FROM THE DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR

Term 3 brings a busy schedule for our Defence students, with Awards Assemblies, Catholic Education Week, NAIDOC celebrations and for some students, new Subjects.  Congratulations to all of our recipients.

2025 Postings

Families are starting to receive details of their 2025 postings.  If you are getting posted at the end of the College year (and leaving Townsville), please email Mrs Joanna Pacey, jpacey@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au

Ensure you read “Moving with Children” on the DFMS website in preparation for the journey ahead https://www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families/military-life-cycle/posting-relocating/moving-children. As a result of mid-year postings, we welcomed new families to our College, at the end of Term 2.  Moving is a major life change, and children may face challenges as they leave behind friends and familiar places and activities.  To make the process more manageable for children and to help them become more positive and self-reliant, communicating truthfully and openly is important to help them understand and cope with the change.  This will allow the children to feel empowered, valued and make them feel a part of the process. 

Education Assistance Scheme

As a timely reminder, don’t forget, within the first 18 months of starting at a new school you are also entitled to tutoring reimbursement to overcome the immediate difficulties caused by changing schools.  For more information about this program:

– visit the DFMS Website  Education Assistance Scheme | ADF Members & Families | Defence

– Consult your local Education Liaison Officer (EDLO), Mrs Jessica Stark jessica.stark@defence.gov.au

– Email: education.supportprograms@defence.gov.au

SUPPORT SERVICES – ADF FAMILY HEALTH PROGRAM

Did you know that Permanent ADF Members and Reservists on continuous full-time service can access funds for their families to maintain a healthy lifestyle?

The ADF Family health program provides reimbursement for physiotherapy, dental, specialist appointments and more of up to $800 a year per dependent!

For more information on how to register, visit Home – ADF Family Health Program

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