22 May 2025

From the Pen of the Principal

Welcome to Week 5 of Term 2.

Since our last newsletter, we have celebrated Mother’s Day and witnessed the election of a new Pope, Leo XIV. As I begin this article, we continue to offer our prayers for all mothers, and for the beginning of a new chapter in the life of the Catholic Church under the leadership of Pope Leo XIV.

Dear Lord,

We approach you to give thanks to all mothers and those who are mother like figures,
who so generously and freely give love, comfort, and guidance to us every day.

We ask you, Lord, to give them strength to carry on doing their work.
Give them patience and let them see that they are loved, appreciated, and respected.

We thank you for the sacrifice each mother makes every day.
And we pray to you, to bless them and touch them with your Grace.

We also we give thanks for the gift of Pope Leo XIV and pray that You grant him wisdom,
strength, and compassion as he leads Your Church.

May his words and actions reflect the light of Christ and inspire unity, hope,
and peace among all people. Bless him with the courage to shepherd Your flock with humility and grace.

Recent all School Events

It was disappointing that some students chose not to attend school on what was a significant day in the life of the College, our Founder’s Day, which included the DV Walk, where we stand united as a community against domestic violence. While I acknowledge there were students who had legitimate reasons for their absence, I am also aware that others simply took the opportunity for a ‘day off,’ spending time around town or in the region.

At St Brendan’s, we are only as strong as the collective commitment of all members of our community. Our ethos and the high standards we set for our students rely on the shared responsibility and presence of each individual.

The Feast Day was an outstanding occasion, rich in celebration, reflection, and school spirit. I would particularly like to acknowledge our Guest Speaker for Blessed Edmund Rice Day, Nick Kenny, whose message of perseverance, determination, and service was among the most powerful I have encountered in my years in education. His words offered an inspiring reminder of the values that underpin our College community.

COMMUNITY VISITS & CONNECTIONS

Warmest regards,
Rob Corboy

Teaching, Learning & Innovation

Year 11 Study Skills Workshop

On Tuesday, our Year 11 students participated in a Study Skills workshop with Mrs Monique Jorgensen, Director of Academic Performance, and myself. The session focussed on revision techniques and developing organisational strategies using practical planning tools.

To support student organisation, Mrs Jorgensen strongly recommends the use of an A3 sized hardcopy Term Planner for recording all assessment dates. Ideally, this planner should then be displayed in a visible location, such as behind a study desk or any other another prominent position. Once assessment dates are clearly identified, the next step in getting organised is the scheduling of time throughout the week. For many students with busy schedules, the use of a Weekly Planner can be very beneficial and assist students to find and allocate blocks of time for home learning.

As students move into the senior years, the importance of developing strategies that promote long-term memory formation become increasingly important. The demands of the Year 12 assessment system are significant, particularly in subjects like Mathematics and Science, where external exams assess content taught over a year earlier, in Term 4 of Year 11. To manage this, students are encouraged develop the use of Spaced Practice. This strategy involves the revision of content in a spread-out approach – with small blocks of study, distributed over months and weeks - rather than attempting to cram in the last few days before an exam. The use of a planners can assist in the strategic scheduling of spaced practice. Each week, students can allocate small blocks of time to revise content from earlier in the unit of work.

The year 11 students engaged very positively in the workshop. Students left the session with completed Term and Weekly Planners, and a stronger understanding of how these two tools can be used to support the strategic scheduling of revision that promotes long-term memory formation. All students can access Term and Weekly Planners via the Student Homepage.

Examination Attendance

As we move towards the second half of term, it is timely to remind all students and families of the importance of attendance at scheduled exams and procedures for parents to follow should students be absent. If your son is absent from school on the day of an examination, please register his absence via the Parent Lounge or College reception. In accordance with the guidelines provided by the Queensland Curriculum Assessment Authority, Year 11 and 12 students are also required to apply for an AARA by contacting the relevant Head of Year, Ms. Niamh Timlin or Mr. Trevor Guinane.

Please not the following guidelines regarding absences from exams:

Approved Absences:

If your son is unable to attend an exam due to a “School Approved” reason - such as illness, injury, bereavement, specialist medical appointments, or participation in school-supported events - they will be able to complete the examination upon their return to school. These exams will take place under supervision in the RTC.

Unapproved Absences:

Absences for reasons such as early leave, family holidays, non-emergency family events, or attending non-school events are considered “Unapproved.” Examinations are not rescheduled to facilitate unapproved leave, resulting in the allocation of a Not Rated (NR) mark for the assessment. For senior students, this results in the loss of credit points necessary for attaining the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).

Kind regards,
Peter Reddy
Assistant Principal
Teaching, Learning & Innovation

Identity

College Sacramental Program

Beginning in Week 7 this term, the College will offer a Sacramental Program for students who wish to become Catholic through Baptism, or to undertake their Sacraments of Initiation—Confirmation and Eucharist.

This program will be delivered in partnership with St Ursula’s College over a six-week period, with weekly one-hour sessions designed to guide students through the key sacramental aspects of the Catholic faith.

At the conclusion of the program, students will receive their sacraments during a Mass held on Sunday, 3 August at 5:00pm.

If you would like him to take part, please complete the form below and return it to me—either via email or through your son—by Friday, 30 May.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at peerss@sbc.qld.edu.au or on (07) 4939 9431.

Shane Peers
Assistant Principal - Identity

SPORT

It has been a whirlwind of a fortnight in the world of sport at the college with teams competing in the regular interschool soccer and basketball seasons as well as many other representative trials and external competitions.

Bill Turner Cup

On Wednesday 30th May our Bill Turner Cup Soccer Team travelled to Rockhampton to participate in the U15 competition. The day had us playing teams from Chanel College, The Rockhampton Grammar School, Emmaus and The Cathedral College. The team played an attacking brand of football to record wins against RGS and TCC. Our games against Emmaus and Chanel were competitive, however the opposition proved too strong. It was a great experience for our young team who will put it to good use in their current interschool season. Thank you to Mr Hodgins who coached the boys throughout the day.

Rockhampton District Cross Country

The College Cross Country team took on all comers at the Rockhampton District Cross Country trials on Tuesday 6th May. Our team of 12 ran out of their socks, recording some impressive results which included wins in the 12 years, 13 years, 14, years and 16 years divisions.

To put this into context, I am confident we have not seen results such as this before which highlights just how much athletic talent we have at the college. Congratulations to all runners and to those who gained selection to compete at the upcoming Capricornia trials.

Athletics

During Week 4, our preliminary championship events for the upcoming Interhouse Athletics Carnival were completed. It was a fantastic day of competition highlighted by the attitude and spirit in which our competitors participated. There were outstanding performances across all events which included 2 broken records. Congratulations to the students listed below.

• Taj Swift, broke the 12 years 1500m record with a time of 5:18.00. This record was previously set in 2023 by J. Robertson.
• Zyrhese Law, broke the 13 Years Discus record with a distance of 34.70m. The previous record was set in 2023 by Z. Keiler
• On a another note it was nice to see an Old Boy from 1967, Mr R. Kavanagh recently who was keen to see if his 800m record was still valid. Congratulations Mr Kavanagh, your record of 2:00.00mins still stands!

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

Soccer

Congratulations to Jack Orford, Luke Roberts, Sam Farlow and Jackson Booth who recently returned from the Queensland Secondary School’s Soccer Championships where the represented the Capricornia region. It was a week of quality competition where the boys acquitted themselves very well amongst some talented opposition. Well done boys!

AFL

Congratulations to Jess McWhinney, Tyler Johnson, Malakia Mackie, Isaac Durdin who were recently selected in the Capricornia 16-19yrs AFL team. The boys will contest the state championships next month.

Rugby Union

In Rugby Union, the following students gained selection in the 14-15yrs RD Rugby Union team; Caleb Beath, Raui Olliver, Trey Gibson, Ashley Earnshaw, Kiale Fetoai, Tyler Slater, Lucas McLean, Jameal-Fred Kebisu Matasia and Cooper Leisch. Congratulations boys!

Water Polo

Congratulations to Caden Parsons, Bailey Hoare, Oliver King and Aiden Steig who recently represented the Capricornia region at the 15 – 19yrs State Championships. Their team placed 3rd in their division after an impressive week of competition. Caden who was named player of the final. Well done boys!

Kind regards,
Damien McLuskie
Director of Sport

MUSIC

CONGRATULATIONS, WILLIAM LEES!

We could not be prouder of St Brendan’s College student William Lees, who has been selected to participate in the prestigious Australian Honours Ensemble Program (AHEP) 2025, hosted by the Queensland Conservatorium, Griffith University. William was chosen as a Vocal Tenor from more than 695 outstanding young musicians who auditioned from across Australia. We thank the Queensland Conservatorium for continuing to provide these incredible opportunities and acknowledge our College music staff for their support and encouragement.

Well done, William!

Outstanding Achievement: Students Selected for SHEP Capricornia

We are incredibly proud to announce that 10 of our talented music students were selected to represent our school at SHEP Capricornia (State Honours Ensemble Program)—a prestigious music program run by the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University.

These students were chosen from among their peers across the region, many of whom have had years more experience and private tuition. What makes this achievement even more exceptional is that most of our boys only began their musical journey in Year 7. Their rapid progress and dedication are truly inspiring!

Please join us in congratulating the following students on their selection:

• Cooper Ballment – Tuba
• Oliver Bennett – Alto Saxophone
• Alexander Campbell – Trumpet
• William Campbell – Trombone
• Victor Comiskey – Clarinet
• Jesse Emery – Alto Saxophone
• Monty Harrison – Cello
• William Lees – Trumpet
• Jacob Melville – Euphonium
• Cooper Ryan – Percussion

This opportunity allows our students to rehearse and perform with some of the most promising young musicians in the region, under the guidance of renowned conductors and educators. It's not only a recognition of their hard work but also a celebration of the incredible talent emerging within our music program.

We couldn’t be prouder of these boys for their commitment, courage, and musical growth. We can’t wait to see what they achieve next!

School Musical Update: “We Will Rock You” – Get Ready to Be Rocked!

Preparations for this year’s school musical, We Will Rock You, are well underway—and the energy is electric! With a cast of over 50 students, rehearsals are taking place every Saturday and Wednesday, as our dedicated performers and crew bring this spectacular show to life.

Our incredibly talented rock band has been working tirelessly to perfect a setlist of over 20 legendary Queen hits, including:

• “Another One Bites the Dust”
• “Bohemian Rhapsody”
• “Killer Queen”
• “We Will Rock You”
• “Somebody to Love”
• “We Are the Champions”
  …and many more!

Set in a future where music is forbidden and conformity rules, We Will Rock You tells the story of two brave rebels who fight to restore rock ‘n’ roll to the world. It’s a powerful, high-energy musical packed with heart, humor, and the unforgettable music of Queen—a fist-pumping, foot-stomping anthem to individuality.

If you’ve ever sung along to “We Will Rock You” or “Bohemian Rhapsody,” this is the show for you! 
Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic live on stage.

Let’s rock the house—see you there!

Kind regards,
Jack Ingram
Head of Department - Music

Information Communication Technology

Hydrogen Cup Grand Prix – World Qualifier Results

Earlier this term, a team of our senior students took part in the Hydrogen Cup Grand Prix – a high-tech endurance race for student-built, hydrogen-powered remote-control cars. Representing our school with grit and innovation, the students not only demonstrated remarkable STEM skills, but also resilience and teamwork under pressure. The race began with a strong showing, our car performing reliably and keeping pace with the leaders. But around the ten-minute mark, we faced our first mechanical setback. Undeterred, the students quickly diagnosed the problem and got the vehicle back on track through clever mechanical adjustments. Mid-race, another challenge arose — a battery failure affecting the hydrogen generator. Thinking on their feet, the students sprang into action, soldering part of the circuit board on the spot to restore power. Their quick decision-making and technical know-how paid off, and with the car back in action, they steadily gained ground during the final hour. Although we didn’t finish on the podium, the team showed determination, problem-solving ability, and an impressive command of STEM principles — finishing mid-pack after what was a truly world-class effort. The College is incredibly proud of their performance and are already looking forward to building on this experience in next year’s season.

Michael Jensen
Head of Department
Information Communication Technology

Careers

SBC CAREERS NEWSFEED

SBC Careers Newsfeed

For the latest local and regional career opportunities (apprenticeships, traineeships, casual and holiday work included), work experience opportunities, school-based career information sessions, updates from Queensland Universities, QTAC, school-based university programs, industry trends information, events, and the world of work, subscribe to the SBC newsfeed.

St Brendan's College (sbccareers.com.au)

Careers Newsfeed

CAREER RESOURCES

If you are looking for resources and information, make sure you visit our SBC careers website.

Click here to visit the SBC Careers website

CAREER MEETINGS

If you, or your son would like further information or would like to meet with me to discuss career pathways, please send an email to Rebecca Lang with your available times and we will arrange a meeting langr@sbc.qld.edu.au or use the "Book an Appointment" link on the SBC Careers Website. 

Regards,
Rebecca Lang
Director of Pathways

From the Library

Check your student email for this message and reply with your Name and Year Level to register and get ready to start the QLD Premier’s Reading Challenge

What is The Premier’s Reading Challenge?

The Premier’s reading Challenge (PRC) is an annual state-wide initiative for students up to Year 9. In 2024 more than 216,000 students participated in the challenge and read over 1.9 million books throughout the PRC reading period. 

To complete the challenge you need to read 15 books, and you will receive a certificate of achievement. 

If you don’t make it to 15, that’s ok!  Even 1 book is a great effort, and you receive a certificate of participation 😊

The PRC is not a competition but aims to encourage you to read for enjoyment. 
Write down the titles of each book you complete on your individual record form and hand them into the library.
You can download the form HERE

Why Read?

Reading a variety of books helps build vocabulary and knowledge, improves your spelling and comprehension, boosts your confidence, sparks your imagination, and is a great way to switch off and relax.  Developing your literacy skills gives the best chance to succeed in school and life. 

There are many adventures waiting and different types of genres to explore:  Fantasy, Horror, Adventure, Mystery, Crime, Comedy, Science Fiction, Dystopian, Historical, Western … or explore new and interesting topics and read some non-fiction!

When you find a good book it’s hard to put down!!

What can you read?

• Printed Books:  to access print books in the SBC Library  
  Search the library catalogue for any title
  Email the library  to see if we hold a title you would like to read OR
  Place a RESERVATION if a book is on loan - we’ll email you when it is ready for pickup
•  eBooks & Audiobooks
  
  
  Click on this logo, and then click on Sign In top right
•  Graphic Novels, Comic Books & Manga
•   
• Newspapers and Magazines
• Books in languages other than English
• Any books you have at home, and don’t forget the public library is free to join
• Project Gutenberg  60,000+  free eBooks

Email the library to register, or if you have trouble accessing resources online
library@sbc.qld.edu.au

The library will send out emails of encouragement throughout the reading period and help you discover new items.
If there’s a book you want to read and we don’t have it, let us know and we can purchase it for the collection.
Check out titles in these Book Lists – use the drop down menu at the top to select current year 2025 + your year level

Contact the library if you have any questions.

Elizabeth Varley
Librarian

Cattle Club

SBC Cattle Club Continues Strong Run at Regional Shows

The SBC Cattle Club team has been achieving outstanding results at a series of recent regional agricultural shows, showcasing not only their talent and dedication but also the strength of the College’s agricultural program.

At the Baralaba Show, Lachlan Andrews put on a polished and professional display to earn the title of Champion Parader, a notable individual achievement that reflects his hard work and attention to detail in the show ring. Both Lachlan and Bailey Hoare impressed judges and spectators alike with their cattle handling skills and presentation, earning them qualification for the Sub Chamber Finals, which will take place at the Mt Larcom Show this coming June. This is a significant step forward and a great opportunity for the boys to compete at a higher level.

Meanwhile, Clay Schneider and Riley Hall brought home accolades from the Marlborough Show, earning both a ribbon and a trophy for their efforts with Champion Steer 'SBC Bendee'. Their achievement is a testament to the quality of cattle being bred and prepared through the College’s program. The team proudly represented SBC during the event, also taking part in an important community initiative by wearing their purple ‘Not Now, Not Ever’ shirts to support the fight against domestic violence. This powerful visual statement highlighted the College’s commitment to raising awareness for social issues.

The momentum continued at the Callide Valley Show, where Lawson Sedgeman led Champion Bull 'Cambil Tynan' to victory. His efforts contributed to the ongoing success of the College’s cattle show team and were a point of pride for everyone involved.

The College acknowledges Lawson Camm, a proud Old Boy of the College, for his generous support of the program. Lawson has provided a group of quality breeders to the College and has most recently donated a heifer, ‘Cambil Jules’, to the SBC Stud. His contribution is instrumental in helping to ensure the future of the program and giving current students the opportunity to work with high-calibre livestock.

The continued success of the SBC Cattle Club team is a clear reflection of the passion, dedication, and teamwork displayed by all involved. We look forward to seeing what they achieve next.

A BIG Thank you to Old Boy Lawson Camm, who lent us some Cambil Breeders as well as donating a lovely heifer to our College stud 'Cambil Jules'

New Students are always welcome to join in.  Cattle Club is at the Ag area on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons after school.

2025 Senior Formal

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Due to recent changes in traffic conditions in and around the College, please take note of the following arrangements for College access and vehicle procession.  If you are attending the red carpet entrance, we kindly ask that you follow the designated entry points and parking procedures outlined below. 

PLEASE NOTE: Gate 1 is strictly reserved for the vehicle procession and dinner guests only.

Learning Support

Rodeo

Support Our Rodeo – In-Kind Contributions Needed!

We are reaching out to local businesses who may be interested in supporting our Annual Rodeo through in-kind contributions. While sponsorship packages are available, we also welcome services or goods that can assist in making the event a success.

In-kind contributions can include, but are not limited to:

• Meals for working bees
• Gravel for road repairs
• Crew to assist with bump-in
• Temporary fencing setup (500 meters)
• Any other resources that can support the event

Every bit helps, and we would love to hear how your business can contribute. Once our sponsorship packages are finalised, we will circulate further details. For now, please reach out to our Marketing and Events team if you can provide a valuable in-kind contribution.

We will also need 100 volunteers to help run the event, but we will circulate a volunteer registration process closer to the event. This is a great way to integrate into our College community and support the event firsthand.

Contact us at rodeo@sbc.qld.edu.au 

Tuckshop

College App

Android download is available by CLICKING HERE.

Apple user download is available by CLICKING HERE.

Uniform Shop Trading Hours

Please note that there have been changes to the Uniform Shop’s opening hours.

See below for the updated normal trading hours and upcoming additional opening times.

Timetable

Study Groups & Clubs

Regional Visits

COUNTRY DINNER BOOKING LINKS

Miles
RSVP HERE by 8:00pm 25 May 2025

Darwin and Katherine
RSVP HERE by 8:00pm 10 July 2025

Roma, Quilpie and Charleville
RSVP HERE by 8:00pm 6 September 2025

Year 9 BBQ

Term 2 Date Claimers

The 2025 College calendar is now available to support your planning.

Access it through Parent Lounge or via the website using the following link:

Old Boys Foundation

Community

Valued Sponsors