ListeningHeart No2 2012 - St Mary's College, Broome

No.2
2012
ST MARY’S COLLEGE, BROOME
Listening Hearts

from the principal
Term Two is always a busy time in schools and we began with staff undertaking professional development to prepare for the pending
implementation of the Australian Curriculum. Students returned to school on April 26, and celebrated ANZAC Day at a special service
attended by staff and students on the Primary Campus. Along with an eleven week term of teaching and learning for staff and students
many other significant events have taken place both at St Marys College and in our extended College community. Our College was
well represented at the Annual Broome Expo with students performing dance, drama and choir items. Our Hospitality students featured
in the schools pavilion where they shared canapés and mocktails with many visitors to the St Mary‘s College stand.
We congratulated students in both the Primary Swimming Team, who won the Handicap Points Trophy at the Interschool Carnival on
May 10, and Secondary College Girls Football Team, who were successful in winning the Kimberley Interschool Football Shield on
May 11. These were two outstanding achievements by our students who were assisted by Ms Sam Iten, Mr Mark Heron and Mr Mark
Dellar. Also during this term a number of our talented Dance students have been awarded WA Youth Ballet Scholarships. Thank you
to Mrs Vicki Thompson for her dedication and professionalism in preparing and promoting our students for these scholarships.
Our Building Education the Revolution (BER) projects were blessed by Monsignor Paul Boyers and officially opened by Senator Louise
Pratt on May 16 and will have many positive outcomes for our College. Most importantly, this building programme funded by the
Federal Government, provides our very dedicated staff with the best teaching and learning environment enabling them to deliver a
quality Catholic Education for the students at St Mary‘s College. Mrs Mary Retel, Deputy Director Catholic Education Office WA has a
great passion for Catholic education in the Kimberley. Mrs Retel addressed the students, staff and special guests and spoke of the
significance of the building projects to education and opportunities offered at St Mary‘s College for both today‘s students and for the
generations that will follow.
Work is now nearing completion for the newly refurbished Special Education Network Centre and we look forward to the opening next
term. As our staff and students enjoy the new and refurbished facilities it is also an important time to reflect on and remember the
beginnings of our College when it was established in 1908 with the determination and vision of Mother Antonio O‘Brien. Our College
community recognises and pays tribute to the religious communities, lay staff and parents who worked so hard over the past 104 years
to make St Mary‘s College Broome the school we have today. This has been achieved through the vision and dedication of The Sisters
of St John of God, The Christian Brothers, The Our Lady of the Missions Sisters and the Loreto Sisters and the many lay staff, parents
and members of the community.
Our Year 11 and 12 Ball held on May 19 at the Cable Beach Club was an outstanding success. A very special tradition that sets our
College apart from traditional school balls is the inclusion of parents, guardians, grandparents and members of the community. Our
students and partners looked amazing in their ball gowns and suits. The night was filled with dancing and fun and will be remembered
by our senior students for many years to come.
Bishop Christopher Saunders launched the ―Year of Grace‖ in the Our Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral on Pentecost Sunday, May 27.
Many students, staff and parents attended this special Mass and family day marking the beginning of the Year of Grace, when as
Catholics we are called to reflect on the question ―Where is Jesus in my life?‖ Throughout Australia in parishes, families, religious
communities, schools and colleges Catholics are participating in A Year of Grace from Pentecost 2102 through to Pentecost 2013.
1.

from the principal
As a Catholic school this is a time for students to reflect on their relationship with God. Early this term each of our students from
Years 7-11 had this opportunity through their year level retreats, and I am extremely grateful to Mr Tony Treacy and Mr Brian Kane
for facilitating the programme.
On May 24 the Feast of Our Lady Help of Christians, the patroness of Australia, the Diocese of Broome and of our College, we
celebrated our College Feast Day. The day began with a very meaningful Mass celebrated by Bishop Saunders and concelebrated
by Fr Matt, Fr Ernesto, Fr Bernie and Deacon Frank. Throughout the day students participated in tabloid sports, fundraising stalls
and the day concluded with live music on stage by the very talented musicians David and Peter Pigram.
One of the many highlights for the term saw 41 students from Year 5 and the Parish make their First Holy Communion on June 9.
The Mass was concelebrated by Fr Ernesto Cerutti and Fr Nick Falzun. The outstanding effort that every student made to be
dressed in a manner that reflected the importance of the evening was a credit to all families. During the Homily, Fr Ernesto
reminded the students of the importance of regularly attending Mass to receive spiritual nourishment from the Eucharist to maintain
their close relationship with Jesus.
On June 17 the Our Lady of the Mission Sisters held their Jubilee celebration at St Mary‘s Cathedral in Perth. A long serving staff
member, Ms Anthea Demin represented our College on this very special day. The OLM Sisters were the founding order of Nulungu
Girls College in 1974. Nulungu Girls College ran alongside Nulungu Christian Brothers College until they united in 1985 as Nulungu
College. The Sisters also worked in the schools at Beagle Bay, Gibb River, Lombadina and Derby. In 2007, the retirement of Sr
Helena Brabender from St Mary‘s College Broome marked the end of an era of 33 years of dedicated service to Catholic Education
in the Kimberley by the Our Lady of the Missions Sisters.
During the term we have had a great number of visitors to the College. Mrs Mary Rete1, Deputy Director Catholic Education Office
WA attended our BER opening and OLM Sisters Sr Helena Brabender and Sister Francis Wilson attended a special morning tea
on June 26. Our students have been fortunate to have teaching practicum students Ms Narelle Hurley afrom the University of Notre
Dame in Fremantle; and Ms Monique Huskins from Charles Darwin University. Our Genazzano Cultural Exchange programme
held over four weeks during this term was an opportunity to welcome students and staff to our school from Genazzano FCJ
College in Melbourne. Staff members Clare Ivens, Marea Lanki, Jennice Borin and Virginia Boyce accompanied Year 10 students
Alice Dowell, Georgia Dellar, Emma Douglas and Prue Renehan. The Exchange group spent two weeks at St Mary‘s College and
a further two weeks travelling to other schools and communities in the Kimberley. I greatly appreciated the hospitality of all our host
families, and St Mary‘s College staff Mr Mark Dellar, Ms Robyn Christie and Mrs Jennifer Cambridge for all of their efforts in
organising this year‘s exchange programme. Other visitors this term included poet and artist Mr Barry Dickens from Melbourne who
spent a two week workshop with students on both secondary and primary campus during the final two weeks of term.
This term our Aboriginal Teaching Assistants and Teacher Assistants have worked diligently toward completion of their Certificate
III Teacher Assistant qualification. Some teachers also completed the Certificate IV Workplace Assessor qualification. This ongoing
professional development by staff is important and extremely beneficial to all students at our College. My thanks to all staff who
continue to work towards completion of their certification.
Finally I take this opportunity to welcome all new staff and to sincerely say thank you for staff that have moved from St Mary‘s
College throughout the term. Staff are our most valuable asset in the education of students. [Please see page 3 for details of new
and departing staff.
Mr Michael Pepper
Contents: Page Page
From the Principal 1,2 Upper School Bush Poetry 11,12
Head of Primary 3 Brain Bee Competition 13
St Mary‘s College Staff Term 2 3 Visitors to our College 14
Parents and Friends 4 WKFA 15
St Mary‘s College Feast Day 2012 5 Sport 16
Sacrament of the Eucharist 6 VET and Careers 17
Faith Community 7 Past students 18
BER Building project opening 8 Senior Ball 19
Secondary Campus 9 Staff and students experience success 20
Melbourne Cultural Exchange 10 NAIDOC 2012 21,22
2.

head of primary campus
This term has been a particularly rewarding one for me. I have had the pleasure of working closely with a number of
our Aboriginal Teaching Assistants to assist them on their learning journey. ATAs from both Primary and Secondary
Campuses have taken on study to gain a Certificate III in Education Support. It has been a liberating experience for
them as well as consolidating what they know and do so well.
The ATAs at our College are brilliant! They work closely with students and teachers to ensure a top quality learning
program is offered and maintained in the classrooms. These wonderful people, who ooze with enthusiasm, provide a
wealth of knowledge about the culture and history of St Mary‘s and Broome community. I am looking forward to seeing
the ATAs finish their course and Graduate next term.
Fr Ernesto has been a regular visitor to the Primary Campus this term. He worked closely with the year five teachers
and students in preparation for the First Holy Communion. We are so grateful that he attended the family workshop
evening which was held earlier in the term. Fr Ernesto is very popular with all the students on the Primary Campus and
he always has a friendly smile and kind words for staff and students.
Mr Lloyd and Mr Yoshi along with Miss Harriet and Miss Elaina band together to lead the singing for the Youth Mass
which is held in the Cathedral on a fortnightly basis. Students who wish to be part of the group attend practise
sessions with the teachers during recess or lunch times. All are to be congratulated on their commitment and the
upbeat sound and harmony they bring to the Saturday evening Mass. I would love to see more students participating
in the Youth Mass. If you can attend Mass on a Saturday evening at 6:00pm and bring your children to join in the choir
it would be much appreciated. If you have not attended Mass for some time and have been thinking about returning,
then the Youth Mass may be the one to help you to do this. It is also a great opportunity to meet and chat with others
before or after the Celebration. Many of the teachers also attend at this time and they would love to see you there too.
Parents and carers are most welcome to join staff on a Tuesday morning in the Nulungu Chapel when Mass is
celebrated at 7:00am. Here we can pray together in a more intimate way for special intentions or just spend time in
private prayer with God. Students too are most welcome to join in during this time.
The NAIDOC celebration was exceptional and Mr Yoshi, Ms Coco, Ms Eugenia and Ms Josie are to be congratulated
for their hard work in organising this week long event. All students were able to engage in a variety of activities
throughout the week such as cooking, painting and music. The culmination of the week was presented in a special
assembly where students and teachers showcased their chosen activity as well as a free sausage sizzle. On behalf of
all the students I sincerely thank all of our organisers and ATAs for their efforts in making this NAIDOC week a
memorable one.
Margaret Valentine
St Mary’s College Staff—Term 2
We have had a number of new staff join us during the term. On the Primary Campus we welcomed Ms Hannah
McKenzie to Year 4, Ms Amy Joyce, Year 5, Ms Catherine Christie, Year 2,Ms Mohini Dohnt, Pre Primary, and Mrs
Sally Woodbridge, Pre Primary (part time). On the Secondary Campus we welcomed Mrs Carla Hall. Carla‘s major
teaching area is English. Ms Lyn Wilson in the Maths/Science area, and Ms Simone de Smit, Humanities. Working
across both campuses are Ms Helen Green, the Special Needs Co-ordinator and Ms Joanne Betti is the College Social
Worker. Aboriginal Teaching Assistants who have joined our staff this term are Mr Dale Birch, Mrs Anna Kelly, Ms
Tiana Leak and Ms Phoebe Grainer. We welcome Ms Joselyn Taylor to the Canteen staff.
During the term we farewelled Mrs Gemma Marshall who has been teaching at St Mary‘s for the past seven years.
Gemma is relocating to NSW and we wish her well in her move and I take this opportunity to thank Gemma for her
years of dedicated service. We also farewelled Ms Belinda Cox is taking maternity leave from the College and we
extend our best wishes as Belinda and family await the birth of their child.
3.

parents and friends association
The Parents and Friends Association began term two with our Mothers‘ Day raffle. Through the generosity of Broome
Carpet and Tile cleaning, The Pearle Resort, Willie Creek Pearls and Shekki, we were able to offer some fabulous
prizes. We were excited to raise just under $2000, and I am sure that the students who won the prizes were even more
excited to be able to present their mums with an extra gift on Mothers‘ Day.
The month of May also saw the whole College celebrate Our Lady Help of Christians Feast Day. The P and F had some
fantastic helpers who volunteered to cook and serve sausages. Whilst we may never want to see another sausage
again, it was a great day and we enjoyed working together and being part of the St Mary‘s Community.
At a recent meeting the P and F Committee decided on the allocation of funds raised in 2011. It was confirmed that the
P&F would fund during 2012 - Magnetic Letters for all classes across Primary Campus, soccer goals for the Secondary
Campus and $5000 worth of home reading books for the Primary Campus. The Music Department will receive drums,
sets of percussion instruments and 15 ukuleles to be used across both Campuses.
The P and F still have some fundraisers coming up on our calendar. We are always grateful for any donations and
sponsorship of events. If you think you might be able to help out in this area, please contact your friendly P and F Committee
members or myself at rosieo74@hotmail.com.
Rose Mitchell
President, St Mary‘s P and F.
Pictured below—Cooking sausages on Feast Day, left to right,
Mrs Margaret Valentine, Ms Sally-Anne Smith, Lisa Klimatis
4.

st mary’s college feast day 2012
St Mary’s College Feast Day 2012 – Mary Help
of Christians
St Mary‘s students from Kindergarten to Year 12 were joined at their Feast
Day Mass by staff, parents and members of the Parish Community. The
Mass was concelebrated by Bishop Christopher Saunders and Father
Matthew Digges.
After Mass the students enjoyed morning tea together before participating
in a tabloid sports programme. The primary and secondary students
enjoyed joining in the games together, forming friendships and having fun.
All students moved to the Primary Campus for lunch together and more fun
activities. At the end of Feast Day all agreed that it was a great day.
5.

sacrament of the Eucharist
On Saturday June 9 th, forty one students received the Sacrament of the Eucharist for the first time.
It was a wonderful celebration with the church overflowing with guests from all over the county who came to this
special event . Father Ernesto was the officiating priest.
The occasion was celebrated afterwards with a shared meal and a beautiful
Communion cake.
St Mary’s College students who received the Sacrament of the Eucharist were
Ogilvie-Dia Matilda
Stains Nadia
Tick Talulah
Woodbridge Mia
Mariessa Pucci
Tessa Bergmann
Julia Jones
Nicoletta Arace
Tahni Hastie
Isabella Liddlelow
Adi Cox
6.

faith community
YOUTH MASSES
Students from St Marys Primary have been developing their
faith through the schools Youth Mass Programme. Every
second Saturday of the school term a group of vocalists
from Years 3, 4, 5 and 6 have been attending Mass and
providing the music ministry along with the help of Mr Lloyd,
Mr Yoshi, Miss Elaina, Miss Harriet and Miss Bianca.
The Youth Masses have been welcomed by the Parish and
will continue all year and beyond. These masses are an
avenue for young people to feel confident enough to come
to church on a weekend and share the glory of God with
other young people.
Our Youth Choir encourages all St Marys College students
to join the Parish Community on Saturday evening and
develop their faith. [Photo left]
SECONDARY CAMPUS RETREATS
During the fourth week of term 2, our Secondary students from Years 8 to
11, participated in day long Religious retreats with Mr. Tony Treacy who
is the Kimberley Religious Education Co-ordinator. The theme was
‗Relationships‘ and the students were invited to examine their present
lives and explore avenues that present personal growth for them. This
was also a wonderful opportunity to reflect on their relationship with God
and the role of personal spirituality. [Photo below]
BAPTISM
Tahnee and Teaghan Hastie were baptised at Our
Lady Queen of Peace Cathedral on Sunday, May 20th,
2012 by Father Ernesto. Their parents are Helen
Howard and Graeme Hastie. [Photo above]
7.

er building project opening
Blessing and Opening Building the Education
Revolution projects
On Wednesday May 16, Monsignor Paul Boyers, representing Bishop
Christopher Saunders blessed our new and refurbished facilities funded by the
Federal Government‘s Building the Education Revolution (BER)
programme. Senator Louise Pratt representing the Federal Government,
officially opened the new and refurbished buildings. Deputy Director of
Catholic Education, Ms Mary Retel travelled up from Perth to be with us on
this special day.
In Ms Retel‟s speech she commented how the new and refurbished facilities
were a great addition to the College and encouraged each student to be proud of their school and to work hard to follow
their dreams to achieve their potential.
Undertaking such projects across an expansive campus requires much thought and vision. The design and building
phases of the projects were carried out by ENGAWA Architects and H&M Tracey Builders under the principalship of Mr
Tony Treacy. Principal, Mr Michael Pepper acknowledged Mr Treacy and thanked him for his leadership and vision of the
needs of our current and future students. College Board and Board Chairman, Michael Leake was also acknowledged for
his guidance and support by the Principal.
Photos: above—Prayers by Student leaders
Below—Official party in one of the two new Science Laboratories.
8.

secondary campus
St Mary's College Drama and Dance students were excited to welcome Barking
Gecko Theatre Company back to Broome last Wednesday Week 9.
Students and teachers alike were reduced to fits of laughter and moments of wonder as they
were entertained and informed by the theatre company's award winning show: 'Improvilicous
2.0'.
This year, Masters of Improvisation, Sam Longley and Sean Walsh took their audience through a history of theatre, and
covered Greek, Shakespeare, Moliere, Realism, Brecht, Absuridsm and Australian Theatre to name a few! The talented
actors also incorporated a student suggestion to create fast, funny, physical theatre on the spot. Overall it was a
hilariously entertaining show and a wonderful opportunity for our students to watch live theatre.
Art Department
The students have been hard at work in the Art Room on the Secondary
Campus during Term 2.
Years 8 an d 9 worked on designs for Banners In Terrace and some
students gave up a few hours on a Sunday to do face painting at the
annual Lionesses Teddy Bears Picnic. [Photo below]
9.
Banners on Terrace—Broome, by Arkayla McPhee.
[Photo above]
Left: Taylor Howard and Emily Woods—Face Painting
at the Teddy Bear‘s Picnic. [Photo left]

melbourne cultural exchange
Now in it‘s 25th year, the Cultural Exchange Programme
between Genazzano FCJ College, Kew, Victoria, and St
Mary‘s College Broome continues to provide the
opportunity for students to experience and develop an
understanding of a culture very different from their own,
to live with local families, learn from each other, and
build lasting relationships.
St Mary‘s College,students Claudia Howard, Mikala
Spry Wiggan, Ta‘marrah O‘Reeri and Taryrn Carrington
were host sisters to four Genazzano College students,
Alice Dowell, Georgia Dellar, Emma Douglas and Prue
Renehan .
The Melbourne students spent their first two weeks at St
Mary‘s College, attending classes with their host sisters,
and spending time on the Primary Campus helping out
in classrooms. While living in Broome they also visited a
number of indigenous service organizations to gain an
understanding of the networks and support available to
indigenous families . Two of the Melbourne girls were
fortunate to go to Beagle Bay, and Derby to spend the
long weekend with their host sisters families, while the
other girls spent time exploring Broome with their host
families.
The visiting students spent the next 2 weeks travelling to
other schools and communities in the Kimberley.
There were sad farewells at Broome airport when the
students were returning to Melbourne, however, they
said goodbye anticipating the St Mary‘s College
Cultural Exchange visit to Melbourne in September.
Both the Genazzano and St Mary‘s students have
established friendships and gained an understanding of
each others cultures from this programme.
The success of the programme is dependant upon the
generosity of host families from St Mary‘s College. As
three of our students live at the Broome Residential
College, families who have hosted Melbourne students
in the past were generous enough to host again,
allowing remote community students the opportunity to
participate in the programme.
Ms Robyn Christie and Mr Mark Dellar coordinated the
programme at St Mary‘s, and ensured that all students
were well supported and comfortable and able to
experience life and culture of St Mary‘s College and
Broome.
Photos: Top—First day at St Mary‘s College for Genazzano
College students.
Centre—Alice Dowell and Emma Douglas with St Mary‘s Mikela Spry Wiggan
Below—St Mary‘s College presented gifts to the Genazzano College Cultural Exchange students at the College Assembly.
10

upper school
During term 2, Bush Poetry was a unit taught in Upper School English classes. Some of the poems were entered in the
2012 Derby Bush Poetry competition. Enjoy some some of the students‘ poems.
DERBY BUSH POET’S AWARD WINNERS 2012
The Great Margaret River
Taryn Carrington
Year 11
The great Margaret River that constantly flows
Past sandbanks and through gorges and creek beds it goes.
The dry season comes and the wet season follows.
The great Margaret River, there crocodiles wallow.
And with the monsoon that awakes the plum planes,
the river fills like putting blood in its veins.
It mixes with the Fitzroy where, down below:
the clean and the dirty come together and grow
‗til they tug on the bridge, the crossing of old;
and generate flows of water that‘s cold;
to where the great iron poles reach down in the sand
to hold the new bridge which leads to the land;
where the brolgas dance and love to flirt
near the great northern road and tracks made of dirt;
where paddocks of mud are laid to rest
and replaced by pastures described as the best.
The river brings life and the river brings death.
Its power and glory makes one catch their last breath.
Gurumba Dreaming
Lillian Banks
I need to tell you about the Gurumba Community -
a place that supports family unity.
It gives me time it gives me space.
It really is my special place.
I love the peace. I love the sound
of birds and animals all around.
It smells so sweet, it smells so clean.
The blue, blue sky completes the scene.
Pindan sand and animals wild.
The weather there is always mild.
Friends and family come to share
the time and food they have to spare.
The sunset there is a spectacular sight;
In red, orange and pink the eyes delight;
Reflected in the Indian ocean
Is a source of strong emotions.
Aunties, uncles, sisters, brothers
Cousins, parents and all the others;
Fishin‘, crabbin‘, swimmin‘ all day.
Around our place and in the bay.
Gowunji
April Nulgit.
Year 12
As we finally set off to the place we dearly love
Us kids would sit and hang on the roof rack above,
Clinging on tight along the long metal rails,
As the car sways and drifts slowly off the dusty road trails.
While taking in the beauty of this very rugged land.
I think of the stories that were told to us by our old people
And I‘m experiencing it first-hand.
The warm sand banks of this unique land separate the river into
three parts,
Looking around
The sparkling water is deep and almost clear
While I stand and watch small Moorn moot leap into the air
I lean in to have a feel of the inviting green water,
It looks empty, and feels really cold
As I am told
To break the ice.
Swinging from a branch and landing into the icy cold water
My body is numb
I‘m shouting and bursting out with laughter.
11
Going hunting
Patrick Yambo,
Year 11.
I wake up in the morning, the sun exploding the clearing,
I‘m walking through the bush with animals all around,
They‘ve woken from their slumber sill sleepy eyed and slow,
I watch them as they move, a scene so splendid and endearing.
I wake from my sleep feeling dopey and slow,
Deep in my mind I know the work has to be done,
I have hunting to do so I slip on my shoe and get my gun,
I‘m feeling excited, I hope the kangaroos don‘t know.

ush poetry
Fishing at Crab Creek
Thaila Bernard
Year 12
Driving along the bumpy road,
he morning dawn was all aglow,
My spirits lifted at Crab Creek,
Parking next to the Blackberry Tree.
Dad’s Toyota
My Grandfather casts the net,
Collecting the bait, we are all set,
To go!
Rain or shine
We throw our line
And the fish we caught
From our secret spot.
It‘s time to leave Crab Creek
And come back next week!
Dreaming Forward Alice Rae Shadforth
Year 11
I am a person of a modern dreamtime
My people were victims of a racist crime
My family were from the stolen generation
A great shame in the history of our nation
My people helped build the Beagle Bay mission
With hard labour like in prison.
Equality comes from recognition
And gives a future to my traditions.
The whitefella does not understand
The connection I have with my land.
Bardi and Goondiandi too.
My totem is the kangaroo.
From Pender Bay
You‘ll hear us say
Many things that we are wishin‘
But now all I wanna do is to go fishin‘.
Raphael Sampi
Year 12
One day we used my dad‘s Toyota to go out bush,
Then we broke down and I told the boys to give me a little push,
I heard the crow say my name,
And the boys laughed and it brought me shame.
The engine broke; the car wouldn‘t start it began to smoke,
Diesel filled the air we started to choke,
I told the boys to move away from the car
And one went walkabout out too far,
We needed to find him it was getting dark,
I turned aside I saw a spark.
It was a man, with red head band, we thought he was a stranger,
And then he said he was a ranger, and we told him,
Do you have any brim to eat, because we don‘t have any meat.
Suddenly I see some information, we are close to cattle station.
Visitors
Claudia Howard
Year 11
Tourism season on the Dampier Coast
From Broome they head north. They enjoy beaches the most.
They come in their cars and they set up their tents
And they party all night which the locals resent.
Not for the smoking, or for the drinking,
but for littering the beaches, without event thinking.
Their behaviour is bad and their noise is loud,
especially at Easter when there is a big crowd
But peace soon returns when the tourists go
and the water regains its beautiful glow.
The black cockatoos return to the trees
and the heat and mosquitoes are replaced by the breeze.
The quiet is so beautiful when the sun is descending
and Middle Lagoons charm then seems never ending.
Derby’s best
Geraldine Gore,
Year 12
Derby is known as a site for a prison.
It is a town that is in transition.
I know it best for its dry season breeze
and as the home of the boab trees.
It‘s famous worldwide for its monster tides
and for the mangroves where crocodiles glide.
People round Derby are aware of the crocs
and the world‘s largest trough which waters the stock
who march down the jetty by the truck load
after travelling from stations along the Gibb River Road.
There‘s plenty happening in Derby but locals will say
That the sunsets are best at the end of the day.
12

ain bee competition
An outstanding performance by four of St Mary‘s College top year
10 Science students has sent ripples of excitement throughout the
College this week. Abbey Ford, Rajiv Latchman, Simon Hill and
Chelsea Siebert participated in the Western Australian state finals
of the 2012 Australian and New Zealand Brain Bee competition on
Tuesday June 26th at the University of Western Australia, Perth.
With two of the participants, Abbey and Rajiv, entering the
individual challenge competition, and the other two students joining
them on the team challenge, St Mary‘s College, for a second
consecutive year, along with 23 other schools in Western Australia
competed for the prestigious titles of top state individual and team
finalist.
The heats of the team competition resulted in the St Mary‘s team
being chosen as one of the top three schools to participate in the
final team round. The sheer determination and strategic efforts of
the team members got them through the brain busting, gruelling
questions. At the end of the team round, the St Mary‘s team tied
for second with Perth Modern, with St Mary‘s Anglican coping the
title of top state team finalist. A sudden death elimination round
ensued and St Mary‘s college students secured the title of second
place state team finalist.
The heats of the individual competition also saw Abbey Ford being
chosen from 64 other challengers to compete in the semi-finals of
the individual round. Despite competing with 10 other highly
accomplished students, question after question Abbey maintained
first place with a perfect score throughout most of the round. At the
end of the round Abbey, in the lead, entered the finals along with
two other students. The final round saw another unbroken run of
correct answers and Abbey emerged the 2012 top individual state
finalist.
Abbey will be competing at the National finals in February 2013 in
Melbourne along with the other top state finalist for a chance at
representing Australia in the 2012 International Brain Bee
competition.
Staff and students at the College extend our congratulations to the
team of students who have represented the College so
impeccably. We also extend our appreciation to Dr Jenny Rodger,
NHMRC Research Fellow at Experimental and Regenerative
Neurosciences School of Animal Biology for the support provided
to the College in the last two years. Finally, to the parents who
have supported the students through the preparation for the
competition, our warmest gratitude.
As we wish Abbey well with her continuing pursuits, we remember
that, a touch of strategic preparation, a mass of consistent
dedication and hours of sheer hard work is testimony to the fruit of
sustained success.
Diane Latchman, Science Co-ordinator
Photos—Top, WA Brain Bee Individual Winner
Below, St Mary‘s College team, Rajiv Latchman,
Simon Hill, Chelsea Siebert, Abbey Ford.
13

visitors to our college
Our Lady of the Mission Sisters recently held
their Jubilee celebration at St Mary‘s Cathedral in
Perth. St Mary‘s College Broome were represented
at the celebration by a staff member and ex-student
of the College.
The OLM Sisters were the founding order of
Nulungu Girls College in 1974. The Sisters also
worked in the schools at Beagle Bay, Gibb River,
Lombadina and Derby. In 2007, the retirement of Sr
Helena Brabender from St Mary‘s College Broome
marked the end of an era of 33 years working with
Kimberley students.
(photo left) Sr Helena with Ms Helen Capasalis,
April Nulgit and Daenah Jaffrey. April and Daenah
have been recipients of the OLM Art Scholarships.
Barry Dickins
Author/artist and playwright in Residence
St Mary‘s College Primary and Secondary
students benefitted from running workshops
over two weeks, working with Art classes,
English and Drama classes.
Barry‘s visit to Broome also included an
Art Exhibition of his paintings, and poetry and
book readings at the Art Exhibition venue.
Barry has received numerous awards and
accolades for his work—he has published 26
books and had 20 of his plays produced.
Opening of the BER Project at St Mary’s
College on May 16th.
Special guests at the Opening Ceremony
were —
pictured left,
Back row—Mr Tony Treacy, (past Principal)
Mr Michael Pepper (Principal) Mr Michael
Leake (Chairman of the Board)
Front row– Monsg. Paul Boyers, Mrs Mary
Retel, Deputy Director of CEO, Senator
Louise Pratt, Fr Matthew Digges, College
Chaplain.
14

wkfa term 2
Term 2 has been a busy term for the West Kimberley Football
Academy at St Mary‘s College with many games, carnivals,
camps and activities throughout the term. All activities are
aimed at serving our five core values in education,
employment, well-being, leadership and football.
Early morning training sessions were once again apart of the
planner, with huge numbers turning out each morning, often
starting while it‘s still dark. We hit a West Kimberley Academy
record of 65 students across both schools on the track in
week 3. Each morning session is followed by a shower and
breakfast. This routine is important for the boys and gets
them set for the day at school.
We had football games against Derby/Bidgydanga and carnivals in Port Hedland and Fitzroy Crossing. All games were
played in great spirit with both the junior and senior team experiencing a high level of success. There are number of
senior boys who are attending Perth to represent the combined Broome schools football team in the Country Week
carnival in the last week of term. Brent Gore, Year 10 experienced some personal highlights and has been selected to
represent the state in the under 16s National Carnival in New South Wales. Well done to Brent!
The Year 8 and 9 Life Skills class eagerly moved into the garden in Term 2. Classes were spent weeding, mulching and
preparing the garden beds for seedlings and plants. A host of different vegetables were planted including corn, tomatoes,
eggplant, capsicum, chilli, Chinese lettuce and carrots. The boys learned about healthy eating and the importance of
maintaining the garden in preparation for harvest.
The Academy held a leadership dinner in week 6 for all the boys in Years 8-12 who have shown great leadership qualities
across the term. Neil Morgan, Brent Gore, Kalen Morrison and Raphael Sampi all attended and spoke about the
importance of being a leader and setting the right examples for the other members of the Academy.
We also ran a guest speaker program this term in our extended PCG timeslot. 2011 Academy and school leaver Tim
Howard came in and spoke to the boys about what he has been doing since school, employment and the importance of
working hard whilst at school. Former Clontarf staff member Gordon Lawford also came in and addressed the boys.
The Year 11 and 12 Academy students were involved in a four week programme with the Notre Dame medical and
nursing students on Men‘s Health. The program included topics such as sports injuries, drugs and alcohol, diabetes and
general health check-ups. At the end of the program Year 12 student Rodney Pindan made a 5 minute presentation to the
tutors about the purpose of the Clontarf Foundation which was entertaining and insightful.
With plenty more to come next term I
encourage the boys to stay on track
with their schooling and continue to
strive to be involved in Academy
activities.
Photos:
Top—Gordon Churchill planting out
in the vegetable patch.
Right: - St Mary‘s College students at
Notre Dame University Men‘s Health
programme.
15

sport at st mary’s college
Primary Campus Cross Country Carnival
The Carnival began on a positive note with the Junior Girls racing in the first event for the day. The aim of the Carnival was
engage all students, to be physically active and to have fun. Thank you to all staff, parents and students for your
enthusiasm and assistance in making the Cross Carnival a huge success.
Sam Iten, Phys.Ed. Coord.
HOUSE POINTS
1st Place—Green—139 points
3rd Place– Blue– 88 points
2nd Place -Pindan - 100 points
4th Place—Gold—86 points
KIMBERLEY CUP TEAM 2012
16

vet and careers
Students often say ‗Sir, I don’t know what I want to do when
I leave school!‘ I can tell them that I felt the same when I
was at school. In fact there are many adults who still don‘t
know what they want to do. Students should remember that
the journey towards a career goal is full of unexpected twists
and turns. But, as long as they are doing something, they
are progressing towards that goal. We need to keep our
eyes open and jump at opportunities that come our way.
Late in Term One, students interested in careers in the
Health sector had a visit from KRASH – Kimberley Regional
Association of Students in Health. Sasha Bailey, a former St
Mary‘s College student, delivered the presentation which
gave students an insight into the dedication required to be a
health professional. Participating students also had fun
completing a series of basic health checks on each other.
All Upper School students attended Careers Expo recently.
The event was an opportunity for students to explore career
possibilities in mining, horticulture, the defence forces,
building and construction, hospitality and health .
We all need to remember that it is just as important to find
out what we don’t like doing as it is to find out what we do
like doing. Career development is like any journey – full of
surprises, boring bits, ups and downs – but we are always
moving towards our goal.
Above: Edward Wilson at his TAFE Engineering course.
Food and textiles - Term 2
Term 2 has been very busy term in the Food and
Textiles area.
Texitles
Year 7s designed and created pencil cases.
Year 8‘s completed pillow cases.
Years 9 and 10 Textiles made beach bags and
individual projects.
Food classes -
Years 9 and 10 created dishes from around the
world with Mexican a special favourite.
Years 11 and 12 Food Technology Course planned,
prepared and served excellent finger food for the
Angela Bakker Art Exhibition. Their personal
presentation, the way they served the food – mini
quiches, vegetable sushi, sandwiches and dips
received many positive comments.
17.
Food service at the Angela Bakker Art Exhibition opening—from left
Soliel White, Talisha Russell, Maesah Jiaree, Kirra-Lee Stone, Dan Pearson

past students
Phoebe Grainer, Yr 12, 2011
Former student Phoebe Grainer has returned to St
Marys College in her role working with the preprimary
students. ―I am learning lots and getting
some great skills in working with children, I am
really enjoying this job‖ Phoebe said. ―I would like
to do a Teaching Assistant qualification and then
maybe become a teacher one day‖. Phoebe
assists with literacy, numeracy and play activities
and has a busy day every day.
Brennon Charlie
Year 12 Graduate 2011, Brennon Charlie
has completed a Certificate of Engineering
course at TAFE to prepare for a career in the
mining industry.
Eszra (Brenton) McKenna
Broome author and illustrator Eszra (Brenton)
McKenna is a former St Mary‘s College student.
Eszra‘s book Ubby’s Underdogs was published in
2011.
Eszra visited St Mary‘s College Primary Campus
during the term to share his drawing and character
development with Year 3 students. The students
loved the sessions and being able to create their
own weird characters.
18.

st mary’s college senior ball 2012
A Golden Ticket from Willy Wonka ensured admittance to the
2012 St Mary‘s College Senior Ball. Year 11 and 12 students, the
partners and parents enjoyed a night of dancing, dinner and
entertainment at the Cable Beach Club Resort.
The students and their partners showcased their dance moves,
perfected during dancing lessons in terms one and two.
The Annual College Ball has become an anticipated event on the
College calendar and this year‘s Ball did not disappoint. The
students were a credit to themselves, their families and their
College.
19.

staff and students experience success
Secondary staff members Paul Woodbridge, Aidan Mitchell and Samantha Baird recently participated in the 700km mountain bike
relay. The Gibb River Bike Ride started from Derby, cyclists travelled up the heart of the rugged Gibb River Road, and finished at
beautiful El Questro. The ride was all in the name of charity. This event is now simply known as ‗The Gibb Challenge‘ .
This year‘s fundraising event was for Police Officer Ryan Marron from Hall‘s Creek to assist in his recovery from the crippling
Murray Valley Encephalitis. With Ryan‘s medical bills tallying well over the $4000 a day, this event has been supporting his
causes. Although the primary funds will go towards the ‗Ryan Marron Trust‘ teams this year were also able to donate fundraising
to other nominated charities of choice and delegate where their funds were distributed. A fundraising event to assist Miss Sam
also raised money for the Darc Inc Community Art Centre in Derby, Ardyaloon Playgroup and Mr Paul and Mr Aidan raised money
for Caritas and the Disabled Children's Foundation.
'Boab Belles' team member Miss Sam said her highlights include getting fit and healthy, whilst admiring amazing scenery,
enjoying some fun and camaraderie with other riders and doing it all for some really heroic charities. Mr Paul and Mr Aidan
entered the event as a 'solo team' to complete the distance despite strong headwinds each day and also successfully negotiating
the Pentecost River crossing. They achieved an amazing feat.
All in all, the challenge was a huge success with almost 60 teams competing, over 400 people attending and raising over a
massive $95,000 for Ryan at last counts tally. Well done, Sam, Paul and Aidan and all participants.
Sam Baird
West Australian 2012 Young Travel Writer Winner
Congratulations to Bridey Eggleton, Year 8! Bridey won the West Australian 2012
Young Travel Writer Award for her travel report Rice Fields in Suburbia.
Bridey had visited Bali with her family, and her story was inspired by her experiences
there, the many cultures, religions colours and smells of the countryside and urban
areas.
Bridey‘s story was published in the West Australian, her prize and award was
presented to her at the Term 2 Whole College Assembly. Bridey received a Canon
Camera and Certificate. The camera was an appropriate prize for Bridey who, last
year, won a National Photography competition.
20.

kullari naidoc awards 2012
Congratulations to our St Mary‘s College Students who received awards at
this year‘s Kullari NAIDOC Awards Ceremony on 30th June. Below are
their Award citations.
Sportsperson of the Year
Brent Gore
Brent is a Year 10 student at St Mary‘s College. Over the past 12 months
Brent has excelled as a young sportsperson and promises to be someone
to look out for in the future. Brent represented WA in the Under 15‘s
Kickstart team in 2011 as well as representing the Kimberley at the 2011
North West 16‘s Football Championship in Port Hedland. Brent was also
nominated for the Broome Sports Association 2011 Rising Star of the
Year. Brent has been selected in the inaugural North West 16‘s Football
Academy, attended all three camps and put in exceptional performances.
Brent has also been selected in the 2012 North West 16‘s Academy Team
that will compete at the 2012 National AFL 16‘s Football Championships in
Sydney in July. Well done Brent and we wish you all the best for the
future.
Youth of the Year
Alice Shadforth
Currently in year 11, Alice Shadforth has
demonstrated excellence and leadership through
her involvement with the Residential College and
St. Mary‘s College. A well balanced student, she
has become a role model through her involvement
in the ―Deadly Sista Girlz‖ programme, she is a
student counsellor at Broome Residential
College, and has represented St Mary‘s College
and the Kimberley through both Melbourne and
Taiji Cultural Exchange programmes. In March this
year Alice attended the National Centre of
Indigenous Excellence Workshop in Sydney. We
are proud of Alice and expect great things from her.
Photo left : Alice with her family on Awards night
21.

naidoc 2012
Scholar of the Year
April Nulgit
At the young age of 17, April Nulgit has shown exceptional artistic
ability and strength of character. Moving from her home community
of Warmun to Broome Residential College in 2009, she has
developed into a role model for other remote community students –
receiving several awards and scholarships for art, commitment and
dedication, leadership, and athletics. April is in Year 12, she is St
Mary‘s College Sports Captain and a proud member of the ―Follow
the Dream‖ and ―Deadly Sista Girlz‖ programmes. April is a
promising artist at St. Mary‘s College, even travelling to Melbourne
through the Cultural Exchange Programme to be present when one
of her paintings was publicly auctioned. Congratulations April on
your hard work and dedication.
St Mary‘s College students participated in the annual NAIDOC Walk and Opening Ceremony

PO Box 100, 3 Port Drive, BROOME, WA 6725
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Telephone: 08 9194 9500