Bayside Bulletin Newsletter, 5 August 2025

Contents

Principal’s Message

Take a moment to think about the conversations you had with colleagues and friends (or that which you overheard) yesterday, the day before, today… Did you focus on your business, their business, or that of someone else?

When sharing information about another, it is sometime helpful to reflect on why we shared that information? Was it our story to tell? What was our purposing in sharing? Was it merely for something to say? Did we not have aspects of our own story to share and discuss? If we were allowed to share, did we share more than we should have done?

Every now and then we all need a reminder of the dangers of gossip and the harm we do. It seems as if people gossip for a variety of reasons:

  • For purposes of Ill-intent to deliberately cause harm to another;
  • To feel a sense of self-importance or to allude to a knowledge that places them as somehow superior to others;
  • To help them feel connected to others.

Whatever the reason, gossip is a part of human behaviour that is most damaging and only serves to harm individuals and their relationships. Sadly, what is not readily seen, is that it is the person who gossips who suffers damage to their relationships, as others consider whether or not they can be trusted with sensitive information – if they say that about them, what are they saying about me? At the other end of the scale, gossip may lead to considerations of a breach in privacy, which has a raft of additional issues/ complications and sanctions attached to it, or even defamation.

Gossip is dangerous and only serves to cause pain and mistrust. I know that when I hear another gossiping, my instant thought is…  ‘this person cannot be trusted’ and it immediately impacts the way in which I engage with them. How many times have you known someone to gossip about you? How did it make you feel?

These things are difficult to discuss or confront, but if we wish to live in a harmonious community, one in which our behaviours honour God (as much as an imperfect being can), then we need to reflect on our behaviours with far more honesty and circumspection than we typically do. We know that gossip is harmful and yet every day we hear it, potentially participate in it, and while we would be upset if we found another spreading gossip about us, we continue to do it to others. The Bible emphasizes the importance of using one’s words to build up, not tear down, and encourages discretion and trustworthiness in speech.

Gossip is harmful:

  • Causes conflict and division: Proverbs 16:28 states, “A dishonest man spreads strife, and a whisperer separates close friends”. In short, gossip fuels arguments and breaks apart relationships.
  • Betrays trust: Proverbs 20:19 warns, “A gossip betrays a confidence; so avoid anyone who talks too much”. Sharing secrets, even if they are not inherently harmful, can break trust and damage relationships. We need to discern what is made known to us in confidence and that which is truly in the public domain.
  • Damages reputations: Proverbs 11:13 says, “Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.”  Spreading rumours can destroy a person’s reputation, even if the information is true. If something is wrong and should be reported – report it; discussing or spreading of wrong-doing is wrong. We all have the right to privacy, even in our errors. We must ask ourselves, who must know this information and what must they know. This is something we must consider as an organisation in all we do.

The Bible encourages:

  • Confidentiality: Proverbs 25:9-10 advises not revealing secrets, as it can lead to reproach and a bad reputation.
  • Rebuking privately: Matthew 18:15 suggests that if a brother sins, it is better to confront him privately than to gossip about it.
  • Using words for good: Ephesians 4:29 encourages speaking only what is helpful for building others up, and James 3:5-6 discusses the destructive power of the tongue.

The Bible makes clear that gossip is a wrong that can have devastating consequences on individuals and relationships. We are called to use our words to build others up, to be trustworthy with information, and to resolve conflicts privately rather than through gossip.

Something for us to consider, not only for ourselves, but to have such expectations of each other, and for us to educate in our youth. In all, the simple test for me is – would Christ behave like this? and if the answer is no, then we need to re-think our choices.

Brian Grimes
Principal/CEO

Deputy Principal’s Message

Warm greetings to all our families this fortnight.

Recently, we have been seeing an increasing number of social and emotional issues at the College – often stemming from online activity occurring outside school hours – and it is truly important that we, as a united community, respond with care and shared responsibility.

Social media is not going away.

The world our young people are growing up in is now different from the one many of us experienced. Social media can be a powerful tool for connection, learning and creativity, but it can also become a source of great risk, with stress, anxiety, digital addiction, exposure to inappropriate content, cyberbullying and conflict – particularly when it is misused or left unmonitored.

We regularly speak to the students about respectful online behaviour and cyber safety. We remind them of the risks, the long-term consequences of poor choices and the very real emotional toll that online nastiness or harmful group messaging can take on a person.

Can the College prevent every incident, every harmful interaction, or every message sent after hours on a personal device? Sadly, no.

We cannot control what happens on personal devices at home or what students access outside school hours. That responsibility, and the ability to step in early is the part that parents can play. While we can educate and support, only you can take the steps to limit or manage your child’s access to harmful content or interactions when they are at home.

If your child is showing signs of stress, anxiety, or is being impacted by online communication – we urge you to take action. This might mean blocking certain contacts, limiting access to specific platforms, removing the device temporarily, or simply opening up a conversation about what is going on. These actions, taken early and in partnership with the College, can make a big difference.

What We Are Doing at Bayside

We are not only educating students about safe and respectful online behaviour, but we are also investing in real tools to protect them both on and off campus.

We are proud to announce that this week we are rolling out Linewize, a market-leading cyber safety tool now being implemented at Bayside through the support of Linewize’s Deployment Engineer. This initiative will give the College and our families greater visibility, control, and protection over students’ online activity on College devices – both at school and at home.

Linewize allows us to:

  • Monitor and manage what students are accessing online during school hours.
  • Apply real-time web filtering to block inappropriate content.
  • Alert staff to signs of unsafe or concerning online behaviour.
  • Support parents with optional Linewize Family Zone tools that extend visibility and control into the home.

This solution, used in thousands of schools across Australia and globally, ensures a safer digital learning environment for every Bayside student.

Our Partnership with Cybernetic Shield

In addition to Linewize, our ongoing 5-Shield partnership with Cybernetic Shield remains a vital support system for students and families dealing with online issues.

As a member of the Bayside community, you have free, 24/7 access to:

  • The Mindshield Parent Hub – a membership site offering monthly cyber safety masterclasses, practical tools, and expert discussions for parents. Click here to join.
  • The Cyber Incident Helpline – call 1800 101 767 at any time to speak with a team member trained in Mental Health First Aid.
  • The Student Support Platform – a dedicated space for students to access tools, resources, and help at www.mindshield.au using their Bayside email address.

We want to be clear: while we can support, educate, and encourage your child at school, we cannot control what happens on personal devices at home. That responsibility rests with parents.

We ask for your partnership in setting firm, caring boundaries that help keep your child safe and emotionally well. Here are some practical steps you can take:

  • Know what apps your child is using. Keep login details and stay informed.
  • Set usage rules. Consider removing devices from bedrooms at night or limiting access to certain platforms.
  • Keep devices in shared spaces like the dining room or lounge.
  • Block contacts or delete apps if social media is causing harm.
  • Have regular conversations about your child’s online world.
  • Act early. If something does not feel right, intervene.

The College’s role is to educate, guide, and support. Yours is to monitor, protect and nurture in the home environment. We can work together to build a culture where students feel safe, supported and strong enough to make wise choices online – and to seek help when they do not.

We thank you for your ongoing partnership and pray that the steps we are taking together will lead to safer, stronger outcomes for every Bayside student.

God bless.
Edelle Broadhurst
Deputy Principal

Mayor George Seymour Visit

We were honoured to welcome Mayor George Seymour to Bayside Christian College. Our Years 10-12 students had a wonderful opportunity to ask questions about the different levels of government, the developments and civic matters in the Fraser Coast region. We sincerely thank the Mayor for his visit and look forward to welcoming him to future College events.

MORE PHOTOS

Hervey Bay Parade of Lights 2025 – Ocean Glow Festival

Meeting Place: Hervey Bay Whale Statue (near the Regional Gallery, City Park)

Time: 5:45pm

We are excited to invite all Bayside families to take part in the 2025 Ocean Glow Festival Parade – a much-loved community celebration and a highlight on our College calendar.

This year’s magical theme, Ocean Glow, transforms the evening into a glowing underwater wonderland!
Picture bioluminescent sea creatures, coral reefs, moonlit waves, jellyfish lanterns, and shimmering ocean life.

Whether you are walking in the parade, supporting behind the scenes, or cheering from the sidelines, it is a night filled with colour, connection, and community spirit.

To help with planning and coordination, we ask that all families register their interest via this form: Register Here – Ocean Glow Parade of Lights 2025

We can’t wait to see Bayside glowing brightly!

Book Week Parade & Grandparents and Special Friends Day

We warmly invite all Grandparents and Special Friends to join us on Friday 22 August as we celebrate two events in one joyful occasion!

Come and share in the excitement of our Book Week Parade, where students will bring their favourite book characters to life.

Please save the date – and parents, begin chatting with your children about costume ideas to represent their favourite characters.

We look forward to welcoming you! Registration form here.

Barracudas Update – Karyn Murphy Cup & Upcoming Events

Karyn Murphy Cup Results – 7/8 Girls

BCC 4 def. Xavier 0
BCC 12 def. Urangan 8
BCC 4 lost to Shalom 12
BCC 20 def. Bundy North 4
Final: BCC 4 lost to Shalom 8

Karyn Murphy Cup Results – 9/10 Girls

BCC 20 def. Urangan 0
BCC 4 def. Shalom 0
BCC 8 def. Xavier 0
BCC 20 def. Bundy 0
Final: BCC 16 def. Xavier 0

We are incredibly proud of both of our girls’ teams for their outstanding efforts on the day. Our Year 9/10 girls will now head to Gympie for the next round of the Karyn Murphy Cup – congratulations, girls!

Next up, our Year 7/8 and 9 boys will compete in Bundaberg this Monday afternoon in the next stage of the Broncos Challenge. We are hopeful for strong performances that will see them join our girls in progressing further.

Adding to the excitement, the Barracudas have their Dolphins Trip coming up this Friday 8 August! Students will enjoy the unforgettable opportunity to meet the Dolphins team and attend a match at Suncorp Stadium.

A huge thank you to our dedicated coaches Brett Carter and Michael Bennett and to the amazing support team of Bianca Carter, Bel France, Owen Whittaker, and Kristy Vanner who will accompany our students. We are truly blessed by their commitment and care for our students.

What incredible experiences for our talented Barracudas – well done team!

Broncos Challenge Presentation

On Monday last week we recognised our Barracudas in their tremendous efforts in the Broncos Challenge.

With a medal presentation and barbecue, we acknowledged and celebrated the hard work that our players put into the competition, as well as the coaches in their guidance.

On the 4th of the August, the 7/8 girls and 7/8 boys will be competing in the next stage of the Broncos Challenge in Bundaberg.

MORE PHOTOS

Upcoming dates:

Monday 4 August – Barracudas Broncos Challenge (Bundaberg); Year 10 RYDA (Maryborough Showgrounds)
Tuesday 6 August – Year 6 Excursion to Urangan Markets
Thursday 7 August – Australian Mathematics Competition
Friday 8 August – 4:30am: Barracudas Dolphins Trip; Dr Ron Neller Lecture

Monday 11 & 12 August – Year 11/12 Sport & Recreation Camp
Thursday 14 August – Year 7 Transition Day
Monday 18 August – Vietnam Veterans Day
Wednesday 20 August – Prep Open Day
Thursday 21 August – Year 6 Market Day
Friday 22 August – Book Week Parade; Grandparents & Special Friends Day

Wednesday 27 August – School Musical Performance (Hervey Bay Baptist Church)
Thursday 28 August – School Musical Performance (Hervey Bay Baptist Church)
Friday 29 August – Years 3/4 Gala Day
Saturday 30 August – School Musical Encore Performance (Hervey Bay Baptist Church)

Thursday 4 September – Father’s Day Breakfast & Stall
Friday 5 September – Student-Free Day
Thursday 11 September – Senior School Transition Day
Friday 12 September – Barracudas Highway Cup; Years 5/6 Gala Day
Monday 15 September – Year 7 Camp (Splitters Farm)
Friday 19 September – Year 12 Formal; Medieval Day; Last Day of Term 3

Have a wonderful fortnight!

God bless.
Edelle Broadhurst
Deputy Principal

Kindness Works Bush Dance Fundraiser

Kindness Works is hosting its second mega bush dance in Hervey Bay featuring the crowd favourites, The Smashing Bumpkins. The band have performed together for over 20 years and, most recently, entertained crowds at the Brisbane Show in addition to the 10,000+ world scouts gathering in Maryborough last year. For one night only, 23 August 2025. Gates open from 5.30pm. This is a family friendly event raising funds to support people doing life tough in Hervey Bay. Come and dance the night away and support those doing life tough in the Bay. Contact the Hervey Bay Baptist Church office on 4124 7200 for more info.

GET YOUR TICKETS HERE!
PURCHASE TICKETS

The Magic of Peter Pan Jr Takes Flight at Bayside – Join Us!

The excitement is building as the talented cast of Peter Pan prepares to take the stage in what promises to be a truly magical musical production. Weeks of dedication, rehearsals, and creative collaboration have brought this beloved story to life, and the results are nothing short of spectacular.

From the soaring choreography to the enchanting set designs, every detail has been carefully crafted by a passionate team of students, staff, and volunteers. The cast has poured their hearts into perfecting each scene, song, and character, bringing Neverland to life with energy, imagination, and joy.

Behind the scenes, the crew has been working tirelessly to ensure a seamless experience for the audience. Costume designers, lighting technicians, and stage managers have all contributed their expertise to create a show that dazzles and delights.

This production is more than just a school musical—it’s a celebration of creativity, teamwork, and community spirit. We warmly invite all Baysiders and members of the wider community to come and experience the magic. Whether you’re a long-time supporter or a first-time visitor, we encourage you to bring along a non-Baysider friend or family member and share in the wonder.
Tickets are selling fast, so don’t miss your chance to be part of this unforgettable journey to Neverland. Support our incredible cast and crew by purchasing your tickets today using the PURCHASE TICKETS buttons.

Let’s come together to celebrate the arts and the amazing work of our young performers. See you at the show!

PURCHASE TICKETS

Bayside Academy of Music Buzz Interview

The Bayside Buzzers have put together another episode featuring an interview with Mr Clancy-Jones talking about the Bayside Academy of Music.

Year 7 Science – Exploring the World of Ecosystems

This term, our Year 7 Science students are exploring ecosystems and the complex relationships that exist within them. They have been learning about how biotic (living) and abiotic (non-living) factors interact to create balanced, functioning systems.

To deepen their understanding, students created their own terrariums in Week 1—miniature, self-sustaining ecosystems that they will monitor and observe throughout the term. These enclosed environments allow students to see ecological processes such as the water cycle, plant growth, and decomposition in action.

Students have also particularly enjoyed learning how to use microscopes. This skill gave them the opportunity to closely examine samples from nature and investigate the Science department’s fascinating bug collection, providing a unique view of the tiny organisms that play important roles in ecosystems.

It’s been a hands-on, curiosity-driven term for our budding scientists, as they uncover the wonders of the natural world one observation at a time.

Cracking the Case in Forensic Science

This term, our Forensic Science students have been exploring how blood and DNA play a crucial role in solving crimes. They’ve been learning how to decipher blood spatter patterns to determine the direction, angle, and possible point of origin of an impact, key details that help reconstruct a crime scene.

Students are also developing skills in DNA analysis, including how to extract DNA and generate and interpret DNA profiles. These techniques are essential in modern forensic investigations, helping to link suspects to crime scenes or eliminate individuals from suspicion.

All of this learning is in preparation for their upcoming Mock Murder Case, where students will apply their knowledge to analyse a wide range of evidence, determine the manner of death, and identify possible perpetrators. It’s a hands-on, investigative experience that brings science to life in a truly engaging way.

Year 10 Science – Exploring the Final Frontier

This term, our Year 10 Science students have been journeying through the vast and fascinating world of space science. Their studies have focused on the Big Bang Theory and the key components that make up our universe.

Students have also been delving into some of the more complex and cutting-edge concepts in astrophysics, including dark matter, gravitational waves, and red shift—building their understanding of how scientists investigate the origins and evolution of the cosmos.

In addition, they have explored Australia’s growing contribution to space exploration, including the role of key facilities such as the Parkes Radio Telescope and the work of the Australian Space Agency.

It’s been an exciting and thought-provoking term as students continue to expand their knowledge of the universe beyond our planet.

Year 12 Chemistry – Diving into Organic Chemistry

This term, our Year 12 Chemistry students are exploring the fascinating world of organic chemistry. They have enjoyed learning the intricacies of carbon-based compounds, including how to name, draw, and represent a wide variety of organic molecules.

Students have been investigating key reactions and properties of different functional groups such as alkanes, alkenes, alcohols, carboxylic acids, and esters. They’ve also explored how molecular structure influences physical and chemical properties, and how these concepts apply to real-world substances like fuels, plastics, and pharmaceuticals.

Year 12 Biology: Unlocking the Secrets of DNA

This term, our Year 12 Biology students are delving into the intricacies of genetics. From understanding how traits are inherited to exploring the structure and function of DNA, students are gaining insight into what makes us who we are. This week, they have been learning how to analyse DNA and interpret DNA profiles – skills that are crucial in modern fields such as forensic science, medicine, and biotechnology. It’s exciting to see students apply their knowledge in practical and real-world contexts!

Queensland All Schools Oztag – A Strong Debut for Bayside

This year marked Bayside Christian College’s exciting debut at the prestigious Queensland All Schools Oztag Competition, held at the Sunshine Coast. We proudly entered two teams—our Year 8 Boys and Year 8 Mixed teams—who represented the College with skill, determination, and great sportsmanship.

Our Year 8 Mixed team showed fantastic teamwork, securing three wins from six games and finishing 5th in their pool. The Year 8 Boys team also delivered an impressive performance, winning four out of six matches. They were set to progress to the quarter finals, but unfortunately, wet weather and washed-out fields led to the cancellation of the finals.

Despite the challenges, this was an incredible opportunity for our students to showcase their talents on a state stage and to lay the groundwork for future participation. We are already looking ahead to next year, with plans to expand our involvement and field even more teams.

A heartfelt thank you goes to the dedicated staff who volunteered their time over weekends and lunch breaks to train and support our students: Mr Brett Carter, Mr Michael Bennett, Ms Corinne Dolan, and Mrs Bel France. Your commitment made this experience possible and memorable for all involved.

Well done to all players—your effort and enthusiasm made us proud!

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District Athletics – Secondary

On Tuesday 29 and Wednesday 30 July, a talented group of students from Bayside Christian College proudly represented the school at the District Athletics Carnival. Despite the competitive atmosphere, our students stood out for their enthusiasm, determination, and outstanding display of sportsmanship.

We are thrilled to announce that over 12 of our athletes placed in the top two of their events and have earned the opportunity to represent Hervey Bay at the upcoming Wide Bay Championships, to be held in Bundaberg on 25–26 August.

Congratulations to all our students who participated—you represented the College with pride and integrity. We wish our qualifying athletes all the very best as they prepare to compete at the next level!

Year 5 Science

In Science, Year 5 have been exploring the fascinating world of animal adaptations. We’ve discovered how different animals have developed special features and behaviours to survive in their environments, like camels storing fat in their humps or birds migrating to warmer climates. Through engaging activities, discussions, and research, students have gained a deeper understanding of how adaptations help animals meet their basic needs and thrive in the wild. This links seamlessly into our English writing topic of information reports. It’s been an exciting journey into the wonder of God’s creatures.

5T Students Explore Plant and Animal Adaptations

In an exciting unit in Science, 5T have been delving into the fascinating world of adaptations in plants and animals, exploring how these characteristics allow them to thrive in their unique environments.

As part of their research, the students have completed an information report detailing the remarkable adaptations of camels. One surprising discovery was that camels do not actually store water in their humps, contrary to popular belief! This revelation sparked a lively discussion about the true survival strategies of these incredible creatures.

The students then turned their attention to plants, learning about various adaptations that enable them to survive in different climates. For instance, they explored how cacti have evolved to possess thick, waxy stems that help them retain water in arid environments.

To put their knowledge to the test, the students engaged in a hands-on activity, creating mini terrariums. This project not only allowed them to apply their understanding of plant adaptations but also provided a live experiment to observe how their plants react to their specific environments. Over the upcoming weeks, students will be diligently recording and observing the growth and responses of their terrarium plants, further developing their scientific inquiry skills.

Through this engaging unit, 5T students are gaining valuable insights into the intricate relationships between living organisms and their habitats, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.

Something Exciting is Coming in Term 3 – Operation Christmas Child!

Matthew 25:40 — “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”

Operation Christmas Child is a global initiative that delivers shoeboxes filled with gifts to children in need around the world. Our Year 7 and 8 Service Learning students will be guiding both Primary and Secondary students through this project by promoting the collection, educating their peers, and helping prepare the boxes for delivery. It’s a wonderful opportunity for them to serve others and demonstrate God’s love in action.

Stay tuned for more information in Term 3 on how your family can get involved. Together we can make a difference — one shoebox at a time.