FROM THE DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR

This term, our Defence students proudly participated in Mental Health Week, embracing the theme “Taking the Time for Mental Health” through resilience, remembrance, and wellbeing. On Tuesday 21 October, the students led a creative activity to raise awareness of the mental health challenges faced by Defence families, using chalk art to share powerful messages of hope and resilience.

Led by Year 10 student and Battlefield Blue Ambassador Priya Bookall, Defence students promoted the Battlefield Blue Poppy – a modern symbol of remembrance, courage, and compassion. Building on the legacy of the traditional red poppy, the blue version represents transformation and raises awareness of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, and the unseen wounds carried by veterans, first responders, and their families.

Students sold blue poppies throughout the College, encouraging peers and staff to wear them as a sign of solidarity and support. This simple act inspired meaningful conversations about mental health, service life, and the importance of checking in with one another.

The Battlefield Blue initiative was created by artist Ron Davis, who transforms scrap lead into meaningful art. Using lead shot from the battlefields of Passchendaele in Ypres, Belgium, he crafts each poppy as a tribute to resilience and remembrance. Thank you Mr Davis for supporting St Patrick’s College Townsville during Mental Health Week.

Battlefield Blue Poppy badges will again be available for purchase on Remembrance Day.

Save the Date – 31 January 2026

Looking ahead, 2026 will kick off with the Free Defence Welcome & Information Expo on 31 January at Townsville Stadium – tickets are available now on Eventbrite so register early and bring your Defence family and friends along!

Whether you’re brand new to Townsville or have been here a while, this is the perfect chance to connect, explore, and discover what’s on offer for Defence families in the region. Over 100 exhibitors, including local community and sporting groups, Government organisations and service providers will be available. You will also be able to meet the Townsville DMFS team in person and there will be giveaways, interactive activities and fun for all ages.

Defence Member and Family Services (Reduced Tempo Period)

DMFS will be closed 25 December 2025 – 5 January 2026, however the Member Family Helpline will remain available at all times. For advice, support or local community information, contact the all-hours Defence Member and Family Helpline. Run by Defence Member and Family Support, the helpline is the best way to access the programs and services that we offer to help Defence families manage the military way of life.

If you will be absent for a period of time during the term due to deployment/exercises or would like further information about the services provided, please feel free to contact the Defence School Mentor, Ms Gayle Walkom via gwalkom@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au or phone 07 4753 0300.

Gayle Walkom

DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR