25 June 2025

Enrol for 2026

QISSN Team & CONFRO Team

Pink Stumps Day - TOMORROW Thursday 26 June

Pink Stumps Day is a fundraising initiative by the McGrath Foundation, a cancer support organization in Australia. It's a day focused on raising money to support McGrath Breast Care Nurses, who provide free, expert care to individuals and families affected by breast cancer. The event encourages people to wear pink, host fundraising events, and make donations to support the cause

Important Dates Term 3

Acting Principal - Melissa Carr

Dear Parents and Carers

It’s hard to believe we are already in Week 10 of Term 2. It has been a busy and exciting term filled with a wide range of opportunities for our students to engage both in, and beyond the classroom. 

It’s been wonderful to see so many of our students participating in the rich array of extra-curricular activities on offer here at the College. Whether it’s been through Esports, futsal and soccer competitions, rugby games, the Arts Retrospective evening, health excursions or information evenings – student involvement has been outstanding.  We know that participating in these activities provides students with opportunities to connect with peers, build confidence, develop leadership and teamwork skills, and enjoy their schooling experience beyond the academic setting. A huge thank you to our dedicated staff who support and coordinate these opportunities for our students. 

One of the significant events this term was our Year 10 Senior Subject Information Night, expertly led by Mr Jaidyn Spina. This evening was designed to equip students and families with the information they need to make informed subject selections for Years 11 and 12. The decisions made during this process are important, as they help shape our students’ future pathways – whether they be academic, vocational or career-based.

Looking ahead, Semester 1 reports will be released via Compass on Tuesday 22 July 2025 (Week 2, Term 3). As mentioned in my previous newsletter, there have been some changes to the reporting format in line with updated Townsville Catholic Education guidelines. These changes will be clearly outlined again in the email that accompanies the release of the reports. As part of these new guidelines, we will be holding a second round of Parent/Student/Teacher Interviews on Thursday 4 September (Week 8, Term 3). This round of interviews will run from 1:00pm to 5:00pm. If a teacher has either welcomed or requested an interview, this will be indicated on your child’s report. These interviews provide a valuable opportunity to discuss student progress, refine strategies, and ensure that all students are on track as we approach the final stages of the academic year. To support this, the College will close at 1:00pm on Thursday 4 September. Families are asked to make arrangements to collect students early or able to catch their respective bus home at this time. We have worked with all bus companies to ensure buses will be available from 1:00pm. This day precedes a pupil-free day on Friday 5 September, which will be dedicated to teacher professional learning, planning and collaboration.

We are also thrilled to share with you the exciting range of events planned for Week 1 of Term 3. These include camps, retreats, and cultural activities that form a valued part of our students’ holistic education:

These experiences are incredibly valuable in creating lifelong memories, fostering personal growth, and strengthening relationships within the College community. I want to take this opportunity to thank the staff who organise and attend these events. Their work behind the scenes and their willingness to give up time with their own families to be with our students is greatly appreciated. We kindly ask all families to discuss the high expectations we hold for student behaviour during these camps and retreats. As always, our no-phone policy applies, and we request your support in reinforcing this from home. This helps us ensure the safety, engagement, and wellbeing of all students while away from school.

As we approach the end of Term 2, I want to thank you for your ongoing support and wish all of our families a safe, restful and rejuvenating holiday break. We look forward to welcoming students back for what promises to be an exciting and busy Term 3 on Monday 14 July.

Warm regards,

Melissa Carr

Acting Assistant Principal - Jaidyn Spina

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we approach the end of term, we’d like to thank you for your continued support throughout what’s been a busy and rewarding semester. The upcoming school holidays provide students with a well-deserved break and an opportunity to rest and recharge. We encourage families to enjoy this time together and look forward to welcoming students back refreshed for the start of Term 3.

Year 10 Set Planning and Subject Selection

Students embraced the opportunity to explore their future learning pathways through a series of guided planning sessions and engaging presentations from our senior teachers. The set planning night was a standout event, with students and families coming together to gain valuable insights into senior schooling. This evening also marked the release of the 2026 Year 11 subject lines, helping students make informed decisions about the subjects they’ll undertake in Years 11 and 12. We commend our Year 10 students for their enthusiasm and thoughtful approach to planning their senior studies, and thank our staff and families for supporting them every step of the way.

Semester Reporting

As we near the end of the semester, we would like to inform families about the upcoming release of student reports. This year, reports will be published at different times for senior and junior students to better support their individual needs.

• Year 11 and 12 reports will be released on Friday, 27 June.
• Year 7 to 10 reports will be available on Monday, 22 July (Term 3, Week 2).

The earlier release for our senior students is intended to assist them with job applications and other pathways, which often begin mid-year. All reports will be released via Compass.

We encourage families to check Compass on the relevant dates and reach out to the school if assistance is needed accessing the platform.

Year 12 University Applications

With university applications approaching, our Year 12 students are beginning to explore their options for life beyond school. Those interested in further study will take part in QTAC application sessions, led by our VET & Careers Program Leader, Mrs Marie Noble. These sessions are designed to guide students through the application process, helping them explore university options and select courses that align with their goals.

We also extend our best wishes to students pursuing vocational pathways, as many begin seeking apprenticeships and employment opportunities in preparation for life after graduation.

We’re incredibly proud of our Year 12 students and the thoughtful, motivated approach they’re bringing to their future planning.

Thank you for your continued support throughout the term. We wish all families a safe and restful school holiday and look forward to welcoming everyone back for another productive and exciting term ahead.

Warm regards, 

Jaidyn Spina

Academic Support

Prayer

Sometimes, Father, in the midst of days like today, I can be overcome by things that I want or need. When I pause in moments like this, I know that You are what I truly need. Help me center my day on You. May I share the peace that provides me with those around me. Amen.

From the Business Manager – Ros Giuliano

School Fees are Now Due.

Thank you to all who have paid fees to date. If you have not paid recently, please do so ASAP.  

The office will be open during the school holidays, Monday to Friday from 8.30 am – 3.30pm, closed for lunch between 12pm-1pm.

BPAY is our preferred method of payment. The details are on the family statement. You can also pay weekly, fortnightly, monthly, or by term by Payway, direct debit, credit card, cash, or cheque.

As always, if you have any questions or queries, or your financial circumstances have changed please contact the Principal or myself to discuss the matter. The sooner you make contact the sooner we can work together for a solution.

Ros Giuliano

Velocity Raptors

Velocity Raptors Launch Fundraising with Sweet Success

Recently, our Velocity Raptors team and their families started their fundraising efforts at Tasman Turtle’s Picnic Day at TYTO. Running a fairy floss and donut stall, the team received an overwhelming response from the local community as they worked to raise funds for their trip to the Horizon H2GP World Championships in Chemnitz, Germany, this August.

When the fairy floss machine failed early in the day, it was the team’s (and a particular parent’s!) engineering know-how and quick problem-solving that got it back in action — a fitting demonstration of the skills that helped them qualify for the international stage.

The day was a true community effort, with parents, teachers, and students working side-by-side. The team extends their thanks to everyone who visited the stall and supported them. A special thank you to Brenda, who helped order ingredients and assisted with both the setup and running of the stall. Thank you to the Hinchinbrook Shire Council for the opportunity to participate in the event

Together, the team raised an incredible $2,068 — a phenomenal start to their fundraising campaign.

If you would like to support the team’s journey to Germany, whether through sponsorship, a donation, or an in-kind contribution, please contact the school on (07) 4776 2888 or email admin@gilroysm.catholic.edu.au. Every bit of support brings these students one step closer to this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Tasman Turtle - TYTO

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A Shout Out to Our Growing List of Major Sponsors

The Velocity Raptors would like to express our heartfelt thanks to the major sponsors who are supporting our journey to the Horizon H2GP World Championships in Germany this August.

• Lahtinens Electrical
  
  
• Nutrien Harcourts
  
  
• Hinchinbrook Traffic Control
  
  
• Townsville Enterprise 
  

Your support is helping us turn a dream into a reality. Thank you to those who are making donations of any kind - every little bit adds up, and your generosity is greatly appreciated. 

We are continuing to seek sponsorship to help cover the costs of international travel. If your business is interested in being part of this incredible opportunity to support STEM, engineering, and clean energy innovation, please contact admin@gilroysm.catholic.edu.au or 4776 2888.

GSM Esports Etheletes

The ‘Etheletes’ left Gilroy recently, heading to St Anthony’s Catholic College Deeragun. Once there they took on other schools in Esports.  The students enjoyed the day and although unsuccessful this time, they are keen to explore this new way of sporting.

What is Esports? Esports in high school refers to organized competitive video gaming within the school setting, often involving structured leagues, tournaments, and teams. These programs offer students opportunities to develop skills in communication, teamwork, strategic thinking, and problem-solving while participating in a popular and growing area. 

Sport News

NQ SPORTS

A reminder to all parents, if your child has made a Herbert River or North Queensland sports team, please ring the school with the dates your child will be absent.

RUGBY LEAGUE 

The Open’s Rugby League team competed in the semi-final of the Townsville Blackhawks Trophy. We had a strong campaign up until this point, winning 3 out of our 5 pool games, finishing 2nd in the Northern Pool. This saw us matched up against the Western Pool’s first-placed Columba Catholic College. Sadly, the boys could not do enough on the day, with a few long-range tries shutting out the match. Nonetheless, the coaching staff were extremely proud of how the team performed in this competition. 

At the end of every game, the coaching staff asked each player who they would pick as their best on the field. These votes were then added up from every game to give us a Player’s Player for the competition. Congratulations to our Player’s Player for the Townsville Blackhawks Trophy this year, Shaun Devietti. 

Also, at the end of the competition, the coaches from every school came together to select a 20-man ‘Team of the Carnival’ from all teams that competed. A big congratulations to Shaun Devietti, Jack Butcher, and Connor Matsen for being selected for the team. 

This concludes our lead-up to confraternity with the trip to Rockhampton only days away. All of the players and staff are looking forward to the week-long rugby league carnival and are confident we can see some good results on the field. A big thank you to everyone who has helped out in any way so far this year. Daily updates and links to livestreams of our game will be posted on our Facebook page throughout the week, so make sure you are checking it regularly to stay up to date!

SOCCER

Our Year 7 and 8 Boys Soccer Team took on Ingham State High School recently, for their first Interschool clash of the year. It was great to see the strong group of soccer players we currently have in our district on display.

Clever goals from Shadrick and Lewis secured a 2-1 win for Gilroy. Standout performers included Lewis, Brax, and Leon in Goal.

All boys played a part on the day and showed great sportsmanship as per usual. Thanks to Ingham High School for hosting us. We can't wait for our next clash.

FUTSAL

Our Under 13 boys Futsal team travelled to Townsville on Monday, 16th June, to compete in the Northern Region Championships run by Football Queensland.

Our team included eight Year 7’s - Lewis, Brax, Jaxon, Shadrick, Joshua, Oscar, Julian, and Finn.

The boys got off to a flyer in Game 1, beating Kirwan State High 13-2. Special mention to Lewis, who scored an incredible 7 goals, guiding us to a big win. In Game 2, we took on Annandale Christian College. We started a little slow, and after going down a couple of goals early, we couldn't get ourselves back into the match. We were beaten 3-1.

The boys knew what they needed to fix and picked their heads up together. In Game 3, we came back with a strong 5-2 win over Southern Cross, earning us a place in the Grand Final. Special mention to Brax, who came out of goal for this match and was outstanding.

In the Grand Final, we were up against Annandale Christian College, who had beaten us already in the morning. Special mention to Josh for stepping up as Goal Keeper and doing a brilliant job for us. It was clear the boys had more stamina than the opposition and had improved throughout the day. We came away with a solid 6-2 win to take out the U13 Boys Trophy!

We now move on to the next stage of the Schools Futsal Competition, and details will be coming to us in the coming weeks.

Congratulations boys!

RECORD BROKEN

Congratulations to Emerson of McAuley House, who has set a new record in the 12-year-old girls’ High Jump with a leap of 1.26m. This beats the previous record of 1.25m which has stood since 2023. Well done, Emerson, breaking the first record of the 2025 Athletics Carnival - an outstanding achievement!

VET/Careers:

Year 10 Work Experience Block - Week 10

Year 10 students will be on work experience next week, from Tuesday, 24th June, to Thursday, 26th June.  This experience is one of the best ways to test drive a career and see what working life is all about, and gain valuable experience and knowledge that could be valuable when making career choices.   We encourage all students to show up and make the most of their three days in the workplace. Please contact both the school and your workplace as soon as possible if you are unable to attend.  

Careers

JCU Open Day

JCU Open Day is on July 18 for interested Year 12 ATAR students.  This is a day to experience life on campus, study facilities, meet future lecturers and chat with JCU Advisors about our top tips for moving from high school to university, explore career change options, and find the study pathway that suits you. An expression of interest has already been sent to year 12 students, and consent will be sent out via Compass shortly.  If your child is interested, please have them register on the link below and notify Mrs Noble as soon as possible.

https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/jcu-townsville-open-day-for-schools-tickets-1329319704019?aff=oddtdtcreator 

Townsville Careers Expo

The Townsville Careers Expo is happening on August 4 at the Murray Stadium.  The 2025 Townsville Careers Expo is a must for anyone interested in starting, changing, or upgrading their career, including high school students and their parents, mature age and postgraduate students, career seekers of ALL ages, employers looking for staff training, and others.

This annual event offers a wealth of information for visitors, including:

• Access the latest careers, course study, and employment options.
• Advice on enrolment procedures.
• Talk to local and national employers.
• Opportunity to talk to admissions staff.
• Meet with interstate and overseas exhibitors.
• Info on bursaries, scholarships, and application procedures.
• Compare courses from different providers.
• Student services, GAP, and exchange programs.

This event will be offered to Year 11 students, and more information will be sent out shortly.  https://www.careersevent.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/2025-Townsville-Newsletter-Blue-Banner.pdf

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