Filter Content
- Principal's Reflection
- Curriculum
- Administration
- Mission
- Pathways Information
- Sport
- IT Department - Important Information
- Photography Competition
- 40 Years of Shalom Celebration
- Tuckshop - Last Week Term 3 Changes
- Student Drivers
- Absentees
- Quiet Achiever
- Uniform Shop Hours
- 2025 YEAR 10 GIRLS UNIFORMS
- Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
- Middle School Academic Showcase
- Shalom Netball Program
- From the Library
- CAREER OPPORTUNITIY
- Term Dates 2024
- Term Dates 2025
- Tuckshop - Online Pre-Ordering
- Shalom Sunday Markets
- The Catholic Parish of Bundaberg
- Community Notice Board
On Saturday afternoon, I sat with the parents of Nicota who were struggling to come to terms with the tragic loss of their son. The only scripture that came to my mind was the shortest verse in the Gospels which is in John’s Gospel 11:35 – “Jesus Wept”. That family is facing inconsolable grief coming to terms with Nicota’s very untimely death and that won’t change for a long time. Sitting with those good but suffering people on Saturday, I felt helpless. Given that I have been in that situation too many times before, I knew that nothing I was going to say or do was going to ease their pain. But, I hope, being there, was something. Each of us has to work out how to deal with suffering. My younger brother, Tim, not long before he died, gave me a book to read entitled, “When Bad Things Happen to Good People”. Interestingly, it wasn’t entitled, ‘Why do Bad Things Happen to Good People’ but ‘When…’ It’s a great little book. One of the lines that caught my attention was some wisdom shared by its Jewish author, Harold Kushner, when he quoted Rabbi Mendel who once said, “Human beings are God’s language”. That is, when we cry out to God in our anguish, God responds by sending people. Doctor and Nurses and Paramedics who work tirelessly to make us whole. Friends sit with us and share a coffee, hold our hand without speaking and without trying to explain away our pain or diminish it be telling us that other people have it worse. Strangers perform random acts of kindness. As we all pray for Nicota’s family, let’s pray that they will feel surrounded by love, friends, family and strangers who will just be able to sit and, when they are able, help them to take the next faltering step forward.
Personally, I refuse to believe in a God, as I once may have, who would send any of us suffering to try us or punish us. Suffering is a part of the human condition and God promises only to walk with us and hopefully, encourage others to reach out when we are need. May that God, embrace Nerissa, Warren, Rowel and their wider family.
Nicota came to Shalom in Year 7 and it was a big change for him. It took him quite a while to settle into Shalom and he certainly had his ups and downs in his early days. But he did settle. On Saturday, Mr Crowley, Nicota’s PC teacher in Hogan 1, shared with his parents that Nicota played a really positive and significant part in the life of their PC. He made others laugh. Nerissa also told me that at one point when Nicota was in Year 9, he came to her and thanked her so much for sending him to Shalom and making him get through those early days. He loved being at Shalom.
I know every parent in our community and beyond will feel the pain that Nicota’s parents, Warren & Nerissa feel. Losing a child is the worst nightmare of any parent. The lives of our children are precious and they are vulnerable. Young men, the data would tell us, are more likely not to reach out to someone else when they are feeling low. Bloody male masculinity! We do so much more now with our young men and our young women to support, prod, encourage and cajole them to believe that it is perfectly OK not to feel OK all the time. Sometimes, every one of us needs to be brave enough to ask for help. ‘Are you OK?’ is so much more than a slogan. And, added to that, we all need to have the courage to answer that question with a ‘No, I’m not’. I know, like me, every parent in the Shalom community will hug their kids a little tighter tonight and try and remind each of them that nothing that they will do or think, ever, is too much to share.
Year 11 will head off for their Retreat to the Sunshine Coast on Wednesday. Hopefully, this will be a great chance for them to reflect on life with all its joys and sorrows as well as assist them moving forward confidently into the future. It is always a highlight of the year.
Core Studies Showcase – I hope many parents will find time to drop into the College to share some of the learnings their daughters and sons have discovered in this annual event on Thursday.
Mr Dan McMahon
Principal
mcmahond@shalomcollege.com
Year 9 Students - Essential Core Offer for Year 10, 2025
Last week a small number of Year 9 parents received correspondence from me with the invitation for their student to be placed into some Essential Core classes in Year 10. Parents could you please ensure that you have checked your emails in case you received an invitation for your child. Thank you to those parents who have responded already.
Please tick either accept or decline for each subject offered. We need a response for each subject. We would like to have these offers finalised by the end of this week so that we can start looking at timetabling.
Year 11
This is a timely reminder to parents and student regarding assessment in the senior school. If a student does not submit a final response to an assessment and where evidence of student progress is available (draft or classwork), teachers will make judgments based on this. If a student provided no evidence on or before the due date, and no other evidence is available, a student will receive a ‘Not Rated’. This will mean no credit can be given towards their QCE for that unit of learning. This will mean a loss of 1 or more QCE credits.
Senior assessment is bound by QCAA guidelines around Academic Integrity and Assessment processes, your student may miss the opportunity to complete assessment if their absence does not relate to an approved absence, unforeseen illness, or misadventure. Student undertaking Vocational Placement, Work Experience or other pathway opportunities must attend school for scheduled exams regardless of these days.
Term 3 - Elevate Education Free Parent Webinar Series
•How You Can Support Your Child During Exams. September 18, 6:30-7:30pm (AEST)
Mrs Gail Norris
Assistant Principal - Curriculum
gail_norris@shalomcollege.com
Year 11 Exam Block (4-9 September) and Year 12 Mock Exam Block (2-13 September)
Attached is the Year 11 Exam Block Timetable (4-9 September) and the Year 12 Mock Exam Block Timetable (2-13 September). Students need only attend school for the exams they are to sit during this time, however, students who are behind in their schoolwork may be required to attend school to complete outstanding work. If this is required, these arrangements will be communicated by individual class teachers.
Please remember that normal school rules regarding uniform, phones and behaviour continue through the exam block. These expectations are outlined in the attached documents.
We wish our students all the best with their studies.
Mr Brendan Maher
Assistant Principal - Administration
maherb@shalomcollege.com
Masses
Gathering as a community to participate in Mass is central to being Catholic. As a Catholic School, we provide opportunities for students and staff to participate in Masses, regardless of their own faith background or none. Therefore, each House will join with another, to celebrate a House Mass during one of their timetabled Assembly times in Term 2 or Term 3.
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 9 students.
Wednesday 11 September Mass Cancelled
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@shalomcollege.com
Pathways News - Highlights
WORK EXPERIENCE
- Work Experience Placements for the September Holidays Have Now Closed
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
- See the range of part-time, full-time and apprenticeship roles on offer on the Pathways Sia Page
EVENTS & WORKSHOPS
- Bundaberg Police Recruiting Seminar – 18 September 6-7pm
- White Card for Schools Online Course
UNIVERSITY
- Early Offer Programs through JCU & UniSC – How to Apply
- CQU’s Principal’s Recommendation Scheme – Applications Now Open
ADDITIONAL LEARNING
- Green Jobs, Bright Future – Renewable Energy - Free training courses offered through Bundaberg Regional Council & TAFE
- Will You Be in Yr 11 or 12 in 2025? Check out the Additional Learning Opportunities - (TAFE at School etc) - Enrolments for 2025 Now Open – Places filling fast!
CAREER SPOTLIGHT
- Farming is Surprisingly High Tech
SCHOLARSHIPS
- TAFE Qld Scholarship Applications Now Open
CAREERS IN HEALTH
- Choose Your Own (CYO) Health Career – Explore a Career as a Medical Scientist
APPRENTICESHIPS/TRADES
- Construction Pathways – Find the Right Fit for You – Explore a Career as a Fencer
Unlock Pathways and Explore Possibilities – Your journey begins here in this week’s Pathways Newsletter
The Pathways Team
Mrs Liza O’Donnell, Mrs Kim Toll, Mrs Kathryn Laing, Mrs Jacinta Gill & Mrs Cristel Simmonds
Liza_ODonnell@shalomcollege.com
kim_toll@shalomcollege.com
kathryn_laing@shalomcollege.com
jacinta_gill@shalomcollege.com
cristel_simmonds@shalomcollege.com
Shalom College Sporting Success - Last Few Weeks!
If you would like to submit any sporting achievements about your child/children along with a photo, please email your submissions to GillsS@shalomcollege.com
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.
Shalom T20 Cricket success
Congrats to the Shalom T20 Cricket teams over the recent weeks. The Shalom Intermediate (Yr 7/8/9) Boys played the Southern Conference semi Final against Matthew Flinders in Maryborough last week. Unfortunately the boys suffered a close loss.
Our Intermediate Girls however made it all the way through to the State Final and played Malanda SHS in Brisbane last Friday. Malanda SHS batted first making about 110 and Shalom were on target at 3/90 but fell short in the run chase (The Intermediate Girls play 9-a-side).
Thanks heaps to Mr Rasmussen, Mr Cronin and Mrs Campbell for taking these teams.
Karting
Congratulations to Shalom student Ky B who competed in Oakleigh, Victoria for the last round of the Australian Kart Championships. The weather made it very difficult with gale force winds and unpredictable rain. After qualifying 11th, Ky made his way forward through the heats. He came home in 2nd place in the Final. Overall for the Championship, Ky was awarded 3rd in Australia for the KA2 class.
Rugby League
Congratulations to our Year 7/8 boys' rugby league team for their impressive victory in retaining the Dolphins Bunny-Pearce Shield!
The team travelled to the Sunshine Coast to take on a determined Nambour SHS side. Nambour started strong, putting Shalom under early pressure and setting the tone for a challenging match. Despite this, Shalom responded impressively, delivering one of their best games of the season. Through a solid team effort, they finished as the stronger side, leaving with a very satisfying team performance and result.
A big thank you to all the students and coaching staff for your dedication and hard work throughout the year.
Final score: 24-12
Tries: Jayden S (2), Patty, D, Freddy M, Cooper C
Goals: Nate G (2)
MOM - Freddy M
Players: Cooper C, Deklan R, Elroy G, Ethan G, Freddy M, Grayson K
Hunter P-D, Jake S, James C, Jayden S, Koby C, Mason B
Michael M, Nate G, Nolan Y, Parker M, Patrick D, Preston E
Slater M, Tamihana T, Taniela K, Will H, Xander T
Staff: Mr Kaufusi (Coach), Mrs Giles (Manager/Trainer)
Swimming
Congratulations to Shalom student Koby I who recently returned from the NZ Short Course Swimming Championships.
Koby achieved PBs in all of his events; 200m breaststroke (placed 9th overall), 100m breaststroke and the 200m individual medley.
From this he has also achieved his Australian National Age Qualifying Times for next year.
Picture is with Lewis Clareburt New Zealand Olympic Swimmer
Ten Pin Bowling
Winter Fixtures Results
Shalom College had two junior teams in the Ten Pin Bowling Winter Fixtures this term. The five players have enjoyed the season and are commended for their great sportsmanship and desire to improve their bowling skills over the five weeks.
Congratulations goes to the following students for their individual achievements:
Eloise C – Highest handicap game (female) with a score of 240
Tiffany R – Highest handicap series (female) with a score of 409
Overall Ten Pin Bowling Winter season results and the Annual Senior/Junior combined results are below.
Junior High School Competition 2024
| HIGH GAME | |||
| MALE | DARTANION M | 189 | BUNDY HIGH |
| FEMALE | KATIE R | 168 | BUNDY HIGH |
| HIGH GAME Hep | |||
| MALE | XAVIER M | 253 | BUNDY HIGH |
| FEMALE | ELOISE C | 240 | SHALOM |
| HIGH SERIES | |||
| MALE | CRUZ T | 261 | BUNDY HIGH |
| FEMALE | REBEKAH B | 255 | BUNDY HIGH |
| HIGH SERIES HEP | |||
| MALE | LUCAS S | 449 | ST LUKES |
| FEMALE | TIFFANY R | 409 | SHALOM |
| MOST IMPROVED | |||
| MALE | ALEX O | +26 68-94 | BUNDY HIGH |
| FEMALE | KATIE R | +18 104-122 | BUNDY HIGH |
Winter Team Results
| HANDICAP TEAM | |
| BUNDABERG HIGH 3 | 15 |
| REBEKAH B | |
| CRUZ T | |
| HUNTAH W | |
| BUNDABERG HIGH 4 | 15 |
| KATIE R | |
| IMOGEN W | |
| MAEVEY E | |
| SCRATCH TEAM | |
| BUNDABERG HIGH 1 | 15 |
| TYLOR A | |
| XAVIER M | |
| DARTANION M | |
| BUNDABERG HIGH 4 | 15 |
| COMBINED RESULTS | |
| HANDICAP | KEPNOCK STATE HIGH SCHOOL |
| SCRATCH | KEPNOCK STATE HIGH SCHOOL |
Shalom Touch Football
Congratulations to the six Shalom Teams for their efforts at Wide Bay All Schools (WBAS) Carnival on Thursday 5 September. 5 teams won the premierships. 13 boys, 13 girls, 15 girls, Open Girls & Open Boys. The 15 Boys were runners up. The results will be published in a future newsletter. Thanks to all involved.
Mr Simon Gills
Sports Coordinator
GillsS@shalomcollege.com
Important: Scheduled Updates for Shalom College Student Laptops
Scheduled Updates for Shalom College Student Laptops
Starting Friday 23 August, automatic updates will begin on Shalom College laptops. At home over the weekend, simply plug in and turn on your laptop, connect to Wi-Fi, and let the updates run in the background. Please read the letter attached for more detailed information.
Note: This does not apply to Year 9 or Year 12 student laptops.
Shalom Online Safety Hub - For Parents
Shalom has recently introduced a new initiative aimed at safeguarding your child's digital wellbeing. Parents have complimentary access to Qustodio to monitor their child's school device after school hours, as well as one personal device (like a phone or iPad) per child. This system can help parents control screen time, block websites and monitor applications. Using the new Shalom Online Safety Hub, parents can access their Qustodio account and read useful information about digital safety. This system is replacing the previously used FamilyZone.
We strongly encourage you to access this free service as you will gain valuable insights into your child's online activities outside of school hours.
To set-up your Qustodio account follow the link to the Shalom Online Safety Hub homepage. Click on Create a free account.
For an in-depth account set up tutorial, please use the PDF below.
Click here to access the Shalom Online Safety Hub.
IT Department
Mr Tony Bowes - IT Manager
anthony_bowes@shalomcollege.com
MY SHALOM | PHOTOGRAPHY COMPETITION | $500 PRIZE!
Calling all current and past students, parents and staff!
To celebrate the 40th Anniversary of Shalom College, we are running a photography competition!
We’re looking for all entries, whether it is artistic or purely a photo that captures a great memory of your time at here at Shalom we want to hear from you. There is no time restriction on when an image was made (1984-2024).
The theme “My Shalom” is up to the photographer’s interpretation.
It could be a photo of a group of friends or a building during your time here at Shalom.
It could also be a photo post-Shalom, a wedding in Loyola of past students, or a group photo from a 20-year reunion held in Brisbane! OR even a photo of multiple generations of past Shalom students in a family photo.
The possibilities are endless.
All entries welcome.
Entries close: Sunday 29 September 2024
Finalist images will be printed, framed, and displayed in the Shalom College Performing Arts Precinct Foyer from Friday 11 October 2024.
Join us in celebrating the wonderful 40 year history and community of Shalom College.
For more information, terms & conditions, or to submit an entry, visit https://www.shalom40.com/
Shalom Chaverim
Mrs Georgia Halpin
Community Relations Officer
georgia_halpin@shalomcollege.com
Friday 11 October 2024 | 3:30pm-8:00pm
JOIN US IN CELEBRATING THE WONDERFUL 40 YEAR HISTORY OF SHALOM COLLEGE
All past and present students, parents and staff are welcome to attend.
The event will include;
3:30-4:30pm - Tours of the College (Optional)
All guests to be at the Performing Arts Precinct by 4:30pm
4:30pm-5:15pm – Musical Acts (from past and present staff and students)
5:15-6:00pm - Premiere of the 40 Years of Shalom Documentary
6:00pm-8pm – Canapes and drinks in the foyer of the Performing Arts Precinct with the shortlisted ‘My Shalom’ photography competition photographs on display.
Tickets $30 per person – includes canapes. Drinks and merchandise will be available to purchase on the night (EFTPOS ONLY).
If you are unable to attend the event on the Friday, pending demand we may look at repeating the event in a smaller scale on Saturday 12 October.
For more information or to express your interested please see LINK HERE.
Mrs Georgia Halpin
Community Relations Officer
georgia_halpin@shalomcollege.com
Flexischools Ordering
Monday 9 and Tuesday 10 September are the last days to order tuckshop via the app this term.
Flexischool ordering will recommence in Term 4 along with changes to the menu.
Mr Mark Algie
Tuckshop Convenor
mark_algie@shalomcollege.com
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.
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.
For this Quiet Achiever I would like to nominate Laura S. Laura is a quintessential example of "quiet" and "achieving". She involves herself in everything that occurs at school, either actively or as an interested and engaged audience member. Importantly, she is doing very well in her Grade 11 subjects - this is our prime focus at school. Yet she does not simply stop there - within the 4 walls of Lingiari Laura quietly helps with everything we do - from being a terrific Buddy this year to quietly helping me set-up for our House assemblies. Indeed, for our recent House Bake Sale Laura purchased (donated) all of our napkins after coming up with a colour coding napkin system for our pricing (far beyond my brain power). It is not often that I have to ask Laura for any help, though when I do her answer is always an immediate "yes".
She is a fantastic supporter of the college Netball programs - currently she is recovering from a knee reconstruction, but is still involved in Netball by coaching and supporting. Laura also is heavily involved in the college's music program as a member of the Senior Concert Band and Jazz ensembles.
Laura's behaviour is consistently underpinned with the values of Vincent Lingiari, with JUSTICE being at the forefront of her thinking. She is a wonderful role-model for all of us in Lingiari House.
Monday to Thursday: 8.00am to 12.00pm
Monday, Tuesday and Thursday: 3.30pm to 5.30pm
Friday: Closed
Year 10 girls are welcome to come and organise their uniforms for 2025.
If you are currently in Year 9 and would like to be organised for next year please come along and do a fitting and/or purchase of your Year 10 Skirt, Blouse and Tie.
COSTS:
- Skirt $60.00
- Blouse $50.00
- Girls Tie $30.00
Please come along to the Shalom College Uniform Shop and organise early.
If you are interested in challenging yourself, maybe getting fitter, learning a new skill, helping the community and going on adventurous journeys doing something you have never done before I suggest you think about Duke of Edinburgh. The only prerequisite is that you need to be 14 years or over.
Participants:
- Design their own program
- Set goals and record progress
- Make a positive impact on the lives of others through community service
- Be challenged by an Adventurous Journey. You decide on your adventure.
Although it is a time commitment, often participants can continue with activities they are already taking part in, such as sports or volunteering, and count these towards achieving their Award. Otherwise, it could be an opportunity to try something new and develop a passion for something different.
As an example you could do indoor rock climbing as your physical activity and learn knots and setting up Abseiling or Top rope climbs.
In Term 4 we are looking to run a Practice Canoe Adventurous Journey and a Qualifying Journey in the Christmas holidays.
In 2024, 5 Shalom College Bronze award candidates completed their Award.
Also, this one current student and three Alumni had their Gold Awards presented by the Queensland Governor General at Brisbane Town Hall.
Olivia W (Year 12)
Lilly M (Alumni 2023)
Emma P (Alumni (2022)
Erica M (Alumni 2022)
At a minimum this requires 2 adventurous journeys of 4 days and 3 nights, a five-day residential project plus a minimum time commitment of 150 hours of physical recreation, skill and service.
In previous years participants have completed awards at other levels (Silver and Gold) and have completed Adventurous Journeys on the South Passage, a sail training ship, while others did a combination of Bushwalking and Canoeing Adventurous Journeys. In previous years, I have taken students on the Thorsbourne Trail in North Queensland, the Victorian High Plains, and the Kokoda Track in PNG.
If you have an interest in joining up for the Duke of Edinburgh Award (at any level), feel free to contact me by email david_eke@shalomcollege.com if you have further questions or you can go to the Duke of Edinburgh website
Mr David Eke
Award Leader
This week we are excited to once again celebrate the academic achievements of our middle school students. We invite all parents, guardians and students in Year 7, 8 and 9 to the 2024 Middle School Academic Showcase on Thursday 12 September at the Waterford building. Join us anytime between 3:30pm and 5:00pm to enjoy a cuppa and biscuit, and browse the various displays.
On display will be a range of student work from across the curriculum areas, including dance and poetry performances. A schedule of the live events will come out soon.
We would like to extend the invitation to grandparents as well. This year there are lucky door prizes to be won. Students have the chance to win one of five $10 tuck-shop vouchers. Parents and grandparents go into the draw to win a grocery voucher.
Hope to see you there!
TRIALS FOR 2025 SENIOR NETBALL TEAMS WILL BE HELD IN TERM 4
QISSN ART COMPETITION TO CELEBRATE 25 YEARS OF QISSN
Get your Art on everyone!!!
Mrs Nadia Tairawhiti
Shalom Netball Coordinator
Nadia_Tairawhiti@shalomcollege.com
From the Library…
We will finish the term with the powerful story by Waylen H. which secured him the win for the Yr 9-10 Short Story category in Shalom’s “Literary Wonders” writing competition for 2024.
Waylen weaves a compelling tale of a man’s struggle with his unemployment, and consequent poverty and homelessness. He likens the scenario to a caged bird, denied their freedom to fly. At his most desperate he believes himself saved but ultimately realizes that the inner battle must continue a little longer…
If Waylan’s story grabs you, you may also like Shaun Tan’s “Cicada”.
The Bird
By Waylen H. (Winner Yr. 9-10 Short Story)
A caged bird is destined to never fly beyond the liberty of its metal nest while a free bird’s will is caged in a world of predators. Joseph D. was among many of the employees laid off by a large bank; he was a quiet, mousy man who garnered little attention from his superiors. He would take grueling hours of overtime to make ends meet. The news of his unemployment was not surprising for D. — the consistent trend of economic recession had thrown a dreadful net of uncertainty over his future. Joseph knew that the loss of his employment was the loss of his housing and quite possibly, life. He had tried to reason with his landlord, Mr Smith who had refused his plea, claiming,
“Would you want both of us to lose our livelihood? You’re a good man Joseph. I only wish I could have done more.”
He could have done more; Smith was a man who enjoyed flaunting his moderate wealth with decadent parties and gatherings He housed many tenants in squalid flats, overcharging his guests with hidden fees, while refusing to fix the property’s damage. The tenants were employees of Smith’s connections, his lavish gifts to officials and employers blinded the eyes of justice.
The rain poured heavily onto the city, ushering a solemn quiet that drowned Joseph’s sorrow. He sat atop the parapet of a long abandoned building which overlooked the city. A deep sigh left his mouth.
“So, this is how it all ends huh?” the man thought. “No money, status, or wife. Nothing to call my own. Nothing to look forward to. All those years of hardship for what? Have I not suffered enough?”
The tantalising scent of dinner wafted from the warm, miniature dots of light below. Children and parents chattered excitedly without a care in the world. And yet, the man was a bird trapped in a cage; his owners had released him from a cage into an enclosure.
A frigid gust of December wind kissed the back of the man’s neck. He wished not to live on the ground anymore. He wished to fly. The man stood upon the ledge overlooking the city. Taking a deep breath, he jumped into a shadowy oblivion.
A man clad in a fox’s mask climbed atop the abandoned building. The Fox saw a man gazing apathetically onto the street below. He knew what was next and what had to be done — running quickly, he grabbed the man’s arm in flight.
“Brother why do you choose to end yourself when there is so much to see in the world?” questioned the Fox.
“An injured bird is destined to never fly whether it is caged or free,” answered the Bird. “I wish not to be both.”
“Would you like to witness the new world with me?” asked the Fox. “One without limits, boundaries, and imprisonment. One where fledglings never fear death. One where we can all fly equally, as a flock. No one shall ever feel the pain of poverty, nor know the fear of thirst. I will guide us to the new world, and I would like you to join me.”
“Who are you?”
“l am God.”
The Bird joined the Fox in a small, dimly lit apartment flat which emanated with a radical joy. A roast pig sat gloriously on the table, stuffed with raisins and apples. People spoke happily with each other, an intoxicating scent of wine drifting through the room. D. felt like a fish out of water — he wanted to run, to escape. This place was not for him. He did not deserve it. Rapidly pacing, sweat dripped from his forehead as his hand clasped nervously to his coat.
“I‘m leaving,” he thought and hurried through the room. “You cannot leave, he is about to speak,” the Bird heard the people say behind him. The light perished as the Fox stood in the centre of the room. He held up one hand, and in a swift motion, lit a match. It burned brightly, fluttering on the walls like transparent, orange butterflies.
“Friends, we gather here today to welcome a new member to our family and to liberate this world of suffering!” declared the Fox, gesturing towards Joseph. “This world has been plunged into an era of darkness where only we stand against evil. See this flame? Mankind’s hopes and dreams burn brightly within us. We are the chosen ones, the ones who will lead humanity through nihility. And tonight, shall be the night we realise the universe’s final plan. We shall eradicate the darkness and establish a new luminous age!”
The winter wind blew violently, beating at the concrete buildings. The bird and the fox walked together down the street.
“Listen God I’m not sure if I can do this,’ stammered the Bird. “I can’t lose more than I already have-”
“Of course you can,” interrupted the Fox, laughing haughtily. “Go, the others have already left. If you have nothing, then dedicate your soul to the betterment of mankind so that no one shall ever suffer as you did. You know this is right, and you know it must be done. How foolish you are to think that good deeds are criminal”.
Joseph felt something slide into his hand, something cold and metal.
“Do what you need to do.”
D. walked down the icy road. It had already started. Screams and flames erupted from the buildings while bright flashes of gunfire tore the night asunder. Sirens blared in the distance and yet, he walked on. Reaching a familiar door, the bird paused and knocked. Smith exited, shocked.
“Please Joseph, you don’t have to do this,” pleaded Smith, his face now terribly pale. “I have money, take whatever you like.”
“Do you know what you took from me? How much pain you have caused?” shouted the man, with a gun in hand. “I could have saved her! That night of the business meeting, you knew the plane was defective, didn’t you? Yet you still sent her there! This is your fault. Her blood is on your hands.”
“Joseph let’s be rational here! The death of your wife had nothing to do with me. I merely just-“
“Silence! I wish not to hear more,” the Bird stammered, hand on trigger. A small head protruded from the door.
“Daddy, who is this stranger at the door?” asked the child curiously.
“It’s just a friend sweety, hurry back inside,” the father ushered his daughter inside. “Joseph, | know we can’t rewind the past but please, let’s move to a better future. I have a family and responsibilities. I can’t leave them now.”
The bird didn’t know what to do; he stood there in silence, his face stuck in pure rage and conflict. A gust of cold wind kissed the back of his neck.
Ah, it’s that time again isn’t it,” D. thought. “I’m going to be seeing you soon.”
Raising his hand, Joseph D. put the gun to his head and fired. The caged bird was finally free.
Image Credit: Max Ernst, L'oiseau en cage, 1924, Oil on sandpaper, 9 2/5 × 7 3/10 in | 24 × 18.5 cm
Denise_Harvey@shalomcollege.com
Assistant Principal: Curriculum
- Position: Assistant Principal: Curriculum
- Start date: January 2025
- Employment Status: Full-Time (5 year Contract)
- Salary: $145,401 - $152,543 (pending experience) + 12.75% super
- Applications Close: Monday, 9 September 2024
Classroom Support Assistant
- Position: Classroom Support Assistant
- Commencement Date: As soon as possible
- Employment Status: Term-Time
- Hours per week: 30
- Hourly rate: $31.58 - $32.26
- Applications Close: 9 September 2024
Term Dates for 2024
Term 1: Monday 22 January – Thursday 28 March (10 weeks)
Term 2: Monday 15 April – Friday 21 June (10 weeks)
Term 3: Monday 8 July – Friday 13 September (10 weeks)
Term 4: Monday 30 September – Thursday 5 December (10 weeks)
Term Dates for 2025
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 Term 3 2024 Tuckshop Menu can be found by following the link below. The menu is also located permanently on the side menu of the Newsletter (desktop only). Any changes to the menu will be updated.
Vegetarian and Gluten Free options are available to order on the flexischools app or by coming into the canteen to place an order between 8.00-8.30am for the day.
The Shalom Markets are open every Sunday 6am-midday. Come along to purchase your fresh fruit and vegetables, local food products and handmade items.
Volunteers Required - Markets Tuckshop
We are seeking your help!! We are always in need of new volunteers for the Markets Tuckshop and BBQ. If your child/children would like to gain some work experience, why not get them to volunteer in the canteen. If you have a few hours you could spare to assist in our canteen, please click on the link below to register your assistance or contact Leanne via email at barkerl@shalomcollege.com.
If we get enough volunteers, it may work out that you only need to volunteer once per term.
Register to Volunteer HERE
Markets Tuckshop Roster
| Sunday 15 September | 6:00am – 9:30am |
Volunteers required |
|
9:00am – 12:30pm |
Volunteers required |
|
| Sunday 22 September |
6:00am – 9:30am |
Volunteers required |
|
9:00am – 12:30pm |
Volunteers required |
|
| Sunday 29 September |
6:00am – 9:30am |
Jeanne Ferguson |
|
9:00am – 12:30pm |
Volunteers required |
|
| Sunday 6 October |
6:00am – 9:30am |
Danielle Morrish |
|
9:00am – 12:30pm |
Volunteers required |
Markets BBQ Roster
|
Sunday 15 September |
Bundaberg Croquet Club |
|
Sunday 22 September |
Bundaberg Croquet Club |
|
Sunday 29 September |
Rotary Central |
|
Sunday 6 October |
Rotary Club of Bundaberg Sunrise |
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.
Stewardship Renewal
As a Stewardship Parish, the Bundaberg Catholic Parish is involved in more than ninety outreaches to all in our community.
Parishioners discern their gifts and talents and then offer these for the pastoral care, support, and service of others.
The outreaches vary from visiting the sick and housebound to grounds and property maintenance; from proclaiming the scripture at Church liturgies to support of relatives and friends of recently deceased; from church cleaning to providing hospitality.
Our schools and College are the educational and faith formation arm of our parish as are St Vincent de Paul, Oz Care, and Catholic Care our charitable and social arm while the Mater hospital is our health arm. Together we strive to make a difference in our community in whatever way our gifts can lead us.
During the next few weeks, we will be renewing our commitment to serve, to be good stewards of the gifts we have been given. This concludes the weekend of September 14 & 15.
We ask you to join us as together we live out our Christian commitment and our Parish Vision – “to go out, empowered by the Holy Spirit, to share God’s Love
respectfully, with all people”.
For further information please email: Stewardship.Bundaberg@rok.catholic.net.au , visit our website: www.bundabergcatholic.net.au or scan the QR code:
Enrolments are open at St Joseph’s Catholic Kindergarten
For more information or expression of interest click here.
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@shalomcollege.com
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 October for Semester 2. Please click here to check if you are eligible.
Youth Support
