FROM THE COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

There has been much to celebrate at the College across Term 3. Our Music students, supported by our Head of Faculty – Music & Performance, Mr John Goulter, and the Instrumental Music team, once again put on an outstanding performance at our recent Music by the Sea event, showcasing not only their hard work but their talent and creativity. Our Year 12s have shown their commitment to Mercy Ministries not only by raising money for Mater’s The Chop, but by donating their hair. Our debaters in Year 12, 10 and 7 have proceeded to the next round of the finals. Our Touch Footballers also performed creditably in the Finals of the North Queensland All Schools Touch Football Competition. Our Athletes came third overall in the recent Interschool Athletics Carnival, despite us being relatively smaller in overall numbers. I take this opportunity to recognise the performances of Coco Porter Pitt, Trixie Hambly, Eva Parenti, Maylein Mene, Amahne Wapau, Ivy Ryan, Margaret Baker, Ruby Struss, Rosa Canning, Connah Moore, Sienna Pietrobon, Judith Kris, Gabriella Parenti, Charli Russell, Mala Brooks, Alyssa Doyle, Olivia Koloi and Brooklyne Stegman, who each qualified for the NQ School Trials. While we do not yet know the outcome of the trials, I particularly acknowledge the performances of Amahne, who won both the javelin and the shot put for her age level.

I wish all of our Rowing girls well, in advance of the Head of the River and congratulate them on the tremendous commitment they have shown this season.  

Mercy Day and NAIDOC Attendance

During Term 3, the College celebrates two very important occasions, both of which speak to our values and our identity. On Tuesday 15 September, the College will celebrate Mercy Day, an occasion where we commemorate the opening of the first Mercy House in Baggot St, by Catherine McAuley. NAIDOC celebrations occur the following day, on Wednesday 16 September. On this occasion, we celebrate the rich cultural history and wisdom of First Nations peoples.

On both days, we have an opportunity to sharpen our focus on who we are and what we believe in. These are not optional attendance days. They are an opportunity to build student engagement and shape important dispositions that speak to the core of our identity: compassion, service, inclusion, respect. I would ask all parents to support the College in ensuring strong attendance at these occasions, understanding that an education at St Patrick’s College Townsville is both holistic and values driven. It seeks not only to build an understanding of academic content, but to build engaged, informed, caring and responsible citizens. Opportunities at Mercy Day and NAIDOC, connect young people not only to lessons about service and care for others, but stories about connection to story, earth and stewardship.  

I also note that our NAIDOC Celebration runs into the evening on Wednesday 16 September. Having witnessed this event for the first time last year, I can say without hesitation that it is a fantastic and dynamic celebration of culture and diversity. I would warmly ask all members of our community to build partnership not only with the College but with each other, and be in attendance for the wonderful cacophony of events.

Staffing Updates

I wish to advise that Jason Bennett will not be returning to the College in 2027 given that he is relocating to Brisbane. For this reason, we will be advertising Head of Year 7 and Year 7 Case Manager externally. I take this opportunity to acknowledge Jason’s contribution to the College in the time that he has been here and particularly thank him for making the transition process for our incoming Year 7s so smooth. Both students and families have benefited from his highly relational approach and thoroughness.

The College is also recruiting for two additional positions, including:

• Head of Rowing
• Head of Instrumental Music and Cultural Programs (a new role, with the aim of strengthening our commitment to the Arts)

Strategic Updates

One of our 2026 key objectives was to respond to parent feedback about the need for further parent engagement forums at the College. For much of this year, the College has been working with Independent Schools Queensland to review best practice in this area. Parents would be aware that we also sent out a community survey to be better guided in our discernment by the unique responses of our own community.

What will be important, is that there is a collective understanding that previous, pre-Covid versions of parent engagement did not work; the reason that the previous P&F collapsed was consistent lack of parent engagement and attendance over years.

The College has drafted a proposal for a Parent Partnership Panel, with the aim of enhancing both parent engagement and the partnership between home and school. We would ask that parents review the proposed structure by clicking on the PDF below, and then clicking on the link to provide feedback.

PDF: Parent Partnership Panel PDF

SURVEY LINK: Survey – Parent Partnership Panel – Fill out form

Our aim is to consider feedback in Term 4, make necessary changes, and roll out in 2027.

Kath Little

COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – STUDENTS

LOOKING AFTER YOURSELF DURING EXAMS

Exam time can feel busy and stressful, so it is important to look after yourself as well as your study. Use the tips below to help you stay calm, focused and healthy in the lead-up to exams and final assignments.

1. Plan ahead and stay organised

Start assessments and exam revision early to reduce stress. Create study notes and flashcards, complete practice exams, and explain key concepts to someone else to strengthen your understanding. Before each exam, organise your materials and pack lunch, snacks and a water bottle.

2. Keep worries in perspective

Worries are valid, but can feel greater during exams and deadlines. Keep the bigger picture in mind: one disappointing result will not define your future, and support or alternative pathways are available.

3. Manage caffeine wisely

A small amount of caffeine can provide a helpful boost, but too much can affect your sleep, concentration and memory. Try to limit coffee and energy drinks, especially later in the day, rather than relying on them to study for long hours.

4. Prioritise sleep

Sleep helps restore your energy, supports memory and improves concentration. It also plays an important role in regulating emotions, which can make it easier to manage pressure during exams.

Reach Out – Tips on how to get a good night’s sleep

5. Stay active

Exercise can help reduce stress and anxiety, even when you do not feel like moving. Try a gentle walk, stretching, playing with your dog or any activity that gets your heart rate up and your body moving.

6. Take regular breaks

Take short, quality breaks during study sessions to help maintain focus. Studying for hours without rest can reduce concentration, while regular breaks can help you recharge and work more productively. Remember, it is not just how long you study that matters, but how well you use that time.

7. Make time for things you enjoy

Make time for activities that help you relax and feel balanced. Chat with friends, exercise, spend time outside or watch a favourite show in moderation. Giving your brain a break can help you return to study feeling refreshed and more focused.

8. Notice when stress becomes too much

A small amount of stress can sometimes help you feel alert, motivated and ready to act. The key is noticing when stress becomes too much or starts interfering with your wellbeing.

9. Reach out for support

If stress feels overwhelming, or if the strategies you are using are not helping, reach out to someone you trust. Talk to your parents and teachers. You may also find it helpful to use wellbeing resources such as the Health and Wellbeing Resource Centre.

All the best for your upcoming exams. Look after yourself, use the supports around you and remember that steady, balanced preparation is what matters most.

AI & RECORDING GLASSES

Recording glasses are wearable smart devices that combine prescription or sunglass lenses with an integrated digital camera and microphone.

They typically work in the following ways:

• Camera, microphone and speakers: Recording glasses may include a camera lens, microphone and speakers, with touch or voice controls. Some models can store data like a USB device and transfer footage to another device using Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. These images can then be modified in an app.
• Recording indicator lights: Reputable models usually include LED indicators to support privacy compliance and alert others when recording is taking place. However, many cheaper or imitation versions may not include this feature.

College Policy: In line with our Acceptable Use of Personal Electronic Devices Policy, the College will not allow recording glasses to be used on campus. Students are not permitted to record other students or staff without teacher approval and the consent of all participants.

Kristen Armitage

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – STUDENTS

FROM THE DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC

As we head towards the end of Term 3, students are completing an array of assessment including assignments and examinations. It is important that students are managing their time, as well as having study-life balance which includes time for hobbies, exercise and reading. To complement this upcoming assessment, a reminder that the College provides a range of support and resources.

Tutoring Schedule

Teachers at the College provide a range of tutoring opportunities for students, including before and after school and during lunch breaks. The tutoring schedule for Semester 2 2026 is located on the Learning Hub and has been emailed to parents and students. As well as this document, students are encouraged to speak to their teachers for alternative tutoring times.

Study Timetable

With students receiving their Timetable, Assessment Calendar and the Tutoring Schedule, they can now begin to plan their study timetables. It is important that students are implementing these procedures early in the year and having a regular routine.

As a general guide for students and parents/guardians, the following average times per week are suggested for each year level for homework/study:

• Year 7: 6-8 hours
• Year 8: 8-10 hours
• Year 9: 8-10 hours
• Year 10: 10-15 hours
• Year 11: 10-15 hours
• Year 12: 10-15 hours

Report cards

Year 12 students will be issued with their final report cards towards the end of the term; this includes a summary of their results across Internal Assessments 1, 2 and 3. Year 11 students will receive their Unit 2 Report Card in the school holidays. Year 7 – 10 students will not receive a Report Card this term, their next one will be issued at the end of Semester 2.

Year 12 External Assessment

As many of our Year 12 students have submitted their final internal pieces of assessment for general subjects, it is timely to look at resources available on the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority website that relate to External Assessments. This includes a suite of external assessment preparation videos for a range of subject areas. Further resources are also available on the QCAA website, as well as our College Learning Hub.

Jacinta Collings

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – ACADEMIC

FROM THE DEAN OF STUDENT WELLBEING

Beyond the Classroom: Learning for Life

It has been a busy term across our Pastoral Development and wellbeing programs, with students participating in a range of valuable learning experiences beyond the classroom. Through partnerships with external providers, community organisations and professionals working directly in their fields, students have been able to connect their learning with real-world experiences, hear from those with specialist knowledge and develop practical skills they can carry with them as they navigate adolescence, increasing independence and life beyond school.

Staying Safe in a Digital World – ySafe

Students across Years 7-12 participated in age-appropriate cyber safety sessions delivered by ySafe, exploring social media, gaming, online relationships, cyberbullying, privacy and digital wellbeing.

Importantly, the sessions moved beyond simply telling students what they should and should not do online. Students were challenged to think critically about their own digital behaviours, understand how quickly online situations can change and consider the impact their choices can have on themselves and others. They also explored practical strategies for protecting their privacy, responding to challenging situations and knowing when and where to seek help.

Parents and guardians were also invited to an evening session, recognising the important partnership between home and school in supporting young people online. Families are reminded that the ySafe Online Safety Hub remains available throughout the year, with practical resources covering current apps, social media, gaming, parental controls and emerging online safety concerns.

Online Safety Hub – St Patrick’s College Townsville

Year 10 – P.A.R.T.Y. Program

A number of our Year 10 students participated in the P.A.R.T.Y. (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-related Trauma in Youth) Program, providing a powerful opportunity to understand the relationship between choices, risk and injury.

Through interaction with health professionals, emergency services and those with lived experience of trauma, students were taken beyond statistics and classroom discussions to see the real-world consequences that can follow a single decision. By exploring aspects of the journey of a trauma patient, students were encouraged to consider not only the physical consequences of risk-taking, but also the impact on families, friends and the wider community.

The experience complemented students’ Pastoral Development learning around alcohol and other drugs and encouraged them to think more deeply about recognising risk, looking out for others and making informed choices.

Year 11 – Road Safety and Responsible Driving

For our Year 11 students, road safety has been a strong focus as many begin to experience the independence and responsibility that comes with driving.

Students participated in the Queensland Fire Department’s Road Attitudes and Action Planning (RAAP) Program, delivered by operational firefighters who bring firsthand experience of responding to road crashes. Hearing directly from professionals who see the consequences of road trauma gave students an authentic perspective on risk, decision-making and the responsibility they carry for themselves, their passengers and other road users.

Building on this learning, a large number of Year 11 students will also participate in an Advanced Driver Safety Program. Through practical instruction, learner and provisional drivers will have the opportunity to develop their confidence, driving skills and understanding of driver mindset, safe decision-making and responding appropriately on the road.

Together, these experiences encourage students to see driving not simply as a pathway to independence, but as a responsibility that requires judgement, awareness and consideration for others.

Year 12 – Preparing for Life Beyond School

As our Year 12 students move closer to finishing school, our Pastoral Development program continues to provide opportunities to build the knowledge and confidence needed for greater independence.

Students welcomed Domestic Violence North Queensland (DVNQ) for an important session exploring respectful and healthy relationships, domestic and family violence, personal safety and help-seeking. Students were encouraged to recognise healthy and unhealthy behaviours, understand how they might support a friend and, importantly, know where and how to access professional support if they or someone they know needs it.

The visit also strengthened our College connection with DVNQ as the Thrones House charity, with representatives remaining at the College during Morning Tea to speak with students, share resources and build greater awareness of the support available within our local community.

Year 12 students also participated in the Red Frogs Party Safe Program. Drawing on presenters’ extensive experience supporting young people at Schoolies, Leavers Week and other events, students explored the realities of party environments, alcohol and recreational drug use. Rather than simply focusing on risk, the session equipped students with practical strategies for planning ahead, recognising unsafe situations, looking after friends and making informed decisions.

These experiences are particularly valuable as students prepare to leave the structures of school and make increasingly independent choices about relationships, social situations and their own safety.

Learning for Life

The value of these programs lies in the opportunity for students to learn from people working directly within our community – firefighters, health professionals, trauma services, online safety specialists and community support organisations. Their expertise and real-world experiences bring an authenticity to learning that strengthens and extends the work already taking place through our Pastoral Development program.

As we now enter a busy period of assessment and exam preparation, we also remind students of the importance of putting these broader wellbeing skills into practice. Planning ahead, prioritising tasks and using effective study strategies can help manage workload, while maintaining sleep, movement, downtime and connection remains an important part of finding balance during busy periods.

Tenille Hambly

DEAN OF STUDENT WELLBEING

FROM THE DEAN OF BOARDING

Learning on Country – Nywaigi Country

One of our important roles in boarding is to provide a balanced program that supports the wellbeing of our students through opportunities to learn, connect, be active and spend time outdoors. Recently, our boarders travelled north to Forrest Beach for a day on Country with Nywaigi Traditional Owner, Buddy Cassady, and his family from Mungalla Station. The Cassady family have created a special place where culture, history and truth-telling are shared, including through the museum at Mungalla and the story of the remarkable restorations of the surrounding wetlands.

Our students were welcomed to Country with a smoking ceremony on the beach before spending the day learning together. They gathered and prepared bush foods and seafood, learning from Traditional Owners about the local environment, traditional foods, cultural practices and the importance of caring for Country.

For our students and staff, the experience was about much more than an excursion – being together on Country gave us the opportunity to listen, learn and appreciate the knowledge First Nations peoples have carried and practised for thousands of years.

Being outdoors, active and learning alongside one another strengthens relationships, supports wellbeing and gives our students and staff meaningful opportunities to connect with culture, Country and community in a spirit of respect. 

Paula Henderson

DEAN OF BOARDING

FROM THE DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR

Dear Defence Families,

Defence Morning Teas & Student Support

Defence Morning Teas continue to be held fortnightly and are advertised through College News, with students also emailed directly. These morning teas provide students with opportunities for:

• Social connection
• Emotional wellbeing support
• A safe space to connect with other Defence students, Veteran families and friends

This term, we were very grateful to receive a kind and generous morning tea donation from the Kelly family – and, as always, the Tim Tams were the first to go!

2027 Postings

Families have now received details of their 2027 postings. In Term 4, Defence students whose families are posting out of location will be formally farewelled from the College. If your family is leaving Townsville at the end of the College year, please email Ms Joanna Pacey at jpacey@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au and the Defence School Mentor so we can ensure your daughter is included in our farewell.

Families are encouraged to read “Moving with Children” on the DMFS website in preparation for the journey ahead: https://www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families/military-life-cycle/posting-relocating/moving-children

Unaccompanied Resident Family (URF)

When a military member is posted, families may choose to remain in their current location while the military member moves alone to their new posting. This is called an Unaccompanied Resident Family, or URF. Families may choose this option to support family stability, allow partners to keep their current job, enable children to remain at their school, or maintain consistent access to healthcare. Choosing to become an URF is an important family decision.

Our local Defence Social Workers are available to speak with families who are exploring URF as a potential option and would like further information or support.

SUPPORT SERVICES

Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS)

Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS), Defence Families Australia and Open Arms provide support for families before, during and after deployments, postings and major transitions. Families can contact the Defence Member and Family Helpline on 1800 624 608.

Emergency Support

If an emergency or crisis occurs while an ADF member is absent, families may access practical assistance and emergency support by contacting the Defence Member and Family Helpline on 1800 624 608.

Education Assistance Scheme (EAS)

The Education Assistance Scheme (EAS) helps minimise disruption caused by postings by providing financial support for tutoring and assistance for students with additional learning needs. Eligible Defence families may access up to 14 weeks of tutoring, with one hour per week per subject, within the first 18 months of a posting. For more information, families can contact the Defence Family Helpline on 1800 624 608, or email the Education team at education.supportprograms@defence.gov.au.

Contact the Defence School Mentor – Change in Family Circumstances

Please let me know if your family experiences any of the following:

• A posting
• A deployment
• Retirement or discharge
• Extended parental absence
• An unaccompanied posting, or your family is considering becoming an Unaccompanied Resident Family (URF)

This helps me ensure the appropriate support is in place for your daughter. If you believe your family should not be listed as a Defence family, please also let me know.

If you have not yet connected with me, please contact me via email at gwalkom@stpatscollege.qld.edu.au or phone 07 4753 0300. Students are welcome to see me during PC, morning tea and lunch in E Block, Library.

Gayle Walkom

DEFENCE SCHOOL MENTOR

YEAR 12 CERTIFICATE III BUSINESS

Year 12 Certificate III in Business students, currently studying customer service and completing their final assessment, recently had the opportunity to visit the local café Grandma’s as part of an industry visit. During the excursion, students gained valuable insights from experienced staff about the day-to-day operations and challenges of running a successful business.

The visit enabled students to apply the knowledge and skills developed in the classroom to a real-world business environment. Prior to the excursion, students researched the café’s online presence, including its website, social media platforms, customer reviews and marketing strategies.

During the visit, students interacted with venue staff and observed key aspects of business operations. They evaluated customer service practices, workplace presentation, cleanliness, product quality and the overall customer experience. This authentic learning experience provided students with a deeper understanding of how business concepts are applied in practice and highlighted the importance of delivering high-quality customer service in the hospitality industry.

AIEF GRADUATION

The Australian Indigenous Education Foundation (AIEF) held its annual Year 12 Graduation event on Monday 17 August at Taronga Zoo, Sydney. Our magnificent seven of Cordelle, Larvo, Jakaiah, Taiijh, Azalia, Panai and Kadawa braved the rain and the cold to celebrate the achievement of the completion of Year 12 with the help of an AIEF scholarship.

The AIEF graduating class of 2026 comprised of more than 80 students from 58 communities. For our magnificent seven, they were representing six different communities and St Patrick’s College Townsville with pride. From the Opera House to the Harbour Bridge and Taronga Zoo, it was quite the experience. Our magnificent seven stepped into their power on the stage and made some new friends along the way.

Larvo gave a speech at the formal evening event where she showcased her journey and her deep gratitude for all those who had supported her along the way. The second day was spent in Redfern at the National Centre for Indigenous Excellence (NCIE); the girls were networking with employers and educational institutions about future opportunities and began the process of becoming AIEF alumni. For the girls, it was also an opportunity to reflect on how far they had come and reset ready for a strong finish to their school years at the College.

Joanne Gilmore

ASSISTANT DEAN OF BOARDING – ACADEMIC

THE CHOP FOR MATER

FATHER’S DAY BREAKFAST

We warmly invite all of the male role models who play a significant part in our students’ lives to join us as we fire up the grill and celebrate Father’s Day.

Please RSVP for Dad and the number of daughters attending by 4.00pm Monday 31 August 2026.

TIME: 7.15am to 8.30am
DATE: Thursday 3 September 2026
LOCATION: St Patrick’s College Townsville
PRICE: $15 per person

Enjoy a breakfast burger, juice & coffee in our East Precinct Courtyard, with raffle prizes and games!

RSVP here

MUSIC BY THE SEA

SCIENCE WEEK

Thank you to our Head of Faculty – Science, Mr Pacey, for facilitating a wonderful week of activities.

 

BOOK WEEK

Days like this remind us that the best stories don’t just live on the page, they come to life when we share them. For more photos, head to our Facebook page.

NAIDOC COMMUNITY CELEBRATION

All students, families and friends are invited to join us for our 2026 NAIDOC Community Celebration. Please see the invitation below for more details and RSVP here: https://www.trybooking.com/DOVLT