Reflection

World Day of Migrants and Refugees

During our holiday break, on Sunday, 5 October, the Church will celebrate the 111th World Day of Migrants and Refugees together with the Jubilee of Migrants. This year’s theme, “Migrants, Missionaries of Hope”, invites us to recognise how hope can journey with people wherever life takes them.

In his first message for this occasion, Pope Leo XIV reflects on the courage and faith of those forced to leave their homes due to war, injustice, or natural disasters. Even in hardship, they hold fast to the dream of a better future, reminding us of the Gospel call to welcome others with compassion and love.

As a Catholic community, we are invited to listen to their stories, embrace them as brothers and sisters in God’s family, and create spaces, both in our world and in our school, where peace, respect, and love can flourish.

Let us pray:

Loving God,

You walk with all who seek safety, peace, and a new beginning.

Bless migrants and refugees with courage and hope and open our hearts to welcome them as brothers and sisters.

May our school and our world be places where peace, respect, and kindness grow.

Amen.

As we head into the holiday break, may these days of rest be a true gift, time to refresh our bodies, renew our hearts, and nurture our souls. Whether you travel to far‑off places or enjoy the comfort of home, may you see the world with fresh eyes, find inspiration in the everyday, and draw closer to God in the quiet and in the beauty that surrounds you.

Wishing you a safe, joyful, and blessed holiday.

Notice to students who would like to apply for the following Awards for Speech Night:

Don Brown Memorial Award – Year 12:

Applications are now open to Year 12 Holy Spirit College Students for the Don Brown Memorial Award. This prestigious award is presented to a Year 12 student who has demonstrated commendable participation in community service. This could include involvement in school-based activities, parish activities and activities in the wider community. The recipient of this bursary will receive $1000. Year 12 students wishing to be considered for this award should apply via a Google Doc - the link will be emailed to all students, and it will also be in the Year 12 Pastoral Google Classroom. Applications need to be submitted by Wednesday 8 October.

Aspire to Teach – Catholic Education Award – Year 11:

Applications are now open to Year 11 HSC Students for the Aspire to Teach - Catholic Education Award. This award is sponsored by our Catholic Education Diocese of Rockhampton Office and is open to students in Year 11 who may be thinking about a career in teaching. This prestigious award will be presented to a male and female student who will both receive a monetary award, a book on education and a certificate. Year 11 students wishing to be considered for this award should apply via a Google Doc - the link will be emailed to all students, and it will also be in the Year 11 Pastoral Google Classroom. Applications need to be submitted by Wednesday 8 October.

Mary Moore Award – Year 10:

Applications are now open to Year 10 Holy Spirit College Students for the Mary Moore Award. This prestigious award is presented to a Year 10 student who is continuing their education at Holy Spirit College and has shown the capacity to be a role model for other students. The recipient of this award receives a $600.00 bursary towards partial remission of school fees for Years 11 and 12. Year 10 students wishing to be considered for this award should apply via a Google Doc - the link will be emailed to all students, and it will also be in the Year 10 Pastoral Google Classroom. Applications need to be submitted by Wednesday 8 October.

God Bless,

Lesley Fraser – Assistant Principal (Mission)

National Child Protection Week

7–13 September: “Every conversation matters: Shifting conversation to ACTION”

This week, Holy Spirit College joins communities across Australia in recognising National Child Protection Week, a time to reflect on how we can all play a part in keeping children safe.

The theme for 2025, “Every conversation matters: Shifting conversation to ACTION”, reminds us that while talking about child safety is important, it’s the actions we take that truly make a difference.

At Holy Spirit College, we support the message from NAPCAN that real change happens when we move beyond words. Conversations can raise awareness and challenge harmful behaviours, but it’s through concrete steps—like building strong support networks, promoting respectful relationships, and creating safe environments—that we actively protect our children from harm.

This week, we encourage families to reflect on how everyday actions—at home, in the community, and online—can contribute to a culture of safety and care. Whether it’s checking in with your child, modelling respectful behaviour, or staying informed about child wellbeing, every action counts.

Together, let’s ensure that every child not only feels heard, but also experiences genuine safety, love, and protection.

Tips for Parents: Turning Conversation into Action

Here are some simple but powerful ways you can help protect and support your child:

• Create a safe space for open dialogue - Encourage your child to talk about their feelings, friendships, and experiences. Listen without judgment and reassure them that they can always come to you.
• Model respectful relationships - Children learn by example. Show kindness, empathy, and respect in your interactions with others—especially during conflict.
• Stay informed - Learn about online safety, mental health, and child development. Being aware helps you respond to challenges with confidence and care.
• Know your child’s circle - Be familiar with the adults and peers your child interacts with regularly. Build relationships with teachers, coaches, and other caregivers.
• Establish boundaries and routines - Clear expectations around behaviour, screen time, and responsibilities help children feel secure and supported.
• Empower your child - Teach them about body safety, consent, and how to seek help if something doesn’t feel right.
• Connect with community resources - Reach out to school staff, local services, or parenting groups for support. You’re not alone in raising safe and resilient children.

Student Protection Contacts at Holy Spirit College

Students have a right to expect that the College staff will do all that is possible to protect them from any kind of harm and create a safe learning environment. Catholic Education is committed to best practices in Student Protection and the development of proactive approaches that equip staff with the skills and knowledge to identify risks of harm and respond appropriately.

Student Protection Contacts are available to listen to students’ concerns about their safety—whether at school, at home, or in the community. These contacts have received student protection training and are approved by the Principal as approachable, confidential, and trustworthy members of staff.

Students who are concerned or worried about something happening to them or someone they know are encouraged to speak with one of the Student Protection Contacts at the College. They may also speak with their Year Level Dean, Pastoral Care Teacher, a trusted teacher, or another trusted adult at the College.

The Student Protection Process and Guidelines for all Catholic schools in the Diocese of Rockhampton are available on the Catholic Education website and on our College website.

The Student Protection Process and Student Protection Guidelines for all Catholic Schools (Diocese of Rockhampton) are available on the Catholic Education website and our College website.

Student Protection Contacts

Sandy McLellan - Assistant Principal (Students)

Curriculum News

Year 12 Students: Getting Ready for External Exams!

Our Year 12 students are stepping up to the challenge and sitting their practice exams in preparation for Term 4 and the upcoming External Exams. These practice sessions aren’t just a test run—they’re a great opportunity to develop a study plan, experience real exam conditions, and receive valuable feedback from teachers to help maximise your success.

Top Tips for Exam Preparation:

• Create a study timetable with breaks that align with the external exam schedule
• Prioritise study over part-time jobs and social outings
• Remember, every subject counts—even if your current IA results don’t show which ones will contribute to your ATAR
• Reach out to teachers for guidance and feedback—they’re here to help!
• Start your revision during the September holidays
• If you’re feeling anxious, don’t hesitate to use support systems at school and at home

Tools for Tackling Exam Anxiety:

• Use classroom time wisely and prepare thoroughly during Term 4
• Talk about your feelings—building emotional vocabulary can help manage stress
• Try simple relaxation techniques: deep breathing, positive self-talk, and gentle stretches during tests
• During exams, read every question carefully, skip ones you’re unsure about to save time, answer all multiple-choice questions, and review your answers if time allows
• Focus on your strengths—remember your successes in this subject!
• Keep practising in a low-pressure setting—these practice exams are your chance to do just that

Good luck to all our Year 12s as you approach the final weeks of preparation! Remember, you can book a conference with Mrs Eiser for QCE eligibility, QTAC applications, and scholarship advice, or with Mrs O’Brien for career guidance, including employment, apprenticeships, and traineeships.

We’re here to help you succeed—let’s finish strong!

Year 11 Exam Block

Email advice has been sent to parents regarding the requirements for the Year 11 Exam Block. Year 11 students have received their Exam Block timetable.

• College formal uniform must be worn (unless attending from a structured work placement, in which case work wear is permitted)
• Students are responsible for their timetable
• Only clear water bottles and pencil cases may be brought into the exam room
• Students who are unwell or do not attend MUST apply for an AARA using the appropriate forms. Part time work, holidays, sleeping in and not reading the timetable are not applicable AARA conditions.

We wish our Year 11 students all the best and remind them to use teacher guidance when preparing for exams. The Exam Block replicates the conditions they will experience during their External Exam Block in Year 12. Most General subjects will begin Year 12 learning and assessment in Term 4.

Unlock Your Potential with Feedback and a Growth Mindset!

As students complete their assessments, teachers are busily marking and providing digital feedback, which is available for students and parents to view via Student Café, Parent Lounge, and the Parent Orbit App (Curricular Activities).

Did you know that feedback from teachers is a powerful tool to help students grow and succeed? Embracing feedback with a growth mindset—believing that abilities can improve with effort—can lead to remarkable achievements. Instead of fearing mistakes, see them as opportunities to learn. Celebrate progress—not just perfection.

When students work collaboratively with their teachers and reflect on their guidance, they can unlock their God-given potential. Remember, learning is a journey, and every step forward brings our students closer to their goals. Let’s grow together!

Regards,

Anne Miles - Assistant Principal (Curriculum)

From the Office

Road Safety Reminder: Let's Keep Our College Community Safe

Over the past week, we have experienced a concerning number of near misses during drop-off and pick-up times. These incidents serve as a critical reminder of the importance of following the College’s road safety guidelines.

At Holy Spirit College, your child’s safety remains our top priority. We kindly ask all families to review and adhere to the following procedures to ensure a safe and smooth experience for everyone:

Drop-Off & Pick-Up Guidelines

• Please park your vehicle properly—do not double park under any circumstances.
• Double parking is extremely dangerous, especially in a busy school zone, and has directly contributed to several recent close calls.
• Be mindful of pedestrians, especially young children who may be harder to see and unpredictable in their movements.
• Observe and comply with all speed and traffic signs within the vicinity of Holy Spirit College and Emmanuel Catholic Primary School.
• Utilise either the designated pick-up zone or the short-term parking area to collect your child/children.
• Do not collect your child/children from the long-term carpark.
• Drive to the end of the drop-off lane, ensuring there is no excessive space left between vehicles.
• To facilitate the flow of traffic, please make full use of the short-term parking area.
• Students should use the pedestrian crossing to access parked vehicles in the short-term parking zone.

By 3:20 pm on most afternoons, the drop-off and pick-up zone is typically clear. To help alleviate congestion, consider delaying your pick-up time. Our teaching staff will remain on duty until 3:40 pm to supervise any students waiting beyond the usual pick-up window.

Remember, as you enter Holy Spirit College, please give way to traffic entering from your right.

We urge all families to prioritise safety over convenience. A few extra minutes spent parking correctly can make a world of difference in protecting our students and our community.

Deanne Hearnden - Office Manager

Pastoral News

The Pastoral Support Post Office Box: Your Feelings Have Mail!

Ever wished you could send your worries packing? Or mail your feelings to someone who actually listens? Well, guess what—we’ve got a mailbox for that.

Introducing the Pastoral Support Post Office Box—your very own emotional express lane. Located outside the Pastoral Support Office door in the Student Services Hub, this little box isn’t just for paper. It’s for your thoughts, your feelings, your questions, your “I don’t know how to say this out loud” moments.

What’s it for?

• Help with organising your daily routines, friendships, and school life? Drop a note.
• Feeling overwhelmed? Drop a note.
• Need help but don’t want to ask in front of others? Drop a note.
• Want to share something kind, weird, wonderful, or worrying? Drop a note.

Whether it’s a scribbled sentence, a doodle, a full-blown letter, or even a folded-up emoji (yes, we’ve seen it), your message will be read with care, confidentiality, and compassion.

Is it private? - Absolutely. Your note goes straight to the Pastoral Support Officer (that’s me, Mrs Hunt!), and no one else. Everything is handled with kindness and discretion.

Why bother? - Because sometimes, writing things down helps. Because you deserve support. And because even superheroes need someone to talk to (yes, even Batman).

How to use it:

1. Grab a slip from the nearby stack or use your own paper.
2. Write what’s on your mind—big or small.
3. Fold it up and pop it in the box.
4. That’s it. You've taken the first step.

You can even sign your name if you’d like a follow-up, or stay anonymous if that feels safer.

So next time your brain feels like a browser with 47 tabs open, remember: the Pastoral Support Post Office Box is here. No stamp required—just your thoughts, your heart, and a little courage.

Stay kind, stay curious, and keep writing!

R U OK? Day – A Conversation That Could Change a Life

Thursday, 11 September, is R U OK? Day—a national reminder that a simple question can make a powerful difference. Here at Holy Spirit College, we believe that care and connection shouldn’t be reserved for just one day. This year’s theme—“Ask R U OK? Any Day”—encourages us to make meaningful conversations part of our everyday lives.

Why It Matters

Mental health doesn’t always come with visible signs. Sometimes, the strongest smiles hide the deepest struggles. Whether it’s a student feeling overwhelmed, a colleague quietly battling stress, or a friend withdrawing from social circles, checking in can be the lifeline they didn’t know they needed.

Research shows that 88% of people feel supported and grateful when someone asks how they’re really going. You don’t need to be an expert—you just need to be present, listen without judgment, and show you care.

How to Ask R U OK?

Start with curiosity and kindness:

• “I’ve noticed you’ve been a bit quiet lately. Are you OK?”
• “You seemed a little off today—want to talk about it?”
• “I’m here if you ever need to chat.”

And if someone says they’re not OK? Stay with them. Listen. Encourage them to seek support. You can also point them to resources like the R U OK? website for guidance.

What We Are Doing at School

The Pastoral Support Post Office – a safe space for students to drop notes, questions, or concerns. Because sometimes, writing it down is the first step toward opening up.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

R U OK? Day is a beautiful reminder, but the real magic happens when we carry that spirit into every day. Let’s be the kind of community that notices, listens, and shows up. Because connection isn’t just a moment—it’s a movement.

Warm regards

Carla Hunt - Pastoral Support Officer

Science News

Science Week 2025

In Week 5, Holy Spirit College joined the celebrations of UQ Science Week 2025, led by our ten enthusiastic Science Ambassadors: Ocean M, Katie P, Emily G, Madelyn S, Lilian A, Melanee A, Hunter W, Beau H, Connor R, and Sophia L. With a week packed full of experiments, challenges, and plenty of fun, the HSC community embraced the spirit of science in action.

Monday – The Big Bang!

We kicked off with a bang! On the basketball courts, students tested the physics of rubber band pressure against watermelons. Our first watermelon burst at 458 rubber bands, while the second showed real resilience, holding out until 687 before exploding in the ambassadors’ faces.

Tuesday – Inside Out!

Things got turned inside out as students explored the world of biology. With guidance from our ambassadors, participants examined fish, eyeballs, quail, hearts, and even owl pellets. The dissections were a huge hit, giving students a fascinating glimpse into anatomy and life sciences.

Wednesday – Chemistry in a Bag!

Chemistry took centre stage midweek, drawing over 200 students into the labs. The challenge: make ice cream in a bag using everyday ingredients. It was a test of patience and persistence—cold hands and tired arms were worth it for the sweet reward at the end!

Thursday – Dash or Sink!

The fun continued with oobleck, the mind-bending substance that’s both a solid and a liquid. Students had a blast running, sinking, and playing with the strange non-Newtonian fluid, leaving many amazed at how science can defy expectations.

Friday – Blast Off!

We wrapped up with a launch! Students put their muscles to the test, firing air-pressure rockets that soared hundreds of metres into the sky—an explosive finish to an unforgettable week.

A Week to Remember

UQ Science Week 2025 @ HSC was a huge success, thanks to the energy of our ambassadors, the support of staff, and the enthusiastic participation of our students.

To our teachers—thank you for the countless hours spent promoting, equipping, and supervising our events.

To the students—thank you for showing up with curiosity and excitement.

And to our Science Ambassadors—thank you for inspiring us all and making science at HSC truly amazing.

Angela Wright - Dean of Science (Junior)

VET News

Work Experience

Year 10, 11 & 12 students are now in the process of organising their work experience for this term and the September holidays. Students can also now book in for Term 4 and the Christmas holiday.

Employers are booked up well in advance, so if you want to secure your ideal work experience, now is the time to book your placement.

STEPS:

1. Collect Student Work Experience Application from Mrs O’Brien
2. Student to organise placement with the employer
3. Term-time Student Work Experience Application needs to be signed by teachers
4. Return completed & signed Student Work Experience Application to Mrs O’Brien
5. Collect Work Experience Agreement, Evaluation Form and Logbook from Mrs O’Brien
6. Visit Employer, have workplace induction and get Work Experience Agreement signed
7. Return signed Work Experience Agreement to Mrs O’Brien and complete and sign the Work Experience/Student Induction.
8. Mrs O’Brien will go through the School Induction Form for student to sign.
9. Attend placement, collect Evaluation Form from the employer on the last day and return it and your Logbook to Mrs O’Brien
10. Debrief with Mrs O’Brien

Apprenticeship Opportunities

Next Accounting

Trainee Accountant

Why Join Us? We value our team and offer fantastic benefits:

• Sign-on bonus
• Up to 5 weeks annual leave
• Paid study leave
• Flexible hours
• Christmas closure
• Active social club
• Supportive mentoring and career progression opportunitites

Perfect for school leavers or those starting their career. You’ll be mentored by senior team members and gain experience in all areas of public practice accounting.

Apply Today:

Email: admin@nextaccounting.net.au 

Call: 07 4963 1800 to speak with a partner

Inspire Accounting & Business Services

Kickstart your career while you study! Work, learn and get ahead

• $1000 scholarship for onboarding trainees to go towards initial tuition, textbooks or other study costs *scholarship is paid at completion of probationary period
• 4-day work week to support study routine
• Internal study support from other trainee accountants studying in the same industry
• Weekly training sessions with the whole team to offer personal development within your career
• Fun and friendly environment with a social workplace
• Potential for 5 weeks of annual leave
• Paid Exam Leave

This role will suit you if you are enthusiastic and see yourself being more than a number cruncher, enjoy being around people and intend to commence your business/accounting degree.

Start date of January 2026 or earlier

If you would like to gain some practical experience while studying, apply to Inspire Accounting & Business Services for a career to start in January 2026.

Email: shayem@inspireacc.com.au 

Local Eyes Optometrists

Junior Optical Assistant - Full Time

See Mrs O'Brien for more information

Mint Escape for Hair

First Year Hairdressing Apprentice

See Mrs O'Brien for more information

Svensson Boats

• Work experience in boat building
• Fabrication trade
• Will be looking for apprentices in 2026

See Mrs O'Brien for more information

Kookaburra Child Care

School Based Early Childhood Traineeships

See Mrs O'Brien for more information

Brown and Bird

Accounting Traineeship for Year 12 Graduates

Are you finishing Year 12 and looking to study towards an accounting degree? This is a great chance to get paid while you learn and gain real experience in an accounting team.

Brown & Bird Accountants, based in Mackay, are offering accounting traineeships starting mid-January 2026.

What we can provide for you:

• Starting salary of $52,000
• Full-time employment
• Paid study leave
• Mentor professional development and support through your university studies
• Additional training sessions to support continual professional development through our CPA and other external programs

If you would like to be considered for a traineeship opportunity, please email your resume together with your latest school results to colby@brownbird.com.au.

Alternatively, please call in to our office on the First Floor, 73 Victoria Street, Mackay or call us on 4968 3166.

Check us out at www.brownbird.com.au

Hauhinco Mining Technology

Boilermaker Apprenticeship

Electrician Apprenticeship

What you will bring to us:

• Commitment to a 4-year apprenticeship with classroom-based and on-the-job training
• Shown interest in your respective field
• Awareness and commitment to safety

HBT GmbH, based in Lünen, Germany, is a leading manufacturer of longwall mining equipment, supplying high-performance systems to major mining markets across 15 countries, including Australia.

HBT Services QLD manages longwall machinery overhauls across Queensland, operating through three key facilities: Overhauls, Gearbox Repairs, and the Warehouse.

Applications close 17 October 2025.

Submit your application with a resume and cover letter to annette.reeves@hbt-group.com

Shortlisted candidates will progress to the interview stage in November 2025.

Alpha Cuts Mackay

Barber Apprentice Wanted

Please forward all resumes to alphacutsmackay@outlook.com.au

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Apollo Hair Andergrove

Junior Hairdressing Apprenticeship

Please send your application to apollohair@gmail.com 

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TLB Hair Mackay Mount Pleasant

1st Year Apprentice

Email Trinity at trinitybatesprivate@gmail.com

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Ailene O'Brien - VET Coordinator

Studentship

Register for Elevate Education's Parent Webinar Series This Term

Elevate Education delivers high-impact workshops to our students that help to develop their study skills, motivation, and exam preparation. Over this term, you're invited to join their parent webinar series, where you can help support your child at home by reinforcing the skills they're learning at school.

Upcoming Webinars:

How You Can Support Your Child During Exams - 6:30 pm, 17 September

Register for the series here, and learn some great practical strategies to help support your child this year.

Carmen Bennett - Head of Academic Performance

Date Claimers

September 2025

October 2025

November 2025

Creative Arts @ HSC

Celebration of the Arts Awards Night

What a wonderful evening we shared last Tuesday at our annual Celebration of the Arts Awards Night, honouring the remarkable creativity and achievements of our talented students. This year’s theme, From the Past to the Present, beautifully reflected our College’s spiritual focus, Pilgrims of Hope, encouraging us to honour our journey while embracing the creative possibilities ahead.

The audience was treated to an array of outstanding performances and displays of artistic excellence. Our guest speaker, Hayden White—a proud Holy Spirit College alumnus—inspired us with his story since graduating. He spoke passionately about how his love for the Arts as a student became a source of strength through both triumphs and challenges, and why nurturing creativity remains so vital.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our major award recipients:

• Liam H – Excellence in the Arts (Senior)
• Henry M – Excellence in the Arts (Junior)

Both students have shown exceptional artistic skill, leadership, and a deep commitment to our extracurricular program, while upholding the Catholic ethos of our College. Liam’s unwavering dedication to the Arts has been especially commendable, as he continued to contribute meaningfully even while carrying the significant responsibilities of College leadership. His ability to balance both roles with grace and integrity is a true testament to his character.

We also celebrate the joint winners of our inaugural Dedication and Commitment to the Creative Arts Award:

• Lucy S
• Amelia W

Their consistent involvement, reliability, and passion have made a lasting impact on the Creative Arts at Holy Spirit College.

Congratulations to all students who participated in the Mackay State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP) for Instrumental and Choral. Their selection is a testament to their dedication and talent, and we are proud to celebrate their success. Coordinated by Griffith University's Conservatorium, SHEP brings together gifted young musicians and singers from across the region for intensive rehearsals led by renowned conductors. This year marked the exciting debut of the choral program, with students learning under acclaimed conductor Jenny Moon.

The program concluded with a finale concert, where both instrumental and choral students showcased the results of their hard work and collaboration.

If your student would like to be a part of the fun of Creative Arts groups, it's never too late to join! Our groups welcome everyone, no previous experience required, just a keen interest and enthusiasm. See the Creative Arts Timetable below and let’s make this year a creative adventure for all!

Creative Arts Schedule

Sport @ HSC

Celebration of Sports Evening

Holy Spirit College is proud to host our Celebration of Sports Evening on Tuesday, 21 October, in the Father Bucas Centre. This special night will recognise and honour the achievements, dedication, and spirit of our student athletes across a wide range of sports in 2025.

Invitations will be sent to award recipients via email. All students and members of the HSC community will also be able to book to attend using the link in the Parent Orbit app. Doors open at 5:30pm, with the evening commencing at 6:00pm.

We look forward to coming together as a community to celebrate the outstanding sporting success and commitment of our students.

Chris Newton - Sports Program Leader

Sport Partners 2025

eSports - HSC Student Crowned Rocket League Champion at EsportsAble Mackay Regional Tournament

Holy Spirit College is proud to announce a significant milestone in our growing eSports program — one of our talented Year 7 students, Jaxon B, has emerged as a Rocket League champion at the EsportsAble Mackay Regional Tournament, held on 30–31 August at CQUniversity. Jaxon and his team not only won the Rocket League division but also secured the title of Regional Champions, earning a place in the upcoming State Championship in Brisbane — with flights and accommodation fully sponsored by the Queensland University of Technology (QUT).

The EsportsAble Mackay event was more than just a tournament—it was a celebration of inclusivity. Run over a day and a half, it offered students the chance to participate in immersive digital experiences, including Marvel Rivals competitions, commentary and production workshops, and interactive community activities. It was hosted by QUT through the EsportsAble Academy, with support from the Department of Social Services, Headspace, and local partners, including the Mackay Regional Council.

As the only school in Mackay with eSports integrated into its curriculum, HSC is proud to provide a safe and inclusive environment where students can explore their interests while building real-world skills in strategy, communication, and emotional regulation. Through our partnership with QUT and our access to the EsportsAble Academy, students not only compete but also engage in structured learning, including platforms like Gameplan—where topics such as teamwork, motivation, and managing “tilting” (emotional frustration during games) are explored as part of our focus on student wellbeing.

Jaxon’s win is not only a personal achievement but a testament to what’s possible when schools recognise the value of emerging industries like eSports. His success marks a first for Holy Spirit College—and we look forward to seeing more champions rise in the years to come.

We are incredibly proud of Jaxon and his team, and we’ll be cheering them on as they represent our region and school at the state level in Brisbane.

Let the games continue—and may the next champion be just around the corner.

Lona Ulsame - eSports Coordinator

P&F Association

Our next meeting

The next P&F meeting will take place on Wednesday, 17 September, from 5:00 pm.

All are welcome!

If you need to contact our P&F Association, please email:

HSCM_PandFPresident@rok.catholic.edu.au

HSCM_PandFSecretary@rok.catholic.edu.au

SchoolTV

One of the initiatives of our P&F Association is to provide SchoolTV for our HSC Community.

The purpose of SchoolTV is to provide a single resource for parents, students and staff covering a range of Wellness & Wellbeing topics, on a monthly basis.  Content is based around the very real issues faced by parents and today’s youth and is presented in a multi-media format.

SchoolTV is available at all times on the HSC Website.

Special Report: R U OK? Day

Understanding the growing challenges related to mental health among young people is an important consideration. Anxiety, depression and self-harm - are all causes for concern. Factors like academic pressure, social media, family dynamics, and societal expectations, are contributing to these issues. It's therefore crucial for parents and caregivers to take action early, remove the stigma around discussing mental health, and offer accessible support to address these issues and the wellbeing of their children.

R U OK?Day is an initiative that focuses on preventing suicide by encouraging meaningful personal connections and helping informal support networks to help recognise the signs of distress. We urge all families to take part, emphasising the value of genuine human relationships and reminding everyone to ask the important question, "Are you OK?"

Engaging in R U OK?Day activities goes beyond the classroom; it's a commitment to our students' overall development. By talking openly about mental health, schools create safe spaces where students feel understood, valued, and supported. As parents and caregivers, you can contribute by fostering open conversations, normalising feelings and breaking down mental health stigmas. Participating in R U OK?Day promotes compassion and shows our dedication to the wellbeing of the entire school community, reaffirming that together, we can truly make a difference.

This Special Report provides guidance on how to talk to your child about mental health and engage in meaningful discussions.

Here is the link to your Special Report

Report online abuse 

If you need to make a complaint about cyberbullying, image-based abuse or illegal or harmful online content, report to eSafety to get help having content taken down.

headspace Schools

Support Contacts