Term 3 Week 2 2024

A Message from the Principal

Dear parents and friends,

Last week, a group of our students attended the Challenge Cup in Yeppoon, and their sportsmanship and respect towards officials were commendable. The carnival photographer even noted how well-mannered our students were in the hall. As the manager of the rugby league team, I had the privilege of witnessing firsthand how our boys conducted themselves both on and off the field. They truly were a credit to the school and their families.

As for the results, our netball teams performed admirably in their pool games and finals. A special congratulations to Western Wave 1, who played brilliantly and won their division, claiming the "Bowl"! Special mentions go to Alexie H and Ella K, who were awarded the "Coaches Award" for their respective teams. Our rugby league side showed immense courage throughout the week, coming up against much larger opposition. The boys secured three wins during the week, demonstrating determination and skill.

A heartfelt thank you to the families and staff who supported our students during the week. Your encouragement and assistance were invaluable.

This week, several of our students are attending the Central West Athletics Trials in Aramac. We wish them all the best as they compete in their various events. A special thank you to Mrs. Neuendorf and Ms Wall for coordinating nominations and transport for the carnival.

Next week, we celebrate Catholic Education Week with the theme, "Communities of Faith, Hope, and Love." Students at Our Lady's will participate in various activities throughout the week that embody this theme. Each year, every school in the Diocese nominates a person in our school community for the Catholic Education Award. This year, our nominee is Mrs. Lisa Neuendorf. Lisa will be acknowledged at our Mass next week for her immense contributions to our school community.

Finally, a big thank you to the parents and friends who assisted at the Ilfracombe races on the weekend by managing the bar. Your support is greatly appreciated.

God bless,

Mr Peter Thurecht

Reflection – Sr Kym Harris OSB

Shepherding the Heart

Next Sunday’s Gospel has the moving line, ‘Jesus took pity on the [crowd] because they were like sheep without a shepherd and he set himself to teach them at some length’.  Well, I know I am often lost and at any time some part of my life needs shepherding.  But the interesting part of the Gospel quote is that Jesus didn’t offer to console the people in need, rather he sought to teach them at length. When Jesus comes to shepherd our hearts it is not to console us in our mess but to teach us a way to deal positively with our situation.

One of the things I have been taught by life (and I take that to be Jesus) is: ‘The problem is rarely the Problem.’ Someone else’s habits that annoy me, words that depress me, situations that frustrate me are rarely the real issues that I need to face. I have to stop and ask myself, what is really upsetting me here?  The answer I get is often something quite different from what caused the distress.  I might be getting angry because I am tired.  I might be upset at someone’s words because my mother has treated me badly.  There can be all sorts of different reasons that set my heart up to react badly in quite different situations.

When we finally uncover some of these reasons, we have only just begun to be taught.  This is when we need to pray, asking Jesus to shepherd us…and then be prepared for what life will offer us. Maybe I am getting tired because I don’t get enough sleep.  Getting enough sleep is a discipline. Maybe I am depressed because a parent treated me badly so I have to discover ways to nurture myself.  Maybe
(put your own issue in here).  Well maybe I need to (put your own creative solution in here).  When we allow Jesus to shepherd our hearts, be prepared to be taken in some surprising directions.

Loving God, let me be open to the shepherding that Jesus is offering me.  Give me the courage to reflect on what upsets me and discover what are the real causes of my problems.  Then give me the wisdom to act creatively I ask this in Jesus’ name confident that you will hear me.

Sr Kym Harris osb

APRE News

Welcome to Week 2 of Term 3, I hope you’ve had a pleasant start to the term and have transitioned back into school life well.

Gospel: Mark 6:7-13

In this week’s Gospel, Mark 6:7-13, Jesus sends his disciples out in pairs with minimal possessions, instructing them to rely on their faith and each other to teach, heal, and help those they meet. This powerful message is deeply relevant to our primary school students and school community.

In our school community, this scripture underscores the significance of creating a nurturing and collaborative environment. It reminds us that our collective efforts can lead to meaningful outcomes. By fostering a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and connected, we can embody the spirit of the disciples' mission.

Catholic Education Week 2024

Held each year during the third week of the third term, Catholic Education Week offers a chance for all 312 Catholic schools across Queensland to celebrate and highlight their unique mission and values. For the third and final year, the theme is Communities of Faith, Hope, and Love.

• Faith represents deep trust and belief in God, fostering spiritual growth and a strong moral foundation within the school community.
• Hope signifies optimism and belief in a positive future, encouraging students and staff to strive for excellence and resilience in the face of challenges.
• Love embodies a commitment to compassion, empathy, and care for others, promoting a sense of community and mutual respect among all members of the school.

During this Week, Our Lady’s is planning a number of events in and outside the school:

• Monday, 22nd 8:40 am – Whole School Parade – Opening of Catholic Education Week
• Wednesday, 24th 9:00 am – Whole School Gift Giving to Local Businesses
• Wednesday, 24th 12:00 pm – Year 5/6 Live-Streamed Catholic Education Week Mass from TCC Rockhampton
• Friday, 26th 9:00 am – Whole School Mass at St Brigid’s Church

Along with all these events, students will be taking part in activities and learning framed around Catholic Education Week.

I am looking forward to an eventful and exciting Catholic Education Week. This is a fantastic opportunity for Our Lady’s to celebrate and demonstrate our distinctive mission and ethos.

God Bless,

Mr KD

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, Mr Sahlie Komndi-Diggins, Mrs Belinda Thurecht, Ms Sarah Wall and Mrs Megan Sidebottom. If you have concerns, please do not hesitate to contact one of our officers.

School Fee Advice #4

Dear Parents and Carers,

Please find attached Advice #4, developed to inform our Catholic Education families of the school fee structure, from 2025 onwards. Previous Advice pieces outlined the new Federal Government Funding model (Gonski model), the impact on School Fees for Catholic Schools, and the need to align with the Federal Government’s means-tested Capacity to Contribute assessment of the school community.

As outlined in Advice #4, CEDR School Fees will be presented as an “All-Inclusive Fee”, rather than the previous school fees model of Tuition Fees, plus several school-based levies and charges.

Changes to Arts and P.E for Term 3 and 4

Due to Mrs. Neuendorf teaching Year 6 on Mondays and Tuesdays next term, Arts and P.E. classes will now be scheduled for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings. The Term 3 timetable is as follows:

Wednesday – P.E for Prep, Year 2, Year 3, Year 4, and Year 5/6;

Thursday – Arts for Prep, Year 2, Year 3, Year 4, and Year 5/6;

Friday morning - P.E. and Arts for Year 1.

Please ensure your child wears their P.E Uniform on Wednesday and Friday next semester.

School Photo Day - Wednesday 7th August

To ensure photo day runs smoothly we ask that all students are at school by 8:35am.

Reading over the uniform policy before school photo day is crucial to ensure that hair and uniform requirements are met. This policy includes detailed guidelines on acceptable hairstyles, and the proper wearing of uniforms, including any restrictions on accessories. Adhering to these guidelines helps present a neat and cohesive appearance for the photographs, reflecting the school's standards and values. By following the uniform policy, students contribute to a polished and professional group image, making school photo day a success.

On photo day, every student will be photographed regardless of whether you are purchasing or not.

Personalised order envelope from the photographers have been sent home this week.  Please take care to read and follow all the instructions carefully.  This will ensure your order is processed smoothly and efficiently and will help you to avoid any late fees. 

You will have the option to order online or with cash in your student’s envelope.  Please take care to follow the instructions carefully.

Sibling Order Envelopes will be sent home with the eldest child.  Please note: Sibling photos are only for siblings who all attend the school. Additional order envelopes for blended or separated families will be available from the school office. Be sure to write “Mum’s order” or “Dad’s order” on top of your envelope.

If your child has been photographed in a special group (ie sports team or leadership team), order envelopes will be available in the weeks following photo day.  Please watch this newsletter for information when they will be available.

As school staff are unable to help with photography enquiries or payments, please direct your questions and comments directly to MSP Photography by phoning 4921 3355.

Thank you for your co-operation and we look forward to a great photo day.

Keep smiling!!!

Accelerated Reader

Our Lady's Catholic Primary School P&F

The next P&F meeting will be held on Wednesday 21st August at 5:30pm in C block. Zoom details will be emailed next week for those who cannot attend in person.

Book Fair - 5th to 16th August

Book Week Parade - Friday 23rd August

NAIDOC Celebrations 2024

LSHS Year 6 Highschool Parent Information Evening & Transition Days

Mobile Phone & Wearable Technology Policy

Uniform Policy

Tuckshop

There will be no Tuckshop on Friday 19th July (Term 3 Week 2).

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

Longreach Regional Council

Snowy and The Seven Cool Dudes

Snowy is becoming more beautiful every day and The Wicked Queen is not happy! She has decided to send Snowy away, to get rid of her, once and for all.

The Magic Mirror has warned The Queen this is a huge mistake – Snowy is beautiful on the inside and the outside- everyone loves her. The Queen isn’t listening and orders The Hunter from the Palace to take Snowy into the forest and leave her there… forever! Meanwhile, the Cool Dudes have decided it’s time they started making healthier food choices and doing some exercise. During this interactive production, kids will enjoy the opportunity of role-play as they are invited on stage to become a variety of characters- including The Cool Dudes- that love to rap!

Storyfest Out West - 4th to 6th September

Griffith University

Outback Futures - Bouncing forward in tough times

The Outback Futures team values the connection we have with you and your community, and we'd like to share a special free email series with you.

Our 9 week Resilient Kids and Youth series shares practical tips and tools to help kids and teens grow their resilience.

We know resilience is one of those words that has been used so much, its value and meaning is often diluted.
But before you dismiss this, let's take a quick look at why building resilience is so important for our children.

Bouncing forward - It can be helpful to think of resilience as bouncing forward in tough times.
This means having a good set of support, skills, and tools that help us - no matter what age we are - tackle life’s challenges and move forward through tough times rather than get stuck or even move backwards.

Key signposts - So, what does resilience look like in our kids and teens?
The Outback Futures team has developed three key signposts, based on the latest research, which can help our children navigate their way through life: 

1. I HAVE people who love me and help me 
2. I AM a person who knows myself well and is considerate of others
3. I CAN solve problems and proactively navigate my emotions

9 weekly emails - Sign up and each week you'll receive an email with:

• A 4-5 minute video, presented by Dr Justin Coulson, one of Australia's most trusted parenting experts. He shares easy to understand and relatable ideas you and your family can put into action straight away.
• A 4 page workbook of ideas and activities you can work through with your kids and teens at your own pace.
• Some extra resources from the Outback Futures team and our friends at Parent TV. 

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.

Catholic School Parents Queensland

The Australian Council on Smoking and Health (ACOSH). ACOSH is a not-for-profit advocacy organisation dedicated to creating a smoke-free and vape-free Australia.

ACOSH is conducting an online survey to find out what parents think about student vaping in high schools. We would like to hear the views of adults who have a child attending high school in Australia.

All results will be kept anonymous and no individuals or schools will be identified. ACOSH will use the survey results to advocate for improving vaping education and support for students.

Click on the link below to complete the 5-minute survey

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/acosh_parent_vaping_survey

League Stars Regional Program - Central West

League Stars Regional Program commencing next Friday afternoon 19^th & Monday afternoon 22^nd of July from 4pm – 5:30pm at Longreach Showgrounds. Whilst I understand kids who come into Longreach from other towns will not make the 4pm start I will look to extend the sessions for those if they do register. This program is for Boys & Girls prep – Yr. 6 and is aimed at introducing non club registered kids to rugby league but in saying that its open to all kids including club players.

Registration to the program is through playrugbyleague.com which can be found on the QR scan code on the flyer or by the link below.

https://profile.mysideline.com.au/register/entity?data=eyJlbnRpdHlJZCI6NTQ2NjE2OTQsImVudGl0eVR5cGUiOiJwcm9ncmFtIn0%3D&source=rugby-league

Central West Hospital & Health Services