Term 2 Week 1 2024

A Message from the Principal

Dear parents and friends,

Welcome back to all our students and parents! We trust you've had a restful and enjoyable break, and you're ready for the excitement and learning that Term 2 has in store for us.

I hope you all had a chance to recharge over the break. Personally, I had the opportunity to travel to New York with Belinda and our two young children. It was an incredible experience, but it's also reminded me of the blessings of calling Australia home. I'm delighted to be back in Longreach and back at Our Lady's.

A special congratulations goes to Mrs Sue Cutting on her remarkable 20 years of service to our school community. Sue has been an invaluable asset, serving as a source of wisdom for incoming principals, a nurturing figure for our young teachers, and an inspiring educator for countless students throughout the years. Our Lady's School is undeniably enriched by Sue's presence, and we look forward to many more years of her contributions. It was heart-warming to be joined by Sue’s family at her award ceremony this week.

This week, we had the pleasure of welcoming Miss Leesa Jeffcoat to our school. This visit marked her final one before she steps down as Director of Catholic Education in the Diocese of Rockhampton. Over her 23 years of service, Leesa has been a steadfast advocate for small western schools like ours, ensuring we have the resources and facilities we need to thrive. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Leesa for her dedication and wish her all the best in her future endeavours.

We were also honoured by the presence of Bishop Michael, who joined us to celebrate his 10th Anniversary as Bishop in our area. During his visit, he confirmed Miss Godfrey and Mr Komndi-Diggins at mass last Sunday. It was a beautiful ceremony, and we warmly welcome Sahlie and Bella into the Catholic faith.

As we settle back into the routine of school life, I'd like to remind students and parents about the importance of adhering to our uniform policy. I've noticed some students wearing incorrect uniform items, particularly with regards to shoes and hair length. Please ensure that students are wearing plain black shoes with no white soles or other markings, and boys should ensure their hair is not below collar length unless it is tied up neatly. We understand that shoes can go missing and hair grows quickly, but it would be greatly appreciated if we could all work together to ensure these areas are tidied up.

Let's make Term 2 a fantastic one filled with learning, growth, and community spirit. Here's to a successful and fulfilling term ahead!

God bless,

Mr Peter Thurecht

Reflection – Sr Kym Harris OSB

Alleluia! He is Risen

These words are repeated over and over in our Church during this Easter.  And someone outside the Church could easily say, ‘So what!’  Even when we look at the Gospels themselves, Jesus’ Resurrection is a very understated affair.  Your children’s birthday parties probably have more pizzaz in them.  Jesus’ Resurrection is announced quietly to a few loving, and distressed, women, revealed to the disciples hidden behind closed doors where Jesus offers forgiveness and peace.  Is this the way to catch the attention and following of the world?  What difference does it make?  Perhaps the best way to understand that is to look at what we Christians believe.

As Christians we believe:

That good can come out of bad.  The power Jesus gave in defeating death is given to us.  We are not defined or confined by the bad things that happen to us.  We can turn them to good.

That prayer really makes a difference.  The good desires I have for others can be offered to God and sent to surround and care for them – even if they are on the other side of the world.

That forgiveness is not only possible but desirable.  When we hear stories of people who have forgiven those who have wronged them, we understand, we get it – even if we feel it might be beyond us.

That virtue is something for which we should work and strive.  Yes, we want to be better because we believe we have been made for that.

This is where we know the Risen Christ alive in us.  In this transformation, we see the life-giving power he has unleashed in the world. Let yourself be surprised this Easter by recognising and appreciating the new divine life that is rising in your hearts.

Loving God, my faith can seem so ordinary at times that I think it has little effect on me.  Let me realise how the Holy Spirit is alive within me allowing the life of Jesus to rise in my heart and in my life.  I ask this in Jesus’ name confident that you will hear me. 

Sr Kym Harris osb

APRE News

Welcome back to Term 2. I hope that you and your families were able to share in the joy of Christ’s Resurrection and spend time with your families over the holidays. At our staff meeting earlier this week, Mr Thurecht asked each of our teachers to share something they were grateful for from their holiday. The theme of spending time with family and friends was consistent throughout. For me, I enjoyed the opportunity for life to slow down and not run to a schedule!

We are thrilled to share the joyous news of Sahlie Komndi-Diggins and Isabella Godfrey's recent initiation into our parish community through the sacraments of Confirmation and First Communion. Last Sunday morning, under the guidance of Bishop Michael, they embarked on a significant chapter in their spiritual journeys, surrounded by the love and support of our congregation.

Confirmation is a pivotal moment in the life of a Catholic, symbolising the reaffirmation of one's faith and the reception of the Holy Spirit. It marks the individual's commitment to live out their beliefs and values within the context of the Church. For Sahlie and Isabella, this sacrament represents a profound step towards spiritual maturity and deeper engagement with their faith.

Accompanying their Confirmation, Sahlie and Isabella also received the sacrament of First Communion, wherein they partook of the Eucharist for the first time. This sacred act of sharing in the body and blood of Christ is central to the Catholic faith, signifying unity with Christ and the community of believers.

The presence of Bishop Michael added a special significance to the occasion, as he presided over the ceremonies with grace and reverence. His guidance and blessings undoubtedly enriched the experience for Sahlie, Isabella, and all who witnessed this sacred moment.

As a parish community, we rejoice in welcoming Sahlie Komndi-Diggins and Isabella Godfrey into full communion. Their commitment to their faith is an inspiration to us all, and we pledge to support them as they continue to grow in their spiritual journey.

Let us keep Sahlie, Isabella, and their families in our prayers as they embark on this new chapter of faith-filled living. May the grace of God continue to guide and strengthen them on their path.

God bless,

Ange

Student Protection

Student Protection is taken very seriously within our school and Diocese. Each year all staff undertake mandatory student protection training at the beginning of the year. This year our School Student Protection Officers are Mr Peter Thurecht, Mrs Angela Arthur and Ms Sarah Wall. If you have concerns, please do not hesitate to contact one of our officers.

125 Year Celebration - Paver Fundraiser

As we commemorate our 125^th anniversary at Our Lady's next year, we invite you, our cherished families and friends, to contribute to our enduring Alumni Pavers Project. Located at Parents' Place, these pavers serve as timeless tributes to your connection with Our Lady's.

🔹 Cost: $40 per family

🔹 Deadline: Please complete and return the accompanying form to the school by Friday, Week 5, Term 2, 2024 (May 17th).

🔹 Contact: For additional order forms or further inquiries, kindly reach out to our school office at 0749948375.

Your participation not only commemorates your history with Our Lady's but also supports vital projects organized by our Parents & Friends association.

Let's make our 125^th anniversary truly unforgettable, one paver at a time!

ANZAC Day Thursday 25th April

ANZAC Day is next Thursday, 25th April. It's an important day in Australia's history as we remember those men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Friday the 26th April we will have our ANZAC Day prayer liturgy during our assembly. All are welcome to attend the morning service.

On ANZAC Day, our school will assemble outside the RSL at 8:15am and join in with the town march.
If you are marching with Our Lady's, students are to wear their formal uniforms except for prep who will wear their usual school uniform.

Mother's Day Celebrations

Mobile Phone & Wearable Technology Policy

Uniform Policy

Tuckshop

Key Dates

St Brigid’s Parish News

Please follow us on Facebook for up to date information on what’s happening in the St Brigid’s Parish. https://m.facebook.com/people/Central-West-QLD-Catholic-Church/100080215845014/

Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton

Community Notices

Qantas Founders Museum to exhibit Internationally Acclaimed Artist Yayoi Kusama’s infinity art experience

Qantas Founders Museum proudly announces a prominent artwork by the globally celebrated artist Yayoi Kusama, to be unveiled from 16 March to 22 September 2024 on loan from the National Gallery of Australia.

Kusama’s infinity experience THE SPIRITS OF THE PUMPKINS DESCENDED INTO THE HEAVENS will travel to Longreach in Western Queensland.

Renowned for her mesmerising installations, sculptures, and paintings characterized by recurring motifs such as dots, eyes, nets, and pumpkins, Kusama delves into the realms of repetition and sensory experiences. This immersive installation showcases Kusama’s signature style, inviting viewers into a mind-bending journey through vibrant colours, mirrors, and meticulously crafted pumpkin sculptures.

CEO of Qantas Founders Museum, Tony Cullen, expressed immense pride and privilege in collaborating with the National Gallery to grant such an iconic installation to regional Queensland. Mr Cullen highlighted the rare opportunity for the local community, schools, and visitors to engage with world-class contemporary art.

Senior Curator Sarah Johnson, Qantas Founders Museum, echoed the sentiment, emphasising the significance of featuring Kusama’s artwork in Longreach, extending the National Gallery’s collection to remote communities of western Queensland. She continued, “Kusama’s art is beloved worldwide, and people of all ages are encouraged to participate in this unique artistic encounter in our community”.          

Dr. Nick Mitzevich, Director of the National Gallery, hailed Kusama as one of Japan's most influential contemporary artists, with the mesmerising nature of the installation and its unparalleled visual appeal. “I am thrilled that more people in regional Australia will be able to experience this remarkable artwork. The National Gallery’s Art Across Australia program will connect more people with extraordinary art from the national collection.”

The official unveiling of THE SPIRITS OF THE PUMPKINS DESCENDED INTO THE HEAVENS from the National Gallery will take place on March 15, 2024, at the Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach. Further details regarding public programs and announcements will be released soon.

This work of art is on loan from the National Gallery of Australia as part of Art Across Australia.

Share #ArtAcrossAustralia

Image caption: Yayoi Kusama, THE SPIRITS OF THE PUMPKINS DESCENDED INTO THE HEAVENS, 2017, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, purchased 2018 with the assistance of Andrew and Hiroko Gwinnett. © YAYOI KUSAMA.

Longreach Regional Council

Non State School Transport Assistance Scheme

The Non State Schools Transport Assistance Scheme (NSSTAS), funded by the State Government and administered by the Queensland Catholic Education Commission (QCEC), provides financial assistance to families transporting children to non-state schools in Queensland.

The Scheme’s Bus Fare Assistance Program (BFAP) provides a rebate above a threshold amount to eligible families whose student attends a non-state school outside the Brisbane City Council boundary. Setting a threshold is necessary to ensure the funding provided by the State Government is adequate to meet demand.

The weekly family threshold for Semester One 2024 was set by the Committee in August 2023 at $35 ($25 for a concession card holder). Applications for Semester One travel can be made in May at SchoolTransport.com.au.

The threshold is reviewed by the NSSTAS Reference Committee every semester and adjusted based on available cash reserves and anticipated demand. It is set before the start of the upcoming semester to ensure schools and families can appropriately plan their travel arrangements.
The Committee has reviewed the Scheme for Semester 2 2024. I am pleased to advise the weekly family threshold will reduce to $25 ($15 for a concession card holder). Increased funding to recognise enrolment growth and a high rate of indexation has resulted in an increase in the total grant funding received, enabling the reduction. We are pleased that this will help families with greater financial assistance in a period of increased cost of living. Applications can be made online on the website for Semester 2 travel in October and further information about the Scheme is available at SchoolTransport.com.au.

School zone safety – advice for motorists, parents and carers

We need to keep safety top-of-mind when travelling through active school zones and around our school community.

School zone times have been standardised in Queensland to help motorists remember when to slow down. The standard operating times for most school zones in Queensland are 7–9am and 2–4pm, with some operating all day between 7am–4pm.

Speeding remains a significant concern, contributing to fatalities and injuries, and police will be on the lookout for speeding motorists. Keeping below the signed speed limit in school zones helps keep everyone safe. This simple adjustment may have minimal impact on travel time but has the potential to significantly contribute to saving lives.

Children's crossings are identified by children's crossing flags, displayed near crossings before and after school hours. 

When the crossing is supervised, you, as a motorist, must:

• Wait until all pedestrians, bicycle riders, or personal mobility device riders have crossed the road and the crossing supervisor has returned to the footpath.
• Abide by the direction given by the School Crossing Supervisor.

Please keep our children safe by staying alert, slowing down and obeying our school crossing supervisors who are there to help kids cross the road safely.  

You can also help children become more road safety aware by:

• Showing them how to look for vehicles coming in and out of driveways and discourage them from playing behind parked cars, or with toys or balls when walking to school. 
• Ensuring your child knows the safest route to and from school. This is usually the way with the least traffic and the fewest roads to cross and teach your child to always walk on footpaths. 
• Showing your child how to cross at traffic lights when the green 'walk' sign is showing at pedestrian crossings when vehicles have stopped and at supervised school crossings when the supervisor has signalled it is safe to do so. 
• Accompanying children when walking or riding to school until they are old enough to understand road safety (usually around 10 years or older). 
• Teaching your child if they catch the bus to never cross in front of or behind a bus; wait until the bus goes before crossing the road. 
• Making sure wheeled devices (bicycle, scooter, skateboard, or rollerblades) used to travel to school are well maintained and that the appropriate protective and safety gear (for example, helmet, visible clothing, knee and elbow pads) are used. 

Visit the Street Smarts website for more information about what to do at pedestrian and children crossings.

Central West Hospital & Health Services

Longreach Soccer