By Mr Stuart Ralph, Principal

On Monday, our College community celebrated Mabo Day, commemorating Eddie Koiko Mabo’s life and marking the anniversary of the historic 1992 Mabo decision. Staff and students were encouraged to wear a touch of floral, with the theme ‘Make Monday floral for Mabo.’

Eddie Mabo was a Torres Strait Islander who challenged the Crown’s claim that his family’s traditional land belonged to the Crown. The High Court’s decision in Mabo v Queensland (No 2) overturned that claim and set a precedent in Australian law for recognising Indigenous custodianship over their traditional land.

The decision also overturned the colonial concept of terra nullius, Latin for ‘nobody’s land’. At the time of the European settlement of Australia, terra nullius was used to justify the British Crown’s claim on the land – as though it was previously unoccupied territory.

The Mabo decision was a watershed moment in Australian history. In addition to overturning a long-held colonial myth, it paved the way for subsequent native title claims. The Australian Parliament passed the Native Title Act 1993 the following year.

Sadly, Eddie Mabo died several months before the decision was passed, though his legacy lives on.

Several young men and women in our St Brendan-Shaw College community identify as Torres Strait Islanders.

Mental Health Week

I congratulate our Student executive for their initiative in running a Year 7-12 focus on student wellness this week. Initiatives included students writing appreciation letters, lunchtime games, a hot chocolate stall on Wednesday, a Happy Hoodie Day, and Homegroup-led initiatives in Houses on Friday.

Sport

Congratulations to our 7/8 Boys Football team, who scored their first win of the season, defeating the top-of-the-ladder Ulverstone High. Our Senior Boys team also had a great victory, defeating Scotch Oakburn College comprehensively. They will play St Patrick’s College in the NSATIS Football Final at East Devonport Oval next Wednesday afternoon. I am incredibly pleased that our Year 11 and 12 students can again represent the College. The winner of next Wednesday’s game will progress to the state Final.

Report and Parent/Student/Teacher Evening - Wednesday 12 June

This is a reminder to parents that reports will be sent out at the end of this week, and Parent-Teacher bookings will close at 7:30 pm on Monday, 10 June. I would like to encourage families to have their children attend with them. Reports and Parent/Student/Teacher evenings are an opportunity for growth. It is through development that we move towards student success in their learning.

CSPA Communication Project

Catholic School Parents Australia has invited 46 schools across Australia, including St Brendan-Shaw College, to be involved in a research project to hear the voices of parents and school staff about how to build and maintain effective school-parent communication.

A research team will visit St Brendan-Shaw College on Friday, 14 June 2024, to conduct one-on-one interviews and focus groups (with an alternative option to interview over the phone).

If you would like to participate, please register your interest by Friday 7 June at 3:00 pm by emailing principalsea@sbsc.tas.edu.au or calling 6424 7622.

Parliamentary Shield

Congratulations to our Parliamentary Shield debating team, which competed last weekend. The students competing in the Plate Divison were Jackson Hayes, Harriet Mendham, Xander Langley, Isabella Tilt, and Isaiah Shoesmith.

Sadie-May Wilson supported the competition’s running as chairperson and timekeeper. We thank Mrs Cheryl Gamble for supervising the team.

I wish all members of our community a safe long weekend.

Yours sincerely,

Mr Stuart Ralph
Principal

Don’t wait for extraordinary opportunities. Seize common occasions and make them great.
– Orison Swett Marden

Orison Swett Marden (1848-1924) was an American author and founder of Success magazine and associated with the New Thought Movement. His extensive body of work focuses on the principles of success, personal development, and the power of positive thinking. Marden's inspirational messages encourage perseverance and resilience.

From Mr Gerry Peters, Deputy Principal: Teaching & Learning

Mid Year Academic Reports for students are now accessible via SEQTA Engage for parents/guardians who may access our Learning Management System.

Parent/Student Teacher Interviews
Parent/Student Teacher interviews are available between 3:30 pm – 8:00 pm on Wednesday 12 June 2024 in Westcourt.

Bookings can be made online using the Parent Teacher Online system until Monday 10 June at 7.30 pm.

An email was sent today regarding Mid Year Reports and PTO login details. Parents are encouraged to make their bookings early as the appointment schedule will be more convenient the earlier they go online.

It is recommended that parents book an interview with teachers as this is a wonderful way to initiate contact with them and develop a positive working relationship. Students are encouraged to attend appointments with their parents/guardians. Teachers can specifically request an interview via the Mid Year Report.

If you require assistance in making a booking or experience technical issues, please get in touch with the College on (03) 6424 7622.

By Mrs Debra Bonde, Deputy Principal: Wellbeing & Administration

As we observe Tourette Syndrome Awareness Week, it's important to take a moment to understand this condition better and to support those who live with it every day. 

Tomorrow Friday 7 June, we also recognise Tourette Syndrome Awareness Day, dedicated to increasing awareness and fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.

What is Tourette Syndrome?

Tourette Syndrome (TS) is a neurological disorder that affects movement and speech. Unlike most people who move or speak when they choose to, individuals with Tourette Syndrome experience involuntary movements and sounds known as tics. These tics can range from subtle, like rapid blinking or throat clearing, to more noticeable actions like shouting or making unexpected movements.

Why Does It Happen?

The exact cause of Tourette Syndrome is still not fully understood. Scientists believe it may be related to how the brain functions, particularly involving areas that regulate movement and speech. However, it's crucial to remember that having Tourette Syndrome doesn't make someone weird or different—it's simply a part of who they are.

Can Tourette Syndrome Be Cured?

Currently, there is no cure for Tourette Syndrome. However, there are ways to manage the condition. Doctors can help individuals with TS develop strategies to control their tics, and sometimes, medications can reduce the severity of tics. Despite the challenges, people with Tourette Syndrome can lead fulfilling lives and achieve great things.

Understanding Tics

Tics are sudden, repetitive movements or sounds that people with Tourette Syndrome make involuntarily. They can be simple, like blinking rapidly, or complex, like making specific sounds or gestures. These actions are not intentional, and the person with TS often has little control over them.

Intelligence and Tourette Syndrome

It's a common misconception that Tourette Syndrome affects intelligence. In reality, people with TS have the same range of intelligence as the general population. The presence of tics does not diminish their capabilities or potential.

How Can You Help?

Supporting someone with Tourette Syndrome can make a significant difference in their life. Here are some ways you can help:

• Be Understanding: Recognise that the tics are involuntary and be patient.
• Be Supportive: Simple gestures like a smile or a kind word can be incredibly uplifting.
• Include Them: Encourage participation in activities and ensure they feel welcome.
• Stand Against Bullying: Advocate against teasing and bullying. Speak up and report any instances of discrimination.
• Educate Others: Spread awareness to create a more inclusive environment.

These actions, though small, can help create a world where individuals with Tourette Syndrome feel accepted and valued. Let's use this week and beyond to foster understanding, compassion, and support for those living with TS.

The Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize (FMMP) aims to commemorate and preserve the meaning of the ANZAC spirit in the Tasmanian community. The competition is open to all Tasmanian Year 9 students, as well as students who are undertaking home education at the same year level.

The Prize

Six Year 9 students are selected from around Tasmania to take part in the Frank MacDonald Memorial Prize each year. As part of the Prize students:

• go on a 10-day Study Tour in April the following year (incorporating Anzac Day).
• visit the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
• attend educational meetings held once a month in the lead up to the Study Tour (November to April).

The Study Tour will travel to sites and landmarks of wartime, in Belgium and France (subject to appropriate travel clearances and public health advice). The group is led by a Tasmanian Government Tour Leader, and is accompanied by two teachers, a parliamentarian and an RSL representative. The State Government meet the cost of travel, transfers, travel insurance, accommodation, tour activities, and meals for each winner and the chaperones.

How to Enter

Students respond to one of the following research questions in either an essay or digital format.

Question 1
The Battle of Fromelles was a ‘spectacular defeat’. Why is it considered one of the most significant moments in Australia’s military history?

Question 2
Approximately 3000 Australian women served as nurses during WW1. What is the significance of their service?

Entry Formats:
Essay Maximum 1,500 words (not including references or quotes)
Digital, Video or Audio Presentation 10-minute maximum running time. Must be submitted on a USB or as a link to an online file. Entries other than essay format must be accompanied by a written statement of up to 500 words.

School students must submit their entry to their school. Only three entries can be sent in from each school. If more than three entries are submitted, then the school will need to conduct its own selection process.

Check out the attached Student Information & Cover Sheet for more information about the Prize and how to enter by clicking the link below.

2025 Student Information Sheet: https://sbsc.me/3VaUlc3

Entries close at 5.00pm on Friday 9 August 2024.

Link click doesn't work? Please copy and paste the link, or type it into your website browser's URL bar.

Congratulations to Jasmine Walker on her selection into the Australian U18 Tenpin Bowling side, which will travel to Malaysia to compete at the 23rd Asian Junior Championships.

To be selected for the team, she competed in multiple national events across Australia to help gain her spot on this year's Australian U18 team, including the Australian National Training Squad Trials, where she placed 4th, Australian U18 Open Masters (4th), Sydney U18 Cup (3rd), Sydney U21 Cup (3rd), Tasmanian State U18 Championships (1st), and Tasmanian Adult State Championships (3rd). 

All these events contributed to her being selected to represent Australia at the 23rd Asian Junior Championships. 

Well done, Jasmine! We are cheering you on!

Exciting news for the Devonport Strikers, who are heading to the National Youth Championships in July. 

All the best to our students Lewis Robertson, Tyson Crawford and EJ Sullivan — congratulations on your selection!

Read more about this story in The Advocate.

Bevis J (2024) Strikers’ young guns set to showcase soccer talent on national stage, The Advocate, https://www.theadvocate.com.au..., accessed 5 June 2024.

Recently, Year 10 students at St Brendan-Shaw College reflected on the question, ”Who is my neighbour?” as a part of their reflection day on Social Justice.

Using Pope Francis’ letter, Fratelli Tutti, and the parable of the Good Samaritan as a guide, students explored Catholic Social Teachings and the plight of those most in need in our world, focusing on refugees and modern slavery.

By Mrs Crista Christie, Teacher

Year 10 HyperScience, Year 10 Agriculture and VET Animal Studies were fortunate to welcome some snuggly, soft shepherd friends. The 9-week-old little guys and girls are the perfect age to assess their health and strength for their forever homes. VET students enjoyed the practical opportunity to give the pups a mock veterinary checkup.

The East German Shepherd Working Line was selectively bred by Captain Max von Stephanitz for traits of intelligence, loyalty, dedication, and tenacity needed for military and police applications. In World War 1, the dogs debuted as sentries, messengers, and ammunition carriers. Still, their use and skill sets have spread across the globe and to other sectors, such as farming, border security, and service or support dogs, to name a few. They are a versatile, intelligent breed that can be more than man’s best friend: his left hand, his protector, his detector… even his eyes.

German Shepherds, Doberman Pinschets, Belgian Sheep Dogs, Siberian Huskies, Border Collies, Eskimo Dogs, Malamutes, Belgian Malinois and Labradors are also recognised service and/or working dogs, however, the German Shepherd is the only breed the US military continues to train and employ. Over 4000 dogs served in Vietnam War, alone. In Australia today, it is estimated up to half a million dogs work as stock herders, detectors, sniffers, police dogs, search and rescuers, emotional support pets, and service dogs for the vision impaired.

Thankfully, regard for working dogs has evolved, and they are no longer considered equipment as they were in the past. Working Dogs now receive acknowledgement for years of service, retirement and an honourable funeral when they pass.

We honour Working Animals as comrades.

We would like to thank Tim Christie for sharing the breed's history and allowing students to practice handling skills on his gorgeous puppies. They can come back anytime!

Applications for work experience are open for the mid-year Term Break for Years 10-12. Generally, students pick either Week 1 or Week 2 of their holidays to complete their work experience. 

If your child is interested and has yet to retrieve a form from Mrs Banfield, please have them do so before Friday, 30 May. Forms are due back and completed by all parties by Friday, 14 June. Late forms will not be accepted. 

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs Banfield by email at wbanfield@sbsc.tas.edu.au

Applications for work experience are open for the mid-year Term Break for Years 10-12. Generally, students pick either Week 1 or Week 2 of their holidays to complete their work experience. 

If your child is interested and has yet to retrieve a form from Mrs Banfield, please have them do so before Friday, 30 May. Forms are due back and completed by all parties by Friday, 14 June. Late forms will not be accepted. 

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs Banfield by email at wbanfield@sbsc.tas.edu.au

View the ad online via their website at: https://www.veronadevonport.co...

We are seeking to employ a person who is looking for a long term career in hospitality whilst undertaking a Certificate III traineeship.

As a member of our team, you'll be an essential part of crafting experiences that make our guests feel truly at home. Your genuine warmth and attention to detail will transform dining into an intimate journey, where every guest is welcomed as a friend and leaves with cherished memories. All under the watchful eye of our amazing Dorothy Olivieri.

This is a full time position and has been created through the promotion of our last trainee to a supervisory role. Verona is open from Tuesday to Saturday and this role will include afternoon & evening work.

While there are no qualifications for this position, these are some desirable attributes:

• A passion for delivering exceptional customer service.
• Able to take direction and learn while completing a Certificate III in hospitality.
• Enthusiastic and approachable, with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multitask and remain composed during busy periods.
• Strong attention to detail and a proactive attitude.
• Flexibility to adapt to various tasks and roles within the restaurant.

To apply, contact management with your CV at admin@veronadevonport.com.au.

Tas Coastal Concreting is North West Tasmania’s leading concrete finishing company. We are a family run business operating out of Port Sorell for almost 20 years employing locals whilst providing our valued clients and customers with quality solutions to all their concreting needs from start to finish. At TCC we pride ourselves on our workmanship and with our years of experience and knowledge we ensure a professional outcome on your next concrete project.

Due to high demand and ongoing expansion with our valued clients, we have exciting opportunities for multiple concrete apprentices to join our team.

To be considered for employment, you must meet the following criteria:

• Possess a current driver's license and White Card
• Must be physically fit
• Must be reliable and punctual
• Be willing to go above and beyond to get the job done
• Have great attention to detail
• Ability to stay focused on the job from start to finish
• Learn the TCC way

If this sounds like you, please email your resume to Simon at simeh@bigpond.net.au or call Simon on 0437 286 950 for a confidential chat.

Only successful candidates will be contacted.