From Hannah, Joey and Jacob

Another great experience for our seniors was had by our returning and new QISSRL and QISSN players that were a part of the 2023 teams including the girls representing St Joesph College Toowoomba. We took our journey to Brisbane leaving Sunday 25 June arriving at the Opening Ceremony. This was an eye opener, seeing the number of teams that will be competing for the week ahead. It was a jammed packed Monday through to Wednesday for the girls who managed to win all games in their pool with the exception of one very tight game which resulted in a draw. This result promoted the team to the division above for finals and what a great few games that was, competing Thursday and Friday. The girls managed a third place in their division with the highlight of their week, being the amount of wins they achieved. The girls showed great sportsmanship and companionship, as it was visible to all on and off the court. The boys had some great games, they had a slow start with their first game but then proceeded to win all games leading into the semi-finals. The semi game was versing the host school St Laurence’s College, they were the team to beat but unfortunately, they had victory against the boys. The highlight of their week was attending the Broncos and Titans game at Suncorp Stadium and creating mateship within the team. All players would like to acknowledge appreciation to the sponsors, teachers, staff and parents who were able to support the trip for both Confraternity and the QISSN carnival, it is a fantastic experience and should be for many more students for years to come.  

Over the holidays was also the celebration of NAIDOC Week. What is NAIDOC? NAIDOC stands for National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee. Before NAIDOC was formed, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people mourned and protested on the Sunday before Australia Day, which was originally known as Aborigines Day. It was then shifted to what it is known as today, a week of celebration for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history and culture, held every July. Each year, the celebration of NAIDOC week spreads across Australia and was even celebrated within our school. This years’ celebration was held over the holidays from the 2nd to the 9th of July. Additionally, the National NAIDOC theme this year was 'For our Elders'. As an Indigenous person, respect for our elders is essential, as they are our mentors, and play an important role in our communities and families. Even as different ethnicity people, I believe we all should join in, and celebrate the commemoration of Australian history and Aboriginal culture this year.