Cnr of Gowan Rd and Illaweena St
Stretton QLD 4116
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2 March 2017
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 07 3723 0222
Fax: 07 3723 0200
people are typically more grateful and satisfied with their lives
and have a greater sense of wellbeing.
College Principal News
A tree is known by its fruit; a man by his
deeds. A good deed is never lost; he who
sows courtesy reaps friendship, and he
who plants kindness gathers love. (Eklund,
2010)
I love the concept of paying it forward! This
concept is based on a film of that name and
a novel which follows the story of a young
boy whose idea to pay acts of kindness forward set in motion
an extraordinary chain of events that led to hundreds of people
being on the receiving end of kind acts.
In a world which needs random acts of
kindness, instead of paying it back, we pay it
forward and set in motion a beautiful ripple or
domino effect. When we witness our
students paying it forward and practising
kindness to others, we can’t help but feel inspired, moved and
uplifted. And in a world where kindness is needed more than
ever, it is important that we encourage our students to keep this
ripple effect going on a daily basis. How much does it take?
In his latest book, ‘The 5 Side Effects of Kindness”, Dr David
R Hamilton outlines the many and varied benefits of this natural
human phenomenon. Hamilton looks at studies which have
shown that individuals who act with compassion and kindness
over an extended period of time experience an increase in
positive emotions such as joy, gratitude, hope and
contentment, as well as an increase in their levels of happiness
and self-esteem. Perhaps unsurprisingly, compared with those
who are more self-absorbed and narcissistic in outlook, kind
Kindness certainly makes us happier. Many people practise
kindness because they know it is the ‘right’ thing to do. They
are saying ‘This is who I am.’ Kindness is also good for the
heart. On a biochemical level, it is believed that the good feeling
we get from practising kindness is due to elevated levels of the
hormone oxytocin. This hormone is responsible for a range of
effects on the heart and arteries, and is responsible for feelings
of trust, and is implicated in our ability to interpret each other’s
emotions.
We all know that we like people who show us kindness,
because kindness reduces the emotional distance between
two people and we feel more ‘bonded’. We are wired for
kindness. Certainly, kindness is contagious, as when we’re
kind, we inspire others. Just as a pebble creates waves when
it is dropped in a pond, so acts of kindness ripple outwards
touching others’ lives and inspiring kindness everywhere that
ripple goes.
At Stretton, we know that for our students to strive and to
thrive, kindness is a great motivator and facilitator. Our students
can practise kindness to others in many random ways. This
is an important value underpinning our Stretton SPIRIT. We
are great believers that changing undesirable behaviour is best
achieved by fostering good traits and teaching children how
they are expected to behave based on our Stretton values. As
children learn about their own and other people’s emotions,
they gain an appreciation of the benefits of kindness, and soon
realizes that a positive, kind outlook improves their well-being,
boosting self-esteem and their sense of connection and
belonging. Teaching and reinforcing kindness in schools is a
major step forward towards changing mindsets and creating
happy, thriving and safe learning environments where children
can flourish.
Until next time,
Jan Maresca
Executive Principal
Illaweena Principal News
Our swimming team have been breaking
records and defending their Karawatha
District Champions title. Our team were the
stand out team at the Carnival for
participation and spirit. We are very proud
of our 53 student strong team, not only for
the win but more importantly for the way they conducted
themselves on the day. Staff and parents from other teams
have been very complimentary about our swimming team’s
overall performance.
Our 15 Karawatha District Representatives have gone on to
swim at the Metropolitan Carnival. We congratulate Jonathon
Friend (6 events and a Regional record), Kelsey Beetham (3
events) and Mato Suvaric (1 event) for swimming so well at this
carnival that they will now progress to the State Carnival. There
is a more complete report about our swimming success and
the success of our other sporting teams in Rugby League and
Futsal later in the newsletter.
Musical rehearsals are well under way for our College musical
‘Wizard of Oz’. I am impressed by the level of detail I see staff
and students going in to already to make these performances
outstanding. Our Applied Technology department have
completed some of the set construction, ready for the Art
department to add their finishing touches. While our musicians,
staff and students, have formed the Musical Band to play the
iconic music that is part of this musical. As you can see, this is
a whole College event, from our Prep munchkins to our Senior
Leads. Keep an eye out for the ticket release date, I am sure
the performances will be popular.
The hottest of the summer weather has now left us and we
have returned to wearing the formal uniform on Tuesdays and
all other days when the student does not have Wednesday
sport or HPE. Nearly all students will therefore wear their sports
uniform on Wednesdays.
Thank you to those families who continue to support our
College strongly and reinforce the high expectations that
prepare our students to make the most of their positive learning
environment. Your supportive partnership with the College
assists your students to record year on year improved
outcomes.
I am very pleased to see the number of boys already wearing
their new formal hat. A reminder that all boys Years 7 to 11
must have the hat to wear with their formal uniform from the
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start of Term 2. Recognising the significant cost of returning
to school for many families we have delayed the full
implementation of the formal hat until Term 2.
Along with the introduction of the boys’ formal hat, parents and
students are reminded that the Stretton State College sun hat
or cap has always been a part of the Sports uniform on the
Illaweena Campus. In line with encouraging sun safe behaviours
and complying with our uniform policy, from the start of Term 2
all students will be required to wear the appropriate hat when
not in class, particularly while in HPE practical lessons and while
playing at lunch breaks.
Therefore students will always have a hat on when they are not
in the classroom whether they are in formal or sports uniform.
Only the Year 12 boys have the boys’ formal hat as an optional
uniform item for 2017. Please supply your student with a note
for them to present to the office before school on any occasion
that they may not be in full uniform, including their hat. Thank
you again for your support.
Geoff Latta
Illaweena Campus Principal
Gowan Principal News
This fortnight marks some important work
that our school does around embedding
Stretton Values in our school community as
we celebrate Harmony Day as well as raise
awareness around the National Day of
Action Against Bullying and Violence. We
highlight these days at Stretton as it reflects
the way we learn and work together in the
Stretton Spirit ‘Inclusivity’. We have a wonderfully multicultural
school community and are proud of the way in which our
students, their teachers and our families demonstrate their
acceptance and understanding of cultural diversity. We will
provide more information about Harmony Day Celebrations for
Tuesday 21 March in the coming days.
In the meantime, it is fitting that we are reminded of the
importance of inclusivity in our school community every day.
Inclusivity is important at Stretton because we believe that
people should not be excluded from participating/joining
groups/being friends/working with others because of
difference. Unfortunately, from time to time, children (and
adults) use bullying as a way of excluding or isolating others.
The word bullying conjures different messages for different
people, so it is important to be clear about what bullying is, and
what bullying is not.
According to the Bullying No Way! website “Bullying is ongoing
misuse of power in relationships through repeated verbal,
physical and/or social behaviour that causes physical and or/
psychological harm. It can involve an individual or group
misusing their power over one or more persons”. There are a
range of strategies that students and their parents and teachers
can work on to prevent and disarm bullying behaviour. First and
foremost, remain calm and discuss any issues with your child’s
teacher. Talk with your child about how to identify ways that
they can solve the issue but do not encourage your child to fight
with the other child.
https://bullyingnoway.gov.au/
• the importance of personal hygiene
• choosing foods for a healthy balanced diet
• benefits of physical activity and sleep
• ways to keep safe at home, school and in the
community
The National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence will be
highlighted in Pastoral Care programs in each classroom and
we will display students work around the school on Friday 17
March.
As first educators, parents are responsible for modelling these
behaviours to their children, so during our fortnight of focussing
on anti-bullying, and acceptance of others I ask that parents
join us in their deeds and words demonstrating what it means
to get along with others.
If you would like more information and support for your child on
this subject please refer to the links provided or to Michael Goss
‘Parenting Ideas website.
https://www.parentingideas.com.au/
CAR PARKING ISSUES
In being great role models for your children, I ask that parents
observe the Stretton SPIRIT when using the car park and pick
up zones. Demonstrate Sincerity to your children by following
the road rules and observing the traffic signs. Demonstrate
Perseverance by waiting your turn patiently. Your child will not
be left on the street by themselves if you are five minutes late to
the pick-up zone (Administration Staff are on duty until 3:15pm).
Demonstrate Integrity and be mindful of the way you speak to
fellow parents. There are little eyes watching, so make sure
you speak politely and with dignity and control. Demonstrate
Respect and Responsibility by not only obeying the road rules,
but by being a courteous and considerate of others – not
parking in the two minute collection zones and not deliberately
blocking cars from moving through the drop off zones. Our car
park is a very busy place, but with cooperation and respect of
the traffic rules, this can be a safe and respectful area for all
students and parents to arrive and leave school each day.
Racheal Jones
Gowan Campus Principal
Prep – Year 1 Deputy Principal News
Prep ‘Clued Up’
In Week 5, Prep Students were given the
opportunity to participate in a Life
Education Program called ‘Clued Up’. The
program was based on Harold and his
friends wanting to look their best for photo
day at school, but discover that things don’t
always go to plan. It focused on things
children can do to keep themselves healthy including:
Year 1 Lone Pine Excursion
The Year 1 students had the opportunity to visit Lone Pine
Koala Sanctuary on Wednesday 22 February as part of their
Science Unit on Australian Animals. They participated in a
presentation called the ‘Discovery Session.’ Students also had
time to explore the Sanctuary and attend the wildlife
presentations throughout the day. The students thoroughly
enjoyed the experience and are looking forward to writing their
information reports on their chosen Australian Animal.
Year 1 Geography
This Term in Geography the Year 1 students are learning about
natural, managed and constructed features of a place. On
Thursday the 16 February Mr Austin (School Groundsmen)
spoke to the students about how he cares for the different
managed features in the school grounds. He showed the
students what equipment he uses for different jobs, such as
a mower and hedge trimmer, and the safety equipment he
needs when using this equipment. Finally he spoke about the
importance of recycling and what can and cannot go into
recycling bins. A big thank you to Mr Austin for taking the time
to speak to all the Year 1 classes.
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ever student led conferences and outline the 2018 application
timelines and process.
This evening will follow the eLearning afternoon at 4.00-5.00
pm which will celebrate how students are using their devices in
their classrooms.
Looking forward to meeting with you
Heather Boreland
Deputy Principal – Year 8
Assembly
Each fortnight on assembly we will be celebrating student
achievement. The winners this week are:
Stretton Stars- for outstanding effort in learning
Prep:
• Angela Wong Prep B
• Summer Phe Prep B
• Harry Connor Prep D
• Jessica Bateman Prep F
• Jeremy Kuo Prep G
Year 1:
• Ollie Scott 1B
• Lola Debeljak 1C
• Adriana Ibarra 1G
• Gianna Park 1H
Aimee Keylar
Deputy Principal – Prep – Year 1
Year 8 Deputy Principal News
As we are approaching the second half of
Term 1 it has been great to see behaviour
and uniform on the whole has been well
supported by students and parents.
I would like to take this opportunity to invite
our Lighthouse parents to an information
evening on Monday 20 March, 5.00-6.00
pm in the Senior Learning building on
Illaweena Campus.
At this evening Lighthouse teachers will showcase what has
been achieved so far this year and introduce you to any
up-coming events. We would also like to introduce you to
Learning Journals being used in classes to inform our first
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Year 9,10 Deputy Principal News
We would like to thank all our families for
their support of the BYOD Program at
Stretton College this year. Student uptake is
excellent across all Year levels and as a
result students are utilising their devices in a
range of ways in classes on a daily basis.
We would like to take the opportunity to invite parents of our
Year 3 to Year 12 students to an E-Learning parent afternoon
from 4:00pm to 5:00pm in the Illaweena Senior Learning
building on Monday March 20 to see the great variety of ways
that students are using their devices.
Further information will be forthcoming including information on
how to register your place via the SOBS booking system.
Our Lighthouse information session for parents of current
Lighthouse students follows the E-Learning session on Monday
20 March, 5:00pm to 6.00pm also in the Senior Learning
building on Illaweena Campus.
Craig Hynes
Deputy Principal – Years 9, 10
NAPLAN
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy
(NAPLAN) tests for students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 are
designed to assess the skills of Australian students in literacy
and numeracy. NAPLAN tests the sorts of skills that are
essential for every child to progress through school and life,
such as reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy. It
is important to remember that NAPLAN tests are not pass/fail
tests. At the classroom level it is one of a number of important
tools used by teachers to measure student progress.
In 2017 the NAPLAN test will be conducted over the 3 days
from 9–11 May. A series of tests will assess areas of literacy
and numeracy. The testing formats include:
• For Years 3 and 5 there will be 4 tests: Language
conventions, Writing, Reading and Numeracy.
• For Years 7 and 9 there will be 5 tests: Language
conventions, Writing, Reading,
Numeracy-non-calculator and Numeracy-calculator
allowed.
Schools will receive NAPLAN reports for their students from
mid-August to mid-September, depending on their state or
territory test administration authority. The school will notify you
when the reports are being sent home. The same report format
is used for every student in Australia.
All students in Years 3, 5, 7, and 9 are encouraged to
participate in NAPLAN tests, however there are some
circumstances where parents may wish to withdraw their child
from the NAPLAN tests. It is recommended that withdrawal be
considered in consultation with Stretton State College as formal
notification must be received by the school principal prior to
testing.
Adjustments can also be provided for students with disability
to enable them to access the tests on an equivalent basis as
students without disability. A student may be granted access
to multiple adjustments, and adjustments may be different for
each NAPLAN test. Please consult with the school to discuss
options prior to NAPLAN testing.
Wherever possible, schools will organise for individual students
who are absent at the time of testing to complete missed tests
at another time during testing week.
If you have any queries regarding NAPLAN please contact Mrs
Mary-Anne Rolls ([email protected]) for Year 7, 9 students
and Mr Brad Stewart ([email protected]) for Year 3, 5
students.
Mr Brad Stewart
Deputy Principal – Year 6
Tobacco Legislation
The Queensland Government has passed amendments to the
Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act (1998), banning
the use of smoking products, including tobacco and electronic
cigarettes, in all enclosed and outdoor areas at state and
non-state schools in Queensland – including primary,
secondary and special education facilities – and for five metres
beyond the boundary of school land.
A five metre buffer includes a five metre no-smoking area
around the perimeter of the school, beyond the school land
boundary; including all structures in this area, such as bus
shelters, car parks and sports ovals.
Please refer to the link below for further details.
We appreciate all members of our Stretton Community
adhering to this legislation, providing our students with a smoke
free environment for their health and safety.
Whooping Cough
The School has received notification of a confirmed case of
whooping cough within our immediate student community. The
student is currently receiving treatment.
For your information, symptoms may start with a cold and a
runny nose followed by a harsh cough. The coughing episode
can be persistent and severe. If diagnosed, antibiotic treatment
is required along with an appropriate absence from School.
If you have any concerns that your child may be unwell with
similar symptoms we advise you to seek medical consultation
for diagnosis and treatment. Please refer to the link below for
further details.
The National Health and Medical Research Council
recommends that all cases of whooping cough are excluded
from school for a period of twenty-one days after the onset of
their illness or until they have received five days of a seven day
course of appropriate antibiotics.
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P&C News
On behalf of the P&C Association, I would like to extend a warm
welcome to all new and returning families for 2017.
Allow me to introduce the new executive team:
Louise Nann – President
Hayley Geraghty – Vice President
Esther Stuart – Secretary
Donna Longworth – Secretary
We have all been part of the Stretton family for many years. We
have big plans for fundraising this year. Once we have these
events finalised we will let everyone know.
All funds raised by the P&C are utilised for the betterment
of your children’s education and enjoyment of their College
surrounds. This could be for repair or upgrade of playgrounds
and shade covers, new instruments for music groups, funding
for sports equipment, Human Powered Vehicle (HPV) events,
new books for the Library and other resources that assist your
child’s learning and much much more.
We looking forward to a great fundraising year. Here is a sneak
peek at our first fundraising item for the year. You will soon be
receiving raffle tickets for a wonderful Easter Raffle.
and capacity to determine their own futures by believing in
themselves and applying themselves to set tasks.
We begin Term 1 by exploring brain development and
introducing the concept of mindset. Students will understand
that they can build their knowledge and skills in a subject
or hobby by increasing their neural connections; by reading,
talking, watching or doing they are strengthening their
understanding. By focusing on brain development and mindset
students have an amazing light- bulb moment – they can
progress, they can improve and they can achieve! By
understanding brain development they know their intelligence is
not fixed; it can be grown with effort.
It is our aim to foster an increased sense of confidence among
our young cohort so they can take charge of all facets of
life including friendships which can be difficult to manage for
our pre-teens and teens. Please continue to support and
encourage your children to take charge of their life and learning
at Stretton.
Should you have any questions or concerns, or if you simply
wish to touch base throughout the year, your child’s Care
teacher is the first point of contact. Your son or daughter sees
their Care teacher every day except Wednesdays and as a
result will have a good understanding of their progress and
wellbeing at school.
If you would like more resources or strategies on well-being or
how to help your child through the angst of adolescence, the
Student Well-being Hub is a great site to start your journey.
https://www.studentwellbeinghub.edu.au/
YEAR 7 CAMP
The excitement is coming! As you all know, Year 7 Camp is
being held at Lake Moogerah from March 13 – 15. It is sure to
be three days of adventure where our Year 7 students will have
the opportunity to challenge themselves in a range of activities.
New friendships are sure to be forged during this time and
teachers will have the opportunity to build fantastic relationships
with students. Payment has been extended until Friday, March
3 – so it’s not too late! If you haven’t already done so, please
remember to include any relevant medical information pertinent
to your child.
If you have any concerns or further queries, please don’t
hesitate to contact myself at [email protected].
Ms Sue Bailey
Year 7/8 Coordinator
Calling All Volunteers
Louise Nann
P&C President
Student Wellbeing
Year 7 and 8 Pastoral Care is an extremely valuable time for
students as they explore issues of wellbeing for one period
each Tuesday. The mantra for Years 7 and 8 in 2017 is to
‘take charge’ of their life and learning. We have implemented
a program that helps students to realise they have the power
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Calling all current and new parent volunteers!
Here at Stretton we are very lucky to have many amazing parent
and community volunteers assisting in a variety of ways to help
make our College a better place. Each year, it is necessary
to ensure that all volunteers are aware of requirements and
we are always keen to welcome new volunteers to our school
community. If you are a current volunteer at our school or
would like to make yourself available to assist in some way as a
volunteer then please come along.
This meeting will be held in our Gowan
Campus Staffroom from 9.00am - 9.30am
on Tuesday 7 March. We look forward to
seeing familiar faces and welcoming new
volunteers to our school community.
Rebecca Solomon
Head of Department – Early Years
Staff Profile: Adam Hornagold
My name is Adam Hornagold and I am the Director of
Instrumental Music at Stretton State College. I grew up in the
beef capital, Rockhampton, with my two younger sisters, Amy
and Jessica and my Mum and Dad. I have been playing music
for most of my life and am a product of the excellent
instrumental music program we have in Queensland having
started the clarinet when I was in Year 5. Shortly after, I moved
on to the saxophone which I played throughout high school and
later went on to study at the Queensland Conservatorium of
Music.
While this was a great place to learn and grow as a musician, it
also offered so much more. I met all of my closest friends at the
Con, and more significantly, my beautiful wife Claire. Claire and
I have been married for almost five years and have one and half
children. Our son, Ryan, is two on March 9 and the other (a girl)
is due to be born on March 12 – they may be unlucky enough
to share a birthday!
Science Club
SCIENCE CLUB IS BACK!
The Stretton laboratories have had a busy start to 2017. We’ve
seen new faces joining Science Club, led by some experienced
members who are back for another year of fascinating
experiments and investigations.
Hosted by Mr. Toma and Mr. Vietheer, Science Club members
have already seen their own crystal gardens growing before
their eyes, and written hidden messages and drawings using
invisible ink.
Our next session will involve learning how to use a Morse code
machine to send coded messages!
WHEN: Every Thursday, 1st lunch
WHERE: PS4B – Science Block
WHO: Everyone welcome!
I have been a teacher for almost ten years and have worked
in a number of schools throughout Brisbane and Ipswich. Most
of this time has been as an Instrumental Music Teacher, but
I have also taught primary classroom music and a Year 6/
7 composite class for a year. The last two years at Stretton
have been sensational with many highlights. Our College’s first
international tour to perform at the Pacific Basin Music Festival
in Hawaii, USA was extremely rewarding and the Symphonic
Band’s performance at Musicfest last year to win a platinum
award is possibly the most satisfying performance I have ever
been involved with. It was an absolute privilege to share the
stage with them!
I became a teacher mainly because of the influence of my high
school music teacher, Mr Jordie MacDonald. His love of music
was infectious and his passion for teaching music was inspiring.
I find I often compare myself to him and ask, “What would
Jordie do?” This is not because I want to be just like him, but
because I would like to have the same impact on my students
as he did with his. In a small way, teaching music is my way of
being able to give back and pass on the opportunities that were
given to me when I was at school.
Without music, my life simply wouldn’t be what it is today – it
has a great power for bringing people together. Music has given
me my family, my job and my friends. Interestingly, this is not
uncommon for musicians – most of my friends have met their
partners through music as well. Having come full circle in the
instrumental music program, who would have thought that the
very first time I blew in to that clarinet back in 1995 would have
been the start of a lifelong journey that has made me who I am
today.
Mr Veitheer and Mr Toma
Science Teachers
The Arts
We are now well and truly under way with our Arts programs
as our rehearsals for our biggest production of the year – The
Wizard of Oz – musical production.
This coming weekend will see almost 200 students come
together to rehearse ‘their part’ of the show. Whilst the LEAD
characters have script in hand, everyone else is busy learning
dance steps and some of the big show numbers. Our smallest
cast members, our Gowan students have begun their
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rehearsals also and last week started learning the Munchkin
songs. They will soon be joined by some of our Prep students
who will be auditioning this week for the show.
A big thank you to our wonderful staff who have been giving
up lunchtimes and after school time to rehearse our students.
Joining students this Saturday will be approximately 20 staff
who will be there to help rehearse and supervise our huge cast.
Not only do we have staff at the forefront of rehearsals but we
have had many staff working behind the scenes already to get
this show on the road … the yellow brick road of course. We
have a wardrobe team who are already into the business of
fitting out our enormous cast with costumes, our Visual Arts
staff who are about to get started with painting our sets and
finally our Applied Technology team who have been very busy
making our sets.
Our weekend rehearsal times will be as per the rehearsal
schedule and students involved are reminded they will need
to return the correct forms. Students who attend the rehearsal
should remember to bring morning tea and adequate water for
our busy rehearsal. All groups need to meet at the Illaweena
Music rooms and parents of our Gowan campus will need to
sign their student both in and out of these rehearsals.
Lighthouse News
The 6A Lighthouse Class have been busy taking care of eight
new plants around our Gowan Campus.
In 2016, under the guidance of Ms Klaer, the 5A Lighthouse
Class researched and identified that the Richmond Birdwing
Butterfly was under threat of extinction. In an effort to help
save these impressive creatures, the students made their own
butterfly hair clips and then sold them within the Stretton State
College community. All profits went into purchasing eight
Richmond Birdwing Butterfly vines that the students along with
Mr Austin, our groundsman, have planted this year.
It is our hope that with love and care, these plants will grow
tall and strong in the future. Thereby the vines will attract more
butterflies to our school and assist with increasing the
Richmond Birdwing Butterfly population. A huge thank you to
all those who purchased the products last year, without your
support this would not have been possible. Also thank you to
Ms Klaer for starting this initiative and to Mr Austin for taking
the time to research the vines and help plant them around our
Gowan Campus.
Make sure you look out for our plants around the front of the
school and up near the new Prep buildings!
The times are as follows:
Gowan and Illaweena Cast: 9am – 12.30pm
(ILLAWEENA CAMPUS)
Wizard of Oz – Musical Band: 1pm – 4pm (ILLAWEENA
CAMPUS)
Leona Dangaard
Head of Department – The Arts
Senior Music News
The senior music class would like to invite families and friends
to our first Senior Music Performance Evening for 2017. The
evening will showcase our senior music students (both Senior
Classroom and Senior Extension) presenting their first
performance pieces that will be used as a part of their formal
assessment. The students invite you to attend to support them
as well as be an appreciative audience for some students who
may not have performed in front of a live audience prior to the
evening.
The evening will be held in the Music Classroom space in the
Arts Building on Thursday 16 March beginning at 6.00pm and
should be finished by 8.00pm. There is no entry cost involved
and we look forward to seeing you there.
Classroom Music Staff.
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Miss Dunster
Classroom Teacher
5A Excursion
On Monday the February 13, 5A visited Currumbin Beach as a
part of their Science unit. At Currumbin Beach students were
able to see examples of weathering and erosion occurring. The
students explored the way in which the ocean and weather can
affect the environment. Students also looked at the different
ways people are trying to reduce the effect that these are
having on the natural environment. The children had a fantastic
time exploring the beach and surrounding areas and we would
like to give a big thanks to Ms Quinlan for providing her
expertise on the day.
books such as “Rascal the Dragon”, “Don’t Look Now” and
“The Gizmo”.
Demi Bourke
Classroom Teacher
Library News
Gowan Library News
Last week each monitor received their library monitor badge
on Assembly. These students have the responsibility of making
sure our Library runs smoothly for the students during first
break. They are in charge of loaning out the games, running
drawing club, shelving books and monitoring our computer lab.
So far our library monitors are doing a great job and have been
showing the Stretton SPIRIT in the library.
Just a reminder that all students at Stretton State College
now have access to the EBooks online digital library. This is
a fantastic resource that allows students to borrow a range of
online library books on their devices from school and home.
To log on, students need their current username to access the
online library.
The Gowan Library Monitors for 2017 are as follows:
https://eduqueenslandau.libraryreserve.com/
Elsa 6A
Max 6A
Maria 6C
Jaycee 6A
Deborah 6B
Kayla 6G
Maneet 6F
Thomas 6C
Eldho 6H
Hitane 6F
Dalayne 6D
Chloe 6D
Trinity 6F
Madeline 6D
Selina 6D
Cathryn 6C
Ebooks Library:
Sara Effron
Teacher Librarian
Chess News
Sign up for the first Primary Interschool Chess Tournament for
2017.
The first Primary Interschool Chess Tournament for 2017 will
be held at Churchie on Tuesday 14 March. Students from Prep
to Year 6, who can play chess, are welcomed to participate.
Please see the link below for further information and how to
register and pay to participate in this event.
Terry Breen
Chess Co-Ordinator
From the School Nurse
MARCH IS EPILEPSY AWARENESS MONTH
PURPLE DAY
MARCH 26
SUPPORTING
EPILEPSY
Congratulations to our Library Monitors for 2017.
This fortnight in the Library we are featuring two popular
Australian authors. Come and read a book from our Aaron
Blabey or Paul Jennings display.
DID YOU KNOW?
• 10% of Australians will have a
seizure during their lifetime, while
3-4% will be diagnosed with
epilepsy.
• Epilepsy is the world’s most
common serious brain disorder.
• Anyone at any age can be
diagnosed with epilepsy.
Aaron Blabey is a well-loved Australian author and illustrator
who has written such books as ‘Pig the Pug’ and ‘The Good
Guys’.
• The majority of people are first
diagnosed with epilepsy are
school aged or over 55.
Paul Jennings is the creator of the stories that are featured
in the “Round the Twist” television series. He has also written
• There are many different types of
epilepsy and associated seizures.
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• Stigma, discrimination and
misconceptions associated with
epilepsy are sometimes worse
than the condition itself.
Epilepsy affects as many as 2% of Queenslanders. There are
more people with epilepsy than with muscular dystrophy,
cerebral palsy, Parkinson's disease, motor neurone disease
and several others combined. Epilepsy is recognized as the
world's most common serious brain disorder (WHO, 1997).
While in most cases it is diagnosed during the school years,
epilepsy may affect anyone at anytime.
There are many causes of epilepsy, which may vary with the
age at which the seizures begin. As a generalization, it can be
said that an epileptic seizure occurs when, due to a sudden
unusual release of energy (electrical activity) in the brain, its
normal working is disturbed. The brain then fairly rapidly
corrects itself and everything soon returns to normal.
There are two types of epilepsy, primary and secondary
epilepsy. The seizures in primary epilepsy may be identical to
those in secondary epilepsy, but on examination of the brain,
even with today’s techniques, it is not possible to find an
abnormality, and so the cause remains unknown.
REFERENCES
http://www.epilepsyqueensland.com.au
http://www.purpleday.org/index.html
Erica Carne
School Nurse
Gowan Sports News
On Saturday 25 February, Stretton participated in the Tonie
Carroll Cup for male students born in 2005 and 2004. The
boys performed very well and won all their games including their
grand final against Marsden SHS.
A big thank you to all the parents of the students who
participated for their support and to Mr Weston and Mr Leavitt
for giving up their weekend to support these students.
Pool game results:
Stretton 24 v Marsden SHS 0
Stretton 30 v Beenleigh SHS 0
Stretton 40 v Alexandra Hills SHS 4
Grand Final
Stretton 24 v Marsden SHS 0
Secondary epilepsy is an easier concept to grasp. It means that
the symptoms, namely the fits, are secondary, or subsequent
to, some obvious abnormality of the brain. In other words, if you
could look at the brain itself and examine it, either during life
using x-ray techniques like CT or MRI scanning, or autopsy, it
would be possible to find an actual abnormality in the brain. The
person may have been born with this abnormality of the brain or
it may be a scar related to brain damage at birth, a head injury
and so on.
Some of the particular causes of epilepsy include: Anoxia
(hypoxia), i.e. lack of oxygen to the brain, brain damage, brain
tumours and previous brain infections.
The TEA Room is the first online international forum specifically
for teenagers with epilepsy and allows them to share, chat and
learn with other teenagers around the world.
Developed by the Scottish Epilepsy Initiative, this new free
global social networking site connects 13-19 year olds from
around the world who are suffering from or are in the process of
being diagnosed with epilepsy. Launched in January this year,
the site already has users from around the world.
One of the biggest problems facing people with epilepsy is the
social stigma associated with seizures. Teenagers in particular
can feel embarrassed and "shut out" because they feel different
to their peers; so The TEA Room is a wonderful way for them
to engage with other young people who can relate to their
situation and problems.
The TEA Room provides instant access to an online community
of friends who face similar challenges living with epilepsy,
although discussion is not limited to health issues. In many
parts of the world, people with epilepsy and their families suffer
from stigma and discrimination.
http://www.epilepsyqueensland.com.au/tea-room
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Term 1 2017 – Important Sporting Events to
Remember:
WEEK 6: Friday 3rd March – District Netball Trials
WEEK 7: Monday 6th March & Thursday 9th March –
District Football Trials Girls
WEEK 7: Wednesday 8th March & Thursday 9th March
– District Football Trials Boys
WEEK 8: Wednesday 15th March – District Football
Trials Boys
WEEK 9: Monday 20th March – District Touch Football
Trials Boys
WEEK 9: Thursday 23rd March – District Touch Football
Trials Girls
WEEK 9: Friday 24th March – Gala Day 1
WEEK 10: Monday 27th March – District Touch Football
Trials Boys
WEEK 10: Thursday 23rd March – District Touch
Football Trials Girls
WEEK 10: Friday 31st March – Stretton Cross Country
DISTRICT TRIALS • District teams are for 12 years and under (Years 5, 6
& 7).
• Only 4 students can be selected to represent
Stretton State College to trial for a district team
• Students must nominate by adding their name to the
district sport they would like to trial for in the district
book located in Ms Hutson’s office next to the
Gowan Hall. This MUST be done at least 2 weeks
prior to the trial date.
• Students can nominate for more than 1 sport.
• It is imperative that students who nominate to trial
have experience in that sport e.g. plays at club,
district, state or national level.
• Students must have their own equipment to take to
the trials e.g. Shin pads, mouth guards etc.
Bianca Hutson
Gowan HPE Teacher & Sports Co-ordinator
District Selections
The following students have been selected to represent
Stretton in District trials.
Netball:
• Jenna Lawrence Under 19s
Illaweena Sports News
Stretton SC has started right where we left off in
2016…CHAMPIONS. Last week saw Stretton take out the
District Swimming Championship for the second year in a row.
It was a great effort from all involved and some special
congratulations are in order. The following students were
crowned Age Champions on the day. Kelsey Beetham (Who
also broke 2 District Records), Kathy Luong, Alex Dean and
Jonathon Friend (also broke 2 District Records).
A special mention to our Year 12’s on the day who did not stop
working in various capacities. From timekeeping to organising
students into their races they were fantastic. Bring on CROSS
COUNTRY!!!
• Nicole Stevens Under 19s
• Madison Tuigauala Under 15s
• Keitha Pouhila Under 15s
Volleyball:
• Kode Lawrence Under 15s
• Oliver Kingdon-Coutts Under 15s
• Yousef Yousef Under 15s
• Vanessa Burrows Under 15s
• Ella Watt Under 15s
• Chiarina Wilson Under 15s
• Eva Brac Under 15s
• Alex Pennington Under 15s
• Hine Nepia Under 15s
• Amelia Durcau Under 15s
• Aleena Jacob Under 15s
Swimming:
• Kelsey Beetham
• Emma O’Brien
• Kode Lawrence
• Reuben Quinton
• Jenny Luong
We continued our success in the pool at the Met West Trials
for swimming have three of our students make the Met West
Team.
Jonathon Friend 17 Boys: 1st 100m Breaststroke, 1st 50m
Breaststroke (broke the Regional Record), 3rd 50m Freestyle,
2nd 50m Butterfly, 2nd 100m Freestyle and Qualified for 200
Breaststroke
Kelsey Beetham 13 Girls: 1st 50m Breaststroke, 1st 100m
Breaststroke and Qualified for 200m Breaststroke
Mato Suvaric 18 Boys: 4th 50m Freestyle
We wish these students the best of luck in their swimming at
State Titles on 23 -25 March.
• Ella Potts
• Joshua Frommolt
• Kathy Luong
• Lleyton Revie
• Lara McKinnon
• Alex Dean
• Paige Davidson
• Jenna Lawrence
• Jonathon Friend
• Mato Suvaric
• Nikita Frommolt
• Stephen Luong
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• Joshua Beetham
Jason Tobin
Sports Coordinator
Community Notices
South Junior Rugby League Club
Souths Juniors are looking to open their arms to all Rugby
League players both Boys & Girls of all ages who want to
play Rugby League. Our facilities are of high quality as are our
Coaching Staff. Our address & contact details are Mortimer
Rd Acacia Ridge, Phone 32774914 or 0498511224. 5.30-8pm
Monday-Thursday.
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