Newsletter - Term 3 - Week 6 - Issue 147

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Friends of St Joseph’s College,

This week, I attended the National Catholic Education Conference in Cairns with 32 principal colleagues and senior leaders from the Toowoomba Catholic Schools Office. The opening address delivered by Sister Nathalie Becquart focussed on the concept of Synodality. This term refers to how we walk as Christians with Christ towards God’s Kingdom in unity with all humanity. Synodality is a path of spiritual renewal and structural reform that enables the Church to be more participatory and missionary so that it can walk with every person, radiating the light of Christ. Catholic schools, including St Joseph’s, play an important role in the dialogue between faith and culture and in providing moral education on values. St Joseph’s students are among the 818,000 students in Australia who receive a Catholic education, which sees students who perform academically above national and OECD averages, display increased well being and engage in practices which benefit the community.

NAPLAN results identifying school, state and national progress have been announced recently. I am pleased to advise that St Joseph’s College has once again performed exceptionally well, achieving above the state and national means in all dimensions for our Year 7 and 9 students. The results are an endorsement of the continuing work and dedication of our staff and students towards a literacy and numeracy improvement agenda which has been in place over the last four years. Over 95% of our teaching staff have completed training in Subject Discipline Literacy. This accredited professional development positions all teaching staff to deliver literacy imperatives specific to their teaching areas in a highly explicit manner. Additionally, all students in Year 7, 8 and 9 receive additional literacy instruction in English and Humanities.

Year 11 students are currently engaged in applying for student leadership positions for 2026. They have submitted their applications and are currently being interviewed for positions by members of the College Middle and Senior Leadership Teams. I was delighted to visit our students at the Emu Gully Leadership Camp recently and watch them engage in activities, before participating in liturgy and delivering an address on leadership. Both staff and students commented on the quality of the camp experience and the rich challenges they experienced. Outcomes of the leadership application process will be announced to candidates and their parents at the end of this term with a ceremonial changeover with the current leaders during Week 2 of next term.

God Bless,

Mr Jim Brennan - Principal – jbrennan@sjc.qld.edu.au

From the Deputy Principal

Hop on The Energy Bus!

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of reading The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon—a powerful and uplifting book that delivers a simple yet profound message that relates to all: positive energy drives success in life and work. Through a relatable story about George, a man facing struggles, the book introduces 10 rules for fuelling your life, work, and team with positivity.

The 10 take aways presented are:

1. You’re the Driver of the Bus: Take responsibility for your life.
2. Desire, Vision, and Focus Move Your Bus in the Right Direction: Set clear goals and stay focused.
3. Fuel Your Ride with Positive Energy: Surround yourself with positivity.
4. Invite People on Your Bus and Share Your Vision for the Road Ahead: Build a supportive team.
5. Don’t Waste Your Energy on Those Who Don’t Get on Your Bus: Let go of negativity.
6. Post a Sign That Says “No Energy Vampires Allowed”: Protect your energy.
7. Enthusiasm Attracts More Passengers: Be passionate and enthusiastic.
8. Love Your Passengers: Show care and support for others.
9. Drive with Purpose: Have a clear purpose in your actions.

• Have Fun and Enjoy the Ride: Embrace joy in the journey.

This book is a great reminder that our mindset shapes our outcomes. Whether we are parenting a young person, teaching a class, or navigating life’s challenges, these principles can assist the journey.

Want to learn more?

Here are some quick ways to dive deeper:

• 7-Minute Summary on YouTube
• Animated Summary

With determination and pride

As teachers we often challenge all students to strive for their personal best. Part of this could be to self-assess against the Engagement Continuum below. We would encourage families to have conversations regarding engagement, and in particular asking learners what they are doing to ‘invest’ and ‘drive’ their learning across the subject areas.    

Upcoming Events

Mr Brendon Willocks - Deputy Principal – bwillocks@sjc.qld.edu.au

From the Assistant Principal - Curriculum

This week’s assembly focused on key academic reminders and student responsibilities as we move through Term 3.

Assignment Integrity and AI Use

Students were reminded of the importance of academic honesty, especially when using Generative AI (GAI) tools. Submitting work generated by AI without proper acknowledgement is considered plagiarism and constitutes academic misconduct. Just like copying from a friend or a website, it’s dishonest and can lead to serious consequences.

To support responsible use:

• Always reference your sources, including AI tools if permitted by the teacher.
• Check your AI Transparency Matrix on the task sheet.
• Submit checkpoints and full drafts for feedback.
• If unsure, ask your teacher for guidance.
• Ensure your work reflects your own understanding and effort.

Canvas and Task Sheets

Students should continue to use Canvas to access assignment task sheets and resources. Referencing and acknowledging sources is a key part of every submission.

School Representative Sport – Leave Process

Students participating in representative sport must complete a Sport Leave Form and indicate if their assessment is impacted. This form is emailed to both students and teachers.

For known upcoming absences of 3 or more days, students must submit a Student Leave Form with:

• Date of leave
• Parent permission
• Reason for leave
• ICT notification (if travelling overseas)
• Submission at least 5 days in advance

Copies of the leave form are sent to students, parents, and teachers via email.

Assessment Policy – Year 11 & 12 (QCAA)

A reminder that events such as family holidays, birthdays, and weddings are not considered valid reasons for missing assessment. These are classified as matters of personal choice and do not qualify for AARA (Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments). For more information, visit the QCAA AARA Eligibility page.

Subject Preferences for 2026

Year 7 Students – Language Selection
Students in Year 7 have been asked to select a language for study in 2026. Parents are asked to provide electronic permission for their child’s choice. A letter outlining this process was sent to all families earlier this week. If you have any questions, please contact Kirstie Andrews, Middle School Learning Leader.

Year 8 & 9 Students – Elective Preferences
Students in Years 8 and 9 have submitted their subject preferences for 2026 using the Web Preferences platform. If you did not electronically sign the permission form and have any questions or concerns, please contact me at the College. Otherwise, we will assume that you are aware of and approve your child’s selections.

Kerrie-Anne Fellenberg - Assistant Principal - Curriculum - KFellenberg@sjc.qld.edu.au

From the Assistant Principal - Student Engagement

As we prepare to elect and announce the 2026 student leadership team, it's important to remember what makes a great leader. At Joseph's, we define good leadership through the four dimensions of Awareness, Communicating, Example, and Decision Making. 

Joseph Cryle - Assistant Principal - Student Engagement -  JCryle@sjc.qld.edu.au 

From the Acting Assistant Principal - Mission & Identity

One Story, Many Voices – Wear it Purple Day 

Our liturgical theme for 2025 asks our community to find ways to celebrate each person’s contribution to our college. We acknowledge and celebrate the diversity of the voices which make up our community story. On Wear It Purple Day, we have the opportunity to model our solidarity and celebrate the diversity of our wonderful community.  

Event Details 

Date: Friday 29 August 2025 

Dress 

Students have the option to wear sports uniform on this day. Students will be able to accessorise with purple items to ‘wear it purple’. Examples of accessories include, socks, hair accessories, pins badges etc.  

Lunch time activities  

• Purple Door - At lunch there will be an opportunity to decorate a purple door with handprints. Handprints are unique, they represent us and who we are. As we celebrate the diversity of all within our community, we celebrate our 2025 liturgical theme “One Story, Many Voices”.   

• Activities run by the Inclusive Club alongside the Youth Connect Team from Toowoomba Regional Council.  

• Visiting stalls from HeadSpace, Inclusive Counselling - We will also have social worker, Cody from New Leaf Social Work with us to celebrate the event and talk about their services.  

• Lolly Bags for sale $2 each – All profits will go to HeadSpace 

Assembly 

On Friday 29th there will be a full college assembly. The inclusive club will lead our prayer and have an item to discuss the outline of the activities at lunchtime.  

What is Wear it Purple Day? 

Wear it Purple was founded in 2010 in response to global stories of real teenagers, real heartache and their very real responses. In 2010, several rainbow young people took their own lives following bullying and harassment resulting from the lack of acceptance of their sexuality or gender identity. As the world saw the faces of precious young lives lost, some young people found a new sense of conviction and purpose to ensure that young people everywhere would know that there were people who did support and love them.  

‘Bold Voices, Bright Futures’ 

This year’s theme is ‘Bold Voices, Bright Futures’, with artwork by Lee Evatt, winner of Wear It Purple’s Youth Action Council (YAC) Design Competition to create a campaign message and artwork in celebration of LGBTQIA+ people openly and visibly achieving their dreams in sport, art, science and more.

“By embracing and celebrating true identities, we’re paving the way for a positive, inclusive future where our queer youth feel accepted, supported and able to achieve our full potential without any social limitations!”- Izzie C, WIPD Youth Action Council Member.

Celebrate Diversity & Respect Unconditionally

Like many religious schools, St Joseph’s College requires our community to commit to our College Values and imperatives. These values and imperatives are grounded in scripture and connected to the life and example of Edmund Rice. We believe the Joey’s Way is our unique contextualised way of expressing our Catholic identity and living our charism.

As part of our Joey’s Way, we call on our community to recognise the dignity in every person as each person is made in the image and likeness of our loving God. Two of our imperatives – Respect Unconditionally and Celebrate Diversity – are of particular importance when we consider how we respond to people’s differences or uniqueness.

Toowoomba Catholic School’s Catholic Identity Position Paper (2019) also calls us to this response:

Being created in the image and likeness of God accords everyone an equal and inherent dignity. We believe in an innate original goodness and a universally shared dignity. This belief shapes a hope-filled and life-giving outlook on life for self, others and the created world.

At St Joseph’s College we firmly believe that all are welcome, and we stand for unconditional respect and dignity. This means that no matter a person’s race, gender, language or sexual identity they have a place in our community. 

Unconditional respect is easy…until it’s not. Some subjects are highly emotive for many people and this is particularly true of issues around gender and sexuality. As a Catholic school in the Edmund Rice tradition, we are committed to providing a liberating education for all in our community. This requires us to lean into the educational opportunities that come through dialogue on challenging and emerging topics.

True inclusion is about ongoing respectful dialogue, even when it’s not easy. Diversity in this community comes on the basis of ethnicity, language, religion, gender and sexuality. However, it also comes from differing perspectives, experiences and opinions on issues that are, at times, difficult. In simple terms, dialogue is the only answer.

Fundamentally, we all want the same things. We want our students to feel safe, included and respected. This is a powerful starting point for a dialogue about this topic.

CONVERSATION STARTERS:

• Why is it important to let everyone know they can tell their story?
• How can hearing someone else’s story create visibility, community and acceptance?
• What are some practical ways we can create a positive environment for all in our community?
• How can we include people more in simple practical ways each day?
• How can we learn more about the issues impacting young people?
• How do you challenge language or jokes that are perpetuating exclusion for groups of society?
• How has our understanding of identity changed over time?

Thomas Moore - Acting Assistant Principal - Mission & Identity - tmoore@sjc.qld.edu.au

Academic Captains

Hi SJC students and parents!

Firstly, enormous congratulations to all recipients of an academic award at the beginning of the semester. We are very proud of everyone who did their best to achieve the well-deserved award.

With the end of the term beginning to approach, we just wanted to remind everyone about the importance of regular, paced study in the lead up to exams. Starting early with as little as five minutes of revision and extending as assessment approached is drastically better for long-term retention than cramming.

 Good luck everyone for end of term assessment pieces and congratulations to the Year 12s for finishing Unit 3.

2025 Academic Captains - Sarah Ellis and Gabrielle Horton

Brennan House

Over the past few weeks, the students in Brennan House have been heavily involved in Athletic activities in JW time building to our Athletics Carnival last Friday.

Throughout this time, it was impressive to watch the leadership of Riley and Mitchell, along with some of our other senior students, drumming up involvement, building house spirit, leading war cries, organising relays and cheering our younger students along.  It was equally exciting to see our students getting involved and even taking some risks extending themselves in Athletic events that might have been new or challenging for them.  A fantastic example of the high level of involvement came about when organising the 12/13 years girls’ relay team.  In most years, we are lucky to have 4 students step up to make a full team.  This year, we had more than 12 young girls keen to participate and resulted in Brennan house being represented by 3 relay teams in a single race!

This enthusiasm to participate and strive to do their best helped take Brennan House to second place in the carnival and currently second (by only a few points) in our House Cup challenge.  Well done Brennan House!  Keep up the amazing effort!

Luke Logan - Student Engagement Middle Leader - Brennan House - llogan@sjc.qld.edu.au

Sport

Darling Downs 12 years Touch

Congratulations to our four young ladies who were selected in the Darling Downs 12-year touch team who competed State Championships over the weekend in Roma. The team finished in 6^th place, but they did defeat the team who finished 3^rd so it was an up and down carnival for them.

Georgie Hedge, Amelia Lobwein, Ellie Grieve and Indee Jakobi played their hearts out and from all accounts had a great carnival.

Congratulations also to Brooklyn Finnie who has been invited to attend the 11 – 12 years Darling Downs Rugby League side that will contest the state champions in Townsville in September. We wish her the best of luck in this team.

Athletics Carnival – Friday August 15

We were fortunate to enjoy a beautifully pleasant day for our recent carnival, with weather conditions that could not have been more ideal. While some attendees may have underestimated the importance of sunscreen, resulting in a few sunburned shoulders, the temperature was just right—not too hot and not too cold.

Student attendance this year surpassed last year's numbers, which is an encouraging sign of growing engagement. It was heartening to see an increase in participation across various events. However, we still noticed a number of students opting to relax on picnic blankets rather than compete. This tradition of passive participation is one we hope to transform in the future.

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the students who stepped outside their comfort zones to challenge themselves and earn points for their houses. Their perseverance and determination in competing were commendable and truly showcased the spirit of the event.

The day was made even more vibrant by the variety of costumes worn by participants, adding a splash of colour and joy to the festivities.

We had four records broken on the day, so congratulations and well done to the following students:

12 years girls 100m – existing record held by A. Caporn from 2017 of 13.47sec was broken by Olivia Bruggemann for a new record of 12.36.

12 years boys 200m – existing record held by B. Prendergast from 2018 of 28.88secs was broken by Albie Lockwood for a new record of 28.26secs.

12 years boys Long jump – existing record held by D. Dwyer from 2018 of 4.02m was broken by Albie Lockwood for a new record of 4.30m.

12 years boys 400m – existing record held by M. Bloom from 2018 of 68.71 secs was broken by Nate Halpin for a new 67.88sec.

Age Champions medals and trophies were presented to:

12 Year Boys                                                  12 Years Girls

13 Years Boys

14 Years Boys                                                       14 Years Girls

15 Years Boys                                                       15 Years Girls

16 Year Boys                                                         16 Years Girls

Open Boys                                                             Open Girls

House Points Overall:

1^ST    McAULEY                  4922

2^ND   BRENNAN                4511

3^RD   RICE                            4363

4^TH   MURPHY                   4161

It's important to recognise that the success of such an event relies on the collective effort of our entire community. From the enthusiastic students who participated in the events to the dedicated staff members who ensured that everything ran smoothly and safely, each contribution was invaluable. We also owe a special thanks to our grounds crew for their hard work in transporting all necessary equipment to the park, and to the ladies in the tuckshop for providing delicious morning tea and lunch for everyone.

A sincere thank you to all members of our community for making this day a resounding success. Congratulations to all those who dared to compete and embrace the spirit of the carnival! Your efforts and enthusiasm did not go unnoticed and are greatly appreciated.

12 Years Range Zone Athletics

On Tuesday 12 August, four of our students competed at the Range Zone trials for the right to continue onto Darling Downs trials.

We congratulate the following students for making it to the next stage in the following events. We wish them the best of luck on September 1 and 2 when they compete again.

Albie, Lockwood - Male - Age: 12 years Boys Discus

Hedge, Georgie - Female - Age: 12years Girls 800m

Nate, Halpin - Male - Age: 12 years Boys 800m and 1500m

On Wednesday afternoon, August 20, the athletic trials for students aged 13 to 19 officially began, despite consistent rain throughout the day. The events took place at Glennie, showcasing the resilience of our athletes.

Xavier Macdonald and Hayden Lobwein represented our school in hopes of securing a position on the Darling Downs team. We are pleased to announce that Hayden finished in first place, with Xavier closely following in second. Congratulations to both boys for their outstanding performances!

SSI Red Lion Football – Semifinal and Grand Final

On Tuesday afternoon 19 August, our boys' team competed in the semifinal of the tournament against Stanthorpe State High School. It was an exhilarating match, with Stanthorpe scoring first, prompting our team to play catch-up football. After a determined effort, we equalized, ending the regulation time with a tied score.

To determine the eventual winner who would face Centenary Heights in the grand final, the match proceeded to penalty shootouts. The boys rose to the occasion, outscoring Stanthorpe, with Tim Kist demonstrating exceptional skill and dedication in goal.

The grand final, initially scheduled for 6:15 PM, commenced around 7:00 PM under cold and challenging conditions. Several players experienced cramps, likely due to insufficient hydration during the earlier match. Despite these hurdles, our team held strong, finishing the first half with a score of 0-0.

As the second half progressed, we continued to face a stalemate, leading to extra time and drop offs to be played. Again, the score was nil all at the end of this extended time and it was time for more penalty shootouts. Once again, the pressure was palpable, but our boys managed to handle it with remarkable composure, winning the shootout 3-1. Liam Wright was awarded the Player of the Final by the referee.

The team's determination and perseverance were commendable, especially given the challenge of playing two high-stakes games in one evening, compounded by the adverse weather conditions. We last held this trophy in 2018.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the supporters who braved the elements to cheer on our boys. A special thank you to Mr. Hansen and Mr. Fitness for their unwavering dedication and commitment to the team, both during training sessions and throughout the games. Your support on the sidelines did not go unnoticed, especially in such frigid conditions.

Senior Schools Cup Volleyball

On the 8th to the 10th of August, two of our senior volleyball teams proudly represented our College at the Volleyball Queensland Senior Schools Cup, a massive event featuring 349 teams from 162 schools across the state.

Our teams, Shockwave (coached by Miss Ali Pedernal and Mr Ashley Steel) and Hustlers (coached by Miss Taylor Jannusch), showcased determination and skill as they competed strongly in their respective divisions. Faced with strong competition, both teams finished 3rd in their pools, narrowly missing out on a chance at a medal match. However, they fought their way back with determination and spirit, earning a spot in the 5th/6th place playoffs, the next best possible position.

While both teams ultimately placed 6th, the experience was invaluable. The players demonstrated and developed incredible teamwork, resilience, and skill throughout the tournament. It was a fantastic opportunity for growth, and the girls should be proud of their efforts and sportsmanship.

These two teams, along with our other squads, Pink, Purple, and Gold, continue to compete in the local Tuesday night volleyball competition, where each team is working hard and achieving their own goals of improvement and development.

Well done to all players and coaches involved! Your commitment and passion for the sport are truly inspiring.

- Ms Taylor Jannusch

And on behalf of the College, we would like to extend our thanks to all three teaching staff members who gave of their time to allow these students to participate in this carnival over a three-day tournament.

Evie King Softball Australia

On Tuesday August 19, Evie received an invitation to attend a Softball Australia as a valued high performance Squad member, to a presentation in Redcliffe, which bought together female high performance squad members based in Queensland, current and former Olympians, grassroots players and dignitaries from all levels of government. This reflected the depth and potential of the sport of softball.

Evie was asked to the day to showcase her role in the sport and to help inspire young softball players who would be in attendance to take up the sport. She was requested to assist in taking part in some softball throwing and catching drills with kids from the local softball association.

This must have been a great honour for Evie and we hope she had a fantastic day.

Debbie Newtown - Program Leader - Sport - DNewton@sjc.qld.edu.au

Connecting with Careers

QTAC will host a student information night on Wednesday, September 17 from 6-7pm. The live session is designed to assist those applying to university applying straight from Year 12, returning to study, or changing direction, QTAC experts will walk you through key tips for a successful application. This session is perfect for students (and parents) wanting to feel confident and prepared throughout the QTAC process.

 To register visit: QTAC Student Information Night

QTAC Key Dates

QTAC Dates for 2025/2026

• 5 August 2025 - Admissions applications for 2026 opens.
• 5 August 2025 - ATAR Portal registration for 2025 Year 12 students opens - You must apply to have your ATAR calculated.
• 30 September 2025 - Early Bird application fee discount finishes ($70).
• 1 October 2025 - Full fee application fee applies ($150).
• 8 December 2025:
• Due date to apply and submit documents for inclusion in the 23 December offer round.
• Due date to apply and submit documents for inclusion in the 15 January 2026 offer round.
• 18 December 2025 - Release of the 2025 ATAR results.
• 19 December 2025 - Due date to change course preferences for 23 December offer round.
• 23 December 2025 - December Offer round
• 6 January 2026 - Due date to change preferences for 15 January offer round
• 15 January 2026 - First January offer round

Applying for Educational Access Scheme (EAS)

The Educational Access Scheme (EAS) can help you if you have experienced circumstances that have negatively affected your most recent studies. If you are assessed as eligible for an adjustment to your ATAR or QTAC selection rank under EAS, it will be combined with other adjustments you may be eligible for. Check with the institution/s you are interested in for the maximum adjustments allowed. If you are eligible for the Financial Hardship category, you may also get financial assistance from institutions, such as scholarships or bursaries. This category applies to your current and recent personal and/or family financial circumstances.

You apply for EAS when you are applying for tertiary study through QTAC. You must complete a cover sheet for each category that you feel you are eligible for and provide written evidence to support your application. EAS will not be able to compensate you for things such as not completing secondary school, changing school subjects by choice or missed time from school for activities that are a personal choice (for example, sport, musical, holidays or cultural activities) etc. The EAS eligibility categories are:

• Financial Hardship
• Home Environment and Responsibilities
• English Language Difficulty
• Personal Illness or Disability
• School Environment

If you nominate to apply to EAS and DO NOT go ahead with your application, you MUST enter your application and untick the EAS option otherwise QTAC will think your application is incomplete. It is suggested that you only tick to apply for EAS, once you have gathered all the necessary documentation.

Tips for applying for university scholarships

The following are tips to help you maximise your chance of gaining a scholarship:

• Apply for all the scholarships you are eligible for
• Read the information on the university or institution's scholarship web page
• Follow the directions exactly and answer all parts of each question
• Include all documents requested
• If written make sure applications are readable and provide examples to back up attributes and achievements
• Start preparing your application early
• Collect ideas for your application over time – start with dot points
• Keep a list of personal achievements, extra-curricular activities you are involved in, both at school and in the wider community and any awards you have received
• Do drafts of your application – get feedback (see your school Guidance Officer/Counsellor)
• Ask referees for supporting statements early, not at the last minute.
• Have someone else carefully proofread your application before submitting it
• When required, include examples of personal attributes and achievements such as:    
  • Awards gained
  • Leadership (including coaching)
  • Volunteering and other community participation
  • Teamwork (sport, work, etc).
  • Initiative
  • How you may give back to the university.
  • Include your career aspirations and how the university course can help you achieve them

Submit your application by the due date.

University of Southern Queensland scholarships

Thinking of going to UniSQ? Explore what scholarships are available and those coming soon. You can apply for more than one, so be sure to apply for all that you’re eligible for. Find out more about:

• Indigenous Student Success Program (ISSP) - To assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students experiencing financial hardship who are commencing or continuing an undergraduate or postgraduate program at UniSQ
• UniSQ Residential College Scholarship - To support students residing at UniSQ Residential Colleges in Toowoomba either commencing or continuing their studies in an undergraduate program
• More scholarships available for future students

TAFE Queensland Pathways to University Course Guide

TAFE Queensland Pathways to University Course Guide outlines all the diploma to degree pathway arrangements that they currently have in place with universities across Queensland. The Guide includes all the degree programs that they offer in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast. It sets out the Diplomas that they offer and the direct access they give to different universities and university courses, including the total time you will need to be studying. Click here to access the pathways' guide.

Want an apprenticeship in 2026 - Begin your search now!

Year 12s don’t wait until you finish school to start looking for an apprenticeship. Start now as many employers are recruiting now for 2025. But which apprenticeship? The Queensland Department of Employment, Small Business and Training website has a list of Queensland apprenticeships. Click on the apprenticeships you are interested in for more information about the job. Also, talk to people already in the job and/or do work experience to help you with your decision.

Attitude V Experience - which is more valuable?

When it comes to applying for a new job, many of us will read the job description and realise that we don’t necessarily have all the skills or experience that the company requires. This can often make many of us reconsider applying, even though we’re highly interested in the position. Many employers actually consider passion towards their industry and the position as desirable candidate qualities. So if lack of experience stops you from applying,  you could be missing out on some life-changing career opportunities. Click here to read more about:

• Benefits of having a good attitude
• Benefits of work experience
• Which is more important to employers?
• Employability skills

Australian Defence Force Updates

To find out more about your possible opportunities in the Australian Defence Force, attend one of their information sessions. Upcoming information sessions are:

25/08/2025        Toowoomba Trade Careers Information Session

26/08/2025        Warwick A Night in the Army Reserves

Study and Trades

Through the Australian Defence Force (ADF), you can get your degree fully or partially paid for or learn a trade in a dynamic environment, all while earning a great salary from day one. Through the ADF you can:

• Get a degree - ADFA is located in Canberra
• Use your degree - join the ADF using your skills
• Learn a trade - complete your trade through the ADF
• Use a trade - join the ADF using your trade skills
• Other ways to join: 
  • Gap year
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander entry pathways

Click here for more information. 

Thinking about the Air Force?

If you join the Air Force you will be part of a diverse and supportive team that alongside the Navy and Army, defends our nation, our people, our values and our way of life. This is achieved by controlling the air, acquiring intelligence through reconnaissance and surveillance, providing air mobility for all operational needs, and supporting combat missions through strike capability. Click here and find out more about:

• Defending Australia and its interests
• Peak strategic capability
• A force for protection, rescue and disaster relief
• Work with world-leading technology
• Up there? You’ll go further
• What we do
• Aircraft

For more information, please contact the Careers Team.

Maree Harman - Career Development Practitioner - mharman@sjc.qld.edu.au

Amanda Ruhle - Careers Support Officer - ARuhle@sjc.qld.edu.au

Eisteddfod Part 2

Congratulations to all our talented music students for their outstanding participation in the Toowoomba Eisteddfod Part 2! Your dedication and musicianship were on full display across a range of ensembles. A special mention to the Jazz Ensemble for securing 3rd place, the Violin Duet for their impressive 2nd place, and the Flute Quartet for receiving a Highly Commended. We also commend the Concert Band and String Ensemble for their strong performances. Your hard work, teamwork, and passion for music have made us incredibly proud—well done!

Well done to the SJC Dance Troupe on their outstanding participation. The students delivered a beautiful performance and were commended for their teamwork, focus, and execution. They thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon, immersing themselves in the performing arts and drawing inspiration for future performances. It was a valuable and enriching experience for all involved.

Madeleine Minns - Program Middle Leader - Cultural - mminns@sjc.qld.edu.au

Share the Dignity – Changing Lives One Donation at a Time

This term, St Joseph’s is once again partnering with Share the Dignity campaign, a national charity that supports women and girls by providing access to essential sanitary and hygiene products.

Did you know, many Australians face period poverty – 64% struggle to afford period products due to cost. Something as simple as a box of pads or tampons can make a world of difference.

We’re inviting students and families to come together and donate to help ease the stress of someone facing challenging times, such as;

• sanitary items such as pads and tampons
• hygiene products such as shampoo/condition, soap, toothpaste, body wash

These products go directly to those in need.

Our drive will run from weeks 6-8 this term. Students will be able to fill their JW Basket with sanitary and hygiene products over a 2-3 week period.

It’s a small act of kindness with a big impact. Together, let’s take action and support those doing it tough.

Thank you so much for your generosity!

SJC - Community News

We're excited to announce that SJC's Jazz Ensemble will be performing at Jazz Under the Stars, hosted by Toowoomba Anglican School, on Saturday 30 August.

Affectionately known as the Joey’s Jazz Ensemble, this group thrives on exploring jazz across a variety of styles. The Ensemble is typically comprised of our most senior student musicians, but there will be some younger players joining the ranks, giving them a chance to experience this wonderful performance opportunity. Tickets are on sale now!

In this interactive workshop, Adair will draw on his 27 years' experience working with organisations like the National Rugby League and Universities Australia to explore how students and parents can be taking steps to minimise the impact that social media, mobile phones, discrimination, harassment, sexual harassment, and DFV can have on future careers. It does not matter what industry your child is hoping to pursue a career in, as every industry is being challenged by these issues.

Adair's presentation will be engaging, thought provoking and entertaining.  It is a chance for parents to take time to reflect and learn from others’ experiences. Adair will also be addressing the rise of AI image abuse and educating parents in relation to the law associated with it.

Light refreshments will be served, and drinks will be available for purchase. Please RSVP using this link https://www.trybooking.com/DECZP by Friday, 29^th August.  

Uniform Shop

EFTPOS only - No Cash accepted until further notice.

Winter uniform is still available in store, for those sneaky cooler days.

Do you need to update your summer uniform before heading into Term 4, hopefully for some warmer weather?

The shop will be opening in the school holidays on Thursday 2^nd October 9am – 1pm.

Orders can be made online, paid for over the phone and all orders can be delivered to student entrance for your child to collect from there.

Online orders can also be delivered to your home for a fee.

Online ordering is available at all times and will only be packed during shop trading hours.

Pass Phrase StJC1956

Second hand items and Football items not available to order online

Currently out of stock:

• Boys Trousers Size 102

Please contact the uniform shop on the below details:

Phone:           07 4631 8514

Email:             sjct@midford.com.au

Ordering Online Process

www.midford.com.au     pass phrase StJC1956

Second hand uniforms are also available at the Uniform Shop.

If you have used uniform items that would like to donate, please drop off to the Uniform Shop during opening hours.  Donations are greatly appreciated.

If you have used uniform items that you would like us to sell for you, please call into the uniform shop and collect a “Used Clothing” form. Used uniforms items MUST be in good condition, hems intact, no holes, stains or missing buttons. They also need to washed, ironed and be the current uniform. 

If you have any questions, please call us on 4631 8514 during opening hours.