McAuley College Grafton eNewsletter

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers, Staff and Students,

As we near the end of 2024, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on our remarkable year at McAuley Catholic College. It has been a year of great accomplishment, and students have risen admirably to every opportunity, making us all proud of their progress and achievements.

On Tuesday 17th December, we held our Annual Awards Assembly to recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements of our students throughout 2024. It was a genuinely uplifting occasion, showcasing the dedication, growth, and talents that define our McAuley Catholic College community.

Students were honoured for their excellence across academic, cultural, sporting, and community service areas, reflecting our Mercy values of Excellence, Respect, Hospitality, Compassion, and Justice.

Some of the award winners are included later in this newsletter. Congratulations to all recipients on your hard work and commitment—you inspire us all!

Academically, our students have excelled across various subjects and initiatives. The introduction of new English and Mathematics curricula and the innovative Core-Paths structure in Year 9 Mathematics has fostered enthusiasm and resilience in learning. Programs like Drop Everything and Read (DEAR), have continued cultivating a love of literacy. At the same time, fieldwork in TAS, VET, HSIE, and experimental science projects have brought learning to life beyond the classroom.

Our year 12 students received their exam results on Wednesday, 18th December. Congratulations to our 2024 Dux, Brooklyn Roach, and all HSC students for their dedication and resilience. A summary of our year 12 achievements is later in the newsletter. These results are a testament to the hard work of our students and the unwavering support of our teachers and families.

Our Year 10 debating team excelled in the North Coast Debating Championships, and STEM MAD teams in Years 7 and 8 gained national recognition for their creative problem-solving. These achievements reflect our commitment to developing assessment-capable learners equipped with skills to contribute meaningfully to the world.

The arts and culture have flourished this year, with students participating in regional arts exchanges, crafting intricate clay sculptures with environmental themes, and showcasing their talents through music, drama, and visual arts. Events like McAuley Fest allowed our students to shine creatively while building confidence and personal growth.

Our commitment to faith and service has remained strong in 2024, shaping not just academic success but also the character of our students. Programs like Project Compassion raised significant funds for Caritas, and the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal demonstrated our students' generosity and dedication to helping those in need. The Year 10 Reflection Day and Year 11 and 12 Retreats allowed students to explore their values and relationships, equipping them to face the future with confidence and hope.

None of this would be possible without the dedication and passion of our exceptional staff, who guide and support our students every step of the way. I sincerely thank our teachers, coaches, and support staff for your tireless efforts. And to our parents and carers, your partnership and unwavering support are invaluable, forming the foundation of our students' success. We appreciate and value your contribution to our school community.

We finish the year in the Season of Advent. As we journey through this Advent season, let us unite in Christ, recognising our shared humanity and our need for a Saviour. This season of preparation reminds us of the greatest gift of all: the gift of salvation through Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8-9).

May this sacred time deepen our connection to God and one another. As we prepare our hearts for Christmas, let us celebrate with purpose and gratitude, renewing our commitment to spreading love, peace, and joy to those around us. In doing so, we shine the light of Christ into a world in need.

Reflecting on Jesus' words, "Love each other as I have loved you" (John 15:12), let us embrace the true meaning of Advent—living with compassion and hope as we await the birth of our Lord.

Wishing you and your families a safe, holy, and joyful Christmas season.

Kind Regards,

Dianne McGowan
Acting Principal

Mission and Wellbeing (AP)

UNIFORM

In preparation for starting 2025, please be aware of the uniform requirements and keep these in mind when planning for the return in the new year. Remember to follow our uniform policy and the transition to our new uniforms when purchasing items.

Students in Years 7, 8, 11 and 12 are to wear the new College uniform
Students in Year 9 and 10 can still wear the old uniform

All students are expected to:

Wear the correct school uniform each day with pride.

Label all uniform items with the student's name - many items have been gathered from around the playground. These have been washed and will be available in the office.

Keep uniform items, including hats, free of graffiti or paint.
Wear the Sports uniform on Thursday and on days when a timetabled practical PDHPE lesson occurs.
All students MUST be in the full College uniform every Wednesday
Wear the correct uniform when representing the College eg special events, sporting events and excursions
College skirts and shorts must be an acceptable length. All new uniforms have either the logo or MCC on the bottom of the skirt or shorts. These are not to be hemmed and the logo and letters must be visible.

Shoes

Please take note of the attached diagram regarding the correct College school shoes. The shoes McAuley Catholic College students are required to wear need to be ‘school style’, that is black leather polishable, low-cut, lace-up shoes with a distinguishable heel on the shoe (not too big). The diagram outlines acceptable and unacceptable footwear.

The holidays may be a time for new hairstyles, nails, piercings and jewellery. The following are some general reminders:

HAIR (Boys & Girls)

For both boys and girls, hair is to be well-groomed and tidy. Long hair over the collar must be tied back.
Ribbons and other hair ties are to be in school colours. Extremes of hairstyle, including extremes of colours are not permitted. Mullets, mullets with shaved sides, undercuts, steps, cuts less than a number two, streaks, noticeable dyes and gel or styling products are examples of haircuts that do not meet the requirements of the College policy.
Boys facial hair must be clean-shaven or well-groomed at all times.

MAKE-UP

Make-up is not to be worn and fingernails are not to have coloured nail polish.

JEWELLERY

Because of uniform and safety requirements and to guard against breakage or loss, the wearing of jewellery is restricted. Students may wear a wristwatch, a single neck chain, one simple ring and one bangle. Students may wear a maximum of two sleepers or studs in each ear. These are to be small, plain earrings.

Not permitted: Neckbands, as well as wrist and ankle-chains and ankle-bands, leather jewellery, visible facial piercings (such as nose, eyebrow, tongue, lip). Only clear nose spacers are permitted

Students may be asked to stay home until uniform issues are rectified.

Excess jewellery will be confiscated by staff and returned at the discretion of the Assistant Principal or Pastoral Care Coordinator. All care will be taken, but no responsibility accepted.

PARISH COUNCIL

The Commissioning of the Councillors for the Parish Pastoral Council took place at mass at St Patrick’s South Grafton on Sunday, 8th December. We congratulate Tom Howard and Margaret Bertalli on their appointment to the Council and for Margaret being voted as the Council Secretary.

We look forward to hearing about the work of the Parish Council and the importance of the Parish within our College community.

CHRISTMAS

During the Third Week of Advent, the Church emphasises the joy that should be in our hearts as we anticipate Christmas and prepare to welcome the birth of Christ. Christians' great joy is seeing the day when the Lord will come again in His glory to lead them into His kingdom. The third Sunday of Advent is also known as Gaudete Sunday. The term Gaudete refers to the first word of the Entrance Antiphon, "Rejoice" and the rose-coloured candle on the Advent wreath is lit.

We celebrated our end of the year with a prayer service and prizegiving on Wednesday. During the Prayer service, each homeroom presented its hamper for distribution by St Vincent de Paul to families in need. We hope these hampers will bring joy to these families in this special time and we are grateful to all families for their contribution.

Clarence Valley Parish - Christmas 2024 Mass Timetable

Christmas Eve - (Tuesday 24th December)

6.00pm Children’s Mass at St Mary’s Church, Grafton

7.00pm Mass at St Patrick’s Church, South Grafton

Christmas Day - (Wednesday 25th December)

8.00am Mass at St Mary’s Church, Grafton

8.00am Mass at Mary Immaculate, Cowper

9.30am Mass at St Patrick’s Church, South Grafton

Wellbeing

As we approach the Christmas season, a time of reflection, connection, and renewal, we want to take this opportunity to discuss the wellbeing of our young people in a rapidly evolving digital world. Guiding Positive Behaviours in an era where social media and digital communication dominate, bullying—whether online or in person—remains a serious concern. The emotional and mental toll of bullying can be profound, with far-reaching effects on self-esteem, relationships, and academic engagement. We encourage you to have open, compassionate conversations with your child about treating others with respect and kindness. These discussions can empower them to stand against bullying, foster empathy, and reflect Gospel values in their daily lives.

Navigating Online Risks

With the growing prevalence of AI tools, scams, deepfake content, and access to harmful materials, young people are increasingly exposed to online risks. These influences can distort their understanding of themselves and the world around them, leading to confusion and unrealistic expectations. We urge you to monitor your child’s online activities and encourage responsible technology use. The Christmas holidays present a perfect opportunity to set boundaries, reduce screen time, and encourage meaningful online connections.

Strengthening Relationships

The holidays are also a chance to deepen family bonds and foster positive relationships. Encourage your child to engage in activities that nurture personal growth, whether through time with loved ones, community involvement, or hobbies that inspire creativity and joy. These moments not only build emotional resilience but also reflect the values of faith, love, and justice that underpin our Catholic identity.

Supporting You with Resources

We understand that guiding young people through these challenges can be complex, which is why we recommend the following trusted resources:

eSafety Commissioner - Practical advice on online safety, bullying prevention, and managing digital footprints.
Headspace - Support for young people’s mental health, offering guidance on managing stress and anxiety. 1800 650 890 or headspace.org.au/eheadspace
ThinkUKnow - Education on navigating the digital world safely and securely.

Parentline NSW - Confidential support and advice for managing challenging behaviours and family dynamics (1300 1300 52).
Kids Helpline 24/7: 1800 55 1800
Lifeline 24/7: 13 11 14
Mental Health Line 24/7: 1800 011 511
Or in an emergency 000 or present to your local hospital ED

These resources provide valuable tools to help you navigate conversations with your child and create a safer, more supportive digital environment. The Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools are committed to working in partnership with you to nurture a generation of respectful, resilient, and compassionate young people. With your support, we can guide our students to live out Gospel values, develop strong relationships, and use their gifts to enrich the lives of others.

May this Christmas bring peace, joy, and love for your family.

Kathy Warby

Assistant Principal - Mission and Wellbeing

End of Year Prize Giving Liturgy

Congratulations to all students who received an award at our End of Year Liturgy and Prize Giving Assembly on Tuesday 17th December 2024.

CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP AWARDS

The Br. John Mullins Memorial Award for Demonstration of Christian Leadership

Year 11: Grace Stackman, Beau Thompson

Marist Brothers Award for Demonstration of Christian Leadership

Year 10: Max Forwell, Raimi Mortimer

The Fr Frank Mulcahy Award for Demonstration of Christian Leadership

Year 9: William Hartley, Paisley Padayachee

The Parent Forum Prizes for Demonstration of Christian Leadership

Year 8: Beau Green, Lilly Sullivan

The Anne Landenberger Memorial Award for Demonstration of Christian Leadership

Year 7 : Eamon Mawn, Marlie Zvatora

YEAR 11 SPECIAL AWARDS

The Sam Dougherty Memorial Award

Jasmine Chellew

Rotary Club of Grafton Award for Service to the College

Madeleine Schroder

McAuley Catholic College Creative and Cultural Arts Award for Overall Honour in Music and Performance

Logan Cone

College Award for Academic Excellence

Alizandra McPherson

Commitment to Study

Isaac Bibby, Amelie Collard, Kyron Nipperess, Madeleine Schroder

Senior Sportsman of the Year Sponsored by T&S Trophies

William Tait

Senior Sportswoman of the Year Sponsored by T&S Trophies

Jasmine Chellew

Award for Service to the College

Alicia Boehme, Amali Rainbow

YEAR 10 SPECIAL AWARDS

Institute of Sisters of Mercy of Australia and Papua New Guinea Generalate Award for Junior Dux

Emily Newman

Australian Defence Force Long Tan Award for Leadership and Teamwork

Max Forwell

Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award

Kate Morgan

College Award for Academic Commitment

Keira Banfield, Hazel Golding, Annabelle Hourigan, Kate Morgan

YEAR 9 SPECIAL AWARDS

College Award for Academic Excellence

Judy Irwin, Kane Patricks

College Award for Academic Commitment

Tara Commerford, Mahala Hitchings, Charlie Rainbow

YEAR 8 SPECIAL AWARDS

College Award for Academic Excellence

Macy Batinovic, Maya Conaghan, Giselle Dean, Max Lobsey

College Award for Academic Commitment

Sabrina Golding, Emily Upston, Heidi Van Leest

YEAR 7 SPECIAL AWARDS

College Award for Academic Excellence

Sienna Patricks, Alys Trevillian

College Award for Academic Commitment

Charlotte Fitzsimmons, Eamon Mawn, Willow Seivers, Daisie Weedon

Award for Service to the College

Sebastian Willis

JUNIOR SCHOOL AWARDS

The Lions Club Award for Community Service in the Junior School

Ivy Hiatt

The Aunty Doreen Flanders Deadly Leadership Award

Charlee Thompson

Junior Sportsman of the Year Sponsored by T&S Trophies

Callum Tait

Junior Sportswoman of the Year Sponsored by T&S Trophies

Hazel Golding

Kane McPherson Memorial Award for Determination

Caroline Turner

Premiers Reading Challenge Premiers Medal

Premiers Medal - Ruby Egen, William Hartley

2024 HSC Results

We proudly congratulate our Year 12 students of 2024 on their performance and commitment in the HSC. Once again, our students achieved pleasing results across various subjects. The College celebrates the achievements of the class of 2024 and wishes them well as they pursue their individual pathways following the HSC.

Notable Achievements

Highest ATAR - Brooklyn Roach 94

Results

14 Distinguised Achievement awards

10 students were named on the distinguished achiever's list,

10 courses with results above the State average.

87 Band 5 and 6 results across the subjects offered.

Distinguished Achievers List

Ten students achieved a Band 6 and were named on the Distinguished Achievers list.

Amelia Cox: Legal Studies

Lucy Day: Mathematics Standard 2

Aiyana Death: Textiles and Design

Ayla Howell-McLachalan: Community and Family Studies

Charlie Imeson: Music 1

Theodore Lobsey: Mathematics Standard 2

Eva Patricks: Personal Development, Health and Physical Education

Erica Power: Mathematics Standard 2

Ashton Pullen: Construction Examination

Brooklyn Roach: Business Studies, Geography, Mathematics Standard 2, Studies of Religion I

SHAPE

Layla Bender and Mitchell Dick’s HSC Major Projects in Industrial Technology - Timber were nominated for SHAPE.

Early Entry to University

All students who applied for Early Entry to a university through the school achieved an acceptance offer.

From the Classroom & Excursions

Year 7 English

As the school year draws to a close, our Year 7 students have immersed themselves in an engaging Drama unit centred around Stories in the Dark by Debra Oswald. This thought-provoking play tells the story of Stories in the Dark by Debra Oswald in a compelling display that intertwines themes of survival, resilience, and the power of storytelling. Set in a war-torn city, the story follows two characters: a boy named Tomas, who is navigating the harsh realities of his world, and Anna, a resourceful and imaginative girl who seeks refuge in his home.

As bombs fall and danger looms outside, Anna and Tomas bond over shared experiences and fears. To distract themselves and cope with their dire circumstances, Anna tells imaginative stories, weaving tales that blend humour, fantasy, and hope. These stories become a means of escape and a way to confront the grim realities of their lives.

Students have explored the Elements of Drama, gaining insight into how performance, dialogue, and stagecraft bring a story to life. They had the privilege of participating in a dynamic Drama workshop led by our talented Drama teacher, Mr Mark Conaghan. This hands-on experience allowed students to deepen their understanding of theatrical techniques and sharpen their performance skills.

The play’s captivating mix of humour and poignant themes has made it an enjoyable play among students. They eagerly read and acted out scenes, delving into the complex characters and storylines. Many students showcased their own remarkable talents and creativity in performance, demonstrating both skill and confidence on stage.

It has been wonderful to see our students embrace the world of Drama with such enthusiasm. We look forward to witnessing their continued growth in the arts in the years to come!

Year 9 Visual Art

During Term 4, Year 9 Visual Arts students have been diligently working on their practical assessment task, the MCC Archie Portraits. For this project, students selected their own sitter and, in most cases, worked from a photograph. Using acrylic paint on canvas, they created stunning portraits while honing their skills in layout, composition, color mixing, and blending techniques.

As part of their preparation, students explored the Archibald Prize and Art Express exhibitions to gather inspiration and develop their ideas.

Mrs Ellis and Mrs Hill

Visual Art Teachers

Year 8 History Miniature Museu

A number of Year 8 History students utilised the last few lessons of the term to apply their studies of the Ancient to the Modern World by creating artefacts for a Miniature Museum display. There were some extremely creative displays covering the Medieval world to the Expansion across Polynesia and the period of Contact and Colonisation.

Natasha Green

Head of HSIE

Commerce Market Fever

In week 7, Year 9 and Year 10 Commerce classes ran their own businesses.

There were many partnerships and sole traders who set up their stalls to offer a variety of products from personalised key tags, delicious cookies, choc coated strawberries, chocolate bags, fruit kebabs, cakes and slices to smashed tacos.

An example of one market stall was Charity Cupcakes, a partnership specialising in decorated patty cakes run by Kiera and Lilyana, which was successful in making a huge profit of almost $200.

Aaliyah-Scarlett Roach said “The market stalls were a great experience for our Commerce class as it gave us first hand experience on how to run our own business, and challenged us to put our creative products to the test.

Being able to see our ideas shown to our fellow peers was wonderful. Not only did our customers enjoy our products, but we enjoyed creating them.

Another student said - “Overall, the experience was educating and taught each of us that running a business takes planning and research. However, it was enjoyable and many people from the college enjoyed the goods that were sold on the day.”

Congratulations to our entrepreneurs who all broke-even and then contributed a share of their profits to St Vincents - a combined $69.75 in donations was accepted by Kathy Warby as a representative of St Vincents.

Leanne McLennan

Commerce Teacher

Christmas Home Room Decoration Competition

Congratulations to Mrs Lights Home Room, CH7, who took out the championship title this year for their gorgeous decorations and display. We know Mrs Light is ecstatic with the win!

Year 8 Christmas Cupcakes

Fishing, Camping and Canoeing End of Year Activities

Careers News

Sign Off for 2024

This will be my last newsletter as I am taking Long Service Leave in 2025.

Thank you for all of your support over the past ten years.

Please help me welcome Mrs Maria Rouse as the new Careers Adviser. I wish her all the very best in her new position.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Rod

Year 11 Queensland University Tour

Six students from McAuley College joined other north coast High Schools from Nambucca Heads to Maclean as part of the Clarence/Coffs Careers Advisers Network tour of Queensland Universities on the 5th and 6th December.

The students were given a full overview of university life during the two day tour. It was a great opportunity for the students to assist them in selecting their career pathway. Although a couple did say it made their choice more difficult!

The university tour included Southern Cross University (Gold Coast), University of Sunshine Coast (Moreton Bay), University of Qld (Brisbane), Retail Industry Visits (Indooroopilly), Queensland University of Technology (Brisbane) and Griffith University (Gold Coast). The students were able to experience university accommodation and meals at Union College on Thursday night.

Those who attended the tour have commented on the valuable insights it provided in preparing for their HSC studies and life after Year12.

Our students were a credit to the College due to the way they conducted themselves throughout the whole trip.

Year 10 Work Experience

Year 10 Work Experience has had a great participation rate this year with 90% of the students involved. The Year 10 cohort were able to find a wide variety of career choices to investigate. These ranged from hospitality, teaching, engineering, vet assisting, law, retail and other trade sectors. Work experience offers a great chance for students to start to plan for their future and makes them aware of the academic choices needed to follow that path.

The students visited locations ranging from Brisbane to Sydney. Eight students explored two occupations each and three liked their jobs so much that they stayed for another week ! What a positive response to making the most of a great opportunity.

In previous years there have been offers of part time and full time employment emanating from our Work Experience Program. I look forward to receiving this year's feedback from students and employers.
Congratulations to all the students who took part in returning their Work Experience documents and for their initiative and enthusiasm. This Year's 10 cohort has represented the College exceptionally.
I wish everybody all the best as they work towards their career pathway.

The University of Sydney

Parents and caregivers webinar | Monday 16 December 5pm

ATAR release and UAC preference close is a big day for school leavers. Join our webinar to hear about how these work and discover ways to support your child in preparing for different outcomes. Learn strategies to empower your child’s future and maximise their options for university study in 2025. Register here.

UAC preferencing webinar – your guide to admissions | Wednesday 18 December 7pm

In this insightful presentation, you will learn how UAC preferences and offers work. It will detail the entire process from ATAR release through to the final offer round for commencing study in Semester 1 2025. You will leave feeling confident in your ability to prioritise your UAC preferences and navigate the offer rounds to maximise your chances of receiving an offer to your dream degree. Register here.

Campus tours | 11–18 December (except for Sunday)

Join our knowledgeable student ambassadors for a 30-minute guided campus tour highlighting the most iconic spots on our beautiful grounds.

You can then join a tour tailored to your area of study, led by a Student Ambassador who is currently studying in that field. They'll guide you through the dedicated teaching spaces and are happy to answer any questions about their student experience. Learn more about campus tours and register now.

Tuesday 17 December: UAC webinar
Join us live at 6pm Tuesday 17 December as we explain how students can review their UAC application after receiving their ATAR. We'll give advice on handling multiple offers, fine-tuning preferences and making the most of adjustment factors. Students can ask us questions in the comments throughout the session. Watch live on Facebook, Instagram or the UAC Digital YouTube channel.

Wednesday 18 December: ATAR and IBAS release
9am: We will send students an SMS or email with a link to login and download their ATAR Advice Notice. They will need their Year 12 student number and UAC PIN to log in.
11.59pm: Deadline for students to change their course preferences for consideration in the December Round 2 offers on 23 December.
Next steps: Of course, once they have their ATAR, students may ask 'what happens now?' So we've put together a step-by-step guide on what to do once you've got your ATAR.

CredFolio: NSW HSC students can sign up to our free digital wallet, CredFolio. They'll be able to store their ATAR there and they'll have the option to share it with you or others via a secure link. How to sign up to CredFolio

Student Numbers and PINs

If students have forgotten their Year 12 student number, they should contact NESA/ACT BSSS or their school. If they've lost their UAC PIN, call UAC on (+61 2) 9752 0200.

ATAR Enquiry Centre

If HSC students have specific questions about the calculation of their ATAR, they can call UAC's ATAR Enquiry Centre on (+61 2) 9119 5012 from 8.30am on 18 December. The centre will also be open on Thursday 19 and Friday 20 December.

News From Our Institutions
Stay on top of course updates, upcoming events and student support.

Careers_Information_Sessions_for_Students.pdf

Careers_Information_Sessions_for_Students _pdf 129.87 KB

Rod Paton
Careers Advisor

Aboriginal Education News

On Friday, 6th December our Aboriginal boys had the opportunity to go on an excursion to Cangai, guided by Uncle Andy Taylor. During the visit, Uncle Andy shared stories about the history of the area and showed the boys significant cultural sites. This experience allowed the boys to deepen their cultural knowledge by connecting with the land and learning from a local Aboriginal elder with strong family ties to the region.

Overall, the day was a great success, and the boys gained valuable insights. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Uncle Andy Taylor for generously sharing his time and wisdom with us.

Last Friday, 13th December some of our Aboriginal girls were invited to attend The Bulaan Buruugaa Ngali exhibition at the Grafton Regional Gallery. The day is to welcome 9 ancestral woven bags returning to Bundjalung country from the Australian Museum to be part of an exhibition alongside newly commissioned works by contemporary Bundjalung, Yaegl, Gumbaynggirr, and Kamilaroi artists. We are sincerely grateful for the opportunity to attend this historical moment in our community.

Reminders for Parents & Carers - Uniform, Office Hours, Equipment Lists & Requirements

Dear Parents and Carers,

In preparation for the start of the 2025 school year we remind you that students in Year 11, 2025 will be expected to wear the new formal and sport uniform. “Try on” booking times and orders can be made online at the MCC Uniform Shop website

Prior to the start of school in 2025, the College Office will be open to respond to any general enquiries.

College Office will be open

Tuesday 28^th January 9.00am -1.00pm.
Wednesday 29^th January 9.00am -1.00pm.
Thursday, 30^th January 9.00am -1.00pm.

Please note, the College Office is not open during school holidays except for the mentioned dates.

Staff Development Days - McAuley Teachers return Friday, 31^st January.

Friday, 31^st January and Monday, 3^rd February are Staff Development Days (Pupil Free Day). The College Office is open 8.30am – 3.30pm on these days.

Students Return to school:

Tuesday, 4^th February will be the first day of school for Year 7, 11 and 12
All years return to school on Wednesday, 5^th February

The Requirement Lists for all year groups are included below:

Requirement_List_7_10_2025_1_.pdf

Requirement_List_7_10_2025_1 pdf 202.09 KB

Requirement_List_11_12_2025_1_.pdf

Requirement_List_11_12_2025_1 pdf 182.95 KB

The staff of McAuley wish you The gift of Love, The gift of Peace and The gift of Happiness for a very Merry Christmas and Safe Holiday season.

We look forward to seeing you in 2025.

2025 New Bus Routes & School Travel Passes

Dear Parents & Carers,

New School Buses S765 and S766 will be commencing 31st January 2025 to support students travelling to/from Yamba and Maclean.

Morning route S765 will depart Yamba Rd at Golding Ln (7:25am) operating via Yamba Rd to opp. Palmers Island Public School (7:35am), continue Yamba Rd, River Rd to Maclean Transfer Zone (7:45am), continue River Rd, Cameron St, right Big River Wy to McAuley Catholic College, Grafton.

Afternoon route S766 will depart McAuley Catholic College, Grafton (3:33pm) operating via Hennessy Dr, right Big River Wy, Pacific Hwy, left Maclean Exit, Cameron St, River St to Maclean Transfer Zone (4:15pm), continue River St, Yamba Rd to Palmers Island Public School (4:24pm), continue Yamba Rd, Wooli St, right Claude St, left Coldstream St to Bus Shelter (4:36pm).

Your schools new timetable will be available to view from 20th December 2024 at https://www.busways.com.au/nsw/school-services/school-timetables.

We encourage you to plan ahead at https://transportnsw.info/trip before travelling. To ensure dedicated school services appear as a travel option for students, click refine and select the school bus option.

Getting To School By Bus in 2025

Will your child be catching the bus to school next year? Applications are now open for a Bus Travel Pass. As it’s a busy time of year, we highly recommend you make this application before the end of the year. It’s also good to check the bus timetable to make your child’s journey to school as easy as possible. Here is how it works:

Bus Passes

All students catching the bus in 2025 will need a school travel pass.
Under the School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS), eligible students can apply for free or subsided travel between home and school.
For more information about the School Student Transport Scheme and how to apply for a school travel pass, visit https://apps.transport.nsw.gov.au/ssts/#/ from a desktop computer.

Bus Timetables

Busways is the school bus operator that runs your schools’ bus services. To find your child’s school bus timetable visit the Busways website by using the following steps:

Go to busways.com.au/nsw
Click on ‘school services’ in the navigation bar and then proceed to ‘school timetables’
Enter the school’s name in the field that says ‘enter a school name’
Select the school’s name and the timetable should open on your device. If you are unable to find or search for the school’s name, use the drop-down menus on the same web page to find the school.
Once the timetable is opened, you will be able to identify which school bus services are available in your area for your child to use.

Parent Support & Education

Online Safety - Essential Conversations

The Catholic Schools Office of the Lismore Diocese has provided essential information regarding childrens' safety online and resources for parents and guardians in a recent communication article sent to schools across the Diocese. We will be including a topic item from this article in each Newsletter from Term 3, Week 3 - Term 4, Week 9

Item 9
Essential Conversation: Giving and Receiving Help

Sometimes young people may see posts from friends or acquaintances that contain references to self-harm and suicide. If your young person is concerned about someone because of something they posted online, encourage them to always take it seriously and to talk to you.

In these instances, if your young person believes that the person is at immediate risk of harm, you should advise them to do the following:

If they are already talking to the person, they could encourage them to call emergency services (000) themselves.
If they are not talking to the person, if the person is not open to receiving help, or if there is no time to spare, call 000 immediately.
If they or you know the family, you could contact them immediately.

If the person is not at immediate risk of harm, and your young person decides to respond, encourage them to:

Set boundaries for themselves regarding how much time they have available and the type of support they can and cannot offer.
Pick a way of communicating that they feel most comfortable with and is most appropriate for the relationship they have with the person. They could also ask the person how they would prefer to be contacted.
Avoid using reactions or emojis that might reinforce unsafe content, or that could be interpreted incorrectly.

Read more at #Chatsafe eSafety Giving and seeking help in relationships.

Watch this short clip:

If you have any concerns about your young person please contact the college. It is important for the college to know any wellbeing issues that may impact on learning and behaviour at school. Our college invites all parents to work in partnership with us to keep your young person safe. Should your young person experience a physical or mental health concern, particularly if it results in a presentation at a hospital Emergency Department, we highly recommend that you work with us to ensure that they are supported and cared for when returning to school.

Item 10
Online Safety Essential Conversations: Balance

Engaging online should enrich our lives, not consume them entirely. Some tips for parents:

Establish Tech-Free Zones: As a family, create designated tech-free zones in your home where screens are not allowed, such as the dinner table or bedrooms. This can help promote family bonding and reduce distractions.
Promote Self-Awareness: Help your young person become aware of their own online habits and how they affect their wellbeing. Encourage them to reflect on how they feel after spending time online and to recognise when they need to take breaks.
Lead by Example: Model healthy online behaviours by demonstrating responsible device use and setting boundaries for yourself. Show your young person that it's possible to disconnect and engage in offline activities.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: If you're concerned about your young person’s online behaviour or wellbeing, don't hesitate to seek support from a mental health professional or counsellor who specialises in adolescent issues.

Recognising if your young person is addicted to online activities involves observing their behaviour and looking for signs of problematic online use. Here are some indicators to consider:

Excessive Time Spent Online: Notice if your young person spends an excessive amount of time online, especially to the detriment of other activities such as schoolwork, hobbies, or socialising with friends and family.
Preoccupation with Online Platforms or Activities: If your young person constantly thinks about going online, eagerly anticipates their next opportunity to be online, or becomes irritable or restless when unable to access the platform, it may indicate a problem.
Neglect of Responsibilities and Basic Needs: Pay attention to whether your young person neglects important responsibilities such as homework, chores, or personal hygiene because of their online activities. Observe whether your young person neglects basic needs such as sleep, nutrition, or exercise because of their online activities.
Withdrawal: Notice if your young person exhibits withdrawal symptoms such as irritability or agitation when they're unable to access the internet or when they're offline for an extended period.
Relationships: Observe how your young person’s relationships with family members, friends, or peers are affected by their online activities. If they withdraw from social interactions or prefer spending time online over engaging in face-to-face interactions, it may be a cause for concern.

If you are concerned about your young person, talk to NSW Parentline for free counselling and referral service. Read more at Esafety Balancing your time online.