Mount St Bernard College eNewsletter

Principal

Dear members of the Mount St Bernard College community,

As the cooler weather approaches, the College is getting ready to welcome the term break. This has certainly been a busy term with numerous curricular and extra-curricular activities being participated in by the students.

National Reconciliation Week

During Reconciliation Week 2025, Year 12 students led a powerful series of peace-focused activities that united the school community. Their initiatives were brought to action in the Friday afternoon activities which centred on promoting school safety, strengthening community ties, fundraising and raising awareness about domestic violence. This was a wonderful way to watch the Year 12 demonstrate their leadership to the school community.

Mabo Day - Students and staff attended St Stephen's Catholic College for a special screening to honour the legacy of Eddie Koiki Mabo and the historic fight for land rights. Students continued their recognition with a heartfelt Kup Murri—a celebration of culture, community, and connection. Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make these events meaningful. Let’s continue to walk together in the spirit of truth, respect, and reconciliation.

Attendance and Student Behaviour

Attendance continues to be a prioritised focus in the College, and it is great to see students who choose to do the right thing and engage in learning. These students will be invited to participate in the end of term Rewards Day being held at Lake Tinaroo. If a student missed on out meeting the 80% attendance criteria due to significant illness or Sorry business, they are encouraged to apply to Leadership for special consideration. Students with a valid reason for their absence will be reviewed, however students who have been truant from classes, arriving late, leaving early will not meet the rewards day attendance criteria. This is to reinforce the importance of attending every class for the whole lesson. Next Semester the attendance expectations to participate in the rewards day activities and extra-curricular activities will be raised to an overall 85% attendance.

Engagement is the second key focus of the College. The majority of students are doing the right thing, however, the behaviour of a smaller majority are causing distress to the school community. Throughout the term we have seen small groups of students use violence and instigate fights. Fortunately, these incidents were promptly addressed by staff and lockdowns were not required. Investigations of these incidents have been thorough, and appropriate consequences have been implemented, including submission of mandatory reports to ensure the Child Safeguarding processes were promptly enacted. Please note, the Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns policies on suspensions and enrolment cancelations are closely followed in this process.

Ongoing educational programs are being implemented and offered to students, including police talks on the impact of violence, cyber safety and respectful relationships. The College offers a large number of individual, small group and class intervention programs to support students to not repeat behaviours. Students who have concerns about these incidents are encouraged to meet with the College counsellors and wellbeing officers for additional support.

Queensland Police Service - Discussion with students on the impact of violence, cyber safety and respectful relationships.

The Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC) recently visited boarding schools in Far North Queensland to gain firsthand insight into the unique successes and challenges faced in regional settings. During their visit, QCEC representatives, Hannah Orchard and Brett Greinke, engaged with the Principal and Business Manager to explore sustainable funding strategies and the specific needs of boarding students in remote communities. Discussions focused on the importance of culturally responsive support, infrastructure demands, and the critical role boarding schools play in providing equitable education access. The visit highlighted both the resilience of regional schools and the need for continued investment to ensure long-term viability and student wellbeing.

The National Indigenous Australian Agency

The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) has provided funds in 2025 for our College to upgrade and improve staffing, programs and facilities for our First Nation Boarding students. This funding will continue to support:

Refurbishment of Bernard’s Residential House: this is a continued initiative from 2024.
Wellbeing Support Staff: Funding will be allocated for staff in Pastoral Care, Indigenous Liaison Officers and Wellbeing Officers.
NAIDOC Celebrations: The NIAA will also support our NAIDOC celebrations in July.

Mercy Day

Mercy Day holds a special place in our hearts at Mount St Bernard College. It’s a time when we come together as a community to honour the founding Sisters of Mercy and the values they passed on to us—respect, hospitality, mercy, compassion, service, and justice. These values aren’t just part of our history; they shape who we are today.

As we prepare for this meaningful day, we’re working to ensure every moment reflects the spirit and legacy of the Sisters of Mercy. From prayer and reflection to acts of service and celebration, we’re creating experiences that connect us more deeply to our Mercy heritage.

Mercy Day is personal—it’s about remembering where we come from and recommitting ourselves to the values that guide us. It’s a chance to celebrate our shared identity and the people who built the foundation we stand on. As the day approaches, there’s a growing sense of excitement and pride. We look forward to coming together, not just to honour the past, but to live out the Mercy spirit in everything we do, now and into the future.

School Officers Day

Our College support staff are the backbone of MSB. They often work behind the scenes, ensuring that the school environment is conducive to learning and that the day-to-day operations run smoothly. Their dedication and hard work contribute significantly to the overall functioning of the College, and they deserve sincere recognition and appreciation for their vital roles. Schools simply would not function without school support staff. From laboratory technicians, classroom assistants, grounds staff and administrative staff to cleaning staff, library assistants to AV and IT specialists, support staff are dedicated professionals. Thanks for all you do!

Athletics Day

We’ll end the term with one of the most exciting events on our calendar—the Annual Athletics Carnival! It’s always a fantastic day where students from Flynn, Power, and Rush Sports Houses come together to compete, cheer each other on, and show their house spirit. Every event you participate in earns points for your house, so your involvement really makes a difference in the race for the winning title!

The carnival runs all day, and while we’ll be having fun, normal school expectations still apply. Since there are so many events, a few, high jump, 800m & 1500m, have already taken place last week to help the day run smoothly. We’re looking forward to seeing everyone give it their best, support their teammates, and enjoy a great day of friendly competition and community spirit!

Holiday Well Wishes

Wishing all our students and staff safe and restful travels these holidays. I hope you find time to relax, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments with your family and friends. You’ve earned it!

I’m already looking forward to welcoming you back in Term 3, where we’ll continue growing together—being Respectful, being Responsible, and being Safe in all that we do.

As we close the term, let us take a moment to pause and pray:

Loving God,

Thank You for guiding us through this term—through the challenges, the learning, and the joy.

As we head into the holidays, keep us safe in our travels and bless our time with loved ones.

May we return refreshed, ready to continue our journey together in faith, kindness, and purpose. Amen.

Take care, and see you all next term!

Narelle Hunt - Principal

Deputy Principal Residential

Community Visits

Harry Lui and I recently visited Bamaga, Weipa, Wujal Wujal and Hopevale. It was great to talk with family members as well as past students. It was pleasing to see that many families would like to send their children to our school. It was also pleasing to hear our current parents talk about the many positive aspects of our school. Harry and I hope to return to the communities late in term 3 to gather enrolments for 2026.

Double Bunking

From time-to-time supervisors receive requests from students about sleeping with another student. This normally happens when the student is experiencing homesickness or Sorry Business. From the beginning of term 3, parents of both students who requests to double bunk will be contacted to get approval. Further, all Sorry Business will be followed up by Aunty Lorraine or other boarding staff to ensure that students are genuinely upset. We appreciate that it is a difficult time for families however, we also need to ensure that we are keeping our students safe.

Activities

Below see photos of our students in the local football competition and swimming activities. Our amazing supervisors do a great job of keep our students active and busy on the weekends.

Go Queensland 1-1 after last Wednesday's game!!

Malcolm Fahey - Deputy Principal Residential

Term 2 2025

Deputy Principal Curriculum & Admin

As Term 2 draws to a close, report cards offer a valuable opportunity for students, families, and teachers to reflect on progress. Rather than dwelling on missed opportunities or moments of disengagement, this is a time to look honestly at results, recognise what’s working well, and set clear, realistic goals for improvement in Semester 2. It’s not about punishment or regret—it’s about planning with purpose and intention. A simple way to reflect is by asking, what subjects am I doing well in and why? and What’s one small change I can make next term? Writing down two or three achievable goals and checking in on them weekly can turn reflection into meaningful action.

This term’s assessment period brought out some of the best in our students. We saw students stepping up with determination, asking thoughtful questions, managing their time well, and showing real grit when tasks felt challenging. Whether results reflect a personal best or simply steady progress, there is much to celebrate. The habits built during assessment—like persistence, reflection, and self-motivation—are just as important as the final grades and will continue to shape success in the future.

For our Year 12 students, next term marks the final stretch of their secondary school journey. With key assessment pieces wrapping up and external exams on the horizon, it’s a time for focused effort, strategic revision, and drawing on the support systems around them. We’re excited to walk alongside them as they take these final steps toward graduation and future pathways.

As we head into the mid-year break, it's worth remembering that rest is part of the learning process. Neuroscience tells us that our brains consolidate learning and strengthen memory during downtime. That doesn’t mean students need to study all holidays—but activities like reading for fun, puzzles, creative projects, or learning a new skill can keep the brain active while still allowing for relaxation. Balanced rest supports both wellbeing and academic growth, setting the stage for a strong start to Term 3.

Finally, thank you to the families and staff who continue to support our students in countless ways—through encouragement, reminders, patient listening, and high expectations. Learning doesn’t happen in isolation, and the consistent care from home and school forms a foundation for success. As we look ahead to Term 3, continuing to work together—with open communication and shared goals—will help every student feel supported and ready to thrive.

Dr Emma Sheppard - Deputy Principal Curriculum & Administration

Assistant Principal Wellbeing

Dear Parents and Carers,

It’s hard to believe that we are almost at the halfway mark for the school year. I think all students are very ready for a restful and relaxing mid-year break.

This term has been both challenging and rewarding in the Student Wellbeing space.

The term commenced with laptops being rolled out across the school over the first few weeks of the term to the students who had the Acceptable Use of Computer and Internet Resources Consent form signed and agreed to. This has certainly helped, in that the majority of students have adhered to the policy and have used their laptops responsibly throughout the term. There were a number of students however who did have laptops removed from them for periods of time. The process of removing laptops from students not doing the right thing will continue into next semester.

This term we also started to use the Re-set room which is used for inappropriate behaviour in class. The process is aimed at students, when in class, not distracting others from learning or distracting the teacher from teaching. Whilst the Re-set room has been a success it is something that we will continue to fine tune. I would like to thank Jade for the work she has done in that space.

During this term there were a few programs organised by members of the Wellbeing team.

Tim organised the Good Blokes Program which is a program focusing on developing connections through yarning.

Michelle organised the “Friendship and Me” program which is aimed at helping young people connect better with their peers.

Last Friday we had a visit from members of the Queensland Police Service. They spoke with all students across the school. Their topics included:

Cyberbullying
Stalking
Keeping safe online
Violence
eScooter safety
Prank calls

Student Awards

Congratulations to the following students who received Certificates of Merit for their behaviour throughout the term:

Tyler Morriss - in recognition of displaying responsible behaviours
Bailey O'Shea – in recognition of displaying responsible behaviours
Supreet Kaur - in recognition of displaying responsible behaviours
Mahalia Creek - in recognition of displaying responsible behaviours
Ethan Hill - in recognition of displaying responsible behaviours
Edna (Irene) Anau – in recognition of displaying safe behaviours
Emma Jensen - in recognition of displaying respectful behaviours

Next Monday we have a rewards day organised for those students who have an attendance level of 80% or above for this term.

I would like to wish everyone a safe and relaxing mid-year break.

Greg Hoare - Assistant Principal Wellbeing

Assistant Principal Identity & Outreach

This term at Mount St Bernard College has been rich in opportunities for students and staff to deepen their sense of identity and reach out in service, dialogue, and community engagement.

On Friday 20 June, we celebrated Mercy Day, a special occasion to honour our College’s heritage and our connection to the Sisters of Mercy and their founder, Venerable Catherine McAuley. The day began with a joyful and reverent Mass in the chapel, special thanks to Mr Tobias for preparing the band and singers, followed by a hard-fought Teachers vs Students Volleyball Match, and a shared lunch in the dining room. In the afternoon, students chose from a wide variety of activities including a heritage tour of St Patrick’s Church and museum, teddy bear making for our upcoming visit to St Teresa’s School, a nature mandala on the chapel lawn, and a playful mix of traditional games like egg-and-spoon and three-legged races, skipping ropes, and bubbles on the Mercy Front Lawn. It was a day full of spirit, service, and celebration.

Mercy Day 2025

This term also saw our Year 12 students begin volunteering monthly with Rosies – Friends on the Street in Mareeba. Partnering with community volunteers, students helped distribute food and drinks — but more importantly, they offered their presence, their ears, and their hearts. Through simple, human connection, they came face-to-face with the dignity and resilience of people facing homelessness, isolation, and hardship. It’s a humbling and hope-filled experience, and we are proud to walk this path of hospitality and mercy.

Earlier in the term, our Year 11 and 12 Religion & Ethics students were privileged to welcome Imam Daimin Murat from Mareeba. Imam Murat spoke of Islamic beliefs and practices, and the shared spiritual lineage of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. His visit reminded us of the power of interfaith dialogue and the importance of understanding and respect. He also enjoyed a tour of our beautiful campus, expressing his appreciation for our history and unique location.

Several students represented MSB at the Young Voices Youth Summit at St Mary’s Catholic College. Gathering with peers from across the Diocese, students shared their opinions on what a world class Catholic education could look like. It was inspiring to see our young leaders stepping forward to shape their future.

This term also marked the launch of our team in The Push-Up Challenge 2025, a national initiative supporting mental health awareness. With Kieren Waugh leading the charge as team captain, students and staff have been logging push-ups in solidarity, raising money for Lifeline, spreading awareness and fostering wellbeing—one rep at a time.

Finally, the Year 12 Peace Expo was another successful student-led event. They launched their very own Cyber Safety Minecraft site, a creative and powerful tool for promoting digital wellbeing. There were games, information stalls, and sweet treats galore, with all funds raised going to St Vincent de Paul, Ravenshoe. We were proud to present $1000 to Rob Doyle from Vinnies, thanks to the efforts of our student leaders and the wider school community.

These moments reflect what Mercy identity is all about: faith in action, compassion in community, and the courage to reach out and make a difference.

May God’s Mercy shine upon you and may you all be rays of Hope for the world!

Janet Wigan - Assistant Principal Identity & Outreach

Enrol Now for 2025 & 2026

ENROL NOW

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

Year 7 2026

To ensure your child can attend our Transition Day in Term 4, all applications must be supplied to College with supporting documentation by the end of Term 2, Friday 27 June, 2025.

Term Three – Applications due by Week 3 for a Term 3 commencement, applications after Week 3 will be considered for a Term 4 Commencement

Term Four – Applications due by Week 3 for a Term 4 commencement, applications after Week 4 will be considered for a Term 1 of the following school year Commencement.

APPLY TODAY EXCEL TOMORROW - 2026 SCHOLARSHIPS

* Dream, Believe, Achieve with Our Scholarships.

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

* Apply before the end of Term 3 - go to https://www.msb.qld.edu.au/scholarships/

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

NAIDOC DAY - Bus from Cairns Central

NAIDOC DAY BUS BOOKINGS FROM CAIRNS - Thursday 31 July 2025

We will run a bus from Cairns Central for local families to attend. If you have booked Abstudy travel with Tash Herrington, please do not call to book a seat on this bus.

Please email ledwards4@cns.catholic.edu.au or phone 4096 1485. Please provide your students name and the names of family requiring a bus seat. Limited seats so get in early, first to book will be given preference.

All bus travel requests are due by 14 July to avoid disappointment.

Lylia Edwards - Executive Assistant to the Principal & Office Manager

Parent & Friends Association

In Term 2 the P&F met to discuss, review and adopt policies and funding proposals put forward by our College students and staff.

The Parents and Friends (P&F) Association has brought ideas to life through their generous funding efforts. Thanks to the unwavering support of our College community, several initiatives have already been funded in 2025—each one enriching the student experience and strengthening our College spirit.

Enhancing Worship Through Music In a nod to the spiritual life of our College, the P&F funded the purchase and permanent installation of musical equipment in the chapel. These improvements allow students to share their musical gifts with confidence and joy.

Sheltering Students, Rain or Shine Sheltering Students, Rain or Shine a new undercover bus shelter inside the College grounds will be constructed. This thoughtful addition will provide students with a safe, shaded space to wait for buses—especially valuable during rainy mornings or hot summer afternoons. It’s a small structure with a big impact, offering comfort, safety, and peace of mind for students and parents alike.

Hydration for Health and Sustainability Recognising the importance of student wellbeing and environmental responsibility, the P&F funded the installation of a new chilled water fountain in. Designed for easy bottle refills and hygienic access, the fountain encourages students to stay hydrated throughout the day while reducing single-use plastic waste. It’s a simple yet powerful step toward fostering healthy habits and a more sustainable College environment.

Honouring Culture and Community: NAIDOC Day 2025 This year, the P&F is proudly supporting our College’s NAIDOC Day celebrations, held at the end of July. The 2025 theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” will inspire a vibrant program of activities that honours First Nations cultures and histories.

The P&F thanks every parent, caregiver, and supporter who has volunteered time, ideas, or donations.

The following policies/guidelines were also endorsed:

Accident and First Aid
Attendance and Punctuality
Banned items
Child and Youth Risk Strategy – CES Policy
Collectable Toys guidelines
Data breach
School & College Advisory Board Charter

These policies are available on the MyCE app (Parent Portal) for you to review and familiarise yourself.

Thank you to our P&F Association and Board members for their continued involvement in enhancing our College to ensure it is a space that nurtures the development of our students.

Lylia Edwards - Executive Assistant to the Principal & Office Manager

Communications & Community Engagement - School Reports

Semester 2 Student Reports

A friendly reminder to Parents and Carers that your child/rens Semester 1 Reports will be uploaded to view on the Parent Portal and Parent Portal MyCE Application.

Instructions are listed below to access your child/rens report through either the parent Portal or MyCE Application, as well as First Time Login to the MyCE Mobile Application and MyCE User guide.

As always, please reach out to the College if required.

Deborah Booth - Communications & Community Engagement

First Time Login MyCE Mobile App

MyCE-User-Guide-February-2024-compressed

College Events - Travel Bookings 2025

Dear Parents and Carers,

Please note in your calendars the close off dates to request travel for the following 2025 events.

PRESENTATION EVENING & GRADUATION - 23/24th October 2025

Submit travel request: 18^th August 2025 (Week 6, Term 3)

2026 YEAR 7 TRANSITION - 19/20th November 2025

Submit travel request: 8^th September 2025 (Week 9, Term 3)

NOTES

Once travel request has been submitted, amendments are allowable in extenuating circumstances only.
Once travel is confirmed and itineraries issued - Abstudy will not rebook or reimburse costs if the travel is later cancelled.
Abstudy allows UP TO 5 immediate family members for Special Purpose travel. Other relationships require an explanation of significant ties to the student, which will then be investigated by Abstudy.
The length of stay is determined by the event, with travel generally for the day prior to the event, and return the day after the event.

INFORMATION FROM FAMILIES

The information required from families (for each traveller) in order to submit a travel request is:

Title
Legal Name (as shown on photo ID / student ID)
Date of birth
Customer Reference Number (CRN)
Permanent home address (as registered with Abstudy)
Mobile phone number
Relationship to student (with explanation if not immediate family)
Bed / room configuration for accommodation booking

If you have any further queries please contact me via email msb.enrolments@cns.catholic.edu.au or Ph: 4096 1595 or Ph: 4096 1444.

Tash Herrington - Enrolments & Travel Officer

Year 12 Formal

Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians,

We are excited to announce the details for the much-anticipated 2025 Year 12 School Formal! Here is all the information you need to know to ensure this special event is unforgettable.

Event Details

Where: Cairns Convention Centre, Cairns
When: Saturday, 23 August 2025
Arrivals: From 5.30 pm seated by 6:15 pm

Ticket Pricing – payment required by Friday, 1 August 2025

Adults: $85 per person
College graduate: ticket is paid by MSB
Phone payments: Please call Sharon Negri to make payments for tickets Ph: 4096 1586

Beverages on the night

Jugs of soft drinks will be set on each table. Once the jugs are finished, guests will need to purchase soft drinks from the bar. This is a dry bar only; no alcohol will be served.

Special Arrival Arrangements

If you are interested in booking a Hummer Limousine for your child's arrival at the Convention Centre, please get in touch with Student Reception by Friday, 15 August. phone: 4096 1445

Guest Attendance and Travel Information

The time has lapsed for Abstudy travel requests to be lodged. Parents are encouraged to book their travel and accommodation requirements and seek reimbursement from Abstudy.

We look forward to celebrating this milestone with you and creating cherished memories at the 2025 Year 12 School Formal!

Please do not hesitate to contact the school office for any additional information or assistance. We look forward to seeing you there!

Year 12 Formal Committee

Music & Drama

Music

Term 1 and 2 in Music focussed on building a strong Gospel music band with members across all year levels to facilitate regular contemporary Gospel music for our assemblies and liturgies in the school’s chapel.

We thank the Parents & Friends Committee for their support in purchasing instruments and sound equipment which has been permanently installed near the chapel’s altar to facilitate the performances.

Students have used some of their class time as well as the Friday Afternoon Acivity Music option to regularly learn and practice some exciting contemporary material and performed it on vocals, keyboard, drums, guitars, bass and djembes. Please enjoy the videos below of their performance at assembly this week.

9/10 Drama

As students completed an in-depth study of a chosen character from a stage play, TV series or film during the first 5 weeks of Term, students had three choices on how to apply their knowledge in the second half of Term 2.

Students either chose a 2-3 minute monologue or dialogue to perform for their class peers on stage, designed a 3D model of a stage production based on a chosen scene of their selected role, or designed an alternative costume for their part in 2D form. Choices ranged from contemporary TV shows to favourite Disney personalities such as Moana to video game personas with significant backstories, as well as wider known Pop-Culture icons such as Luke Skywalker.

Tobias Moldenhauer - Music & Drama Teacher

Agriculture

Agriculture Buzz: Growth and Green Adventures!

Our students have been working incredibly hard in the gardens lately, embracing the hands-on spirit of agriculture with enthusiasm and care. From planting bananas and vibrant hibiscus to removing invasive snake plants, every day brings new growth and challenges.

The garden is bursting with life as we harvest a bounty of fresh produce — fragrant basil, fiery chillies, tender shallots, flavourful rosemary, zesty ginger, crisp capsicums, and much more. It’s rewarding to see our students’ efforts blossom into such a rich harvest.

Recently, our Year 11/12 Agriculture class enjoyed an inspiring excursion to the FNQ Rotary Field Days in Mareeba. They explored everything from cattle breeds and care to cutting-edge drone technology — including a drone capable of carrying 50 litres or 50 kilograms of material! Students journeyed through agricultural history, checking out engines from the past alongside today’s largest tractors. The trip also offered hands-on experiences with nurseries, plant stalls, and innovative sprinkler system demonstrations.

A highlight was visiting the Same Day Granny Flat stall, where students sparked ideas about future housing solutions. This enriching day was made possible thanks to the dedication and expertise of Tyreece and Ms Debby, who brought invaluable knowledge and support.

Our agricultural adventure continues to grow stronger, fuelled by curiosity, hard work, and a passion for the land!

Nathan Unwin - Agriculture Teacher

2025 FNQ Rotary Field Days Mareeba

MSB Workshop: Crafting Skills Through Dedication and Hard Work

Our workshop is buzzing with activity as students tackle a range of exciting projects, showing resilience, focus, and skill every step of the way. The commitment they bring to their work is truly impressive — proof that progress comes from consistent effort and a willingness to learn.

The Year 11 and 12 students have been fully engaged in constructing sand anchors, mastering a variety of tools such as welding equipment, grinders, and drill presses. Their steady progress reflects hours of careful effort and growing confidence in their technical abilities. Safety remains a top priority, with every student wearing the appropriate protective gear as they work diligently.

Meanwhile, Year 8 students are putting creativity and precision into designing and building pencil cases. They are gaining hands-on experience with tools like chisels, saws, and sanders while developing an eye for detail through pyrography and finishing techniques. The pride they take in crafting personalised, functional pieces is clear in the unique character of each project.

Year 9 and 10 students are also rising to the challenge by creating custom tables. These projects require accurate measurements, thoughtful planning, and skilled execution — all skills that our students are honing day by day.

Throughout the workshop, the spirit of collaboration and care for safety stands out. Our students understand that building something tangible is more than just a task — it’s an opportunity to grow, problem-solve, and prepare for future challenges.

We celebrate the hard work, perseverance, and passion of every student who walks through our workshop doors. They are building more than projects — they’re building a strong foundation for their futures.

Nathan Unwin - Industrial Technologies Teacher

Industrial Technologies - Week 9 Term 2 2025

Moon Phases with a Twist!

As Term 2 comes to a close, our Year 7 students have been exploring the Moon, Earth, Tides, and Seasons. To wrap up their learning on the phases of the Moon, the class stepped outside the lab for a fun and creative activity. Using Oreos as a learning tool, students illustrated the Moon’s phases in teams. Salome and Leitha were nominated by their peers and led the demonstration. We wish all our students the very best as they complete their assessments and exam submissions. Keep up the fantastic work and curiosity!

Julia Cazita-Mazeaud - Science Teacher

Library

Building on from my last newsletter article, I have continued to observe more positive social interactions between students inside and outside of the library. As the laptops were returned to junior students there was, and continues to be, a better balance between screen time and the interactions and growing friendships too.

Our valiant reader Hayley Baker was the sole representative for us at the Year 7 & 8 Readers Cup competition as unfortunate circumstances meant that her team mates were unable to attend. Luckily Hayley engaged in some true Readers Cup spirit by joining with a St Stephen’s College team who only had three members. Together the team laughed, snacked, and answered the questions as best as they could. I am happy to report that our overall score was 28 ranking us 17^th out of 21. I would like to thank Hayley, the St Stephen’s College team, and Ms Benita Cairns for their effort in making it a highly valuable and enjoyable excursion.

The Year 9 & 10 Readers Cup team are continuing to meet every Wednesday to read their books and consider some of the possible questions that may be asked. This competition will run in Term 3 Week 4, Thursday August 7^th.

Our break time activities have been continuing, with the Ipad workshops being popular and a growing interest in puzzles. The students completed a two 1000-piece puzzles and are currently racing to finish a Marvel Comic 500-piece.

I would like to wish everyone a safe and restful holiday and look forward to seeing all the students on their return.

Rachel Nelson - Teacher Librarian

Sports News

Our students enjoy anything to do with Sports, and this term has been no exception. Basketball, Rugby League, Touch Football and Volleyball Regional trials all took place throughout the term.

Along with team sports, students attended the District Cross Country in Yungaburra. A big congratulation to Oscar Wosomo who made the Peninsula Cross Country team. Oscar has recently also broken the 800m record that has been held at Mount St Bernard College for almost 20 years. Previously held by Andrew Ross in 2004 with a time of 2:18:50, Oscar now holds the record in 2025 with a time of 2:18:10.

In week 10, students will attend our Athletics Carnival on the top oval. Watch this space FOR new student records and District Athletics qualifications.

In term 3 our students will move onto District Athletics trials in Mareeba, which is always a highlight for staff and students from the College.

Kendra Robinson - Sports Co-Ordinator

Year 7 Outdoor Education Excursion

Year 7 Outdoor Education

On Thursday, our Year 7 students had an unforgettable experience at Rainforestation Nature Park in Kuranda. The day was packed with exciting and educational activities that immersed students in Indigenous culture, Australian wildlife, and the natural beauty of the rainforest.

The adventure began with the Pamagirri Dance Show where students enjoyed traditional Aboriginal dances and music. This was followed by the Dreamtime Walk, where they learned about bush tucker, boomerang throwing, and Indigenous tools and traditions.

After a quick bite to eat, students explored the Wildlife Park, getting to hand fed the kangaroos, search for hiding reptiles and watch the tree kangaroo hop from branch to branch.

We finished off our action-packed day with the Army Duck Rainforest Tour which involved a unique ride in an amphibious WWII vehicle through the rainforest,

It was a fun-filled, hands-on day of learning that our Year 7s will not soon forget!

Curabitur

Term 2 2025 Rainforestation

Sharks Camp 2025 - July. GET IN QUICK LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!!

Sharks Camp is a four-day volleyball camp designed to cater to athletes of all skill levels. With elite development opportunities available and pathways into club and state-level volleyball, this camp has something for everyone!

The Dates:

8th July | 9th July | 10th July | 11th July

Visit our website for more information https://sharksvolleyball.com/sharks-camp."

QLD SPORT & RECREATION

Queensland Sport & Recreation, Play On Sports vouchers are launching on the 4th August — a new $200 voucher program to help Queensland kids aged 5–17 get into sport. There will be two rounds each year (summer or winter) More support for regional areas and inclusive sport. Visit the following link for more information: www.qld.gov.au/playon

FREE MAGGIE DENT WEBINARS As part of our commitment to safeguarding children, the Professional Standards and Safeguarding Office is offering free access to a selection of three Maggie Dent webinars for our Diocesan community — including carers, parents, and staff. Limited spots available! Each webinar comes with a special access link, free of charge.