Term 1 Week 8 2025

A Message from the Principal

Dear families and friends,

Over the past twelve months, we have been trialling the Accelerated Reader program in the middle to upper years of our school. This initiative was introduced to foster greater enthusiasm for reading, as we observed that reading development tended to plateau in these year levels. One of the key factors discussed among staff was that students' interest in reading books appeared to wane as they progressed through the years.

Following a thorough review of this initiative, including discussions with teachers, students, and Mrs. Carter, we are pleased to report an increase in reading engagement. More students are actively inquiring about the point value of books they read and are demonstrating a renewed enthusiasm for reading. As we approach the end of Term 1, we are delighted to celebrate our highest number of students achieving their reading reward since the introduction of the program. These students will enjoy a special Movie Morning on our new audiovisual system in the MPC. I encourage parents and caregivers to take an active interest in their child’s reading journey, as the best learning outcomes occur when there is a strong partnership between home and school.

Looking ahead, interviews for the current Prep position in Term 2 will be conducted next week, with a decision expected before the end of term. This will allow the successful applicant to work alongside Mrs. Williams for a four-week handover period. Additionally, our new staff member will have the opportunity to meet parents during the Prep parent-teacher meetings in Term 2. While it is bittersweet to say goodbye to Mrs. Williams for now, we extend our best wishes to her and Charlie as they prepare to welcome their new family member.

Last night, our P&F held its second meeting of the year, focusing on upcoming events such as the Mother’s Day Stall and Breakfast, as well as the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame Campdraft. A highlight from the discussion was the generous donation of a Honda motorbike, sourced by Karissa Gesler, which will be raffled at the Campdraft. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Karissa for her time and effort in securing this fantastic prize. Raffle tickets will be sent home before the holidays, and we encourage families to support this initiative by purchasing or selling tickets.

Finally, as Term 1 comes to a close, I am humbled to share that our school community has grown to 116 students—the highest enrolment since 2013. This marks a significant increase from 2022 when we had 88 students, and it is a testament to the strength and growth of our small but vibrant community.

God bless,

Mr Peter Thurecht

125 Year Anniversary Merchandise

Merchandise from the 125-year anniversary including tea towels, stubby coolers, packs of magnets and anniversary magazines are available for purchase from the front office.

Magazine $30

Tea Towel $15

Pack of 3 Magnets $10

Stubby Cooler $10

Classroom Teacher (Prep)

⭐ 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐎𝐏𝐏𝐎𝐑𝐓𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐈𝐒 𝐍𝐎𝐖! ⭐

We are seeking applicants for the position of  𝐂𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐫𝐨𝐨𝐦 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐫 (𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐩) to join Our Lady's Catholic Primary School, Longreach.

👉𝐀𝐏𝐏𝐋𝐘 𝐓𝐎𝐃𝐀𝐘 - https://applynow.net.au/jobs/CER1272

Reflection - Sr Kym Harris OSB

Just what is Lent for?

Difficult times come.  When they do, we can find ourselves grumpy, out of sorts, self-centred, small-hearted or maybe we may even find ourselves lost in a seriously dark time of our lives.  In this time of Lent, we are given the opportunity to prepare for such times.  And no, it is not to run away, seek diversions or even to embrace positive things to negate the negative.  In Lent, the Church advises us to practice self-denial, to pray more and to give generously to those in need.  What!  This seems to go against the ‘common sense’ of our society that recommends we foster at all times a positive sense of self.  Often our ‘self’ isn’t very positive and the practices of self-denial, prayer and almsgiving actually challenge who we think we are. In making us uncomfortable, they invite us to look at ourselves in a different way and we may not like what we find.  Bingo!  We have begun the journey out of our self-centredness to become the person God wants us to be, and that can feel, especially in the early stages, like a cross on our backs.  Good - if we take it up, with the person of Jesus, we discover that God can radically transform the difficult times of our lives in ways we could not imagine – no, not by taking them away but by transforming them from within with divine grace.  We become a person we could not imagine our self to be.

Loving God, show me how to enter into the journey of self-denial, prayer and almsgiving this Lent, so that I may become fully alive, the person you desire me to be.  I ask this in Jesus’ name confident that you will hear me.

Sr Kym Harris osb

APRE News

Welcome to Week 8 of Term 1!

Lenten Reflection: The Second Week of Lent

As we journey through the second week of Lent, our school community at Our Lady’s continues to reflect on the themes of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. This sacred season invites us to grow closer to God by making small sacrifices and acts of kindness in preparation for Easter. In our classrooms and prayer gatherings, students are encouraged to deepen their faith—whether through quiet prayer, offering a helping hand, or going without something as a reminder of Jesus’ sacrifice. Through these Lenten commitments, we prepare our hearts for the joy and hope of Christ’s resurrection.

This Sunday’s Gospel reading, Luke 9:28-36, shares the powerful story of the Transfiguration. Jesus takes Peter, James, and John up a mountain, where He is transformed before them, shining in dazzling light alongside Moses and Elijah. A voice from the clouds declares, "This is my Son, whom I have chosen; listen to Him." This moment reveals Jesus' divine glory and strengthens the disciples' faith, preparing them for the challenges ahead. Just as the disciples witnessed this incredible event, we are reminded to open our hearts to God's presence and listen carefully to His guidance during this Lenten season.

In the coming weeks, as we continue towards Easter, our school will engage in meaningful acts of faith, including special liturgies, reflections, and opportunities for kindness and generosity. Families are encouraged to take part by setting aside time for prayer and discussion at home. In their Religious Education lessons, students have been reflecting on the values of sacrifice, prayer, and service. Through scripture, prayer, and discussion, they are discovering ways to bring Jesus’ love into their daily lives. May this season of renewal help us grow in faith and bring us closer to Christ’s love and mercy.

Caritas Fundraising & Events

Our school community has been actively supporting Caritas Australia’s Project Compassion, and our fundraising efforts are already making a wonderful impact! So far, our Zooper Dooper sales and Pancake sales for Shrove Tuesday have raised over $500, thanks to the generosity and enthusiasm of our students and families. It has been fantastic to see everyone coming together to contribute to this important cause, helping those in need both in Australia and around the world.

The Zooper Dooper sales will continue every Tuesday and Thursday until the end of term, giving students more opportunities to support Caritas while enjoying a refreshing treat. We encourage everyone to keep up the great work—every contribution, big or small, helps make a real difference in the lives of others.

Big Water Walk – Thursday 3rd April (Week 10)

As part of our ongoing commitment to Project Compassion, Our Lady’s will be hosting a Big Water Walk on Thursday, 3rd April (Week 10). This event will help students develop a deeper understanding of the struggles many people around the world face in accessing clean drinking water.

Throughout the day, each class will take turns participating in the walk, carrying water through an obstacle course to simulate the long and difficult journeys that many communities must take daily. At the end of the course, students will pour any remaining water into a collective school bucket, symbolising the shared efforts needed to ensure access to clean water for all.

To take part, students are asked to:
✅ Wear sun-safe wet clothes and shoes
✅ Bring a towel and a spare uniform to change into
✅ Bring a container to carry water in (e.g. a bucket, ice cream container, or plastic jar)

To celebrate their efforts, each class will take part in a water fight at the end of their walk, acknowledging their commitment to Lent and Project Compassion. No water will be wasted, as the school's sprinklers will be turned off for the day. We encourage families to discuss this initiative at home, reinforcing the values of empathy, awareness, and action that lie at the heart of Lent and Project Compassion.

God Bless,

Mr Sahlie Komndi-Diggins

Sacramental Program - Confirmation and First Communion

St Brigid's Parish are inviting children who have made their First Reconciliation to prepare to receive the Sacraments of Confirmation and First Communion. To enrol or for more information, please contact Ange Arthur or Sahlie Komndi-Diggins.

angela_arthur@rok.catholic.edu.au
Sahlie_komndi@rok.catholic.edu.au 

Annual Inter-House Cross Country

Our interhouse Cross Country Carnival will be held at the school oval on Friday the 28^th of March, from 9am.

Students can wear SunSmart coloured house shirts (Blue for Thomson and Yellow for Kennedy), new house shirts or sports uniform and are able to wear any appropriate running shoes. All students will require a water bottle and hat to participate in this event.

Approximate Race times are as follows:

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the school Office and we will be happy to assist you.

We would love to have you join us for this fun annual event.

Under 8's Day

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming Under 8s Day at Our Lady's Catholic Primary School Longreach. This is a special event designed to celebrate and engage young learners in fun and interactive activities, with this year's theme being 'Unleashing Scientific Thinking Through Play.' 

Event Details:

• Date: 29^th of May (Week 6)
• Time: 9:00 - 11:00am
• Location: School Oval 
• Target Group: Children under 8 years old

The day will feature a range of exciting activities aimed at fostering teamwork, creativity, and fun through science and play, culminating in a sausage sizzle and popper for all. Barcoo Coffee will also be available for any parents, friends, or teachers who would like to enjoy a coffee.

Student Protection

Student Protection is taken very seriously within our school and Diocese. Each year all staff undertake mandatory student protection training at the beginning of the year. This year our School Student Protection Officers are Mr Peter Thurecht, Mr Sahlie Komndi-Diggins, Mrs Belinda Thurecht and Ms Sarah Wall. If you have concerns, please do not hesitate to contact one of our officers.

Parent Orbit App

Some key features of the Parent Orbit App:

• Instant Notifications: Stay up to date with the latest announcements and important alerts on your smartphone (be sure to enable Notifications)
• Events and Payments: Easily approve excursion attendance or make fee payments
• Medical Details: Keep your student’s medical details up to date
• Attendance Tracking: Easily track attendance and notify the School of your student's absence
• Event Calendar: Stay informed about school events, meetings, and important dates
• Parent Teacher Interviews: Schedule parent-teacher interviews and receive reminders
• Academic Reports: View and download your student’s school reports
• School Fees: View your school fees and make a payment

Parent Actions for reporting Student Attendance

Parents may choose from a variety of communication methods to notify the school of absences (phone, letter, email, visit) however the Orbit App or Parent Lounge are the preferred modes. In the Orbit App, parents are presented with five options, these are listed below followed by explanation:

• Illness and medical appointments
• Appointment, event or services
• Holiday
• School avoidance or refusal
• Family Reasons
  
• Other explained reason (If Other is selected, a mandatory comment box appears for parents to explain the absence)

Our Lady's Catholic Primary School P&F

Uniform Policy

Homework Policy

Homework Policy Update for 2025

Another important agenda the School Board focused on in 2024 is our Homework Policy, which has come into effect at the beginning of 2025. After thoughtful consideration, some significant changes have been made to better align with the developmental needs of our students.

For students in Prep to Year 2, homework will still remain optional. At this early stage of learning, we recognise that students often require an adult to assist with homework tasks. Understanding the busy schedules of families, we know this won’t always be possible, and as such, we encourage, at the very least, regular reading at home. Reading together as a family fosters a love for learning and is an excellent way to build essential literacy skills.

For students in Years 3 to 6, homework will be compulsory. As children move into the middle and upper years of primary school, we aim to instil greater independence and a sense of responsibility in their learning. The rigor of homework at these levels is designed to support the development of key skills that will benefit them throughout their educational journey.

We are excited to see how these changes will positively impact both our students and their learning experiences moving forward!

Mobile Phone & Wearable Technology Policy

Isolated Children's Parents' Association Qld Longreach Branch

Family Support Program

Isolated Children's Parents' Association (ICPA) is committed to advocating for equitable education access, opportunities and support for all rural and remote students. Motivated by this commitment the ICPA Longreach Branch is initiating a program that enables our Longreach and district families to access up to $500 in financial assistance toward educational, sporting or cultural/arts support or activities for your children.

•    Educational support for your child may include, but is not limited to, speech therapy, occupational therapy, paediatrician appointment, or literacy and numeracy support.
•    Sporting activities relate specifically to those students selected to represent our region at North West Sports or a specialised coaching clinic.
•    Cultural/Arts activities may include music or drama workshops such as SHEP.

Eligibility criteria include:

•    Membership of the ICPA Longreach Branch. ($50 p/a https://icpa.com.au/qld/membership)
•    The child receiving the support lives in the Longreach 4730 / Ilfracombe 4727 postcode area.
•    The child is aged up to 17 years of age.
•    If the child is of school age, the child must be attending a Longreach or Ilfracombe school.
•    No more than one application per child to be submitted per calendar year.
•    Evidence that your child received the support or participated in the activity.

The ICPA Longreach Branch Family Support Program financial assistance is on a reimbursement basis. Upon receipt of a paid invoice/receipt and proof that your child received the educational support and/or participated in the sporting/cultural activity, up to $500 will be paid via bank transfer to your nominated account. 
ICPA Longreach Branch has allocated a capped budget for this program, so once allocated funds have been spent, the program may be modified with the aim of providing assistance to the maximum number of families in our Branch. The ICPA Longreach Branch committee reserves the right to assess applications on a case by case basis. The Committee's decision is final in all application assessments. Your input and feedback on this Family Support Program is welcome as we aspire to provide a useful service to our Branch members. 
If you are seeking educational support for your child and you're not sure where to start looking, these are providers in our Longreach area:

•    Virtual or face-to-face speech therapy, https://popfamily.au/about/
•    Little Legs - Occupational Therapy based in Central West, https://www.littlelegsot.com.au/
•    Outback Futures - multiple services, https://outbackfutures.org.au/

Please email icpa.longreach@gmail.com for more information on this program, or to submit an application form. 

Tuckshop

Key Dates

St Brigid’s Parish News

Please follow us on Facebook for up to date information on what’s happening in the St Brigid’s Parish. https://m.facebook.com/people/Central-West-QLD-Catholic-Church/100080215845014/

Catholic Diocese of Rockhampton

Department of Transport and Main Roads

Do you have kids at School and looking to earn some extra money?

Are you semi-retired looking for a little extra cash?

Over 18yrs of age and perhaps @ home studying online and can spare some time, whilst earning some pocket money.

Shifts vary between Approx 1 hour in the morning and ½ hour in afternoon

Would you like to earn money and Help our State School? 🙋

Transport and Main Roads is looking for casual school crossing supervisors at our Primary School to help get our kids safely to and from school!

✅ Generous casual pay-rate starting at $37 per hour

✅ Morning and afternoon shifts

✅ Long-service leave entitlements

✅ The Queensland Government superannuation scheme.

If this sounds like something you'd be interested in, Contact below

To be deemed suitable for the role, some criteria apply, which include requirements to:

👉 pass a basic health assessment

👉 hold a current blue card or Able to apply

Both requirements we pay for, plus paid training will be given.

For more information or to apply, 07 4983 8747 or 0438 838 740

Community Notices

Qantas Founders Museum to launch Carbon_Dating art exhibition - OPENING 9:30AM, Saturday 15 March 2025

Qantas Founders Museum proudly announces a prominent exhibition Carbon_Dating showcasing native grasses and our relationship to the environment.  The Carbon_Dating project is a series of networked, experimental artworks situated throughout Queensland, that seek to shift attitudes towards the diverse Australian native grasses that grow in those regions. In this time of environmental stress, the project calls upon adventurous humans and vivacious grasses to collaborate – to breathe life into radically new kinds of relationships with each other.

The exhibition will open on Saturday 15 March at 930am at Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach QLD.

By drawing upon Indigenous cultural and scientific understandings and knowledges of grass and grasslands, and by incorporating sculpture, site-specific growing, networked technologies and artist-led provocations, we will develop a series of connected creative experiments and grass plantings spread across rural, regional and urban (Australia) - that together form the work Carbon Dating.

Carbon_Dating began in 2022 as a series of artwork-based experiments, and a ‘campaign’, that aimed to shift our relationships with Poaceae – those flowering members of the vegetal wild known as grasses. By focusing upon an often-overlooked group of native plants, Carbon_Dating reminds us that restoring the health of our environment will require us to look beyond the 'charismatic species' that so often steal our attention. Drawing on Indigenous cultural, scientific and artistic understandings, the Carbon_Dating Project asks: how we might see grass and grasslands in a new, equitable and ecological way?

Exhibiting artist Keith Armstrong said: “Despite grasses being one of the most critical plants for the survival of life on earth, our understanding and appreciation of them (beyond their use as animal fodder or lawn-making) remains limited… By sponsoring the planting of small Indigenous grassland areas and gardens, we seek to foster living sites for our art experiments; as we build a campaign built on partnership, respect and care.”

Carbon_Dating presents and share knowledge and stories and incorporate a variety of contemporary art forms responding to Queensland Indigenous grasses. The artists present a broad range of mediums including sculpture, weaving, textiles, photography, new media, film and performance-related artworks.

Featuring Artists: Keith Armstrong, Liz Capelin, Daniele Constance, Hilary Coulter, donna davis, Merinda Davis, Mia Hacker, Andrea Higgins, Luke Lickford, Jason Murphy, Kilagi Nielsen, Sasha Parlett, Melissa Stannard, Delissa Walker and Pipier Weller.

OPENING EVENT AND ARTIST FORUM - SATURDAY 15 MARCH 930AM

• The official unveiling of Carbon_Dating will take place at the newly branded Longreach Museum of Art (LMOA), at the Qantas Founders Museum, Longreach.
• An artist forum and floor talk will take place on Saturday 15 March from 930am featuring artists Keith Armstrong, Donna Davis, Koa artist and co-curator Jo-Anne Driessens, grazier and environmental advocate Jody Brown and the Lake Ayre Basin Rangers.

Entry is free, RSVP’s are essential info@qfom.com.au or call 07 4658 3737.

Max Flaherty - Junior Development Tennis Coach

Longreach Stingrays

Central West Hospital & Health Services