Welcome to Term 4!

It’s great to be back for the final term of the year. Having been part of the Holy Spirit Catholic School community for over 25 years, I’m delighted to be stepping into the role of Acting APA while Nicole Lennox takes a well- deserved break.

Term 4 is always a vibrant and fast-paced time—and with just eight weeks ahead, it’s bound to fly by. We have a number of exciting events on the horizon, including our annual group photos; the interschool swimming carnival; the Mini Fete; Grandparents’ Day; Year 6 camp; orientation activities, and much more.

Amidst all the activity, it’s important to pause and appreciate the small, meaningful moments. How fortunate we are to work in an environment where these moments happen every day through our interactions with the children.

Until next time,

Begoña Bengoa
(Acting APA)

In the Parable of the Widow and the Unjust Judge (Luke 18:1–8), Jesus teaches the importance of persistence in prayer and unwavering faith. The widow, despite facing an indifferent judge, continues to seek justice until her request is granted—showing that perseverance, even in the face of resistance, can lead to transformation. For parents, this parable is a reminder to remain steadfast in prayer and hopeful in challenging times. Whether advocating for their children, navigating family struggles, or seeking guidance, their faith and persistence can inspire resilience and trust in God’s justice and care.

In a Catholic school community, hospitality means creating a space where all families feel supported and valued, especially in times of need. Just as God responds with compassion and justice, we are called to be attentive and responsive to one another with kindness and faith. We are reminded that true welcome includes listening to and advocating for those who are vulnerable or unheard. 

MISSION MONTH:  October is Missions Month.  The World Mission Month of October is a time when we can teach our children to respect people from other cultures and reach out to those people, particularly children who live in poverty.  It is an opportunity for reflection, prayer and support for the missionary efforts of individuals, communities and the whole Church.  This year, students across Australia are encouraged to not only learn about the needs of people in Zambia and the work of the Church there, but to do something extraordinary for Mission through the fundraising, advocacy and prayers.  On Friday, 31^st October, our school will hold a Mini Fete to raise funds for Catholic Missions.  Teachers will be sending home information in relation to the stall your child’s class will be holding and what will be needed to make it successful.

For World Mission Day in the Jubilee Year 2025, the central message of which is hope.

Pope Francis chose the motto: “Missionaries of Hope Among all Peoples”. This reminds individual Christians and the entire Church, the community of the baptised, of our fundamental vocation to be, in the footsteps of Christ, messengers and builders of hope.  Catholic Missions gives hope to communities so that real changes can be made for people in need around the world. 

ST JOHN PAUL II (Feast Day 22nd October): (1920–2005) The first Polish Pope, John Paul II, was head of the Catholic Church from 1978 until his death in 2005. John Paul II made extraordinary efforts to reach out to people around the world, to both Roman Catholics and those of other faiths. He loved young people and started World Youth Day so youth from around the world could meet every few years in faith and carry home the message received there to be Christ’s light to the world. ‘I imagined a powerful moment in which the young people of the world could meet Christ, who is
eternally young, and could learn from him how to be bearers of the Gospel to other young people.

God bless.
Caroline Fuller.

Welcome to Term 4 

Welcome back to the final term of the school year! I hope everyone enjoyed a restful break and is ready for another exciting term of learning, growth, and community connection at Holy Spirit.

Staff Professional Development

This week, staff engaged in professional learning focused on the Pedagogy of Difference, exploring how educators can recognise, value, and respond to the diversity of learners in our classrooms. Through this professional development, teachers examined inclusive teaching practices that affirm every student’s identity, culture, and learning needs. The session encouraged reflection on how to design learning environments that foster a sense of belonging and success for all students. By deepening their understanding of how difference enriches learning, staff continue to strengthen our commitment to equity, inclusion, and excellence for every child.

Kristy Bates

Assistant Principal Pedagogy and Learning  (APPL)

As part of our enrolment process, we talk with families about school fees and the important role they play in supporting the learning and opportunities we provide for every student.

We want to take a moment to sincerely thank the many families who continue to contribute in this way. Your support is deeply appreciated and helps us create the best possible environment for your children.

We also understand that from time to time, circumstances can change, and meeting fee commitments may become difficult. If this ever happens, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You’re always welcome to contact our Finance Secretary, Allison Lyons, alyons3@hhstsv.catholic.edu.au  or speak with me directly. We’re here to help, and together we can work out a plan that supports your family’s needs.

At our school, we care deeply about the wellbeing of every student and their family. Please know that we’re always just a phone call or visit away.

With regards to school fees, the Townsville Catholic Education office has employed a person, Cecilia Taylor to assist schools with retrieving outstanding fees. Cecilia is also available to assist you in this area and can be contacted at TCEO on 47730900.

Paul

Netability:

Netability is an inclusive netball program for people with a disability. The program provides participants an opportunity to play netball in a fun, safe and inclusive environment and is back again for the final term with times available on both Tuesday afternoon and Thursday mornings for the month of October.

For dates, locations, and times: Netability Program - Netball Queensland

No need to register, just turn up on the day. If you have any questions, please feel free to email Natalie.parsloe@netballq.org.au or call 0404 428 113.

Club Sport:

Is your child interested in trying a new club sport? Townsville has a range of sports on offer to children. See the flyer below for opportunities with cricket.

Spotlight on Sport:

A huge congratulations to Jaxon who represented North Queensland in cricket at the state championships in Bundaberg. Jaxon received the honour of an individual award for taking 5 wickets in 1 game. He ended the tournament being ranked 19th in the state out of 144 participants for his bowling figures. He also contributed to North Queensland's success significantly with the bat. What an amazing accomplishment. 

eSafetyparents

Online safety basics – what you need to know

We are open Tuesday and Thursday 8am-8.25am in the hall.

Your support with donations of spreads (not nut based) and bread are needed and appreciated, particularly honey and golden syrup, due to the increase in children accessing the program.

Donations can be dropped off at Tuckshop.

Just a reminder: The toasters will be turned off at 8.15am, so bread with spreads will be the choice once the toast runs out.  This allows both students and staff enough time to be ready for the start of the school day. 

Friday Coffee Catch Ups

My name is Bec & I’ve been a Defence spouse for 12 years.   During this time I have learned the best way to enjoy each posting is to get out and find my “tribe” as early as possible. Having experienced postings both with & without kids, I know the challenges of meeting new people from both perspectives.

When I knew we were coming to Townsville I joined the community groups (as we all do) and started scoping out ways I could get out to meet new people (and catch up with ones I’ve met at previous postings). I found that there wasn’t a regular coffee group, so created my own.

Creating this regular catch up gives not only myself, but anyone else who comes along the opportunity to socialise with other spouses in a relaxed setting. There are regulars who come weekly, and I have found these women to be some of the most supportive people (and knowledgeable about Defence life).

I post the location on the Townsville Defence Partners Facebook page every week. Look out for the coffee cups, everyone is welcome so come along and meet some amazing people!

Posting season – mobility support

Posting season is here again, bringing with it the excitement of new opportunities and the challenges of change. Whether your family is preparing to move, welcoming new members into the community, or saying farewell to friends, know that you’re not alone.

Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) Townsville is here to provide guidance, connection, and a friendly face throughout the posting period. From practical resources to community activities, our team is ready to support you and your family every step of the way.

If you’re posting in, we look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant community. If you’re posting out, we wish you all the best in your new location and encourage you to link in with your local DMFS team.

For more information, advice or support, reach out to DMFS Townsville - we’re here to help!

If your child is going to be absent, please enter the details through Compass, as this is the most efficient way to inform the school.