Key Dates

Date	Event
August
25-29	VET Skills Week
28-29	Met East Athletics Carnival, QSAC
30	HEAL Concert
September
1-3	National All Schools Netball Challenge, Adelaide
4	Yr 9 Outdoor Ed
5	Student Free Day
8	Working at EREA Colleges Event
8	College Advisory Council Meeting
10	Sport Assembly
10-12	Yr 12 Outdoor Education Camp
12	Special Education Football Carnival
13	UQ Winter Series Athletics Meet
17-19	Yr 9 Camp
17-20	CBSQ Seniors
19	St James College Taster Day
19	Last Day Term 3
October
2-5	QLD All Schools Athletics Championships
6	King’s Birthday Public Holiday
7	Term 4 Commences
9	College Photos (including Sport & Yr 12)
10	Yr 10 Immunizations
10	Yr 12 Outdoor Ed
10	Formula High School Challenge, Lakeside Park
17	College Presentation Night
20	College Advisory Council Meeting
24	Last Day for Year 12 Students
27	P&F Meeting
29-31	Yr 11 Outdoor Education Camp

Leadership Team

Principal
Andrée Rice

I am thrilled to share with you the striking image of Blessed Edmund Rice, commissioned by St James during our Tiwi Islands Immersion Experience. The talented artist behind this work is Fiona Kerinauia, a renowned curator at the Museum on Bathurst Island and a highly respected artist in the Northern Territory. Fiona's stained glass artwork is also displayed in one of the panels in the Catholic Cathedral in Darwin. Our school will treasure this beautiful image of Edmund Rice, whose eyes seem to follow you everywhere. We plan to frame and hang it in our main school reception as a powerful symbol of our solidarity with and respect for First Nations Australians.

In other exciting news, we are delighted to announce the construction of a contemporary, vibrant, student-centric Junior School building at Warren St, set to open next year. This strategic decision aims to consolidate and expand our Years 5-6 precinct. The new facility will feature a reception, student wellbeing spaces, moveable classroom walls, gathering areas, and a break-out play area. The images above offer a glimpse into what the spaces will look like, but much exciting work remains to be done. If you have family members or friends interested in enrolling their students in our Junior School, now is the perfect time to contact us for an enrolment interview.

Lastly, I wish to express my heartfelt gratitude to our generous donors and special friends who attended our inaugural Gratitude Event last week. The evening brought together a diverse group of people, including former students and staff (such as our former principals, Mrs Ann Rebgetz and Mr Gerry Crooks). Their ongoing donations enable us to provide the financial support our students need to access a St James College education. Our articulate Year 12 students (Basira Hazara, Engy Abdalla Gamar and Ethan Murray) spoke movingly about the profound impact Jimmies has had on their lives, leaving few dry eyes in the room. Our choir and dancers delivered exceptional performances, and a stunning array of artworks was on display. Special thanks go to Mrs Naomi Ritchie and Mr Michael Harrop for leading this wonderful event.

I would like to leave you with a prayer inspired by the Charter for Catholic Schools in the Edmund Rice Tradition, which I shared with the EREA Colleges QLD Principals during our meeting in Townsville last week:

Deputy Principal
Kristina Johnson

The Changing Landscape of AI and Education

At St James (and in society) we are aware of the changing landscape of education, particularly the rapid shifts in how young people learn. Much of this has been driven by new technologies and evolving expectations. Whilst as teachers, our hearts and minds are always focused on creating opportunities and supporting our Jimmies Students, the importance of the role of parents and carers in supporting their children through these changes is paramount. Parents and carers are fundamental in helping young people navigate the complexities of social media, develop strong digital literacy skills, and foster a truly responsible approach to using technology in their daily lives.

Ways you can support your student:

1. Embrace Digital Literacy: Learning increasingly involves digital tools, from online research to collaborative platforms. As parents/carers, you can support by ensuring students have appropriate access to devices and internet, and by ensuring safe and responsible online habits (for example – no devices in bedrooms, limit screen time, have a cut off of online time at home).
2. Encourage Critical Thinking, Not Just Information Gathering: With vast information at their fingertips, students need to develop skills in evaluating sources, analysing data, and forming independent conclusions. Encourage discussions with your student about what they're learning and how they arrived at their understanding (always get students to fact check, avoid dis and mis information, query and ask – is this real, why is it and how is it?)
3. Prioritise Wellbeing and Resilience: Rapid change can be stressful. Parents/carers must support your child's mental health, teach them coping strategies, and foster resilience.

Understanding these shifts will be key as we continue to navigate the emerging world of Artificial Intelligence and its profound impact on learning because, as we know, Artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly changing our world. As the proliferation of AI is absorbed in society, we recognise, both at school and at home, the need to help students go beyond just knowing what AI is. Specifically, one important area that young people need support in is that of: evolving AI relationships. As AI becomes more sophisticated, young people might form complex interactions with AI tools, from educational platforms to entertainment. As parents/carers, it is important that you assist to guide your student to navigate these relationships responsibly and ethically.

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg, recently wrote an article that is available on the College Website ‘School TV’ titled ‘SPECIAL REPORT: Navigating AI Relationships’. I encourage all parents and carers to read this article and watch the short video to assist you to further understand this complex new way of interacting.
https://stjamescollege.qld.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-navigating-ai-relationships-au

QATSIF Graduation

Congratulations to Tahira Muckan, Mikhail Korotaev, Jackson Vitale, Lachlan Muckwort and Lenore Georgetown who attended the Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Foundation (QATSIF) Graduation ceremony held at Griffith University, Nathan last Tuesday, 12 August. We wish Tahira, Mikhail, Jackson, Lachlan and Lenore ongoing success in their educational studies and empowerment as part of the next generation of young Indigenous leaders.

Assistant Principal – Identity & Global Advocacy
Isikeli Kubunameca

Tiwi Immersion - Student Reflection

Before arriving in Tiwi, I pictured a place that had a rich culture, but was inhabited by people who were unwelcoming due to their remote location. I was a bit apprehensive about staying on the Tiwi Islands because I was worried that the locals wouldn’t accept us because we were foreigners.

I wanted to come on the Immersion because I have always been interested in learning about new cultures. As my dad always said, “the best way to learn something new is to go and experience it yourself,” which has always pushed me to be inquisitive.

After spending time in the Tiwi Islands, I will definitely cherish the memories of my new friends from there, and I’ve gained humility and gratitude. Living in Tiwi showed me how to be content with the things I already have, and that I shouldn’t take anything for granted. I started to become grateful for even the small things like sleeping in a bed and having a shower. I also learnt the importance of community as I was fortunate enough to have met so many beautiful people on Tiwi.

Emma Corbett (Year 11)

Stand for Justice

Last Friday 15 August, the St James community went out into our community to serve. It was a mammoth feat with the College coordinating 58 activities and 27 different organisations. A big thank you to all the staff and students that helped organise and coordinate, turned up to serve, advocate and raise funds for our communities.

Assistant Principal – Learning, Innovation, Partnerships & Pathways
Karen Lindsey

Tiwi Islands Immersion

This term, I was privileged to join our students on the Tiwi Islands Immersion, staying “on country” and working with teachers and students in the community of Wurrumiyanga. It was inspiring to witness our students grow in confidence and leadership as they interacted with their peers. Many described the experience as life-changing, with some even expressing a desire to become teachers in the future—a testament to the power of shared learning and connection.

Term 3 Assessment Update – Yr 12 Mock Exams

As Term 3 assessments continue, I remind families and students of the importance of meeting deadlines. Adhering to due dates develops responsibility and prepares students for life beyond school, where punctuality is vital. Drafts are compulsory for all assignments and, where a final copy is not submitted, the draft will be marked. Students who miss an exam must provide a medical certificate and sit a comparable paper upon return.

Finally, Year 12 students will undertake Mock Exams in Week 10. The timetable will be released next Monday. These exams, along with Certificate course catch-up sessions, are compulsory and provide crucial preparation for External Examinations beginning 27 October. Students must present a medical certificate if absent for a mock exam.

For students in Certificate courses, the 3-hour blocks allocations will allow students who are behind to catch up on competencies needed to complete the courses. Students who fail to complete all competencies by early Term 4 may end up with a "Statement of Attainment" rather than a completed qualification.

Teacher Professional Learning – The Impact of AI

Last week our teaching staff was privileged to host Mr Vince Wall, an innovator and PhD researcher in the field of AI in Education, as he presented to us the latest in Generative Artificial Intelligence and its strengths and limitations for both staff and students. Our teachers were highly engaged and provoked to consider how we can all assist our students to manipulate AI for “good.” With so much potential in this new technology, Vince was a great expert to link with as he presented the latest research, pros and cons for our staff to consider as we continue to prepare our students for an ever-changing world!

Around the College

Book An Adventure – St James Book Week 2025!
Sarah Mouritz

The theme this year was Book an Adventure, and it was a big week in the St James library! We kicked off with “Read and Connect – Sharing Stories with Teachers,” where students enjoyed the chance to listen and bond over favourite books with teachers in the outdoors.

Throughout the week, the library went technology-free during breaks, giving students the chance to read, draw, play card and board games, and connect without screens.

Our Year 5 and 6 students were treated to a special “Choose Your Own Adventure” Junior Book Week lunch, where they created their own burgers. We were also fortunate to host author Ryan Chapman, who came in to chat about his picture books Adventures with Henny – Driving to the Red Sands and Adventures with Henny – Looking for Waterholes, engaging our students with stories of Henny’s outback adventures.

We will end the week with a cozy PJ dress-up day for Year 5 and 6, along with adventure board games during lunch. A big thank you goes to Michelle Sparks for catering our delicious lunch and

Hands and Hearts United: Pirlirrpa’s Community Service Project
Ryan Chapman

Pirlirrpa students recently joined Yellow Dove Australia in a hands-on community initiative, packing care packages to support those in need. Guided by the values of compassion and service, students assembled essential personal and hygiene items, learning the importance of giving back and working together. These care packages will be delivered to Open Minds, supporting individuals in the Tweed Heads and Northern Rivers region living with mental health challenges and psychosocial disabilities. This project not only provided practical help but also encouraged empathy, teamwork, and cultural awareness among the students, leaving a lasting positive impact on both givers and recipients. Thank you to all Staff and Families who kindly donated dental hygiene or personal sanitary supplies.

Global Connections: Welcoming Waseda Osaka High School to St James College
Kaspar Wong

Last week, we had the pleasure of hosting 16 Japanese students and their teachers from Waseda Osaka High School. The students spent a week engaging with our Year 11 and 12 students. There were many interactive activities for both students and staff, including a cooking class, sports, and even the opportunity for some Japanese students to play rugby for the first time. We also took the Japanese students to explore the Story Bridge to help them have a deeper understanding of Brisbane. We hope to see them again in the future.

Year 10 Art Students Inspired at QAGOMA
Berenice Anzellotti

Our Year 10 Visual Art students recently had the exciting opportunity to visit the Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) to explore the exhibition Wonderstruck as well as a selection of contemporary artworks currently on display at QAG.

The day was filled with inspiration, as students immersed themselves in a diverse range of art forms from painting, sculpture, installation, photography, and interactive works. Wonderstruck offered a captivating mix of creativity and imagination, sparking plenty of discussion and new ideas for their own art practice.

Beyond simply viewing the artworks, students were able to reflect on different artistic approaches, themes, and techniques, gaining valuable insight into how contemporary artists communicate ideas while working through worksheets. It was a wonderful chance to connect what they’ve been learning in the classroom to the vibrant, ever-evolving world of professional art.

The trip was both educational and enjoyable, and it’s safe to say our Year 10s returned to school inspired, energised, and ready to experiment with fresh ideas in their own creative work.

Year 11 Hospitality Excursion
Ojas Watve

On 12 August 2025, the Year 11 Hospitality students participated in an excursion to Brisbane Grammar School, a prestigious institution established in 1868 and recognised for its rich cultural heritage. The students were eager to explore the extensive campus, which includes a fully operational catering department.

During the visit, students gained valuable insights into the school’s catering operations, which manage a variety of functions such as gala dinners, canapé events, and formal three-course dinners. Observing these processes within a school-based commercial kitchen provided students with a broader perspective of the hospitality industry. This experience allowed them to appreciate the efficiency, professionalism, and organisational skills required to successfully deliver large-scale catering events, further enriching their understanding of career pathways in the field of hospitality.

The Future Workforce: Year 7–9 Students Discover New Pathways
Tony Ninasivinche and Tim Spina

On Wednesday 20 August, sixteen students from Years 7 to 9 took part in a half-day program at QUT Gardens Point. The workshop, The Future Workforce: Jobs and Skills for the Next Generation, introduced students to the Japanese idea of Ikigai—finding purpose by connecting passion, strengths, and career pathways.

The day started with introductions before the main workshop (9:30am–11:00am), where students discussed design thinking and the technologies shaping future jobs. After a short segment on University student life presentation, students joined a campus tour. Highlights included the QUT Motorsports Workshop, where Formula Student race car components are designed and produced, the Sports Arena, Australia’s first university e-sports facility, and The Cube, a two-storey interactive STEM display space.

The excursion gave students a practical look at university learning and future career opportunities.

St James Students Shone at the Ekka Thanks to Multicultural Australia Partnership
Tony Ninasivinche

We were proud to share that several St James College students were selected to work at the Ekka Festival, thanks to a wonderful opportunity provided by our valued partners at Multicultural Australia.

Youth Employment Advisor Tiffany Chen visited the school to meet with students and recruit young people from refugee backgrounds for paid work at the Ekka. For many of the students, it was their first time experiencing the iconic Ekka festival.

The students took on a range of roles, including working in the ticketing office, selling food, and distributing showbags at the exhibition hall. It was not only an exciting opportunity to be part of one of Brisbane’s biggest events, but also a chance to gain real-world work experience.

Congratulations to the following students for securing a role: Rosette Kyozi, Atia Hassan, Alia Hassan, Sakina Rezaie, Hadees Ahmadi, Roya Abasi, and Muskan Gulistani.

If you attended the Ekka this year, we hope you spotted our St James students in action and had the chance to wish them well!

IT Club in the Library
Marco Lam

The IT Club meets at First Break every Tuesday in the Library. Students have been exploring the moving parts of their school laptops and getting hands on experience with learning how IT infrastructure works behind the scenes. The club is a welcoming space for anyone curious about technology, from beginners to budding experts. Come along, have fun, and grow your tech skills with friends!

Introducing the brand-new Magic: The Gathering Social Club
Lino Bartilomo

It’s a Trading Card game where you become a powerful wizard—and you duel other players using creatures and spells. Think of it as chess… but with fireballs, zombies, and dragons. This club is all about fun, friendship, and a little bit of competition. New and veteran players welcome. Ideal age 14-18 years, but open to all. Magic has a huge competitive scene—local tournaments, national championships, even world titles. So, if you’re looking for something new, something fun, and something a little bit nerdy — come join us. We’ll be meeting every Monday during first break at MR5, just across from the hall. So, students, bring your curiosity, bring your imagination, and most importantly—bring your game face. We all have some Magic within us, but now, it’s time for, “the Gathering”.

Sport

Tuesday Interschool Sport 12 August

Round 9 and the final round of fixtures for the Winter Season of Interschool sport was filled of more exciting games across all sports. Our Boys Volleyball continued on their good form with another 2 sets to nil win.

Tuesday Interschool Sport 19 August

Finals Round of the interschool sport Winter season was upon us, and our St James students certainly delivered. It was a great way to cap off a remarkable and successful season for so many of our teams. With three of four Basketball teams picking up victories and our Year 9 girls Netball team with an impressive 14 point victory. Thank you to all of our players and coaches for a great season.

Sporting Representatives - South District

Aleer Aleu, Ajax Amesbury, Ned Amorsen Chanamita, Lens Young, Taisha Eketone, Philip Harding, Jordan Lancaster, Lyric Lealiiee, Cooper Lofts, Basy Monkland, Hayden Moore, Koi Okawa, Jack Stretton, Lasi Tapuloloo, Talei Timbo-Artango, Molly Carter, William Carter, Alex Gonsalves, Oliver Hutchison, Eleanor Lucas, Ari Mueller, Zac Nalder, Sid Quinnel, Ethan Murray, Riley Nolan McQueen, Tyler Wilson, Isaac Weston.

Vicki Wilson Championships

On August 7-8 both the senior boys’ and junior girls’ netball teams competed at the Vicki Wilson Championships. It was a great success as both teams made the Grand Final and both runners up. The majority of the girls’ team will be competing in the National All Schools Netball Challenge in Adelaide, September 1-3. The team was made up of Year 7, 8s and 9s playing against primarily Year 9 teams and showcasing amazing talent. The Vicki Wilson Championships was attended by the top two teams of each region. Having played our regionals in May early this year, it was a chance to test our skills before heading to Adelaide. Representing St James in Adelaide will be a Year 9/10 team inclusive of Year 8 students.

Football Queensland Schools Boys Q-League

Our Boys Football teams wrapped up their 2025 season last Tuesday with an exciting final matchday. The event was filled with energy—large student crowds, special guests, and trophy presentations all contributed to a fantastic atmosphere that truly showcased the Q-League spirit.

A special thanks to the Brisbane Roar A-League Men’s team for welcoming our boys onto their training field at Meakin Park. Players Quinn MacNicol and Lucas Herrington generously spent time chatting, sharing drills, and taking photos—an unforgettable experience for our students.

On the field, our Senior Boys finished strong with an undefeated day, including a 3–0 win over Mabel Park SHS, denying them the title. While our Junior team narrowly lost 1–0 in their final game, both teams displayed great teamwork and pride in wearing the Jimmies shirt.

U16s Queensland School Futsal League

This Tuesday saw thrilling action from our U16 boys and girls futsal teams, each playing three intense matches.

The Jimmies Boys showed grit and skill, narrowly losing to Wisdom College before drawing 4-4 in a high-energy clash with Calamvale. They finished strong with a dominant 11-2 win over Redeemer Lutheran College.

Our girls team displayed incredible determination, bouncing back from two tough matches to finish with a spirited performance against Wisdom College. With many players also competing in the U14s, their effort and growth were inspiring. Standouts included Jamie Schultz (Grade 7) with 3 goals and Janae Hutchison-Park (Grade 9) for her tireless defense. All players should be commended for their efforts and skill shown throughout the day including, Dorcas Mulumeoderwa, Daniella Silao, Caitlin Balbin, Gwyneth Nicholls and Aye Det.

St James College Athletics – South District Track & Field Carnival.

St James Athletics has had a fantastic two days (Monday 4 and Friday 8 August) at the South Districts Track & Field Carnival at QSAC. Over the two days, 34 students participated which culminated in some fantastic results!

Track Events
100m – 1st	Basy Monkland, Ned Amorsen (11.3s), Lens Young, Ollie Hutchison, Tyler McQueen, Eleanor Lucas, Molly Carter.
100m – 2nd	Talei Timbo-Artango
200m – 1st	Basy Monkland, Ned Amorsen, Jordan Lancaster, Ollie Hutchison, Tyler McQueen, Eleanor Lucas, Molly Carter.
200m – 2nd	Talei Timbo-Artango
400m – 1st	Ned Amorsen, Jack Stretton, Jordan Lancaster, Molly Carter, Eleanor Lucas, Olllie Hutchison
800m – 1st	Hayden Moore, Ollie Hutchison, Molly Carter.
800m – 2nd	Ari Mueller
1500m – 1st	Ollie Hutchison, Molly Carter.
1500m – 2nd	Ari Mueller.
1500m – 3rd	Hayden Moore
4 x 100m Relay Opens Girls - 1st	Eleanor Lucas, Shanae Attunga, Taylor Bruinsma, Basy Monkland
4 x 100m Relay Opens Boys – 1st	Koi Okawa, Lens Young, Jay Haragakiza, Ned Amorsen
4 x 100m Relay Multi Class – 1st	Ollie Hutchison, Alex Gonsalves, Ari Mueller, Zac Nalder

Field Events
Javelin – 1st	Cooper Lofts (Pb 54.47m), Ari Mueller
Shot put – 1st	Taisha Eketone, Lyric Lealiiee, Will Carter, Ari Mueller.
Shot put – 3rd	Cooper Lofts
Triple Jump – 1st	Philip Harding.
Triple Jump – 2nd	Koi Okawa & Ajax Amesbury
Discus – 1st	Lasi Tapuloloo, Ari Mueller.
Discus – 2nd	Philip Harding
Long Jump – 1st	Koi Okawa, Zac Nalder, Eleanor Lucas.
Long Jump – 2nd	Lens Young, Lasi Tapuloloo
High Jump – 1st	Lens Young, Aleer Aleu & Jordan Lancaster(1.78)

Thank you to Mr Coombs, Mr M Anderson & Mrs Hoelscher for their help over the two days. Twenty-eight students have qualified for the Met East Track & Field Carnival in Week 7. We wish all these athletes the best of luck.

Primary School 3v3 Basketball – Kirron Byrne

Over four exciting days, our primary students took part in the 2025 3x3 Champion Schools basketball tournament. The Girls' Division 1 team played seven games in two days, many experiencing interschool competition for the first time, showing true grit and St James spirit. The Boys team impressed with four wins out of five games on day one, advancing to the semi-finals on day two securing the win vs Sheldon after the final buzzer with a clutch free-throw. Congratulations to all players and to Jaylee Hippolite for her admirable coaching of both teams. The future of St James basketball is bright!

Girls Rugby League – Ana Fotu

Congratulations to our Rugby League Excellence Girls who did well at Moreton Bay 7s last Friday. Well done to our U16 Girls who won against Redcliffe High School and awesome work to our U18 girls who went down by 2 points. Thank you to Mr Hunter and Ms Nakao for assisting with coaching our girls on the day.

Exciting Highlights from the South East Queensland Multi-Class Track & Field Carnival at UQ

On Thursday, August 21st, the South East Queensland Multi-Class Track & Field Carnival took place at the University of Queensland. This fantastic event was held in partnership with Sport Inclusion Australia, emphasizing our commitment to inclusive sports and celebrating the incredible talents of athletes with diverse abilities.

One of the most exciting moments of the day was the visit from "Lorri" the lorikeet, the vibrant mascot of the International Federation for Athletes with Intellectual Impairments (INAS) Global Games. Lorri's cheerful presence brought smiles to athletes and spectators alike, reminding everyone of the importance of inclusion and teamwork in sports.

Adding to the inspiration, Paralympian Alberto Campbell, who proudly represented Jamaica in the 400m at the Tokyo Paralympic Games, made a special appearance. Alberto shared his journey and motivated our young athletes to aim high and pursue their dreams, regardless of the challenges they face.

Our Certificate II Sports Coaching students also had a valuable opportunity during the event. They assisted with officiating duties, gaining practical experience and contributing to the smooth running of the carnival. Their involvement showcased the importance of hands-on learning and community engagement in sports education.

Despite the rain that threatened to dampen the spirits, the day was filled with fun, action, and determination. Athletes practiced their events in preparation for the upcoming Met East Track & Field Carnival next week. It was a wonderful showcase of resilience and sportsmanship, inspiring everyone present.

We are proud of all the athletes, coaches, and students who made this event a success. It was a memorable day that highlighted the power of sport to bring communities together, promote inclusion, and celebrate achievement. We look forward to seeing even more outstanding performances at the next carnival!

Notices

Reminder for families:

Please ensure your contact details are up to date on Parent Lounge or contact the College if you need assistance.