A kaleidoscope of colour and spirited chants spurred on our swimmers, as our Senior students relished the chance to come together and celebrate during the 2024 Secondary School Interhouse Swimming Carnival!
Congratulations to Wright House who were the winning House on the day!
Final results from the carnival, including new records, will be posted in upcoming editions of Illalong Newsletter.
On Tuesday 6 February, we had Safer Internet Day. As the official committee in Australia and a leader in the global effort, eSafety celebrates the day as one of the most important events of the year and this the 21st year. This is supported by the Australian Government through the eSafety Commissioner. It is an opportunity to raise awareness about the role we can all play in creating a better internet and how to utilise it in a safe manner.
Safer Internet Day is a way of dealing with internet safety and is something parents, young people and the entire community need to commit to if we are to promote the positive use of technology in our communities. The internet can be an amazing resource! Used wisely, it can open up a world of information, connectedness and learning, but … with these benefits come serious and real dangers such as exposure to inappropriate content, cyber-bullying, and the anxiety that can arise from constantly being connected.
Throughout this week the whole College has been engaged with a variety of age-appropriate activities to raise awareness of how to use and navigate the internet in a safe manner. We will also encounter ways in which students can identify dangers and what their rights and responsibilities are. Students have been encouraged to report suspicious or inappropriate behaviours and who they are able to speak to about this.
As a College, we have a Cybersafety Committee which is comp
rised of a dedicated group of teachers from across the College. Throughout 2023 we worked on continuing to align practices across the College and also received feedback from staff, students and parents through targeted surveys. This feedback has led to several initiatives including a whole College focus on cybersafety lessons being incorporated into both the Junior School and Secondary School SELF (Social Emotional Learning Fundamentals) programs and being embedded in the curriculum.
Therefore, across the College our focus is not only on the specific ‘Safer Internet Day’ but ensuring we have aligned, contemporary practices across the College which cater for our student needs and offer opportunities for parents to be informed of how they can also help which was a component of our parent information evenings on Monday and Tuesday evening.
As a college community, we need to continue to work together to make every day a Safer Internet Day! That is why Safer Internet Day is calling on Australians to Connect. Reflect. Protect.
SIMON EDGAR | HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL
148 very excited students and 14 staff set off for Canberra on Monday 29 January, keenly anticipating the huge array of activities that awaited us with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage, national identity, and democracy.
After a short flight, our first stop was Circular Quay where we boarded our boat for a cruise around Sydney Harbour enjoying the wonderful views of all the key sites including the Opera House and Harbour Bridge and marvelling at the huge cruise ship in the harbour before setting off on the buses to Canberra.
Over the next three days students were able to get a better understanding of how our democratic system works with visits to the Australian Parliament, Old Parliament House and the Electoral Commission, which involved role plays mirroring the debating and passing of a bill as well as tours of the buildings. Whilst visiting the Governor General’s residence students learnt about the role of the Governor General covering the four ‘Cs’ – constitutional, commonwealth, community and commander in chief. One group was lucky enough to see the Governor General welcome the French Ambassador with a military parade and band. Whilst another group met the Governor General’s wife and even sang a song with her.
At the National Museum of Australia students enjoyed learning stories from First Nations people and explored stories connected to The Great Southern Land. A highlight of the trip was a visit to the Australian War Memorial where we learnt about Australia’s role in conflicts around the world. One group was able to take part in the Last Post ceremony, which this year was also attended by cadets from the Royal Military College. Students Edward Moroney and Zanaib Janaid laid a wreath on behalf of the College acknowledging the service of our Armed Forces over the years.
Visits to the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery saw the students try their hand at replicating key art works and exploring a variety of artistic styles. We saw artwork by Indigenous artist Emily Kam Kngwarray in a special exhibition and the Aboriginal Memorial, an installation of 200 hollow log coffins, as well as Sydney Nolan’s Ned Kelly series and Jackson Pollock’s Blue Poles.
For those with an interest in sport the A.I.S. visit was much anticipated, and many enjoyed seeing the world class training facilities on offer and taking part in the activities here. This year we were able to watch a volleyball training session and see Olympic hopefuls for the Australian gymnastic team training.
For those with more of an interest in science the visit to the C.S.I.R.O. provided a fascinating insight into the world of scientific investigation. Everyone enjoyed the evening visit to Questacon with the huge variety of hands-on activities to experience. The giant slide was as popular as ever, as was the AI/robotics room.
On Friday, we made our return to the College, with everyone agreeing it had been a fantastic week, making new friendships and strengthening old ones. The students should be very proud of the way they conducted themselves while away – they were a credit to their families and the College. I would also like to thank all the staff who accompanied us on the trip and made it such a success.
The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding of $90 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.
ALISON WARD | HEAD OF LAWSON HOUSE
This is what some of the students had to say about the trip:
James Tomlinson:
On Monday, we arrived at school at 5 a.m., ready to embark on our 5-day journey to Canberra. As we boarded the buses to leave, we all felt mixed feelings of excitement and nervousness. Once we were at the airport, we went through customs and were allowed to explore on our own. Many of us spent our money on overpriced airport food. After the plane ride, we went on our first activity, a private boat ride around Sydney Harbour while we enjoyed our lunches. Then, we got back on the buses and drove to Canberra Park, the holiday place where we would be sleeping for the next four nights. On day two, we went to the National Museum of Australia, the National Portrait Gallery, and the gumnut playground at the Arboretum. After dinner, we went to see the Wonka movie at the cinema, which was the highlight of many of our trips. On day three, we went to Parliament House and Old Parliament House and were given great tours by the staff. That evening, we went to Questacon which is a hands-on science museum that has over four levels of activities and hundreds of rooms. This was another highlight. On day four, we went to the Australian War Memorial and learned a lot about World War 1 and World War 2. Then, we went back to Canberra Park and prepared to go back home to Queensland the following day. Once we got to the airport in Sydney, we all took advantage of our freedoms and went to food places in the large Sydney airport. As we got on the plane to head home, we all looked back on the good times we had in Canberra and Sydney.
Ivy Hamilton
The Canberra Tour was really enjoyable. We were always having fun somewhere and each place that we went to was a different experience. It was great getting to know some of the students in my year level better across the five days. My favourite places that we went to were Questacon and the AIS. The teachers were super nice to us and made sure that we were having the best time possible, I would do it again if I could.
The Canberra Camp 2024 was an unforgettable experience that left Grade 8 with lasting memories and an expanded vision of the nation’s capital city. Our itinerary was filled with simulating and educational activities that broadened our knowledge of Australia’s rich history, important monuments, and the planning of the city. To begin the week, we started off on a lovely tour around Sydney’s Harbour which was followed with a long bus drive to our accommodation. Our trip included a visit to government areas, such as Parliament House, the Governor General’s Office, Old Parliament House, and an information voting session.
Pahvi Sharma
Our grade had the chance to discover plenty of national museums and galleries, the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), and the War Memorial and many more. My friends and I decided our favourite activity was the night at Questacon, where we got to explore and solve puzzles regarding space, chemistry, and science in general. The venue also had a free fall slide which many of us took part in and had the time of our life! We had the opportunity to have a relaxing night at the cinemas and watch a new blockbuster movie, “Wonka”. The overall camp was fabulous and was one everyone will remember for the many years to come.
Reetliv Rayar
The Canberra trip was highly enjoyable and full of many engaging experiences. It was a trip where I was able to take part in a wide variety of activities, ranging from visiting the Australian Institute of Sport to admiring the beautiful pieces of art located in the Australian National Gallery. Not only was I able to take part in many educational activities but I also got to see the French Ambassador and Governor General. This trip was a time where we could learn about new things while also having a lot of fun. I really enjoyed this trip because every day we tried something new.
Our annual Sunshine Coast Rugby & Netball tour took place last weekend. It was another unforgettable experience for our teams filled with camaraderie, competition, and memorable moments.
Our Open A Netball Girls conquered the Sunshine Coast tour with remarkable victories. Friday's second match of the year against St Johns Nambour proved tougher, but our girls triumphed after a fierce battle against the newly solidified St Johns team.
Overnight activities fostered team unity, which is a vital element that undoubtedly fueled their Saturday morning clash with their strongest opponents yet, Matthew Flinders. The historic 26-24 win left Coach Jodie beaming with pride, marking a pivotal moment in AB Paterson College netball history. This successful tour not only secured wins but also provided invaluable insights for the promising season ahead.
Our First XV team had their Second Match against St Johns Nambour to kick start the tour. The Friday game was a tough start with St Johns having lots of experience in their Squad. Our Brumbies had a great start to the game showing that all their additional training sessions were paying off. Unfortunately, St Johns were too strong and secured the win on the day. School Captain Lachlan Kelly was voted our best on field with great physicality and leadership in the forwards.
After a great camp dinner and some team bonding activities, we had an early start to play Mathhew Flinders on the Saturday. This game was full of excitement, with minimal errors and lots of quality rugby on display. Hesed Lote-Felo was named best on field with ruthless defence. Going down by one try, the Rugby team was sent packing back to the Gold Coast without a win. The determination to change the results in our rematch against Matthew Flinders will drive high quality training over the next three weeks.
A huge thank you to Mr Lawton, Mrs Sloane, Tait Rolfe and Jodie Ffewkes for all their hard work and dedication in preparing our teams of the tour and upcoming APS season.
SARA EADE | HEAD OF CO-CURRICUALR SPORT
It has been an exciting week in Prep as we dove into the wonderful world of the letter ‘Tt’ and embarked on a delightful adventure with our Year 6 buddies. Our littlest learners at the College have been busy exploring the sound and shape of the letter Tt while engaging in a variety of fun and educational activities.
One of the highlights of our week was our Teddy Bear Picnic with our Year 6 buddies. The Prep area was buzzling with excitement as the Prep and Year 6 students gathered their favourite teddy bears for a memorable outdoor adventure. But this was not just any picnic; it was a learning extravaganza centered around the letter Tt!
To kick off the picnic, our creative minds got to work as we crafted adorable teddy bear crowns. With colourful paper, markers, and a sprinkle of imagination, each child personalised their crown to perfection!
Following our crown-making extravaganza, it was time to put our literacy skills to the test. Armed with whiteboards and markers, the children eagerly traced and wrote the letter Tt, practicing its formation and sound. The enthusiasm in the air was infectious as they eagerly shared their creations with their buddies, reinforcing their understanding of the letter Tt.
But what is a picnic without some delicious treats? Keeping with our theme, the children delighted in discovering and devouring tasty treats from their lunchboxes that started with the letter Tt. From Tim Tams to Tiny Teddies, lunchboxes were filled with food starting with Tt.
As the picnic came to a close, laughter and smiles filled the air, a testament to the joy shared between our Prep and Year 6 students. Thank you to our Year 6 buddies for being such wonderful mentors and friends, and to all the parents for your continued support and encouragement. Together, we are fostering a love for learning that will last a lifetime.
TRENT DAVIS, JADE LUCY, REBECCA TONKIN & ASHLEA MCSWEENEY | PREP TEACHERS
White Oat distillery, Biggera WatersFriday 01 Mar 202412:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Join us for the A.B. Paterson College Foundation Business Luncheon and hear from our special Guest Speaker, Curtis McGrath - Athlete, an Australian Paralympian and former soldier.
After losing both legs as a result of a mine blast while serving with the Australian Defence Force in Afghanistan, Curtis has gone on to become a ten-time world championship gold medallist, a motivational speaker, published author and was recognised for his outstanding achievement with an OAM. Curtis is now preparing to Co-Captain our paralympic team to Paris 2024!
This event will also be an opportunity to network whilst grazing your way through lunch, a 3-hour drinks package and gin experience with head distiller, Tudor Duxbury, at White Oat Distillery.
Secure your seat now for this exclusive event: TICKETS NOW.
Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please reach out to Tegan Parker at tparker@abpat.qld.edu.au for more information.
TEGAN PARKER | HEAD OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & MARKETING
We're getting excited... the date is set, the venue secured and the magic of the night well into the final stages of planning!
We can't wait to welcome you to our inaugural A.B. Paterson College Foundation Gala Ball on Saturday, 17 August at one of the Gold Coast's most iconic ballrooms for a night of glitz and glamour.
Tickets will be going on sale early in term 2!
Stay tuned to socials and current families, don't forget to check A.B. Connect for updates.
Limited sponsorship opportunities are available.
Please reach out to Tegan at tparker@abpat.qld.edu.au for more information.
TEGAN PARKER | HEAD OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & MARKETING
A friendly reminder that our Uniform Shop is now available online.
Parents, you can access the shop through the Flexischools portal on A.B. Connect.
Easily browse and shop all your uniform needs, including clothing, backpacks, hats and accessories!
Shop through Flexischools via the A.B. Connect Parent Portal: https://connect.abpat.qld.edu.au/
To access more information, please visit our page on the College website Uniform Shop | A.B. Paterson College (abpat.qld.edu.au)
Susan Kelly | Uniform Shop Convenor
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