FROM THE COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

As we draw near to the end of another busy and fruitful term at St Patrick’s College Townsville, I extend my heartfelt thanks to all our students and staff. Term 1 has indeed been busy: the onboarding of new students, learning of new routines, parent information evenings, implementation of learning how to learn programs, new child safety regulations, timetable reviews, Twilight Open Evening, and pivots which will allow online access to students in Term 2, as a contingency given recent issues in relation to fuel supply and distribution. St Pat’s is not a place of idleness!

Aside from being a busy term, it has also been a most successful one for our students, particularly in extracurricular endeavours. Our Under 14s were victorious in the North Queensland School Girls’ Super 7s, whilst our Under 16s and Under 18s were runners up. Our swimmers won the A-Schools Swimming Carnival, despite competing from lane 8. Our Basketball team came runners up at their recent Gala Day, missing victory by only one point. Our Rowers mounted a highly successful nationals campaign. Special mention goes to Holly Wilkie who won a gold medal in the U17 Women’s Quad, and Georgia Cresswell who won a gold medal in the U19 Women’s Eight. While victories like these are always encouraging and momentum building, it is important to note that they are products of the opportunities provided by those staff willing to go the extra mile, spending time in training, supervision, or strategising. I thank all those staff who have gone the extra mile for students this term, and all students whose efforts have inspired others.

As we enter the Easter season, may we all remember that Easter is a time of profound hope, celebrating Christ’s resurrection and the victory of love and life over darkness. It reminds us that, no matter the challenges we face, there is always the promise of renewal and new beginnings. Our faith calls us to be people of hope – carrying the light of Christ into our world, even when it is marked by uncertainty or sorrow.

This year, as we witness ongoing conflict and suffering in the Middle East, the Easter message resonates more powerfully than ever. We are reminded that peace is fragile, and the need for compassion and understanding is great. Let us hold in our prayers all those impacted by war and division. At the same time, may we be inspired by Christ’s example to take practical steps – however small – to build peace in our own lives and community. A kind word, a helping hand, or a moment of forgiveness can be acts of hope that ripple outward.

As you enjoy a well-deserved break over the holidays, I encourage you to rest, spend time with loved ones, and reflect on how you can bring the Easter spirit of hope and renewal into your daily actions. May this sacred season fill you with joy and strengthen your resolve to make a positive difference in our world.

Wishing you all a blessed and peaceful Easter.

In Mercy,

Kath Little

COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – OPERATIONS, STAFF & COMMUNITY

One of the many great strengths of St Patrick’s College Townsville is the strong sense of belonging that defines our community. Our shared commitment to the education and wellbeing of our students is evident not only in our daily interactions, but also in the ways staff, students, families, and wider community members connect with and support one another. Over recent weeks, this spirit has been clearly visible through opportunities that have brought our community together with purpose and pride.

Our Twilight Open Evening was a wonderful example of community engagement in action. Prospective families were warmly welcomed by staff and students who generously gave their time, shared their experiences, and spoke passionately about life at the College. Classrooms, learning spaces, and specialist areas were alive with conversation as visitors engaged directly with teachers and students, asked questions, and gained insight into the learning, opportunities, and culture that define St Pat’s. The evening reflected not only the quality of our facilities and programs, but also the genuine relationships that sit at the heart of our community.

This commitment to partnership is particularly evident in the way we work alongside families to support student learning and wellbeing. Opportunities for connection help build shared understanding around learning pathways, expectations, and the role we each play in supporting student growth. These conversations strengthen trust, encourage collaboration, and reinforce the importance of strong relationships in achieving positive outcomes for our young women.

Alongside these community connections, we continue to benefit from the depth of experience and leadership within our staff. As we move through the year, there will be some staffing movements, including acting appointments and periods of leave. I am pleased to advise that Mr Dan Santarossa has been appointed as Acting Head of Faculty – Mathematics & Digital Technologies for Semester 2, and Ms Claire Verapen has been appointed as Acting Head of Faculty – Humanities for the commencement of Term 2. Both bring considerable expertise and a strong understanding of our College context, ensuring continuity and consistency in leadership and learning.

We also extend our very best wishes to Ms Shanelle Rubio as she commences maternity leave, and to Ms Kelli Chapman and Ms Kaitlin Borgeaud‑Moo as they begin their respective periods of leave. We thank them sincerely for their valuable contributions to the life of the College and the care they show our students each day, and we look forward to welcoming them back in due course.

Change is a natural part of any thriving organisation, and our community can be confident that the College is well placed to manage these transitions with care and purpose. The professionalism, experience, and collaborative spirit of our staff ensure continuity of learning and support for our students and families. Through strong relationships and shared leadership, we continue to provide a learning environment where every student is known, supported, and able to flourish.

As we come to the end of the term and prepare for the Easter holidays, I am mindful of the Mercy values that shape our life together as a College community. Easter invites us to reflect on hope, compassion, dignity, and service to others, values that are lived each day through the relationships we build and the care we show one another. I am grateful for the generosity, welcome, and sense of belonging that families, students, and staff continue to bring to our community. I wish everyone a safe, restful, and joyful Easter break, and I look forward to welcoming you back next term as we continue our shared work in the spirit of Catherine McAuley.

Patrick Morrow

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – OPERATIONS, STAFF & COMMUNITY

FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC

As Term 1 comes to a close, we would like to take this opportunity to thank students and families for a positive and productive start to the year. It has been wonderful to see students engaging in their learning, establishing routines, and making the most of the opportunities available to them.

This term has also provided a number of opportunities to celebrate student achievement. Our Scholars’ Assembly was a highlight, where we recognised the outstanding accomplishments of our 2025 Year 12 cohort. It was inspiring to see the results of their hard work, commitment, and perseverance celebrated as a community, and to acknowledge the strong foundations they have built for their future pathways.

In our Junior School, the Diligence Assembly was a wonderful occasion to celebrate the consistent effort, positive attitudes, and persistence of our younger students. These qualities are essential in building strong learning habits, and it was pleasing to see so many students recognised for their commitment to doing their best each day.

As we move into assessment periods across the year, we would like to remind families of the process for applying for short-term Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments (AARA). Short-term AARA supports are available for students whose performance in assessment may be affected by illness, misadventure, or other unforeseen circumstances.

To apply for short-term AARA, students and families are required to:

• Submit an application through the Learning Hub https://learninghub.stpatscollege.qld.edu.au/homepage/2262
• Provide appropriate supporting documentation (e.g. medical certificates or relevant professional documentation)
• Ensure applications are submitted as soon as possible, and in line with College timelines

Please note that travel, holidays, or poor planning are not considered valid grounds for AARA applications.

It is also important to follow the correct process when applying. Directly emailing individual staff members, rather than submitting through the Learning Hub, may result in delays or the information not reaching the appropriate staff in time for consideration.

For our senior students, it is particularly important to understand that all assessment contributes toward the attainment of the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE). Failure to complete assessment, or to follow the correct AARA processes, may impact a student’s ability to achieve their QCE. We strongly encourage students to communicate with their teachers and the College as early as possible if they are experiencing difficulties.

Looking ahead to Term 2, Academic Conferences will be held on 30 April. Further information regarding booking times will be shared via email. These conferences are a valuable opportunity for students to reflect on their learning progress, set goals, and engage in meaningful conversations with their teachers. As this is a student-driven process at our College, reflection booklets are available on the Learning Hub and should be completed prior to the conference. We look forward to welcoming families and working together to support each student’s learning journey.

We appreciate your ongoing support in ensuring all students are able to demonstrate their learning under fair and equitable conditions, and we wish all families a safe and restful break.

Jacinta Collings

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC

CAREERS & VET

Year 12 Career Preparation Interviews
As we continue to support your daughters in achieving their post-school goals, Career Preparation Interviews have been taking place throughout Term 1. These one-on-one sessions provide personalised guidance as students explore university pathways, vocational options, and future career directions.

Appointments will continue into Term 2, and I warmly invite any student who has not yet attended an interview or who would benefit from a follow-up conversation to book a time. I look forward to continuing to support each student as they take their next steps beyond school.

Vocational Education & School-Based Traineeships
Students are actively engaging in Vocational Education and Training (VET) pathways, undertaking a wide range of practical, hands-on learning experiences aligned with current industry needs. This year, students are participating in external programs such as the Deadly Start Program, along with school-based traineeships in areas including Certificate III in Hospitality, Certificate III in Pharmacy, and Certificate III in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles. Students are also enrolled in TAFE courses such as Certificate I in Construction and Certificate II in Electrotechnology.

School-based traineeships continue to be a valuable pathway, allowing students to combine their senior schooling with paid employment and nationally recognised training. Through these opportunities, students are gaining real-world experience, developing essential employability skills, and building strong industry connections while working towards their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).

JCU NOW
This year, we have four Year 11 students participating in the JCU NOW program at James Cook University for Trimester 1. JCU NOW provides high-achieving students with the opportunity to study real first-year university subjects while still at school, allowing them to experience university-level learning, build confidence, and explore future career pathways. Students can also gain valuable QCE credit and even contribute towards their future degree, giving them a significant head start beyond school.  We congratulate these students on embracing this opportunity and demonstrating a strong commitment to their academic and future pathways.

Townsville Hospital High School Health Careers Program
Four of our Year 11 students recently attended the first sessions of the Townsville Hospital High School Health Careers Program, gaining a valuable insight into the healthcare industry. Throughout the day, students participated in hands-on activities and simulations, including emergency scenarios, patient care experiences, and interactive sessions with a range of allied health professionals. This immersive experience provided students with a deeper understanding of the diverse career pathways available in health and helped them explore their interests in a real-world clinical environment.

Try a Trade – Kirwan Health Campus
Twelve of our students attended the Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) Gateway Schools Program, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the construction industry. Throughout the day, students rotated through a range of practical activity stations, using real tools and working alongside qualified industry trainers in a safe and supportive environment. This immersive experience provided insight into various construction trades and career pathways, helping students to better understand opportunities within the industry. We commend the students on their engagement and enthusiasm in embracing this practical learning opportunity.

Work Experience Opportunities
Work Experience continues to be a highly encouraged (but voluntary) opportunity for students to explore potential career pathways. To ensure minimal disruption to academic studies, we strongly recommend that placements are completed during the school holiday periods. A number of students will be completing Work Experience this upcoming holiday period across a variety of industries including Health, Allied Health, Legal, Education, and Business sectors providing valuable insight into future career options and helping students make informed decisions about their pathways. As always, I encourage students to take advantage of these opportunities, remain proactive in exploring their interests, and reach out for support when needed.

For any questions or support with career planning, subject selection, VET pathways, or work experience opportunities, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Ms Flores at cflores@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au. I am always happy to assist students and families in navigating the many pathways available and ensuring each student feels confident in their next steps beyond school.

Camille Flores

DEAN OF PATHWAYS

POLICY UPDATE

From February to August 2025, the Australian Government conducted a Rapid Review into Anti-Bullying to assess what strategies were effective in preventing and addressing bullying in schools, and to identify areas needing improvement. As a result, a National Framework for Addressing Bullying in Australian Schools was developed. Our Responsible Relationships: Antibullying Policy has been revised to include recommendations from both the rapid review and the National Framework.

We are dedicated to increasing public awareness and preventing bullying through student education, teaching students how to report incidents, file complaints, and know whom to approach – whether it’s their PC teacher, classroom teacher, Head of House, Head of Year, Student Protection Officers, or any staff member they trust. Reports will be escalated and investigated accordingly.

The College aims to make reasonable efforts to initiate safety and support planning and communicate with relevant parties within two school days of becoming aware of bullying or other harmful behaviours.

SPORT UPDATE

 

A sincere thank you to Ms Jaimee Seebohm for her expert coaching and to Ms Meg Henderson for her ongoing support in managing the team. Basketball continues to grow at SPCT – so proud of this group.

NQ SCHOOLGIRLS SUPER 7S

Three of our Rugby teams took to the field for the NQ Schoolgirls Super 7s Rugby Tournament. All teams performed exceptionally well, with our U14s claiming a fantastic tournament win, while both our U16 and U18 sides fought hard to finish as runners-up in their divisions. It was a brilliant display of talent and sportsmanship, highlighting the continued growth and strength of our Rugby program.

 

A big thank you to Mr Mark Graham, Mr Kris Farmer, Ms Dana Leviston and Ms Meg Henderson for their time, coaching and ongoing support of our students.

We are immensely proud of our incredible swim team for bringing home first place at the A-Schools Interschool Swimming Carnival! From early morning Swim Squad to hours of personal training, their dedication has been nothing short of inspiring and it absolutely showed in the pool. Our students represented the College with determination and spirit, delivering strong performances across the day. All their hard work paid off, securing a dominant victory by more than 50 points. Congratulations team!

TWILIGHT OPEN EVENING

What a night! Even the rain couldn’t dampen the excitement at our annual Twilight Open Evening, which once again brought our entire College community to life. Families wandered through our stunning beachfront campus, exploring every corner as each department showcased something special – from hands‑on activities and interactive displays to energetic performances and delicious food prepared by our talented Hospitality students.

The atmosphere was buzzing. Prospective students chatted with our confident and welcoming student ambassadors, parents connected with our passionate staff, and visitors experienced firsthand the vibrant learning culture that makes our College so unique. Twilight Open Evening is always a highlight on our calendar, and this year’s event truly reminded us why: it’s a celebration of who we are, what we value, and the incredible young people at the heart of our community.

We are now enrolling for 2027, 2028 and 2029. To learn more about our College, please visit our website: https://www.stpatscollege.qld.edu.au/

ST PATRICK’S DAY MASS

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Fr Sylvester and Fr Emene for presiding over Mass, and to all of our special guests who were able to join us.

YEAR 9 FOOD TECHNOLOGY

Our Year 9 Food Technology students recently completed their assessment cooks for the unit Australian Native Ingredients to Contemporary Cuisine, and what an incredible showcase they have been.

Students demonstrated creativity, skill, and a deep appreciation for Australia’s unique native ingredients, transforming them into a range of contemporary dishes. From Lemon Myrtle Barramundi and Saltbush Lamb Lollipops to Kakadu Plum desserts and Crocodile with Finger Lime, the variety and quality of dishes have been outstanding.

Beyond their practical skills, students showed confidence in working safely in the kitchen, collaborating with peers, and presenting dishes with care and pride. It has been wonderful to see students engage with native ingredients in a meaningful and innovative way.

We are incredibly proud of the effort, growth, and enthusiasm shown by every student. Well done to all involved!

MUSIC SOIRÉE & ALUMNI EVENT

Our alumni community has plenty to look forward to this year, with upcoming events planned in Brisbane and Port Moresby. To stay connected and receive updates, we encourage alumni to join our database here: https://shorturl.at/NfpaV

CARITAS – PROJECT COMPASSION FUNDRAISING

As a College, we have raised $2,034 for CARITAS – this is a record for our College!

Our Mercy Girls in Action and wider College community came together in the spirit of compassion and service to support those less fortunate than ourselves. Through multiple bake sales filled with delicious cookies and cupcakes, walks along The Strand and an Easter raffle, students worked together to raise both funds and awareness for people in need. This simple act of generosity reflects the Mercy values we strive to live each day – showing compassion, taking action, and using our gifts to make a difference in the lives of others. It was a wonderful example of young women putting their faith into action and supporting the wider community with kindness and joy.

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT

2025 St Patrick’s College Townsville graduate, Hope Tyrie, has an artwork on display in Brisbane at the Queensland Art Gallery of Modern Art from 28 March to 13 September 2026.

Each year, the Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art recognises and celebrates the artistic achievements and creative talents of senior high school students from across Queensland. Across a diverse range of media, materials and techniques, these young artists use art to give voice to the thoughts, feelings and concerns of their generation.

Hope’s work, “Degeneration of our Generation”, explores the emotional mechanisms of fear within the human brain and its subsequent effect on brain waves. What does your brain look like when overstimulated? Her figurative representation of our brain questions the effect of prolonged usage of technology and the associated long-term effects. Should we be afraid of the impacts of AI?

We are so proud of Hope representing the North Queensland region. When you’re next in Brisbane, pop in and check out her work!