FROM THE COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

Spotlight on Student Success

My career as a teacher was not something I planned. It was very much a case of the profession finding me, rather than me finding the profession. From the moment I began my first practicum in 1997, working with young people who were beginning to discover something of their potential, gave me a sense of energy and joy that nothing else had matched. While the role of Principal doesn’t always allow the volume of contact with students I would like, to this day, nothing gives me more joy than a student who has a lightbulb moment, overcomes a setback, or begins to find their path in life.

At enrolment interviews, people often ask me what sets St Patrick’s College Townsville apart from other schools. My answer is that we are a people centred community, where partnerships matter, relationships are real, and we know and value our students. We also go to great lengths to celebrate their successes – big and small, because we understand that in adolescence it is important to build self-esteem and strive.

Just over halfway through Term 1, for example, we have acknowledged 364 students who have received awards for academic achievement or diligence. We have also worked to create opportunities for young people to shine.

• Congratulations to Poppy Lea-Rowell, who won the local Lions Youth of the Year competition. Poppy now moves on to contest the next stage of this competition.
• Congratulations to Alani Burton and Rachel Kristensen, who are 2 of only 23 students across Queensland, to represent the state at the National Schools Constitutional Convention in Canberra, between Tuesday 24 March and Thursday 26 March.
• Congratulations to Violet Seri and Hannah Mosch (both Year 11), who have been awarded the Scartwater Scholarship, a Defence scholarship that recognises academic achievement in the second half of Year 10. Both girls will be recognised at the Townsville  RSL Awards Evening on Friday 6 March. In total, 9 awards were announced for Queensland students.
• Congratulations to Leila Strickland, Matilda Schroder, Georgia Cresswell, Holly Wilkie, Amaia Landy, Charlee Skinner, Chelsea Skinner, Elise Meakin and Lillian Ponti, who have been selected to represent the College at the 2026 Australian Rowing Championships at Lake Barrington International Rowing Course in Tasmania from 23-29 March.
• Congratulations to Isabelle Tickle and Immara Dyer-Lewis who took out first place at the UN Youth Townsville conference last weekend. Both girls will be heading to Brisbane for the State Finals in September.

Last week saw the first of our cornerstone sporting events for the year, the College’s Interhouse Swimming Carnival. The day was a remarkable success, and it was wonderful to see so many students cheering for their House and taking part in the spirit of the day. Days like this are reminders both of the importance of striving for one’s best, as well as participating, even though you might not be the best. Throughout the day, our student crowd cheered on both record-breaking swims, and swimmers who struggled to get to the other side. In doing so, they reflected an understanding of our values. While St Patrick’s College Townsville is a school which strives both to nurture excellence, we also value inclusion, participation and showing up!

I particularly congratulate all of our students for the way in which they conducted themselves on the day, as well as Wendy and Meika, the House Captains of the victorious Thrones.

May I also take this opportunity to acknowledge the commitment of our swimming coaches, Ms Helen Spina and Ms Yana Hurst, who have generously given of their time to coach across early mornings. Congratulations and thanks also to Head of Sport, Fitness & Activities, Ms Meg Henderson, on a superbly organised carnival.

Kath Little

COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – STUDENTS

GRIP and Prefect Leadership Day

On February 11, the Year 12 Student Leadership team attended the GRIP (Generosity, Responsibility, Integrity, People) Leadership Conference at James Cook University, joining student leaders from schools all over North Queensland. Participants gained new skills, perspectives, and innovative ideas to enhance their leadership contributions. Students could also select elective workshops tailored to their specific leadership roles.

On the Saturday, the team returned to the College for the Year 12 Prefect Leadership Day. Mr Turner and Ms Armitage led sessions covering expectations, self-awareness as a leader, and managing leadership responsibilities. College Captains, Mary and Bridget, facilitated an engaging session entitled “Teamwork makes the dream work,” emphasizing the four pillars of leadership: Responsibility, Visibility, Values, and Influence.

The day concluded with a mentoring session focused on goal setting and planning for the year ahead. It was inspiring to hear students share their ideas and aspirations, along with strategies for bringing them to life throughout the year.

College Introduces Ban on E-Bikes and E-Scooters Due to Fire Risk

Due to growing safety concerns, the College has banned e-bikes, e-scooters, and similar devices on campus, effective immediately. This decision follows increased awareness of fire risks linked to lithium-ion batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries in these devices have caused fires worldwide, which are hard to control and pose serious risks, particularly in settings where students reside on site. The College lacks suitable facilities for the safe storage and charging of these devices.

E-bikes and e-scooters are now prohibited from being brought onto, used, or charged anywhere on College grounds, including Boarding houses. This policy is aimed at keeping the campus safe. The College joins other Australian schools reviewing similar policies and encourages students and families to use alternative transport options.

Year 7 Name Badges

Students in Year 7 are expected to wear their name badge on their College tie whenever they are in academic uniform. Name badges contribute to a safer, more connected, and inclusive environment. Additionally, they encourage professionalism and facilitate effective communication between students and teachers.

Kristen Armitage

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – STUDENTS

FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – OPERATIONS, STAFF & COMMUNITY

One of the best parts of my day is standing at the gate each morning and welcoming students as they arrive, whether by car or on foot along The Strand, helping set a positive tone for the day ahead. It has been wonderful to see parents winding down their windows to offer a greeting, reinforcing the strong sense of community we value.

A simple smile, a greeting, or a quiet “good morning” from a student may seem like a small thing, but these moments matter. They reflect confidence, respect and connection, and they show the character that we are so proud to nurture at our school.

Our College theme this year, Character Lasts Forever, is lived out in these everyday interactions. When students acknowledge others, make eye contact, and offer a greeting, they demonstrate kindness and courtesy in action. These habits, practised daily, shape the people they are becoming far beyond their time at school.

Families play an important role in this as well. Encouraging children to start the day with a positive attitude, to greet staff and peers, and to take responsibility for their behaviour helps reinforce the values we share as a community.

Thank you to our students for the smiles, waves and cheerful greetings each morning. They are a reminder that strong character is built in the small moments, and that it truly does last forever.

Pick-up and Parking

As we continue to work together to ensure a safe and orderly end to the school day, I would like to remind families of some important considerations around pick‑up times and parking.

Afternoon pick‑up can be a busy time, and I appreciate the patience and cooperation shown by families. To help traffic flow smoothly and to keep all students safe, parents and carers are reminded that they should only park in marked bays. In addition, vehicles must not stop or park on pedestrian crossings, as these areas are essential for the safe movement of children and families.

For those finding parking close to the school difficult, additional parking is usually available further along The Strand. A short walk can significantly ease congestion near the school gates and contributes to a calmer, safer environment for everyone.

Thank you for your continued support in helping keep our College community safe and for showing consideration for other road users and the wider community we are part of.

Patrick Morrow

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – OPERATIONS, STAFF & COMMUNITY

FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC

As we reach this point of Term 1, students have now received assessment calendars and access to the Semester 1 tutoring schedule. This point in the time is significant, as it provides an opportunity for students to consolidate the organisational and study practices discussed at the recent Parent Evenings. Establishing effective routines early in the academic year is essential to building confidence, independence and sustained academic progress.

Students are encouraged to develop a structured weekly study timetable that incorporates homework, assignment preparation and regular revision. The use of a diary remains a fundamental organisational tool, ensuring that homework, assessment due dates and key reminders are recorded accurately. Rather than responding to assessment tasks at the last minute, students should be planning ahead using the assessment calendar to break larger tasks into manageable components. Consistent, shorter periods of focused study are more effective than irregular, extended sessions, and support both retention and wellbeing.

Students seeking additional guidance to strengthen their preparation and study practices are encouraged to access the Study Skills Handbook, available on the Learning Hub. This resource provides practical strategies to support time management, organisation, note-taking, revision techniques and assessment preparation. It is designed to assist students in developing effective, independent learning habits and offers clear, structured approaches that can be applied across all subject areas. Students are encouraged to explore the handbook proactively and use the strategies outlined to enhance both their confidence and academic performance throughout the year.

Teachers at the College provide a range of tutoring opportunities for students; the Semester 1 Tutoring Schedule is available on the Learning Hub. Students are strongly encouraged to access these sessions proactively, particularly if clarification or consolidation of content is required. In addition, students may speak directly with their classroom teachers to access support where necessary.

The partnership between home and school remains central to student success. Families can support the development of positive study habits by encouraging regular routines, providing a structured study environment and reinforcing the importance of planning and preparation. By embedding these practices early in the year, students are well positioned to manage their academic responsibilities effectively and to approach the remainder of the term with confidence and purpose.

Jacinta Collings

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC

FROM THE DEAN OF PATHWAYS

It has been fantastic to see the enthusiasm and commitment our students are bringing to their Careers and Vocational Education and Training (VET) programs. Across multiple certificates and industry areas, students are developing practical skills, building confidence, and gaining valuable insight into future career pathways.

Year 10 – Certificate II Tourism & Certificate II Sport Coaching

Year 10 students completing the Certificate II in Tourism are exploring the exciting world of travel and visitor services. They are developing practical skills in customer service, promoting destinations, and building strong communication and professionalism. This course provides a solid foundation for future pathways in tourism, hospitality and events.

Students undertaking the Certificate II in Sport Coaching are building foundational coaching and leadership skills. They are learning how to plan and deliver training sessions, lead activities, and create safe, inclusive sporting environments. It has been fantastic to see students growing in confidence as they develop skills applicable to future careers in sport, fitness, and recreation.

Certificate II in Sport and Recreation: On the Move!

Students completing the Binnacle Training Certificate II in Sport and Recreation have been engaging in both practical and theoretical components of the course.

In theory lessons, students have been introduced to the Sport, Fitness and Recreation (SFR) Industry, exploring different career pathways, industry expectations and the roles and responsibilities of coaches and sport professionals. They have also been learning how to assist with SFR programs under supervisor delivery, focusing on planning, organisation, safety procedures, and effective communication.

In practical sessions, students have been supporting and delivering structured coaching activities, leading warm-ups and skill drills, and applying feedback to improve participant performance. A strong emphasis has been placed on teamwork, professionalism and creating safe, inclusive sporting environments.

It has been great to see students growing in confidence as they develop real-world coaching skills and industry knowledge.

Certificate II Health: Offsite Practical Assessments and Connect n Grow

The Certificate II in Health Support Services equips students with foundational knowledge and skills necessary for supporting the effective functioning of health services. This program offers students invaluable skills and nationally recognised qualifications, extending their learning beyond the classroom. Through practical assessments and offsite engagement with the Registered Training Organisation ‘Connect n Grow’, students gain real-world insights into the health industry, enriching their educational experience and preparing them for their future careers.

Certificate III Health Services Assistant

Students undertaking the Certificate III Health Services Assistant course are developing industry knowledge to support future careers in nursing, allied health, and broader health services. Through a combination of theory and hands-on learning, they are exploring patient care, workplace health and safety, communication in health settings, and professional practice. This qualification provides students with valuable real-world insight into the healthcare industry while building confidence and capability for further study or employment in the health sector.

Certificate III in Business: The Journey Continues

Our Certificate III in Business students have made a strong start to the year as they continue developing practical skills for the workplace. The Year 11 students have successfully completed their enrolment modules and are now commencing their studies in the Business Services industry, building foundational knowledge of professional business environments. Meanwhile, our Year 12 students are focusing on safety and sustainability in the workplace and creating and managing financial budgets, equipping them with valuable real-world skills that will support informed decision-making and prepare them for life beyond school. It has been pleasing to see students engaging positively as they build confidence and capability for future career pathways.

Diploma of Business

The Diploma of Business girls have had an exciting start to the year, showing growing confidence and professionalism in everything they are doing.

So far this term, students have been focusing on workplace communication and how businesses introduce and implement new policies. They recently completed their first formal presentation, where they conducted a simulated staff meeting to introduce new communication policies for a business scenario. It was amazing to see each girl step up, lead discussions, handle challenging conversations and present with increasing confidence.

The class has embraced the challenge of thinking and speaking like business professionals, and it has been exciting to watch their skills develop so early in the year. We look forward to seeing their continued growth throughout the Diploma program.

Our Careers and VET programs continue to provide valuable real-world learning experiences that build confidence, practical skills, and career readiness. It is wonderful to see students embracing these opportunities and actively shaping their future pathways. We look forward to sharing more highlights as the year progresses.

Camille Flores

DEAN OF PATHWAYS

FROM THE HEAD OF SPORT, FITNESS & ACTIVITIES

SPORT UPDATE

We are already halfway through Term 1, and it has been an incredibly busy start to the year. Many of our students have been trialling across several sports for Townsville Secondary Schools and North Queensland representative teams. It has been fantastic to see so many girls putting themselves forward, embracing challenges and striving to represent at higher levels.

Netball

Our focus in netball has been on preparation for the Vicki Wilson Carnival at the beginning of next term. Trials and training sessions have been well attended, and the standard has been extremely high. The commitment shown at early morning trainings has set a strong foundation as we build towards the carnival.

Rugby 7s & Rugby League

Rugby 7s training has been taking place across the U14, U16 and U18 age groups, with our teams preparing to compete on 17 March against other North Queensland regional sides. The standard will be high, and we are looking forward to seeing our girls rise to the challenge.

The Year 9/10 rugby league girls recently went undefeated at their Gala Day, with only two tries scored against them all day – a fantastic achievement and a sign of a very bright future in rugby league at our College.

Confraternity Rugby League training has also begun, with the girls set to compete at the end of next term in Brisbane. This year’s carnival will be hosted by Marist College Ashgrove.

Swimming Carnival

Our Interhouse Swimming Carnival was a highlight of the term so far. A big thank you to Helen Spina for her dedication to Monday morning swim squad sessions – the improvement and confidence in our swimmers is evident.

Congratulations to Isobelle Gilbride, who broke every record in her age group across all strokes and claimed Queen of the Pool with an impressive time of 28.6 seconds.

Well done to Thrones House for winning the carnival overall in what was a very close contest, with Doms House leading at different stages throughout the day.

Congratulations to Principalities House for taking out the Spirit Award and for having the least number of students absent on the day – a wonderful effort.

Powers House also demonstrated incredible spirit and have some strong younger swimmers coming through. They will certainly be a force to be reckoned with in the coming years.

We now look ahead confidently to the Interschool Carnival. After finishing 2nd in A Schools for the past two years, we are determined to make 2026 our year.

Basketball

This year marks our first time competing in the regional CBSQ Basketball Competition, and we are excited to see how our girls perform under the guidance of Coach Jaimee Seebohm.

Our junior students will also take part in the upcoming basketball gala day in Week 9, providing another great opportunity to compete and represent the College.

Surf Life Saving

Recently, the Arcadian Surf Life Saving Club hosted a Come and Try Day, with 40 of our day and boarding students participating. The girls enjoyed testing their skills in the water, on boards, with flags, and in resuscitation activities – a fantastic experience and a wonderful opportunity for partnership.

With so much already achieved and many exciting events still ahead, the remainder of Term 1 promises to be just as busy and rewarding. We are incredibly proud of the commitment, resilience and school spirit shown by our students.

Meg Henderson

HEAD OF SPORT, FITNESS & ACTIVITIES

INTERHOUSE SWIMMING CARNIVAL

FROM THE DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR

Dear Defence Families,

WELCOME TO THE COLLEGE

During Week 3, we welcomed new students to the College where we indulged in some tasty treats and shared experiences of our Defence lineage. Morning Teas will be held fortnightly and will be advertised through College News and students emailed directly. This is an opportunity for social and emotional support of the students and to support them during any changes in circumstances. I encourage families to discuss their roles within the Defence to their children as they are extremely proud of your service. 

LATERAL TRANSFERS – WELCOME

We would like to extend a very warm welcome to the families who have recently joined our College community through lateral transfers to Australia, particularly those arriving from the United Kingdom and Ireland. We are delighted to have you as part of our community and hope your transition to life in Australia – and here in Townsville – has been a positive one so far.

FUN FACT

The journey from the UK or Ireland to Townsville is approximately 15,000–16,500 kilometres, often involving more than 20–24 hours of travel time across multiple flights and time zones! That’s quite an adventure and a significant move for families.

Relocating internationally can be exciting, but we also recognise that settling into a new country, school system, climate, and community can take time. There are several excellent Defence support services available locally to assist families during this transition:

• Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) – Provides programs, community connection opportunities, and practical support for Defence families adjusting to new postings.
• Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling – Offers free and confidential counselling and wellbeing support for current and former ADF members and their families.
• Defence Housing Australia (DHA) – Assists Defence families with housing services and support related to Defence accommodation.

If you are new to Townsville and would like assistance connecting with school or local community supports, please do not hesitate to reach out. We are proud to support our Defence families and look forward to getting to know you.

ANZAC DAY MARCH – THE STRAND, SATURDAY 25 APRIL 2026

ANZAC Day is a nationally recognised day of remembrance, when Australians and New Zealanders pause to acknowledge and honour the service men and women who have served and sacrificed in times of war.

St Patrick’s College Townsville has a long and proud association with Townsville’s ANZAC Day commemorations. This year, the College will once again participate in the Townsville ANZAC Day March along The Strand.

Our Defence students, Prefects and Year 12 students have been invited to represent the College in the march. Due to capacity limits set by Townsville City Council, each school may nominate up to 50 students to participate.

Eligible students have received an email with a link to confirm their attendance by Monday 30 March. Once responses are received, permission forms will be sent to parents/guardians for approval.

Members of the College community are also warmly encouraged to support the event by lining The Strand and cheering on our students as they march.

ANZAC DAY DAWN SERVICE DETAILS

Townsville will host two ANZAC Day services, where our College Prefects will attend the Townsville City Service:

Thuringowa Service

• 5.20am – Dawn Service, Thuringowa Cenotaph, Riverway Precinct
• 8.30am – Parade form-up (Weir State School carpark)
• 9.00am – Parade step-off (travelling behind Weir State School, past Riverway Stadium, along Sporting Drive, across Riverway Practice Oval, concluding at the Thuringowa Cenotaph)
• 9.30am – Mid-morning Service, Thuringowa Cenotaph, Riverway Precinct

Townsville City Service

• 5.20am – Dawn Service, Anzac Memorial Park Cenotaph
• 8.30am – Parade form-up (Strand Park)
• 9.00am – Parade step-off (proceeding along The Strand to Anzac Memorial Park)

Further information can be found here: https://whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au/events/anzac-day

GECKOS FAMILY CENTRE

For those new to the region, Geckos is located on Lavarack Barracks and provides services, support, and activities to enhance social connections and family resilience within the Defence community of North Queensland. Geckos offer many exciting events throughout the year and the team are looking forward to meeting all the new families in the region. Geckos has a playground that is open all day every day – from dawn until dusk – with access to toilet, parking and cold-water facilities. If you would like to keep up to date with Geckos’ upcoming events and activities (such as school holiday programs), follow their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/geckosfamilycentre/

ARE YOU AWARE?

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 those subjects in which a child needs support. 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.

If you will be absent for a period of time during the term due to deployment, course or training, 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

UN YOUTH TOWNSVILLE CONFERENCE

Over the weekend of 21 – 22 February, a group of our students participated in the UN Youth Townsville Conference, held at James Cook University. The conference provided students from Years 9 – 12 with an immersive introduction to international relations, diplomacy and global citizenship, with sessions focused on negotiation, cooperation and responding to contemporary global challenges.

Across two full days, students engaged in collaborative discussions, explored complex global issues, and developed valuable skills in critical thinking, public speaking and leadership. It was a fantastic opportunity for students to connect with like-minded peers from across the region and to gain insight into how international decision-making works in practice.

A very special congratulations goes to Isabelle Tickle and Immara Dyer-Lewis (Year 12), who placed first overall at the Townsville Conference – for the second year in a row! As a result of this outstanding achievement, Isabelle and Immara will travel to Brisbane to compete in the UN Youth State Finals later this year.

We also congratulate all of the following students on their participation:

Year 9:
Resandi Wijeskere, Ava Gray, Audrina Gilham, Sam Brennan, Mia Kelly, Emilia Doyle

Year 10:
Lucia Anderson, Scarlett Lucas-Schiplock

Year 11:
Jazmin Vasquez, Lakshmi Boardssen, Deona Emmanuel, Anniken Hartley

Year 12:
Isabelle Tickle, Immara Dyer-Lewis, Bridget Baxter, Millie Weekers

Well done to all students involved for representing the College with enthusiasm, curiosity and confidence.

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY – MATER FUN RUN

Our team, St Patrick’s College Townsville, is participating in the International Women’s Day Fun Run on March 8,  helping Mater Chicks in Pink to raise money to support women with breast cancer.

When you think 53 people are told everyday ‘you have breast cancer’, getting together and showing our support seems easy, right?

Please join the fun run and our team today! https://fundraise.mater.org.au/join/stpatrickscollegetownsville

Alternatively please go to our fundraising page and donate: https://fundraise.mater.org.au/st/13307/e

Together we can make sure no woman feels alone when going through breast cancer.

E-BIKES & E-SCOOTERS

Dear families,

Please see the following letter from the College Principal regarding the College’s position on e-bikes, e-scooters and other powered personal mobility devices.

2026.03.06 E-bikes and E-Scooters

TOWNSVILLE FIRE VISIT

Thank you to Ms Meg Henderson, Head of Sport, Fitness & Activities, and Ms Jaimee Seebohm, Head of House – Thrones and former Women’s National Basketball League player and Australian representative, for organising an uplifting morning celebrating women in sport.