12 September 2025
- College Leaders 2026
- Enrol for 2026
- Important Dates Term 4
- Acting Principal - Melissa Carr
- Assistant Principal - Pastoral - Maddyn White
- Prayer
- From the Business Manager – Ros Giuliano
- Velocity Raptors
- Year 7 News
- Careers
- Work Placement
- Academic Support
- Term Dates 2025
- Student Accident Protection Plan - Claim Form
- Tuckshop
- What's Happening in the Parish
- Around the District
College Leaders 2026
Please join us in congratulationg your newly elected 2026 Student Leaders.
College Captains: Denae and Carly
College Vice Captains: Eamon and Elina
Introducing the 2026 College House Captains.
RICE: Sahara, Scott & Leilani
O'MEARA: Louise
McCAULEY: Kady & Keira
Enrol for 2026
Important Dates Term 4
Acting Principal - Melissa Carr
Dear Gilroy College Families,
As we approach the final weeks of Term 3, I would like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a wonderful and very busy term here at our College. It has been uplifting to see our students so engaged in their learning and in the life of our community.
We are now well and truly at the “business end” of the term, with many of our students busily preparing for exams and completing major projects for their subjects and qualifications. While this can be a stressful period, it is also an exciting one—especially for our Year 12 students, who are edging closer each day to their external exams and the conclusion of their school journey.
R U OK? Day
This week our community came together to acknowledge R U OK? Day. Our Pastoral Team, with the support of our Hospitality department, hosted a delicious pancake breakfast, giving students and staff the chance to connect and enjoy conversation before moving into an educational morning program. These sessions encouraged our students to reflect on the importance of checking in with one another and starting meaningful conversations that can make a real difference. Days like this remind us that caring for one another is at the heart of who we are as a Catholic community.
Parent / Student / Teacher Interviews
On Thursday 4 September, we held our second round of Parent/Student/Teacher interviews for the year. We were delighted with the strong turnout, with more interviews conducted than earlier in the year. Thank you to all our parents and carers who took the time to attend. These opportunities for open communication between home and school are invaluable in supporting each student’s learning, growth, and wellbeing.
End of Term 3 – Forrest Beach
We are looking forward to celebrating the end of Term 3 with our traditional Forrest Beach Day. This is always a highlight for both staff and students, offering a wonderful opportunity to come together, relax, and enjoy our beautiful local environment after such a busy term. Our 2026 Year 12 Leaders have been adding their own creative twists to this year’s plans, and it promises to be a fantastic day of community spirit and fun.
Looking Ahead – Term 4 Events:
As we turn our sights towards Term 4, there are two significant events that we are excited to share with you:
Annual Awards Night
This special evening is a highlight of our calendar, where we gather as a community to recognise and celebrate the industrious efforts and academic achievements of our students. It is always an inspiring reminder of the talents and determination within our College.
75th Anniversary Celebration – Thursday 30 October
This milestone event will be a beautiful celebration of our College’s rich history. The day will begin with a liturgy, followed by tours of the College and shared refreshments. We warmly invite our community and alumni to attend. For those unable to join us on the day, we will also release a commemorative video showcasing our College’s journey—honouring our past while celebrating who we are today. Invites and EOIs are currently being shared with our community for further information.
A Final Note to Our Year 12 Students
Finally, I would like to offer my heartfelt encouragement to our Year 12 students as they navigate university applications, early offers, employment interviews, and all the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. You have worked towards this moment for 13 years—may you step forward with confidence, faith, and pride in all that you have achieved.
Thank you once again to our students, staff, and families for your ongoing support of our College. I wish everyone a safe and restful holiday break when it arrives, and I look forward to welcoming you all back in Term 4 for what promises to be another exciting chapter in our shared story.
God bless,
Melissa Carr
Assistant Principal - Pastoral - Maddyn White
Dear Parents & Caregivers,
As Term 3 draws to a close, we reflect on the moments that brought us together, fostered connections, and reminded us of the importance of looking out for one another.
Heading into the final stretch of the term, we know that exams and assessments can bring added pressure. Parents and carers play a vital role in supporting their children during this time. Here are a few tips:
- Encourage regular breaks and healthy sleep routines.
- Create a quiet, distraction-free study space.
- Remind your child that effort matters more than perfection.
- Be available to listen and reassure them that stress is normal and manageable.
This week our whole-school participated in R U OK? Day. Under the sun of a stunning spring morning, students and staff gathered for a picnic breakfast that was more than just a meal, it was a chance to pause, connect, and check in. The simple act of sharing breakfast sparked meaningful conversations, allowing students to support their friends and classmates in a relaxed and caring environment. The sea of yellow was a beautiful sight, especially when the whole school joined in dancing to the Nutbush and YMCA, a joyful reminder of the power of community and shared moments.
As we draw closer to the end of Term 3, we’re excited for our annual Forrest Beach Fun Run on Friday 19th September! This year we are changing things up a little bit and have introduced a Year Level v's Year Level Fancy Dress competition. The theme is Aussie Icons with each year level dressing up to represent a different slice of Australian culture, battling it out for a Year Level Pizza Party in Term 4:
- Year 7 – Surfers 🏄♂️
- Year 8 – Bananas in Pajamas 🍌
- Year 9 – Bob Katter 🤠
- Year 10 – The Wiggles 🎶
- Year 11 – Tradies 👷
- Year 12 – Steve Irwin & Australia Zoo 🐊
Students are to arrive at school as usual. We will depart for Forrest Beach at 9:00am and return to the college at 2:30pm. As we wrap up another term, we wish all our students and families a fun, restful and safe holiday.
Just a reminder that school will resume on Wednesday 8th October (Monday King’s Birthday Public Holiday & Tuesday Student Free Day).
Warm Regards,
Maddyn White
R U OK?
Prayer
Prayer for the End of Term 3 and the Season of Creation
Loving God,
As we come to the close of Term 3, we pause to give thanks for the learning shared, the friendships nurtured, and the challenges overcome. In the rhythm of school life, You are our constant guide, walking beside us in moments of joy and struggle.
We thank You for our students, whose curiosity and courage inspire us daily. For our staff, whose dedication and care shape hearts and minds. And for our families, whose support strengthens our community.
As we enter the Season of Creation, open our eyes to the beauty of Your world. Teach us to walk gently on this earth, to listen deeply to the wisdom of First Nations peoples, and to care for all that You have made.
May this time of rest renew our spirits. May Your peace dwell in our hearts. And may we return with fresh hope, ready to serve You in all we do.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
From the Business Manager – Ros Giuliano
Term 3 School Fees are now OVERDUE!
If you have not paid school fees yet, please do so ASAP. There are a number of ways to pay, including BPAY, direct debit as well as credit card etc.
All school fee statements have been emailed so please notify the school if you have not received Term 3 statements. If you have not supplied us with your email, address please do so.
As always, if for any reason you are finding it difficult to pay school fees. Please contact the Principal or myself to discuss the matter.
Office hours over the School Holidays.
The office will be open over the school holidays please see adjusted hours below.
Monday – Friday 8.00am to 3.30pm.
Ros Giuliano
Velocity Raptors
Velocity Raptors Return From Germany!
Two weeks ago, our Velocity Raptors Hydrogen Racing Team returned from Chemnitz, Germany, where they competed in the H2GP World Finals. This incredible event brought together teams from across the globe, showcasing innovation, teamwork, and endurance racing.
The Raptors not only represented our school and region with pride, but also demonstrated exceptional commitment and resilience. Their journey began many months ago with countless hours of car design, testing, and refinement. Alongside this, the team organised fundraising and secured sponsorships to make their international trip possible.
In Germany, the Raptors raced their hydrogen-powered car for a gruelling six-hour endurance challenge, battling through mechanical troubles but never giving up. While they didn’t place as high as they had hoped, the team fought right until the very end, showing determination, teamwork, and true sportsmanship on the world stage.
A heartfelt thank you goes to the sponsors, whose generosity not only provided the funds to make this journey possible, but also gave the team the encouragement and confidence to compete internationally. We would also like to acknowledge the incredible support of parents who travelled with the team—particularly David and Steven, who guided the students with their expertise in the mechanical and electrical aspects of the car.
We are incredibly proud of the Velocity Raptors for their achievements, resilience, and self-reliance throughout this journey. Their experience in Germany has not only been a highlight of the year but has also inspired future generations of STEM students at our school.
Year 7 News
Year 7s Explore the Forces of Physics!
This term, Year 7 Science students have been investigating forces through hands-on experiments. Using the Van de Graaff generator, they explored electrostatic electricity in a very hair-raising way. They also examined simple machines such as levers and pulleys, with some students taking on the challenge of building systems with more than two pulleys—a task that proved trickier than expected!
Careers
Year 12 – University Preferences & QTAC Support
As our Year 12 students prepare for life after school, it’s important that both students and families stay informed about the university application process through the Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre (QTAC).
QTAC Resources
QTAC offers a wide range of supportive resources, including guides and informative videos, to help students understand the application process. Explore them at www.qtac.edu.au
Preferences
Students can list up to six course preferences on their QTAC application. They’re encouraged to order them carefully—starting with dream courses, followed by strong alternatives, and finally, backup options. Preferences can be adjusted throughout the application period.QTAC
Support at School
To help students navigate their preferences and the application timeline, I’m available:
- During lunch times in the VET/Pathways office
- In RE lessons (by arrangement with your child’s teacher)
Year 12 – How to get your ATAR
ATARs will be released online via the QTAC ATAR Portal on Thursday, December 18. To receive your ATAR, you must register for access (using a private non-school email) to the QTAC ATAR Portal. Registrations for the QTAC ATAR Portal open on Tuesday, 5 August. Visit qtac.edu.au/atar for more information.
QTAC Remind Me!
QTAC Remind Me is a free service that sends friendly SMS and email reminders to help students, parents, teachers, and those returning to study stay on track. It provides timely updates about key dates, application deadlines, course options, preferencing advice, and the latest QTAC information—making it easier to stay organised and confident about the next steps into university or TAFE. https://www.qtac.edu.au/remind-me-sign-up/
Work Placement
Term 4 Work Placement
Work placement will continue as usual in Term 4, with students attending seven consecutive Fridays in their allocated workplaces. Many students have already gained valuable knowledge and skills, with some choosing to return to the same business to further their industry experience.
Students are reminded to ensure that all workplace forms and agreements are returned to Mrs Martin as soon as possible. If you have not yet confirmed your placement, please do so immediately.
👨👩👧 What Parents Can Do to Help
- Check that your child has completed and returned all required workplace forms.
- Encourage punctuality and reliability at their placement.
- Discuss with your child what they are learning each week—it helps build confidence and reinforce their skills.
- Contact the school if you have any questions or concerns about your child’s placement.
Exciting News for Gilroy Senior Students – Work Placement Update!
Attention Year 11 & 12 Vocational Students of 2026: From next year, your Work Placement Day is moving from Friday to Tuesday—and that change means even more exciting possibilities ahead!
Why Tuesday Makes a Difference:
- Broader industry access: Many companies are busier and better staffed early in the week, giving you greater exposure to real-world experiences.
- Expanded opportunities: Say hello to industries and roles that were off-limits on Fridays—your career exploration just got a boost.
- Stronger learning flow: Apply your placement insights during the rest of the school week without that weekend gap.
So get ready to explore, learn, and grow—your future starts now.
Academic Support
Term Dates 2025
Student Accident Protection Plan - Claim Form
AIG is our insurer for the student accident policy, with claims managed by CSN. Our WHS Sharehub - Student Accident Insurance page has been updated with all the current information.
The forms can also be found on the main TCE website . Forms are found under the 'Parents & Community' tab on the website.
Tuckshop
What's Happening in the Parish
INGHAM REGION CATHOLIC PARISHES NEWSLETTER:
https://inghamcatholic.com/category/newsletter/
Ingham Region Catholic Parishes
Around the District
School holiday workshops led by local artist Kristina Fontana.
Safari Party Animal Workshop
Get ready for a wild and sparkly adventure in our Safari Party Animal Workshop! In this fun-filled session, kids will transform safari animal toys — like giraffes, tigers and elephants — into colourful party animals! We’ll begin by sketching out design ideas on paper, giving children the chance to test colours and let their creativity run wild. Then, they'll bring their animals to life using paint, pom poms, sequins, pipe cleaners, ribbons, and even tiny party hats!
This playful workshop encourages imagination, planning and hands-on creativity. Every child will head home with their very own one-of-a-kind safari party animal to keep and treasure.
Details:
- When: Tuesday 23 September 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Where: TYTO Conference and Events Centre
73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham - Ages: 5 – 8 years
- Cost: $15 per person + booking fee
Spots are limited — book early so your little artist doesn’t miss out on the safari fun!
Henri Matisse
Step into the colourful world of Henri Matisse in this fun, hands-on art workshop designed especially for young creatives! Inspired by Matisse’s iconic cut-outs and line drawings, participants will explore how he used simple, expressive shapes and bold compositions to create striking works of art. We’ll kick things off by cutting out vibrant, organic shapes in the style of Matisse’s collage pieces — learning how he played with colour, form and movement.
Next, we’ll take a more minimal approach, experimenting with painted single-line portraits, inspired by Matisse’s elegant, flowing drawings. Finally, we'll explore how to combine both techniques into layered artworks that celebrate shape, line and individuality.
This workshop is perfect for young artists of all skill levels. All materials are provided—just bring your curiosity and creativity!
Details:
- When: Tuesday 24 September 2025
- Time: 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM
- Where: TYTO Conference and Events Centre
73–75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham - Ages: 8 – 12 years
- Cost: $20 per person + booking fee
Places are limited — book now and let your child dive into the colourful, imaginative world of Matisse!
Still Life
Join us for a fun and hands-on art session where creativity takes centre stage! In this imaginative workshop led by local artist Kristina Fontana, we’ll explore the world of still life in a bold and vibrant way — through collage. Participants will start by painting and decorating their own papers using a variety of colours, textures, and patterns. Once your paper collection is ready, you’ll cut, tear, and arrange the pieces to build your own unique still life collage — perhaps a flower in a vase, a fruit bowl, or any other composition that inspires you!
This workshop is all about creativity, playfulness, and self-expression. No prior experience is needed—just bring your imagination and a willingness to experiment with colour, shape, and design.
Details:
- When: Wednesday 24 September 2025
- Time: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM
- Where: Tyto Conference and Events Centre
73-75 McIlwraith Street, Ingham - Ages: 13 – 18 years
- Cost: $20 per person + booking fee
Spaces are limited, so don’t miss out—grab your spot today and get ready to create something totally one-of-a-kind!
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