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Last week the 2025 AGM was held for the College Board.
I am pleased to say that several parents attended and some were elected as Board members.
The Board that provides advice to me in my role consists of the ex-officio members:
Parish Administrator, Fr Shilbin Kurian
Parish representative, Mandy Ayres
Primary staff representative: Sarah Rogers
Secondary staff representative: Tundi Gosselink
Principal
Leadership Team member: Kate Moretto - DP Secondary
College Business Manager
The four parent Board members are:
Brad Sobott
David Royston-Jennings
El Long
Bec Murton
I hope that, in a future newsletter, these parents will provide a photo and short bio so you can recognise them and learn of the skills they bring to the support of the College.
At the AGM I provided an annual report which is linked here.
Also discussed at the meeting were the School Renewal and Improvement Plan 2022-2026 and the 2024 Annual School Improvement Plan goals and achievements.
The Annual School Improvement goals for 2025 are as follows:
- To develop (some years) or maintain (other years) an orderly learning environment Where students are: adequately challenged to learn and where strong relationships are built
- To plan and implement more effective ways of measuring and responding to student learning (assessment)
- Building and promoting the Catholic Identity of our College
- Maintain a focus on Wellbeing of staff.
Principal
Participating in this survey is vital for our Catholic college as it helps us gain insights into our community's perceptions and experiences. This feedback allows us to strengthen our commitment to our mission, ensuring our educational environment aligns with our Catholic values and meets the needs of our students.
Everyone’s input is important. Your participation should take about 55 minutes. It’s best to finish the survey in one shot, without having to come back later.
Your responses are anonymous and your personal data is treated confidentially in accordance with
ethical and legal guidelines. Only you will be able to view your individual results and this can be done once you’ve completed the questionnaires.
Keep these best practices in mind:
✓ Answer spontaneously and don’t overanalyse. Your input is more valuable if you respond with the
first thought that comes to mind. Plus, you’ll proceed faster.
✓ Choose the response that honestly matches your opinion. Don’t hesitate to select “strongly agree”
or “strongly disagree” if that’s in fact how you feel.
✓ Respond as best you can to each question as it is worded. You may feel that some questions don’t
fully apply to your school environment. That’s OK; just respond as best you can.
It’s also helpful to keep in mind:
✓ Many questions ask you for two perspectives:
- “My son/daughter’s school” as you actually see things today
- “My ideal school” as you would like to see things in the best future scenario
✓ Some questions might seem repetitive; but they’re actually not. There’s a scientific purpose
behind the ways in which the questions are formulated. Every question counts.
✓ Trust that the survey as a whole will accurately capture your personal point of view. Even if you
struggle to respond to some individual questions, it’s important to complete the entire survey.
How to access the surveys follow the link www.ecsi.site/au/user/
- Enter the case-sensitive password Ghj654 and click login.
- Click the New user button. If you wish to continue a previous session: Enter your User-ID and Password.
- Enter our school’s Survey Access Code:
- College Access Code: T8959a
- College Group Password: GT896d
- You are now logged in. Displayed on the screen is your unique User-ID and Password. Save this information (write, print, or email it) to access the website at a later time.
- From this point forward, please follow the on-screen instructions to complete the surveys.
The survey begins with some general demographic questions.
- The survey proceeds in several parts. Please finish one part before proceeding to the
next one.
- You can view your results at any time by returning to the main questionnaire page.
- You can return at any time to a question and change your response.
- If you wish to pause and finish the survey at a later time, you will need your User-ID and Password in order to login again.
Thank you for participating in this survey.
God's blessings upon you,Julie Hornstra, Shadley Davids
Assistant Principals/ Religious Education
Extra-Curricular Opportunities
It is wonderful to see so many students involved in extracurricular activities, from sport and music to leadership and service initiatives. These activities enrich the school experience and help students develop important life skills. We commend all participants and encourage students to get involved in opportunities that interest them. Our musical student are in full swing at rehearsals. Other extra-curricular opportunities are listed on student morning notices and Primary Clubs.
Warm regards,
Samantha Hinton (Deputy Primary)
Kate Moretto (Deputy Secondary)
In the Early Years…
Parent-Teacher Interviews
Parent-teacher interviews will take place next Tuesday and Wednesday. I strongly encourage you to take this opportunity to check in with your child’s teacher(s) about their progress during Semester 1. Booking slots have been filling up quite quickly this year. If you are unable to book a time please contact your child’s teacher for alternative arrangements.
Literacy and Numeracy Support
As we know, children grow and develop at different rates. At various points throughout their school life, many students will benefit from additional practice and revision of concepts to consolidate their understanding. At St. Catherine’s, we refer to this support as Tier 2 intervention. Some students may need Tier 2 support for a short period, while others may need it for a longer duration.
Tier 2 intervention can take many forms. It often occurs within the classroom during normal teaching hours, where a small group of students may work with a teacher or school officer for extra scaffolding and support, while others work more independently. At times, Tier 2 support may be provided by someone else working with a small group of students in a separate space.
Classroom teachers work closely with the Inclusive Practice team to plan and timetable this support, ensuring that it complements the learning happening in the classroom and that students are not missing the explicit teaching. The progress of students receiving Tier 2 support is closely monitored, as this support is flexible—students can enter and exit the group(s) as needed.
It’s important to remember that the learning journey is individual, and we all learn at different paces (even adults).
In the Middle Years…
Academic Track
At times, teachers may contact home to seek the support of parents and carers regarding academic concerns. Below is a summary of the initial steps in our Academic Track:
- Identifying Concerns
Teachers may become concerned when students display a pattern of unproductive academic behavior, such as:
- Frequent lateness to class
- Arriving unprepared without necessary equipment
- Failing to complete assigned tasks
- Submitting incomplete homework
In such cases, teachers will contact parents to inform them of these concerns.
- Academic Plan
If the pattern of behavior continues, teachers may seek support from the Curriculum Middle Leader, and the student may be placed on an Academic Plan. This plan will outline strategies to help the student improve their academic habits. - Academic Monitoring Card
If there is still no improvement, the student will be placed on an Academic Monitoring Card to track their progress more closely.
The Role of Parents
Parental support is essential at every stage. Learning can only take place when students are prepared and make the most of their class time. When teachers must repeatedly explain instructions due to lateness, locate materials for students, or help them catch up on missed work, valuable learning time is lost.
By working in partnership with teachers, parents can help address concerns quickly, ensuring students stay on track and make positive academic progress.
Thank you for your ongoing support with this process.
~Emma Hiscox & Erin Laguna~
Assistant Principals - Learning and Teaching
In the Senior Years….
Year 11 Set Plan Interim Meetings
As you may know, Senior Education and Training (SET) planning is undertaken in Year 10 to help students transition into Years 11 and 12. A SET plan outlines a student’s unique learning pathway through the senior phase of their education. It supports students in working toward their QCE, QCIA, ATAR, VET qualifications, or preparing for entry into the workforce after Year 12.
During the first week of Term Two, Jess Brown-Kenyon (VET and Pathways Middle Leader) and I will hold interim SET plan meetings with Year 11 students. These meetings are an opportunity to review and update their plans, if necessary, ensuring they remain on track toward their goals.
If you would like to attend the meeting, please contact Jess at jbrownkenyon@prspne.catholic.edu.au or myself at sfowdar@prspne.catholic.edu.au to arrange a convenient time.
MyQCE Account
The QCAA’s student portal serves as a comprehensive hub for senior students to access their enrolments, results, QCE eligibility status, and final subject results. It also provides official certificates after completing school. While many Year 11 and 12 students may have already created an account, those who have not are encouraged to do so.
To set up an account, students need their 10-digit Learner Unique Identifier (LUI). If they are unsure of their LUI, they can email me, and I will provide it. When creating an account, students must use an email address other than their school email, as school email accounts are deactivated upon graduation.
The student portal offers several key features:
- My Details: View and verify your personal details.
- My Learning Account: Check subject and course enrolments, track QCE eligibility, and access your results and Senior Education Profile (SEP) once eligible.
- My Timetable: Find your external assessment timetable (for General subjects).
- My AARA: Check the status of access arrangements and reasonable adjustments (AARA).
- My Online Learning: Complete the QCAA academic integrity course and print your certificate of completion.
~ Sooraj Fowdar~
Senior Phase Teaching and Learning Leader
Tickets on sale now!
Tickets go on sale now and can be purchased through the Proserpine Entertainment Centre.
Spread the word and invite your family and friends, this is a show you won’t want to miss!
To provide our students with the invaluable experience of performing in a professional venue, we utilise our local Entertainment Centre, which comes with significant costs. We are looking for sponsorship from local businesses to help support this opportunity, including set design, costumes, lighting, and sound.
Would you be willing to support our production through a sponsorship? Your generosity will directly benefit our students, giving them the opportunity to showcase their talents and create an unforgettable experience for our school and wider community.
As a valued supporter, your business will be acknowledged in our school newsletter and on our social media platforms, providing excellent exposure to our engaged audience. This is a great opportunity to promote your business while supporting the arts and young performers in our community.
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities please reach out via the details below.
We sincerely appreciate your support and look forward to the
opportunity to collaborate with you!
Many thanks,
Louise Uhl
Marketing Officer
luhl@prspne.catholic.edu.au
07 4945 1414
| YEAR 1 | Mac Galonski, Nate Vakirevic, Hugo Tolliday, Joshua Ketchup |
| YEAR 2 | Mason Bradford |
| YEAR 3 | Benson Smith, Miranda Palmero, Caleb Woolston, Molly Galonski |
| YEAR 5 | Jai Horsford, Blake Chrystal, Henry Gill |
Week 8 Mercy Awards
| Prep | Harrison Tivendale, Archer Key, Imogen Mitchell, Harvey Jackson, Madeline Duffy |
| YEAR 2 | Harry Faust, Banjo Peterson, Emmett Blair, Franky Soden, Harry Chegwidden, Sunny Robinson |
| YEAR 4 | Quentin Flaherty,Levi Stokes, Billie Jamieson, |
| YEAR 5 | Elsina Jerard |
| YEAR 6 | Madelyn McIntyre,Matilda Moynihan, Evie McLoughlin |
| Prep | William Carey |
| YEAR 1 | Anthia De Guzman, Leeona Charlton, Lotte Brazowski |
| YEAR 3 | Hevaeh Mulvahil, Charlie Jackson, Indie Morley-Hart, |
| YEAR 5 | Arland Bryson, Alana Salmond, Sophie Sun |
| YEAR 6 | Tyler Charlton |
Harmony Day
In the spirit of Harmony Day, our Primary and secondary campus staff shared a lunch. Staff was asked to bring a dish that represents their culture, or a culture they have a strong affinity with.
A Taste of Harmony helps us to recognise and celebrate the cultural diversity in our workplace.
Amelia McKay competed in the District finals of the Lions Youth of the Year.
Amelia was awarded the Kate Lemmon Community Service Award for the entrant with the greatest level of community engagement and service. Congratulations, Amelia, on this amazing achievement!
International Womens Day - Zonta Whitsundays
On Saturday, March 8th, the Whitsundays came together to celebrate International Women’s Day, honouring the incredible women who inspire, lead, and create change in our community.
Zonta Whitsundays hosted a joyful event, celebrating strength, resilience, and achievement.
We were proud to see past and present St Catherine’s students in attendance, along with Secondary Teacher Kylieanne Mitchell.
From the Guidance Counsellor
A Special Report: Social Media & Comparison Culture
Young people today are growing up in a world where exposure to other people's lives is constant. Through social media and other platforms, they are regularly presented with curated highlights - from flawless holiday photos and academic milestones to the latest fashion trends and fitness achievements. This continuous stream of idealised content fuels what is known as comparison culture, where self-worth is often measured by how someone stacks up against others.
For children and adolescents, who are still figuring out who they are, this culture can be particularly damaging. Constantly comparing their appearance, achievements, or social standing to friends, influencers, and even strangers can lead to unrealistic expectations and a skewed sense of self-worth. This relentless need to measure up can contribute to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and anxiety - undermining both confidence and emotional wellbeing.
It's vital that parents and caregivers understand how deeply comparison culture can influence a child's self-perception and sense of value. Left unchecked, it can foster perfectionism and a dependence on external validation, where a 'like' or comment becomes the measure of their worth.
The good news is, families have a powerful role to play in helping young people navigate these challenges. This Special Report will help you empower your child to build the resilience and confidence needed to navigate today's comparison-driven world and embrace their own unique path.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.
If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help.
Here is the link to your special report:
https://prspne.catholic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-social-media-comparison-culture-au
Warm regards,
Hayley Moore
Guidance Counsellor
Building Connections Through Buddy Reading
Every Friday after second break, our Prep and Year 6 students come together for a heartwarming Buddy Reading session that fosters a love of literacy and strengthens friendships across year levels.
Each week, the Year 6s visit the Prep classroom, or the Preps venture to the senior learning space, creating an exciting opportunity for shared learning. The session begins with the Year 6s reading engaging picture books to their younger buddies, modelling fluency and expression. Then, the roles shift as the Preps take the lead, practising their decoding skills with carefully selected decodable texts. The Year 6s offer guidance, encouraging their buddies to sound out letters and blend words, building confidence with every page turned.
But the fun doesn’t stop there! After reading, the students come together for an energetic session of dancing and games, reinforcing the joy of learning and movement. These sessions are more than just reading practice—they create lasting bonds, foster mentorship, and build a strong sense of community within our school.
Buddy Reading is truly a highlight of the week, filled with smiles, laughter, and wonderful moments of growth for both our youngest and oldest students.
Our Year 8 music students have been diving into the world of performance, experimenting with a variety of instruments, including piano, electric guitar, bass, acoustic guitar and drums. As they prepare for their end-of-term performance assessment, they are refining their skills and gaining confidence in their musical abilities.
In addition to their practical work, students are also engaged in a Musician Artist Project, where they are analysing a band or musician of their choice. This project allows them to explore different musical styles, influences, and the impact of artists on the industry.
We look forward to seeing their performances and hearing their insights as the term progresses!
Primary Disco Celebrates Harmony in Style!
Last Friday night, our school hall came alive with colour, music, and celebration as students gathered for the Primary Disco—a night to remember!
In honour of Harmony Day, the theme was “orange or cultural dress,” and our students did not disappoint. From bright orange outfits to traditional cultural attire, the dance floor was a vibrant display of diversity, inclusion, and fun.
The students had an absolute blast dancing the night away, enjoying tasty treats from the canteen, and celebrating what makes each of us unique.
A huge thank you goes out to our amazing parents and carers for the incredible costumes, volunteering in the canteen, and staying behind to help with clean-up. Your support made the night a success.
St Joseph’s Feast Day
Last week, Year 2C led a meaningful liturgy in celebration of St Joseph’s Feast Day, teaching the Primary community about the life and example of this humble, courageous saint.
Through readings, prayers, and reflections, the students shared how St Joseph protected Jesus and Mary. They reminded us that St Joseph was brave, choosing to trust God even when traveling to Egypt was difficult and uncertain.
Year 2C should be very proud of the way they helped their fellow students understand and honour St Joseph’s example of faith, trust, and love.
Proserpine District Representatives
Congratulations to Sophie Palmero (Netball) and Jeandre Joubert (Rugby League) for demonstrating dedication, skills and fair play representing Proserpine District.
Sport with year 3
This term year 3 and 4 have been learning the game of Newcombe ball. Students have been focusing on passing, catching and serving skills, as well as improving game sense.
Rugby League
Congratulations to our Year 7/8 Rugby League boys on their impressive 40-10 victory over St Pat’s on home ground last week.
Soccer
Our year 4 - 6 students took on the Christian College in some wet football matches last week. It was a fun afternoon with some impressive goals being scored. Thanks to our coaches Mr Bates and Mrs Gibbs.
Netball
Congratulations to Molly and Mila for their selection in the NQ Under 12 Netball team. As one of the most highly contested NQ team sports, it is an incredible achievement for the two St Catherine’s superstars.
Cross Country
Dear Families,
The 2025 St Catherine’s Year 3- 6 Cross Country will be held Friday 28th March. Cross Country is always a highly contested competition and an ideal opportunity for students to highlight their talents in front of their peers. The students will start and finish on the primary oval, completing a course around the College grounds.
Students are encouraged to wear their house team shirts or sports uniform for the day. Alternatively, sunsafe and appropriate clothing can be worn for races; however, students must change back into their sports uniform for the rest of the day. Everyone has to have a hat and is encouraged to take water bottles to stay hydrated. Students with asthma MUST have their Ventolin with them whilst competing.
Please see an outline of the day below:
|
Time |
Event Details |
|
11:30am |
Students move to primary oval for races |
|
11:40am |
8 Years (2017) |
|
11:45am |
9 Years (2016) |
|
11:50am |
10 Years (2015) |
|
11:551am |
11 Years (2014) |
|
12 Noon |
12 Years (2013) |
|
12:30pm |
Awards Ceremony in TGC |
|
12:55pm |
Lunch Break |
If you have any concerns please contact me during school hours 49451630 or email blaguna@prspne.catholic.edu.au
Birri Gubba Club Keeps Spirits High – Rain or Shine
Last week, over 15 enthusiastic Primary students joined in for another wonderful Birri Gubba Club session!
The wet weather didn’t dampen their spirits, they simply moved undercover and kept the fun going. Students got creative with hand scratch art, a favourite activity that lets them express themselves through culture and colour.
They also came together in a yarning circle, using yarning cards to share stories, listen, and learn more about each other in a safe and respectful space.
It was a beautiful reminder that connection, creativity and culture can thrive in any weather!
This year is the year of our biennial Industry day. The day is a day for all our students from prep to 12 to engage with and consider what they want to do after school.
For secondary students there will be stall holders of all our local industries and available employers for students to engage with and ask questions. The day will be supported with a scavenger hunt for house points to encourage students to explore employers outside their knowledge.
For primary students there will be various activities that classes will focus on. Information on these will come from classroom teachers early next term.
If you have or are within local industry and would be interested in holding a stall for our school industry day or presenting a talk to some of our students. Please contact Jess Brown-Kenyon and Melissa Pepper via email - vet_pathways@prspne.catholic.edu.au
Exploring Construction Careers in VR
Last week, our students were given a unique opportunity to step into the world of construction - virtually! Hosted by Construction Skills Queensland as part of their Gateway Schools Program, the session gave students an immersive VR experience showcasing both civil and residential construction pathways.
As the only Construction Skills Pathway School in the Whitsundays, we’re proud to offer our students access to cutting-edge learning tools and industry connections. This VR session is just one example of how we’re bringing real-world career exploration into the classroom.
The session was led by Tony, who delivered a quick but insightful talk on the 70 different trades available in the construction industry. He highlighted that while most students tend to gravitate toward the “big three”—carpentry, plumbing, and electrical—there’s a whole world of lesser-known trades that are often more in demand or higher paying.
We’re grateful to Construction Skills Queensland for giving our students this hands-on look at the industry. Experiences like these help open doors, spark interest, and pave the way (literally and virtually!) for exciting future careers.
Thanks,
Jess Brown-Kenyon
VET and Pathways Middle Leader
In the event of a cyclone or severe weather impacting on our Catholic schools, regularly updated information will be available on the following:
- Townsville Catholic Education website www.tsv.catholic.edu.au LATEST NEWS section on homepage.
- Twitter – you can follow us on www.twitter.com/tceo.
- Facebook – you can follow us on www.facebook.com/TownsvilleCEO
. - Listen to local radio stations (ABC in all regions) plus various local commercial stations for updates.
- Instagram – Townsville_Catholic_Education.
- School’s web page
If a decision is made overnight to close schools, this message will be broadcast from 7am or earlier, if possible, through the local radio stations. Please refrain from calling schools as this causes disruption to vital communication networks, ask parents to be patient, information will be broadcasts as soon as practicable.
Please refer to the above methods of communication as your first source of information. Please use your best discretion in the interests of safety at all times.
Storybox Library resource
Did you know you can access Storybox, a terrific resource available to our College families that provides free access to awesome stories and helpful resources. Click the following link to check it out. https://storyboxlibrary.com.
2025 Term dates
| Term 1 | Tuesday 28 January - Friday 4 April |
| Term 2 | Tuesday 22 April - Friday 27 June |
| Term 3 | Monday 14 July - Friday 19 September |
| Term 4 | Tuesday 7 October - Friday 5 December |
Year 12 School Year concludes on Friday 21 November 2025
Secondary Classes (7-11) conclude on Friday 28 November 2025
Primary Classes (P-6) conclude on Friday 5 December 2025
Follow us on Social Media
Keep up to date with the latest information in regards to upcoming events and those that have happened on our social media platforms.
Lawn Bowls lessons for Women and Girls
2025 Whitsunday Voices - Short Story Competition
Exciting news!
We are pleased to announce the opening of our Whitsunday Voices Short Story Competition for students in grades 3-12 across the Mackay Region. This is a fantastic opportunity for your students to showcase their creativity and talent in writing.
Enter now! Entry is free - Follow the link below: https://www.whitsundayvoices.com.au/short-story-competition-copy
Eligibility: Students from grades 3-12 within the wider Mackay Region.
Guidelines: Head to our website for all competition details.
Attached you’ll find a poster for the competition to share digitally, print for your library, or display around your school.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Kristine at kdc@was.qld.edu.au.
Epic Walk for DV
Volleyball Sharks Camp
Whitsunday Regional Libraries - Children's Programs 5yrs and Under
There’ll be something for everyone:
- Wallaby Treasure Hunt – a fun adventure for the whole family
- Creative Workshops – art, craft, and hands-on fun
- Local Markets – showcasing handmade goods and local talent
- Mother’s Day Morning Tea – a lovely way to spoil Mum
- Art Exhibition – including works from local students and artists
Dental check up time!
