College Newsletter

Term 4, Week 6, 14 November 2025

Key Dates

Leadership Team

Principal
Andrée Rice

It was a pleasure to meet so many past students last Friday night at our annual Art Show and Alumni event. I was particularly touched to hear the stories of so many old boys explaining how St James had made such a difference to their lives. A few people told me how they were not accepted by other colleges and came to us as “a last Catholic school resort”. They went on to describe the high standard of education they had received with us, and all described their professional lives with pride. Many students went on to complete senior at Terrace because St James ended at Junior Matriculation but these men all still felt proud to be Jimmies Old Boys and were astounded by the current growth and success of St James today. We received some generous donations on the evening and much interest in our students’ stunning artworks. We also welcomed alumnus John Curry, who attended St James with his brothers in the 1950s. He joined us with his two daughters, also proud alumnae, and shared how delighted he is that his granddaughter now works at Jimmies as a teacher aide and basketball coach. Another special dimension to the evening was the presence of four St James Principals – Brother Bill Tynan, Mr Gerry Crooks, Ms Ann Rebgetz and me. Special thanks must go to Mrs Naomi Ritchie for her superb coordination of the Alumni event.

We have been attracting many families to our Principal’s School Tours which have replaced our enrolment evenings this term. Prospective students are enjoying a look at the College in action. Our final Principal’s Tour is next Tuesday 18 November starting at 9.30 am at main reception. Please register via the College website if interested and spread the news that enrolments for 2026 are fast closing! If you have family wishing to attend St James next year, please get your application in now.

We are looking forward to celebrating our Year 12 Graduates’ final week of celebration and farewell next week and are very proud of how they conducted themselves during their external exams and completion of certificates. Our best wishes, prayers and love go with them into their final week at Jimmies. Faithful Forever!

Assistant Principal – Identity & Global Advocacy
Isikeli Kubunameca

We are thrilled to share the highlights of the recent Technology One Impact Day last Friday, 7 November! It was a day filled with inspiration and cultural pride as our First Nation's students took the stage and delivered a mesmerizing performance that left the audience in awe. Their talent and passion shone brightly, showcasing the rich heritage and vibrant spirit of our First Nation's community. As a foundation member, we were honoured to be invited to perform and to receive a cheque showcasing the Technology One’s continued support of the College and the legacy of Jimmies Alumni and Technology One founder – Adrian Di Marco.

Assistant Principal – Equity & Student Engagement
Nick Hurley

Kick off the school holidays with a Liverpool FC International Academy Community Football Session hosted by St James College!

St James College is excited to host a FREE Liverpool FC International Academy Community Football Session on Saturday 29 November, from 9:00am–12:00pm at New Farm United Soccer Club.

Venue: New Farm United Soccer Club, Cnr Sydney & Brunswick St, New Farm
Date: Saturday, 29 November 2025
Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm
Lunch: Free sausage sizzle lunch provided

Open to all ages and all abilities – FREE to attend – bring a friend!

Delivered by our accredited Liverpool FC International Academy Coaching Team, this action-packed morning is for families who have already expressed interest in the program AND those wanting to experience it for the first time. It is also open to the broader community, so feel free to bring a friend on the day.

Sessions on the day include skill drills, small-sided games and world-class coaching the Liverpool Way, emphasising the values of Unity, Commitment, Dignity and Ambition.

👉Register now (one form per participant): https://www.stjamescollege.qld.edu.au/student-life/liverpool-football-club-international-academy/st-james-college-liverpool-fc-international-academy-community-sessions

Come along and start the summer holidays with this fantastic community event!

Around the College

St James Art Show
Michael Harrop

The 2025 St James College Art Show was held on Friday, 7 November, and was a resounding success. The event drew an impressive crowd who came to admire the incredible talent of our students. Artwork from Years 5 to 12 was showcased, featuring a diverse range of media including photography, Raku ceramics, paintings, and drawings—each piece reflecting the creativity and dedication of our students.

Under the expert guidance of our art teachers—Aaron McDonough, Julie Saltassi, Jade Shaw, Lisa Kubunameca, and Art Specialist Berenice Anzellotti—students produced an outstanding body of work throughout the year. A special acknowledgment goes to Berenice, the creative force behind the exhibition, who devoted countless hours to curating and organising this exceptional show.

Awards and Recipients

Thank You to Our Art Show Sponsors

We sincerely thank Oxlades Art Supplies for their generous $200 sponsorship towards Student Art Show prizes. Oxlades, a family-owned business for over 100 years, supports artists across Queensland with quality materials and expert advice. Their commitment to creativity makes them an invaluable partner.

A big thank you to Pottery Supplies for their generous donation of vouchers for our Student Art Show awards. Based in the Paddington/Milton area for over 60 years, Pottery Supplies continues to support artists across Brisbane and Australia with quality clays, glazes, and tools for potters of all levels. We truly appreciate their support in celebrating our students’ creativity.

BIA’s Support of St James College and the Arts Community

St James College is deeply grateful for the Brisbane Institute of Art’s ongoing support of our creative community. Their generous loan of display plinths for our annual student art exhibition has helped elevate the event to a professional standard, giving students an authentic gallery experience. This partnership strengthens connections with Brisbane’s arts community and reflects a shared commitment to nurturing creativity and celebrating student talent. BIA’s continued generosity plays a vital role in encouraging our young artists and enriching their artistic journey beyond the classroom.

Year 10 Food Technology: Gratitude Lunch
Sophie Conlon

To celebrate the end of the year, the Year 10 Food Technology students hosted a Gratitude Lunch to recognise and thank the teachers who have made a difference in their lives this year. As part of their final assessment, students working in groups planned, prepared, and served a delicious three-course meal featuring halloumi fries, steak sandwiches, and mini-Basque cheesecakes. They also designed and decorated the dining space, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The project showcased their skills in teamwork, time management, and creativity. Each student wrote a personal letter of thanks, making the event a heartfelt celebration of appreciation and achievement.

Year 7 Food Technology
Sophie Conlon

This term, Year 7 students completed their Breakfast Champions unit, learning how breakfast fuels our bodies for the day. They explored how different macronutrients and micronutrients keep us healthy, alert and help us learn. They used this knowledge to design meals that suit a range of needs — from athletes needing energy to teachers with morning meetings.

The Year 7’s did an incredible job bringing their creations to life in the kitchen. Their confidence, teamwork and culinary skills have grown so much this semester, and they should be very proud of their efforts (I certainly am). Parents should look forward to some delicious homemade breakfasts these school holidays!

Start Your Day Right at Breakfast Club! All are welcome!
Mary Hecker-Paterson

Join us every Wednesday and Thursday from 8:00–8:30am for a free, healthy breakfast in the courtyard (or Café Di Marco if raining). Run by our school nurse Helya, Ms Mary, and supported by generous staff, Breakfast Club offers fresh fruit, cereal, and rotating weekly options like yoghurt cups, pancakes, or muffins. It’s a great way to start your day—whether you're hungry or just want to connect with friendly faces. Stop by for a chat or grab-and-go. Everyone is welcome!

Year 11 Certificate II Outdoor Recreation Assessment Camp
Darin Coombs

Our Year 11 Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation students recently completed their Project 4 Assessment Camp at Jimmies on the Dam and Coolangatta on the Gold Coast.

At Jimmies, students were put to the test with kayaking self-rescues, learning how to safely get in and out of an overturned kayak and swim 200m to shore with their kayak upside down. It was challenging, but the students showed great resilience and teamwork throughout.

At Coolangatta, they explored surf safety, learning to identify rips, understand what it feels like to be caught in a sweep, and how to respond if they found themselves in trouble in the surf. They also had the opportunity to speak with lifeguards and discover how to check surf condition reports, as well as the meaning of the different beach flags.

Throughout the camp, students maintained an overnight campsite while putting environmental principles into practice to minimise their impact on nature.

The dedication, enthusiasm, and teamwork shown by all students were outstanding, and they should be incredibly proud of what they achieved.

Year 11 Student Invited to Apply for UQ Enhanced Studies Program 2026
Tony Ninasivinche

Nine outstanding Year 11 students — Phoenix, Charlotte, Tharu, Xavier, Yalda, Sima and, not pictured, Mohadeseh, Mohammad and Hamid — have been accepted into the University of Queensland’s Enhanced Studies Program (ESP) for 2026. This opportunity, supported through our strong partnership with UQ, recognises their academic excellence. Over the summer, these 9 students will undertake the WRIT1999: The Art & Science of Critical Thinking, a university-level course designed to strengthen Year 12 performance, build critical thinking and communication skills, and provide future course credit. Many expressed their excitement: Tharu said, “I am very keen to use this opportunity as a way to meet new people and improve my communication skills,” Phoenix shared, “I am looking forward to taking a step further towards a potential pathway after graduating,” and Yalda added, “Reaching my goals and pursuing something I love and learning more about the university life.”

St James Students Share Reflections on Mass and Liturgical Celebrations
Hounein Dawood

Six students from St James College, Brisbane, met with former Principal Mr Gerry Crooks to share their thoughts on Mass and liturgical celebrations. They spoke openly about how these experiences make them feel, the importance of student involvement, and ideas for making liturgy more inclusive and meaningful. The discussion highlighted the school’s rich cultural diversity and how it shapes students’ spiritual understanding and sense of belonging. Mr Crooks appreciated their insights, which will help guide future Church initiatives. This opportunity reflects St James’ mission to foster a faith-filled, inclusive, and culturally rich environment where every voice is valued.

Year 10 Financial Literacy Presentation
Michael Colquhoun

Last Tuesday, Year 10 students were exposed to a financial literacy presentation by George Samios from Madd Loans. George, a self-employed entrepreneur from Brisbane challenged the students to think about improving their lives through savings strategies and property investment. George showed the students how his business helps people get into the property market and accumulate investment properties. St James College thanks George and his team for giving their time and energy including merchandise to support our students.

Hogan House Gratitude Chain
Michael Colquhoun

This week in house assembly, Hogan house was encouraged to reflect on 2025. Students were challenged to recall the good times, the enjoyable activities, the memorable moments, and the significant contributors to their life. Students were tasked to document their affirmation and publicly share their gratitude statements by writing them down and creating an affirmation chain to decorate the hallways of the Santiago building. Students completed the task enthusiastically and enjoyed sharing and savouring their positive moments of 2025. Thank you to our 2026 Hogan House Leaders for encouraging and promoting the activity for the house and reminding everyone on the importance of reflection and showing gratitude to others. May we always remember to show gratitude in our lives, no matter how little it may be.

Year 8 HPE - Sporting Wheelies Incursion
Breanna Irwin

All Year 8 HPE students recently took part in an exciting Sporting Wheelies incursion, where they experienced playing wheelchair basketball. The program helped students understand the challenges faced by people with disabilities and demonstrated the adjustments and modifications that can support athletes of all abilities. This experience linked perfectly with their current HPE unit on building inclusive communities that promote health and wellbeing for all. Students showed great enthusiasm and teamwork, making it a valuable and memorable learning experience.

Sport

CBSQ Basketball
Michael Anderson

Recently, our Senior, Junior, and Sophomore teams all participated at the CBSQ Basketball tournaments. All students showed tremendous spirit, determination, and commitment—qualities that truly embody what it means to be a St James student. Each player gave their all, competed with heart, and supported one another every step of the way.

I would like to give a special mention to our Sophomore Girls team, who had an outstanding competition. In the Round Games they were unstoppable, storming past every opponent by 60 plus points. This momentum continued through to the finals where our Jimmies Girls had the whole stadium watching our game and cheering for St James. Through teamwork, grit, and a relentless drive to succeed, they rose to the top and brought home the Gold Medal! What an incredible achievement—well done, girls!

Fees
Genevieve O’Sullivan

Please be advised that the final fees instalments for the year were emailed out on 13 October. If you didn’t receive an email from us, please check your Junk or Spam email folder, otherwise all statements (new and previous) will be accessible via logging in to Parent Lounge.

All other 2025 fees are now OVERDUE – please make payment as soon as possible if you have outstanding fees, however, for those families on fees concessions or regular payment plans, please continue your regular payments as arranged.

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

Please note that if your fees remain overdue and you have not made contact with the College, your account may be referred to an external debt collection agency which will incur extra cost to you.

2025 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 8694.

Notices

Uniform Shop
Lyn New

Order and pay for uniforms online via the Qkr! App - and your order will be ready and waiting for quick and easy collection at our Uniform Shop.

The App allows families to pre-order uniforms for their children from the convenience of their own devices – simply download the App and search for St James College – click on the following link for instructions: Uniform Shop Qkr App

Reminder for families:

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