Filter Content
- Acting Principal's Reflection
- Curriculum
- Administration
- Mission
- Pathways
- Quiet Achiever
- Year 7 2026
- Sport
- Shalom Netball Program
- Absentees
- Student Drivers
- School Immunisation Program 2025
- SCASA - Term 1 Sign On
- Year 8 Camp Information
- Career Opportunity
- Catholic Schools Race Day 2025
- McCormack House Fund Raiser
- Shalom Colour Fun 2025!
- Trivia Night for Edmund Rice Camps
- From the Office - Pain Relief Dispensing
- From the Office - Provision of Medical Certificate
- Uniform Shop New Location
- Fitness Centre Opening Hours
- From the Library
- Term Dates for 2025
- Tuckshop - Breakfast
- Tuckshop - Online Pre-Ordering
- Shalom Sunday Markets
- The Catholic Parish of Bundaberg
- Community Notice Board
Where has the time gone? Our first two weeks of term seems to have flown by. I hope our Year 7 students are starting to feel a little bit more at ease as they navigate their new surroundings, routines and friendships. It has been wonderful to see so many happy smiling faces around our Waterford building.
As I reflect on the past two months, for me they have been a real reminder of the circle of life. In December we said goodbye to my brother-in-law, a wonderful man who unfortunately succumbed to his lengthy battle with cancer. Leaving behind his beloved wife of over 50 years, a loving family and memories of a life well lived. While no more than a month later my husband and I welcomed our first grandchild – a tiny little girl whose early arrival filled us all full of excitement of this new beginning. This time has been a mix of sadness and joy; loss and hope. The circle of life!
Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 5:1-11) tells the story of Peter, weary from a night of empty fishing nets, who places his trust in Jesus and casts them out
once more – only to find his nets overflowing. This moment of faith reminds us that even in times of loss, uncertainty, or exhaustion, hope is never lost.
Pope Francis has called this a Jubilee Year of Hope, and in the circle of life, hope can take many forms. For those who have lost loved ones, hope is the promise that love does not end with death, it continues in our memories, in our prayers, and in the life of the Resurrection. For grandparents looking towards their grandchildren, hope is the joy of seeing new generations grow in wisdom, kindness, and faith. Hope bridges past and future, reminding us that God’s plan unfolds through time, guiding us even when we do not see the way ahead.
As a Catholic community, we are invited to embrace this call to hope to support those who grieve, to nurture the next generation, and to trust in the abundant grace of God. Like Peter, may we find the courage to cast our nets once more, knowing that Christ walks with us, ready to fill our nets in ways we may not expect.
Student Pick Up – lots of new picking up and dropping off at Shalom and being introduced to the joys of those times – particularly in the afternoon. Can I remind everyone of a few things:
• The only place to collect students in the Admin carpark is in front of Admin. Please, no collection on the vacant land on the right of Br Hogan Drive or in the Sports Centre or Tennis Court carparks.
• Similarly, please do not impinge on our neighbours by collecting students at the Church opposite us in Fitzgerald St or in Edenbrook Estate.
• Be patient in picking up and dropping off. Alternate entry of cars in converging lanes is good for everyone.
• If you can delay pick up until 3.15pm, both carparks are much emptier.
• Bus services in Bundy are fantastic and a very efficient way to move students to and from Shalom.
At the end of the day, we all want the same thing, student safe on arrival to and departure from the College.
Important Calendar Dates coming up include our Year 7 2026 Information Evening on Wednesday 12 February, closely followed by our annual College Open Day on Tuesday 25 February. The Interhouse Swimming Carnival is on Thursday 20 February. This involves half a day at the pool for all students. Parents, please remember that this is a part of life at Shalom and not optional for attendance. The day after, Friday 21 February, is our Bishop’s In-Service Day which will be a student free day for the College.
Mrs Gail Norris
Acting Principal
Gail_Norris@rok.catholic.edu.au
Starting the Year on the right foot
The Homework/Study Planner (located in the Student Record Book at the start of each term) is a tool to be used by all students to assist in developing time management skills. We encourage all students to make use of this study tool.
Also in the Student Record Book is a Term Planner that sits before the Study Planner at the beginning of each term. The aim is to support students to record assessments on their due dates, excursions, or any other academic commitments. This will assist students to plan their week/term effectively as they can see a snapshot of their whole term.
Please note that the Student Record Book details the Academic Policies and Procedures of the College. It is strongly recommended that parents and students familiarise themselves with these procedures to ensure they are meeting their obligations with regards to assessment.
Middle School
Year 7 and Year 9 students will sit the NAPLAN online tests during the national defined test window of Wednesday 12 March – Monday 24 March. There will be an opportunity for students to participate in a practice test leading into the testing period on Wednesday 26 February in one of their scheduled lessons for the day.
The table below outlines the test timetable. A more detailed schedule outlining class and period for testing will be available in Sia news from week 5. Catch up test sessions will be held on alternate days to the schedule below for absent students to sit the missed tests.
If you have any concerns about NAPLAN or if you wish to withdraw your student from NAPLAN testing, please contact Mrs Megan Munckton, Dean of Middle School, megan_munckton@rok.catholic.edu.au
Please note: all students MUST have headphones or earphones to undertake the NAPLAN Online testing. This is the responsibility of families to ensure that students have their earphones or headphones for all test days, including the practice test.
If you wish to visit the NAPLAN public demonstration site it can be accessed at: www.nap.edu.au/naplan/public-demonstration-site. A NAPLAN information brochure is attached for your information.
Year 11 Information
Last week a letter was emailed to students and parents outlining information relating to the management of assessment for students under the QCAA system. Please take the time to discuss this information with your student so that they are clear about the expectations around assessment, QCE and ATAR attainment. Additionally, if you can encourage your child to complete the Academic Integrity course in their myQCE Portal that would be beneficial. Students can access their myQCE Portal by going to the following website: https://myqce.qcaa.qld.edu.au/
Year 12 Information
Last week a letter was emailed to students and parents with information relating to the confirmation process involved with all Year 12 summative internal assessment under the QCAA system. The structure of term three and four is different because of the External Assessments.
The College Calendar identifies when the QCAA External Examination are scheduled for all Year 12 students in Queensland. It is important to realise that the external assessment block is compulsory for all students studying General and General Extension subjects. No ‘make up’ examinations are offered by QCAA if students are absent. Please make sure these dates are locked into your calendar.
2025 Elevate Education Parent Webinars
Elevate Education delivers high-impact workshops that help to develop student study skills, motivation, and exam preparation. Over the next two months, you are invited to join their parent webinar series, where you can help support your child at home by reinforcing the skills that will support their learning at school.
Upcoming Webinars:
• How to Get (And Keep) Your Child Motivated - Wednesday 12 February 6:30pm
• How You Can Help Your Child Manage Their Time - Wednesday 26 February 6:30pm
• How You Can Make Technology an Ally (& Not the Enemy!) - Wednesday 12 March 6:30pm
• How You Can Help Improve Your Child's Memory - Wednesday 26 March 6:30pm
Register for the series by clicking the link below and learn some practical strategies to help support your child this year. https://go.elevateeducation.com/auschoolwebinars
Mrs Kate Aplin
Assistant Principal - Curriculum
Catherine_Aplin@rok.catholic.edu.au
Year 12 Exam Block – Monday 24 - Wednesday 26 February
Year 12 students will participate in an exam block from Monday 24 – Wednesday 26 February. The Exam Timetable for this exam block is attached. Students participating in this exam block will undergo Unit 3 assessment. This assessment is summative and as such will contribute towards the ATAR score. Students need only attend school for the exams that they are sitting in this period.
During the exam block, students not involved in exams are expected to be involved in home study. Students who are behind in their schoolwork may also 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 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.
2025 Student Residential Address and Other Information Collection Notice
Please find attached the 2025 Student Residential Address and Other Information collection notice distributed by the Australian Government Department of Education, Skills and Employment. This data is routinely used to inform Commonwealth school education policy, and to help ensure that Commonwealth funding arrangements for non-government schools are based on need, and are fair and transparent.
Could you please ensure that your address and contact details are up-to-date through the Parent Details tab in Parent Lounge to ensure accurate collection of this data?
SIA – LOG ON NOW! GET THE PHONE APP!
‘Someone is sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.’ -Warren Buffet
A parent’s role in the education of their child is vital. Student outcomes will be maximised when parents and teachers are both involved in their child’s education and have positive interactions. Sia is a fantastic way for parents to be fully informed about student progress, assessment due dates, news items, upcoming events, assessment results etc.
Sia, and the Shalom phone app, have been available to parents since the beginning of 2022. Currently, our parent login rate is slightly lower than the end of last year. We would like all our parents to be successfully logged into Sia as soon as possible. Attached in the link below is a Parent “Everything You Need To Know About Sia’ Guide which includes how to log in for the first time. The phone app is super-convenient – a must-have for parents!
Our IT team will have sent the login details for Sia to all new parents to the school at the beginning of the year. If you have misplaced these details, or are having technical difficulties, please contact our Shalom IT department via email at shalomit@shalomcollege.com or phone 41558131 during office hours 8am - 3.30pm Monday to Friday, Tuesdays are 8.30am - 3.30 pm.
Mr Brendan Maher
Assistant Principal - Administration
Brendan_Maher@rok.catholic.edu.au
Year 12 Induction Ceremony
Families of Year 12 students were emailed an invitation to the Induction ceremony this week. This ceremony is one of a few rituals that they will experience this year and will see them receive their senior tie and badge. We are excited to have past student, Fr Peter Doherty, travel from his Gladstone Parish to lead us in prayer and bless the ties and badges before they are distributed. Some of the current Year 12 cohort travelled to Rockhampton last year to attend Fr Peter’s ordination, so it is wonderful that he can return to Bundaberg for this ceremony.
We are requesting that Year 12s limit themselves to 4 guests if possible (not including siblings enrolled at Shalom) simply due to the capacity of the Sports Centre. No RSVP is required.
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 11 and Year 12 students.
Wednesday 12 February Mr George Church's SOR 12B & SOR 11C
Wednesday 19 February Ms Danni Bryson's RAE 12A & 12C
Wednesday 26 February Ms Van Dalen's CMT 12A & 12B
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
WELCOME TO PATHWAYS FOR 2025
- We extend a very warm welcome to new and returning students for the year ahead. 2025 promises to be another successful year supporting our students on their individual pathways. We also welcome two new team members!
ADDITIONAL LEARNING
- What are Vocational Pathways? University isn’t your only option after leaving school. Vocational Education is a great way to get you skilled and ready for work, and is often faster than traditional university pathways.
- Average vs Median Salaries – What is the difference? Don’t make assumptions on a salary figure, there’s a lot more to consider in working out if a career is right for you.
CAREER SPOTLIGHT
- How to Become a Train Driver – If you’re reliable, good under pressure, and interested in transport and logistics, becoming a train driver could be perfect for you.
WORK EXPERIENCE
- Shalom’s Work Experience Program is a fantastic opportunity to explore a potential career path while gaining valuable skills. Read about how to choose the right work experience placement for you.
UNIVERSITY
- Are you thinking about your future and wondering about the different types of university degrees. Bachelor, Master’s Doctorate – what do they mean and what’s right for you.
New Year! New Opportunities! Your future starts here in this week’s Pathways Newsletter
The Pathways Team
Mrs Liza O’Donnell, Mrs Kim Toll, Mrs Kathryn Laing, Ms Brigette McMahon, Mrs Cristel Simmonds & Mrs Caitlin Newton
Liza_ODonnell@rok.catholic.edu.au
Kim_Toll@rok.catholic.edu.au
Kathryn_Laing@rok.catholic.edu.au
Brigette_McMcMahon@rok.catholic.edu.au
Cristel_Simmonds@rok.catholic.edu.au
Caitlin_Newton@rok.catholic.edu.au
Our Quiet Achiever(s) for this week are the Year 7’s: Year 7 Walsh students who have stepped into a new environment with grace and enthusiasm. Their ability to seamlessly blend into our House and College culture is truly commendable. These young achievers have shown remarkable adaptability, courage, and a positive spirit, setting a shining example for all.
Year 7 2026 Events
Year 7 2026 Information Evening
Wednesday 12 February 2025
see MORE INFORMATION or REGISTER HERE
Year 7 2026 Open Day
Tuesday 25 February 2025
see MORE INFORMATION or REGISTER HERE
Year 7 2026 Applications Close
Friday 14 March 2025*
*Please note this close off date is sooner than previous years.
For more information visit shalomcollege.com
Any applications received AFTER the Application Close date will be placed on a waiting list (this includes any current siblings or Catholic Primary feeder school students)
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.
Netball Success @ QLD Murri Carnival
Recently Shalom College First Nations students:
Sienna N, Lily PT, Peyton R & Mykyrn HD represented QLD Murri Netball teams at the National Indigenous carnival held at the Nissen Arena in Brisbane.
From this carnival ALL have been selected in the Australian Indigenous Budgies Netball teams in their age divisions.
Sienna & Lily - U16s
Mykyrn - U13s
Peyton - U12s
Well done girls... making yourselves, your family, your school and your community proud!!!
QRSS Student Officials Program – 2025
Queensland Representative School Sport runs a successful student official program. The student officials’ program was introduced to provide an alternative pathway for students to be involved in the QRSS program in the sport of their choice as a referee or umpire.
In 2025, QRSS will work with State Sporting Organisations (SSO) to appoint mentors/educators for State Championships (SC) and select student officials for State Championships through their own registration process.
QRSS will work with the SSO’s to ensure students have opportunities to be involved and continue to pursue their interest in officiating beyond the event.
Students can register now via the below links:
AFL - https://www.cognitoforms.com/AFLQueensland/QRSSAFLStudentUmpireEOI
Basketball - https://forms.gle/rEQ2CCUhGTz5VYLRA
Football - email referees@footballqueensland.com.au
Hockey - https://www.hockeyqld.com.au/events/271735
Netball - https://forms.office.com/r/gU8v8V8tXw
Rugby League - https://forms.office.com/r/jgkgJyzsyM?origin=lprLink
Softball - https://forms.gle/cNLhopc5jSqTu7Lz5
Touch Football - https://forms.office.com/r/Efi0yLCc1F
Water Polo - to be confirmed
There is also a flyer attached to distribute to any interested students in your districts and further information is on the QRSS Facebook page - https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19oThTCaAf/
Bundy District Schools Representative Teams – 2025
Over the coming weeks, notices will come through SIA and the Shalom Sport Facebook page about Bundy 10-12yrs and 13-19yrs School Rep trials for a variety of sports. Please make sure you read these carefully and complete the required info. Some trial info has already been sent out (Bundy 13-19yrs Tennis Trials and Wide Bay Swimming info). Plenty more over the next several weeks
COME TRY AN OARSOME SPORT - ROWING
Only available in high school. It is an individual & team sport in one and who doesn’t like winning while going backwards ?
Rowing is a unique school team sport that is only offered in high school. Shalom has a strong rowing team and after a very successful 2024 year, we are looking for new recruits.
Rowing is described as the ‘ultimate team sport’ that is an all over body workout that not only builds athletes physically but mentally, emotionally and socially.
Training is 2-3 times a week on the river at different times (generally juniors in the afternoon 3.30-5.15pm & seniors in the morning 5-7am). There is also extra land training after school at the gym with the rowing machines. The team competes in 5-8 regattas a year with all the local regattas held at Bucca and one away regatta at Rockhampton.
There is a yearly fee due to boats, facilities, maintenance and insurance for the Bundaberg Rowing Club. Shalom Rowing is a fun family orientated group that is involved in all aspects of rowing – coaching, fundraising, maintenance, cleaning etc.
If your child is interested in trying our oarsome sport, please sign on to one of our sessions using the link below. We will be hosting a parent information evening on Tuesday 18 February 6.30pm in Loyola to share all details.
We are also holding a rowing machine challenge in the school gym during the lunch breaks on Monday and Wednesday in Week 2 & 3. There are prizes for the fastest junior boy and girl, and senior boy and girl, so send your child our way.
Looking forward to seeing our oarsome team grow. Any questions don’t hesitate to email.
Come Try Sessions link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdNFGGCA92uFUT7HjjidL5_1_0qVzucPmxyNYkG23JbHOmpAA/viewform?usp=sf_link
Ms Teressa Tibbey
HPE Teacher and Rowing Coordinator
Teressa_Tibbey@rok.catholic.edu.au
Mr Nick Smith
Intad Teacher Assistant and Rowing Coach
Nicholas_Smith@rok.catholic.edu.au
Mr Simon Gills
Sports Coordinator
BDSSS Secretary & QRSS 10 -19yrs Cricket Executive Member
Simon_Gills@rok.catholic.edu.au
Shalom Netball Academy Sponsor Introduction
We are excited to announce Coronis Bundaberg has come on board as the exclusive Sponsor of our Shalom Netball Academy - now named the Coronis Netball Academy. This generous support from Emily and her team is greatly appreciated by all Players, Umpires and Coaches involved with the Coronis Netball Academy...thank you ❤️
A bit about Coronis Bundaberg...
Coronis Bundaberg is your Property Management Specialists dedicated to changing the world of real estate by putting people first. Our focus is finding suitable housing for our local community whilst building and maintaining relationships to allow for a smooth housing experience. Whether you are looking for your next house to call "home" or you are an avid or new investor, Coronis Bundaberg delivers service you can count on that is built on knowledge, experience and trust.
Thank you to the Coronis Bundaberg 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
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.
Your children’s School Immunisation Program is going digital with a system called Vitavo and is simple to use and update your children's information at any time.
Please find attached information and Parent’s Guide explaining the system.
Clicking the link below will enable access to consent / non consent for upcoming vaccinations.
https://ozcarewidebay.book.vitavo.com.au/school/ShalomCollege-UtY4JB
Dates of the program at Shalom College:
- Year 7 HPV & dTpa Year 7 Clinic: Tuesday 4 March 2025
- Year 10 ACWY & MenB Dose 1 Double Clinic: Tuesday 11 March 2025
- Year 7 & Year 10 Round 1 Catch Up at School Clinic: Tuesday 25 March 2025
- Year 10 MenB Dose 2 Single Clinic: Tuesday 10 June 2025
If you are having any issues creating an account or booking this service, please contact the school’s immunisation service provider, Ozcare at administration.bundaberg@ozcare.org.au or phone 41308900.
Shalom College After School Activities (SCASA)
Shalom College is offering students the opportunity to participate in organised afterschool activities conducted by coaches and teachers. SCASA also includes a light afternoon tea from 3.15 pm for the students and all activities will conclude at 4.45 pm.
Days
Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays are the 3 available afternoons for SCASA.
Dates
SCASA commences in Week 2 of Term and continues for 8 continuous weeks
Times
3.00 pm - School lessons completed.
3.15 pm - Roll Call and afternoon tea (supplied) at College tuckshop and set up time for coaches.
3.30 pm - Activities/Coaching starts (various venues within school grounds).
4.30 pm - Activities/Coaching finished.
4.45 pm - Students help pack up and return equipment and picked up by parents at front of school.
SCASA Activities - see below
Monday
Option 1 - Drama Club with Brigette McMahon (Performing Arts Precinct)
Option 2 - Cross Country Club with Matt Grills (Oval)
Option 3 - Basketball with Keenan Mullaney (SC or Hangar)
Option 4 - Cricket with Seci Sekinini (Cricket Nets and Oval)
Tuesday
Option 1 - e-Sports with Gavin Hill (Computer labs)
Option 2 - Oz-Tag with Erin Mitchell (Oval)
Option 3 - Dance with Teacher TBA (Dance Room)
Thursday
Option 1 - Next-Jenner-ation Running training with Rebecca Jenner (Oval)
Option 2 - Tennis with Brendan Maher (Tennis Courts)
Option 3 - e-Sports with Gavin Hill (Computer labs)
Option 4 - Can-do-Crew visiting Gracehaven Retirement home with Nicole Anderson (Bus to and from Gracehaven)
Cost
The SCASA Fee is $25.00 per term for each student.
This is to help cover the afternoon tea and instructors/coach costs.
This flat fee of $25.00 is for one, two or all three afternoons activities.
This is to encourage participation in SCASA activities.
After completing the SCASA sign on google form, at approximately week 2 or 3 of the term - you will receive an invitation on Parent Lounge regarding SCASA.
Please wait until week 2 or 3 of term then login to Parent Lounge to give permission for your child to attend SCASA and pay the $25.00 fee.
Once there, click on the ‘Tours and Excursions’ tab and you will find a link to SCASA Term 1 2025 - Here you will be able to give permission for your child to attend and pay the fee.
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 Parent Lounge is current as teachers will use this information in case of an emergency and to support the welfare of your child.
Please make sure that you click SAVE before logging out. If you require assistance with Parent Lounge login, please contact the College Office.
Other school sporting teams will continue to have their own training sessions as usual under the direction of their coaches e.g. Strength and Conditioning training, Rugby League, Netball, Touch Football etc.
This SCASA program is designed to give extra opportunities for Shalom College students to become involved in supervised activities after school.
Please complete the student and parent details in the google form below
REMINDER - no confirming phone calls are made by the school to confirm you are in the program - as once you sign on and you receive an online response - your child has been registered and please turn up starting week 2 of term.
SPECIAL NOTE - Once an activity is full - I will omit it from the selections below - so it cannot be selected.
Mr Peter Robinson
Dean of Student Welfare
High Performance Program
After School Activities
Camps
Peter_Robinson@rok.catholic.edu.au
This Term 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.
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 information at the bottom:
1. Camp Program
2. 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.
3. 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
The Catholic Schools Race Day is a fundraising project for Shalom College, St Patrick's Primary School, St Mary's Primary School and St Joseph's Primary School of Bundaberg. Buy tickets to this year's event here: https://www.trybooking.com/CYNQM.
Friday 14 March (Week 7) at 3:30pm on the school oval the Student Representative Council (SRC) will be hosting the Shalom Colour Fun Run. This afternoon will be filled with colour and fun that you don't want to miss out on. Use the booking link below, or QR code to secure your ticket to an afternoon you will never forget.
Tickets are $15 each and will provide you with the experience and a drink - you will just need to provide your own white shirt. The whole Shalom College community is invited – so please bring along family and friends to afternoon of colour and fun!
https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1349670
If you have any questions, please contact
Mr McMah
samuel_mcmah@rok.catholic.edu.au
My Braund
troy_braund@rok.catholic.edu.au
We are excited to invite you to our Edmund Rice Trivia Night held this Friday on 14 February, an evening dedicated to raising much-needed funds to support our mission of Edmund Rice Camps, a cause dedicated to the liberation of our youth in the Bundaberg region.
As you may know, Edmund Rice Camps offers incredible opportunities for kids from disadvantaged backgrounds, helping to change their life trajectories by offering positive experiences, personal development, and new opportunities. With the funds raised from this event, we aim to bring more camps to these kids and provide them with essential equipment that will further enhance their experiences.
We encourage you all to form teams and come compete in this fun and meaningful event. We’re also seeking business donations for our trivia night to support Edmund Rice Camps in our community . Your contribution helps!! The night promises plenty of excitement, with cash and physical prizes up for grabs for the top and bottom team. There will also be a bar and snacks available for purchase, along with raffles and meat trays to add to the enjoyment.
This is a fantastic opportunity not only to have fun and engage with your colleagues but also to support a cause that truly makes a difference in the lives of young people. Let's work together to raise funds and continue making a positive impact in the community.
We look forward to seeing you there, ready to compete and contribute to an incredible cause! For ticket purchases follow the link provided.
A reminder to Students and Parents that legislation dictates that families need to provide their own labelled box of Panadol and/or Nurofen for staff to dispense. If you would like our Admin Office to hold medication for your child/children, please submit the appropriately labelled medication box together with a signed copy of the Student Medication form to our Office.
Medical Certificate Absentee Notification
When providing medical certificates for your child/children's non-attendance could you please ensure that these are scanned (jpeg or png) and attached in the email (520_absentees@rok.catholic.edu.au) or alternatively dropped into the main administration office.
We are no longer able to accept a photo of the medical certificate via email.
If you advise any of your child/children's Teachers or Head of House (via email) of any non-attendance, could you please also advise the admin office via the preferred options. Either email as an attachment to 520_absentees@rok.catholic.edu.au or via the Parent Lounge (as per the process above - under Absentees).
The Uniform Shop has moved to Shop 5 / 6 Phoebe Crescent, Kensington, QLD 4670
Alternatively, parents can click and collect via the link https://www.wearitto.com.au/schools/shalom-catholic-college.html
For those families that have orders to collect. Wearitto will contact you when they are ready.
Normal trading hours commence Monday 20 January, 8:30am-4pm Monday to Friday.
The store currently has no signage, however, is conveniently located at the Westway Centre Shop 5 / 6 Phoebe Crescent, between Neta Home & Commercial and Livingstone Low Electrical.
For any uniform enquiries please contact bundaberg@wearitto.com.au or phone 0461 415 060
A reminder that if you intend to use the College Fitness Centre, you must follow the steps below:
1. Collect a permission form, either from the Fitness Centre Office or Sports Centre Office.
2. Return the signed form to Miss Mitchell (Sports Centre Office)
3. Complete an induction. These will be completed before school by appointment with Mr Burnett or after school with Miss Mitchell.
Ms Melinda Pearson
Head of Department - Physical Education
Melinda_Pearson@rok.catholic.edu.au
Why do adolescents stop reading even when they were previously big readers? Obviously, life gets busier, pressures to join this and sign up for that, not to mention the study load and ambitions for the future – but there are other barriers to reading for pleasure and leisure.
The following paragraph from an article Motivating book reading during adolescence: qualitative insights from adolescents (Webber et. al., 2025) sums up the situations that can inhibit a willingness to devote time to reading:
Barriers to book reading
Research has identified a number of barriers to adolescents’ volitional book reading, including poor access; a mismatch between book provision and students’ needs or interests; social factors; undermining reading experiences in school; negative reading experiences; and a lack of time or competing activities (Gallagher 2023; Martin-Chang et al. 2021; Mol and Jolles 2014; Webber et al. 2024b; Wilkinson et al. 2020). In addition, during adolescence, individuals encounter a series of unique, age-specific situational contexts (Heath et al. 2009) which, for some, could affect their volitional reading motivation and engagement. For example, during the transition from primary to secondary education, where there is increased pressure to perform and attain, reading may become increasingly associated with educational outcomes (for example, reading to pass examinations), rather than being perceived as a source of entertainment or solace (Bokhorst‐Heng and Pereira 2008; Gallagher 2023; Merga 2016). Furthermore, after transitioning to educational research and secondary school, many adolescents experience changes in the availability of their free time, due to increasing amounts of schoolwork and extracurricular activities, and often become more independent in their recreational choices (Thing, Frydendal Nielsen, & Ottesen 2015), choosing to spend their free time on other activities.
An extensive study conducted across six Scottish secondary schools that were described as demographically diverse and geographically dispersed identified the six major themes determining a willingness to read as perceived by the adolescents themselves. These were: Access; Choice; Autonomy; Relatable messaging; Social factors; and Environments conducive to reading.
Food for thought ….
References
Webber, C., Wilkinson, K., Duncan, L.G., & McGeown, S. (2025). Motivating book reading during adolescence: qualitative insights from adolescents, Educational Research
https://doi.org/10.1080/00131881.2024.2445618
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)
Breakfast is available every morning for purchase from 8.00am - 8.30am.
Items available are:
Croissant Ham & Cheese $3.00
Big Breakfast $6.00
Toasted Sandwich $4.00
Bacon & Egg Muffins $4.00
Bacon, Egg & Cheese Wraps $4.00
Spaghetti & Cheese Jaffle $4.00
Fresh Salad Tub $4.50
Yoghurt Pots $4.00
Hashbrowns 2 for $1.00
Up & Go drinks and flavoured milk are available everyday.
Students who train before school need to consider utilising the breakfast menu to replenish energy lost during their early morning training sessions, however, students must be dressed appropriately before entering the tuckshop and must not be late for class.
The Term 1 2025 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.
Mr Mark Algie
Tuckshop Convenor
Mark_Algie@rok.catholic.edu.au
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 Leanne_Barker@rok.catholic.edu.au
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
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Sunday 16 February |
6:00am – 9:30am |
Volunteers required |
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9:00am – 12:30pm |
Volunteers required |
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Sunday 23 February |
6:00am – 9:30am |
Volunteers required |
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9:00am – 12:30pm |
Volunteers required |
| Sunday 2 March | 6:00am – 9:30am |
Volunteers required |
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9:00am – 12:30pm |
Volunteers required |
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| Sunday 9 March |
6:00am – 9:30am |
Volunteers required |
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9:00am – 12:30pm |
Volunteers required |
Markets BBQ Roster
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Sunday 16 February |
Rotary Club of Bundaberg (Sunrise) |
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Sunday 23 February |
Africa Volunteer Aide |
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Sunday 2 March |
Shalom Netball Program |
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Sunday 9 March |
Bundaberg Croquet |
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.
Positive Partnerships Workshop
Mental Health Resources
Youth Support
