Issue 15
22 September 2009
Contact our school
PO Box 2685Burleight MDC Q 4220
P-6 Campus Bridgewater Drive Cnr
Varsity Lakes Q 4226
7-12 Campus Varsity Parade & Assembly Drive
Varsity Lakes Q 4226
Prep School: (07) 5576 9333
Fax: (07) 5576 9300
Junior School: (07) 5576 9388
Fax: (07) 5576 9380
Middle School: (07) 5562 3555
Fax: (07) 5562 3500
Senior School: (07) 5562 3575
Fax: (07) 5562 3570
Email: soffice@varsitycollege
.eq.edu.au
Web:
www.varsitycollege.eq.edu.au
Our Sponsors
Please click on any advertisement to email the affiliated business or view further details such as company brochures, flyers or promotions
 Dear Parents/Guardians,
This week the NAPLAN 2009 data has been released nationally. From the press coverage that has
been in the media for the last week you will probably already know that Queensland as a State
improved in most areas which is a tremendous boost for our schooling system. As with most things
on the second and subsequent occurrences, improvement is expected in all areas and all States in
Australia have made significant improvements in their performance like Queensland. From a local
level, the performance of Varsity College was exceptional. Years 7 & 9 made significant
improvement on last years results making them well above the National average for all schools.
This is an exceptional performance when you consider that these students are 1 year younger than
in other States and have had 1 less year of education. Years 3 & 5 remained relatively the same,
they are still at or above the National average and well ahead of the Queensland average. This is a
truly exceptional performance from all of our students. The percentage of our students that exceed
the National minimum standards was also exceptionally high and this is another area that we can
be exceptionally pleased with.
The information that can be gained from this testing program is significant as we can determine
specific areas that students have not learnt or areas that our curriculum has not covered. In the
next few weeks, our staff will use this information as we review the Literacy, Numeracy and VIP
programs to ensure that our curriculum covers all areas that are required of this testing program.
As parents of students in Years 3, 5, 7 & 9, you will receive a report of your child’s performance as
part of this testing program. Please take the time to look into this report and discuss it with your
child. I am sure that they would appreciate your interest in this result and should you require
support in understanding this report, please ring the school and we will only be too happy to
provide you with any additional information that you require.
This weekend the Primary School will be conducting their first Musical, ‘Aladdin’ at the Robina
Community Centre. After months of auditions, rehearsals, training and choreography, the students
are finally ready to present this production to the community. I would encourage all members of the
school and broader Varsity Lakes community to take the time to attend one of the performances,
either Friday or Saturday evenings from 7pm or the Saturday matinee performance. Tickets are
available from the school and everyone involved would love to see you at one of these
performances supporting our budding stage, dancing and singing stars.
The Varsity College Basketball program is currently competing in the ‘Champion School of
Basketball’ tournament at Logan. This is a competition where schools from all over Queensland
gather to determine who has the leading school team. Our Basketball program has continued to
grow throughout this year under the direction of Adam Darragh and his team. This program now
extends from Year 4 right through to Year 12 with an enormous number of students training and
developing their skills in this area. The expansion of the number of students participating in this
program is a great testament to the commitment of the staff at Varsity College to provide a very
 high standard program for all students to participate in. Next year, there will be many more teams
representing Varsity College as we continue to build a culture of excellence at this school.
As we approach the September holidays, most students and staff are ready for a break and need
to refresh their energy levels in preparation for the last term. For most of the Year 12 students this
will be their last September holidays and although many will be completing assessment pieces, it
should be a time where they also reflect on their education journey. It will only be a matter of a few
short weeks later when their formal education comes to an end. This is a significant milestone in
their lives and I hope that the final few weeks of their secondary school education is both
successful and full of memories that they will forever cherish. I would like to congratulate this group
of students on their performance this year. They have demonstrated great maturity in everything
that they have accomplished throughout the year.
I would like to wish the whole community a wonderful break and I look forward to seeing you next
term as we celebrate student’s achievement in 2009.
Jeff Davis
Executive Principal
Yr Level
Date
Event
Years 1-6
Wed 7 October
Swimming starts
Year 6
7-9 October
Lake Ainsworth Camp
All
Mon 5 October
Commencement Term 4
All
Mon 19 October
Student Free Day
Year 12
Tues 20 October
Annual Awards Night
Year 12
Tues 27 October
Annual Sports Awards
Dear Parent,
As a part of our school's new approach towards the way we communicate with you, we are excited
to inform you that we now offer interactive, graphically rich, full colour electronic newsletters to all
our parents.
The concept of eNews is similar to the printed paper newsletters which we already send out
regularly, but with added benefits - eNews is personally delivered directly to your email inbox via
the Internet. This delivery method has many advantages.
It is cost effective, time efficient and personalised to your name. Most importantly the school
receives this service completely free of charge from Australian Newsletter Services who also
supply our paper newsletters with the help of advertisers.
To receive this service all you need is a computer with internet access and email. Those who
currently do not have internet access at home can still receive our traditional paper newsletter.
With our eNews service the distance between the school and the parents will be further shortened
as the parents will be able to experience firsthand what activities the school is currently
undertaking and the latest information on Academic, Health, Sport and other areas that may
interest you. This way the whole family can share the success stories of your children as these
eNewsletters can be forwarded to anyone with email.
To sign up for our eNewsletter please type the link below into the address bar of your browser.
Australian Newsletter Services has made the signup process automated and only takes a few
minutes when prompts are followed. Your email address will only be used to send out school
eNews and nothing else.
This environment friendly approach to communication means that hard copy distribution of the
Newsletter will be drastically reduced over the next 10 weeks. Classroom Newsletter distribution
will cease at the end of Term 1. Hard copy Newsletters will be available at Campus Administration
Offices from the beginning of Term 2.
If you experience any difficulties please feel free to contact AustNews IT Department on 1800 245
077 or email help@austnews.com.au.
Thank you
From the Head of Preparatory School
End of Another Great Term of Learning
I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the staff in the Preparatory school to thank you for
your ongoing support in your child’s development so far this year. The end of the term is always a
reflective time at schools where we look back on the accomplishments over the last 10 weeks, look
forward and plan for the next stage of learning as well as reflect on ways we can extend, support
and challenge your child in the coming months. Varsity College has always prided itself in having
high standards and expectations and as a team of educators we are always striving to meet these
expectations on a daily basis. Therefore, I must also thank those parents who have given us
feedback in the form of letters, e-mails and phone calls throughout this term. This information, both
good and bad, helps us to continually improve and grow as a team.
Over the past 3 weeks, our teachers have been engaged in planning sessions run by our Head of
Department for Curriculum, Mrs Watt. After viewing the final products, I am very confident the
curriculum for next term will continue to be challenging, engaging and exciting for each and every
child.
Speaking of High Standards.... Uniform Issues!!!
We have been concerned over the last month in the number of students who are wearing
inappropriate uniform. The general sport and formal uniform has been excellent; we have noticed
that shoes have been the culprit in not meeting school expectations. For all children in the college,
the expectation is for shoes to be:
1.
Lace-up, black polishable leather shoes to accompany the formal uniform. For the
Preparatory classes, velcro black polishable shoes are permitted.
2.
Lace-up sports shoes (no canvas) are permitted when wearing the sports uniform or the
black lace-up leather polishable shoe. Once again, for the Prep classes, velcro is permitted.
The buckled leather shoe popular to girls, although neat and attractive, does not meet the uniform
expectations. I would expect that these shoes will be replaced with the correct uniform shoe in the
coming months.
The uniform is something that sets us apart from other state colleges and although this expectation
around shoes may seem pedantic, it is vital to maintain this standard as it can drop very quickly
when not managed and addressed. Please contact the Preparatory school office or discuss with
your P&C representative if you have any queries around the appropriate uniform.
Quick Snapshots
 1.
Best of luck to two of our teachers who will be getting married over the coming weeks – we
congratulate Miss Lynch (soon to be Mrs Brown) and Miss Filip (to become Mrs Graham)
on their upcoming weddings.
2.
Year 3 Graduation planning is underway – looking forward to a great event to celebrate this
milestone and the transition of students into the Junior school.
3.
To look forward to – Year 1 next term will be having a visit from an author – Narelle Oliver –
it would be great to find some books by this author over the holidays to familiarise yourself
with her work.
4.
Virtual Classrooms are being developed everywhere across the Prep school – lookout for
notes from teachers inviting you into this on-line world!
5.
The EKKA has come to Varsity – had lots of fun visiting the stalls of the year 2 classes...
and Miss Norris, loved the recipe book!
I wish you all a safe and relaxing holiday with your family. Sleep in, have some quality time with
your kids and take in this wonderful Queensland weather. Oh, and be sure to cheer on the Titans
to a grand final victory!!!
Regards,
James Forrest
Head of Preparatory School
Class Placements 2010
Parents wanting to submit special considerations for their child’s 2010 class placement must do so
in writing by 26 October. Special considerations must be submitted to the appropriate Office and
must address friendship / social issues only. Requests for specific teachers will not be considered.
Stephen O’Brien and James Forrest
Campus Principals
Language Excellence
On Saturday 5 September, four students from years 5 and 6 on the Junior Campus represented
Varsity College in a competition for Qld primary and secondary students who come from a non-
Chinese speaking background.
 These students: Tiffany Hammans 5I, Jessica Dober 5I, Samuel Ewart 5P, and Paras Lawrence
have all worked hard in their LOTE lessons and After School Chinese lessons. The students
showed their confidence and high Chinese proficiency in speech by impressing the judges,
teachers and parents. They gave a speech in Chinese for almost two minutes with no prompts.
Samuel won a second placing; the other students won certificates of participation. Congratulations
to all the participants.
Kan Zhou
Chinese Teacher
Congratulations to Kayla-Miller-Gorse who has been selected in the South Coast Athletics Team.
Kayla will be competing in the discus event at the upcoming State Athletics Championships. Good
Luck Kayla!!
Jared Frazer
PE Department
Chess Club Term 4
Chess Club which includes coaching by a qualified coach from Gardiner Chess Centre, will be
running again throughout Term 4 for students in years 2-6. Information has been sent home to
current Club members but new members are welcome to join. Any students who are interested in
joining or rejoining Chess Club for Term 4 can collect a note detailing fees, times and tournaments,
from the junior office.
Mark Buzolic
Chess Coordinator Head of Department, Curriculum
From the Head of Junior School
It is amazing to think that we are about to complete term 3 of this school year. What is even scarier
is that it brings us closer to planning for the 2010 school year. To assist with these processes, I
would like to request that any families who are leaving Varsity to attend a different school in 2010,
inform the office staff so that adjustments to school numbers can be made. If you are aware of any
friends or neighbours who intend to enrol their children at Varsity for next year, please advise them
to do so at their earliest convenience.
The Varsity College School Musical will take place this weekend. I would like to take this
opportunity to thank all staff, students and parents who have been involved in the preparations for
this event. I am sure the shows will be a success and encourage members of the school
community to take the time to attend a show and support the cast and crew.
The selection process for the 2010, Year 6 Chinese Immersion class will commence in the
coming weeks. Students will be selected based on school based and systemic academic results,
behaviour and commitment to learning. Possible candidates will be identified by classroom and
LOTE teachers. Parents who would like to ensure that their child is considered for the program are
advised to speak to their child’s classroom teacher.
As we approach another school term, I would like to reinforce the expectation that all students
attend our school in the correct school uniform every day. This includes wearing:
the dress / sports uniform on the correct day
black, polishable, lace-up shoes with the dress uniform
the Varsity College hat
Enjoy the two week break and I look forward to sharing the great achievements of our students and
staff with you again next term.
Stephen O’Brien
Head of Junior School
Sports News
Athletics
The focus in the sporting world over the last few weeks has been on Athletics. The south coast
trials we held last week at the Griffith track. Varsity College was represented by:
Brigham Tukuking
Dom Western
Josh Bacon-White
Brittany Button
Eden Delahunty
Mitchell Eynand,
Chloe Hirst
Beau Koorockin
Chris Mills
Katelyn Murphy
Maddison Payne
Maddison Ploog
Jackson Rolfe
Ryan Schmidt
Sarah-Jane Sugars
Gabby Sutherland
Brooke Thompson
Tala Zanotti
Mitchell Walsh
Congratulations to:-
Ryan Schmidt – High Jump
Bean Koorockin – 200m Sprint
Faith Bennett – 3000m Walk
Who have made it into the South Coast Team?
Year 7, 8 and 9 Sport
Just to keep you up to date, the Middle school is running rec sport - AKA, ‘clubs, on Wednesday
afternoons during term 4. A variety of activities will be offered to the students ranging in price. An
information letter will be sent out in week 1 with the program beginning in week 3 for 6 weeks.
Jerseys
Parents please check at home for any sports jerseys with the Varsity Vipers logo. If your son or
daughter has one, please return to me or the library as soon as possible.
Katherine Tewes
Middle/Senior Sports Co-Coordinator
2009 National Assessment Program
Literacy and Numeracy Test Results
In May this year, around one million students across Australia in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 participated in
the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) tests for reading, writing,
language conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy.
From 14 September 2009, The Queensland Studies Authority, which is responsible for the
administration of the NAPLAN tests in Queensland, will begin distributing results to schools across
Queensland.
Every student who participated in the 2009 NAPLAN test will receive an individual report containing
their results.
This report provides a range of information about your child’s performance on each of the literacy
and numeracy tests. It also contains a detailed guide on what was assessed in each test and how
to interpret these results. Parents and carers are encouraged to thoroughly read the report and the
explanatory notes.
While these tests are important ‘point-in-time’ indicators or ‘snapshots’ of student achievement in
literacy and numeracy, the results should be considered along with other information collected by
our school about your child’s performance.
If you have any questions or concerns about NAPLAN testing, please contact the school office.
 Paying By Internet Banking
Please allow two (2) working days for your payment to be processed:-
Direct Payment into School Bank Account
Please record STUDENT ID Number and the Reference Code (eg: 00XXXX - 09 RES
SCHEME) in the reference section of your internet banking to allow your payment can be
recorded correctly School’s Bank Account Name is Varsity College - GENERAL A/C
BSB Number 06 4445 (Commonwealth Bank of Australia, Burleigh Heads Branch)
Account Number is 10221390
If no Invoice No. or Reference Code is supplied, payments will be applied to the oldest debt for the
family/Customer ID. For any further inquires please do not hesitate to contact the Senior
Administration on 5562 3575.
Finance Department
Varsity College Public Speaking Competition
The Year 7 students delighted their audience at the recent Varsity College Public Speaking
Competition. They displayed great courage along with confidence and general knowledge of their
topic while they entertained us and tried to win over the judges. The winner, Lily Hughes, had us
laughing with her stories on What ever Happened to Good Sportsmanship. The runner up, Roshan
Ashtari spoke with great sincerity on Making a Difference. Third place was a tie with McKenna Lea
who gave us a detailed account of Australia’s Greatest Women while Rachel Tomassen shared her
thoughts with us on her World Vision. Congratulations to all who took up the challenge of this great
event.
Mrs Ryan
 Elanda Point Camp 2009
How many of you have been away somewhere with a large diverse group of kids and you come
back knowing that it was a truly amazing experience?
Well, the incredible group of students and teachers who attended the Elanda Point camp on Lake
Cootharaba certainly made it a memorable event for all.
From the time we departed Varsity till our return, the behaviour was exceptional. (Thanks, parents,
for setting the right examples at home). Their enthusiasm towards all activities (canoeing, archery,
high ropes, kayaking, bike riding, dancing, karaoke, visit to Gympie museum and Wood Works)
was infectious.
 All meals were enjoyed (for some, it may not be as good as mum’s…that’s natural). Each group
had the opportunity to serve, wipe down the tables, wash dishes etc. Yes, parents, they do know
how to do this.
A HUGE THANK YOU to all who attended and contributed to the success of our camp, especially
the Elanda point staff and the Varsity teachers.
Mr Mazzer
Noosa Camp 2009
 Once upon a time, in a far away place full of mystery and surprise there was a group of Form 3
students from Gisborne (NZ) who went on camp. They had no idea that this would be the most
testing time of their young lives. Their teacher was ex-military and very old school. They had to
carry every single thing they needed for camp on their backs for 8 hours, there was no toilet, they
had to cook all their food, they slept in 4 man tents, they had to light their own fires, chop the wood,
gather water from the creek, boil that water and have as much fun as possible while doing these
daily chores. At the end of it, they had to pack down the camp, leave it like nature had it, walk out
another 8 hours then sleep 6 hours on the bus ride home.
What a shame this didn’t occur on our NOOSA CAMP. I guess in 1985 when I went on that camp it
was somewhat different to when I went to NOOSA 2009.
 The teaching team of Mr Aiello, Miss O’Sullivan and Mr Grace had it easy. We were dropped off
right to our cabins, we had toilets/showers, we had a chef, we had electricity, we watched DVD’s,
we had hot chocolate and played practical jokes on each other. Our activities ranged from horse
riding, canoeing, raft building, high rope course, giant rope swing, night walk on the beach, talent
show, mountain bike riding and more practical jokes.
However, not all was smooth and mellow. One of our girls fell off her horse but recovered like the
true warrior she is. Clothing and equipment was lost. Students were devastated every time the
shop closed. During clean up some students had no idea how to use a broom. Old school
discipline was implemented when several students broke the rules. You’ll have to investigate this in
your own time because what happens on camp stays on camp.
To conclude, the NOOSA CAMP tested and challenged our students. Many discovered how much
potential and courage they truly have. Some students attempted things that many people would
shudder at the mere thought of it. We laughed and cried. NOOSA CAMP for 2009 rocked.
“Warning:……Only come to NOOSA CAMP 2010 if you have a heart like a lion and fear is not in
your vocabulary (excellent dish washing skills is preferred).
Mr Grace
South Stradbroke Island 2009
43 students and 4 staff ferried across to South Stradbroke Island on the first day of spring this year
for Middle School Camp week. We were blessed with fine, warm weather this year which was in
stark contrast to the last three years.
Students reached the camp after a bus and ferry ride and a short hike, and after a short briefing
they were ready to tuck into lunch which the caterer had ready for us. After lunch we quickly
erected our tents and were ready for an afternoon of hiking and fun and games on the beach.
  Recreation time was spent playing games, digging yabbies and fishing. The fish were a little slow
on the bite (unfortunately the same cannot be said for the sandflies) although we did have a
moderate amount of success.
After dinner the campers were involved in wildlife spotlighting and practising for a “Red Faces”
concert the next evening.
 Wednesday and Thursday the students were instructed in the basics of canoeing, sailing and
archery. All students became proficient enough at sailing to have a race up the Broadwater over a
2 kilometre course.
The students finished the week with a meditation session on the ocean beach under a full moon
and a campfire complete with toasted marshmallows where the mysterious “Edward Adapopolous”
made a triumphant return (ask the kids).
Under grey skies on the Friday morning all campers pitched in and helped pack up to enable our
safe return to school by 2.00 p.m. All in all it was a very successful camp with students challenging
themselves and representing their school in the best possible manner. We look forward to our
return next year.
Russell Williams
Camp Coordinator
Thunderbird Park Camp 2009
113 students across Years 7, 8 and 9 spent 4 days at Thunderbird Park on Mt Tamborine. After
getting through the first freezing night all students got involved in heaps of fun activities including a
mud course, fossicking for prehistoric thunder-eggs, adventure park, high ropes course, laser
skirmish, while a lucky few even experienced the added bonus of getting up close and personal
with a tick!
  Night time activities included a game of 'Star Warts' in which Varsity teachers (with the exception of
Mr Sultmann) proved what terrible cheats they could be.
 I would warmly recommend Thunderbird Park as an enjoyable option when deciding on a camp for
2010.
Mr Aguis Vikas
Ski Trip 2009
 We jetted off early on Sunday morning bound for Sydney Airport and a five and a half hour bus trip
to Jindabyne. Once we arrived, there was a buzz of excitement while all the students collected
their snow gear and skis/snowboards. Day 1 of skiing on Smiggins was eventful with grass patches
to dodge, a ski lesson mix-up and students seeing snow for the first time. Day 2 went smoothly
with all but one student on the snow and the majority of students becoming confident on the slopes
after 10cm of snow fell overnight.
Day 3 - Perisher and Blue Cow were on that day’s menu with students catching the tube for the
first time. Some students became familiar with the fun parks, some stuck to the Village Eight and
others strengthened their relationship with their new found friend, the snow. Let’s not mention the
tremendous 4 person pile-up between an unnamed teacher, 2 Varsity students and an unknown
learner.
 Day 4 came quick and all students were showing confidence and style on the slopes. Day 5 was
the last day on the slopes and we decided to go on a group adventure. 47 students and 5 teachers
made their way up Guthega. Some students struggled with the T-bar lifts and one student found
out what it feels like to fly. Let’s just say we all made it and the week was a complete success.
By the end everyone was skiing/snowboarding well and had conquered all the lifts. Well done to all
the 47 students who behaved extremely well and a big thankyou to Mr. McConnell, Miss Tewes,
Miss Connolly and Mr. Jones who made the ski trip a memorable one for all.
Mr. Marks
Vikas Ski Trip Coordinator
Camp Lady Elliot Island
1 – 4 September
Take:
one tiny coral cay island in the Great Barrier Reef
36 wonderful Varsity middle school students
5 keen and active teachers
5 hour bus trip and 1 hour plane flight
Mr Philistin who kept us safe in the water
Fabulous weather
Warm seas
Great food
Friendly Lady Elliot staff
Lots to see and do
and there you have the ingredients for a perfect school camp.
 Leaving Varsity predawn at 4am all packed with a minimum of 10kg of luggage was the beginning
of the journey of our troupe to our camp destination.
Arriving in Hervey Bay came the excitement of the small plane trip with terrific views over Lady
Elliot Island – just a small dot in a vast blue sea. It was low tide and the expansive reef was
exposed. It wasn’t long before we were snorkelled and finned up, and swimming amongst the
incredible wonderland of underwater life of:
A rainbow of hard and soft corals
Schools of vibrantly colourful fish of all sizes
Turtles grazing on the weed
Sharks, stingrays and huge manta rays were a highlight
 Exploring the reef flats in the afternoons provided us all with new learning experiences of the many
small and beautiful creatures living in all the crevices of coral and on the sea floor.
Each day was full to the brim with walking, snorkelling, swimming and exploring. Each night we
wrote our logs and wearily reminisced on the active day. One night we were guided around the
island on a Night Stalk observing the hundreds of birds and creatures which inhabit the island. We
were shown the cemetery of 2 graves and told the interesting story of the deaths of these island
inhabitants and then scared by the ghost of one of them as she haunted the old house she once
lived in.
An informative bush tucker tour armed us with knowledge to survive on this small island if ever we
needed to.
Our canvas cabins provided us with a place to recover ready for the next day’s adventures.
 For an island so small that it only takes 45 minutes to walk all the way around we sure had a lot of
fun, made new friends, learned heaps about our environment and ecology and took home a
memory for life.
Hey – do you know what ZOOXANTHELLAE is ? .. We do now!
Judi Fischer
Teacher/Librarian
On behalf of all the 41 Lady Elliot Island campers
Tyalgum Ridge Camp 2009
It all began on a beautiful Sunday morning at Varsity College at 9:00 in the morning. Who would
have thought we would be able to get 81 students to come to school on a Sunday? But they were
all there full of beans and ready for an adventure. Once arriving at Tyalgum Ridge Retreat and
packed their possessions in their cabins they were welcomed with what has become famous (well
within Varsity College anyway), the food! After gorging ourselves with the masses of gourmet food
it was time to get to business and start the exciting activities.
 The students were split into four groups and for the next 3 days and were challenged both mentally
and physically, relaxed and most importantly, had an absolute ball of a time. At night students
showed off their air guitar skills, much to the admiring fans in the front row. On the second night we
cooked up a storm (of marshmallows) around the bonfire with the much anticipated ghost stories,
and on the final night relaxed (or slept) through ‘Night at the Museum’.
From all the teaching staff I’d like to thank all the students who came on the camp for their
exceptional behaviour and making it an enjoyable camp. By the look of all the smiling faces
throughout the camp I’d say that it was a huge success.
Mr Moore
Camp Coordinator
Canberra Trip 2009
Other than the 5.30am starts every morning, Canberra Camp was definitely something every
student should experience. We can honestly say that we have never travelled that many kilometres
in six days, especially not on a bus. However, they do know how to keep us entertained, with
karaoke, a bus driver who thinks he’s hilarious, and toilet breaks in the middle of nowhere.
On the trip we visited Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, Parkes Telescope (The Dish), as well as the
main attraction of the trip: Canberra. Our time in Canberra flew by as we visited the National Mint,
Australian Electoral Commission, old Parliament House, The National Film and Sound Archives,
Questacon, new Parliament House, and a very moving visit to, and tour of, the Australian War
Memorial.
A favourite for many of us was a day trip to Sydney, a first for many of us, and our very favourite
activity was a day tobogganing at the snow, a first for most of us.
We would just like to say thank you to Ms Mills, Mr Edwards and Mr Rackemann for putting up with
us and helping to make an unforgettable camp!
Sian Kelly
From the Deputy Head of Senior School
The recent term has been extremely busy for the Senior School. The Year 12s worked very hard in
the Queensland Core Skills test and were a credit to the teachers who prepared them so well. A
big thank-you goes to Megan Roderick and the many staff who supported the students before and
during the test.
The Year 9 and 10 students have now had subject selection evenings where they have received a
wealth of information on the opportunities that the school will offer students for 2010. It was very
pleasing to see so many parents and students on these important evenings.
As the end of the term approaches, exams have been the order of the day in Senior School. Year
12 exams finished exams on Monday 14/9 and Year 11 on Thursday 17/9. Year 12 teachers are
now in the process of assigning interim levels of achievement to all students in each subject and
then selecting a range of student’s folios to send away for review. In Queensland, experienced
teachers from across the state will meet early in Term 4 to examine folios of work from all schools
and verify teacher judgements.
The process of selecting the school leaders for 2010 is nearing completion with students having
completed their application, interview and presentation to their peers in Year 11. The School
Captains and Prefects for 2010 will be announced early next term and presented to the school
community at Awards Night on Tuesday October 20 at the Arts Centre.
I am happy to announce that Mark Blackshaw will be returning to Varsity College in Term 4 and will
resume his role as Principal of the Senior School.
Jo MacDonald
Acting Head of Senior School
SEP News
Camp Week has come and gone and all happy campers are now back at school, fully recovered
and rested, and looking forward to the next camp.
The SEP trip to Sydney was fantastic!
We had a great day at the Zoo and Aquarium, as well as seeing lots of other interesting places.
The baby elephant was so cute!
I have a feeling that the highlight of the trip might have been the afternoon session at Galaxy
World. Judging by the smiles on the faces of students as they handed over their tickets in
exchange for great prizes, everyone had a great time. An added bonus was being able to catch up
with Marc, one of our past students whose family has moved to Sydney. Shopping at Paddy’s
Markets was another successful activity. I had no idea that we had so many great bargain hunters,
seeking out and securing bargains to take home and share with their families.
 One of the reasons that we were able to do so many great things was due to the effort of
fundraising by staff, students and parents. Our Sausage Sizzle at Bunning’s a week before the
camp was really successful. The SEP Staff and some friends, parents and students cooked and
sold almost 700 sausages from 10am to 4pm! We owe a huge thank you to all who supported us
on the day. Your efforts helped us give our students a truly amazing time in Sydney.
As if cooking nearly 700 sausages before camp wasn’t enough, one day after arriving home from
Sydney, some of us were back at the helm for the Varsity under the Stars event. We cooked and
sold 500 sausages in a little over 2 hours and could have sold 100 more if we had had them.
Without the support of parents, friends, and members of the P&C we would not have been able to
keep up with the demand. Tony Roberts even sacrificed watching his footy game on TV to cook
sausages for us. Friends of our Executive Principal also gave up their time to help, and we are
extremely grateful to everyone who helped out. We intend to spend the profits from the night on
some much needed equipment and resources for the SEP.
The September holidays are fast approaching, and I’m sure that staff and students will appreciate
some down time to recharge the batteries ready for the last term of this school year. It’s hard to
believe that we are near the end of third term already, and I’m sure I’m not the only one who is
wondering where the year has gone.
And Remember:
Life is meant to be a celebration!
It shouldn't be necessary to set aside special times to remind us of this fact.
Wise is the person who finds a reason to make every day a special one.
Leo Buscaglia
The SEP staff wishes everyone a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Maureen Durney
Inaugural Hastings Point Biology Camp
The Year 11 biology classes attended the inaugural camp to Hastings Point. Students while at
camp were given the opportunity to collect real life data in relation to mangrove ecosystems, sand
due ecosystems and rocky shoreline ecosystems.
 Students use this information to complete the necessary field work component of the biology
course and to assist in the writing of the extended experimental investigation. While at Hastings
Point they were also able to enjoy experiences such as kayaking and snorkelling.
Miss Mayhew
Sun Safety in Queensland - September 2009
Population Epidemiology Section and Health Promotion Branch,
Division of the Chief Health Officer
 This fact sheet provides general information to help individuals understand the risks, effective
preventative measures and costs to the community of skin cancer. Skin cancer, unlike many other
cancers, is largely and easily preventable by taking appropriate sun safety measures such as
wearing a broad brimmed hat, long sleeved shirt, wrap-around sunglasses and SPF30+
sunscreen, seeking shade to avoid getting sunburnt. Sustained practice of these sun safety
measures reduces exposure to UVB which is the cause of more than 95% of all skin cancers.1
Queensland has the highest rates of new cases (incident cases) of melanoma, basal cell
carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) in Australia and the world.2
Types of skin cancer, How common are they and how dangerous are they?
Most people are aware that there are various types of skin cancer with some types more
dangerous than others. In fact there are three main types of skin cancer occurring in Australia:
Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) BCC is the most commonly diagnosed skin cancer overall
and the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Queensland. In 2008 it was estimated there
were 66,000 Backs diagnosed and treated in Queensland.3, 4. That’s around three times
the total number of annual diagnoses of ALL other cancers in Queensland in the same
year! BCC is the least dangerous skin cancer type. It can cause serious Community News
6 tissue damage but rarely spreads to other areas of the body.
Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) SCC is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in
Queensland. In 2008 it was estimated there were 30,000 SCCs diagnosed and treated in
Queensland. SCC is more dangerous than BCC as it can spread to other organs of the
body if not treated promptly. BCC and SCC are broadly similar and are often referred to as
non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC). Statistics for BCC/SCC are less accurate than
melanoma statistics because numbers of BCC/SCC diagnoses are not routinely collected
by the Cancer registry.
Melanoma Melanoma is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in Queensland. From
2001 to 2005 there were, on average, 2500 cases of melanoma diagnosed each year. It is
the most dangerous type of skin cancer and, if untreated, often spreads to other parts of the
body. Around 270 people died from melanoma in Queensland in 2005 alone.5 Suggested
citation: Queensland Health: White D, Perina H, Bright M. Sun Safety in Queensland. Fact
sheet. Queensland Health, Brisbane, 2009.
Toward Q2 and current sun safe behaviour.
The Toward Q2 target for sun safe behaviour is to reduce unsafe sun exposure by one third by
2020. In 2006-07 15% of the population were sunburnt on the weekend. In 2008, when out in the
sun in summer, 61% of adult Queenslanders aged 18-49 years reported wearing a broad brimmed
hat, 70% used sunscreen, 84% wore sunglasses, 59% wore long sleeved clothes, 81% sought
shade: but less than one fifth (17%) did all five.6 In winter fewer people practice sun safety
behaviours (12% reported doing all five behaviours).
In 2009, 13% of people were sunburnt on a recent summer weekend.7 People generally know
about the dangers of exposure to the sun: in 2008, 97% of people believed that the sun can
damage your skin at any time of the year and 68% of people were concerned about getting skin
cancer in the future.
Prevention of skin cancer Sun Safety and the Ultraviolet Index
In Queensland sun safety should be practiced in both summer and winter. Sun safe behaviour is
especially important in early life - from infancy to adolescence – as the majority of skin damage
which increases the risk of skin cancer occurs during this period. The Ultraviolet Index (UVI) is a
reliable indicator of UVR levels and shows which of the 5 sun safety measures are required when
outdoors. As the UVI increases the amount of sun protection required also increases.
Protect Yourself in 5 Ways
Protect yourself in 5 Ways is the current sun safety/skin cancer awareness message and builds on
previous well known messages. This should be done no matter what the UV Index. For further
information go to http://www.bom.gov.au/weather/national/charts/UV.shtml
What we know about Vitamin D and sun exposure.
Vitamin D is an important nutrient which people obtain largely from skin exposure to sunlight,
although some is obtained through the diet or supplements. People who infrequently get direct
sunlight on their skin, such as those who are house bound or elderly, are at risk of Vitamin D
deficiency.
 Recent studies also suggest that, even in Queensland which has high levels of sunlight, members
of the wider population who have very dark skin or who rarely have skin in direct sunlight may also
be at risk of Vitamin D deficiency.1 This same study also found that people who are active
outdoors and practice sun safe behaviour are unlikely to be Vitamin D deficient.
Going out in the sun unprotected with the intention of getting a dose of Vitamin D is risky because
in Queensland for most of the year, the amount of time the average person can spend with skin in
direct sunlight before skin damage occurs is extremely short. It is this delicate balance between
beneficial exposure that produces Vitamin D and exposure that induces skin damage that makes
Vitamin D and sun exposure a controversial and problematic issue. Queensland Health
acknowledges that the sun exposure/ Vitamin D /skin cancer risk issue is complex. Queensland
Health will closely monitor any developments in this area and keep Queenslanders informed.
Skin cancer: the facts
The incidence rates of melanoma in Queensland have been increasing for the last 13
years. On average, every year, around 85 more people are diagnosed with melanoma than
the previous year. Incidence rates of non-melanoma skin cancer (BCC and SCC) have also
been increasing over this period.
One in 20 people in Queensland will develop melanoma in their life time. Two in three
people will develop at least one BCC or SCC by age 75 in Australia
Incidence and mortality rates of melanoma in Queensland are significantly higher than
national rates and higher than any other state. Incidence rates were 35% higher than
national rates over the period 2001-2005 and mortality rates were 11% higher than national
rates in 2005.
Queensland accounts for around 22 per cent of national diagnoses of BCC/SCC and
around 25 per cent of national diagnoses of melanoma but has only 20 per cent of the
Australian population.
Skin cancer was ranked 6th highest cause of cancer death for males and 11th highest
cause of cancer death for females in Queensland in 2005.
Skin cancer costs the Australian health system more than $300 million annually. For
diagnosis and treatment this is the most costly of all the cancer types. This is around 14%
of total annual spending on cancer and 0.6% of total health expenditure.
Males are more likely to be diagnosed and to die from melanoma than females. Incidence
of melanoma in males was around 14% higher than incidence in females in the period
2001-2005.9 Males were two and a half times more likely to die from melanoma than
females.
Camp Australia Holiday Club
The big countdown is on with everyone looking forward to our Holiday club.
There are still places available so please contact our office on 55769 310 if
you have any queries about the program or would like to make a booking for
your children. We would like to remind every one who is attending Holiday club
that you need to bring a hat, wear appropriate clothing and enclosed shoes so
everyone can participate in the full program ensuring that we all have fun.
To other parents and children, enjoy your break and we look forward to seeing
you next term qldvarsity@oshccampaustralia.com.au
|
