Newman News Vol 2 Issue 12 - 22 November 2023

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Yirrganydji and Djabugay peoples, as the traditional owners of this land and pay respect to their elders, past, present, and emerging for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and hopes of Aboriginal Australia who educated their children in this area.  We show respect for their history, their culture, and our shared future.

We will always remember that under the concrete, steel and asphalt of this College, this land is, was, and always will be traditional Aboriginal land.

JCU Nguma-bada Campus - "Place for tomorrow's Learning Knowledge and Wisdom"
Yirryay (Yirrganydgi landuage, coastal dialect of Djabugay.

Advent Prayer

From the Principal

Dear Families of Newman Catholic College

Thank you for another wonderful year.  Especially, thank you for allowing us to share in your children’s lives over the past twelve months.

This year, the tough times have reinforced in me the real reasons for our existence, as a Catholic School. I have often thought that attending to the aesthetic aspects of our College can make a significant contribution to the religious and spiritual formation of our young people. Yes, this is true. But clearly it alone is not enough. Our Catholic Tradition has a long history of connecting the design and care of particular buildings to the Religious and Spiritual formation of people. But it alone does not make the difference. What makes the difference is the experiences of our heart. When we allow our motto to work within us- Heart Speaks to Heart.

The famous book “The Little Prince” written by Antoinee de Saint Exupery contains a conversation between a Fox and a Prince. The Prince decides to tame the Fox. The Prince and the Fox have many conversations about responsibility and what being responsible means. The Prince talks to the Fox about his Rose Garden and one Rose in particular. The Prince talks about this Rose being unique in the entire world. The little Prince cannot understand why his Rose which looks like every other Rose, is different and so special to him. The Fox explains that it is because of the nurturing, the attending, the watering, and the shading from the sun. The Fox goes on to say to the Prince: “it is the time you have wasted on your Rose that makes your Rose so important”.  At Newman, we believe people are important and deserve our time, attention and the actions of our heart.

Let us put our hands together for those who, have given their precious time and resources to our College this year: Qld Government (through our Capital Project), Catholic Education Services, Holy Cross Parish, Newman College Board, F@N Association, all families and our students.

As James Bell once said: “to face tomorrow with the thought of using the methods of yesterday is to envision life at a standstill; our teachers believe that even, that which, we now do well, must be done better tomorrow”.

And finally: for your generosity of time & energy this year, thank you. For being an active member of our community, thank you.

May you be blessed in your journey and be inspired by our Patron John Henry Newman – an ordinary person, who continues to do extraordinary things, and whose life encourages us to enter into a personal encounter with Christ.

This evening, I ask you to praise God for all that is past and trust in God for all that is to come.

May your journey always be filled with blessings and may the life of John Henry Newman ignite in you the flames of faith and service.  Thank you.

Blessings and a very happy and holy Christmas. Stay Safe.

With Every Blessing

Lauretta Graham
Principal

"Christmas blessing" by Joyce Rupp

May you give and receive love generously.

May this love echo in your heart like the joy of church bells on a clear December day.

May each person who comes into your life be greeted as another Christ.

May the honour given the Babe of Bethlehem be that which you extend to every guest who enters your presence.

May the hope of this sacred season settle in your soul.

May it be a foundation of courage for you when times of distress occupy your inner land.

May the wonder and awe that fills the eyes of children be awakened within you.

May it lead you to renewed awareness and appreciation of whatever you too easily take for granted.

May the bonds of love for one another be strengthened as you gather around the table of festivity and nourishment.

May you keep your eye on the Star within you and trust this Luminescent Presence to guide and direct you each day.

May you go often to the Bethlehem of your heart and visit the One who offers you peace.

May you bring this peace into our world.

Prayer

God, bless all who gaze upon this nativity scene.

As we look at this Holy Family, let us pray for all families—those we know, and those we do not; those who live on the other side of the world, and those who live on the other side of the street. Let us recognize and rejoice in the great diversity of the one family of God as we reflect on and give thanks for those diverse gifts present in our own family.

We pray this through Christ our Lord.

Amen

Identity & Outreach

On Thursday 9 November the College marked Remembrance Day with an outdoor liturgy. Students filled the balconies and tiered seating as Father Dariusz led us in prayer with the beautiful backdrop of the mountains to remind us how lucky we are to live in a time and place of safety and security. We were blessed to have Mr Ross Pols perform the Last Post and the Rouse from a balcony as we commemorated all those who have given their lives in service of the greater good.

With conflicts ongoing around the world, we are fortunate to be able to take the time to pray, to remember, and to educate our students in our global quest for peace and prosperity.

God Bless
Tim Chapman
Deputy Principal – Identity and Outreach

Ever-living God,
We remember those whom you have gathered from the storm of war
into the peace of your presence;
may that same peace calm our fears,
bring justice to all peoples
 and establish harmony among the nations,
through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen

Outstanding Awards for 2023

Outstanding Awards for 2023

Newman Catholic College was proud to celebrate the academic achievements and efforts of our student body at our recent awards presentation. The ceremony highlighted the dedication and hard work of our students throughout the year.

The event recognised high achievers and most improved, acknowledging their commitment to academic excellence. Additionally, special awards were presented to students who exhibited exceptional talents and leadership qualities.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to the families who played a vital role in the success of our students. Their support and attendance at the event underscored the significance of education in our community.

We also wish to express our appreciation to the special guests who graced the occasion. Father Dariusz Osinski, Parish Priest, and Bill Dixon, Executive Director of Catholic Education Services, added a meaningful presence to the celebration, emphasizing the importance of faith and education in our students' lives.

Furthermore, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to our award sponsors. Their generous support made this event possible and helped us recognize and reward our students' achievements. Our award sponsors include James Cook University, Ellis Beach Surf Club, Pump 'n' Pedals, the Dixon family, the Graham family, and the Donovan family.

The teaching team at the College was also commended for their dedication to innovative education and their role in ensuring student success. The Academic Awards Presentation was not only a celebration of individual achievements but also a reaffirmation of the college's commitment to excellence in education. It served as an inspiring moment for the entire Newman Catholic College community.

Wilbur Donovan
Deputy Principal - Academic Studies

Outstanding Awards Assembly

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Year 6 into Year 7 Orientation Day

Newman Catholic College recently welcomed a vibrant and diverse group of Year 6 students from over 20 different primary schools for our much anticipated Year 6 into 7 Orientation Day, held on Thursday 16 November. This event marked a significant milestone in the educational journey of these young scholars.

The day was filled with a multitude of engaging activities designed to acquaint our future Year 7 students with the dynamic and enriching learning experiences that await them in the upcoming academic year. From food technologies to sports, science to performing arts, and digital technologies, students had the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects and interests.

One of the highlights of the day was the chance for students to meet some of the educators who will guide them in 2024. Among them was our Year 7 Coordinator for 2024, Mr Chris Di Lucchio. His warm welcome and insightful guidance provided students with a sense of belonging and support as they take their next step in their educational journey.

The diversity of backgrounds and experiences brought by students from various primary schools added a unique and enriching dimension to the transition day. It exemplified the spirit of unity and collaboration that Newman Catholic College values, where students from different walks of life come together to create a vibrant and inclusive community.

As we look back on this successful transition day, we are filled with excitement and anticipation for the bright future that lies ahead for our Year 6 students as they progress into Year 7. It is our sincere hope that this day served as a source of inspiration and enthusiasm for their educational journey at Newman Catholic College.

We would like to extend our gratitude to all the staff members and volunteers who contributed to making this transition day a memorable and enriching experience for our students.

The Year 6 into 7 Orientation Day at Newman Catholic College was a testament to our commitment to providing a nurturing and innovative educational environment where every student can thrive, learn, and grow.

Mr Wilbur Donovan
Deputy Principal - Academic Studies

Year 6 Into 7 Orientation Day

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First Nations Orientation Day

As part of strengthening cultural connections at the school, this year was our first introduction of a First Nations Transition morning for the upcoming Year 7 students at Newman Catholic College. I am delighted to announce we have 10 new first nation students commencing in 2024, combining to make a total of 19 students now enrolled at the school.  The transition morning involved the students and their families, getting to know each other through various ice-breaker activities and conducting a school tour. This was followed by a shared morning tea, and the distribution of welcome gift bags for their attendance on the day. I can proudly share that as a result of the transition morning, friendships were formed, and the students experienced a comfortable transition the following day. Looking forward to working with the students and families in the new year.

Ms Celeste Miller
Indigenous Liaison Officer

Leader of Pedagogy

Project Based Learning Celebration

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, innovative approaches to teaching and learning are crucial to equip our students with the skills they require for tomorrow. One approach Newman Catholic College is invested in is Project Based Learning (PBL). This methodology focuses on real-world challenges, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of the subject matter. Last Friday 17^th November all Year 7 & 8 students gathered in the Hall and participated in a celebration through sharing of their experiences over Semester 2 in PBL.

Project- Based Learning introduces a more holistic approach to assessment. Instead of relying on traditional tests and grades, PBL evaluates students based on their ability to apply knowledge, collaborate with others, and present their findings. This multifaceted assessment mirrors the complexities of real-world challenges and provides a more accurate reflection of a student’s capabilities. The Semester began with students being asked the question ‘How can we as future citizens of the world, contribute to improving the communities we live in?’. From this, students nominated a ‘group’ they would like to build an answer through. Groups ranged from gardening to kindergarten visits, reef-based Warriors, mountain biking, podcasting, robotics to artists plus many more.

The afternoon began with students from each group providing a brief overview of the process they had undergone to formulate a project in response to the question. Following on from this there was time to interact with each of the groups and for students to ask any deeper questions they had. Finally, a few of the groups had projects that lead to additional presentations, videos, and a live dance performance. The Project-Based learning is set to grow and continue in 2024 with it becoming more integrated into elective curriculum for Year 8 & 9 students.

Mrs Emma Zell
Leader of Pedagogy

Pastoral Care - Year 8

Year 8 Girls Day Out

On Friday 10 November Newman Catholic College & “Passionist Youth” provided a Retreat for our Year 8 girls.

Our students came out of the retreat with a better understanding of who they are, and how to intentionally look at ways they can support each other. How they can make positive decisions to empower, uplift and love each other in their own love language. We also took time to understand God’s desire for them to be whole, caring, and strong women.

The Heart messages that were visited include:

• You are not alone.
• You can love, and you are lovable.
• You can make good choices.
• You are inherently good and so is every person in this community.
• God thinks the world of you.
• We are glad you are here.
• You are supported

Key words for the day were: Courage, Strength, Love, Acceptance

It was a wonderful opportunity to give the girls a chance to connect with each other and look at the theme of “Sister support”.

Mrs Karen Chapman
Library Assistant

Year 8 Girls Day Out

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Young Mayors Cairns Youth Council

The Young Mayors Cairns Youth Council Program

Over the past few months 18 teenagers from Cairns campaigned to be elected for the first Youth Council program run in Cairns. The Cairns Youth Council is a collaborative program run by the Foundation for Young Australians and the Cairns Regional Council. The Youth Council is aiming to solve multiple issues that affect teenagers in Cairns and work alongside the Cairns Regional Council to give a fresh perspective into government.

The last 3 months the candidates have been very focused on campaigning and putting the word out about how they would like to help Cairns and the issues that they chose as their focus. The "term in office" for the Youth Council is a year and a half long and they have a budget of ten thousand dollars to put towards their issues. All of the teenagers have been working really hard on their focuses and helping the Cairns community. The 18 teenagers recently found out if they were elected or not and the elected 12 will soon be having their induction into council in December.

Lani Baker
Young Mayor Candidate

Young Mayor Election

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Arts Department

As we bid farewell to another enriching term at Newman Catholic College, we reflect on the success that the arts have defined these past few months. Across the term we’ve had a masterclass and concert from our compulsory Year 7’s on their Summer Sounds debut , a dance excursion, Year 6 into 7 Orientation Performing Arts activities and the upcoming dance performance at the Academic Assembly. Our students have undeniably embraced the spirit of creativity and expression.

Summer Sounds Masterclass/Concert:

On Saturday 4 November, 60 of our students at Newman Catholic College were involved in a masterclass and a concert. It was a day filled with music, fun, and celebration, and we want to express our gratitude to everyone who made it a resounding success.

The event began with a morning masterclass rehearsal, where our Year 7 students practised their pieces. Students played on a wide variety of woodwind, brass, percussion, and stringed instruments. The progress they made in their musical journey was impressive.

After the concert rehearsal, we had a BBQ lunch. Thank you to our parent volunteers Marnie and Steven Maas, the  Cowan family and Leah Dempsey. 

The Year 7’s performed:

• Compulsory Year 7 Concert Band - Ancient Hunters by Sean O’Loughlin
• Compulsory Year 7 String Ensemble - The Wishing Well and The Fairy Floss Tree by Trevor J Addison
• Vocal Presentation - The Wellman (Traditional Sea Shanty)

A special thank you goes out to the dedicated Newman staff members who played a significant role in organising and facilitating the event, Mrs Katherine Fraser, Mrs Maryanne Challis, Ms Erin Welser, Mr Matt Chandler, Mr Ross Pols and Mr Chris Graham (St Andrew’s Catholic College).

Finally, thank you to Dr Graham, Mr Donovan and the extended leadership team for their unwavering support and commitment to making this event a grand success.

Dance Excursion: Dance Force at CPAC

Our students accompanied by Ms Matthews and Mrs Fraser recently enjoyed an evening at (CPAC), where they were treated to a mesmerising performance by the renowned Dance Group, "Dance Force."  It was sensational! The evening brought forth a wave of excitement and optimism for the hard work Newman students have ahead of them. 

Deck the Halls, Christmas Wreath-Making at Newman Catholic College

Christmas started early last week at Newman Catholic College as our students engaged in a Christmas wreath-making day led by the talented Ms Woods and Ms Sykes. The art room buzzed with energy as students, guided by their dedicated art teachers, transformed simple materials into beautiful wreaths.

Christmas carols and laughter was enjoyed as our students made their beautiful wreaths. Thank you to Ms Woods and Ms Sykes for their time and creations. Warm wishes for a joyful and festive holiday season!

Building Arts Culture: Our New Performance Space Takes Shape

Excitement is increasing as construction progresses on our new performance space. This state-of-the-art facility promises to be a hub for students with a dynamic platform to explore and showcase their talents. The prospect of this space becoming a reality in Term 1, 2024, adds an extra layer of anticipation to the coming year, setting the stage for what promises to be our best year yet.

Holiday Practice Suggestions for The Arts

• Students at Newman involved in the arts should be doing this holiday work everyday:
• Dance – stretching everyday – 10 – 20 mins – kicks, turns and jumps (corner work exercises)
• Music – practise your instrument 10 – 20 mins per day
• Drama – practise your lines, read monologues and experiment or revise blocking notes on scripts 
• Visual Media Arts - Regular Practice will helps you improve steadily over time 10 – 15 mins per day

Rehearsals

Here's a quick overview of our weekly rehearsal schedule for TERM 1, 2024:

• Concert Band: Rehearsals are on an alternating timetable, taking place on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays under the guidance of Mrs Challis.
• Choir: CHANGED TO AFTER SCHOOL –3 – 4pm Thursdays - Mrs Fraser
• Dance Academy: Wednesdays after school with Ms Matthews 3:15 – 5pm.
• Chamber Strings: Fridays during second lunch under the expert guidance of Ms Welser.

Drama Resources

Drama Prop Request - Call for Donations! To make each production truly magical, we are reaching out to our fantastic school community for a little assistance. Do you have items tucked away in your garage that could find a new purpose as props on our stage? We are in need of a wide variety of props to enhance our upcoming performances, and your contributions would be invaluable!

Here's a list of the items we're looking for:

Hand Props:

• Books
• Letters and envelopes
• Cups, plates, and cutlery
• Telephones
• Food items (fake)

Costume Accessories:

• Hats
• Jewellery
• Bags and purses
• Gloves
• Masks

Set Dressing:

• Rugs
• Curtains
• Paintings and posters
• Plants and flowers (real or fake)
• Lamps and lighting fixtures

Small Handheld Props:

• Money (fake currency)
• Keys
• Watches
• Newspapers

Containers and Bags:

• Suitcases
• Trunks
• Backpacks
• Boxes

Flags and Banners:

• Flags of different countries or organizations
• Banners with slogans or messages

Signs and Posters:

• Street signs
• Posters with show information or advertisements

Electronics and Technology Props:

• Phones (can be non-functional)
• Radios
• Computers and laptops (non-functional)

If you have any items that you'd like to donate, please place them aside for us, and we will arrange a convenient drop-off location and time for you. Your generosity will directly impact the quality of our productions and the memorable experiences of our students. Thank you for your continued support of our drama department. Together, we can create magic on our stage!

Cairns Regional Council 2023 Christmas Card Competition

The Cairns Regional Council is excited to announce the 2023 Christmas Card Competition for Visual Art, providing young artists in Cairns with an opportunity to showcase their talents. The competition is open to three age categories, ensuring inclusivity for all. This year's theme, "baubles and bows," encourages young artists to creatively depict the holiday spirit. Winners in each age category will receive a fabulous Christmas present and have their designs featured on the 2023 Cairns Regional Council Christmas eCard. They will also have the unique opportunity to help light the giant Christmas tree at the Esplanade Lagoon on December 1, 2023. The entry process is straightforward, and it's a wonderful way to celebrate and encourage young artistic talent in Cairns.

https://www.cairns.qld.gov.au/experience-cairns/events/annual-events/christmas-tree-lights/christmas-card-competition

Looking Ahead to Term 1, 2024: A Glimpse into the Future

As we approach the end of this academic year, we eagerly anticipate the possibilities that Term 1, 2024 holds for our arts community. With a new performance space on the horizon, we envision even more opportunities for our students to grow, collaborate, and shine in the various realms of the arts. The upcoming year is poised to be a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the unwavering passion that defines the Newman Catholic College arts experience.

We extend our gratitude to the students, staff, and families who have contributed to making this term a resounding success. Your support and enthusiasm fuel our commitment to nurturing the arts at Newman Catholic College. As we look forward to the future, let us continue to embrace the transformative power of the arts and build a legacy of creativity that resonates for years to come.

Warm regards

Mrs Katherine Fraser
Leader of Arts

Science Matters

As we bid farewell to another school year, it's a pleasure to reflect on the incredible journey of scientific discovery that our students have embarked upon in 2023. The Science Department at Newman Catholic College strives every day to create an innovative learning environment that extends beyond the classroom, where students and teachers learn together with families and the wider community. The past academic year has been filled with a range of enriching experiences, hands-on activities, and educational adventures that have fuelled the flames of curiosity and sparked a passion for science within our students. Let us reflect on just a few of the experiences we have shared this year…

The scientific inquiry and critical thinking skills of our high potential learners were put to the test in The Wonders of Science competition, showcasing their creativity, innovation, and scientific prowess. The competition provided a platform for our budding scientists to express their ideas and network with like-minded students from a range of schools in the Cairns region.

A calendar highlight back in May was the Year 7 reef excursion to the Great Barrier Reef, offering students a firsthand experience of the wonders of marine ecosystems. This immersive journey allowed them to witness the breathtaking beauty of coral reefs and deepen their understanding of the delicate balance within these vibrant ecosystems.

Our commitment to environmental conservation was further exemplified through the Mars Stars Reef Recovery Excursion to Hastings Reef. Students and families were invited to work alongside marine biologists and traditional owners, in a joint conservation effort to restore a cyclone-damaged section of the reef. 27 reef stars and a total of 405 corals were installed during this expedition.

Collaborating with James Cook University, our students engaged in the TropWATER Seagrass Rehabilitation Project and Green Island Seagrass Monitoring. These projects not only provided valuable insights into marine ecosystems but also allowed our students to contribute to ongoing research efforts dedicated to preserving the health of seagrass habitats in the Trinity Inlet.

During National Science Week our Year 7 students were treated to a behind-the-scenes guided tour of some cutting-edge research labs at James Cook University. They visited the Australian Tropical Herbarium, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine and the AITHM Mosquito research laboratory. These experiences brought science to life, allowing our students to witness the practical applications of their classroom knowledge and the impact of scientific research on our daily lives.

For those studying our Health Science electives, an excursion to James Cook University Dentistry School provided a unique opportunity to explore potential careers in the medical field. Students gained insights into the world of dentistry, inspiring future healthcare professionals within our school community.

STEM Excellence students were treated to an out-of-this world experience, an exhilarating astronomy camp at Emerald Creek Falls, where students gazed at the stars and expanded their horizons. This immersive experience fostered a deeper appreciation for the vastness of the universe and sparked an interest in space science among our aspiring astronomers.

To conclude our year, some of our amazing students took the lead in organizing exciting activities for Year 5 and Year 6 orientation days. Their enthusiasm and leadership skills left a lasting impression on our incoming students, setting the stage for a future generation of scientists and innovators.

As we reflect on the achievements of the past year, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated students, supportive parents, partner organisations and the entire Newman Catholic College community. Together, we've created a nurturing environment that fosters a love for science and inspires curiosity, inquiry, exploration, and environmental stewardship in our students.

I'd like to also take this opportunity to express my personal gratitude to the incredible members of our science team. We are truly fortunate to have a team of highly skilled professionals, each bringing a diverse range of scientific backgrounds that wonderfully complement one another. Their passion and enthusiasm have been infectious, creating positive effects on our science students. I wish all of our Newman College Community a safe and happy holiday season and look forward to more exciting opportunities in 2024.

Mr Matt Radburnd
Leader of Science

2023 Best of Science

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Astronomy Field-Lab

As an optional extension activity, students in the elective STEM Excellence class were invited to participate in a residential field-lab that involved an overnight camp. Away from the light pollution of the city we were given a guided tour of the visible cosmos by Ian Maclean from Night Sky Secrets. Using their 8 inch reflector telescopes we had a good look at our Milky Way, the Scorpio and Sagittarius constellations, Saturn and its rings, Jupiter and its moons, a binary star system in the Boötes constellation, the Andromeda galaxy, Pleiades, the large and small Magallanic clouds and various other phenomena – including witnessing multiple meteorites burning up in the atmosphere from the peak of the Taurid meteor shower emanating from the constellation of Taurus, as well as how to use the stars in the southern hemisphere for navigation. An engaging and entertaining evening that was enjoyed by staff and students alike.

Thank you to Mr McMahon and Mrs Duffy for their help facilitating the excursion.

Kind regards
Mr Carl Johnson

English Department

Kay Crabbe Visit 

We are honoured to have had renowned author Kay Crabbe visit Year 7 English students to speak about her novel, The Pearl-shell Diver. She presented information to the students about the Torres Strait Islands, giving insight into its history and pump-diving. Students were able to physically feel what a pearl shell looks like being surprised by how big and heavy it is. We thank Kay Crabbe for sharing her thinking process to how she came about to create the story about Sario and his life on the Torres Strait Islands. Students will never forget this once-in-a-lifetime experience with Kay Crabbe taking the time to sign their novels.

Creative writing students have engaged in a fairy tale unit this term. They spent time learning the patterns and conventions of a fairy tale by analysing a range of traditional fairy tales. Please enjoy reading some of the fantastic submissions. Also, Year 8 students have enjoyed the Gothic unit this term. They spent their English lessons examining a range of Gothic stories, identifying, and analysing the Gothic elements within them.

The English faculty wishes our students and families all the best for Christmas and the new year. We look forward to welcoming our families back in 2024.

I wanted to thank the English staff for all their hard work, commitment, and enthusiasm in English this term.

Ms Monika Borewiecki
Leader of English

Sport News

Swimming Carnival

NCC Swimming Carnival 2023!

What a fantastic day at Marlin Coast Swimming & Fitness Centre - Smithfield pool for the Newman Catholic College Swimming Carnival! Our students put on a remarkable display of talent, sportsmanship, and teamwork, making it a day filled with excitement and achievements. The event showcased the dedication and hard work of our young athletes, and it was wonderful to see them compete and support each other throughout the day.

Congratulations to all the Age Champions, you all did an incredible job. Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off!

12 Years Boys: 1st: Jacob 2nd: Darragh 3rd: Bo

12 Years Girls: 1st: Aimee 2nd: Gemma 3rd: Marleah

13 Years Boys: 1st: Riley 2nd: Tyler 3rd: Satchin

13 Years Girls: 1st: Ruby 2nd: Rosie 3rd: Montana

14 Years Boys: 1st: Jakob 2nd: Patrick 3rd: Hunter

14 Years Girls: 1st: Arabella 2nd: Carmen 3rd: Indy

But that's not all! The Maroon House truly shone with their exceptional performance, earning them the title of Overall House Winner & the Spirit Award on the day.

A heartfelt thank you to all the teachers who helped organise the wonderful day as well as our parents and families who joined us to cook and serve the sausage sizzle and cheer on the participants, adding to the vibrant and supportive atmosphere.

Swimming Carnival

Outdoor Education Camp

Our last Year 8 Outdoor Education camp for the year!

The Outdoor Education elective has proven to be a remarkable success. Students have not only acquired the ability to overcome obstacles but have also embraced the importance of teamwork while refining their leadership and campcraft abilities.

Our Year 8 students hiked up to their campsite from Davies Creek Falls, enjoyed a refreshing swim before setting up camp and testing their culinary skills with the use of Trangia fuel stoves for dinner. Then up at 6 am for breakfast, followed by another 8km hike through the Turtle Rock circuit. They indulged in another swim before embarking on the final leg – a return hike to Lower Davies Creek, where a bus awaited their journey back.

A huge thank you to Mr Dockray for making it all possible for our students and a special thanks to Mr Currie, Miss Atsuta and Mr McMahon for their invaluable support.

Looking forward to further Outdoor Education adventures in 2024.

Outdoor Education Camp

Duke of Edinburgh Hike – Glacier Rock and Stoney Creek

Well done to our first cohort of Duke of Edinburgh students who recently completed their Adventurous Journey hike to Glacier Rock and then had a quick swim at one of the Stoney Creek swimming holes. It was a lovely hot day with a bit of cloud coverage which made for a pleasant hike. The students worked together to help each other out and walk at a pace that suited everyone. Some students struggled with this idea but we achieved their goal and were rewarded with a cool swim at the end.

The Duke of Edinburgh Bridge Award (Year 7 & 8) and The Bronze Award (Year 9) will be running again in 2024 and we look forward to supporting students to achieve their goals.

For more information email zdockray@cns.catholic.edu.au or see the website https://dukeofed.com.au/

Duke of Edinburgh Hike

Sports Awards and Newman Representatives

Junior Sportswoman of the Year (Sponsored by Ellis Beach Surf Lifesaving Club) – Evie Titmarsh

Evie represented Newman Catholic College in:

AFL, Futsal, Hockey, Rugby League 9's, Soccer, Touch and placed 3^rd for Age Champion in the Cross Country.

Evie also represented the Trinity Coast North District and Peninsula Region in Soccer where she participated in the State Championships.

Congratulations Evie!

Junior Sportsman of the Year (Sponsored by Pump ‘n’ Pedals) – Bo Fridolf

Bo represented Newman Catholic College in Track and Field, Basketball, Mountain Biking, Rugby League 9's, Rugby Union 7's and was placed 3^rd for Age Champion in the Swimming Carnival.

Bo also represented the Trinity Coast North District and the Peninsula Region in Rugby League and Track and Field (Shot put and Discus) where he participated in the State Championships for both of these sports. Congratulations Bo!

Peninsula Representatives

Mae Bolton – Basketball

Oisin Breheny – Track and Field

Evie Titmarsh – Soccer

Bo Fridolf – Rugby League and Track and Field

It has been an amazing year in HPE and sport at Newman Catholic College and I am very proud of the efforts of all staff and students involved. We started and finished strong in 2023 and let’s get excited for 2024!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all the HPE Department!

Mr Zane Dockray
Leader of HPE and Sport

"I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith."

2 Timothy 4:7

NCC Uniform Shop

The Uniform shop will close on Friday 8 December 2023 and re-open on Monday 8 January 2024. Appointment times are now available for uniform fitting for 2024.  If you would like to make an appointment, please contact Jean Lendon ncc.uniformshop@cns.catholic.edu.au to arrange a time. 

Parents are welcome to submit an online order through the Flexischools App and the order will be available for collection on the next day the shop is open. 

We are also looking for donations of any formal or sports uniforms that are clean and in good condition that could be re-used as part of our second-hand school uniform stock.  Items can be dropped off at reception, or brought into the Uniform Shop by your child. 

Christmas Mass Times - Diocese of Cairns

Invitation to Christmas on the Green