13th July - St Mary's College

Dear Parents, Staff, Students and Friends,
Mary Street, Woodend, Q 4305
PO Box 172, Ipswich, Q 4305
Tel: (07) 3432 - 5444
Fax: (07) 3432 - 5432
Email: admincentre@stmarys.qld.edu.au
Website: www.stmarys.qld.edu.au
Term Three, Week One
2012
“We should be as shining lamps,
giving light to all those around us.”
Catherine McAuley
Shining Lamps… Welcome Back
Welcome back to the start of Term Three. I hope the holidays provided your family with the
opportunity to spend some special time together. The girls have returned enthused and I hope this
momentum continues over the next eleven weeks, as they continue to be challenged, but no doubt
inspired, in their learning.
End of Semester One Reports were distributed in the first week of the holidays and I hope this has
provided you with the opportunity to celebrate with your daughter her successes from the first half of
the year. It is also a time to reflect on achievements, and set new goals for the coming semester of
study. To assist parents and students in this conversation, Parent Teacher Interviews will be
conducted on Monday 16 th July from 1.30pm and I look forward to seeing parents take advantage of
this opportunity to discuss their daughter’s learning and areas for improvement or extension with the
classroom teacher.
We welcome back a few familiar faces to the staff for the beginning of this term. Firstly, we welcome
back Mrs Anne Hillard who has been on Long Service Leave for the first six months of the year. It was
wonderful to hear the familiar laugh of Mrs Hillard ringing from the Staff Work Area. We also welcome
back Mrs Louise McCarthy and Mrs Jacinta Johnson who return from Maternity Leave. Both Mrs
McCarthy and Mrs Johnson will be working Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, with the remaining
days being covered by Ms Virginia Trad and Mrs Roberta Kings respectively. We welcome both Ms
Trad and Mrs Kings to St Mary’s College.
As well, we have a few staff on Long Service Leave this term, and so Mrs Rosalie Toner is welcomed
as she covers classes for Mrs Folan in the first four weeks and Mr Geoff Reilly is here for the first
week to replace Mrs Rosenthal. I also thank Mrs Jennifer DaSilva for taking on the role of Acting
Horan House Coordinator in Mrs Folan’s absence.
Finally, in the Finance Office we are happy to see Mr Sam Carroll return in full health after his lengthy
absence following heart surgery. Welcome back Mr Carroll.
Shining Lamps… Changes to Defence Transition Mentor
At the end of last term the College was informed that the role of Defence Transition Mentor would no
longer be funded by the Department of Defence. This role is directly linked to the number of Defence
families enrolled at St Mary’s College and, unfortunately, we are below the magic number to justify this
additional funding. As a result, the position of Defence Transition Mentor will no longer operate in
Term Three and Term Four this year. The College is hoping to rebuild the numbers so this support
role can return in the future. Until then, I take this time to thank Mrs Karina Antoniolli for the way she
has implemented this position into the College and been of support to our Defence families. Whilst our
Pastoral Care structures will continue to be of assistance, the families will miss the reassurance of Mrs
Antoniolli’s presence and her generosity of service.
Shining Lamps… Holidays Treats
I must admit to enjoying two treats over the holidays. Firstly, I joined Michaela Cronan and her family
Cont’d .......

at the Pierre de Coubertin Awards on the first Saturday. The
award was in recognition of the sportsmanship, participation
and leadership Michaela has demonstrated across a range
of sports over the years she has attended St Mary’s
College. Well done Michaela.
The second was joining the St Mary’s College Open Netball
team at the Queensland Independent Secondary Schools
Netball Championships in Caloundra for their first day of
play in the week long competition. The girls had a great
week, representing the College with pride. Whilst they found
the games to be challenging, I am sure they would all agree
that the tough games allowed them to work hard on their
individual and team game. Many thanks to Ms Donna-Maree
Hughes who accompanied the team (Lauren Bilyj, Michaela
Cronan, Brooke Geeling (Captain), Hollie Irvine, Jess
Kinghorn, Kate Pedley, Melissa Pedley, Kate
Spain-Mostina, Claire Sotiriadis and Marissa Yarrow)
for the week and, through her generosity, provided the
girls with this opportunity. I also thank, Debra Bailey,
in her role as Coach.
And of course, another big week comes to an end to
finish off the start of a big eleven week term… All the
best to each House group for the Inter House
Athletics Carnival next Friday. May the best House
win… Go Gorry, Horan, Murphy and Whitty!
As well, I wish all the girls who are performing or
assisting with the Combined Colleges Musical all the best for their performances this weekend. I am
looking forward to seeing “13” at the Saturday Matinee.
Enjoy your weekend with family and friends,
Regards,
Deidre Young
Principal
PLEASE NOTE:
The Brisbane Exhibition
Holiday scheduled for
15 th August,
is no longer a pupil free day,
it is a normal school day.
Newsflash
Congratulations to Rachel Stringfellow (Year 11, G6) for being selected in
the Under 16 Australian Team for Polo Cross. A wonderful achievement
and we wish Rachel all the best as she represents her country in this
sport. Well done Rachel!
A number of St Mary’s College students played in the U13 and U15
Queensland State Hockey Championships over the holidays with great
success. Well done to Jade Emblem (Year 9, G8) who was named the
Player of the Final and selected in the U15 Girls Queensland Hockey
Team and to Layla Eleison (Year 9, H6) who was named as a Talent
Identified Player. Well done to Jade and Layla!
Mrs Deidre Young
25 Year Anniversary Celebrations
Mt Maria College Petrie (formerly Kolbe College) is celebrating its
“25 Year Anniversary” in 2012.
To celebrate and acknowledge this significant milestone we are holding a 25
Year Anniversary Celebration dinner on
17 th August at the North’s Leagues and Services Club.
All past students, parents, staff members and friends of
Mt Maria College Petrie and Kolbe College are invited –
Tickets are $35!
Please contact us for ticket information - We hope to see you there!
Phone: 3285 5500 Email: spetrie@bne.catholic.edu.au
2

From the Deputy
Dear Parents, Guardians, Teachers, Students and members of our St Mary’s Community,
Third term (Semester Two) has started at a frenetic pace! Obviously a major focus for many in the community this week is the
musical ‘13’. It is the culmination of an enormous amount of work and rehearsal on behalf of so many students and staff from
St Edmund’s College and St Mary’s College. I must admit to being ‘WOWED!’ by the performance I saw on Thursday evening,
and I congratulate all those involved on an amazing production.
With the Semester One Reports sent home over the school holidays, the next part of the process is Parent Teacher Interviews
to be held on Monday next week, and we will continue with the highly successful PTO Parent Teacher Online booking system.
I hope you enjoyed the new format of the reports, and if you have any feedback you would like to provide, you are most
welcome to send an email to the general College email account.
Joanne O’Bryan, our College Guidance Counsellor, and I spent a double session with Year 12 students on Wednesday
morning to go through QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre) procedures. This is the way in which graduating
students can access TAFE and University Courses next year, including Certificate, Associate Diploma, Diploma, Associate
Degree and Degree courses. If any parent wants to find out more information about such matters, then the QTAC website is
excellent: www.qtac.edu.au.
Following on from this session, we have employed the services of an independent Careers Guidance Consultant, Mrs Shauna
Quinlivan, to have one on one interviews with all of the Year 12 students. She will assist each student to devise an exit plan, a
plan for what each student will be doing in 2013, and how they are going to go about achieving that plan. Shauna will
commence interviews on Tuesday next week, and be in attendance two or three days per week in Weeks Two, Three and
Four of the term. Parents are welcome to make contact with her via the Student Office if they wish.
I would also highly recommend the Tertiary Studies Expo at the RNA Showgrounds in Brisbane on the weekend of the 21 st
and 22 nd of July.
For our Year 10 students the whole process of planning pathways to the future will be held during Week Three of the term.
With a very busy term ahead, I ask parents to assist their daughters to stay organized and plan ahead using the College
Calendar so as not to miss a large number of important opportunities.
God bless!
Paul Wruck
Deputy Principal
From the APA
I hope everyone enjoyed their break catching up with family and friends and have begun the new semester enthusiastically.
Elsewhere in this newsletter is information about next Friday’s Athletics Carnival. Please note that this is a compulsory day
for all students. We are looking forward to an exciting Inter House event.
Feona has quite a collection of unnamed College jumpers in the Student Office. If your daughter is missing her jumper
either send her to check with Feona or you are most welcome to see Feona yourself.
Translink has forwarded us a flyer regarding changes to Westside Buses as of Monday 16 th July. See elsewhere in this
newsletter for details.
On Wednesday I met with interested students from Years 8 to 12 to form a Bullying Policy Consultation Committee. Our
next meeting is Thursday 19 th July. This committee will review our current Bullying Policy. If you have any feedback please
feel free to provide this to me. Our current Policy can be found in the Student Handbook.
On the weekend of the 21 st and 22 nd July, there is an excellent opportunity for students to explore the many possibilities for
Tertiary Study at the Tertiary Studies Expo at the RNA Showgrounds. I commend this to all students but especially our
Senior students.
At today’s assembly, Mrs Young reminded all girls that no one has her permission to place photos or videos of themselves
or other students wearing the St Mary’s College uniform, or involved in any St Mary’ College activity, on internet sites. If any
such images exist, Mrs Young has asked that these be removed tonight! It is everyone’s responsibility to protect the safety
of our community. Please help your daughter check her social network sites and ensure that any reference to our College
(whether via image or word) is removed. Thanks for your support.
Have a great week,
Karen Mulcahy
Assistant Principal Administration
3

From the APRE
I thought I would provide you with this story this week as we begin a new semester together. It’s important
for each of us to reflect upon our lives and ask how we can make a difference in the lives of our St Mary’s
College community.
It Makes a Difference
As the old man walked the beach at dawn, he
noticed a young girl ahead of him picking up
starfish and flinging them into the sea.
Catching up with the youth, he asked why she
was doing this.
The answer was that the stranded starfish would die if
left until the morning sun.
“But the beach goes on for miles and there are millions
of starfish,” countered the other.
“How can your effort make any difference?”
The young girl looked at the starfish in her
hand and threw it to the safety of the waves.
“It makes a difference to this one,” she said.
May we, as we begin Semester Two, strive to make a difference in our community.
God bless,
Michael Blanchfield
Assistant Principal
Religious Education
4

The Principal, Mrs Deidre Young
and
the staff and students of the St Mary’s College community
cordially invite
R.S.V.P.
Monday 10 th September
Telephone: (07) 3432 5444
Email: admincentre@stmarys.qld.edu.au
Parents
to join us in celebrating
Eucharist in Honour of
Mary, Mother of Mercy
...as part of our Mercy Week celebrations,
embracing our Mercy Heritage...
on
Monday 17 th September 2012
9:00am
St Mary’s Church, Ipswich
Please join us for morning tea
afterwards at the College.
“We should be as shining lamps; giving light to all around us.”
Catherine McAuley
5

13 th July 2012
Dear Parents/Guardians,
The St Mary’s College Inter House Athletics Carnival will be held at Bill Paterson Oval,
Limestone Park, Ipswich, on Friday 20 th July 2012. This carnival is an important event
on the College calendar and attendance is compulsory. It is expected that all students
should participate to the best of their ability either by competing, supporting their House
or by helping teachers in their duties. A note explaining why a student cannot compete
must be given to their Pastoral Care teacher on the morning of the carnival.
Students are asked to make their own way to the oval by 8:30am for roll call and the
commencement of the first event at 8:45am. Two buses will leave St Mary’s College at
8.25am to transport girls to Limestone Park if required.
The carnival will finish by approximately 2:20pm and students will be dismissed from the
Bill Paterson oval. There will be buses available to transport students back to the
College by 2:45pm to catch their buses home. Any student not collected from Limestone
Park by 2.20pm must return to the College by bus and arrangements can be made for
your daughter to travel home from school, as per normal.
Students are to arrive and depart the oval in full sports uniform. They may change into
their House colours once they are at the venue, but must change to travel home. They
are reminded to bring hats, sunscreen and drinks. The canteen will be open throughout
the day for students to purchase lunch and snacks.
You are most welcome to attend the carnival and support our students. Any offers of
assistance to set up, act as a place judge, time keep, assist with the conduct of field
events or tally points would be gratefully accepted. Please contact Mr Darryn McCarty if
you are able assist in any way on the day.
Yours sincerely,
__________________
Mr Darryn McCarty
SPORTS COORDINATOR
_________________
Mrs Deidre Young
PRINCIPAL
6

Choir Comp and Talent Quest
Term Two wrapped up, as it always does, with our annual Inter House Choir Competition and the College
Talent Quest. Each House put in tremendous effort, including many tears and much laughter, leading up to
the Choir Competition, and gave spectacular performances. It was particularly close, but Horan took home
the prize with their version of “I’m A Believer”. After shared lunches with the students from their PC,
everyone gathered once again for the Talent Quest. We were treated to many incredible performances
reflecting a wide range of talents, including singing, dancing and even a flash mob by the Senior students.
The competition was fierce, and as with the Choir Competition it was very close. Congratulations to
Cultural Captain, Madison Rossetto and Renessa Bob Sooalo, who were awarded first place. Thanks also
to everyone else who performed, and who made the Talent Quest thoroughly entertaining. A special
mention to the judges (Fr Paul and Miss Hathaway); Mr Paxton for the organisation of the Talent Quest;
and to Mrs Franz for her exceptional work and organisation of MADD Days, which made the last week of
term so enjoyable.
Kate Muller
(Year 12, H4)
iCentre News
2012 Ipswich Poetry Feast
Entries for the 2012 Ipswich Poetry Feast are closing soon. Entry forms are still available
from the iCentre. Entries must be submitted to Mrs Lynch or Mrs Callaghan by
Monday 23 rd July. Students who attended the poetry workshop in Term Two are
expected to submit at least one entry.
The MS Readathon is a reading-based fundraiser run by Multiple Sclerosis Australia
(MSA), which encourages children and adults of all ages, to read books, learn about
multiple sclerosis (MS) whilst raising funds to help people living with MS. Just imagine
being able to make a difference, simply by doing something you love. Well you can, and
registration is so easy.
You can register on-line at www.msreadathon.org.au or registration forms are available
from Mrs Callaghan in the iCentre.
7

DIARY DATES 2012
15 th July Parish Mass 6.00pm
16 th July Parent Teacher Interviews 1.30pm - 6.00pm
19 th July College Tours 9.00am
20 th July House Athletics Carnival
TUCKSHOP ROSTER
Mon 16 th July
Tues 17 th July
Wed 18 th July
Thurs 19 th July
Fri 20 th July
J. Collins
K. Keidge
E. Gardner
P. Phillip
A. Sloan
L. Rae
C. Adams
S. Walker
M. Bill
No Helpers Required
House Athletics
iCentre News
2012 Ipswich Poetry Feast
The Ipswich Poetry Feast was introduced by the Ipswich City Council in
2002 with the aim of:
Encouraging young and aspiring poets
Raising community awareness of the creativity and skills in poetry writing
Promoting and showcasing Ipswich as a vibrant, culturally rich region.
COMPETITION CATEGORIES
1 st Prize 2 nd Prize 3 rd Prize
Age 11‐13 years $120 $80 $50
Age 14‐15 years $150 $90 $60
Age 16‐17 years $250 $150 $100
SPECIAL AWARDS
Awarded to poems submitted in any category that best relect the theme: Faces of Ipswich –
Prizes as follows:
Age 5‐13 years $100
Age 14‐17 years $150
CONDITIONS
1. There is no word limit.
2. No name or other identifying material should appear on the poem.
3. Poems may be on any subject and may be entered in more than one category.
4. Entries may be submitted to Mrs Callaghan in the iCentre by Friday 20 th July 2012.
5. Entry forms are available from Mrs Callaghan in the iCentre.
Uniform Shop
Change Of Hours for
Monday 23 rd July ONLY
The Uniform Shop will be open from
8.00am to 12.00pm on Monday 23 rd July ONLY
We apologise for any inconvenience that this may
cause.
Normal Opening Hours will resume again on
Thursday 26 th July.
FINANCE OFFICE HOURS
Students:
8.10am to 8.30am and first break and second break
Public:
8.30am to 3.30pm
Change to Parental Contact Details
If your contact details have changed or are going to change, please
notify the College in order for your records to be
updated. Please e-mail admincentre@stmarys.qld.edu.au with your
Daughter’s Name, Year Level and Pastoral Care Group.
8

A thank you letter received from the
School of St Jude…in Tanzania
PLEASE NOTE:
TO REPORT STUDENT
ABSENTEES ONLY
BEFORE 7.30AM, PLEASE
PHONE 3432-5499 WITH THE
STUDENT NAME, YEAR LEVEL
AND PASTORAL CARE GROUP.
TO REPORT STUDENT
ABSENTEES
DURING SCHOOL HOURS,
7.35AM-3.15PM, PLEASE
PHONE STUDENT OFFICE ON
3432-5407.
PLEASE NOTE THAT BOTH OF
THE ABOVE PHONE NUMBERS
ARE TO BE USED FOR
STUDENT ABSENTEES ONLY.
The St Edmund’s College newsletter
is available in ‘News and Events’
on the College Website.
(Click on the link below)
http://www.sec.qld.edu.au/
Please Note
St Mary’s College iCentre is open
from 7.45 am - 3.30pm daily
St Mary's College publishes
advertising for outside school
events in good faith and takes
no responsibility for such events
or the personnel involved.
Mark Your Calendar!
Ipswich Little Theatre Fundraising Night
St Mary's Primary School community will be hosting a fund raising evening at the Incinerator Theatre.
Mrs W's (Alina Wikarjusz - Prep White teacher) son Bartek, was tragically involved in an accident at the
end of 2010. The accident has left Bartek paralysed from the shoulders down. He requires a life support
machine continuously and is confined to a wheelchair. Bartek is in need of ongoing treatment and is
applying for a special programme in Brisbane called "Walk On". Funds raised will go towards the
significant cost of this programme. A raffle to be drawn at the theatre night will also be held to help raise
funds. The details of the theatre night are as follows:
Ipswich Little Theatre Presents
“The Importance of Being Earnest”
by Oscar Wilde
held at the
Incinerator Theatre, Burley Griffin Drive, Ipswich
Wednesday 18 th July, 8.00pm
$30 - includes tea/coffee and a light supper at interval
Tickets are available at St Mary's Primary School Reception. Cost payable by cash or cheque only.
Cheques to be made payable to ‘St Mary's Primary School, Ipswich’.
For further details please contact Maria Portas 0407 573 373
9

Tertiary Studies Expo (TSXPO) - The 31 st annual Tertiary
Studies Expo (TSXPO) is the most comprehensive and longest running event
of its kind in Australia. Students from Years 10, 11 and 12 are invited to meet
one-on-one and discuss their study, career and employment options with
representatives from around 110 exhibitors including universities from around
Australia and Overseas, representatives from ALL faculties from Griffith, QUT and UQ, private Education
Providers, TAFE Institutes, Defence and Police Forces, Government Agencies, Employment opportunities
and Student Services. Scholarship, financial and bursary information available, the chance to win a $2,000
bursary, information on study and career options, exhibitor seminar sessions, Post graduate course
information and the chance to win one of two iPads! Lift-out feature in the The Saturday Courier-Mail
CareerOne on 14 th July, 2012 and www.tsxpo.org for information on Participating Exhibitors, iPad
competition and bursary details, Student Worksheet, Seminar details and more.
ANZ Indigenous School Based Traineeships - One-day per week
traineeship for Indigenous/Torres Strait Islander students in Years 11 or 12. Applications close
31 st July. http://www.anz.com/about-us/careers/indigenous-employment/Indigenoustraineeships/.
Additional entry requirements for Performing and Visual Art
courses - Some of the Performing and Visual Arts courses you can apply for through
QTAC for entry in Semester One 2013 have entry requirements in addition to Year 12
subject prerequisites. It is essential to carefully read the prerequisites section in the QTAC
Guide for each course in which you are interested. Also check the Fixed Closing Dates
table on page 4 of the QTAC Guide.
Health Heroes website - The Health Heroes website at
www.healthheroes.health.gov.au is a resource that has been developed as part of a
campaign to encourage Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander secondary students to pursue
a job in the health sector. The information on the website is useful for all students. The
Health Heroes website provides information on a range of health jobs, training options and
career pathways in the health field. It includes an interactive career quiz, which suggests a
range of health jobs based on participants’ interests and skills base. There are 20 case study videos on
the website of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people talking about their real experiences and
health-related jobs.
COUNSELLING & CAREER
NEWS
From the College Counsellors
The Australian National University (ANU) visits Brisbane -
ANU is located in Canberra. Advisers from ANU will be in Brisbane in July for the following
events.
ANU Advisory Session for prospective students from 4.00pm to 7.00pm on Friday, 20 th July 2012 at
The Marque, 103 George Street, Brisbane,
ANU staff will be at TSXPO from 10.00am to 4.00pm on Saturday 21 st and Sunday 22 nd July 2012 at
the RNA Showgrounds, Brisbane.
Go to www.anu.edu.au/advisory to register your attendance at the advisory session. For more information
telephone 1800 620 032 or email Student.Recruitment@anu.edu.au. For information about ANU and its
courses, visit the ANU website at www.anu.edu.au. You might also like to investigate the ANU National
Undergraduate Scholarship at www.anu.edu.au/sas/scholarships/undergraduate/index.php.
Resources for students interested in the Australian Defence
Force - The online Defence Jobs Recruitment Centre has a series of videos designed to
10

explain the recruitment process for prospective candidates. The videos cover important milestones from
enquiry to enlistment. Visit www.defencejobs.gov.au/recruitmentCentre/canIJoin/default.aspx to access the
videos.
Explore courses in design, business, health and
beauty at the Think: Education Open Day -
The Think: Education Group at 10 Costin Street, Fortitude Valley, Brisbane
will hold its open day from 11.00am to 3.00pm on Saturday 21 st July 2012. The Think: Education Group
member Colleges located in Brisbane are:
Billy Blue College of Design
APM College of Business and Communication
Australian College of Natural Therapies
CATC Design School
Australian National College of Beauty.
For more information about these colleges and the courses they offer, go to http://www.think.edu.au/.
Scholarships for business degrees - Applications for APM 2013
scholarships are now open. APM College of Business and Communication, with
campuses in Sydney and Brisbane, is a private institution (and a member of the Think: Education Group)
which offers accredited business degrees in marketing, public relations, event management and advertising
and a communications degree in journalism (see www.apm.edu.au/ for more information about these
courses). FEE-HELP is available for all courses. The scholarships will be awarded to those who have
demonstrated a keen and active interest in establishing a career in the worlds of marketing, public
relations, event management or journalism. For more information visit http://www.apm.edu.au/why-chooseapm/scholarships.
Nursing Scholarships
Aged Care Nursing Scholarships - These scholarships are an Australian Government
initiative supporting student nurses who show a demonstrated commitment to aged care to
undertake undergraduate studies at an Australian tertiary institute leading to a qualification
to practice as a registered nurse. The application due date for studies beginning in 2013 is
31 st August 2012.
Nursing and Allied Health Scholarship and Support Scheme - The scheme is an Australian
Government initiative supporting students who are commencing or intending to commence an accredited
nursing course. The next round of scholarships will open on 23 rd July 2012 for study in 2013.
Peggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship Scheme - The aim of this scheme is to increase the number of
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with professional health qualifications. Applications of this
scholarship open on Friday 20 th July 2012 and close on 16 th September 2012. For more information, visit
www.rcna.org.au/WCM/RCNA/Scholarships/rcna/scholarships/scholarships.aspx?hkey=2c5ba235-a406-
4823-afe4-65fe65d2ccd7.
CQ University (CQU) Brisbane and Gold Coast Campus
Open Days - The CQU Brisbane and Gold Coast Campuses now offer the following
degree programs to local and international students: B Accounting, B Business, B
Financial Planning (not available on the Gold Coast Campus), B Hospitality Management,
B Information Technology, B Multimedia Studies. The Brisbane campus open day will be held from
11.00am to 2.00pm on Sunday 15 th July 2012 at 160 Ann Street, Brisbane. The Gold Coast campus open
day will be held from 11.00am to 2.00pm on Sunday 22 nd July 2012 at 60 Marine Parade, Southport. Visit
www.cqu.edu.au for more information.
University of Queensland (UQ) health updates - Accreditation
recently obtained by the UQ School of Nursing and Midwifery means that UQ educated
nurses who become registered in Canada will also be eligible to seek registration within
the United States. Read the full article at http://www.nursing-midwifery.uq.edu.au/index.html?
page=178278. ‘Day in the Life’ interviews and videos - The UQ Health Sciences team have
created videos to help prospective students understand what it is like studying at UQ and where their area
of study can take them. Go to www.uq.edu.au/health/careers to view the videos. Students can also receive
the latest health updates by joining the Health@UQ Facebook page at www.facebook.com/UQhealth.
11

Want to study engineering but don’t have the prerequisites? -
Griffith University offers students an alternative pathway into engineering by sitting the
Aptitude for Engineering Assessment. This is a multiple-choice exam, which assesses a
candidate’s aptitude to: think scientifically, solve quantitative problems, critically analyse
information and display interpersonal understanding. Successful students will receive an offer
of guaranteed admission into either the B Engineering or the B Engineering Technology at the Nathan or
Gold Coast campuses. The exam will be held on Saturday 22 nd September 2012 at the Nathan or Gold
Coast campuses. Registrations opened on 16 th April and will close on 7 th September 2012. Visit
www.griffith.edu.au/engineering-information-technology/griffith-school-engineering/future-students/aptitudeengineering-assessment
for details.
Australian Robertson Scholars Program - Each year up to two
Australian students are selected to complete a four-year undergraduate degree at Duke
University and the University of North Carolina in the United States. The scholarship
provides for full tuition fees, accommodation expenses and other costs associated with
undertaking a degree abroad. Australian selections are organised through the University of New South
Wales. Applications opened on 1 st July 2012 and will close on 7 th December 2012. Visit http://
scholarships.online.unsw.edu.au/scholarship/sc_al_search_detail.display_scholarship_details?
p_schedule_id=1542&p_scholarship_specific_id=607 to find more information and to access application
forms.
Environmental Scholarships for students in Years 11 and 12
- BAYERBoost is an environmental scholarship scheme aimed at giving students
experience in environmental research or restoration during their summer holidays.
Interested students should visit www.australiangeographic.com.au/society/bayerboost-home.htm for more
information. The due date for applications is 30 th September 2012.
SBIT Study 2013 Information Evening - Southbank Institute of
Technology (SBIT) invites prospective students and their families to an evening of
information, tours and seminars from 4.30pm to 7.00 pm on Wednesday 25 th July
2012. SBIT offers certificate and diploma level programs in career areas such as Arts
and Entertainment, Food Industries, Languages, Beauty and Natural Therapies, Print
Media, Building and Engineering, Health, IT, Sports and Recreation, Tourism and Hospitality, Sales,
Business, Community Services and Indigenous Australian People’s Studies. All program areas will be
represented at the information evening. In addition, you can find out about university pathways and the
financial support available when studying a SBIT program. Visit http://www.southbank.edu.au/site/ for more
information about this event. Program guides for SBIT can be downloaded at www.southbank.edu.au/site/
programs/guides.asp.
Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Open Day - Come
to QUT’s Kelvin Grove Campus from 9.00am to 3.00pm on Sunday 29 th July 2012 to explore
courses and support services at QUT’s annual Open Day. Visit the Open Day website at
http://www.qut.edu.au/study/events/qut-open-day to download the full program for the event
and to develop your personalised QUT open day program.
Australian Catholic University (ACU) Brisbane Campus
Open Night Program - This evening will be held from 5.30pm to 8.30pm on
Wednesday 25 th July 2012. The event provides an opportunity to learn more about ACU
courses and to explore the campus and its facilities. Visit www.acu.edu.au/
apply_and_enrol/useful_links/events/open_day/ for more information and to download an open night
program.
Bond University scholarship applications closing soon - Bond
University’s scholarship program is currently open for applications online. The scholarships
available include Vice-Chancellor’s scholarships, Corporate scholarships, Collegiate
scholarships and Deans’ scholarships. Interested students are encouraged to start their
online application as soon as possible so they can ensure all sections are completed by the 31 st July 2012
closing date. Visit www.bond.edu.au/scholarships to access more information and the online application.
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Overview of course changes at QUT - The following are a selection of
changes made to courses at the Queensland University of Technology (QUT). To be up-todate
on all QUT course changes, check www.qut.edu.au/course-changes.
B Business (Dean’s Honours Program) changed from two to three years of study
B Fine Arts (Dance) is new, with additional entry requirements
Dual awards B Fine Arts /Graduate Diploma in Education (Senior Years) have been suspended
B Nursing, B Paramedic Science, B Podiatry have been included in QUT’s OP Guarantee scheme
Questionnaire is no longer required B Radiation Therapy
B Justice – new major in policy and governance
New B Science with majors in Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Environmental Sciences and
Physics
B Technology Innovation and B Urban Development (Spatial Science) have been withdrawn
New major – B Engineering (Process Engineering).
Australian Public Service Indigenous Pathways Programs
- For further information check the webpage : http://www.apsc.gov.au/indigenous/
indigenous-pathways
Year 12 questions
Q. What are these bonus ranks everyone keeps talking about?
A. There are a number of special admissions schemes that can assist QTAC applicants in special
circumstances to gain entry to certain tertiary courses. The Year 12 Bonus Scheme is one of these.
Under this scheme, applicants are allocated bonus ranks for specific studies they undertake in Year 12.
Seven universities currently have such a scheme. Visit QTAC at http://www.qtac.edu.au/Applying/
SASHome.html to read about how this scheme works and the specific rules of the universities that offer
it. Also see pages 48 – 51 in the QTAC Guide for information about this and other special admissions
schemes.
Q. Will I be disadvantaged if I don’t have the assumed knowledge for QUT courses?
A. In response to this question advisers at QUT made the following points:
Students are strongly encouraged to undertake assumed knowledge subjects
If students change their direction while at school, we recommend undertaking a bridging course (see
www.qut.edu.au/study/short-courses-and-professional-development/science-and-mathematics for QUT
bridging courses)
If they don’t enjoy the subject in high school, will they enjoy studying a course that builds on this study
area at university?
QUT does offer support for students having difficulty, including a Maths Access Centre and other
learning support.
Setting Goals - Make a list of the study goals you would like to achieve. Use the
following SMART checklist for each of your goals. This item is based on information
obtained from the Goal Setting Guide website at www.goal-setting-guide.com/goal-settingtutorials/smart-goal-setting,
the Top Achievement website at http://topachievement.com/smart.html and the
Mind Tools website at www.mindtools.com/page6.html.
S - Is the goal specific? Specific is the what, why, and how of the SMART model. What are you going to
do? Use action words such as direct, organise, coordinate, lead, develop, plan, build, achieve, etc. Why is
this important to do at this time? What do you want to ultimately accomplish? How are you going to do it
and by when?
M - Is the goal measurable? If you are not able to measure it, how do you know when you have achieved
it? Set a specific time and level of achievement for your goal.
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A - Is the goal attainable? To be attainable a goal must be realistic. It must be something you are both
willing and able to achieve. Remember, small steps in the short term can lead to big steps in the long term.
R - Is the goal relevant? Is this goal important to you at this time? Will achieving it help you achieve other
goals in the future? Will achieving this goal be rewarding to you?
T - Is the goal timely? Putting an end point on your goal gives you a clear target to work towards. Without
a time limit, there is no urgency to start taking action now.
Joanne O’Bryan & Kristina Holland-Thomson
Counsellors/Careers Guidance
ADOLESCENT SCOLIOSIS SPINAL
CURVATURE
The National Self-Detection Program
Information for schoolgirls in years 7 and 9 and their parents
A health promotion program recommended by the
Royal Australian College of General Practitioners and the Spine Society of
Australia. The program is endorsed by the Paediatrics and Child Health
Division of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians.
WHAT IS SCOLIOSIS?
Scoliosis is a lateral or sideways curve of the spine. The spine also rotates on its long axis as it curves. It usually develops during early
adolescence (age 10-13 years) when growth is most rapid.
WHAT IS THE CAUSE OF SCOLIOSIS?
The cause is unknown, but 80-90% of cases occur in otherwise healthy adolescents. This is called idiopathic (cause unknown) scoliosis. We
know that scoliosis is NOT contagious and NOT caused by bad posture, a soft mattress, carrying a heavy school bag or junk food.
WHY IS EARLY DETECTION IMPORTANT?
While very small curves are common and of no significance, about 2% of girls have a curve which warrants medical observation during the
growth period. Three girls per 1,000 will require treatment during the growth phase. If treatment is required, the earlier it is undertaken, the better
the long-term result. This is the basis for screening since in the early stages scoliosis produces no symptoms. The way to detect scoliosis is to
look for it!
WHY THIS BROCHURE HAS BEEN PRODUCED
This brochure is designed to make parents of schoolgirls aware of the outward signs of scoliosis. From time to time all government and
non-government schools in Australia will be asked to download this brochure from www.scoliosis-australia.org and to distribute it to girls in
Years 7 and 9 (11 and 13 years of age in most states and territories).
If after reading this brochure you or your parents think you may have this condition,
please consult your family doctor.
HOW SCOLIOSIS IS DETECTED
Apart from the outward signs with a teenager standing as illustrated, the reliable Forward Bend Test is used in the diagnosis of scoliosis. This
simple visual examination requires the teenager to stand with the feet together and parallel and bending forward as far as she can go with the
hands, palms facing each other, pointed between the two big toes. In scoliosis, one side of the upper chest (thoracic) region or the lower back
(lumbar) region will be more than 1cm higher than the other. The prominence is most often on the right side in the thoracic
region. If the difference between the two sides is less than 1cm, it is highly unlikely that a significant curvature is present and the
difference is simply due to asymmetrical growth of the two sides of the body. This is called torso asymmetry and is of no
significance.
WHAT ABOUT BROTHERS AND SISTERS?
Scoliosis tends to run in families. When a curve is detected in one member of the family, other children should also be examined
by the family doctor. If there is a history of a blood relative, especially a female cousin, having been treated for scoliosis by
brace wearing or surgery, then this strengthens the case for spinal examination as a regular health check between 10 and 13
years of age. Scoliosis which requires treatment is far less common in boys than in girls. The ratio of boys to girls requiring
treatment is about 1 to 10.
IS TREATMENT SUCCESSFUL?
Yes, modern methods produce excellent results when a curve is detected early. In most cases an inconspicuous spinal brace is
worn. Surgery is needed in only one out of three cases which require treatment. There is no scientific evidence that physical
therapy (exercise programs) and spinal manipulation (chiropractic adjustments) will either correct a scoliosis or halt its
progression.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN IF SCOLIOSIS IS NOT TREATED?
The curve may increase unnoticed during the growing years. Moderate and severe curves may also increase in adult life. Some curves may
increase with pregnancy. Severe pain, physical deformity and wear and tear arthritis may occur during middle life. Early detection is important for
a healthy future.
HOW DO YOU DETECT SCOLIOSIS?
Simply look for it! It only takes 30 seconds
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