Bayside Bulletin Newsletter, 12 March 2024

Principal’s Message

There are a great many times that I get disheartened by the conduct of a person, the language they use, the attacks they formulate, the behaviours they exhibit, and then I hear them strongly protest their faith in God, or herald that they are committed Christians. I have also met a great many people who behave with such an incredible beauty, a peacefulness, and with integrity and generosity, but who claim they are not strong believers in the faith, and yet, we can see God’s light shine through them, even if they are not themselves self-aware.

This does make me wonder about the degree to which we are truly aware of God’s presence in our lives, whether we actively look for His presence, and sometimes how much we seek Him out. How much do live in accordance with His will or are our words just that… empty words?

2 Corinthians 5: 7 states “for we walk by faith, not by sight” (living our lives in a manner consistent with our confident belief in God’s promises) but do we… ?

For me, walking in faith means to trust God in all I do. This means that even though I cannot see where I am going or what is around the next bend, I am called to put my faith and trust in God.

In Exodus, the Bible tells us that God lead the Israelites out of Egypt, but the way He chose was not the direct path, nor the one they knew but rather through the wilderness. God knew what was going to happen and He delivered them through unfamiliar territory. They trusted in God and looked to Him in faith.

There are times I stray from this path and look to myself to solve issues that are far beyond my capabilities, and when I do, I get stressed, because I am not equipped to solve the issue. It is in these moments that I am reminded that I need to look to God, and to trust in Him to solve the issue. Over the years I have met a great many people, who I would describe as eternally peaceful – nothing ever seems to trouble them, and the common element in each of these individuals is indeed their strong and committed faith. Each had a clear mindset on what they were required to do, and that which was God’s domain. They turned to Him frequently in despair, in time of need, and in appreciation.

Each of these truly wonderful people looked more upon what was unseen than that which was. As given in 2 Corinthians 4: 18, we need to keep our focus on living according to God’s will and not the temporary, arbitrary things that so often attract our focus on earth:

“As we look not to the things that are seen but to the things that are unseen. For the things that are seen are transient, but the things that are unseen are eternal.”

While there is much that happens in our day – things that please us and things that do not, we need to be very clear on what is important, and this can only be unearthed when we walk by faith, and not in sight.

There may even be times at which we pray for something, and it does not happen – does this mean God is not listening? Not at all. Sometimes what we want, is not what we need, or not the path that God wants us to travel, and sometimes He wants us to be prepared for the Gifts yet to be received. Praying and not seeing what we want, also necessitates that we walk by faith, and not in sight.

I have much to learn and have a long way to go in the maturity of my faith, but I can see clearly that when I stress and get anxious, it is because I have strayed from walking by faith.

May we all put that little extra trust in God, and allow Him to be the miracle and the designer of our lives. May we be less concerned about arbitrary things, less concerned about getting our own way, and focus on our spiritual lives. When we let go of the insignificant, our stresses do ease, and we can find that path to a more fulfilling life. Not always easy, but it is a path worth finding.

Brian Grimes
Principal/CEO

Deputy Principal’s Message

Friendly greetings to each of you as we enter Week 8 of the school year. Our College has been truly blessed this fortnight with many community events that brought us together in celebration. I am thankful for the opportunities to connect with new families and unite with our staff and parents.

Alongside the moments of joy and celebration, we also encountered few challenges where some of our students may have struggled to adhere to our School Values and expectations this fortnight. With this, I believe that there is indeed, no greater support than that of parents. We appreciate the trust you give us to manage and guide your children when you place them in our care. The partnership between the parents and the College should be one of great support and mutual trust. With God’s grace, we can work towards the growth and development of our children, guiding them to recognise when they have acted inappropriately and doing so with respectful communication. When our children face struggles because of poor behaviour choices, it is crucial for us to walk with them, assisting them through these moments. We must help them understand and learn from their mistakes and pray for them in their path to listen to the right voice — the guidance and instruction of God.

It is important to recognise that, like all adults, we have made mistakes in our youth, and so too will our children. Therefore, we ask for a strengthened partnership where we can communicate respectfully, with the common understanding that we, as a College, only ever want the best outcomes for your children, just as you, as parents do.

As we move towards the end of Term 1, I humbly ask you to reflect on the respect and appreciation owed to the dedicated teachers and staff who wholeheartedly commit their time in service to God and the children entrusted in their care. Let us continue to nurture this respectful partnership between staff and parents. Let us guide our children with grace, love, and compassion, knowing that it is through challenges that they learn and grow into the individuals we aspire for them to become.

Family BBQ and Games

The Family BBQ and Games Afternoon was a tremendous success, with an impressive turnout from our community. Nearly 500 people came together, strengthening connections through games, food, activities, and of course, laughter. Despite being dunked by the students, I truly enjoyed myself and we sincerely hope each of you enjoyed it as much as we did. A special thanks and acknowledgement to our dedicated staff members, whose tireless efforts in preparing for this occasion brough the smiles and happiness on our students’ faces.

Check out more photos HERE!

Recognition of Student Work

Last week, Mr. Grimes and I had the pleasure of a very special visit from our Prep students. They have been learning their ‘tricky words’ and learning how to structure sentences. We were impressed with their writing skills and we congratulate them for their efforts. We were also delighted by the creativity of Arnnika, a Year 3 student who shared her ‘thankful turkey’ with us. In her creation, she expressed gratitude for various blessings, including God first and foremost, followed by family, school, friends, and pets. We send our sincere appreciation to Arnnika for sharing her wonderful work with us.

Assembly Awards

Last Friday, despite the windy conditions at the Basketball Court, we held a Full College assembly to honour the achievements of our students. Our students in Junior and Senior School received their Merit Certificates, recognising a variety of accomplishments in the classroom. Our Barracudas team members were acknowledged by their coaches, Brett Carter and Michael Bennett, and awarded ‘Spirit Awards’ for their outstanding teamwork, both on and off the field.

Broncos Challenge

Go the Barracudas! What a fantastic first game to experience — watching both our boys and girls pour their hearts into the game and finish with a win. Their teamwork and determination are something to be truly proud of. I was very impressed with their defence and how hard the boys and girls could tackle! The boys’ team final score: 22–12 and the girl’s score 16–8.

I was truly amazed at the incredible show of support from our Bayside community. The sight of parents and staff, united in their Barracuda Supporter shirts, cheering on our students, was proof of the beautiful community that this program has brought to our College. After much prayer for our community to form and grow, God’s blessings certainly brought us together. Thank you to Coach Brett Carter and Assistant Coach, Michael Bennett — their dedication and love for the Barracudas show in every aspect of their coaching. Their commitment to the students is truly God’s grace working through them to build not only great players, but also great individuals who will carry these values for years to come. The staff and students are very blessed to have Mr Carter and Mr Bennett.

Win or lose in future games, with a staff and parent community as strong and supportive as ours, we are already champions. Thank you very much for being there, for cheering them on, and for your commitment to our students who have trained so very hard this term.

We look forward to the upcoming Broncos Challenge game this Wednesday 13th March. The boys’ team will kick off at 4:15 pm at Stafford Park, Torquay, facing off against St James Lutheran College. Our girls’ team will have a BYE week and will return to the field on Wednesday 20th March, to compete against Hervey Bay State High School at Eskdale Park, Maryborough, with kick off at 4:15 pm. Let’s show our support and cheer our teams to victory!

Easter Chapel Service + Grandparents and Special Friends Day

Mark your calendars! On Thursday 28th March, we send a warm invitation to all Grandparents and Special Friends to join us for our event, ‘Grandparents and Special Friends Day’. This special occasion allows us to celebrate the role that grandparents play in the lives of our students. We invite you to participate in our Easter Chapel Service, which will coincide with the event, as well as explore our Open Classrooms. Following the service and classroom visits, we will host a Morning Tea to honour the presence of our special guests. Stay tuned for further details on the event organisation, but please be sure to save the date and join us for what will be a heartwarming occasion for all.

Matthew 22:37-39 “Jesus said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment. A second likewise is this, ‘You shall love your neighbour as yourself.”

As I reflect on Chappy Karl’s message at the Community Chapel Service, I encourage us all to let love be our guiding light this fortnight in all we do. As we seek to live out these commandments, we reflect the love and compassion of our Creator and honour his teachings. May we seek His will in all things and to love others with sincerity and compassion, reaching out to someone in need whenever we can. Let your love be a reflection of the love God has shown you.

May God continue to bless you and your families abundantly.

Edelle Broadhurst
Deputy Principal

Digital Literature Year 7 & 8

In Year 7/8 Digital Literature this term, students are exploring storytelling in videogames. They can be seen here playing the game that is their stimulus for their multi-text narrative that they have begun writing. It’s been incredible to witness students use communication and problem solving skills to tackle challenging elements in the game and celebrate with one another when they succeed.

Year 10 English

Year 10 English have been reading “The Boy in Striped Pyjamas” by John Boyne and learning about World War II in preparation for their English Exam in Week 8. The students have been engaging in discussion about the themes and characters of the novel and it’s been insightful to hear their thoughts, predictions, and analysis of the text.

From the Director of Learning Systems

“Education is not just about feeding the mind. It’s about nurturing the soul and fostering the development of character, all while embracing the transformative power of technology.“

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I extend warm greetings to you from the Director of Learning Systems at Bayside Christian College. It is my pleasure to share insights and updates regarding our learning systems, particularly in relation to TASS — The Alpha School System:

Celebrating One Year of TASS Implementation:

It has been a year since we introduced TASS — The Alpha School System — as a transformative solution to streamline our administrative processes and enhance communication within our school community. The journey thus far has been marked by milestones, successes, and invaluable lessons learned.

Expanding TASS Modules:

Since the initial implementation of TASS, we have continuously evaluated and expanded its modules to better serve the evolving needs of our school community. From student management to resource allocation, each new module represents a step forward in our commitment to operational excellence and student success.

Recent Module Additions:

Events and Payments Module:

Our new Events and Payments module offers a streamlined solution for managing school events and processing payments securely. From excursions to school fundraisers, this module simplifies event coordination, registration, and payment processing, providing greater convenience and transparency for all stakeholders.

Extra-curricular Sign-Up and Roll Marking:

We understand the importance of fostering student engagement beyond the traditional classroom setting. Our new Extra-curricular sign-up and custom roll marking module enables students & parents to explore and sign up for a variety of extra-curricular activities, from sports teams to academic clubs. Additionally, this module facilitates efficient roll marking and attendance tracking for extra-curricular events, ensuring accurate records and supervision.

e-Diary use in Year 7 to 12:

This year, our secondary students are encouraged to utilise the e-Diary within Student Café. It provides a holistic view of assessment dates, the extra-curricular calendar, appointments, and valuable assessment feedback. Through Student Café, students submit assignments digitally, enabling efficient tracking of deadlines and progress, along with plagiarism checks. Additionally, via the Parent Lounge, you gain direct access to your child’s grades and feedback on assessments. The integrated calendar ensures you stay informed about important dates, events, and deadlines, facilitating seamless organisation of your child’s academic schedule.

Your Feedback Matters:

As we continue to refine and expand TASS, your feedback remains invaluable. We invite members of our school community to share their insights, suggestions, and experiences with TASS. Your input guides our efforts to enhance user experience, address challenges, and maximise the benefits of this powerful platform.

Looking Ahead:

As we embark on another year of growth and innovation, I am filled with gratitude for the dedication and collaboration of our school community. Together, we will continue to embrace technological advancements, uphold educational excellence, and empower our students to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to our shared vision of academic excellence and student-centred learning.

Mrs T McKendrick

The Teaching of Auslan in Junior Classes

Auslan lessons in our Junior School are engaging, interactive, and enjoyable. They foster a love for learning a new language. Students participate in hands-on activities such as games, role-plays, and songs to practice their Auslan skills. We use visual aids such as flashcards, posters, and videos to reinforce vocabulary and concepts. Students engage in different Auslan storytelling sessions to captivate their attention and help them understand the structure and grammar of Auslan. Our Auslan lessons also provide students insight into Deaf culture and promote multicultural awareness and acceptance.

Auslan has a rich history in Australia, dating back to the 19th century when British, Irish, and Scottish people who were deaf migrated to the country, bringing their sign languages. Over time, an Australian sign language developed, incorporating unique characteristics and grammar. Auslan was officially recognised as the sign language of the Australian Deaf community and coined as an acronym by Trevor Johnston in the early 1980s. Today, almost 20,000 people use Auslan daily to communicate. Our P–2 classes are studying a book called, I am Deaf written by Jennifer Moore Mallinos. It tells the story of Lana and what it is like to be deaf. We learn about some of the things she uses to help her learn and communicate. This story empowers and inspires us to be the best we can be.

We love our Auslan Junior school lessons as they are always interactive and fun! We learn through play and songs. Our favourite songs at the moment are “Sing Me a Rainbow”, Old McDonald”, as well as “I can spell B-A-T”!

A. Mulder

On a Roll with Auslan!

This week, students have been learning numbers in Auslan, from 0 to 1,000. Students in Years 3 and 4 engaged in a dice game to reinforce their learning. Individually, they were asked to roll a dice and sign the number rolled. Then as a level-up, they were asked to join with a partner, roll two dice, add the numbers together, and then sign that number. Students really enjoyed it!

Throughout the term, families have been emailed Auslan documents to facilitate practising at home together. I have received much positive feedback, as families are now clear on how they can support their child’s Auslan learning, and some have even invented games to make practising more fun. Students have certainly enjoyed the opportunity to teach the adults in their lives something as well!

Kirstene Wallace

Year 3 Report

In Year 3 it has been a busy Term One. Just recently students have overcome their feelings of nervousness to perform at the College Community Chapel and at the whole school assembly. After both performances they expressed not only their relief that it was finished but also their sense of pride and accomplishment.

Over the past few weeks, students have written entertaining narratives about stepping ‘through the doorway’. Many found the doorway was a portal into an imaginary land which they then had to escape. Their study of Australia and Australia’s neighbouring countries continues and involves the sharing of many travel adventures and a greater appreciation for the countries around us. Thank you to the College’s instrumental teachers, students are enjoying learning beginner songs on their stringed instruments, so we look forward to a performance later in the year.

This week Year 3 students will have NAPLAN testing for the first time. Everyone is a bit nervous but all understand that it is another opportunity to do their best and support each other through this new experience.

T. Herbert
3T Teacher

Celebrating Achievement: Caleb Hill and Dyshart Morgan Earn Their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards!

A Remarkable Journey of Dedication and Growth

The Duke of Edinburgh Award program has long been a beacon of personal development, resilience, and community service. Today, we proudly celebrate the achievements of two exceptional students: Caleb Hill and Dyshart Morgan, who have successfully completed their Bronze level award.

The Path to Excellence

Caleb and Dyshart embarked on this challenging journey with determination and enthusiasm. Over the past months, they demonstrated unwavering commitment, pushing their limits and embracing new experiences. Let’s explore how they achieved this remarkable milestone:

1. Volunteering: Making a Difference

Both Caleb and Dyshart dedicated countless hours to volunteering within our community. Whether it was assisting in gardening in our school grounds, helping in the soup kitchen, or mentoring younger students, their selflessness left an indelible mark.

2. Physical Fitness: Striving for Health and Wellness

Physical fitness became a priority for our award recipients. Dyshart honed his talents in Swimming, while Caleb focussed on Athletics and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Their dedication to staying active not only improved their physical health but also fostered discipline and resilience.

3. Skill Development: Mastering New Abilities

Caleb honed his musical skills in playing the clarinet increasing his musicality and song repertoire. Meanwhile, Dyshart increased his skills in career planning and first aid. Their commitment to skill development was truly inspiring.

4. Adventurous Expeditions: Navigating Challenges

The rugged outdoors became their classroom. Caleb and Dyshart embarked on understanding the rich Indigenous cultural history of Hervey Bay and how to navigate the public transport systems. Their teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and resilience were put to the test, and they emerged victorious.

A Bright Future Ahead

As Caleb and Dyshart receive their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards, we celebrate not only their accomplishments but also their growth as individuals. These awards signify more than just a certificate—they symbolize determination, perseverance, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Caleb Hill and Dyshart Morgan. Your hard work, resilience, and dedication inspire us all.

Well done, Caleb and Dyshart! Your Bronze awards are a testament to your character and the bright futures that lie ahead.

Textiles — Fashion

Students are currently studying the unit Environmentally Friendly Fashion. This unit focuses on how sustainable clothing can be socially, economically and environmentally sustainable. Students focus on designing and creating a sustainable fashion item that repurposes household textiles into wearable products. The item should reflect the historical and cultural influences of the sustainable clothing movement.

Jayda Cox, year 12, has chosen to make a skirt with eight gores using some cotton fabric samples that have been donated to the school. The pattern is from the collection of patterns held here and the thread was from the school thread drawer. Buttons for the centre front will be from our button collection.

Futsal Tournament

Wednesday 28th February saw 11 Bayside Futsal players make their way to the Hervey Bay PCYC to play a tournament. We had 6 players playing up a year and even 2 players playing 2 years above their age group. As returning champions we had huge expectations but also a target on our backs. Our first game ended with a loss but the boys came back strong, winning the next 5 games making their way to the finals where we unfortunately lost to Maryborough.

Everyone had a great day and learnt more and more each game they played. The boys played with heart and commitment showing their determination and drive. All played extremely well and flew the Bayside banner high. Congratulations must go to Antonio Firouzfar, Dylan Mitchell, Jake Hewitt, Malakai Yeatman, Ben Barkley, Lucas Mills and Jeshua Thompson for making it into the Queensland Country Districts squad which will play a three day tournament in Brisbane.

Health and Physical Education Highlights

Year 11 and 12 Sport and Recreation: Surf Lifesaving Skills

In an exciting collaboration with the Surf Lifesaving Club, our Year 11 and 12 Sport and Recreation students have been immersed in valuable lessons on surf safety. The program covers essential skills such as CPR and water rescue techniques, providing students with the knowledge to ensure their safety and the safety of others at the beach. These life lessons are not only educational but also potentially life-saving.

Year 10 Aquatic Safety Unit: Preparing for the Bronze Medallion

Our Year 10 students have completed their Aquatic Safety unit at the pool, a comprehensive exploration of the components of the Bronze Medallion. The practical components in the pool tested the swimming abilities of all participants. As the term concludes, students will face a final exam evaluating the theoretical aspects of water safety. This unit equips students with essential skills to navigate various water-related situations and potentially save lives.

Year 9 Touch Football: Invasion of Space

In our exhilarating Year 9 Touch Football unit, students have seamlessly transitioned through dynamic sessions, delving into the skills of catching, passing, and mastering specialised movements. The teamwork aspect has been a focal point, with students not only refining their individual skills but also embracing the art of effective collaboration on the field. Engaging in diverse game play scenarios has been a thrilling journey, providing practical application to their newfound skills. As we approach the upcoming assessments, the culmination of these experiences promises a showcase of their collective proficiency in the world of touch football.

Year 8 Musical Movement and Beach Activities

In a showcase of creativity and movement, our Year 8 students recently completed their musical movement assessment, incorporating a diverse range of movements set to music, complete with costumes. As the term concludes, students will transition to engaging in various physical activities and challenges at the beach. This hands-on experience allows them to explore and enjoy the beautiful resources we have in Hervey Bay.

Year 7 Newcombe Ball: Competitive Edge

The Year 7 students have been on a thrilling journey mastering the art of Newcombe ball games! Throughout this unit, our focus has been on honing essential skills such as passing, catching, moving strategically, and fostering teamwork. It’s been heartening to witness the competitive spirit of our Year 7s, leading to some truly exhilarating games. As they continue to develop their skills, we look forward to more exciting moments on the Newcombe ball court. Stay tuned for updates on their progress in this dynamic and energetic unit!

Belinda France
Head of Health and Physical Education

Splash of Success at the Secondary Swimming Carnival!

Under the vibrant sunshine on Friday, March 1st, our secondary students dove into a day filled with aquatic excitement at the annual swimming carnival. The pool was a playground for a multitude of events, ranging from spirited novelty races to fiercely competitive swimming contests. The boat races added a touch of thrilling madness, as students paddled furiously to claim victory. Not to be outdone, our enthusiastic staff members joined the fray, earning valuable house points in every novelty race they entered.

Novelty races witnessed students of all swimming abilities joyfully participating, turning the event into a celebration of inclusivity and fun. The cheer competition, held during lunchtime, resonated with Johnston House clinching victory for their thunderous cheers. Riva Pluis and Damon Smith stole the limelight as they secured the title of Best Dressed, showcasing creativity and flair. The coveted Spirit Award was deservedly claimed by Elizabeth Firouzfar and Angelique Roberts for their unwavering enthusiasm and positive energy.

Chisholm House emerged as the clear winner, displaying dominance across various events. The carnival proved to be a stage where students challenged themselves, exceeded their expectations, and celebrated personal triumphs. Heartiest congratulations to all age champions and runners-up! Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming district swimming carnival, as our aquatic journey continues.

Keep making waves, Bayside!

Surf Life Savers

Bayside’s Ben Barkley and Dane Carr recently competed in the Wide Bay Capricorn Branch Championships for Surf Life Saving. The boys did incredibly well, both coming home with a swag of medals for both Team and Individual events. Ben and Dane have now qualified to compete in the Queensland State Championships at the Gold Coast later this month. Well done boys!

Prep Open Day Wednesday 27 March

Click the image below to register: