We are now halfway through Term 3. It is hard to believe there are only 99 days left until our Year 12 students graduate (that is days and not actual school days). Our Year 11 and 10 students finish in 106 days, and our Year 7, 8 and 9 students only have 112 days left until they finish their year off. The good news is that our students still have all those days to strive for excellence in all that they do.

Year 12 Formal

After many weeks of planning, it was wonderful to see our Year 12 Students and their families enjoying a special night of glamour at our Year 12 Formal. Arriving in everything from luxury cars to a crowd-pleasing tractor, our Year 12 students offered a treat for motor enthusiasts before stepping onto the red carpet with style and confidence. The evening’s emotional peak came with the ‘Mother and Son’ and ‘Father and Daughter’ dances, which evoked heartfelt reactions and brought tears to the eyes of many. After a few speeches, our parents and carers proudly left the MECC with their hearts full of joy. A guard of honour was formed by students and staff as a symbolic gesture to thank our parents and carers for their unwavering support through their child’s secondary schooling journey. Our Class of 2025 then entered the Under the Lanterns-themed, elegantly decorated dining room at the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre. Our students all looked amazing, and it was apparent that they were ready for a fun-filled evening, celebrating with their classmates and Holy Spirit College staff. Thank you to James Newton - Dean of Students (Year 12), the Formal Committee, and Louise Sheedy - Administration Assistant (Events) for organising a memorable and glamorous event for our Class of 2025.

Schools Tree Day

During Catholic Education Week, our College participated in National Schools Tree Day. College Leaders, Liam H, Elise P.G and Rory F assisted Mrs Anne Miles - Assistant Principal (Curriculum) in planting a tree on behalf of our Year 12 students.  Holy Spirit College has been participating in this tree planting and nature event since 2018. Our aim is to line the back fence on the top oval with trees to shade our students during events such as Athletics Carnivals, Cross Country, evacuations and during recess. The National Tree Day program is a call to action for all Australians.  Since this program commenced in 1996, over 26 million trees have been planted around the country by over six million volunteers.

Cold and Flu season

The cold and flu season normally peaks in Term 3. As a result, parents and carers need to continue to keep their student/s away from the College if unwell. If a student presents with any contagious symptoms, parents/carers will be contacted and required to collect their student. Teachers will continue to remind students about the importance of good hygiene. Hand sanitisers have been provided in each classroom to assist.  

Staff News

Last Friday, we farewelled Miss Brooklyn Ah-Wong (Visual Arts Assistant). Brooklyn was a graduate of Holy Spirit College in 2021 and is continuing to pursue her love of art. We thank Brooklyn for sharing her artistic gifts and talents with us and wish her all the best for the future.

Prayer

Dear God,

We pray for the sick in our community. 

Please grant them comfort and healing. 

Give strength to the caregivers who are looking after them.

We trust in your wisdom and love, and we know that with your help, all things are possible. 

We pray for the recently deceased.

May they find eternal rest in the loving embrace of God.
May comfort surround those who grieve, and love carry them through.

We offer these prayers in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ.

Amen

Blessings,     

Alison Wales - Principal

Reflection

The Assumption of Mary – Why It Matters Today

"What if I told you there’s a story about a young woman whose courage, kindness, and trust in something bigger than herself still inspires millions of people today?"

On 15 August, Christians celebrate the Assumption of Mary, the belief that,  at the end of her life, Mary was taken body and soul into heaven. Even if you’re not Catholic, this day is about something we can all relate to: hope, dignity, and the power of living with courage and compassion.

Mary’s life wasn’t easy, she faced uncertainty and challenges, but she trusted in God and cared deeply for others. That’s something we can bring into our own lives, whether it’s being kind in the eating areas, standing up for someone who needs support, or finding strength when things get tough.

The Assumption is a reminder that our lives matter and that love and goodness have the final word. Every small act of kindness or forgiveness plants a little bit of heaven here on earth.

So today, let’s take inspiration from Mary, and live in a way that leaves the world a little kinder, braver, and more hopeful than we found it.

Let us pray:

As we reflect on the Assumption of Mary, we remember her unwavering faith, her humility, and her unconditional love for Your Son. May our lives always be guided by Mary’s example and devotion to You.

Amen.

God Bless,

Lesley Fraser – Assistant Principal (Mission)

SchoolTV - Digital Media Literacy & Safety Webinar

DATE: Tuesday, 2 September 2025
TIME: 7:30 pm

Topics in this webinar include:

• New Social Media Regulations
• Digital Footprint and Reputation
• Screen Time and Brain Development
• Parental Controls

Please note: Participants MUST REGISTER PRIOR to the commencement of the webinar to gain access.

Register for the webinar here.

We look forward to having you join us for this insightful and engaging session.

Digital Media Literacy and Safety

Sandy McLellan - Assistant Principal (Students)

Curriculum News

Subject Selections for 2026 in Years 8, 9 and 10 - Information Sessions

We warmly invite parents and students currently in Years 7, 8, and 9 to attend our Information Sessions on 26 August at Holy Spirit College, where we’ll discuss Subject Selections for Years 8, 9, and 10 in 2026. These sessions are designed to help you explore the subject options available, giving every student the knowledge and confidence to make informed choices that will open up a variety of future opportunities.

During the event, each student will receive a Subject Selection pack containing their personalised form. We’ll also be sharing valuable advice on subject choices, explaining how parents can best support their students, and highlighting the many support options available from the College. A key focus will be on how our feedback on assessments can guide students in their goal setting, and how parents can engage with their child’s learning journey.

Two session times are available—3:30 pm and 6:00 pm. Each 30-minute session offers a glimpse into what 2026 will hold and a chance for students attending to win Spirit Café vouchers valued at $50, $30, and $20, drawn at both sessions.

Your support is vital as we work together to help your child become the very best version of themselves and achieve their goals. We look forward to seeing you there and partnering with you in this important step forward.

In one spirit, we nurture, we excel!

Regards,

Anne Miles - Assistant Principal (Curriculum)

From the Office

2025 Non-government Schools Census Collection Notice

As part of the 2025 Non-government Schools Census Collection, the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills & Employment (the Department) collects data from schools regarding the College, its staff and student body.

For full details of the 2025 Non-government Schools Census Collection, please refer to the Collection Notice.
 
You are not required to take any action, as the College is responsible for providing the Department with the necessary information. However, if you need to update your family's details, you can easily do this via the Parent Orbit App.

Collection Notice

Collection Notice 270.40 KB

Road Safety

At Holy Spirit College, your child’s safety remains our top priority. We kindly ask you to adhere to the following guidelines to ensure a safe and smooth drop-off and pick-up experience:

• Observe and comply with all speed and traffic signs within the vicinity of Holy Spirit College and Emmanuel Catholic Primary School.
• Utilise either the pick-up zone or short-term parking to collect your child/children.
• We request that you do not collect your child/children from the long-term carpark.
• Drive to the end of the drop-off lane, ensuring that there is no excessive space left between vehicles.
• To facilitate the flow of traffic, please make full use of the short-term parking.
• Students should use the pedestrian crossing to access parked vehicles in the short-term parking area.

We would like to remind you that by 3:20 pm on most afternoons, the drop-off and pick-up zone is typically clear. To help alleviate traffic congestion, consider delaying your pick-up time. Please be assured that our teaching staff will be on duty until 3:40 pm to supervise your child/ren during this time.

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

We appreciate your cooperation in supporting and keeping our student environment safe for students who attend Holy Spirit College and Emmanual Catholic Primary School.

Vinnies Christmas Appeal - Being Pilgrims of Hope This Christmas

Our annual Vinnies Christmas Appeal will officially begin next week! We encourage all students and their families to take part by donating non-perishable food items, new toys, or festive Christmas decorations.

These generous donations will be used to create hampers for families within our local community who may be experiencing hardship this Christmas. This is a powerful and practical way for us to live out our 2025 College theme: Pilgrims of Hope.

“Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” – Matthew 25:40

In previous years, our HSC community has responded with great kindness and generosity, and we hope to continue that spirit again this year.

Below is a list of suggested donation items:

• Christmas treats – cakes, mince pies, chocolates, lollies
• Christmas decorations – tinsel, bonbons
• Pasta, rice, pasta sauce
• Biscuits (sweet and savoury)
• Tinned goods – peas, corn, beetroot, fruit, desserts
• Tea, coffee, sugar
• Long life milk, custard and cream
• Cereal
• Cordial, soft drinks
• Chips (packets)
• Tomato and BBQ sauce
• New toys for children

While this list offers some ideas, all non-perishable donations are welcome and appreciated.

Students can bring their items to their Pastoral Care Groups, where donations will be packed into beautifully wrapped Christmas boxes ready to spread joy. These hampers will be presented to representatives from St Vincent de Paul during our Advent Prayer Service at the end of Week 8.

The appeal will run until Monday, 17 November (Week 8).

Thank you in advance for your kindness and generosity as we come together to share hope, joy, and love with those who need it most this Christmas.

Let’s make a difference—being Pilgrims of Hope together.

Jeanette Refalo - Mission Support

Pastoral News

No Way! No Bullying Week

This week, our students have proudly taken part in No Way! No Bullying Week, a powerful initiative that reminds us all of the importance of standing up, speaking out, and supporting one another.

The library has been a hub of activity, filled with interactive displays, reflection stations, and creative resources designed to spark conversation and build empathy. Students have engaged with these activities thoughtfully and courageously, showing their commitment to creating a safe and inclusive school environment.

Photos captured throughout the week highlight the heart and energy of our students as they unite against bullying. Their participation is a testament to the strength of our community and the values we share.

Together, we continue to build a culture where every voice matters and kindness leads the way.

Carla Hunt - Pastoral Support Officer

Digital Technology & Business News

Our Year 10 Business and Business Skills & Practices classes visited the annual Career Expo for a hands-on learning experience. The students' goal was to analyse business stalls and engage with vendors to understand business practices and improve their communication skills. They observed the expo as an event to gain an understanding of the importance of strategic planning to ensure effective marketing and efficient operations to maximise access to the target market. Students focused on observing and evaluating the effectiveness of business presentations. They analysed everything from the visual design of the stalls to how well representatives communicated about their company. This activity provided a practical opportunity to see business concepts in action.

A key part of the excursion was for students to develop and practice their communication skills. They engaged vendors in conversations and asked questions about potential career opportunities. This direct interaction helped students learn to ask thoughtful questions and communicate professionally in a real-world setting.

After the expo, students will use the evidence they gathered—notes on branding, promotional materials, and presentation styles— and apply these to their learning tasks in the classroom. This hands-on experience has provided our students with more than just a day out of the classroom. It has given them a practical understanding of business operations, marketing, and the art of effective communication.

The students were also pretty excited by the free merchandise as well!

Sandra Kidd & Danielle MacGregor - Teachers

English News

Year 10 Intro to General English

This term, the Year 10 Introduction to General English students have dived headfirst into the timeless world of Romeo and Juliet. Through their studies, they’ve brought Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy to life by presenting act summaries to their peers, immersing themselves in Baz Luhrmann’s modern cinematic adaptation Romeo + Juliet, and engaging in a variety of dynamic class activities designed to deepen their understanding.

This week, Mrs Borg’s classes took their Shakespearean expertise to the next level with an exciting Escape Room challenge! Working solo or in small groups, students raced against the clock and each other to solve a series of creative tasks and uncover a secret message. The activity tested not only their comprehension of the play but also their ability to think critically and collaborate under pressure.

Students worked through a range of engaging puzzles including sequencing key plot events, matching famous quotes to their characters, mapping out intricate character relationships on a web, and deciphering the meaning behind Shakespeare’s rich and complex language. The room buzzed with energy as students pieced together clues, decoding the Bard’s words.

We can’t wait to see how their newfound insights into the characters, themes, and enduring concepts of Romeo and Juliet will shine in their upcoming assessment responses!

Zoe Borg - Teacher

From the Resource Centre

Book Week 2025

Next week, libraries throughout Australia will be celebrating Book Week, an initiative of the Children’s Book Council of Australia. Each year Australian fiction and non-fiction books in several categories are nominated, short-listed and vie for the CBCA Book of the Year Awards.

The theme for this year’s celebration is ‘Book an Adventure’ and Holy Spirit College Library Assistants, Donna Denning and Kellie Van Damme, have spent many hours creating an amazing display for our college community featuring a huge tree with cascading leaves, suitcases packed for travel to other lands and hot air balloons bound for exotic places.

The display also features the 2025 short-listed books from each category. During the week, students will be invited to enter a Book Week competition to win prizes.

Annette Williamson - Resource Centre Coordinator

Careers News

There has been much happening in the Careers space here at HSC. We have visited universities, attended the Mackay Career Expo and engaged in presentations from the Defence Force, accommodation colleges and several universities.

In the last week of Term 2, Kyle Danns and I accompanied 15 students to Brisbane to visit university campuses and colleges. Over 3 days, we visited the University of Queensland, QUT (Garden Point and Kelvin Grove campuses) and Griffith University (Nathan). We also visited Emmanuel and Union residential colleges and the new UniLodge in Toowong. We also visited the Queensland Museum, Southbank, and students confidently navigated Brisbane buses and trains to have the full city university experience.

After the June holidays, 14 students then attended the JCU Open Day for Schools with Anton Mayer-Miller, Palmina Rae and myself. We stayed at John Flynn College, where we enjoyed fabulous hospitality and experienced college life. On Friday morning, we visited JCU’s newest Hall of Residence - Burralga Yumba – before joining students from across North Queensland for the Open Day. Students participated in tours and presentations across a diverse range of study areas. This was again a fantastic opportunity for students to ‘see’ themselves in the university environment and plan for 2026.

I would like to congratulate all the students who attended these university experiences. Their maturity, behaviour and engagement were wonderful, and the staff who attended thoroughly enjoyed spending time with these young people. Thank you also to the teachers who supported me on these trips – students would not have these opportunities without your assistance.

We have also recently had visits from university representatives from Bond University, University of the Sunshine Coast and the University of Southern Queensland. Several accommodation colleges have also visited HSC to share information to assist students in making decisions about where they might like to live in 2026.

The Australian Defence Force has visited HSC on two occasions to explain both trade career pathways and ADFA (University) opportunities. The ADF Career Bus provided students with the opportunity to meet individually with staff to determine the most appropriate pathways, according to interests and skills.

Last week all Year 11 students attended the Mackay Career Expo at the Mackay Showgrounds. This event provided a great opportunity to interact with Mackay employers, Defence Force, Police, university and training providers. This excursion was intended to support and provide focus for Year 11 students as they move towards the very important Year 12 year.

In Week 6 CQUniversity will visit HSC to showcase their course offerings and provide information for students interested in the STEPs program. Details about this visit will be in published in morning notices.

Other Career News

QTAC applications opened on the 5 August for 2026 University Entry. During LEP last week, I met with a large group of students interested in applying for University via QTAC. I have provided them with a list of tasks they can do to begin the application process.

• Find their LUI on Student Café
• Apply for a USI - Students who have completed Certificate qualifications will already have a USI. Other students can find more information and apply
• Use their QTAC guides to consider courses and make sure they have the necessary prerequisites
• Discuss the cost of living away from families
• Research scholarships – where applicable
• Apply for Residential Accommodation

Over the coming weeks, I will conduct further sessions and lunchtime drop-in opportunities for students to complete their QTAC applications. Students should monitor Morning Notices on Student Café for details about these drop-in sessions.

Early Offer Schemes

Several Early Entry/Offer schemes are available through a range of universities.

Application for these also opened on 5 August. Students can bring completed forms to Mrs Eiser for review and signing. Remember, in most cases, prerequisite requirements still apply.

Certificates at HSC

Year 12 students should now be nearly finished with all certificate studies. These certificates need to be fully completed before QCE Credits can be awarded to QCAA Learning Accounts. Please communicate with teachers if you are concerned that certificate courses will not be completed by early next term.

Work Experience & Employment

There is still time for Year 12 students to participate in Work Experience. These experiences at this time of the year often lead to employment. Students should visit Mrs O’Brien in the Student Services Hub for assistance with work experience.

There have been several apprenticeships and traineeships advertised in recent weeks. These are usually advertised on the job board near the Year 12 eating area. Students should also be closely monitoring the SEEK website if they are still looking for traineeships, apprenticeships or employment. Mrs O’Brien can assist with applications if necessary.

Simone Eiser - Learning Pathways & Careers Program Leader

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

Your OCD Mechanics

Advertised 30 June 2025 - Apply on SEEK.com

Your OCD Mechanics is a local family-owned business looking for a 1st year apprentice to join our expanding team.

As a 1st year apprentice, you will be working alongside highly experienced tradesmen on all makes and models of light vehicles in a friendly, supportive environment, while completing your apprenticeship with a nationally recognised training provider.

To secure this role, it is essential that you:

• are reliable, punctual and work well in a team
• are willing to take direction and have great communication skills
• hold a current driver’s licence (Provisional or Open)
• Completed Year 12 (Preferably)

Green Energy

Advertised 14 July 2025 - Apply on SEEK.com

Electrical Apprentice

• Permanent full-time position
• 38 hours per week
• Mackay, Queensland

Successful applicants must have:

• Current driver's license & willing to travel (prerequisite for the role)
• White card & working at heights certifications (prerequisite for the role)
• Eager to learn new skills and apply oneself accordingly
• Strong communication skills, both verbal and written
• Willingness to work within a team and cooperate with our clients
• Work to OH&S regulations
• The ability to follow safety procedures
• Ability and willingness to use CRM software
• Honest & hardworking
• Punctual
• Passion for electrical and solar career
• Great attitude

Penske

Advertised 30 June 2025 - Apply on SEEK.com

Apprentice Diesel Technician

What do you need?

• A passion for understanding how things work.
• A drive to learn and develop your skills both in the classroom and on the job.
• Good communication skills and self-assurance.
• Decent school results, ideally having completed Year 12.
• Reliability, dedication and punctuality.
• Have had experience in a full or part-time job in the past.

Komatsu

Advertised 30 June 2025 - Apply on SEEK.com

Automotive Electrician Apprenticeship Program - 2026 Intake

Plant Mechanic Apprenticeship Program - 2026 Intake

Written Application: Apply online by uploading your CV, cover letter, and any other desired supporting documents.

Video Interview: Following submission of your written application, you will receive an invitation to complete a short, pre-recorded video interview.

Interview: Successful applicants will be invited to attend the local branch for a face-to-face interview, as well as to participate in both a practical & written technical assessment.

Pre-employment checks: Applicants successful through interview will then be required to conduct a medical assessment, drug and alcohol screen, functional assessment, compliance checks and reference checks.

Offer: Once pre-employment checks are completed, you will be formally offered a contract as a 2026 Apprentice! Congratulations!

North Queensland Bulk Ports Corporation

Advertised 12 July 2025 - Apply on SEEK

Apprentice Electrician

Apprentice Plumber

Apprentice Horticulturist

What we are looking for:

• Upcoming school leavers completing Grade 12 in 2025 with minimum sound results in both English and Mathematics.
• The applicant will be required to hold a current Maritime Security Identification Card (MSIC) or the ability to obtain an MSIC within three months of commencing employment.
• Willingness to provide high-quality labouring services in a maintenance and construction environment, following established systems and procedures.
• A commitment to the importance of high-quality client service and an ability to provide friendly and courteous service and information.

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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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.

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 to Get (And Keep!) Your Child Motivated - 6:30 pm, 6 August

How You Can Make Technology an Ally (& Not the Enemy!) - 6:30 pm, 20 August

How to Help Your Child Improve Their Note Taking - 6:30 pm, 3 September

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

August 2025

September 2025

Creative Arts @ HSC

The excitement continues in the Creative Arts Department this term!

In our last newsletter, we celebrated the Dance Troupe’s outstanding performance at the Dance X competition. Their efforts earned them a Wild Card entry in Hip Hop — a fantastic achievement that has secured them a spot in the QLD State Finals on the Sunshine Coast this October. We’re thrilled to be heading there soon! Dance Troupe parents will receive a separate letter outlining costs and travel details.

This week marks the start of the Annual Mackay Eisteddfod. Our Choir will perform on Thursday afternoon and evening, followed by the Concert Band on Monday afternoon and the Drum Corps on Tuesday afternoon. We wish all our performers the very best as they represent our College with pride.

This weekend, Holy Spirit College will host an Instrumental Workshop Weekend for our College Band and Drum Corps to prepare for upcoming performances. This enriching experience includes extra rehearsals, team-building activities, and masterclasses. Please ensure you’ve given permission via the Parent Orbit app — thank you to those who already have!

Looking ahead, our Celebration of the Arts Awards Evening is coming up on Tuesday, 2 September in Week 8 this term. This special event will showcase student creativity and honour their achievements. Highlights include:

• Visual Arts Exhibition: Taste of VariARTy
• Entertainment: Digital DJs
• ArtOfficials Gift Stall: ArtOfficials selling handmade items to raise funds for St Vincent de Paul — don’t forget to bring your pocket change!

Dates for your diary:

Instrumental Band & Drum Corps Workshop Weekend

Location: Holy Spirit College – PAC

• Friday, 15 August | 4:30 – 8:00 pm (Band & Drum Corps)
• Saturday, 16 August | 9:00 am – 4:30 pm (Band only)

Eisteddfod Performances

Location: MECC

• Choir – Thursday, 14 August | 4:00 pm & 6:30 pm
• Concert Band – Monday, 18 August | 5:00 pm
• Drum Corps – Tuesday, 19 August | 5:00 pm
• Speech & Drama – Details coming soon!

Celebration of the Arts

Location: Holy Spirit College – FBC

• Dress Rehearsal – Monday 1 September | 3:00-5:30 pm (All performers must attend)
• Celebration & Awards evening Tuesday 2 September | 6 pm

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

Sports @ HSC

Holy Spirit Students Strike Gold at 2025 Schoolboys Hockey Nationals

Holy Spirit College is proud to congratulate three of our talented athletes – Harry M (Year 10), Isaac Q  (Year 10), and Izsak B (Year 9) – who recently represented Queensland at the 2025 Schoolboys Hockey Nationals in Canberra.

Over the course of the tournament, the boys displayed exceptional skill, determination, and sportsmanship, helping lead their team through a series of tough matches. Their efforts culminated in an incredible grand final showdown against New South Wales, where Queensland triumphed to claim the gold medal!

This achievement is a testament to the boys’ hard work, dedication to hockey, and commitment to excellence. They have not only represented Queensland with pride but also brought great honour to Holy Spirit College.

Congratulations, Harry, Isaac, and Izsak – your HSC community is extremely proud of you!

Chris Newton - Sports Program Leader

What Umpiring Has Taught Me...

I’ve been umpiring since I was 11 years old with Saints Netball, Mackay Netball Association, and Moranbah Netball Association. During that time, I’ve gained extensive experience at various carnivals, including Nissan Senior State Age, Vicki Wilson, and QISSN. It’s been such an awesome way to meet new people and stay connected to a sport I’m passionate about, even after I stopped playing, and it pushes me outside my comfort zone. Umpiring has honestly taught me so much, especially how to stay calm under pressure and make confident decisions on the spot.

Umpiring is crucial in all sports because it ensures fairness, consistency, and integrity throughout a game. As an umpire, we’re responsible for interpreting and enforcing the rules, making split-second decisions that can influence the outcome and predict the flow of play. Without us, competition would lack structure, and disputes could spiral into chaos. Our job is to uphold respect between teams, protect player safety, and preserve the spirit of the sport. While you might not always like the call, our role is foundational, like the invisible scaffolding that keeps the game standing strong.

Umpiring is essential to keeping sport fair, safe, and respectful, but it also demands a specific set of skills: A sharp eye and quick reflexes are fundamental, as umpires need to make split-second decisions with accuracy; a deep knowledge of the rules and the ability to interpret them under pressure ensure consistency in judgment; clearly communicating, whether it's calmly managing disputes or asserting authority with confidence and clarity. A simple shift in the tone of our voice or whistle can significantly elevate our control and influence over the game. Emotional control and impartiality help umpires stay cool in high-stakes moments, and strong fitness keeps them active and alert throughout the game. It’s a role that’s equal parts intellect, instinct, and grit, and without it, the heart of competition wouldn’t beat quite the same.

I encourage everyone to give umpiring a go; it has taught me some incredible life skills and helped me to become a better netballer.

Natalie L - Year 12 Student

Sport Partners 2025

Service News

Turning Trash into Cash

The Environment Group at HSC has been busy doing great things around our College. Our hard-working students, led by our Community Service Committee Chair, Stephanie P, are turning trash into cash and then cash into plants to further green our campus. The Environment Group students’ tireless efforts to sort the 10c containers collected in our recycling stations have raised substantial funds, which has been used to purchase a mature tree to contribute to National Tree Day 2025. 

The mature tree, with the assistance of our Maintenance Manager, Alex Molnar, was planted on the Athletics Field so that it will provide shade and a tranquil resting spot for our students at recesses and Carnivals for many years to come.

Looking forward, the Environment Group will be visiting the area of Harbour Beach to do a clean-up of the foreshore to take our great work out into the community.

Camille Morris - Deputy Principal (Administration)

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.

Topic Highlight: Anxiety & Young People

Most young people today experience anxiety at some point in their life. Sometimes that slight rush of anxiety that occurs prior to an exam or sporting event, can enhance their performance. However, experiencing too much anxiety, over long periods of time, can be extremely damaging to their health and wellbeing. There is a difference between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ anxiety.

Statistics show that the psychological health of young people today is far worse than it was a generation ago. This is having an adverse affect on children in both primary and secondary levels. Some of their issues of concern include stress, school, study, body image and friendship.

Parents need to be aware of the warning signs of ‘bad’ anxiety. There are preventative measures parents can implement, as well as teaching kids the skills to cope more efficiently with their anxiety.

We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this edition of SchoolTV, and we always welcome your feedback. If you have any concerns about your child, please contact the school counsellor for further information or seek medical or professional help.

Here is the link to the Anxiety & Young People edition of SchoolTV.

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