Bishop Ken Howell

The Most Reverend Bishop Ken Howell undertook his first Parish Pastoral Visit last weekend to St Joseph’s Dalby and surrounding parishes.  Included in this was a whole day visit to our wonderful College.  Bishop Ken joined us for staff prayer, addressed students at assembly, and visited a vast majority of classes across the College before meeting with the leadership team for period 4.  It was insightful to gain Bishop Ken’s perspective on many matters and most importantly, to see him interacting with the students and answering their questions.  At OLSCC, our faith is strongly steeped in the tradition of living like Jesus, and seeing Bishop Ken amongst our community reaffirmed the importance of service in all communities.  

ANZAC Day

Nothing stops the nation like ANZAC Day.  And rightly so.  If your family hasn’t already, please take the time to reflect on this great part of the world we live in as well as the liberties afforded to us by not only our servicemen and servicewomen who have offered everything for our way of life, but by the spirit of the ANZACs that lives inside each and every Australian every day.  Mrs Skerman reminded me at the dawn service that all other nations celebrate their greatest victories in war, whereas we opt to celebrate the toil, grit, dedication and sacrifice of our ANZACs instead.  I was humbled and proud to join the Dalby and OLSCC community in both marches yesterday and continue to be proud of our engagement in ANZAC Day ceremonies across the region.  A wise old man once told me that ANZAC Day wasn’t a public holiday, it was a day when everything was closed so we had the chance to remember all that had been given to us in this amazing country in which we live.

Dr Justin Coulson – 2 May

There are many parents at independent schools in Brisbane who pay $180 a ticket to access a glimpse of the parenting and wellbeing expert Dr Justin Coulson.  Thanks to our amazing FACE Committee, you can come along to a very personal session with Justin for only twenty bucks!  You might even get a snack and a cold beverage thrown in for free!  Thanks to Kaitlyn, Kate and all your helpers for providing this amazing opportunity for our community yet again.  Justin is full of amazing advice and useful ideas for supporting our youth in a world that didn’t exist when us parents were growing up.  See you there – secure your ticket and don’t miss out!

Communication to and from the College

Communication is the key for all parties in a College community to align.  The reality is that different parties have different expectations regarding communication.  Below is an outline of how the College communicates with parents, students, and the wider community, as well as the best ways for parents to communicate with the College.  By having a common understanding and expectations regarding communication, we can work together better for the ongoing improved education of the young people in our mutual care.

How the College communicates with the Community:

How to best contact the College:

Email – general communication

Phone – time sensitive communication, urgent issues, to book a meeting with a member of staff, or to get general guidance from administration.

In person – generally at drop off time to discuss matters with class teachers relevant to the general organisation of the day.

It is important to note that we value the right of staff to disconnect from their work outside of work hours for their own wellbeing, and that of their family.  Accordingly, attached are our College protocols, closely aligned to all Catholic schools in Queensland, to make reasonable expectations and guidelines for our staff and community, titled “Protocols for the effective management of work-related electronic communications”.  Please feel free to read so we all have some common expectations regarding communication.

The Dalby Show

There’s no time like show time, and even though Dalby show regularly falls in the autumn school holidays, I continue to be inspired by the OLSCC community and their commitment this age-old community event.  Our choir sang at the opening ceremony, our students showed cattle, art, craft, flowers and baking, and many were seen a little worse for wear after a few spins down sideshow alley.  Despite the busyness of our world, it is wonderful to see the tradition of the local show still going strong in Dalby.  Please consider what part you can play in supporting this tradition to continue in 2025 and beyond, whether it be a spot of baking, a hand in the organisation of the rodeo, or just going along and parting with some hard earned dollars so the kids can grab a showbag and have a go on the dodgems.  A special congratulations to all our students who submitted entries and participated in the show in one form or another.

Public Health Updates

Attached to today’s newsletter are two public health information brochures.  Please take the time to peruse these as matters of health are a constant frustration for families, students and teachers alike.  These updates include useful guidelines for all of us to abide by and consider so that we may keep the most vulnerable in our community safe from everyday illnesses that causes greater impact to many in our community.

Mr Peter Cuskelly

Principal

Welcome back to Term 2.  I hope you had an Easter blessed with prayer, family, and plenty of chocolate Easter cheer.  The Easter period is a time for reflection, renewal, and the celebration of compassion and kindness. In a world often fraught with challenges, the message of Easter resonates as a beacon of hope, reminding us of the power of empathy and understanding in our lives.

As our journey continues this term, we look forward to the many occasions, events and milestones we will experience.  Life is busy and there is no avoiding it, so I encourage you to talk to your child about events mentioned in our newsletter, Facebook, Instagram and in our Sentral Parents App to be ready and aware of what is coming up.

Bishop Kenneth Howell visit

Last Friday, 19 April, we had the pleasure of hosting a visit from Bishop Kenneth Howell, the seventh bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Toowoomba. Bishop Ken was installed into office on 11 July 2023 after the retirement of Bishop Robert McGuckin. Bishop Ken spent the day with us, beginning with prayer in our Chapel, followed by an address at assembly and afterwards, he spent almost all day visiting as many classrooms as he could. He took time to meet students, teachers, and other staff of our College. Our students asked some wonderful questions and interacted very well. Bishop Ken spent the following few days in Dalby, meeting parishioners and conducting Mass here and in surrounding towns (even though it got quite wet). We were delighted to be able to host Bishop Ken and learn more about him while showing him all of the wonderful things we achieve as a College community.

ANZAC Day 2024

This week, we took time out of our schedule to join together as a College for our ANZAC Day Service. Our guest speaker, Mr Chris Coman, taught us about his proud connection with ANZAC Day through his brother and the impact it has on his own family. Staff and student leaders also attended the Dawn March and Service and many marched as a College with our local Dalby community, laying a wreath and reading names of past service people at the Commemorative Service afterwards.

Carey Twidale 

Acting Deputy Principal Religious Education 

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light."                    Matthew 11:28-30

Eternal Lord God, we pray for the peace of the world. We especially commend to your mercy the homeless and refugees; those who have been dispossessed and have lost their employment; those whose families have been disrupted and who mourn the loss of loved ones. We pray for the situation in Sydney and surrounds as well as conflict overseas. Grant that the sane and selfless councils may prevail in these places, and wherever there is warfare. For Jesus Christ’s sake. Amen

As we commence Term 2, I extend a warm welcome back to school. I trust that you have enjoyed a restful and rejuvenating break and are now prepared to immerse yourself in learning once again.

Although the end of the semester may appear distant, this term will undoubtedly pass swiftly, as busy terms often do. It is essential for our core mission of learning that we remain focused. I encourage all families and students to collaborate closely with our dedicated staff as we prepare for the end of Semester 1. Our goal is to provide every student with the best possible opportunity to maximize their talents.

A critical factor in supporting student achievement is our expectations. Expectations wield significant influence over what each student can accomplish. Research emphasizes the importance of setting high standards—standards that are not merely aspirational but genuinely held. The outcome of such expectations is enhanced student learning.

However, high expectations alone are insufficient for student success. Teaching and learning are intricate processes. While expectations serve as the launchpad, students must also utilize their abilities and exert effort to reach for the stars and achieve their learning objectives.

As adults, we must lead by example. Our actions demonstrate to young people what we aspire for them to become. By assuming leadership roles and serving as positive role models, we empower them to recognize the benefits of the path we guide them toward. Abdicating leadership would deprive our youth of guidance and potentially expose them to less desirable influences. Therefore, let us be forthright leaders and exemplars.

When we lead with conviction, we create an environment where our young people can thrive. We should never apologize for demanding high standards. Our students rely on us to establish clear boundaries and expectations, allowing them the freedom to make positive choices regarding their academic pursuits and social responsibilities. We assume leadership in this area, because we are more experienced, knowledgeable and wise. To be successful in this area, we need to be relaxed, warm and accepting whilst still being firm and insistent.

Uniform/Presentation & Grooming

Adherence to the College Uniform Policy is a key focus in the Senior Years as we aim for our Year 9-12 students to set the highest example to our younger students. During Terms 2 and 3, all students are required to wear their College tie with their formal uniform. This includes boys having their top button done up.

The red College pullover or the college softshell jacket are the items that students are to wear with their formal uniform. In extreme cold, students are encouraged to layer and may wear the College Jacket on top of the pullover. Please note that students who attend school in their formal uniform and only have the old sports jacket on will be asked to remove the item. To avoid being cold, students need to ensure they are wearing their uniform correctly.

Communication and Pastoral Concerns

Throughout the year, parents are encouraged to communicate with their child’s subject teachers as an initial point of contact for any pastoral or academic matters. For further matters, please contact me through the College Office or by email at rodney.spain@twb.catholic.edu.au

"High school is a critical developmental stage in a student’s life, shaping their future beyond the classroom.”

Successful high schoolers exhibit several key traits that contribute to their achievements:

1. Intrinsic Motivation: These students seek knowledge for its own sake. They genuinely want to learn and grow, taking ownership of their studies. Intrinsic motivation not only predicts academic success but also overall happiness and well-being.
2. Grit: Successful students demonstrate tenacity and perseverance. They navigate stressful moments with grace, a skill essential not only in academics but also in adulthood.
3. Goal Orientation: Having a relevant goal drives students’ passion for learning. Whether aspiring to be doctors, game designers, or pursuing other paths, goal-oriented students excel academically and beyond.
4. Responsibility: Responsible students take charge of their academic performance, attendance, and behavior. Maturity and reliability are crucial for a successful high school experience.

These qualities empower students to thrive, setting them on a path toward lifelong success."¹

Mr Rodney Spain

Assistant Principal – Senior Years

Welcome back to the start of Term 2. I trust all families had a nice break from the normal school routine over the holidays. It was pleasing to see some students and their families enjoying the nice weather and outdoors during the break. I ran into students at the park here in Dalby, up at the Bunya Mountains and drove past a number of students eagerly heading down to the creek on their bikes, fishing rods in hand. The holidays provide a wonderful opportunity to refresh and recharge our batteries and now the time has come to switch back on and to knuckle down for the remainder of Semester One.

There are many sport trials littered through the College calendar in the coming weeks. I wish all students participating the very best with their chosen sports. For a small school in a country town, it never ceases to amaze me how well we do at competitions and trials. We have much to be proud about.

New Students
I would like to welcome the following new students to the OLSCC Family and the Middle Years Sector: Matilda Peterson, Bryce Peterson, and Miley Meacle.  

   

Year 6 Camp
The outback experience draws ever closer. I would just like to remind families that students will need to organise their swags for this experience. If you do not have one of your own, please start asking family members, work friends, neighbours, or even some teachers. We also ask that students bring their swag to school on Friday May 10 and deposit it into the PAC before school. All other luggage can arrive at school with the student on Sunday May 12. We would simply like to pre-load the coach with the swags prior to the departure day. Please remember that luggage space is limited for this camp and so we ask that students pack appropriately, but not excessively.    

Diplock Park Consultative Group
Before the break, a group of Middle Years students worked with a consultative team of representatives work on behalf od the Western Downs Regional Council. Their goal was to workshop some ideas for an upgrade to Diplock Park here in Dalby. It was great to hear the ideas our students developed, and we look forward to seeing their efforts come to fruition in the near future. Thank you to the Western Downs Regional Council for this opportunity.

Containers for Change
The Year 7 Students will be continuing their Praxis Project this term. Here are some snaps of students at the sorting depot at the end of Term 1. If you would like to support the students in their fund-raising effort, please use the following code when you drop off your containers.

Student Awards
Late last term we acknowledge the following students for their consistent effort at demonstrating the College’s Learning Dispositions, Persistence, Motivation, Curiosity, Optimism, Resilience, and Creativity. Well done.

Cross Country

Wednesday, we saw the students break from the normal uniform routine to dress in their brightest house colours and hit the track for the annual Cross Country event. Well done to all participants. It was a wonderful day and the students and staff seemed to enjoy the event.

Science – Physics

Our Year 7 and Year 8 Science classes have been delving into the world of Physics. In the last days of Term 1, the students experimented with concepts such as forces, motion, and energy transformation.

It was great to see students giggling and having fun while learning about a new topic. Check out the photos of their first attempt at building a Ruby Goldberg Machine.

 

A huge welcome to Maya, Amelia and Joyline who join our Early Years family this term!  

Kristen Bennie 

Assistant Principal Early Years 

FACE is super excited and are counting down until Dr Justin Coulson, Australia's leading parenting expert arrives back at OLSCC! 

Justin Coulson who was a co-host on Channel 9's 'Parental Guidance' series, will be back in Dalby to present 'Breaking Point - Unpacking the crisis in youth'.

WHERE AND WHEN?!

This event will be held on Thursday 2 May, commencing at 5.30pm in the Middle Years Plaza for drinks and nibbles.

Followed by Dr Justin Coulson at 6.30pm in the Performing Arts Centre (PAC).

HOW CAN I GET MY TICKET?

$20 per ticket (That is a saving of over $100 per ticket!)

This is a 18+ event, so please make sure you are aware of this, as no children will be allowed to this event.

https://www.trybooking.com/CRBZP

WHO IS HE?

Dr Justin Coulson is the co-host and parenting expert on Channel Nine's Parental Guidance, alongside with Ally Langdon from A Current Affair.

Dr Justin Coulson is also the founder of happyfamilies.com.au, and one of Australia's most trusted parenting, relationships and wellbeing experts.

At this event, he will cover:

• The root causes behind the deteriorating state of mental health, and who (or what) is responsible

• The tools you need to reverse this trend for your children

• Science-backed, relationship-focused strategies to remedy school refusal

• Realistic approaches for managing screen time in a way that protects your child's wellbeing without completely alienating them from their peers

• Creating margin in your home and family life to protect and promote mental wellness

This isn't just a workshop; it's a call to action. Join the conversation and be part of a dynamic, interactive experience where we collaborate to reshape the future of your children's mental health. Hear real stories, explore innovative solutions, and discover practical strategies to empower your kids.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Kaitlin Machin and Kate Cullen

We are an OSHC, we provide before and after school care Mon-Fri 6am-830am and 3:10pm-6pm. We are looking into starting vacation care as well in the near future. We offer this service at the school and have plenty of areas for the children to play including, MPC, PAC room and both ovals. We have plenty of resources provided for the children to play depending on their interest, including: arts and craft, building blocks, balls to kick around and cooking experiences. We also offer breakfast and afternoon tea for all kids.

We will buy more resources depending on what the kids ask for or show interest in.

Thanks,

Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Kindergartens and Care 

https://tckc.qld.edu.au/

DALcare@tckc.qld.edu.au

School Based Apprentice

Congratulations to year 10 student, Prudence Parviainen who commenced her School Based Apprenticeship at Appin Civil Pty Ltd. Prudence will be working one day per week and studying a certificate III in Civil Construction – Road Construction and Maintenance.

Future Careers – Minerals and Exploration Industry

For students interested or want to know more about careers in the minerals and exploration industries, Central Queensland University have information for students wanting more information on these possible pathways. Please click on the link below.

Shape Your Future Innovate Our World – Start your career in minerals and energy. 

Key Dates

22 April                                Yr 10           White Card Training

15 May                                 Yr 9             Industry Dinner

29 May                                 Yr 9&10       Aspire2Health (limited numbers)

10-14 June                           Yr 10           Work Experience

19 July                                 Yr 9-12        Dalby Careers Expo

August                                 Yr 12            ATAR Registration & QTAC Applications

2-4 September                      Yr 12           Barista & RSA

9-10 September                    Yr 10           Manual Handling & First Aid Course

11-13 September                  Yr 10           Barista Course

17 October                           Yr 12           SBA/Traineeship Employer thank you lunch

University Open Days 2024

UniSC

Moreton Bay                                    21 July

Sunshine Coast                              4 August

UniSC 2024 Open Days

UniSQ

Ipswich                                          11 August            10am-2pm

Springfield                                     11 August            10am-2pm

Toowoomba                                                   18 August            10am-2pm

UniSQ 2024 open days

Griffith University

Nathan Campus                             11 August

Gold Coast                                        11 August

Griffith University Open Day

QUT

Gardens Point & Kelvin Grove       28 July               9am – 3pm

QUT Open Day

UQ (University of Queensland) – registrations open in July

St Lucia Campus                                         4 August                 9am – 3pm       

Gatton Campus                                           18 August               9am – 3pm

UQ Open Days

Mr Dean Garside

Career Development Practitioner

I hope everyone had a restful holidays and got to visit the Dalby Show in the last weekend! We had some pretty great representation of the amazing talent at our College. 

Congratulations to the choir who did a performance Friday morning. They looked and sounded absolutely wonderful. I can’t wait to see what they can do at Eisteddfod later this term. 

It was also really lovely to see so many familiar names as we wandered along the competition sections. Congratulations to Baillie Cook and Nadine Garside for winning 1st and 2nd place respectively for their art. If you also won for a competition entry we'd love for you to let us know and send along a photo! 

We also need to acknowledge another great winner, Mr Cuskelly, not only won his section, but also was named Champion for his pottery piece! 

I can't wait to see what amazing stuff we come up with next year! 

Miss Tamara Creeley

Middle Leader Culture

Bunya District Under 12 Sports Trials

Sign on sheets will be placed on the Notice Board before each trial date for any students wishing to attend. Depending on numbers, a school trial may need to be held in some sports.

2 May – Soccer

9 May – Rugby Union

Bunya District Rugby League

Congratulations to the following boys selected in the combined Bunya District / Inner Downs Rugby League Teams to play attend the Darling Downs Trials.

Under 11

Jett Price

Under 12

Archie Stephens, Will Burton, Bobby Machin, Nate Schloss, Lyjah King Togia, Riley Burton, Brax Hunt.

Bunya District Tennis

Congratulations to Lily Ryan, Lexie Forbes and Xavier Skerman who have been selected in the Bunya District Tennis Team to attend the Darling Downs Trials.

Bunya District Touch Football

Congratulations to the following students selected in Bunya District U12 Touch Football Teams to attend the Darling Dpwns Trials in Toowoomba next week.

Boys – Archie Stephens, Benjamin Barwick, Will Burton, Charlie Sullivan.

Girls – Pippa Smith, Harriet Manley, Lucy Scott, Sarah Hall, Lucy Ramage, Isla Blair.

Darling Downs Touch Football Trials

Congratulations to the following students selected in Darling Downs Touch Football Teams this week.

Under 12 – Archie Stephens

Under 15 – Jasper Filewood, Ryker Filewood

Rugby League

Darling Downs Rugby League Competition Round 1

Under 13 – Dalby SHS defeated OLSCC             32-8

Under 15 - Dalby SHS defeated OLSCC              72-0

Under 18 – Dalby SHS defeated OLSCC             22-4     

Round 2 Wednesday 1 May

Brothers Junior Rugby League Grounds

U13 vs Harristown SHS 4pm

U15 vs Harristown SHS 5pm

U18 vs Harristown SHS 6pm

Round 3 Wednesday 8 May

Dalby Leagues Club 

U13 vs Wilsonton SHS 4pm

U15 vs Wilsonton SHS 5pm

U18 vs Assumption Warwick 6pm

Inter House Cross Country Results

Top Ten Junior Boys Under 12- Under 15

Top Ten Girls

Top Five Senior Boys Under 16- Open

Overall Points

QCIS Cross Country

The QCIS Cross Country will be held on Tuesday 7 May at Scots College in Warwick. This will involve students in the Under 10- Open Age Groups. Students will be notified next week if they have been selected to attend.

Darling Downs Cross Country

Any students turning 13 -18 this year who would like to attend the Darling Downs Cross Country Trials need to see Mr Lincoln for more information. Trials will be held in Toowoomba on Tuesday 14 May. Students in the Under 10-12 Age Group must qualify for the Darling Downs Cross Country via the Bunya District Trials.

Mr Tim Lincoln

Middle Leader Sport

St Joseph's Primary, Chinchilla, is hosting a School Horse Sports day on Friday 19^th July. This is a day where OLSCC horse riders can compete in gymkhana events. To be eligible to enter, children must be a financial member of a pony club for insurance purposes,  own your own horse, be a capable independent rider unless on lead and follow all pony club rules and regulations. If you are interested or would like to know more, please make contact with the team manager Kelly Muller via email: kel-michels@hotmail.com 

If you are interested in joining the Dalby and District Pony Club, please make contact with Sarah Lilburne  via email: sarah.lilburne@twb.catholic.edu.au

Saints Race Day

21 September 2024

More information to come.

The Non State Schools Transport Assistance Scheme (NSSTAS) provides assistance to families who transport students to non state schools in Queensland. To find out if you are eligible, please click on the link below. Applications for travel from January to June are open from 1 to 31 May.