FROM THE BOARD CHAIR

Each term, the College calendar is full of activity and celebration. But beyond the events themselves, it is the spirit in which we gather that speaks most deeply to who we are as a Mercy community.

As Term 3 comes to a close, we pause to give thanks – for the learning, the growth, and the grace that have carried us through. In this 2025 Jubliee Year of Hope, we are reminded that hope is not simply optimism, but a deep trust in God’s presence among us. It is found in the resilience of our students, the dedication of our staff, and the quiet strength of families walking this journey together.

Our College continues to be a place where young women are formed not only academically, but spiritually and ethically. In today’s world, where digital platforms and artificial intelligence shape so much of how we communicate and relate, the challenge of educating young women in a Catholic school is both urgent and sacred. We are called to guide them in discernment, to help them navigate complexity with wisdom, and to ensure that their voices are grounded in truth, compassion, and dignity.

One area that continues to call for our attention is the way our students relate to one another. Respectful relationships are at the heart of our Mercy tradition. Catherine McAuley believed deeply in the power of women to uplift and support one another. I encourage all parents and carers to speak with their daughters – gently and openly – about the challenges they face in their social environments, especially online. These conversations matter. They help our young women reflect, grow, and act with kindness and integrity.

This term, we were also blessed to welcome Mercy Partners to the College, where they met with our Board and engaged in ongoing Spiritual formation. These moments are vital to keeping the Mercy Charism and mission central to our education ministry. I ask our community to keep the Board Directors in your prayers as they continue to grow in their leadership, inspired by Catherine McAuley’s legacy and the call to serve with wisdom and compassion.

As we enter the school holidays, I encourage all families to take this time to rest and recharge. May it be a season of renewal – of slowing down, reconnecting, and finding joy in the simple blessings of time spent together.

The final term of the year awaits, and with it comes a sense of anticipation. We will walk alongside our Year 12 students as they prepare for final exams and begin their farewells. We will witness the emergence of new student leaders, ready to carry the light forward. And we will continue to nurture a community where every young woman is empowered to grow in faith, flourish academically, and lead with courage.

Thank you for your continued trust and partnership. May the Spirit of Mercy guide us all as we prepare to enter this final chapter of the school year with hope, strength, and grace.

Josie Gabrielli

CHAIR, COLLEGE BOARD OF GOVERNANCE

FROM THE COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

As Term 3 draws to a close, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to every member of the St Patrick’s College Townsville community. It has been a wonderful term, full of memorable events, achievements, and opportunities for growth, not least of which came with the celebration of Mercy Day.

Timed to commemorate Catherine McAuley’s founding of the first House of Mercy in Dublin, Ireland, in 1827, September 24 is an occasion of celebration across Mercy schools world-wide. Wednesday was especially significant since it coincides with 120 years of the Sisters of Mercy in Townsville. Thousands of young women have come through the gates of St Patrick’s College Townsville over these years, gifted with an education that was not just transformative for self, but intended to uplift and transform opportunities for others. Our Mercy Mass provided us with a formal opportunity to give thanks for the contribution of the Sisters of Mercy, in particularly Sister Helen Mary Peters RSM, whose tenure as Board Chair ended in July this year, marking an end to the Sisters’ formal connection with the College, in an active, ongoing capacity. We remain particularly grateful for the attendance of Sister Helen Mary Peters, Sister Marie Melville, Sister Carmel Ruddick and Sister Catherine Cuddihy at our celebration, along with other invited special guests, including Bishop Tim Harris, and representatives from Mercy Partners. I also wish to acknowledge the work of our Dean of Faith and Mission, Ms Elissa Andrews, in her organisation of this, and other events.

This week we also celebrated the transferral of leadership responsibilities from our Year 12s to our Year 11s. Rituals like ‘Passing of the Light’ are important rites of passage that signify the beginning of the end of Year 12, and an invitation for our Year 11s to more formal leadership positions at the College. I take this opportunity to acknowledge our Year 12 leaders and cohort and wish them well for their ongoing preparations for their examinations. Students who wish to do some External Assessment (EA) preparatory work after a period of rejuvenation, are encouraged to go to the QCAA website Senior Subjects tab. By clicking on the syllabus pertinent to their subject allocations, and then the ‘resources’ section, they can find past papers, marking guides and sample responses. This will give them a better understanding of EA success criteria. Parents wanting any information about the External Assessment program or protocols, may click here: https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/assessment/external-assessment. I also take this opportunity to formally congratulate each of our Year 11 leaders. I very much look forward to working with you more closely in the future.

While the formal curriculum program of the College comes to a pause, the business of the College does not stop. As ever, students are engaged in myriad extra-curricular pursuits over the holiday period. Fifteen students and 2 staff members will participate in a World Challenge Event, that will see them undertake a substantial trek in Vietnam. The aim of immersion activities such as this is to build intercultural understanding and resilience. I thank all of the students who put themselves forward for this significant undertaking, and Ms Rosie Maguire and Ms Camille Flores who will accompany them. We look forward to hearing the stories upon their return.

Well wishes are also extended to our students representing the College at the Queensland Schools’ Championship Rowing Regatta. I wish them, and their coaches, in particular Mr Harrison Parks, great success.

I looking forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 4, refreshed and ready for new opportunities. Until then, may God’s blessings be with all members of the St Patrick’s College Townsville community.

Kath Little

COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

FROM THE ACTING DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

St Patrick’s College Townsville is committed to child safety. As educators, we strive to provide a safe, happy, and empowering environment that builds confidence, resilience, and self-esteem. We strive to foster respectful and caring relationships between staff and students, ensuring positive interactions that contribute to the overall wellbeing of every child.

The Child Safe Standards guide how we work together as a school community to protect children from harm and to promote their rights. These standards are in the figure below:

We are currently reviewing and strengthening many of our policies and procedures, with child safety and cultural safety at the forefront. There will be more information shared about this important work throughout next term.

We all have a role to play in keeping our community child safe. By working together – staff, students, and families – we can ensure that St Patrick’s College Townsville continues to be a place where young people can learn and thrive in safety.

Together, we are building a safe and supportive school for every child.

Kristen Armitage

ACTING DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

FROM THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF STUDENTS

As we draw Term 3 to a close, I would like to thank students, staff, and families for the energy, commitment, and resilience shown throughout what has been another very busy term. From academic assessments to extra curricular commitments, and the many pastoral activities across the College, it has been wonderful to see many students engaging wholeheartedly in the opportunities provided.

The holiday break offers an important chance to pause, refresh, and prepare for the final term of the year. I encourage students and parents to consider a few key areas over the coming weeks:

• Rest and Wellbeing: Ensure time is taken to rest, recharge, and spend time with family and friends. Balance is essential for overall wellbeing.
• Organisation: Take the opportunity to check uniforms, stationery, and subject materials, ensuring students are ready to return to a busy Term 4.
• Reflection: Holidays can be a time to reflect on personal and academic goals, and set intentions for finishing the year well.
• Connection: Make the most of the break to connect in person with family and friends, and check in on one another.
• Screen Balance: Consider taking a break from social media and instead engage in other hobbies and interests that take advantage of the beautiful outdoors.

Looking ahead, it is important to note that the Australian Government is introducing new social media restrictions to better protect young Australians. From 10 December 2025, age-restricted social media platforms will be required to take reasonable steps to prevent Australians under the age of 16 from creating or maintaining an account.

These changes are designed to protect young people from the pressures and risks associated with extended screen time and exposure to harmful online content. While formal assessments are yet to be made, the restrictions are likely to apply to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, and other similar platforms.

We encourage parents to take this opportunity to begin conversations with their child about these upcoming changes and to reflect as a family on healthy approaches to social media use and management of these incoming age restrictions. More information can be found on eSafety’s Social Media Age Restrictions Hub, including frequently asked questions and summaries of stakeholder consultation. Social media age restrictions hub | eSafety Commissioner.

Term 4 will be an exciting and important period as we celebrate the achievements of 2025, farewell our graduating Year 12s, and support all students in finishing the year strongly. Thank you once again for your ongoing support of your child’s education and wellbeing. I wish all families a safe and restful break, and I look forward to welcoming students back in Term 4.

Tenille Hambly

ACTING DIRECTOR OF STUDENTS

FROM OF THE DEAN OF PATHWAYS

Careers & VET Update

As our Year 12 students approach the end of their schooling journey, we are so proud of the determination, resilience, and commitment they have shown throughout 2025. This year has been filled with academic challenges, exciting opportunities, and personal growth. From completing demanding coursework to engaging in extracurricular activities and career pathways, our students continue to make their mark on the College community.

We celebrate their achievements so far and look forward to supporting them as they prepare for final exams and begin the next stage of their lives.

KEY DATES & INFORMATION:

QTAC Applications
Applications opened on 5 August 2025. Make sure to review course prerequisites and entry requirements carefully.

Early Offers for University
Some universities offer early entry opportunities where you may secure a place before final results are released. Please check your preferred courses to see if this applies to you. Keep in mind that offers remain conditional on meeting entry requirements and prerequisites.

JCU Early Offers
Applications close on 10 October 2025.
More details: JCU Early Offer Program

External Examinations
Scheduled from Monday 27 October to Tuesday 18 November 2025.

Final Subject Results & Senior Education Profiles
Final results for Year 12 students will be released in the QCAA Student Portal from 9.00am Wednesday 17 December 2025.
*Please note, you must use a personal email address to access your QCAA account, as College email accounts will close after graduation.

We know this is a big transition, and we are here to support both students and parents through the process. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact Ms Flores at cflores@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au. 

Camille Flores

DEAN OF PATHWAYS

FROM THE DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR

This term, we have sadly farewelled some of our Year 12 Defence students as they prepare to graduate and move on to the next chapter of their lives. To mark this milestone, we held a special morning tea where staff and students gathered to share memories, celebrate achievements, and wish our departing students every success for the future. 

As part of the farewell, each student was presented with a Remembrance Poppy and a copy of The Let Them Theory – a book filled with thoughtful advice and encouragement to guide them as they navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

It was also a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge our inaugural Defence School Leader, Theodora Arends, who has been outstanding in her support and mentorship to our Defence students. Theodora has provided guidance, encouragement, and a welcoming presence, and her efforts have helped strengthen the sense of connection within our Defence community at school.

We are very proud of the contributions our Year 12 students have made, and of the resilience they have shown as Defence families. On behalf of the College, I extend our warmest congratulations to our graduates and their families. We wish them all the very best for the exciting journeys ahead.

Are You Aware – Tutoring Assistance is Available

Don’t forget that the Education Assistance Scheme is available to minimise the disruption of a posting, providing assistance with tutoring costs, and some support for students with special needs. Funding for additional tuition is available within the first 18 months of the posting. Tutoring is funded for 1 hour per week per subject for 14 weeks for subjects in which a child needs support. Details can be found here: https://pay-conditions.defence.gov.au/assistance-for-a-primary-or-secondary-student-moving-schools

For more information you can contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608, or email the Education team at education.supportprograms@defence.gov.au

Defence Member Family Helpline

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.

2026 Postings

Families have now received details of their end of their 2026 postings. If you are being posted at the end of the College year (and leaving Townsville), please email Ms Joanna Pacey, jpacey@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au, Enrolments & Alumni Registrar, and the Defence School Mentor so a farewell morning tea can be held.

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 part of the process.

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

2026 PREFECT ANNOUNCEMENT

College Captains

Bridget Baxter & Mary Lansley

Faith & Mission Prefect

Brooklynne Stegman

Community Service Prefects

Freya Blacklock & Krystal Kalipa

First Nations Prefect

Larvo Nona

Boarding Prefect

Jade Cooper

Academic Prefect

Immara Dyer-Lewis

Arts & Exhibitions Prefect

Rain Hellmuth-Cook

Performing Arts Prefects

Poppy Lea-Rowell & Millie Weekers

Sport Prefect

Gabriella Parenti

Dominations House Captains

Olivia Koloi & Salote Koloi

Powers House Captains

Milla Hannay & Emma Robinson

Principalities House Captains

Bella Canning (not pictured) & Sophia Warburton

Thrones House Captains

Wendy Bire & Meika Faust

 

PARENT ID PASSPORT UPDATE

We’re getting ready to launch our new College App – Parent Orbit – designed to make staying connected with your child’s learning journey easier than ever.

In preparation for this launch, we’ll be upgrading some of our systems to improve the sign-in experience and make it as smooth and secure as possible. During this time, there may be brief interruptions to access for Parent Lounge and Learning Hub. We’ll do our best to keep any disruptions minimal.

As part of the setup process, you may receive an email inviting you to create your Parent ID Passport account. This is a key step in accessing the new app. We’ll provide clear instructions and support closer to the launch to help you get started.

Thank you for your patience and support as we work to bring you a more streamlined experience.

PASSING OF THE LIGHT

MERCY DAY MASS

In the spirit of Catherine McAuley and The Sisters of Mercy, our College community gathered on Wednesday to celebrate Mercy Day, embracing the values of compassion, service, and mercy that are at the heart of our school.

Mercy Day, celebrated on September 24, marks the anniversary of Catherine McAuley’s opening of the House of Mercy in Ireland. It is a worldwide celebration of the Sisters of Mercy. We were truly blessed to be joined by several Sisters of Mercy for Mass, led by Bishop Tim, assisted by Father Sylvester and Father Kelemete.

Thank you to our Dean of Faith & Mission, Ms Elissa Andrews, for planning such a wonderful day and thank you to Acting College Chaplain, Ms Lara Hansen, for assisting.

A heartfelt thanks goes out to Sr Catherine Cuddihy and Ms Jenny Gill, who made over 900 yellow roses with our Mercy Girls in Action to give to guests, staff, and students. We also acknowledge and thank the many special guests who were able to join us: Josie Gabrielli (College Board Chair), Dr Ricki Jeffrey (Mercy Partners Board Chair), John Leahy (Mercy Partners CEO), Professor Lee Anne Perry (Mercy Partners Board Director), Sam Jensen (Mount Alvernia College Principal), Luke Thomson (Ignatius Park College Principal), Trina Neilsen (St Joseph’s The Strand, APRE), Dr Judy Smeed (Education Outcomes), and our Sisters of Mercy – Sr Helen Mary Peters, Sr Marie Melville, Sr Carmel Ruddick and Sr Catherine Cuddihy.

During this Mass, we also held a special ritual for the commissioning rite of our new Principal, Ms Kath Little. We pray that Ms Little will continue to be greatly blessed in her role as Principal of St Patrick’s College Townsville over the coming years and enjoy professional and personal satisfaction in her work and her relationships within this community.

FATHER’S DAY BREAKFAST

On Thursday 4 September, we celebrated our amazing dads with a delicious BBQ breakfast! We hope all the incredible father figures in our community had a fantastic Father’s Day filled with joy and love. Thank you to all those who attended. 

Father’s Day Breakfast photos

YEAR 8 HOSPITALITY

STUDENTS CELEBRATE HARMONY DAY WITH A CULTURAL FEAST

This term, our Year 8 Hospitality students took part in a mock Harmony Day celebration, combining cultural exploration with practical cooking skills. As part of their assessment, students investigated the importance of Harmony Day in Australia and explored the diverse cultures represented in our College community.

Working in groups, students selected a culture to represent and designed a traditional recipe to prepare and share at a class luncheon. Each dish was carefully planned to meet budget and portion requirements, with students completing costings and food safety checklists as part of their preparation.

The result was a vibrant and delicious spread of international dishes, showcasing the students’ creativity, teamwork, and hospitality skills. From preparation to presentation, students demonstrated safe food handling, efficient time management, and pride in their work.

More than just a cooking task, this activity encouraged inclusivity, cultural appreciation, and the joy of sharing food together – a true reflection of the Harmony Day message: everyone belongs.

YEAR 12 GRADUATION LUNCHEON

A CELEBRATION OF EXCELLENCE IN HOSPITALITY

We are proud to present highlights from our Year 12 Graduation Luncheon, a prestigious formal dining event hosted by our talented Hospitality Practices class. This special occasion was more than just a meal – it was a celebration of our students’ refined skills in formal dining etiquette, professional service, and meticulous attention to detail.

In preparation for the event, students worked diligently to plan and execute a multi-course menu, demonstrating their ability to manage time, resources, and presentation with precision. From beautifully plated entrees to elegant desserts, each dish reflected the creativity and professionalism of our emerging hospitality leaders.

The luncheon welcomed esteemed guests from across the school community, including staff, faculty, and special invitees. It provided students with a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful networking, gain confidence in a real-world setting, and experience the rewards of their hard work.

This event was a true testament to the dedication, teamwork, and growth our students have shown throughout their hospitality journey. We congratulate them on a successful and stylish celebration of their achievements!

CSQ VR CONSTRUCTION EXPERIENCE

On Wednesday 3 September, our College hosted the CSQ VR Construction Experience, giving students the chance to step into a virtual construction site using VR headsets.

Ten Year 10 students participated in the session, where they trialled two interactive scenarios that simulated real-world construction tasks. This hands-on, immersive activity provided a fun, safe and engaging introduction to careers in construction, sparking curiosity and building awareness of the wide range of opportunities in the industry.

EVATT MODEL UN GRAND FINAL

The Evatt Model UN Competition is an Australia-wide debate and public speaking competition where students recreate the United Nations security council, debating real-world issues. After placing 1st & 2nd in the regional round, Immara, Isabelle, Eden, and Renisha headed off to Brisbane and back in one day to compete in the State Finals. There were three debates throughout the day, one pre-prepared and two unseen, discussing issues including Global Peacekeeping Efforts, the Russia-Georgia tensions, and the Central American Democratic Crisis.

We were competing against students from schools all around Queensland, representing the far north as two of only three regional teams, with Immara and Isabelle placing 7th, making us a reserve team for the National Finals in December. We were also lucky enough to hear from the Brisbane Lord Mayor, two Brisbane Counsel Members, and the UN Youth Queensland President. Overall, the day was challenging, exciting, and fun.

Immara Dyer-Lewis

YEAR 11 STUDENT

R U OK DAY