Woree Highlights - End of Term 1 Newsletter - March 2024

From the Principal

I hope this newsletter finds you well. As we approach the end of Term 1, I would like to share with you some exciting updates from Woree State High School.

School Review

From Tuesday 19 – Thursday 21 March, four members of the School and Regional Review Branch attended Woree SHS to undertake our 4-yearly review.  In addition to staff and students, a number of parents, carers and community members participated in the Review to provide feedback in relation to various aspects of school life.

Before departing the school on Thursday, the Review team shared a number of commendations with staff at the Exit Briefing.  We will receive a formal report from the Review early in Term 2 which will include commendations, findings and recommendations for next steps.  Once we have this report an executive summary will be shared with our school community and placed on our school website.

The Review is a wonderful opportunity for staff to share and celebrate the many aspects of our school which are going well, but it also enables us to reflect on some aspects that require more attention and this guides the development of our next 4-year Strategic Plan that will be developed in Semester 2 for implementation in 2025.

NAPLAN 2024

I am pleased to announce that our Year 7 and 9 students have completed NAPLAN Online for 2024. We will be sharing the results with parents and carers when they arrive, hopefully during Term 2.

School Events

On Wednesday 6 March, we were very fortunate to host the inaugural Emergency Services Gala Day that saw staff from QPS, QAS, SES and the Defence Forces, together with presenters from JCU attend Woree SHS to showcase the very interesting aspects of their respective roles in emergency services and encourage our students to consider these as potential career pathways.  The day was a resounding success and featured on 7 News that evening:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=761596422592967

In Week 9, we embraced the cultural diversity of the Woree SHS to celebrate the Harmony Festival on Wednesday and Thursday.  Events included a cultural lunch prepared by staff and students, face painting, a mini-cultural museum and a number of students performances of cultural dancing.  Thank you to the parents and carers that attended to assist their children with their dance performances and to enjoy the celebration of cultural diversity at Woree SHS.

Throughout this term, the Year 12 students have engaged in a range of fundraising activities to raise funds for their legacy gift to the school.  This group of Year 12s, led by Mrs Jodie Keirle as their Year Coordinator, are definitely the most ambitious group of Year 12s I’ve experienced in my 5 years at Woree when it comes to fundraising.  They are really prepared to put in the hard work to raise the funds to leave a very significant legacy gift for the school with Mrs Keirle and some students even prepared to lose their Locks for Legacy on the last day of Term 1.

Sports Activities

We are proud to announce that Ngawuyu won both the Woree SHS Interhouse Swimming Carnival and the Cross Country Carnival this term.  Congratulations to Ngawuyu House Captains, Cooper and Leng, for strong leadership of your team that led to high team participation.

This term Woree SHS embraced a new kind of sport when we entered an eSports Team into the FUSE Cup.  Despite some very strong competition from other schools, we were the Runners-Up to Cairns SHS.

Our Chess Team were also very success this term winning the Secondary A division in the inter-school competition hosted by TAS.

Our CISSA interschool sports competition has been held every Wednesday during Period 4, involving students from Years 10 to 12.

We have a number of teams competing in inter-school rugby league competitions after school each week.

Staffing Update

At the end of this term, we have said farewell to Mr Brian Hayter who has been working at Woree SHS in the Humanities & Business Faculty since 2022.  Mr Hayter is moving to Tasmania and will continue teaching down there.  We wish him every success in next adventure.

Mrs Desley Lopez from the Humanities & Business Faculty is finishing for the year as she is commencing her maternity leave pending the arrival of her second child.  We wish her all the best for a safe delivery.

Mr Joel Casey from the Science Department is also taking leave for the remainder of this year but we look forward to welcoming him back throughout the year to assist as a relief teacher.

Facilities Updates

Over the holidays we will continue our ongoing facilities improvements with the replacement of rooves in H and G Blocks and roof repairs in P Block.

Thank you for your continued support of our school. We look forward to another successful term in Term 2.

Regards

Kathryn Todd

Principal

Next Step Survey

The Next Step Year 12 Completers survey opens on 18 March. All Year 12 completers from 2023 are invited to complete this 5-minute survey about what they are doing now in terms of work and/or study. We ask parents, siblings and friends to encourage our graduates to complete the survey to help our school improve senior programs for future students.

As a thank you, participants have the chance to win one of 5 MacBook Airs. Graduates will receive an invitation by mail and may be contacted by phone. For more information about Next Step, visit http://www.qld.gov.au/nextstep.

Mobile Phone Policy

It is always a good time to remind everyone of the mobile phone expectations at Woree SHS and we urge you to discuss these responsibilities with your student/s. The following information is from the school handbook.  

Good News Stories

FNQ INTERSCHOOL CHESS CHAMPIONSHIP – Round 1, 2024

WE WON!!

Woree A Team convincingly won the Secondary B Division on Thursday February 29 at TAS! There were 80 individuals in this division, consisting of 20 teams of 4 players.

Individual Results:

• Shawn (Captain)-  Won 5, Drew 1, Lost 1
• Ky - Won 6, Lost 1
• Isaiah -  Won 6, Lost 1
• Dexter - Won 5, Drew 1, Lost 1

Ky was awarded the 2^nd best player in the division, and Isaiah was awarded 3^rd best player in the division. A special mention to Dexter (Year 8) who was very close to winning his final game at the number 1 table, which would have made him the number 1 ranked player in the division. Alas it wasn’t to be, but an extraordinary effort from the very committed Dexter.

Kalab and Jamie also won games in our B team, and they are hoping a few more Woree students will join them in Term 2 as it is hard to be competitive without a full team of 4.

All of the Woree team were respectful to others, humble in their wins and gracious in defeats. They made the Woree Chess Club proud, and were great ambassadors for the Woree school community. Kudos for captain Shawn in fostering this ethos.

In Term 2 is Round 2 of the FNQ Interschool Chess Championship. All students are welcome, come along to Chess Club on Thursday 1^st lunch in the library if you are interested.

Michael Stephens

Chess Coordinator/Humanities teacher

Showing Pride in our School 

We are thrilled to unveil the latest addition to our school's landscape: the brand-new entrance sign located at the Rigg Street entrance. As part of Woree State High School's ongoing modernisation and rebranding initiative, this sign stands as a beacon of our values and commitment to providing an inviting and engaging space for our students.

This exciting project is not just about aesthetics; it's about instilling a sense of pride and belonging within our school community. The sign serves as a visual representation of who we are and what we stand for, prominently displaying our school's name and emblem for all to see.

But the transformation doesn't stop there. Alongside the new entrance sign, beautification works are underway throughout the school. From modernisation of our classroom settings to showcasing the diverse cultures of our students, every detail has been carefully considered to create an environment that fosters positivity and inspiration.

At Woree State High School, we believe in the power of environment to shape attitudes and behaviors. By investing in our surroundings, we're not only enhancing the physical appearance of our campus but also creating a space where students feel proud to learn and grow.

As we continue on this journey of modernisation and rebranding, we invite our students, staff, parents, and wider community to join us in celebrating this exciting milestone. Together, we can build a brighter future for everyone at Woree State High School.

So next time you pass through the Rigg Street entrance, take a moment to admire our new sign and reflect on the values it represents. And remember, at Woree State High School, Everyone Succeeds Everyday!!!! 

Kelly Metcalf

Business Manager 

The Go for Gold Fund is a targeted strategy to improve sports performance preparation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The Queensland Government has committed $100 million over 4-years to build and upgrade school sport infrastructure and provide school sport equipment aimed at increasing student activity and participation in sport across all Queensland schools.

The benefits of the Go for Gold Fund will be spread across schools including primary, high, middle, special education, outdoor and distance education schools.

Woree State High School applied for and was successful in receiving the round 1 Go for Gold funding – to the value of $5000. The funding enabled WSHS to purchase new and upgrade gym equipment in the school gym. The new equipment provides opportunities for all our students to access the gym equipment and develop their performances in their sporting endeavours.

Pictured below are Rugby League students in the Woree SHS Rugby League program, training, using the new equipment purchased. The new equipment complements the school gym to provide expansive and quality strength and conditioning training experiences towards improving sporting performance. The new equipment purchased are 2 x rowers and 2 x ergo bikes, ab mats and kettle bells.

Trish Goodwin

HOD, HPE

Junior Secondary School

It has been a great start to the year for our Years 7, 8 and 9 students, our attendance and behaviour has been fantastic and our students have been rewarded in many ways to acknowledge this excellent start. Our PBL rewards tickets have been reaching higher totals than ever before, our students positive behaviour acknowledgments with positive records on student profiles has been very high, many tuckshop vouchers have been handed out and lots of rewards lunches have occurred this term. The culminating Junior Rewards event happened in Week 10 at the bowling alley, with the top 20 students from each Year 7, 8 and 9 year level being rewarded with a bus trip to the bowling alley along with a couple of games of ten pin bowling and use of the arcade games.

Doug Ryan

HOD, Junior Secondary 

Year Coordinators Reports

YEARS 7, 8 & 9

Rewards Day at Go Bowling

Rewards for Juniors this term was a trip to Go Bowling in Manoora. Students had to meet good standing criteria of 85% or above attendance and less than 2 behaviour incidents. Fifty two students across grades 7-9 played 2 games each and once finished they enjoyed the arcade and some hot chips! Shout out to Ashley T who was the only student to crack 100 points!

Lauren Maxwell

Year 9 Coordinator

YEAR 8

A Sweet Year 8 Camp Fundraiser

Article by: Jordi J, Year 8 student

Mr Ballantine organised a lolly jar filled with 534 sweets to raise money for Woree SHS Year 8 camp in early August. Mr Ballantine and Year 8 students went around the school and collected donations from staff to guess how many lollies were in the jar. The lucky winner of the lolly jar was Mr Davies, HOD Arts/Digital Technologies with a guess of 520. The lolly jar fundraiser raised $135.80 to help reduce the Year 8 camp fees to make the camp more accessible for all students. Mr Ballantine would like all the students to be able to join in with all the fun we may have at Year 8 camp.

YEAR 12

Year 12 News

The Year 12s, are fundraising in order to commission an artwork for the school by local indigenous artist Brian Robinson. Mr Robinson has been into school and had consultation with the leadership team and the student leaders, around the type of work they would like to leave to the school. Mr Robinson is a genius at blending modern pop art with cultural themes and we are all very excited about what the piece will be. The fundraising target has been set and we are off to a really great start.

Fundraising Events

The second half of Term 1 has seen the Year 12s very busy with fundraising for their legacy. We finished off the term with a Squish Mallow raffle. This raffle has 6 prizes which are bags full of goodies. These goodies include; Squish Mallow huggables (2 in each bag), Easter eggs, lollies and a variety of toys. The Year 12s, have done an amazing job selling raffle tickets at lunch times to the student body. The raffle  was drawn on our last full school parade for the year. Each of the school leaders will select a ticket and a winner. Students must be present at parade to collect their prize. (see article below from School Leader Jesse).

Lose your locks for the Legacy

This event happened on the last day of school and saw Cooper and myself leaving for the holidays with a completely new look. Other Year 12 students cut their hair and collected sponsorship money but Cooper and I went the whole enchilada and walked out of here quite a lot lighter and without very much hair. So far, we have raised just over $1000 dollars, which will go a long way to helping the Year 12s hit their target of $10,000.

We held the event in Q3 and Ruby was in charge of the haircutting (alot of pressure there Ruby 😊). If you would like to contribute to this event by making a donation, please see the ladies at Administration and tell them it’s for the Year 12 Lose Your Locks fundraiser. Your support will be very much appreciated.

Jodie Keirle

Year 12 Coordinator

Easter Raffle for Year 12 Legacy

written by Jesse, School Leader

For the last couple of weeks of the term, the school leaders alongside the Year 12 cohort, sold raffle tickets to students and staff for the Easter raffle. Grade 12s went around the school with raffle books during lunch times and with the help of the eftpos machin, who is named “Bob,” allowed students and teachers who didn’t have cash a chance to buy a ticket. The raffle is to help pay for the 2024 Senior’s Legacy item. Special thanks to Jasmine and Eric who helped tremendously with the selling of the tickets, these two pushed through when many of us where unavailable due to exams and assessments. Congratulations to those who won the raffle and we hope to have many more successful fundraisers in the next couple of months.

Events and Special Days

Emergency Services Gala Day

In Week 7, our school had the privilege of hosting a remarkable event aimed at promoting careers in emergency services and fostering a deeper connection between our students and the community. We welcomed a diverse range of speakers and participants, all dedicated to showcasing the invaluable work of first responders and the challenges they face daily.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the presence of emergency services personnel who graciously shared insights into their professions. Through interactive presentations, they shed light on the demanding yet rewarding nature of their roles. Students had the opportunity to engage directly with these professionals, gaining a firsthand understanding of the commitment required to serve as a first responder.

Additionally, a thrilling fitness challenge added an element of friendly competition to the day. Teachers, students, representatives from the Australian Defence Force, and emergency services personnel enthusiastically participated, showcasing their athleticism and teamwork. Despite the fierce competition, our esteemed teachers emerged victorious, demonstrating their prowess and camaraderie.

The event also featured informative presentations from various organisations and individuals, enriching our students' understanding of related fields. Representatives from the Australian Defence Force, ambulance services, James Cook University marine biology department, fire department, water police, police recruitment, as well as advocates for road safety and optimal health, shared valuable insights and inspired our students to consider diverse career paths.

Beyond the educational aspect, the day fostered meaningful connections between our school and the broader community. Through interactions with professionals and organisations, our students gained valuable networking opportunities and formed lasting relationships. These connections will undoubtedly serve them well as they navigate their future endeavours.

In summary, The Emergency Services Gala Day was a truly engaging and enriching experience for our students. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the speakers, participants, and volunteers who contributed to making this event a resounding success. Together, we've taken significant strides in empowering our students and strengthening our ties with the community.

We look forward to more collaborative efforts in the future and the continued growth and development of our school community.

Michael Starr

DP, Junior Secondary, Years 7-9

Swimming Carnival

A massive congratulations to Ngawuyu for your excellent overall performance in this years Swimming Carnival. It was terrific to see so many students participating in events, dressing up to the theme Superheroes and Villains and for the overwhelming cheering and support non participants in the events gave to their houses.

Thank you to those students and staff who manned the BBQ, the first aid station, recorders/timekeepers, other supervisory roles, DJ's and the drama students for the Thriller dance performance.

Although it was a very hot day at the pool  the enthusism was even hotter! 

Editor

Harmony Festival

Everyone Belongs was the theme for this years Harmony Day Festival . For Australia it is a day to celebrate the many cultures that make this country so wonderfully diverse.

Over 2 days we celebrated Harmony Day with the cooking and sharing of food, wearing of traditional dress, an excellent display of cultural artifacts from Australia and its surrounding Islands and dance performances from the following cultures: 

Aboriginal (BSS) girls dance

Torres Strait Islander girls and boys

Cook Islander girls

Samoan Islander girls

Hmong dancers

Classical Indian dancers

Face painting was also a popular activity.

Thank you to everyone involved in making this event possible, it was a rich and colourful day.

Editor

Digital Technologies / The Arts

Visual Arts

Congratulations to artist (and Arts Captain), Jasmin (Year 12), who this term had her work displayed at the Tanks Arts Centre in the Flame Exhibition. The Flame Visual Mentorship Program assists young artists to be mentored and guided by established artists. The exhibition runs until 31st March.

Alicia Smith

DP, Inclusion

NOTE: Woree Highlights caught up with Jasmin to discuss her experience with the Flame Mentorship Program.

Q. What did you enjoy most about the program?

Working with a mentor artist who sculpts. It is not a medium that I have worked with before so it was a good experience to try it.

Q. Is there anything you would have done differently with your artworks?

Sculpting is not really what I am interested in, I would have preferred to choose a medium that I am used to such as Media Arts or drawing, but it was still good to explore it.

Q. After finishing Year 12, where would you like to go with your art?

I have so many thoughts on that. Gaining a degree in Visual Arts or Gaming Development, fulltime artist exhibiting my work, Illustrator for comics and books, in particular for Webtoom; which I am already working on a concept for plus, I'd also like to own my own business creating stickers and keyrings to sell at fairs and events.

Good luck Jasmin, you have a very exciting time ahead in which to to further develop your artistic skills.

Editor

DRAMA

Homunculus Theatre Workshop

This year, we had another delightful visit from Clint Bolster from Homunculus Theatre Company. The world-famous performer graced our Q03 Theatre with his delightful energy and enthusiasm as he took the students on an adventure through the masks of Commedia dell ‘Arte.

Experimenting with voice, facial expressions and movement, the students were guided to creating entertaining and expressive characters! Our performers were magnificent as they delved into these colourful and interesting characters.

Much of what they have learned will be applied throughout Term 3 when they study Italian Renaissance Street Theatre, known as Commedia dell ‘Arte. Equipped with our new set of masks, and costumes and props, the students will improvise and tell stories using the Stock Characters.

We look forward to working with Clint again next year!

Claire Williams

Drama Teacher

Year 12 Drama

The Skriker

Our talented Year Twelve Theatre-makers presented their incredible performances for IA1. The Skriker tells the story of a mean-spirited fairy, ancient and abusive, who manipulates two young women into uncomfortable situations, to satiate her need for power.

Sarah, Jasmin, Saki, Milla, and Tiarne, all crafted excellent performances which were rich in meaning and storytelling. Their costumes and set designs were supportive of their assessment context.

The audience was amazed by their dramatic work. Family and friends came to support these highly accomplished actors who just keep amazing me.

Claire Williams

Drama Teacher

From the Music Department

Thriller Flash Mob

This year the Performing Arts (classroom music and drama) combined, performed Thriller by Michael Jackson at the Woree State High School Swimming Carnival and at Woree State School.

The students spent 7 weeks learning the original dance moves to Michael Jackson’s Thriller under the guidance of Ms Claire Williams, Drama Teacher. The students did an awesome job and the whole school was amazed and surprised. We even had students wanting to join us for next year!!

Although we don’t offer dance as part of the curriculum, we wanted to do something fun to build school spirit and it certainly has created a buzz around the school!

Can’t wait to see the future ones we have planned for this and next year!

Morgan Harrison

Music Teacher

Engagement Programs

Enhancing Wicking Boxes with Cairns Regional Council

Sarah, from the Greener Spaces Initiative at Cairns Regional Council, joined us in Week 6 to introduce an innovative project: wicking boxes. These boxes serve as reservoirs, storing water at the base while allowing plants to draw moisture up through their roots. Though typically employed on a larger scale in garden beds, for our class, we repurposed recycled polystyrene boxes.

Wicking boxes offer an excellent means to initiate seed growth before transplantation into the main garden. Among the seeds we planted were:

- Lime Basil

- Butterfly Pea

- Rosella

- French Marigolds

- Zinnia

- Thai Basil

- Asian Greens

Looking ahead, Term 2 promises an exciting visit to Sarah's council gardens at Jess Mitchell Park. We eagerly anticipate the experience!

Jodi Shepherd

Engagement Teacher

Cairns Show Tropical Gardens Horticulture Grant

In 2023, students from Engage, Empower, Learn proudly showcased their produce at the Cairns Show horticulture competition. Their efforts paid off as they clinched the prestigious Grand Champion Vegetable Exhibit and Champion School Exhibit titles. Following this success, their teacher, Ms Shepherd, applied for a grant through the Cairns Show Association to support the maintenance of the school's vegetable patch, and we're thrilled to announce that we've been awarded the grant this year! This funding will be instrumental in expanding our compost system and enhancing our vegetable cultivation. Don't miss the chance to marvel at Woree State High School's vegetable exhibits at this year's Cairns Show! 

Jodi Shepherd

Engagement/English Teacher

Waste Education Presentation

In Week 10, Scott, the Waste Education Officer from Cairns Regional Council, visited Woree State High School  to deliver an engaging presentation on waste and recycling in Cairns. The students delved into understanding waste, explored its impact, and traced the Cairns waste journey. Throughout the session, Scott engaged the students with quizzes related to the topics discussed, offering prizes to those who answered correctly.

Jodi Shepherd

Engagement, Humanities and English Teacher

English Department

Live Theatre Comes to Woree English Students

“Bully”

The students are always engaged with live theatre and the experience deepens their understanding how language works in the real world, and that storytelling is an ancient art of keeping communities together through story and morality.

Amy Mac Lachlan

English Teacher

Woree Poet's Society

This term in Year 10 English, we have been exploring an assortment of poems (e.g. haiku, elergy, ode and slam poetry), noting the particular perspectives on personal, social, moral or ethical issues within the poems. For this terms assessment, students wrote poems based on their own interests and/or issues. Please enjoy the following poems and rationales by our students. 

Jodi Shepherd 

English Teacher

My People, written Tyshana

Who was here first?

My people.

Who has a connection to this land?

My people.

Who got invaded?

My people.

Who got stolen?

My people.

Who got disrespected?

My people.

Who got treated like animals?

My people.

Who has the longest living culture?

My people.

Who still doesn’t get recognition?

My people.

Who’s land got stolen?

My people.

My people, suffered and survived.

My people, are my true hero’s.

Always was, always will be.

Why should my people be treated with disrespect?

Why should my people be stolen?

Why should my people get treated like animals?

Why should my people not get recognition?

Why should my people suffer just to live, why are we all not treated the same?

Who are my true hero’s?

This is a slam poem about my people who are the First Nation people of Australia. The purpose of this poem is to show how complicated the relationship is between First Nation people and European invaders. My poem is a cultural commentary about First Nation people and the rights we lost when we were invaded. Captain Arthur Phillip raised the British flag onto our land on the 26th of January 1788 and claimed Australia Terra Nullius. Many atrocities to my people followed after this landing.
The tone of the poem is reflective and mournful. I have used my people’s sadness at losing their cultural identity to highlight our anger and frustration that our voice has been taken from us. All decisions made for my people are done through the white man in government. While writing this poem it brought up many emotions within me. Thinking about my ancestors who went through several government interventions such as the stolen generation (aboriginal protection act that lasted from 1910 to 1970) makes me feel infuriated that the white man in government thought they could “fix” our race.
This poem creates many feelings and emotions to the reader. The reader might feel a sense of responsibility about what happened in the past especially if they are of European descent. When people read this, I want them to feel empathetic towards the past traumas of First Nation Australians.
I used figurative language such as repetition, rhetorical questioning and metaphors throughout my poem. The repeated use of the phrase “my people” emphasises the central theme of the poem. I have also used questioning throughout the poem to highlight the historical injustices that happened to my people, the First Nation Australians. Finally, I used the metaphor “treated like animals” to show the lack of respect and dehumanisation endured by my people.

Endless Passion, written by Jase

In a galaxy far, far away, a love did bloom,

 Anakin’s heart consumed by Padme’s grace and gloom.

A jedi knight with passion burning bright,

 His love for her, a dazzling, fiery light.

But fate’s cruel hand did twist and turn,

Their love, a flame that singed and burned.

Forbidden by duty, torn by war,

Anakin’s love for Padme he could not ignore.

From Tatooine’s sands to Coruscant’s skies,

Their love tested by endless lies.

Anakin’s heart, a tempest of desire.

His love for Padme a burning fire.

But jealousy and fear did creep,

Anakin’s nightmares, dark and deep.

Consumed by doubt and endless sorrow,

Their love faced a dark tomorrow.

In the end, a tragedy of love and hate,

Anakin’s fall, sealed by fate.

Padme’s broken heart, a silent cry,

Their love shattered under a blood-red sky.

Anakin’s love for Padme a tale of woe,

A love that burned, but could not grow.

In the stars above, their love still shines,

A tragic tale of passion, lost in time.

This is a slam poem about Star Wars. The purpose of this poem is to express my love for the movie Star Wars and the character, Anakin. While slam poems are normally performed, I have used a range of features to help the reader create a vivid image in their mind. This poem is a personal portrait of my love for Anakin Skywalker and the trials and tribulations he faces when he declares his love for Padme. While Anakin has a dark side, I admire his ability to show his passionate nature in caring for his one and only love, Padme.

The tone of this poem is reflective and passionate. The poem expresses my deep feelings about the subject. When people read this poem, I want them to feel the conflicting emotions Anakin feels. To help express this, I have used several figurative language techniques throughout making this slam poem which would help the reader imagine the performance. Some techniques I have used are metaphors and imagery. I have used a metaphor about Anakin’s heart to show his emotional state and how he has conflicting feelings of joy and sorrow. This poem also uses imagery where it helps the reader paint a picture of the challenges of the relationship between Anakin and Padme.

Volleyball, written by Sheng

Oh volleyball, my energetic sport.

The way you make me feel as I enter on the glossy court.

As you bounce off my arms, I receive you

People yell “mine” as they call for you,

With excitement I chase, wanting you more and more.

In rhythmic motion, you float into the air,

Suddenly a BOOM

Unleashing a great power.

 Eagerly my eyes search,

 Demanding, looking for a chance

To set you somewhere comfortable.

I catch a glimpse of the sweat rolling down my face, as I huff and puff.

These shoes of mine squeak their rhythmic tune

When suddenly you take my breath away

I collapse on the floor

I have failed.

Defeated with frustration.

I try again to win you over,

 You’re the only one I want

The only one I call mine.

Wild, written by Lish

Kids in the playground,

Running from the principal.

Detention awaits.

My Bed, written by Mana

Oh, dear bed my cosy retreat,

Where dreams of comfort do entreat.

In your embrace I find sweet rest,

 A sanctuary that I am truly blessed.

With pillows soft and sheets so warm,

You cradle me in a peaceful form.

From the day’s chaos, I find release,

As I shrink into your gentle peace.

Oh, bed you’re my haven, my own little nest.

A place where I can truly be my best.

In your embrace I find solace and calm,

A refuge from the world’s endless qualm.

So, here’s to you my beloved bed.

Where I lay my weary head.

Thank you for the restful nights you bring,

In your comfort I find everything.

Year 9 and Year 10 English

The focus in English at this time of the term is on what our students have done with all their ideas. The highlights are from Year 9 and Year 10.

The following work sample is created by Madison, Year 9 student.

Essential English

Our two Year 11 Essential English classes were working right up to the holidays using our new technology of Smart TV and interactive whiteboard tables, that definitely engage and enhance learning.

Melinda Geyle

HOD, English

Home Economics / INTAD Department

Year 10 Foundations in Engineering

Written by Ava, Year 10 student

Creating a mini hacksaw was a good first experience at metal work. We learnt about different tools and machines in order to create our job. We used mild steel to create our hacksaw and we learnt how to correctly file the metal until it was shiny and hand smooth, and also learnt how to correctly use a hacksaw. The whole process of creating our hacksaws was really fun, but I especially enjoyed being able to paint it at the end as now it has a personal touch of my own.

HPE /Sports

This term Year 12 Physical Education have taken part in a super league Volleyball Competition for our assignment. In this competition we have been split into 3 teams and given fake monopoly money that controls who wins and loses the competition. Our first part of the competition was our team’s name and logo competition which our team won with the name Mission Unlockable. Our Team consists of School Captains Olivia and Vanya, Sports Captains Cooper and Romeo; and teachers Mr Ballantine, Mr Shields and Mr Ransom with our team manager being Anastasia Allen. So far, our team has been doing really well although we are in 3^rd place in the competition, we are 2^nd place in profit beating team Aces All-Stars by over 3 million dollars. Teams win money by winning games, costume designs, having team chants etc. Teams can also lose money by being late to games and unsportsman like conduct. Our games are on first lunch in the R block shelter on Tuesdays and Thursdays so come and support the best team, Mission Unblockable. 

Olivia

School Captain

Sports

Karen Murphy Cup – Opens Girls

Well done to the Year 11 and 12 girls (and the Year 10s who willingly played up when needed), who went undefeated in the Karen Murphy Cup competition. The girls showed drive and determination, particularly when faced with bigger teams (in size and numbers) and should be proud of what they achieved. Special shoutout to Neo (Year 11) for helping out in managing and coaching the girls – couldn’t have done it without you. I look forward to seeing what the team can produce in games later this year.

Cody-lee Parsons

Opens Girls Coach

SWIMMING & CROSS COUNTRY CARNIVAL

Congratulations to NGAWUYU who have taken out both the Swimming & Cross-Country Carnivals for 2024!
Below are the results. We look forward to the Athletics Carnival in Week 10 of Term 2 😊

RUGBY LEAGUE
The Woree Warriors Rugby League Program continues to grow from strength to strength. This term our Year 7, 8 & 9 boys all competed in the Quad Series, all reaching semi-finals. The girls in all year levels competed in the Karen Murphy Cup with great success, clearly standing out from our competition in all 3 teams. The official Schoolboys/Schoolgirls Cowboys Challenge starts in Term 2 which features our senior students. Lots more to come in this space 😊

Sam Harreman

Sports Coordinator

SENIOR SECONDARY SPORT (CISSA)
The Woree Warriors have had good success in the 2024 CISSA competition thus far. We are looking forward to improving and competing in Term 2. Draw below:

TCS DISTRICT SPORT

It was pleasing to see over 70 of our students be selected in their respective TCS teams so far in 2024. See below for Term 2 upcoming trials. Be sure to have your child check the noticeboard and collect the paperwork for their relevant trial!

Humanities / Tourism / Business

Year 11 and 12 Tourism spent the day at Rainforestation, Kuranda. Surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, students navigated the rainforest and water in a WWII Army Duck, fed kangaroos and said hi to cassowaries, crocodiles, koalas and snakes. Students also learnt how to throw a boomerang and woomera. A great day out for everyone whilst also supporting a local Cairns tourism operator.

Brooke Byars

Tourism Teacher

Year 9 Industrial Revolution Celebration: Feast, Games, and History

In Week 10, three Year 9 history classes united for an end-of-term celebration reminiscent of the current unit - the Industrial Revolution. Ms. Shepherd cooked a hearty 1800s-inspired beef stew, complementing an array of era-appropriate games including quoits, limbo, dominoes, and cards. Meanwhile, Mr. Stephens oversaw an intense chess tournament, while Mrs. Darcy showed an enlightening movie depicting the essence of the Industrial Revolution.

 Jodi Shepherd

Engagement, Humanities and English teacher, 

Library / Resource Centre

Stationery Rewards Shop Update

Our Stationery Rewards shop is very popular with students this year. Tickets are gained as a PBL reward and are worth 20c each. Students can trade their reward tickets at the library for stationery items (pens, exercise books…), art and craft items (art books, coloured pens…) and sports equipment (hand balls, drink bottles, full sized sports balls…). Students can also save their tickets to use for tuckshop vouchers, uniform shop vouchers and even vouchers towards their senior formal!

 This term students have traded over $2000 worth of rewards.

Larraine Moseley

Teacher/Librarian

Photos below: A great way to spend lunchtime in the Library.

Science / Aquatic Practices

Term One in Science

Term 1 of 2024 has flown by for our students and teachers in Science. We’ve had plenty of experiments and research tasks undertaken by our students to deepen and round out their knowledge.

Year 7

Our Year 7 students kicked off the year with an investigation into famous scientists and how they changed the world. Reports ranged from Alexander Graham Bell to Marie Curie and Rosalind Franklin. They then moved onto a chemistry unit where they had to separate a mixture based on the properties of the substances inside it.

Year 8

Our Year 8 students kicked off the year by looking at Chemistry and how matter changes through physical and chemical processes.

Year 9

Year 9 students began the year by exploring how energy moves through the universe. We explored heat, sound, light and electricity with students investigating convection, conduction and radiation, pitch and frequency, reflection and refraction and students built their own steady hand testers.

Year 10

Year 10 started off with students investigating DNA and evolution. They completed research into how genetically modified organisms could be impacting on the overall genetic diversity of a species, with some students investigating livestock, agricultural crops and even purebred dogs.

Senior Sciences

Students in the Senior Sciences were engaged with multiple different learning experiences related to their subjects over the course of the term. The Senior Physics students conducted experiments into heat and heat energy while the Senior Biology students completed experiments into cellular functions and enzyme activity. All Senior Science students are gearing up and getting ready to develop their own versions of experiments for Term 2.

Alan Bradshaw

HOD, Science

Woree Youth Advisory Council (WYAC)

Youth Voice Workshop

During this term's Woree Youth Advisory Committee (WYAC) meeting, Robyn from Cairns South Together, proposed a Youth Voice Workshop, which generated interest from a select group of students. Facilitated by Cairns South Together, a grassroots initiative committed to addressing social issues among young people in the southern Cairns region, the workshop offered a collaborative space for schools to share innovative ideas for improving the local environment for youth. Alongside productive discussions, participants also enjoyed engaging activities such as a cupcake decoration contest and a spirited game of rock-paper-scissors.

Jodi Shepherd

Engagement Teacher

A Word from Admin

2024 School Fees 

REMINDER: Student Resource Scheme and Subject Fees for 2024 are due for payment by 31 March 2024. 

Please ensure your fees are up to date to ensure students receive access to all school resources.  Parents and Carers are able to view and pay student accounts via the QParents App, payments options are also on the invoice and or statements emailed to parents.  We also offer payment plans to spread the cost of school fees over the school year.

If you are having financial difficulties we may be able to assist. Please contact Kelly Metcalf, Business Manager on bsm@woreeshs.eq.edu.au to arrange a confidential discussion. 

Student Absences

When a student is absent from school, arrive late or depart early, parents/carers are required to supply information to document the absence and encouraged to contact the school in advance or on the same day via:

General Notices

Are Your Contact Details Up to date?

Communication between parents/carers and Woree State High School staff relies on your contact details/postal address, home/work/mobile phone numbers and email addresses) being up to date.

If you have changed your postal address, phone number/s, email address or emergency contacts recently, please log into QParents App and update or alternatively email enrolments@woreeshs.eq.edu.au with details to be updated. 

Uniforms and Student Dress Code

The image we present to our community is important to maintain the positive reputation of which we are so proud. At all times, students are required to wear appropriate footwear (closed in shoes). Students are to wear their uniform with pride and present themselves in a neat, clean and tidy manner at all times, whether wearing the uniform in school, on excursion or out in the community. 

In the event a student is unable to wear their uniform, a note from the parent/carer is required. 

Please note that our school policy is that students are to only wear either a school jersey/jacket or a plain black or maroon jumper ie: no logo or hoodie.

Concerns and Complaints – Parents/carers are encouraged to discuss classroom issues/concerns with the class teacher first. If the issue is unable to be resolved, parents/carers are encouraged to make an appointment with either the subject Head of Department, Year Level Coordinators, Responsible Behaviour Officer or Deputy Principal Student Services to discuss the matter further.

Electronic Sign

Please continue to watch out for important news and messages on our electronic notice board at the front of the school.  The sign is a valuable asset to our school for advertising and communicating a variety of messages to our students, parents/carers and the wider school community. 

Important Times and Dates

Class Times, Semester 1 - 2024

Useful Information on School Travel

Students have a responsibility in having appropriate behaviour when travelling on bus networks whether that urban or school and need to abide by the Code of Conduct for School Students Travelling on Buses. There are guiding principles which the Queensland Government has outlined and this includes appropriate behaviour, paying the correct fare and safe travel .

Information on the fare and zones of the urban bus network in Cairns, including the network map, is available at www.translink.com.au/tickets-and-fares or by contacting Translink’s 24/7 call centre on 13 12 30.

Should you have any questions regarding school services, please do not hesitate to contact cairnsschools@Sunbus.com.au

Have you Downloaded the QParents App Yet?

Invitations to the App are emailed to the Primary and Secondary residential caregiver registered with the school. Please check your emails and follow the instructions. If you have not received an invite of wish to have one resent, please email BSM@woreeshs.eq.edu.au  

Tuckshop and Uniform Shop

WARI JIGUUL TUCKSHOP – PROTOCOLS

ORDERING

• All students and staff are encouraged to order through the Flexischools app with ALL LUNCH ORDERS BEING PLACED BY 8:45am.
• To download the app please search Flexischools and then set up a login profile. You will need to link an eftpos card or set up the wallet where parents can control how much money is attached to their child’s account.
• The tuckshop will be available in the mornings from 8:00am - 8:45am for students to order their lunch via cash or Eftpos.
  

LUNCH

3 windows will be open 1^st and 2^nd  lunch where students will line up to receive their lunch orders

1. Years 7 to 10 Students whom have pre ordered their Lunch 
2. Years 11 & 12 Students and Staff whom have pre ordered their Lunch 
3. All Students and Staff whom have not pre ordered (Cash and Eftpos sales, no phone payments please) 

• It is really important that all students line up in the correct line as the orders will be placed in year group baskets at the corresponding window and will allow for timely service.
• We will be using a traffic light system in that Red lines indicate the boundary lines in which only students purchasing from the tuckshop should enter. Orange lines indicate where students are to line up and green squares are where students pick up or purchase their items. 
• Students MUST line up in single file. If a student who is not lined up and pushes in or asks a friend to purchase an item they will be asked to go to the back of the line. It is important that students do not gather in the tuckshop lines and keep the lines moving quickly and efficiently. STUDENTS NOT PURCHASING ITEMS MUST WAIT OUTSIDE THE RED LINES
• Students who line up in the wrong line they will be asked to go to the back of their correct line.
• Students MUST only pick up their own lunch order. If a student forgets to pick up their order it will be repacked for the 2^nd break, after that if the student still does not pick up their order they will forfeit their lunch order. 
  
• Students are not to walk through the tuckshop area i.e. inside the red lines. Please walk around the outside of the red lines.
  

Uniform Shop

The Uniform Shop is open every Monday and Thursday  between 8:00 – 9:30 am.

Pre ordering for collection on these days can be ordered via the Flexi Schools app. 

Cash and Eftpos Facilities are available for purchases during open times. 

A limited range of second-hand uniforms are available for purchase. Any donations of good quality used uniforms are welcomed. 

Special Interest

The following might be of interest to you.