FROM THE ACTING DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

TERM 1 IN REVIEW

Despite unpredictable weather causing some disruptions, Term 1 has been packed with incredible events and achievements. Here’s a look back at some of the highlights from this term.

Senior Investiture
A significant milestone for our Year 12 students, the Beginning of Year Mass recognised the Seniors and their role as leaders within our College community. Seniors bear the responsibility of upholding the Mercy Values and rules and procedures: Year 12 students shape school culture. We look forward to witnessing these young women lead with strength, integrity and kindness throughout 2025.

International Women’s Day
This year’s International Women’s Day assembly featured an inspiring guest speaker, 2007 Alumni, Lucinda Derbyshire. Post graduation, Lucinda studied a Bachelor of Laws, was admitted to the bar and served as a Judge’s Associate for three years. She now works for Legal Aid as a family lawyer, “…lots of the clients we see at Legal Aid are very vulnerable, particularly the women and girls”. Her clients – young and old – come from diverse linguistic backgrounds and are often isolated physically, emotionally and intellectually, suffering at a disproportionate rate to men. Lucinda believes that her time at St Patrick’s College Townsville has shaped her value system and lead her towards this particular career path. “Values like respect, joy, hospitality and love focus on the inherent dignity of every individual…not just accepting others, despite their differences from you, but welcoming and including them… courage, compassion, integrity, and justice are calls to action… standing up for what is right, even when that is hard or scary and it would be easier not to.” Working in the space of real change, Lucinda left us with a powerful message about making a difference in the lives of others, and it was an honour to have her join us for the 2025 IWD celebrations.

Twilight Open Evening
The Twilight Open Evening was a spectacular showcase of everything that makes our College special, with every faculty and extracurricular offering on display. Despite another lashing of rain, over 700 attendees passed through our gates on the night. The event was a huge success: both our dedicated staff and student volunteers ensured that prospective families felt welcomed, engaged and excited about a possible future at SPCT. It was wonderful to receive overwhelming feedback from visitors about the helpfulness, kindness, and confidence demonstrated by our girls on the night.

Student Learning Design Commission
Next term, the College Captains are launching an exciting new initiative: the Student Learning Design Commission. This platform will allow all students to share ideas, raise concerns, and actively contribute to shaping the future of our College. The commission will meet every second Monday at lunch, and students can sign up via the Learning Hub tile: Student Learning Design Commission

This is a fantastic opportunity for students to have their voices heard and make a real impact. It will be facilitated by our College Captains, Meg Burbidge and Saskia Tresch, and Director of Students, Ms Armitage.

Reminder of Road Safety
Both The Strand and Oxley Street are heavily congested—particularly at the end of the day. We ask that all drivers be particularly vigilant, noting College buses moving in and out of reserved parking, and give way to students crossing the road. Be patient and stay alert.

Looking to Term 2
It will be another busy term with ANZAC Day services, History Week, the Combined Schools’ Musical – We Will Rock You, Interhouse Cross Country and Athletics Carnivals, more Interschool Debating, and our school sporting teams ramping up their training and games schedules. Of course, none of these events can happen without the dedication and hard work of the College’s expert teaching team. There is a plethora of extracurricular opportunities available for students, and it’s something we encourage. Getting involved in extracurricular activities fosters friendships, builds resilience, broadens perspectives, and enhances organisation—helping students grow both personally and academically.

We hope our students and their families enjoy a safe, relaxing and happy holiday.

Jillian Turner

ACTING DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

FROM THE ACTING COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

2025 Australian Rowing Championships

Throughout Week 9, two Year 10 students, Georgia Cresswell and Holly Wilkie competed at the Australian Rowing Championships in Tasmania in a range of events in often challenging weather conditions. We continue to be so proud of these incredible young people, who represented St Patrick’s College Townsville with a 6^th place finish in the Schoolgirls’ Double Final and an 8^th place finish in the U17 Double Final, also achieving notable results in their individual events.

Harrison Parks, Head Coach of the Combined (SPCT & IPC) Rowing Program is commended on his leadership and mentorship of these athletes. We can only dare to imagine their future at this level. Bring on the 2025 Rowing Season!

What makes our community so unique is how we celebrate and support one another to grow and flourish. I continue to be inspired by the incredible talent and passion of our staff and student body, across all dimensions of the College, academic, public speaking, music, dance, performing arts, visual arts and sport, who demonstrate an unwavering commitment to personal excellence in their chosen field/passion.

Incoming College Principal

Kath Little will take up her position of College Principal at the beginning of Term 2. We are looking forward to her bringing her passion for all girls’ education and years of experience in school leadership to the College. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the staff who have stepped up this term to ensure a smooth start to the 2025 year.

Easter Holidays

As a Catholic community, the Easter Triduum holds a special place in our liturgical year, marking the culmination of the annual celebration to proclaim the Passion and Resurrection of Jesus Christ. With this in mind, I wish all our families a restful and safe holiday break followed by a blessed Easter, and I look forward to welcoming our students for the start of Term 2.

Cameran Triffett

ACTING COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

FROM THE ACTING DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC

Senior Studies Information Evening

The Senior Studies Information Evening for students graduating in 2025, 2026 and 2027 (current Year 9, 10 and 11 students) was held on Thursday, 20 March. The presentation discussed a range of topics including:

• The QCE System;
• The ATAR system in Queensland;
• Vocational Pathways;
• The changes in assessment including internal and external assessment.

If you were unable to attend, a recording of the presentation is available on the Learning Hub. 

Peer Tutoring

Peer Tutoring has hit the ground running with a rebranding this year and is named “Sister Studies”. This reflects the support that the older students are providing for the younger students. It is working as an addition for juniors to our regular school tutoring and will be set up in the library every Tuesday lunch as a quite space for peer studying, revision, group work, or independent study.

Chris Pacey

ACTING DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC

FROM THE ACTING DEAN OF STUDENT WELLBEING

As we approach the end of an exciting start to the year, it is important to reflect not only on the many wonderful memories created so far, but also on our overall wellbeing. One of the many programs supporting the holistic wellbeing of our students is the Big Sister Little Sister (BSLS) program. This initiative plays a pivotal role in fostering mentorship, support, and connection within our College community.

The BSLS program helps younger students navigate the challenges of transitioning into high school while providing older students with valuable leadership opportunities and a sense of responsibility. This term, our Big Sisters took the lead by organising a lunchtime picnic to check in with their Little Sisters, ensuring they were settling in well. Gathered in conversation at the front of the College, students enjoyed the stunning Strand views while sharing their lunch. Some students even going that extra mile by bringing in homemade treats to share.

Academic Prefect Renisha Abraham led her 2025 initiative, the Studies Sisters program, offering valuable exam and assessment support to younger students during lunchtimes. Meanwhile, First Nations Prefect Ruby Mack hosted a meaningful cultural connection activity, guiding students through rock painting while sharing aspects of her home community with Arrernte Artwork symbols. With many more exciting events planned for the year, the Big Sister Little Sister program looks forward to continuing to strengthen these connections.

Leading into the school holidays, it is important to take time to reflect on how we can prioritise self-care and wellbeing over the Easter break. School holidays provide the perfect opportunity for both staff and students to recharge, reflect on the past term, and focus on mental and physical wellbeing. Making time for activities that support wellbeing is essential for maintaining a balanced and healthy mindset.

The Australian Institute for Teaching and School Leadership published an article titled Spotlight, highlighting key messages on wellbeing in Australian schools. Research shows that prioritising wellbeing leads to positive outcomes across all aspects of life and schooling. In addition to fostering healthy relationships and overall life satisfaction, improving wellbeing and building resilience plays a crucial role in preventing and reducing the impact of social and emotional challenges.

Given the positive impacts of prioritising our wellbeing, I wanted to highlight the value of taking the time to rest, recharge, and engage in activities that nurture our wellbeing this Easter break.

Ways to focus on positive wellbeing include:

• Exercise and eating healthy to enhance mood
• Prioritising sleep
• Engaging in activities that are relaxing and enjoyable
• Connecting with family and friends
• Establishing healthy routines
• Practicing mindfulness
• Reducing screen times and spending time outdoors
• Giving back to others, through time and actions
• Practicing gratitude and mindfulness.

Wishing everyone a restful, safe and happy Easter break!

Tenille Hambly

ACTING DEAN OF STUDENT WELLBEING

FROM THE DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR

Dear Defence Families,

As we wrap up another busy term, I want to take a moment to reflect on all that we have achieved in the Defence space. From morning teas and craft clubs to writing letters for students in Papua New Guinea, painting poppies, and preparing for our ANZAC Liturgy and March next term, our Defence students have been actively involved in meaningful activities.

DONATIONS OF BOOKS AND SPORTS EQUIPMENT TO PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Once again, our Defence students put pen to paper, creating heartfelt cards and letters for students in Papua New Guinea. Corporal Bayley Glover from the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment (Lavarack Barracks) will soon be travelling to PNG, where he will personally deliver our letters, along with donated books and sports equipment generously organised by Kate Tomerini, Head of Department – Health & Physical Education, and our Library staff, Nikea Tompkins and Ashley Webb.

Photo: DSM – Gayle Walkom, CPL Bayley Glover & Year 11 Student Krystal Kalipa

LOOKING AHEAD TO TERM 2

The start of Term 2 will be an important and busy time for our Defence students.

ANZAC LITURGY – Wednesday 23 April 2025

All Defence students are asked to arrive early and report to the Defence School Mentor in the auditorium to assist with preparations for our ANZAC Liturgy. Students have been invited to participate in various roles, which were allocated during our Defence morning teas.

Students are also welcome to bring a framed photo of a family member who has served or is currently serving. These will be carried during the Procession Hymn as part of our “Aisle of Honour,” allowing students to proudly honour their families.

WEARING OF MEDALS

Students may wear medals to the Liturgy and to Anzac Day; however, they are responsible for ensuring they are kept secure. Please note the following protocol for wearing medals:

Child of the ADF Medallion – As this award is owned by the child, it is worn on the left side.

Medals Worn by Relatives – If a child is wearing medals to honour a relative’s service, they must be worn on the right side.

These protocols have been validated by the Townsville RSL Board.

ANZAC Day – Friday 25 April 2025

This year marks a special milestone as St Patrick’s College, Townsville celebrates 120 years and has the honour of leading the school contingents in the Townsville City Service (Strand March).

Selected student representatives will be attending the Dawn Service, and all Defence students (both current and affiliated) are invited to participate in the Strand March.

Important Information:

• Parent permission is required via Parent Lounge, as this is an out-of-school activity.
• Numbers are limited to 50 students per school. If you have not received the invitation, please email gwalkom@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au.
• Students attending must be in Academic Uniform

ANZAC DAY EVENT DETAILS:

Dawn services and parades will be held at two locations: Thuringowa Cenotaph (Riverway Precinct) and Anzac Park (The Strand), where veterans, schools, community groups, and the armed forces will participate.

Townsville City Service Schedule – Friday 25 April 2025

5:20 AM – Dawn Service, Anzac Park Cenotaph

8:15 AM – Parade Form-Up (Strand Park)

9:00 AM – Parade Step-Off (Parade proceeds along The Strand to Anzac Memorial Park)

For details on services, parades, road closures, and live-streaming options, visit: What’s On Townsville.

SAVE THE DATE: Amazing Race – Friday, 16th May

Townsville ADF members, singles, couples, and families are invited to participate in this year’s (Almost) Amazing Race! Gather a team—friends, family, schoolmates—or register as an individual and Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) will place you in a team. If there is enough interest, I am keen to enter a St Patrick’s College team to represent our Defence students!

The Amazing Race will see participants navigate Norman Park (beside Jezzine Barracks), solve riddles, and complete challenges to claim victory as the 2025 champions.

Event Details:

Location: Norman Park (11-13 Isley St, North Ward)

Date: Friday 16 May 2025

Time: 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

Registrations: Through Eventbrite (opening next term). Keep an eye on the May DMFS eNewsletter for updates!

STAYING CONNECTED

If your family will be absent next term due to deployment or if you would like more information about the services provided, please feel free to contact Defence School Mentor, Ms Gayle Walkom via gwalkom@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au or call (07) 4753 0300.

Wishing you all a restful break, and I look forward to another great term ahead.

Gayle Walkom

DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR

YEAR 7 RETREAT

 

This group is full of joy and we can’t wait to see what they do with their time at the College. A big thank you to Head of Year 7, Meg Henderson and our other wonderful teachers who made the day so fun.

 

HYDROGEN FUEL LAB NEWS

On Monday 24 March, students from the Hydrogen Fuel Lab program at St Patrick’s College Townsville competed in the Central Queensland University (CQU) H2GP Practice Race.

This was the very first time we’d had the opportunity to race the hydrogen-powered cars we’ve spent the term building and refining. With no previous on-track experience and limited time to test our systems under race conditions, we arrived at the event hoping to learn—but not necessarily expecting to place.

What we discovered was that our teamwork, preparation, and problem-solving under pressure paid off. The race was not without challenges, but we adapted quickly, communicated effectively, and kept our vehicle running smoothly through the endurance event.

The practice race has given us a much clearer understanding of how our cars respond in a real-world race environment. We’ve gathered valuable data, identified key areas for improvement, and gained confidence in our design decisions. More importantly, it has deepened our commitment to refining our vehicle and strategy for future races.

We’re now looking forward to our full-day workshop on Thursday 3 April, where we’ll put everything we’ve learned into action. This will be a chance to analyse our race data, troubleshoot weaknesses, and test changes before the North Queensland Hydrogen Grand Prix Regional Finals in May. We’re aiming to go even further next time—with more experience, more insight, and the same team spirit!

A big thank you to our sponsors (Edify and Siemens), our teachers (Ms Lancashire and Ms Stewart), and our supporters for helping us reach this milestone. Watch this space—St Patrick’s Hydrogen Fuel Lab is just getting started!

HYDROGEN FUEL LAB STUDENTS GAIN INDUSTRY INSIGHTS AT TOWNSVILLE GREEN ENERGY FORUM

On Tuesday 25 March, students from the Hydrogen Fuel Lab program at St Patrick’s College Townsville were privileged to attend the 2025 Green Energy Forum at The Ville Resort-Casino. This high-profile event brought together leaders in renewable energy, infrastructure, and policy to discuss the future of sustainable development in North Queensland.

The students attending as part of the Hydrogen Grand Prix (H2GP) initiative, had the unique opportunity to learn from industry experts and observe first-hand how hydrogen and other renewable technologies are shaping Australia’s energy landscape.

A key focus of the day was the Localised Project Updates session, where four companies presented their work on cutting-edge green energy infrastructure in our region. Among these were our program sponsors, Edify Energy and Siemens, both of whom are making significant contributions to the growth of hydrogen and renewables in Northern Australia.

Edify Energy showcased its plans for a green hydrogen production facility at the Lansdown Eco-Industrial Precinct, where it is developing co-located solar generation and battery storage systems to power electrolysers. Edify’s vision for clean, export-ready hydrogen production aligns directly with the technical and environmental goals of the Hydrogen Fuel Lab program, providing students with a real-world example of where their learning could lead.

Siemens, a global technology leader and longtime supporter of education in STEM, was acknowledged by forum speakers for its work in digital infrastructure, automation, and clean energy transitions. While Siemens did not deliver a standalone presentation on the day, its technology is embedded in many of the systems and companies represented, demonstrating its behind-the-scenes impact on hydrogen production, energy efficiency, and industrial digitisation.

In addition to hearing from project managers and engineers, students engaged in meaningful discussions about workforce opportunities, sustainability, and innovation in regional Queensland. Highlights included a panel on government incentives for renewables and a compelling presentation from Ark Energy on hydrogen mobility.

St Patrick’s College Townsville would like to thank Townsville Enterprise, NQH2, and our sponsors Edify Energy and Siemens, for making this opportunity possible. Events like the Green Energy Forum offer our students a rare and valuable window into the industries that will define their future—and the chance to be part of that future today.

JCU SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING CHALLENGE

 

LESSONS FROM THE LAND – 7A HUMANITIES

The Year 7A Humanities class was reminded of how important the availability of water is to families on the land when College senior, Brook McCosker visited the class and gave an insight into her life as a cattle producer. Brook, told the class of the impact of too little and too much water on her family’s property – Nonda Station, which is located near Richmond in Outback Queensland.

The class was intrigued by personal stories of the loss of thousands of head of cattle in both drought and floods, and the flow-on effect of financial loss. On a lighter note, the class was happy that Brook’s favourite cow, Daisy, and hand-fed calves survive the trying times on the land.  Brook’s visit reinforced the content and skills covered in our Geography unit of work, Water In The World.

Thank you Brook for visiting our class!

2025 MOTHER’S DAY BREAKFAST

As Mother’s Day approaches, we warmly invite students and the women in their lives to join us for a special celebration. Whether you’re a mother, stepmother, grandmother, aunty, godmother or friend – this is a moment to honour and appreciate the incredible women who bring so much joy to our students’ lives.

Please see the event details below:

Date: Friday 9 May 2025

Time: 7.15am – 8.45am

Location: East Precinct Auditorium

Cost: $25 per attendee (please purchase a ticket for your daughter too)

Purchase tickets here: https://www.trybooking.com/DAQTO

COMBINED SCHOOLS’ MUSICAL – WE WILL ROCK YOU

Term 1 rehearsals for the Combined Schools’ Musical We Will Rock You have been a huge success! We’ve seen incredible energy, teamwork, and talent from everyone involved as we get ready to bring this iconic show to life. From the first note to the last, it’s clear that we’re all ready to rock you in June 2025.

Thank you to the cast, crew, and everyone contributing for your hard work and dedication. We’re gearing up for an unforgettable performance – tickets will be on sale soon! 🎸

CELEBRATING 120 YEARS

This June, we warmly invite you to join us for a weekend-long celebration with alumni, staff, friends and the wider College community. We’re thrilled to share our rich history through videos, gifts, guest speakers and special events while celebrating this incredible milestone together. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more exciting details coming your way soon.