Newman News Volume 4 Issue 10 - Friday 29 August 2025

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Yirrganydji people, 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.

Prayer for Father's Day

Fathers' Day - Sunday 7th September

Lord, bless our fathers and all significant males in our lives, 
these men who are so important to us, 
who, with mothers, are greatly responsible for whom we are and who we are becoming.

Bless them for ...
    ... showing us the difference between right and wrong
    ... showing us that strong character is an admirable thing
    ... showing us resilience when things go wrong
    ... showing us unconditional love throughout our lives

Bless them for when they ...
    ... are our protectors
    ... are our safe havens when we need them
    ... are leading by right example
    ... are there when we face difficulty

Bless them who ... 
    .. .love our mothers 
    ... love us 
    ... love our friends 
    ... love what we do in our lives

Bless them for when they ... 
    ... make us laugh 
    ... make things exciting 
    ... make anything seem possible
    ... make dreams reality

Bless them when they ... 
    ... are not always able to be with us 
    ... are not always able to see eye to eye with us 
    ... are not always able to keep promises 
    ... are not always able to tell us how much they love us

Amen.

From the Principal

Dear Families of Newman Catholic College

St John Henry Newman set to become newest Doctor of the Church

Pope Leo paves the way for St John Henry Newman to be formally declared a “Doctor of the Church”.

By Alessandro De Carolis

One of the great modern thinkers of Christianity, a key figure in a spiritual and human journey that left a profound mark on the Church and 19th-century ecumenism, and the author of writings that show how living the faith is a daily “heart-to-heart” dialogue with Christ. A life spent with energy and passion for the Gospel—culminating in his canonization in 2019—that will soon lead to the English cardinal John Henry Newman being proclaimed a Doctor of the Church.

The news was announced July 31, in a statement from the Holy See Press Office, which reported that during an audience granted to Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, Pope Leo XIV has “confirmed the affirmative opinion of the Plenary Session of Cardinals and Bishops, Members of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints, regarding the title of Doctor of the Universal Church, which will soon be conferred on Saint John Henry Newman.” Read also

Cardinal Henry Newman: From Anglican priest to Catholic cardinal

“From Shadows and Images into the Truth”

“Lead, kindly Light, amid the encircling gloom,
Lead Thou me on.
The night is dark, and I am far from home—
Lead Thou me on…
So long Thy power hath blest me, sure it still
Will lead me on
O’er moor and fen, o’er crag and torrent, till
The night is gone,
And with the morn those angel faces smile
Which I have loved long since, and lost awhile.”

John Henry Newman was 32 years old when this poignant prayer rose from his heart during his return to England after a long journey through Italy. Born in 1801, he had already been an Anglican priest for eight years and was widely recognised as one of the most brilliant minds in his church—a man who captivated with both spoken and written word.

The 1832 trip to Italy deepened his inner search. Newman carried within him a thirst to know the depths of God, His “kindly Light,” which for him was also the light of Truth—truth about Christ, the true nature of the Church, and the tradition of the early centuries, when the Church Fathers spoke to a still undivided Church. Oxford—epicenter of his faith and the place where the future saint lived and worked—became the road along which his convictions gradually shifted toward Catholicism.

In 1845, he distilled his spiritual journey into the Essay on the Development of Christian Doctrine, the fruit of a long pursuit of that Light, which he came to recognise in the Catholic Church—a Church he saw as the very one born from the heart of Christ, the Church of the martyrs and the ancient Fathers, which, like a tree, had grown and developed through history. Soon after, he asked to be received into the Catholic Church, which took place on October 8, 1845. He later wrote of that moment: “It was like coming into port after a rough sea; and my happiness on that score remains to this day without interruption.”

Devoted to Saint Philip Neri

In 1846, he returned to Italy to enter, as a humble seminarian—despite being a theologian and thinker of international renown—the Collegio di Propaganda Fide. “It is so wonderful to be here,” he wrote. “It is like a dream, and yet so calm, so secure, so happy, as if it were the fulfilment of a long hope, and the beginning of a new life.” On May 30, 1847, the circle of his vocation was completed with his ordination to the priesthood.

During these months, Newman was deeply drawn to the figure of St. Philip Neri—another soul, like himself, “adopted” by Rome. When Blessed Pope Pius IX encouraged him to return to England, Newman went on to found an Oratory there, dedicated to the saint with whom he shared a joyful disposition. That good humor remained intact even through the many challenges he faced in establishing Catholic institutions in his homeland, many of which seemed at first to falter. Still, his mind continued to produce brilliant writings in defense and support of Catholicism—even under fierce attack.

In 1879, Pope Leo XIII made him a cardinal. Upon hearing the news, Newman wept with joy: “The cloud is lifted forever.” He continued his apostolic work with undiminished intensity until his death on August 11, 1890. On his tomb, he asked that only his name and a brief phrase be inscribed, one that encapsulates the extraordinary arc of his 89 years of life: Ex umbris et imaginibus in Veritatem, “From shadows and images into the Truth.”

Benedict XVI beatified him in 2010, honoring a man of deep prayer who, in the Pope’s words, “lived out that profoundly human vision of priestly ministry in his devoted care” for people: “visiting the sick and the poor, comforting the bereaved, caring for those in prison.

'Cor ad cor loquitur'

Newman was canonized in 2019 by Pope Francis, who, in the encyclical Dilexit nos, explained why the English cardinal had chosen as his motto the phrase Cor ad cor loquitur—“Heart speaks to heart.” Because, the Pope noted, beyond any dialectical argument, the Lord saves us by speaking from His heart to ours: “This realisation led him, the distinguished intellectual, to recognise that his deepest encounter with himself and with the Lord came not from his reading or reflection, but from his prayerful dialogue, heart to heart, with Christ, alive and present. It was in the Eucharist that Newman encountered the living heart of Jesus, capable of setting us free, giving meaning to each moment of our lives, and bestowing true peace.”

With Every Blessing

Lauretta Graham
Principal

Deputy Principal - Academic Studies

NCC Academic Excellence

We recently held our Semester 1 Academic Assembly, recognising outstanding achievement across Years 7–10. We were fortunate to have with us Mr Durm O’Riordan, Executive Director of Catholic Education Diocese of Cairns and Fr Dariusz who joined us to help present these awards.

This assembly honoured students whose persistence, dedication, and commitment to excellence have enabled them to thrive in their learning journey. Their efforts set a powerful example for our College community, and we are incredibly proud of their accomplishments.

To further mark this achievement, the top five students from each year level were invited to enjoy a special celebratory lunch with Dr Graham, our Principal and the Leadership team.

Congratulations to all our Semester One High Achievers!

Wilbur Donovan
Deputy Principal - Academic Studies

Year 7 Awards

Year 8 Awards

Year 9 Awards

Year 10 Awards

Assistant Principal - Junior Secondary

As we move towards the latter part of Term 3, I want to take a moment to thank our students, families, and staff for the energy and commitment you continue to bring to our College Community. There’s a lot happening across Years 7 to 10, and we are proud of the way our learners are engaging with their studies, friendships, and personal growth in opportunities both within and beyond the classroom.

Safety First – A Shared Responsibility

A reminder to all students and families that safety is everyone’s responsibility. Whether travelling to and from school on school or public transport, interacting with members of the public before and after school, or using personal devices, we expect students to make respectful, safe, and responsible choices. Please speak with your child about appropriate behaviour in public spaces and online, and contact Learner Mentors or Year Level Pastoral Leaders if you have any concerns.

Mental Health and Wellbeing – Support is Always Available

Student wellbeing remains a top priority. We recently requested all students participate in the Student Wellbeing Survey and will work within our Multi-Tiered System of Support and Engagement teams to analyse and respond to the data we collect. A reminder that all students can access counselling support via the Student Portal – Wellbeing page. I also encourage families to explore this excellent resource from Headspace, which offers practical advice and support for parents.

Vaping – Staying Informed and Empowered

Recent media reports have highlighted the increasing prevalence of vaping in schools. While research tells us that the vast majority of secondary students have never engaged in vaping and never will, it’s important that we stay informed and proactive. I recommend this resource for parents, which outlines key facts and strategies. We will also hold some informative sessions for students throughout Term 4.

Clear Expectations – Phones and Uniforms

We continue to uphold high standards across our College. Mobile phones must not be visible or used within College grounds unless explicit permission has been granted. If a phone is seen, it will be confiscated and returned at the end of the day. For repeat incidents, parents will be required to collect the device from the office.

Uniforms are a visible sign of pride and belonging. Please ensure your child’s uniform is appropriately sized and complete. Learner Mentors and Year Level Pastoral Leaders will be monitoring and communicating any concerns. Let’s work together to maintain a strong sense of identity and unity.

Leadership Update – Congratulations

Congratulations to Timothy Chapman, who is currently serving as Acting Assistant Principal – Administration and Projects until the end of Term 3. During this time, Dianne Jakubiszyn-Simpson will be stepping into the role of Acting Year 10 Pastoral Leader. We wish them both every success in these important leadership roles.

With just a few weeks left in Term 3, I encourage all students to stay focused, stay kind, and stay committed. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the sporting field, or in the community, every moment matters. Let’s finish the term with pride and purpose.

Warm regards,
Mr Gabriel De Guzman
Assistant Principal - Junior Secondary

Child Protection Week - Seminars

College Photo Day - Tuesday 2 September

College Extra-Curricula Group Photo Day -  Tuesday 2 September. 

Please find below the schedule for the day and the uniform requirements for each group photo.

Students are to check the notice boards for their name to see which groups they are in and take note of the time their group photo will be taken.

Students in the following groups must arrive at school wearing their formal uniform including ties.

• College Captains & Vice Captains
• Student Representative Council
• Newman Debating Team
• Chess Team
• Drama Group
• Indigenous Leadership Team
  
• Newman Chamber Strings
• Newman Symphonics
• Voices of Newman

Sports/Arts & Extra Curricular groups photos will be taken after Formal Uniform photos. If students have been a member of the College Sports teams, they are to wear their Red Sports Shirt, Sports Shorts and Sports Socks in the Sports Team Photos.

• Music Students are to bring their instruments - Formal Uniform
• Music Tour Students are to wear their Charcoal Music Performance Shirt and black pants
• House Captains are to wear their House Shirt and Sports Shorts for the House Captains photo.
• Cricket Tour Students are to wear their full Cricket Uniform including baggy cap.
• Dance Academy Students are to wear their black Dance uniform for the Dance Academy photo.

If you would like to order any of the group photos, orders can be placed online through NQ School Photography quoting the Shoot Key which is shown below. 

If you have any queries regarding the Photo Day, please email jlendon@cns.catholic.edu.au

Pastoral Care - Year 7

Dear Year 7 Families,

In today’s digital world, social media is an important part of how young people connect, communicate, and learn. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, and gaming chat features can be fun and creative spaces. However, they also present risks that both parents and schools need to be aware of, so we can guide students toward safe and positive online habits.

The Reality for Young People

Research from the eSafety Commissioner (2023) shows that almost 45% of Australian children aged 8–13 use social media, even though many platforms have a minimum age of 12 or 13. While social media can support friendships and self-expression, it can also expose students to:

• Cyberbullying and online conflict
• Unrealistic body image pressures
• Exposure to harmful or inappropriate content
• Sharing personal information with strangers

Building Cyber-Safe Habits

To keep children safe online, it’s important to build open conversations and consistent boundaries. Some key strategies include:

• Know the platforms your child uses: Explore them together and talk about the positives and risks.
• Encourage open communication: Let your child know they can talk to you if something online makes them uncomfortable.
• Set device-free times: Especially during family meals, study, and before bed.
• Discuss privacy settings: Show your child how to keep accounts private.
• Be a role model: Demonstrate healthy, balanced use of your own devices and social media.

Blocking and Reporting Harmful Content

One of the most important safety steps for young people is knowing how to block and report harmful or inappropriate behaviour online. Every major social media platform has tools that allow users to:

• Block someone to prevent them from contacting or seeing your child’s posts.
• Report posts, comments, or accounts that are bullying, threatening, or unsafe.

It’s vital to encourage your child to always tell a trusted adult (parent, carer, or teacher) if they see or experience something harmful online. Blocking and reporting in the app is powerful, but having adult support ensures issues are taken seriously and followed up properly.

You can find step-by-step guides for blocking and reporting on each platform through the eSafety Commissioner’s website.

Working Together

At school, we are committed to teaching students about digital citizenship and respectful online behaviour. At home, you play an equally powerful role in shaping your child’s online experiences. By working together, we can ensure that social media becomes a tool for creativity, connection, and learning — rather than a source of harm.

Helpful Resources for Families

For further support and practical tips, we recommend the following trusted sites:

• https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents
• https://raisingchildren.net.au/teens/entertainment-technology
• https://headspace.org.au/

Together, we can empower our Year 7 students to be safe, respectful, and responsible digital citizens.

Warm regards,
Mr Matt Kirby
Leader of Pastoral Care - Year 7

Year 8 Camp - Camp Paterson Mareeba

Camp Paterson | Did not disappoint!

During Week 6 this term, our Year 8 students were involved in a outdoor camp to Camp Paterson in Mareeba.  They returned full of stories of outdoor adventures, team challenges and created new friendships. 

A big thank you to Mr Lesina and all the staff who make this learning beyond the classroom possible.

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Special Projects and Partnerships

Year 7 Students Explore Science at JCU for National Science Week

As part of National Science Week celebrations, our Year 7 students had the opportunity to visit James Cook University (JCU) during their science lessons this week. The excursions gave students a hands-on look at real-world scientific research and the many ways science shapes our world.

Students explored the JCU Herbarium, where they discovered how plant specimens are collected, preserved, and used in research to better understand Australia’s rich biodiversity. At the Mosquito Research Facility, students learned about the life cycle of mosquitoes, their role in ecosystems, and how scientists are working to reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases. The visit also included a tour of the Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine (AITHM) laboratories, where researchers investigate pressing health challenges facing tropical communities.

We thank JCU for welcoming us and providing such an engaging and inspiring learning experience.

Mr Alexander Starmer
Leader of Special Programs & Partnerships

Leader of Liturgy, Spirituality & Faith Formation and Religious Education

Newman Catholic College Students Represent at National Catholic Education Commission Mass

On Wednesday 20 August 2025, Newman Catholic College students proudly represented our College at the National Catholic Education Commission (ACEC) Mass, a nationwide celebration of faith and community in Catholic Education. This was the first time the event had been held in Cairns and outside a capital city.

Thirty-one students, accompanied by staff and chaperones, travelled by bus to take part. Members of our College also contributed their musical talents as members of the joint Diocesan Choir and Band.

The day began with a formation session, inviting students to reflect on and celebrate Catholic Education as young people of faith. After morning tea, thousands of students, staff, and leaders from across Australia joined together in prayer, music, and liturgy for the ACEC Mass. Newman students represented the College with reverence and pride, fully engaging in the celebration and wearing their formal uniforms.

The ACEC Mass was a memorable experience that strengthened students’ connection to the wider Catholic Education community and deepen their appreciation of faith in action as a national community.

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

NAIDOC 2025

NAIDOC 2025 – Strength, Vision & Legacy

NAIDOC 2025 was nothing short of unforgettable. Our celebrations began with a powerful NAIDOC Assembly honouring this year’s theme: “The Next Generation - Strength, Vision and Legacy.” This theme called on us to stand together in celebration of the achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while inspiring us to look forward with courage, unity and pride.

We were truly privileged to be joined by an incredible line-up of special guests who shared wisdom, encouragement and stories that will leave a lasting impact on our College community:

• Dr Mercy Singleton – Yirrganydji Elder
• Deacon Tony Moore
• Nicole Caelli – Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good (DIYDG)
• Carmel Debel – Consultant, CES First Nations Education
• Councillor Trevor Tim – Division 4, first Indigenous Councillor elected to CRC
• Jason Van Roehl – BBM Radio Host, Motivational Speaker, Our Cultural Conversations
• Marc Harbrow & the Harbrow Mentoring team
• Bumma Bippera Media 987FM
• Deadly Inspiring Youth Doing Good (DIYDG)
• Kunjur First Nations Men’s Collective – Cairns
• Yirrganydji Rangers – Dawul Wuru Aboriginal Corporation
• JCU Indigenous Education & Research Centre

Their presence and contributions helped make the day one of deep connection, learning and celebration.

Throughout the day, our College grounds came alive with cultural activities, storytelling, and shared experiences that brought everyone together. The spirit of NAIDOC was felt in every corner, as students, staff, families and visitors joined in with open hearts and open minds.

At second break, we gathered to share a meal as one community. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our wonderful tuckshop team — Aunty Mel and Miss Julie — for their tireless efforts, and to Mrs Austrai-Ombiga, Dr Graham and Miss Lindsay for rising early to prepare fresh scones that were enjoyed by all. This act of generosity and care reflected the true meaning of NAIDOC: unity, community and respect.

NAIDOC 2025 was a celebration of culture, history, resilience and hope — a reminder of the strength of our people, the vision we carry forward, and the legacy we continue to build for the next generation. We are deeply grateful to everyone who embraced this year’s celebrations and helped make it a day to remember.

With pride and anticipation, we now look ahead to NAIDOC 2026, knowing our journey together grows stronger every year.

Koeyma Esso, Au Esua
 Tobias Corrie
First Nations Team Leader

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Arts Department

Newman Catholic College Music Tour 2025 – Brisbane & Gold Coast

In Weeks 5 and 6 (13 – 19/08/25), 42 students and 4 brave staff embarked on our first Music Tour to Brisbane and the Gold Coast, combining outstanding performance opportunities with cultural experiences.

Day 1 – Touchdown in Brisbane

The tour began on Wednesday 13th August, with students flying from Cairns to Brisbane. After settling into YHA Brisbane, the group enjoyed sightseeing at Southbank and the Brisbane Mall, followed by dinner and time to relax with friends.

Day 2 – Griffith University Workshops

Thursday was a highlight for many, with students participating in specialist music workshops at Griffith University, Southbank. Sessions included symphonics, strings, and vocals, giving students the chance to learn from senior lecturers and instrumental or vocal professionals

Day 3 – Performance at Dreamworld

Friday was performance day! Dressed in their performance shirts, the students performed proudly at Dreamworld, showcasing their hard work and musical talent to an appreciative audience. After packing down, they enjoyed a full day of fun at the theme park before transferring to their new accommodation at CYC Burleigh Heads.

Day 4 – QCMF Performances & EKKA

On Saturday, our Voices of Newman and The Newman Symphonics ensembles performed at the prestigious Queensland Catholic Schools and Colleges Music Festival (QCMF) at Villanova College. Both groups delivered polished performances. The Newman Symphonics were awarded Gold and The Voices of Newman received Silver. To celebrate, students spent the late afternoon and evening at the EKKA, enjoying Brisbane’s biggest annual show.

Day 5 – The NCC Chamber Ensemble & Ripley’s

Sunday was our Strings players turn, who impressed audiences with their QCMF performance. They received a Silver! Afterwards, the group explored Ripley’s Believe It or Not in Surfers Paradise and enjoyed dinner at Vapiano’s, followed by a disco by our very on Newman DJ specialist, Chloe Crimmin.

Day 6 – Movie World Magic

On Monday, students spent the entire day at Movie World, riding attractions and enjoying live shows. Even the teachers went on all the scary rides! The day concluded with a relaxed in-house movie night back at CYC.

Day 7 – Farewell

The final day of the tour included a last shopping stop at Chermside before flying home to Cairns. Tired but elated, students returned with lasting memories, stronger friendships, and a deeper love of music.

The 2025 Music Tour was an incredible experience for our students, blending performance, education, and fun in equal measure. A special thank you to staff members Maryanne Challis (our ultimate tour master), Katherine Fraser, Greg Millward and Ross Pols for their leadership and care throughout the trip.

Our students represented Newman Catholic College with pride and excellence, and we look forward to even greater musical adventures in the future.

Gold Coast Music Tour

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Plans for the Rest of the Department – Terms 3 and 4

Visual Arts and Media Arts

• Art Club is running every Thursday afternoon from 3:00pm – 4:00pm. Students are encouraged to come along to explore their creativity, work on personal projects, and collaborate with peers in a relaxed and supportive environment.

Drama

• Drama Club is held every Friday at first lunch. 

Dance

• We are delighted to announce that Ms Kimberley Geoghegan will soon be joining Newman Catholic College as our new Dance teacher
  • Bio about Ms Geoghegan
    • I am a passionate Dance Educator with 19 years of experience inspiring students through movement, creativity, and discipline. I trained at Laban in London, UK and strive to create an inclusive, supportive environment where dancers can grow in confidence, technique, and artistry.
• Exciting News! Newman Dance students are invited to attend the Dance Force Tour 2025 at the Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC).
  • When: Tuesday 11 November 2025 — doors open at 6:00pm, performance at 7:00pm.
  • Tickets will be available to purchase through the Parent Slips.
  • Why you’ll love it: A visually stunning production featuring elite pre-professional dancers, enhanced by strobe lighting and atmospheric haze.

Music

• • Monday – 2nd lunch: Choir
    Please note: Choir will move to a new rehearsal time in Term 4.
  • Wednesday & Friday – 2nd lunch: Newman Symphonics
  • Thursday – 7:30am – 8:15am: The NCC Chamber Strings (new time) – TERM 4

Newman’s Got Talent – Celebrating Creativity at NCC

Our students and staff are preparing to take centre stage in Newman’s Got Talent 2025, a showcase of the incredible creativity and talents within our community. From singers and dancers to musicians, actors, and unique specialty acts, this much-loved event is always a highlight of the year.

When: Thursday 9 October 2025 – Feast Day of Saint John Henry Newman
Where: Newman College Hall

Students are currently registering their acts and rehearsing in preparation for the big event. Performances can be solo, duo, or group – all talents are welcome, provided they are school-appropriate and under five minutes in length. Each act will participate in an audition and a technical rehearsal to ensure everything is performance-ready.

This event is not only about showcasing talent but also about celebrating creativity, confidence, and community spirit. Staff are also encouraged to get involved, whether by performing or supporting from the audience.

We warmly invite families and friends to join us in cheering on our students as they step into the spotlight. Together, let’s make Newman’s Got Talent 2025 the biggest and best yet! Find the registration from below:

Registration Form 

Warm regards

Mrs Katherine Fraser
Leader of Arts

Science Matters

National Science Week at Newman Catholic College

From the 9th to the 17th of August, our Science Department came alive as we celebrated National Science Week with a range of unique and exciting opportunities for our students.

Our Year 7 students enjoyed an unforgettable experience at James Cook University, where they toured working scientific laboratories and learned directly from experts about life as a scientist. They visited the Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, the Australian Tropical Herbarium, and the Mosquito Research Facility, gaining insights into world-class research happening right here in our region. Over two days of tours and presentations, many students left inspired to consider future careers in science.

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The Year 7 Science Extension class also had the chance to begin work on the Wonder of Science competition alongside visiting scientists from the University of Queensland. This year’s theme, “When is a bug not a bug?”, challenges students to investigate scientific classification and biodiversity. Using data collected during a field study at Atika Creek, students will develop a presentation to showcase their findings. They will compete against other schools in the Cairns regional competition, with the hope of progressing to represent Newman Catholic College at the state finals in Brisbane.

Our Year 10 Marine Science students had the privilege of working alongside the TropWATER team at JCU, with Dr Tim Smith and Dr Paul York leading an engaging session on seagrass ecology and its important role in storing blue carbon. Students prepared seagrass samples for replanting in depleted areas of Trinity Inlet and Mourilyan Harbour, contributing to efforts to restore vibrant marine ecosystems. As part of their STEM project, Year 10s have also been designing and building BRUVs (Baited Remote Underwater Video apparatus). Dr Smith demonstrated how these devices are used to study fish assemblages in diverse habitats, while students also had the chance to explore the boats and field equipment used by marine scientists.

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Our Year 7 Marine Science class were treated to an inspiring session with guest speakers Marie Taylor and Jayvan Singleton from Seacountry Education. They shared how the Yirrganydji people care for their Sea Country within the TUMRA region, highlighting the deep interconnectedness of Cairns’ ecosystems. Students also contributed to the Great Reef Census, analysing images as part of this important citizen science project.

Of course, no Science Week would be complete without experiments and rockets! Classes – along with a local kindergarten group – were entertained with spectacular demonstrations involving dry ice, colourful pH reactions, and bubbling potions. Meanwhile, our resident “rocket scientist” Mr Klein launched a series of rockets on the school oval, giving students an unforgettable lesson in Newton’s Laws of Motion.

At Newman Catholic College, we believe that when students are actively engaged, their learning deepens. National Science Week is just one highlight in our calendar – we are committed to extending hands-on projects and real-world science experiences well beyond this one exciting week of the year.

Mr Matt Radburnd
Leader of Science

Languages Department

Greetings from the Languages Department!

From 4–16 August, we were delighted to welcome students from Denen Chofu High School, Japan to Newman Catholic College. This was their third visit to our College, and it was especially meaningful as our students had visited Denen Chofu during their Japan tour in 2024.

Over the two weeks, the visiting students and their Newman buddies shared classes, enjoyed a variety of lunchtime activities, and formed lasting friendships. They learned from each other’s language and culture while creating wonderful memories together.

A highlight was when the Denen Chofu students invited their Newman buddies to the Rainforestation for a weekend adventure. Big thanks to Sun Pacific College for organising the weekend excursion.

It was hard to say goodbye on Friday, but we look forward to reconnecting soon—when our students visit Japan again!

Mr Shixiang Chen
Leader of Languages

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HPE Department

Futsal - FNQ School Futsal Titles & Peninsula Trials

Our students recently competed in the FNQ School Futsal Titles at Redlynch Central Sports Stadium, with U13 Boys and Girls, U14 Boys, and U15 Boys giving it their all. The effort, teamwork, and energy on display was outstanding!

We also congratulate the NCC students who were selected to represent Trinity Coast North (TCN) at the Peninsula Trials in the U14 - Jay & Kalin and U16 - Gryphon, Joshua & Alec Boys divisions — what an achievement!

A big thank you to our coaches for their guidance and support!

Outdoor Education

Our Year 9 Outdoor Ed students completed on an overnight excursion to the Northern Outlook for rock climbing, low ropes and group initiative activities. Then our Year 8 Outdoor Ed class will attend on an overnight excursion to Davies Creek on their lightweight hiking and camping expedition.

Mr Dockray
Leader of HPE, Sport & Outdoor Education

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

Interschool Hockey Success

On Tuesday 26 August, Newman Catholic College proudly entered two teams into the Interschool Hockey Competition: a Year 10–12 Boys team in the Division 2 competition and a Year 7–9 Girls team.

Congratulations to our Senior Boys, who showed determination and teamwork throughout the day. After strong performances in the round games, the boys progressed to the Division 2 Final where they drew 2–2 with Redlynch. On countback, Newman was awarded the winners of the Division 2 competition.

The Junior Girls team also displayed great skill and spirit, finishing 2nd in their pool after the round matches. They went on to play St Mary’s in the playoff for 3rd and 4th place, narrowly going down 1–0 in a close contest to finish 4th overall.

Results:
Senior Boys

• Newman 1 v St Augustine’s 1
• Newman 2 v Redlynch 2
• Newman 2 v TAS 1
• Division 2 Final: Newman 2 v Redlynch 2 (Winners on countback)

Junior Girls

• Newman 1 v Smithfield 0
• Newman 0 v St Monica’s A 2
• Newman 0 v St Monica’s B 0
• Playoff for 3rd: Newman 0 v St Mary’s 1

Well done to both teams for their sportsmanship, effort, and commitment in representing Newman Catholic College on the hockey field.

Mr Alexander Starmer
Hockey Coach

Sports News

TCN Athletics

Newman students recently competed at the TCN Athletics Carnival. Our students performed exceptionally well, with many placing in the top five of their events.

The following students were announced as Age Champions:

• Mya C – 2nd Age Champion – 13-Year-Old Girls
• Gemma T – 2nd Age Champion – 14-Year-Old Girls
• Evangeline M – 1st Age Champion – 15-Year-Old Girls
• Callum W – 3rd Age Champion – 15-Year-Old Boys
• Oisin B – 1st Age Champion – 16-Year-Old Boys

Students were presented with their TCN Age Champion medallions at our recent College Assembly.

Out of the 10 TCN schools competing, Newman placed 5th overall in the points standings.

Peninsula Athletics

Newman had 17 students who met the qualifying standards and competed at the Peninsula Athletics Carnival.  Congratulations to the following students who represented TCN and Newman on Sunday 24 August and Monday 25 August.

1. Tessa B
2. Emma B
3. Addison B
4. Mya C
5. Max G
6. Jaxon T
7. Gemma T
8. Oliver F
9. Leonard H
10. Evangeline M
11. Lucas R
12. Joseph T
13. Mia T
14. Callum W
15. Oisin B
16. Shayla M
17. Oliver P

JSS

Results from Cairns State High School.

This week – JSS teams travelled to central venues to play McKillop Catholic College.

Sporting News

Congratulations to the following students:

Cricket

Kathleen B:  Under 12 Female Peninsula and North Queensland Region Cricket team.  Kathleen will be travelling to Brisbane from Monday 15 - Thursday 18 September to compete in the State Championships

Swimming

Mia M:  Competed at the QLD State Short Course Championship in Brisbane.  She competed in three events:

• 200m Backstroke - DQ
• 50m Freestyle - 98th place, 31.39
• 50m Backstroke - 43rd place, 35.83
• For her age group (12 years old), she qualified 8th in the 200m Backstroke.
• She finished both the 50m freestyle and backstroke with personal best times.

Raiden and Ty also competed at the QLD State Short Course Championships.

The FNQ Short Course Championships were held at Tobruk Pool. At the awards ceremony, the rankings were announced based on individual overall scores: 

Mia:  Finished in third place

Raiden:  Competed in 14 events, 11 individual races and 3 team relay races. He PB’d 7 of his individual races.

• FNQ Male Age Champion 14yrs
• Runner Up Male Distance Champion 14yrs & Under

He also received the following awards for the 2024 - 2025 Season

• Runner-up Breaststroker of the Year
• Nationals Rising Star

Mountain Biking

Tyreek, Seth, Jaxon, Finn and Kyson: 

• Tyreek, Seth, Jaxon, Finn and Kyson competed at the Race 1 in the Interschool’s Mountain Bike races and held at Atherton Mountain Bike parks.
• Tyreek had to race 3 different stages, stage one was track 6, stage 2 was track 10 which was the rockiest and stage 3 was track 9 into 3.
• Tyreek’s overall time was 10:42.
• Ava won the Girls Age 12-13.
• James D competed in the Boys 16+. 
• Zinzan H competed in the 4-15 Boys. 

Mrs Linda Gough
Coordinator of Sport

Blessing & Presentation Ceremony | NCC Unity XI Cricket Academy

Yesterday, our NCC Cricket Academy received their brand-new uniforms, which were blessed by Bishop Joe Caddy.

In a very special moment, Bishop Joe Caddy accepted the invitation to be the Patron of our Unity XI NCC Cricket Academy Team — a role that will inspire and support our students as they prepare to represent Newman Catholic College, Smithfield at the 2025 Streetsmart Schools Cricket Competition in Brisbane this September.

The team have raised an incredible $21,475.45 🎉.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to:
💰 Queensland Cricket for their $10,000 grant
🤝 Banoora International and the Tin Shed, Port Douglas for their generous sponsorship
🙌 Our amazing students and families for their outstanding fundraising efforts

A huge thank you also to Mrs Gough for making this all happen. Watch this space — exciting times ahead for our young cricketers! 🏏✨

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Fowler’s Cup Netball Carnival - 2025

The Fowler’s Cup Netball Carnival, held annually in Cairns, is a vibrant event that brings together school teams from all over Far North Queensland. It emphasises camaraderie, skill development, and spirited competition, providing an excellent platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and foster a love for the game. Sport provides a microcosm of life—a stage where young people learn resilience, cooperation, leadership, and discipline. These skills aren't just for the field—they’re for life. Newman Catholic College had the privilege of entering three teams into three divisions for 2025.

Year 7 – Newman Gold
Embarking on their first competitive outing as a team, Newman Gold displayed remarkable cohesion and determination. Their efforts were clear as they finished all the round games undefeated at the top of their pool. This culminated in a commendable runner-up finish, setting a strong foundation for future successes.

Year 8/9 – Newman Blue
Newman Blue exemplified teamwork and resilience throughout the carnival. Their collective spirit and strategic play led them to finish top of their pool in an undefeated position. They finished the day securing the runner-up position, reflecting their dedication and unity on the court.

Year 10 – Newman Red
Facing off against senior Year 10, 11 and 12 teams, Newman Red showcased tenacity and competitive spirit. Despite the challenging matchups, they fought valiantly, gaining invaluable experience and demonstrating their potential against more seasoned opponents. Newman Red had some fantastic wins but did not make it through to finals.

Participating in the Fowler’s Cup has been an enriching experience for all our teams. The carnival not only offered a platform for competitive play but also fostered growth, teamwork, and a deeper passion for netball among our students.

Special mention - A big thank you to Abby, Pia, Skylah, and Charly-Rose, who truly stepped up during the carnival. Their willingness to take on roles with enthusiasm and a positive attitude enriched the experience for everyone. The leadership they showed and the skills they gained made the day smoother and more enjoyable for all involved.

Kind regards
Emma Zell - Coach

Sharks Volleyball Camp 2025 - September/October.

GET IN QUICK LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!! Sharks Camp is a four-day volleyball camp designed to cater to athletes of all skill levels. With elite development opportunities available and pathways into Club and State-Level Volleyball, this camp has something for everyone!

The Dates: 

We usually hit capacity pretty quickly, so if you're interested sign up today to secure your spot!!

Visit our website for more information https://sharksvolleyball.com/sharks-camp." 

Counsellor Corner

Bullying No Way Week - 11-15 August 2025

Standing Together Against Bullying - A Message for Our College Community

At Newman Catholic College, we are committed to fostering a safe, inclusive environment where every student feels respected and supported. As part of our ongoing efforts to combat bullying, we draw inspiration from the work of Australian educator and parenting expert, Maggie Dent.

Maggie Dent reminds us that “children who bully often come from a place of pain, confusion, or disconnection.” This perspective encourages us not only to support those who are targeted by bullying, but also to understand and guide those who engage in these behaviours. Compassion, connection, and clear boundaries are key.

Bullying is never acceptable. It can take many forms-verbal, physical, social, or online-and the impact can be long-lasting. Dent urges schools to build resilience and emotional intelligence in students, while also creating a strong sense of belonging. “When children feel seen, heard and valued,” she says, “they are far less likely to hurt others.”

Let’s work together - students, staff and parents - to ensure our school is a place of kindness, respect and courage. If you or someone you know is experiencing bullying, please speak to a trusted teacher, your Learner Mentor Group teachers, your Leader of Pastoral Care or contact the College Guidance Counsellors via the self-referral form on the Newman website.

Together, we can make a difference.

From the Newman College Counsellors

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

All orders for the Cafe are to be placed by 7:45am. A reminder if you have more than one child you are ordering for, please place each child's order separately. 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). 

Popular items now in stock

We’re pleased to inform you that several popular uniform items are now back in stock at the NCC Uniform Shop. These include:

• Girls blouses - sizes 6 and 8
• Girls stripe skorts - size 8
• Boys formal shorts - size 77

If you’ve been waiting on any of these items, now is a great time to shop by Flexischools. https://user.flexischools.com.au/login

Items currently unavailable –

• Girls stripe skorts (sizes 12 and 16 not available until November)
• Boys formal shirt (size 14 not available until November)

Thank you for your continued support, and please don’t hesitate to contact the NCC uniform shop ncc.uniformshop@cns.catholic.edu.au with any questions.

College Uniforms

If you require new uniforms for Semester 2, 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.