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Welcome new and existing families to Term 4! I hope you have all enjoyed your break and you are feeling reenergised and refreshed for the term ahead. Term 4 is normally the busiest of all, with many joyful events celebrating student achievement, and this year, we have so much to celebrate. To stay informed, I encourage you to continue to read all communications from our College, including our fortnightly newsletter, to ensure you keep updated on these special College events.
As we sprint towards the end of the 2025 academic year, with students consolidating their learning, I remind our students of the importance to ‘Strive for Excellence’. Keeping focus on learning is more important than ever this term. I encourage our students to continue to set high expectations for themselves as this is the foundation for success. While I acknowledge that every student is at a different point in their learning journey, I encourage our students to always be the best version of themselves. I understand that success can not merely be measured by the number of “A’s” on a Student Report, but on whether the student is progressing in their learning. To keep progressing takes organisation, resilience, self-discipline and an unwavering determination to succeed. These qualities help students not only to succeed but to thrive and flourish at school and later in life.
Year 10 Celebration
A big thank you to Matthew Baisden - Dean of Students (Year 10) and his team for coordinating the Year 10 Celebration Evening at Goosies. The neon theme for the night lit up the room and set the scene for the celebration. Many thanks to our HSC DJs (Shane M and Hayden B) and Kerri Allen - HSC DJs Coordinator, for providing entertaining music for our Year 10 students to enjoy.
Thank you to the following staff who supported this event. Without these dedicated staff members volunteering, this night would not be possible. Many thanks to Lorelle Adamson, Nadine Adamson, Michelle Bohne, Charlotte Buchanan, Meagan Casey, Jessica Davison, Greg Duncan, Liz Falzon, Lesley Fraser, Candice Lade, Maria Mason, Sandy McLellan, Emily McMahon, Adrianne Mifsud, Steve Nugent, Helen Ringelstein, Louise Sheedy, and Lynn Wainwright.
Year 9 Camp
In the final week of Term 3, I had the privilege of visiting both Year 9 camps. Upon arriving at Rowallan Park, I was warmly greeted by happy, smiling students who couldn’t wait to share stories about their day. It was a true blessing to be part of the liturgy led by Lesley Fraser on the second night of each camp. The students sang Fireworks by Katy Perry with incredible energy, enthusiasm, and joy to close the liturgy. The campfire and marshmallows that followed remain one of my favourite moments—there’s something special about a campfire that brings people together.
A heartfelt thank you to Adam Vanderlinde - Dean of Students (Year 9), for coordinating this exciting experience for our Year 9 students. I also extend my sincere gratitude to all staff who attended the camp. Your presence made a meaningful difference, and I deeply appreciate the time you spent away from your own families to support our students:
Adam Vanderlinde, Charlotte Buchanan, Meredith Farquhar, Ashley Watson, Josh Wilson, Ken Fuller, Lisa-Maree Doyle, Michael Pace, Lorelle Adamson, Wayne Huntley, Jessica Davison, Maria Mason, Krystal Cebulski, Stuart Presley, Ian Ballantyne, Marnie Lamb, Meagan Casey, Kyle Danns, Zoe Borg, Candice Lade, Hayley Perkins, Adrianne Mifsud, Kellie Devine, Sophie Evans, Kelly Wells, Jessica Evetts, Ann-Maree Mitchell, Veronica Martin, Luke Fagan, Tracey Evans, Karen Morley, Anna Berrigan, Carla Hunt, and Danielle Robke.
Staff News
We are pleased to welcome Ray Scott and Tania Harvison to our teaching staff. Katherine Green joins us as a Visual Arts Assistant, and Angus Lade is joining our maintenance team. Welcome to the HSC community.
Student Departures
As we get closer to the end of another year, our dedicated staff are planning for the 2026 school year. When predicting student numbers for the upcoming year, I try to be as accurate as possible with my prediction, as it drives staffing, budgets, and class sizes.
If you are aware that your child will be leaving us at the end of the year, please notify our Enrolments Officer, Tahnee Smith, as soon as possible. I thank you for your assistance with this matter.
Prayer
Gracious God,
As we begin Term 4, we thank You for the journey, so far.
We thank you for the lessons learned, the friendships formed, and the moments that shaped and challenged us.
Grant us focus and energy for the busy weeks ahead.
Help us to approach each day with curiosity, courage, and kindness.
May our classrooms be places of mutual respect, where meaningful learning occurs every day.
Bless our students with perseverance and the confidence to strive for excellence in all that they do.
Bless our teachers and support staff with wisdom to guide, compassion to care, and the strength to make a difference each day.
And bless our families with encouragement as they support their students through this last term of 2025.
May Term 4 be filled with purpose, growth, and grace.
Amen.
Blessings,
Alison Wales - Principal
Reflection
The Rosary: A Month to Pause and Reflect
In many traditions, sacred practices act as anchors, helping people to pause, reflect, and find meaning in their lives. Within the Catholic faith, October is known as the Month of the Rosary, a time to focus on this deeply meaningful prayer dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus.
For Catholics, Mary is not just a distant, symbolic figure. She is seen as a loving mother who understands human joys and struggles, offering comfort and encouragement. Through her story, she becomes a source of inspiration and hope. Hymns like Gentle Woman beautifully describe her tender and compassionate nature, showing how her humanity resonates with our own.
Mary’s life was not without challenges. She experienced the everyday realities of motherhood, worrying over her child’s future, celebrating his triumphs, and enduring deep sorrows. Catholics believe that her life reflects the universal experiences of love, doubt, hope, and resilience.
The Rosary is a form of prayer that invites reflection on key moments in Mary’s life and her journey of faith. Each "decade" of the Rosary focuses on a different event, such as the Annunciation (when Mary learned she would become the mother of Jesus), the birth of Jesus, and even the sorrow of his Crucifixion. Through these reflections, the Rosary provides a framework for prayer, meditation, and connection to one's faith.
For many families, the Rosary has been a cherished tradition, bringing people together in a shared moment of peace and reflection. I have fond memories of gathering with my family in my Maltese grandparents’ living room to pray the Rosary. These moments created a sense of unity and faith that remains with me. Over the years, I have collected Rosary beads from different parts of the world, blessed by priests, which have become treasured family heirlooms. When I travel, I always carry a set of Rosary beads, as praying the Rosary reminds me of the boundless love and hope that faith offers.
Even for those outside the Catholic tradition, the Rosary holds lessons for modern life. It is a reminder to slow down, reflect, and focus on what matters most: love, family, and faith. In a world full of distractions and pressures, the Rosary is a gentle practice of grounding oneself in moments of peace and gratitude.
Let us take a moment to pray together:
As we embrace this month of reflection, let us give thanks for the loving example of Mary, who inspires us to live with faith, courage, and compassion. May her story, rooted in hope and resilience, guide us to find wisdom, peace, and unity in our own lives.
Amen.
Lesley Fraser – Assistant Principal (Mission)
From the Office
Accidents Happen
Holy Spirit College is committed to keeping every student safe, both in and out of the classroom. When accidents occur, whether a sprained wrist, broken ankle or any other injury, we want to make sure your child receives the support they need while healing.
What to Do if your Child is Injured
If your child has recently sustained an injury and is wearing a sling, plaster cast, moon boot or using crutches, please take the following steps:
- Notify our WHS Officer, Pauline Thompson, as soon as possible at Pauline_Thompson@rok.catholic.edu.au.
- Complete the required paperwork and include any advice or recommendations from your child’s Medical Practitioner.
- Email completed documents back to Pauline Thompson
Once we receive your documentation, we will review the medical advice, coordinate with teachers to adjust physical activities and classroom needs and provide ongoing check-ins to support your child’s recovery.
We are here to help your child stay engaged, safe and comfortable during their healing journey. Thank you for working with us to keep our school community safe and supported.
Deanne Hearnden - Office Manager
The 2025 Vinnies Christmas Appeal is well underway! We warmly encourage all students and their families to contribute by donating non-perishable food items, new toys, or festive Christmas decorations.
Our school community has consistently demonstrated generosity and kindness during past appeals, and we’re grateful to continue that tradition once again. Most students have already nominated the items they plan to donate, which is wonderful to see.
If purchasing items is challenging, cash donations are also welcome. These will be used to purchase hamper items on your behalf, ensuring every contribution makes a difference.
The appeal will run until Monday, 17 November (Week 8).
Thank you for your compassion and generosity as we come together to bring hope, joy, and love to those in need this Christmas.
Let’s make a meaningful difference as 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
Jeanette Refalo - Mission Support
Pastoral News
R U OK? (ANY) Day
On Wednesday, 11 September, our school community came together to acknowledge R U OK? Day—a National Day of Action that reminds us to pause, connect, and ask a simple but powerful question: “Are you OK?”
To help spark conversation and connection, staff were invited to enjoy a morning tea featuring coffee, tea, and a sweet spread of confectionery. More than just a treat, it was a moment to slow down, check in, and support one another in a meaningful way.
Students were also offered a small R U OK? sticker to wear. While completely optional, many chose to participate, creating a visible ripple of awareness and solidarity across the school. The feedback from both students and staff was heartening—proof that small gestures can have a big impact.
One particularly touching moment occurred during Recess 1. As I walked through the grounds on my usual rounds, several students stopped me—not out of obligation, but with genuine care—and asked, “Are you OK, Mrs Hunt?”
Their sincerity and willingness to engage in real conversation was deeply moving and a testament to the emotional literacy we are nurturing together.
Let us carry this spirit forward. Keep asking, keep listening, and keep showing up—for each other and for ourselves. Because sometimes, a simple question can open the door to a life-changing conversation.
Year 9 Camp – A Journey of Connection and Courage
As the Pastoral Support Officer, I had the privilege of attending Year 9 Camp for the very first time—and what an incredible experience it was! From the moment we arrived, the energy was electric, and it was clear this would be a week to remember.
Last term, our Year 9 students embarked on an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, learning, and lasting memories. As the buses rolled in, excitement buzzed through the air, quickly turning into pure joy—especially during the much-anticipated visit to the Wake Park.
The Wake Park was a highlight for many, offering thrills and spills as students took to the water on wakeboards and kneeboards. Whether gliding across the lake or cheering from the shore, everyone found a way to join in the fun. For some, it was their first time trying water sports, and the encouragement from peers made all the difference. The spirit of adventure was alive and well!
Friendships and Courtesy
Beyond the activities, what truly stood out was the way students supported one another. New friendships blossomed, and familiar ones grew stronger. Simple courtesies—helping with gear, sharing snacks, offering a hand to someone who took a tumble—were extended naturally and generously. It was heartwarming to see kindness in action, reminding us of the power of respect and empathy.
More Than Just a Camp
While the Wake Park stole the spotlight, the entire camp experience was a celebration of teamwork, resilience, and fun. From campfire chats to group challenges, Year 9 showed what it means to come together as a community.
We are incredibly proud of every student who participated and deeply grateful to the staff who made it all possible. Year 9 Camp was not just a getaway—it was a journey of connection, courage, and unforgettable moments.
Here’s to more adventures ahead!
Warm regards
Carla Hunt - Pastoral Support Officer
Art News
VariARTy 2025: All Welcome!
Come along to the 2025 VariARTy Exhibition, showcasing fantastic artwork from Year 7 to Year 12 students across Visual Arts: Art, CAT, and Media. Experience the creativity of Wearable Art live on the runway during our Opening Night event.
We’d love to see you at one of the following times:
- Opening Night: Wednesday evening – doors open at 5:30pm
- Exhibition Viewing:
- Thursday: 8:30am – 4:00pm (open during both recesses and after school)
- Friday: 8:30am – 11:30am (open during Recess 1)
Please use the TryBooking link to register your attendance for the Opening Night, or sign in at Administration to view the exhibition on Thursday or Friday.
Janet Oliver - Visual Arts Coordinator
Science News
Year 7 Catapult Competition
This term, our Year 7 Science students have been exploring the fascinating world of forces and simple machines, learning how these concepts make work easier by changing the magnitude or direction of forces.
To bring their learning to life, students took on a hands-on engineering challenge: designing and building a catapult using popsicle sticks, spoons, and elastic bands. These creative contraptions demonstrated how simple machines—particularly levers—can transform energy to launch a projectile.
Each class held a friendly competition to see whose catapult could launch the furthest. The top teams then faced off in a thrilling final round. Congratulations to the winning team from 7D, who claimed the top spot with an impressive launch of 10 metres—smashing the previous record of 9.2 metres set last year!
Their success was a testament to their clever design and strong understanding of the principles of force and motion. A huge well done to all participants for their innovation, teamwork, and enthusiasm throughout the challenge.
Angela Wright - Dean of Science (Junior)
INTAD News
Building the Future: Year 8's LEGO Minifigure Design & 3D Printing Challenge
Our Year 8 Graphics students are showcasing outstanding creativity and technical skill this term by designing their own custom Lego Minifigure.
The project begins with essential sketching and drawing to establish scale and proportion before students translate their ideas into the digital world using AutoCAD. They're focusing on precise design and digital drafting, learning to navigate the 3D environment and create intricate components.
The final stage of the process includes a 3D-printed prototype of their work. This hands-on prototyping closes the loop from concept to creation, offering students invaluable experience in modern design technology and showcasing the impressive quality of their work.
Nicole Wilson - Design Technologies Coordinator
VET News
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
.Ailene O'Brien - VET Coordinator
Date Claimers
October 2025
| 6 | King's Birthday Holiday |
| 7 | Term 4 Commences |
| 7 | Environment Group - Reef Clean Harbour Cleanup |
| 8-12 | Gold Coast All Schools Touch Football Competition |
| 14 | Year 12 Graduation Mass Practice |
| 15 | Concert Band - Hot Potato Band Incursion |
| 15 | Year 10 Sexual Health Presentations |
| 15 | VariARTy - Opening Event & Wearable Art Parade |
| 15-17 | VariARTy - VariARTy Exhibition |
| 16-18 | QLD All Schools Hockey |
| 17-19 | Dance Troupe - Dance X Competition State Finals |
| 21 | Celebration of Sports Awards Evening |
| 27 Oct - 14 Nov | Year 12 External Exams |
| 29 | P&F Meeting |
| 29-30 | F1 State Finals |
November 2025
| 11 | Remembrance Day |
| 18 | Speech Night |
| 21 | Year 12 Graduation Mass & Dinner |
| 24-28 | Year 11 Exam Block |
| 24-25 | Year 7 Fun With Maths |
| 26 | P&F End of Year Dinner |
| 27 | Year 7 in 2026 Orientation Day |
| 28 | Advent Prayer Service |
| 5 December | Term 4 Concludes |
Creative Arts @ HSC
Dance Troupe to Compete at Dance X State Finals
Our Dance Troupe is heading to the Sunshine Coast from 17–19 October to compete in the Dance X State Finals. This is a prestigious event that brings together top dance teams from across Queensland. The troupe has been working hard with Stacey Skipper, and we’re incredibly proud of their dedication. We wish them all the best as they take the stage and represent our College with pride!
Hot Potato Band Incursion – Concert Band
On Wednesday 15 October, our Concert Band students will participate in an exciting incursion with the Hot Potato Band. Known for their energetic and interactive performances, the band will run a workshop with our students in the morning, followed by a performance by our Concert Band for Emmanuel Primary School students in the afternoon. It promises to be a fun and inspiring day of music-making! Please check in Parent Orbit that you have given permission for your student to participate.
Drama Group – Mackay Eisteddfod Performances
Our Drama students have been rehearsing enthusiastically for their upcoming performances at the Mackay Eisteddfod. They will be performing across several sections, and we encourage families to come along and support them. Please check in Parent Orbit that you have given permission for your student to participate.
Performance Schedule:
- Sunday 12 October
- Section 467 & 470 – 8:30 am
- Section 471 – 1:00 pm
- Section 472 – 6:30 pm
- Tuesday 14 October
- Section 482 – 6:00 pm
Music Ministry at St Joseph’s – Saturday, 18 October
Our Music Ministry will be leading the singing at St Joseph’s Church on Saturday, 18 October. This is a meaningful opportunity for students to contribute to the spiritual life of the parish and share their musical gifts with the community.
Dates for Your Diary
- Sunday, 12 October & Tuesday, 14 October – Drama Group performances at Mackay Eisteddfod
- Wednesday, 15 October – Hot Potato Band Incursion (Concert Band)
- Saturday, 18 October – Music Ministry singing at St Joseph’s Church
- Thursday, 30 October – QSO at the MECC (Concert Band members)
- Saturday, 15 November – Music Ministry leading singing at St Joseph’s Church
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
|
Group |
Day |
Time |
Venue |
Tutor/Teacher |
|
Band |
Monday |
7:20 - 8:20 am |
PAC |
Mr Bauer |
|
Choir |
Tuesday |
7:20 - 8:20 am |
PAC |
Ms Illguth and Mrs Abell |
|
Art Officials |
Tuesday |
Recess 1 |
Room 17 |
Mrs Oliver |
|
Dance Troupe |
Wednesday |
7:20 - 8:20 am |
PAC |
Mrs Skipper |
|
Debate Club |
Wednesday |
Recess 1 |
Room 43 |
Mrs Farquhar and Ms Wainwright |
|
Music Ministry |
Wednesday |
Recess 1 |
PAC |
Mrs Hyde |
|
Art Therapy |
Wednesday |
3:00 - 4:00 pm |
Art Room |
Mrs Oliver |
|
Drama Club |
Thursday |
7:20 - 8:20 am |
PAC |
Ms Robinson and Ms Wainwright |
|
Creative Arts Committee |
Thursday |
Recess 2 |
Music Room |
Mrs Abell and Creative Arts Chair |
|
Drum Corps |
Friday |
7:20 - 8:20 am |
PAC |
Mr McClelland and Mr Watson |
|
Digital DJs |
Tuesday |
Recess 1 |
PAC |
Mrs Allen |
Bernadetta Abell - Creative Arts Program Leader
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 have been 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 5:30 pm, with the evening commencing at 6:00 pm.
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
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Service News
What Has Z Club Been Up To This Year?
On 19 August, our Z Club President, Natalie L, and I had the privilege of attending the Zonta Club of Mackay’s August meeting at Ocean International. We joined Zonta members and fellow Z Club representatives from other local schools to share, connect, and celebrate the work being done across our community.
Each Z Club presented highlights from their year, and our Holy Spirit College Z Club was proud to showcase a range of impactful initiatives. One standout was our participation in the 58 Squats Challenge, where members completed a minimum of 58 squats daily throughout March. This effort raised over $3,000 for National Breast Cancer Research, and received enthusiastic support from those in attendance.
Our term themes also resonated strongly:
- Women in STEM – supporting students interested in health and science careers.
- Financial Independence – educating members on housing, budgeting, and university life.
- Women in Leadership – encouraging Year 11 students in their leadership journeys and inspiring younger students to follow.
- Women Supporting Women – preparing for the It’s in the Bag campaign, which supports individuals fleeing domestic violence or experiencing homelessness.
The meeting was an inspiring opportunity to foster community, support fellow Z Clubs, and stay true to Zonta’s mission of building a better world for women and girls. We were especially moved by initiatives from other schools, such as Friendship Day at St Patrick’s College—a popular and meaningful event.
Birthing Kit Packing Day
On Sunday, 24 August, Holy Spirit College had the honour of hosting Mackay’s Zonta Birthing Kit Packing Day. These kits—containing soap, plastic sheeting, gloves, gauze, cord ties, and a sterile blade—are designed to support safe childbirth in remote regions of developing countries. Thanks to an incredible group of volunteers from across Mackay, we packed 1,500 birthing kits, most of which will be sent to sub-Saharan Africa.
These kits are a simple yet powerful tool for preventing infection and improving health outcomes for mothers and babies. They help remove barriers and support access to essential health services.
It was heartwarming to see so many members of our community come together for such an empowering cause. I especially enjoyed connecting with like-minded students from other schools who are also passionate about making a difference through Z Club.
This experience was truly eye-opening—a reminder of the impact we can have when we show up, work together, and commit to making the world a better place.
For more information on birthing kits, visit Birthing Kit Foundation Australia.
Neve D - Z Club Publicist
HSC Z Club Supports the Ponytail Project
On Friday, 22 August, I was honoured to be one of eight students and two teachers who bravely chose to #RockTheChop for the Ponytail Project, an initiative proudly organised by Holy Spirit College’s Z Club.
To participate, you only need to donate 20cm of hair—but many of us went above and beyond. Kallarney H (Year 12) donated an impressive 30cm, and I went all in with 35cm. It felt incredible knowing that something as simple as a haircut could make a real difference in someone’s life.
The Cancer Council’s Ponytail Project raises funds and awareness while helping create wigs for people affected by autoimmune disorders, cancer treatments, and Alopecia—conditions that often result in significant hair loss. It’s a powerful and inspiring cause that encourages individuals to take action and support those facing these challenges.
All donated ponytails were sent to Sustainable Salons, where they will be transformed into wigs and gifted to those in need. The event sparked overwhelming support from our school community, with students and staff gathering to cheer on participants and celebrate this meaningful act of generosity.
We hope this event inspires others to learn more and take part in future years. Together, we can continue to make a difference—one chop at a time.
For more information, visit Cancer Council's Ponytail Project.
Talia K – Z Club Vice President
P&F Association
Our next meeting
The next P&F meeting will take place on Wednesday, 29 October 2025, at 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: World Mental Health Day
World Mental Health Day is marked every year on 10 October as a reminder of the importance of mental health to our overall well-being. It is a day that encourages families, schools, workplaces and communities across the globe to start conversations, reduce stigma and highlight the support available for those who may be struggling.
Mental health challenges can affect anyone: children, teens, and adults alike. Recognising this helps us create more compassionate and supportive environments.
Parents and caregivers play a central role in shaping the mental health of their children. World Mental Health Day is an opportunity to pause and reflect on the pressures young people face in today's world and how we can best support them. Whether it's helping children find balance between school, technology, and rest; encouraging open conversations about feelings; or modelling healthy coping strategies ourselves - small steps at home can make a big difference.
By engaging with resources and discussions on this day, families can strengthen their understanding of mental health and contribute to a culture where seeking help is seen as a sign of strength, not weakness.
This Special Report highlights the importance of World Mental Health Day and offers practical suggestions for how your family can acknowledge and support it together.
COMMUNITY
Student Special Achievements
Students at HSC are encouraged to excel in their chosen areas of interest, whether these are school-based interests or occur outside the school arena. If you would like to share an achievement relating to your student with the College community, please submit the details to media@hsc.qld.edu.au. (Be aware that we don’t always know about your student’s achievements unless you tell us!)
(Note: Students who excel at ‘school-based’ sports, cultural and academic pursuits through the school pathway are formally recognised at our Sports Awards Evening or Cultural Awards Showcase and/or Speech Night (Academic Awards) each year.)
Students Shine at Queensland Theatre Residency Week
Over the September holidays, Amelia W (Year 11) and Lucy S (Year 12) took part in the Queensland Theatre Residency Week, hosted at Stuartholme School in Toowong.
Amelia explored the art of storytelling through song in the Musical Theatre course, while Lucy delved into the fundamentals of puppetry and object manipulation in the Visual Theatre course. Their newly acquired skills culminated in two engaging 15-minute performances, each centred around the themes of courage and connection.
Both students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and highly recommend it to anyone interested in exploring different styles of theatre and developing their skills as performers.
We’re proud of Amelia and Lucy for embracing this opportunity and representing our school with creativity and enthusiasm!
Lillian M at National Baton Twirling Championships
During the September holidays, Lillian M (Year 10) proudly represented our school at the National Baton Twirling Championships, held in Rockhampton from Friday, 3 October to Sunday, 6 October 2025.
Lillian qualified to compete in six sections—four individual and two team events. Her dedication and skill were rewarded with third-place finishes in both her Two Baton routine and Pairs routine.
With over 100 competitors from Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria, the championships showcased incredible talent and sportsmanship. Lillian has been baton twirling since Term 4, 2021, and this marks her second time qualifying for Nationals—a remarkable achievement.
Congratulations, Lillian! We’re proud of your commitment, talent, and the way you continue to represent our school with excellence.
Park safe and keep our kids safe
There were a number of close calls with vehicles and pedestrians near our schools and sporting zones last year.
With students now back at school and sports season underway, it is time to park safe and keep our kids safe.
Parking in the wrong spot can prevent safe access along pathways and obscure the vision of other drivers and pedestrians.
Council will be patrolling school and sporting zones to ensure no one is parking in an unsafe manner.
Please see factsheet from Mackay Council below:
Working with Catholic Education
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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.