese students to immerse themselves in nature. They had the chance to interact with the school's resident chickens, gaining insights into animal care and husbandry practices. Additionally, the students were taken on a guided tour of the students' gardens, where they learnt about sustainable gardening practices and the importance of environmental stewardship.

One of the highlights of the visit was a captivating dance performance that showcased the cultural richness of both Japan and Australia. MSB students exhibited their talents by performing traditional Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander dances. Their confidence and dedication impressed the Japanese visitors, who reciprocated with a traditional Japanese dance performance. This exchange of dance not only highlighted the artistic prowess of the students but also fostered a deeper understanding of each other's cultures. The visit of students from The First Junior High School, Tokyo University of Agriculture to MSB served as a testament to the power of cultural exchange and educational collaboration. Through art, culinary activities, nature exploration, and dance, the students from both schools not only broadened their horizons but also formed lasting connections. Such exchanges contribute to global understanding, empathy, and mutual respect, creating a brighter future through shared experiences.

Year 9 Expedition: A Journey of Teamwork, Outreach, and Fostering Friendships

In a world driven by individualistic pursuits, fostering teamwork, outreach, and genuine friendships has become more important than ever. The Year 9 Expedition at Mount St Bernard College has been a remarkable example of how young minds can come together to not only learn and explore but also embody the values and characteristics of the Sisters of Mercy, who are known for their compassion, service, and commitment to making a positive impact on society.

The Year 9 Expedition is not just a typical school trip; it's an immersive experience designed to challenge students and encourage personal growth. As the students embark on this journey, they are met with a carefully crafted blend of adventure and self-discovery. The expedition serves as a platform for students to put into practice the principles of collaboration, empathy, and resilience.

Throughout the expedition, teamwork is not just encouraged; it's essential. Students are grouped into teams that reflect diverse backgrounds, interests, and abilities. This deliberate mix fosters an environment where they learn to appreciate each other's strengths and differences, whilst also realising the significance of working together harmoniously.

Whether it's conquering physical challenges during outdoor activities, collaborating on problem-solving tasks, or supporting one another during long hikes and outdoor adventure activities, the students quickly grasp the idea that together they can achieve much more than they could alone. These experiences plant the seeds of lifelong collaboration and help them develop valuable skills for the future.

While the expedition focuses on teamwork and outreach, it also creates a fertile ground for forging genuine friendships. The challenges, shared experiences, and the bonding moments throughout the journey create strong connections between students. They learn to appreciate and respect one another, fostering a sense of camaraderie that extends beyond the duration of the expedition.

By modelling the characteristics of the Sisters of Mercy, the Year 9 Expedition teaches students the importance of empathy, selflessness, and making a positive impact. It demonstrates that these values are not just abstract concepts, but principles that can be integrated into everyday life.

In a world often dominated by individual pursuits, initiatives like the Year 9 Expedition exemplify the potential of young people to come together, support one another, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. As these students return from their journey, they carry with them not only memories and lessons but also a commitment to embody the spirit of teamwork, outreach, and friendship that the Sisters of Mercy have exemplified for generations.

Congratulating District Athletes

District-wide athletic success is a testament to the collective effort, dedication, and determination of students, coaches, administrators, and communities. Several students have risen to prominence in the realm of sports, showcasing exceptional achievements across various disciplines. Special acknowledgement goes to our record breakers in their respective age groups:

Julia Billy – Javelin, 19.56m - Megan Inkerman – Javelin, 27.14m - Reem Sam – Javelin, 33.88m

Our competitors exemplified the heart of champions and demonstrated resilience, sportsmanship, teamwork, and the pursuit of personal bests. The students’ positive mindsets prepared them to face the challenges of their events with determination and grace.

Supporting Year 12 ATAR Students in the lead up to their exams

The core task a student has is to learn.  This means students need to take ownership and responsibility for how they apply themselves both in and out of the classroom.  When at home the responsibility of homework, assignment completion, exam revision and study lie solely with the student.  Students need to use techniques that work best for them, but regardless of the technique, students need to master time management, active listening, note-taking, goal setting, planning, mindfulness, and healthy practices.

Stress is to be expected at exam times, it’s natural.  The best way to reduce stress is to be prepare for the subject.
Ensure you get adequate sleep each night.   Students are less mentally alert when they are tired, whereas when students are refreshed, they retain and recall information more effectively. 
Maintain balance and allow yourself to have breaks from study.  Research indicates that for every one hour of study have a 10 – 15 minute break and you’ll be most efficient in your first three hours of study – so ensure you have a solid break every three hours.
Exercise, eat well and avoid caffeine.
Your brain needs energy so don’t skip meals.
Exercise – it stimulates chemicals in the brain to help you stay alert and it relieves stress.  It is a good idea to exercise outdoors – fresh air will do you wonders.

Narelle Hunt - Principal

Deputy Principal Curriculum & Admin

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we move towards the end of term 3, I wanted to take a moment to discuss an essential aspect of your child's education: study skills. Developing effective study habits is crucial for academic success, and your support and involvement in this process can make a significant difference in your child's learning journey.

We understand that each student has their unique learning style and pace. However, there are some universal study skills that can benefit all students. Here are some key study skills that we encourage you to reinforce at home:

Time Management: Help your child create a study schedule that includes dedicated time for homework and revision. Encourage them to prioritise tasks, set goals, and stick to a routine.

Organisation: Teach your child to keep track of assignments, tests, and projects by using a planner or digital calendar. Organised students are more likely to complete tasks on time.

Active Reading: Encourage your child to engage actively with the material they're reading. This could include highlighting key points, asking questions, and summarising what they've read in their own words.

Study Environment: Help create a conducive study environment at home with minimal distractions. Ensure they have access to necessary supplies, such as pens, paper, and a quiet space to work.

Study Techniques: Explore various study techniques with your child, such as flashcards, mind maps, or group study sessions. Different methods work for different people, so it's essential to find what suits their learning style.

Breaks and Rest: Remind your child to take short breaks during study sessions to avoid burnout. Encourage them to get enough sleep, eat well, and stay physically active for better cognitive function.

Seeking Help: It's okay to seek help when they're struggling with a particular subject or concept. Encourage them to ask questions in class and seek assistance from teachers or tutors when needed.

Stay Positive: Foster a positive attitude towards learning. Encourage resilience in the face of challenges and emphasise that making mistakes is a natural part of the learning process.

Your involvement and support in nurturing these study skills in your child are invaluable. By working together, we can ensure that they have the tools and strategies necessary to excel academically and grow as independent learners.

All assessment calendars have been uploaded to the Parent Portal. Please reach out to the College if you have any issues accessing these.

If you have any questions or would like additional resources to help your child develop their study skills, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We are committed to working collaboratively with you to ensure your child's success.

Sincerely,

Kieran Ryan - Deputy Principal - Curriculum & Administration

Acting Deputy Principal Residential

Cyber Safety

As a community we aim to educate our students to live the MSB Three.

Be Safe - Be Respectful - Be Responsible

The following article was written by a 12 year old student and reflects on how a young teenager views cyber safety. Please read and share the content with your children

Follow the link below to read this young persons article.

Engagement - Mountain to the Sea

Kenny O'Brien and myself recently took eight boys from year 7 to 9 to Yorkeys Knob to do some alternative activities. We were accompanied by Limferd Lui who was the “big brother” for the day.

First, we prayed then we acknowledged the country on which we met, then we read turtle tracks and crocodile tracks, this was followed by constructing 3D replicas of Totems.

After this we played some touch on the beach then enjoyed some “Rock and Water” activities to calm the students. In particular they were taught how to centre themselves and breath to minimise their impulsive reactions.

A great day was had by all.

GAP YEAR STUDENT VOLUNTEERS

This week, four of five GAP students begin volunteering in the dormitories. All of these students are keen to interact with the students and find out about our Australian way of life. Their youthful exuberance is appreciated by the students, which in turn, allows them to build rapport with the students. Please make them feel welcome to the college and Australia if you cross paths with them over the coming months.

Malcolm Fahey - Acting Deputy Principal Residential

Five things your kids say to me that hurt my heart?

Engagement - Mountain to the Sea Term 3 2023

Assistant Principal Mission

Mission Matters

Sometimes it can be difficult to recognise God in our everyday lives, and at other times the sense of the Devine’s presence can almost overwhelm us. For me, the last couple of weeks have been blessed with many moments when God’s Spirit was clearly present.

I am grateful to have been part of the MSB Community Engagement Tour to the Torres Strait. It was wonderful to see Horn, Boigu, Badu, Moa, Thursday, Erub and Warraber Islands. Flying in small aircraft enabled me to appreciate the differences and distance between Islands, their size and geography, and the size of the airstrips! I certainly experienced Awe and Wonder of Creation as I watched the beautiful changing colours of the ocean and spotted the turtles and a dugong! Thank you to the families and past students who looked after us and made us feel so welcome.

It was a Joy to take Gladys, Amora, Tamara, Ciara and Yasserie to Rosies – Friends on the Street at Mareeba earlier in the month. As first-time volunteers they all were amazingly enthusiastic, helpful and friendly.

This Sunday, I will be taking 23 students to celebrate a youth-led mass at St Joseph’s Church in Atherton. The Reverence MSB students show during parish liturgies always makes an impression on those present. Thank you to Sinevah, Yasserie and Mary for having the confidence to volunteer as Ministers of the Word.

I look forward to seeing many of you at our NAIDOC celebrations next week.

May God’s Mercy continue to shine upon us all!

Janet Wigan - Assistant Principal Mission

MSB Community Engagement Term 3 2023

NAIDOC PROGRAM 2023 V2

Enrol Now for 2024 & 2025

2024 Enrolments

Spaces are filling fast for 2024. If you are intending on applying please do so as soon as possible. Enrolment interviews will be finalised in term 3. If you know of any family or friends who wish to apply please let them know as well.

2025 Enrolment Timeframes

Our enrolments for 2025 will be finalised in Term 1, 2024. Offers of a placement will be advised on the same day as all other Catholic schools in the Diocese in Term 2, 2024.

TO ENROL

Visit: www.msb.qld.edu.au/apply-online-now or phone Enrolment enquiries on (07) 4096 1485
Email: msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au
For a Tour or more information – Phone (07) 4096 1444 or email msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au

Tours will be available on Naidoc Day, Thursday 31st August. There will be three tours done throughout the day.

If interested please email dbooth@cns.catholic.edu.au - Limited spaces available

2024 Scholarships

Mount St Bernard College has a long tradition of educating children from diverse backgrounds and has established scholarship programs to support students and their families.

We are fortunate to be able to offer a range of Scholarships and Bursaries for entry to Years 7 – 12. Many of these awards have been established due to the generosity of the Sisters of Mercy, Colleen & Frank Sims and Mount St Bernard College.

Scholarships may be full or partial awards towards the cost of tuition.

All scholarships and bursaries are subject to specific terms and conditions. Scholarships will commence in 2024, and, subject to the conditions detailed, the offer letter will generally continue for the duration of the student’s enrolment at Mount St Bernard College until graduation from Year 12.

Please forward completed applications by the end of Term 3, 2023 to the Enrolments Officer – msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au

Applications are available on our website at https://www.msb.qld.edu.au/scholarships/

For further information please Ph: 4096 1485

Deborah Booth - Communications & Community Engagement Administrator

Transition & Engagement

Kieran Ryan, Deputy Principal Curriculum & Administration , Janet Wigan, Assistant Principal of Mission and I, Andrea Gower, Transition & Engagement Officer had the pleasure of visiting the Torres Strait Islands on our second community engagement tour for 2023. We travelled to seven islands in four days: Horn, Boigu, Badu, Moa, Thursday, Darnley and Warraber Islands to connect with families and meet with potential new enrolments.

For the first time since Covid we visited Thursday Island, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart Primary School with MSB doing a presentation to Year 5 & 6 students. They were all very excited to learn about MSB, the Atherton Tablelands and life at boarding school. It was wonderful to strengthen our connection with Our Lady Sacred Heart. Thank you to David Graham (Acting Principal) for welcoming us.

During the visit we held Parent Teacher interviews with twenty six families and discussed students' Semester 1 academic and behaviour reports. We also assisted eighteen families with setting up their Parent Portal access and completed new enrolment applications.

We are very grateful to our TSI consultative committee members for making us feel welcome, helping organise transport, a place to set up and promote our tour. We would also like to extend our thanks to past students that came to say hello and a special thank you to our past graduates Anita Richard, Doriah Tamu and Jonomick Lui for looking after us and showing us around your beautiful island home.

Andrea Gower - Transition & Engagement Officer

2023 Term 3 TSI Community Visit

MSB students joined AFL Cape York for our 5^th year to be involved in the Chris Johnson and Angie Nadredre Cups in Bamaga. We had a great time travelling up to the tip of Australia whilst camping along the way. It was awesome to see students getting involved in the whole experience and showing their AFL talents. An experience these students will never forget. Well done to all students below in getting involved and having a life-long experience.

Jack Jonsson, Jake Kleemann, Jarius Lalara, Nayita Joseph, Amora Krnjacki, Rylee Finch, Yindali Sharp, Mia Prior, Tara Bevan & Megan Trezise.

A special congratulations for Megan Trezise for being selected to play in a curtain raiser game in Cairns before the AFLW Hawthorn verses Richmond on the 20^{th of} October. This is an outstanding achievement and opportunity for Megan.

We thank Lisa Carroll for her supervision and supporting our students on this trip and are grateful for all the staff at AFL Cape York for inviting us. We are already looking forward to the 2024 Bamaga Trip.

Ryan Mawdsley - Teacher In Charge Bamaga Trip

AFL Cape York Bamaga 2023

In Week 6, Year 9 students ventured out into the wilderness for the annual Year 9 expedition. This is a challenging and rewarding program that takes students out to camp and hike in stunning locations over four days. The students experienced responsibility, self-sufficiency, resilience, and forged bonds of friendship as they carried all their gear, built fires, cooked and pushed themselves to complete the tough physical demands. The Year 9 girls showed amazing teamwork and positivity as they supported each other and enjoyed the beautiful weather, stunning views and refreshing swimming holes along the way. Thanks to all the support staff who allowed this event to take place and the students who helped create great memories.

Sarah Riber - Expedition Teacher

Year 9 Expedition 2023

Andrea Gower, Transition & Engagement Officer and Kym Kocsis, Transition Support Services from Cairns Regional office, collaborated and co-presented the Deadly Deportment & Etiquette Evening to junior female boarders. This was held over two consecutive nights, on the 16th and 17th August. The program was designed for the girls, about how to take pride in the way they present themselves and etiquette, being how to take pride in the way you behave and the respect you have for yourself and others.

Both nights focused around explicit participation and interaction through discussion and team work. The first night focused the girls on a sense of belonging, school culture and identity. They also discerned personal character traits and discovered commonality through team building activities. The girls learnt about personal hygiene which included a Big Sis Talk Video on maintaining health to prevent disease through cleanliness. Each student that participated received an Empower Women goodie bag, full of products that were kindly donated by Happy Bags coordinator Kym Kocsis.

The second night was all about girls having fun. They learnt about beauty from different cultures, discussed how to take care of their skin and nails and teamed up to use a variety of makeup palettes and accessories. A lot of fun, laughter and smiles were had by all.

We would like to thank all the girls who participated, boarding staff support and the companies listed below, who contributed in supporting the Deadly Deportment & Etiquette Evenings.

Companies: Kym Kocsis – Coordinator of Happy Bags (Female hygiene products), Niven Bowden – Marsh McLennan Insurance Pty Ltd, Astute Financial, Dojo & Tokuni Hair.

Andrea Gower - Transition & Engagement Officer

Deadly Deportment Etiquette Evening Term 3 2023

Six weeks into term 3 and it has continued to be chilly but the Library is a warm and welcoming space for students to bunker down and enjoy the puzzles, games, and books. Students, especially those from the Torres Strait, have been enjoying the new editions to our library collection purchased by Principal, Narelle Hunt on her trip to the islands in July. The year 12 boys Jimmy and Lahsade have been engrossed in the song books from home and many students have spent lunchtimes exploring the two dictionaries as well as using our new replacement copy of Myths and Legends of Torres Strait, the original in the collection having been retired after a well-loved library career.

Week 7 is Children’s Book Week 2023 where we spend the week celebrating Australian Children’s authors and illustrators. The theme for 2023 is READ, GROW, INSPIRE and students have helped the library embody this through a colourful floral display. Staff have also been involved by identifying a book that has helped them grow (or grown up with) or inspired them in some way. Next Newsletter will have some more Book Week news and pictures.

Rachel Nelson - Teacher Librarian

Library New Week 7 Term 3 2023

The Arts

VISUAL ART & DESIGN

Five MSB students attended Creative Future’s QCA Art & Design School Program over a weekend in Cairns. Nominated students from across the region worked alongside a team of expert teachers from Griffith University’s Queensland College of Art, to develop skills and explore new perspectives in the areas of interior design, photography and mural painting. Ernestine and Mary attended Murals: Shapes in the Landscape; Sinevah attended Photography Material Meaning and Making while  Clementine and Ebony attended Interior Design: Making a Stage for your Innermost Self. Parents and friends attended a celebration exhibition held at the conclusion of the weekend.

Creative Future’s QCA Art & Design School Program 2023

Five MSB students have had their artwork selected for this year's Energy 2023. Goodluck Sinevah Mari, Kasmin Logan, Tamara Kelly, Tae Dempsey & Meena Riber.

The student artwork, exhibition and opening night dates are below.

Wed 30 Aug - Mon 02 Oct

LAUNCH: 6pm Friday 15 September

Young artists share their creative energy and insights in this annual student exhibition, bursting with innovative, high-quality works that will engage and inspire you.

ENERGY is a presentation of visual art produced by school students across the region. Featuring works submitted to the 2023 Creative Generations Awards, ENERGY presents the best young and emerging artists of our region, and a level of professionalism and maturity well beyond their years. A must-see exhibition, ENERGY opens a window into the astonishing talent of this region’s up-and-coming artists.

The launch event includes awards presentations and entertainment by selected high school musicians.

INFO: info@tanksartscentre.com or jwill343@eq.edu.au

Image credit: Jennifer’s Body, painting by Emily Zagata Woree State High School Yr 12 2022

MUSIC

The  Music Department would like to thank the MSB Parents and Friends Association for funding upgrades to our  Music programme.

Items purchased include a performance-grade electric bass and amplifier, a performance-grade electric guitar, a set of drum microphones including stands, performance-grade cymbals and a new basic drum kit.

We also made a start in purchasing the first piece of studio recording gear, a 20-track recording mixer. Along with upgrades to come in the new year, this will allow us professional studio recordings of our students' original music.

Year 11  Music  in Practice students are enjoying the new equipment and are putting all the instruments to good use while rehearsing their original Reggae tune for the upcoming NAIDOC Day concert on August 31st.

Traylea Sexton - The Arts Middle Leader

Music room

Peninsula Athletics

Several students have excelled this week at Barlow Park in Cairns hoping to succeed and be selected for the Peninsula Team to represent FNQ at State Athletics.

Congratulations to Reem Sam who has been selected to represent MSB in high jump as part of the Peninsula Team heading to the State Athletics in Brisbane later this year.

Well done Reem and all students who attended for their efforts.

Please see listed below the official results from the Peninsula Trials held at Barlow Park.

Julia Billy - 5th - Javelin

Reem Sam - 3rd - Long Jump, 4th - Triple Jump, 2nd - Javelin & 1st - High Jump

Griffin Banu - 3rd - 200m & 5th - 100m

Sajida Coolwell - 6th - Javelin

Megan Trezise - 6th - Triple Jump

Jarius Lalara - 5th - Javelin & 11th Shot Put

Limferd Lui - 5th - Triple Jump, 8th - 100m & 6th Javelin

Rosie Aruba - 2nd - 100 & 200m

District Athletics

Please see listed below the official results from the District Athletics trials held at St Stephens Catholic College. Congratulations to all our students for your efforts.

Griffin Banu - 2nd - 100m & 1st - 200m

Limferd Lui - 2nd - 100m, 1st - Triple Jump, 3rd - Discus & 1st - Javelin

Lochlan Dalgety - 2nd - 1500m

Jarius Lalara - 3rd - Shot Put

Reem Sam - 2nd - High Jump & 2nd Javelin

Tae Dempsey - 1st - High Jump, 3rd - 100m, 3rd - Shot Put & 3rd - Discus

Rosie Aruba - 1st - 100m & 200m

Alisha Dau - 3rd - 200m

Megan Inkerman - 1st - Javelin & 3rd - Discus

Megan Trezise - 2nd - Triple Jump

Julia Billy - 3rd - Javelin

Sajida Coolwell -1st - Javelin

Andrea Goetze - Health & Physical Education Middle Leader

District Athletics

Peninsula Athletics Trials 2023

Maths & Science

In Science students have been consolidating their Chemistry and Biology knowledge. It’s been great to see students having the opportunity for a number of science practicals and experiments due to their great behaviour and dedicated teachers and support staff. They have created glue out of milk, made elephant toothpaste, and created hydrogen in the famous hydrogen pop test within their Chemistry Unit. In their Biology Units students have extracted DNA from strawberries, made DNA models and used fake blood to determine blood types.

In Maths, students have been exploring Algebra and Measure. We have been able to use technology to support our learning by using interactive models such as algebra scales and online graphical calculators. Our year 8’s and 9s are going further and investigating real life problems using technology in their assignments this term. The year 8’s are creating a logo for an Olympic sport using geometric shapes which will then be explained mathematically such that it could be printed for a quilt and with a 3D printer. The Year 9’s are looking into gaming developments and investigating how to make games more realistic.

Nikki Chambers - Acting Maths & Science Middle Leader

Science Week 7 Term 3 2023

English

Twelfth Night – Atherton Performing Arts

Several MSB students are working hard in rehearsal for Atherton Performing Arts’ Youth Theatre production of Twelfth Night. One of Shakespeare’s most popular comedies, Twelfth Night is a delightful mixture of romance and mistaken identity. This dynamic production retains Shakespeare’s iconic language but appeals to a modern audience with a streamlined adaptation, plenty of action and physical comedy, and a soundtrack of classic songs by Cole Porter, Gershwin, and others. The students would love to have the MSB community attend the show. Tickets are available through Tablelands Books and Trybooking via the Atherton Performing Arts website.

Humanities

Walsh River Catchment Field Trip by Jenny Rossiter

Is the water in the Walsh River at Watsonville safe to drink? What human activities in the surrounding area may have an impact on its potability? How can we test this?

These and many more are some of the questions being investigated by Year 10A Geography students this term. With the assistance of MSB Lab Tech, Angela Lunny, students tested water samples at five sites around Watsonville. Particular attention was given to sites below the Baal Gammon Mine where an historical pollution event had occurred.

The topography (changes in the earth’s surface such as mountains and valleys) of the area was examined in relation to which of Jamie and Toy Creeks were likely to be affected by mine run off. Water was tested with regard to pH (acidity and alkalinity) and conductivity (an indicator of heavy metals). These were also compared to results from previous tests to see the change over time.

Have a chat with your child to see what our results found.

Walsh River Catchment Field 2023

On Thursday the Year 10, 11 and 12 students attended the BLA Careers Expo in Cairns. This is an annual event showcasing the different courses that students may follow at TAFE and University, or even different careers they could pursue in the future.

Monday the 28th of August MSB will be hosting our own Careers Expo. The different departments, English, Maths and all the other subjects’ areas will be showing off their subject offerings for 2024. This includes introducing the new subject of Drama and taking students down to Cairns to be a part of TAFE courses on the Cairns Campus. We will also be hosting different industry representatives for our future school leavers, so those wonderful students who will be leaving us soon can see what possible directions they could be taking in the future.

The Year 10 students will be completing their subject choices for Year 11 soon. This process is known as Senior Education & Training Profile (SET planning). The two Career Expos will inspire Year 10 students to help them select their subjects for next year, working out if they wish to be off to Uni (ATAR elligible) or focus on obtaining a QCE (Earning 20 QCE points), school-based apprenticeships or more work experience to see where their futures my lay.

Debby Small - VET & Careers Middle Leader

2023 Subject Selection Pathways Expo

Business & Technologies

In the Technologies and Business faculty, students are engaged in a range of learning activities:

Food and Fibre

Year 7 Food Technology have been focussing on learning Workplace Health and Safety in the kitchen and have cooked some lovely food from a healthy Muesli slice, Taco’s and pizza made from scratch with naturally dyed coloured bases. Yellow from fresh turmeric to Black from activated charcoal.

Year 7 & 8 combined class are learning about food from around the world. We made a healthy meal from America, with home-made burger patties with loads of vegetables, air-fried chips and a milkshake. French food we made Choux pastry into profiteroles, then last week we made Chicken and Mushroom Stroganoff from Russia. Next week Students are making Portuguese Lemon Tarts.

Year 9 students and the Hospitality students have been testing recipes with me for our upcoming NAIDOC Day, and we have developed some wonderful fusion foods for everyone to taste. From Kangaroo and Beef sausage rolls, Wattle seed Yum-Yum Balls, Caramelized onion Blini with an Aussie pepper seasoning. Our beautiful cupcakes have Aboriginal and Torres Strait traditional ingredients influence, so if you’re coming to NAIDOC Day we hope you enjoy what our students will serve you.

Kerry Winslett - Food and Fibre Technologies Teacher

Food and Fibre Technologies Week 7 Term 3

This Term, the students of both year 7 and year 8 have been discussing sustainability and what better way to be sustainable than to publish their findings in Canvas as a Discussion.

Students are currently choosing the Renewable Resource that they will model. Please look over their shoulder, or give them a call to learn more about Canvas and the great things they can accomplish.

Julia Cazita-Mazeaud - Engineering Principles Teacher

Industrial Technologies

MSB students will be entering some of their woodwork and metal work projects into the 2023 DATTA BLA Awards this year.

Currently Ella from year 11 with her Anchor and BBQ, and Grace and Meshach in year 9 with their folding chairs. We hope to have other entrants also, as entries are due later this year.

Nathan Unwin - Industrial Technologies Teacher

Industrial Technologies Week 7 Term 3 2023

Design

Students have been working on their Design projects, sketching a range of solutions for a variety of products, services or environments.

Traylea Sexton - Senior Design Teacher

Design Week 7 Term 3 2023

Senior Business Studies

I was invited to join a Japanese High School to attend Herberton Historical Village. This was a part of the current Tourism Unit for 11/12 Business.

Debby Small - Senior Business Studies Teacher

Digital Technologies

Junior Digital Technologies

Year 7s have joined year 8 this term in making their 3D printed model monsters! As always, I look forward to seeing their creations.

Digital Solutions

Franklyn has had a challenging term creating a web app that incorporates a live data exchange component. The ultimate project for problem solving, patience-testing and really understanding the importance of planning when creating a digital solution that incorporates multiple integrated languages!

Senior ICT Applied

This term, senior ICT Applied students are creating their own apps using the software MIT App Inventor.

Students follow tutorials for making simple games, in order to develop their software skills, and then create a more complex app of their choice as part of an assessment. Testing each others games is good fun!

Saffron Belkessa-Wood - Digital Technologies Teacher & Business & Technologies Middle Leader

Community Engagement

CONGRATULATIONS ON 20 YEARS SERVICE

Our dedicated staff member, Andrew Valese was congratulated by Bill Dixon, CES Executive Director, at a special morning tea to celebrate his 20 years of service at Mount St Bernard College. Well done Andrew and we appreciate all you do, especially your sense of humour.

WELCOME TO OUR NEW STAFF & NEW POSITIONS

1. I'm Gemma Winter. I moved from Gordonvale to the Tablelands. I'm a huge animal lover of, horses, dogs, cats, fish and especially birds as I'm part of the FNQ Bird Breeders Club. I've joined the MSB cleaning team.

2. Hi, my name is Laura and I am a mum of 3. I have spent the last 8 years working in the family business and I'm now excited to be working at MSB in a very different and exciting role as our Health Centre Administrator.

3. My name is Kyra and I'm the new Residential Boarding Administrator. I grew up in Normanton, Qld and have been living on the Tablelands for a few years. I love fishing, camping and exploring on weekends. I am looking forward to getting to know & meet all the boarding families.

4. Hi, I'm Timothy Tewhare. I moved from Sydney to our Gods country, Atherton Tablelands, and have been enjoying the tropical weather for a good 20 years now. I've recently moved into the position of Wellbeing Officer, previously working in Boarding and Maintenance.

**Narelle Hunt, Bill Dixon & Andrew Valese**

GAP YEAR STUDENT VOLUNTEERS

Our Gap Students have arrived from Germany. They are looking forward to Naidoc Day to meet the College community and experience students culture.

Alexandra Habbe is from Bielefeld in the west of Germany. She has gifts and talents in the areas of music and sport. She can play the violin and guitar.

Amelie Elbern is from Oldenburg in the northwest of Germany. She has gifts and talents in the Arts, Languages and Politics. She is interested in the performing arts and would like to get involved in the theatre.

Franziska Fleiche is from Stuttgart in the southwest of Germany. She has gifts and talents in Biology, Physical Education and the Arts. She is going to study Medicine.

Jannik Rugge is from Braunschweig in the north of Germany. He has gifts and talents in Maths and Physical Education. He is a good athlete and is keen to go mountain bike riding.

CONGRATULATIONS STUDENTS ON MAKING RUGBY LEAGUE GRAND FINALS

The 2023 Eacham Junior Rugby League Grand Finals kick off this Saturday, 26 August at Ravenshoe JRL Football grounds.

Please congratulate our MSB students who have made the finals in the Under 12's playing for Herberton Magpies and Under 16's playing for a combined Herberton Magpies & Ravenshoe Tigers team angainst Atherton.

Under 12's - 9.50am - An-Toni Savage, Binzella Anson, Eliona Nawia, Kaiden Douglas, Kasara Richard, Kathalina William, Kura David & Rashali Schrieber.

Under 16's - 2pm - Gariam Noah, Griffin Banu, Izion Waradoo, Mitchell Wieland, Kurkura Joseph, Kwinyala Walker, Liam Hedges, Nathaniel Ghee, Tony Harry, Zowel Gibuma & Dekierim Schrieber.

A huge shout out to all the volunteers at the Herberton Magpies and Ravenshoe Tigers Rugby League Clubs, especially Coaches, Chantal Kleeman - Under 12's and Callum Lesley - Under 16's. Your support of our community and students is greatly appreciated.

Good luck to you all, we'll be cheering you on this coming Saturday.

Deborah Booth - Communications & Community Engagement Officer