Term 2 Week 2 2024

CONGRATULATIONS Mr Thurecht!

We are thrilled to announce that Peter Thurecht has been selected as Rockhampton Diocese’s Nominee for the Daniel McDonough Award.

This esteemed recognition is a testament to Peter’s exceptional leadership, tireless dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence in education.

Out of numerous outstanding principals across our Diocese, Peter has been chosen as one of the five nominees from across Queensland. This achievement speaks volumes about his remarkable contributions to our school community and beyond.

Peter’s innovative vision, steadfast determination, and passion for nurturing a supportive learning environment have truly set him apart. His impact resonates deeply with students, staff, and families alike, making him a beacon of inspiration and positivity.

We couldn’t be prouder to have Peter represent our school on this esteemed platform. His dedication and hard work exemplify the values we hold dear, and his nomination is a well-deserved honour.

Join us in congratulating Peter on this remarkable achievement, as he continues to make a difference and inspire others with his extraordinary leadership.

The Daniel McDonough Award is a peer-nominated Leadership award sponsored by Queensland Catholic Primary Principals Association, which recognises a strong commitment in the fields of leadership and education made by a leader in one of our Catholic rural and remote schools in their first three years as principal. The award consists of a leadership grant that enables the nominee to attend professional development conferences.

Nominees must:

• be an early career principal of up to and including 3 years
• preferably be in a rural or remote school
• be a financial member of their association
• be nominated, in writing, by a peer
• have demonstrated their commitment to their own Leadership journey
• be prepared to share their learning with their colleagues

A Message from the Principal

Dear parents and friends,

This week holds a significant place in the hearts of Australians across the nation. Anzac Day, observed on Thursday, stands as an important reminder of the sacrifices made by the brave men and women who served our country in times of war. It's a day when we pause to reflect, remember, and pay tribute to those who gave their lives in service to our nation.

Here at Our Lady's, Anzac Day holds a special significance. It's a day deeply ingrained in our school's history and traditions. Many of us fondly recall marching down Eagle Street as part of our school or another community group, a tradition that connects us with our past and honours the memory of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. We invite all students and their families to join us at the RSL at 8:20am as we come together to commence our town march at 8:40am. It's a small yet powerful way for our school community to pay our respect and show our gratitude to the courageous individuals who served our country with unwavering dedication and bravery.

We've noticed a recent trend of students bringing Pokemon and NRL trading cards to school, and while we appreciate the enthusiasm for collecting, we would hate for an unfair trade or, worse yet, the misplacement of valuable collections to occur at school. We understand the sentimental and monetary value these collections may hold for our students, and we wouldn't want to see any child experience disappointment or distress due to a lost card or unfair trade. Therefore, we kindly ask that all Pokemon and NRL trading cards be kept at home. We appreciate your support and cooperation in reinforcing this message with your child.

Next week, Mrs Angela Arthur and Mr Sahlie Komndi-Diggins will be attending the Australian Catholic University gathering in Rockhampton as they further their knowledge on Enhancing Catholic Identity within Schools. Miss Lily Lilburn will be teaching Year 6 in Mr Komndi-Diggin’s absence.

God bless,

Mr Peter Thurecht

Reflection – Sr Kym Harris OSB

Anzac Day

When the first Anzacs floated into Gallipoli cove before dawn, they had no idea what they had let themselves in for.  When they signed up months before, they probably thought this soldiering would be a good lark.  The early photos and stories of their time training in Egypt bear that out.  But landing at Gallipoli shattered their illusions.  Horror and death and pain burst upon them.  In the long months ahead, they forged a type of service that has become, not only the best spirit of our armed services but also, a witness of service to the wider community.

The Anzacs survived Gallipoli and the trenches of Europe not on a ‘might warrior’ myth but by their commitment to each other and the belief they were working for a greater cause.  Anzacs who received medals for bravery always said two things:  ‘My mates deserved this as much as I did,’ and ‘I was only doing my duty’.  To this day their former foes, the Turks hold those soldiers in esteem. In the midst of battle they recognised the spirit and goodness of their hearts.

Service is also an integral part of our nature as Christians.  Often it is the most challenging part of our lives. Rarely do we serve in brutal situations but even mundane situations can call for courage. Only by supporting each other and trusting in the help of God will we persevere in strength and goodness.

Loving God, you sent you Son to live among us, to serve us.  Send us his Spirit that we too may follow his example of love and service.  We ask this in his name, confident that you will hear us.

Sr Kym Harris osb.

APRE News

This week we recognise Anzac Day. A day to remember and show gratitude for the freedom we experience that was hard-won by our predecessors.
I made Anzac Biscuits with my boys on the weekend. They enjoyed rolling the mixture into balls and taste-testing as we went! I was trying to explain to my eldest that this recipe had no eggs or milk in it as the biscuits needed to be able to last a long time without spoiling as wives and mothers would bake them for the soldiers in the war many years ago. I became aware that he had very little understanding of the significance of Anzac Day or the concept of war, he believed it was a day to march down the street, have lemonade at the RSL and eat special biscuits.

How lucky are we are that our children can be so innocent and naïve to the battles our world continues to face today!

As much as I feel it important that our children understand and show gratitude for the horrors faced by those who fought for our freedom, I pray that they never have to experience them themselves and continue to live blessed lives of peace.

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 paver

🔹 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!

Just 1 Thing

As we begin Term 2 our fundraising efforts increase, we invite you to take every opportunity to help your child soar higher at Our Lady’s. 

Being involved in the school community helps your child feel connected and increases their willingness to learn. They get such a kick out of seeing mum / dad / grandparents and other special people at school. 

How do we achieve this??? By helping with Just 1 thing! Find out more and let us know how you can assist through the link below.

https://forms.gle/ekidPu8D3di2YXEm8

Our Lady's Catholic Primary School P&F

Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame Campdraft

Our Lady's P&F have been invited to cater at the 2024 Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame Camp Draft, which is held on Friday 31st of May, Saturday 1st of June and Sunday 2nd of June. This is a great opportunity for the P&F to raise funds for projects within our school which will benefit our students.

Our Lady’s P&F have committed to the following during the Camp Draft:

• Providing breakfast, lunch and dinner across the weekend. We are the sole caterers for the event.
• The operation of the bar across the weekend.

To make sure everything runs smoothly, we're counting on the support of many parents and friends to assist with tasks ranging from cooking dishes, serving meals and pouring drinks at the bar.

Click this link to assist with catering: https://signup.zone/LMwX8isYZCsLttbLT

For questions and further information about catering, please contact Lisa Neuendorf on 0447636787 or email lisa_neuendorf@rok.actholic.edu.au.

Click this link to assist with the bar: https://signup.zone/W4FDrMXcdhrH7qPs6

For questions and further information about the bar, please contact Bill Seeney on 0427580301 or James Batt on 0428173423

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 8:20am 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

Bookclub

Bookclub has gone home with students this week. Orders are due online by LOOP or to the office by Wednesday 1st May.

Our Lady's Playgroup

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