CHANEL NEWS - 2025 TERM 2 EDITION 1
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FROM THE PRINCIPAL
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CHANEL PERSON OF THE YEAR
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ENROLMENT APPLICATIONS CLOSING
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PARENT FORUMS
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GOOD NEWS
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CHANEL DAY MASS
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HOMILY BY FATHER DOHERTY
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CHANEL DAY 2025
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ADMINISTRATION
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STUDENTS
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TEACHING & LEARNING
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COLLEGE OPEN NIGHT
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COLLEGE DEANS
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HEADS OF HOUSE
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CROC FM RADIO
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SCIENCE
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MATHEMATICS
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THE ARTS
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INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC
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THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL
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DO IT FOR DOLLY DAY
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CAREERS
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SPORT
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STUDENT TRAVEL REBATES
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COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD
FROM THE PRINCIPAL

The celebration of the Feast Day of St Peter Chanel – Chanel Day took place on 7 May. The College community came together to celebrate this significant event in our calendar. Chanel Day opened with Mass in the Marian Centre. We were joined by special guests including Sr Beryl Amedee, members of the Chanel College Board, Gladstone Parish, and St John the Baptist, Star of the Sea and St Francis Catholic Primary Schools. The College was blessed to have the presence of Parish Priests Fr Andrew Chase and Fr Peter Doherty, who delivered a moving homily on the life of St Peter Chanel. Chanel Day also included the announcement of the 2025 Chanel Person of the Year, awarded to Hugh “Hughie” Rowe.
CHANEL PERSON OF THE YEAR
CHANEL PERSON OF THE YEAR 2025
The 2025 Chanel Person of the Year was awarded to a much-deserved recipient, former volunteer and College groundsman Hugh “Hughie” Rowe. Hughie was presented with the honour at the end of the Chanel Day Mass on 7 May. A special tradition of the College for the past 40 years, the Chanel Person of the Year award was introduced by former College Principal, Br Roger Burke. The award was introduced during the 1980’s to recognise the exceptional service, dedication and contribution of an individual to the flourishing of the College community.
There is no more deserving recipient than Hughie who was the hardworking hands behind the creation and tending of Chanel College’s oval and school grounds for almost 20 years. Hughie began volunteering at Chanel College in early 1987 when the College was led by Principal, Br Roger Burke.
After four years of volunteering, in February 1991, Hughie was employed in an official role to tend to and maintain the College grounds and gardens. A farmer from a young age, Hughie enjoyed this role at Chanel College up until December 2006. While at Chanel, Hughie could be found dragging heavy hoses around the oval on his Moke, ensuring that each section of grass was watered by the one and only sprinkler. There was no town water supply in those days, and Hughie would have to obtain the water from a well which would often run dry.
And while Hughie did an exceptional job of looking after the grounds, he also dedicated his time to getting a second-hand ‘crash gear box’ bus into working order for the College. He volunteered his time outside of school hours to driving the bus on many occasions, transporting students on trips away for sport and to their Graduation/Prom Dinner. Hughie was also heavily involved in the preparation for Sports Day and Swimming Carnivals while at the College. He was a well-respected colleague and staff member who was gifted a specially crafted wooden shovel by the Manual Arts/ITD students for being the ‘greatest groundsman’.
Hughie’s legacy lives on throughout the grounds of Chanel College. The wonderful oval and gardens we have now are testament to Hughie's tireless work and great skills. Thank you Hughie for all that you have contributed throughout the years to the Chanel College community and congratulations on your much deserved honour as recipient of the 2025 Chanel Person of the Year award!


ENROLMENT APPLICATIONS CLOSING
ENROLMENTS FOR YEAR 7 IN 2026 CLOSING SOON
The first round of Applications CLOSE 23 May 2025. We understand that choosing the right school for your child is an extremely important decision. At Chanel College we will make that transition a smooth process for your family. Information packs are available from the College Office.
Apply at www.chanelcollege.qld.edu.au under the Enrolment Tab. If you have any enquiries, please contact our Enrolments Officer: Mrs Jo Constable on 4994 8925 or email enrolments@chanelcollege.qld.edu.au

PARENT FORUMS

GOOD NEWS

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE LITURGICAL PERIOD AFTER EASTER
As we journey through the liturgical period following Easter, it is important to reflect on the significance of this sacred time for Catholics. This period, often referred to as Eastertide, spans 50 days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost. It is a time of profound joy and celebration, marking the resurrection of Jesus Christ and His appearances to His disciples.
During Eastertide, Catholics are invited to deepen their faith and understanding of the resurrection's transformative power. This season is regarded as a period of renewed hope and spiritual growth, as we embrace the triumph of Christ's resurrection and the new life it brings. The liturgical practices and readings during this time emphasise the themes of renewal, redemption, and the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Eastertide culminates in the feast of Pentecost, which commemorates the giving of the Holy Spirit to the apostles. This event is often regarded as the "birthday of the Church," as it empowered the apostles to spread the message of Christ to the world.
Let us embrace this joyous season with hearts full of gratitude and a commitment to living out the teachings of Christ in our daily lives. May the spirit of Eastertide inspire us to grow in faith, hope, and love.
God Bless,
Kristi Bourke
Assistant Principal Mission
kristi_bourke@rok.catholic.edu.au

REMEMBERING POPE FRANCIS:
A Legacy of Mercy and Reform
Dear College Community,
It was with a profound sadness that we heard the news of the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. At the age of 88, Pope Francis left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world through his unwavering commitment to mercy, social justice, and reform.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the first Latin American pope and the first Jesuit to lead the Church. His papacy, which began in 2013, was characterised by a focus on humility, care for the marginalised, and a call for the Church to be a place of welcome and compassion. He resided in a modest apartment in the Vatican guest house, rather than the traditional Apostolic Palace, reflecting his dedication to simplicity and accessibility.
Throughout his tenure, Pope Francis championed the causes of the poor, the environment, and social justice. He consistently amplified the Church's emphasis on the dignity and wellbeing of every individual, showing tremendous openness to the realities of Catholics' personal lives. His efforts to reform the Church and make it more inclusive and attuned to the diverse realities of modern life have left a lasting impact. In his final public appearance, Pope Francis offered his Easter blessing and a message of peace and freedom, embodying the hope and compassion that defined his papacy.
As we reflect on Pope Francis' legacy, let us continue to embrace his message of mercy, courage, and compassion in our daily lives. May his example guide us as we strive to live out the teachings of Christ and work towards a more just and loving world.
CHANEL DAY MASS
















HOMILY BY FATHER DOHERTY

CHANEL DAY 2025
CHANEL DAY 2025 CELEBRATED
The ever-popular Carni Hour, hosted by our Year 12 students, included an amazing array of food and drink and activity stalls. The extraordinary talents of our College students featured in the finale of the day with the hosting of the first ever 'Chomp the Stage' and 'War Cry Challenge' which replaced the former Chanel’s Got Talent.
A huge congratulations to everyone involved in the organising and hosting of another hugely popular Chanel Day which is an incredible day of celebrating our Patron Saint.
Carni Hour

















































Chomp the Stage






























































ADMINISTRATION

EMBRACING CHANGE:
A Season of Growth and Resilience
This term, more than ever, our College has been a place of transformation, excitement, and growth. Change is all around us - in the construction of our new building, in the vibrant faces of our Year 7 students transitioning from primary school, and in the fresh energy brought by new staff joining our team. It is a reminder that change, while sometimes challenging, is a powerful catalyst for learning and resilience.
The ongoing construction on campus is a symbol of our commitment to building an even stronger future for our students. While the cranes, barriers, and temporary detours may present daily challenges, I am proud to see how our students are demonstrating remarkable organisational skills, patience, and adaptability. Navigating these physical changes is teaching invaluable life skills: flexibility, problem-solving, and perseverance - qualities that will serve them well beyond their schooling years.
Our Year 7 students, in particular, are experiencing their own significant journey of change. The move from the familiar environment of primary school to the broader, more dynamic setting of secondary education is no small feat. Yet, our newest students have approached this transition with enthusiasm and courage, showing a willingness to try new things, make new connections, and embrace new expectations. It is a joy to see them growing in confidence each day.
Similarly, we welcome new staff members who have made the brave step of joining a new school community. They bring with them fresh perspectives, new ideas, and a passion for learning that enriches our College. Transitioning into a new environment can be daunting, but the collaborative spirit of our College ensures that no one walks this journey alone.
At its core, change reminds us that learning never stops. Whether it is adapting to a new building, stepping into a new classroom, or joining a new community, we are all learners together. Thank you to our students, families, and staff for your unwavering support and positivity during this time of transformation.
Let us continue to embrace change with open minds and open hearts, confident that every challenge is an opportunity to grow.
Mrs Kerrie Lisle
Assistant Principal Administration
kerrie_lisle@rok.catholic.edu.au
INTRODUCING OUR NEW TEACHERS

Mrs Kristy Elliot - Teacher
"As someone who grew up right here in Gladstone, well okay Tannum Sands, I never imagined my teaching journey would take me halfway around the world and back again. After graduating from Chanel College, CQU and starting my family, I spent an incredible 14 years teaching in international schools across Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. Life overseas was a whirlwind adventure, but fate has a funny way of bringing you home and that is exactly what happened when I found myself back at Chanel, the place where my own love of learning first blossomed.
Alongside my husband James - also a teacher – I am a proud mum to three amazing young adult children and a doting grandmother to one adorable granddaughter. My husband would also say I have a dog adoption problem where I am currently the proud owner of six adopted or rescued pooches.
When I am not busy juggling my Master's studies in Inclusive and Special Needs Education through Monash University, you will probably find me boxing for fitness, travelling somewhere exciting, buried in a good book, or cooking up a storm for family and friends. My favourite weekends are spent gardening, simply relaxing at our farm in Calliope or even our family beach house in 1770. Life has truly come full circle, and I am thrilled to be back at Chanel, ready for another fantastic chapter full of laughs, learning and developing the young minds of our Chaneligans! "

Ms Bernadette Arnall - Teacher
"We recently moved to Queensland for my partner's work and have thoroughly enjoyed the warmer climate and sunshine! I have lived in New South Wales my whole life and have taught PDHPE, Mathematics and RE, in a range of NSW schools for the past 16 years. I grew up in the small country town of Crookwell and had recently been teaching at my local school of 200 students (so Chanel College is a big change!).
I have enjoyed many roles in schools over the years and especially find value and teaching opportunities in the extracurricular experiences outside the classroom. Last year's memorable moment was being involved with our Crookwell High girls and boys Hockey teams, who finished 2nd and 4th in the NSWCHS Hockey knockout. Being involved in Catholic Mission Immersion programs, visiting Cambodia and Kiribati with my students to immerse in other cultures and participate in house building and climate change projects are also other memorable past experiences.
Growing up in a large family, we were kept busy with Hockey, Touch Football, Soccer, Swimming Club and Waterskiing. Outside of school, I now enjoy the occasional game of Hockey, family time at the dam waterskiing, fishing, driving the boat and adventuring around the many beautiful coastal and outback towns around Australia. "
STUDENTS

LEARNER LICENCE REMINDER
With the increasing number of high school students attending the Department of Transport and Main Roads to obtain their learner licence a reminder has been issued on the evidence of identity documents required for this process. To streamline the application process and avoid confusion TMR is reminding students they should prepare and bring the required documents with them when wishing to obtain their learner licence. Please refer to below link for documentation required. Applicants will not be able to obtain their licence without being in receipt of the appropriate evidence of identity documentation.
Mrs Georgia Glindon
georgia_glindon@rok.catholic.edu.au

TEACHING & LEARNING

IT OFFICE SUPPORT HOURS
To ensure that all students have access to the necessary IT support, the IT Office will be open at the following times:
- Before School and PC: 8am - 9am
- First Break
- Second Break
- After School until 3.30pm
Please note that students are not permitted to visit the IT Office during class time. This policy helps minimise disruptions and ensures that students remain focused on their lessons.
NOTEBOOK CHARGING GUIDELINES
It is essential for students to charge their notebooks at home using the AC adapter provided. Notebooks should be brought to school with a fully charged battery. Bringing AC adapters to school is not allowed as it poses a Workplace Health and Safety risk. If managed correctly, a fully charged notebook will last throughout the school day.
For those rare occasions when emergency charging is necessary, the library offers an emergency charging station available at the following times:
- Before School and PC: 8am - 9am
- First Break
- Second Break
- After School until 3.30pm
Similar to the IT Office, students are not allowed to visit the library during class time to collect or charge their notebooks.
For more detailed information, please refer to the Notebook program handbook. Charging information can also be found on page 42 of the Student Organiser.
LESSON PREPAREDNESS
Students are required to bring a pen/pencil and an exercise book to every class. This is an expectation at the College. Being a responsible learner means being ‘in for 50’ each lesson, which entails arriving prepared and ready to learn.
TERM 2 ASSESSMENT PERIODS
The College’s assessment policies outline the importance of students completing all assessments. The College will only reschedule examinations for reasons of illness and misadventure, so I ask that families consider assessment weeks when planning ahead.
Years 7-10 | 2 June – 13 June | Term 2 Weeks 7 & 8 |
Year 11 | 26 – 30 May | Term 2 Week 6 |
Year 12 | 23 – 25 June | Term 2 Week 10 |
The College has implemented a continuous learning model for unit delivery. This approach ensures that a new unit of study begins immediately after the conclusion of assessments. By adopting this model, our expert teaching team can plan and deliver an entire year's curriculum efficiently.
Dr Matt Hodge,
Deputy Principal
Teaching & Learning
matthew_hodge@rok.catholic.edu.au

COLLEGE OPEN NIGHT
COLLEGE OPEN NIGHT
Recently, Chanel College opened its doors to the public to showcase the many academic, sporting, vocational, and co-curricular opportunities that are available to students. The Year 7 for 2026 Open Night was a fabulous success with close to 100 families attending the event.
Attendees had the opportunity to tour the College, meet with staff and students, talk with our educators, participate in activities and gain a greater insight into the fabulous facilities and learning opportunities on offer at Chanel. There was a myriad of stalls operating providing valuable information on careers and pathways, uniforms, enrolment process, fees, Pastoral Care, Sporting, Music and Co-Curricular programs and Inclusive Education. Attendees witnessed firsthand what makes Chanel such a special place for learning.
Thank you to our Middle Years Leaders who did a fabulous job as tour guides and students and staff who manned information and curriculum stalls on the night. A reminder that the first round of Enrolment Applications for Year 7 2026 close on 23 May. Apply online at www.chanelcollege.qld.edu.au. A second round will only be offered if all places are not filled the first-time round.
Year 7 for 2026 Open Night











































COLLEGE DEANS

ACADEMIC GOOD STANDING AT CHANEL COLLEGE
At Chanel College, all students begin each academic year with Academic Good Standing - a recognition of their readiness to learn and commitment to academic success.
To maintain this standing, students are expected to:
- Be consistently prepared for learning
- Meet all academic deadlines, including drafts and final submissions
- Achieve a GPA of 8 or higher or meet their Personal Learning Goals
Students who meet these expectations will be celebrated at the end of each unit with a Certificate of Achievement, recognising their dedication and academic excellence.
For those who may need extra support, we offer a clear and supportive process to help students return to Academic Good Standing. Whether a student is at Academic Concern or Academic Risk, staff are committed to guiding them back on track through personalised support and regular check-ins.
SUPPORT AT THE SYLVESTER CENTRE
The Sylvester Centre is open to all students who want to strengthen their study skills. Whether it is learning how to summarise, create flashcards, build mind maps, or plan assessments using a weekly planner, the Sylvester Centre is the place to go.
Opening hours:
- Every morning from 8.00am
- Afternoons from 3.15pm to 4.00pm
Students are strongly encouraged to take advantage of this valuable resource to build effective study habits and stay on top of their learning.
Mrs Suzette Meiring
Dean of Middle Years Academic Performance & Transition
suzette_meiring@rok.catholic.edu.au
HEADS OF HOUSE

FEAST DAYS
Each year the College’s five House groups celebrate their Feast Day. The Feast Days are special annual events in the College calendar and are held on various dates throughout the year. First off the ranks for 2025 was Futuna, which hosted their Feast Day on 28 April. A beautiful celebration of the Marist values that guide students and staff here at the College, the Futuna Feast Day included a liturgy service followed by a shared feast and activities in the Marian Centre.
The liturgy was a special moment for students and staff to come together in prayer, reflection, and gratitude for the Marist community. The themes of humility, service, and community were the focus of the liturgy, reminding those in attendance of the importance of living out these values in their everyday lives.
Organised and led by Futuna House Leader Miss Danielle Fenwick, Futuna House Leaders, student representatives and staff, the Futuna Feast Day was a wonderful celebration of the life, achievements and impacts made by St Peter Chanel.
Upcoming Feast Day dates are:
Stella Maris – Friday 30 May
Marcellin – Friday 13 June
MacKillop – Friday 8 August
McAuley – Friday 10 October
FUTUNA FEAST DAY























CROC FM RADIO

CROC FM GOES LIVE
Chanel College’s brand-new radio station - Croc FM has hit the airwaves. After many months of planning and preparation behind the scenes, the station went live on 7 May as part of Chanel Day celebrations. It was an exciting moment for Chanel College and the mastermind behind this project – Year 10 student Connor W.
Connor’s vision, drive and dedication have seen Croc FM become a reality. The debut broadcast was a huge success with some fantastic content and great tunes keeping students and staff entertained throughout Carni Hour. Connor has been ably assisted by staff member Mr Bobby Fisher, who has provided invaluable IT support behind the scenes. And a huge shout out must go to Croc FM’s first on-air team of Connor and fellow Year 10 compatriots - Amy J and Lorenzo F.
This student-led initiative has been greatly supported by the College’s Leadership team. Croc FM is set to make a huge impact on life around the College. See below the thoughts of some key players involved with the creation of Croc FM:
FROM CONNOR...
Croc FM began as a spark of inspiration back in February 2024, during a leadership conference in Rockhampton attended by our Middle Years Leaders. While connecting with other schools and hearing about their projects, I discovered one school that had successfully launched its own radio station. As someone already involved in a hobby radio station for the past two years, I immediately saw the potential for something similar at Chanel.
I have always loved the energy and creativity of radio, and I thought this could be a great opportunity to share that passion with others. More than just a fun project, Croc FM was born out of a desire to bring our school community closer together - encouraging conversation, building friendships, and, of course, celebrating our shared love of music.
With a clear vision in mind, I received incredible support from Mrs Berry, who helped coach me through the next steps. She guided me through the process of writing a formal proposal to present to school leadership and thanks to her and Mrs Lisle’s encouragement and mentorship, Croc FM quickly moved from an idea to a reality.
My goal for this project is to get the community involved and that Croc FM is more than just a station; it is a space for connection, creativity, and community.
READ TESTIMONIALS IN LINK BELOW
CROC FM LAUNCHES AT CHANEL DAY 2025




SCIENCE

HYDROGEN CARS GRAND PRIX
The annual Hydrogen Car Grand Prix was held at the Gladstone Entertainment Centre on 9 May. Featuring 21 teams from schools across the region, including our two Chanel College teams – Team Rio Tinto (Yarwun) and Team Alpha HPA. The day started off with presentations to the judges, including a script on the evolving design of each team’s car. This was followed by speeches from the sponsors and CQUniversity, Professor Nick Klomp and Dr Cal Devney. The Grand Prix involved teams of five racing their cars for four hours.
Both of the Chanel cars managed to survive the carnage during the first half hour and then settled into the race. Unfortunately, both cars failed to complete the race due to flat batteries. Overall, both teams finished in the middle of the field with an hour of racing still to go. A great day with much fun and laughter was had by all. Pictured are our two teams with their respective sponsors and liaison members.


YEAR 10 STUDENTS EXTRACT DNA
Year 10 students completed their Biological Sciences study last term. Unit content included discussions on genetics, heredity, certain traits and diseases. Part of the content included understanding what DNA looks like (as a structure), being able to extract it from strawberries and then being able to link it to hereditary traits and genes. Pictured are students from 10C who successfully extracted DNA from strawberries and completed a DNA strand using cutouts of the various components found in DNA.


YEAR 7 SCIENCE STUDY ELECTROSTATIC FORCES
As part of the Year 7 syllabus for Science, students are currently studying forces. One force studied is electrostatic forces and students had fun experiencing this by using a Van der Graaf generator. There were many very bad hair days, but a lot of fun was had by all. Pictured are some students from Mrs Nadia Shahgholi’s Year 7 Science class.







NATIONAL YOUTH SCIENCE FORUM DINNER
On 12 May, the Rotary Club of Gladstone hosted a dinner for prospective National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) students in 2026. Ten Chanel College hopefuls attended the evening to gain further information about NYSF 2026. The evening featured previous NYSF students who spoke about their experiences in either Canberra or Brisbane. Students also listened to local Rotary representative Mr Bruce Hunt, as he outlined the application process, costs involved and how Rotary could assist students financially once selected for NYSF. There were also lucky draws and a superb dinner, all supplied by Rotary. Pictured are the 10 students from Chanel College who attended the NYSF Dinner.

UQ SCIENCE AMBASSADORS
Congratulations to the College’s latest cohort of UQ (University of Queensland) Science Ambassadors. Fourteen Year 11 students were formally inducted into their new roles at the recent College Assembly after being presented with their UQ Science Ambassador badges. The group will be responsible for promoting all things Science-related at the College and liaising with UQ to promote activities hosted by the university. Their duties will culminate in organising and hosting National Science Week activities at the College in Term 3. The new ambassadors are:
Ellaisha I, Jorja R, Shayla H, Alyssa K, Sophia N, Samantha M, Chloe H, Ellie R, Krishiv P, Jaxon M, Oneli P, Mackenzie S, Jasmine C, Harold E

Mr David Fisser
HEAD OF LEARNING AREA - SCIENCE
david_fisser@rok.catholic.edu.au
MATHEMATICS

QAMT CAPRICORNIA MATHEMATICS TOURNAMENT
Congratulations to our 5 Chanel College teams which competed admirably in the QAMT Capricornia Mathematics Tournament. Students travelled to Rockhampton to compete in the event, held at Glenmore State High School recently.
The competition was extremely tough with schools from across Central Queensland vying for supremacy.
COMPETITION RESULTS ARE AS FOLLOWS:
Year 11/12 Maths Methods
Chanel fielded one team which was faced with obstacles from the very start. Our team comprised of Year 11 students only (teams are allowed three Year 12 students) and had only four of the five allowable team members.
Despite these obstacles, and the fact that questions were based on content yet to be covered from Unit 3, the team finished in 4th place out of 14 teams, with only one correct answer away from 3rd position. Congratulations team on such a tremendous effort!
TEAM
Arrian B, Shayla H, Ellaisha I, Mackenzie S
Year 7/8 Competition
Faced with some very strong competition, Chanel fielded two teams which managed to finish a credible 6th (Team 2) and 10th place (Team 1) out of 18 teams.
TEAM 1
Jake B, Henri J, Sebastyen N, Benjamin V, Matthew N
TEAM 2
Alissa A, Eloise G, Danielle W, Maddie H, Eliza P
Year 9/10 Competition
The second competition of the day saw the Year 9/10 teams battle against 17 teams. In a tight contest, our two Chanel teams finished 4th (Team 1) and 5th (Team 2) place with only two points separating them. Team 1 was impressive as it was comprised of two Year 10 students, two Year 9 students and one Year 8 student. Special mention to Henri J for filling in for this round. Team 2 consisted of one Year 9 student and four Year 10 students.
TEAM 1
Georgina F, Olivia G, Ruby M, Amaya H, Henri J
TEAM 2
Alby P, Ryan A, Shamik G, Jack V, Akshaj R
Overall, it was a highly enjoyable experience for the students, who are looking forward to returning in 2026.
Mr Christopher Riggall
HEAD OF LEARNING AREA - MATHEMATICS
christopher_riggall@rok.catholic.edu.au













THE ARTS

YEAR 9 DRAMA STUDIES
Students in Year 9 Drama recently put themselves in the role of Commedia dell’Arte stock characters as part of their studies of Melodrama Commedia dell'Arte. Photographed are students Tyler M and Rhys M posing as the characters known as "Capitano" and "Arlecchino". Students have had a lot of fun using the masks to become these quirky characters. Melodrama Commedia dell’Arte is characterised by exaggeratedly emotional or overdramatic. This style of theatre was prominent in the Victorian era.
Danielle Slow
danielle_slow@rok.catholic.edu.au


INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC

MUSIC PROGRAM
Welcome to Term 2! We hope you had a restful break and are ready for another fantastic term of music-making. All rehearsals, lessons, and ensemble commitments will continue as scheduled, so please ensure you are checking your timetables carefully and arriving on time, prepared and organised.
ATTENDANCE REMINDERS
As always, attendance is crucial to the success of our program. If your child is going to be absent from a rehearsal or lesson, please ensure you notify me directly as early as possible. This helps us manage group rehearsals effectively and supports the learning of all students involved.
ANZAC DAY PERFORMANCES
A huge congratulations to our College Choir, Drumline, and our incredible staff, Mrs Elvery and Mrs Hodge, for their moving contributions to our Anzac Day commemorations. Your community service and performances were deeply appreciated and showed the heart of our program in action.
CELEBRATING OUR MUSIC LEADERS
A special thank you to our Music Leaders who have already shown exceptional leadership and support this year. Your efforts behind the scenes, in rehearsals, and at events have not gone unnoticed.
Thank you also for accompanying me and representing the Music Program so professionally at the recent Year 7 for 2026 Open Night. You did a fantastic job welcoming new families and sharing your experiences. Well done!
Mrs Stacy Berry,
PROGRAM LEADER - Instrumental Music
stacy_berry@rok.catholic.edu.au



THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL
THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL
The cast announcements have all been made, the props and costumes are under construction, rehearsals are ramping up and now it is countdown time until The SpongeBob Musical takes to the stage of the Gladstone Entertainment Convention Centre (GECC).
A super-talented and amazing group of young performers has been assembled to bring the underwater world of Bikini Bottom to life as part of Chanel College’s latest musical production. The SpongeBob musical will be performed at the GECC on 6 & 7 June. Get prepared as one vibrant, hilarious and heart-warming show is guaranteed. Tickets for the show are now on sale and can be purchased via the below link.
The Cast











DO IT FOR DOLLY DAY

DO IT FOR DOLLY DAY
Students and staff donned blue and did their bit to raise awareness about the impacts of bullying as part of Do It For Dolly Day. Held annually on 9 May, Do It For Dolly Day is in memory of teenager Dolly Everett. The day is a national initiative to raise awareness and funds for the Dolly’s Dream Foundation which is dedicated to breaking the silence around bullying, putting a stop to it, and supporting those affected by bullying.
Encouraging kindness and empathy was the aim of the day. Students and staff donned blue and donated a gold coin to the cause. A Year 12 Bake Sale was held at first break with all funds raised from the delicious treats sold and the gold coin fundraiser going to the Dolly’s Dream Foundation. The foundation runs a series of Dolly’s Dream programs which are designed to address bullying, depression, anxiety and youth suicide.
Remember it takes everyone to create a kinder and safer world. Do It For Dolly!











CAREERS

HOSPITALITY WORK EXPERIENCE
The Year 11 and 12 Hospitality students recently participated in a week-long module of work experience in cafes and restaurants across the Greater Gladstone Region. The students gained experience in serving and preparing food, drinks, coffee and desserts.
The experience gained during this valuable opportunity will greatly assist students in expanding their skillset and experience beyond school functions and paid employment. They have benefited from the opportunity to experience new clientele, different work environments, new work colleagues and menus. A huge thank you to all of our work experience hosts and congratulations to all of our participating students on your fabulous effort.





POWERLINK APPRENTICESHIPS GO ‘LIVE’
The 2026 Powerlink Apprenticeships are now open for any of your interested Year 12 students (including First Nations students). In 2026, Powerlink are offering apprenticeship opportunities in Gladstone, Brisbane and Townsville in the following apprenticeship streams:
- Substations - Electrical Apprentice
- Secondary Systems - Electrical Apprentice
- Secondary Systems - Communications and Control Apprentice
- Transmission Linesperson Apprentice
Students who are interested in applying for an apprenticeship at Powerlink will need:
- A current Queensland drivers licence (manual required or be willing to obtain)
- Own means of transport
- To have completed Year 12 or are in the process of doing so (unless you are a mature aged candidate)
- A genuine interest in how electricity works
- To enjoy working in a team environment, fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture
- A Certificate II in Electro-technology is desirable (not essential)
For further information or to apply online please visit:
https://www.powerlink.com.au/careers/apprentices-trainees-and-graduates/apprenticeships
Further information can be obtained from College Careers Officers, Mrs Leanne Crane.
Mrs Leanne Crane
Careers Officer
leanne_crane@rok.catholic.edu.au
Ms Melissa Whalley
Futures & Partnerships
melissa_whalley@rok.catholic.edu.au

SPORT


CAPRICORNIA SCHOOL SPORT REPRESENTATIVE HONOURS
Congratulations to these Chanel College students who have been selected to represent Capricornia School Sport:





PORT CURTIS SCHOOL SPORT REPRESENTATIVE HONOURS
Congratulations to these Chanel College students who have been selected to represent Port Curtis School Sport:







MAGIC CUP
Chanel College has a new piece of silverware to proudly display after its Under-14 Development Team 1 won the 2025 Under-14 Academy Cup. The Academy Cup is part of the prestigious TSS Magic Cup Football Tournament hosted annually by The Southport School. Chanel Team 1 defeated Northern Stars Football Academy in a nail-biting grand final which took two successive goals by Carter Y in the dying minutes of the game to snare the victory. Carter’s individual brilliance earned him the honours as Most Valuable Player in the grand final, however, it was a determined overall team performance which laid out the foundation for the victory.
Chanel’s Development Team 2 also demonstrated a gutsy effort throughout the carnival with a massive turnaround of results in the final day of play. The team clambered up the ladder from last place to a solid final placing of 5th spot following a draw and two wins in the final rounds of the tournament.
And our Open Boys team faced some extreme tough and high-quality opponents in their debut in the TSS Magic Cup Football Tournament. The boys finished their campaign on a winning note, defeating Toowoomba Grammar School 3-1 to place 11th overall.
Well done to all three teams on such impressive results from your tournament debut!




STUDENT TRAVEL REBATES

Would you like to know more about the Non State Schools Transport Assistance Scheme and eligibility requirements? Click on the link to view the short introductory video here: https://youtu.be/ogWpq7tVaio
Student travel rebate applications open 1-31 May for Semester 1. Please click here to check if you are eligible.
COMMUNITY NOTICEBOARD




