Filter Content
- Principal's Reflection
- Curriculum
- Mission
- Pathways
- Quiet Achiever
- Shalom Athletics Carnival - Change of Dates
- Sport
- Shalom Netball Program
- Career Opportunities
- Absentees
- Student Drivers
- Year 7 Camp Information
- Immunisation Year 10 Round 2
- Uniform Information
- STEM
- From the Library
- Year 11 First Nations Leadership Camp Recap
- Term Dates for 2025
- Shalom Sunday Markets
- The Catholic Parish of Bundaberg
- Community Notice Board
The community at Moore Park are, undoubtedly, heart broken at the recent tragic death of 3 year old Sophia. Her mother, who was alleged to have harmed her, is now also deceased. This is tragedy upon tragedy. One of our students works at the Kids & Co Day Care Centre at the heart of this story and told me how much she loved Sophia. Really pleased to hear from that young woman how strongly the local community, mental health workers and others, are wrapping themselves around all of the staff and families connected. That said, I just struggle to comprehend the vile comments posted on-line condemning Sophia’s mother who, in all likelihood, was suffering significant mental ill health at the time. What does that achieve? When I was listening to reports about this tragedy last week, I was also reading about the threatened collapse of Mental Health services across the whole state of NSW.
As there were not enough beds for Psych patients, it was claimed that many unwell patients were being released into the community without adequate treatment. I would suspect that our State may not be that far behind. We have firsthand experience at Shalom of families close to us, unable to secure timely and accessible mental health support. If it is possible that this awful situation in Moore Park is a result of individuals not being able to access the care that they need, would those who posted awful, condemnatory comments, be likely now to publicly retract those comments? There is certainly some truth in the ancient wisdom that we should not condemn anyone until we have ‘walked a mile in their shoes’. I do my best not to read too much of what is posted on sites like ‘Bundaberg Forum’ as it so often just seems to be a venue for some to make hurtful and uninformed comments – sometimes about Shalom and every other school in town. I loved talking to our student working at Kids & Co Day Care Centre. She loves the work, loves the staff and loves the young people with whom she cares. She will miss Sophia but she is sure that she has found her calling in life. She will make a difference to so many vulnerable kids.
Mr Dan McMahon
Principal
Daniel_McMahon@rok.catholic.edu.au
Year 10 myQCE Information
Last week in PDE all our Year 10 students completed the registration process for their myQCE Student Portal Account. Students must register for this account in preparation for years 11 and 12. They will require this account during the Year 10 Personal Futures Day next term and for activities throughout this year. If your child was absent for this session, please direct them to the following website to set up their account. Attached is the QCAA How-to Guide.
Senior Academic Tutoring Program coordinated by Padea Tutoring
Starting in Term 3, we are trialling an exciting new opportunity available for students in Years 10 to 12 who are interested in receiving external tutoring. We have entered into an agreement with Padea Tutoring to facilitate an external tutoring service, run on location in the Waterford building to begin with, and then moving into the Coolock building when it is completed. The tutoring will be offered each Monday afternoon from 3:30pm to 6:30pm where students undertake 3 hours of tutoring, with a catered dinner provided.
The tutors are university students with an average ATAR of 99. They will tutor students in a ratio of 1:5, and they will focus on the subjects identified by the student, with specific expertise in Mathematical Methods, Specialist Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, English and Literature.
The cost will be $78 per student per session to be paid directly to Padea, and students will sign up for the duration of the term, 8 weeks in total. Tutoring will start in Week 2 of Term 3.
Please note that this service will not replace the tutoring already offered by our Senior teachers, and you are welcome to continue to access our free school tutoring. This external service will be in addition to what we already offer at a cost to families.
Further information will be provided in Week 10 via email to students and parents from Year 10 to 12 regarding the registration process so please keep an eye out for this opportunity as places are limited to just 25 students initially.
Elevate Education Parent Webinars for Term Two
Elevate Education delivers high-impact workshops that help to develop student study skills, motivation, and exam preparation. Again, you are invited to register your participation in the term two parent online webinar series. This can assist you to support your child at home by reinforcing the skills that will support their learning at school.
Term 2 Webinars are:
· Ask Me Anything (Live Q&A) - June 18, 6:30-7:30pm (AEST)
· How to Help Your Child Alleviate Stress - July 2, 6:30-7:30pm (AEST)
To register please visit: https://go.elevateeducation.com/auschoolwebinars
Mrs Kate Aplin
Assistant Principal - Curriculum
Catherine_Aplin@rok.catholic.edu.au
Reflection Days
Last week we welcomed guest speakers for the Year 8 and Year 10 Reflection Days. The purpose of these days is to help students navigate the pressures of growing up in a tech-obsessed society, including highlighting the importance of nurturing authentic and respectful connections with others. The messages of the day empowered students to respond to these challenges through a lens of human dignity.
Ordinary Time
Following the celebration of Pentecost over the weekend, the Catholic Church now moves into the season of ‘Ordinary Time’. Highlighted by the colour green, this season is about the hope and growth that develops after celebrating the 50 days of Easter. Ordinary time is the longest season in the church year although it is broken into two parts to account for the others seasons: Lent, Easter, Advent and Christmas.
Masses
Each Religious Education class will also cohost a Wednesday morning Mass at 8am in our chapel. This Mass occurs during term time and is a Parish Mass, so it is open to all. The Mass finishes before the 8.40am bell. Religious Education teachers will email a notice to families prior to their allocated Mass, and we encourage attendance. Upcoming Masses will be hosted by our Year 10 students.
Wednesday 11 June Mr John Gilbert's 10H & J
Wednesday 18 June Ms Danni Bryson's 10K & Mr David Gahan's 10L
Wednesday 25 June QISSN & QISSRL Confraternity Team's
Also, if you would like to join in other Parish services, the Catholic Parish of Bundaberg advertises Mass times at https://www.bundabergcatholic.net.au/mass-prayer/
Mrs Sandra Freeman
Assistant Principal - Mission
Sandra_Freeman@rok.catholic.edu.au
Pathways News
HIGHLIGHTS
SHINING STARS
- This week we acknowledge Year 12, student Callum M. who explored the world of Engineering through Work Experience
CAREER SPOTLIGHT
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) / Science
- Careers that Help People
YEAR 12 GET READY
- Heading to University – Here’s the QTAC 2025 Timeline
- What is a Tax File Number and Why Do You Need One?
APPRENTICESHIPS / TRADES
- Let’s Talk Trades – Uncover different Trade Careers in the “Hammer Time” digital magazine
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
- Don’t forget to check the Pathways SIA page jobs board for employment opportunities.
WORK EXPERIENCE
- Year 13 Virtual Work Experience – Mechanical Engineer - Defence
UNIVERSITY OPEN DAYS
- Access the digital Open Days Guide – a list of every uni open day in Australia along with everything you need to know when you attend
- NIDA (National Institute of Dramatic Art) Open Day – 14 June – Sydney & Online
EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
- Year 10 Students recently explored the Construction Industry at the Hutchinson Builders construction site
UNIVERSITY
- ATARS and Selection Ranks – What are they and how do they work?
Turn your passions into pathways with this week’s Pathways Newsletter
The Pathways Team
Mrs Liza O’Donnell, Mrs Kim Toll, Mrs Kathryn Laing, Mrs Melanie Bock & Ms Brigette McMahon
Liza_ODonnell@rok.catholic.edu.au
Kim_Toll@rok.catholic.edu.au
Kathryn_Laing@rok.catholic.edu.au
Melanie_Bock@rok.catholic.edu.au
Brigette_McMcMahon@rok.catholic.edu.au
I am so proud to acknowledge Gabrielle A as the Adams Quiet Achiever for Term 2. Gabi is an amazing young lady that excels in academics, sporting and always contributes to Adams House. Gabi shows up to all house events and is always very reserved in alerting others to her successes, however, is the first to point out other students achievements. Gabi has a bright future ahead of her and I can't wait to see where life takes her.
If you would like to submit any sporting achievements about your child/children along with a photo, please email your submissions to Simon_Gills@rok.catholic.edu.au
Please note photo submissions must only include photos of students from Shalom.
You can also keep up to date with anything sport related via our Facebook page - Shalom College Sport.
Hockey
Congratulations to Shalom students Courtney K, Sophie A, Amity H, Alisha P, Molly C, Ameilia L (U15s) and Coach Mrs Susan Kendall along with Emma K, Madeleine E and Gabby A (U19s) on representing Wide Bay at the recent U15s and U19s State Schoolgirls Hockey championships held on the Gold Coast.
The 13-15yrs girls came Fifth overall, losing only two games throughout the champs, beating the eventual winners Darling Downs in the round games. Sophie A scored 4 goals in that one game alone.
The 16-19 years girls finished with a Bronze medal. They only lost one game the whole champs. Sadly, this was the quarterfinal which meant they had to play for bronze. They won the bronze medal match convincingly.
Sophie A and Courtney K gained QLD selection in the 13-15yrs QLD representative team that will compete at the National Championships in Canberra end of July/beginning Aug 2025.
Courtney K was also awarded the "Player of the Tournament" award by Renae Taylor (ex Hockeyroo). This is a phenomenal feat for a player from the country.
Wide Bay Cross Country
Congratulations to all the Shalom students who competed at the Wide Bay Cross Country titles held in Gayndah last week. Shalom had plenty of outstanding results with the following students placing in the top 6 of their respective Age Division:
Atlanta D (12yrs Girls) 2nd
Starla O (12yrs Girls) 3rd
Jayden S (13yrs Boys) 5th
Indica O (13yrs Girls) 1st
James P (14yrs Boys) 1st
Elliot T (14yrs Boys) 5th
Elise V (14yrs Girls) 1st
Trey P (15yrs Boys) 2nd
Rakaia K (15yrs Girls) 3rd
Kasy H (15yrs Girls) 5th
Lachlan W (16yrs Boys) 5th
Ben R (16yrs Boys) 6th
Josie P (16yrs Girls) 2nd
Georgina C (16yrs Girls) 4th
Jack G (17yrs Boys) 3rd
Hannah P (17yrs Girls) 3rd
Finishing in the top 6 gains these students selection into the Wide Bay Cross Country team for 2025. Thanks to Shalom staff member Mrs Rebecca Jenner of coaching the Bundy team.
Indica O
Lawn Bowls
Congratulations to Shalom student Phoebe R, our resident Lawn Bowls guru!!
Phoebe has been super busy this year. In January she competed in the Junior State Championships at Helensvale, Gold Coast. She played in all events (singles, pairs, triples and fours). She skipped the fours with her team placing 4th. She also skipped the triples with her team placing 2nd. Phoebe played lead in the pairs. The team had a hard section but didn’t get through. In the singles, Phoebe won her section however, lost in the post sectional round which finished her in 5th.
Phoebe was then selected as 1 of 12 girls in the State Squad. She also made the Bundaberg ladies district team that competed at to the Sunshine Coast. Phoebe played second and was not subbed out the entire week. They finished 3rd in division two.
Phoebe was also chosen to play at the Junior Golden Nugget for her 3rd year in a row and is 1 of 25 girls in Australia, New Zealand and Hong Kong playing. This competition takes place on the 26th and 27th of July.
Phoebe recently found out that she gained selection in the QLD team to play at Sunbury in Melbourne in the U/18 Tri Series against New South Wales and Victoria held on the 1st - 3rd August.
Phoebe has also been invited to attend the training camp on the 9th - 10th July. After this competition they will select the team that will compete at the Nationals. The team has already been cut from 12 to 8 players and for the Nationals it will be cut from 8 to 5 players.
A very busy year and a bright future in the Bowling world. Keep up the great work Phoebe!!!!
BDSSS Secretary & QRSS 10 -19yrs Cricket Executive Member
Simon_Gills@rok.catholic.edu.au
SPECIAL SPONSOR HIGHLIGHT
Unless you've been living under a rock you will know that Shalom College has the privilege of hosting the 2025 QISSN carnival from Sunday 29 June to Friday 4 July, 2025. QISSN is returning to Bundaberg where it originated, as Shalom College initiated and held the inaugural event in the year 2000. We will welcome almost 80 teams from 64 schools across Queensland with more than 800 students competing.
This event will bring significant economic benefits and exposure to the Bundaberg region over the school holiday period. Many accommodation reservations have been made, with some establishments completely booked out already. Local businesses will see a boost in trading with an extra 2500-3000+ visitors expected to converge on our region, meaning valuable dollars being injected into the local economy throughout the week.
For more information visit our website Bundaberg Regional Council or call into the council office at 190 Bourbong Street and speak to one of the team.
Thank you to the wonderful Bundaberg Regional Council team for supporting our Shalom netball community and helping us to provide opportunities for our students ❤
Mrs Nadia Tairawhiti
Shalom Netball Coordinator
Nadia_Tairawhiti@rok.catholic.edu.au
Graduate Secondary Teacher Scholarships Now Open!
Receive a financial incentive of $4,500 and secure an early offer of full-time permanent employment at Shalom College, Bundaberg.
Our scholarships aim to support you as you commence your teaching career with us in 2026!
Application Open to 31 October 2025
For further information, click here: https://www.shalomcollege.com/contact/career/
Preferred Student Absentee Option
Parents are able to inform the College of student absentees via Parent Lounge, using the below pathway:
Parent Lounge> Student Details> Attendance> "+Add Absence Notification"
The Shalom College App has now been updated so when parents select "Absentee" it will re-direct to Parent Lounge for the absentee notification to be added.
For Parents that do not already have the College App please click below:
ALL student absentees should be notified to the office by 9am each day. If no notification has been received, an absentee text message will be sent out to parents to advise of the student's absence.
Parents and Carers of Year 11 & 12 Students
If your child has obtained their Provisional Licence and wishes to drive to and from school you are required to fill out a Permission to Drive Form and return it to Student Reception for approval by Mr Aaron Brown. Once approved the details will be placed on our School Register.
Thanks to those Parents who have already completed this form for their child.
In Term 2 and 3 your son or daughter will be involved in an outdoor education camp, held at Chaverim. The camps will be in Core Studies classes, so the students will go out with their Core Studies teacher or in some instances, another teacher.
Camp Information
Students will participate in outdoor education activities as the camp is part of a three-year program. These Outdoor Education programs aim to provide an additional approach to the personal and spiritual development of your child and the greater Shalom community. This three-year program has specific objectives designed to provide.
- An atmosphere of cooperation between students, which can be applied at school, in the family and on the sports field. This may be characterized by cooperation, encouragement and concern for fellow students.
- Knowledge, skills and attitudes that contribute to a sense of responsibility, self-reliance, cooperation and harmony within oneself, with other people, and with the natural environment.
- Opportunities for participants to develop knowledge, low level skills and attitudes for participation in a number of outdoor pursuits.
- Knowledge, skills and attitudes towards a ‘minimum impact ethic’ consistent with the environment in which activities take place.
Each participant involved in the program will be given the opportunity to:
- “Look into the mirror” to see how their behaviours, both good and bad, impact their fellow participants.
- Participate in physically and mentally challenging activities while remaining safe on physical, mental and emotional levels.
- Experience and practice Christian values by living and working together in an open and encouraging atmosphere.
- Develop low level skills in a number of outdoor activities as well as a basic understanding of the associated equipment and safety precautions.
- Experience achievement in a non-competitive ‘win-win’ environment.
The camp also gives the teacher and students the opportunity to get to know each other well.
NO PHONES ARE ALLOWED ON THESE OUTDOOR EDUCATION CAMPS AT CHAVERIM.
The staff in charge will collect phones at the start of camp and return them just before 3.00 pm on day three. Alternatively, keep the phone at home for safe keeping.
I am sure the students will survive without their phones for 3 days and then they can focus on the outdoor education opportunities. If students need to call home for any reason the staff will let them use the phone at the Chaverim office.
The students will be transported to Chaverim by the College bus on the first day of camp. Students will need to be at school by 8.30 am the morning of the camp; they will return to the College at approximately 2.45 pm in time to catch the bus etc on the third day of camp.
Please find attached:
- Camp Program
- Equipment List - Clothes should be functional and suitable for outdoor and adventure activities and provide adequate protection from the elements. Camp is not a time to be fashion conscious; clothes need to be very practical. Students are also to be reminded that Chaverim is a Shalom College campus and all the usual College expectations apply. The wearing of unnecessary jewellery, make-up and inappropriate clothing is not permitted.
- Administration of Medication to Students form - if your child requires medication while on Camp please complete the form and hand it to your Teacher prior to departing on Camp.
Please login to Parent Lounge to give permission for your child to attend the Camp.
Once there click on the ‘Events and Payments’ tab and you will find a link to Year 8 Camp. Here you will be able to give permission for your child to attend, as well as view details about the camp. You will also be asked to review and verify that your child’s medical details are correct.
To check your child’s medical information is current, please click on the ‘student details’ tab and go to ‘medical details’. Please make sure that the following sections are completed so that your child can participate in all activities on camp.
- Can Swim 25m
- Tetanus Up-To-Date
- Medicare Number
In the ‘medical conditions’ section, click ‘add new’ and you will see a drop-down box and notes section where you can also note any dietary requirements, sleeping issues and other details that you feel may be relevant to your child’s well-being at the camp. Once you are happy with the information you have provided, please click ‘verify’.
Please also check your contact details and phone numbers are current, as we will be using this information to contact you if needed.
It is very important that all information in the Parent Lounge is current as teachers will use this information in case of an emergency and to support the wellbeing of your child.
If you require assistance with Parent Lounge login, please contact the office. If you have any further queries, please do not hesitate to contact me here at the College by phone or email.
Mr Peter Robinson
Dean of Student Welfare
High Performance Program
After School Activities
Camps
Peter_Robinson@rok.catholic.edu.au
Tomorrow Tuesday 10 June Year 10 immunisation program round 2 will be conducted in Loyola from 8:45am.
If you have any further questions, please contact the school’s immunisation service provider, Ozcare at administration.bundaberg@ozcare.org.au or phone 41308900.
Shalom Supporter Polos
Leading into QISSN and QISSRL this a reminder that Shalom Supporter Polos are available for Parents and Staff to purchase. These polos can be worn at sporting and performance events to help show support for students and the College.
The Supporter Polos are $41 and are available instore, Shop 5 / 6 Phoebe Crescent, Kensington.
Shalom Bummers
Just a friendly reminder that Wearitto Smart Clothing Centre stock Shalom College Bummers.
This uniform item is available for female students to wear for College representative activities including Athletics and Touch-Football. Students can check with their team coach or manager to confirm if this item is able to be worn for their specific sport.
The Bummers are $40 and are available online or instore, Shop 5 / 6 Phoebe Crescent, Kensington.
The Australian Science Olympiad Exams are challenging but rewarding online exams held once a year in the following disciplines:
- Physics – Monday 4 August 2025
- Biology – Tuesday 5 August 2025
- Earth and Environmental Science – Wednesday 6 August 2025
- Chemistry – Thursday 7 August 2025
The exams are for Year 11 & 12 students
Students may sit the exam for one or more disciplines.
The cost is $16.50 (including GST) per student, per exam.
Please email Mrs Bishop if you would like to sit one or more of the exams. Deborah_Bishop@rok.catholi.edu.au
Exams are two-hours long and are completed wholly online.
If you would like know what the exams look like - click on the link below to view past exams. These are available for you to practice on in preparation for the real thing in August.
Science Olympiads - past Exams
The Australian Mathematics Competition is Australia's longest running, largest and most well-known maths competition for school students.
Date: 5th – 7th August
Duration – 75minute online exam
Cost: $9:00 per student
NB: If you signed up to sit the KSF math competition in Term 1 - you already have an entry into the AMC next term
If you didn't sit the KSF and want to sit the AMC please email Mrs Bishop to register your interest: Deborah_Bishop@rok.catholic.edu.au
Mrs Debbie Bishhop
Senior Teacher (Science)
STEM committee
Deborah_Bishop@rok.catholic.edu.au
On Wednesday 4 June, we sent a team of five students to Gin Gin State High School to complete in the Wide Bay Burnett (Junior) Readers Cup.
Jessica H., Loretta B., Chloe A., Paige K., and Isla L. were accompanied by Mr Richardson and Ms Joyce and finished very respectfully in the middle of the field.
The girls had a great time and we really appreciate the students who are enthusiastically engaged, not only in books and reading, but in representing their school. Well done girls!
Next term it will be a team from our 9 and 10 cohorts who will travel to Kepnock State High School with Mrs Hume and Mr Church.
Our new Literary Ambassadors are working hard to promote the Literary committee’s events, primarily:
- The student Reading Passport Project,
- The Shalom Literary Wonders writing competition, and
- Shalom’s First Draft Writer’s Festival.
We are also planning a week of fun for Book Week in Term 3, so keep an ear out for coming news of those activities.
Keep reading!
Denise Harvey
School Librarian
Denise_Harvey@rok.catholic.edu.au
Our Year 11 First Nations students recently attended the First Nations Leadership Camp (3 - 5 June) and represented our school with pride and enthusiasm.
Throughout the week, students embraced the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, trying their hand at public speaking and meeting new people. It was inspiring to see them grow in confidence by the end of the camp.
The camp offered many rich cultural experiences, including a moving Welcome to Country by Darumbal Elders and yarn with the Elders afterwards. Students proudly engaged with their culture - learning how to make fire using traditional methods, creating beautiful emu feather armbands and headbands, and learning traditional dances, which they performed on the beach.
In addition to the cultural learning, students had a great time with a range of fun activities including line dancing, a karaoke/trivia night, and a fun-filled afternoon of ball games and ice breakers. Most importantly, they connected with other First Nations students from across the Diocese, building new friendships and strong community ties.
As part of this leadership experience, students reflected on what kind of leader they are and how they can use their strengths to make a difference in their schools and communities.
Ms Valli Mitchelson
First Nations Education Liaison Officer
Velma_Mitchelson@rok.catholic.edu.au
Term 1: Tuesday 28 January – Friday 4 April (10 weeks)
Term 2: Tuesday 22 April – Friday 27 June (10 weeks)
Term 3: Monday 14 July – Friday 19 September (10 weeks)
Year 12 Formal: Saturday 6 September
Term 4: Tuesday 7 October – Thursday 4 December (9 weeks)
The Shalom Markets are open every Sunday 6am-midday. Come along to purchase your fresh fruit and vegetables, local food products and handmade items.
Markets BBQ Roster
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Sunday 15 June |
Africa Volunteer Aide |
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Sunday 22 June |
Shalom Netball Program |
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Sunday 29 June |
NO BBQ |
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Sunday 6 July |
Rotary Central |
Office Hours: 9:00 - 1:00 Monday to Friday
Parish Office: Rossolini Place Level 1, 66 Woongarra St
Phone: 07 4151 6666 PO Box 79 Bundaberg QLD 4670
Email: sbundaberg@rok.catholic.net.au
AFTER HOURS: Anointing of the sick for medical emergencies
phone 4151 6666 and follow the prompt
UNDER THE PATRONAGE OF MARY MOTHER OF CHURCH
"The annual parish "Good News" magazine is now available in all churches for a Gold Coin Donation. As you read our in-house publication of the Good News magazine this year, discover the ways in which our parish vision statement is being made clear.
Shalom College Families Business and Trade Directory
To help assist the Shalom College community in supporting local businesses that are run by Shalom families, we have created our Shalom College Families Business and Trade Directory. If you would like to be listed in this directory, please send a copy of your business card to Mr Peter Robinson who will be establishing and developing this directory to Peter_Robinson@rok.catholic.edu.au
Student Travel Rebates
Would you like to know more about the Non State Schools Transport Assistance Scheme and eligibility requirements? Click on the link to view the short introductory video here: https://youtu.be/ogWpq7tVaio
Student travel rebate applications open 1-31 May for Semester 1. Please click here to check if you are eligible.
St Joseph's Catholic Kindergarten Open Day
Blue Light Disco
Mental Health Resources
Youth Support
