Newsletter - 10 November 2022
From our Principal
Dear Parents,
“You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, but there will always be someone who doesn’t like peaches.” As appealing and enjoyable as it is to have like minded people around you, it can be potentially problematic when all people think the same way!
In the orchard that is our school we certainly don’t just have peaches, but a broad variety of fruit. The advantage of a larger school is the opportunity to engage and be exposed to a wider variety of people which is great as preparation for the larger world our children will live in.
One of the main strengths in our school is our people! It is people who make a community.
Before we even worry about what we teach or how we teach, who we are, is being taught to our students and children each and every day. When students leave our school they have had a diverse experience of teachers, teaching styles and approaches.
‘Not everyone likes peaches’ and not every student enjoys all the teachers they have. What a wonderful opportunity this is to ‘train’ for the realities of life for when they go to Secondary School, they will have the teachers they are given and not be able to ask for the teacher they would prefer.
At our school we have different staff with different strengths but all staff offer something in a certain way that others don’t. Examples of our staff going above and beyond include:
- Kicking the footy with students during their recess break.
- Rehearsing our school choir before school.
- Facilitating a range of lunchtime activities for students (Robotics, Table Tennis, Chess).
- Attending Challenge Cup to support students at our school.
- Coaching Netball and Football teams when they have no children in that team.
- Learning Support staff who attend camps when this is not expected in their role.
- Running Cross Country training outside of their work hours.
It is difficult to accept that not everyone we meet or experience in our lives will like us. Just as important is to accept that this is ok. In fact it is dangerous to try and please everyone.
Respect for self and others is a fundamental message we continue to give to our students. Being proud of yourself whether you are a peach, apple or orange while at the same time not judging other fruits that don’t appeal to your taste.
I continue to enjoy and be proud of our staff - whether ripe, sour or sweet, banana or pear – when put them all together our fruit salad is a recipe worthy of Masterchef!
Wishing you every blessing for the coming week,
Geraldine Rostirolla
Principal
RE Matters
MY MASTER – A REFLECTION
A sick man turned to his doctor as he was preparing to leave the examination room and said, “Doctor, I am afraid to die. Tell me what lies on the other side”.
Very quietly, the doctor said, “I don’t know”.
“You don’t know? You’re a religious man. You must know what comes next!”
From the other side of the door came the sound of scratching and whining. When the doctor opened the door, a dog sprang into the room with his tail wagging excitedly.
Turning to the patient, the doctor said, “Did you notice my dog? He’s never been in this room before. He didn’t know what was inside. He knew nothing except that his master was here, and when the door opened, he sprang in without fear.
I know little of what is on the other side of death, but I do know one thing. I know my Master is there and that is enough for me.”
(Unknown)
REMEMBRANCE DAY
At the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month each year we pause to remember all those who have fought for their countries in war. On this day, known as Remembrance Day or Armistice Day, we honour those who have died with a minutes silence and pray for peace in our world.
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old;
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Lest We Forget.
As you pause to remember tomorrow, I encourage you to pray for all those who fight for freedom, live in conflict zones and make decisions that can bring peace to our world.
SACRAMENTAL PROGRAM
Earlier this week students enrolled in the Sacramental Program participated in the Sacrament of Penance for the first time. Their sacramental journey will continue next year with Confirmation and First Holy Communion.
Please continue to pray for these students and their families.
SAVE THE DATES
With the end of the school year almost upon us, we have much to celebrate - our students, our year together and Christmas. Please mark the following dates on your calendar and plan to join the fun.
Wednesday 23 November Year Six Prayer Celebration
Tuesday 29 November Carols by Candlelight
Thursday 1 December Thanksgiving Mass
YEAR SIX CELEBRATION EVENING
Our Year Six Prayer Celebration which will take place in the Marist Centre on Wednesday 23 November at 6:00pm. Parents are asked to bring a plate of food for a light supper which will be shared on conclusion of our time of prayer and thanks. A celebratory cake will also be cut by our School Captains. Please deliver your supper plates to the tuckshop prior to the commencement of our celebration.
All Year Six students are expected to attend this celebration. Students are to wear blue day uniform.
YEAR FIVE PARENT VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
It is traditional for the parents of students in Year Five to set up and prepare for the supper that follows the Year Six Prayer Celebration. The Year Six parents supply the food. This year’s celebration will take place in the Marist Centre on Wednesday 23 November at 6:00pm. If you are able to assist or would be willing to co-ordinate the supper, could you please contact Mrs Kliese or the school office. Thank you to those who have already offered to help.
SAFETY CIRCUS
On Monday 14 November, our Year 2/3 classes will participate in the dynamic theatre production that is the ‘Safety Circus’. With its positive messages, of protective behaviours and bike safety, combined with song and movement, the students will find it to be both engaging and informative. Presented by Bachelor of Theatre students from the Central Queensland Conservatorium of Music and supported by Sergeant Nigel Dalton of Mackay Police, the ‘Safety Circus’ reflects current police Protective Behaviour policies and advice.
CHRISTMAS HAMPERS
Each year our school supports the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal in assisting needy families in the Mackay region. In our current climate, it is more important than ever that we recognise the needs of those families in our community who are under financial and emotional stress. Our support allows them a little relief during this joyous time of the year.
Each class will make up a hamper of non-perishable food items that will be presented to the parish St Vincent de Paul Conference in the last week of school. Your generosity is very much appreciated.
Suitable hamper items include:
tinned ham, shortbread, tinned fruit, assorted biscuits, bottles of softdrink, cordial, nuts and crisps, boxed Christmas Cake, Christmas fruit mince pies, tinned vegetables, packets of jelly crystals, large fruit juice poppers, large packets of lollies, Christmas decorations.
SOCCERTOBER RAFFLE
Congratulations to Dexter who won a soccer ball and one for his class.
All money raised has been forwarded to Catholic Mission to support their work in Ethiopia.
The Walking Soccer competition will take place tomorrow.
MONSTER CHRISTMAS RAFFLE
There may not be NORFAIR this year, but our parish is selling tickets in an amazing raffle. With a First Prize of $10 000, tickets are great value at $5.00 each. The raffle will be drawn on Friday 9 December, just in time for Christmas. You’ve got to be in it to win it!
Tickets are available online, before and after weekend Masses and from St Joseph's Parish Office
(Monday - Friday 9am to 12:00pm - phone 49574855).
For weekly Gospel readings, reflections and meditations go to http://www.prayasyoucan.com.au/
Download this week’s parish bulletin @ https://rok.catholic.net.au/parish/mackay-st-josephs/#
For Parish News, updates and to book for weekend Masses go to the Catholic Parishes of North Mackay and Farleigh Facebook page.
VIRTUE OF THE FORTNIGHT – UNDERSTANDING
Understanding is sympathetic and sensitive. It is being aware of other people's needs and feelings. When you understand you are tolerant, accepting and forgiving of yourself and others. Understanding gives us the power to care, to show compassion and to learn.
“People don’t always need advice. Sometimes all they need is a hand to hold, an ear to listen and a heart to understand them. (Unknown)
Noeleen Kliese
Assistant Principal Religious Education
Curriculum Corner
ICAS CERTIFICATES
English and Science ICAS Certificates have been received by the school, however due to technical difficulties Math Certificates are delayed. ICAS Certificates will be presented at Assembly as soon as the Math Certificates arrive. Parents will be advised via the Newsletter when ICAS Certificates will be presented.
Janine Refalo
Assistant Principal Curriclum
APA News
Karla Falzon
Acting Assistant Principal Administration
Playground After School Rules
At the closure of the school day, all students are required to move immediately to the Pickup Zone. Students who are going to After School Care or walking /riding home are required to be on their way as soon as they are released from class.
The Pickup Zone is supervised by teachers. Other areas of the school are not supervised after school. Our school’s Prep Adventure Playground is out of bounds before and after school. Any play areas within the school must be supervised by staff members.
We ask parents to ensure that their children are not on this equipment before and/or after school. Our school rules must be adhered to by all students at all times. Students should not be running around or playing after school whilst waiting for parents. Parents who collect their child after school and remain on school grounds are reminded that their children are under their supervision during this time. We ask all parents to please adhere to these rules and thank you for your understanding and co-operation.
Strategic Priorities 2022
COVID Update
Around the School
YEAR SIX CAMP
Last week, the Year 6 students, teachers, and teacher assistants travelled to Seaforth and Cape Hillsborough for a fun-filled, activity-packed three days of leadership challenges and adventures. The students all had a fantastic time. It was excellent to see the students step outside their comfort zone and build new friendships through challenging experiences. The students participated in activities such as Low Ropes, Rock Wall Climbing, Raft Building, Pines Challenge, Gauntlet Run, Lawn Bowls, and an Indigenous Cultural Experience at Cape Hillsborough. The highlight for many was smashing the teachers with sponges at the Gauntlet Run and facing their fears on the abseiling wall.
We had the pleasure of exploring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Cultures with Mr. and Mrs. Dorante, Mrs Vann, and Uncle George. We thank them for their time and for allowing our students to be immersed in the First Nations Culture with a range of fantastic activities. Many thanks to our wonderful staff who accompanied, supervised, and supported the students on their adventures.
Highlights from the students:
Libby-Rose G (6K): Abseiling, it was so fun walking down the wall.
Alfie G (6K): Abseiling, I loved racing down the wall.
Ethan M (6K): Raft Building, testing our raft in the big waves.
Piper A (6S): Pines Challenge, it was fun orienteering around the Seaforth Pines area to conquer challenges.
Jake R (6S): Abseiling, I felt like superman!
Archie S (6T): Gauntlet Run, It was so much fun working as a team to hit Mr. Steel with the muddy sponge.
Chloe C (6T): Gauntlet Run, it was so challenging and fun to get wet avoiding sponging.
Around the School
BOOTS, DANCE AND CULTURAL CELEBARATION
Congratulations Emmanuel! We have totally rocked The Hunter’s Football team’s latest project – The Boot it Up Challenge.
This project has given us the opportunity to learn about Indigenous culture while donating football boots to remote Indigenous communities. Many of our students here at Emmanuel value the place that sport plays in their lives. It’s a chance to build community, meet new friends, get fit and learn new skills. We are so fortunate that our families can kit us out to participate in these sports – but, what do we do when we outgrow the gear? We can donate them! Through this project we can pay it forward and allow other kids in remote communities to have the opportunity to play the sports we love too with the proper gear. It’s a chance for them to feel the dignity and pride that we do.
So . . . . how did we go? Through your generosity and kind spirits we have been able to collect nearly 100 pairs of footy boots (93 to be exact) and two bags full of sporting apparel to send to the well deserving community on Wooribinda, 400km South of Mackay.
This initiative is one so close to our hearts because it connects our youth to community on a more personal level and it embodies all that it good in Catholic Social Teachings and our Emmanuel Spirit.
Once again, THANK you to everyone who participated and made a difference to another’s future.
These items will be presented to the Hunters group at Assembly tomorrow. This presentation will be followed by a performance from the ‘Tchundal Malar’ dance troupe, who are keen to share their Aboriginal culture and traditions with us. All welcome.
Sporting News
SWIMMING AWARD
A very big CONGRATULATIONS to Kaiden who was named Swimming Sports Person of the Year at the Mackay District School Sports Awards last night. We are all so proud of you and your AMAZING year training and competing in the pool. Your hard work and dedication are being rewarded.
CAPRICORNIA SCHOOL SPORTS NOMINATIONS
Direct Nominations for the Capricornia Swimming 2023 Regional Trials are now open. Visit https://capsport.eq.edu.au/ for details and forms.
Please Note: Only students affiliated with a swimming club can direct nominate for Capricornia Trials.
More information about an MDSS swimming trial (to be held in Term 1, Week 2, 2023) will be released in December for those students not affiliated with a swimming club.
All nominations are due to the Regional School Sport Office by COB on Tuesday 14 February 2023.
The Arts
Linda Miller
Music Teacher
Awards
Congratulations to the students who received a Music Award in Week 5.
Tuckshop News
We would like to send out a big THANK YOU to the special mums, dads and grandparents who have volunteered their time helping in the tuckshop. Your efforts are very much appreciated. We cannot keep up with demand without parental assistance. Due to work and family commitments we will be needing more assistance in Term 4, so please consider helping just one day a month.
Please Note: It is imperative that volunteers DO NOT attend tuckshop if they are unwell, have anyone at home who is unwell or have been in contact with anyone who has COVID-19.
Term 4 School Fee Statements
Term 4 School Fees are now overdue. We would like to thank those families who have paid their account. However, if you have not paid your account, it would be appreciated if you could do so immediately. (This does not apply to those families who have a Direct Debit authority/payment plan in place).
If you are experiencing difficulties, please contact the Finance Office.
2023 FAMILY DISCOUNT FORMS
The 2023 Family Discount/Confirmation of Enrolment 2023 form was sent home on Monday with the eldest student in each family. (These forms are on Lavender paper).
This document is required in order for families to receive their Family Discount in 2023. Please ensure you complete the form based on students year level and school in 2023. The form needs to be returned to the classroom teacher by Friday 18 November. It is a requirement that even single student families complete and return the form. If you have any queries, or have not received you form, please contact Therese or Robyn in the Finance Office.
Notices
SAFE DRIVING ADVICE FROM QUEENSLAND POLICE SERVICE
Mackay Police have observed a substantial increase in the number of drivers conducting illegal (therefore dangerous) U-turns on Mackay Bucasia Rd at Phillip St traffic lights. Drivers are reminded of the following road rule; “A driver must not make a U-turn at an intersection with traffic lights unless there is a U-turn permitted sign at the intersection.” The fine for the offence is currently $115 along with two demerit points. To refresh your knowledge on road rules, go to www.qld.gov.au/transport/safety/rules/road . Highway Patrol Mackay thanks you for driving safely.
Community News
