In the spirit of reconciliation, The Moreton Bay Colleges’ acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the land upon which our Colleges stand, the the YUGGERA (Yoo-ger-a) and the YUGAMBEH (Yoog-am-bear). We respectfully acknowledge the QUANDAMOOKA (Qwon-da-moo-ka) people of Moreton Bay, the NGUGI (Noo-gi), the NOONUCCAL (New-nuckle) and the Goenpul (Ku-wan-pal) peoples and their deep spiritual connections to the islands and waters. We thank them for the care they have continued to show the earth and sea over thousands of years. In doing so, we pay our respects to their elders, past and present.
Our Two Colleges artwork was a joint project with The Moreton Bay Colleges and Quandamooka Artists Delvine 'Cockatoo' Collins.
Staff Wellbeing Framework
CEO and Executive Principal Moreton Bay College and Moreton Bay Boys’ College
One of the greatest challenges facing the education sector today is the shortage of qualified and motivated teachers. According to a recent report by UNESCO, the world will need 69 million new teachers (yes, that is 69 000 000) by 2030 to achieve the goal of universal Primary and Secondary education. The demand for teachers is especially acute in regions affected by conflict, poverty, and population growth.
In Australia, we are not immune to this challenge and the situation is concerning. A survey by the Australian Education Union revealed that 40% of teachers plan to leave the profession within the next five years, citing workload, stress, and lack of support as the main reasons. The teacher shortage is expected to worsen as student enrolments increase and many experienced teachers retire.
How can we address this crisis and ensure that our students receive the quality education they deserve? One of the key factors is to improve the wellbeing of our teachers and staff. Research has shown that teacher wellbeing is linked to student outcomes, school culture, and retention rates. Teachers who feel valued, respected, and supported are more likely to perform well, engage with their students, and stay in the profession.
At the Moreton Bay Colleges, we recognise the importance of staff wellbeing, and we are committed to creating a positive and caring work environment for our staff. That is why we are working on developing our Wellbeing Framework for Staff. The intent is for this to be a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to promote the physical, mental, and emotional health of our leaders, teachers, and administrative staff. Through this framework, we encourage our staff to be aware of their own strengths and needs, to balance their personal and professional lives, to connect with their colleagues and the community, and to develop their skills and knowledge.
The Wellbeing Framework for Staff will not be a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather a flexible and adaptable tool that allows us to tailor our interventions to the specific needs and preferences of our staff. We also monitor and evaluate the impact of our actions and seek feedback from our staff to ensure that we are meeting our goals and expectations. To support us in this endeavour, we have engaged the services of an expert in this space. Sue Chandler, the Founder of Transformative Schools, is our wellbeing schools consultant and
she states that “if ever there was a time for realignment between the changes we see in the world, and the way schools respond to meet the challenge of this change, it’s now”.
By developing our Wellbeing Framework for Staff, we hope to show our staff that we care for them and that we value their contributions to our schools. We believe that by investing in our staff wellbeing, we are investing in our students' future and the quality of education we provide. We are proud to be part of the solution to the global teacher shortage and to demonstrate our commitment to excellence in education at The Moreton Bay Colleges.
Founders’ Day Service 2024: Celebrating the Legacy of Faith and Service
Mrs Janet Stewart Principal
Our recent Founders’ Day Service was a heartfelt celebration of the enduring legacy of the Greene sisters, whose lives of faith and service have sown the seeds of Christian values in our community. This year, the founding seed of Christian Faith and Service inspired our 123rd anniversary, and its significance in the life of MBC was marked as we honoured an Old Girl of the College, Dr Kay Danes OAM, whose remarkable contributions exemplify Christian service and humanitarianism.
Honouring Dr Kay Danes
Dr Kay Danes received a scholarship to attend MBC and while her time with us was short, the impact of her Bay experience has been lifelong. Dr Danes has dedicated her life to promoting human rights and humanitarian service, a commitment inspired by her missionary parents. From an early age, Dr Danes was instilled with the values of compassion and service, affirmed by her time at MBC, and they have guided her throughout her illustrious career. Her work is a testament to the Christian values of charity—love in action—and service above self, principles that are deeply woven into every aspect of her life.
A Life of Service
Dr Danes’ commitment to human rights is not just about policy or strategy. It is about living out her beliefs every day. Her work serves as a powerful reminder that caring for others and advocating for their rights is rooted in the values we hold dear. Her efforts are a beacon of hope, demonstrating that it is possible to live our values and make a significant impact in the world.
Humanitarian Efforts in Afghanistan
One of the most notable chapters in Dr Danes’ career was her involvement in the evacuation of at-risk Afghans during the fall of Kabul in 2021. As part of a group of international military veterans, aid workers, and intelligence operators, Dr Danes coordinated the evacuation of thousands of at-risk Afghans from 2021 to 2024. Her efforts involved negotiating with key stakeholders and government departments in the United States, Australia, Afghanistan, and neighbouring safe havens to achieve positive outcomes for evacuees.
Among the thousands of lives saved, Dr Danes remotely coordinated the evacuation of 1,200 Australian Embassy security guards, contractors, and their families from an area near the Abbey Gate at Kabul airport, shortly before a suicide bomber detonated an explosive.
The explosion led to a communication blackout with half the group for two agonizing hours. When communication was restored, Dr Danes learned that some of the group had been pushed by the crowd to the airside and were preparing for evacuation under an Australian government agency’s care. She then enacted a contingency plan to evacuate the remaining 600 individuals and their families overland to neighbouring countries.
Advocacy and Academic Contributions
In 2023, Dr Danes developed critical research and analysis skills to support the Afghan humanitarian crisis. Having graduated from Southern Cross University’s School of Law and Justice in 2021, she created detailed submissions to the Australian Foreign Affairs, Defence, and Trade References Committee. Her proposals played a significant role in triggering a Senate Inquiry, leading to a government review and modification of the legislative instrument under the Migration Regulations Act of Parliament. This legislative change enabled thousands of at-risk Afghans with strong ties to Australia to be re-evaluated under the Locally Engaged Employee Program.
Defence and Veteran Advocacy
Dr Danes’ advocacy extends to the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and veteran community. She passionately advocates for workplace reforms to improve arbitration processes and reduce legal redress claims that have put ADF members and veterans at risk of suicide and self-harm. Her tireless work in this area has significantly influenced stakeholders and informed key recommendations to government bodies.
Philanthropic Work
Since 2009, Dr. Danes has been a dedicated Rotarian. In 2022, she travelled to the Philippines to coordinate support for 100 paediatric heart surgeries and provided mental health first aid training to over 250 local community leaders. Her philanthropic efforts also led to the creation of “The Kay Danes Award for Overall Excellence,” an annual award recognising significant personal and group development during the Borderline Youth Camp.
Learning of Dr Danes’ work affirms for us all the importance of faith and service as cornerstones of a fulfilling life. The Greene sisters knew their faith provided a sense of purpose and hope, guiding them through life’s challenges with resilience and optimism. Their commitment to service was the practical expression of this enduring faith, and thus, they established a school where helping others was part of the daily existence, cultivating young women of empathy and compassion.
Dr Kay Danes’ life is a powerful testament to the transformative power of faith in action. Her unwavering dedication to serving vulnerable communities, especially those affected by armed conflict and disasters, embodies the Christian values of charity and service. As we celebrated Founders’ Day, and the girls enjoyed birthday cakes, we were reminded of the profound impact that one individual’s commitment to faith and service can have on the world. Dr Danes’ legacy is an inspiration for all of us, encouraging us to live our values and make a difference in the lives of others.
Environmental Sustainability Strategy: A Leap Forward
Mrs Katie Farley Business Manager
The Moreton Bay Colleges have taken a significant step towards a greener future with the completion of the consultation phase for the development of the Environmental Sustainability Strategy. This initiative, aligned with the Colleges' Strategic Plan 2023 – 2027, underscores our commitment to environmentally friendly practices and positions us as an educational institution leading the charge in sustainability.
The consultation phase, a critical component of the strategy development, involved engaging with various stakeholders, including students, parents, former students, staff, the College Leadership Teams, and the Board of Governors. Through face-to-face sessions and surveys conducted in Term 3, the community's voice has been instrumental in shaping the direction of the strategy.
The development of the strategy draws inspiration from The Uniting Church in Australia Queensland Synod's A Flourishing Creation Advocacy Plan that encompasses six action themes: Empowered People and Connection, Mobility, Energy, Water, Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, and Advocacy.
As we move forward, a Working Group comprising staff and students will develop the strategy in partnership with The Ecoefficiency Group. This collaborative effort reflects our vision to empower students to become future-ready global citizens and our responsibility to contribute proactively to sustainability.
The progress made during the consultation phase is a promising indicator of the impactful changes we aspire to implement in the coming years.
I extend a special thanks to students, parents, former students, staff, the College Leadership Teams, and the Board of Governors who contributed their vision; and to Jane Gaffel and Penny Prasad from The Ecoefficiency Group for facilitating the consultation phase.
I look forward to sharing the Environmental Sustainability Strategy with you.
Survey responses
287 Consultation sessions
7
60%
Of survey respondents rated sustainability as High or Very High importance to the College community and curriculum
29% MBC
Respondents at MBC offered support or participation in sustainability initiatives
Respondents at MBBC offered support or participation in sustainability initiatives.
Respondents at MBC were aware of existing sustainability practices.
Respondents at MBBC were aware of existing sustainability practices
Awareness was higher amongst students and teachers but lower for parents and caregivers.
Operations Update
Chief Operating Officer
January 2024 saw the successful launch of a dedicated bus service for The Moreton Bay Colleges.
This initiative was designed to provide safe, reliable, and convenient transportation for our students, expanding our Colleges’ catchment areas and making MBC and MBBC more accessible to families in the suburbs.
This service provides a safe and exclusive transport solution for only MBC and MBBC families and operates every school day. The service is operated exclusively by Express Coaches in partnership with The Moreton Bay Colleges using modern luxury coaches.
The service was planned throughout 2023 before its launch in 2024 and involved extensive community consultation including analysis of surveys to assess and understand the community’s expectations and needs. This included over 285 parents expressing interest in using the service and helped formulate the routes of the bus service.
Our new bus service includes four routes from the suburbs of Bulimba, Carindale, Cleveland, and Wynnum/Manly, as well as an intercampus shuttle. Each route is carefully planned to ensure timely and efficient travel for our students—minimising the time on the bus.
The four routes include over 50 possible stops that are reviewed regularly.
As well as providing a reliable and safe bus service to the existing families, the bus service also seeks to expand the Colleges’ catchment areas by offering a transport option for prospective families.
The service is supported by a specialised Parent App called RollCall.
Key Benefits of the Bus Service:
Develops soft skills for students: Increasing self-confidence, fostering independence and time management skills.
• Safety: Our modern buses are equipped with the latest safety features, and all drivers are thoroughly vetted and well-known to our community.
Convenience: The bus service is exclusive to our students, providing a reliable and hassle-free transportation option.
Cost-Effective: Affordable rates and flexible packages make it an economical choice for families.
Real-Time Tracking: Parents can track the bus in real time using our dedicated parent app.
• Booking System: Easily book and manage your child’s bus rides through the app.
Online Payments: Convenient online payment options for added ease.
• Full Transparency: Receive notifications and updates about your child’s journey.
Unlike public transport or shared services with other schools, our bus service is tailored specifically for our students. This means no overcrowding, no long waits, and a direct route to and from their College. Our buses are dedicated solely to our students, ensuring a safe and familiar environment every day.
It is planned to have the buses fully wrapped in the MBC and MBBC colours and brands to further promote the bus service and The Moreton Bay Colleges.
Celebrating Success: The Recent Achievement of the IB PYP Evaluation
Mrs Rebecca Lennon Head of Primary
The International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) evaluation took place over three days in August. This marked a significant milestone in our educational journey. The Evaluation visit was completed with outstanding success, reflecting the commitment and hard work of everyone involved.
Why do we do the PYP?
Benefit for Parents/Carers – The IB PYP is a rigorous, research-based framework that has a set of standards and practices that we work within. An accredited IB school guarantees stakeholders that students are experiencing a world-class learning environment. We have a comprehensive evaluation visit every five years that is preceded by an intensive 12-month self-study, undertaken by the staff. Parents, students, and governance are involved in the final critical reflection process leading up to and throughout the Evaluation.
Benefit for Teachers – Teachers who work in an IB school are highly committed and engaged in their professional practice and growth. You simply cannot be an idle teacher in an IB school. Collaborative planning structures ensure consistency and a shared vision about what best quality teaching and learning looks like. Teachers have the approval to adjust units of work to ensure they are relevant, challenging, and engaging for students.
Benefit for Students - We still implement the Australian Curriculum, but learning is ‘packaged’ differently in the PYP. It allows opportunities for teacher and student agency, ensuring we can emphasise time on the learning that makes an impact on enduring understanding and transfer of knowledge to real-life situations. It demands students to think at a complex level and engage in healthy debate and solutionfocussed thinking.
Key Highlights and Feedback from the Evaluation
During the Evaluation visit, our leadership team received a comprehensive feedback session from the Evaluation Team, who work in schools across the Asia-Pacific region. This session highlighted significant strengths that have contributed to the successful implementation of the PYP in the Moreton Bay College Primary School. A full report will be received in 6¬¬–8 weeks, which will guide us in the continuous improvement process.
The development of our Global Citizenship Charter was recognised as a major strength. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering a global perspective among students, preparing them to thrive in an interconnected world. The alignment with the IB Learner Profile was evident and supports our students to become internationally minded.
Our Wellbeing for Learning Strategy, which is seamlessly integrated into the PYP Philosophy, received a commendation. This strategy ensures that the emotional and mental wellbeing of our students and staff is a central focus of the learning experience. The Evaluators commented on the genuine care and respect that was visible throughout their visit in the interactions between students and the engagement of staff.
The knowledgeable support and engagement of our Governing Body were noted as exemplary. Their active involvement demonstrates a robust support system for the PYP. The governing body of a school is rarely as committed to understanding the educational environment to ensure their decisions at the Board level are student-focused. Sincere thanks to Mrs Adele Nisbet and Mr Nigel Fairbairn for their commitment and support of the MBC Primary School.
The evaluators highlighted the strong sense of community within our College and the respect for diversity that permeates our environment. The personalised learning for students was considered a great strength in the work teachers do to support individual needs daily. Our work in respecting and incorporating home languages into the curriculum was praised, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity.
Recent campus refurbishments, especially in the Early Learning Centre, were acknowledged as a positive development, enhancing the learning environment for our youngest students. The authentic student voice and agency were recognised as significant achievements. Students demonstrated remarkable confidence in discussing their learning experiences in depth. One Evaluator highlighted the positive and genuine collaboration between students as a standout feature of our programme. This collaborative spirit was seen as a key element of our success.
Next Steps for Continued Growth
The verbal feedback did not indicate any areas of deficit, which is a testament to our collective efforts. However, the Evaluators suggested several next steps that we might consider exploring to further enhance our PYP implementation journey.
We were encouraged to delve deeper into how we could incorporate parent perspectives in assessment tasks, ensuring a more holistic approach to evaluating student progress. This is something we will explore with members of our Parent Advisory Group.
We recently updated our Academic Integrity Policy and practices. Our next step is to establish a clear scope and sequence for academic integrity that will help reinforce our commitment to ethical practices and standards, particularly in light of generative AI making an impact on society.
We extend our sincere thanks to the Board members, staff, students, and parents who contributed significantly by engaging in the Evaluation process through meetings, reading, and learning walks. A special mention goes to the enthusiastic group of student volunteers from various year levels who participated as part of the student working party. Their involvement was instrumental in showcasing the vibrancy and effectiveness of our PYP programme.
The recent IB PYP evaluation has not only affirmed the strengths of our programme but also provided valuable insights for further growth. As we move forward, we remain committed to building on this success and continuing to provide an exceptional educational experience for all our students.
MBC Libraries: Book Week
The MBC Libraries play a crucial role in fostering literacy and a love for reading among students from the ELC to Year 12. We are not just shelves of books but dynamic hubs of learning and engagement that support the curriculum, provide diverse resources, and host enriching events.
Library staff collaborate with teachers to build collections that align with the curriculum, ensuring students have access to relevant and high-quality resources. For example, during a history unit, the library might curate a selection of historical fiction and non-fiction books, primary source documents, and multimedia resources that enhance students’ understanding of the topic. This integration helps students see the library as an extension of their classroom, a place where they can develop their knowledge and explore subjects in greater depth.
Our well-stocked libraries offer a wide range of resources that cater to different reading levels and interests. From picture books to novels, manga, magazines and academic journals, the libraries ensure that every student can find something that interests them, enabling the growth of their literacy skills. Through our libraries, access is given to an extensive collection of digital resources, including e-books, audiobooks, and online databases, which are essential for developing digital literacy skills.
The MBC Libraries host a variety of events that promote reading and literacy. Student Book Clubs and competitions like the Readers’ Cup and Kids’ Lit Quiz add an element of fun and a social aspect to literacy development. These events expand students’
knowledge of books and literature and provide opportunities for students to engage with peers who share their love of reading.
Write a Book in a Day enables students to work collaboratively to write and illustrate a book within a single day. This fosters creativity and teamwork and emphasizes the importance of narrative writing skills.
The Premier’s Reading Challenge encourages students to read a set number of books within a given time frame. This challenge motivates students to read more widely and diversely, often introducing them to genres and authors they might not have explored otherwise.
Book Week is a highlight on the College calendar, celebrating books and award-winning Australian authors and illustrators. During Book Week, our libraries host themed activities including whole-school reading, competitions, drama performances, and costume parades where students dress up as their favourite book characters. These celebrations bring the whole school together in a shared love of reading.
Inviting authors to speak at our College is another powerful way to support literacy. Author visits provide students with the unique opportunity to meet the creators of the books they love, ask questions, and gain insights into the writing process. These interactions can be incredibly inspiring, sparking interest in reading and writing among students.
The MBC Libraries are vital in supporting literacy from Prep to Year 12. Through curriculum connections, diverse resources, and engaging events, libraries create an environment where students can develop a lifelong love of reading and learning.
Mrs Claire Jackson and Miss Donna Vine Secondary and Primary Libraries
Empowering Curiosity: A Celebration of Student Agency at the 2024 PYP Exhibition
Mrs Nicole Bowers Deputy Head of Primary (Teaching and Learning) / PYP Coordinator
The PYP Exhibition is a powerful culmination of learning where young minds embark on a journey of inquiry, exploration, and collaboration. We enjoyed celebrating this significant event in the Primary School in the final week of Term 3 with our students, families, and members of the Moreton Bay College learning community and beyond.
We change Transdisciplinary Themes every two years, thereby providing students and staff with new opportunities to spark curiosity, foster creativity, and provide diversity in the types of inquiries explored by students. In 2024, the Transdisciplinary Theme of ‘How the world works’ was explored for the first time, opening up new possibilities for student inquiries into:
The natural world and its laws
The interaction between the natural world (physical and biological) and human societies
How humans use their understanding of scientific principles
The impact of science and technological advances on society and the environment.
This year, our students once again co-constructed a Central Idea 'Scientific knowledge and technological advancements influence society and the environment.' Student agency was central to this process, with nearly 240 individual Lines of Inquiry being developed and explored across the Year 6 cohort. Through close collaboration with teachers and mentors, students actively shaped learning experiences, thereby fostering independence, high levels of engagement, and a depth of understanding well in advance of regular curriculum requirements.
The Arts continued to be heavily embedded within this transdisciplinary unit of work. In Visual Arts, the students created an artwork of their choice and an accompanying artist’s statement that reflected on and extended their understanding of the Transdisciplinary Theme. In Music, students explored, analysed, and wrote their own song to raise awareness about the focus of their individual inquiry. The science in movement and an understanding of light and shadows were explored in Drama to create a performance piece titled ‘Shadow Worlds’. Students worked in teams to design and recreate images reflective of our natural world, scientific principles, and the many science/technological advances that have occurred throughout history.
This 10-week unit of work culminated in a sharing with the College community and beyond. Students engaged with diverse audiences to present their findings, articulate their ideas, and reflect on their learning.
As a staff, we continue to be amazed by the students and the incredible progress they make during this process, not only in their depth of understanding about their individual inquiries, but also in their awareness of themselves as a learner and the development of their self-management, communication, and thinking skills.
Academic Collaboration and Challenge
Each year, Primary students within the Learning Enrichment Programme have the opportunity to selfnominate for participation in sessions focussed on developing skills within the 10 academic disciplines of the da Vinci Decathlon. The da Vinci Decathlon offers a distinctive platform for students to engage in an interschool competition, where their intellectual and creative horizons are expanded. It encourages the development of essential skills such as collaborative problem-solving and the effective management of self, time, and resources.
As an enrichment opportunity, students are excited at the prospect of working more deeply with diverse and unique curriculum areas such as Code Breaking, Ideation, Engineering, Art and Poetry, Creative Producers, Cartography, and Legacy—alongside the more traditional areas of English, Mathematics, and Science.
The da Vinci Decathlon State Challenge invites each participating school to field one team of eight students per year group. In 2024, Moreton Bay College’s Year 5 and Year 6 State teams achieved pleasing results, securing numerous top positions in various decathlon categories.
Notably, the Year 6 Team managed to secure second place overall in the State Challenge.
Students not involved in the State Challenge took part in the MBC/MBBC Challenge Day during Term 3. Each year, we see a growing number of students nominating to take part and in 2024, this event saw approximately 60 enthusiastic Years 4–6 students from MBC and MBBC engage in a full day of academic challenges, planned and coordinated by Learning Enrichment Staff.
Mrs Nicole Bowers
Deputy Head of Primary (Teaching and Learning) /
PYP
Coordinator
Silly Sock Day
Silly Sock Day was in early March, celebrating the 's' sound. Here is an excerpt from a seesaw post:
What a ‘super sensational’ day we had, celebrating the ‘s’ sound! ‘Silly Sock Day’ was a ‘superb success’! Our day ‘started’ with our MBC Prep friends joining us for a play. We teamed up with our new buddies and played in the classroom and the playground. We then enjoyed ‘s’ games with the Year ‘Six’ boys before they went ‘sailing’. The boys enjoyed playing ‘Snakes and Ladders’ and ‘Snap’ . And finally, our day was topped off with a ‘Sausage Sizzle’ cooked by our ‘seniors’! There were ‘silly socks’ everywhere, even on Mr Kemperman! Thank you for ‘supporting’ our ‘special’ day and helping the boys organise their ‘silly socks’. They looked ‘sensational’! Enjoy the next few posts, a ‘snapshot’ of our day!
Mrs Emma Pattemore Deputy Head of Primary (Students)
Under Eights Week
Organised by Early Childhood Australia, Under Eights Week is an annual event that celebrates the first eight years of children's lives and encourages learning through play. The theme this year, Connecting to Culture Through Play, provided wonderful opportunities within the Moreton Bay College community to connect with students and families from diverse cultural backgrounds and to explore the practices, traditions, and games of a variety of cultures and countries.
Our week of celebration and connection began with the annual Teddy Bear’s Picnic. Students from Prep to Year 3 gathered, with teddy bears in hand, for morning tea. Mrs Stewart and Mr Henry shared with the students some beautiful picture books that explored themes regarding diversity, difference, and inclusion. Stay for Dinner by Sandhya Parappukkaran and Michelle Pereira sparked some wonderful discussions about the varying contents of lunchboxes and dinnertime
During lunch breaks, our Under Eights participated in a range of experiences led by students and staff. Mrs Levick guided our youngest artists through a Weave and Wonder project, introducing them to a range of ancient weaving techniques and art practices embraced by many cultures around the world. Year 10 Japanese students worked alongside the Year 1 to Year 3 students in making origami art, while Year 12 Drama students engaged in play by breathing life into the characters of The Gruffalo by Julia Donaldson.
Under Eights celebrations also provided opportunities for cross-campus connections, with Prep to Year 2 classes at MBC and MBBC visiting each other’s classrooms. The students were excited to engage in shared playbased learning experiences such as kite making, play dough, and chalk drawing. The activities drew meaningful links to our global community and enhanced our young people’s sense of our local community by bringing both Colleges together to play, learn, and connect.
Our final day of Under Eights Week was filled with fun! Students spent the morning moving through a range of interactive activities. Parent representatives from our Home Language Network led workshops in Kho Kho, a popular children’s game in South Asia, and the traditional dances of Colombia. Classroom teachers, assisted by the Year 6 Early Years Leaders, explored stories, played Drama games, and made paper lanterns to develop further connections and understanding of cultures throughout the world.
The 2024 Under Eights Week celebrations provided rich opportunities for our students to engage in play and learn more about the cultures of the world.
Teaching the Language of Friendship
As parents and educators, it is helpful to consider the advice, that “like riding a bike, social skills cannot be developed without practice”.
Teaching the language of friendship and equipping students with the knowledge, strategies, and skills to manage challenges and changes in relationships is a vital step in preparing children to navigate complex face-to-face and online worlds. An ongoing 80-yearold Harvard University study of Adult Development has identified that more than money, fame, and career success—happiness in life is best achieved through the development of close relationships. Our College’s Wellbeing for Learning Strategy emphasises the strong correlation between positive relationships and academic engagement, reinforcing the importance of learning about relationships in order to build connected communities and thriving individuals.
By openly discussing friendship skills, both in the classroom and around the dinner table, we help children develop their capacity to take perspective, identify areas of control, and rehearse responses and actions that can be called upon in moments of conflict.
URStrong is an evidenced-based wellbeing programme for Primary-aged students currently being trialled in Moreton Bay College’s Primary classrooms. Through engagement in a series of workshops, each year level is being presented with age-appropriate opportunities to develop skills in conflict management, resilience, and self-reflection.
The four Friendship Facts that the programme builds learning experiences around include:
1. No friendship is perfect
2. Friendships change
3. Respect and trust are key ingredients in successful relationships
4. Every friendship is different
By normalising challenges within relationships and applying a problem-solving approach to conversations we empower our young people to positively approach conflict with a growth mindset.
A key symbol referred to within the URStrong programme is the notion of a “friendship fire”. Through this imagery and language, students explore circles of control, recognise how their actions can help to put out a fire, and identify multiple ways of responding to relational challenges. This programme invites students to share their ideas within the learning process, encouraging our young people to actively develop key learner profile attributes—being a communicator, principled, caring, and reflective.
To maximise the impact of this wellbeing programme, schools and homes are encouraged to have a shared approach to developing friendship skills. By employing the same language and utilising similar strategies in unpacking and responding to “friendship fires” students can feel greater confidence in seeking support and moving forward positively when managing challenging relationships. In addition, you can access free parent and family resources via the URStrong website
We are excited as a community to work alongside our students and families to develop proactive learning opportunities to develop friendship skills—skills that are vital both in the classroom and beyond the College gates.
Mrs Emma Pattemore Deputy Head of Primary - (Students)
Interhouse Events
Primary Cross Country
P - Year 2
Athletics
Bay Ex: Fostering Innovation in Secondary Students
Head of Secondary
At Moreton Bay College, we are committed to preparing our students for the complexities of a rapidly changing world. One of the ways we achieve this is through Bay Ex, our project-based learning and design thinking initiative. These innovative methodologies enhance academic learning and foster personal growth, empowering students to become curious, reflective, and adaptable learners who actively shape their
In project-based learning, students immerse themselves in extended projects that challenge them to solve real-world problems. This approach encourages ownership of their learning while cultivating critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. Through teamwork, students sharpen their communication skills and develop the agility to navigate evolving challenges. This aligns perfectly with our Learning Star values, particularly curiosity and reflection.
Design thinking, focussing on empathy, ideation, prototyping, and testing, is a powerful tool for developing innovative solutions. By centering projects on human needs, students learn to approach challenges with empathy and resilience. The iterative design thinking process teaches students to view setbacks as growth opportunities, fostering a mindset of continuous improvement and collaboration.
This year’s Bay Ex event for our Year 8 cohort, demonstrated the transformative power of both project-based learning and design thinking, as students showcased a variety of impressive, real-world projects. Their innovative solutions underscored the creativity and critical thinking fostered by these hands-on learning experiences. Beyond academic achievement, students formed a deeper connection to each other, and the world around them.
Staff reflected on the remarkable engagement Bay Ex inspired, noting how students stepped outside their usual friendship groups to collaborate in new ways. The event’s structure broke down social barriers, sparking excitement and curiosity about unfamiliar challenges. The real-world focus and interaction with experts energised students, who embraced the opportunity to learn in a creative, high-energy environment. Held at the start of a new term, Bay Ex provided a seamless transition back to school, leaving students eager and motivated.
As we look toward the future, the skills our students develop through project-based learning and design thinking are more relevant than ever. Critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and a growth
MORETON BAY COLLEGE
mindset are essential in today’s job market and beyond. By engaging in these approaches, students gain academic knowledge and a strong sense of purpose and agency, empowering them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and beyond.
At Moreton Bay College, we believe in nurturing the whole student— intellectually, emotionally, and socially. Bay Ex exemplifies this holistic approach, offering students rich opportunities to explore their interests, collaborate with peers, and tackle challenges with creativity and resilience. This combination of intellectual rigor and emotional intelligence prepares our students to lead with confidence and empathy.
Students echoed this excitement, sharing their enthusiasm for the mystery, free dress, and even the food. They embraced trying new things, meeting and working with new people, and forming friendships in the process. The opportunity to present ideas and collaborate with likeminded peers, while tackling real-world problems, was both challenging and rewarding. Students were particularly inspired by seeing how diverse ideas could address global issues and make a meaningful impact.
Bay Ex has proven to be a powerful learning experience, equipping our students with the tools and mindset needed to navigate a rapidly evolving world. We are incredibly proud of the projects our students created, and we look forward to their continued growth as creative problem-solvers and future innovators.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the entire Moreton Bay College community— staff, students, parents, and supporters— whose enthusiasm, creativity, and collaboration made our inaugural Bay Ex such a success. Together, we brought our shared vision to life and demonstrated the power of collective effort in creating an enriching and transformative experience.
MORETON BAY COLLEGE
The Moreton Bay Colleges Shine RoboCup Junior Queensland State Championships
Semester 2 saw the teams from Moreton Bay College's Robotics Programme compete in the RoboCup Junior Queensland State Championships at UQ.
The Queensland State Championships is the local branch of the international competition, which started here in Australia. Each team’s robots need to autonomously compete in one of four different challenges.
We entered 15 teams this year, which is three times more than we have ever entered. The Championships saw 190 teams from across Queensland compete. This was strong competition as Queensland schools are disproportionally National and International Champions.
All our teams demonstrated excellent resilience and problem-solving skills to make it to the championships and these were on display once again as they grappled with unexpected challenges and the infamously temperamental nature of robots. All our teams performed admirably, beating teams from colleges such as Somerville House, Brisbane Boys’ College, Anglican Church Grammar School, Ormiston College, QASMT, and St Aidan's Anglican Girls’ School, many of whom have dedicated robotics staff.
Our notable results were:
Standard Soccer Team: Nuvini Dharmasena, Lara Thiele, Harry Hauman, Alex Finch, Will Gales, Charlee Smith, Emily Cane - 4th Place and the Encouragement Award
Riley Rover Rescue Team: Oliver Dun and Will Smith - 5th Place and the Encouragement Award
Mighty Maisy Maze Team: Zachary Evans and Rahil Saha - 7th Place
Some of our teams will be competing in the National Championships that will be held on 19–20 October in Brisbane. Hopefully, we will have more good news.
Mr Damien Murtagh
Moreton Bay Colleges Robotics Programme Coordinator
National Reconciliation Week: Now More Than Ever
This year, we recognized NRW with a range of events and activities, including a Community Bush Tucker Breakfast, Chapel Service, Q&A with Senior Literature students and RAP Ambassadors, a Library display, and storytelling sessions with Early Years students. We welcomed a special guest, Brooke Prentis, an Aboriginal Christian Leader from the Wakka Wakka people. Brooke is also a writer, speaker, Company Director, and poet.
Delivering a powerful message in Chapel, Brooke spoke of the importance of Dreaming, Praying, Acting, and Inviting all peoples of all cultures to work together to build an Australia based on Truth, Justice, Love, and Hope towards reconciliation.
Red Earth Immersion Tour
During the June-July holidays, Cyana from Year 9 and I were fortunate to join 15 other students and staff from Brisbane Girls Grammar School on a Red Earth Immersion Tour to the Top End, NT of Australia. Over eight days, we experienced language, culture, and country with Traditional Owners, camping in tents and travelling in trucks across the red dirt and vast landscapes.
Flying into Darwin, we commenced our journey to Katherine via the Stuart Highway, Adelaide River, and into our first homeland on Jawoyn Country. Witnessing cultural burning and caring for country as we entered Banatjarl homeland, we were greeted by friendly faces and family of Aunty Jo. The language spoken here is Kriol. We were welcomed with a traditional water blessing, given skin names and totems, and Banatjarl became our home for the next three days. Known for bush medicine, Mimi spirits, mermaid sacred dreaming, and the Strongbala Wimun Grup (strong women’s group), it also promotes cultural wellbeing and healing. We spent time listening to stories, fishing, and weaving.
Our journey continued into East Arnhem Land, across Bulman, and towards our next homeland called Barrapunta. Collecting Traditional Owners, Aunty Ann and Uncle Alfred, along the way, we embarked on the most beautiful country with billabongs and bush walks. During our stay at Barrapunta, we enjoyed traditional cooking of damper and kangaroo tail. We also spent a day working on improvement projects for the Traditional Owners—fixing, upgrading, and improving some of the facilities. Our journey concluded with a last stop at Nitmiluk National Park in Katherine. A walk to the top of the gorge and a boat ride through the gorge was breathtaking. Overall, this immersion was a truly remarkable, enriching, and grounding experience full of First Nations culture, history, people, and country.
Walk on Country – Staff PD to Minjerribah
For some staff, the term began with a Cultural Responsiveness PD day, walking on country to Minjerribah. Spending time with the Minjerribah Moorgumpin Elders-in-Council (MMEIC), we learned history and culture specific to Quandamooka country and the Ngugi, the Noonuccal, and the Goenpul peoples. After enjoying homemade scones with traditional jam from Aunty Mary, we visited Brown Lake and Terra Bulla, which traversed the history of the Myora Mission.
The College continues our commitment towards reconciliation by walking with and alongside our First Nations people. We invite all of the College community to join us on this journey.
Across learning in Years 7–12 Technologies, students have engaged in a range of multidisciplinary contexts as they have worked towards addressing tame and wicked problems. To effectively explore these problems and develop innovative solutions, students need to embrace the design thinking processes and skills that are at the heart of Technologies education. The exploration phase of the design thinking process involves empathising with the needs and wants of stakeholders and analysing existing solutions to identify opportunities to meaningfully address the problem. This part of the process takes considerable time, requiring students to adopt an empathic inquiry approach in which they shelve their perspectives and immerse themselves in the experiences of others. So far this year, some highlights have included:
Year 7 Design in Practice students analysing existing popcorn designs and native ingredients to identify opportunities to develop an innovative popcorn flavour and packaging.
Year 8 Digital Technologies students exploring the requirements of a chosen music artist and their song to code a segment of a music video that embraces the attributes of the artist and the song.
• Year 9 Digital Technologies students interviewing and observing Year 3 students to understand their needs and wants related to a digital game they were designing for young children.
• Year 10 Textiles and Design students analysing the Secondary Staff Common Room environment and engaging with stakeholders via various mediums to collaboratively redesign the environment.
Year 11 Food and Nutrition students exploring current food markets to reformulate food products to improve their sensory appeal and nutritional quality.
• Year 12 Design students engaging with stakeholders to understand their attitudes, expectations, experiences, and motivations related to a chosen life transition, and designing to facilitate improvements for those engaging in the transition.
The second phase of the design thinking process is to develop innovative and useful solutions. This phase requires students to use divergent and convergent thinking to iteratively devise, represent, prototype, test, and refine ideas as they work towards a final concept. The iterative nature of this phase can, at times, be challenging for students, particularly without appropriate physical and cognitive tools to test ideas. Developing this capacity has been a particular focus for the Technologies teaching team in 2024. Part of this focus has included the acquisition of new technologies as well as prioritising the improved use and skill related to existing technologies. This has seen staff and students experiment with:
• Laser cutting and 3D printing machines to prototype physical ideas and develop unique solutions. This year, the machines have been getting a serious workout due to the new Year 9 Design in Practice unit, Luminous Harmony, which challenges students to design and produce their own unique mood light, from soldering the LEDs and power cords through to building the lamp structure.
• Sublimation of fabrics, wood and acrylic using sublimation printers and heat presses to implement students’ graphic designs on intended products.
• Manipulating and moulding plastics using a Vaquform, plastic shredder, and plastic extrusion machine.
PocketLab data capture devices to record test results and inform refinements. This has been particularly useful for Year 7 Design in Practice students when testing the speed and distance of their airpowered vehicles.
Kai’s Clan and Edison robots to put code into action and develop solutions that make everyday life easier.
It has been wonderful to see students’ perspective, capabilities, and confidence flourish as we evolve the curriculum to provide opportunities for students to unearth new understandings, skills, and passions.
Ms Rosie Sciacca Head of Department - Technologies
Mathematics
22024 has been an exciting year for the Mathematics Department at Moreton Bay College, as we continue our mission to elevate student engagement in STEM fields and nurture a lifelong passion for mathematics. This year at our Mathematics Enrichment Day we celebrated International Women in Mathematics with an inspiring keynote from Dr Jayishni Maharaj, 2023 Queensland Women in STEM Prize recipient, whose pioneering work on digital foot models is paving the way for precision healthcare. The day was packed with hands-on workshops that captivated our Year 10 students. They explored cutting-edge technology with the UQ Demo Troupe, delved into the world of Microbits, analysed the physics of basketball trajectories with graphics calculators and applications of trigonometry with the YXL Institute.
In line with our commitment to providing exceptional educational experiences, Year 10 Mathematical Methods students took part in advanced workshops at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). Students applied linear regression techniques to real-world science data captured through sound sensors and explored the iterative problem-solving techniques central to design thinking. Our ongoing collaboration with Zhong Zheng High School in HuiChen, Taiwan, has provided our students with global learning opportunities, broadening their perspectives on mathematics. Additionally, our partnership with the University of Queensland’s LYLAC Project has further developed our ability to make mathematics more accessible through differentiated instruction, ensuring that all students can succeed. Our focus on ratios and dividing quantities in given proportions has been particularly impactful this year. In 2024, we have also increased the diversity of subjects on offer to our students, introducing a Year 10 Specialist programme in Semester 2 and a Year 9 General programme, each of which has proved very popular with our students.
Throughout the year, the Mathematics Department has offered numerous opportunities for students to engage in challenging mathematical activities that emphasise problem-solving, teamwork, and critical thinking.
The UQ-QAMT Problem-Solving Competition saw outstanding participation from our students. Special congratulations go to Kimberly Tseng in Year 7 and Camelia Perera in Year 9. Elenor Kitney, Jessica Hawkins, and Madison Hawkins were selected to participate in Round 1 of the Pre-Olympiad Mathematics Enrichment Program under the guidance of Ms Cath Griffin and Dr Brenton Gray. Their exceptional results placed them in the top 25% of participants, earning them further selection for Round 2. Further 11 of our Year 7 and Year 8 students took part in the APSMO Maths Olympiad, a competition that tested their problem-solving skills over four challenging stages. Special recognition goes to Rebecca Whiting, who was the highest-placed MBC student. Additionally, our Junior students participated in the Australian Mathematics Trust’s Mathematics Challenge, where Madison Hawkins, Jessica Hawkins, Lina Klerkx, Vani Javiya, and Devmi Kumbukage earned Certificates of Credit for their impressive performances.
The Mathematics Team Challenge, which our department has proudly hosted since 2002, brought together over 160 students from across the district for a day of mathematical fun and rigorous competition. Our Senior team comprising Charlotte Naumann, Eve Rohrsheim, Sarah Joyce, Isla Cox, and Caterina Meyer achieved first place in their division, showcasing their outstanding teamwork and mathematical skills. Finally, 35 of our students participated in the prestigious Australian Mathematics Competition, the largest of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere. Congratulations to Rebecca Whiting, Lina Klerkx, Jessica Hawkins, Camelia Perera, Devmi Kumbukage, and Ally Sze for earning Certificates of Distinction. We look forward to continuing to offer these invaluable opportunities to develop student’s mathematical abilities and deepen their passion for the subject.
Mrs Jennifer Johnston Head of Department - Mathematics
Mr Rodney Anderson Secondary Teacher - Mathematics
Wellbeing for Learning Strategy
Deputy Head of Secondary (Students)
Our goal for wellbeing is for Moreton Bay College to be a caring environment where all members feel safe and valued and flourish in an inclusive, Christian learning community.
- Moreton Bay College’s Wellbeing for Learning Strategy (2024)
Since its implementation in 2018, Hearts and Minds has provided our College community with a shared language and understanding of wellbeing, and in turn, enabled our students to develop their wellbeing literacy. This evidence-based wellbeing framework consists of five actions – Connect, Be Active, Keep Learning, Take Notice, and Give. We have endeavoured to integrate these actions into our programmes to promote emotional resilience, balance, and a sense of purpose, to help our students optimise their mental and physical wellbeing. (New Economics Foundation, 2008).
With the science of wellbeing continually evolving, we are motivated to respond to research and thinking in this space to ensure our approach to student wellbeing aligns with best practice. Exploring recent research has highlighted the importance of deepening students’ and staff’s understanding of wellbeing and extending Hearts and Minds beyond a focus on the individual to a definition that includes community wellbeing and the wellbeing of others. This insight also aligned with a recommendation from the University of Adelaide following the 2019 and 2021 Wellbeing Surveys to engage a wellbeing consultant to develop a student wellbeing strategy.
For these reasons, at the end of 2022 and throughout 2023, the College engaged a wellbeing consultant – Sue Chandler from Transformative Schools – to assist us with developing a student wellbeing strategy. Our vision was to align with the existing Hearts and Minds framework while ensuring our approach to wellbeing remained relevant.
As we undertook this work, the voice of the MBC community was important to us, and Sue Chandler worked with staff and led a series of focus groups with students and parents to reflect on what we were doing well and to identify opportunities to grow our approach to student wellbeing. The outcome of that work is the College’s new Wellbeing for Learning Strategy. The phrase ‘wellbeing for learning’ is very intentional. At MBC we have always had the view that wellbeing and learning are inextricably linked, and this new strategy formally acknowledges that relationship.
This important document details the College’s approach to student wellbeing and includes an overall wellbeing goal and this new definition, which is shared across MBC and MBBC, and reflects the shift from an individualistic to a more contextualised approach to student wellbeing:
Wellbeing for learning is a whole-school approach, which recognises that optimising educational outcomes for the learner requires action at the individual, collective, and school-system level. The learner, educator, parents, and College understand their roles and responsibilities to Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning, and Give. These actions foster respectful relationships and an inclusive, supportive learning environment in which children and young people flourish.
The Wellbeing for Learning Strategy also frames the direction the College will take student wellbeing between now and the end of 2027. It identifies three priority focus areas – relationships, resilience, and environment; and three strategic enablers – community engagement, staff capability, and the wellbeing curriculum (that is, the Positive Minds Programme, or PMP). Strategic enablers are mechanisms that will help us move from the current state to a better state in terms of how we approach student wellbeing. Each of those priority focus areas and strategic enablers has two to three associated actions, which outline what we will do over the next four years in the student wellbeing space.
In developing this Wellbeing for Learning Strategy, the Hearts and Minds framework has been re-imagined and while it still includes the same five actions, those actions have now been expressed at the individual, collective, and school-system level, setting up conditions for a community approach to wellbeing where all stakeholders play their part. This shift from an individual understanding of wellbeing to a collective and system-level response will allow us to build a healthy social context that fosters a sense of belonging and engagement. This new interpretation of Hearts and Minds is best summed up in this quote from the wellbeing strategy:
Although we experience wellbeing as individuals, wellbeing is enhanced when there is alignment between the person, the group, and their context. Wellbeing is, therefore, something that sits within, between and among us.
Moving forward, students will see and hear more about the Wellbeing for Learning Strategy as we unpack the re-imagined Hearts and Minds with them and seek their input and feedback as we implement the actions and continue to refine our approach to student wellbeing.
We believe our Wellbeing for Learning Strategy will enable MBC to do wellbeing better and with that, help our students develop lifelong skills to support their and others’ wellbeing and contribute to community wellbeing.
References
Moreton Bay College. (2024). Wellbeing for Learning Strategy.
New Economics Foundation. (2008). Five ways to wellbeing.
White, M. & McCallum, F. (2024). The Moreton Bay Colleges’ 2023 Wellbeing Report. The University of Adelaide. Ethics Approval No. H-2023-238.
MBC on the International Stage: International Coalition of Girls' Schools Conference
In June this year, more than 600 girls’ school educators, advocates, and allies from 12 countries and 175 different schools and organisations met in Baltimore, Maryland, USA, for the 2024 International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS) Conference. It was a professionally enriching experience to attend this conference and connect with fellow educators and others working in girls’ education to learn about best practices and emerging educational trends.
With an emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and leadership, the event featured inspirational keynote speakers, including Annie Jean-Baptiste, the author of Building for Everyone and a Google Executive known for her work on product inclusion. Her focus on the intersection of technology and inclusion underscored the need for educational institutions to integrate tech literacy and equity into their programmes to ensure that girls are prepared for the future.
The sessions offered at the conference covered a vast range of topics relevant to girls’ education, which included perfectionism in high-achieving girls, mobile phone policy in schools, helping girls build self-worth in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), and understanding Gen Z girls and young women. One notable session was led by Challenge Success, an organisation that partners with school communities to elevate student voice and implement research-based, equity-centred strategies to improve student wellbeing. This workshop showcased the results of global research into girls’ engagement levels, major sources of stress, time management, and sense of belonging; and in turn, highlighted key areas for girls’ schools to focus on to optimise their students’ wellbeing.
This conference was also an opportunity to share MBC’s story of our research partnership with the University of Adelaide and the development of our Wellbeing for Learning Strategy, which was launched in Term 2. Entitled Wellbeing for Learning: Designing an Evidenceinformed Strategy for Students, this 50-minute session explored the benefits of adopting a research-informed approach to wellbeing and the why and how of codesigning a wellbeing strategy with experts. Feedback from conference delegates who attended the session highlighted MBC’s innovative and bespoke approach to student wellbeing.
The final part of the conference included a visit to two independent girls’ schools in Baltimore – Bryn Mawr School and Roland Park Country School. Valuable insights into girls’ education in the USA were gained from speaking to students and staff at these schools which, like MBC, prioritise holistic education and are committed to educating young women to succeed in a global context.
The different sessions and school visits provided many takeaways, as did networking with other educators and organisations who work in girls’ schools around the world. Overall, the conference was an inspiring reminder of the power of girls’ schools to equip their students with the skills, knowledge, and mindset to navigate a rapidly changing world.
Mrs Michelle McKersey Deputy Head of Secondary (Students)
Student Agency: Students Co-designing Wellbeing Lessons
As evidenced by other research and wellbeing education, the role of the students’ voices in developing and designing wellbeing education initiatives is seen as critically important. The strength of The Moreton Bay Colleges’ approaches is the ethical collection of student perspectives, which enables this to be integrated into decisions about programs, policies, and practices.
- White and McCallum (2024).
Over the course of Terms 2 and 3, students from the Hearts and Minds Committee (HMC) have played a key role in developing and designing wellbeing education initiatives for the College’s acknowledgement of Denim Day, Bullying No Way: National Day of Action, RUOK? Day, and National Child Protection Week.
In April, HMC members worked with staff to co-design Positive Minds Programme (PMP) lessons for Denim Day, a day that encourages people across the world to wear denim as a show of support for survivors of sexual violence. Alongside lesson content about sexual consent and sexual assault, students in Years 7 to 9 were tasked with designing a pair of jeans for Denim Day; while Year 10 to 12 students viewed a 60 Minutes interview with the founder of Teach Us Consent, Chanel Contos, and engaged in a scaffolded discussion about consent education and eradicating rape culture.
Likewise, for Bullying No Way: National Day of Action in August, HMC members collaborated to create resources for Form and PMP to educate their fellow students about how to prevent and respond to bullying situations, affirming the College’s strong anti-bullying position. In addition to general information about bullying, students worked through bullying scenarios to determine how they would respond and support those involved and then created their own scenarios.
After learning about National Child Protection Week at Assembly in Week 7 of Term 3, HMC members were also very motivated to engage with the topic of child protection and design PMP lessons for Years 7 to 9
and Years 10 to 12 to be delivered early in Term 4. With this initiative, the HMC is aiming to help build students’ understanding of the concept of child protection and how to report issues of child safety at school, should they become aware that a student has been, or is at risk of being, physically, psychologically, or sexually harmed.
For RUOK? Day in Week 10 of Term 3, HMC members took the opportunity to educate Secondary students via an engaging Assembly presentation about the four-step approach to asking someone ‘RUOK?’. To reinforce this important messaging, the HMC also created a visual representation of how to ask RUOK? by decorating the noticeboard outside Student Reception with encouraging and inspiring messages.
Incorporating student agency into these wellbeing initiatives has significantly increased their impact, as is evident in the level of student engagement in activities designed by the HMC. It has been heartening to witness the HMC’s commitment to this important work whereby they have effectively integrated student perspectives into our programmes and practices and realised their vision of Our Community. Our Voice. Our Wellbeing
References
White, M. & McCallum, F. (2024). The Moreton Bay Colleges’ 2023 Wellbeing Report. The University of Adelaide. Ethics Approval No. H-2023-238.
A Legacy of Achievement: Celebrating Our OAM Recipients
Mrs Susan Pavish OAM
The College is thrilled to announce that Mrs Susan Pavish, our dedicated and passionate Director of Sport, has been honoured with an Order of Australia Medal (OAM) for her exceptional service to Physical Education. Since joining MBC in 1992, Sue has made a transformative impact, elevating our sports programmes to new heights and fostering a culture of sporting excellence.
Under her leadership, MBC has claimed numerous premierships, state, national, and international titles, becoming a beacon of sporting prowess at all levels. Her holistic approach to nurturing the whole athlete is renowned; Sue has always emphasised the importance of the personal, social, and emotional development of athletes alongside their growth in their chosen sporting discipline.
In particular, Sue’s contributions have significantly impacted Hockey and Athletics, and in the latter discipline, Sue has led our girls to secure the QGSSSA Athletics trophy for eight consecutive years. However, Sue’s dedication extends to all 23 sports on offer at MBC, helping every student find a sport they love.
A former Olympic sprinter, Sue represented New Zealand at the Montreal Olympic Games in 1976, which attests to her personal dedication to athletic excellence. Within the Andrew's Cup Association and the QGSSSA, Sue Pavish is held in the highest regard. To reflect her outstanding contributions, two trophies have been named in her honour, a testament to the respect and admiration she commands within these esteemed sporting associations. Moreover, her personal record in the 100m sprint at QGSSSA continues to stand unbroken. Always humble, Sue‘s inspiration resonates throughout our community.
Sue’s unwavering commitment has also led MBC to become the first school in Australia to receive international accreditation from the World Academy of Sport. Her efforts in developing an unparalleled Athlete Development Programme enable students to gain the support they need to balance academic and sporting achievements, and the programme has already seen students achieve scholarships to American universities.
We congratulate Sue on this wonderful recognition and invite our community to join us in celebrating her very well-deserved OAM; it is a wonderful reflection of her 32 years of dedication to MBC and the indelible mark she has left on our community and the world of sports education. The full honours list can be viewed on the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia's website.
Ms Joy Nugent OAM
In August 2024, Joy Nugent (née McClintock), a proud Moreton Bay College Old Girl (1956), was honoured with the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her groundbreaking contributions to palliative care. With over 30 years of experience, Joy has dedicated her life to ensuring that those facing terminal illnesses receive care marked by dignity, compassion, and respect. Her approach goes beyond physical care, emphasising the importance of nurturing the soul during life’s final chapter.
Joy’s philosophy of care is rooted in the belief that addressing the spiritual needs of individuals is essential for achieving a peaceful and dignified death. She advocates for holistic palliative care that not only alleviates physical suffering but also provides emotional and spiritual support. This belief has been the driving force behind her work, transforming how society views and manages end-of-life issues.
To further her mission, Joy founded Soul Talks, a charity that promotes open conversations about death and dying. Through this platform, she has been able to educate healthcare professionals and the public about the importance of confronting death with openness and acceptance. Soul Talks encourages people to embrace life's final chapter with peace, helping to reduce the anxiety and fear often associated with death.
Joy's commitment to holistic care is also reflected in her writings. As an accomplished author, she has penned several books that delve into the spiritual and emotional aspects of dying. Her latest book, Tips and Guidelines for Soul-Centred Care, encapsulates her philosophy,
offering guidance on how to provide care that honours both the body and the soul. Tips and Guidelines for Soul-Centred Care is available for purchase through major online retailers.
Receiving the OAM is a testament to Joy Nugent’s life-long dedication to improving end-of-life care. Her pioneering work has left an indelible mark on the field of palliative care, inspiring many to adopt a more compassionate and spiritually aware approach. Joy’s legacy is one of compassion, wisdom, and a deepseated belief in the power of human connection at the end of life. Her contributions continue to inspire and educate, ensuring that future generations will benefit from her vision of holistic palliative care.
Staff Profiles
What is your favourite teaching moment?
It is hard to pick just one favourite teaching moment. I love seeing the joy on the girls' faces as they grasp a new concept and inquire about the world around them. Seeing their confidence soar and shine through, you see the pure and innocent joy of learning as a Prep student.
A little fact about you we may not know.
I absolutely love crafting and using many different mediums. I have a craft hobby business that I run workshops through to share my love of resin crafting. You may even spot me at a market stall someday!
What are your hopes for 2024?
As a new beginning teacher, I hope to continue with my own personal learning journey of the PYP as I build relationships and strong connections with those in the MBC community. I have been so warmly welcomed by all and believe my journey as Prep teacher this year has me smiling and laughing each day.
Who inspires you and why?
As a child growing up, I used to play teachers with my cousins on the weekends and in the school holidays. I was always the teacher writing on the little blackboard, of course. During my Primary School years, I always remember my Year 1 teacher and the way she made you feel at home in a place that was so unfamiliar. I will always remember Mrs Banfield and the way she inspires me to be the kind of teacher who cares for her students and not only wants them to learn but wants them to feel safe.
What brought you to teaching?
I have always wanted to be a teacher. I took the long route and worked my way up the Early Childhood ladder as an educator and director, before taking the plunge and doing my degree. It was hard to leave my comfort zone of little young humans, but my heart has always led me to believe that Primary teaching was for me.
What lesson have you learnt from a student?
There are so many things I learn each day. One of the wonderful things about Prep students is that they are so curious and make you think each day. I have learnt that no matter how bad your day is going, personally or professionally, just seeing the smile of a student who has succeeded makes it all worthwhile.
Oh, and also, I have learnt from my class to make sure when you write on the whiteboard, you form your letters the way you teach, or the students pick you up for writing the letter or number incorrectly... oops!
Ms Jessica de Bruijn Prep Teacher
What is your favourite teaching moment this year?
Year 9 Camp this year was a wonderful opportunity to connect with my current Year 9 class and other members of the cohort. A highlight was being involved in the Dragon Boat activity where the whole group had to work together as a team to overcome the challenging windy conditions.
A little fact about you we may not know.
I have a chihuahua called Bean who is four years old. I am excited this holiday to be sewing him his very own MBC t-shirt so he can feel part of the community.
What are your hopes for 2024?
I endeavour to continue lifelong learning by working with new colleagues as we prepare for the new syllabus implementation in 2025. I have had the pleasure of being part of the 2024 Drama Production, Betzien Blitz, and the Choir Showcase Soirée. I look forward to continuing to explore the many facets of a holistic education offered at Moreton Bay College.
Who inspires you and why? What brought you to teaching?
During university, I was able to be part of the Edmund Rice camps, which developed my love for caring for the wellbeing of young people. I was able to partake in leadership training involving building perseverance, grit and resilience in new leaders as they transitioned within the organisation.
What lesson have you learnt from a student?
I really enjoy the happiness and exhilaration that the students bring every day to their learning experiences. It inspires me to be creative and flexible and share my passion for Mathematics by engaging in hands-on activities that allow students to be active partners in their learning.
Miss Katherine Pietrobon Maths Teacher
Staff Profiles
Gramajo Pre-Prep Teacher
What is your favourite teaching moment?
Witnessing the growth and development of my students throughout the year is truly remarkable and I love reflecting, celebrating, and feeling that sense of pride. No matter the age or country, every class has blossomed into more confident, knowledgeable young individuals who are ready to take on the next chapter.
A little fact about you we may not know.
I was born in Uruguay, and I have lived in beautiful Australia for the past six years. I lived in New South Wales, South Australia, and several parts of Queensland. I have taught and explored this country’s culture, and I am now ready to settle down in Brisbane with my husband and our two adopted cats.
What are your hopes for 2024?
I hope to have a smooth settling period in Brisbane and at Moreton Bay College. The more I get to know the team and College community the more I am convinced I have made the right choice to work at MBC. I am eager to work and learn more about the Primary Years Program and the Reggio Emilia approach to learning alongside my new wonderful team.
Who inspires you and why?
I am truly inspired by Kelle Adams, Carolyn Wilson, and Lucy Dodgson (soon to be Mrs Ford!). Their
innovative teaching approaches, constant pursuit of growth and success, and willingness to go the extra mile inspire me consistently. Witnessing the team’s relentless efforts to create a nurturing and engaging learning environment fills me with admiration and has helped me to reflect and challenge myself. I am truly fortunate to be part of such an inspiring teaching team that sparks enthusiasm and ignites a love for learning in our students. We form a cohesive unit, driven by a shared commitment to supporting each other.
What brought you to teaching?
Since an early age, I have always known I wanted to work with children. As soon as I finished Year 12, I enrolled in Med school intending to be a Paediatrician. However, after just two years of study, I realised that I really enjoyed building connections with children, and many short visits a day would not fulfil that. I naturally developed a passion for helping and inspiring young children, and I particularly find the brain’s development in the early years fascinating. I have enjoyed teaching for over 10 years now.
What lesson have you learnt from a student?
So many! But having patience and acceptance of others are the main ones.
Genie Hernandez
Careers at MBC
Careers Education at Moreton Bay College focuses on developing students’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes toward learning. The program is designed to help students make informed decisions about their life, study, and work options by designing bespoke pathways to support their education and career goals.
During Terms 2 and 3, Year 10 students participated in their first Careers Education Program utilising the new Careers website for Moreton Bay College. The website (careersatmoretonbay.com.au), hosted by CareerTools, enables students to explore themselves as learners and how their learning style and personal qualities will support their Senior studies and potential career pathways. Through the My Career Journey portal, students engaged in a plethora of lessons and activities that helped them understand themselves, their attributes, skills, and attitudes toward learning. They also engaged in a myriad of quizzes, including multiple intelligences, skills, personality, and career interest quizzes, to expand their understanding of themselves while exposing them to a range of career pathways not previously considered. Through their involvement in the Careers Evening, Subject Day, and SET Plan interviews, we know that the students are equipped with the tools to navigate their Senior studies successfully in 2025.
This new website is also available to our Year 11 and 12 students; providing opportunities to engage the Copilot feature, which supports students in creating a personalised career plan based on their skills, strengths, and passions. This website is very supportive of our Year 12 students as it provides information on resume and application writing and interview preparations for their university applications.
As the Year 12 cohort continues to prepare their university applications, it is exciting to hear that many students are striving for an early offer. Early offers can be given to students with an accepted Diploma or VET qualification, or through evidence of achieved learning standards. We have many students who have already started to receive offers through the first offer round, whom we warmly congratulate. Particularly, we would like to congratulate Leyna O’Neill who has been accepted into the Norwegian Folkehøgskole program. This is an outstanding achievement.
Ms Hannah Bliss Senior Careers and Pathways Coordinator
Year 10 Careers Evening
Year 10 Careers Evening
Interhouse Events
Secondary
Athletics
Year 3 - 6
Athletics
It’s Drama, Drama, Drama at MBC
Along with our co-curricular Drama Production, Betzien Blitz, in Term 2, our Drama curriculum students have been on many performance adventures in Terms 1–3. Term 1 saw Years 10, 11 and 12 participate in acting and devising workshops with actor, director, and producer, Lucus Stibbard, and attend Queensland Theatre’s chilling production of Gaslight. In Term 2, our resident guest artist, Helen Stephens, from Dead Puppet Society, facilitated Visual and Gothic Theatre workshops with Years 7, 8, 9 and 10. The Year 12s enjoyed the Queensland Theatre production of Medea and Shake n Stir’s production of Fourteen. The Year 11s were awed by the one-woman show starring Australian actor, Heather Mitchell, RGB: Of Many, One; and the Year 9s and 10s were spooked by Woman in Black. The Year 12 Drama students also had a ball retelling the story of The Gruffalo to our littlest students at Under 8’s Week. In Term 3, our Drama extension students from Years 7–11 participated in the Queensland Theatre’s The Scene Project, the biggest youth theatre programme of its type in Australia. The troupe worked with the commissioned play, Flowers in Antarctica, by Wendy Mocke, and participated in workshops with industry professional, Steve Pirie, and presented their work at Redland Performing Arts Centre. It was a fabulous day that celebrated the creativity and agency of young artists. This group also presented at Greene-ware along with our immersive art performers from Years 8 and 9. These brave actors were painted live as part of the opening ceremony. Three curriculum Drama and Speech and Communication students also became pop-up performers in amongst the visual art, presenting solo monologues at the direction of the viewers. To conclude the year, our Drama students are looking forward to enjoying Love Stories, GRIMM, and Wicked at QPAC.
Ms Emilia Keene Head of Department - The Arts
Greene-ware Collective 2024: Kaleidoscopic
“Creativity is a lot like looking at the world through a kaleidoscope. You look at a set of elements, the same ones everyone else sees, but then reassemble those floating bits and pieces into an enticing new possibility.”
– Rosabeth Moss Kanter
The Greene-ware Collective is an annual celebration of the Visual and Performing Arts at Moreton Bay College. This year, the event embraced the theme of Kaleidoscopic, evolving further to showcase our students’ creative and performing talents in the new space of the Music Centre and its surroundings.
Kaleidoscopic PerformancesPATTERN, REPETITION, COLOUR and MOVEMENT
The event began with an immersive opening performance by Years 8 and 9 Drama students, who were painted live. This was followed by a heartfelt Welcome to Country by Uncle Norman, a Quandamooka Traditional Elder. Over the two-day event, the audience enjoyed live music from our Junior and Senior stage bands on the opening night, and academic music performances on Saturday. Additionally, there were performance practices from the Co-Curricular Drama group, The Scene Project, and pop-up monologues from speech and communication students.
Interactive Installations and Art Displays
The Early Learning Centre explored the theme of Loose Parts, creating a magical journey through interactive installations. The Primary Years’ artwork, inspired by various themes, added a vibrant touch to the event with woven creatures, mandalas, and clay fish. Junior Secondary students explored ideas and materiality throughout the year, creating landscapes in concertina
books, morphed wire and plaster creatures, and Art Deco clay works with guest artist, Larissa Warren. Larissa also was our judge for the Senior Awards and spoke about the importance of the Arts in fostering curiosity, collaboration, creativity, and problem-solving skills in students, and the possibilities the Arts present beyond College life.
Senior Visual Art and Visual Arts in Practice students displayed bodies of work and folios that communicated themes of personal, cultural, and contemporary contexts. They explored sophisticated and diverse techniques through the use of art forms such as photography, animation, sculpture, painting, video, and textiles.
Wearable Art Parade
A highlight was the Wearable Art Parade. Students worked with guest artist, Claudia Williams, who specialises in upcycling and recycling waste. They explored sub-themes of dreams, fairytales, and the environment, in conjunction with Kaleidoscopic. Students transitioned from artist to model as they paraded their creations down the catwalk.
Acknowledgements and Awards
Throughout the event, Encouragement Awards were presented to students whose work showed promise and growth in creativity. Special acknowledgment goes to Walter Nock and his family for their ongoing support of the Arts since 2011, including the JR Nock Encouragement Awards and the Nock Bursary Award.
In November 2016, shoe company, Nike, launched Breaking2, a project to design a pair of running shoes that would help an elite athlete run a marathon in under two hours. The world record at that time stood at a few seconds under two hours and three minutes, so breaking the two-hour barrier would be a first-time-in-history achievement. Obviously, to even get close to this goal, they would need a worldclass long-distance runner, so they enlisted the reigning Olympic Champion, Eliud Kipchoge, who took a full year away from international competition to try to participate—of itself phenomenal for a professional athlete. Even though Nike was working with the absolute best, they knew they could not succeed with Kipchoge by himself. They therefore also enlisted two other elite marathon runners, Zersenay Tadese and Lelisa Desisa, to give up competing and instead train with Kipchoge. Ultimately, the Breaking2 attempt in May 2017 failed by just 25 seconds. However, Kipchoge did not give up, and with sponsorship from another multinational company, two years later he eventually succeeded by running 42 km in one hour, 59 minutes and 40.2 seconds. Though incredible, due to the race conditions, this time did not count as a world record—a mark then also held by Kipchoge, but almost exactly two minutes slower at 2:01:39. And still Kipchoge could not achieve the feat on his own. To help him maintain his pace, he was guided by a car with a laser marker showing the ideal lap timings, along with a team of 41 rotating pacers to push him along.
Two things particularly interest me about this story. Firstly, even though Kipchoge is the absolute best marathon runner in the world, and despite having the backing of mega-corporations, he still could not succeed by himself. He eventually needed the help of more than 40 other world-class athletes. Secondly, those other runners were willing to help in the attempt, knowing that not only would they not be the ones credited with the achievement, but that their involvement may never even be remembered. Yet they were still willing to be there as part of the team. So many things in our modern life are all about competition, that it is great to see ‘winning’ put aside and the focus instead placed on working together to achieve something amazing. Five years later, the official Marathon world record still sits 35 seconds over the two-hour mark that Kipchoge and his team broke.
I think this type of teamwork is integral to making music, where every part from featured soloist to third clarinet or auxiliary percussion is required to make the music the best it can be. Questions are often debated like “Who is your favourite artist?”, “What is your favourite song?”, or “Who is the greatest guitarist/band/ singer ever?”. I always struggle to answer these questions, because to me music is collaborative and collegial, not competitive. Not only do I find it hard to pick a single favourite, but why should I need to? Does it make Queen a greater band if they are better than INXS or Dire Straits? I know if the three were to perform a combined concert, I wouldn’t book my ticket hoping one would be better than the other. I would be hoping all three were fantastic as that would make the concert even more amazing. The best place for competition in music is when we make it about beating ourselves. Can we make each practice, each rehearsal, and each performance even better than our last?
At some point in the future, another runner will beat Kipchoge’s marathon timethe reality of life is that someone faster / stronger / more talented always comes along eventually. If we focus on being ‘the’ best, we are always going to end up disappointed. Maybe instead, we need to focus on working together to bring out ‘our’ best, then we can celebrate each other’s successes along with our own.
AMEB and Rock School Exams
Term 2-3 2024
Emily Ai
Grade 2
Saxophone Comprehensive
Zoe Allison
Grade 1
Violin Repertoire
Anabel Barrett
Grade 5
Cello Repertoire
Violet Beck
Grade 7
Flute Repertoire
Sophie Blackwell
Grade 3
Clarinet Repertoire
Lorna Botha
Grade 1
Trumpet
Melanie Carroll
Grade 2
Flute Repertoire
Emily Compton
Grade 2
Euphonium
Natalie Cutler
Preliminary
Clarinet Comprehensive
Amber Dalzell
Grade 4
Trombone
Amelie Di Mattina
Grade 2
Cello Repertoire
Avalon Edwards
Grade 1
Flute Comprehensive
Sian Fitzpatrick
Grade 2
Clarinet Comprehensive
Luisa Groves
Grade 3
Flute Repertoire
Annabel Hannan
Preliminary
Flute Comprehensive
Layla Hewson
Grade 2
Violin Repertoire
Janice Hsieh
Grade 3
Cello Comprehensive
Summer Jackson
Grade 5
Flute Repertoire
Hanna Jalili
Grade 1
Oboe Comprehensive
Abbyra Kanagalingam
Grade 3
Clarinet Repertoire
Anika Kanagalingam
Grade 2
Viola OS Repertoire
Aria Klyne
Preliminary
Violin Repertoire
Yena Ko
Grade 2
Cello Comprehensive
Emily Little
Grade 1
Viola OS Repertoire
Daphnie Liu
Grade 7
Rockschool Drums
Mia Loring
Grade 6
Flute Repertoire
Lucy Mansell
Grade 2
Saxophone Comprehensive
Aimee McConnell
Grade 4
Violin Repertoire
Rachael McConnell
Grade 1
Violin Repertoire
Fleur McCullough
Grade 3
Viola OS Repertoire
Jiayu (Mia) Meng
Grade 2
Trumpet
Isla Nicholson
Grade 6
Saxophone Comprehensive
Chiara Orso
Grade 7
Rockschool Drums
Isabella Reis
Grade 2
Rockschool Bass Guitar
Grade 2
Double Bass Repertoire
Rose Richardson
Grade 5
Flute Repertoire
Ella Ringuet
Grade 1
Saxophone Comprehensive
Alice Roberts
Grade 1
Flute Comprehensive
Giaan Sarich
Grade 7
Flute Repertoire
Chelsea Stewart
Grade 3
Double Bass
Comprehensive
Eve Sullivan
Grade 1 Trombone
Madeleine Thomas Grade 4
Flute Repertoire
Ashley Tseng Grade 3
Violin Repertoire
Kimberly Tseng
Grade 2
Violin Repertoire
Denise Wannarat
Grade 1
Theory of Music
Zoey Wanrooy
Grade 2
Trumpet
Haiku Westworth Preliminary
Violin Repertoire
Rebecca Whiting
Grade 3
Bassoon Comprehensive
Emily Whyte
Grade 1
Violin Comprehensive
Rachel Whyte
Grade 6
Flute Repertoire
Olympia Zavros
Grade 7
Rockschool Drums
Music Events
Band Concerts
In Term 3, almost 270 students from Year 4 through to our Senior musicians showcased their talent at our annual Bands Concert. From the Year 4 Immersion Band’s dynamic overture, High Adventure, to Concert Band’s Celtic Ritual, and Wind Ensemble’s Arabesque, the afternoon concert was extremely entertaining and inspiring. This concert format is a wonderful opportunity for our younger players to experience more advanced bands and the variety of music repertoire and to be inspired to continue their musical journey.
The goal is not individual excellence, but rather a collaborative success that elevates the bands’ performances. These ensembles underscore the importance of teamwork, where the focus shifts from personal achievement to the shared vision and united musical interpretation that is required to deliver an outstanding musical experience for both the performers and the audience. Compositions for larger ensembles, such as concert bands, have the capacity for multiple interweaving parts to create complex harmonies with contrasting timbres through different instrumentation. Throughout the concert, it was evident that each band had been working together in rehearsals by listening to each other, breathing together, and knowing how each part fitted together. This collaborative effort culminated in the marvellous finale where all students (Immersion to Senior) played The Mandalorian main theme on stage together.
A heartfelt congratulations and thank you to all students, conductors, and music staff for their dedication and commitment each week at band rehearsals, and on the night for making this concert a success where each individual’s best became ‘our best’.
Charlotte Naumann
MBC Music Captain
Chamber Concert
The Chamber Concert was a small, intimate event designed to feature our instrumental ensembles in the areas of clarinet, saxophone, flute, percussion, and brass. After the huge sound of the large groups in the preceding Band Concert, the atmosphere for this event was relaxed and vulnerable, allowing the student musicians to see and hear in close-up detail the musical craftsmanship of some of our best players coming together. The event was welcoming and felt like performing for a familiar audience. Each performer demonstrated their skills, keeping a perfect balance of timbre, volume, and tempo. Everyone there was trying their best, bringing all of the different parts together. The Chamber Concert certainly was a heartwarming event where the strength of teamwork truly shined.
Alex Griffs
MBC Music Vice-Captain
Music Events
Choir Concert
The combined Choir Concert was a thrilling and eventful night celebrating all our vocal groups. To kick off the night, Chorale performed the beautiful classic, What a Wonderful World, before passing the baton to the MBC Training Choir’s enthusiastic and colourful showcase. The Disney Hero Medley performed by the MBC Primary Choir was another favourite of the evening, including Disney films such as Tangled, Hercules, and Moana Primary Vocal Ensemble continued this theme with a rousing performance of another Moana hit, We Know The Way. The growth and development of building to your best, was seen clearly in the vast variety of music and highlighted through the showcase of Landslide and Dirait-on from Vocal Point, Chamber Voice’s Shaboom, as well as the combined MBBC Vocal Ensembles’ beautiful take on Earth Song. In a key highlight of the evening, all our singers, from the youthful MBC Training Choir and MBBC Primary Vocal Ensemble right through to the Senior Chorale and Secondary Vocal Ensemble, combined for a spectacular finale version of Circle of Life from The Lion King. With the heavy support from the music teachers, an incredible and successful show was achieved, with many students keen to be involved with the voice department.
Lakhsheeny M Parasuraman
MBC Music Vice-Captain
Ignite Festival Concert
The Ignite Festival Concert was a great way to end a fantastic week of culture and arts! It was amazing to see such a great variety of pieces from our Rock Bands, who finally got the opportunity to perform to a wider audience after the unfortunate delay of the Twilight Picnic. A thrilling rendition of Phil Collins’ In the Air Tonight, performed by a select group of drummers and singers, who learned to play taiko drums specifically for this event, served as an epic opening to the night. A big thanks to UQ Taiko for lending us both their knowledge and the drums themselves. A huge variety of pieces then followed, from Devil Town by Cavetown, to heavier songs such as the Foo Fighters’ My Hero. Overall, it was a great night, and all the band's performances made me incredibly excited for the future of the programme!
Jayden Lawrence
MBBC Music Vice-Captain
Music Events
Soirée Concerts
The Soirée Concerts granted many of our junior musicians and smaller ensembles their first opportunity to perform in front of an audience for the year.
The first Soirée Concert saw performances from Junior Percussion Ensemble, Training Choir (MBC), Primary Choir (MBC), Primary Vocal Ensemble (MBBC), String Ensemble, and Junior Band. These musicians are just beginning their musical journeys. Sometimes young or new performers can feel self-conscious as their tone, tuning, timing, and experience are still improving. However, this concert gave us, the audience, the opportunity to celebrate and congratulate the new performers on their efforts and encourage them to continue to develop their musical skills (and that includes performance confidence), so they can become their ‘best’ and ultimately, our ‘best’.
Along with Concert Band, Junior Stage Band, and String Ensemble, many chamber ensembles played in the second Soiree Concert: Senior Percussion Ensemble, Flute Ensemble, Clarinet Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, and Guitar Ensemble. In Chamber Music, it is vital the musicians share the same musical interpretation of the piece and have confidence and trust in the other members of the ensemble. Ensemble musicians are a lot more exposed than those in larger ensembles, where parts are often doubled and there are multiple voices. Successful smaller ensembles are the epitome of teamwork in which the synergies achieved are a collective achievement—a collective ‘best’. When everyone works together, the performance is a joy for the audience and the performers, as demonstrated so well by our Chamber groups in this concert.
Harry Naumann MBBC Music Captain
Greene-ware Collective and Wynnum Manly Jazz Festival
Teamwork in music is essential. Teamwork is what makes the music come to life, where every beat, every rhythm, and every chord is built off each musician. Teamwork like this, especially at events such as the Greene-ware Collective art show and Wynnum Manly Jazz Festival is crucial in providing an experience for the audience that will never be forgotten.
The events provided the opportunity for the combined Moreton Bay Colleges’ stage bands to show off to the community how well the Music programme works together as a team. The two events required each musician to work meticulously for hours upon
Music Events
hours together, perfecting each note and rhythm to bring the best out of the bands. These events challenged the musicians to collaborate on a musical level, not only on stage, but also behind the scenes. For instance, through the countless hours of working and rehearsing together to perfect their pieces, each musician must listen attentively to their fellow musicians, while adapting their playing to complement the overall sound. This requires trust, communication, and a deep understanding of each musician’s style, to produce music that is connected throughout each player. Throughout events like Greene-ware Collective and the Wynnum Manly Jazz Festival, I cannot help but admire the amount of work and effort each musician has put in, to ensure that their fellow musicians, their “teammates”, would not be let down, and bring the best out of not only themselves but the best out of those around them.
Max Chang
Year 11 Musician
Strings Concert
In a heartwarming display of musical talent, this term’s Strings Concert captured a full audience of supportive friends, family, and mentors. Held in the Music Centre, the event featured performances from students of all experience levels: ranging from the Years 4 and 5 Immersion Strings to the talented Seniors in our Chamber String Ensemble.
The evening began with the Chamber String Ensemble performing two pieces, one of which was joined by members of the Guitar Ensemble to enhance the mariachi sound of the work. Throughout the night, multiple ensembles combined to create a fun and enjoyable show, both for those performing and watching. This included the Year 4 Extension Strings being joined by a young flautist, as well as the Chamber Strings and Guitar collaboration.
The concert concluded with a huge joint performance, uniting performers of all ages and skill levels in a triumphant celebration of music and community. The combined Moreton Bay Colleges’ string community was joined by the Orchestra’s wind and percussion players, as well as a special guest, Mr Darin Cook with his amazing bagpipes, to play John Powell’s adrenaline-inducing musical accompaniment to Hiccup and Toothless’ first flight together, Test Drive. When the bagpipes first came in, it certainly highlighted the strength of our young performers and was a spectacular end to the night.
Overall, the Strings Concert was a vibrant display of growth, skill, community, and a celebration of music.
Ava Mitchell
MBC Music Vice-Captain
Primary Sport
Olympic Alumnae
Cara Feain Ryan Australia Athletics (3000mSteeplechase)
Georgia Rose Brown New Zealand Artistic Gymnastics
Sport High Achievers
Jema Gilchrist Aerobics Represented Australia in the Cantanhede World Cup and Open Aerobics Competition in Portugal.
Skye McKibben Aerobics Represented Australia in the Suzuki World Cup and IAF Aerobics Competition in Japan.
Jessica Cremin Cricket
Named in the U16 Australian Indoor Cricket team.
Lily Richardson Hockey
Selected in the Australian Futures Hockey Squad
2023/2024 - recently attended a Futures Squad National camp.
National Representatives
Ashleigh Stariha Netball
Named in the Australian All Stars Netball team.
Brooke Marchant Netball
Represented Samoa as part of the Tifamoana National Team at the Pacific Netball Series.
Selected to represent Samoa in the U21 National team for the Oceania World Cup Qualifier.
Polina Leonova Rhythmic Gymnastics Represented Australia in Greece at the Aphrodic Cup and Bulgaria at the Sophia Cup.
Charli Nikola Rugby 7s
Selected in the 2024 Australian Rugby 7s youth squad.
Caterina Meyer Sailing
Selected this year as part of the Sail GP’s Youth Inspire Programme.
Addison Lester Sailing
Selected in the Australian Youth Sailing Squad and travelled to Italy to compete for Australia in an international regatta.
Emily Cane Shooting
Selected to represent Australia in the ISSF Rifle Junior World Championships.
State Representatives
Kobi Walker Athletics and Cross Country
Siena Gibson Swimming
Annika Kobus Swimming
Chloe Bowen
Chloe Munro Athletics
Ruby Hazell Athletics
Holly Bradford Athletics
Houstand Paea Athletics
Amelia Sherrard Athletics
Maddi Reisinger Basketball
Briget Curtis Basketball
Milla Cocciolone Basketball
Astrid Muniandy Cricket
Aiva Byers Cross Country
Charlotte Brearley Diving
Tayla Lourens Diving
Alyssia Gordon Futsal
Emma Delaney Hockey
Charlotte Hansen Volleyball Represented Australia in the U18 Asian Woman’s Volleyball Championships.
Lucy Tunstall Volleyball Represented Australia in the U18 Asian Woman’s Volleyball Championships.
Sarah Joyce Netball
Ruby Mlakar Netball
Annabelle Bradford Softball
Lily Neill Touch
Olympic Changemaker:
The Australian Olympic Change-Maker Program seeks to identify and bring together students who are demonstrating the Olympic Spirit – friendship, sportsmanship and striving for excellence both on and off the playing field through leadership and driving positive change in their school or local community.
MBC are permitted to identify TWO Year 10, 11 or 12 students who actively demonstrate leadership through sport and/or use sport as a vehicle to improve health & wellbeing and drive social change in their school or local community.
Kobi Walker: Recipient of the Olympic Changemaker Award
Kobi Walker is an exceptional athlete with a remarkable record in both Cross Country and Middle-distance Running. Her achievements include:
• National Silver Medallist in the U18 3000m (2023)
• 4.5km Bridge to Brisbane Winner
2 x State Gold Medallist in the 3000m and 1500m
Fourth Place in Cross Country Nationals (twice)
Fourth Place in U18 National Cross Country
Fifth Place in the U20 Zatopek Ondieki 3000m
10th Place in the World Cross Country Trials
Kobi has made a significant impact through her leadership and community involvement. As Cross Country Captain, she initiated weekly ‘Stretch & Sip’ sessions to build team spirit and encourage participation. She has also inspired younger students by speaking at Primary School assemblies and dedicating her time to the Brisbane State High School Women in Sport Event.
Kobi's commitment to promoting health and wellness extends to her business, Kobi’s Kitchen, where she educates others on healthy eating and donates
meal bases to make nutrition more accessible. As a guest speaker at Loreto College, she emphasised the importance of nutrition for young women in sports and everyday life. She has also coached at fundraisers, such as an obstacle and running course event to support stem cell transplant research.
Quote from Kobi Walker
“I am a National Track and Cross Country Athlete who has competed in both sports at a regional, state, national, and world trial level. Despite these being fantastic individual achievements, where I feel I can really use my talent in is through the leadership I display amongst the community.
I demonstrate leadership by actively engaging in initiatives that bring people together and promote a sense of unity. Whether that be cheering on the younger students, offering them advice, or by holding weekly get-togethers over food and drink to ensure everyone is going well. By listening to what others have going on and providing guidance when needed, I help to foster a collaborative, safe environment. This promotes not only the best performances for students as they feel comfortable and like they are a part of something, but it also improves their overall health and wellbeing. Due to the fact that they keep wanting to come back to training and have tools and people around them that they can trust and go to at all times.
I hope that my actions reflect my dedication and inspire others to do the same.”
Piper Gately, Recipient of the Olympic Changemaker Award
As College Sports Captain, Piper Gately has exemplified the qualities of a true leader, leaving a lasting legacy at the College. Representing the College in an impressive array of QGSSSA sports—including AFL, Netball, Touch (with participation in the Queensland All Schools Touch), Cross Country, and Athletics—Piper has demonstrated her versatility and commitment to the College’s sporting programme.
Piper’s impact, however, goes far beyond her athletic achievements. Her leadership has been particularly notable in her role as College Sports Captain, where she introduced the innovative Spirit Rounds. This initiative successfully united students from both Primary and Secondary levels, along with alumni, under a shared sense of College pride and community spirit. Piper’s ability to rally the College community around these events reflects her commitment to inclusivity and school spirit.
Quote from Piper Gately:
“This year I’ve had the privilege of serving as the College Sports Captain for 2024. I would like to congratulate everyone in the MBC community for the role each of you made in 'Powering the Change' through sport.
This year, initiatives like the presentation of Open jerseys on assembly, Spirit Rounds for Basketball, Touch, Netball, and Volleyball, and the collaboration with the 'You Are Not Alone' charity to raise nearly $1,000 for youth mental health have been introduced. Our Year 12 cohort and our brother school connected for a game of Dodgeball, we celebrated Green and Gold Day to support our Australian Olympic team and were fortunate that a number of our Old Girls who went to the Olympics this year shared their stories to inspire future athletes at Moreton Bay College.
MBC sport brings us together, gives us confidence, and creates healthy habits we can take throughout our lives. 2024 has been an amazing year of spirit and we hope the initiatives created this year are our legacy that will continue to build the unwavering strength of the Pink and White Army.”
Sport Hockey
Hockey at MBC is going from strength to strength with good participation numbers and results across the College in both Primary and Secondary.
In 2024, three club teams competed in the Brisbane Women’s Hockey Association Junior Grass Competition, competing against Brisbane’s largest Hockey clubs. The Under 9, Under 10, and Under 12 teams all competed over a 15-week season with the Under 12 Team winning the Under 12C Division in an exciting grand final. Zoe Davies and Sydney Barrett have shown wonderful potential and teamed up with Lilah Ingersole to star throughout the season.
The QGSSSA teams (Opens, Seniors, and Juniors) all finished in the top three of the competition and the Open Team displayed great tenacity against the highly credentialed Brisbane State High School (BSHS) Team holding them to a 2–2 draw with a quarter left in the game, before being over-run by the depth of the BSHS Team. Australian Under 18 Futures Squad member, Lily Richardson, won a Gold medal with Queensland at the Under 18 Nationals and competed at the Under 21 National Championships in 2024. Unfortunately due to injury, she was unable to play for MBC this season in the QGSSSA Competition. Emma Delaney was a member of two teams that won National titles, the Under 16 QLD Schools Girls and the Under 16 Hockey QLD Maroon Team, and Mackenzie Hale was in the Under 16 Hockey QLD Gold Team. Both girls have been strong contributors to the Open Team throughout the season.
MBC students were well represented in Metropolitan East teams in 2024. Emma Delaney and Lucia Lambert were 13–15 Years State Champions, coached by MBC Hockey Coordinator, Angie Lambert. Five MBC students were members of the 16–19 Years Metropolitan East team—Ruby Hart, Lilah Tindall, Addison Freeman, Lily Richardson, and Mackenzie Hale.
Sport
Athletics
Moreton Bay College has again demonstrated its athletic prowess by claiming the prestigious Stephens Cup for the ninth consecutive year at the QGSSSA Track and Field Championships. The College's dominance was evident, as it was the only school to podium in every age group from 12 Years through to 17 Years and over, with a commendable fourth-place finish in the MultiClass Division.
Highlights from the competition include:
Premiership win for the 16 Years Division
Second place finishes for 12 Years and 15 Years divisions
Third place finishes for 13 Years, 14 Years, and 17 Years divisions
The competition was intense, with MBC leading by just one point ahead of Brisbane State High School (BSHS) and seven points ahead of St Peter’s Lutheran College (SPLC) leading into the relay events. However, the MBC team’s tenacity and determination shone through in the relays, where their outstanding performances across 12 races helped solidify their victory:
2 x First place finishes
5 x Second place finishes
3 x Third place finishes
1 x Fifth place finish
MBC ultimately finished the championships seven points ahead of BSHS and comfortably ahead of SPLC, showcasing the team’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure.
Across Track and Field events it was great to see so much depth. Overall, it was an outstanding team effort with 52 athletes achieving season-bests in their respective events on the day.
Several athletes stood out with remarkable individual performances. Ruby Hazell (14 Years) and Amelia Sherrard (16 Years) each triumphed in three individual events, while Chloe Munro set a new record in the 16 Years A Division Long Jump with a jump of 5.64m, and Lucy Page broke the 13 Years B Division 800m record with a time of 2:22.89.
Other athletes who excelled across multiple events or claimed individual victories included:
The collective effort, grit, and sportsmanship displayed by the entire squad were key to MBC’s remarkable success in 2024. Congratulations to all athletes and staff who contributed to this unforgettable achievement!
Equestrian
The Colleges’ Equestrian Team has seen a remarkable surge in memberships this year, reflecting our students' growing interest in horse riding. Riders compete at various events throughout the year to qualify for the Interschool Queensland State Championships. This year, we were fortunate enough to have three riders who qualified to compete at the State Championships held in Toowoomba during the June/July school holidays. Jorja Titman placed fourth in the 70cm Showjumping class and Cyana Titman placed seventh in the 80cm Showjumping class. Congratulations to the Titman sisters for finishing in the top 10 at their first Interschool State Championship.
A huge THANK YOU to the parents of our Equestrian Riders who fully support their children’s passion— from the daily tasks of taking care of the horses, to transporting their children and their horses all over South East Queensland most weekends for their children to compete. Owning a horse is a big commitment in itself, but when children also take weekly lessons and represent the Colleges most weekends at competitions, it is next level. It must be noted that each Equestrian member fully funds their sporting interest.
If you have a child who would like to learn to ride, or who is ready to compete for the Colleges, please contact our Equestrian Coordinator at equestrian@mbc.qld.edu.au or call 0403 716 447.
Sport Swimming
Breakout Year for Siena Gibson
We are delighted to acknowledge the extraordinary accomplishments of Year 10 student, Siena Gibson, whose 2023/2024 Swimming season has been nothing short of exemplary.
Siena commenced the season with a standout performance at the 2023 Queensland Championships in December, where she competed against nearly 1,500 swimmers, including some of the best athletes from Queensland and abroad. Demonstrating exceptional poise under pressure, Siena secured Gold medals in both the 100m and 200m Butterfly, in addition to a Bronze medal in the 400m Freestyle.
Her next major challenge was the QGSSSA Competition, where Siena once again represented our College with distinction. The iconic Pink and White was on show, as Siena secured first place in the 50m Butterfly, second place in the Open 100m Butterfly, second place in the 100m Freestyle, and second place in the 4x50m Freestyle Relay, further solidifying her status as a formidable competitor on the QGSSSA stage.
Shortly after the QGSSSA Competition, Siena turned her focus to the 2024 Australian Age Championships, a premier nine-day event renowned for its robust competition among approximately 2,500 athletes. Siena's exceptional work ethic proved fruitful, as she was crowned Australian Age Champion in the 200m Butterfly, earning a Gold medal. She also garnered Silver medals in the 100m Butterfly and 100m Freestyle, concluding the meet with an impressive tally of three medals and seven Top-10 finishes.
Siena's remarkable season earned her a spot on the 2024 Queensland Junior Team, an elite group comprising only 10 girls and 10 boys aged 13 to 18 years. Selection on this team also means Siena follows the path of many current and former Olympians. The Queensland Team journeyed to Auckland, New Zealand, to compete in the 2024 Short Course NZ Nationals. Despite the challenges of international travel and competition, Siena delivered one of her most outstanding performances to date. She competed in four individual events and four relays, achieving Personal Bests in every race. Siena claimed Gold in the 15-year-old 200m Butterfly and, with remarkable fortitude, qualified for the Open Final, where she secured a Silver medal. Additionally, she earned Gold in the 100m Butterfly, Silver in the 50m Freestyle, and Bronze in the 200m Freestyle.
Furthermore, Siena has been selected for the prestigious Tilly Cup, set to take place in September on the Gold Coast. This event brings together 72 of Queensland's most promising athletes aged 13 to 16 years for an intensive three-day training and racing camp designed to refine their skills and foster competitive excellence.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Siena and wish her continued success as she embarks on the next chapter of her sporting journey.
Mr David Lush Director of Swimming
Water Polo
The 2023/2024 season was the most successful in MBC Water Polo history, both in results and representation. MBC fielded five teams in the Brisbane competition, with four advancing to the semi-finals. Three of these teams competed in the grand finals, and two emerged victorious, with our Under 16 Division 1 and Under 12 Division 3 teams winning their respective Premierships. This outstanding performance is particularly impressive given that the teams only train once a week, reflecting the dedication of both players and coaches.
At the end of 2023, MBC entered a Junior and Senior team in the All Schools Competition. Both teams showed significant improvement and represented MBC with pride. We look forward to their continued development and participation in the 2024 tournament.
This success resulted in a record number of MBC players being recognised, with ten selected for Queensland squads and seven selected to represent Queensland. Congratulations to Jazmyn Green, Zarah Milligan, Ava Sherer, Georgia Green, Ava Longhurst, Emily Robson, and Rose Purcell for their selection. Rose’s team won the Development Competition in Hobart, while Ava Sherer, Georgia Green, Ava Longhurst, and Emily Robson competed in the East
Coast Challenge in Melbourne. Ava Sherer and Georgia Green’s Queensland Maroon team secured a dramatic 10–9 victory over NSW, while Ava Longhurst and Emily Robson’s Queensland Gold Team earned a Bronze medal. Zarah Milligan travelled to Canberra for the Interstate Challenge, where she and her team achieved a victory. Additionally, Ava Sherer has been selected for the Barbarian Team, composed of promising Under 14 players from across Australia, to compete at the Under 15 Nationals.
In January, MBC students representing various clubs competed in the Australian Youth Water Polo Championships against teams from across Australia. Zarah Milligan, playing for Mermaids and coached by Kristina Sherer, won the Gold medal after an undefeated tournament. Ava Sherer, Georgia Green, and Emily Robson, also playing for Mermaids, earned Silver in a thrilling match. Jazmyn Green’s Mermaids team secured third place
MBC is proud of all players who represented the College this season. Your contributions have all contributed to a very successful season.
Mr David Lush Director of Swimming
Sport Swimming
An Extraordinary Season for
Annika Kobus
We are thrilled to commend Year 9 student, Annika Kobus, for her stellar achievements during the 2023/2024 Swimming season.
Annika began the season with remarkable success at the 2023 Queensland Championships in December, where she competed against nearly 1,500 swimmers, including some of Queensland’s fastest-emerging talent. Demonstrating her ability to perform under pressure, Annika captured a Gold medal in the 50m Butterfly and secured two top 10 finishes, in the 100m Freestyle and the 100m Butterfly.
The first major event of 2024 for Annika was the QGSSSA Championships. Representing our College with great pride, she excelled in her events, finishing second in the 50m Freestyle and third in the 4 x 50m Freestyle Relay, further establishing herself as a formidable competitor in the pink and white.
Five weeks after QGSSSA, Annika faced the challenge of the 2024 Australian Age Championships, a nineday event known for its rigorous competition among approximately 2,500 athletes. Competing for the first time at this marquee event (in the youngest age group), Annika delivered an impressive performance, earning Bronze medals in both the 50m Butterfly and the 50m Freestyle. She concluded the meet with five top-five finishes, a testament to her commitment to training throughout the Term 1 preparation.
After the Australian Age Championships marked the end of the Long Course season, Annika transitioned seamlessly into preparations for the winter Short Course season. The pinnacle event for Queensland’s Junior swimmers during this period is the Queensland Short Course Championships. At the 2024 edition in August, Annika remarkably outperformed her summer performance, earning six medals across nine events, all of which resulted in top-five finishes. This outstanding performance included Gold medals in the 50m Butterfly, 50m Freestyle, and 100m Freestyle, a Silver medal in the 200m Individual Medley and the 100m Butterfly, and a Bronze in the 200m Butterfly.
Annika’s exemplary season earned her a place on the 2024 Queensland Tilly Cup Team, a prestigious honour for Junior athletes in Queensland. The Tilly Cup, on the Gold Coast in September, has a rich history of nurturing some of Australia’s finest swimmers. With 72 athletes selected across Queensland, this event represents a significant milestone in Annika’s Swimming journey.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Annika and wish her continued success as she competes in the Tilly Cup and beyond.
Mr David Lush Director of Swimming
Rose Purcell –Junior Excellence Swimmer of the Year
Rose Purcell makes international headlines after being crowned the 2024 JX Swimmer of the Year.
Rose accepted the Pho3nix Junior Excellence Swimmer of the Year award last weekend, during the 2024 Swimming Australia Awards held at Howard Smith Wharfs in Brisbane.
Swimming Australia CEO, Mr Rob Woodhouse, noted that Rose exemplifies the traits of excellence, commitment, and humility—everything the Pho3nix JX Swimmer of the Year award recognises.
The Moreton Bay College community congratulates Rose on this outstanding achievement.
The Pho3nix Junior Excellence Program is a dynamic partnership between Pho3nix Foundation and Swimming Australia. This program is specifically tailored for passionate young swimmers aged 9–13 who are eager to refine their skills and emerge as future champions.
The Pho3nix Junior Excellence (JX) Program recognises the remarkable performances of swimmers aged 9–13 years. By acknowledging their achievements, the aim is to encourage and inspire the next generation of competitive swimmers. The program aligns with the Pho3nix Foundation’s mission to encourage more kids to be more active, more often.
Mr David Lush Director of Swimming
Interhouse Events
Secondary Extravaganza
The Parents’ and Friends’Association
Colour Dash – A Day of Joy and Vibrancy
On 31 May, the College oval was transformed into a medley of colour as the much-anticipated Colour Dash took place, a vibrant event for our Primary students. Under the brilliant sunshine, students raced through an exciting obstacle course, with splashes of colour filling the air, creating an atmosphere of joy and excitement.
The event was hosted by the Parents and Friends (P&F) Association, who worked tirelessly to bring it to life. The invaluable assistance of parent volunteers ensured the day ran smoothly, from setting up the obstacle course to showering the students with bursts of colour as they ran by.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the P&F Association and the dedicated parent volunteers who made the day possible. It was truly a spectacular event filled with fun, community spirit, and, of course, colour!
Moreton Bay College Old Girls Association
Bay Terrace Reunion - 8 May 2024
Stories from the past continue to build a legacy for Moreton Bay College. That is why the annual Bay Terrace Reunion is an important feature on the Old Girls’ and College Calendar.
Bay Terrace, Wynnum, was where the original Moreton Bay Girls’ High School stood from 1901. Renamed Moreton Bay College in 1957, it was home to boarders drawn from across Queensland, and some from overseas, until the end of 1980. Day students remained until the new campus at Wondall Road opened in 1984 for Primary learners, and 1986 for Secondary pupils.
This year’s Bay Terrace Reunion, held on 8 May at the Broncos Leagues Club, Red Hill, attracted a small but delightful group who shared coffee and cake, and many fond memories of their days at Moreton Bay College.
The Bay Terrace Reunion was the last Moreton Bay College event Mr Waller attended before his recent passing. It was fitting, given his time at the Bay Terrace campus, and his commitment to securing the ongoing future of Moreton Bay College. Many thanks to organiser and former OGA President, Shirley Weder, along with Wendy Soper and friends, for continuing this important tradition.
Cheryl Gray OGA Treasurer
Celebrating 100 Days to Go: A Tradition of Support and Reflection
It feels like only yesterday that we were in the exact position of our Year 12 2024 cohort, anxiously counting down the days until the end of our school journey. Now, having graduated and joined the Old Girls’ Association Committee, we are back to celebrate a cherished tradition: the 100 Days to Go milestone.
This tradition is more than just a countdown; it is a rite of passage marking the final stretch of your time as a Bay Girl. For the Class of 2024, it signifies the point where they can start looking back on their accomplishments and forward to their future adventures.
The 100 Days to Go celebration is an opportunity for us, the OGA, to connect with current students, share our experiences, and offer wisdom as they navigate their final months.
To the Class of 2024, cherish each moment, support each other, and look forward to the incredible opportunities ahead. We are cheering you on every step of the way. Here is to the next 100 days and beyond!
Annie Greening and Amy Leaver OGA Committee Members
The Moreton Bay Colleges’ Foundation would like to thank Bartons for their generous support in 2024
450 Wondall Road
Manly West, Queensland 4179 P 07 3390 8555
mail@mbc.qld.edu.au mbc.qld.edu.au
An Early Years to Year 12 Uniting Church School for Girls CRICOS 03371K
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