22 November - Year 10/11 Final Day

25 - 27 November - Prep Teacher/Parent Interviews

25 November - Year 6 Prayer - End of Primary Prayer

26 November - Year 3 Prayer Celebration

28 November - Colour Run

29 November - Year 5 Eureka Excursion

29 November - Early Years Swimming Carnival

29 November - Year 4 Retreat

29 November - Music Workshop

2 December - OLSCC Christmas Carols (6:00pm-8:00pm)

3 December - St Columban's Caboolture Sports Visit Year 7-8

3 December - Early Years meets Senior Years

4 December - UP Day

5 December - Early Years Nativity Play (10:00am)

6 December - Last day of Academic Year - Reset Day

Year 12 Graduation

The highlight of the year is when we reflect on the amazing growth we have seen in our graduating students throughout their collective student life before sending them out into the world to make it a better place. This year was certainly no exception. As I congratulated each of the Class of 2024, it was humbling to think through the challenges and highlights we have all walked with these wonderful humans throughout their schooling here. I am grateful that we can graduate our students from St Jospeh’s Parish Church before gathering around a table to share a meal before going forth into the community. It truly is a magical time of year, and I am so extremely proud of the great people that we send into the world each and every year. It is by far the best achievement we make each year and what makes our identity as a College so strong.

Awards Ceremony

Our awards ceremony gets better and better each year. I am humbled to have the honour of standing and co-presenting each and every award to our students who have earned them through exemplifying the learning dispositions in their daily work habits. At OLSCC, we focus on growing great people, and we certainly witnessed some great people on the stage at the MPC last week! As in life, not everyone gets an excellence award on this day, and that’s okay. It’s important for students to use this opportunity to think about which specific area they may shine some effort on from now until this time next year in an effort towards continuous improvement. It is through this daily grind of persistence and resilience that we build character and strive toward one day achieving the goals that we set. As I mentioned last week, improving at any particular task by 1% each day means that we actually finish a year of improvement over 37 times better than when we start. The compounding impact of gradual improvement is mathematically and realistically significant!

May I also say a huge WELL DONE to Ms Purbrick and Mr De Costa Silva who took some excellent images throughout the ceremony for our community. Unfortunately, there was a bloke in a suit leaning over like a teapot in most of the photos – but we’ll work on that for next year. Also, a huge THANKS to Mrs Lilburne who had the photos sorted and onto the College website by that afternoon. It is absolutely amazing for our families to be able to download their photos directly from the website to share with families and friends. And of course, to Mrs Brennan and her merry band of helpers who start organising this event from the day it finishes the year before and the finished product is a brilliant celebration – GOOD JOB!

The feedback I received from the staff at Toowoomba Catholic Schools was excellent. One of our visitors commented how the learning dispositions were clearly visible in every seat – especially our younger students who were so patient and resilient. Thank you to everyone who came along and shared the celebrations.

Last week of Term + Friday 6 December

The last week of term is a great week of celebration at the College. We have Christmas Carols, Pink Stumps Day, “Up Day”, Nativity Play and of course the last day of Term 4, Friday 6December. The last day of the school year is a day where we finalise our tidy up in preparation for the holidays as well as for the start of Term 1 2025. As such, Friday 6 December will not involve teaching and learning, and the College will be providing “supervision only”. This means that students will be assisting teachers, school officers and other staff with getting the College into shape for the upcoming year. All students in attendance will be required to wear their full sports uniform and will be busy with active tasks throughout the day. Students of all year levels are to attend the College after 8:30am and head straight to the Pavilion, and will be released from the day at 3:10pm, as usual. Please note that there will be no attendance penalty for non-attendance on the day, though we would still love plenty of helpers. If you child is absent on this day, please choose the reason “Last Day 6  December”.

Staffing Update

I would like to announce the following changes to our staffing roster for 2025:

Middle Leader Student Services: I would like to announce Mrs Danielle Skerman to this position. Mrs Skerman is a passionate advocate for inclusive education and currently is the learning support teacher and Middle Leader English & Humanities, as well as Subject Discipline Literacy Coach in secondary. I greatly look forward to Danielle’s contribution to the ever-improving teaching practice at the College.

Specialist Teacher (Primary): Mrs Dimity Whitby will be delivering specialist lessons in the Early Years in much the same fashion as Mrs Sullivan this year. Mrs Whitby has completed preservice placements at the College in the past and more recently has been working in a relief role. 

Groundsman - Agriculture and Coach: Mr Gavin Fazakerley is our new addition to the grounds team, focussing most of his efforts on transporting students on the College Coach and also developing the capacity of the agriculture program in the Paddock, including our work in the Paddock, Vineyard and Winemaking. Mr Fazakerley has much experience across a variety of areas and will be a wonderful addition to our team.

Facilities Co-ordinator: After the departure of Mr Nathan Pretorius to north Queensland, Mr Brian Chiverton has been appointed as our new facilities co-ordinator. This role overseas and coordinates the 3 grounds staff, manages contracts and is generally responsible for the ongoing development of facilities at the College. Mr Chiverton has been here for the past 2 years in a groundsperson position.

Farewell Mr Setch: Mr Casey Setch is moving to the Redlands area where he will be teaching next year. We thank Mr Setch for his work at the College since joining our College community in 2022!

Farewell Mrs Stephen: Mrs Tania Stephen is taking some well-earned time with her husband as they begin the transition to retirement. Tania has played an integral role in supporting our students to be the very best they can since commencing with the College in 2005. All the best Tania to you and your family.

Reminder Regarding Attendance

Attendance is one of the greatest influences of a positive schooling experience for students who attend mainstream schooling. It is where our people learn social skills, how to interact and coexist with others, and where they learn the importance of turning up and giving the best they can – each and every day. Even when assessment is complete and students are engaged in a wide variety of activities at school, like in the last 2 weeks of school each year, attendance is important. We spend all year teaching students the learning dispositions, and when there is less structure and academic rigour in the school day, it is really obvious which students are able to apply the learning dispositions to life, and continue to make a positive contribution to the world in which they live. 

At the start of 2025 we will be communicating our refined and more efficient eligibility criteria for students to attend extra-curricular activities. It is important to note that attendance in 2024, particularly in Term 4, will definitely be considered to determine a child’s eligibility for events in at least the first half of next year. Please communicate this with your child and be sure to support their attendance all the way until the end of the academic year, which for attendance is up to and including Thursday 5December 2024.

Peter Cuskelly

Principal

Well, the count down to the end of the year is definitely on, this Friday we farewell our Year 10 and 11 students. Last week we said a big goodbye and best wishes to our Year 12 graduands. What an amazing week we had last week not only farewelling our thirty-one Year 12 students but also celebrating the achievements of our students P-Year 12 for 2024. There were many moments I cherish from this special time with our students and their families, from the Prep – Year 12 high fives, the excitement at the ‘gold’ medals earnt or the anticipation held by our Year 12’s as the entered Graduation Mass with their parents. We continue to remind our students that they are always members of the OLSCC family and that even though they have now officially graduated we love catching up with them in the future and hearing about where life takes them. One of our goals in coming years, as we lead into our 150 years of Catholic Education in Dalby in 2027, is to reconnect with alumni both staff and students so if you’ve got a story to share of your journey since graduation we’d love to hear from you. Check out this week’s feature on Pat Boland 2020 Graduate.

Photos

One of our goals at our Week 7 events this year was to capture great photos of our students and to then make these available to our families so you too could share in these. Photos have now been uploaded to our College website – see links below. You should be able to save these images of your child/ren from this location.

College Awards presentations - Our Lady of the Southern Cross College, Dalby

2024 Senior Farewell (part of Awards) - Our Lady of the Southern Cross College, Dalby

College Awards general - Our Lady of the Southern Cross College, Dalby

Year 12 Graduation Mass - Our Lady of the Southern Cross College, Dalby

OLSCC Christmas Carols

On Monday 2 December we invite our College families and extended community to join us for an evening of Carols on the green (and green it will be after the latest rain). Come and get settled at 6pm with the first class performing at 6:15pm. Bring a picnic blanket or chairs to get comfy and enjoy dinner under the stars with friends. The evening will conclude by 8:00pm. Students and families are encouraged to dress in Christmas themed attire. Each year level will lead a carol throughout the evening for all to enjoy and sing along with. FACE will be cooking up a BBQ with pre-order required via flexischools or bring your own picnic to enjoy in the twilight. A simple bar with be operating for adults and softdrinks and battery powered candles will also be on sale with funds raised going to Yes Arusha. EFTPOS will be available but cash is preferred payment method. 

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal

Families are encouraged to support this year’s Mini Vinnies Christmas Appeal, calling for donations to create Christmas hampers for those in need in our local area. A letter explaining this appeal can be located on Parent Portal. Donations can be dropped into the College office by Monday 2 December. Your generosity is appreciated.

St Vincent de Paul - call for volunteers

Our local St Vincent de Paul Conference is calling for volunteers. Carole Garvey, a Vincentian spoke recently at St Joseph’s Mass about the types of roles they are looking to fill. In the newsletter today is a feature Q & A on the role of volunteers in the Conference and how you can help. If you think volunteering is for you or if you’d like more information, please contact Carole Garvey 0408 438 272 or metrocarole@gmail.com.

2025 Key dates

If you are like me and like to prepare your calendar for the next year ahead of time these dates might help you out.

Pupil Free Days – staff involved in professional learning, no students at the College

• 28 January – Tuesday
• 22 April – Tuesday
• 14 July – Monday
• 1 August – Friday
• 5 September - Friday

Term dates

• Term 1: 29 January Wednesday – 4 April Friday
• Term 2 – 23 April Wednesday – 27 June Friday
• Term 3 – 15 July Tuesday – 19 September Friday
• Term 4 – 7 October Tuesday – 5 December Friday

Final Days

• Year 12 Final Day – 21 November Friday
• Year 10 and 11 final day – 28 November Friday
• Prep – Year 9 final day – 5 December Friday

Important dates – currently set unlikely to change

• 3 February Monday – Commencement Mass
• 4-5 February Tuesday and Wednesday – College Photos
• 12 March – 24 March NAPLAN test window
• 21 March Friday – Year 12 Formal

Where to Find the Organisational Info for 2025?

As mentioned earlier in my newsletter article I love to plan ahead. To assist families with preparedness for 2025 we have three essential places to look for information.

PARENT PORTAL – for existing families – here you will find documents such as class lists, booklists, forms and other essential information for your child

COLLEGE WEBSITE – for all families new and existing – here you will find essential back to school information about uniforms and booklists and links to our College Newsletter and Facebook posts

WEEK 10 NEWSLETTER – our final newsletter for the 2024 year will be an essential read for all families (new and existing) it will contain important information pertaining to the 2025 academic year.

Cate Brennan

Deputy Principal Religious Education

This weekend on Sunday 24 November, we celebrate the feast of Christ the King. The kingdom that Jesus proclaimed was so different to what was expected. His kingdom was about serving others, showing justice, mercy and peace to others, and caring for the poor, the weak, the lonely and the rejected. He calls us to build his kingdom here on earth.

Daniel 7: 13-14

¹³ “In my vision at night I looked, and there before me was one like a son of man,^[a] coming with the clouds of heaven. He approached the Ancient of Days and was led into his presence. ¹⁴ He was given authority, glory and sovereign power; all nations and peoples of every language worshiped him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that will not pass away, and his kingdom is one that will never be destroyed.

John 18: 33-37

³³ Pilate then went back inside the palace, summoned Jesus and asked him, “Are you the king of the Jews?”

³⁴ “Is that your own idea,” Jesus asked, “or did others talk to you about me?”

³⁵ “Am I a Jew?” Pilate replied. “Your own people and chief priests handed you over to me. What is it you have done?”

³⁶ Jesus said, “My kingdom is not of this world. If it were, my servants would fight to prevent my arrest by the Jewish leaders. But now my kingdom is from another place.”

³⁷ “You are a king, then!” said Pilate.

Jesus answered, “You say that I am a king. In fact, the reason I was born and came into the world is to testify to the truth. Everyone on the side of truth listens to me.”

Time to reflect:

• What does a king or queen do? Do they live in a big house or castle?
• What is the lifestyle of a king/queen like? Are they rich?
• Jesus is a king. Was he rich? Did he own a lot?
• Jesus was very poor, and he owned hardly anything.
• He came to serve others not to be served. What did Jesus do to help others?
• Jesus came to serve people so that their lives would be better.
  He was a person of peace, justice and compassion – this is the kind of kingdom
  Jesus wanted for everyone.
• He wants all of us to be peace loving, to show justice to others, to show compassion, mercy and forgiveness, and to treat others as we want to be treated.
• He challenges us to make his kind of kingdom present here on earth.
  How could you do this today in your own lives?
• How can you show justice to others? Compassion? Kindness? Understanding?
• Let us take a few moments in prayer to think about how you could be a kingdom person.

Let us pray today that we can be kingdom builders.

Loving Jesus, you are our king and today we celebrate your kingship.

We thank you for all that you have taught us and pray that we listen to you and follow your ways.

Help us to be kingdom people who willingly serve those most in need. Gracious God, on this day we celebrate Jesus as our king.

May the light of Jesus shine in our hearts and minds so that we may see his presence constantly in our lives guiding us and showing us the way to be kingdom people.

May we listen to his words and imitate his deeds so that we can share in his kingship.

We ask this prayer in Jesus’ name.

Amen

Carey Twidale

Middle Leader Living Your Faith

Last Wednesday we celebrated the College successes and farewelled our 2024 Year 12 cohort and our very own Gemma Coman.

Head Heart Hands works in the background and assists families in need when life is a little tough and we can hopefully brighten their day!

Anybody is welcome to ask for a package on behalf of Head Heart Hands – all we require is their name and where possible any dietary requirements and how many are in the family – we do not need to know the reason you wish a family to have a pack!

Over the past years we have assisted families of the College, in the community and also the Parish – this year we received our first pay it forward and we were so grateful (the gift card was handed to a family who are really just hanging in there and were very appreciative of our assistance).

Over six years ago we (Bec Martin and Nicole Bryers) had a vision of starting ‘Head Heart Hands’. With the support of the College community, staff, and P&F our vision came to light!

The P&F donated a brand new freezer and purchased packing products (with thanks to Cleaning and Catering Supplies Dalby for the discount donation given) and we were off! With very little funds we relied heavily on donations (our first donation of $572 was from the SRC led by Ms Kristen Joyce) and support from the College staff and volunteers for meals cooked for the freezer.

In 2022 the Colour Run came into being and through the coordination efforts by Mrs Katrina Ballantyne we were gifted $11,716.60 to continue our mission. The Colour Run proceeds assist us in purchasing Groceries, Books, Games and other supplies we feel will assist families nominated to us. In addition to this substantial donation we were gifted another freezer from the Cuskelly family to assist our cause.

In 2022 Gemma Coman with the assistance of Mrs Tania Stephen and support of Mrs Andrea Gormley came on board and kept the freezer stocked. Gemma grew produce (with Mrs Lilburne) harvested and either used this produce in her cooking or made jams/marmalades. Gemma and Mrs Stephen would find recipes, go to the supermarket and then cook the meals and treats for the packages. Gemma also kept us on track packaging our Head Heart Hands and delivering them to the students to take home. In the packages we try to send home a meal and a treat or two for the family and if suitable we will send home a board game, reading book, journal and pens or something appropriate.

While we will certainly miss our Gemma we wish her all the very best and hope she will come back to visit us and attend any cooking evening/days we hope to have in the future.

Thanks Gemma from us, the College community and all the families you have assisted over the years!

Bec & Nicole

Our local St Vincent de Paul Conference is calling for volunteers.  Carole Garvey, a Vincentian spoke recently at St Joseph’s Mass about the types of roles they are looking to fill.

What is the “work” of our local SVdP conference in Dalby?

We are referred to as Vincentians and we have a desire to help those less fortunate than ourselves. Those who need our help are called companions and we are available 4 mornings a week from 9.30 until 11.30. We can be contacted by phone, a knock on the door or referrals from the 1800 phone number. We work in pairs both for support and safety.

What type of support do you give?

Our greatest call is for food vouchers, accommodation, fuel, clothing, prescriptions, furniture and household goods. We occasionally will help with outstanding accounts to enable our companions some breathing space and to get back on their feet. Similar to other local charities, we have supported companions through fire, flood and drought and continue with follow up support until it is no longer needed.

We receive enormous support from the students and parents of Our Lady of the Southern Cross, who are always very generous with donations for our Christmas hampers and raffles throughout the year. The Parish also gives us great support, particularly during our Winter Appeal.  While money and goods are very welcome and we will never say no, but we also need volunteers and people to be part of our Conference.

Why do you need volunteers?

As with all our local organisations, we are an ageing population and gaining members is becoming more difficult. In 2023, the Society’s members and volunteers, Australia wide, totalled 38,127. This sounds a lot and it is but it is still almost 17,000 fewer than in 2017. While we have fewer members, the number of people we are asked to assist continues to increase. Our work is just as, if not more, important and necessary than it has ever been.

So what skills do I need to have, what time do I need to set aside if I want to consider becoming a Vincentian. Can I manage it if I’m still raising a family? Will I be any good at it? Is it for me?

Let’s take one thing at a time. Skills – you need to be compassionate, patient and willing to listen. We know we can’t fix all our companions’ problems. What we can do is sit with them, listen to their most pressing needs, offer what help we can, whether its food or baby goods, clothing and toiletries for the person who has left jail and has next to nothing, a night’s accommodation so they can have a hot shower and a warm bed – anything that gives respite to the immediate difficulties they are facing.  Naturally discretion is an absolute must. It helps that we work in pairs and can share and discuss the case we have just seen.

What time do I need to set aside? 

We meet every Monday night for an hour at 6pm. We have prayers and a reading, read out the week’s cases so that everyone is aware of what’s happening with our companions, sometimes make suggestions of further help available and then general business. An hour a week that’s all. If you can only manage 1 Monday night a month, please make it the second Monday of the month. Then you can collect bread at 5.45, attend a meeting and help pack the bread away into the freezer – we will take whatever is offered. If you are still working and short on time we can still find a job for you.

If and when you decide you would like to be seeing companions and helping face to face – it is 2 hours, 9.30 to 11.30. Sometimes this runs over if we are particularly busy, sometimes we have a quiet morning. We had to stop seeing companions on a Thursday as we didn’t have enough Vincentians to fill the role but we are open all other week days. If you would like to see companions but can’t commit to a day a week we can use you as a fill in. If someone is sick, has a funeral, on holidays, whatever and can’t do their shift, we ring around to find another member to take the shift that day.

Will I be any good at it and is it for me?  You won’t know if you don’t try it. This work is not for everyone. It can be confronting. You will need to learn not to take other people’s problems home with you, you can’t lie awake at night thinking of what more you could have done. But as a Conferenec we are here to support you.  It can be difficult at times, you may feel annoyed or frustrated with companions who continually present with the same problems needing assistance.  However, it is in these situations that we call upon our faith and the works of Jesus to show compassion, dignity and love for our fellow community members.

It is incredibly rewarding work. Despite the frustrations at times, the changes we don’t want to be part of because we become set in our ways, this work is a privilege. When you see the relief our companions feel at receiving some help, or the gratitude because you listened and cared, or the change you were able to help with, you have received so much more than you gave.

Please contact Carole Garvey 0408438272 or metrocarole@gmail.com if you would like more information on how you can help.

As the school years draws towards a close, we can begin to take moments to reflect back on the incredible journey our students have undertaken this year. It has definitely had its challenges, triumphs, and as always countless opportunities for growth.

Our students have demonstrated remarkable mix of resilience, dedication, and enthusiasm, all of which makes the staff and I incredibly proud.

Academic achievement
Throughout the year, our students have strived to demonstrate growth in the College’s Learning Dispositions: Independence, Motivation, Optimism, Curiosity, Creativity, Resilience, and Persistence. While every student is different, developing in different ways and at different rates, we have seen some outstanding academic achievements this year. From excelling in exams to participating in academic competitions – like the QAMT Maths Competition – the hard work of the students has certainly paid off. As Vince Lombardi stated, the only place success comes before hard work is in the dictionary. Special congratulations to those who have achieved top honours this year in their respective subjects and year levels and were recognised for their effort at the Academic Awards ceremony. Congratulations too to every student who demonstrated a year’s worth of growth or more in 2024. You too have succeeded greatly.

Extra-Curricular success
Beyond the classroom, our students have shone brightly in a range of extra-curricular activities. Whether it be on the sporting field, in the Arts arena, or in community service, their talents and passion has enriched our school community. Highlights include those students selected for representative honours in their various sports throughout the year, our teams competing in large carnivals like the recent touch football competition in the Redlands and returning great results, and the students ready and willing to give of their own free time to assist others, like the students involved in cleaning up at the old Iona convent to help out St Joseph’s parish. This is an important aspect of school life and growing the whole student.

Looking ahead
As we celebrate these achievements, we also look forward to the future with optimism. I mean it is hard not to notice that the Christmas holidays are just around the corner. However, we must also remember that the year has not finished. Not yet. 

In the remaining time, we have a number of College events such as:

• Up Day (Wed 4 December)
• Colour Run (Thurs 28 November)
• a sporting visit from St Colomban’s Caboolture (Tues 3 December)
• the Nativity Play and Christmas Carols (week 10)

Also, each school day is important and the expectations of our students have not shifted just because the school year is drawing to a close. Students have been reminded about this and it is important that they all choose to finish the year as well as they started it. The expectations are simple:

1. Learn and allow others to learn
2. Be safe
3. Be responsible
4. Be respectful

As we do approach the final day of the year, it is important that students remain focused on being the best version of themselves. Here are some tips that can help student finish the year on a high:

• Stay organised
  Keep track of the events coming up and don’t miss out – like Colour Run. It’s a fun experience for all and not a day to be missed.
  
  
• Ask for help
  If students are struggling, then they are encouraged to talk to their teachers, our Student Wellbeing Officer – Leisa Finch, the counsellor – Katrina Ballantyne, or myself. Don’t hesitate to reach out to ask for support where needed. Even if it is to simply help with your child with their own self-regulation.
  
  
• Take care of yourself
  Make sure students continue to eat healthy and get enough sleep. Tired bodies typically make tired (usually poor) choices. A healthy body supports a healthy mind.
  
  
• Stay Positive
  Keep a positive attitude and remind yourself of the goals to finish the year well. Students have worked hard all year and they are almost at the finish line.

Make sure you check out our next newsletter for information regarding the beginning of 2025. 

Kind regards, 

Craig Cullen

Assistant Principal Middle Years

Year 12 Graduation

It was great to celebrate the final days with our 2024 Year 12 Graduates and their Valedictory luncheon. We would hope that all the senior students acknowledge that their time at the College has had a positive impact on their lives and we have given them skills that will assist them in the future. They all have such huge potential to make a difference to our society. Congratulations to Kaitlyn Harms who was voted “Seniors Senior”, a empowered recognition to Kaitlyn by her cohort.

As they completed their journey with us we challenged our Year 12’s to become the best versions of themselves as they enter the next phase of their lives. We wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

“Until we meet again, may you find joy in every step and fulfilment in every challenge. May you always carry the lessons learned and the friendships made here with you, wherever life takes you.

With hope in your hearts and determination in your minds, step into the future with confidence.”

Last Weeks of Term

As we enter into the final weeks of 2024 it has been a very busy time for our college community. We see a number of our assessments completed and Year 11’s engaging in their Unit 3 work in preparation for their IA’s early next year.

The successes that have occurred this year in academic, sporting and cultural realms have been a true credit to all the students at the college.

Below is the week plan for weeks 9 and 10. Students are expected to be in attendance during these weeks as we finish 2024 and prepare for 2025.

Moving into 2025

To assist parents in planning below are some of the significant dates for Senior Years students in 2025.

Year 10 Laptop Collection – January 2025 Date coming in Week 10 newsletter

Year 12 Formal – 21 March 2025

Year 10 Work Experience – 16 to 20 June 2025

Year 10 School Education & Training Meetings – 4 to 8 August 2025

Senior Years has camps aligned to student outcomes. To assist with your planning, I have attached the rough outline of the dates for the camps from Years 9 to 12. More information is available on our website as part of our “Grow Great People matrix”. 

Mr Rodney Spain

Assistant Principal Senior Years

Check out our latest short video on YouTube. Meet some of our students and hear what they have to say.

Middle Leader Sport

2024 School Based Apprentice of the Year 

A well-deserved congratulation goes to the Our Lady of the Southern Cross College School Based Apprentice of the Year, Nadine Garside. Nadine started her SBA in year 11 in 2023, with the Western Downs Regional Council in the Library. Her certificate studies include the Certificate IV Library and Information Services. The reports regarding Nadine’s progress in study, work ethic, creativity and attention to detail in the workplace were exemplary. Good luck to Nadine and her future career.   

2024 Training Pathway Award 

Congratulations to Year 12 student, Jack Langton and Year 11 student, Charlie Johansen, who both received awards form the Dalby Training Centre at the College awards ceremony. These awards provide training services for these students that they will be able to utilise in their future careers. A big thank you is extended to the Dalby Training Centre for the provision of these opportunities for our students. We wish Jack all the best for his future career. 

Vocational Education and Training Award TAFE  

At the College awards ceremony, Year 12 student, Ethan Horrigan was awarded with the Vocational Education and Training Award from TAFE Queensland. Ethan is planning a career in the hospitality and hotel industry, and we wish him the very best in his chosen pathway.  

Key Dates for 2024 

26 November           Yr 9         QCAA Portal and USI number applications.  

27 November          Yr 9          Orientation of Work Experience and Micro-Skills 2025 

Available Apprenticeships  

Plumbing Apprenticeship 2025 

A local plumber is offering a year 12 school leaver a full-time apprenticeship in plumbing. If you are interested in this position, please contact Mrs Boland or Mr Garside for details.  

Dalby General Steel 

This work would suit people that want to gain skills in a retail environment and would like to build a career in Sales, Warehousing and Purchasing. Or for people that want to enter the workforce directly after finishing year 12.    

• Sales and Retail – Tasks include serving customers across multiple industries both over the counter and via the phone and email sales. There is a wide range of product to learn that can transfer across industries. Our salespeople have built careers where they earn $80 – $100k per year with Dalby General Steel. Other long-term former employees have gone onto become purchasing managers for large manufacturers or to procurement roles in mining and gas earning $100k – $150k. 

• Warehousing – Opportunity to learn skills of warehousing and gain licences such as forklift, HR truck and Cert 3 in Supply Chain Operations. Our experienced warehouse people earn approx. $80k per annum. 

• Stock Control and Purchasing – As an addition to the sales and retail role we also train our people in Purchasing, Procurement and Stock Control. Building relationships with suppliers and shopping around the best value for products and services. 

Gap Year Opportunity  

There is an opportunity to work in the agricultural sector starting this year as part of a gap year. A local agronomist company is seeking a student who will complete year 12 this year to start at the end of November and work through to the end of April in 2025. You will also receive on the job training and work as a labourer for an agronomist. This job will be for 4 days per week and 11 hrs. per day. You will need a manual driver's license and be physically fit and do not mind working outdoors over the summer months. This position also pays $30/hr. If you are interested, please speak to me or contact Kylie Fuelling form Fuelling Agriculture Company on

0428 716 502.  

Work Experience, School Based Apprentice Opportunity (Chinchilla)  

Qube Heavy Lift located in Chinchilla are offering work experience opportunities for students that may potentially lead an apprenticeship in AUR31120 Certificate III in Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology. Please see the contact below.  

Anthony Hunt (Manager), Phone 0428 486 330 

Email anthony.hunt@qube.com.au 

Dean Garside

Careers Development Practitioner

Hi Everyone,

The count down is on until the OLSCC's Christmas Carols on Monday 2 December starting at 6pm.

This year, FACE will be running the BBQ and we are seeking volunteers to help with the BBQ and serving of food on the night. If you are able to help out for 30 mins at a specific time, we would love to hear from you by Wednesday 27 November. Please email us with your details at DalbyFACE@twb.catholic.edu.au

The following items are available to purchase through Flexischools (no orders will be taken on the night):

* Sausage on bread: $2.50

* Steakette burger (onion and coleslaw): $6.00

* Steak burger (onion and coleslaw): $8.00

Orders must be in by Thursday 28 November 5pm. 

Drinks can be purchased on the night, but will be cash only. We look forward to seeing you all there. 

Kaitlin and Kate

Thank you all for the wonderful half year I have had in the Tuckshop, it has been a pleasure to become a part of the OLSCC team. Your patience as I learn and adjust has been exceptional and I look forward to expanding our range next year. 

With week 10 fast approaching we have a slight change to our days of operation, opening on Tuesday 3, Wednesday 4 and Thursday the 5 December. There will be no service on the last Friday of the term. 

You might also notice some of your favourites are not available, but never fear, they will be back with the start of the new year. 

From all the staff and volunteers in the Tuckshop, have a very merry Christmas. 

Toni Campbell 

Tuck-shop Convenor