COLLEGE NEWSLETTER - 5 SEPTEMBER, 2025

Message from the Principal

Megan Wuersching - College Principal

Dear Southern Cross Catholic College Families,

Thank you to all who have engaged with our draft strategic direction, A Culture of Excellence. This plan reflects the insights gathered during our Year of Renewal and focuses on ensuring that we prioritise what matters most across our college.

Our three Guiding Stars - Rich Catholic Identity, High Quality Learning and Teaching, and Continuous Growth and Improvement will shape our work for the next four years. If you have not yet shared your feedback I encourage you to do so. Your voice is fundamental in shaping our shared future.

Share your feedback or comments here: Feedback Form

Revised Education Guideline for Non-State Schools
The Non-State Schools Accreditation Board (NSSAB) has released its Revised Education Guideline for Educational Programs for Non-State Schools. The updated guideline introduces new time allocations across the curriculum, with a strong emphasis on English and Mathematics to strengthen student outcomes in literacy and numeracy. Schools are currently preparing for implementation, which takes effect from Term 1, 2026.

At Southern Cross Catholic College, our staff are working across today’s student-free day and the additional day on October 7 to ensure our college is well prepared and aligned with the new requirements. We extend our sincere thanks to our staff for their dedication and forward planning in support of our students and community. We are truly blessed to have such a professional and committed team.

Leadership Team Updates
We congratulate Mr Dominic Purcell on his appointment as Acting Principal of St Francis Catholic School in Hughenden for Weeks 9 and 10 of this term. During this time, Mrs Angela Marano will serve as Acting APRE, Primary, and Mrs Lauren Dee will take on the role of Acting Curriculum Leader, Humanities. We thank each of them for their willingness to step into these leadership roles and support our community.

Mr Jaye Beutel, Deputy Principal – Secondary, has tendered his resignation and will conclude his time at Southern Cross Catholic College at the end of the school year. We extend our sincere gratitude to Jaye for the knowledge, skills and leadership he has brought to our college along with his commitment to student wellbeing and the cultivation of a positive staff and student culture. We wish Jaye every success in his next chapter and thank him for all that he will continue to contribute throughout the remainder of the year. Recruitment for this position will take place over the next few months.

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

Megan

FROM THE DEPUTIES - Primary

Katrina Wootton - Deputy Principal - Primary

NAPCAN (National Association for Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect) is a national organisation dedicated to the safety and well-being of Australia's children and young people. 

This National Child Protection week is a powerful reminder that real change begins with everyday conversations in families, workplaces, schools, and communities. We need to speak up, listen deeply, and turn awareness into meaningful action to make changes. Every conversation can lead to doing things differently and be a catalyst for a safer world for children.

Building a Culture of Safety and Wellbeing at SCCC!


As parents and carers, you know how important it is that your child feels safe and supported at school. Wellbeing is not just about avoiding problems, it’s about creating an environment where children can learn, grow, and thrive every day. Primary children are not perfect, and they do make mistakes, but with support and encouragement, they learn what to do differently next time.

Staff at SCCC constantly consider student and staff well-being. When students feel safe, they can focus on learning. When staff are well, they can give their very best to the children in their care. Together, this creates a positive and safe culture across the whole College.
 
How we build safety and wellbeing at SCCC

• Clear expectations: We have clear policies and routines that ensure everyone knows what safe and respectful behaviour looks like.
• Positive connections: Teachers and all staff work hard to build strong relationships with students, and we encourage friendships and peer support across year levels.
• Student voice: We give children opportunities to share their ideas and concerns, and we listen carefully when they do.
• Staff wellbeing: We support our teachers and staff so they can be at their best for your children.
• Safe environments: We continually review how to make every space safer, from classrooms to playgrounds to online spaces.

How parents can help

• Talk about the day: Ask open questions like, “What was something that made you smile today?” or “Who did you enjoy playing with at lunch?”
• Model positive coping: Show your child how to manage stress and model how you look after your wellbeing.
• Stay connected: If your child raises a concern, big or small, please contact the teacher. Working together is the best way to keep children safe and supported.

Creating a culture of safety and well-being is truly a team effort. By working together, SCCC, home, and community - we can ensure that every child feels they belong, are cared for, and are ready to learn.

Have a wonderful week

Katrina

FROM THE DEPUTIES - Secondary

Jaye Beutel - Deputy Principal - Secondary

Opti-MINDS Results!
Southern Cross Catholic College proudly fielded five Secondary teams in the Townsville rounds of Opti-MINDS last weekend, and what a phenomenal result! All five teams performed with creativity, collaboration, and confidence, bringing home four 1st place finishes and one Honours (2nd place). Impressively, the team awarded second place was bested only by another Southern Cross team!

This remarkable achievement is a testament to the talent and teamwork of our students, and the dedication of our staff. A heartfelt thank you to our incredible facilitator - Mrs Deon, Mrs Edwards, Mr Cook, Mrs Dibben, and Mrs See who generously gave their time and energy to guide and support our teams. We also extend our gratitude to Ms Coyle, who served as a judge during the event.

Congratulations to all involved, you’ve done Southern Cross proud!

KINDNESS WEEK to RU OK Day!
Our amazingly dedicated Guidance and Pastoral Teams have put together a series of Homeroom conversations, activities and a wide array of kindness act opportunities throughout the camps across these few weeks leading to UR OK Day - Thursday, 11 September.

While “To Love…” is at the heart of our College each and every day, this themed initiative has already started to pump positive vibes amongst our students and staff. 

We invite all students and members of our community to get involved, and in particular get ready to wear YELLOW on RU OK Day?! 

Student Free Day - Tuesday, 7 October
All Townsville Catholic Education system schools and colleges will be observing a Student Free Day on Tuesday, 7 October - the first week of Term 4. 

Please adjust your family calendar to ensure that you have added the extra day to the Term 3 break. 

Jaye

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

Luke 14:25-33 The Cost of Discipleship
Now large crowds were travelling with him; and he turned and said to them, ‘Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, saying, “This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.” Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace. So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions.

In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus speaks to a large crowd about what it truly means to follow Him. His words are bold and challenging: He says that anyone who wants to be His disciple must be willing to put Him first - even above family, comfort, and possessions. He uses strong language to make His point, but it’s important to understand that this is a form of Hebrew expression meant to emphasise the seriousness of the commitment.

Jesus then shares two short stories: one about a person building a tower, and another about a king preparing for battle. In both cases, He highlights the importance of thinking things through and being prepared. Just like these examples, choosing to follow Jesus is a decision that requires reflection, courage, and trust.

At the heart of this message is a call to put faith into action. Discipleship isn’t always easy - it asks us to carry our own crosses, to make sacrifices, and sometimes to let go of things we hold dear. But Jesus also assures us that this path, while challenging, leads to joy, peace, and a deeper relationship with God.

As parents, we know what it means to make sacrifices for those we love. This Gospel invites us to reflect on how we live out our faith in daily life - at home, at work, and in our community. Are we willing to trust God fully, even when the road is difficult? Are we helping our children understand the beauty and strength that comes from following Jesus?

Let’s take a moment this week to consider:

• What does discipleship look like in our family life?
• How can we support one another in living out our faith more deeply?

May we have the courage to follow Jesus wholeheartedly, and the grace to guide our children on this journey of faith.

Steven

From the Chaplain

Mikayla Ten Dam - College Chaplain

These last few weeks have been very busy around the College in the Chaplaincy space as we work to get up and running Mini and Teen Vinnies after a few years hiatus.

So what are Mini/Teen Vinnies you may ask?
Mini/Teen Vinnies are school-based groups that help students to take action to improve the lives of others in the community. Mini Vinnies involves students from Years 5 & 6 whilst Teen Vinnies involves all secondary students. We meet every two weeks (alternating weeks for the primary/secondary groups) to learn about social justice, build leadership skills, and put our Christian values into action by helping others in need.

What guides us?
Our College Motto of To Love, To Serve, To SHINE as well as our Marian Charism which inspires us to live compassionately, courageously and justly to enhance the lives of all.

It is so great to see so many students passionate about social justice and wanting to make a difference in our community as we had a massive 50 attendees for our first Mini Vinnies meeting! Our Teen Vinnies crew is growing steadily with about 15 members at present.

We also held our first Mini/Teen Vinnies afternoon retreat on Tuesday of this week which was the culminating event of our Project Dignity appeal. Our retreat allowed students to connect on a personal level with the issue of homelessness by participating in a range of organised activities and reflections, whilst raising awareness to support the work of the St Vincent de Paul Society.

The number of items collected is still in the process of being tallied but I will provide an update in the next newsletter!

Mikayla

From the Guidance Team

Embrace Collective Hub

Q: Is it okay to call foods 'sometimes’ foods? I get that using labels like ‘junk’ or ‘bad’ isn’t helpful for kids, but this one always stumps me.

A: We hear you, this can be such a tricky topic! Calling a food a 'sometimes’ food is just another unnecessary label that categorises and moralises it. Food and nutrition isn't black and white, and there are many shades of grey, which young people often can't comprehend. Food and nutrition advice needs to be tailored to the age/stage of each child, but to keep it simple, we recommend simply calling foods by their name (e.g. chocolate, strawberry or juice).

Have a burning body image question you want answered by one of our experts? Submit your question here for a chance to be featured.

If you have any questions, need assistance or simply want to share your feedback, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at hello@theembracecollective.org

Link to further Resources 

Julie, Claire, Britt and Teneille

First Nations Education Updates

Year 6 HASS 
It’s a true highlight of mine to go into Year 6 classes in Term 3. Students have been learning about Federation and the rights (or lack of rights) of different groups in the last 100 years. Students had discussed the rights of women and the effect of the Suffragette Movement and then I was invited in to look at key events in history and what effect that had on the rights of First Nations people. During these sessions we focused on:

• When First Nations people were given the right to vote in the different states and territories in Australia (finding out all First Nations people were eligible to vote in 1962 but it was not mandatory until 1984). 
• The successful 1967 Referendum - how the Constitution changed in sections 51 and 127, so that laws could be made to include First Nations people and First Nations people were now included in the census.
• We also looked at Vincent Lingiari and the Wave Hill Walk Off.  We discussed the reasons for the walk off (asking for basic human rights - to be paid in money, not rations, to abolish horrid living and working conditions and live their way on Traditional land.  We then looked at the lyrics of the song which was inspired by this event, “From Little Things, Big Things Grow” by Kev Carmody and Paul Kelly, analysing the lyrics and then watching.
• The last lesson focused on the unsuccessful Voice Referendum.  We looked at the origins of the Voice Referendum (coming from the Uluru Statement From The Heart), arguments for the Yes and No side as well as the results, breaking down each state and territory.

Students were left at the last lesson with one question, “If you had to choose one of the following three as the most important quality to have to create change, which would it be - power, knowledge or voice?”  This question as well as many more proved a great opportunity for conversation and discussion.

Year 5 Design
It’s design week this week for Year 5 as they create their structures. Over the term students have learnt about First Nations structures around Australia, different materials used and building, heating and cooling strategies. Last week Year 5 were visited by Will Mabo who led a session on construction strategies which was a fantastic experience (watch out for some future pics on Facebook!) 

Indigenous Literacy Day
This Wednesday is Indigenous Literacy Day with the theme this year, “Strength in Our Stories: For Now & Future Generations.” Indigenous Literacy Day is produced and presented by the Indigenous Literacy Foundation in collaboration with the Sydney Opera House. This day is an annual celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People’s stories, cultures and languages. Classes will have the opportunity to take part in this day by watching the livestream which takes the audience to 3 different communities:

1. Ceduna and Koonibba in South Australia to learn from young author Mia Speed, celebrate Wirangu language and make Bush Medicine on Country.
2. Katherine and Binjari in the Northern Territory to meet student authors of Grunch det k’Taun Krok! And also hear from Elders and learn the creational Dreaming story of Katherine Gorge.
3. Warakurna Community in Western Australia to go out on Country, learn about the seasons and how Miss Daisy’s knowledge and stories are keeping Warakurna kids strong.

Directly following this, students will be taken to the Sydney Opera House where ILF ambassadors and guests including Jessica Mauboy, Lucas Proudfoot, Bianca Hunt, Justine Clarke, Josh Pyke, Dobby will host performances celebrating storytelling.

ATSIMS
Five Year 10 students with Mrs Kerrie Horrocks have taken part in the ATSIMS (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders in Marine Science) Program this term, taking part in a number of days which have included learning from rangers on Yunbenun (Magnetic Island), learning from presenters at AIMS about initiatives going on there and this Monday, just got back from a camp at Orpheus Island.  We can’t wait to hear all about their adventures on socials.

Palm Island Spring Festival
Please see the flyer attached for the Palm Island Spring Festival.
Ferry Details:  Friday, 26 September departing Townsville at 8am and departing Palm Island at 4.15pm Friday afternoon. 

• Cultural dances
• Local stalls
• Historic tours of the island
• Historic tour of the knowledge/library centre
• Art and craft activities

Bianca

SCCC Music Academy

🎵 Oz Schools Instrumental Championships State Finalist
Congratulations to Zachary who recently competed in the Queensland State Final for the Oz Schools Instrumental Championships. Zach was chosen as one of the top 20 drummers in his age category, and was invited to perform live at the Queensland State Final. Over 10 weeks, more than 1000 students from across the country will come together to showcase their talents and compete for championship titles in piano, strings, drums, and guitar. Well done Zach!

🎵 Queensland Regional Ensemble Program (QREP)
Last weekend marked the inaugural Queensland Regional Ensemble Program NQ. Under the guidance of exceptional clinicians Jeremy Borthwick and Ray Cassar, four students from SCCC joined 36 talented musicians from across Townsville to form two new jazz ensembles, the Altered Licks Big Band and the Pocket Change Big Band. Both groups diligently rehearsed challenging repertoire and delivered an engaging and energetic concert on Sunday afternoon for friends and family. Our Music Academy Program Leader, Miss Belford, also participated in the project as a QREP Regional Clinician. Congratulations to Samuel, Ashton, Harvey, and Finn for representing SCCC with distinction. Thank you to CQUniversity for creating this amazing opportunity for our musicians.

🎵 Pre-Eisteddfod Concert Success
Congratulations to all our performers who participated in the Pre-Eisteddfod Concert. It was a remarkable night that marked a significant milestone in our preparation for the upcoming Townsville Eisteddfod.

Please take some time to plan for the upcoming Eisteddfod season, and ensure that consent has been provided for on Compass.

SPORTS NEWS - Primary

Les Stagg Trophy – Rugby League

On Monday, 18 August, our boys’ rugby league team proudly represented the school at the Les Stagg Trophy, held at Brothers Leagues. This was the second week of the knockout competition, and the team faced off against Ryan Catholic College.

Throughout the game, our boys demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship, teamwork, and determination. Their skill and confidence grew as the match progressed, resulting in a strong overall performance. The team started the game with great energy, securing the first try of the match. Despite their impressive effort, they were ultimately defeated by the Ryan team 26-6.

A special thank you goes to Mr Lansley for his valuable support and coaching on the night. His guidance and encouragement made a significant impact on the team’s performance.

Congratulations to all the players on their fantastic effort and commitment. You represented the school with pride!

SPORTS NEWS - Secondary

Karen Murphy Cup
On Friday, our Grade 7/8 Boys and Girls Rugby League teams proudly represented Southern Cross Catholic College in the School Boys Trophy and Karyn Murphy Cup competitions.

It was a fantastic day filled with skill, sportsmanship, and courage, with many students experiencing competitive rugby league for the very first time.

Players of the Carnival
A special congratulations to our Players of the Carnival for their outstanding efforts:

• 3, Sam.G, 2, Kadon.F, 1, Hayden.F
• 3, Adelaide.K, 2, Lillie.A, 1, Isla.C

These players stood out for their determination, leadership, and strong performances across the day.

👏 Acknowledgements
A huge thank you to our staff and coaches for their support, guidance, and encouragement throughout the carnival. Their efforts ensured our students had an enjoyable, safe, and rewarding experience.

Both teams should be commended not only for their results, but also for the energy, sportsmanship, and courage they displayed on the field. For many of our students, this was their first step into the sport, and what an exciting beginning it was!

Interschool Athletics Carnival – Week Six
On Thursday and Friday of Week Six, around 100 of our secondary students proudly represented Southern Cross Catholic College at the Melton Black “A” Schools Athletics Carnival.

Over two big days of track and field events, our students displayed determination, talent, and teamwork. From sprints to long-distance races, throws, and jumps, the competition was fierce, and our team produced some truly outstanding results.

Podium Performances
We had a fantastic list of podium finishers across multiple events:

Long Distance & Middle Distance

• Sascha – 3000m (3rd)
• Eamon – 3000m (1st), 1500m (2nd)
• Aidan – 3000m (3rd), 1500m (3rd)
• Braith – 3000m (2nd), 1500m (1st)
• Aleeah – 1500m (1st), 800m (1st), 400m (2nd)
• Jessica – 1500m (1st)
• Hayden – 800m (2nd)
• Caitlyn – 800m (3rd)

Sprints & Relays

• Rayner – 400m (3rd)
• Aden – 400m (2nd)
• Luke – 400m (2nd), 200m (3rd)
• Jaeda – 400m (3rd)
• Tyson – 400m (3rd)
• Lexi – 400m (1st)
• Shiloh – 400m (3rd), 200m (2nd)
• Gemma – 400m (2nd)
• Ava-Lily – 400m (3rd)
• Jake – 200m (3rd)
• Corbin – 200m (2nd)

Field Events

• Matilda – High Jump (3rd)
• Henry – High Jump (3rd)
• Jake – High Jump (1st)
• Georgia – High Jump (1st)
• Ned – Discus (1st), Triple Jump (2nd)
• Braith – Triple Jump (3rd)
• Corbin – Discus (2nd), Long Jump (3rd)
• Keeley – Javelin (3rd)
• Darcy – Javelin (2nd)
• Clara – Shot Put (1st)

Age Champions
Congratulations to our Age Champions:

• Luke.D
• Aleeah.T

Both students showed consistency across multiple events and came away with well-deserved champion titles.

Team Results

• Boys Team – 4th overall
• Girls Team – 8th overall

Thank You
A huge thank you to all students who competed and represented the College with pride. Your sportsmanship, energy, and commitment made for an unforgettable two days. We also extend our gratitude to the dedicated staff who supported the team and ensured the carnival was such a success.

Holly

From the P & F

Parents and carers with children enrolled at Southern Cross Catholic College automatically become members of the Parents and Friends Association and you are most welcome to attend our scheduled monthly meetings.

NEXT MEETING is MONDAY, 8 SEPTEMBER at 6:00pm

 Primary Staffroom

Head to the College website to check out last meeting's minutes. 

Meeting Minutes - March 2025

The Parents and Friends Association works closely with the College Leadership Team and the Southern Cross Catholic College Community to promote the interests of the College and to further develop school functions and fundraising events to the benefit of the students and their families.

The Pre-Loved Uniform Shop and our dedicated team of wonderful volunteers will be stationed under the Primary Shed every 2nd and 4th Friday of the month during the school term, from 8:00 am to 8:45 am.

🎉 $5 SPRING CLEARANCE SALE! 🎉
Before Term 3 ends, grab some amazing bargains at our Spring Clearance Sale - everything just $5!

📅 When: Friday, 12 September
📍 Where: Primary Shed

Don't miss out on these great deals - stock is limited!

👉 Calling All Parents, Carers, and Grandparents! 👈

We warmly invite new members to join our team and support our cause. Jenny, Cathy and Lauren, our fantastic volunteers, are eager to welcome you. If you’re interested in lending a hand, please reach out to the ladies via email at c39pandf@sctsv.catholic.edu.au.

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  

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 👇🏼