Newman News Vol 4 Issue 5 - Friday 2 May 2025

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.

Easter-“How he changed the world”

The resurrection is a great spiritual truth, a tremendous inspiration, and maybe forensic evidence of Christ's divinity. It shows that Jesus defeated death, and it is considered by many Christians to be proof of life after death. The resurrection of Jesus Christ is considered one of the most transformative events in human history, particularly in the context of religion, philosophy, culture, and human relationships. Here's how it changed things among human beings:

🕊️ Spiritual and Religious Shifts

1. Birth of Christianity:
   The resurrection is the cornerstone of Christian faith. Without it, Christianity likely wouldn't have emerged as a distinct movement. It turned the despair of Jesus’ crucifixion into a message of hope and eternal life.
2. Changed View of Death and Afterlife:
   For early Christians, Jesus’ resurrection gave them the belief that death was not the end. This dramatically reshaped how people saw suffering, martyrdom, and mortality.
3. Spread of Forgiveness and Grace:
   The resurrection affirmed Jesus' teachings on grace, love, and forgiveness—pushing human societies to embrace compassion, even toward enemies.

🌍 Cultural and Social Impact

1. Moral Frameworks and Laws:
   Over centuries, Christian moral teachings (rooted in the resurrection's message of redemption) influenced the development of global, legal and ethical systems—values like human dignity, charity, and justice.
2. Formation of Community:
   Early Christians formed tight-knit, inclusive communities where wealth was shared, and the poor were cared for. This contrasted sharply with Roman societal norms and influenced modern social welfare ideals.
3. Empowerment of the Marginalized:
   Jesus' resurrection was proclaimed first by women (Mary Magdalene and others), challenging the norms of the time. The Christian movement, from the start, included women, slaves, and the poor—transforming social hierarchies.

🌐 Global and Historical Influence

1. Global Spread of Christianity:
   The resurrection message became the driving force for missions and evangelism. Today, Christianity is the world’s largest religion, with billions believing in the resurrection.
2. Inspiration for Movements:
   The resurrection has also been linked to both the Christian right and left, inspiring movements focused on social justice and political activism. Figures like Mahatma Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr., Desmond Tutu, and many others were motivated by the resurrection’s hope and message of justice and renewal.
3. Art, Literature, and Philosophy:
   The resurrection inspired some of the world’s greatest works—from Michelangelo’s paintings to Dostoevsky’s novels—shaping Western thought deeply.

Victor M George
Enrolments officer

From the Principal

Dear Members of Newman Catholic College Community,

On behalf of the Newman Catholic College Community, I wholeheartedly welcome our new families to our College, for Term 2 2025. This term we consider ourselves blessed to have a number of new staff. We welcome:

• Mr Steve Lesina - Leader of Pastoral Care - Year 8
• Ms Leah Walker - Dance Teacher
• Mr Kim Kanigan - School Officer - Inclusion & Diversity
• Mr Julian Thaiday - School Officer 
  
• Mrs Jeni Litherland - Counsellor
• Ms Shoko Seaby - Violin Teacher

In one short week, I have seen, on so many occasions, enthusiastic teachers preparing student–centred curriculum that is balanced and truly relational. Teachers teaching a curriculum that touches the imagination of children who, in turn, continually surprise and delight us with unexpected outcomes. Congratulations to our teachers on a great start to Term 2 and congratulations to our students who have settled in so well to their new term of study. Thank you to parents who check uniforms and school supplies to ensure that students were ready for their new term of study.

As we move into the remainder of the year, we treasure the caring community that has been created at Newman. Here the stress is on growth and development, on relationships, and on learning with and for each other. A caring community just does not happen. It is intentionally created by people who deliberately include others.

I urge all families to participate where you can in College activities. Please refer to the College Calendar to see what is available at times when you are free. Remember you are always most welcome to attend College activities. One of the most beautiful events that happen here at Newman on a regular basis is the Families@Newman (F@N) Association hosts morning tea for staff birthdays each month.  Staff find this so delightful, and they are so grateful.

We have a busy year ahead and through this busy time we need to nurture and care for each other, maintain our bright and positive outlook, focus on what really matters, and celebrate what we have. All these generate optimism for new projects and participation across our community. Please continue to pray for fine weather to support the timely building of our news facilities.

 Wishing you God’s Blessings.

Lauretta Graham

God of journey you walk with us each day:
May the presence of Jesus touch the sacred places,
the beloved people and valued memories of our life journey.
God of journey you are always there to welcome us:
May we have the courage to return home and restore relationships with you,
our family and loved ones, and the MacKillop Community.
Amen

Staff Introductions

We are so excited to welcome new staff members to our College family. Below you will find a short introduction of our new staff members.

Steven Lesina

Hello! My name is Steven Lesina, and I’m excited to be joining the College community as the Year 8 Leader of Pastoral Care. I bring nearly a decade of teaching experience in state education, along with a strong background in student leadership and sports coordination—particularly Rugby League and Cricket. I’m passionate about building positive relationships, supporting student growth, and contributing to a vibrant school culture. I look forward to working with staff, students, and families as we journey together in faith and learning.

Leah Walker

My name is Leah Walker and I am the new Dance Teacher at Newman. I grew up here, in Cairns, later moving to Brisbane to complete my Bachelor and Graduate Diploma at the Queensland University of Technology. I continued my dance studies with a full-time year at Dance Force on the Gold Coast. I then taught for a year at Ormeau Woods State High School before becoming a professional dancer for Royal Caribbean International. I have been performing for them since 2022, recently returning home from Spectrum of the Seas which was sailing through China, Japan and Korea. I'm excited to work with the students at Newman during Term 2, before I start my next adventure to the Caribbean on Symphony of the Seas.

Kim Kanigan

My name is Kim Kanigan, a native born Canadian graciously welcomed by the family at Newman as a School Learning Officer.  My career background began as a precision scientific instrument/toolmaker in a Canadian Research Council leading to manufacturing, engineering, product development, and business roles.   Educated in Roman Catholic schools and raised in a heritage of Ukrainian Greek Catholic and Orthodox lineage with deep appreciation of Apostolic faith which led to years of personal theological study and active membership and formation through the Marian Catechist Apostolate, currently leading RCIA at Holy Cross.  Most grateful to serve alongside with all at Newman. 

Assistant Principal - Junior Secondary

Dear Families

I hope you and your family enjoyed a restful break. It’s been a positive—albeit short week —to begin Term 2, and it’s been lovely to see students bring life back into the College, returning with focus and energy.

Thank you to the vast majority of families who continue to support our uniform policy. From Week 2, there will be a renewed focus on all students adhering to our expectations. Items not in line with the policy will be confiscated, and parents/guardians will be contacted. High standards matter—not just for the individual, but to ensure fairness and pride in our shared identity as a College community.

This term brings many exciting opportunities across curricular and extracurricular areas. Please refer to the Term 2 calendar for more details.

Looking forward to a wonderful term ahead.

Behaviour Management

Please note the following information regarding our Behaviour Management documents and procedures. 

The purpose of this letter is to let you know of these expectations and responses, giving you the opportunity to discuss them with your sons and daughters who attend Newman Catholic College.

The items needing your attention and discussion fall into the following categories:

1. Response to vaping;
2. Mobile phones and personal electronic devices;
3. Sports and House Uniforms;
4. Students who enter a toilet cubicle with another student;
5. Physical altercations;
6. Sharing harmful photos and videos; and
7. Swearing

1. Response to Vaping: Vaping is not harmless. Students found vaping at school or during after school activities or on the way to or from school, in school uniform, will attract an immediate three-day external suspension. Please view the following resource for more information and support: https://www.blurredminds.com.au/community/
2. Mobile Phones and personal electronic devices: Phones and personal electronic devices must be in bags or lockers as soon as students enter the school and remain there until they leave the College grounds (past the maintenance shed). Phones should not be in students’ possession during the school day. If used, they will be confiscated until the end of the day. Repeated breaches will require parents to collect the phone or for students to hand it in at the front office each morning for collection after school.
3. Sports and House Uniforms: Tuesdays and Fridays are our designated non-formal uniform days. If students have sport on any other day during P1 & 2 or during P5 & 6 then students may travel to school or travel from school in these non-formal uniforms. For all other lessons on those days students must change into and wear their formal uniforms.
4. College Uniform Standards: At Newman Catholic College, our uniform represents pride, respect, and a commitment to excellence. High standards in uniform foster a sense of belonging, promote responsibility, and prepare students for future expectations in professional and community settings. By wearing the uniform correctly, students demonstrate respect for themselves, their peers, and the College community. We appreciate your support in upholding these standards and reinforcing the importance of presentation and responsibility with your child.
5. Physical Altercations: Physical altercations result in an automatic 2–3 day external suspension to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all students. This consequence reinforces a zero-tolerance approach to violence, aligns with school policies, and provides time for reflection and restorative interventions. Suspension also allows staff to assess underlying issues and implement appropriate support strategies to prevent future incidents.
6. Students who enter a toilet cubicle with another student: We enjoy beautiful modern facilities including our toilets. However, these toilets are not places for socialising, consoling, or spending time together in one cubicle. All students who enter a single cubicle together will attract an immediate two-day external suspension.
7. Posting harmful photos or videos of students: Posting photos or videos of staff or students in College uniform without consent can cause serious harm, including embarrassment, bullying, and breaches of privacy. In some cases, it may also have legal consequences. To protect all students and staff, anyone found sharing harmful images or videos of others in uniform will face a minimum two-day external suspension. We ask for your support in reinforcing responsible online behaviour with your child.
8. Swearing at Staff: Swearing directly and intentionally at staff attracts an immediate two-day external suspension.

Sincere thanks for your support in these matters. All of the above, when followed, make for a continuation of our excellent learning environment.  If we let these matters slip it will be very difficult to reign them in again.  We ask and thank you for your support.

Kindest regards
Gabriel de Guzman
Assistant Principal – Junior School

Pastoral Care - Year 7

Check-in for Year 7 Parents: Settling In and Moving Forward

We warmly invite you to attend our upcoming information evening:

• Date: Wednesday 7 May
• Time: 5:30pm – 6:30pm
• Location: Newman Catholic College, Level Two, Room 219

Now that Term 1 is behind us, we recognise this is a great opportunity to connect with families, reflect on the start of the year, and look ahead together. As a parent or carer of our Year 7 students, this evening is designed to support you in navigating the high school journey with confidence and clarity.

The session will include:

• Updates on Term 2 learning, events, and expectations.
• Key staff introductions and supports available.
• Student perspectives on transitioning to life at NCC.
• Information on behaviour, wellbeing, and digital safety.
• Opportunities to ask questions and meet other families.

Light refreshments will be provided. We hope this event strengthens the partnership between school and home as we continue to nurture each student’s sense of belonging, growth, and success.

To assist with planning, please RSVP to the Parent Slip by Friday 2 May.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Mr Matt Kirby
Leader of Pastoral Care Year 7

Pastoral Care - Year 9

Pastoral Leader Year 9 Update – Welcome to Term 2

Welcome back to Term 2! I hope you all enjoyed a restful break and are ready for another exciting and productive term. As we settle back into school life, I’d like to share a few important updates and reminders to ensure a smooth start for everyone.

Uniform Guidelines
As you may be aware, our Uniform Guidelines have recently been updated. Specific details have already been communicated via our broadcasts. We appreciate your support in ensuring students are following the updated expectations. Your cooperation helps us maintain a sense of pride and unity across our College community.

General Behaviour – Running on Concrete and Level Access
We have noticed an increase in students running on concrete areas and staircases. This behaviour poses a significant safety risk. To prevent accidents and injuries, we kindly ask all students to always walk when moving through these areas. Additionally, students are reminded that Levels 2 and 3 are not to be accessed during break times, unless moving directly to the Hall. Your support in reinforcing these safety messages with your child is greatly appreciated.

Attendance
Regular school attendance is crucial to student learning and success. Being present each day ensures students stay connected, engaged, and on track with their learning goals. If your child is absent, please ensure you notify the College promptly. We encourage families to prioritise attendance wherever possible and to support students in establishing positive habits around punctuality and commitment to their education.

LMG Teacher Changes
Due to staff taking leave or departing the College, there have been some changes to LMG teachers this term. We understand that transitions can sometimes be challenging, and we are committed to managing these changes carefully to ensure minimal disruption to students' learning and wellbeing.

LMG Class Pairing Adjustments
To continue enhancing our learning environments and minimise distractions, there will be a few adjustments to some LMG class pairings. These changes have been thoughtfully planned to best support student engagement and positive classroom dynamics. Only select groups will be affected by this change.

The Importance of Healthy Relationships
Finally, I want to take a moment to highlight the importance of fostering healthy relationships within our school community. Compassion, respect, and kindness form the foundation of a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. I encourage all students to practice empathy and understanding in their daily interactions, knowing that small acts of kindness can have a big impact.

Thank you for your continued partnership in making our school a safe, welcoming, and positive place for all. Should you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Wishing everyone a fantastic Term 2 ahead!

Warm regards

Mrs Maryanne Challis
Acting Leader of Pastoral Care - Year 9

Pastoral Care - Year 10

Dear Families,

Please complete the parent slip for our upcoming Retreat. The schedule for the week is as follows:

Retreat Week schedule for Year 10

God Bless,
Mr Tim Chapman
Leader of Pastoral Care - Year 10

Leader of Liturgy, Spirituality & Faith Formation and Religious Education

At the beginning of Term 2, the Newman Catholic College community came together for two liturgical events: the Easter Liturgy on Tuesday 22 April and the ANZAC Day Commemorative Liturgy on Thursday 24 April. 

Easter Liturgy

The Easter Liturgy marked the start of the new term by centring the College around the most important mystery of the Christian faith - the Resurrection. With the words of the Gospel of John (20:1–9), students and staff were reminded that the empty tomb was not a sign of loss, but of hope and renewal. The reflection encouraged the community to carry the Easter message of new beginnings into their relationships, studies, and everyday lives.

This liturgy was also a moment for collective mourning, as the College remembered the recent passing of Pope Francis. His legacy of humility, mercy, and care for creation was honoured in both prayer and reflection, inspiring students to live out his vision of a compassionate and inclusive Church.

ANZAC Day Commemorative Liturgy

Held on Thursday 24 April, the ANZAC Day Commemorative Liturgy brought together students, staff, guests, and Defence family members to honour the legacy of Australian and New Zealand service personnel. Led by Deacon Tony Moore and Master of Ceremonies Sarah Hill-Murray, the service reflected on sacrifice, mateship, and the enduring spirit of the ANZACs.

Symbols such as the Slouch Hat, National flags, and rosemary were solemnly processed, each representing a facet of courage, memory, and national identity. The Gospel reading reminded the College of Christ’s words: "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends."

The Voices of Newman and the Newman Ceremonial Band provided music, with the choir singing “On a Peaceful Winter’s Night,” and the band played the National Anthem. The Last Post and Rouse bugle calls were performed by Mr Ross Pols whilst entire community stood together in silence, reflecting on the sacrifices of the past and the call to live with gratitude and peace.

Special guest Able Seaman Richard Nancarrow addressed the Assembly, sharing his personal experience in the Royal Australian Navy and offering insight into the continuing service of today’s armed forces. The Liturgy closed with the laying of wreaths, the Ode, and a blessing for peace.

Mr Chris Graham
Leader of Liturgy, Spirituality & Faith Formation and Religious Education

ANZAC Day Liturgy

Arts Department

🎨 Welcome Back to Term 2 – The Arts at Newman Catholic College 🎶

Welcome back to Term 2 — and it’s set to be a big one! We have some exciting events coming up, so please place these important dates in your calendar:

• Week 2 – Queensland Ballet – Regional Tour Workshops – 2 May 2025 – G.22 – NCC Performance Group
• Across the term – Music rehearsal periods in preparation for the upcoming Arts Evening Concert (details will be communicated through broadcasts and emails)
• Week 7 – An Evening with The Arts – 3 June 2025 – All Arts groups (Performing and Visual Arts) showcasing their work from Semester 1
• Week 10 – Eisteddfod Performances – All Arts groups participating will proudly represent our College. Further information will be broadcast to parents and caregivers by the end of this week.

🎼 Rehearsals – Term 2: The Arts

🌺 ANZAC Day – A Heartfelt Thank You

Last week, our Newman Catholic College community came together to honour the spirit of ANZAC Day, both at our school liturgy and the local Dawn Service at Trinity Beach.

I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all students and staff who took part so respectfully and meaningfully in these important commemorations.

Our College Liturgy was a moving tribute, made even more special by the performances of our talented students. The choir presented a beautiful two-part arrangement, and the concert band accompanied the National Anthem — thank you to Therese Wilmann for leading the anthem.

At the community dawn service, our College Choir represented us with great pride. To every student and staff member who contributed, you made us all incredibly proud. Your commitment to honouring the ANZAC legacy reflects the very best of Newman Catholic College: respect, compassion, service, and community spirit.

Lest we forget.

🎭 2025 Eisteddfod – Performing Arts Excellence

Our talented performing arts students will be participating in the 2025 Cairns Junior Eisteddfod at Cairns Junior Eisteddfod Hall and the Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC).
This exciting event will showcase the exceptional talents of the following groups:

• The Voices of Newman
• The Newman Chamber Strings
• The Newman Symphonics
• NCC Performance Troupe
• The Newman Drama Students (Monologues, Poems, and Duologues)

Please note the following schedule:

Monday 23 June 2025 – The Newman Chamber Strings

• Attire: Formal uniform with black pants
• Bring: Instrument, music, water bottle
• Departure from NCC: 12:00pm
• Performance at CPAC: 1:30pm
• Return to NCC: TBA

Monday 23 June 2025 – The Newman Symphonics

• Attire: Formal uniform with black pants
• Bring: Instrument, music, water bottle
• Arrival at CPAC: 6:30pm
• Performance at CPAC: 7:00pm
• Note: Students must arrange their own transportation.

Tuesday 24 June 2025 – The Voices of Newman (Choral Sections)

• Pieces:
  • Moko (Australian Chorus – M10)
  • Alleluia, I Will Sing! (Sacred Chorus – M9)
  • Tongo (Folk Chorus – M11)
  • On a Peaceful Winter’s Night (Middle Schools/Community Choirs – M8)
• Attire: Formal blouse/shirt with tie and black pants
• Bring: Snack and water bottle (lunch before departure)
• Departure from NCC: 12:00pm
• Performance at CPAC: 1:30pm
• Return to NCC: TBA

Wednesday 25 June - Friday 27 June - Drama Students – Times and performance details will be emailed directly by Mr Kirby and Mrs Fraser.

Thursday 26 June 2025 – NCC Performance Troupe

• Attire: NCC 2025 Dance Academy Costume
• Bring: (Footwear TBA), water bottle
• Arrival at CPAC: 6:45pm
• Performance at CPAC: Approximately 7:30–8:00pm
• Note: Students must arrange their own transportation.

We are pleased to confirm that participation in the Cairns Junior Eisteddfod will not incur any additional costs for students.
We encourage all parents and caregivers to attend and support our performers — tickets are available from the box office at the theatre. Your support means the world to our students.

Thank you for your continued involvement in our College’s Performing Arts program!

🎨🎶 An Evening with The Arts – Celebrating Creativity at Newman Catholic College 🎭

On Monday 3 June 2025 (Week 7), we invite you to join us for An Evening with The Arts — a vibrant celebration of creativity at Newman!

Enjoy a spectacular showcase of outstanding performances and exhibitions from our Performing Arts, Visual Arts, and Media Arts students.
The evening will feature:

• 🎻 07MUS01, 07MUS02, 07MUS03, and 07MUS04 Class Ensembles
• 🎼 Newman Symphonics and NCC Chamber Strings
• 🎤 The Voices of Newman
• 🎶 Soloists and duets across various styles
• 🎨 Visual Arts and 🎥 Media Arts student exhibitions
• 💃 NCC Performance Troupe performing their energetic eisteddfod repertoire

More information about ticket bookings will be posted soon via broadcast and social media.

We look forward to seeing you at this inspiring community event! 🌟

🎶 Expression of Interest: Gold Coast Music Tour 2025 🎶

Expressions of interest are now open for our 2025 Gold Coast Music Tour!
Students involved in music ensembles have been invited to join this exciting experience, which includes:

• Performances at:
• Queensland Catholic Schools Music Festival (QCMF)
• Dreamworld and other key venues
• Cultural and recreational activities:
• Dreamworld, Movie World, Sea World, EKKA
• Australian Outback Spectacular
• Workshops and exchanges with other schools

Dates:

• Depart Cairns: 13 August 2025
• Return to Cairns: 19 August 2025

Accommodation:

• YHA Brisbane (13–15 August 2025)
• CYC Burleigh Heads (15–19 August 2025)

Cost: Approximately $1,450 per student, including flights, accommodation, most meals, tour shirt, and entry fees.
Payment Schedule:

• Deposit ($250) due 30 April 2025
• Progress Payment 1 ($400) due 23 May 2025
• Progress Payment 2 ($400) due 20 June 2025
• Final Payment ($400) due 18 July 2025

Important:
All payments are non-refundable. For any financial queries, please contact the College Business Manager.

We look forward to an unforgettable musical adventure!

Warm regards

Mrs Katherine Fraser
Leader of Arts

English Department

The Power of Debate: Sharpen Your Mind, Strengthen Your Voice. 

We're in our fourth year participating in the annual Catholic Diocese Schools' Debating Competition. Last term, our four teams participated in this year's competition at St Augustine's College to engage in a day about debating, learning about the structure, developing confidence to speak, and understanding what adjudicators look for. 

In 2025 we welcome the following teams. Senior Team 1: Caitlin, James, and Alicia. Senior Team 2: Isabella, Seneca, and Irene. Junior Team 1: James, Leonard, and Caylem. Junior Team 2: Nyah, Ben, and Therese with Ruth as a substitute. 

We've come a long way with debating at our College, starting small and now growing bigger every year! A huge congratulations to Caitlin, who has been a consistently committed member of debating since Year 7. 

Good luck to our teams as they enter the competition early next term.

Ms Monika Borowiecki
Leader of English

Languages Department

Greetings from the Languages Department, and welcome to Term 2!

On Wednesday 21 May (Week 5 Term 2), we will be welcoming Josho Gakuen from Japan for a one-day visit to our College. This coincides with our Year 7 Global Citizen Day. Throughout the day, Year 7 students will follow an alternative timetable, allowing them to mingle with our Japanese visitors and participate in a variety of activities, including origami, cultural trivia, sports, and traditional Japanese games. We hope this event will help our students establish international friendships, broaden their global perspectives, and foster a passion for language learning.

Our Language Club runs every Friday at lunchtime in the library. Each week features a different theme, which will be announced through the College’s announcements page.

Our Department’s current language goals include:

• Cultivating a passion for language learning through authentic experiences and real-life application.
• Providing tailored learning pathways to support students of all proficiency levels.
• Connecting students to the global community and fostering international friendships.
• Building strong ties with local industries, particularly within the Cairns tourism sector.
• Developing global citizens with a broad understanding of international trends and issues.

Aligned with our Newman Values – Truth, Courage, Wisdom, Unity, and Compassion – the Languages Department is dedicated to nurturing students who not only excel academically but also embrace faith and love throughout their learning journey.

We look forward to another exciting term ahead!

Mr Shixiang Chen
Leader of Languages

HPE & Sport News

NCC Volleyball Teams

Well done to our NCC Year 9/10 Volleyball Teams!

Congratulations to both our boys’ and girls’ teams who represented NCC at the recent FNQ School Volleyball Championships, held at Smithfield State High School.

Both teams fought hard and made it all the way to the finals, narrowly missing out in two very close matches. With the standard of school volleyball continuing to rise, our coaches — Mr Dockray and Ms Schiavon — were incredibly proud of the skill, determination, and teamwork shown by out students.

Fantastic effort — go NCC!

Interschool Mountain Biking Competition

The Newman Mountain Biking information session will be held on Monday 12 May at 3:30pm in the library. All students and parents interested in joining the Newman Mountain Biking team and competing at interschool events are welcome to attend this information session. 

There is potential for sponsored riding jerseys for team members and discount at specialty bike shops. For more info please come to the library on Week 4 - Monday at 3:30pm

The dates for competition are:

• Townsville: Sunday 27 July
• Atherton: Sunday 10 August (Enduro), 
• Mareeba: Sunday 24 August (XC style), 
• Smithfield: Sunday 19 October (Enduro)

Surf Lifesaving Event - Fastest on the Beach! 

Experience the excitement of competition at the Indigenous Round Beach Event and discover who is the Fastest on Sand! Open to all Community and Surf Life Saving Club Members.

Event Highlights: Sprints | Long-Distance Runs | Flags | Relays

Details:  10th May 2025 @ Yorkeys Knob beach

Mr Dockray
Leader of HPE and Sport

Let us run with endurance the race that is set before us.
Hebrews 12:1

Sport Academies

At Newman College there are opportunities for students to participate in sports that are offered by staff with a passion for a specific sport. These include:

• Basketball on Thursdays 3pm - 4pm with Mr Donovan
• Newman Pacers Running Fitness – Wednesdays 7am with Mr Starmer
• NCC Cricket Thursday morning tea and second lunch with Mrs Gough
• NCC Rugby League Friday morning tea and second lunch with Mrs Gough

All students are welcome to attend these Sport Academies.

Newman Athletics Carnival

Newman Athletics Carnival is set for Friday 20 June 2025.  Students will be practising the events throughout their HPE lessons.

TCN Cross Country

The TCN Cross Country is Friday 2 May. The top 6 finishes from NCC Cross Country have been invited to compete and represent NCC at this exciting carnival.  Results to be published in the next Newsletter. Go Newman!

Newman Hearts Cheerleading Team

The Newman Hearts Cheerleading team has started training this week.  Trainings are Monday and Friday afternoons 3:15pm – 4:30pm at the College Hall.  If you are interested in being part of the Newman Hearts Cheerleading team, please email Mrs Gough:  lgough@cns.catholic.edu.au

TCN Sports

Trinity Coast North (TCN) is the district our College is a part of. Students have the opportunity to represent TCN if selected at the TCN trials.

The process for TCN sports for students:

• Students must sign up via the link to the TCN sports that are offered.
• Students/Parents will receive an email from Mrs Gough in relation to the trial.
• Mrs Gough will email the TCN District Secretary and TCN Coach (of the team) a list of students from NCC who are wanting to trial.
• Mrs Gough will provide the students with the COMPULSORY Peninsula Sport paperwork.
• Students must collect the Peninsula Sport paperwork from Mrs Gough.
• Parents must complete the Peninsula Sport paperwork 1 week prior to the trial.
• Students present the Peninsula Sport paperwork to the Office for Dr Graham to sign.
• Students must COLLECT the signed Peninsula Sport paperwork from the office and take to the trial.
• STUDENTS MUST TAKE THE FORM TO THE TRIAL OR THEY WILL NOT BE ABLE TO TRIAL FOR THE SPORT.
• TCN Sport trials are held AFTER SCHOOL.
• Students are to organise their own transport to and from the TCN trial.
• These are NOT come and try days – Students must have previous experience.
• If the student is selected in the TCN Team to attend the Peninsula Trials, parents must complete a Request for Student Absence Form for the upcoming absence from school. This form is available from the Parent Portal. 

Other Sporting News

Raiden competed at the Australian Age Swimming Championships (Nationals). He qualified for 50m, 100m & 200m Breaststroke.   

• 50m Breast - qualified 13th seed, swam strongly, finishing with a new PB in equal 11th place.   
• 100m Breast - qualified 19th seed.  He finished outside his PB in 27th place. 
• 200m Breast - qualified as 11th seed, He qualified 5th fastest for the Finals. Raiden finished the Final in 7th place overall, (6th place, nationally, as there was a ‘visitor’ in the race.) 

Counsellor Corner

Welcome back to Term 2, we hope you and your families enjoyed a lovely break over the school holidays.

The NCC Counselling Service is pleased to warmly welcome another counsellor to our team. Jeni Litherland is an accredited Mental Health Social Worker who will be with us on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Jeni has a breadth of experience in Mental Health support, assessment and interventions in a variety of health services both locally and internationally, most recently working with children in an assertive outreach model in the Child and Youth team in Queensland Health. Jeni is looking forward to a working within a new cohort in the College community environment. She is keen to work with the students, their families, supports and the broader Newman Catholic Community in building a sturdy, resilient school community with social and emotional wellbeing as a solid foundation going forward.

As always, please feel welcome to reach out to the Counselling Service.

Stop Drop and Go Zone

Stop Drop Go Zone

Kinetic runs the public bus services in Cairns and they travel through the JCU bus interchange regularly throughout the day. 

Drivers have reported safety issues as parents are dropping off/picking up children from Newman Catholic College. 

The area around the end roundabout is marked with no standing signs however cars are often stopping in this area which impacts on the safe passage of buses. 

Parents are also reminded not to queue around the roundabout when accessing the Stop Drop Go Zone. 

We are kindly asking the families to use the designated Stop Drop Go Zone to ensure the public buses and other road uses are not inconvenienced. 

MyCE Parent Mobile App

NEW MyCE Parent Mobile App
(replacing the current Parent Portal)

MyCE – short for My Catholic Education – is an app developed by Cairns Catholic Education to allow parents, guardians and caregivers to easily and securely access College and student information. It provides an interactive pathway for communication between home and school.

Note: If a caregiver has access to the app, they will not have access to Parent Slips unless they are a legal guardian. 

Some of the most useful features include:

• College contact and directory information.
• Notification of student absences.
• Links to Parent Slips and Parent Teacher Online.
• Student timetables.
• Access to your students’ academic reports.
• The ability to add College calendar events to your personal calendar.
  

Link to MyCE Guide

Wilbur Donovan
Deputy Principal - Academic Studies

Cafe News

Flexischools New Cut-Off time - 7:45am each school day.

All orders for the Cafe are to be placed by 7:45am. Parents are asked to note the new cut-off time of 7:45am. A reminder if you have more than one child you are ordering for, please place each child's order seperately. Orders are to be collected by students at 1st Recess at 10:20am. 

Student IDs can be used for over the counter purchases

Students can now make over the counter cafe purchases with their student card. Parents can prepay funds into their Fleixschools parent wallet and link their child's existing Student ID card. Refer to the image below for information on how to link the card. 

Reminder that students making purchases at the Cafe must use a card, cash or their preloaded student ID to make purchases.  Students are NOT to use their mobile phones or smart watches for payment. 

Thank you for your assistance.

Mrs Julie Davies
Cafe Supervisor  

Uniform Shop

Uniform Shop Open Hours

Monday to Friday -  1st Recess 10:20am - 11:00am
2nd Recess: 12:40pm to 1:20pm

When ordering through Flexischools, if the order is placed before 5:00pm it is available for collection the next working day at 1st Recess (10:20am). 

College Uniforms

If you require new uniforms for 2025, please use the link through Flexischools to purchase. If you have not used Flexischools before, below are instructions on how to set up your account. If your child has any outgrown uniforms you wish to donate, we would love to assist and help families in need.

Please bring your secondhand uniforms into the College Office.

Reminders regarding Uniforms

Please ensure to label all items:

• Uniforms are to be worn as a complete set - no mixing between formal and sports uniforms
• Tracksuit jackets are able to be worn with both formal and sports uniforms
• Tracksuit pants are only be to be worn for sporting excursions or camps/retreats
• The jacket and pants are not compulsory, however, no other jackets can be worn.

Shoes

Students are required to wear completely black leather lace-up shoes when wearing their formal uniform. No colour trim is allowed. Below are examples of acceptable and non-acceptable
options.

F@N News