St Patrick's College Mackay - Term 2 Week 8 - 12 June 2026

As we head into the final two weeks of what has been a wonderfully busy term, I encourage our students to make the most of this time, staying focused on their studies and finishing the term strong.

School Improvement Team Audit
Last week, St Patrick’s College officially began its School Improvement Review, a vital process dedicated to evaluating our overall systems, leadership, and teaching practices to ensure we are continually boosting student learning, engagement, and wellbeing. We were pleased to welcome a team of five external reviewers to our two campuses, who spent time observing classrooms and school systems, as well as conducting insightful interviews with our staff and parents across the nine interrelated domains.

The goal of this review is simple: to improve outcomes for our students by building on the great work we already do. I would like to thank all the parents and staff members who gave their time and shared their valuable perspectives during this visit. The initial feedback we have been given has been very positive, and I look forward to sharing more details with our college community when the final report is received in the next couple of weeks.

Introduction to Senior Schooling Information Evening
Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Introduction to Senior Schooling Information Evening on Tuesday, 9 June. It was wonderful to see so many students and parents in attendance at the Senior Campus Hall. The session successfully explained the QCE process, breaking down the differences between the ATAR Pathway for direct university entry and the Blended Pathway for flexible academic, vocational, and workforce options. We appreciate your participation which ensures you are fully informed to make choices for our child’s future success. Please contact us if you have any concerns.

The next step is our Subject Selection Evening on Tuesday 23 June from 3:30pm to 5:30pm back at the Senior Campus Hall. This is your chance to really explore subject options, get a closer look at senior pathways, and chat one-on-one with our teachers. I look forward to seeing you there.

Spirit of Catholic Education Nominee
We are delighted to acknowledge Mrs Kacey Noy as our nominee for the Spirit of Catholic Education Award. This award recognises individuals who demonstrate outstanding, selfless service and make a significant impact on their school and the broader Catholic education community.

Over the past six years, Kacey has lived this mission wholeheartedly, consistently giving her time, energy, and expertise to support our college's growth. From her vital leadership roles on our Parents and Friends Committee and as the Chair of the Board representing St Patrick's College at regional meetings, to her hands-on support volunteering at open nights and cultural events, Kacey truly embodies the spirit of our community. Kacey gave much direction and support as the College united to be one.

Thank you, Kacey, for your inspiring dedication and for always being ready to help out in any way!

Mackay Show Holiday & Student Free Day
A reminder that our show holiday is on Thursday 18 June, and there will be a Student Free Day on the last day of term - Friday 26 June. This will be a collaborative planning day for our staff.

Blessing and Opening of New Mercy Buildings
On Wednesday 24 June we will celebrate the official blessing and opening of the new buildings and refurbishments to our college. The ceremony will take place in the Mercy Campus Pavilion at 9am. We are delighted to welcome Most Reverend Daniel Meagher, Bishop of Rockhampton to St Patrick’s College to preside over the liturgy and blessing.

St Patrick's Mercy Campus has undergone extensive redevelopment to meet the growing needs of the College community, particularly in the areas of the Arts, Sport and Student Services.

The refurbished Hall precinct includes specialist classrooms for Music, Dance, and Drama, a new gym to meet the needs of the HPE and sporting programs offered at our College, and new flexible learning areas to cater for our strong enrolment numbers. The Hall is air-conditioned to ensure year-round usage and can be utilised by the entire St Pat's community and the parishes of the Southern Cluster.

The Student Service Centre features purpose-built student counselling facilities, a new Responsible Thinking Classroom to support student behaviour, and a state-of-the-art Learning Support area for 1:1 support, small group classes, meeting spaces, and Teacher Assistant preparation facilities.

All facilities have a student-centred focus, being widely accessible and central to the Mercy Campus.

We would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank all who have contributed to the development of these new facilities for St Patrick’s College, Mercy Campus.

We have started a new initiative at our college this term - Student Shout Outs. 

This process is a new way for all of us to recognise and celebrate the incredible actions happening every day, right here at our college. As a Catholic community, our actions are guided by the life and teachings of Jesus. We are all called to live out our core college values of Compassion, Hope, Justice, and Respect. These aren't just words on a wall; they are the heart of who we are.

Student Shout Outs are an opportunity for us to recognise a peer who is truly living these values; students who are actively living out our Catholic values, acting as modern-day examples of Jesus' love and teaching. Students and staff have been encouraged to nominate students in an effort to see the good, celebrate the virtuous, and continue to build a community truly reflective of our faith.

Our student Shout Outs for this month have been:

In other exciting news, on Wednesday 24 June we have the opportunity to welcome Bishop Daniel Meagher (pronounced “Mar”) to our college to officiate the Blessing and Opening of our new building and refurbishments. Prior to our Blessing and Opening Ceremony, we welcome Bishop Danny to St Mary’s Church on Saturday 13 June at 5:00pm and St Patrick’s Church on Sunday 14 June at 7:00am where he will celebrate the Eucharist and confirm many of the students in our Parish Cluster.

Bishop Danny has written a letter to the Diocese about his vision for his tenure as Bishop of the Diocese of Rockhampton and I include a link here for your reading pleasure: https://rok.catholic.net.au/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/Bishop-Meagher-Welcome-Letter-190526.pdf

His main message is that ‘God just loves us, and His presence brings us deep peace and joy and an awareness that we are inherently good. ‘ This is a beautiful sentiment that reminds us that God is visible in the faces of those around us. When we follow the main tenet of the Christian faith: to love one another as Jesus loved us we can let go of the concerns and issues that worry us and revel in the extraordinary mystery of our faith - even if it’s only for a little while.

Blessings,
Andrea

Source: https://catholicweekly.com.au/bishop-daniel-meagher-is-installed-as-11th-bishop-of-rockhampton/

On Tuesday 23 June 2026, the College will host our Subject Selection Evening for Year 11 2027. This evening represents a vital milestone in your child’s education, providing a fantastic opportunity for students and parents to engage directly with our teaching staff and current students. As the final step before selecting subjects for 2027, attending this evening is incredibly important to ensure your child is on the right path.

Event Details

📅 Date: Tuesday, 23 June 2026
📍Location: Senior Campus Hall, River Street, Mackay
⏰Time: 3:30pm – 5:30pm (You are welcome to attend at any time that fits your schedule during this timeframe)
✅ Purpose: Discover senior pathways, explore subject options, and speak directly with educators.

Why Attendance is Essential
Choosing a senior pathway is one of the most significant decisions a student will make. This interactive evening is designed to ensure families are fully equipped to make informed choices about the educational journey ahead.

Attendees will have the opportunity to:
● Explore Our Wide Range of Subjects: Tour engaging displays and participate in interactive activities to gain valuable insights into what our Senior Campus offers.
● Demystify the Process: Speak directly with staff who will be on hand to delve into the details, answer your specific questions, and clarify any concerns.

Empowering Informed Decisions
Following on from our Navigating the Path to Senior Success Information Evening held in early June, the Subject Selection Evening is focused on providing the clarity needed for the final years of secondary school.

Still Unsure About 2027 Subject Choices? If your child needs extra support or is uncertain about their Year 11 directions, please contact the College Office.

We look forward to an enjoyable and informative evening that empowers our students as they navigate their path to senior success.

‘If it's going to take a long time, start today.’

Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox MP shared this advice with our Senior SRC representatives during a visit to the Senior Campus this week.

Andrew presented the campus with new Australian and First Nations flags before discussing plans, answering questions and sharing insights from his own journey into politics. His message was simple: if you don't ask the question, the answer will be no.

When asked about his proudest achievement, he spoke about the importance of giving back to the community and making a positive difference for others.

Thank you for encouraging our students to take the first step towards their goals.

Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances among young people, making it an important topic for families to address early and often. From the primary years onwards, children are exposed to messages about alcohol through social situations, media and online content. Starting age-appropriate conversations early can help build healthy attitudes, strengthen trust and make later discussions during adolescence easier and more effective.

As children grow older, curiosity, peer influence and increasing independence can increase the likelihood of experimentation. Research shows that strong family communication, clear expectations and positive role modelling are key protective factors in helping young people make safer and healthier choices.

This edition of SchoolTV explores the impact of alcohol on children and adolescents and offers practical strategies to help families navigate this important topic with confidence and care.

Here is the link to this topic http://stpats.qld.schooltv.me/newsletter/drinking-alcohol-au

Congratulations to all of our major and minor prize winners from this year’s St Pat’s Bikeathon! It was wonderful to celebrate the efforts and generosity of our students, with some fantastic prizes awarded for attendance on the day. Your participation and commitment truly made the event a success. Our major prize winner of the new $1000 bike was William along with minor prize winners of gift vouchers for Jax, Kobi and Rhys.

We extend our sincere thanks to our major sponsor, Corry Cycles, for their ongoing generosity and continued support of our Bikeathon each year. Their contribution plays a significant role in making this event so special for our students.

A heartfelt thank you must also go to all of our students who attended and contributed through donations. Your enthusiasm, energy and willingness to give back to the community is something we are very proud of.

Finally, we are incredibly grateful to our parents and staff who volunteered their time to supervise, support and ensure the smooth running of the day. Your presence and commitment helped create a safe, enjoyable and community-focused event for everyone involved.

The Bikeathon which began in 1970 continues to be a highlight of our school calendar – a true reflection of the strong spirit and generosity within our St Patrick’s community.

More than 1,000 primary students experienced the energy and talent of St Patrick's College during this year's Cultural Tour, with eight performances delivered across three days to local Catholic primary schools.

Featuring the College's Dance Troupe, Choir, Drum Corps, Stage Band and Concrete Band, the high-energy showcase highlighted the many co-curricular opportunities available to students while captivating audiences with music, dance and performance.

Feedback from primary students included praise for both the performances and the opportunities on offer.

One student said, "All of the performances were really good, I really liked the band and the drumming at the end," while another shared, "I liked the dance.”

Other students commented that "everyone gets to do something they like" and that there are "lots of different opportunities" available at the College.

The enthusiastic response from audiences made months of preparation worthwhile.

Congratulations to all students involved for their dedication and thank you to the parents and staff for their support in making the Cultural Tour such a success.

Sometimes I simply feel exhausted .......

No, tiredness is not an emotion. You do FEEL tired, but it’s important to separate tiredness from emotion. Tiredness is an amplifier of emotion. When you are exhausted you have less energy to inhibit or manage the intensity of your emotions. The more tired you are, the more likely you are to bounce between more extreme emotions. Sleep is a really, really good thing when it comes to managing your emotions. But it is not an emotion.

Check out the Secrets for Sleep suggestions in the Switch4Schools App - https://app-au.switch4schools.com.au/activities/secrets-for-sleep

Sleep is one of the most important foundations for a young person's wellbeing. During adolescence, the brain and body are developing rapidly, making quality sleep essential for learning, emotional regulation, physical health, and mental wellbeing.

Most teenagers need between 8–10 hours of sleep each night, yet many are getting much less. School demands, extracurricular activities, social commitments, and screen use can all make it difficult for teens to get the rest they need.

Some simple strategies can help establish healthy sleep habits:

● Maintain a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, even on weekends.
● Create a calming bedtime routine, such as reading, stretching, or listening to relaxing music.
● Limit screen use for at least an hour before bed, as the blue light from devices can interfere with the body's natural sleep signals.
● Keep bedrooms cool, dark, and quiet where possible.
● Encourage regular physical activity during the day.
● Avoid caffeine-containing drinks, particularly in the afternoon and evening.

When teenagers get enough sleep, they are more likely to concentrate in class, manage stress effectively, regulate their emotions, and maintain positive relationships. Prioritising healthy sleep habits is a simple but powerful way to support young people's overall wellbeing and success at school. If your child is regularly struggling with sleep, consider speaking with your GP or a health professional for additional support.

On the Monday 1 June, the St Patrick’s College Chess team competed in the Term 2 Gardiner Chess Competition. With over 45 students involved, we were incredibly impressed by the high level of participation and warmly welcomed several new members to our team.

Once again, both premier teams performed extraordinarily well. Our first team claimed 1st place in the Premier Division by a margin of 1.5 points over the runners-up. Congratulations to Wenlock, Pascoe, Woodley, and Elijah on another fantastic team victory! Individually, Robin and Pascoe each scored 5 points, proving reliable as always while facing tough competition on the top tables.

It was also fantastic to see our largest-ever participation of girls, alongside great growth within our Year 11 cohort. Hannah, Lara, Maddy, and Madalyn led the charge for the girls, winning the majority of their games in their debut competition - no mean feat against plenty of seasoned campaigners!

In Division A, Reshayn, Cassian, Taj, Jacob, Matthew, Kooper, and Jayden were all within striking distance of a medal and should be incredibly proud of their efforts. Additionally, in Division B, Max, Levi, Darcy, and Hannah finished just one win shy of 2nd place.

I want to commend the exemplary behaviour of all our students, and extend a massive thank you to Mrs Beardmore, Mr DeThomasis, and Mr Larkin for their support throughout the day. We now eagerly await the Term 3 State Finals Qualification competition!

Anyone entering or working on a Queensland construction site must hold a White Card. This legal requirement also applies to students undertaking work experience or a school-based apprenticeship.

General Construction Induction
This training will give you a basic knowledge of:

● Work health and safety laws
● Common site hazards
● How to control the associated risks

The unit you need to complete is CPCCWHS1001: Prepare to work safely in the construction industry.

Once you have successfully completed this unit, your Registered Training Organisation (RTO) will issue your general construction induction training card (White Card). You must keep this card with you whenever you are on site.

Make sure to keep a note of your RTO's details and a copy of your card in your records. You will need this information if you ever require a replacement card.

QTAD
Address: 839 Bucasia Road, Bucasia QLD 4740
Phone: (07) 4954 6038
Days: Call to enquire dates that are available
Cost : $50

Bluedog Training: bluedogtraining.com.au/en-au/white-card-queensland
Days: Video Conference times available
Cost: $89 for students

St Patricks College are invited members of The Gateway to Industry Schools program (GISP) which builds partnerships between schools and industry to enable young people to acquire the knowledge, skills and attributes to participate effectively in the Queensland economy. 

The program provides opportunities for industry and the education sector to work together to deliver outcomes for students, local communities and businesses. Students are provided with a range of practical learning opportunities to assist them in their career choices and pathways to employment.

● Advanced Manufacturing / Mackay Manufacturing Hub - https://www.nrmmrrd.qld.gov.au/manufacturing
● Tourism and Hospitality - Gateway to Industry Schools - Tourism and Hospitality - Queensland Tourism Industry Council
● Aerospace/ Austrian Aviation - https://aerospacegatewayschools.com.au/
● QMEA - Minerals and Energy - https://qmea.org.au/about-us/our-schools/
● Health – https://gateway2health.com.au/about-gateway/current-gateway-schools/

2027- Year 11 Blended/Certificate Pathway students

Things you may need to know!

St Patrick’s College offers Certificate Courses as part of a blended learning pathway, supporting students with a comprehensive curriculum and dedicated staff. Successful completion of these certificates may contribute to a Selection Ranking for certain university applications. Students should ensure they meet any specific prerequisites required by their chosen university courses.

VETiS Funding and Fee Structure
The All-Inclusive Education Fee covers one (1) Certificate I or Certificate II course, supported by the VETiS 2026 Government subsidy (listed under VETiS 2026 Provisional List).

All Certificate III courses and any second or non-VETiS Certificate I/II courses must be paid for as a Specific Purpose Charge – Fee for Service (FFS).

• USI number is required for enrolment/school authorisation i.e.
Create your USI - Unique Student Identifier

• ID is required for enrolment i.e.: birth certificate/ Medicare card.

• Certificates are competency based not graded.

• Completion of the certificate course is not guaranteed and is contingent upon the student maintaining the required level of commitment, attendance, and demonstrable effort in all in-person and online components.

• Subject changes may affect VETiS funding. Some RTOs will charge a change of funding administration fee.

• Subject changes/withdrawals after 30 June 2026 are non-refundable.

• All Certificate III courses will be charged as Fee for Services certificates.

• You may study more than one certificate; however, you will be charged accordingly.

• Only one Certificate II course may be funded (listed under VETiS 2026 Provisional List).

• If studying two Certificate II courses, you may claim the most expensive Certificate II course under VETiS funding.

• Not all Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) are an approved for VETiS funding.

• Students / individuals cannot be enrolled into two funded qualifications at the same time (SAT) i.e.: when moving into a School Based Apprenticeship/Traineeship, you may need to pay for any previous VETIS funded course you continue to study while signed up as a school-based apprentice/trainee.

• Certificate II Courses must be completed before enrolling in Certificate III courses.

• Students primarily study Certificate II in Year 11 and Certificate III in Year 12.

• Refund policy: St Patrick’s College will forward onto parents any relevant refund given from the RTO, on the condition that students have met all financial obligations.

Proposed Certificate offerings for 2027:

👉 Certificate II in Construction Pathways
👉 Certificate II in Engineering Pathways
👉 Certificate II in Hospitality
👉 Certificate II in Sport and Recreation/Certificate III in Fitness
👉 Certificate II in Health Support Services/Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
👉 Certificate II in Sampling and Measuring/Certificate III in Laboratory Skills
👉 Certificate II in Tourism/Certificate III in Business

At the College, we look forward to supporting students in pursuing meaningful learning pathways that prepare them for future study, training, and employment. Should you have any questions about VETiS funding, course selection, or fees, please contact the College Office.

Disclaimer: Please note that while we strive to support all students in their chosen blended learning pathway, completion of the training certificate cannot be guaranteed. Enrolment and offerings in vocational qualifications and accredited courses depends on class sizes and the evolving guidelines set by the Department of Training and Employment (DTET). St Patrick’s College will confirm VETiS (2026 policy) enrolments and certificate offerings after finalising delivery arrangements and fees with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), in accordance with DTET regulations.

work-experience-placements-for-school-students-procedure.pdf

If your child would like to undertake work experience over the upcoming holidays, please submit their application by Monday 15 June 2026. If your child has already applied but has not yet returned their signed Agreement and Risk Assessment form (required for insurance coverage), please return it as soon as possible. The final deadline for all paperwork is Wednesday 17 June 2026.

2026 Year 10 Career Students- Semester Two
Students who have chosen Career as a subject in Year 10 will complete one week of compulsory work experience.

Semester Two Careers classes: Term 3, Week 7 (24–28 August 2026)
You are encouraged to arrange placements with our local community over these School Holidays.

Pre-Arranged placement Information that is required:

▶ Work Experience Provider
▶ Confirmation of the dates
▶ Contact person
▶ Contact position
▶ Contact Phone number
▶ Business address
▶ Email address
▶ Occupation

Excluded activities: 2026-27 Certificate of currency - liability insurance

Please note that our Careers Department have a new email address:

324VET@rok.catholic.edu.au

Our students continue to achieve outstanding success on the national stage.

Audrey B has qualified for the Australian Swimming Trials after achieving a qualifying time in the 50m breaststroke at the Queensland Country Championships. She will compete in Sydney for the chance to represent Australia internationally.

Stevie S and Charlee A, as members of their Mackay Gymnastics Level 7 Acrobatic Trio, placed 3rd at the Queensland State Team Trials and have been selected for the Queensland Team to compete at the 2026 Gymnastics Nationals in Sydney. Stevie also received a Queensland Recognition Award for her contributions as an athlete, coach and judge, and for her outstanding sportsmanship.

Our Queensland State Basketball players Indy J, Ellie M, Mercy O, Pyiper R, Sammy S, Hayden B and Jimmy T are currently preparing for the National Championships in July, where they will represent Queensland against the nation's best.

Congratulations to all of our students who continue to represent their school, clubs, state and country with pride.

Each Thursday lunchtime, a passionate group of students gather and work on mini cross stitch projects at Mercy Campus. It is impressive to see how quickly new skills are mastered. Fine motor skills develop as patterns turn into stitched images.

Cross stitching is just maths, patience and mild thread-related rage. 

All welcome.

🌟 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐈𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐖! 🌟