Term 2 - Week 7 - 14 June 2024

Dear Parents and Carers, Staff and Students,

A highlight of the last fortnight was our McAuley Fest. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the staff and students whose hard work made McAuley Fest an outstanding evening. Their dedication and talent were truly showcased, making this event a highlight of our academic year. A special thank you goes to our community whose support ensured the success of this special occasion. It's heartening to announce that all proceeds from McAuley Fest will be donated to St Vincent de Paul to assist those less fortunate in our community.

Community of Practice Growth Tour to Melbourne 

Regrettably, I was unable to be present at McAuley Fest as I was attending a study tour in Melbourne alongside principals from the Lismore Diocese. This tour was an invaluable opportunity to visit several regional schools within the Archdiocese of Melbourne and engage with leaders from the MACS Office (Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools). Our focus was on understanding their governance journey, which is particularly relevant as we are three years into our own governance change. Visits to Aquinas College, Nazareth College, and Marymede College (P-12) highlighted common themes of relationships, high expectations, consistency, school improvement, and the vital link between learning and wellbeing. It was reaffirming to see that our efforts in these areas, as well as uniform, cleanliness and appearance of our environment, facilities, and staff support, align well with best practices across Melbourne schools and our diocese.

Additionally, we explored significant sites associated with Saint Mary MacKillop, guided by Sr Rita of the Josephite Sisters. Our visit to Mary MacKillop's birthplace and the Mary MacKillop Heritage Centre deepened our understanding of this remarkable Australian woman and the enduring spirit of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Sacred Heart. The Mary MacKillop Centre describes itself as “a place of inspiration and vitality, manifesting and promoting the spirit and charism of Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop and the Sisters of Saint Joseph"

Impact of Technology

The impact of technology, particularly smartphones, continues to be a topic of discussion and a common news item. While doing some research recently, I came across this YouTube clip (below) featuring Simon Sinek, an author and inspirational speaker.  Simon’s insights on the addictive nature of phones and their effect on interpersonal relationships are compelling. I encourage you to reflect on Simon’s message and consider how we can make thoughtful adjustments in our daily lives to foster deeper connections. 

Regarding our College’s mobile phone policy, please refer to the policy included in this newsletter for guidance on responsible phone use by students.

I look forward to sharing more insights from my Melbourne tour next week and discussing how they relate to our ongoing efforts here at McAuley Catholic College at our Parent Forum Evening on Tuesday 25th June 2024 at 6pm in the College Library. We will also present data from NAPLAN and the annual School Survey - Tell Them From Me and provide an opportunity for discussion on the College Uniform 6 months into its introduction.

Kind regards,

Kate

Kate Thomson
Principal

“We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”

Catherine McAuley

Rocky Shores Depth Study

On Monday 3rd June, our Year 11 Biology students went on an exciting field trip to Woolgoolga to study the unique rocky platforms of Solitary Islands. This hands-on experience was part of the Biology syllabus and to provide students with real-world applications of their learning.

The excursion was expertly led by Stephan Soule from Southern Cross University (SCU), whose invaluable expertise greatly enriched the students' understanding of marine biology. With his guidance, students explored the intricate ecosystems that thrive on rocky platforms, examining a variety of marine organisms and their interactions within this habitat. Throughout the day, students engaged in activities such as species identification, data collection, and ecological surveying. Stephan Soule’s in-depth knowledge and enthusiasm for marine biology inspired our students, offering them a glimpse into the work of professional biologists and the importance of preserving marine environments.

We had a great day and many thanks to Eli Fahey, Ashley Warby and Mrs Jess Stainlay for the support and help to make this day happen.

Anthea Kinny
Leader Of Learning - Science

Oceania Championship Athletics

Congratulations to our senior students, William Tait and Jazmine Chellew, for their outstanding efforts at the recent Oceania Athletics Championships in Suva, Fiji.

Both students represented The Australian Regional Team in multiple Under 18s solo track events as well as a Team Relay over the week of Monday 3rd - Friday 7th June. The event was an amazing opportunity for them both to compete at such a high level in an intense environment. Their results are listed below:

A special mention to Will, who received a silver medal in the Men's Under 18s 400m Hurdles Final with an incredible time of 55.19 seconds, just 1.63 seconds off the Championship Record (2019) and 3.18 seconds off the Oceania Record (1999).

A massive round of a plause for both William and Jasmine. They are to be commended for their determination, unwavering dilligence and showing ettiquette whilst representing both the Nation, and our College, with great respect and spirit. We are so incredibly proud of them both!

Frosty Balls Volleyball Tournament

On Friday 7th June, 6 students travelled to UNE, Armidale representing MCC in the Frosty Balls Volleyball Tournament held over two days.

It was definitely frosty in Armidale over the long weekend, but the team had trained long and hard to bring their best to the Tournament. The competition was so closely matched amongst our fierce competitors from Coffs Harbour, Ballina and Armidale (UNE), with so many draws (1 set each) that meant the qualifying rounds were determined by the points score.

McAuley secured a semi-final spot and played hard with determination and grit but sadly, couldn’t come out on top and walked away with another draw. This relied on yet another point score and unfortunately meant we just missed out on the grand final. Overall, MCC placed third in the Open Junior Division 1 competition, an excellent achievement considering we were up against sponsored teams supported by clubs, coaches and years of experience. We were also really missing a few of our players; Lilly Fisher, Nate Laurie and Will Tait.

Regardless, the boys were really proud to play for MCC and we got a lot of positive feedback. Everyone seemed very interested in the new team on the circuit as there hasn’t been a Grafton team in these tournaments for many years.Main credit goes to Isaac Bibby who has been the main driving force, coach, mentor and motivation behind the team. The boys highly respected him and followed his lead, even when he told them no devices 30mins before bed! He had very high expectations of the team and constantly reminded them they were representing the school. Isaac was also awarded an All-Stars trophy for best hitter/passer and deservedly so!

A huge thank you to everyone involved in organising the event and to the parents and staff who supported our team throughout their journey. A special thanks to Sander Van der Vlist, Tim’s father, for filling in after our team was disadvantaged and short due to unforeseen injury.

We look forward to returning to the tournament next year!

Thea-Anne McInnes
Team Mentor

From L to R: Max Carroll, Isaac Bibby, Tim Van der Vlist, Jarrah Lett, Ms McInnes, Owen Howard, Beau Thompson, Sander Van der Vlist

MCC BBQ Community Service

On Wednesday, June 12, we recommenced our well-renowned BBQ lunch community service, The BBQ Trailer, which provides free meals to our community's homeless and needy.

With the generous support of Vinnies and the school community, our students play a crucial role in this important community service. They volunteer their time, giving up their lunch (and a lesson), showing commitment and compassion.

Every Wednesday, our students are committed to this important cause on a roster basis. The hospitality facility also plays a vital role, ensuring that the meals we provide are not only nutritious but also enticing, making our service a reliable source of support for the community.

On our first day, we fed 8 people who appreciated the BBQ. We expect more from now on as word of mouth will go around the community!

"Better than Bunnings!"

Mr Tom Howard
Leader of School Evangelisation

Yamba NAIDOC Day

On Wednesday, July 24th, our Indigenous dance group had the privilege of performing at St James Primary School in Yamba as part of their NAIDOC celebrations alongside St Joseph's Maclean.

Following our performance, our students actively participated in various small group activities, assisting the primary school children. These included arts and crafts, bush tucker tasting, Yarning with elders, and outdoor games.

Our students thoroughly enjoyed the day and established meaningful connections with students from our foetus schools.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the staff at St Joseph's and St James, particularly Brendan Randall, Susan Frazer, and all the elders who graced the event with their presence and made the day truly memorable.

Special thanks also go to Sarah Nicholls for driving the bus for our students and providing invaluable assistance throughout the day.

Term 3 HEAL Information  

This term, HEAL has a range of exciting cultural activities lined up for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. These include:

• Clap stick making 
• Caring for our school Bush Tucker garden 
• Weaving sessions
• Cultural walks with Elders exploring sacred sites across the three nations of the Clarence Valley
• Arts and Crafts
• Language lessons
• Workshops featuring special guests to teach our students traditional dances 

At McAuley, we are committed to honouring the three nations that reside in the Clarence Valley. We recognise the value of connecting with local community members and organisations to enrich the learning experience for our students. 

With HEAL, we aim to teach our students outside of the traditional classroom setting and ensure that our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students have ample opportunities to connect with their culture whilst at school.

We recognise and respect the opinions and consent of our local Elders, whom we consult with before planning these cultural activities for our students. 

Suggestions from parents and carers are always welcome, as we aim to walk this journey with Mob, for Mob. Please contact Wil Bancroft or Angus Field.

Wil Bancroft

Aboriginal Education Worker

MOBILE PHONE POLICY (as of October 2023)

Rationale

Mobile phones and other related devices have become an important part of today’s world and, as such, are seen as common and necessary items which must be incorporated into and managed within the educational domain.

Policy

Students who choose to bring their mobile phone and other related or similar devices to school must adhere to the following procedures. This includes all times students are under the supervision of MCC staff (ie. excursions, camps, travelling to and from school events). The decision of the Principal on all phones, smart devices and related technology will be final. The Principal reserves the right to allow an individual student to use their device for medical monitoring or other such purposes.

Procedure

• Phones must be turned off upon arrival at school in the morning and may be switched on again after
classes at 3.10pm.
• Students are welcome to leave their phone in the office each day or place on the teacher desk / phone
tub each lesson
• If it is necessary for parents or carers to make contact during school hours this must be done in the
usual manner through the School Office.
• Students must not lend their phones to other students during school hours.
• Students can only use their phone with the permission of a teacher, for example when used for
educational purposes during a lesson, using eftpos at the canteen and office.
• After 3.10pm, while being supervised on school grounds, students may use their phone to listen to
music, check messages and make calls. However, they cannot take photos or videos.
• Students found using phones during school time without permission will incur the following consequences:

• 1st Offence:
  • The phone will be confiscated by the teacher and placed in the office.
  • The student’s name is recorded on a phone log in the office
  • Student may collect the phone at the end of the day.
  • The teacher is to record the incident on COMPASS
  • A warning is issued to the student by the teacher (and Year Coordinator)
• 2nd Offence
  • When phone is confiscated for the second time the above points 1-4 are followed
  • A second warning is issued to the student from the teacher and Year Coordinator
  • Parent is to be notified by the Year Coordinator or Pastoral Care Coordinator
• 3rd Offence in a term
  • The student’s phone is confiscated and placed in the office.
  • The student’s name is recorded on the phone log and in COMPASS
  • The phone is to be collected by the parent / carer - not the student.
  • The parent/carer and student is to attend a meeting with the Year Coordinator and or Pastoral Care Coordinator and or Assistant Principal.

At this meeting consequences and strategies will be put in place to assist the student in the management of
their phone. This may include:

• • Placement on a stage / monitoring
  • Handing the phone to the office each day for a period of time (determined in the meeting)
  • Intervention as needed

Mobile phones are valuable items and the responsibility for them rests with the owner. If a student refuses to follow these instructions it will be dealt with by the Pastoral Care Coordinator, Assistant Principal and/or Principal. No responsibility will be accepted by the College for the loss, theft or damage of a phone.

Please note:

1. The following is deemed unacceptable use of mobile phones and similar devices - (this list is not exhaustive and therefore not limited to the following):

• accessing social media (such as but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, etc) taking
  of photos and videos, text messaging, phone calls, Facetime or similar, accessing apps,
  streaming movies, listening to music etc

2. The following is an extract from the Terms and Conditions section of the College Enrolment form signed by parents/guardians:

1.3 The Parent/Guardian agrees not to engage in social media or allow children to engage in social media that disparages or brings the school or its employees into disrepute, Further the Parent/Guardian acknowledges the right of the school to suspend or terminate an enrolment in the event that social media statements are made that defame or disparage the school, employees or the Roman Church.

Can't make it to the College?
Click HERE to open the ZOOM meeting

2024 European Study Tour

During the recent school holidays, 31 Year 11 and 12 students and 5 staff toured Europe on an educational study tour. In our last three newsletters, we recapped our exploration of Germany, Austria and Italy.

This issue is sadly, our last, of this incredible journey, providing readers with a total recollection of our fantastic adventures.

Part Four: Final Recap

On behalf of everyone who attended the tour I would like to say a few thank yous.

The first thank you goes to Mrs. Thomson for saying yes and signing off on giving us the opportunity to explore and travel and for also giving us the support of the college and the time off school to attend, so, thank you very much!

I’d like to thank Mr. Montford, Mrs. Lee, Tahnee Joe and Ms. Nicholls for being there for us experiencing this with us - we’re very grateful for everything you have done. 

To the students who attended, thank you for participating everyday, enjoying the great times and working through the challenges that arose on certain occasions. It was an experience that has forever changed our lives and we will never forget how amazing it was. 

And last but not least, a massive thank you also has to go to Mr. Lobsey. Thank you so much for putting in so much time and effort for more than a year to ensure that we all had the time of our lives. We appreciate everything you’ve done for us and can definitely say that you have gone above and beyond. The trip itself was incredible and has shown us so much of the world in just a small amount of time. We are very lucky to have been able to travel to Europe as a school and the challenges and unexpected issues added to the fun and the experience of backpacking. Once again, thank you! We hope you have recovered from the tour and had a chance to unpack it for yourselves. Not only did you care for us and guide us, you showed us a great time. We hope that you enjoyed having us on this tour.

Thank you!

Eden Maitz
On Behalf of the Tour Students

June

18th: FNC All Schools Touch Football - Yr 9 & 10 Boys

         Parent Information Evening - 6pm Yr 8 into 9; 7pm Year 10 into 11

20th: MCC Athletics Carnival - Long Distance Events (During School Sport)

21st: MCC Athletics Carnival

24th: Brainstorm Production Yr 7 & 8

25th: Parent Forum Meeting

26th: Netball NSW Cup, Grafton

27th - 30th: Street Retreat

July

3rd July: Yr 10 Love Bites

4th: Last Day of Term 2

       NAIDOC Day Assembly - 10am MCC Hall

       Rachael Johnson Memorial Touch Football

5th: Staff Development Day - School Closed

As mentioned in our previous newsletters over the last few weeks, the College offers lunch orders online through the Flexischools app. Please see the attached flyer to get started.