By Mr Stuart Ralph, Principal

This week has seen much happening in our College community; today, we commissioned our Student Representative Council, our Core Class Captains in Years 7 -9 and our Year 10 Sports Leaders. This evening, our Parent Information session for The Rite Journey (Year 9) will be held in the Genesis Centre from 6.00 - 6.30 pm, and our Welcome BBQ for new families to the College will be held in the MacKillop Courtyard this evening.

I look forward to welcoming our new community members and for them to meet their child's House Head, Homeroom teacher, and other staff members.

Students were reminded during today's Commissioning Ceremony that leadership occurs through action. Father Sunil asked the students to develop a plan of action for how they lead. This plan may manifest through generosity, empathy, positive or caring behaviour, or simply displaying concern and understanding for others. Our students were also reminded that their peers chose them, an endorsement of the qualities they possess, to serve our College community and their greater community for years to come.

JJAMM Conference

Last week, our College Captains, Lachlan Nield and Lucah Conkie, travelled to Sydney to participate in JJAMM. JJAMM stands for Julian, Joseph and Mary MacKillop. The annual conference brings together student leaders from over 25 Josephite schools around Australia. Students had the opportunity to deepen their faith and work together to develop their leadership skills. During the conference, they strengthened their commitment to leadership in their school community and made plans to inspire others to make a positive difference.

We look forward to Lachlan and Lucah sharing their experience in the coming weeks.

I thank Mr Daman Peters, our SRC Coordinator, who accompanied Lachlan and Lucah on this trip.

Year 7 Camp

Our Year 7 students will head to camp next week. Griffin and Dillon Houses will depart for their overnight camp on Monday; MacKillop and Lyons Houses will depart for theirs on Tuesday. Students will also participate in their reflection days next week.

Swimming Carnival (Friday 28 February)

We look forward to coming together for our College Swimming Carnival next Friday 28 February. I remind families that this is a compulsory school day and an essential part of our House system.

George Street Drop-Off Reminder

I ask that families not use George Street for drop-off in the morning or afternoon while the redevelopments are underway. The George Street access is now being used as a site compound, and student access has been blocked.

Rowing

We also wish our rowers every success at the All-Schools Rowing Championships at Lake Barrington this weekend!

Yours sincerely,

Mr Stuart Ralph
Principal

"Out of suffering comes the serious mind; out of salvation, the grateful heart; out of endurance, fortitude; out of deliverance faith. Patient endurance attends to all things." 
– Saint Teresa of Avila (1515-1582)

Teresa of Ávila was a Spanish Catholic saint and reformer who dedicated her life to prayer, contemplation, and deepening her relationship with God, even when faced with obstacles. Her spiritual writings continue to inspire, and her legacy of strength and resilience remains a powerful example in Catholic thought and practice.

Traffic Management

Parents/Carers are encouraged to move around to the western side of the pickup/drop off point when dropping off or collecting students. This allows other vehicles to also access the drop off zone and reduces back up and congestion on James St.

Western Side of pickup/drop off area

It is critically important that everyone using the drop off zone obey all speed limits and drive carefully and safely at all times.

Staff will be on duty to ensure that traffic flows smoothly and we appreciate everyone's cooperation with following their instructions.

Thank you for your considerate and safe use of our College roads.

As part of Year 10, students at St Brendan-Shaw College were enrolled in a Cert I, Basic Financial Literacy course. 

On Wednesday, 19 February, Year 11 Students were advised by email if they did not complete the course in 2024. Students were also advised to continue working on completing the course during their study line this term. The deadline for Year 11 completion is Thursday 20 March. 

Students who need support are to see Mrs Healey during their Study Periods.

Devonport Council have announced that consent forms for school immunisations will now be collected electronically rather than through paper forms. This change aims to streamline the process, making it more efficient and accessible for parents and guardians.

A link to the electronic consent form will be provided in due course, along with further instructions on how parents can complete the process. Due to the above changes the dates when immunisation usually occur has changed also.

The following school immunisation programs will be taking place at St Brendan-Shaw College:

Thursday 19 June 2025
Grade 10
- Meningococcal ACWY

Thursday 14 August 2025
Grade 7 
- Human Papillomavirus
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Whooping Cough (Pertussis) dTpa

Last Friday, we had the pleasure of welcoming back some of our talented alumni for our Dux Ceremony, which honoured the achievements of St Brendan-Shaw’s 2024 students. During the ceremony, we recognised the hard work and dedication of the students who received academic achievement awards. Their commitment to excellence in their studies has set a high standard, and we are immensely proud of their accomplishments. Well done to each and every recipient for your outstanding efforts.

And a particularly heartfelt congratulations goes out to our 2024 Dux, Jet Spicer. Jet delivered an inspiring speech that resonated deeply with those in attendance, encapsulating the spirit of our College. His words not only highlighted his own journey but also served as a motivating reminder of the importance of perseverance, hard work and the pursuit of knowledge. We are excited to see where Jet's talents will take him as he heads off to study medicine at Macquarie University.

Our Breakfast Club is back up and running for 2025! This wonderful student-led initiative focuses on serving others and having fun. Breakfast plays a crucial role in a student's day, nourishing both their bodies and minds for a productive day of learning. Breakfast Club provides a welcoming space where students can gather, enjoy a meal and start their day on a positive note.

The club meets every Tuesday and Thursday from 8:15 to 8:40 AM before homeroom and is completely free for all students.

This year, we are excited to introduce a new subject for our Year 10 students: VET Introduction to Baking and Cookery.The class provides a pathway to Certificate II in Cookery, focussing on the food preparation and cookery skills required for a career in a commercial kitchen. Students will gain hands-on experience in preparing and cooking a range of simple dishes, packaging food items, and understanding safe food handling practices, along with coffee-making techniques.

Yesterday, the students kicked off the year by preparing Cheesy Onion and Bacon Rolls. Throughout this activity, they developed their food-safe handling and time management skills. They even used herbs from the College garden! The final results received positive reviews all round.

Watch out for a coffee club in the future!

Registrations for the Junior and Senior Divisions of the Rostrum Voice of Youth Secondary Schools’ Public Speaking Competition are now open. This is one of Australia's leading public speaking competitions for secondary students. It offers students the opportunity to improve their public speaking skills in a high-quality environment. The North West Regional Final will be held at 6.30 PM on Thursday April 10 at Marist Regional College, Burnie.

A maximum of six students in each section may participate from the College.
Junior section: Years 7, 8 & 9 as of 1 January 2025
Senior section: Years 10,11 & 12 as of 1 January 2025

Please contact Mrs Zoe French for further information and registration: zfrench@sbsc.tas.edu.au. Expressions of interest close Friday 28 April.

By Mrs Kylie Reid, Librarian

The Gavin O’Dea Library stands as a tribute to a man whose leadership and service shaped our community. Born in Devonport in 1906, Gavin O’Dea dedicated his life to industry, sport, and education, leaving a profound legacy. From revitalizing Tasmania’s mining industry to uniting the North West Football Union, his contributions were far-reaching. A champion for Catholic education, he played a key role in establishing several of our local schools, ensuring opportunities for future generations.

Gavin O'Dea supported the Christian Brothers establishment of St Brendan's and was the first chairman of its School Board. He also supported the push for co-education and was influential in ensuring that the girls' school (Shaw College) was built adjacent to St Brendan's. Gavin was the inaugural Chairman of Shaw College's Board of Management. In tribute to his work for both schools, when they became one, the library at St Brendan-Shaw College was named after him.
Gavin’s commitment to community, faith, and progress continues to inspire all who walk through our library doors. You can read more about the incredible life and achievements of Gavin O'Dea in our Library Guide.

By Mrs Whitney Banfield, Teacher and Careers Advisor

University Clinical Aptitude Test

Year 12 students interested in pursuing medicine and dentistry need to sit the UCAT in July/August 2025. MedEntry is the trusted provider of UCAT preparation. For more information, please visit www.medentry.edu.au or see Mrs Banfield.

Work Experience Info Session

There will be a work experience information session on Tuesday 25th of February at recess in the library with Mrs Banfield. Students from year 10 - 12 are invited to attend and find out more information regarding the work experience opportunities for the term 1 school holidays. Forms are due to be completed and returned by Monday 24th of March.

The Rural Clinical School Tasmania invites Year 10, 11 and 12 students, parent(s)/guardian(s), teachers and interested members of the community to their annual Health Careers Information Evening, 2025.

Venue: paranaple Convention Centre, 137 Rooke Street, Devonport
Date: Wednesday 5th March 2025
Time: 6pm – 7.30pm
RSVP: by Sunday, 2nd March, using this link: https://events.humanitix.com/year10-12healthcareersdevonport2025

The evening will consist of short 5-minute presentations from a range of University of Tasmania health subject areas, followed by opportunity for one-on-one conversations about careers and study pathways with staff, students, graduates, and local healthcare workers.

Staff from the University of Tasmania Future Students Team and the Riawunna Centre for Aboriginal Education will also be available to speak to about students’ goals and future study plans.

A Health Careers Information Evening for students based in the Burnie and surrounding areas will be held on Thursday 6th March, at the University of Tasmania, Cradle Coast campus, Burnie. A link to register for the Burnie-based event is accessible via the Eventbrite page above if Burnie is more convenient for any students.

A huge congratulations to St Brendan-Shaw student Lucy Aherne for being chosen for the U19 Australian Gems basketball squad! Lucy will participate in a training camp at the Basketball Australia Centre of Excellence from 31 March to 3 April, after which the final team will be determined.

This is an incredible achievement and a testament to her hard work, dedication, and talent. We are all so proud of Lucy and can't wait to see her shine on the court. Best of luck at the training camp, Lucy – your community is cheering you on every step of the way!

Devonport Basketball is running a winter high school roster commencing on Wednesday 19 March. Ideally, we would like to run separate boys and girls 7/8 and 9/10 rosters in school teams however this will depend on numbers. Any student wanting to participate in the Winter roster is asked to register via the link below.

Registrations are now open and will close on Wednesday 26th February. (NO LATE REGISTRATIONS WILL BE ACCEPTED)

Link to register as follows: https://www.playhq.com/basketball-tasmania/register/2243a8

Should you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact the DBC Office on 64242440.

Gymnastics

Term 1 gymnastics classes are now open for booking at Devonport Gymnastics.

Class options include:
Recreational Gymnastics (Boys & Girls): Perfect for all skill levels, focusing on skill development through a Club Levels program, and fitness.
Teenage Boys Gymnastics: Designed to build strength and confidence in young boys.
Teenage Girls Gymnastics: Ideal for recreational gymnastics, and for older girls wishing to commence gymnastics to maintain fitness and strength.
Trampoline: Bounce into action with exhilarating trampoline classes.
Tumbling: Improve your acrobatic skills in a supportive environment.
Competitive Gymnastics: classes are by selection only.

Open Gym Days – Every Tuesday 10.45am-12.30pm, and Every Saturday 11.00am-12.30pm

Various classes are available, across all age groups. View the timetable online to find a class that suits you at https://portal.iclasspro.com/devonportgymnastics/booking.

Trial classes are available, don't miss out on the chance for your child to learn new skills, make friends, and have a blast this term!

Trampolining & Tumbling

Devonport Gymnastics is looking to expand our competitive and recreational teams in Trampolining & Tumbling for 2025

If you love to jump and would like to be assessed to join our Competitive or recreational Tramp and Tumbling program, Devonport Gymnastics Club are holding tryouts which will be a 45 minute session:
Saturday 22nd Feb
Trampoline: 9.00am
Tumbling 10.00am
Cost per session is $10

Come along and give it a go! Bookings are essential, and can be made online here: https://portal.iclasspro.com/devonportgymnastics/booking

Registrations are open for the UN Youth Tasmania's flagship annual event, State Conference. Students from Years 9 to 12 are invited to apply.

What is State Conference?

From the 13th to 15th of April 2025, State Conference will bring together some of Tasmania’s most exceptional students to learn about a diverse array of international and local issues. Students will have the opportunity to learn about a nationally coordinated theme and take part in activities such as model UN debates, this year being hosted at Tasmanian Parliament, content-focused workshops, speakers panels and crisis simulations. It requires delegates to engage with a wide variety of topics which reflect challenges facing the international community, including security, human rights and diplomacy.

What are the benefits of State Conference?

State Conference allows students to engage in meaningful discussions on topics that are often only briefly touched on in school curriculums, with this year’s theme being ‘Politics and the Economy’. The conference allows students both to learn from experts and academia, and to develop their own opinions through peer learning. Each year State Conference builds a groups of young leaders who go on to promote a respect for and understanding of the principles of international law, the work of the United Nations, and the importance of human rights within their communities. The event also creates memories and connections that students will cherish for their whole lives.

How do I register?

Students simply need to fill out this form!

State Conference is a great opportunity for students. Visit the website for more information. 

Thanks to Healthy Tasmania Fund, Devonport City Council are bringing Karen Young back to Devonport. When she visited in 2023 the events sold out, and feedback indicated that the attendees wanted her back, and they wanted a Q&A session.

Who is Karen Young?
Karen is a psychologist, author, and speaker, recognised as a leading expert on child and adolescent anxiety. She founded Hey Sigmund, a globally popular online resource that shares research-based insights on mental wellness, and her bestselling books help children understand and manage anxiety.

Events:
Growing Courage, Confidence & Connection
Behaviour, Big Feelings & Self-Regulation: and insightful and practical talk on helping children and teens navigate big emotions and challenging behaviour.
When: Monday 19 May
Time: 7pm
Where: paranaple convention centre
Tickets: $25 per person Humanitix: Growing Courage, Confidence & Connection with Karen Young
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/1626584607972188/

Q&A with Karen Young
When: Tuesday 20 May
Time: 10.30am
Where: Aberdeen Room, Level 2 paranaple centre
Tickets: $25 per person Humanitix: Q&A with Karen Young
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/events/598292289700370/

This year, the Lions Youth of the Year regional final will be held on Sunday, 16 March, in Ulverstone.

More information can be found on the Lions website.

The Ulverstone Judo Club is a not-for-profit sports club providing programs for juniors and seniors. Their dedicated training facility is located at the Ulverstone Recreation Centre and has training conducted by nationally accredited coaches. 

The City of Devonport Brass Band is on the lookout for new members to join their Development Band. The Band offers brass musical tutoring and the use of an instrument. No need to have ever picked up a brass instrument before.

The Tasmanian Tennis Academy at the Devonport Tennis Club have spaces left in their tennis lessons for Term 1. Registrations close when a class is full.