The last two weeks have provided an opportunity for many of us to take stock of our lives and to thank God for the many blessings we have – blessings that perhaps we sometimes take for granted.  The events of 6th September in Stanthorpe and the surrounding area, coupled with the worsening drought, have brought the community together. There has also been such an outpouring of love and generosity towards our school, parish and wider community with offers of help, financial assistance and prayers from other schools in the diocese and from places such as Brisbane, Ipswich and the Sunshine Coast. On many occasions throughout the school year we have asked children and their families to help others by donating money or cans of food, or by buying a hamburger for example, because it is important that we are compassionate in our actions. This week we were on the receiving end of that compassion and for this we are very grateful.

The last two weeks have been full of activity on the Primary Campus. Students in Years 3 – 6 have participated in retreats on the theme of ‘Dare to be Different’. These sessions were a great opportunity for the students to reflect on having the courage to be different and not feeling the need to blend in. My thanks are extended to Mr John Mahoney and Mrs Mary McLucas for their work in preparing for and delivering the retreats.

Last weekend, 19 girls from Years 4 – 6 attended the Primary Schools Netball Carnival on the Sunshine Coast. They had a wonderful time and played well across the two days. Thanks to Mrs Kayelene O’Dea and Mrs Bernadette Brunckhorst who organised the weekend. Today three teams have participated in the Granite Belt Maths competition at the State High School. Last week I also attended the prize giving for the Crisps Art Show where a number of our students were recognised for their works of art. The Lego Masters competition has continued and a significant number of children have visited us for their enrolment interview for Prep 2020. Today and again tomorrow, two of our students Katie-Lee and Darius Jansink will compete in the Australian School Sport Track & Field championships in Darwin. This is a significant achievement and we wish them well.

As we take a break for two weeks, I would like to wish students and staff a restful holiday. I hope that everyone has the opportunity to experience some stillness in the busyness of each day and to recognise the countless blessings that we all have in our lives.

Sarah Yates
Assistant to the Principal Primary