MSB Messenger Friday 29th November 2024

Principal

As the school year draws to a close, the excitement of the upcoming Christmas season begins to fill the hallways of Mount St Bernard College.  This time of year, is perfect for reflecting on the achievements and memories made throughout the year, while also looking forward to the festive celebrations ahead.

Reflecting on the Term 4

Term 4 is always a busy time of year.  The Year 12's anticipate the end of year exams and completion of their secondary schooling whilst the remainder of the College focuses in on finishing their course work and preparing for Senior Leadership opportunities.  Whilst our students have faced the challenge of demonstrating learning growth in their studies it has been great to see their class attendance improve throughout this term.  With a dedicated focus on attendance and the introduction of the extra curricular policy, students have been increasing their attendance and this growth has been positive to see. Improving attendance will remain a focus in 2025.

2025 Student Leaders

This term our Year 11 students experienced the Retreat and Student Leadership experience and it has been a pleasure to watch our seniors put their hand up and strive for Student Leadership.  This year students were required to present speeches to the College community as part of the application process.  Public speaking is one of those things that can be very challenging for students but watching them get up and have a go reinforces just how ready they are for leadership.  I am delighted to be able to announce the Student leaders for 2025:

School Captains –  Danielle Thiele and Nate Wagner

Mercy Captains – Clementine Barker and Becky Purt

Student Representative Council Leaders – Meenakshi Riber, Laverda Charlton and Clover Charlton

Residential Leaders Morrissey – Mary Kyle- Smith and Danielle Thiele

Residential Leaders Bernard’s – Griffin Banu and Gariam Noah

Flynn House Leaders – Nathanial Ghee and Jarius Lalara

Power House Leaders –  Griffin Banu and Nayita Joseph

Rush House Leaders –  Javahn Kanak and Caitlin Murray

End of Year Community Day

This year, we were delighted to host our special Community Day at Tobruk Pool, where students and staff enjoyed a day of bonding, relaxation, and quality time with friends, peers, and colleagues. Tobruk Pool features the FlowRider, an exciting above-ground ride that combines the thrills of surfing, skateboarding and bodyboarding. This event was not just a farewell to the academic year but a joyful celebration of the connections that make our community unique and vibrant.

The importance of community cannot be overstated, and this event highlighted the bonds that make our school community special. It was an opportunity to build new friendships, strengthen existing ones, and appreciate the diverse individuals who contribute to our collective success.

2024 Community Day Tobruk Pool

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Presentation Evening

A highlight of the academic school year is the annual Presentation Evening.  This year we introduced a new attendance award and it was wonderful seeing over 60 students walk across the stage to recognise and celebrate their achievement of 80% or above attendance across the 2024 school year.  Students’ academic, sporting and performing successes were also recognised.  A highlight of the evening is always the presentation of the special awards.  The 2024 Special Awards were present to:

• Residential Award Junior – Vera Dau and Mataias Pearson
• Residential Award - Senior – Megan Inkerman and Nathanial Ghee
• Mercy Residential Award – Griffin Banu and Rotannah Joe-Gela
• The Mercy Charism Awards – Junior – Supreet Kaur
• The Mercy Charism Award – Senior – Nathan Wagner
• James Cook University Encouragement Award - Grace Hart and Annika Feher- Holan
• Vocational Education and Training Award - Ella O’Connor
• QATSIF Young Indigenous Leader Award – Year 11 - Mary Kyle-Smith
• QATSIF Young Indigenous Leader Award – Year 12 – Makala Harries-Spinnler and Teri-Lee Shepherd
• Spirit of Resilience Award – Tyler Morriss
• ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork Award – Grace Hart and Teri-Lee Shepherd
• ADF Future Innovators Award – Annika Feher-Holan and Tash Webb
• Mercy Education Award- Teri-Lee Shepherd
• College Dux – Tash Webb
• The Principal’s Let Your Light Shine Award – Yehara Edirising

Year 12 Graduation Liturgy and Formal

The Year 12's were formally farewelled from the College at the Graduation Liturgy.  This very special occasion saw our year 12's exchange a senior badge with the Year 11's and in return they received a College candle.  This exchanging of gifts is a powerful symbol of the passing of the torch from one year 12 cohort to the next.

The final farewell to the year 12's was celebrated at the Formal, held at Cairns Reef Hotel Casino.  With impressive entrances and beautiful dresses and suits our Year 12's experienced an eventing of glamour and celebration.

The College extends heartfelt well wishes to our graduating Year 12s and wish them all the best for the future. 

Year 6 into Year 7 2025 Transition Day

Our 2025 Year 7 class recently experienced their first taste of secondary school with the annual Transition Day.  This year our boarders experienced an overnight in boarding whilst all new students met and experienced life at secondary school the following day.  This delightful group of students, spent their time getting to know each other, meeting their teachers and learning their way around the College.  We look forward to the year 7 class of 2025 joining us next year.  Thank you to the Transition team,  Andrea Gower and Mary-Anne Wiess for leading the Transition program.

Staff Farewells

As the school year concludes it is also a time to farewell staff who will be leaving the college.  We wish each of these staff members best wishes for their future:

Trevor Vass – Boarding

Brendan Blake – Groundsman

Alex Hinchliffe – Teacher

Jodie Jackson – Instructional Leader Learning Culture and Growth

Doris Cuda – Year 11 and 12 Middle Leader Engagement and Behaviour (on leave for 2025)

Deborah Fish - Acting Deputy Principal Curriculum & Administration

Florence Cornish – Boarding Supervisor

Sue Tobler - Cleaner

New Deputy Principal Curriculum and Administration in 2025

A special thank you to Debra Fish who stepped into the position of Acting Deputy Principal Curriculum and Administration in 2024.  Deb has done an incredible job whilst she has been at the College, and I wish her all the best for her return to Saint Augustine’s College.  Deb stepped in and helped us out whilst we were able to take the time needed to recruit for a permanent Deputy Principal.  I am please to announce Emma Sheppard will be undertaking this position in 2025.  MSB looks forward to Miss Emma joining the Leadership Team and working towards our Strategic goals in the future.

FNQ Youth Assistance Fund

The Fund was established in 1972 to assist disadvantaged Far North Queensland children and youth in their education, sporting and cultural activities.

The youth support funding is available to financially disadvantaged and isolated youth achievers living across the Far North Queensland region and aged up to 24 years old. For eligible applicants, our service covers the vast area from Cardwell in the South, West to the Queensland border, and North to the tip of Cape York.

To find out more go to: https://www.fnqyaf.org.au/youth-support/educational-scholarships/s://www.fnqyaf.org.au/

End of Year and Start of 2025 dates

Students conclude their 2024 school year after the Community Day on Thursday 28^th November 2024.

The College reception closes for Christmas on December 6^th 2024

The College reception reopens on Monday 20^th January 2025

Students travel day is Tuesday 28^th January 2025

Classes resume on Wednesday 29^th January 2025 for Years 8 - 12 & New Boarders Orientation Day.

Thursday 30th January - Year 7 day students commence orientation

Christmas Blessing

As the holiday season approaches, I’d like to take a moment to extend my warmest wishes to all students, parents, teachers, staff, and everyone who contributes to making our school an inclusive community. May this holiday season bring joy, relaxation, and quality time spent with loved ones.

The holiday break is not only a time to unwind and recharge but also an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and challenges of the past year. Together, we have accomplished so much, and we look forward to building on these successes in the upcoming year. Your dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm continue to inspire us, and we are excited about the possibilities that the future holds for our school community.

During this holiday season, we encourage everyone to prioritise self-care and spend quality time with family and friends. Whether you are traveling to new destinations or enjoying the comforts of home, we hope you find peace, happiness, and a well-deserved break.

May the spirit of Christmas fill your hearts with love, compassion, and generosity, as Catherine McAuley taught us through her life and legacy.  May you find joy in giving, not just through material gifts, but through acts of kindness and service to those in need.  May your homes be blessed with warmth, laughter, and the simple pleasures that bring true happiness.  May you cultivate compassion, opening your hearts to those facing challenges, and fostering a sense of unity and solidarity within your community.  May the true meaning of Christmas, the birth of hope, love, and renewal, guide you to a deeper connection with your faith and a renewed sense of purpose.  May the teachings of Catherine McAuley inspire you to embrace the spirit of giving, find joy in simplicity, and reflect on the profound blessings of this season.  Wishing you a blessed and joyful Christmas, filled with the enduring spirit of Catherine McAuley's wisdom and the love of the Sisters of Mercy.

Wishing you all a safe, happy, and restful holiday season!

Narelle Hunt - Principal

Deputy Principal Residential

Our students in boarding come from all over our great state, from Brisbane in the South, Boigu Island in the North, Murray Island to the East and as far West as Groote Eylandt in the Northern Territory. Given this diversity of destinations, we strive to give every student a sense of community and belonging. 

We do this through our weekly activities as well as special events such as Movie Nights, Disco's and our famous Christmas Party. Thanks to our Student and Staff Coordinator, Jo Bull, we had a special lamb meal with lots of extras such as soft drink, lollies and chocolate. Further, we had a very special guest, Santa Claus, who gave each student a present and wished them well for Christmas. It was great to see the students come together in their teams to win special prizes. The smiling faces were many and all students thoroughly enjoyed themselves. 

This coming week we will help our students pack their belongings and see them on their way back to their families with a simple message always be safe, responsible and respectful. 

Merry Christmas. 

Malcolm Fahey - Deputy Principal Residential

Residential Christmas Party

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Acting Deputy Principal Wellbeing

Dear Parents, Guardians, and Friends, 

As Term 4 and the school year comes to a close, we are excited to share some highlights and updates with you. This term has been a productive period of learning and achievement, and we deeply appreciate your continued collaboration in fostering a positive school experience for every child. 

This term, we remained focused on the MSB Student Expectations Matrix, which outlines the behavioural expectations across all College settings. By highlighting the value of Being Safe, Being Responsible, and Being Respectful, we have produced an environment where all members of our community can prosper. 

Our key focus areas this term included: 

• Acting safely in all situations 

• Taking responsibility for one’s actions 

• Attending classes consistently 

• Being prepared and ready to learn 

This term, we introduced two new initiatives aimed at encouraging and rewarding positive behaviour and attendance. 

The Positive Rewards System is designed to support, encourage, and reward consistent good behaviour. This system has two key components: 

1. Merit Awards: Teachers will recognise students for consistent effort, good attendance, and demonstrating safety, respect, and responsibility. These electronic merit awards will accumulate towards bronze, silver, and gold certificates, which will be presented at College assemblies, celebrating each student's achievements. 

1. Participation in Activities: Students who maintain high attendance, complete their schoolwork, and exhibit good behaviour will be invited to participate in extracurricular activities, including excursions and incursions. The excursion policy includes an appeals process to ensure that all students can attend events offered by the College. 

We are pleased to share that the majority of our students not only met but consistently surpassed these expectations. To support their success, our College staff employed a range of Tier 1 teaching and behaviour management strategies, including:  

• Developing trust through relationship building 

• Applying the 10 Essential Skills of Classroom Management to enhance learning, such as: 

• Establishing expectations – Making rules. 

• Giving instructions - Telling students what to do. 

• Descriptive praise—acknowledging positive behaviour. 

For students who found it challenging to meet these expectations, we offered a range of Tier 2 and Tier 3 interventions, including: 

• Morning check-ins 

• Co-development of cultural plans with Indigenous liaison officers 

• Counselling 

• Wellbeing support 

• Restorative conversations 

We are pleased by the steps forward made by our students and look forward to continuing this progressive work with them. 

This term, our college community also took part in several major events: 

• Year 10 Work experience 

• College Presentation Evening 

• Year 12 External exams and assessment 

• Year 12 Graduation 

• Year 12 Formal 

• Year 11 Retreat 

• Year 6 into 7 Transition Day 

• Student Leader elections for 2025 

• Community day 

These events play a crucial part in our students' growth, providing significant learning experiences and opportunities to engage beyond the classroom. 

We recognise that adolescence can present challenges, and our College’s Wellbeing Team provides essential support for your child during this important phase. The Wellbeing Team members are: 

Counsellors: Sara Gorring, Kayleigh Smith 

Wellbeing Officers: Michelle Davies-Griffith, Jade O’Shea, Tim Tewhare  

Middle Leader Wellbeing:  

Years 7 – 8: Covered by Emma Sheppard and Stephen Godfrey 

Years 9 – 10: Joey Twidale jtwidale@cns.catholic.edu.au  

Years 11 – 12: Doris Cuda - tcuda@cns.catholic.edu.au  

Instructional Leader Wellbeing: Emma Sheppard - esheppard2@cns.catholic.edu.au  

Acting Deputy Principal Wellbeing: Stephen Godfrey - sgodfrey@cns.catholic.edu.au  

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

As we approach the holiday season, I wish you and your family a blessed, joyful and safe Christmas break. We eagerly anticipate continuing this educational journey with your child in the upcoming year. 

Stephen Godfrey – Deputy Principal Wellbeing  

Acting Assistant Principal Curriculum & Administration

This year has been filled with moments of growth, achievement, and shared joy. Together, we have embodied the Mercy values of compassion, excellence, and service, enriching the lives of all who are part of our school. As 2024 draws to a close, it is with immense pride and gratitude that I reflect on the achievements and milestones of this remarkable final term. 

Our Year 12 students have officially concluded their external examinations and celebrated their graduation in style. The Formal Dinner and Dance, held at the Cairns Casino, was a night to remember, filled with elegance, laughter, and cherished memories. We wish the graduating class every success as they embark on their next chapters, equipped with the knowledge, resilience, and character developed during their time with us. 

The annual Presentation Evening was another highlight, showcasing the incredible accomplishments of our students. With special guests from industry present, the event not only celebrated academic and extracurricular achievements but also reinforced the strong connections between our school and the wider community. 

Our Year 10 students immersed themselves in meaningful work experiences across the Tablelands, gaining valuable insights into potential career paths and developing skills that will serve them well in the future. Feedback from employers and students alike has been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting their dedication and professionalism. 

Transition activities for our incoming Year 7 students and boarding families have been an excellent way to introduce them to the next phase of their educational journey. These events, including the Year 6 Transition Day and Boarder Transition with families, have helped ease the transition process and foster a sense of belonging in our school community. 

Farewell to Valued Staff Members 
As the year ends, we also bid farewell to three exceptional educators who have significantly contributed to our school: 

• Jodie Jackson: Our Instructional Leader for Curriculum, whose vision and dedication have shaped our teaching practices. 

• Alex Hinchliffe: A committed Mathematics teacher whose passion for learning has inspired many students. 

• Doris Cuda: Middle Leader Wellbeing for Years 11 and 12, who will be taking a year’s leave to gain experience at another school on the Tablelands. 

We thank them for their service and wish them all the best in their future endeavours. 

As we enter the holiday season, I encourage you to take time to rest, reconnect with loved ones, and reflect on the blessings of the year. Whether you're traveling, enjoying quiet moments at home, or celebrating with family and friends, may this time bring you peace and renewal.

Debra Fish - Acting Assistant Principal Curriculum & Administration

Assistant Principal Mission

What a busy and delightful end to the school year!

We said goodbye to our Year 12's at their Graduation Liturgy. It was wonderful to have so many family members present as we prayed for these young adults, as well as the staff, families and communities who have guided them during their years at MSB.  Thanks to Ella and her mother, Carinda, for their beautiful rendition of Stand by Me as the graduates presented their families with a rose - a token of appreciation for everything they have done for them throughout their years of schooling. 

We prayed this blessing over the graduating class of 2024.

Lord God, we bring these young people before you;

make your Spirit known to them as they continue with the journey of their lives. 

May they recognise and be empowered by the love of their family and friends. 

May they continue to grow in strength and wisdom as they face life’s challenges. 

May they appreciate and find joy in all the good things their lives bring.

May they strive to live justly, to love tenderly and to walk humbly with their God. 

We ask this through Christ, our Lord. 

Amen

The Year 11 Leadership Retreat at Genazzano on the banks of Lake Tinaroo was a welcome opportunity for staff and students to get to know each other better and connect with their God in beautiful natural surroundings. Thank you to the staff who made this a wonderful and valuable time for our students: Doris Cuda for her personal spirituality and wealth of knowledge; Nathan Unwin for the morning yoga and his gentle and insightful mentoring of small groups; our ILO Mr Harry Lui for the words of wisdom, TSI games he taught us and the joy his music brought to our prayer!

Thank you to the Year 11 students who let their light shine by preparing and leading the end of year liturgy.  The creativity and enthusiasm you demonstrated shows what capable leaders you will be in 2025!

Janet Wigan - Assistant Principal Mission

Year 11 Retreat

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REMEMBRANCE DAY

Mount St Bernard College students and staff were invited to Ravenshoe for their Remembrance Day Service. Remembrance Day is observed on November 11 to honour the courage, sacrifice, and memory of military personnel who served and lost their lives in wars and conflicts around the world.

Christmas Liturgy

ALUMNI GIFT

Presentation Evening not only celebrated our current cohort, it also celebrated our past students of Papua New Guinea, whom gifted a beautiful painting to the College. Through the commissioning and dedication of this painting, they honoured the hard work of the Sisters of Mercy, both on the ground in PNG, and here, at Mount St Bernard College. Painted by PNG artist Arison Kul, 'Hatwok Meri' commemorates the value of unseen labour through the lens of PNG cultural expression. Each element of the painting symbolises their different tribes, regions, and natural attributes. From this symbology, a woman emerges - quietly, confidently going about her business, her bilum in place. Sr Therese Masterson and Sr Maree Masterson, were present and thanked on behalf of all the Sisters of Mercy. You let your light shine and taught us to do likewise. To our students - particularly our graduating Seniors - whether you receive recognition or not, work hard. For, a good work ethic is its own reward. And finally, may you all remember to - 'Let Your Light Shine'.

Bernadette Killin - Learning Support School Officer

Presentation Evening

2024 Presentation Evening

Presentation Evening is one of our important traditional annual events that recognises the academic achievements, special talents and personal qualities of our students with a formal recognition by the College community. The evening also included musical performances by our students.

Congratulation to the following students:

College Dux – Tash Webb

Principal’s Award – Yehara Edirising

MSB Vocational Education & Training Award – Ella O’Connor

ADF Long Tan Leadership & Teamwork Awards – Grace Hart & Teri-Lee Shepherd

ADF Future Innovators Awards – Annika Feher-Holan & Tash Webb

James Cook University Academic Encouragement Awards – Grace Hart & Annika Feher-Holan

QATSIF Young Indigenous Leader Awards – Mary Kyle-Smith, Makala Harries-Spinnler & Teri-Lee Shepherd

Residential Excellence Award Junior – Vera Dau & Mataias Pearson

Residential Excellence Award Senior – Megan Inkerman & Nathanial Ghee

Mercy Residential Awards – Griffin Banu & Rotannah Joe-Gela

Mercy Charism Awards – Supreet Kaur & Nathan Wagner

Mercy Education Award – Teri-Lee Shepherd

Sporting Excellence Awards – An-Toni Savage, Jake Daley, Nayita Joseph & Limferd Lui

Year 7 Academic Excellence – Zena Belkessa

Year 7 Academic Diligence – Natalie Cannan & Zanthe Foster

Year 8 Academic Excellence – Supreet Kaur

Year 8 Academic Diligence – Jarlun Sharp & Eli Cortis

Year 9 Academic Excellence – Yindali Sharp

Year 9 Academic Diligence – Tahli Mays & Rylee Finch

Year 10 Academic Excellence – Annika Feher-Holan & Grace Hart

Year 10 Academic Diligence – Tyler Morriss & Lincoln Fitzgerald

Year 11 Overall Academic Excellence – Meena Riber

Year 11 Academic Excellence & Diligence in Subject Areas – Clementine Barker, Danielle Thiele, Caitlin Murray, Mary Kyle-Smith, Piper Roulstone, Aaron Christie, Becky Purt, Flynn Cortis, Nathan Wagner, Liam Tyrrell, Maya Hutton, Megan Inkerman, Maddison Blair, Tarryn Catanzariti, Chelsea Webb, Ella O’Connor, Griffin Banu & Meena Riber.

Year 12 Academic Excellence & Diligence in Subject Areas – Shania O’Brien, Mahalia Jones, Ella Christie, Makayla Harries Spinnler, Teri-Lee Shepherd, Eleanor Banu, Ebony Killin, Tash Webb, Rose Mene, Summa Munro, Alyssa Catanzariti, Shandrella Pilot & Limferd Lui.

Hillary O’Brien – Office Manager

2024 Presentation Evening

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2024 Attendance Award Recipients

Sporting Excellence Awards

Academic Excellence & Diligence Awards

THANK YOU TO OUR GENEROUS SPONSORS 

We extend our deepest gratitude to our incredible sponsors listed below for their invaluable support of our students. Your generous donations made our Presentation Evening truly special, enabling us to celebrate the hard work, achievements, and growth of our students.SPONSORS - Sports Power, Emerson Bus Co, VPG, Ravenshoe Highland Bakery, Sisters of Mercy, Soroptimist Tablelands, Rotary Atherton, Tablelands Regional Council, Atherton Wholelife Pharmacy & Healthfoods, Australian Defence Force, James Cook University, Koci Electrical, T-Hire, A1 Cleaning, Roy Walker Plumbing, Far North Office Choice, White Whale Coffee & QATSIF.

Year 12 Graduation

Year 12 Graduation

On Friday, 8 November we gathered as a community, in the sacred presence of our God, to celebrate the end of a significant part of life’s journey for our Year 12 students as they graduated from Mount St Bernard College.  It was wonderful to have so many family members present as we prayed for these young adults and the staff, families and communities who have guided them during these years. A slideshow reflection helped the graduates remember with thanks how much they have grown, and the opportunities given to them during their time at MSB.   

The ceremony began with an Acknowledgement of Country, enhanced by Reem and Dekierim playing the didgeridoo. The Year 11 students presented the graduating seniors with an MSB candle, a symbol of the light they take out into the world and received a leadership badge in return.  The graduates then presented their families with a rose, as a token of appreciation for everything they have done for them throughout their years of schooling.  During this time Ella accompanied by her Mum, Corinda, sang a moving rendition of Stand by Me. 

Deputy Principal Malcolm Fahey called forward the graduates to be presented with their graduation certificate and farewell gift by College Principal, Narelle Hunt, and Deputy Principals Debbie Fish and Stephen Godfrey.  Home form teacher, Saffron Belkessa-Wood, called the roll for the last time as Doris Cuda and Janet Wigan helped students light their graduation candle from the College candle.  

Following the liturgy, students gathered on front steps of the Mercy building to throw their sashes and then joined their families, guests and they whole school community to celebrate with a wonderful lunch and graduation cake. 

Class of 2024, 

Today you leave this Graduation Liturgy with an MSB candle -   

a symbol of the Spirit within you and the light you take out to the world. 

May the flame of your spirit always burn brightly. 

May you be a light within your community. 

May God’s mercy shine upon you! 

Janet Wigan - Assistant Principal Mission 

2024 Year 12 Graduation

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Year 12 Formal

Formal Speech - 2024 

Good evening staff, parents, carers, families, and most importantly, the graduating Class of 2024.  Welcome to this very special occasion, your Year 12 formal.  An important milestone that is the final chapter of our Year 12s secondary schooling and the beginning of a new chapter of their lives as young adults.

This is not just a special moment for our beautifully dressed Year 12s, it is also a very important occasion for your families.  They have watched you grow from babies and throughout your entire schooling.  They have supported you through the challenges of adolescence and celebrated your successes.  To all the parents and carers in the room - Thank you, this is a moment you will remember fondly.

Year 12s, this closing chapter sees you say farewell to MSB, but the experiences that you had and the friendships that you made will fill your memories with joy.  Whilst there is certainly a sense of excitement to be finishing high school there is so much hope for what your futures will hold.  Some of you will go on to university, others into apprenticeships and the workforce.  These experiences, whilst new, will help you become the adults you strive to be, and I hope the lessons and Mercy values you learnt at Mount St Bernard College will guide you and serve as a guiding light.

The Gospel of Matthew taught us that: "No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven"

With this in mind - in everything you do in the future, ‘Let Your Light Shine.”  Hold on to your dreams, make positive choices and take every opportunity presented to you with an open mind.  Education is a lifelong journey and the skills, knowledge, and values you have developed will be the foundation your future is built on.  You hold the pen to this next chapter so shine your light bright as you create your stories.

I pray God blesses you for your futures.  Be courageous in everything you do. You all possess the strength, intelligence, and compassion to make a positive impact on society.

MSB staff, thank you for your dedication and commitment in nurturing the hearts and minds of our graduates. You have taught our students to be reflective, ask questions and challenge themselves to improve. Your role in their lives is beyond measure, and I am grateful for your unwavering dedication. 

To our Student Leaders, thank you for being the voice of your peers.  It has been a pleasure to watch you grow into young adults. 

Year 12 graduates, thank you for the time you spent at MSB and treasure the memories you have made here.  As you start your individual journey’s I hope your future stories are filled with joy, family, friends, and the careers you have dreamed of.

Let tonight be a celebration of not only the achievements of the Class of 2024, but also a tribute to the power of education, community, and collective aspirations.

On behalf of the entire school community, I extend my congratulations to our graduating Year 12s. May you continue to embrace challenges with resilience, pursue your dreams with passion, and make a positive difference in the world. Your potential knows no bounds. 

Parents, families, friends, and staff, can we all please stand, raise our glasses, and recognise our year 12 graduates.

“To the class of 2024 – may your futures be bright and your light always shine.”

Narelle Hunt - Principal

2024 Year 12 Formal Arrivals

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2024 Year 12 Formal Presentations

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2024 Year 12 Formal Dance Floor Highlights

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P & F Association

The P & F Association met on 19 November 2024 with our parent representatives discussing how best to spend the parent financial contributions to benefit our students. A financial report with details of available funding was reviewed and the following proposals were discussed: 

• Dallas Johnson NRL Clinic - proposal to take place throughout the year with visits made by Dallas to support our students in leadership tasks and football development. This program will be used as part of the MSB rewards program and is inclusive of all students enrolled. These funds will be used to pay for flights, accommodation and car hire for Dallas throughout the year.   The estimated cost for 2025 of $5,000 is expected to enable two college visits. The proposal was discussed and the P & F approval was granted for the expenditure of up to $5,000.  

• NRL Program - Funds to assist with the rewards program for NRL Development Officers. This program will include all students who meet requirements of 80% attendance and no major incidents. The aim is to start the program in Term 1 2025 with 8 sessions, as the NRL season starts with district trials. Term 2 - 2 sessions, Term 3 - 2 sessions and Term 4 - 2 sessions. Each session is $100. Requesting $2,000 to cover some extra rewards sessions. Any leftover funding would be spent on new football practice equipment. The proposal was discussed and P & F approval granted for the expenditure of $2,000.  

• White Card (Construction Industry) qualification – A White Card is required for people to work on construction sites. The card doesn’t expire so students can get the card in Year 10 and it will stay current.  To enable all of the students who want to complete this course from Year 10 to Year 12 to have access to complete the course, will require the course to run four times in 2025 with each course costing $1,650. After the first year there will only be new Year 10 – 12 students or existing students opting in. The proposal was discussed and P & F approval granted for 50% of the expenditure.  

• Responsible Service of Alcohol Course - this qualification aims to educate individuals about the responsible practices that must be followed whenever alcohol is sold or served. This unit applies to all levels of sales personnel involved in the sale, service and promotional service of alcohol in licensed premises. This includes workplaces, hospitality venues, packaged liquor outlets, wineries, breweries and distilleries. The proposal was discussed and P & F approval granted for 50% of the expenditure.  

• Annual Year 12 Graduation Gifts – this is an ongoing proposal for annual support for the purchase of graduation gifts for the outgoing Year 12 cohort. Items include a graduation candle, graduation sash, roses and a student gift. The cost for items in 2024 was $1835.37.  The proposal was discussed and P & F approval granted for the ongoing expenditure of graduation gifts for the graduating Year 12 cohort. Assistant Principal Janet Wigan will provide specific costings for approval.  

• Barista Course – in this this course, students will learn how to prepare and serve a range of coffee beverages and the theoretical and technical sides of coffee making including the methods and techniques for preparing café lattes, cappuccinos, espressos (short black), flat whites, piccolos lattes, macchiatos and much more. Students will learn about the different types of milk, foaming, steaming and its characteristics. This also allows students to have the safe meal prep certificate included. This will help students enter the hospitality employment area, which is a growth area. Each course costs $1750. Two courses would run in the first year so all students in Year 10 – Year 12 can access this course. The proposal was discussed and P & F approval granted for 50% of the expenditure.  

• Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns Rome Holy Week & Jubilee of Teenagers Pilgrimage (15 – 30 April 2025) - Every 25 years, the Church proclaims a Holy Year, a special gift of grace and mercy for all God’s people. The Rome Holy Week & Jubilee of Teenagers pilgrimage is an invitation to step into this grace and join the faithful from around the world for a unique encounter with the Holy Father. On a pilgrimage, encounter the pathways of some of the Church’s saints and join with pilgrims to cross the threshold of the Holy Door in St Peter’s Basilica and receive the Jubilee blessing. This is a Diocesan experience, led by Bishop Joe and staff from CEDC schools and offices, which will bring together students to celebrate what it means to be Catholic in our world today. The pilgrimage will be an opportunity for students to work together to share our faith and at the same time, learn from teenagers from around the world as to how they are witness to their faith in their particular contexts. The Jubilee of Teenagers pilgrimage will provide opportunities for a personal encounter to deepen their faith journey and sacramentality throughout the pilgrimage through prayer and liturgical celebrations. The Jubilee for Teenagers invites students to animate their faith with thousands of other young people. By being a pilgrim, students should: Develop a deeper understanding of the origins and history of Christianity, create a sense of awe and wonder of the Catholic faith, gain an understanding of the power and influence of religion, identify Rome’s place at the centre of the Catholic tradition, gain an understanding of the history of Christianity, explore the concept of religious belief and pilgrimage and understand the influence of religion in people’s daily lives. With this enlivened spirituality, we would provide witness to others and live out our experience of faith, hope and love through our work in reconciliation, ministry and understanding; sharing what we learn with our school and parish communities on our return home. The request submitted was to fund four students selected from the new Year 12 Student Leadership group to attend at a cost of $8,800 per student. There will be an application process that includes meeting a specific criteria of 90% or above attendance from the moment appointed and no behaviour incidents. The request to fund four Year 12 Student Leaders to attend at a total cost of $35,200 was discussed. P & F members agreed to fund two students for a total cost of $17,600.  

The P&F Association welcomes new ideas from parents and carers to fund activities and resources that benefit our students. Parents and carers are invited to consider becoming a member of the P & F Association or College Board. The next meeting is scheduled for Week 1 in Term 1 2025 to coincide with the visit by the Torres Strait Island Consultative Committee. Queries can be directed to Hillary O’Brien at msb.office@cns.catholic.edu.au 

Hillary O'Brien - Office Manager and Personal Assistant to College Principal

Sports Co-Ordinator

Dallas Johnson Football Clinic

On the 12^th of November we had the pleasure of welcoming former Storms and Cowboys National Rugby League (NRL) player, Dallas Johnson, along with Pere and James from the NRL, for a football clinic that ran through the entirety of the day.

The sessions were split up into juniors and seniors, with selected seniors taking part in helping run training sessions throughout the day. The key components of the clinic were leadership, respect, ball skills and lots of FUN! This was evident on the faces of our students as they participated in these developmental drills. Students and staff had the opportunity to mingle with Dallas and the NRL team during lunch as they joined us in our dining room for a shared lunch of burgers.  

The students displayed not only great skills, but a high level of leadership and maturity throughout the day. This clinic kicked off the start of an NRL program as we move into 2025.  

The following day Dallas surprised the Year 11’s on their leadership retreat at Genazzano. A leadership discussion took place as the Year 11 move into their final year of school in 2025. Students took turns to voice what they feel a leader should portray. Other topics such as social media, and the pressures our teens face in day-to-day life were also open for discussion. To say thank you, Dallas was presented with a gift bag along with a crocheted muffin hand made by staff member, Janet Wigan. We wrapped up the visit with a shared lunch of fresh fish and salad provided by the wonderful staff at Genazzano. This clinic was a highlight of the year for our students at Mount St Bernard College and they are looking forward to doing it all again next year. 

Yours in sport,  

Kendra Robinson – Sports Co-Ordinator

Dallas Johnson Football Clinic 2024

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Library

Throughout 2024 the MSB Library has continued to be a safe and happy place where we celebrate kindness, literacy, diversity, and leadership. The last of these is not the least, with the library providing an opportunity for students to become Library Assistants. Through this program the chosen students will gain training and have creative opportunities to help within the library space. The opportunity was open to all students to apply, and the two students currently undergoing training are Supreet Kaur and Grace Hart. I look forward to continuing working with these students into 2025. 

This time of year, means that the library is hosting our annual end of year Kindness Project. 2023 introduced the Kind words and Compliments Wall which grew into a huge heart recognising the positives of individuals, including the hard work and dedication of students and teachers alike. 2024 is a simple message: Be the ‘I’ in KIND! I am always in awe of the kind acts that our students and staff unceremoniously demonstrate every single day. Kind words to cheer up a friend, a thoughtful gift or offer of support, and those gentle often small moments that can bring a smile. If you can be anything, be kind! 

Finally, I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our students and families a safe and happy break. Remember your local libraries are open across the holidays so don’t forget to keep reading! 

Rachel Nelson - Teacher Librarian

Transition Support

TRANSITION DAYS AT MSB

On November 20th and 21st, our future Year 7 cohort for 2025 participated in their Transition programs.

This included the Boarder Transition Program which provided valuable information for both students and families about day schooling and boarding. The highlight of the day was visiting Lake Eacham for a picnic and the students' first-ever sleepover at MSB.

The next day we hosted a student only School Transition Program, where the entire Year 7 cohort (day & boarding students) had the opportunity to meet and get to know each other. It was an experience of how a normal school day would be. The day included a welcome to MSB presentation, introductions to the Principal, Leadership and Staff teams, an overview of school expectations, uniform modelling, and information about wellbeing supports. Our 2025 College leaders also spoke to the students, providing insights into timetables, diaries, lesson times, laptop use and life as a student of MSB.

The day continued with team building activities and classroom experiences in Mathematics, Science, Visual Arts, and English, where students had the chance to meet their teachers. In the afternoon, they participated in a Mercy Values session in the Chapel, followed by a treasure hunt using the school map helping them learn to find their way around MSB. The day concluded with sports and games on the Lower Oval. Judging by the smiles on everyone's faces, it was a successful day that will undoubtedly ease their transition to our college in 2025.

Mount St Bernard College ~ Transition Team

Andrea Gower (Transition & Engagement Officer)

Tash Herrington (Enrolments & Travel Officer)

Mary-Anne Weiss (Year 7 & 8 Middle Leader Curriculum, Pedagogy, Assessment & Reporting) 

Joey Twidale (Year 9 & 10 Behaviour & Engagement Middle Leader)

Tanya Davis (College Nurse)

Joanne Bull (Boarding Administration Officer)

 Harry Lui and Sherie Miller-Freeman (Indigenous Liaison Officers)

Andrea Gower - Transition & Engagement Officer

2025 Year 7 Transition Days

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Instructional Leader Behaviour & Engagement

As the year draws to a close, we would like to take a moment to thank all students and their families for working closely with our Wellbeing team throughout the year. Together, we have supported the growth of our students as safe, responsible, and respectful young people. Your encouragement, guidance, and care at home have been essential to this success. We are proud of the progress our students have made, and we deeply appreciate the partnership we share in helping them thrive. 

While we have enjoyed spending the year together, we know that students are eagerly looking forward to the holiday break over Christmas. This is a well-deserved time to relax, reflect, and recharge after a busy year of learning and growth. We hope this holiday season brings moments of joy and connection with family and friends. Take the opportunity to celebrate your achievements and cherish the time spent with loved ones. 

During the holidays, please remember to continue being safe, respectful, and responsible. Look after yourselves and those who are important to you. Rest well, enjoy your time off, and let your light shine brightly in all you do. We look forward to seeing you refreshed and ready for another exciting year ahead. Have a happy and safe Christmas! 

Emma Sheppard - Instructional Leader Behaviour & Engagement

Behaviour & Engagement Years 9 & 10

MSB Run Club 

We had a great first term for the inaugural MSB Run Club.  Over the course of the term, we had a total of 14 students attend Run Club during our Tuesday morning field session and Thursday afternoon gym session.  All of the students involved in Run Club exemplified the MSB values of respect, excellence and community; showing up every session ready to learn and train.  Congratulations to Danielle Thiele and Javahn Kanak for being elected MSB Run Club Captains for 2025 and Emma Nawia and Nathanial Ghee on being awarded the runners of the term for their commitment to the club.  I look forward to Run Club next year and can’t wait to welcome existing and new participants to the club. 

Joey Twidale - Behaviour & Engagement Years 9 & 10 Middle Leader 

Industrial Technology

As another school year comes to an end we reflect on the amazing achievements our students have made this year. Students have created and built some incredible works of art, practical and aesthetically pleasing projects.

Our junior students have created pencil cases, folding chairs and tables, toolboxes, shelving units and birdhouses. All have been personalised with the pyrography tool by burning on their name or a unique cultural drawing. These students are our next carpenters, builders and engineers and by nurturing their abilities the sky is the limit with what they can create.

Our seniors have completed the finishing touches on their projects and are really proud of the beautiful creations they have made. Our Year 12 students step out into the world with excitement at the multitude of options that they have available to them. I have faith that our current Year 11 and 10 students will be able to create some wonderful projects in the future.

We have had a real variety of projects this year, including fishing boxes with unique designs depicting their totem animals. Other students have created wonderful ornate jewellery boxes with box joins that they individually cut out with much patience. One student has created a large stair designed shelving unit which is both practical and beautiful. Another student created a fishing rod holder for the boarder’s residence. We are lucky to have very capable and creative students at our school. As the holidays come closer, consider what projects around the house need to be done, and get help with them from your kids. Our students are very helpful young people with a proactive nature always happy to help out. All the best for a safe and positive holidays.

Nathan Unwin - Teacher

Industrial Technology Term 4 2024

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Music

2024 Mount St Bernard College studio recording project release. 

Term 4 saw the release of the 2024 MSB recording projects, this was undertaken throughout the year. The students gained insight into basic studio recording practices and how contemporary musicians produce and release their own work today. The students engineered, recorded, mixed, and mastered the tracks with our studio recording gear and digital audio workstations. Once the audio tracks were finished, they produced an album cover artwork which was then used to make YouTube clips. Here's the link: https://www.youtube.com/@mountstbernardcollege/videos  

In some cases, the Visual Art students collaborated with our musicians to provide the visual artwork. The student works are now available to listen to. Congratulations to all the creative students involved in this from Years 8, 9, 11 and 12 this year! 

Visual Art Graphics

Music Students Videos

Gen Bryant Concert 

On Monday 11 November, the Melbourne-based singer songwriter Gen Bryant returned to MSB. This time she was here for a full day, working with 14 music students, to learn and rehearse 3 of her original songs. This culminated in a performance of those songs for the whole school in the afternoon. Thank you for a memorable day, Gen. We hope to collaborate next year to extend MSB’s musical involvement with Diocese-wide events. 

Jacaranda Festival and Tablelands Folk Festival 

We celebrated student participation at both Herberton’s Jacaranda Festival and the Tableland’s Folk Festival. At the latter, MSB was the only Tableland’s High School which had music performances entered this year, with not one but three incredible acts. Congratulations Becky Purt, Nathan Wagner, Caitlin Murray, Maya Hutton, Yindali Sharp, Clover and Laverda Charlton, Supreet Kaur and Mia Ackland. 

WeHateLoveSongs, live at the Cairns Arts Centre 

A special congratulations goes to our Year 11 band WeHateLoveSongs for their performance at the Cairns Tanks Art Centre as a support act for the Melbourne-based Indie-outfit British India. We look forward to seeing you perform at Atherton Tablelands Music Lovers, who booked the act for a performance on February 14, 2025. Keep up the fantastic work. 

Tobias Moldenhauer - Music Teacher

VET & Careers

Trade Taster Day 

In Term 4, nine students visited Jet Aviation in Cairns for a Trade Taster experience. A Trade Taster is when industries open their doors to students for a day and show them their place of work. Jet Aviation was generous to show students to maintain an airplane. This was an amazing experience because the planes are stripped back to the original structure. Each component is tested, and then returned to the plane if it passes inspection, or repaired if required and replaced as needed. If the component was replaced the part needs to be recreated, which is an amazing process, that we were shown. However, the best part of the tour was the fact that scaffolding gets in the way of working on the planes, so the engineers use Bungy cords to hang from the ceiling.  

Trader Tasters will be held again throughout 2025, so please encourage your student to apply to come a long and learn about these different trades when the days are advertised. 

TAFE Course Reminder for 2025 

In 2025, MSB will be running a TAFE Certificate II in Engineering course and for the first time, plus a Certificate II in Small Automotive course. If your student is enrolled in either of these courses, please remember that they must be back at school at the beginning of each term. This is because the first 2 weeks of learning cover the safety requirements. If this is not completed, then the student cannot remain in the course. Also, students must wear the appropriate work safe clothing, steel capped boots, long pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. Please make sure students start the year with their work safe clothing for a smooth start. Thank you. 

Work Experience Recap 2024 

At the beginning of Term 4, MSB Year 10 students completed their Work Experience. There was great feedback about our amazing students from the various workplaces. MSB is so proud of their achievements, check out the photos of the students at their work placements. 

Debby Small - VET & Careers Middle Leader

Agriculture

“I have great faith in a seed... Convince me that you have a seed there, and I am prepared to expect wonders” - Henry David Thoreau

The work by our students in the Agriculture class is the seed for the future generations to grow and thrive. It has been a wonderful year in the Agricultural space with the gardens looking better and better every day! Our students have created garden beds, made cuttings, transplanted plants, planted seeds, watered plants, maintained paths and made some more, participated in excursions, put up trellises and much more. All in all, our students have nurtured and cared for life in a positive way.

Our students always step up to help and contribute to creating productive and fruitful gardens. They are always asking, ‘Can I plants some seeds?’ or ‘Can I water my garden bed?’, showing their caring nature and drive to create. Our students are the next generation of stewards of the land and by enabling them to connect with the land by having their hands in the soil or tasting the produce which they have grown shows them how to have a respectful relationship with the Earth.

Over the holidays I encourage you to spend time with your children in nature. You might be walking trails to a local waterfall or around a lake, or out on a boat or by the beach. Wherever you go, enjoy the bounty which nature provides for us and be grateful for it all. Young people connect with nature easily and generally enjoy being out in it. Also, giving them the responsibility of caring for a plant or animal can teach them lifelong skills. May you have a wonderful and enjoyable holiday.

Nathan Unwin - Teacher

Engineering

Junior Engineers 

..gives the impression that they, will one day, become senior engineers.. I hope so.. 

Since 2023, a plethora of students have ventured beyond their understanding and discovered Design Skills, previously untapped. We have visited windfarms and introduced wind turbines, dismantled machines to see how they work with an attitude to reuse, repair and recycle; and started designing in AutoCAD (Juniors use TinkerCAD). 

Sustainability has been one of our focus points. The world needs more engineers who dissect the problem and approach the solutions from creative perspectives.  

This subject is an exciting one that covers Science, Technology, Engineering, Art & Maths  (S.T.E.A.M.) and then calls in the climate observers to find new responses to seemingly impossible problems facing the whole of society. Having seen how our students want to save the world and their family and friends, I have a real faith in a beautiful future... because of them. 

Julia Cazita-Mazeaud - Teacher

Engineering 2024

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Science

As part of their studies, our Year 8 Science students took part in constructing model rollercoasters using available materials including paper, cardboard and sticky tape which would guide a marble from top to bottom demonstrating different energy types.

In their own words “These rollercoasters were made to demonstrate Gravitational and Potential Energy [PTE].

Students commented on their experiment -

“We used cardboard and rolled up paper for supports with sticky tape to make curves and a funnel to start the roll down and test if it’s good to go"

“We used cardboard as a platform to put the rollercoaster on. Sticky tape and paper were the items we needed to make the rollercoaster stand up. We tested the rollercoaster and it was all good”

“We made ours out of cardboard. Our goal was to build a large marble roller coaster and we were all very creative with our concept ideas."

Amanda Coleman - Teacher

ENROL NOW

ENROL NOW 

~ We have new application timeframes for enrolments

~ Enrolment applications for 2026 close on 28 Feb - Term 1, 2025

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 28 February 2025 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: 40 961 485.

Communications & Community Engagement

Parent Portal

Parents of Year 12 students or students who will not return in 2025 may still access the Parent Portal. For a student enrolled at a school for the full school year the grace period will provide you access until December 31, 2024.

New Parents

Parents of new students, whom have been accepted, may access the Parent Portal from mid January 2025. 

Continuing Parents

Parents of current students your access to the Parent Portal will remain active over the holidays.

MyCE APP

The MyCE Mobile App is designed with busy families in mind, it is easy to use and provides all the information currently available on the Parent Portal.

Uniform Shop Opening Times 2025

Please contact Julie Titlow at Student Reception to book a time by phoning Ph: 4096 1445. You may leave a message for Julie. Booking a time prevents long waits for our families. The Uniform Price List 2025 is listed below.

Tues 21st – Fri 24th Jan – 9am – 3pm

Tues 28^th Jan – 9am - 3pm

Parent Term Dates 2025

Our Parent Term dates for 2025 are listed below.

Student Subject Stationery

Student stationery is all provided by the College and families will be invoiced in Term 1. Lylia Edwards will email all families with subject selection and stationery requirements for your child. Students will also be issued with an MSB College Diary for use throughout the year. Please contact Lylia on ledwards@cns.catholic.edu.au if you have any queries.

Fees and Levies

Please contact our Finance Team Leader, Sharon Negri if you wish to arrange deductions from either your bank account or via Centrepay. Ph: 4096 1586 or Em: snegri@cns.catholic.edu.au

2025 Fees and Levies are listed below.

New Parents & Students

Office Manager, Hillary O'Brien may be contacted at limited times over the holiday break for any queries you may have. Travel itineraries will be sent as soon as we have received them. Please let Hillary know asap if you have any changes to arranged travel or circumstances that will require updating travel. Either  Ph: 0448 176 203 or                                     Em: msb.office@cns.catholic.edu.au 

Stay Connected

Listed below is information on the many ways the College assists families to stay connected to your child and activities that occur over the course of the year. From our website, to social media, Youtube and Newsletters. Follow the links, like and follow us.

Deborah Booth - Communications & Community Engagement

MSB Calendar

Fri 29 Nov - Boarders Travel day & School Holidays Commence

Fri 6 Dec - MSB Office Closed for Christmas School Holidays

Mon 25 Dec - Christmas Day Public Holiday

Tues 26 Dec - Boxing Day Public Holiday

2025

Mon 1 Jan  - New Year's Day Public Holiday

Mon 20 Jan - MSB Office Re-opens for Staff week

Sun 26 Jan - Australia Da

Mon 27 Jan - Australia Day Public Holiday

Tues 28 Jan - Boarders Travel Day 

Wed 29 Jan - Years 8 - 12 All classes commence & New Boarding students Orientation

Thurs 30 Jan - Year 7 Day students commence school Orientation

Fri 10 Feb - Commencement Mass - Opening of the College Year Mass

Sat 15 & Sun 16 Feb - Exeat (Free) Weekend

Tues 25 Feb - School Photo Day

Fri 28 Feb - 2026 Enrolment Applications Due