Bayside Gazette - 23 May 2025

Principal Report

Term 2 has kicked off with great momentum. We began by sharing our Term 1 Interim Report Cards—an important part of our ongoing commitment to keeping families informed about student progress. The term also included our first round of Parent-Teacher Interviews, and it was heartening to see the sports hall buzzing with constructive conversations focused on student growth and success.

Our students and staff once again represented BBSC with pride and respect at this year’s ANZAC commemorations. Student leaders participated in the Student ANZAC Commemoration Service at ANZAC Square, while our own school service was attended by special guests, including Manly-Lota representative Bob Ikin, BCC Councillor Alex Givney, and State MP Joan Pease. Mr. Col Strachan curated a powerful and respectful service, bringing together student leaders, cadets, and our concert band.

We were incredibly proud to host the national launch of the Push-Up Challenge, with seven live crosses from the Channel 9 Today Show. This event placed our college on the national stage and celebrated both physical and mental wellbeing. Congratulations to all the students and staff involved—your enthusiasm and school spirit were a joy to witness and truly showcased everything that makes BBSC a special place to learn and grow.

Our First Nations captains, Bella and Padraig, had the incredible privilege of opening the Metropolitan South Principal Business Day with the Acknowledgement of Country. Both students spoke confidently and passionately in front of over 300 principals at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre. They also showcased the work completed last year in creating our video Acknowledgement of Country, funded through a grant from the Wynnum Manly Leagues Club. I’ve been overwhelmed by the number of principals across Brisbane who have contacted us to congratulate our students and the college, and to request access to the video as a model for their own reconciliation action planning.

The Duribang Ganjiyil Dance Group then had the honour of performing at the opening of the Metropolitan South Regional Office full staff meeting. Once again, our students received high praise.

Week 5 was a vibrant celebration of NAIDOC Week at BBSC. The day highlighted the talent and leadership of our First Nations students through dance, storytelling, and public speaking. A standout moment was the visit by Ambrose and Jessie, facilitators of the Traction bike-building program. Students proudly shared their Term 1 bike builds with the school community. The event brought together current students, staff, alumni, local schools, and families, creating a strong sense of community.

Special thanks go to our CEC, Deanne Broome, whose ongoing dedication continues to inspire and empower our students. Her reflections on the college’s reconciliation journey were deeply appreciated.

A quick reminder as the weather cools: students are expected to wear BBSC-branded jumpers. The Year Coordinator team has a supply of loan jumpers available. These can be collected before school from the Room O209 or during Connect class with teacher support. 

Kind Regards,

Catherine McCarthy
Principal

Year Level Coordinator News

Year 7: Contributing to Community

It has been truly fantastic to witness the Year 7 students enthusiastically engaging in lunchtime activities organised by the Peer Support Team of Grade 10 leaders. These sessions have not only added fun and energy to the school grounds but have also played a valuable role in fostering connection, confidence, and community among the younger students. Activities like mini golf, skipping, and cornhole have provided a relaxed, inclusive environment where Year 7s can bond with each other and feel welcomed into the wider school community. Even Mrs Jordin showed off her skipping ability! 

Year 8: A Term of Energy, Effort, and Excellence

This term, our Year 8 students have demonstrated outstanding dedication and enthusiasm across all aspects of school life. Their positive behaviour and consistent effort in class have earned them thousands of Bayway points—an incredible reflection of their focus, teamwork, and commitment to our school values.

In English, students tapped into their imaginations to craft exciting adventure stories, showcasing both creative flair and strong writing skills. Over in Drama, they’ve been busy bringing scenes to life, building confidence and collaboration through role-play and stagecraft.

On the sporting front, our athletes have been training hard in preparation for the upcoming OzTag Tournament. Their determination and team spirit on the field have been impressive, and we can’t wait to see their hard work in action during competition.

Well done, Year 8! Your efforts and enthusiasm have made Term 2 a great success. We’re proud of you all.

Year 9 Update: Learning, Life Skills & Looking Ahead

Term 2 has been a busy and exciting time for our Year 9 students, filled with valuable learning experiences that extend well beyond the classroom!

Recently, students attended an inspiring presentation by Griffith University, where they explored future study options and career pathways. It was fantastic to see so many of them thinking ahead, setting goals, and gaining greater clarity about life beyond school.

In Connect, our focus has shifted to real-world issues, with students learning about the effects and consequences of drug and alcohol use. These important lessons are helping to equip our young people with the knowledge and confidence to make safe, informed decisions as they navigate adolescence.

We’ve also launched our First Aid unit, where students are developing essential life skills—from treating minor injuries to knowing how and when to seek help in an emergency. It’s been great to see them engaging enthusiastically with this practical, hands-on learning.

As the weather cools down, a quick uniform reminder: students are welcome to wear a non-school jumper underneath their school jumper. Just a friendly note that hoodies should remain tucked in and not visible during the day.

We’re proud of the maturity, curiosity, and growth our Year 9s have shown so far this term, and we’re looking forward to seeing them continue to thrive in the weeks ahead.

Year 10: Exploring Pathways and Planning for the Future

This term, our Year 10 students at BBSC have taken a significant step forward in their Wellbeing lessons, focusing on career exploration and future planning. These sessions are designed to help students reflect on their interests and strengths while exploring a range of post-school options—whether that be university, TAFE, apprenticeships, or entering the workforce.

Through these lessons, students are learning about the skills and qualifications required for various career paths, how to align their goals with their personal values, and the importance of informed decision-making as they prepare for their senior years.

To further support this journey, Year 10s will soon attend the Brisbane Careers and Employment Expo—a fantastic opportunity to connect directly with industry professionals, training providers, and higher education institutions. The expo promises real-world insights and practical advice to help students map out meaningful future pathways.

We are proud of the curiosity and enthusiasm our Year 10 cohort has shown as they embrace this exciting chapter. We look forward to seeing the aspirations and opportunities that take shape as they continue on their path of discovery.

Year 11: Contribute to our Community 

Term 2 has been a dynamic and engaging time for our Year 11 students. During Futures lessons, students have explored important topics including sexual health and strategies to thrive in their senior years. These sessions have focused on developing critical thinking skills, effective teamwork, and personal wellbeing—foundational elements for success in Year 11 and beyond. 

Looking ahead to Weeks 6, 7, and 8, students will take part in their community projects, a key initiative that aligns with our school value of “Contribute to Community.” These projects will see students working collaboratively to create and lead activities, with many heading off campus to local retirement homes and primary schools to run games and connect with different members of our wider community. 

The second half of the term will be particularly busy, with assessment blocks approaching and students preparing to demonstrate their learning across subjects. To cap off the term, Year 11 will participate in a leadership excursion in Week 10—an exciting opportunity designed to help them step confidently into their roles as school leaders in 2026. 

We are proud of the way Year 11s are rising to the challenge and embracing opportunities to learn, lead, and contribute. 

Year 12: Leadership, Learning, and Lasting Impact

As Term 2 progresses, our Year 12 students are truly stepping into their roles as leaders within the BBSC community. With assessment deadlines approaching and community projects rolling out, there’s a strong sense of focus, momentum, and maturity across the cohort.

Currently, students are deep into their internal assessment tasks across a variety of subjects. The dedication, time management, and study habits on display are commendable. With only a few weeks left in the term, it’s more important than ever to stay organised, communicate with teachers, and support one another. Every step forward brings them closer to the finish line—keep pushing!

One of the most rewarding aspects of Term 2 is watching our seniors bring their community projects to life. These student-led initiatives are a powerful expression of our values, service, connection, and leadership and offer meaningful opportunities to make a difference beyond the classroom.

Across Weeks 6, 7, and 8, students will take part in a range of impactful activities, including:

• Visiting local retirement homes – sharing stories, conversations, and building intergenerational connections.

• Leading reading sessions at local primary schools – fostering a love of literacy while mentoring younger students.

• Organising sports activities for primary school students – encouraging physical activity, teamwork, and fun through inclusive games.

These projects are not only enriching for the community but also deeply transformative for our students, allowing them to reflect, grow, and leave a positive legacy.

We’re incredibly proud of the way our Year 12s continue to lead with integrity and heart. The best is yet to come!

If you would like to get in touch with your Year Level Coordinator:

2025 Lord Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council

We are proud to announce that Maybelle, a talented Year 10 student, has been nominated to represent Brisbane Bayside State College on the Lord Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council 2025!

The Right Honourable, the Lord Mayor Councillor Adrian Schrinner, has officially invited Maybelle to attend council meetings at Brisbane City Hall, where she’ll have the exciting opportunity to engage with local leaders and share her perspective on key community issues.

As part of the program, students will explore the Three Levels of Government, develop thoughtful questions for the Lord Mayor and Councillors, and research the rich history of their school ward. It’s a unique platform for young people to contribute meaningfully to civic life and develop their leadership skills.

We can’t wait to see the impact Maybelle will make through this incredible opportunity. Congratulations, Maybelle — your voice matters!

Year 12: Save the Date

Year 12 Formal

It’s official—mark your calendars for a night to remember! The Year 12 Formal will be held on Thursday, 20 November 2025! 

Get ready for an unforgettable evening filled with style, celebration, and lasting memories as we come together to honour our incredible Year 12 students and their journey through high school.

More exciting details will be shared throughout Term 3, so keep an eye out for updates!

Let the countdown to Formal begin!

Graduation:

BBSC Cross Country Carnival 2025

The Cross Country Carnival wrapped up Term 1 with energy, colour, and community spirit—and what a fantastic day it was! It was inspiring to see students, staff, and families getting involved, showcasing both athletic effort and strong house pride throughout the day.

Our new house names and colours are truly becoming part of BBSC’s culture, and this was reflected in the vibrant displays of support and enthusiasm. The day kicked off with high energy during the House War Cries, where Giwa earned top points for the loudest and most spirited cheer of the morning!

The racing then began with the 6km event for Under 16 and Open boys, followed by the 4km races for Under 16 and Open girls, as well as the Under 14 and 15 age groups. The 3km races for Under 12 and 13 students rounded off the competitive events, with the popular Fun Run closing out the day on a high. It was fantastic to see strong participation across all races, and we commend all students for their positive behaviour, encouragement of others, and enthusiastic house spirit.

A big thank you goes to all staff who supported and helped organise the event—your efforts made the day run smoothly and ensured it was a memorable experience for everyone involved.

Age champions, record breakers, and the winning house will be announced at our Week 9 assembly—stay tuned!

2025 Athletics Carnival 

We’re excited to announce the upcoming Athletics Carnival!

Pre-events will run from Monday to Thursday in Week 8, leading up to the full school carnival on Friday, 13 June 2025.

Get ready for a week of energy, school spirit, and outstanding athletic achievement—we can’t wait to see everyone get involved!

BBSC Hosts TODAY Show & The Push-Up Challenge: A Morning of Movement and Mental Health Awareness

On Wednesday, 7 May, Brisbane Bayside State College proudly welcomed Channel 9’s TODAY Show and The Push-Up Challenge team for an energising morning filled with community spirit and a shared commitment to mental health awareness.

The event brought our school community together in support of a powerful cause—raising awareness for mental health through movement, connection, and collective action. Students and staff alike embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, demonstrating the importance of staying active and supporting one another.

The Push-Up Challenge is a nationwide initiative encouraging Australians to complete 3,214 push-ups over 23 days, representing the 3,214 lives lost to suicide in Australia in 2023. The challenge aims to raise awareness and funds for mental health services, promoting conversations and reducing stigma around mental health issues.

BBSC's involvement in the challenge underscores the school's dedication to student wellbeing and community engagement. The event was not only a fun and active way to start the day but also a meaningful opportunity to support mental health initiatives.

• Get involved and sign up today: www.thepushupchallenge.com.au
• Let’s see just how many push-ups the BBSC community can smash out together!
• Let’s push for better mental health — one rep at a time.

NAIDOC Celebrations at BBSC: Reconciliation in Action

At BBSC, we celebrate NAIDOC Week earlier than most schools, as the official dates fall during the June/July holidays in Term 3. This allows our Durabang Gunjiyil troupe to participate in numerous community ceremonies during the break, where they proudly share Quandamooka culture and represent BBSC as cultural ambassadors—an inspiring example of our school value, Contribute to Community.

This year’s celebration was a joyful and enriching occasion, filled with meaningful cultural experiences. Students engaged in weaving workshops with Jessie from Traction and took part in Indigenous Games led by Deadly Choices. In a special gesture of inclusivity, each Durabang Gunjiyil student was invited to bring along two friends to join in the celebration, creating a shared space for connection, learning, and cultural appreciation.

The day was a beautiful expression of Reconciliation in Action—and the smiles on students’ faces reflected the spirit of unity and joy that defined the event.

A sincere thank you to all the community organisations who came in to share their time and expertise, to Deanne Broome (CEC) for her thoughtful organisation of the program, and to Deputy Miss Canavan for her ongoing administrative support.

At BBSC, we are proud to be a school where culture is embraced, stories are shared, and community is at the heart of everything we do.

Welcoming Our International Guests from Taiwan!

On Tuesday 1 April, we had the incredible opportunity to welcome a group of special international visitors from Taoyuan City, Taiwan! These dedicated teachers from Bilingual High School joined us to explore and deepen their understanding of Australian teaching methodologies, creating a vibrant atmosphere of collaboration and learning.

We are immensely grateful for the chance to share our practices and learn from one another. This visit not only strengthens our international ties but also enriches our own teaching community. Thank you to our guests for visiting our school and for the meaningful conversations that took place. 

Staff vs Students: The Epic Benchball Showdown Returns!

After a jam-packed end to Term 1, the much-anticipated Staff vs Students Benchball Match finally took place during Week 2 of Term 2, and it did not disappoint!

Our confident and spirited Year 12 students came ready to play, fielding enough players to form three to four full teams—a true display of enthusiasm and unity!

The showdown was electric from the start. In a tense opening match, the staff team pulled off a narrow win, then rode that momentum into the second game, clinching another hard-fought victory. But the students weren’t going down without a fight—they bounced back brilliantly to win the third match, keeping their hopes alive!

Final Score: Staff 2 – Students 1

The staff now lead the 2025 series 2–0, but the competition is far from over. With Netball and Ultimate Disc still to come, the students are fired up and ready to make their comeback.

Stay tuned as this thrilling series continues—will the students turn the tide?

BBSC Bunnings BBQ – A Sizzling Success!

A heartfelt thank you to our incredible students, their parents, and staff members who generously gave up their Sunday to support the Student Representative Council through our recent Bunnings BBQ fundraiser that was held on Sunday, 18 May 2025.

A special thank you go Deputy Lauretta Dowling, our breakfast champion Bek, and Barbeque Captain Dr Virpara for their leadership and dedication on the day. Your efforts helped everything run smoothly from start to finish.

We were thrilled to see so many BBSC families and staff drop by for a snag and a chat, your support truly made the difference. It’s always inspiring to witness the strength of our school community coming together for a great cause.

Thanks to everyone involved, the day was not only successful in raising funds, but also a wonderful celebration of community spirit.

Together Against Domestic Violence

This May, Queensland comes together to stand against domestic and family violence as part of DFV Prevention Month. It’s a time to raise awareness, promote respectful relationships, and remind everyone that violence has no place in our homes or communities.

A moving vigil, led by Joan Pease MP at Pandanus Beach, brought the community together to honour the strength and resilience of victim-survivors and reflect on the impact of domestic violence in our local area. The gathering was a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to support one another and foster a culture of care and respect.

We are especially proud of our students who attended the vigil after a full day of commitments—from TV shows and district carnivals to metro playoffs. Your support and presence truly made a difference.

Let’s continue working together to build a safe, supportive community for all. Remember, help is always available. If you or someone you know needs support, contact 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 — support is available 24/7.

Together, we can create change. 

Honouring Our Heroes at the 39th Student ANZAC Ceremony

Our dedicated student leadership team recently had the honour of attending the 39th Student ANZAC Ceremony at ANZAC Square. This solemn and moving event brought together students from across Queensland in a powerful tribute to the courage and sacrifice of the ANZACs. The ceremony featured stirring performances of music and poetry, heartfelt speeches, and reflective moments of prayer. 

A highlight of the morning was the breathtaking flyover by a RAAF fighter jet — a moment that left the entire crowd in awe. Representing BBSC with pride, Vice College Captains Sam and Jay laid the College’s wreath at the Eternal Flame at the Shrine of Remembrance. They were then honoured to meet and shake hands with Her Excellency, the Hon Dr Jeanette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland. 

Our students represented the College with respect, dignity, and pride. They also had the unique opportunity to meet and speak with the Premier of Queensland — a memorable experience for all. 

The team described the ceremony as a beautiful and meaningful commemoration, and a fitting way to honour those who served and sacrificed.

Lest We Forget.

Year 9 Maths in Action – Trigonometry on the School Grounds!

Math becomes much more engaging when students can connect it to the real world — and that’s exactly what our Year 9 Maths students have been doing this term!

As part of their Term 2 unit on Pythagoras and trigonometry, students have been busy learning how to apply mathematical concepts outside the classroom. One of the highlights of the unit was building and using their own clinometers — simple tools that help estimate the height of objects using angles and distance.

By taking their learning outdoors and exploring our school grounds, students have been able to:

• Understand how clinometers work and how they can be used to measure height

• Apply the principles of trigonometry to estimate the height of various real-world objects

This hands-on approach has not only deepened their understanding but also built their confidence as they head into their Week 5 Maths exam. Well done, Year 9!

Year 9 – OzHarvest Program: Turning Surplus into Scrumptiousness!

Our amazing Year 9 students recently took part in the OzHarvest Program, diving into the world of food sustainability and waste reduction in the most delicious way possible!

As part of their exploration into “Use It Up” food products, students uncovered the hidden potential of ingredients that are still perfectly edible but often thrown away. Embracing the challenge, our budding chefs created a mouth-watering dish: French toast topped with caramelised apples — all made from surplus produce.

Through hands-on cooking and thoughtful reflection, students not only honed their culinary skills but also deepened their understanding of sustainable food practices and the environmental impact of reducing waste.

Let’s celebrate these young changemakers who are proving that mindful consumption can be both meaningful and tasty!

Bayside Oztag Tournament – Wednesday, 28 May 2025

Our talented Oztag squads are fired up and ready to hit the field for the Bayside Oztag Tournament! After weeks of dedicated training, our students are aiming high looking to defend their titles and bring home the trophy in all three divisions, just like last year! Come along and show your support.

Plus: Don’t forget to bring some cash for the BBQ fundraiser

• Sausage and Bread - $2.50
• Soft drink - $2.50

Let’s go, BBSC! 

Finance News

The Payment Window is closed every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Finance Enquiries:  finance@brisbanebaysidesc.eq.edu.au

Payment Options

BPoint is the Department of Education’s preferred method of payment. BBSC prefers cash-free payments for all invoiced activities. The College cannot take card payments over the phone. Payments can be made to the College by:

• BPoint
• QParents
• Phone payment via BPoint on 1300 631 073
• Credit/debit card at the payment window
• Electronic Funds Transfer (BSB: 064-133 A/C Number: 0009 0204)
• Centrepay (BBSC Customer Reference Number: 555 074 310X).

Centrepay is a voluntary bill-paying service which is free for Centrelink customers. Use Centrepay to arrange regular deductions from your Centrelink payment. You can start or change a deduction at any time. The easiest way to do it is through your Centrelink account online in myGov. Please go to: https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/centrepay

 for more information.

More information on payment options, including a user guide for BPoint, are available on the college website.

Statements of Account

Statements of Account are sent only to those families who owe money or have a credit balance.   Please note if your statement shows a negative amount (a minus dollar amount) this means your account is in credit and you do not need to make a payment.

Financial Hardship

Families experiencing hardship should complete the Payment Plan form and submit it to finance@brisbanebaysidesc.eq.edu.au for consideration.  Payment plans can be established through BPoint, Centrepay or electronic funds transfer/direct deposit. Many families manage their school fees by paying small, regular amounts every week or fortnight. Failure to pay fees, or to set up a payment plan, will result in the students being unable to attend extracurricular activities and access College resources.

More Information

BBSC Finance policy and information on payment options are available on the college website in the payments section under the Support and Resources tab.

Student Resource Scheme (SRS)

Brisbane Bayside State College operates a Student Resource Scheme (SRS) that is strongly supported by the college community and is endorsed by our P&C. At the P&C meeting on 8 October 2024 it was agreed to make some changes to the SRS to make it more affordable for parents/carers in line with the Queensland government's focus on cost-of-living concerns.  The SRS for years 7 to 10 has been reduced to a yearly flat fee of $250 per student. 

The SRS for year 11 and 12 has been reduced to a flat fee of $100, with only 6 of the most resource intensive electives being charged an additional fee. 

The SRS is invoiced at the start of the year and payment is due in full 30 days from the date of the invoice. Parents who wish to pay in instalments must complete the payment plan form. 

More information on the SRS can be found on the College website.

The SRS Participation Agreement Forms (PAF) only needs to be completed once, and is valid for the whole of the student’s enrolment. Completed Participation Agreement Forms (PAF) are to be returned by email to finance@brisbanebaysidesc.eq.edu.au or submitted to the main administration office during opening hours. 

QPARENTS

What Can You Do with QParents?

QParents gives you easy access to manage and view important information related to your child’s schooling, including:

✅ Provide consent for excursions and sporting events
✅ Report student absences
✅ Monitor attendance
✅ View and pay invoices via BPoint

You can also view key student information such as:

📘 Daily timetable
📈 Academic report cards
📅 Assessment and exam dates
🎉 Excursion and activity details

QParents is a convenient and secure platform designed to keep you connected and informed.

Registering for QParents:

To begin the registration process for QParents, you will need the following:

• An invitation email (sent at the time of enrolment)

• 100 points of ID documents

• Your student’s EQ ID number

You can register by visiting https://qparents.qld.edu.au/#/login, clicking the Register button, and entering your invitation code.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how to register using a laptop or desktop computer.

Please note: First-time registration must be completed via the QParents website. It is not possible to register through the QParents App.

Once registered, you can access QParents:

• Online at https://qparents.qld.edu.au/#/login

• Via the QParents App, available on iTunes or Google Play

If you no longer have your invitation email, please contact enrolments@brisbanebaysidesc.eq.edu.au to request a new one.

Jersey Day - State of Origin

It’s that exciting time of year again—State of Origin! On Thursday, 29 May, BBSC staff and students are invited to show their team pride and rep their jerseys for the big day! 

Whether you're supporting the mighty Maroons, the iconic Blues, or the fierce Seagulls, wear your jersey or jacket to show your spirit!

Important Details:

• Students can wear team jerseys, t-shirts, or jackets.

• All other school uniform rules still apply.

• You can pair your jersey with your regular school shorts or wear a jacket with the formal uniform. Accessories like team scarves or beanies are a great way to complete the look!

• Gold coin donation to participate.

• There will be prizes for the best-dressed supporters!

Just a reminder—this isn’t a free dress day, it’s all about your team colours!

Let’s show off that team pride! 

Everyday Counts: The Importance of School Attendance

At Brisbane Bayside State College, we believe that every day at school matters! Did you know that if your child misses just one day a week, it adds up to nearly two months of lost learning over the course of a year? That’s why we’re excited to introduce the Every Day Counts initiative—designed to enhance student attendance and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.

This initiative promotes four essential messages:

1. Enrol and Attend:
Every child should be enrolled in school and attend every school day. Consistent attendance is crucial for academic success and personal growth.

2. Monitoring and Communication:
Schools are committed to monitoring attendance and communicating effectively with families. We implement strategies to encourage regular attendance and support students on their learning journey.

3. The Risks of Truancy:
Missing school can place students in unsafe situations and negatively impact their future employability and life choices. Regular attendance helps students build a strong foundation for success.

4. Community Responsibility:
Ensuring students attend school is a shared responsibility. It takes a village to support our children, and we encourage everyone in the community to play a role in promoting school attendance.

To learn more about the Every Day Counts initiative and how you can support your child’s education, please visit the Education Queensland website. Together, let’s make every school day count!

Thank you for your continued support in fostering a positive and productive learning environment for our students.

KARATE & JU-JITSU