No. 16 Term 4 - Week 4 Newsletter 2025

From the Principal

Principal’s Reflection – Sports Awards Evening 2025

Our annual Sports Awards Evening was a wonderful celebration of the incredible talent, commitment, and spirit of our students. It was an opportunity to recognise not only the outstanding sporting achievements of individuals and teams throughout the year but also the values that underpin sport at Burdekin Catholic High School - teamwork, resilience, respect, and humility.

As you read through this newsletter, you’ll see just how much our students have accomplished across a wide range of sports. From regional representation to state and national selection, from personal bests to team triumphs, every success reflects hard work and dedication both on and off the field.

However, behind every great athlete and every successful team stands a network of dedicated people who make our School Sports Program possible. I want to take a moment to acknowledge and thank them.

At the heart of this program is Mr Brent Mitchell, our School Sports Program Leader. Brent has been instrumental in developing and expanding sporting opportunities for all students. His passion for sport and commitment to nurturing young athletes have transformed our program into one that not only supports high performance but also encourages participation and enjoyment for all.

I also wish to recognise our staff, who give up countless hours before school, after school, weekends and school holidays to coach, manage, referee, and cheer on our teams. Their enthusiasm and willingness to go above and beyond ensure that our students are supported, encouraged, and proud to represent BCHS.

And finally, to our parents and community members, thank you. Your involvement, whether through transport, coaching, volunteering, or simply being there on the sidelines, makes all the difference. Your support builds the strong community spirit that is such a distinctive part of who we are.

Our Sports Awards Evening was not just a night of trophies and applause, it was a reflection of a thriving school community that believes in opportunity, effort, and excellence. Congratulations to all our award recipients, and thank you to everyone who plays a part in making sport at Burdekin Catholic High School something truly special.

Kurt Perry

A highlight of the evening was hearing from our guest speaker, Kurt Perry, a proud Burdekin Catholic High School alumnus who captivated the audience with his remarkable story. Kurt is a competitive ironman who has made his mark in events across Australia and internationally at the World Ironman event, his story is one of extraordinary grit and resilience. After facing injury challenges, Kurt’s journey has become a powerful reminder of courage, hope, and the refusal to give up.

Kurt is now a strong advocate for both mental and physical resilience. His message to our students was clear, that true strength comes not only from athletic ability, but from determination, perseverance, and belief in oneself. His words left a lasting impression on everyone present, inspiring us all to face life’s challenges with the same passion and persistence that he embodies.

Our Sports Awards Evening was not just a night of trophies and applause, it was a reflection of a thriving school community that believes in opportunity, effort, and excellence. Congratulations to all our award recipients, and thank you to everyone who plays a part in making sport at Burdekin Catholic High School something truly special.

2026 Enrolments 

We are quickly approaching 2026. If you or your connections are interested in places for children for 2026, please contact our school office now to assist us in our planning.

We look forward to welcoming our 2026 Year 7 learners to Transition Day on 26 November! 

Yours in Christ

Lorraine Wolffe
Principal

From the Assistant Principal - Pastoral

Staying Focused During Assessment Time

As this is a shorter term, we are already moving quickly into assessment season. While many factors can influence how students perform, it’s important to focus on the things within their control.

Plenty of class time is allocated for assessment, and when used effectively, this should mean minimal work is required at home. However, when class time isn’t used productively, it can negatively impact not only a student’s own results but also the learning environment for others.

A calm and orderly classroom is essential at all times, but especially during assessment periods. The tone of the classroom can make a real difference, sometimes the difference of a few grade points.

Looking After Wellbeing During Assessment

With assessment comes the potential for extra pressure to perform. During this time, it’s important for students to prioritise their wellbeing alongside their studies.

Taking regular study breaks is essential and these are most effective when they involve something active. Exercise, fresh air, or even a short walk can help reset the mind and improve focus. It’s also important to make time to socialise with friends and family and to schedule some genuine downtime.

By maintaining balance and healthy habits, students give themselves the best chance to finish the term positively, ready to enjoy a well-earned holiday.

Leighton Gallagher
Assistant Principal - Pastoral

From the Assistant Principal - Religious Education

As many of you are aware, in 1917, 3 young children had an apparitional experience where our Blessed Mother appeared to them every month between 13^th May til 13^th October of that year. Her message to the kids: pray for peace through the Rosary. Her last appearance in October coincided with the Church’s  dedication of the month to the rosary. The Rosary dates back to the desert fathers, who may have prayed this form of prayer with meaning symbolism, one of which, where each Hail Mary prayer represents a chapter of the psalms of David.

From highsight, we may instantly think that this form of prayer is about Mary – because of the Hail Mary prayer. But after deep reflection, you will find that Mary is rather the vessel that points us to her son, Jesus. The Mysteries of the Holy Rosary are all about Jesus. We meditate with the rosary about the life of Jesus. As a Marist school community, we are always reminded to follow in the “way of Mary,” which in actuality, points us to her son, Jesus. For Marist, the end goal is always Jesus – it has always been about Jesus and will always be, Jesus. However, our unique position as participants in the “way of Mary,” directly orients us to something we are already familiar with, through our experience with our very own mother or for some of us, who are mothers. We know what it is like to have a mother, to live in the experience of motherhood. You know when you’ve made a mistake when your mother looks at you a certain way or says your name a particular style. In the same way, Mary talks to us, through the traditions of the Church, in a certain way and in a particular ‘language.’ As we come to the conclusion of this month of October, we remind ourselves of our commitment to our Blessed Mother, who confidently shows us the true path to her son, Jesus. Let us take up the challenge to pray the Holy Rosary, even outside of the month of October. Pray for our seniors who are sitting their external exams. Pray for those who are finding these few days challenging. Pray for those who ask of our prayers and let us never forget – to pray for one another.

Denis Tutaka
Assistant to the Principal - Religious Education

2025 Sports Awards

Last week, we celebrated our School Sports program and held our annual Sports Awards Evening.  Below is a list of our Award Recipients.

SPORTSPEOPLE OF THE YEAR

From the Careers Department

Women who Weld Start to Spark

Bonnie Smith in Year 10 took up the opportunity to participate in the Burdekin Lear to Weld Day hosted by Home Hill TAFE.

On the day young ladies in the district learned about manufacturing and engineering industries and found out about the exciting pathways and career opportunities available. Bonnie got hands on welding experience; did a basic practical welding activity with one on-one instruction from the facilitators.  A variety of different types of welding methods were demonstrated.

Bonnie chose the Program because she wanted to know what to understand the skills and knowledge for this industry that would help her in the future. “On the day we had a very insightful visit from a female boilermaker in the industry, and she taught us that predominantly male dominated industries can be a hard place to work in and not to be afraid to speak up and tell the boys to get their act together.”

“I think that everyone should have fair and equal opportunities and your gender shouldn't stopped from doing what you're passionate about and doing it well.”

Community News

Burdekin School Sports