Mareeba SHS Newsletter - Term 3, Week 10

Principal's Update

Welcome to the end of Term 3. I would like to commence this newsletter by thanking everybody for all they have done this term. Like each term, Mareeba State High School is a hive of activity. This term we have held camps, sports days, community events, and amongst it all we also continued our learning journey in our classrooms.

This week we once again spent time on a whole school assembly, celebrating individuals and groups of students in their endeavours academic, sporting and cultural. Assemblies are a great opportunity for us to acknowledge the hard work and commitment of staff and students. There is plenty to be proud of at Mareeba State High School.

We would like to thank our students, staff and families for their contributions to our school and wish you all a safe and relaxing break from school. We look forward to seeing you all next term, ready for our last term of 2025.

A reminder that Monday October 6 is a public holiday with school recommencing on Tuesday 7 October.

Thank you to our amazing Teacher Aides

Last week we took the time to thank our amazing teacher aides for the very important role they play in supporting our students at Mareeba State High School. Every year, we celebrate Teacher Aide Day and acknowledge the immense contribution of our teacher aides.

Teacher aides wear many hats, working closely with teachers and students to provide a wide range of support to all year levels. Teacher aides play a critical role in helping to lift education outcomes for all students. Quite simply, our school would not function effectively without them.

We would like to especially thank all our teacher aides for their exceptional work in ensuring continued learning for our students. Each and every one of them is an incredibly valued member of our MSHS family and we are extremely grateful for all they do for our school.

Jack Beasley

This week, our students were able to participate in a presentation from the Beasley family and the QPS.  The Jack Beasley Foundation is a registered not-for-profit community-based organisation based on the Gold Coast.  JBF's primary focus is to deliver knife crime education and drive change around youth violence. The foundation was set up in loving memory of 17-year-old Jack Beasley who was fatally stabbed in Surfers Paradise by a group of 5 youths aged between 15 and 18 on the 13^th of December 2019, his parents Brett and Belinda Beasley deliver the ‘One Moment’ presentation to schools to share the dangers of knife crime and the long term effects of youth violence on the offenders, victims, and indirect parties including friends and families. 

This one-hour presentation has direct interaction with Brett and Belinda Beasley sharing their experience along with video footage of Jack’s brother and Jacks friends showing first-hand how life can change because of that ‘One Moment’ of senseless violence, whilst also promoting better decisions and choices.  The Queensland Police deliver further information on knife legislation including “Jacks Law” and awareness around prevention of becoming a victim of knife violence.  Participating students will receive merchandise to take home as a conversation starter with family and friends.

Aim of the “One Moment” Education Presentation: 

• Raise knife possession laws awareness and risks.
• Educate and promote “I live my life without a knife” messaging.
• Reduce knife possession and related offences
• Raise situational awareness in young people to reduce victimisation. 
• Educate young people in strategies to avoid confrontation. 

General Engagement Principles: 

• Change values and actions.
• Education and awareness on knife laws and consequences
• Educate young people of the prevalence of knives in public places and victim prevention strategies.
• Create community partnerships to achieve positive outcomes for young people.
• Empower young people to make better choices.

Mobile Phones

It appears that some of our students are forgetting or possibly ignoring the rules around Mobile Phones at our school.
Our code of conduct states that ‘Students are required to switch off and place the mobile device ‘Away for the Day’ whilst on school site 8.45am-3pm, this includes during lunch breaks. Students are required to disable notifications on wearable devices during school hours. Mobile devices should be placed in student bags and or in uniform pockets.

We reminded students that staff may direct students to put their phone away or to hand it in at A Block. On assembly students were also reminded that they are expected to follow the direction. If they chose not to comply the conversation becomes one around defiance. I would ask that the message and expectation be reinforced from home and to remind our students that the easiest thing for them to do is adhere to the rules.

Students have been encouraged that if they find their phone a distraction, they have a few options. They could leave it at home, turn it off or use the focus tool to ignore messages/calls during the school day. It really comes down to some self-control.

To ensure we give our students and families time to prepare, I shared some of the big changes occurring around phone usage. Firstly, that in Australia, the federal government has passed legislation that it is implementing a social media ban for individuals under 16, taking effect on December 10, 2025. Secondly, in 2026, the tuckshop will no longer accept payments from mobile phones. We are currently investigating options with Flexischools to provide some other alternative options to cards and cash.

We have term 4 to get ready for this change so we wanted to ensure you are informed.

2025-2028 Strategic Plan

As we commence our work together to develop our new strategic plan 2025-2028 for Mareeba State High School, as a staff we have commenced to discuss our school's why. What are our school’s aspirations for our graduates? What are the graduate attributes our school seeks to define and impact? (Our collective legacy.)

Do these statements continue to reflect our why? Our vision and values statements highlight our school’s core principles and philosophical ideals. It is used to both inform and guide the decisions and behaviours of the people inside the school and signal to external stakeholders what’s important to our school. Our core values shape daily culture and establish standards of conduct against which actions and decisions can be assessed.

Through conversations with staff, students and community we have identified three School priority areas; Educational Achievement, Belonging and Engagement and Building our Future. Throughout the next few newsletters, we will share our work. This week we will look at Educational Achievement.

Educational Achievement – Knowing and responding to each student’s learning needs is essential to making sure they are on track to achieve their educational goals. Our common goal is for every student to achieve at least one year of learning progress each year.

I encourage you to reach out via email principal@mareebashs.eq.edu.au if you would like to share your thoughts or be part of a further conversation.

Yours in Education.

Regan Gant 

Principal

Deputy Principal - Senior Secondary

Hello Everyone,

It will be a fantastic way to finish the term with the Wheelbarrow Race on Thursday.  Go McKinlay!

Year 12’s are moving into a very important final phase of their high school journey.  Week 10, Term 3, Year 12 classes are running as normal with some General Subjects engaging in Practice External Exams. A schedule has been issued to all Year 12 students and attendance is expected.  All year 12 students are in the process of completing their IA3 and IA4 assessments.  If students and parents have any questions about this, please make contact with your student's class teacher or myself.

Year 10’s are also reaching a very important juncture in their schooling journey with Senior Education Plan meetings being held on Wednesday 17th September in C14.  There are no scheduled classes for Year 10 students on this day, and all students are expected to attend a meeting with their parent/carer to identify their pathway moving into Year 11 in 2026.  At this meeting students will be required to select their subjects for 2026.  Appointments can be made via our website or by calling the school office.

Report cards will be issued at the end of week 10, please check your inbox and spam folders.  This report is interim and provides students and parents with their students progress towards the end of Semester 2 outcomes.  I encourage all senior students to review their progress and discuss their progress with their Teachers.  There are many pathways available to students and discussing these options with our school staff will support students to move to a meaningful pathway.

Moving into Term 4 the Year 12’s have 2 weeks of normal classes before Week 3 in which an alternate program is in place to farewell our students, leading into Valedictory event on Thursday 23rd.  From Week 4 onwards External Exams will begin.  Best wishes to the Year 12’s as they complete their final assessments and make their plans to transition to further study or employment.

I am looking forward to a restful break and I wish you all the same, see you in Term 4.

Keep Smiling

Lesa Moro

Deputy Principal - Senior Secondary

Deputy Principal - Junior Secondary

As Term 3 wraps up, I want to take a moment to celebrate the fantastic Year 7 enrolment meetings that have taken place throughout the term. It’s been such a joy meeting our new students for 2026, hearing about their achievements in primary school, and sharing in their excitement about starting high school next year. What a great bunch of young people we have coming through!

Looking ahead, look out for further announcements regarding transition activities for our incoming Year 7s in Term 4, all leading up to the full transition day on Wednesday, 3rd December. These activities are all about helping students feel confident, connected, and ready to join our school community. Our staff are already busy planning a fun and welcoming experience!

Across the school, we’ve seen some fantastic use of RolStars as part of our Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) rewards system. Students have been enthusiastically purchasing items with their RolStars, and one of the highlights this term was the Pizza Lunch with Mr Gant. Long-term RolStar earners enjoyed a delicious lunch and some great conversation — a well-deserved reward for their consistent efforts!

We’ve also seen some outstanding student achievement and engagement in classrooms this term. Students have been diving into their learning with enthusiasm and curiosity, and it’s been wonderful to see so many students challenging themselves, supporting each other, and celebrating their progress. With only 1 term to go this year, I look forward to students maintaining and even improving on this engagement with their learning and the school community.

As we head into the holiday break, I encourage everyone to take a little time to do something you truly enjoy. Whether it’s reading a book, getting outside, or spending time with friends and family — make sure you recharge and come back refreshed.

We can’t wait to see everyone again for a vibrant and exciting Term 4!

Have a safe and happy holiday!

Peter Thompson

Deputy Principal - Junior Secondary

Deputy Principal - Inclusion

As we come to the close of Term 3, I want to take a moment to reflect on the many wonderful achievements across our school and to acknowledge the people who help make Mareeba State High such a supportive and inclusive community for every learner.

This term we celebrated Teacher Aide Appreciation Week, which gave us the chance to recognise the incredible work of our teacher aides. Their commitment, patience, and creativity make a profound difference every day—supporting not only the students they work closely with, but also our teachers and the wider school community. Our teacher aides are often the quiet achievers, but their impact is enormous, and we are so grateful for all that they do.

Another highlight of the term was the All-Abilities Sports Day, where a group of our students represented our school with enthusiasm, resilience, and joy. It was inspiring to see students challenging themselves, cheering each other on, and celebrating the success of every participant. Events like this remind us of the power of sport to bring people together and the importance of creating spaces where everyone can shine.

At Mareeba State High, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and diversity. Our school community is made stronger by the unique backgrounds, experiences, and talents of every student. We want every young person who walks through our gates to feel that they belong, that they are valued, and that they have the opportunity to achieve their best. Inclusion is not just something we celebrate on special days—it is part of who we are and guides the way we teach, learn, and support each other every day.

As we head into the holidays, I want to thank our students, families, and staff for another term of learning, growth, and collaboration. We look forward to building on this momentum in Term 4, with even more opportunities for our students to thrive.

Wishing you all a safe and restful break.

Linda Knottenbelt 

Deputy Principal - Inclusion

Lhkno0@eq.edu.au

Head of Department - Junior Secondary

Junior School Update

Our Junior School has had an exciting and busy few weeks with plenty of opportunities for students to engage, connect, and grow.

Clontarf Touch Football Game

On Tuesday 27th August, we had the pleasure of hosting the Woree State High School Clontarf Academy for a Year 9 Touch Football game. The match was a fantastic display of sportsmanship and teamwork, with our students showing excellent behaviour, respect, and determination throughout.

A special thank you goes to Mr Deighton for his outstanding refereeing, Aunty Bianca for her ongoing support, and to all staff for their flexibility in supporting the event. Most importantly, well done to our students for representing Mareeba SHS with pride — the positive energy and respect shown on the day really highlighted the strength of our school community.

QVSA STEM Program

We’re also excited to share that our partnership with the Queensland Virtual STEM Academy (QVSA) has officially begun for 2025. On Thursday 25th September, a group of our Junior Secondary students commenced their first STEM classes. This program provides students with opportunities to extend their learning in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics through engaging, inquiry-based projects alongside students across the state.

Participating students will build critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills while working on real-world challenges. We are looking forward to seeing how they grow through this experience and the innovative ideas they will bring back to our classrooms.

Any students interested in participating in the QVSA STEM program next year are encouraged to come and see Mr Leschke for more information at Student Services.

Daniel Leschke 

Head of Department - Junior Secondary

Head of Department - Senior Secondary

As we near the end of term, assessment is in full swing, and the finish line is in sight. It’s a demanding time, but it’s also an opportunity to show resilience, consistency and pride in your learning. My strongest encouragement is this: look after yourself. Sleep, eat well, move your body, and don’t underestimate the power of attending every lesson. Each class builds momentum and keeps you on track for a strong finish.

Week 10 marks an important milestone SETP planning. 

Next Wednesday, 17 September 2025, from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm we’ll be holding our SET planning interviews with our Year 10 students. This is where you begin mapping your journey beyond school, exploring career pathways, and setting goals that align with your strengths and passions. These conversations are the first steps in shaping your future, and I encourage you to approach them with openness and curiosity.

Parents and carers can book a session by scrolling to the bottom of the school website and clicking the link labelled “Parent Teacher Interview Bookings”. Make sure to lock in a time early so you don’t miss out. 

Year 11s now is the time to take stock. How are you tracking towards your QCE? Are your current habits and effort leading you in the right direction? Reflection now ensures that you enter Year 12 with clarity and confidence. Use feedback, seek guidance, and be honest with yourself about where adjustments might be needed.

As a school community, we want to see every student finish this term with purpose and pride. Care for yourself, lean on your teachers, and stay engaged. Then, as the holidays arrive, you can rest and recharge knowing you’ve given your best.

Warm regards,

Jacob Pyper

Head of Department - Senior Secondary

News and Upcoming Events

Celebrate Grandparents Day on Sunday, 26 October

Grandparents Day is an opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to grandparents for their care and support. Grandparents can also be great teachers. Their stories and life experiences are a true resource for all of us to learn from and value. For ways to celebrate grandparents, including free downloadable resources, visit the Grandparents Day website.

Grandparents can also be primary full-time carers for their grandchildren — safeguarding family connections. Read about the support available for grandparent carers and about Queensland Seniors Month.

Blue card changes are coming from 20 September.

These changes include:

• parent volunteers will require blue cards if:
  • services or activities do not include their own child
  • they attend overnight excursions or camps
  • close personal contact may occur with another child may occur (such as assisting with toileting, bathing or dressing).
• external businesses providing services in schools or to children will need a blue card.

For more information about the upcoming changes, visit the Queensland Government website: https://www.qld.gov.au/law/laws-regulated-industries-and-accountability/queensland-laws-and-regulations/regulated-industries-and-licensing/blue-card-system-changes

E-scooters and e-bikes

To ensure you and your child stay safe when using e-scooters or e-skateboards, please remember:

• Only those aged 16+ can ride e-scooters and e-skateboards unsupervised.

• Helmets must be worn with the straps properly fastened (bicycle or motorcycle helmets) and bells fitted for devices with handlebars.

• No passengers/doubling – only one person riding an e-scooter.

• Speed limit of 12km/h on footpaths and shared paths.

• Serious fines may apply to riders, and parents, if caught breaking the rules.

StreetSmartsQld features educational videos and other helpful safety tips for riding e-scooters and e-skateboards.

Trade to Teach Internship Program

Are you, or do you know, a tradie who’d love to teach their trade?

Is it time to get off the tools or hang up your chef’s hat and step into the classroom? 

Applications are now open for our Trade to Teach Internship Program, a four-year supported pathway for skilled and industry-experienced tradespeople and chefs looking to transition to a rewarding career in teaching. 

If you or someone you know holds a trade qualification and is interested in teaching Industrial Technology and Design or Hospitality, Trade to Teach offers successful participants a $20,000 scholarship, a paid internship teaching position, and a guaranteed permanent teaching position on completion. 

Applications close 21 September. Discover more and apply.

Photos! Good News and Our Achievements

Well done Timmirri! 

Timmirri has earnt herself a place representing Australia playing female rugby league. Timmirri will be travelling to the UK and Paris playing for the Wonderers Australia. We are calling upon our school community to support Timmirri.

Timmirri is selling raffle tickets to raise funds to support her travel. Raffle tickets can be purchased at MSHS Q Block. 

Well done Ava! 

At Assembly last week, Ava Willoughby was presented with a certificate for coming runner up in the 2025 DPI Hermitage Schools Plant Science Competition. She has won an Earthwatch Student Challenge Fellowship, where she will travel to South Australia and study the ecology if the Murray River valued at $5000.

Did you meet our Executive Leadership Team during Term 3? 

We have some new faces who have joined us during term 3;

Linda Knottenbelt, our Deputy Principal Inclusion. Linda has hit the ground running making a big impact with students and staff in the inclusion and multi learning space. 

Dean Davidson, Corporate Services Manager is looking after whole school resourcing including budgets, facilities, workforce planning and policy/procedure review and implementation. Dean brings a wealth of experience from working in local government and for Qld Health. 

As a whole, our Executive Leadership Team are a group of experienced leaders and educators, striving to forge strong partnerships between students, staff, parents and the wider community.

These partnerships enable us to build on the strengths of tradition and performance and to live out our values and our commitment to providing quality education and pathways for every student.

We're delighted to be a part of Mareeba State High School and its community. 

Technology Showcase, 19 August 2025

An awesome display of our talented students, staff and parents. Mr Tim Gale designed an alfoil boat that stayed afloat with 172 nuts on board, Logan Fraser was the closest guess in the button jar competition and Spicy Noodle designed by Maddie Argent was the fastest dragster in 2025 with a time of 0.0845 sec.  

Thank you to our generous sponsors for our prizes- Mareeba Speedway, TGT Hardware, PFH Tully, Mitre 10 and Pumping Irrigation and Machinery Services. Thank you also to the families and staff members that attended.

Maddie Argent creator of Spicy Noodle drag racer and is presented by Mr Pearson her family pass prize donated by Mareeba Speedway for winning the fastest dragster at the Technology showcase.

Spicy Noodle is the reigning champion 3 years in a row but has been forced into retirement due to a massive main body breakdown.  Spicy Noodle was designed and made by Maddie Argent in Year 9 and has successfully competed as the fastest dragster 2023, 2024 and 2025 at MSHS.

Technology Showcase Photos

COSPLAY - As part of the Book Week celebrations students from the Page Turners Book Club had fun dressing up as their favourite character.

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Parentline: Support and advice for all Queensland parents and carers

Being a parent can be rewarding—but it can also be challenging. Whether you’re trying to support your child with school issues, friendship challenges, behaviour, or tough moments at home, it’s completely normal to feel unsure about what to do next.

Parentline is a free and confidential service available to all Queensland parents and carers. No problem is too big or too small—and reaching out early can make a real difference.

Parentline offers advice and support on a wide range of parenting topics, including:

• bullying and friendship issues

• parent–child relationships

• parenting strategies and behaviour management

• mental and emotional wellbeing—for both children and parents

You can speak with a trained professional by phone or webchat (6am-midnight), seven days a week.

An online bullying support forum is also available. This is a safe, moderated space to connect with others, ask questions, and share experiences.

📞 Call 1300 30 1300

💬 Visit parentline.com.au

Because parenting doesn’t come with a manual—but help is here when you need it.

News from the P&C Association

School Information

Year 7 and 10 Tablelands Immunisation Program

Please return completed forms to Q Block by Tuesday, 22 April 2025. The program will visit the school on the below dates: 

Visit 1:    Monday 12/05/2025 vaccinating: Year 10 Female and Male students - Meningococcal ACWY & Meningococcal B dose 1

Visit 2:    Monday 28/07/2025 vaccinating: Year 7 Female and Male students – HPV (9v) dose 1 & dTpa dose 5. Catch –up for students new to the school or who missed the first-round vaccinations.

Visit 3:    Monday 20/10/2025 vaccinating: Year 10 Female and Male students- Meningococcal B dose 2. Catch –up for students new to the school or who missed previous vaccinations.

Community News

Play On! Queensland

The Queensland Government is delivering cost of living relief for Queensland families and helping keep kids active, with $200 Play On! sport vouchers.

From Monday 4 August, Queensland families can claim a $200 Play On! voucher per child aged between five and 17.

Here’s what you need to know:

• each voucher is worth $200
• the vouchers will be provided over two rounds, for summer or winter sports
• there is a dedicated allocation for kids in regional and country Queensland
• there will be more accessible sports to give children of all abilities the chance play sport.

Play On! is here to stay with $62.5 million set aside each year for Queensland families.

Sign up for Play On! updates so you don’t miss out.

| Click here to register for updates as an activity provider |

| Click here to register for updates as a family |