2023 Yearbook

YEAR BOOK 2023

COLLEGE MAP

HIGHFIELDSROAD

18 Junior School

100 Senior School

COLLEGE LOGO

Sacred Heart

The symbolism of a hand was featured in the former school logo, and has been retained and built upon. The vibrant maroon shape resembles a hand pointing dynamically up, recalling also the distinctive silhouette of a flame, henceforth symbolising the sacred heart of God, as well as the light of knowledge and empowerment. This is particularly representative of the College’s mission of Igniting Hearts, and is a credit to the history of St Mary MacKillop who co-founded the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart.

Innovative and Welcoming

The round sans serif typeface works to convey the school’s qualities of Nurturing and Supportive, Innovation in Learning and Inclusive and Welcoming.

The combination of these three graphic elements, while being a credit to the Blessed Trinity from the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart emblem, also embody the values by which the College abides, providing a framework where students are invigorated in their learning, and placed in good stead for their future journeys.

Nurturing school

The deep blue hand is cupped and angled in a soft, supportive way that represents the collaborative and encouraging environment in which students are invited to learn and grow. The various shades of blue are an illustration of the spiritual world, and a nod to the monogram of the Blessed Virgin worn as blue woolen braid by Mary MacKillop.

A visual representation of the College mission and values

Catholicism Two white strips in the shape of gum leaves overlap to form a cross symbolising the Crucifixion of Jesus. Both elements were present in the former school logo, and they are now combined to reflect the school motto Celebrate God in all things., as well as to illustrate the Christcentred educational community. The two gum leaves are significant as they are representative of the two Australians who founded the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart: St Mary MacKillop and Rev. Julian Edmund Tenison Woods.

HISTORY OF THE COLLEGE SAINT MARY MACKILLOP

Mary MacKillop Catholic College opened on Tuesday, 21 January 2003.

58 students and their families were part of a small community who worked hard with diligence, planning and above all faith and trust in God to see a Catholic school open in the growing area of Highfields.

This was to be the first new Catholic school in the Toowoomba Diocese in 38 Years.

In April 2000 an educational need was identified for Highfields and surrounds.

Under the guidance of the Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Education Board and members of the local community, the site and land were identified and purchased with the plan to build a new school.

The name Mary MacKillop, who founded the Sisters of St Joseph in Australia, was selected and the building began.

Construction of the school began on the 21 August 2002 with five classrooms, a preschool, a multipurpose room and administration building.

From this beginning, we have continued to expand, leading the way forward in the region as a modern Prep to Year 12 College.

Mary MacKillop was born in 1842 in Melbourne, Australia.

From an early age, Mary felt a sense of God’s presence, dedicating her life to the service of the poor and those who had no one to look after them.

Mary opened orphanages, providences to care for the homeless, refuges for ex-prisoners and many schools. This great Australian woman inspired God’s work in the then new colonies.

In today’s world, she stands as an example of great courage and trust in living out God’s loving and compassionate care of those in need.

“Never see a need without doing something about it” Mary MacKillop.

OUR VALUES

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop was:

A woman of faith and courage who committed to engaging minds

A woman of strength and perseverance who believed in igniting hearts

A woman of compassion and unfailing love who devoted herself to serving others

Celebrate God in all things COllege MOttO

What We Seek

We seek to form young people who are active in all areas of learning. We see a world with complexity that necessitates a focus on the wellbeing and emotional resilience of young people. We seek to consciously support our students to navigate this world through the development of the 21st Century skills of critical and creative thinking, collaboration, communication, and social skills. We want them to be empathetic and committed to a deep sense of service to the community, particularly the vulnerable, inspired by the Gospel and Josephite tradition.

Our ViSiOn

To be a Catholic school that cultivates a standard of excellence in holistic education through the development of people who take ownership of their learning and contribute to the wellbeing of the College community.

Our MiSSiOn

St Mary of the Cross MacKillop was a courageous pioneer and visionary leader. She established a new religious order of sisters and led a radical new approach to education in Australia. While embracing the poorest and most marginalised, she also displayed extraordinary courage and strength of character.

Following her example and continuing her legacy,

We are a community that welcomes all in the name of Jesus Christ, strives to develop the potential of each individual, responds to the needs of others, has a simplicity of lifestyle and has a special concern for and response to those most in need.

COLLEGE PRAYER COLLEGE SONG

Mary MacKillop community

Engaging minds is our legacy Igniting hearts our destiny

Serving others with integrity

We stand in faith for a world renewed

We strive for excellence in all we do When we are tested through and through

May we be strong, May our hearts be true

In all things may we celebrate How with God we strive to make Our world a better place And take our lives, from good to great

We stand in faith for a world renewed

We strive for excellence in all we do When we are tested through and through

May we be strong, May our hearts be true May our hearts be true

Bless our Mary MacKillop School family.

We pray that everyone will live and work in peace.

We pray that everyone will spread happiness.

We pray that everyone will show love for one another and love for our God.

We pray that everyone will follow the way of Mary MacKillop

And celebrate God in all things.

Amen.

PRINCIPAL’S ADDRESS

MR CHRIS GABBETT | COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

“We are all but travellers here..."

St Mary MacKillop, 1866.

As a Catholic College, we must model to our students the fact that we are a pilgrim people. Pilgrimage has a long history – from well before Christianity. The desire to journey to something important and sacred is a very human one. Even though we may form a classical view and think it is Rome or Santiago, for a Beatles fan it could be Liverpool or Abbey Road, or for a Broncos fan it could be Red Hill. Either way, the desire to walk where we felt something exceptional was, or is, remains common to many of us.

The English term 'pilgrim' originally comes from the Latin word peregrinus (per, through + ager, field, country, land). This can mean a foreigner, a stranger, someone on a journey, or a temporary resident. In the modern Catholic context, when viewed literally, it is a journey to something sacred. Importantly, the journey itself is just as important as the destination.

Ms Cridland’s Deputy Principal Report in this magazine outlines her pilgrimage this year. She is fortunate to have completed the Camino Frances route of the Camino de Santiago.

Her description outlines the magic of pilgrimage –a mixture of journey, searching, courage, humility, community, and faith. One thing said to me about pilgrimage when I did my own Camino in 2015 was the importance of only taking what is essential. To ‘remember to be humble – take nothing with you but your sins’. This was a message to encourage humility, and to focus on the journey to renew and grow.

I was fortunate this year to have a pilgrimage of my own. I journeyed with 16 other Principals from secondary and P-12 schools who are inspired by the charism and message of St Mary MacKillop and Julian Tenison Woods. Whilst not as romantic and crowded as the Camino, this was no less exciting for me as it enabled me to be in the places where Mary and Julian would have sat, worked, walked and envisioned the mission that became the Josephite sisters. One of the messages from that pilgrimage was to bring a simple message from Mary MacKillop back to our schools.

The message I chose was one that has often spoken to me, ‘We are all but travellers here’. This reminds me that we are all stewards of this College – no one person owns it. Our role is to leave it better, brighter and stronger than we found it. This journey of stewardship is a type of pilgrimage. Even though we are not travelling, we are on a journey, and it is one of humility and conscious listening.

In a simpler sense, our students are on a pilgrimage. We walk with them on a journey of learning, faith, discovery, growth and community. As a Catholic school, our mission is to make knowledge more about service of the Common Good rather than an end in itself. It is to encourage them to look to the margins and walk there – to lift others around them. In a world where so much of popular culture is dedicated to the self, and there is an unwillingness to authentically reflect on the challenges of our neighbour, this is a necessary journey.

‘We must teach more by example than by word’.

St Mary MacKillop expressed this in a letter in 1867. For so many of our students now this is a 13 year journey – one of formation, community and a desire for all students to reach fullness of life. For some, they are just starting their pilgrimage. Others are nearing the end. For all though, education here is a journey, and not a destination, underpinned by a commitment to service of others.

When we reach the end of the year and our thoughts turn to reflection and celebration, it is important that we acknowledge and commemorate the outstanding example offered by the students. I have never made a secret of the fact that as Principal of a Catholic College, it is my primary role to ensure that education at our College is distinguished by excellence. The classroom experience must offer a pathway for a child to celebrate their innate dignity, to obtain fullness of life, and to encounter learning that breaks down barriers and enables pathways to positive horizons. As you know as members of our community, this is mirrored in our co-curricular activities which are characterised by distinction. I want to acknowledge the other two partners in this pilgrimage. Thank you to the families who provide guidance and support for these outstanding learners. A particular mention to College parents. As the first educators of your child, all we commend has its root with you, and the standards you have set, the expectations you hold to, and your willingness to support us as a College. Thank you.

It is so important as well to commend College staff. Educating our students in the tradition of St Mary MacKillop requires a strong discernment, ensuring that we, as a community of educators, always consider our own witness, our own faith, and our own presence in their lives. Values are caught, not taught – students will much more readily copy what they see before they do what they are told. For that reason, it is important that we consistently amplify our collective aspiration towards excellence in our College. Alongside that dedication to excellence is the hard work of teaching – of consistently pushing our students to the succeeding step, the higher rung, the challenge task. Or, it is the re-checking of drafts, the feedback conversation, the extra marking. I am so blessed to work alongside absolutely outstanding teachers. Thank you for what you do, every day.

There is such satisfaction and reward in reflecting on a year well done. As a College, we have achieved much – but we know that we have work still to do. I am very excited about our further growth in 2024 and the possibilities in front of us. ‘Remember, we are all but travellers here’. It is useful to remind ourselves of that. As a pilgrim people, we are a link in a chain of this College’s history. In our pilgrimage of learning and belonging, we consistently set, affirm and celebrate a culture of dignity, excellence and belonging that defines Mary MacKillop Catholic College – and really, that is the greatest statement we can make.

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL'S ADDRESS

MS CHARMAINE CRIDLAND | DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

EMBARKING ON THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME: THE PILGRIMAGE OF THE FRENCH CAMINO

As the final week of 2022 drew to a close, I had decided to use a couple of my six months of my long service leave to embark on a life-changing journeythe pilgrimage of the French Camino, also known as "The Way of St. James." This ancient path, stretching over 800 kilometres from the French Pyrenees to the revered city of Santiago de Compostela in Spain, promised a transformative experience like no other. The Camino has long been a path of spiritual reflection and self-discovery for believers.

My pilgrimage began in the quaint town of SaintJean-Pied-de-Port, where I took my first steps with a mix of excitement and trepidation. The air was filled with anticipation as I gazed upon the iconic scallop shell, the symbol of St. James, proudly displayed on my backpack slung over my shoulder I set off on this arduous yet spiritually enriching adventure. Along the way, I encountered breathtaking landscapes, charming villages, and most importantly, a sense of purpose. The pilgrimage demanded physical endurance, as I traversed rugged terrains, climbed steep hills, and walked for hours on end.

Blistered feet and aching muscles became badges of honour, reminding me of my resilience and determination. But it was the mental and emotional challenges that truly tested my tenacity. In the hushed footsteps of countless pilgrims who have come before, my journey along the French Camino was not merely a physical expedition; it was a profound spiritual odyssey. As I embarked on this ancient pilgrimage, each step became a prayer, and every village I passed through bore witness to the resilience of faith and the enduring human spirit.

From the beginning, the journey demanded more than physical endurance; it required a surrender of the self to the greater spiritual rhythm of the Camino. The winding paths, lush vineyards, and rustic villages served as both backdrop and catalyst for deep introspection. With each sunrise, I embraced the beauty of creation, recognizing it as a testament to the divine hand guiding my pilgrimage.

As I traversed the hilly landscapes of the Pyrenees, I found parallels between my ascent and the challenges of life. It was a steep climb, much like the obstacles we face, but with faith as my compass, I pressed on. The Camino, like life's journey, presented both joys and hardships, symbolizing the highs and lows of our spiritual quests.

In the spirit of community, pilgrims from diverse backgrounds shared tales of their lives, dreams, and struggles. The communal meals and shared dormitories fostered a sense of camaraderie, reminding us that, in the words of St Mary MacKillop, “we are all travellers here". The bonds forged along the Camino transcended language barriers, echoing the universal language of connection and purpose.

The heart of my pilgrimage lay in the spiritual landmarks dotting the route, each holding its own sacred significance. In the quiet moments of prayer at ancient chapels and churches, I found solace and strength. The rhythm of my footsteps echoed the beat of my heart, and the echoes of centuries of pilgrims who had walked before me resonated in the stone walls. The simplicity of the pilgrim's life, detached from worldly distractions, allowed me to focus on the essentials—the spiritual and the divine.

The grandeur of the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela awaited me like a beacon, its towering spires drawing me closer with each passing day. The culmination of my journey wasn't merely reaching the destination, but the profound transformation that occurred within me along the way.

As I entered the hallowed grounds of the Cathedral, a surge of emotion enveloped me. The journey, with its physical challenges and spiritual triumphs, culminated in a profound sense of gratitude and humility. The apostle St. James, immortalized in the Cathedral's statue, symbolized not only the end of my pilgrimage but the beginning of a renewed spiritual chapter in my life.

The French Camino is a testament to the enduring power of pilgrimage — a sacred journey that transcends time and connects us with something greater than ourselves. As I close this chapter in my life, may the lessons learned along the Camino continue to guide my steps on the path of presence, compassion, and love.

LESSONS FROM THE CAMINO:

1. Have conscious presence – the world is extraordinary!

2. Like in life, off-load the excess baggage we carry around, so we can enjoy the journey.

3. Each day is a new beginning – you never know what beauty is around the corner.

4. Be grateful and humble. Give thanks each day.

5. When you don’t know which way to go, look for the signs. Sometimes the signs are obvious, other times they are hard to find, BUT trust you will be shown THE WAY.

Buen Camino…

PARISH REPORT

FATHER BRIAN NOONAN | PARISH PRIEST

Over the past year, I am sure that like me, we have all noticed the radical change to the landscape of our wonderful Mary MacKillop Catholic College. On a recent visit to the school I noticed the hive of activity that was taking place, and could not help but think of how fast things continue to grow.

So, as changes take place I am also aware of the importance of building on solid foundations. The generosity of all involved from our Principal, Chris, and the Leadership Team through to the dedicated staff, the involved and supportive parents and the inspiring young children, all bring the gifts that so enrich the life of our College and provide that solid foundation as we continue to evolve as a community.

I am personally proud of our Parish and College communities as they continue to respond to God's call to ministry of love and service.

As a parish and school community, we give thanks for the many blessings we have received over 2023. As we continue to strengthen our bond, we look forward to the exciting possibility the future holds for us, as we celebrate God's kingdom in our midst. I would like to express my thanks to all, for your support of our community, as we work in partnership and continue to grow together. Let us pray for God's continued blessings upon our College over the coming years, as we seek to be faithful to Saint Mary MacKillop's call to 'love one another and let charity guide you in all your life'.

May God's blessing be with you all.

PARENT ENGAGEMENT NETWORK REPORT (PEN)

MR

SHAYNE CLEARY & MRS ROWENA VOLL | MMCC CO-CHAIRS PEN

Greetings,

from the Parent Engagement Network (PEN)

To all our Mary Mac families, both new and existing, to our cherished students, dedicated teachers, and hardworking staff.

As we bid farewell to 2023, we reflect on a year marked by tremendous success and growth within our beloved Mary MacKillop Catholic College.

We began the year hosting a memorable Welcome BBQ that brought together students, parents, teachers, and staff. It set the tone for a year of unity and collaboration.

Throughout the year, the Parent Engagement Network (PEN) convened five general meetings and four executive meetings. These discussions encompassed various aspects of our College, from teaching and learning, mission and identity,

College resources to the wellbeing of our community. With your support, we made significant progress on many fronts and many actions were delivered again.

Our journey this year was not just about meetings but also about fostering a sense of community. From the Anzac Parade to the Mary MacKillop Feast Day BBQ to the Forty for Fortey Relay, together we celebrated our shared experiences and values. The PEN also supported World Teachers’ Day, School Officers’ Day and other wellbeing events throughout the 2023 year. These events brought our extended school family together, reinforcing our commitment to our growing school culture.

A standout moment this year was the inauguration of Fitzroy Oval, an exciting addition to our College facilities. This event saw students, dignitaries, and other schools come together for sportsmanship and unity, and we eagerly anticipate making it a tradition.

The achievements of our students make us proud every day, and we commend their dedication and talent. We’ve seen excellence in various areas, including the Eisteddfod, the Wakakirri Dance Festival, and a wide range of sporting events the College supports. The College Sports Department continued to shine across swimming carnivals, cross country, rugby, soccer, basketball and so many more. We congratulate them for their ongoing success.

The PEN is committed to supporting our school and students. We've been actively participating in events to ensure your insights and needs are addressed efficiently, and we eagerly await new developments in 2024.

The PEN also were involved in attending Catholic School Parents Queensland events and online webinars throughout the year for support in wellbeing and future live reporting for our students which we look forward to its implementation in the year ahead to allow parents and carers to have access to children’s learning and support in a much quicker way.

We conducted several fundraisers, including Mother's Day and Father's Day raffles, Pie, Mango and Ham Drives and more. These events not only raise funds but also celebrate the importance of family and community.

We extend our gratitude to the Careers Department for guiding our older students in finding their pathways. To our Year 12 cohort, as you step into the world, know that you're always a part of our Mary Mac family. We wish you success and look forward to your return.

Our heartfelt thanks to Father Brian, the College leadership, teachers, and staff for their unwavering support.

We appreciate and thank Mr. Gabbett's strong leadership, which has brought growth and success to our College as we celebrate 20 years within the Highfields community. Our College cohort is nearing 1,000 students. New facilities like Fitzroy Oval and The Emanuel Solomon Arts Precinct are exciting developments, and we continue to work on the College Master Plan as we look forward to the future.

We've been honoured to serve as Co-Chairs, representing your voice. We couldn't have done it without the support of our fellow PEN members and volunteers. We invite all parents to join us, attend PEN Meetings, and take part in our College strategic endeavours and fundraising activities.

Working as Co-Chairs, we've witnessed remarkable growth at MMCC, and we thank the College community for entrusting us with this role.

As the year draws to a close, together may we reflect upon the successful year we have had. We wish you a joyful Christmas break and a prosperous New Year. We eagerly anticipate seeing you in 2024.

Warm Regards,

Shayne Cleary and Rowena Voll

MMCC Co-Chairs PEN

LEADERS 2023 COLLEGE STUDENT

JUNIOR SCHOOL SENIOR SCHOOL

JUNIOR LEADERS:

Charlotte Oosthuizen & Ted Ford

FORMATION LEADER: Daniel Wittmaack

CULTURAL LEADER: Sophilee Condon

ACADEMIC LEADER: Imogen Petrie

SPORT LEADER: Ed Ehrlich

MCCORMACK LEADERS: Cohen Nelder & Malika Stokes

PENOLA LEADERS:

Piper York & Alex Burow

TENISON LEADERS:

Susie Bullock & Olivia Ormiston

CUNNINGHAM LEADERS:

Thomas Danckwerts & Chelsea Lowien

COLLEGE CAPTAINS: Charlotte Voll & Jezziah Berry

CULTURAL CAPTAIN: Mia Lewis

ACADEMIC CAPTAIN: Lilly Hayes

SPORT CAPTAIN: Brendan Williams

FORMATION CAPTAIN: Elise Scrivens

MCCORMACK CAPTAIN: Bella Stenzel

PENOLA CAPTAIN: Kyra Bartlett-Horne

TENISON CAPTAIN: Caleb Mifsud

CUNNINGHAM CAPTAIN: Charlotte Dobson

Paula O'Rourke Assistant Principal, Religious Education

Kirsty Gillett Business Manager

Chris Gabbett Principal

Charmaine Cridland Deputy Principal

Natalie Adler Assistant Principal, Teaching & Learning Junior

SCHOOL JUNIOR

JUNIOR SCHOOL REPORT

MRS CHRISTINE CARTER | ACTING ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: TEACHING & LEARNING

Building an engaging, positive learning environment together has been a theme for our College this year. The teaching and learning that has occurred across the year has been underpinned by the 6 P's, allowing staff and students to connect Saint Mary MacKillop's beliefs into every action throughout the day.

Our commitment to high quality pedagogy has been evidenced in our teacher's continued journey with the College Coaching Light Model Program. Teachers identified areas for improvement, set themselves targeted goals, enacted strategies to achieve the goal and then celebrated their success. The collective efficacy displayed by staff allowed an environment of collaborative learning, opportunities for a sharing of knowledge and expertise and was certainly a rewarding process. The P's of partnership, passion, and possibilities were integral to teacher success.

The staff and students also continued to refine their knowledge and skills within the Inspire Math Program, Write That Essay and our Growth Mindset development. Students were able to consolidate understandings and connect Mathematics to real life experiences, create texts using a wide range of sentence types assisting them in providing a new clarity to their written pieces and displaying the P of perseverance when working their way through the learning pit. "Neurons that fire together, wire together", new learnings occur when mistakes are made, and we evaluate our thinking.

Across the year we have rolled out the refined Australian Curriculum, Version 9. Our students and teachers have found the new curriculum an invigorating challenge.

By Semester 2 next year all Learning Areas will align with Version 9. Embedding the positive learning behaviour expectations within each lesson has created an intrinsic motivation for students to take control of their learning. Becoming 21st Century learners within all areas of their educational journey allows students to display the P's of practical action, partnership, possibilities and passion.

As a Junior School we thank the parents for their partnership, teachers for their collegiality and students for their effort in learning across the year and we look forward to further working with you to provide the best possible outcome for all members of our community.

2023 JUNIOR LEADERS

JUNIOR SCHOOL LEADERS REPORT

2023 in the Junior School has been a year that we will all remember. As a Year 6 student, it is our last year of primary school.

As the Junior leaders we have been to special events and met important people and represented our College. We attended the Mayor’s morning tea, and a mass for Catholic Education week at St Patrick’s Cathedral. At this event, we gathered with schools from the Toowoomba Diocese and had a morning tea. This was a chance for us to interact with other schools.

Part of our role has been to present at the Junior assemblies each week and support College masses. These challenges have improved our confidence and personalities. We are both very grateful to support our College community through actions of determination, perseverance, and friendship.

Some memories from this year include our Year 6 camp to Brisbane and Tangalooma, our Year 6 dance lessons even though they were extremely awkward and meeting local and federal politicians. Our Year 6 camp is something we will never forget! Sand tobogganing, night activities, seeing the whole of Brisbane city, and feeding dolphins. These activities have helped our cohort build friendship and determination.

Our Year 6 dance lessons have definitely improved our maturity in lots of different ways! At first everyone wouldn’t even go near each other until we realised, we were getting marked on it! These lessons have showed us lots of maturity even though they were extremely awkward!

In our HaSS unit we were studying the responsibilities of our parliament. Meeting local and federal politicians was a great memory for our cohort. They talked about what responsibilities they have and how they take care of those responsibilities. It was an honour to meet them in person and ask them questions about our HaSS unit.

Having years of lockdowns and Covid outbreaks, have had an impact on Mary MacKillop Catholic College. So, when this year started off with zoom calls for assembly’s, it was not very practical for us as leaders. But when we had our first real assembly, we were all so nervous and didn’t know what to expect. But it went very smoothly and now we do it every week of the year! At College masses staff had to wear masks and put hand sanitiser on. But now we have College masses with no dramas at all. With a squirt of hand sanitizer, it all works out fine!

We would like to thank staff and students that have supported us through the year. Mrs Rillie and Mrs O’Rourke for helping us be the best Junior Leaders we can be and organising events and celebrations for the College.

To our year six teachers, for teaching us in our last year in primary school and making it enjoyable for the Year 6 cohort. To Mrs Preston, who organised all our Year 6 leader meetings. These meetings have helped us as leaders make a difference in our College environment.

We would like to say a special thank you to our Year 6 cohort for being supportive and volunteering for our Year 6 school fundraisers.

We will remember the joy and laughs we all shared throughout our entire lives.

WELLBEING REPORT - JUNIOR SCHOOL

MS KATE CARROLL | ACTING ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: WELLBEING JUNIOR

We are a community that welcomes all in the name of Jesus Christ, strives to develop the potential of each individual, responds to the needs of others, has simplicity of lifestyle and has a special concern for and response to those most in need. From the first day of Prep to the last day of Year 6, students in the Junior School are supported to live out the values of our College.

In 2023, the Wellbeing of students in the Junior School has been supported through various initiatives. All of the initiatives form part of our College Pastoral Plan, THRIVE (social and emotional development program) and our Wellbeing Framework.

Students in Prep – Year 3 have been involved in weekly Wellbeing lessons, focusing on confidence, positive relationships, conflict resolution and personal characteristics. Students in Year 4 – 6 participated in a formation day where they had the opportunity to learn more about themselves and how they could contribute to the College community.

Twice per term, students participated in the THRIVE social and emotional program. Within these lessons, students focused on the areas of kindness, honesty, resilience, confidence and respect. Age appropriate lessons and conversations supported students to understand how these qualities support them and their peers to become the best people they can be. Alongside the lessons, students attended THRIVE assemblies, where opportunity for student involvement was encouraged.

The College is extremely fortunate to have qualified Guidance Counsellors who are able to support staff, students and families. Jasmin Slack-Smith, Khara Saunders and Leah Moffett have provided a range of activities throughout the year. Mac Mates has once again been a very successful initiative where members of the Senior School have joined with the students in the Junior School to build connections, positive relationships and support social skill development. A huge thank you to our amazing College Counsellors for all of the support they provide each and every day to members of our College community.

In Term 3, the College acknowledged R U OK? Day and Bullying No Way day. Bullying No Way day provided staff and students an opportunity to revisit the College expectations around the steps to identify and report bullying. R U OK? Day was spread over a week with the focus being –R U OK? Keep the Conversation Going! At the start of the week, students were encouraged to wear a yellow shirt to begin the positive conversation with others. Both of these days reiterated to our students the importance of positive relationships and conversations with others.

Each term, students worked towards earning a certificate, ribbon or Joey badge. Throughout the year, over one thousand Joey badges were awarded, demonstrating students commitment to modelling the Positive Learning Behaviours each and every day.

In October this year, we celebrated our annual Wellbeing week. This week provided all members of the College community an opportunity to engage in activities that promoted positive wellbeing. The PERMA models guides the planning and implementation of Wellbeing week, allowing students opportunities to build Positive emotions, Engage in activities, develop and maintain healthy Relationships with others, develop a sense of Meaning and feel a sense of Accomplishment.

Throughout the week, we invited Grandparents to join the Junior School. It was fabulous to see and hear the positive interactions amongst students and grandparents and the pride the students had when connecting with their family members.

The wellbeing of all members of our community is central to our mission and vision as a Catholic community. On behalf of all who have been in the role of Assistant Principal: Wellbeing Junior, I would like to personally acknowledge the work of our College counsellors, Junior School Coordinators, Learning Support staff, administration staff, school officers and classroom teachers who form part of our greater wellbeing team. I would also like to thank our parents, who continue to work in partnership with us.

CLASS PREP

MRS ELISSA CHAPMAN, MISS KAITLIN HAWKINS, MRS MEL SKEWES | PREP TEACHERS

Prep Escapades!!

Prep in 2023 has been filled with lots of memorable moments. We have learnt many new things and made lots of new friends.

Prep is a wonderful year where the children become readers, story writers, and begin to develop skills in becoming 21st century learners. We have developed respectful qualities towards others and our belongings, enjoying spending time with each other whilst we learn.

During the year we have participated in the Easter hat parade, Mother’s and Father’s Day Liturgies, celebrated each other’s birthdays, dressed up for Book Week, walked the plank on Pirate Day, reflected at the ANZAC Day Liturgy, been to an Amaroo Excursion, got to sing and dance with Pevan and Sarah, and played our roles in the Nativity Play.

A year full of adventure and fun where we have grown and changed. Bring on Year 1!!

PIRATE DAY

NATIVITY PLAY

ONE YEAR

MRS

MICHELLE LEVER, MS ANNABELLE COWEN, MRS SUSAN JONES | YEAR 1 TEACHERS

Our Fabulous Year!

We have had an incredible year in Year 1... what a wild and wonderful journey!

This year, we have not only grown academically but have also celebrated many special occasions. From the heartwarming moments of Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Grandparents Day to the spiritual significance of Lent, Easter, Christmas, Advent, and of course the joyous celebration of birthdays!

We embarked on an exciting adventure to Amaroo, where unforgettable memories were created. We enjoyed nature play, bush walking, indigenous games and meeting Garbalah the Greater Glider. The year also brought us the enchanting live performance of Pevan & Sarah on stage, igniting the spark of creativity and imagination within us. Throughout the year, we delved into the world of Reading, Writing, Science, Art and Mathematics, honing our skills for the exciting years ahead. Our creativity shone as we crafted elf traps, and we spent hours forming friendships and playing with our Year 5 buddies!

And of course, who could forget the highlight of our year - the exuberant celebration of Dr. Seuss Day in Term 2! The students, teachers and even some parents dressed up in fabulous costumes and we enjoyed a morning full of performing songs and poems. Then we indulged in yummy treats, spent some down time watching The Lorax and doing craft activities. The afternoon session was very special with our Year 5 buddies organising a Dr Seuss themed extravaganza for us to enjoy.

As this year comes to an end, we can't believe how fast time has flown… what a fabulous journey it has been! We are well and truly ready for the challenge and fun of Year 2.

DR SUESS DAY

One the highlights of the Year 1 calendar is celebrating our love of literacy with our Dr Seuss Celebration.

The day was a culmination of the Term 2 English unit which explored Poetry and Characterisation through the study of Dr Seuss, his entertaining texts and his weird and whacky characters. Students, teachers and parents dressed up in their favourite character costumes for the celebration.

In a showcase of learning, students shared rhyming couplets they had written, read extracts from Dr Seuss stories and shared details about the zany characters they created who could be featured in any Dr Seuss books. Students also performed a number of poems and songs to keep the audience entertained. The showcase was followed by a shared morning tea in the MacKillop Centre with families, where lots of fun was had by all.

TWO YEAR

MISS ZOE PHILLIPS, MISS COURTNEY DAVIS, MISS VICKI MURPHY | YEAR 2 TEACHERS

Tremendous Two's

What a fun filled year it has been in Year 2!

Year 2’s have had an incredible journey filled with growth, learning, and unforgettable memories. From the moment they stepped into the classroom, their enthusiasm and curiosity were evident. Throughout the year, these young minds have blossomed into confident learners, eager to explore new concepts and challenges. Whether it was mastering their reading skills, solving complex mathematics problems, or unleashing their creativity through art and design technology. Their infectious energy and positive attitudes have created vibrant and inclusive classroom environments, where everyone feels valued and supported.

Term 1 we explored God’s creation, stewardship, and how to care for the world around us. Students investigated Australian Animals and identified the continents and oceans. With much excitement, we travelled on the College bus to Amaroo Outdoor Education Centre to experience “What’s the Bush About?” program.

In Term 2, we immersed ourselves in Australian Indigenous culture, creating book reports on an Indigenous story. We explored different modes of Indigenous artworks and celebrated NAIDOC week, consolidating our learning of Australia's first people and their traditions.

We took the time to celebrate the special Mums and Dads in our lives, creating gifts and cards for them and joining in on Mother’s day and Father’s day breakfasts and liturgies. Our THRIVE and religious lessons have taught us about friendship, kindness, gratitude, forgiveness, and respect.

Term 3 was jam packed with special days of celebration. We dressed up for Book Week to the theme of "Read, Grow, Inspire" and participated in the exciting Readers Cup challenge. Students celebrated Mary MacKillop feast day with a shared picnic and various activities. We wrote twisted tales and watched the ultimate twisted fairy tale – Shrek.

In Term 4, we delved into Advent and the Nativity story in the lead up to Christmas. We wore our crazy socks for Socktober and joined in with many other fundraising days to support the less fortunate. Our much anticipated soccer spectacular day was a huge success and students loved developing their soccer skills. A trip to Cobb & Co. Museum consolidated our knowledge of the changes in technology over time. In the last week of term, we joined the whole Junior School and sang our hearts out to all our favourite Christmas carols.

As we reflect on this remarkable year, we are so proud of the progress Year 2’s have made and are excited for the bright futures that lie ahead in Year 3.

THREE YEAR

What an amazing year in Year 3 we have experienced! It has been an extremely busy year for us all as we have grown and achieved tremendous milestones. As a cohort, we have created lasting memories by attending a David Walliams play at the Empire Theatre, which inspired a love of reading and creative writing. This has started a brand-new tradition in Year 3 of ‘The World’s Worst Day’, where we bring characters to life, we thoroughly enjoyed this day, the activities and costume creations!

We were fortunate to experience the many exhibits on offer at Cobb & Co. Museum and listen to the wonderful tales of the volunteers as we explored throughout the day. It was wonderful to see our HaSS knowledge on display. Our Pioneer Village excursion was an extremely rewarding day, where we embedded our knowledge and celebrated all things historical, including our grandparents.

We are amazed by the wonderful experiences we have participated in this year, such as Book Week, Maths Week, Science Week, NAIDOC Week, Wellbeing Week... to name a few. Wow, how lucky are we!?

MRS SARAH HAND, MRS JODIE INSKIP, MS TAMARA HILL, MISS MADDIE STAMMERS | YEAR 3 TEACHERS

FOUR YEAR

MRS KARA SHEATHER, MRS JULIA THOMAS, MRS AMY DWYER | YEAR 4 TEACHERS

Another incredible year has come to a close in Year 4, filled with exciting moments and lasting memories. From thrilling Gala Days where we showcased our skills in touch and T-ball to the hilarious Captain Underpants Day where creativity knew no bounds. We’ve shared countless laughs and unforgettable experiences.

One of the highlights of this year was our fantastic trip to Cooby Dam, where we not only worked on our team building skills, but also learned the importance of sustainability and nurturing our environment for the future. Exploring the Cobb & Co Museum was another adventure that took us back in time to discover the rich history of our region.

As we bid farewell to Year 4, let’s cherish these memories and carry the lessons we’ve learned into the next exciting chapter of our educational journey. Congratulations to our vibrant and talented year level – you’ve truly made this year special!

FIVE YEAR

MS SANDRA ROSENTRETER, MS KATE CARROLL, MRS CALEY CROFT, MS SHANNON ANDERSON, MRS EMMA WELLER AND YEAR 5 STUDENTS

SPECIALIST LESSONS IN THE SENIOR SCHOOL

This year Year 5’s have had the opportunity to go to the Senior School for lesson every fortnight. It has been an amazing experience meeting new teachers and going to new classrooms. We have participated in Hospitality, Science, Wood Technology and Art.

Student responses:

Attending Wood Technology has been a wonderful experience. We really enjoyed having the opportunity to learn how to use the different tools safely. At times it was a bit tricky but with Mr Varley’s expertise we persevered and made a set of coasters, which we personalised with an image.

(Henry Stevens and Daly Gillett)

Mrs Vanderplas guided us through our Hospitality lessons. It was a lot of fun and we learned how to prepare and cook a variety of yummy food items. It was a toss-up for our favourite; the baked potato smothered in sour cream, cheese and bacon or the delicious chocolate slice.

(Flynn Albion and Summer Brosnan)

We had a lot of fun with Mrs Puhakka in Art, whilst learning new skills. We used line and complementary colours to create an optical illusion. Everyone enjoyed getting messy whilst being creative as we moulded decorations from clay.

(Arna Randall, Emily Lipp and Olivia Eastall)

Each fortnight we completed a science experiment with Ms Manners in the lab. We had a lot of fun simulating weathering using chalk, salt and a glass jar. A highlight was when we made 3D glasses and used different coloured filters in a light box. We learn how to conduct experiments and draw conclusions.

(Sam O’Leary and Copper Cook)

MINI VINNIES

Year 5 students have taken on the role of supporting Mini Vinnies. Mini Vinnies empowers primary school students to become advocates within their school and local community by putting their values into action. This year we worked together with the AMMA group to raise awareness, much needed funds and material for various appeals. We started the year off with the much-loved Easter Egg Raffle, followed by the Winter Appeal and the Christmas Appeal.

YEAR 5 CAMP TO CURRIMUNDI

In Term 4 Week 8 this year, all the Year 5 students went to Currimundi on the beautiful Sunshine Coast for 3 days and 2 nights. When we arrived, we found out our cabin groups and settled in. The cabins were luxurious with pin codes, air conditioning, a dining table and comfortable beds. The facilities were modern, well maintained and very clean. We had our own break space where we could have some quite time and relax.

There were many exciting activities at Currimundi. We went body boarding, built a raft out of logs and rubber tyres, swung from a 20-metre-high giant swing, completed team challenges, build and fired massive catapults, flew kites and had a pool party. The instructors were awesome. They clearly explained the activities, made sure we were safe and encouraged us to challenge ourselves. Aunty Shereene shared her Indigenous cultural knowledge with us. She told us about the three lores that her people live by and showed us some artifacts. In our free time we played soccer, bull rush and just hung out with friends. The first night we formed groups and had fun competing in a mini-Olympics. The next night we were a bit tired, so we chilled and watched a movie before going to bed.

There was plenty of delicious food on camp. The chefs always had the food ready and waiting for us, when we came back starving. Some of us had special dietary needs and they made sure that all of us had scrumptious meals. The lasagne was exceptional, the chocolate mousse was mouthwatering, and watermelon was sweet and juicy.

Camp was a wonderful experience. We are now more independent, can work together better as a team and are super proud of what we achieved.

(Year 5A students)

SIX YEAR

MRS LISA-MARIE PRESTON, MR CRAIG HUBBARD, MR CRAIG FAESSLER | YEAR 6 TEACHERS

Year 6 at Mary MacKillop Catholic College is always an amazing experience and 2023 was no exception. This year marks the end of our primary schooling, allowing us to work together in partnership to lead the Junior School, developing our skill and leadership potential, experiencing the possibilities of life in the Senior School through PC, meeting important government officials and special Afghani guest speakers, spending time together at Year 6 camp, Year 6 Dance and living a life of service through practical action.

LEADERSHIP

The Year 6 students, elected Year 6 leaders and SRC representatives worked tirelessly to provide service for our Junior School and community. Through partnerships, our elected leaders led many sports carnivals and assemblies with passion, pride, and honour. As the year progressed, our students grew their leadership potential, readying us for the challenges of Year 7.

SENIOR SCHOOL EXPERIENCES

Our Year 5 & 6 students were fortunate enough to participate in many Senior School experiences from Pastoral Care classes to fortnightly transition lessons in senior classrooms with senior teachers. Four days a week at the beginning of the day, we joined with students from Year 7 to 12 for Pastoral Care classes. This gave us a window into the life of Senior Schooling, providing opportunities to make meaningful connections with peers and teachers that supported our transition to Year 7. Through fortnightly transition lessons, we created amazing artworks with Mrs Puhukka, worked with timber to construct a pencil box with Mr Varley, mixed and cooked various food and drink creations with Mrs Vanderplas, and furthered our scientific knowledge and skills with Ms Manners. These experiences in the Senior School provide us with real-word experiences and possibilities.

SPECIAL GUESTS

The learning experiences that took place throughout the year were supported by many special guests who were eager to impart their wisdom on us. Our Term 3 HaSS Government unit introduced us to Australian politics and to meet some important Federal, State, and Local government officials. We were lucky enough to meet Toowoomba’s new mayor, Cr Geoff McDonald, State Member for Toowoomba North, Mr Trevor Watts, and Federal Member for Groom, Mr Garth Hamilton. Each spoke openly about their role and its importance to the running of our region, state, and country.

Our Term 3 English unit opened our eyes to the challenges and hardships Afghanis faced during the reign of the Taliban through the Morris Gleitzman novel, Boy Overboard. Fatima, who works for Heritage Bank in the Inclusive Banking Program in Toowoomba, spoke to the students about the challenges she faced as an Afghan woman fleeing her country and seeking refuge in Australia. Students were blown away by her story and she demonstrated how lucky we are to live in our country.

YEAR 6 DANCE

One of the highlights of the year was Year 6 Dance. Each week for six weeks, we developed our inner John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John moves under the patience and guidance of amazing dance teachers – Peter Vernon and Helen. Through the weekly lessons, we not only learnt many dances such as the Gypsy Tap, Progressive Jive, Progressive Stroll, Progressive Rumba, Heal and Toe Polka, but developed our maturity and confidence in unfamiliar territory. The annual Year 6 Dance Night in Term 4 was a success, with parents and students dressing to the nines and sharing a dance together then busting some individual dance moves to Nutbush, 5,6,7,8, and Uptown Funk. It was great to see all being involved, including our teachers and parents, some of who had two left feet.

LIFE OF SERVICE

Mary MacKillop was a humble woman who gave of herself, serving her community, and meeting the needs of all she saw. Through the Term 3 English unit lens, we decided that we needed to do something to help refugees in our community, just as Mary MacKillop would have done. In response, we worked through practical action to hold a sausage sizzle and chocolate toss to raise funds for the ‘Work & Welcome’ program. Through the generosity of the College community, we were able to raise close to $2000 to support refugees, to feel connected and enhance their work skills. This was an amazing achievement and will go a long way to helping many refugees in our area.

As Year 6 students, we were called to support our Prep buddies, working in partnership to assist their educational journey. Each fortnight we would play with our buddies, getting to know them and demonstrate what being a Mary Mac student is like. This was one of the highlights of the year and something we will remember for years to come.

CAMP YEAR SIX

MRS LISA-MARIE PRESTON, MR CRAIG HUBBARD, MR CRAIG FAESSLER |

In Term 4, the Year 6 students and teachers ventured to Tangalooma Resort on sunny Moreton Island and of course our sunny state’s capital Brisbane as part of the cultural and environmental camp that lasted for three days and two nights. It was full of fun, excitement, and adventure. We participated in many activities that pushed us out of our comfort zone; helping us to learn more about ourselves and others helping to foster connections.

We bushwalked the island learning about the indigenous connection to the area and how first nations people lived in harmony with the land. Water activities were a must on the island with snorkelling, kayaking, and fish feeding on a glass bottomed boat top of the list. The highlights of our Moreton trip were seeing whales frolicking in the open ocean, seeing the resident dugong named Dougie majestically swimming near the wrecks, and feeding fish to wild dolphins in the shallows –experiences we will never forget!

YEAR 6 TEACHERS

Our final day of camp saw us travel to inner city Brisbane to walk the halls of Queensland Parliament and see where our politicians work to make and amend laws that guide the running of our State. As it was not an official sitting day, students were able to sit in the actual seats of our Members of Parliament (green room) and appreciate the pomp and pageantry of the now abolished Legislative Council (red room). We participated in a mock parliament, role playing the passing of a very important bill – ‘Should homework occur in schools?’ These firsthand experiences were a fitting culminating activity for our HaSS unit on Government.

We finished the final part of our day in Brisbane with many hands-on experiences at the Queensland Museum and SparkLab exhibition. Through handson learning we were able to further develop our understanding of many scientific concepts including Space and Earth Sciences, the physics of movement, electrical circuits, light and sound just to name a few.

Camp was an amazing experience where we experienced learning new things about ourselves, our peers, and the world around us.

We were very thankful for the support of our teachers, instructors, and bus drivers who joined us along the way to make our camp super enjoyable and one to remember.

MOVING ON UP DAY

MS KATE CARROLL | ACTING ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: WELLBEING JUNIOR

On Wednesday, 18 November, the College celebrated the annual Moving On Up Day. The purpose of Moving On Up Day is to provide the Year 7 students of 2024 an opportunity to experience a day in Senior School, whilst building relationships amongst peers. The day began with welcoming approximately 40 Year 6 students from schools across the region. The new students had the opportunity to experience Design Technology with Mr Varley and Food Technology with Mrs Vanderplas. Many of the new students were in awe of the facilities at the College and commented that they can't wait to have these lessons next year.

At lunchtime, our current Year 6 students joined the new students for a sausage sizzle and lunchtime activities. The middle session of the day was spent learning about Senior School, participating in Sports and Cultural activities and learning more about themselves through a character strengths activity. Students were encouraged to begin building relationships that would be continued in Year 7.

The last session of the day was led by the 2024 College Leaders and members of the Year 11 and 12 Praxis class. Senior School students provided time for the Year 6 students to ask questions that they had about Senior School. The leadership displayed by the Senior School students was exceptional.

A huge thank you to all who were involved in Moving On Up Day. It was wonderful to see and hear so many happy and excited students.

We look forward to welcoming all students into Year 7 in 2024.

YEAR 6 RITE OF PASSAGE

MRS PAULA O'ROURKE | ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: RELIGIOUS

What are your gifts that you share with others?

This year's Year 6 students have been focusing on strengths and talents or gifts that they have so that they can be aware of how they are then able to utilise these to help others. As they continue their education in a secondary setting, it is these gifts that we want them to share with others as they mature. This was also our theme for End of Year Mass and Rite of Passage for them.

The gospel story from Matthew, “You are the light ofthe world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one after lighting a lamp puts it under the bushel basket, but on the lampstand, and it gives light to all in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." is all about your gift is like this light.

It is visible for everyone to see and you don't hide it. You allow it to come to the fore and benefit others. Your gift is given to you from God and as such this gift should be used to help others whether it be the gift of speech - speaking up for others or the gift of craftsmanship to build.

EDUCATION

As an athlete, the gift to be able to run fast means you can raise awareness through your efforts for those that are less fortunate - who can't compete like you but you are their inspiration to keep doing what they are doing. If you don't use it for others then you are not utilising your gift from God. As the opening song (Light the Way by Andrew Chinn) was played, everyone was reminded of their light and how they can be a light for others.

As part of mass the Year 6 students were called one by one to receive their Rite of Passage certificate from their Prep buddy and be congratulated by their teacher for finishing their primary education. It is beautiful to see the lovely relationships that the Year 6 students and their buddies have created over the year. The highlight would have been the preps singing the song "On my way" for the Year 6 students.

During the ritual, the Year 6 students and their parents exchanged letters as a sign of their gratitude and support for the time so far.

Congratulations to all Year 6 students on completing your primary education. We hope that you will use your gifts and talents well as you travel through secondary education.

Let us be gifts for others!

SCHOOL SENIOR

WELLBEING REPORT - SENIOR SCHOOL

MR SEAN ALBION | ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: WELLBEING SENIOR

2023 was another remarkable year at MMCC that was made extra special by our students, staff, and parents who continue to foster a culture that priortises the wellbeing of every member of our College community. Students are the heartbeat of our College and it pleases me every day to see the commitment to creating a supportive environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and safe.

Once again, our Year 12 student cohort of 37 lead from the front and left a lasting impression on our College community. This cohort has always been special to me, as they were the first group of Year 7 students that I taught when I came to the College. The continual respect, support and care along with the cheekiness and humour they have given to our community will be missed.

Throughout the year, staff have strived to cultivate a sense of belonging, encouraging students to express themselves authentically and seek support when needed. It is a privilege to work with our dedicated team of middle leaders, teachers, counsellors, and school officers that work tirelessly to provide guidance, mentorship, and resources to ensure the holistic development of our students.

As we reflect on the year gone by, it is evident that our commitment to the wellbeing of all through the many activities highlighted in this yearbook has continued to develop our positive and nurturing College culture. Let us all continue to prioritise the wellbeing of ourselves and others, fostering a community where all can flourish.

We are immensely proud of the growth and achievements of our students in 2023, thank you foryour contribution to making it another great year at MMCC.

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT REPORT

MR PIERS DUDIN | MIDDLE LEADER MATHEMATICS & NUMERACY

It's been another busy year for the Senior Maths Department. We have enjoyed further successes from Year 7 right through to Year 12.

The Year 12 students studying General, Methods or Specialist Maths sit 50% of their assessments during the year with the remainder of their marks hinging on the external exams at the end of the year. I'd like to thank all the Year 12s for their efforts throughout the year, but especially leading up to exam time when many of the cohort attended the EEPP revision course during their holidays. There were also many instances of former students assisting in tutoring current students to help them over the finish line in good shape.

Further down the school we have continued to incorporate PSMTs (Problem Solving and Modelling Tasks) into our assessment program from Year 8 to Year 10 with a view to continuing our success in this assessment piece in Year 11 and Year 12. The Year 10 Advanced groups had a go at applying trigonometry to working out the optimum position to kick a conversion, Mrs Wolff obviously fed their findings back to her South African Rugby team!

The new Australian Curriculum is slowly being introduced. This year we have included AC9 in our Year 7 and Year 10 work programs, next year will be the turn of Year 8s. The new syllabus does not represent a radical shift in topics being taught, but will encourage us to focus on applications of mathematics to modern contexts and an increased use of technology.

Our NAPLAN results for Years 7 and 9 continued to be above average in relation to the state. The Year 8 Maths team once again had a good outing at the Toowoomba Maths Teams Challenge event which they enjoyed.

The school's new extra-large Interactive Flat Panels have provided many students with the opportunity to collaborate at the front of the class, especially as they can handle more than one person writing at a time!

We continue to operate one extension group and two or three mixed ability groups in Years 8 to 10. Year 7 classes were all mixed ability groups throughout the year and we are planning on continuing this model next year. A variety of research supports the notion that setting students in ability groups works best when it is done as late as reasonable, and only to a moderate extent. We feel that this model meets these recommendations. The Maths Club 'You gotta risk it for the Biscwit!' was well attended throughout the year and provide extra support for a number of students right across the school.

I would like to thank all the Maths Department teachers and students for their hard work this year. We continue to build a positive Maths culture here at Mary MacKillop, and have enjoyed the year immensely.

HUMANITIES DEPARTMENT REPORT

MRS LIZ FRAME | MIDDLE LEADER HUMANITIES

It has been a year of growth and planning in the Humanities department this year. We have been very busy this year, initiating a variety of creative tasks across Years 7 -10 History and Geography classes to provide real – life, alternative learning opportunities for our students to engage with.

As part of the goals of the Humanities department, it is essential that we prepare students with concepts and events of the past, present and future to allow them opportunities to become critical thinkers with inquiring minds. It is these inquiring minds which will be an essential part of life after school, and by fostering this as they move through their Humanities classes in the Senior School, we are providing valuable and necessary skills which will be in demand in years to come.

Importantly, we have also allowed students to use any medium to complete these tasks, which generates motivation for them to use skills which they feel most comfortable with. These tasks have included activities such as creating a natural hazard and demonstrating and analysing its impact on the communities, town planning activities where population booms have to be considered to ensure sustainability of resources and capturing reflections of a world at war to demonstrate the impact on human beings. These mediums have been through art, photographs, computers, construction, and a range of other forms which will also be highly sought-after skills as students venture into their life after school.

Of course, students have also been challenged through traditional assessments such as source analysis responses, research essays, exams and research reports.

We are also starting to plan for the transition to the new ACARA Curriculum Version 9 for students in Years 7 -10 which needs to be implemented by 2026. We know this will provide many opportunities to get students engaged more creatively across the units of study. There have been quite a few changes to the Humanities and Social Sciences Curriculum, and our goal is to plan and rewrite our units and assessment tasks during 2023 and implement it 2024 starting with years 7 and 8. The new curriculum offers more opportunity for students to examine our own History, as well as crucial world history, which is paramount if we are ever to build a truly inclusive and equitable world.

This year we were lucky enough to secure the services of a local medieval re-enactment group –the Tyr Warriors. In Year 8 History, students study Medieval Europe and the Black Death, spending a little bit of time learning about knights, what they wear, how they become knights and the battles they had. Year 8 students spent a day with Jaccob and his team, being able to dress up in medieval armour, learn the history of medieval armour, play a series of medieval and Viking games, and watch the Tyr warriors battle it out with each other.

It was suggested by the students to dress up in all the gear. I can certainly vouch for the fact that the armour is extremely heavy, especially the helmet, so heavy in fact it kept falling over my eyes and I couldn’t see a thing. Students finished the day by sharing a medieval lunch together prepared by our wonderful tuckshop staff. It is hoped that this day will become a tradition to finish second term for Year 8 students.

Next year we also hope to introduce a variety of excursions or immersion days for all History and Geography students. One of the ideas on our radar is for the Year 9 and 10 Geography elective students who will go to the coast to complete a field study and research component of the course.

This will involve an overnight stay, with Griffith University coastal educators who will take students through the impact of weather and erosion on the coast and how this will impact coastal communities for the future. We also hope to book Living History who are renowned for providing a hands on opportunity for students to engage with their lesson content through re-enactments, artefacts and getting students involved.

However, the Humanities department would not run like a finely tuned engine to provide these learning opportunities if it were not for the wonderful and talented Senior School Humanities teachers. They have been amazing in supporting me in my first year at the College. My sincere thanks to Mrs Farrow, Mrs Quinlan, Ms Niemeyer, Mrs Cotter, Mrs Puhakka, Mr Cavanough and Mr Connolly. I sincerely thank you for the time, effort and energy you have invested into your classes and the department and look forward to having you all back on board next year. Thank you also to the wider College community whose support has been highly appreciated and valued.

I am excited about big things next year in the Humanities department. We wish you all a happy Christmas and safe holiday and look forward to seeing you all in the new year.

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT REPORT

MR TIM CONNOLLY | MIDDLE LEADER ENGLISH

English, learning and literature have seen great expansion, in 2023.

The world of technology has seen podcasts, digital texts, filmic texts, visual texts and multimodal texts all grow in importance and relevance for our students. Within this growth students have focussed their skills upon analytical, imaginative and persuasive expression. 2023 has seen the exponential growth of classes and skill levels, within our student body and the results are clear for all to see. Our awareness of the intricacies of literature and the world of composers is allowing this growth to accelerate even further. These first steps in learning are quickly becoming influential aspects of recognition in engaging with literature in everyday life and contexts. Our students should be rightfully proud of this growth and awareness within their daily interactions in English classes!

External exams have also become an important part of the academic landscape for our senior students. Planning and consistent preparation are key to this process. Our senior students of 2023 have engaged in this process in a committed manner. A clear example of academic application has been demonstrated to all students in years seven to eleven by our senior students this year.

Our Year 11 students have now begun their first steps in the journey towards graduation. Our first piece of senior assessment is now underway and we look forward to the travels of the 2023 Year 11 students to graduates of 2024! Students in English, Literature and Essential English have all enabled learning via their participation in all that these wonderful subjects offer.

Our Literature and Creative Writing elective has once again shown itself to be a popular and valuable option for students in years nine and ten. Avid readers have recognised the value offered by this subject and are honing their skills within contexts of reading, writing and literature. The progress of this elective and students within it is obvious and highly appreciated.

Students have once again been able to enhance their writing skills throughout this year, through the use of the digital platform: Write That Essay. Focus upon analysis, sentence structures and vocabulary choices have been an important part of this progression.

Personal expression within the many and varied genres of English, has also seen growth during 2023. Opportunities for publication have been enabled for students via participation in poetry, writing and public speaking competitions. Newly-recognised freedoms of expression have seen the enactment of individual expression in a context well beyond our College boundaries. The world of literature and English is taking new forms and possibilities, for all students wishing to partake in this exciting journey.

Our wonderful teachers deserve immense credit for the enhancement of our admirable progress in 2023. Mrs Farrow has provided advice and guidance to all students in Essential English, of which students are most appreciative. Mr Bracken and Miss Murdoch have guided senior English students with great experience and relevance. Mr Jones, Mrs Quinlan, Miss Morgan and Miss Mengel have all steered our junior students through the pivotal pathway of learning in junior English with great expertise. The efforts of these teachers are highly admired and greatly appreciated. During 2024, we also wish Miss Morgan and Miss Murdoch every blessing in their time away from the College. Both of these teachers share great popularity with students and fellow colleagues and will be missed by all.

2023 has been a year of great progress and affirmation. It is with great gratitude that we thank teachers, students and parents for their support of all realms of English taking place in our wonderful English classes. 2024 looks to be a time of great potential and opportunity as we await the next year of learning in Literature and English.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION DEPARTMENT REPORT

MRS LEISA RADLEY | DIRECTOR OF FORMATION AND COLLEGE CULTURE

2023 has been full of new opportunities and approaches in the Religious Education department, as we moved out of our holding pattern and began our journey of recontextualisation, through the Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office, Illuminate project.

Recontextualisation has brought with it a greater understanding of the need for dialogue in Religious Education classrooms, and an approach to unpacking scripture in a way which enables a 'pedagogy of encounter' and connections with modern experiences and values. We are fortunate in the Religion Department to have experienced and motivated staff who bring their own faith journey to the classroom and are witnesses to their faith. Thank you to Mr Ryan Cavanough, Mrs Paula O'Rourke, Mrs Megan Puhakka, Mr Ashley Jones and Mrs Deb Mengel who have delivered a robust and engaging curriculum this year. Take a look at what we've been up to below!

YEAR 7, 8 AND 9

Our Year 7s unit is all about belonging to the MMCC community and this year, while many of our Year 7s have transitioned from the Junior School, we are also conscious of new Year 7s who are unfamiliar with the Mary MacKillop story. So, we commenced the year by completing a Mary MacKillop project which addressed the 6Ps of our College's Josephite Charism; in doing so, students aimed to answer the fertile question: What Does it Mean to Belong to the Mary MacKillop community? Throughout the year, the Year 7s learned about how our Church has changed over time and the importance of the Liturgical calendar. Next year, we hope to give the Year 7s a chance to engage in some service opportunities within the College community to begin their journey of social justice in the Senior School.

Well done to Noah Skippen who received Top of Subject for Year 7 Religious Education, this year.

The Year 8 cohort, after spending most of Term 1 to 3 focussing on Covenant and continuing the mission of Jesus in the modern world, rounded out the year by creating a boardgame about initiation rituals in

Judaism, Islam and Christianity. Throughout the year, the Year 8s unpacked important scriptures and considered the values of those in the Church's story who were movers and shakers, seeking to make a change in their world.

Well done to Ariane Golobic who received Top of Subject for Year 8 Religious Education, this year.

Our Year 9s studied the importance of initiation rituals across Christianity, Judaism and Islam, and also applied the messages in Parables and Miracles to issues in our modern world. This was recontextualisation in action, enabling Year 9s to take the teachings of Jesus about the vulnerable and marginalised, and connect these with their own understanding of issues concerning refugees, asylum seekers, and modern slavery. Importantly, this cohort aimed to 'Be More' by finding ways to take action in the College community and also by serving others at Tony's Community Op Shop.

Well done to Adele Adams who received Top of Subject for Year 9 Religious Education, this year.

YEAR 10

2023 looked a little different for our Year 10 group, as we moved away from studying Year 11 QCAA Religion and Ethics syllabus and instead took up the Year 10 BCE Religion Curriculum. From 2024, this cohort will select to study either Religion and Ethics for Year 11 and 12 or Study of Religion, rather than selecting to studying the Praxis program. Throughout the year, the Year 10s were immersed in world religions such as Islam, Hinduism and Buddhism, as well as finding out more about representations of God in Christianity, through artwork, song, poetry, cartoons and films. In Term 2, the Year 10s facilitated a NAIDOC Week or Reconciliation Week Liturgy in groups as a part of their consideration of how the Church has impacted Indigenous Australians in our history. Term 3 enabled a study of a Christian response to climate change and stewardship of the environment, and students created a campaign based on the framework of See, Judge and Act. Importantly, the Year 10s rounded out the year completing the training to be able to volunteer at Rosies–Friends on the Street. We look forward to this group's commitment to outreach and social justice during their Senior years.

Well done to Jarrah Sunatwanitkal who received Top of Subject for Year 10 Religious Education, this year.

YEAR 11 RELIGION AND ETHICS

The Year 11 Religion and Ethics students completed their QCAA course this year, studying units on meaning and purpose, role models, the interaction between religion and contemporary culture, and social justice. This year, students in Religion and Ethics and Study of Religion were provided an opportunity to attend Tony's Community Op Shop each Monday morning, during class time, to assist with tidying shelves and unpacking donations. Thank you to all students who contributed to this important service; we hope to continue this community connection next year.

Well done to William Steer who received Top of Subject for Year 11 Religion and Ethics, this year.

LIVING WATERS—PRAXIS PROGRAM

The Living Waters–Praxis program was once again completed by our Year 12 Religion and Ethics students this year. By the completion of the course, students are expected to accrue a minimum of 110 hours (across a variety of areas), 40 of which are compiled via service experiences.

At the beginning of Term 4, prior to heading into their External Exams, this small group of students presented their Praxis reflections and challenges to Year 6 students at the conclusion of their "Moving on Up Day". This was initiated by the Praxis students who believed it is important for the incoming Year 7s to hear about social justice in the Senior School.

It is timely as well to thank the staff who have worked with the Praxis students this year, including: their teacher Mr Ashley Jones and APRE, Mrs Paula O'Rourke, who spent many hours with students organising liturgies and Masses. A huge thank you as well to Junior School teachers who opened their classrooms, allowing Year 12s to assist the Junior students.

2024 will see our fourth–and final–Praxis class complete the Living Waters program. We look forward to working with these students as they put their faith into practice.

YEAR 11 AND 12 STUDY OF RELIGION

Study of Religion, a General subject which contributes to a student's ATAR, is a unique subject. While some try to liken it to the skills you need in History, or even English, the reality is that SOR is like Religion, History, English and Philosophy all rolled into one.

The topics covered throughout the two-year course include: sacred texts and religious writings; lifecycle and calendrical rituals; social ethics and ethical relationships; religion-state relationships and human rights and religion. All of these are studied from the perspective of the 'big five' world religions: Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism and Hinduism. To support their understanding, our Year 11 cohort was fortunate to be visited by members of Toowoomba's Multifaith Multicultural group who shared their beliefs in Islam, Judaism, Buddhism and Hinduism with the cohort.

This year, our Year 12 SOR class comprised of 21 students and our Year 11 SOR group numbered 26–evidence of our growing Senior cohorts! Special mention must go to graduating student, Kyra Bartlett-Horne, who achieved Top of Subject for 2023. Well done, Kyra!

As the Senior School grows, we look forward to welcoming more students into the Study of Religion course!

That's a wrap for Senior Religious Education in 2023! A huge thank you must go to the RE staff have worked hard to make Religion at MMCC recontextualised, contemporary and meaningful for our students. Next year, we welcome some new staff to our Department and we look forward to their new insights and contributions.

THE ARTS DEPARTMENT REPORT

MRS

JESSICA BURKE | MIDDLE LEADER THE ARTS

MMCC MARCHING BAND AND DRUMLINE EVENTS

The MMCC Marching band represented the school with passion and pride at the Brisbane ANZAC Day March for the 2nd year in a row. Along with the College Rock Band, and Marching Band entertained at this year's Heritage Bank Toowoomba Royal Show.

Forty-one students performed at the Ekka in 2023our biggest representing ensemble this year! They received compliments from Mr Trevor Watts MP, among others. As one of our fellow students said, ‘It was an exciting day with new experiences and opportunities to grow.’

The MMCC Drumline led Santa into Grand Central at the annual CBD Tree Lighting for a night of Christmas joy. The ensemble led the way through the streets and then did the drumroll for the official lighting of Toowoomba's largest Christmas tree. Georgianna Reisinger featured on stage after this to entertain the large crowds with Christmas songs. Was a fun way to represent the College and see out the 2023 year for ensemble music.

HAMPTON ART EXHIBITION

The Hampton Art Exhibition, which has been a staple of the festival for 19 years, is an opportunity for artists of Hampton to showcase their work to thousands of attendees. The Year 6 art competition was hugely supported with over 200 works submitted from across the schools in the highcountry region, seventy five of these were submitted from MMCC students! There was also a showcase of student work from our Year 7-10 students on display.

TOOWOOMBA SHOW PRODUCTION TEAM

Mary MacKillop Catholic College Arts were requested by the Toowoomba Show Society to assist in the Stage Production and Management of the “The Great Australian Muster – Arena Spectacular” at the Toowoomba Royal Show 2023- and it was a hit! Ten students handled the behind the scenes tasks necessary for putting on a massive combination of performing acts and drove the evening shows featuring Beccy Cole. The students volunteered for 4 nights with each performance going for 3 hours from set up to pack down. Excellent 'show' of mastery of different facets of the 'Arts'. Well done team.

STATE HONOURS ACHIEVEMENT

Some of our most outstanding young musicians participated in the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University State Honours Ensemble Program Darling Downs 2023. Our students participated over three days which ended in a full performance afternoon showing brilliant musicianship. MMCC had its highest number of musicians accepted this year and was wonderful to see so many represent our department and College. Successful candidates for the Darling Downs entries:

• NOAH BURKE - PERCUSSION

• BIANCA PHILP - VIOLIN

• REMI O’DONOGHUE - CLARINET

• ERIN O’ROUKE - EUPHONIUM

• ADELE ADAMS - VOICE

• SOPHILEE CONDON - VOICE

• AUDREY LITTLE - VOICE

• ELEISHA MCINNIS - VOICE

• CLAIRE MOYLAN - VOICE

• CHARLOTTE OOSTHUIZEN - VOICE

• MAKAYLA PETRIE - VOICE

• KATHERINE PRESTON - VOICE

• GEORGIANNA REISINGER - VOICE

• CHELSEA RIECK - VOICE

• CHARLOTTE VOLL - VOICE

• GABRIELLE VOLL - VOICE

• LUCAS WARD (RESERVE)

Three of our most outstanding young musicians were accepted to participate in the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University State Honours Ensemble Program Primary 2023. A massive congratulations to Sophilee Condon and Audrey Little on their selection for voice and Louisa Philp for clarinet.

Finally, Georgianna Reisinger was accepted in the 2023 Queensland State Honours Program and performed as part of the Jazz Vocal Ensembles in October at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music in Brisbane. To be accepted and participate with the top musician in Queensland is an honour and we are proud to have MMCC represented through Georginna’s musical excellence.

TOOWOOMBA EISTEDDFOD

Congratulations to all who participated in the Toowoomba Eisteddfod. We had a number of individuals, duets, trios and small ensemble and large ensembles representing the College.

We entered in 25 items and were awarded: 8 first places, 3 second places, 4 third places and 3 highly commended awards!

Regardless of the extremely high number of placings, MMCC Arts were congratulated from the Adjudicator, Eisteddfod committee and community for their behaviour, representation and how they enjoyed their performances.

It was a first time for our Primary Dancers to perform with both troupes gaining a highly commended award. MMCC also took out the 1st place in the Secondary Percussion and then again with the Primary Percussion to achieve the Ensemble Trophy for the second year running. We are overall Percussion Champions for 2023!

TOOWOOMBA ARTS FESTIVAL

57 Mary Mac Arts students took part in master classes, collaborative sessions and a combined concert with the 30 other Catholic schools in the Toowoomba Diocese to celebrate the incredible diversity ofThe Arts.

The Arts celebration week commenced with the Visual Arts display with our College dominating the Micah Centre with their unique creations. Twenty of these talented students then spent Tuesday at Cobb & Co. developing and creating the 50 Year Jubilee of Toowoomba Catholic schools office art work facilitated by Catherine Conaty.

Headed by the talented Miss Chloe Lauverjon, selected Junior and Senior dancers rehearsed on Tuesday and Wednesday for their performances in the main concert. The Senior Dance Troupe performed their contemporary piece as a main individual item at the final concert! This was as well as their appearance in the combined performing of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. The Junior troupe combined in the collaborative schools' performance (with 17 other schools!) of the Little Mermaid, a music theatre medley arranged by Mark Brymer.

The College Rock Band spent the morning performing live at the Empire alongside the professional Brisbane based band Flamingo Blonde. They received feedback and encouragement and were recommended to a Victoria based company for further development and help to be discovered in the Youth program for emerging talent. They too will be representing the MMCC Arts in the second act of the Concert program.

The Senior Drama students along with a junior team spent Wednesday morning at St Mary's College challenging other schools in Theatresports. Straight after this session, our 10 advanced instrumental music students spent the afternoon rehearsing at St Mary's as part of the 80 plus Combined Schools Orchestra featuring songs such as 'Whiplash' and 'Cake by the Ocean'. They too featured at the Belief in the Arts Concert program.

After taking out first place at the Eisteddfod in the music theatre section, Adele Adams and Georgianna Reisinger were requested to perform this work in the Concert program. The girls performed 'Loathing- What is this Feeling' from Wicked and were extremely well received. A proud week of Arts representation, presentation and performing.

SCENE PROJECT

The Scene Project is Queensland Theatre’s largest Education offering and encourages drama students across the state to engage in the creative process of performance from rehearsal through to presentation. The project concludes with local schools coming together in a professional theatre venue (our venue is UniSQ Arts Theatre) to share their performance. On this day, a cast of professional Queensland Theatre actors also present a full interpretation of the play providing young artists and their teachers with new ways of making and shaping texts that can be taken into their classrooms.

The script for 2023’s Scene Project was “A Thousand Points from Zero” written by Steve Pirie and explores the complexities of the digital world we live in and the not so positive influences of Facebook, YouTube, Tik Tok and other social media platforms.

PRIMARY ARTS - WAKAKIRRI

Wakakirri is Australia’s largest performing arts event for schools with over 200 taking part in 2023. Participating schools are inspired by the Wakakirri ethos ‘great stories inspire change’ to create and perform story-dances that reflect students’ thoughts, ideas and aspirations. Wakakirri Festival Director Adam Loxley said, “The standard of performance and the stories being told by schools thisyearwas exceptionaland MaryMacKillop should be very proud of their award”.

Mary MacKillop’s story is inspired by the story book A Very Hungry Caterpillar, yet in this version the audience also meets a group of scouts and forest fairies to add a bit of magic to the story! Mary MacKillop’s performance A Very Hungry Caterpillar – The Untold Version was described by Wakakirri Ambassador Leah Clark as “ABeautifulinterpretation of this iconic story”.

Mary MacKillop Catholic College has received a State Award and was nominated for a National Award for their Wakakirri performance A Very Hungry Caterpillar – The Untold Version. Initially we performed at the Logan Entertainment Centre on Thursday, 24 August. As we were awarded a State Award, we were invited to return and perform again on Friday, 8 September.

At the Awards Night performance our school was awarded with:

• Environmental Action Story State Award

• Creative production award for Set Design

• Production award for Sets and Props

• Ensemble Award for a Well-Performed Rehearsal

• Lead cast award for Performance in Dance

• Production award for Costumes

It was fantastic to see their confidence and performance qualities improve on stage from the first time they went on compared the second time they performed. They all did such a wonderful job!

QUEENSLAND CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

MUSIC FESTIVAL (QCMF)

The 2023 Queensland Catholic Schools Music competition saw 597 ensembles, 14000 student performers from 105 schools and Colleges from all over Queensland and interstate.... and our MMCC Contemporary Rock Band received a GOLD!

Mary MacKillop Catholic College Contemporary Band was established in 2022 by a group of enthusiastic friends and musicians. The ensemble learns their parts to chosen songs and then individualise them to create sounds that suit their own personalities. They have just started to write their own song which we hope to share in the near future and are looking to enter Rock Fest to round out the year.

• Lead Vocalist - Georgianna Reisinger

• Backing vocalist and pianist - Adele Adams

• Guitar - Archer Turner

• Bass - Bianca Philp

• Drums - Noah Burke

CREATIVE GENERATIONS

During the exhibition period for Creative Generation 2023 in Toowoomba, 47 'specific' works were presented all radiating from a defined generation of artists. These individual viewpoints, expressions, observations, and intuitions, emanate from a source unknown to many. Amidst these 47 works, two 'great' pieces were created here at Mary MacKillop Catholic College. Noah Gunders and Ava Knihinicki both contributed works to the 2023 exhibition. Their work was evaluated and reviewed by an independent panel of judges at the Department of Education in Brisbane, and both received Commendation Awards for their work. Congratulations Ava and Noah, this is a significant success.

To put their achievement into context.

• 459 submissions were received from 177 schools statewide

• DDSW regional exhibition displayed 47 artworks by senior high school visual art students representing 19 schools from the Darling Downs and South-West Queensland.

• From the 47 submissions in DDSW, the following awards were announced: 1 Regional Encouragement Award, 13 Commendations and 7 Excellence winners.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGIES DEPARTMENT REPORT

MR JARED NIELSEN | MIDDLE LEADER SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGIES

2023 was a very exciting year for the Science & Technologies departments. We are continually expanding our horizons with new initiatives, new subjects and new challenges!

The year started off with the continued implementation of our Year 5 and 6 specialty lessons program. Now in its third year, this program gave our Junior School students a chance to come over to the Senior campus and learn from our expert STEM teachers. This program gives the Year 5 and 6s the chance to experience what the Senior School has to offer in their future as well as giving them access to some high-quality learning facilities and equipment.

This year, Mary MacKillop competed again in the prestigious USQ Science and Engineering Challenge; a STEM-based competition for Year 9 and 10 students. At the event, students competed in a number of activities and tests involving teamwork, critical-thinking and problem solving. This year we brought home our first ever category win! All of our teams placed well, leading to an excellent overall score in the Toowoomba competition. We continually punch above of weight in this competition and the students are already raring to go for 2024!

Every year the National Science Week celebration aims to raise the profile and increase the public understanding and public appreciation of science, innovation, engineering and technology, and their role in maintaining and improving our society, economy and environment.

The 2023 theme was 'innovation: powering future industries'. This included advancing technology in all industries especially using artificial intelligence (AI) The week was jam-packed with lunchtime and classroom activities across Prep to Year 12. Some of the highlights for our younger students included the Senior students coming over to run lunchtime activities as well as the chance for our Prep - Year 4 students to come over an experience a short taste of the Senior Science classrooms and resources.

A stand-out curriculum option for many of our Year 9 and 10 students is the chance to pick elective subjects. The Science and Technology departments feature prominently here with our Wood and Metal technology classes always being packed! This year saw the implementation of new Web and Game design classes (where students were able to develop their own websites and video games),

Agricultural Science (where students grew their own crops using a variety of water and fertiliser types), STEM (which involved critical thinking and robotics) and the Design class (which saw students design, create and launch water rockets across the College!). All of these electives help out Middle Years students to find the subjects they enjoy, ahead of Senior School.

Last year I used this space to discuss our brandnew LEGO Education SPIKE Prime kits. 2023 was the year where we got to unbox and use them in the classroom! These top-of-the-line kits have provided an excellent addition to STEM learning in our middle school classrooms. These new kits have helped our students understand the engineering design process, programming with variables and data, developing computation thinking skills, and applying the engineering design process through robotics. Students haven’t just built robots the sake of it, but to solve real-world problems by thinking creatively and critically.

It would be amiss of me to leave out of Senior School classes. Our Year 11 and 12 Certificate students ahead worked diligently all year to complete projects for themselves as well as giving back to the College and the wider community, shown in their work on the trailer and cubby house projects. While this report is being written before final General subject results have come back, we are expecting some excellent results across our Senior subjects. This is due to the dedication and work ethic of our Year 11 and 12 students who go above and beyond in their subjects to ensure they leave the College with the best knowledge and final results as they can. Looking forward to 2024, we are very excited to offer a range of new subjects in the Senior School. 2024 will see the implementation of the Year 11-12 General subjects of Engineering and Agricultural Science. These courses are now being offered due to overwhelming student enthusiasm and success in our Science and Technology areas.

Of course, none of these learning opportunities would have been possible without the work of a team of hard-working, dedicated and selfless staff. I would like to take this chance to thank each and every staff member at Mary MacKillop Catholic College for the time, effort and energy they provide each and every day of the year.

Last - but certainly not least - I cannot forget to mention the ongoing support of the wider Mary MacKillop Catholic College community (parents, carers and parish members). Your input, support and communication is deeply appreciated and highly valued. We wish you a safe holiday and look forward to seeing you all in the new year!

SENIOR SCHOOL CAMPS AND RETREATS

MR SEAN ALBION | ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: WELLBEING SENIOR

The College offers camps and retreats because they are a major contributor in the formation of our young people. These activities form a large part of the memories that students take away from their schooling journey.

The positive micro moments that occur everyday at the College are so important as they release positive neurochemicals (like oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin) which help the body better manage stress. On camps these micro moments are enhanced and it can be life changing providing opportunities for students to explore new experiences, develop skills, and build relationships, ultimately contributing to their overall growth and enjoyment of life.

"I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full."

John 10:10

This year students in the Senior School participated in many camps and retreats in some beautiful places across South East Queensland.

Year 7 Emu Gully, Helidon

Year 9 Burleigh Heads

Year 10 Currumbin Valley

Year 11 Mudjimba

Year 12 Brisbane

SKI TRIP

MR MALCOLM LANGERAK | SENIOR SCHOOL TEACHER

After a super busy Term 2, our Senior students were off to Perisher for a week at the slopes on an overnight coach. Arriving at the lodge a little tired and weary, they collected all their equipment and snow gear and took to the slopes for lessons in skiing or snowboarding. The resort hosted a range of activities each evening like magic shows and live music which was the perfect chance to catch up and tell stories about the day.

For many of our senior students, this was their first time seeing snow, “My favourite part was when the snow was falling on the third day, before then I had not seen snow, it was so surreal at first,” said Year 12 student, Elise. There were many moments during the trip where our students had to test their patience and show support and encouragement to their peers as they tested their balance on the skis and worked together to build their confidence on the slopes.

This inaugural ski trip gave a lot of our senior students the chance to interact with other students and teachers they ordinarily would not have. Bella, a Year 12 student, spoke about her experience of the trip and said, “It was a chance to become closer with your friends, learn a new skill, see snow forthe first time, and explore different parts of Australia.” The trip created an environment where everyone was learning a completely new skill and each person could rely on the group as a team to encourage each other.

This was the first ski trip for Mary MacKillop Catholic College, and by all reports, it won’t be the last!

VALEDICTORY SPEECH

MRS LEISA RADLEY | DIRECTOR OF FORMATION AND COLLEGE CULTURE

Good afternoon parents, staff and Year 12 graduates.

My name is Leisa Radley and it is an honour to address you today on behalf of the Mary MacKillop Catholic College staff. Seniors, we have been blessed this year with a wonderful group of Year 12 students of whom we are all very proud. You are young men and women who truly embody the values of Mary MacKillop and genuinely understand what it means to be a part of our community.

Many of you have been on the Mary Mac journey since Prep and, I can imagine, it has been an amazing experience for you, watching the College evolve from a Junior campus into the bustling P-12 College it is today. Never forget your part in that journey. Each of you, whether you started in Prep with piggy tails and wobbly teeth or joined us in Year 10, is etched into the history of MMCC. You are part of a legacy and an important story. Undoubtedly, you will share this story with others many times over the course of your lives.

When you catch up with mates in five years’ time; when you gather for 10-year, 20-year, 30-year reunions; or when you tell your own children about what school was like in ‘your day’. The memories of your experiences here will pop up in the strangest ways, but, ironically, often at the most needed times in your lives. When you’re unpacking your belongings after moving into your first home, there you’ll find your College tie, a faded sports hat which is hanging together by a thread, a House badge—that’s if you haven’t already lost it—, your pilgrim shell from Year 12 Retreat, or perhaps a school yearbook. You’ll waste hours sifting through the pages, laughing about teeth covered with braces, that random 6 months in Year 11 when the boys decided mullets were cool again, bright photos from discos, Colour Runs,

Book Weeks, and sports carnivals, and memories from camps, when you were covered in mud and having the time of your life.

These are precious memories—they are part of your story just as you are part of our story. Year 12s, when you tell this tale of the time you were a Mary Mac kid, tell it proudly. Whether you realise it yet or not, being a student at MMCC has not just taught you how to write an essay, work out an equation, play handball, or be quiet during Mass.

It is at MMCC that you have learned to be like Jesus: you have challenged, you have been revolutionary, and you’ve brought others along for the ride.

It is here you have learned to be like St. Joseph: you have lead with humility, you have been quiet and courageous and best of all you have been servant leaders, knowing it is not always the loudest ones who effect the most change.

It is here you have learned to be like Mary MacKillop: you have looked to the margins, searched for the vulnerable and been a voice for the voiceless.

Lastly, it is here you have learned to be like Mary, the Mother of Jesus: you’ve looked opportunities square in the face and said ‘Yes’, despite feeling a little scared and unsure of the future.

These lessons are not the end of your chapter though, they are just the beginning. Go out into the world now and be proud of where you have come from. Tell others about what it means to be a Mary Mac student. Lead with humility, be courageous, keep seeking out the vulnerable, don’t be afraid of saying ‘Yes’, be disruptive…not in a way that will get you kicked out of the pub, but don’t settle for mediocrity…be like Jesus and shake things up a little. There will always be those who want you to conform to their beliefs but have the courage instead to rebel.

And so, Year 12s of 2023, some final words for you. At the risk of quoting a line from a hymn reserved for Mass, “Go make a difference in the world” …and, if you ever think you’re too small to make a difference, try sleeping in the dark with a mosquito.

Thank you and good luck.

COLLEGE CAPTAINS REPORT

SIGNING OFF, COLLEGE CAPTAINS FOR 2023, CHARLOTTE VOLL & JEZZIAH BERRY

Wow, can you believe we’re actually here, graduating? It feels like just yesterday we were navigating the chaos of Year 7, and now we’re here, having finished exams, completed certificates and traineeships, Graduation Mass and ready to take on the world.

First off, let’s give a big shoutout to our awesome teachers, beautiful families, and special friends who’ve put up with us through the ups and downs. You all deserve medals for putting up with us for so long!

Now, as we stand on the brink of the great unknown, it’s both scary and exciting. Look around. We are a diverse bunch with different dreams, talents, and quirks. And that’s what makes us amazing. As we head out into the real world, let’s not forget the friendships we’ve made, the embarrassing moments we’ve shared, and the lessons we’ve learned—both inside and outside the classroom. Life beyond high school is like a choose your own adventure game and were all about to embark on our unique quests. Some of us might head to Uni, some straight into the workforce, and others, who knows? And that’s ok. We all have the opportunity to decide who we are going to be when we leave this place today.

We are often asked ‘What are you going to do next year?’ This is a very different question to ‘WHO ARE YOU GOING TO BE?’. It is important to remember what it means to be a human being, not a human doing (that’s actually one of my Mum’s favourite quotes). Over the years we have all acquired labels and identities based on our abilities and talents. But what is more important is our attitudes, how we treat others and what makes us uniquely beautiful. It is important how we see and speak about others internal characteristics in order to have a happy relationship with our inner selves.

Regardless of what we do, we always have the opportunity to be the person we want to be. When we choose a positive attitude, treat others with genuine kindness and appreciate our unique inner beauty, life will become richer than seeing the world through the lens of the labels that define us. We have to look beyond those labels to appreciate who we really are and appreciate others for who they really are.

Let’s promise ourselves this: no matter where life takes us, let’s stay true to who we are. Embrace the weird, chase those crazy dreams, and don’t be afraid to fail spectacularly. Because its in those failures that we find the juiciest stories to tell later on.

Now, I’m sure we’ve all had our moments of frustration with assignments, and exams. But through it all, our teachers have been the ones to show us the way, to illuminate the path to knowledge, and to inspire us to reach for the stars.

To our teachers, thank you for your patience when we asked the same question for the tenth time, for your encouragements when we doubted ourselves, and for your belief in our potential. You’ve been so much more than educators; you’ve been mentors, role models, and, at times, a little too demanding (jokes!!).

In your classrooms, we didn’t just learn facts and figures, we learned about life, about resilience, about the power of perseverance. You’ve armed us with knowledge, but you’ve also equipped us with the tools to face whatever challenges lie ahead.

To our teachers, you’ve left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds, and we will carry your lessons with us as we step into the world beyond these walls. Thank you for being the guiding light on our educational journey.Thank you to Mrs Richardson and Mrs Stevenson for getting our futures sorted and in order. Without your support, I would probably end up living at home and just playing guitar. Thank you so much to you amazing people.

Thank you to Mr Gabbett and his leadership team. Your support over the years has been incredible and for that, we thank you.

A very special mention to Ms Cridland and Mrs O’Rourke and your teams, thank you! Thank you for making these final events of our Year 12 so beautiful, so special and personal. All the little touches, all the little special things. We can assure you that this has not gone unnoticed.

On behalf of the Class of 2023, we would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our very special and dear parents who have supported us, unwaveringly along the way. You have guided and raised us with open hearts and open minds from the moment we came into this world and witness us grow from wee whipper snappers to the young adults walking through life beside you today. Thank you endlessly for your unconditional love and patience. Thank you for your ongoing support and guidance. We are forever grateful for the countless sacrifices that you have made for us. Thank you for raising us to be the men and women we are today.

So, as we bid farewell to this chapter of our lives, lets carry with us the lessons you’ve all taught us, not just from textbooks, but from the wisdom of your experience. You’ve given us the gift of love and learning, and for that, we are forever grateful.

Let’s give a big round of applause to everyone who has shaped us into the men and women we are today, thank you for everything, and here’s to our futures!

So, here’s to us—the Class of 2023! May our futures be filled with epic adventures, unexpected twists, and the kind of success that makes our high school selves proud.

Let’s go out there and show the world just how awesome

we are!

- CHARLOTTE VOLL

Ladies and Gentlemen, esteemed teachers, proud parents, and my amazing fellow graduates.

Firstly, myself and Charlotte stand before you as school captains with immense gratitude in our hearts. Today marks a significant milestone in our lives. This will be the last time we will all be together in one room, except for the get together tonight! I am deeply honored to speak on behalf of the incredible Class of 2023.

To our teachers, you have been more than educators; you've been mentors, guides and occasionally, the bearers of stern looks when homework was mysteriously misplaced. Our bus trips were loud and sometimes obnoxious, I'm looking specifically at the blokes in the room. But you all didn't care, as long as we had fun.

We've mastered the art of looking attentive while daydreaming about our post-graduation nap. It's a skill that will serve us well in many meetings to come. Your dedication to our education has shaped not just our minds but our characters. Thank you for challenging us, inspiring us, and for letting us be us. You have schooled us not only in academics, but also for our bright futures we have ahead. There are definitely mixed emotions swirling in the air.

To those eager for the next chapter and those reluctant to close this one, I'm sure we will all miss Mary MacKillop and their dedicated staff. Round of applause for the teachers and staff!

Now parents, oh, the unsung heroes of our journey! You've been our taxi drivers, therapists, and chief financial officers.

Your unwavering support, even when we left our rooms looking like a tornado hit us, speaks volumes. Today, we celebrate not just our achievements but the countless sacrifices you've made to see us standing here. You deserve a standing ovation. Another round of applause for our parents.

As we step into the next chapter of our lives, let's not forget the bonds we've formed, the laughter shared, and the friendships that have weathered the storms of exams and teenage drams. It's been a rollercoaster ride , and I wouldn't have wanted to ride it with anyone else. Being graduates of Mary MacKillop, we have definitely left a legacy and instilled a great sense of faith and hope for the future generations of our College. Life is like a multiple-choice question. Sometimes the answer is right in front of you, and sometimes, you just must take an educated guess. Embrace the uncertainties, savour the victories, and don't forget to laugh along the way.

From my experience at the College, I am ready to embrace the journey of life. I couldn't have gotten through my high schooling life without the strong foundations that Mary MacKillop has instilled in me. To my friends, I appreciate all the things that we have shared together. To the friends who turned classrooms into adventures and lessons into laughter, thank you for making school unforgettable. To our careers team, sticking by us even when we didn't have any plans for our future. You understood my goals and the other students as well.

To our PC teachers, you have played the role as our second parents at Mary MacKillop. To Mr Gabbett and his leadership team, thank you for all continuously improving our wonderful school. I want to say that your contributions do not go unnoticed to us. To everyone else, you hae enriched our lives and been on a great journey with us at Mary Mac. Here's to the bonds that have started and will last a long time.

In conclusion, let's raise our (metaphorical) glasses to the memories we've made, the lessons we've learned, and the exciting adventures that await. Thank you, teachers, parents, staff and my amazing classmates, for making this journey unforgettable. May our futures be as bright as the smiles on our faces today.

Cheers

to the Class of 2023!

- JEZZIAH BERRY

GRADUATION BREAKFAST

MASS & GUARD OF HONOUR

VALEDICTORY LUNCH

ACADEMIC AWARDS

MRS NATALIE ADLER | ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: TEACHING & LEARNING JUNIOR

Striving for Excellence: Celebrating Achievements in 2023

Reflecting on the pursuit of excellence at Mary MacKillop Catholic College, we recognize that achievement takes diverse forms. Academic excellence is more than just grades; it involves a blend of passion, perseverance, and an ongoing commitment to learning. It encompasses the development of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a curiosity for knowledge that extends beyond the classroom.

Mary MacKillop's wisdom, "Be eager in your desires but humbly patient in their accomplishment," underscores the significance of embracing ambition while maintaining humble patience in pursuing goals. We firmly believe that with dedication, there are no limits to what can be accomplished. Students at our College embody this philosophy, seizing every opportunity with unwavering determination and recognizing the delicate balance between enthusiasm and patience on the path to success.

Academic excellence is a collaborative effort, and we acknowledge the vital role of our dedicated community, including teachers, staff, parents, and peers. Their contributions foster an environment conducive to learning and growth. From providing mentorship and guidance to creating a positive and inspiring atmosphere, this collective support system empowers students to strive for and achieve academic greatness.

In 2023, Mary MacKillop Catholic College proudly recognizes success in various categories:

• Academic Success Gold Years 5-12

• Academic Success Silver Years 5-12

• Academic Improvement Years 5-12

• Top of Subject Years 7-12

• Pathways Years 10-12

• All-Rounder Award Years 5-12

• Spirit of Mary MacKillop Award Years 5-12

• Jarra Award Years 5-12

• College Dux Year 12 (to be announced in 2024)

As we anticipate another year of recognizing and celebrating achievement, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 2023 Award Recipients. Here's to another year of excellence and dedication at Mary MacKillop Catholic College! May the pursuit of knowledge and the spirit of achievement flourish within our academic community.

CO-CURRICULAR AWARDS

MR BRAD GRIFFITHS | MIDDLE LEADER SPORT & STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

MRS CARMEN CAMPBELL | JUNIOR SPORTS TEACHER

MRS JESSICA BURKE | MIDDLE LEADER THE ARTS

In Term 4, the College held the inaugural CoCurricular Awards night.

It was an opportunity to celebrate the wonderful work students are doing in both the Arts and Sport. The structure of the awards was intentionally set up around the 6 Ps of St. Mary MacKillop's ministry, with students recognised for their passion, practical action, perseverance, and partnership in and around the College's Co-Curricular program.

We heard from a number of our students on the evening and they were quick to communicate their love of their community, and how contributing to the co-curricular program had greatly enhanced their education. A number of performances from our Arts students highlighted the quality of the work being done by staff and students across the College.

Being able to recognise students across such a wide range of activities from both the Arts and Sport is testament to the continued growth of the College and we look forward to an even bigger night in 2024!

The following students were awarded our top awards for the evening:

JOEYS IN ACTION

MRS CHRISTINE CARTER | ACTING ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: TEACHING & LEARNING

Celebrating Joeys in Action

This year we embarked on the very first Joeys in Action Awards Celebration. What an exciting time to be a Prep - Year 4 student! Joeys in Action recognises passionate students who embody the values of Mary MacKillop through their perseverance with the College Positive Learning Behaviours. The students have created possibilities in their learning through partnership to reach their potential. The selection criteria for all Joeys in Action Awards are based on the 6Ps: Partnership, Passion, Perserverance, Possibilities, Practical Action and Prayer.

Prep performed "I am on my way" at the ceremony and after the fabulous year they have had we know they are on their way!

Year 1 performed "Give me a home among the gum trees" at the ceremony and after the wonderful year they have had we know they have found their home for learning!

Year 2 performed "Thank You God" at the ceremony and after the exciting year they have had we are very thankful they have made our College a joyful place!

Year 3 performed "End of Year 3 Poem" at the ceremony and after the magnificent year they have had we know they are thankful and reflective!

Year 4 performed "Firework" in Auslan at the ceremony and after the dazzling year they have had we know they are ready to ignite their learning in 2024!

Saint Mary MacKillop permeates everything that we do, how we live, how we treat each other and who we are here at the College. The Joeys in Action Awards Ceremony provides our early years students an opportunity to be recognised for embodying the values that Mary MacKillop held so dear. The student's continuous effort to strive for excellence in all areas of their College journey is an impressive sight to behold.

Congratulations to all Award Recipients!

DILIGENCE AWARDS

HONOUR LIST

2023 Achievement Award Recipients

PERPETUAL AWARDS

Sophilee Condon Spirit of Mary MacKillop Award (Year 5 - 8) 6

Elise Scrivens Spirit of Mary MacKillop Award (Year 9 - 12) 12

Darby Richardson Jarra Award (Year 5 - 12) 10

Malika Stokes CWA Award 6

Katherine Preston CWA Award 9

Lilly Hayes CWA Award 12

Chelsea Rieck CWA Award 11

Charlotte Dobson School Based Apprenticeship and Trainee of the Year Award 12

Georgianna

(Brass/ Woodwind) of the Year 10

Adele Adams Pianist of the Year 9

Noah Burke Percussionist of the Year 10

Thomas Fagan Guitarist of the Year 11

Caitlyn Barr

Award Year 9 - 12 9 Noah Skippen

Year 8 8

9

Award Year 10 10 Georgianna Reisinger

Award Year 11 11

Award Year 12 12 Mia Lewis

in Arts Award 9

9

Adele Adams Arts and Culture 9

Georgianna Reisinger Arts Excellence 11

Sports Award Recipients

HONOUR LIST

Sports Award Recipients

HONOUR LIST

Top of Subject Award Recipients

YEAR 7

NAME CATEGORY

Ashley Williams Mathematics

Benjamin Nothdurft Health and Physical Education

Noah Skippen Religion

Noah Skippen English

Noah Skippen Humanities

Noah Skippen Science

YEAR 8

NAME CATEGORY

Ariane Golobic Religion

Ariane Golobic Mathematics

Ariane Golobic Humanities

Ariane Golobic Health and Physical Education

William Ehrlich English

William Ehrlich Science

YEAR 9

NAME CATEGORY

Adele Adams Religion

Adele Adams English

Adele Adams Music

Adele Adams Drama

Ann Dolan History

Ann Dolan Science

Ann Dolan Mixed Media

Ann Dolan Visual Art

Bonnie-Rose Reisinger Ancient History

Bonnie-Rose Reisinger Design

Brayden Hangan Wood Practice

Caitlyn Barr Mathematics

Caitlyn Barr Health and Physical Education

Caitlyn Barr Literature and Creative Writing

Gabrielle Voll Agricultural Science

Harrison Wiersma Web Design

YEAR 9

Year 9 continued...

NAME CATEGORY

Harrison Wiersma Business and Entrepreneurship

Harrison Wiersma STEM

Jackson Clark Metal Technology

Katherine Preston Hospitality

Logan Skewes Game Design

Natalie Rosenthal Food and Nutrition

Tilly Wilkes Sport Science

Tom Stark Geography

YEAR 10

NAME CATEGORY

Andrew Brazier Game Design

Archer Turner History

Archer Turner Ancient History

Archer Turner Music

Ava Smithard Agricultural Science

Bianca Philp History

Bianca Philp Science

Bianca Philp Web Design

Bianca Philp Drama

Chelsea Mifsud Sport Science

Dominic McBride Geography

Dominic McBride Metal Technology

Dominic McBride STEM

Erin O'Rourke Wood Practice

Eustacia Golobic Business and Entrepreneurship

Jarrah Sunatwanitkul Religion

Jarrah Sunatwanitkul English

Jarrah Sunatwanitkul Health and Physical Education

Jayden Sunatwanitkul English

Kya Manz Mixed Media

Kya Manz Visual Art

Lani Knapman Hospitality

YEAR 10

Year 10 continued...

NAME CATEGORY

Lani Knapman Dance

Lucy Williams Community PE

Lucy Williams Sport Science

Lucy Williams Food and Nutrition

Noah Burke Ancient History

Noah Burke Music

Remi O'Donoghue Mathematics

Remi O'Donoghue Literature and Creative Writing

Remi O'Donoghue Maths Extension

Seirra Sondergeld Design

YEAR 11

NAME CATEGORY

Aidan Lipp Modern History

Chloe Green Biology

Chloe Green Physics

Connor Cranston Physical Education

Georgianna Reisinger Music

Georgianna Reisinger Drama

Jordan Robertson Chemistry

Josephine Dezdjek Design

Neve Knapman Essential English

Neve Knapman Essential Mathematics

Nicolene Snyman General Mathematics

Nicolene Snyman Legal Studies

Olivia Horrex English

Olivia Horrex Literature

Olivia Horrex Study of Religion

Olivia Horrex

Rachel

Rachel

Thomas

William

YEAR 12

NAME CATEGORY

Ava Knihinicki Visual Art

Bella Stenzel Legal Studies

Brendan Williams Mathematical Methods

Brendan Williams Biology

Brendan Williams Chemistry

Brendan Williams Physics

Caleb Misfud Essential Mathematics

Charlotte Dobson Biology

Connor Smith Specialist Mathematics

James Lane Modern History

Kyra Bartlett-Horne General Mathematics

Kyra Bartlett-Horne Study of Religion

Kyra Bartlett-Horne Literature

Kyra Bartlett-Horne English

Lilly Hayes Modern History

Mia Lewis Arts in Practice

Sharni Pengelly Essential English

Academic Achievement Awards - Gold

Academic Achievement Awards - Silver

CURRICULAR EXTRA

CHESS CLUB

Each year, Chess at MMCC is well supported by both junior and senior students. Each week, lessons take place with the support of various chess enthusiasts – Mr Les Lord (ex-President of Toowoomba Chess) and Mr Ted Kitto – both of whom have been with teaching chess at the College for many years. Through lessons, students develop their chess playing ability by learning new strategies and moves that can be executed during games to beat their opponents.

Selected Junior School students represented MMCC at a number of chess competitions. In Semester One, students played in the Toowoomba Catholic Schools Interschool Chess Tournament at Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office and in Semester Two, students played in the Toowoomba District Primary Teams Chess Competition at Toowoomba Christian College. Both competitions were well supported with many students from Toowoomba and surrounding areas playing for placings and prizes. All students played exceptionally well, winning some games, and learning valuable lessons that have aided their chess ability and them as a person. Thanks to the parents who have supported their child to get to early chess lessons before school and to the various tournaments.

Students of any age from Year 1 to 12 are welcome to join Chess Club.

Regular chess practice can improve your cognitive function, helping you to become more mentally sharp and alert. In fact, studies have shown that chess players tend to have better memory, attention span, and overall brain function than those who do not play.

MR CRAIG HUBBARD | YEAR 6 TEACHER

History Club

HISTORY CLUB

MR CHRIS GABBETT | COLLEGE PRINCIPAL

Mr Gabbett loves extending his knowledge and has a real passion for teaching History. Hoping to share this, he initiated an extra curricular club for students. The History Extension Group began in the junior library with a few Year 5 and 6 students. It has now grown to a group of upwards of 25, with ages ranging from Year 3 to Year 9.

Students meet on a Monday afternoon and select their own topics that they are interested. The group embarks on a journey of inquiry and discovery. This is genuine enrichment, as topics covered are either not part of the general curriculum or are enhancements of it. Mr Gabbett also challenges the students with the big moral and ethical questions that studying History encourages.

The History Extension Group will continue in 2024. Please join them to share your passion for History.

LIBRARY

MS SANDRA MIILLAR | TEACHER/LIBRARIAN

This year we enjoyed the fruits of our hard work. Our newly created library spaces, chill out zones and learning support areas have had a workout. On average 90 students visited the library each lunchtime.

Students didn't have time to be bored because they were busily borrowing over 72,000 items.

Students didn't have time to linger when they borrowed because they needed to jostle for beanbag positions and longed for stories to go on and on.

Staff did purchase over 2000 new books for the libraries and held a very successful preloved book sale. It was awesome.

Students and staff most definitely did have time to talk & learn, laugh & lounge, play & ponder but mostly we made time to READ.

The secondary library started the year with regular class borrowing and information sessions, and lunchtime clubs including chess, rubix-cube, Minecraft, games, book parties, connect 4 challenge. All of these activities kept an on-going stream of students through our doors.

The Annual Readers' Cup Competition and Book Week Parade were full of colour, creativity, a little bit of chaos and lots of celebration. Fantastic effort from all participants.

As you can see from the images the students and staff are thoroughly enjoying the spaces and activities, we have been able to create and haven’t stopped reading.

MARY MACKILLOP THEATRE ACADEMY

MRS GENEVIEVE DUNCAN | SENIOR DRAMA TEACHER

This year students involved in MMTA worked on a play called The Scene Project. They welcomed a visit from Steve Pirie (the writer of the script we are working with ‘Thousand Points from Zero’) from Queensland Theatre.

The Scene Project is Queensland Theatre’s largest Education offering and encourages drama students across the state to engage in the creative process of performance from rehearsal through to presentation. Each year, a playwright creates an original work and the participating schools are tasked with the challenge of creating their own unique 15minute version or interpretation of the play. During the rehearsal phase, Queensland Theatre artists visits the participating schools to check in on progress and offer a fresh perspective of the emerging work.

The project concludes with local schools coming together in a professional theatre venue (our venue is UniSQ Arts Theatre) to share their performance. On this day, a cast of professional Queensland Theatre actors also present a full interpretation of the play (under the same ‘minimalist’ parameters that schools have), providing young artists and their teachers with new ways of making and shaping texts that can be taken into their classrooms. The final stage of the project is a learning forum that allows for students to acknowledge the skill and artistry of their peers as well as engage in robust discussions around process and performance building.

Our students performed in August along with 4 other schools also performing their interpretation of the script. Congratulations to these students for an amazing performance

The script for 2023’s Scene Project is “A Thousand Points from Zero” written by Steve Pirie and explores the complexities of the digital world we live in and the not so positive influences of Facebook, YouTube, Tik Tok and other social media platforms.

JUSTICE SOCIAL

MJR - MAKING JESUS REAL

MRS PAULA O'ROURKE | ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL:

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Making Jesus Real at MMCC

Mary MacKillop every day made Jesus real by her actions and words. She was a witness to the gospel and what Jesus taught the people by his actions and words. Here at Mary MacKillop Catholic College, the Making Jesus Real award acknowledges students who are leading by example with their actions and words to make Jesus real. At the end of each term we acknowledge a student who has demonstrated what this means.

This blurb is read out on assembly before announcing the MJR recipient for that class or PC (pastoral care group)

At Mary MacKillop Catholic College, we are called every day to come to know Jesus and demonstrate the following values in our actions and interactions:

• Care and compassion

• Honesty and trustworthiness

• Understanding and inclusion

• Respect and tolerance

It is about being a ‘WESTIE’ all term – welcoming, encouraging, saying sorry, being thankful, being inclusive and enthusiastic. These are simple but powerful actions that can make the difference for each one of us.

TERM 1 RECIPIENTS WERE...

Tenison House

Phoebe Oliver, Charlotte Tomkins, Ella Hindle, Katie Smith, Samuel Carter, Jackson Stansell, Noah Gunders, Connor Phillips, Riley Hinton and Dallas Smith.

McCormack House

Kieran Eulenstein, Sam O'Leary, Sharni Pengelly, Cooper Donovan, Marcas Jeffrey, Sophie Lobegeiger and Noah Burke.

Penola House

Brenan Vermaak, Sophie Trethewie, Georgia Barrett, Quinn Ryan, Indianna Hooper, Aiden Kasper, Hannah Pudsey, Brendan Williams, Zachary Jumper, Jessica Riding, Charlie Crawford, and Mia Brown.

Cunningham House

Harper Millard, Lua Mercuri, Mitchell Warby, Nell Davies, Kate Hetherington, Summer Jones, Cooper Keefe, Riley Smithard, Chloe O'Rourke, Kody Cameron, Isabelle Pannach and Lilly Hayes.

TERM 2 RECIPIENTS WERE ...

McCormack House

Eloise Goos, Ryan Kavanagh, Evie Weller, Xavier Skinner, Sadie Ekin-Smyth, Max Gosney, Ben Chappell, John Condon, Kanwar Buttar, Aidan Lipp and Jake Butler.

Penola House

Jack Barby, Ian McNamara, Timothy Watt, Amy Watt, Isabella Stanton, Ted Ford, Phoebe Schultz-Kings, Henry Cleary, Molly Haig and Taylor Bambrick.

Cunningham House

Hadley Saunders, Pippa Thiselton, Ariarna Randall, Abbie Neale, Grace Brosnan, Gabriella Reick, Belinda Lawson, Ryan Dalziell and Luca Spires.

Tenison House

Ava Gardner, Lane Peters, Michael Reeves, Lorelai Cantarella, Frankie Watane, Georianna Reisinger, Caitlyn Barr, Chloe Green, Jemina Parrington and Ava Knihinicki.

TERM 1 - CUNNINGHAM

TERM 2 - TENISON

TERM 2 - MCCORMACK

TERM 2 - PENOLA

TERM 1 - TENISON

TERM 1 - PENOLA

TERM 3 RECIPIENTS WERE ...

Penola House

Sophie Oostuizen, Lily Watt, Mikey Otto, Louisa Philp, Charlie Sheath, Ann Dolan, Jayden Sunatwanitkul, Josephine Dezdjek and Jarrah Sunatwanitkul.

Cunningham House

Audrey Siebenhausen, Abigail Usher, Maya Murphy, Ruby Stevens, Ned Hutchison, Abigail Smith, Henry Stevens, Darcy Matthews, Matildah Lindsay, Darby Richardson, James Clarke and Harrison Pannach.

Tenison House

Emilia Kalotay, Milana Hartshorn, Aditya Rai, Gabby Farrow, Lindsay Hamilton-Jackson, Emily Wann, Nicolene Snyman and Matilda Gillies.

McCormack House

Henry O'Leary, Shania Knapman, Chelsea Bannerman, Ella Lopez, Matthew Wilson, Elivia McKenzie-Todd, Ashlee Ward, Tom Condon, Imogen Bennett, Miranda Lewis, Amity Boston and Lucy Brunner.

TERM 2 - CUNNINGHAM

TERM 3 - TENISON

TERM 3 - PENOLA

TERM 3 - CUNNINGHAM

TERM 4 RECIPIENTS WERE...

Cunningham House

Chavi Wickramasinghe, Colby Lewis, Lachlan Adams, Bryce Murphy, Olivia Horrex, Ava Smithard, Emily Thompson, Joseph Brosnan and Will Thompson.

Tenison House

Madison Shannon, Sophie Wann, Zoe Albion, Harrison Barnett, Adam Carter, Seth Hannant, Matilda Wieland, Thomas Green, Courtney Lord, Fletcher Kimball, Mitchell Lambert and Jackson Clark.

McCormack House

Sophie Ward, Eilein Simoqa, Frankie Radley, Angus Hobden, Mia Gooderham, Harrison Schemioneck, Riley Mackenzie, Emma Collins and Gabrielle Laffy.

Penola House

Beau Lotz, Annabelle Burow, Edan Mullins, Braxton Taylor, Isabella Statham, Elke Adamski, Ethan Otto, Tilly Wilkes and Know McCosker.

Congratulations to all recipients this year.

TERM 4 - PENOLA

TERM 4 - TENISON

TERM 4 - MCCORMACK

CELEBRATING OUR FAITH

MRS PAULA O'ROURKE | ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Arise and Go Out!

Our motto "Celebrate God in all things", asks us to look to acknowledge God in everything we do. We can do this in a physical way, academic way and spiritual way. Our spirituality is always a challenging one to develop but opportunities are given across the year for students and staff to engage with their spirituality. Our spirituality is a journey that we take and have to engage in to develop it further. This year we have been able to give our community time to reflect and participate in many different activities to develop their spirituality. It is through these activities that we develop our relationship with God and can truly celebrate God in all things.

MASSES

Celebrating mass together is important part of developing our spirituality but also our relationship with God. Our ritual of welcoming everyone back started with our whole College Welcome Back mass around the theme of Arise and Go Out! This theme enables students and staff and go out into their world and bring hope to others. After mass we officially welcomed the new students and Preps into our College with the ringing the bell and receiving their house badge.

Another of our whole College masses is the Feast of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop on the 8 August. As our patroness, Mary MacKillop, is an important link to the Josephite Charism that we are developing across the College. It is through the Josephite Charism that we also develop our spirituality and deepen our faith. Please read more about our Feast day celebrations over the page.

As part of end of year celebrations and rituals for Year 12's , 12 Graduation Mass gives us an opportunity to celebrate the journey that these Year 12 students have been on for thirteen years. We thank them for who they have become but also bless them as they journey into the future. As part of the ritual for Year 12's they then ring the bell in the Chapel for the last time as they make their way through the guard of honour formed by staff and students. Again we are arising and going out!

End of year Mass and Year 6 Rite of Passage as gives our students time to reflect about the journey they are on and that another year as ended. Year 6 students move from Mass through a guard of honour to the chapel before another guard of honour into Ignatius as part of their transition to Senior School. Year 6 students have many things to be thankful about and we encourage them to use the gifts of the Holy Spirit to arise and go out - into Senior School - with enthusiasm and or blessings.

LITURGIES

Across the year, we also celebrate and pray in other formats. Liturgies is one way that this happens. This year we have had the opportunity to pray with our College house members and families especially for Mother's Day and Father's Day. On these occasions, parents and grandparents were treated to a wonderful breakfast prepared and cooked by our wonderful staff in the Cafe before our College leaders then lead the liturgy where everyone prayed together.

Other in class or PC group liturgies also enabled students and staff to pray together for Remembrance Day, Daniel Morcombe Day, Ash Wednesday, Easter, Catholic Education Week and birthdays. Whenever we can pray together means we are developing our relationship with God. At our assemblies, students lead prayer for everyone. This prayer will be a reflection of what is happening at the time or our College prayer.

This year our Year 12 Praxis students have again lead liturgies as part of their journey as well. Their focus this year was ANZAC Day and Mother's Day. These students have planned and lead these prayer occasions with our whole College. It is through this process that these students have also developed their relationship with God.

SACRAMENTS

Developing their relationship with God, for some students in our College, has meant they have participated in the parish's sacramental program as a way of connecting with God on a faith journey. Students have participated in Reconciliation, Confirmation and First Eucharist to complete their sacraments of initiation as part the Catholic faith journey. We also were part of a family of boys beginning their journey in the Catholic tradition with their baptism celebrated with their classes in a special ceremony with Fr Brian in the outdoor chapel. Congratulations to all students as they develop their spirituality and relationship with God.

FORMATION DAYS

To develop our relationship with God, we need to engage in growth as a person - academically, physically and spiritually. The College plans for such occasions with the support of formation days. Every year level has had some formation whether it be a day, two days and part days. During this time, students are given the time to reflect about themselves and their journey. Spiritually growth has been provided for some year levels where they spend time away from the College i.e. Josephite Pilgrimage for Year 12's while other year levels are given time during their session to pray and reflect.

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

As adults, our staff are also on a spiritual journey. This year we have continued to develop the Josephite Charism through the 6 P's - Passion, Partnership, Perseverance, Practical Action, Possibilities and Prayer while using the pedagogical approach of recontextualisation of the scripture. Staff have also unpacked what it is to be a 'Witness', a 'Specialist' and a 'Moderator' in terms of the RE curriculum taught plus incorporated into other subject areas.

As we continue to grow our College in the Josephite Charism, students and staff are given opportunities to develop their spiritual journey. We look forward to next year where we will be really homing in on the 6P's of Mary MacKillop as we continue the journey with our relationship with God.

HOUSE SOCIAL JUSTICE INITIATIVES

MRS LEISA RADLEY | DIRECTOR OF FORMATION AND COLLEGE CULTURE (YEARS 7-12)

This year, our Senior School continued its mission and service projects as a way of promoting House identity and to foster a culture of social justice within our House groups. These initiatives are an opportunity for students to show partnership and take practical action to serve others.

Well done to the staff and students of each House who facilitated these projects, most of which fundraised as well as raised awareness of important issues in our society. Check out some of the great initiatives below:

While we did not quite manage to fit in World's Greatest Shave this year, hopefully it will return in 2024!

MCCORMACK HOUSE: COLOUR RUN FOR MND

The students of McCormack House aim to espouse the values of Sister Irene McCormack, who was energetic, determined, but also humble in her mission. The colour yellow, worn by McCormack students, symbolises energy!

McCormack staff and students again chose to focus on Motor Neurone Disease and aimed to raise money for the MND and Me Foundation. This foundation supports people and their families living with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in Queensland.

This year, McCormack House's Senior School Colour Run occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, 18 April which was Cross Country day. It was an excellent way to end a fun-filled day! There was a wonderful vibe amongst the students who donned their white clothing (including some beautiful tutus, angel wings, and full body suits) and raced around Fitzroy Oval and through the Senior campus, stopping only for pushups, sit ups, tug-o-war opportunities and to be smashed by colour!

All money raised by students was donated to the MND and Me Foundation. We look forward to another amazing Colour Run in 2024!

CUNNINGHAM HOUSE: CUNNINGHAM'S CARNIVAL AND RED CROSS

For the second year running, Cunningham House's service initiative involved running mini carnival games at the Senior School Athletics Carnival, selling homemade savoury mince rolls and lollies at the canteen and also encouraging many dedicated staff to donate blood. Well done to Cunningham House staff and students who successfully raised over $1300 to donate to Red Cross "Life Blood".

A huge congratulations to Charlotte Dobson–Cunningham House Captain–who led her House proudly this year. Charlotte worked with Mr Varley, Mr Jones and Mrs Puhakka, as well as a group of dedicated Cunningham students, to organise the "Carnival within a Carnival". We look forward to devouring those savoury mince rolls again next year!

TENISON HOUSE: MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING AWARENESS

Term 4 is all about wellbeing and mental health at MMCC and Tenison House worked collaboratively again this year to raise awareness of mental health and wellbeing. Partnership was evident amongst the Tenison Pastoral Care groups, as each PC used the daily notices and social media to raise awareness of mental health by providing facts, statistics and tips for wellness. This initiative has allowed Tenison students to enact the 6P's of Mary MacKillop: they chose a cause that are passionate about, imagined all of the possibilities for how to spread awareness, modelled how to persevere through challenges, they partnered together to take practical action and prayed for strength in themselves and others.

Well done, Tenison House, for continuing to raise awareness of such an important issue in society and one which affects Australia's youth.

MARY MACKILLOP FEAST DAY

MRS PAULA O'ROURKE | ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL: RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

This year we celebrated our namesake's feast day on Tuesday, 8 August. What is a feast day I hear you ask?

According to the Catholic church, a feast day is the day a particular saint is remembered and celebrated. The church has a calendar that reflects all saints' days throughout the year. It is usually an annual religious celebration where prayers and readings are said to reflect about the saint. Mostly a feast day is the day of the saint's death as it is believed that this is the day they enter heaven - their 'heavenly birthday' (Aleteia) Mary MacKillop's day is 8 August - the day she died in North Sydney in 1909 and entered into heaven.

SO WHAT DO WE DO?

We began our day with a whole College mass celebrating living with faith and hope. The students processed into the sacred space with symbols of Mary MacKillop - scripture, her large picture, a brown coat, work boots and basket of fruit, vegetables and bread. All things that reflect Mary MacKillop's hard work living in the 1800's where faith was very important and the driver for her hope of a future that will enable children to know God as well as be able to make choices. Through prayer, we asked God to help us be more like Mary MacKillop and acknowledging her passion, perseverance, practical action, possibilities, prayer and partnership.

The day then continued with an Amazing Race for Year 3 to 9 students while Prep to Year 2 were treated to old school games with Year 10 to 12 students. After a picnic with a sausage sizzle near the Café, for first break, the students were involved in age appropriate activities that were fun, reflective, active and enjoyable.

Second break saw the cutting of the cake and everyone sharing in a celebratory piece. The afternoon concluded with tug-o-war competitions and reflective videos.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT?

Our feast day is important to us. As we grow as a College, our identity as a Catholic school also grows but more importantly our charism develops. The spirit of Mary MacKillop is fostered through the 6P's and celebrating her feast day is just one of the activities.

It is a day where learning happens in a fun way but it also enables different age groups to work in partnership and develop relationships that might not happen any other time. It is also a day to be involved in activities that they may not otherwise do at school.

We look forward to seeing our feast day grow each year.

ALL THINGS AMMA!

MRS LEISA RADLEY - DIRECTOR OF FORMATION AND COLLEGE CULTURE (YEARS 7-12)

AMMA's Practical Action in 2023

Each year, the Actioning Mary MacKillop Advocacy Group, fondly known in our College as 'AMMA', organises initiatives which touch on the cornerstones of social justice: charity/action, awareness, solidarity and advocacy. Five years ago, Elise Scrivens and Charlotte Voll wanted to take action to do something for drought-affected farmers. After speaking with their parents and Mr Gabbett, the girls formed a social justice group with the aim of being witnesses to the service and advocacy of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop. Thus, the Actioning Mary MacKillop Advocacy (AMMA) group was formed.

This year, as the founding members of AMMA graduate, we thank these students for all they have done to found and lead this group. They leave behind a strong legacy of social justice for the younger members of the AMMA group. Elise Scrivens, Charlotte Voll, Charlotte Dobson, Sophie Winter, Hannah Rosenthal, Ava Knihinicki and Lilly Hayes...thank you and good luck! You will be missed!

Check out some of AMMA's 2023 initiatives below:

WINTER APPEAL

The Winter Appeal has become an annual event at MMCC. Due to the generosity of Mary Mac families, this year we were able to provide Tony's Community Op Shop patrons, and our Rosies outreach regulars with hundreds of blankets and a variety of warm clothing. Given the chilly Toowoomba nights and, sadly, the rising rates of homelessness in our region, the donations were gratefully received. This year, AMMA decided to ask for donations of tea, coffee, and Milo as well which were donated to both Tony's Community Kitchen and to Rosies for use at their nightly outreaches.

Thank you to all families in our community who supported AMMA's Winter Appeal this year!

SOCKTOBER: SOCKING IT TO POVERTY!

October is Mission Month and each year our Actioning Mary MacKillop Advocacy group enthusiastically run Socktober–an initiative which aims to 'sock it' to poverty.

On Friday, 20 October, students and staff from Prep to Year 12 dusted off their bright and crazy socks and again raised much-needed funds for Catholic Missions and our very own AMMA group. This year's sausage sizzle–made possible by Highfields Gourmet Meats–raised over $800 and our families' kind donations to Catholic Missions for sock-wearing was just over $700. This money was donated to Catholic Mission for the benefit of women and children in Timor-Leste. Additionally, the AMMA group used a portion of their profits to purchase items to assembly care packages for families and staff at St Joseph's School, Tara, who were recently affected by devastating bushfires.

As always, Socktober Day brought with it a fantastic vibe across the College. It is really a day of true solidarity and a chance to have a lot of fun!

At first break, the AMMA group hosted their annual sausage sizzle and Junior School staff facilitated some fun-filled soccer games and skills activities for Junior students. These activities are always well-represented due to our College's rising number of soccer stars!

In the Senior School, we did things a little differently this year, using our Week 3 Assembly time on Socktober Day to host a staff versus Year 12 soccer match and a couple of House matches as well. We certainly have some talent amongst the staff, with Mr Richards and Mr Hamerli showing off their skills, scoring 2-1 over the Senior students to come away with the win. Well done to all students who got involved in the House matches–you displayed brilliant House spirit and solidarity in support of Socktober Day!

Thank you, as always, to families who supported Socktober, whether it was through purchasing a sausage, donating to the cause or simply dressing your child in bright socks, you have contributed to the mission of the College and have supported both the AMMA group and Socktober Catholic Missions through your generosity.

Minni Vinnies and AMMA

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Gift Appeal

For the past few years, our Year 5 Mini Vinnies students and Actioning Mary MacKillop Advocacy group have facilitated the annual St Vincent de Paul Christmas Gift Appeal.

Since 2021, Mary MacKillop Catholic College decided to move away from non-perishable food donations to contribute gift cards and wrapped presents instead. This tradition continued this year.

Each classroom in the Junior School and PC group in the Senior School filled their baskets again this, buying for babies, toddlers, or a child or teenager of a similar age to them. Staff and Year 11 students were encouraged to purchase for adults.

We are proud of our College community's generous donations this year and are fortunate to be able to donate a generous swag of gifts and gift cards to our local St Vincent de Paul Conference. Your donations will make a difference to families in the Toowoomba region who are doing it tough this Christmas season.

SUPPORTING ST. JOSEPH'S SCHOOL, TARA

This year, AMMA was able to use some of their profits to provide care packages for the families and staff at St Joseph's School, Tara, in the wake of the devastating bushfires in the region. In Week 9, our group, along with Mrs O'Rourke and Mr Gabbett, piled into the College bus and hit the road to St Joseph's School, Tara to deliver these packages. It was a lovely day of community and solidarity and an important opportunity for our Josephite College to support another.

SPORTING PURSUITS

MR BRAD GRIFFITHS | MIDDLE LEADER SPORT & STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

"Never say never, because limits, like fears are often just illusions"

- NBA Basketball Great Michael Jordan.

The students of #teammarymac continued their pursuit of the vast opportunities available to them at the College in 2023. Participation numbers continued to swell in our more popular offerings such as touch football and futsal. A whole new generation of students were involved in sports such as volleyball and rugby 7s which also increased in popularity.

These opportunities do not come without considerable investment from our dedicated staffthank you so much to those of you who put in the hours. You are very much appreciated. Pleasingly, we have had a number of students embrace coaching opportunities this year. The connections these students are forming with our younger students perfectly illustrate a P-12 community in action. A dedicated band of parents filled roles from coach to manager to supporter and it has been wonderful to work with such a supportive community. Your willingness and enthusiasm allow us to field large numbers of teams in school and community competitions across the region.

Highlights this year included our annual trip to the Queensland All-Schools Touch Carnival in both the Junior and Senior School, the huge growth of Rugby 7s, SEQ Primary Football Championships, Monday afternoon School Girls Soccer competition, Volleyball, Basketball, and Futsal success, huge numbers of Darling Downs representatives, and countless other moments that made participants, spectators - our community, proud.

Another memorable moment was the opening of Fitzroy Oval where we showcased our finest sporting talent including our Junior School Football stars and our Senior School First XV Rugby team. Bring on 2024!

REPRESENTATIVE SPORT

MR BRAD GRIFFITHS | MIDDLE LEADER SPORT & STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

Each year, students are afforded the opportunity to trial for representative teams through the Queensland School Sport (QSS) pathways. For Mary MacKillop students, this may involve an Inner Downs Trial, followed by a Darling Downs trial, and if successful, students can represent Darling Downs at the QSS State Championships. Congratulations to the following students:

CARNIVAL WINNERS AND AGE CHAMPIONS

MR BRAD GRIFFITHS | MIDDLE LEADER SPORT & STUDENT ENGAGEMENT

The popularity of our College carnivals continued to increase in 2023. There were some outstanding examples of competition, compassion, perseverance, and respect on display.

SWIMMING

Our P-6 and 7-12 Carnivals were outstanding events. In particular, the Senior School carnival saw record numbers of attendees and participants. Students across the College are beginning to understand the notion of "putting in", in order to get something "out". Our events have far more atmosphere as we grow from a smaller, newer P-12 College, to an established and thriving community. Congratulations to our Swimming Champions:

2023 Age Champions and Runners-Up:

9 Years Boys

Mikah Kouokam and Declan Stokes

9 Years Girls

Emily Cowie and Stella Fitzpatrick/Dylan York (tied)

10 Years Boys

Alfie Lever and Harrison Andrews

10 Years Girls

Elliana Campbell and Lily Watt

11 Years Boys

Lachlan Ward and Stetson Schutt

11 Years Girls

Malika Stokes and Piper York

12 Years Boys

Lucas Cowie and Campbell Barnes (Junior School)

12 Years Girls

Isabella Stanton and Olivia Ormiston (Junior School)

12 Years Boys

Hanlon Young and William Logan (Senior School)

12 Years Girls

Isabel Perina and Lexi McCotter (Senior School)

13 Years Boys

Tyler Stead and Aidan Stokes

13 Years Girls

Isla Lotz and Makenzie Andrews

14 Years Boys

Connor Stanton and Sebastian Mattocks

14 Years Girls

Lily-Jayne Davis and Lilly Henderson

15 Years Boys

Lucas Ward and Riley Mackenzie

15 Years Girls

Erin O'Rourke and Bella Scrivens

16 Years Boys

Noah Gunders and Aidan Lipp/Martin Logan (tied)

16 Years Girls

Tayla Horrobin and Chloe Talbot

17 Years Boys

Jezziah Berry and Riley Smithard

17 Years Girls

Sarah Mattocks and Bridie Mattocks

18 Years Boys

James Clarke and Brendan Williams

18 Years Girls

Elise Scrivens and Amity Boston

WINNING HOUSE - PENOLA

CROSS COUNTRY

The 2023 Cross Country course encompassed a new start/finish area on Fitzroy Oval and a challenging hill climb out on Kratzke Oval for some age groups. Our Junior School students embraced the challenge with determination and enthusiasm!

2023 Age Champions and Runners-Up:

9 Years Boys

Austin Griffiths and Thomas Dougherty

9 Years Girls

Dylan York and Liliana McCotter

10 Years Boys

Jett Vanderzee and Max Keegan

10 Years Girls

Elliana Campbell and Lily Watt

11 Years Boys

Stetson Schutt and Riley Murphy

11 Years Girls

Piper York and May Davies

12 Years Boys

Max Kouokam and Campbell Barnes (Junior School)

12 Years Girls

Susie Bullock and Olivia Ormiston (Junior School)

12 Years Boys

Nash Adamski and Ben Nothdurft (Senior School)

12 Years Girls

Adabelle Spies and Ariah Manz (Senior School)

13 Years Boys

Seth Brett and Riley Hoare

13 Years Girls

Arcadia Botham and Samantha Wann

14 Years Boys

Jackson Barr and William Ehrlich

14 Years Girls

Chloe Ormiston and Hayley Cuthbert

15 Years Boys

Will Thompson and Jonas Vanderzee

15 Years Girls

Bella Scrivens and Caitlyn Barr

16 Years Boys

Ryley Schmaling and Noah Gunders

16 Years Girls

Charli Botham and Ava Smithard

17 Years Boys

Jezziah Berry and Oscar Spies

18 Years Boys

Brendan Williams and Jackson Stansell

WINNING HOUSE - PENOLA

ATHLETICS CARNIVAL

Held over two days, both carnivals were contested in stunning Autumn weather with many memorable performances.

2023 Age Champions and Runners-Up:

8 Years Girls

Ruby Stevens and Ava Thorncraft

8 Years Boys

Kye Muller and Ned Hutchinson

9 Years Girls

Faith peters and Quinn Ryan

9 Years Boys

Austin Griffiths and Mikah Kouokam

10 Years Girls

Lily Watt and Elliana Campbell

10 Years Boys

Jett Vanderzee and Max Keegan/Nate Domin

11 Years Girls

Piper York and Amy Watt

11 Years Boys

Calan Griffiths and Stetson Schutt

12 Years Girls

Susie Bullock and Olivia Ormiston (Junior School)

12 Years Boys

Thomas Danckwerts and Ed Ehrlich (Junior School)

12 Years Girls

Adabelle Spies and Tamika Case (Senior School)

12 Years Boys

Nash Adamski and Aiden Bradley (Senior School)

13 Years Girls

Ruby Schick and Jessica Riding

13 Years Boys

Ashley Williams and Tyler Stead

14 Years Girls

Emily Kentish and Sienna Schmaling

14 Years Boys

Jackson Clark and William Cobb

15 Years Girls

Chloe O'Rourke/Gabby Voll (tied) and Caitlyn Barr

15 Years Boys

Jack Lucy and Lucas Ward

16 Years Girls

Sophie Randall and Tayla Horrobin

16 Years Boys

Aidan Lipp and Jayden Sunatwanitkul

17 Years Girls

Bella Stenzel and Chloe Gillett

17 Years Boys

Joseph Coren and Oscar Spies

18 Years Girls

Elise Scrivens/Charlotte Dobson (tied) and Ava Knihinicki

18 Years Boys

Brendan Williams and James Clarke

WINNING HOUSE - PENOLA

CULTURE ART &

ARTS DEPARTMENT

MRS JESSICA BURKE | MIDDLE LEADER THE ARTS

In addition to our busy and varied core curriculum Arts program, students have a plethora of wellestablished, inspiring Arts activities beyond the classroom at MMCC. Co-curricular Arts has had a strong presence in involvement in College, community and state events. We have featured in all dimensions of arts including, visual arts, dance, music, drama and media.

The diverse and vigorous co-curricular program, managed by teachers and visiting specialists have presented opportunities for students through:

• College Marching Band and Colourguard

• Drumline

• Rock Band

• Junior and Senior Guitar Ensembles

• Junior and Senior Choirs

• Junior and Senior Dance Troupes

• Music Theory Masterclasses

• MMTA- Mary Mac Theatre Academy.

Music tuition is offered in voice, many instrument types, music theory and aural musicianship from 5 external highly qualified peripatetic staff. 2023 peripatetic staff were:

• Miss Hayley Chalmers

• Mrs Caroline Ryan

• Mr Phil Ryan

• Mrs Monica Brennan

• Mr Ian Dixon

This year, the Arts students performed in 16 events, 6 students gained external qualifications, 13 students participated in state honours ensemble programs, and we gained state awards in our Wakakirri performance. Two of our Visual Arts students gained regional recognition and commendations from their works in the Creative Generations Exhibition and our Rock Band got over 4,100 hits on socials.

A commitment to the community service was evident through our participation in the Queensland Anzac Day service in Brisbane, our heavy involvement in the Toowoomba Catholic Arts Festival, opening the Toowoomba Christmas celebrations in front of a huge audience and many more! Our intensive and comprehensive co-curricular program has led to extended qualifications and learning, discipline and determination, valuable components of personal development and education.

EVENTS COLLEGE

FITZROY OVAL OPENING

As the youngest school in the Toowoomba Diocese, Mary MacKillop Catholic College is in the unique position of celebrating the milestones that come with it, including not only the grand opening of their new Fitzroy Oval, but also the launch of their very first 1st XV Rugby Union Team.

On Sunday, 30 July, Highfields experienced one of it's warmest winter days for the Fitzroy Oval Grand Opening and Picnic Gala Day at Mary MacKillop Catholic College in Highfields. The day commenced with the Blessing and Opening of the oval by new diocesan Bishop, Most Reverend Ken Howell.

Following the official ceremony, a day of sport kicked off to entertain the crowds, commencing with the Senior Girls Soccer Team playing against the Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools Girls’ XI/St Saviours reaching a draw of 1-1. Touch Football and Junior Mixed Soccer kept the spectators eyes on the field, and the day finished up with the 1st XV Rugby Team playing against the Diocese of Toowoomba Catholic Schools XV Team made up of players from St Mary’s Toowoomba and Our Lady of the Southern Cross, Dalby. The Mary Mac boys took home the first win on the new oval, beating the DOTCS XV 17-10.

College Principal, Chris Gabbett said

“This is such an important moment in our College’s history, celebrating not only the building of an important resource but also the opportunity for our students to take their place at the table against some of the longestestablished Toowoomba schools”.

A big crowd of College supporters came through the gates throughout the day along with special guests including, Bishop Ken Howell, Dr Pat Coughlan – Director of Toowoomba Catholic Schools, Cr Geoff McDonald – Mayor of Toowoomba, Executive members of Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office, diocesan Principals, and key stakeholders who played an important role in not only the construction of the oval, but the College’s ongoing master plan.

"Bringing the community together and being able to give back and celebrate our sporting achievements is something I’m really proud of" says

Mr Gabbett.

The vibe was high and the community spirit flowed through the rolling Sunday crowd in a great display of what Mary MacKillop Catholic College has to offer at this new home of sport, Fitzroy Oval.

NAIDOC WEEK

YEAR 1A YEAR 1B

2B

YEAR 3A YEAR 3B

SIGNATURES &

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