Principal’s Message

Every single day, most people (if not all) become frustrated, disappointed, or are let down by another. Just as others do this to us, we too do it to others, even if we are blind to our own inadequacies or misgivings. Each one of us contribute to the corruption of God’s creation. With so much potential disappointment taking place every single day, forgiveness is key to a happy life.

In Matthew 6: 14-15, Jesus says “For if you forgive people their transgressions, your Father in the heaven will also forgive you. But if you will not forgive people, then neither will the Father forgive your transgressions”. Forgiving someone who has done a relatively small or insignificant wrong against us, should indeed be very simple and easy, but what about those who hurt us deeply through their actions.

Jesus’ words may be interpreted to say that God will refuse to forgive us our sins if we do not forgive others. I do not believe this to be true of a loving God who offered us a new and everlasting Covenant. Instead, I believe He was saying that if we cannot forgive another, if we cannot approach every human relationship with an openness for forgiveness, then we ourselves have not opened ourselves up to receive God’s forgiveness.

Offering forgiveness is not always easy. It requires an acknowledgement of our pain, and this can take time, sometimes years – it is a process. We are not expected to forgive others immediately, but it is a true ingredient for healing. When we forgive another, it frees us from the crippling power of resentment and enables the possibility of repairing the relationship.

Despite each of us owing a debt for our own transgressions, God remains compassionate and forgiving to us. He does not blindly disregard our sins but does not hold them against us either. The word ‘forgive’ comes from the Greek verb ‘aphiemi’ which means ‘let go’. To let something go is to forgive.

We may choose and have every right to condemn the action or fault of another but are called to spare and forgive the doer. As God forgives us, we are called to allow His immeasurable compassion to soften our hearts towards the people who transgress against us. Such forgiveness heals our heart, as resentment can all too easily build and destroy every facet of our lives.

Resentment should not be seen as a protective action against another but rather it is something that destroys us from our very core, and imprisons us to a life of rejection and bitterness. Such bitterness prevents the restoration of healthy relationships, and negatively impacts our daily functioning, and our physical and mental health. Sadly, we seem to build a wall of resentment against others all too easily – for the difference of opinion, as a result of jealousy, and matters that are truly insignificant in our lives and in who we are called to be. Why do we let such petty matters upset us? Why can we not accept a difference of opinion and respect and appreciate our rights to hold different opinions, without attempting to force our personal beliefs on others?

In fact, Christians spend more time in debate and dispute over matters and differences of opinion than we seem to do in sharing the Good News that we hold in common. This is not who we are called to be!

To forgive is to commence healing, but it does not mean that we should not hold one accountable for the action or that there should not be a consequence for the wrong. Bryan Stevenson, stated “Each one of us is more than the worst thing we have ever done” – are we not more, are we not truly better than the worst thing we have done?

Forgiveness and reconciliation are very different things. We may not always be able to reconcile with another due to the depth of pain we experience, but if we forgive, we free ourselves and open the possibility of bringing just a little more healing into our world.

Something for us all to ponder.

Brian Grimes
Principal

Deputy Principal’s Message

A very warm and friendly greeting to each of you! It is hard to believe we are already in Week 8 and nearing the end of Term 3. Life moves so quickly, and in between its fast pace, busy work schedules and the personal challenges we face, it is easy to overlook the many blessings around us.

In the past fortnight, I have been reflecting on the precious gift of life that God has given us. It prompts me to question why we sometimes encounter difficult trials. There are moments when our faith is truly tested, and we find ourselves asking questions, “How could this happen to me?” or “Why do bad things happen to good people?” While we may seek meaning or reasons behind our struggles, I am grateful that faith allows me to see how these challenges often draw us closer to God, and how the testing of our faith produces endurance and patience. Life is indeed a gift, and it is during these trying times that we must trust in God’s plan and purpose for us, believing that He will guide our path. It is uplifting to have hope and faith that assures us that we are exactly where we are meant to be, in this very moment, as part of His perfect plan and journey for us. Our presence here is purposeful, known to Him, and we are called to trust that there is meaning behind the trials we face.

Our wonderful community serves as an example of God’s work, providing us with love, support, and care during tough times. There is great comfort in knowing that God uses those around us to bring light into our lives. Having a supportive community can offer incredible strength, allowing us to lean on others when we need it most.

At Bayside Christian College, our goal is to continue growing a community where we support and strengthen one another in times of need, aligning with God’s will for us. Our recent events have highlighted the strength of our community, bringing us closer together and enhancing our partnerships for the benefit of all our students. I send my thanks to all our wonderful families, for participating in our recent events and for warmly welcoming our new members into our community. It has been truly beautiful to witness this spirit of unity, and I hope that we continue to grow together in the months to come.

100 Days Brighter for our Prep Students!

A few weeks ago, our youngest Bayside learners celebrated reaching 100 days of Prep! They enjoyed engaging in classroom activities, wore bright colours, and were recognised at our Junior School Assembly. This milestone is incredibly special for our students, but even more so for our dedicated Prep teachers and Teacher’s Aides.

I would like to send a special thanks to Miss Bishell, Ms Sewell, Mrs Elliot, and Mrs Gall for their hard work this year in giving our Prep students a fantastic start to their school journey. The first term of Prep requires immense patience, dedication, and love for the children God has entrusted into their care, and it takes truly special people to be Prep teachers.

A highlight of the day was taking the celebration to Mr Grimes during his Chemistry class. Our delightful Prep students made Mr Grimes and I, some party hats and decorated biscuits with the number 100! They are certainly 100 days brighter and very clever!

Whale Festival – Parade of Lights

The Whale Festival, Parade of Lights event was my first experience since arriving in Hervey Bay, and I was truly pleased to be a part of it. A big thank you to Mrs Amanda Mulder for her excellent organisation and to the wonderful families who participated in the parade. Your beautifully decorated lights truly showed the community how proud we are, to walk together in unity as a Bayside Family.

Barracudas Update – The Highway Cup

We are incredibly proud of our Bayside Barracudas! Last Friday, they competed in the Highway Cup against Victory College in Gympie, and every one of our Barracuda teams across the age groups, finished with a winning result. We are very proud to see our Barracudas maintaining their humility and sportsmanship by shaking hands with the opposing team. This game marked the first of three matches, similar to a State of Origin series. Our Barracudas will face Victory College in two more games, to decide which College will take home the ‘Highway Cup’.

Let us keep the support and encouragement going for our Barracudas as they approach their next matches. A big thank you to our wonderful parents for making the trip to Victory College and cheering on our teams. Your presence truly uplifts our players and reinforces the strong support network they have. Let us continue to pray for the team and the coaches. We are very proud of them all!

Game Results

Under 11/12 Boys won 26–0

Under 14 Girls won 20–8

13/14 Boys won 20–6

The Bayside Barracudas wish to thank their Platinum Sponsor Simply Real Estate

Simply Real Estate logo

Bayside Barracudas Supporters Car Flags $15 each

Available from the Uniform Shop.

Book Week & Grandparents and Special Friends

What an incredible turnout for our Book Week Parade, which also coincided with our Grandparents and Special Friends Day! We hope our families thoroughly enjoyed this special event. A big thank you to our amazing staff for their organisation, the creative costumes, and for bringing so much joy and smiles to our students. We also appreciate our parents for their effort in dressing up their children for the occasion. It truly was a wonderful day!

Student Free Day

Our Student Free Day will be this Friday 30 August 2024. Bayside Christian College will be closed on this day. Please take the day as an opportunity to enjoy a well-deserved rest and long weekend with your children.

Proverbs 3:5-6 “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.

May we always place our faith and trust in God and have complete confidence in His goodness and wisdom. May He always bless and guide our life towards His divine purpose for us in His world and strengthen us in times of suffering.

Have a wonderful fortnight. May God continue to strengthen our community and may He continue to bless you and your families abundantly.

Edelle Broadhurst
Deputy Principal

Music, Arts, Dance and Drama night (MADD)

Sport and Athletics

Westham United Workshop

Congratulations must go to Jimmy and Logan Sparks for attending the Westham United workshop over the holidays. Both were selected to go to the Gold Coast Training Camp in September for a week in hopes to get selected to go to London. Good luck guys.

Wide Bay Athletes

Congratulations must go to the following for making to the 10-12yr old Wide Bay Athletics team. Sophie France, Matthew Collings, Dylan Mitchell, Aaylah White, Antonio Firouzfar and Nevaeh Trease. Our thoughts and prayers will be with you when you compete.

Steve Renouf Cup Victory!

National Science Week Celebration

In Week 6, our school came together to celebrate National Science Week. This year’s theme, Species Survival – More than Just Sustainability, highlighted the critical role of science and innovation in ensuring the survival and flourishing of species in an ever-changing world.

Our students had an amazing time exploring the displays, engaging in hands-on activities, and conducting experiments. A highlight for many was the Scavenger Hunt, which saw students racing across the school to answer questions and learn more about Australia’s threatened and endangered species.

All participants in the Scavenger Hunt were entered into a draw for exciting prizes. The winners will be announced at the upcoming all-school assembly.

A huge thank you to everyone who took part in this year’s Science Week celebration!

Year 12 Legal Studies

The students have been looking at sources of human rights laws in Australia. Unlike other governments of other Western democracies which have signed international treaties aimed at protecting human rights. Australia does not have federal legislation which outlines key rights fundamental to every person. These rights currently sit in a patchwork of Rule of Law principles, the common law, state and federal legislation. The current Federal Government is currently drafting legislation and a framework for human rights protections. We explored the advantages and disadvantages of passing such legislation. Such a legislation will categorise “homelessness” as a breach of human rights and ensure a safety net for those who cannot afford to put a roof over their heads. However, there will be some in our community believe that it is not the government’s job to ensure food and housing security. In Legal Studies students must understand and discuss different community perspectives. Additionally, students need to draw on their own values and beliefs when suggesting law reform.

As the students prepare for the final exam they will need to contemplate, “How does the government balance individual rights with the rights of the community at large resulting in a society that is just, peaceful and safe?” Such a community sounds like Utopia, however, positive changes in society start with us; our circle of influence and through exercising our right to vote.

Year 12 Business

Students have been exploring the role of leadership and management when a business or an organisation undergoes transformation. Students reviewed management strategies needed to plan the change, communicate with stakeholders and reduce resistance from employees. Particularly, we have been looking at Change Management models and the role of communication, negotiation and involving employees to make change happen. To explore these skills further, students were asked to complete an Emotional Intelligence Test. Not all students had heard of Emotional Intelligence before starting this unit. It is a key leadership skill, which is possible to develop by considering the impact of one’s responses and having regard for others. This was completed in a safe setting with the key message that no-one has reached perfection in this area. Emotional Intelligence focuses on five competencies: self-awareness, emotional regulation, empathy, social skills and motivation. The Year 12 students scored quite high in social skills. However, as we near the end of formal teaching, the hope is that their social skills will minimise and that motivation and self-regulation competencies will maximise in the lead up to the final external exam. Afterall, a well-rounded leader combines people skills with inner drive and self-discipline!

News From Year 4

Year Four has had an exciting few weeks! Over the last 2 weeks, we have celebrated Science Week, Book Week Parade and Grandparents Day, and Years 3/4 Gala Day.

For Science week, we got to visit the Science Lab where we were allowed to experiment with microscopes, plasma balls, chemical reactions, and electrical circuits.

For Book Week and Grandparents and Special Friends Day, we read the book “The Smart Cookie”, then decorated biscuits with our special guests and identified different ways we are all smart (as well as having a blast dressing up for the parade)!

Finally, last week concluded with Gala Day, which was a day of great sportsmanship and teamwork as we all tried different sports including Soccer, Netball, Oztag, and Touch Football.

In class, we have been learning how to write informative texts, and created booklets by working together to research different animals such as crocodiles, flamingos, wombats, lions, bottlenose dolphins, and sea turtles. This gave us a great opportunity to develop our researching skills while working collaboratively with our peers.

News From Year 6

Our Year 6 students were thrilled to bring their Market Day to life last week. They dedicated themselves throughout the term to planning and preparing for this event.

The students began by completing Food Safety certificates and working collaboratively to choose and research the products they would create for their businesses. They brainstormed business names, conducted market analysis through surveys, and displayed their data, critically analysing the results to determine the demand for their products. Based on this data, they constructed marketing plans, considering the social and environmental impact of their businesses.

Next, they developed detailed financial plans, calculating total costs, cost per item, profit per item, and predicting overall profits. The students also created eye-catching advertisements, which were displayed around the school. With the support of their parents, they purchased the necessary items and eagerly prepared for the big day.

It was wonderful to see all 24 market stalls set up on the basketball court, ready to go. Mrs. Colquhoun and Mrs. Yeatman would like to say a huge thank you to the entire Bayside community for supporting the Year 6 students in making this a successful and memorable event.

More photos can be viewed here:

Year 6 Market Day Photos

Primary Performing Arts

Prep

This term in Drama, our Prep students had a fantastic time exploring the world of improvisation! With their teacher narrating, they enthusiastically brought stories to life, like “The Three Little Pigs” and “Goldilocks.” Through these fun activities, they worked on boosting their confidence and self-esteem, learning to speak loudly and clearly in front of an audience. They also developed their teamwork skills, discovering how to collaborate effectively and make the most of improvisation. Whether performing or cheering each other on, the students truly enjoyed every moment.

Year 1 & 2

In Years 1 and 2, students embarked on an enchanting journey through the magical world of imagination, exploring music from famous composers. Gustav Holst’s “Mars” whisked them away to a fiery planet, where they learned songs and played a variety of untuned percussion instruments. The thrilling adventure continued with “In the Hall of the Mountain King”, composed by Edvard Grieg, where they followed the tale of Peet Gynt’s daring escape from the Mountain King. The music’s increasing tempo and crashing cymbals made it easy for the students to picture his narrow escape, adding excitement to their musical exploration!

Year 3 & 4

Did you know that even composers have found clever ways to sneak secret messages into their music? One fascinating example is Grażyna Bacewicz, one of the first female composers to gain international recognition. During World War II, she ingeniously incorporated Morse code into her compositions! In 1943, amidst the turmoil of the war, Bacewicz composed her Overture and held secret underground concerts, defying the oppressive atmosphere of the time. Inspired by her creativity, students have been experimenting with rhythmic patterns to create their own Morse code messages, challenging their classmates to decipher the hidden meanings. It was a wonderful blend of music and mystery!

Year 5 & 6

In Music Appreciation, our Year 5 & 6 students were introduced to the dramatic “Storm Interlude” from Benjamin Britten’s opera Peter Grimes. This powerful piece tells the story of a fishing community living by the sea, where Peter Grimes, a fisherman, is seen as an outsider and faces mistrust from the locals. The students were captivated by the orchestral interludes, especially the “Storm” section. They listened closely to the thunderous timpani and raging brass at the beginning, symbolising the storm’s intensity, and noticed the delicate harp representing the sun shining through the storm clouds. Throughout the lessons, students explored key elements of music, including pitch, timbre, texture, volume, duration, and form.

As with all our Primary classes, the lesson ended on a joyful note with students enthusiastically moving to the worship song they practice at the end of each session.

HASS and STEAM

On Monday, 12 August, Year 9 and 10 students visited the Military Museum in Maryborough as part of their Humanities and Social Sciences History unit. The excursion aimed to deepen their understanding of World War I (Year 9) and World War II (Year 10), focusing on where Australians fought and their experiences during these conflicts.

The students were warmly welcomed by the Museum’s enthusiastic staff, who shared their extensive knowledge of the exhibits. The passion of the staff for the history on display was evident. After exploring the various levels and sections of the Museum, the students visited the Maryborough War Memorial in Queen’s Park, where a poignant talk concluded the excursion.

In STEAM classes this term, Year 7 and 8 students have been researching, designing, and building various vending machines as part of their Term 3 projects. The students are now in the final stages, focusing on enhancing the aesthetic appeal of their prototypes.

It has been exciting to witness the creativity and enthusiasm with which these future engineers have tackled this challenge. Testing their machines promises to be a treat.

Alleyné Jacobs

Senior School Coordinator

In high school, it’s natural to look forward to the freedom and independence that adulthood promises. Many of us eagerly anticipate the day when we can leave school behind, start our careers, and embrace the responsibilities of adult life. Yet, ask any adult, and you’ll often hear a longing to return to the simpler days of high school, a time when life was less complicated, you saw your friends daily, and opportunities were abundant.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us that “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” Each season of life, including your high school years, has its purpose and beauty. It’s easy to rush through life, always looking forward to what’s next, but God calls us to be present in the moment and to embrace the blessings He has placed before us.

Right now, you are in a season filled with opportunities to grow, learn, and form lifelong memories. Whether it’s participating in academic competitions, competing in district and Wide Bay sporting events, or getting involved in Book Week, these experiences are gifts from God that shape your character and faith.

It’s wonderful to see so many of our senior students actively engaging in these opportunities. Your involvement not only provides you with the chance to make memories but is also a way to make the most of the talents God has blessed you with. As it says in Colossians 3:23, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” By embracing every challenge and opportunity, you are honouring God and preparing yourself for the future He has planned for you.

To our Year 12 students, you’re almost at the finish line. As you approach the final stretch, I encourage you to push through with determination and faith. The journey may have been long and sometimes challenging, but the end is in sight. Finish strong, knowing that your efforts are not in vain. This is your time to shine, to give your best, and to leave your mark.

As you journey through these years, remember to pause and give thanks to God for the experiences and relationships you are building. Embrace every moment with a grateful heart, knowing that these days are part of His plan for your life. One day, you will look back and realise that these high school years were some of the best of your life.

In the end, high school is not just about preparing for the future, it’s about living fully in the present, with faith and gratitude. Embrace the journey, trust in God’s timing, and make the most of this unique season of life.

Book Week at Bayside was a Huge Success!

We were delighted to find out the winning books for book of the year and students had lots of fun in the library at lunchtimes making origami flowers, creating a chalk garden, practicing gymnastic ribbon twirling and of course participating in the book character rock hunt. It was so wonderful to see all the students dressed up as their favourite book characters at the book parade and thank you to everyone who purchased books at the bargain book sale to help the library raise money for charity.

Kacey Magrin
Librarian Teacher

Chappy Corner Chat

This terms message from me is on being grateful in spite of facing challenges:

1 Thessalonians 5:18 ‘’Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is Gods will for you in Christ Jesus.’’

In this week’s chapel I shared the message of bedridden Johnny, who as a fast runner in London destined for fame in his sport suddenly contracted a bone condition which landed him bedridden.

In the height of his frustration, he turned to God and as a Christian asked God to use him regardless of his limitations. Living in the top story of a fourth-floor townhouse, he began writing words of encouragement via paper planes to passers-by below. One landed at the foot of an orthopaedic surgeon, who after knocking on Johnny’s family’s door and meeting Johnny, was impressed by his joy.

Johnny mentioned that how when he first got sick, he was bitter and angry but how now Jesus made all the difference. Johnny was able to introduce the doctor to Christ and a month later an operation was arranged whereby Johnny was gradually able to walk again.

THOUGHT: No matter how dim life gets if we allow Jesus the light of this world to enter our space, He may bring light and hope in any situation we face.

God bless,
Chappy Karl 

Teacher Miss Warne and past Student Noah Byrne Tread the Boards of Local Theatre

Teacher Miss Warne plays the lead role of Dolly Parton alongside Noah in the 9-5 Production that will be showing at the Brolga Theatre on 30th August and 1st September.

They would love to see you there! Grab your tickets here:

9 to 5 Tickets here

Father’s Day Stall

Bayside is hosting our annual Father’s Day Stall on Thursday, August 29th. Some wonderful gifts will be available to purchase, with prices starting at as little as $1! Gift bags will be available for purchase, or students can take advantage of our free gift wrapping service. Primary school classes will attend with their teacher during class time, and senior school students are invited to attend during break times. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

College Free Dress Day

With much excitement, Bayside Christian College will be hosting a Free Dress Day on Thursday 29th August 2024, to raise funds for the Cancer Council. Students are encouraged to participate by making a Gold Coin Donation on the day, in exchange for the opportunity to wear free dress instead of their school uniform.

Students are encouraged to wear bright colours, especially yellow, to show their support for the Cancer Council. It is important to ensure that the attire chosen by students for the Free Dress Day is respectful and appropriate for our College setting. This means adhering to guidelines such as wearing fully enclosed shoes (no Crocs), sun-safe clothing with covered shoulders, and avoiding midriff or excessively tight clothing.

All proceeds from this fundraiser will directly support the Cancer Council who work across every area of cancer, from research to prevention and support. We sincerely appreciate your support in making this fundraiser a success.

Emily Taylor
Senior School Coordinator