Bayside Bulletin Newsletter, 9 September 2025

Principal’s Message

I remember a good friend of mine, a great many years ago, reflected on Fathers’ Day as being the day he refreshed his socks, underwear, and his ration of aftershave. One would hope he was joking but sadly, I suspect not. The older I get, the more I see a need for our world to have strong, positive men in the lives of our children. Men who can show our boys how to be a caring, loving, gentle, and strong man, and men who can show our girls how a Godly man should treat them.

Sadly, too many children miss out on these role models and so boys grow up seeing poor examples of behaviour through domestic violence, abuse within the home, and the many poor examples displayed on the various media forums; and our girls grow without expecting the greatest respect, care and protection from the men in their lives. I think it was Pope John Paul XXIII who said – “It’s easier for a father to have children than for children to have a real father.” This would seem to be true.

In the New Testament, God is described as “Abba” and while it only appears a few times, such as in Jesus’ prayer in Gethsemane (Mark 14:36), and in Paul’s letters to the churches in Romans 8:15 and Galatians 4:6, the name has significant meaning. “Abba” is an Aramaic word, closely related to Hebrew, and it is the equivalent of “Father” or “Papa” in English, conveying a deep sense of intimacy, affection, and trust in a loving, paternal relationship with God.

From the start of Genesis, we see God as the Almighty, the creator of all things and Lord of all. It is an overwhelming picture and this can lead us to feel that He is simply too grand and too big, to see us in our daily lives or to be in a relationship with us. It is sometimes easier to see God on this universal scale and not that of a Father. In fact, such an informal or intimate expression to name God, would have been seen scandalous and disrespectful at times in history.

The Apostle Paul wrote “You are all sons of God, through faith” (Galatians 3:26). There are in fact at least three ways that we can talk about becoming sons of God. One, Ephesians 1:5 says, “He predestined us for adoption to himself as sons through Christ Jesus.”; Galatians 4:5  “. . . to redeem those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons.” Thirdly, Galatians 3:26 says, “In Christ Jesus you are all sons of God, through faith.”

In all of this, we are told God is our Father, and as our Father, He seeks a deep and intimate relationship with us all. He accepts us as the prodigal son, and just wants us to come to Him, despite our failings. A Father’s love, His caring guidance, His rebuke when necessary, but always with love and forgiveness. He never promises that our lives would be easy, but He says, ‘I will be with you’.

Like a toddler learning to ride a bike for the first time, we will lose balance and fall, we will navigate in the wrong direction and cause ourselves pain. The loving Father is there beside us, helping us to take the next challenge, to learn and grow from the experience, but is there to pick us up, hold us gently and help us on the way.

Children need loving people in their lives. A man who wishes to be more than a mere presence must follow the example set by our Holy Father – Abba and be the earthly father our children need.

May God bless all the Mum’s and Dad’s who raise children, some in partnership, some on their own, but regardless of our situation, we are never separate from our Father, who loves and cares for us always. May we look to Him to see how to love and grow our children.

Brian Grimes
Principal/CEO

Peter Pan Jr Musical

A very big congratulations to our Production team for their incredible work with the Musical. The students were fantastic, the set looked amazing and the talent on display was outstanding. Tremendous effort went into this production and it was very well done. We are already looking forward to the next production in 2027! Thank you all, for your hard work in making this such a special event for our community.

Bumper Sticker Competition Winner!

Congratulations to Kim whose car was spotted driving around with a Bayside Bumper sticker. She has won this fortnight’s bumper sticker competition prize of a $50 voucher for the school’s Castaway Café.

To be in the running for our fortnightly prize, grab a bumper sticker from reception, stick in on your car and register using the button below.

Chappys’ Message

The story of the prodigal son found in Luke 15, is one of profound beauty. It is an illustration of God’s love for us as a Father. Verse 20 says “So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him.” This is God’s love for us. God wants us to come to him. And he wants to lavish his love on us. Profound beauty.

As we have just celebrated Father’s Day, let us thank our heavenly Father for his great love, and let’s honour those the Lord has placed in our lives to be our earthly Fathers.

A Father’s Day prayer.

God our Father, in your wisdom and love you made all things. Thank you for your great love for us. Thank you for those you have placed in our lives to be our earthy Fathers. Bless these men, may be strengthened as Christian fathers. Let the example of their faith and love shine forth. Grant that we, their sons and daughters, honour them always with a spirit of profound respect.

In the powerful name of Jesus we pray.

Amen.

Live Loved,
Your Chaplains
Matt and Carmem

Veteran’s Day

It was an honour for our Year 12 students to be invited to Vietnam Veterans Day to form the guard of honour. Our School captain Jack Mitchell delivered the Ode and Mason and Katelyn laid a wreath as a sign of our thought’s prayers and respect for those that serve. Lest we Forget.

National Science Week at Bayside

Recently, Bayside celebrated National Science Week with the theme “Decoding the Universe – Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language.” This exciting focus encouraged students to uncover the mysteries of the universe through the fundamental languages of nature, including mathematics and the fascinating field of quantum science.

Throughout the week, students engaged in hands-on science activities, fun experiments, and interactive learning experiences. A highlight was the energetic scavenger hunt, which saw students racing around the school to solve clues and test their scientific knowledge.

The week was filled with curiosity, discovery, and plenty of fun—sparking enthusiasm for science and inspiring students to keep exploring the world around them.

For more information visit Maryborough Brothers Facebook page

(This activity is not endorsed by Bayside Christian College but rather included here as a community announcement. Participation suitability is therefore the responsibility of parents.)

QCCC is offering the following 2 opportunities in 2026

CAMPLIFE QCCC Tamborine Gap Year Program

Camplife is a year-long residential Christian Camping ministry experience.  This is a paid program where Interns will develop basic skills and gain experience in hospitality and service across all areas of camping ministry.  Live onsite at QCCC Tamborine Mountain in the beautiful Gold Coast Hinterland.

For more information on the CAMPLIFE program, please go to qccc.org.au/camplife to request an application pack.

CAMPFIRE Internship Program – QCCC Mapleton

This paid two year internship, based at QCCC Mapleton will provide you with an accredited Certificate III in Outdoor Leadership, hands on experience working with QLD’s largest provider of group camping, Spiritual Growth and community living.

This internship places strong emphasis on reconciliation, country, and community. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Christians are encouraged to apply.

For more information on how to apply for the CAMPFIRE Program, here are some relevant links:

CAMPFIRE Internship program Prospectus (includes extensive details on the program)

 CAMPFIRE Internship webpage

Applications for both programs are open, so if you’re interested, don’t delay.

(This activity is not endorsed by Bayside Christian College but rather included here as a community announcement. Participation suitability is therefore the responsibility of parents.)

Wide Bay Athletics Trials

Eight talented students from Bayside Christian College proudly represented the Hervey Bay District at the recent Wide Bay Athletics Trials held over two exciting days in Bundaberg. The event brought together top athletes from across the region, and our students rose to the occasion with determination, grace, and school spirit.

Congratulations to Utah, Jack Mitchell, Dylan Mitchell, Callum Warrick, Benjamin Barkley, Rory Sloan, Lilly Sloan, and Madeleine Kerr for their outstanding efforts and sportsmanship throughout the competition.

We are thrilled to announce that two of our athletes have qualified for the State Championships in Townsville this October:

🥇 Madeleine Kerr – 1st place in the 1500m
🥇 Jack Mitchell – 1st in 400m, 🥈2nd in 100m, 🥈2nd in 200m, 🥉3rd in 800m

These results are a testament to their dedication and perseverance, and we couldn’t be prouder of their achievements.

A heartfelt thank you to the families, coaches, and staff who supported our athletes throughout their journey. We continue to pray that each student runs their race with endurance and keeps their eyes fixed on the path God has set before them (Hebrews 12:1).

Well done, Bayside team—you’ve inspired us all!

Further results from the student’s individual efforts. Outstanding!!

Results

Madeleine Kerr: 1st 1500m

Jack Mitchell: 1st 400m, 2nd 100m, 2nd 200m, 3rd 800m

Dylan Mitchell: 6th 200m, 6th 100m

Utah Blake: 4th 200m, 4th 100m, 4th Long jump, 5th Shot put

Callum Warrick: 4th 3000m

Lilly Sloan: 8th Shot put

Rory Sloan: 5000m, 1500m

Ben Barkley: 7th 1500m

Service Learning and Mentoring Program

This term, our school has been buzzing with energy and connection thanks to a powerful initiative that brings together students across three year levels. As part of our Service Learning and Mentoring Program, our Year 9 and 10 students have stepped into leadership roles, mentoring both Year 6 and Year 2 students in a program designed to foster growth, empathy, and community spirit.

Each week, our senior students engage in structured sessions with their younger peers, offering guidance, encouragement, and friendship. Students have been getting outside and active each week, in a safe environment, allowing for friendships to be made.

What Makes This Program Special?

Year 9/10 students are developing leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence as they take on the responsibility of mentoring.

Year 6 students benefit from role models who help them prepare for their own transition into high school.

Year 2 students gain confidence and joy from interacting with older students who make learning fun and engaging.

One Year 9 mentor reflected, “I now have students from Year 2 and Year 6 coming and saying hello to me everyday.”

We’re proud of the way our students are embracing this opportunity to lead and learn together. It’s more than mentoring—it’s a movement toward a more connected and compassionate school community.

Grade 4’s Special Visit from Bubsie

Last fortnight, both Grade 4 classes (4T and 4Q) had a rare opportunity to step back in time when the famous little red Citroën 5 CV, fondly called Bubsie, rolled into school. This remarkable car first made history in 1925, when 22-year-old Nevill Westwood became the first person to circumnavigate Australia by vehicle, driving more than 17,500 kilometres through some of the toughest conditions imaginable.

Students listened intently as our visitors shared stories from that journey. From bogged tracks, pulley-powered river crossings, and the determination needed to keep Bubsie rolling across outback Australia. It was hard to imagine such a small car covering such a big distance, and the children quickly realised that a ‘road trip’ in 1925 was a very different adventure from today’s!

After hearing the tales, each class gathered for photos with Bubsie. The students came away with wide smiles and curious questions, imagining what it would have been like to travel such a great distance in such a small car. They reflected on how different journeys are today and how determination and resilience made history almost a century ago. The visit gave them a new appreciation for the past, and plenty of inspiration for the adventures that lie ahead.

Photo 1: 4T and 4Q imagining what 17,500 km in Bubsie might have felt like… cosy, bumpy, and full of adventure, with less comfort, more character, and plenty of stories along the way!

Photo 2: Mr Young and Mrs Rowe discovering that road trips in 1925 were less about legroom… and more about adventure!

Food Tech News

This term in Food Technology, our students have truly risen to the occasion — literally! The kitchen has been buzzing with energy as students explored a wide range of baking techniques, including proving, kneading, and folding. From golden bread rolls to flaky sausage rolls and perfectly set mini quiches, the results have been nothing short of delicious. The enthusiasm and teamwork shown in every class have made this term a standout.

Meanwhile, our Hospitality students have been showcasing their skills in a big way. As part of their event management unit, they successfully planned and hosted a beautiful morning tea for Founders Day. Their cooking was phenomenal, and the event was a true celebration of their hard work and creativity. From setting up the venue to preparing and serving the food, students demonstrated perseverance, problem-solving, and flair.

We’re incredibly proud of all our budding chefs and event planners. Their dedication and passion continue to inspire, and we can’t wait to see what they whip up next!

Bayside Barracudas thank their Platinum Sponsor!

(This activity is not endorsed by Bayside Christian College but rather included here as a community announcement. Participation suitability is therefore the responsibility of parents.)

Wide Bay Chess Tournament

We had 14 students attending the tournament at St Mary’s in Maryborough on 26 August. Unfortunately, there were some of our students who were double booked due to their involvement with the musical, but the half team made a valiant effort. We had our first junior team competing. It was a good experience for them as they got their first taste of competition and being exposed to some of the technical elements like timers. They did well in their first competition, and we look forward to seeing their progress in the next tournament.

Both full senior teams did really well. James Grant, Kayden Taylor, Kara Jacobs, and Jeshua Thompson ended third overall receiving bronze medals. Nathanial Coxhead also did well by winning his first five games, before narrowly losing his last two. Our second senior team consisting of Caleb Hill, Henry Drummond Jones, Jarel Carney and Nathaniel Coxhead, also performed well. Jack Montague-Elliot and Fraser Hendren made a valiant effort, but their team was short of two members which inevitably penalised them. Jesua Thompson is to be commended as he was the overall senior winner, winning 6 of his seven matches.

The team’s behaviour was impeccable, and they were excellent ambassadors for Bayside. I am very proud of all of the players.

Father’s and Special Friend’s Day

Fathers are very very special people. All very different – some are the calming presence, some the funny dads, some the “cool dads”, some share good dad jokes and often the ones children have the most fun with. Whichever type of dad you are, I pray that you are blessed with good health and strength to keep being the man who provides love, care and protection to your children and families.

One of my favourite verses to share on Father’s Day is. “The righteous man walks in his integrity; his children are blessed after him.” – Proverbs 20:7. This reminds us that when a father lives with integrity and faith, his children inherit the blessing of his example… What a beautiful legacy that is.

Here are some photos from the Father’s and Special Friends Day.

Edelle Broadhurst
Deputy Principal