COLLEGE NEWSLETTER - 22 August, 2025

Message from the Principal

Megan Wuersching - College Principal

Dear Southern Cross Catholic College Families,

As we prepare for the next chapter in our College’s journey, I’m pleased to share the foundation of our new strategic plan: A Culture of Excellence.

This follows reflection, analysis and community consultation across our Year of Renewal. What became clear is that our College already has strong systems and practices in place. The challenge ahead is not to create more initiatives, but to ensure that what our community has told us matters most is experienced consistently across our college. 

A Culture of Excellence is our commitment to that consistency. It is about moving from isolated strengths to a whole school culture where high expectations, clarity and best practice are the norm. This priority will guide everything we do, ensuring that everyone benefits from the very best our College has to offer.

To bring this plan to life, we have identified three Guiding Stars - key areas where we will focus. 

• A Rich Catholic Identity: We are deepening our commitment to ensuring our Catholic faith is not only taught but lived. Staff will be supported in their spiritual formation, students engaged and families will be welcomed as partners in their child’s faith journey. Our Marian charism and Catholic identity will continue to shine through our college. 
• High Quality Learning and Teaching: We are strengthening expert teaching practice and orderly learning environments ensuring learning opportunities are meaningful and authentic, and every student is known, learning and engaged in a high quality education. 
• Continuous Growth and Improvement: We are cultivating a culture of feedback and reflection. Staff will be supported through coaching and collaboration, students will give and receive feedback and families will be invited to share their perspectives. 

We invite you to share your thoughts, questions or reflections on this new direction. Your voice matters deeply in shaping our shared future.

Share your feedback or comments here: Feedback Form.

Principal Appointment - Good Shepherd Catholic School
We are pleased to share that Mrs Annette Poulsen has been appointed as Principal of Good Shepherd Catholic School, Rasmussen.

Annette has been serving as Acting Principal throughout this year and has already made a meaningful impact on the Good Shepherd community. Prior to this, Annette was the Secondary APRE (Assistant Principal - Religious Education) in our secondary College, a role she held since 2021. She has over two decades of experience in both primary and secondary education, including teaching roles at St Kieran’s Catholic School and Southern Cross Catholic College.

While Annette will be missed at Southern Cross, we are excited for her as she steps permanently into this role. We congratulate her on this appointment and wish her every success in this next chapter.

Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our college community. 

Megan

FROM THE DEPUTIES - Primary

Katrina Wootton - Deputy Principal - Primary

📚 Book Week 2025 - “Book an Adventure”
This week, we are excited to celebrate Book Week with the theme “Book an Adventure". Just like a ticket to a new destination, books open the door to endless adventures, whether exploring magical lands, learning about fascinating people, or sparking new ideas.

Reading is more than just a school subject; it is a foundational life skill. Strong reading skills build confidence, support learning across every subject, and lay the groundwork for success well beyond the classroom. Most importantly, reading brings joy, imagination, and the chance to connect as a family.

Parents play an essential role in fostering a love of reading at home. Here are some simple ways you can encourage and promote reading:

✅ Read together daily: Even just 10-15 minutes of shared reading each day makes a big difference.
✅Make books visible and accessible: Keep books in bedrooms, the living room, or even the car to spark curiosity.
✅Be a reading role model: Let your child see you reading, whether it’s a novel, recipe, newspaper, or magazine.
✅Talk about stories: Ask open questions like “What do you think will happen next?” or “Which character was your favourite?” to build comprehension and connection.
✅Celebrate choice: Allow children to choose books that interest them, whether fiction, non-fiction, comics, or picture books.

💡 Every page is the start of a new adventure - let’s help our children Book an Adventure this Book Week!

✨This week, let’s celebrate the adventures that reading brings. Together, at school and home, we can nurture our children's lifelong love of books, because every page turned is the beginning of a new journey.

Have a wonderful week.

Katrina

Hayley Fulmer - Assistant Principal Pedagogy & Learning - Primary

It’s hard to believe we are already halfway through Term 3! As we move into the second half of the term and begin to look ahead to Term 4, there is much to be excited about in our learning community.

In the coming weeks, we are delighted to once again open our classrooms for Learning Breakfasts/Afternoons Teas. These mornings/afternoons provide a wonderful opportunity for families to come in and see first-hand the amazing learning taking place in our classrooms. It’s always a joy to witness the pride our students take in showing their work and celebrating their progress.

Each term, our teachers are provided with dedicated collaborative planning time. Over the latter half of this term, teachers will be released from their classes to engage in rich professional conversations, planning, and preparation for Term 4. This time ensures we continue to deliver engaging, high-quality and purposeful learning experiences for our students. In addition to this, we also have two full Pupil Free Days scheduled for Friday, 5 September and Tuesday, 7 October.

We also wish to celebrate our recent success at the Spelling Bee competition, hosted by Marian Catholic School on Thursday evening, 14 August. The competition rules allowed each school to nominate two students per grade level from Years 3 - 6, and we were proud to have the following students represent Southern Cross Catholic College:

• Joseph F (6C)
• Rai S (5D)
• Claire S (5B)
  
• Billie B (4C)
  
• Shenel O (4A)
  
• Liam C (3A)
  
• James W (3B)

A massive congratulations to all seven students for the preparation they put in and for the way they conducted themselves on the night - they truly shone for Southern Cross!

A special mention goes to Shenel O and Rai S, who both placed 1st in their respective year level competitions - an outstanding achievement! A big thank you to Mrs Allyson Buchanan and Mrs Donna Bloxsom for their behind-the-scenes preparation and support of our students leading up to the event.

Hayley

FROM THE DEPUTIES - Secondary

Jaye Beutel - Deputy Principal - Secondary

Inappropriate Use of IT - Proxy Websites
The College has become aware that some students have viewed inappropriate content on school devices using proxy websites that bypass security settings.

Please be assured that we take the safety and wellbeing of our students seriously and this matter is being investigated by Townsville Catholic Education's Cyber Security team.

Together, parents and college staff play an important role in educating our students about inappropriate use of technology. We ask that you please have a conversation with your child about acceptable use of IT and the dangers of viewing inappropriate content online.

For more information regarding e-Safety and supporting young people in this space visit, https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-topics/esafety-guide.

Code of Behaviour & Agreed Protocols (Classroom)
We are currently moving through a phase to reaffirm our College’s classroom expectations - the Agreed Protocols. These will be reintroduced to students and displayed clearly in every classroom to serve as a visible reminder and point of reference for redirection when needed.

Steven Cooke - Assistant Principal Religious Education (Acting) - Secondary

Catholic Identity
Sacramental Program
Last Monday evening, 34 students participating in this year’s College Sacramental Program received the Sacrament of Confirmation at St Joseph’s the Worker Church. It was a joyful and reverent celebration, with the children engaging beautifully in the experience. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Father Damian, who presided over the ceremony. His deep appreciation for the Sacrament of Confirmation was evident throughout the evening.

This week, the students took part in a preparation session for their First Holy Communion. They will receive this final Sacrament of Initiation during Mass on either September 13 or 14. Speaking with the students during their preparation, it was clear that they are eagerly anticipating this special milestone in their faith journey.

Sunday Gospel Reflection
Luke 13:22-30
“The last shall be first and the first shall be last.”

This Sunday’s Gospel presents a powerful challenge to complacency and self-assurance. Jesus reminds us that entry into the Kingdom of God is not guaranteed by status or assumption, but by sincere effort and faithful response. Those who presume they are secure may find themselves outside, while others, perhaps unexpected, will be welcomed in.

The Gospel offers two key insights. First, the Kingdom of God is inclusive of all. This is beautifully illustrated in the image of the heavenly banquet, where people from all directions are invited to take their place. Second, the invitation requires a response. It calls for commitment, humility, and readiness - symbolised by the “narrow door.” We are encouraged to live with intention and openness, lest we find ourselves knocking too late.

As a College community, may we reflect on this message with open hearts, striving to walk the path of faith with sincerity and joy.

Steven

From the Guidance Team

Raising Body Bright Children 
LIVE WEBINAR
Support for children's body image!  Please share with your community!

Children today are growing up in a world where appearance pressures start far too early. Parents and carers naturally want their children to feel confident and comfortable in their bodies, but it’s not always easy to know how to help.

That’s why Butterfly is inviting parents of primary age children to a live, virtual seminar designed to provide the tools, knowledge, and confidence to nurture a positive body image and a healthy relationship with eating and physical activity, right from the start.  

In this practical, engaging session, parents will learn:

• How body image develops in primary-age children
• Common risk factors for body dissatisfaction and how to reduce them at home
• Everyday ways to be a positive role model around eating and physical activity
• The importance of the language used around bodies and appearance
• How to respond if you notice body image concerns
• Where to find help and support if needed.
  

Event Details
Date: Monday, 1 September 2025
Time: 7pm - 8pm AEST (+15 mins for questions)
Via: Zoom. Time limited recording available
Cost: $15

Register Now: Raising Body Bright Children

Meet Your Butterfly Facilitator - Kate McGill
Kate is an Accredited Practising Dietitian, Nutritionist, and Body Image Coach with a passion for helping people to develop healthy, positive relationships with food and their bodies. She facilitates Butterfly's education sessions to students, parents, and educators, and works as a dietitian in Butterfly’s Next Steps program, supporting individuals in recovery from eating disorders.

Alongside her work with Butterfly, Kate runs her own nutrition and body image coaching practice, where she empowers clients to make lasting, healthy changes. As a mum to a tween and teen she understands the real-life challenges parents face and brings both professional expertise and personal insight to her work

FREE Webinar 2 September 2025 - Digital Media Literacy & Safety (Part III)
This one-off event is fast approaching and we’d love to see your families benefit from the insights of two of Australia’s leading experts, Susan McLean and Dr Michael Carr-Gregg.

They will share invaluable insights on how to empower young people to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

Webinar: Digital Media Literacy & Safety (Part III)
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

**** IMPORTANT ****
This webinar will not be available to replay later. Participants MUST REGISTER PRIOR to the commencement of the webinar to gain access.

Register Now: Digital Media Literacy & Safety (Part III)

The body image toolkit every parent wishes they had sooner
Parenting is hard… trust us, we get it. But getting help doesn’t have to be.

In a world full of unrealistic beauty standards, constant social media pressure and diet culture in disguise, raising body confident kids can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone.

We’ve gathered six of the most effective, practical and empowering resources to help you support your child’s body image and overall wellbeing, whatever stage you're at.

Want to learn the basics of helping your kid feel good in their body? Start with a quick, no-fluff video.

Worried about your child's eating or exercise habits? There’s a program designed just for that.

Need help talking about food, bodies, and movement? Download our easy-to-use guide.
 
Ready to deep dive into raising body confident kids (and improve your own body image while you’re at it)? There’s a book for that.

Looking for a light read that covers body image alongside social media, mealtime tips and expert advice for parenting dilemmas? Grab the magazine.
 
Want to spark body image conversations with your kids in a fun way? Watch the film together.

No matter what you're facing, there’s something here to help you feel more confident, supported and ready.

More resources: The Embrace Hub

If you have any questions or feedback, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@theembracecollective.org 

From our Defence Mentor

VP80
The past weekend saw Townsville commemorating the VP80 with seven WWII veterans who made it to Townsville for the occasion.

Friday, 15 August, marked the 80th Anniversary of Victory in the Pacific and the end of Australia's participation in the Second World War. Mr Cooke, Mrs Denniss and student Leaders from Year 6 and Year 11 attended the service. 

You may have even noticed some familiar faces marching in the Parade on Saturday, as members from 3CSSB were in attendance. 

Vietnam Day - August 18
On August 18, we remember the sacrifices of all Australians who served in the Vietnam War. On Monday, more than 60 Vietnam veterans stood in ranks at Lavarack Barracks, honouring the 523 who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Caleb and Amber attended the service with their family and laid a letter for their great uncle. 

Posting Orders
If you have received your posting orders and are due to be relocating at the end of the year, could you please send me a quick email, so that I catch up with your child to assist with preparing for the move. 

Have a lovely week

Ms Kira

From the Careers & VET Team - Secondary

SET Plan Meetings
SET Plan meetings are well under way. If you are a parent of a Year 10 student please book your meeting as soon as possible through Compass.

ATAR Pathways - Bree Denniss, Virginia Snee, Therese Escriva
VET pathways - Therese Escriva and Trent Engel

Try a Trade Day
On Thursday 7 August a group of students went to the "Try a Trade Day" hosted by CSQ (Construction Skills Queensland). The day had students on an active job site with Hutchinson Builders, learning from trade teachers about painting, tiling, carpentry, and a personal site tour. Students learnt that with the upcoming Brisbane Olympics in 2032, there will be a 20,000-trade skill shortage in Queensland, making the demand for apprentices more important than ever. Thank you to Mrs Horn for taking the time to assist students in being able to participate in such a valuable experience.

Work Experience Hosts
We are regularly looking for hosts to take our students between Years 10 - 12 for work experience. This is for all industries. We are especially in need of ‘female friendly’ construction businesses as the number of female students showing interest in trades within the construction industry is increasing.

If you are interested in taking students for work experience or know of a business who may be interested please contact Fiona Glendenning - fglendenning@sctsv.catholic.edu.au with the details.

Ms Escriva and Mrs Glendenning  

Careers & VET @ SCCC - Opportunities…Support…Empowerment…

SCCC Music Academy

🎵 Australian Festival of Chamber Music
Congratulations to the Guitar Ensemble, String Orchestra, Southern Cross Voices, Wind Symphony and Stage Band for taking part in the Southern Cross Showcase at the Australian Festival of Chamber Music Garden Stage on July 31. It was a wonderful exhibition of an incredibly diverse program that was presented with professionalism, enthusiasm, and joy. Thank you to our performers, conductors, staff, and the AFCM for this amazing opportunity.

🎵 CQUniversity Schools’ Jazz Festival
Earlier this month, the Southern Cross Stage Band travelled to Mackay and took part in the CQUniversity Schools Jazz Festival. Part of the festival included watching Friday Jazz @ The Con which featured the guest clinician for the festival, Daryl McKenzie, who is a distinguished Australian musical director, composer, arranger, orchestrator, conductor and trombonist who has made significant contributions to Australia’s music scene across various genres and platforms. On Saturday, Stage Band had an adjudicated performance, a clinic with the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music Faculty Staff, and a performance at the Showcase Concert. Stage Band earned a Silver Award for their performance, as well as being awarded the Most Outstanding Rhythm Section for the entire Festival. Outstanding Soloist awards were also presented to Frank on the tenor sax and Harvey on the trumpet. Congratulations to these musicians and their director, Mr Gallagher.

🎵 Pre-Eisteddfod Concert

Performance Run Order (subject to change):

• Stage Band
• Southern Cross Trebles
• Wind Symphony
• Percussion Ensemble
• Southern Cross Mezzos
• Primary Concert Band
• Primary String Ensemble
• Southern Cross Voices
• Primary Guitar Ensemble
• Secondary String Orchestra
• Secondary Guitar Ensemble

 🎵 2025 Townsville Eisteddfod
In Week 9 & 10 of this term, over 350 SCCC students will compete in the annual Townsville Eisteddfod across 31 different sections. Below is preliminary information for families in regards to Townsville Eisteddfod performances. More detailed information (transport details, arrival & approximate performance times, etc) will be provided via Compass.

🥁 Ensemble Rehearsals
All ensembles rehearse every week of term, including the first and last weeks, unless you are contacted directly by the conductor.

• Please notify your child’s ensemble conductor via email if your child is unable to attend a rehearsal.
• Consistent, unexplained absences will prompt follow-up communication from the conductor.

With Eisteddfod quickly approaching, it’s essential we rehearse as a full group to prepare effectively!

THE ARTS - Secondary

Our Drama and Music Academy students recently enjoyed an inspiring theatre trip to see Townsville Choral Society’s vibrant production of & Juliet. The students were impeccably behaved and thoroughly loved the show, especially seeing their very own teachers, Miss Dibben, Miss Hocking and Mr Russell shine on stage! We were also thrilled to cheer on our talented alumna, Amaya Lejarraga, who absolutely smashed the iconic role of Juliet. We are truly fortunate to have such gifted staff within our school community: Miss Davies as Vocal Director, Miss Belford as Musical Director, and Miss Todd performing beautifully on violin. Experiences like this not only enrich our students’ love of the performing arts but also highlight the incredible expertise and passion that surrounds them daily. 

SPORTS NEWS - Primary

Inter-School Athletics Carnival 2025 Results
Congratulations to the 80 students from Southern Cross Catholic College who attended the Primary Inter-School Athletics Carnival at Red Track. All these students did a fantastic job representing our school showing amazing sportsmanship and commitment to their events.

Our school received some outstanding results from the carnival day.

• Southern Cross came 3rd overall in the Aggregate Shield out of the 8 schools attending.
• Southern Cross came 3rd in the boys Aggregate Shield overall.
• Southern Cross had 14 students selected to compete in the NQ trials to be held on Tuesday 2 September: Zuma SM, Chris M, Lucas J, Matthew R, Jonathan L, Koen J, Madison J, Esther G, Estelle G, Darby B, Nate R, Ashlyn K, Jason N and Reggie G.

An outstanding effort from all of our SC students and we wish all of our students competing at the next level the best of luck.

Congratulations and well done everyone.

SPORTS NEWS - Secondary

Southern Cross Students Shine at the NQ All Schools Touch Football Carnival!
Over the weekend, five teams of Southern Cross students took to the field, giving it their all at the NQ All Schools Touch Football Carnival. Going head-to-head with the best teams in the region, our athletes showcased their skill, grit, and resilience in every match.

The Highlights:

• Junior Boys: The Junior Boys team worked hard and secured themselves a position in the Semi Final round.
• Minor Boys: A thrilling semi-final saw our Minor Boys team push to a drop-off against the Ignatius Park B team. In a nail-biting finish, they fought their way to the final, where they secured second place, a commendable effort!
• Opens Mixed A Team: This team was undefeated throughout the entire weekend, what a performance! However, their final match against Gordonvale State High School went down to the wire in a drop off and, unfortunately, after a controversial call, they came in at second place But, the spirit and determination they showed was nothing short of outstanding!

Behind the Scenes:
Weekends like this don’t happen without the tireless efforts of the staff who put in the hard work leading up to the event with intense training sessions and long days in the sun over the weekend. A massive thank you to everyone involved for making this event possible.

A special shout-out to those who came to cheer on our teams! Your support made all the difference.

Congratulations to all the players, coaches, and supporters! Your dedication, spirit, and teamwork are what make Southern Cross teams the best!

Fired Up for the Gold Coast – CBSQ Girls Bring the Heat in Pre-Tournament Clash!
On Tuesday afternoon, our CBSQ girls hit the court against St Margaret Mary’s College in a high-energy basketball showdown, a perfect warm-up for the big CBSQ tournament on the Gold Coast later this term.

All ten of our players turned up, even those nursing a few knocks and niggles, showing true grit and commitment to the team. The energy was high, the effort was fierce, and we caught flashes of the slick, sharp basketball we know this squad is capable of.

The game gave us plenty to celebrate, and a few key areas to sharpen up, as we continue to build momentum heading into the tournament.

A huge shoutout to our amazing parent supporters who packed the sideline for that action-packed hour of basketball. With this kind of spirit, skill, and support, the Gold Coast better watch out, our girls are coming!

Northern Representatives
Congratulations to the following students for their selection on the 13-15years Northern Futsal Team.

• Emeliyah
• Harry
• Caleb
• Hayden

The School Locker

The School Locker Uniform Shop is opened on the following days each week.

Tuesday           8.00am – 10.00am

Wednesday      2.00pm – 4.00pm                            

Friday               8.00am – 10.00am  

Safety

 Carpark Safety Reminders 

To ensure our campus remains a safe and healthy environment for everyone, we ask that all parents and carers:

 Drive slowly and carefully in and around the College.

 Use drop-off and pick-up zones only as intended, keeping traffic flowing.

 Park only in the designated car parks.

 Refrain from smoking anywhere on College grounds.

Thank you for your cooperation and ongoing commitment to the safety and wellbeing of our College.

Important Events & Date Claimers

Stay up to date with what's happening in your childs class with the weekly 'Whats On' documents.

Check out upcoming events and important whole college messages below 👇🏼