McAuley College Grafton eNewsletter

From the Principal

Dear Parents and Carers, Staff and Students,

We have reached the end of Term 3, and we have held off publishing this Newsletter so that we could include a summary of our Year 12 Graduation, one of our pinnacle events of the year.

Year 12

It is with sadness that we say farewell to our Year 12 students of 2025. Since their Trial HSC exams, students have received feedback from their teachers, highlighting areas to work on and skills to improve

In the last 2 weeks, Year 12 have enjoyed several end-of-school activities, including their McAuley Day dress-up as Childhood Characters, teacher challenges, the competition for the illustrious Mark Bellamy Memorial Salad Bowl (staff v students), a parent breakfast, community service, Mass at St Mary’s, and a beach day together. The students have finished well, and we hope they will cherish the memories of their time at McAuley Catholic College.

I wish our Year 12 students all the best in their preparation for the HSC examinations. During the holidays, staff will be running Study Sessions to help support our students in achieving their best. I thank the staff for their dedication to ensuring all students are well-prepared.

The Graduation and Awards ceremony held on Wednesday was a wonderful occasion to acknowledge the achievements of all our Year 12 students. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all our graduates for their remarkable achievements. In addition to presenting each student with a Graduation certificate, we had the pleasure of recognising several outstanding students with special awards. You can find the complete list of these awardees later in the newsletter, along with some captivating photos of our graduates.

The 2025 College Captains and Vice Captains delivered a moving speech, acknowledging those who had helped them throughout their journey at McAuley Catholic College, and shared some of their memories from their final year, offering well-versed advice to the students in years 7-11. They have been outstanding leaders supported by a very enthusiastic and dedicated student leadership team. We thank them for all their efforts.

Feast of our Lady of Mercy - 24th September

Our Year 12 Graduation coincided with the Feast of Our Lady of Mercy, which is celebrated as the Feast Day of the Sisters of Mercy. This is the day on which Catherine McAuley first opened the House of Mercy in Baggot Street, Dublin, Ireland, and dedicated it to Our Lady of Mercy. The theme of our Graduation was Mercy and acknowledged the legacy the Sisters of Mercy have left to the staff and students of our College.

Student Leadership

I welcome our new student leaders for the 2025 -26 academic year. We have now completed our elections and appointments, and the list of students and their appointments is included in the newsletter. Our new Year 12 Captains and Vice-Captains were inducted into their respective positions with the presentation of badges at the Graduation ceremony as part of the handover of Student Leadership from the outgoing captains

McAuley Day & McAuley Fest

Congratulations to the staff & students who made these two events so successful. A huge thank you to the community who supported McAuley Fest and made it a fantastic night, showcasing our talent across many areas of the College. McAuley Day was a highlight of the school year, celebrating our Mercy heritage and traditions while raising funds for Mercy Works. The day incorporated homeroom activities, a Liturgy, Homeroom fundraising activities, the McAuley’s Got Talent, and activities for year groups in the afternoon. A huge thank you to the homeroom teachers and the students for their enthusiasm and initiative in developing stalls to raise money for Mercy Works.

McAuley Fest and McAuley Day raised $7,000, which will be donated to Mercy Works, the development arm of the Sisters of Mercy in Australia and Papua New Guinea. They work in partnership with vulnerable communities and local organisations domestically and in the Asia Pacific region. They work with the people of these communities and organisations to build capacity, dignity and self-reliance. (Mercy Works website - https://www.mercyworks.org.au/)

Fr Frank Mulcahy

It was with sadness that we heard the news that Fr. Frank Mulcahy had passed away last week. Fr Frank was Parish Administrator then Parish Priest of St Mary’s Parish, Grafton, from 1969 to 1981 and made significant contributions to the Parish, the community of Grafton, the Clarence Valley and to the Lismore Diocese. Fr. Frank was my Parish Priest for most of my schooling. An obituary and a 1981 article from the Daily Examiner are included in this newsletter. May he rest in peace.

6R Leadership Program

Over the course of this year, I have been participating in the 6R Leadership Program with The Brown Collective, sponsored by the DLCS through a Growth and Renewal grant. This program, run by Dr Stephen Brown, a well-renowned leader in education, was held in various cities, including Brisbane, Melbourne and Adelaide, and brought together experienced Principals from Catholic schools across Australia. It was a wonderful opportunity to network with School Leaders, learn from each other and from the amazing array of guest speakers who presented to us across a broad spectrum of topics and areas of need. The 6Rs of the program were: Reflection, Renewal, Relatedness, Refinement, Refresh, and Reach-out. This opportunity has given me the chance to reflect on my leadership journey and prepare for the years ahead. I thank my College Leadership Team for supporting me as I participated in this excellent professional development.

Principal Leave

I will be on long service leave for the first 4 weeks of Term 4. In my absence, Mrs Kathy Warby will be Acting Principal, Mrs Sophie Beresford will be Acting Assistant Principal, Mission and Wellbeing.

Reminders

Monday 13th October - Staff development day - Curriculum Focus

Tuesday 14th October - all students return for Term 4

Please note there is a Staff Development Day on Monday, 17th November

As this is the last newsletter for the term, I wish you all a safe and relaxing holiday, and thank the parent community for their support this term. It has been another busy term with many activities taking place. I would like to thank all staff and students for their continued support and participation in various academic, cultural, sporting, and spiritual events. Many of these are included in the newsletter.

All the best for the fortnight ahead,

Kate

Kate Thomson
Principal

“We should be shining lamps, giving light to all around us.”

Catherine McAuley

Mission and Wellbeing (AP)

Attendance - Building a Partnership Between School and Family for Your Child’s Success

The impact of school absences, even seemingly small ones, can accumulate and affect a teen's learning significantly. Attendance letters will be sent out this week advising if your child’s attendance is at or below 90%.

If your child is consistently expressing reluctance to attend school regularly, it's essential to address the issue promptly.

Secondary school students who refuse to go to school may show some of the following behaviours:

frequent unexplained/unjustified absences
avoiding school events
frequent lateness and/or partial attendance
absences on significant days e.g. PDHPE, exams
frequent requests to go to the sick bay

What is your teen’s pattern of absenteeism?

Regular attendance helps maintain academic momentum. Missing the last days of a term can disrupt this flow, making it harder for students to re-establish their learning routine after a break. Communicating high expectations for school attendance right up to the end of each term shows that you value the importance of regular school attendance.

Each day your teen attends school, they’re shaping their future success.

Prohibited Weapons - Lasers

We have recently been made aware that lasers may have been brought to school. As part of our commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all students, staff, and visitors within our college, we would like to remind families of the importance of adhering to our school policies and procedures regarding prohibited weapons.

Prohibited weapons include all knives and blades, (except for those required for school lessons), firearms, gel blasters/gel guns, 3D printed guns, slingshot, darts, batons, machetes, laser pointers, or similar articles and anything else that can be used as a weapon to intimidate or cause serious injury or harm, e.g., a screwdriver, chisel or hammer.

Possessing any weapon, whether real or imitation, is unlawful in any school setting and can result in both criminal charges and disciplinary action under our Student Suspension, Expulsion, and Exclusion Policy.

We ask all parents and caregivers to speak openly with their child about safety, responsibility, and respect for others. In Catholic education, we are guided by the belief that every person is made in the image of God, and we are called to safeguard their dignity. Your cooperation in upholding these expectations helps create a community of care, justice, and compassion.

Some information regarding lasers can be found at the following websites:

https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/online_services/firearms/laser_pointers/laser_pointers_-_questions_and_answers

https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/online_services/firearms/laser_pointers

Please note:

Laser pointers with a power output of more than one milliwatt are now prohibited weapons. You must obtain a permit to possess or use a laser pointer that is in this category, unless you use the pointer for activities associated with astronomy and are a member of an approved astronomical association.

Thank you for your support and commitment to a safe and faith-filled learning environment.

One Stop Shop - Year 9

Last Wednesday, Year 9 attended The One Stop Shop event, hosted by Clarence Valley Council in collaboration with various Clarence organisations.

These sessions were designed to offer students the opportunity to interact with the local health and wellbeing services that are available in the Clarence Valley. Information on each service was presented in a fun and interactive way, with service providers running activities for the young people to learn more about what they have to offer.

The Local Drug Action Team is a collection of local services that work together around alcohol and drug education, which also presents information to students about how to keep themselves and their friends safe.

Headspace Grafton also delivered a presentation on the topics of general mental health and wellbeing, as well as work and study options. This session delved into the fundamentals of mental health literacy, offering insights into recognising, managing, and promoting positive mental states. The Headspace Work and Study team also presented information on the vocational support services that Headspace Grafton can offer young people.

We would like to thank event contributors – Headspace Grafton, Clarence Valley Council, Bulgarr Ngaru, SERCO, Mudyala Aboriginal Corporation, The New School of Arts Neighbourhood House, Carers NSW, Momentum Collective, Verto Employment and Mission Australia. The age-appropriate information was well received by our Year 9 cohort.

Mobile Phones

Mobile phone use is becoming an increasing concern within the College. Our current policy is outlined below:

Students who choose to bring their mobile phones, smart devices, and other related technology devices to school must adhere to the following procedures. These procedures include all times students are under the supervision of MCC staff (e.g., excursions, camps, travelling to and from school events). The principal's decision on all phones, smart devices, and related technology will be final. The Principal reserves the right to allow an individual student to use their device for medical monitoring or other such purposes.

Mobile phones are valuable items, and their owners are responsible for them. The College will not accept responsibility for the loss, theft, or damage of a phone.

Procedure

Phones must be turned off upon arrival at school in the morning and may be switched on again after classes at 3:10 pm.
Students are welcome to leave their phones in the office each day
If phones are taken to class, they must be placed in the phone tub in the room each lesson
If parents or carers must make contact with their child during school hours, this must be done through the School Office.
Students are not allowed to lend their phones to other students during school hours.
After 3:10 p.m., while being supervised on school grounds, students may use their phones to listen to music, check messages, and make calls.
Students must adhere to our Social Media policy. Accessing social media (such as but not limited to Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, etc) text messaging, phone calls, Facetime or similar, accessing apps, streaming movies, listening to music etc and are not allowed.
Students are not to take photos or videos at any time at the college or at any time in school uniform.
Students found using phones or other related technology devices during school time without permission will incur the following consequences:

1st Offence:

The teacher will confiscate the phone and place it in the office.
The teacher is to record the incident on Compass.
Students may collect the phone at the end of the day.

2nd Offence:

The teacher will confiscate the phone and place it in the office.
The teacher is to record the incident on Compass.
The Year Coordinator or Pastoral Care Coordinator will contact the parents.
Students may collect the phone at the end of the day.
The student is placed on Stage 1.

3rd Offence:

The teacher will confiscate the phone and place it in the office.
The teacher is to record the incident on Compass.
The Year Coordinator or Pastoral Care Coordinator will contact parents.
The phone is to be collected by the parent or carer, not the student.
The student is placed on Stage 2.
The student is to hand their phone in to the front office for a week.

Ongoing and repeated behaviours will be addressed by the Year Coordinator or the Leader of Pastoral Care as per our Whole School Student Management Guidelines.

Please note:

The following is an extract from the Terms and Conditions section of the College Enrolment form signed by parents/guardians:

1.3 The Parent/Guardian agrees not to engage in social media or allow children to engage in social media that disparages of brings the school or its employees into disrepute. Further, the Parent/Guardian acknowledges the right of the school to suspend or terminate an enrolment if social media statements are made that defame or disparage the school, employees or the Roman Church.

For Term 4 2025:

Due to the increased misuse of phones, it has been decided that students are no longer able to use their phones to purchase items at the Canteen. Parents are encouraged to order food online via Flexischools, send cash with their child, or students are to use a card e.g. Visa Debit Card. We are currently exploring other options for families.
Parents must contact the College to communicate with their child during the day. Please discourage communication with your child via their mobile phone during school hours. If your child becomes ill during the day, they are to come to the front office to contact their parents.
We will ensure that there are tubs in each classroom for your child to store their phone during class time.
Earpods are not to be used unless directed by the teacher.
As outlined above, after the third time of phone misuse, parents will need to come to the office to collect their child’s phone, as per the policy.
Please note: Phones are already banned in all NSW government schools.

As a community, we need to help students prepare for the new legislation taking effect. The release of the regulatory framework of the Social Media Minimum Age (SMMA) legislation, which was passed in 2024, is now visible and unambiguous.

Here’s what it means in practice for all Australian children from 10th December:

If a child under 16 is using an “age-restricted” social media platform, that platform must remove their account.
If a child attempts to create an account, the platform must prevent them from completing the sign-up process.
If a removed user attempts to create a new account, the platform must detect and block this attempt as well.

Attached is a fact sheet from CTRL SHFT - The Australian 16+ Age Delay to support families in preparing for this legislative change.

Kathy Warby

Assistant Principal - Mission and Wellbeing

Learning and Teaching (AP)

As we approach the end of Term 3, the school's rhythm begins to shift. A quiet momentum is building, shaped by reflection, anticipation, and the unmistakable sense that change is near. For our Year 12 students, this is a time of culmination. Their final weeks of formal schooling have been marked by creativity, commitment, and community. I look forward to their graduation on Wednesday this week.

The recent HSC Major Projects Showcase was a testament to the talent and dedication of our senior students. Congratulations again to our students for the outstanding work they displayed. With major projects now submitted, attention turns to revision and preparation for the HSC examinations, which commence on Thursday, 16 October. A study timetable for holiday workshops and pre-exam sessions will be shared with Year 12 shortly via their Year 12 Google Classroom.

We remind students to wear full school uniforms during the exam period. Students may arrive early to settle in or stay to study in the library, but uniform expectations remain in place. For clarity around exam procedures, students should refer to the official HSC Rules and Procedures guide on Students Online.

Beyond academics, this season also invites us to reflect on the broader journey of adolescence. Just as many of us recall our own rites of passage—graduations, first jobs, milestone birthdays—our students are navigating their own transitions. These moments remind us that growth is not just academic, but deeply personal.

In support of this, we encourage families to explore the Teen Mental Health Matters webinar that the Black Dog Institute offers. This free resource provides practical strategies for parents and carers to support teens' mental health in their care. You can register via this link.

Completing the Preliminary course marks a significant step forward for our Year 11 students. Staff will return exam papers with feedback either this week or early next term, and students are encouraged to use this insight to shape their study patterns as they begin their HSC year. Any subject changes should be finalised promptly to ensure a smooth transition.

Year 10 students are reminded of the importance of maintaining consistent attendance and engagement to meet the requirements for the RoSA credential. Our 7-9 students are working hard on assessments. As we close out another dynamic and rewarding term, I sincerely thank all staff, students, and families for your continued partnership in learning. May the spring break offer rest, renewal, and readiness for the term ahead.

Thank you for your continued support.

Dianne McGowan

Assistant Principal Learning and Teaching

Year 12 Graduation 2025

On Wednesday, 24th September, we farewelled our Year 12 students at their Graduation Ceremony, surrounded by family, friends, and fellow staff and students. Congratulations again to the class of 2025! The College community wish them all the best for their future ambitions and adventures.

Please see below excerpts from key speakers, a list of special award recipients and photos of the event:

Special Award Recipients

McAuley Medals - Jasmine Chellew, Grace Stackman, Beau Thompson

McAuley Catholic College Awards for Christian Leadership in Year 12 - Logan Cone, Grace Stackman

The Australian Defence Force Long Tan Award for Leadership and Teamwork - Jasmine Chellew

The Australian Defence Force Future Innovators Award - Timothy Van der Vlist

Best All-Rounder Award - Jasmine Chellew, Sheridan Sutherland, William Tait

Academic Excellence Award - Amelie Collard, Alizandra McPherson

College Awards for Commitment to Study - Maggie Ross, Madeline Schroder, Beau Thompson, Timothy Van der Vlist

The Reuben F. Scarf Award for Commitment - Imogen Lee

Sr Cecilia Moran Memorial Award for Contributions to the Cultural Life of the College -Logan Cone

Good Citizenship and Community Service Award (Senior School) sponsored by The Rotary Club of Grafton Midday Inc. - Alicia Boehme

Annual Awards

Mark Bellamy Memorial Salad Bowl Trophy - Staff

Neville Bryant Memorial Award for Extension Mathematics - Alizandra McPherson

Jeff Charter Memorial Prize for Excellence in HSIE - Beau Thompson

UNE Vice-Chancellors High Achievement Prize - Madeleine Schroder

Senior Sportsman of the Year - William Tait

Aunty Doreen Leadership Award - Charlee Thompson

Aunty Doreen Reconciliation Award - Tracey Cassidy

McAuley Fest & McAuley Day

On Thursday 11th of September, we hosted our fifth annual McAuley Fest!

The night was a huge success with over 24 different bands and performances that included teachers, students and guests. There was a great turnout and the night was enjoyed by all! We'd like to say a huge thank you to Moreish Pizza, I Scream and Watch Me Grind Coffee who catered for the event with food and drink. We'd also like to say a big thank you to the Hospitality department who provided a sausage sizzle and a cake stall.

We thank all of the McAuley community for attending and all staff and students for helping to organise another successful McAuley Fest!

Following the wonderful night we had, on Friday the 12th, we celebrated McAuley Day, our College Feast Day. We started the day with a liturgy, reflecting on Catherine's life and the significance of her works to our school. Our Year 12 students then displayed their costumes with the theme of Childhood TV shows/movies. The rest of the day was spent participating in home room stalls to raise money for Mercy Works. The stalls were accompanied by a Talent Show, followed by the Year 12 Auction and a Year 12 students vs. teacher challenge (unfortunately, the teachers won). To wrap up the day, each year group participated in house challenges, and our Year 12s concluded their last McAuley Day with a Slip 'n Slide.

We would like to thank all the students who attended McAuley Day, participated in their stalls, and helped raise money for Mercy Works. A special thank you to our staff who organised the day and made it possible.

We can't wait to do it all again next year!

Grace Stackman

Leader - Faith In Action

McAuley Fest Showcases Young Artistic Talent

McAuley Catholic College recently celebrated the creativity and imagination of its students through the annual McAuley Fest Art Competition. The event brought together artworks in various media, including painting, drawing, and mixed media, highlighting the extraordinary talents of students from Years 7 to 11.

This year’s entries impressed judges with their originality, technical skill, and storytelling, making the selection of winners a tough decision.

Prize Winners:

Best in Show: River Lily Kidd (Year 10) – It Does Not Work Sometimes
Prize: Art supplies and a Book Warehouse voucher
2nd Prize: Macy Batinovic (Year 9) – Bird
Prize: Book Warehouse voucher
3rd Prize: Elice Weller (Year 8) – Landscape
Prize: Canteen voucher
3rd Prize: Sophie Hewitt (Year 7) – Summer Mushrooms
Prize: Canteen voucher
Encouragement Award: Maximus Willis (Year 7) – Link
Prize: Book Warehouse voucher

In addition to the award-winning pieces, the exhibition featured a rich variety of works including K-pop Universe and Clown Time by Sophie Hewitt (Year 7), The Bird by Alys Trevillian (Year 8), Lion by Macy Batinovic (Year 9), and a striking series Dawn at the Shore I, II, and III by Lily Barrett (Year 9). Senior entries included I am My Mother’s Daughter by River Lily Kidd (Year 10).

Mrs Hill and Mr Ellis praised the students for their dedication, noting that the competition continues to grow in quality each year.

The McAuley Fest Art Competition not only celebrates individual achievement but also reflects the vibrant culture of creativity within the school community.

Year 12 Student Leaders 2025-26

2026 College Leadership Team

During our Year 12 Graduation Ceremony this week, the current leaders handed over their leadership to the newly elected Captains for 2026. It gives us great pleasure to congratulate the following students on being elected into the following positions:

College Captains: Raimi Mortimer and Liam Salvestro

College Vice-Captains: Annabelle Hourigan and Hudson Batinovic

Ministry Captain: Beckett Albert

Champagnat House Captains: Kiera Banfield and Mason Cone

McCarthy House Captains: Eve Van Leest and Alex Sowell

Mercy House Captains: Grace Shorrock and Kamsiyochukwu Anachuna

Tracey House Captains: Hazel Golding and Max Forwell

Indigenous Student Leaders: Zahlee Kilduff & Taj Angelo

Next term, we will continue to add to our Student Leadership Team by electing leaders from current Year 10 and Year 9 students who will lead alongside our seniors in 2026.

Revd Francis Michael Mulcahy - Rest in Peace

Fr_Mulcahy_RIP_Obituary.pdf

Fr_F_Mulcahy_Grafton_1981DE.pdf

Fr_F_Mulcahy_Grafton_1981DE _pdf 217.58 KB

Year 12 Formal

The Year 12 celebrations for this year will conclude with a Formal Dinner on 8 November 2025. Tickets will be on sale via Compasstix at 4:00 pm today - with ticket sales strictly closing on Monday, 20th October 2025.

Date: Saturday, 8th November 2025

Venue: The South Grafton Ex-Services Club, 2 Wharf Street South Grafton

Time: All guests to be seated by 6:00 pm. Note: students will need to arrive by 5:15 pm for a group photo

Cost: $80 pp (Maximum of 4 tickets per family - 1 Student* and 3 guests*).

NOTE: The ticket for the student must also be paid for.

Tickets available via CompassTix only:

https://compasstix.com/event/477202a2-d8f8-493e-b6fa-ca551429585e

Special Dietary Requirements: can be noted via Compasstix when you are purchasing tickets.

Seating Requests: can be noted via Compasstix when you are purchasing tickets. Every effort will be made to accommodate requests, but it is not guaranteed.

* As per College Policy, families with outstanding fees will be limited to purchasing a student ticket only, unless all fees are paid in full by the closing date of ticket sales,OR, a formal payment arrangement has been approved by the College Business Manager. If you have any concerns in this regard, please contact the Business Manager on 66431 434 or by email on grafs@lism.catholic.edu.au

From The Classroom

Coffs Cultural Excursion

On Tuesday, 16th September, our students travelled to Coffs Harbour for a cultural tour, exploring several significant areas connected to Gumbaynggirr Country. Throughout the day, students were introduced to places with deep cultural meaning, each holding stories that have been passed down through generations.

Some of the key locations we visited included Moonee, McAuley’s Headland, and Sealy Lookout. At the jetty foreshore, we discussed the significance of Muttonbird Island, emphasising the importance of respecting and protecting these special places.

The excursion provided students with the opportunity to explore the Gumbaynggirr region of Coffs Harbour and also to experience these places firsthand. Engaging with Country in this way helps to strengthen cultural understanding and ensures that these stories and teachings continue to be shared with the next generation.

All the knowledge passed on during the excursion has been shared through generations with permission from local Elders, ensuring it is respected and preserved in line with cultural protocols and boundaries.

Year 8 STEM MAD Showcase

In Science, Year 8 have been learning about energy transfer. For their assessment task, students were asked to design, test and construct a solar oven. On Monday, 22nd September, these students showcased their solar ovens and demonstrated that their oven can gather enough of the sun's energy to cook a piece of pasta.

Careers News

Year 12 Offers for Universities

As the term wraps up, Year 12 students are busy processing entries to University or preparing for jobs.

Many early offers have been released for students over the last two weeks. Students must be very careful when reading their offers. If the offer says unconditional, there is no requirement to reach a specific ATAR score in their upcoming HSC exam, but if the offer says conditional, students must reach the specified ATAR score. In no circumstances should students enrol in a course yet because this will mean they are locked into paying for the course.

When students receive offers, they should accept each offer so they have a range of choices. Once they accept an offer, they can take that course off their UAC preference list and choose other courses. This is because until their actual result comes out on the 18th December, they will not know their actual choices. However, they must let the University know early if they will not be attending their course, before the final date, as they will hold up a spot that another student may want.

Bridging Courses and Diplomas - If Scores are too low for the preferred Degree

If students do not meet the course requirements, for many courses, they may be able to take a bridging or diploma course, which aligns with their ideal degree. After successfully completing the short course, participants will be eligible to move on to the next course. These bridging courses are often free and upskill students to prepare them for the rigours of the University course. To access one of these courses, students should apply for their ideal course, and the University will assign them to these foundation courses.

Also, many Universities will accept the qualification of Certificate Three as an entry mark for certain courses.

UAC / University Admission Centre New South Wales

The key dates to be aware of are:

The Early Bird entry fee for applying through UAC closes on 30th September
Change of preference closes and is locked on the 6th November. They are opened again for a window of time and then closed again on the 18th of December
The Schools Recommendation Scheme offers are released on 13th November
18th December ATAR scores are released and the change of preferences closes again
23rd December the first ATAR-based offers are released

Once the HSC results are released on 18th December, Universities will send their first round of offers for positions in their courses. If a student does not get straight into their chosen course, they may still be offered a place in that course during the second round of offers. This is a sorting process, meaning that all places in universities are hoped to be filled.

What is the final date for applying to University through UAC?

It's not too late to apply through UAC after the early bird deadline, though the processing charge increases significantly. The final closing date for applications is typically February 6, 2026, for the 2026 intake; however, individual courses may close earlier. It's best to check the UAC website for course-specific closing dates and to apply as soon as possible, even if students are unsure of their preference.

Applying through QTAC - The Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre

In this application process, students must apply before September 30th to access the $70.00 Early Bird fee. In the Queensland System, students have six preferences.
View the QTAC website for information https://www.qtac.edu.au/key-info/
I will provide more information in subsequent newsletters to explain the preference process in greater detail. I will be available to advise students and parents as they prepare for the HSC exams and then after the exams when scores are released. Please do not hesitate to contact me.

Year 11 Queensland University Tour

In Week 8, Term 4, six Year 11 students will join the Coffs, Clarence Careers Network tour of Queensland Universities. We will be joining other local schools to research different university courses and campuses including: Griffith University, University of Queensland, Queensland University of Technology and Southern Cross University. I am looking forward to sharing this opportunity with these students. Those who have been accepted on the tour, please bring your money and sign the compass note as soon as possible.

Year 10

We are still preparing for our work experience. Students and parents, please return your student placement documentation for work experience as soon as possible. This can be handed into the office or to your careers teacher. Students will also need to provide the employer with the employer’s handbook for work experience, which can be obtained from their careers teacher.

Thank you for reading.

All the best to Year twelve as they approach the H.S.C and their final days!

Mrs Maria Rouse

Careers

Sporting News

Northern Dio Touch Football Champions!

On Tuesday, 9 September, McAuley hosted the Northern Diocese Touch Football Championships in South Grafton. The format for the day was 20-minute games, where each school played each other once. Therefore, whoever won the most games would win the title in each age division. McAuley were competitive in all age groups and progressed throughout the day as team cohesion improved.

Congratulations to our OPEN BOYS touch football team, who won

the Northern Diocesan Touch Football championships. They went through the day undefeated, thanks to a strong defensive effort, with only a few tries scored against them. For the lads in Year 12: Zeplan, Will, Zethan and Austin - this is their third Open title in a row!

Our U15 Boys team had a great chance to win their division; however, a loss to Xavier in the last game resulted in them finishing as runners-up. Our U15 Girls showed a lot of potential and have a bright future ahead of them, coming third, and the Open Girls finished fourth.

A big thank you to the Grafton Touch Association for setting up the fields and running the canteen. Shout out to the McAuley referees who were kept busy all day. A day like this is not possible without the generous coaching from Mrs Corcoran, Mrs Light, Mr Nipperess, Mr Burgess and Angus Field.

Diocesan Athletics Carnival – Coffs Harbour

McAuley Shines at Diocesan Athletics – 12 Through to State!

On Tuesday, September 2nd, students from McAuley travelled to Coffs Harbour to compete in the Lismore Diocesan Athletics Carnival. We proudly had 55 students represent our school, joining athletes from 12 schools across the North Coast (Lismore Diocese).

Our students competed with determination, humility, and outstanding sportsmanship. Their efforts were rewarded with excellent results, as 12 students qualified for the NSWCCC State Athletics Championships at Homebush on Monday, 15th September.

Congratulations to the following state qualifiers:

13 Years Girls

Anastasia Vereyken – 1st 400m, 2nd 800m

13 Years Boys

Owen Kelly – 2nd 800m
Rashad Rice – 1st 100m, 1st High Jump

14 Years Girls

Sabrina Golding – 1st 100m, 1st 200m, 1st 400m

15 Years Girls

Paige Morrison – 1st High Jump

15 Years Boys

Lennox Sinappi – 2nd 200m

16 Years Girls

Steff Nudo – 2nd 100m, 2nd 200m

16 Years Boys

Cruz Sowell – 1st 800m

Open Girls

Ava Whiley – 1st Shot Put
Hazel Golding – 1st 100m, 1st 200m, 1st 400m
Jasmine Chellew – 2nd 100m, 2nd 200m, 2nd 400m

Open Boys

William Tait – 1st 100m, 1st 200m, 1st 400m

We wish these students all the best as they prepare to represent McAuley at the NSWCCC State Championships.

Other Notable Results (Personal Bests):

Zoe Edwards (12 Girls) – 4th 200m
Clarence Dougherty (12 Boys) – 3rd Shot Put
Rahni Flick (13 Girls) – 3rd Javelin
Owen Kelly (13 Boys) – 3rd 1500m
Gretel Farrell (14 Girls) – 2nd High Jump
Joseph Menzies (14 Boys) – 2nd High Jump
Callum Cameron (14 Boys) – 3rd Shot Put
Lacey Fahey (15 Girls) – 2nd High Jump
Bridgette Tough (16 Girls) – 3rd Long Jump
Mason Cone (16 Boys) – 3rd 200m, 3rd Long Jump
Hazel Golding (Open Girls) – 2nd Long Jump
Franklin Stephenson (Open Boys) – 2nd High Jump
Liam Salvestro (Open Boys) – 3rd 1500m

Well done to all students for their strong performances and new personal bests!

McAuley finished 2nd overall out of 12 schools, an incredible achievement for our small school in the Lismore Diocese.

Special Awards:

Diocesan Age Champions – Rashad Rice (13 Boys), Sabrina Golding (14 Girls), Hazel Golding (Open Girls)
Runner-Up Age Champion – William Tait (Open Boys)

Finally, special thanks to Mr Tait, Mr Hand, Mr Smith, and Mr Bruton-Duroux for managing our students and assisting with shot put on the day.

CCC Athletics 2025

On Monday 15th September, ten McAuley students proudly represented the Lismore Diocese at the Catholic Combined Colleges Athletics Carnival. Our athletes displayed determination and school spirit, with many achieving personal bests on the day.

Results:

Will Tait – 5th in the 200m final, 6th in the 100m final
Hazel Golding – 4th in the 200m final, 6th in the 100m final
Anastasia Vereyken (13 Girls) – 8th in both the 800m and 400m finals
Lenox Sutton Sinapati (15 Boys) – 5th in the 100m final
Steff Nudo (16 Girls) – 17th in the 200m
Paige Morrison (14 Girls) – 5th in High Jump
Owen Kelly (13 Boys) – 19th in the 800m final
Sabrina Golding (14 Girls) – 11th in the 200m final, 6th in the 100m final

A special congratulations goes to Rashad Rice, who claimed the silver medal in the 13 Boys High Jump, with a fantastic jump of 1.60m.

Congratulations to all our McAuley athletes on their achievements. We also wish the very best of luck to those who will compete at the NSW All Schools Championships during the upcoming holidays.

Far North Coast Rugby 10s – McAuley Shows Heart and Determination

On Thursday, 4 September, McAuley students travelled to the Alstonville Rugby Club to compete in the Far North Coast Rugby 10s Tournament. We proudly fielded Under-14 Boys and Girls teams, and Under-16 Boys and Girls teams.

The competition was fierce, but our students played with heart, passion, and great sportsmanship.

14 Girls
The Under-14 Girls team was brand new to the game, but they showed tremendous improvement throughout the day. Their grit and determination shone through against Alstonville High.

Special mentions to Avah Anderson, Marlie Zvatora, and Ari Saffigna, all playing up an age group, putting in excellent performances in both attack and defence.
Maya Masters, Elsie Trevillian and Olivia Peppernell all had memorable runs against Alstonville High.
Sage Edwards, Willa Brotherson and Eva Anderson all played an excellent backline, even coming in strong to clear out rucks.
Emily Archer, Zoe Edwards, Aleah Jeffery, and Savana Mazzitelli. The girls were so excited to play rugby that they were practising their lineouts all day.

The Under 16 Girls faced strong opposition from Ballina High, fighting hard to reach the finals. They went down 3 tries to 1 in a competitive match.

Abbey Spears impressed with her accurate kicking game and lightning-fast step, fending off defenders to score multiple tries.
Bridgette Tough showed determination with her ankle tackles and speed, weaving through the defence to score tries.
Ellie Day, Chloe Edwards, and Ella Jenner stood out with powerful clean-outs and excellent teamwork.
Caylee Austin, Harmony Daley, Rachel Surawski, and Zahli Plunkett, all on debut, made strong tackles and displayed a never-give-up attitude.
Sabrina Golding was unstoppable on the wing, scoring with blistering pace that no one could match.

14 Boys
The Under-14 Boys placed 3rd overall, demonstrating maturity beyond their years in tough matches against Xavier and Trinity College. They narrowly missed out on a finals spot after several close contests.

16 Boys
The Under-16 Boys faced an extremely competitive pool, losing all three games but never losing their spirit. They battled hard against strong sides, including Lindisfarne Anglican College and Xavier College, displaying resilience and commitment throughout. A special thank you goes to Dusty Woods, who played up and filled in for both age divisions.

A big thank you to Mr Burgess, Mr Ralston, and Mrs Instrell for their excellent coaching and support of our students on the day.

✨ We are incredibly proud of all our players for representing McAuley with courage, teamwork, and pride on the rugby field.

Mrs Eliza Corcoran

Leader of Sport