College Newsletter Term 1 Week 6 6 March 2026

Newsletter, Friday, 06 Mar 2026



Key Dates

DateEvent
March
10Yr 6 Bright Future STEM incursion
11Yr 11/12 Debating, Girls Grammar
11NAPLAN (Writing)
12NAPLAN (Language)
13NAPLAN (Reading)
16NAPLAN (Numeracy)
17Rugby League SBT Boys Pre-Season Challenge
18P&F Meeting, 5.30pm – 6.30pm
19Yr 7/8 Debating, Brisbane SHS
19Ramadan Finishes
19-20Pirlirrpa Camp
20National Day Against Bullying and Violence
23-27International Study Tour (Japan)
24Rugby League NRL RISE Girls’ Gala Day
25Sports Assembly
25YLAA Middle School Leaders Conference
25Yr 9 Debating, Gregory Terrace
26Yr 5 & 6 Retreats
27Principal’s Tour, 9.30am – 10.15am
27Harmony Day | Asian Festival
30-31Yr 5 Camp, Jimmies on the Dam
31Yr 6 Camp, Jimmies on the Dam
April
1Yr 6 Camp, Jimmies on the Dam
1Rugby League League Stars Challenge (Primary)
2Easter Liturgy
2St James Taster Day for Browns College
2Yr 12 Formal
2Last Day of Term 1
13-15EREA Football (Nudgee College)

Leadership Team

Principal
Andrée Rice

International Women’s Day: Balancing the Scales

Our International Women’s Day signature event on Friday was a powerful reminder of what can happen when girls and women are given the space to connect, laugh, and feel inspired - together. The day was an incredible success and left our Year 12 female students, our female staff and visiting families and guests feeling empowered and motivated to make their own contribution towards levelling the scales and changing society.

A special thank you goes to the boys and men of SJC who stepped in to cover classes and roles, prepared the venue and lunch, and demonstrated - in the most tangible way - what it looks like to ‘balance the scales’. Their labour was an act of respect and solidarity.

We were honoured to welcome many First Nations Elders, mothers, aunties and grandmothers, whose strength and cultural knowledge continue to inspire not only our First Nations students and staff but our whole community.

We also welcomed a powerhouse of panellists who were introduced by our talented captains Emma Corbett and Esther Silao.

  • Jasmina Joldic, a highly experienced and senior public servant who has served with distinction in the Department of Justice and Attorney-General in Queensland and now holds the position of Deputy Secretary within the Australian Government's Department of Education. Jasmina arrived in Australia as a young refugee from Bosnia and her story is one of incredible resilience and strength.
  • Jonty Bush MP, State Member for Cooper. Jonty was Young Australian of the Year 2009 and is a tireless advocate for victims of crime as well as many other community issues. Jonty’s presence and words underscored the power of speaking up and not settling for relationships that undermine or coerce.
  • Sharon Orapeleng, a respected community leader, Director and senior public servant, Sharon has been recognised as one of Queensland's leading women in 2013 and, more recently, as one of Queensland’s Inspiring African Australians in 2024.

I have been asked to publish the reflection I gave during the event. I hope you take something from it:

“The global UN theme for IWD this year is Balance the Scales as you have heard. We don’t have to look far to see what needs to be balanced up and the scales remain clearly uneven, weighted in favour of men. The question we need to keep asking as we scan our world and society is who is being advantaged and who is missing out. It’s these questions and answers that will enable change. At a world level, the Epstein Files are showing us that orchestrated abuse of women by conglomerations of powerful men is far from over.

Women in Iran, currently now living through war, have endured decades of severe restrictions of their rights in areas such as marriage, divorce, inheritance and political participation. Many Jimmies students come to us from countries like Afghanistan where girls are denied a secondary and university education, most jobs and being in public places like parks and sporting clubs. In Australia, women still earn only 88.8 cents for every $1 a man earns. Women retire with significantly less superannuation than men, are underrepresented in top tier leadership and boards, do the majority of unpaid labour at home and experience a disproportionately high rate of intimate partner violence as I am sure Jonty will talk about.

The lived experience of many girls and women here today and I acknowledge again our First Nations’ guests and anyone who has crossed oceans and continents in search of a safe place to raise their children tells us that gender inequality isn’t a simple, binary thing of equalling up women and men. Race, class, culture, disability and gender are at play in this inequity, often making things harder and more difficult to access and problem solve.

So let’s make today a call to arms to look and see, to ask questions and to contribute to change as best we can. Today we draw enormous inspiration from each other and I want our fantastic female students and student guests to know you can and will make a difference in the world and in your own lives.

You can open the doors to your own future because of the strength you have been gifted from your mothers, aunties and grandmothers and because of your education in the tradition of Edmund Rice which is grounded in the Catholic teaching of the dignity of every person and in our Touchstones of liberating education, Gospel spirituality, inclusive community and justice and solidarity. You will conquer challenges, walk through valleys of difficulties and emerge to sit on the mountain top in the sunshine, proud of your journey and who you have helped on your way. We are stronger together and we are blessed at Jimmies to be supported by a brilliant group of boys and men who want us to rise because they know that when women and girls stand equal with men and boys:

  • Families are stronger
  • Workplaces are fairer
  • Communities thrive AND
  • Society becomes safer for everyone.”

Every blessing for your week ahead.

I hope to meet many of you next Wednesday 18 March at 5.30 pm in the Realta Theatre in the Santiago Building to hear a bit more about what our parents and carers would like the St James College Parents and Friends’ group to be this year and into the future. Joining us will be Bernadette Kay from Catholic School Parents’ Queensland.

Please RSVP to nhart@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au if you are able to join us.


Deputy Principal
Kristina Johnson

It has been an incredible week at St James, filled with moments that truly reflect the strength and spirit of our community. Our House Breakfasts were a wonderful way to begin the year, with so many parents and carers joining students to share food, conversation and connection. The sense of belonging across our Houses was tangible and a reminder of the importance of partnership in learning.

We were also immensely proud of our students who represented the College in the first round of the Lions Youth of the Year competition. Congratulations to Charlotte Lockett, Anna Mukendi and Khalid Ali Idrisi, who all spoke with confidence and insight. Their responses to impromptu topics and formal interviews were outstanding in what is a very challenging competition. We wish Anna every success as she progresses to the next round.

Our Year 9 students took the next meaningful step in the Rite Journey program, sharing in a beautiful reflection with parents before walking together to Kangaroo Point. It was a special time of storytelling, laughter and support. Thank you to all those that were able to attend and to our staff who are providing a wonderful program for students in this year of transition for them.

We were also blessed to gather for International Women’s Day, inspired by powerful speakers who challenged us to continue ‘Balancing the Scales’ with Yoonthalla in our hearts and actions.


Around the College

Visit to Villa Maria Chapel by Year 5 and 6 Students
Sean Choromanski

This week, our Year 5 and 6 students visited the beautiful Villa Maria Chapel to prepare for our upcoming Mass. As a proud Edmund Rice school, these moments are vital for our students to experience the rhythm of our faith and understand the deeper meaning behind our communal celebrations.

Rather than a simple run-through, the students focused on how we participate in the Mass with reverence and confidence. They spent time learning about the flow of the liturgy, practicing their songs, and understanding how we move within a sacred space. It was inspiring to see our students embrace these traditions so thoughtfully, showing their readiness to come together as one heart and one mind within our college community.


Debating Season Opens with Success
Suzanne Devonshire

The debating season is off to an excellent start, with our Year 7/8 team winning their first debate of the year! They defeated the St Laurence’s College team, arguing that parents should be allowed to vote on behalf of their children who are under the voting age. Huge congratulations to the team and their coaches Ms Gracelyn Lee and Mrs Karen Lindsey.

We’re also cheering on our Year 9 and Year 11/12 teams as they launch into their seasons. Best of luck for the debates ahead. We can’t wait to see all our debaters demonstrate sharp critical thinking, clear reasoning, and confident, persuasive argumentation.


Year 10 Outdoor Recreation Assessment Day
Darin Coombs

Our Year 10 Outdoor Recreation students recently completed a practical assessment day on the beautiful Gold Coast Broadwater, focusing on water safety and rescue skills.

Under the guidance of experienced instructors, students revised essential safety procedures before applying their knowledge in realistic rescue scenarios. Working in teams, they demonstrated effective communication, decision-making and practical rescue techniques in a dynamic aquatic environment.

The day not only assessed their technical skills but also strengthened their understanding of risk management and personal responsibility around water. Students showed maturity, resilience and strong teamwork throughout the challenges.

Experiences such as this extend learning beyond the classroom, equipping students with valuable life skills and the confidence to respond calmly and safely in real-world situations.

We congratulate our Year 10 Outdoor Recreation class on their excellent participation and commitment during this important assessment day.


Year 10 Visual Art
Berenice Anzellotti

Year 10 students have been strengthening their drawing skills through an exploration of the grid method. This technique helps artists accurately scale and transfer images while improving observation, proportion, and tonal control.

As part of their research, students studied artists by analysing their approach by using grid structures to build detailed and expressive works. Students learned how breaking an image into smaller sections makes complex compositions more manageable and precise.

Using rulers, students carefully constructed proportional grids before working methodically, square by square, to recreate their chosen image. They applied a range of pencil techniques to build tone and depth, while kneaded erasers were used to lift graphite and create highlights and refined details.

These images show works in progress, and it has been impressive to see the patience and focus students have demonstrated throughout the process. We look forward to sharing the completed artworks soon.


Legal Studies Incursion at St James
Esther Silao

On 3 March, Year 11 and 12 Legal Studies students attended a special incursion with the Honourable Justice Kerri Mellifont KC, Judge of the Supreme Court of Queensland and President of QCAT.

Justice Mellifont shared insights into her career and explained how sentencing decisions are made. She outlined the key factors judges must consider, helping students better understand the responsibility and complexity of the legal system.

Anna Mukendi reflected, saying, “This experience was a great experience being able to learn from someone with such a high position. It really brought some insight that will help guide me in the future.”

Noa Silao shared, “It was interesting to see how her journey impacted greatly towards the position she is in now and made me more intrigued about learning law.”

Yaser Khan Niazy added, “It was a great experience listening to the different laws and lessons in sentencing.”

The session gave students a real-world perspective on law beyond the classroom.


A Heart for Helping: Tatum Pursues Her Path in Community Health
Helya Baghaie

This year, Year 12 student, Tatum is taking a major step toward her dream career by completing a Certificate in Health Services, a course that perfectly aligns with her passion for caring for others and contributing to the wellbeing of her community.

From the beginning of her senior studies, Tatum has shown a strong interest in understanding how health systems work and how individuals can be empowered to take control of their wellbeing. Her health certificate has given her valuable exposure to real‑world skills, from communication and teamwork to infection control and patient support. These experiences have strengthened her desire to one day become a midwife, a role she sees as both a privilege and a responsibility.

“I’ve always loved the idea of supporting people during really important times in their lives,” Tatum shared. “Learning about health has made me even more determined to help families feel safe, supported, and informed.”

Tatum is particularly passionate about community-focused health, believing that equitable, compassionate care begins with education and early intervention. Her long‑term goal is to work closely with women, families, and young people, especially in communities that may face barriers to accessing healthcare. Through her studies, she has already shown a natural ability to connect with others, listen with empathy, and approach challenges with maturity.

Her teachers describe her as motivated, kind-hearted, and deeply committed to learning. Whether she is completing practical tasks, studying theory, or working alongside peers, Tatum brings a positive attitude and strong sense of purpose to everything she does.

As she prepares to graduate, Tatum continues to build the foundation for a future career where she can make a meaningful difference. Her journey is a wonderful example of how passion, dedication, and the right learning opportunities can inspire young people to follow their calling.

We wish Tatum every success as she takes the next steps toward her dream of becoming a midwife. With her determination and compassion, there is no doubt she will touch the lives of many.


Year 12s: Head Start and Enhanced Studies Accomplishments
Lauren Mannion

During the school holidays, five of our new Year 12s took part in UQ’s ‘WRIT1999: Effective Thinking and Writing’ course, designed to prepare them for their Year 12 studies and entry into university.

Phoenix said of the program, ‘the program pushed my boundaries with my writing skills and gave me insight into what tertiary education feels like and how to be accountable for my own learning. A challenging experience but worthwhile.’

Tharu shared, ‘the UQ course helped me realise how much work I must put into doing uni. It was a worthwhile experience and broadened my perspective on learning.’

The students performed incredibly well, and we are very proud of them: one Pass, three Credits, and one Distinction.

We look forward to nominating another cohort of Year 11s for the program at the end of this year.

Tatum also completed a Health course at ACU and excelled, earning a High Distinction. Of the course, she said: ‘ACU made me gain experience and helped develop what I would like to pursue in the future. All the modules and staff were helpful and made me reach my full potential.’


Pasifika Potluck Dinner: A Celebration of Culture, Community, and Connection
Mariedelphi Silao

The recently held Pasifika Potluck Dinner brought our community together in a vibrant evening filled with colour, laughter, and the unmistakable warmth of Pacific hospitality. Families, friends, staff and students gathered to share not only food, but stories, traditions, and the spirit of togetherness in the theme of Unity: Yoonthalla, that defines Pasifika culture.

Families rotated through six different rooms getting a taste of the many different programs, initiatives and structures at the College. From Wellbeing, Sports, Rugby Excellence, Pasifika Culture, Identity and Advocacy and Expressive Arts, new and continuing families were able to get a taste of the amazing opportunities offered to their child here at the College.

The heart of the evening was the incredible spread of homemade dishes representing islands across the Pacific. Tables overflowed with favourites such as sapasu, kokoda, panipopo, taro, palusami, potatoe salad, otai and many more treasured recipes passed down through generations.

Events like the Pasifika Potluck Dinner remind us of the power of community. New friendships were formed, old connections were strengthened, and everyone left with full hearts (and full plates!). The atmosphere was one of generosity, respect, and celebration, values that sit at the centre of Pasifika identity and St James.


UQ Medical School and HEAL Program Collaboration
Sue Cameron

A recent initiative with the University of Queensland School of Medicine enabled final‑year medical student Taewan Kim to complete a placement at St James College, as part of an art therapy elective subject. Taewan participated in HEAL, English Support classes, Pirlirrpa and Wellbeing programs across the school. Taewan shared that the experience deepened his understanding of community youth mental health supports and the value of trauma‑informed, relationship‑centred practice in schools. He reflected on the positive philosophy of our school and the unique relationships we build with our students. On his final day, he and colleague Stella Seal spoke with senior EAL students about the varied pathways into medicine, the hard and soft skills students need to cultivate, the challenges EAL learners may encounter, and the resources that support success. We thank the university for a placement that enriched learning for both Taewan and our students.


2026 Kokoda Challenge
Sarah Mouritz

Our 2026 Kokoda Challenge training is officially underway, and we are off to a fantastic start! Last week was our first week of training and we have completed our first two training hikes, finding our fitness and making new friends.

On Saturday, we tackled our first long hike, a 7km trek along the Venman Track near Mt Cotton. We were fortunate to avoid the rain and an encouraging sign of the commitment our students are already showing.

We also continue to train each Wednesday afternoon at Mt Coot-tha, gradually increasing distance and difficulty as we prepare for the challenge ahead. These weekly hikes are building resilience, confidence and teamwork.

It’s not too late to get involved! All staff and students are invited to join us.


Sport
Michael Anderson

Football Queensland Q-League Schools Girls Football
Junior Girls:
Our Junior Girls’ football team shone at last week’s Football Queensland Q-League Schools gala Day, displaying not only impressive skill on the field but also outstanding teamwork and sportsmanship. From the first whistle to the final game, the team played with determination, confidence, and genuine enjoyment.

Throughout the day, the girls worked together seamlessly, communicating, supporting one another, and celebrating every effort. Their strong defensive plays, quick passes, and clever attacking moments showed just how far the team has come this season. Coaches and spectators alike commented on their focus and positive attitude, noting the way each player lifted those around them.

Beyond the goals scored and matches won, what stood out most was the team’s spirit. The girls brought enthusiasm to every game, cheering each other on and maintaining high energy even in the toughest moments. Their resilience and camaraderie created an uplifting atmosphere that made the day memorable for everyone involved.

We are incredibly proud of the way the girls represented our school, with pride, respect, and genuine love for the game. Congratulations to all players on a fantastic day and a brilliant display of teamwork and enjoyment. We look forward to seeing their continued growth and success on the field!

Senior Girls:
The Senior Girls’ football team demonstrated outstanding commitment and sportsmanship at the Q League, embodying Liverpool’s core values of passion, ambition, integrity, and unity. Despite facing tough competition, the girls delivered impressive performances across all matches. They narrowly lost 1-0 in a closely contested game (Groves Christian College), showcasing their resilience and determination. The team also secured a 1-1 draw (Mable Park SHS) and a 0-0 stalemate (Loganlea SHS), highlighting their defensive solidity and team spirit. Player of the Day, Janae Hutchison-Park, stood out with her exceptional effort and leadership on the pitch, inspired by her Liverpool role model Grace Fisk. The team’s strong display of teamwork and sportsmanship reflects their pride and dedication. Overall, the girls can be very proud of their performances, demonstrating growth and a positive attitude throughout the tournament. Their efforts have laid a solid foundation for future success and development in girls’ football.

Senior Boys First XI Football Team
Our Senior Boys First XI Football Team showed outstanding resilience in their recent friendly against St Laurence's College. Facing tough conditions and strong opposition, the boys battled relentlessly from the first whistle to the last, demonstrating grit, teamwork, and school pride. While the final result didn’t fall in their favour, there were many positives to take away. Several players delivered fantastic individual performances, highlighted by a sensational wonder goal from Year 10 student Jordan Lukabika. The team’s determination and spirit were a credit to the jersey and promise an exciting season ahead.

Rugby League Excellence
The Rugby League Excellence program will see Term 1 games and Gala Days commence over the next few weeks. Our Year 9-10 Boys (B Side) played recently at Bill Norris Oval, Beenleigh against Clairvaux MacKillop. Games will continue each Monday for the remainder of Term 1.

The Year 7-10 Girls will be participating and competing in the NRL Rise Gala Day on Tuesday 24 March at Browns Plains Bears, 357 Browns Plains Rd, Browns Plains. It begins at 9.30am, with skills and drills being led by coaches, and followed by games against other schools. It will conclude by 1.30pm.

Our Senior Women and Men, continue their preparation for the Term 2 National School Girls and Gee Cup competitions.

Years 5 – 9 Inter House Volleyball Competition
On Friday 27 February, St James College proudly hosted the first Years 5–9 Inter-House Sports Afternoon for 2026, held during Sessions 3 and 4. The afternoon featured an exciting volleyball competition, with each year level competing in a round-robin format to earn valuable points for their House.

The atmosphere throughout the afternoon was outstanding. Students demonstrated excellent sportsmanship, teamwork and enthusiasm, with every year level fully engaged in their matches. It was fantastic to see students encouraging one another, celebrating successes and proudly representing their Houses. The event not only showcased skill development but also strengthened House spirit and community connection across the College.

Year 5–9 Inter-House Volleyball Results
Year Level Placings (Points awarded: 1st – 20pts, 2nd – 15pts, 3rd – 10pts, 4th – 5pts)

  • Year 5/6: 1st Carey | 2nd Hogan | 3rd Long | 4th Mary Rice
  • Year 7: 1st Hogan | 2nd Mary Rice | 3rd Carey | 4th Long
  • Year 8: 1st Mary Rice | 2nd Hogan | 3rd Long | 4th Carey
  • Year 9: 1st Carey | 2nd Mary Rice | 3rd Long | 4th Hogan

Overall Results

  • 1st Place: Mary Rice – 75pts
  • 2nd Place: Carey – 70pts
  • 3rd Place: Hogan – 65pts
  • 4th Place: Long – 40pts

Congratulations to Mary Rice House on taking out the overall win for our first Inter-House Sports Afternoon. Thank you to all staff and students who contributed to such a positive and successful event. We look forward to building on this momentum at our next Inter-House competition!

Interhouse Swimming Carnival
The annual Interhouse Swimming Carnival held on Friday 20 February was a day of wonderful camaraderie, competition and enjoyment. Congratulations to Long House for taking out the overall win for the first Inter-House Sports Carnival of 2026. Thank you to all staff and students for your attendance and outstanding participation.

The Carnival results are shown below:

  • 1st Place: Long - 1047 points (396 Age Champion Events | 651 House Events)
  • 2nd Place: Hogan – 973 points (358 Age Champion Events | 615 House Events)
  • 3rd Place: Mary Rice – 947 points (283 Age Champion Events | 664 House Events)
  • 4th Place: Carey – 873 points (202 Age Champion Events | 671 House Events)

Central Sharks and Met East College Representatives
Darin Coombs

Congratulations to the following students who have successfully trialled for Central Sharks and have been selected to represent the district at the Met East trials over the past fortnight.

This year, we have celebrated an outstanding number of selections across a variety of sports. In particular, Netball was exceptionally strong, with 14 girls selected in Central Sharks teams, while Basketball saw 7 students earn selection. These students have demonstrated exceptional skill, commitment and sportsmanship in their respective sports.

Within our Rugby League Excellence Program, we congratulate nine girls selected to represent the Met East Rugby League team. We also recognise 14 boys who were selected in the Central Sharks District side and will trial for the Met East team. These achievements highlight their dedication, perseverance and skill on the field.

The Met East Swimming Trials saw St James proudly represented by 10 Multi Class students, with several competing at this level for the first time. Of the 10 swimmers, six earned selection in the Met East team. The trials were a wonderful celebration of emerging talent and inclusivity in sport. We wish our six swimmers the very best of luck at the Queensland State Championships later this month.

We are also proud to acknowledge three students who have gained direct selection into Met East teams: Keilani Orupe (Softball), Sahr Thomas (Football), and Joseph Duggan (Water Polo). Their achievements reflect the diverse and high-level sporting talent at St James College. We wish them every success as they prepare for the Queensland State Championships taking place across the state in the coming month.

We are extremely proud of how all these students continue to represent both St James College and their district and region with pride and integrity. We wish them the very best as they continue their sporting journeys.

Netball – Central Sharks Representatives
13–15 Years (Girls): Cartier Liu-Kingi, Eden Stephens, Willow-Rose Burr, Yvonne Asi-Pou, Zarylah Moananu.
16–19 Years (Girls): Alyssa Spieker, Psalms Peeni, Lucy Scott, Shyah Kara, Tailah Rewha-Lo, Kailee Upkett, Ariella Schuster-Oloapu, Jahvani Swney, Manaia Heke.

Basketball – Central Sharks Representatives
13–16 Years (Boys and Girls): Kelya Rameka, Eden Cooper, Ayva Semeatu, Amaia Taylor, Leilani Tiatia, Kingston Peris, Darelle Paiwan.

AFL – Central Sharks Representative
15-17 Years (Boys): Kag Kag.

Met East Representatives
Keilani Orupe (Softball), Sahr Thomas (Football), Joseph Duggan (Water Polo), Amaia Taylor (Basketball), Eden Cooper (Basketball), Avya Semeatu (Basketball), Kingston Peris (Basketball).

Rugby League Selections
Met East
U15–16: Shyloh Tofae, Charlie-Rose Tevita, Ngatahlia Harris, Khadeja Moa, Laura Mills, Jayannah Kelly-Glenbar, Ungatea Tuitahi, Seta Lelilio-Sali.
U17–18: Sinalei Tupu.

Central Sharks (Selected to Trial for Met East)
U15–16: Jermaine Fisher, Tala Lui, Hapa Vatu, Evan Stainkey, Tyson Vatu, Matte Kairua.
U17–18: Tippessa Lee, Tau Lelilo-Sali, James Peni, James Davis Moa, Mose Tafili, Devine Timu, Zechariah Tuialii, Lebron Afoa.

Swimming Multi-Class – Met East Representatives
Ari Mueller, Hugo Brittain, Oliver Hutchison. Serenity Oakley- Dunning, Tessa Brittain, Eleanor Lucas.


FEES

Genevieve O’Sullivan

Please be advised that all fees are now OVERDUE, unless you are on a regular payment plan via Direct Debit, BPAY or CentrePay, or have an approved plan in place with us. If so, please just continue your regular payments.

To check your current balance, or access your statements, please log in to Parent Lounge and click on the Accounts & Payments tab at the top of the page.

If you are experiencing financial hardship and would like to apply for a fees concession, please contact us for a confidential discussion and application.

2026 Tuition Fees information can be found on our website here: https://www.stjamescollege.qld.edu.au/enrol/domestic-students

Should you have any queries or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us at finance@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au or 3230 8600.

Please note that non-payment of fees and no contact with the College to discuss a payment plan or fees concession may result in referral to an external debt collection agency. We strongly encourage you to reach out to the Finance Department as soon as possible if you are experiencing difficulties with your payments, so we can assist in finding a solution.


Notices

Queensland Government School Transport Assistance

The Queensland Government provides assistance with school transport costs for eligible students travelling to and from school under the School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS).

STAS assistance is available for all government funded bus and ferry services (including TransLink and qConnect services). Assistance is also available for rail travel (City Rail and G-Link) and private vehicles travel subject to meeting specific eligibility criteria such as:

General eligibility criteria
Students may be eligible for school transport assistance under certain circumstances if they:

  • Have parents/guardians who are residents of Queensland.
  • Attend an approved school or alternative program approved by the Department of Education.
  • Are younger than 19 years of age.
  • Are seeking transport assistance to and from one address only.
  • Make a minimum of two trips per week via the nominated transport mode.
  • Are in families that possess a Centrelink Pension, Healthcare or Department of Veterans Affairs concession card.

More information and online application can be found here: Online Application Link


St Patrick’s Day Mass 2026

The Annual St Patrick’s Day Mass, organised by the St Patrick’s Day Parade Association, will be celebrated again this year in the Cathedral of St Stephen, Elizabeth Street at 10.00am on Tuesday, 17 March 2026. Fr Gerard McMorrow will be the celebrant. All are invited to attend. And, for those who may be unable to do so, the Mass will be live-streamed on this link - Mass live stream - Archdiocese of Brisbane. You may wish to pass the link on to someone overseas. And we invite you also to join your fellow attendees for morning tea afterwards in the Hanly Room.

Reminder for families:

Please ensure your contact details are up to date on Parent Lounge or contact the College on 3230 8600 or school@stjamescollege.qld.edu.au if you need assistance.