QUIRINDI HIGH SCHOOL

Newsletter

QUIRINDI HIGH SCHOOL113 Hill Street, Quirindi, NSW, 2343 Phone - 02 6746 1177

Fax - 02 6746 2648 E - quirindi-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Term 1 -

Week 10

WEDNESDAY APRIL 3RD 2019

HORSE SPORTS SUCCESS

EVERYONE BELONGS

PRINCIPAL’S MESSAGE

COMMUNITY TOUCH CARNIVAL

QHS BAND COMMENCES

INDUSTRIAL TECH FIELD TRIP

This will be the last newsletter of Term 1 2019. It has been a fantastic term. We have had so many successes on the sporting field and in the cultural arena. Three students have this week auditioned for featured artist roles in CAPERS which will be happening in November. I know they were quite nervous but have stepped out of their comfort zone and challenged themselves.Mrs Stenner has been getting the debating teams together ready for another great year. They experienced outstanding success in 2018 and are looking forward to the challenge of 2019.Year 12 will soon be involved in a significant QHS initiative to help them with their HSC. All year 12 students will be able to choose a member of the executive as a study coach for them to help them and monitor their study progress through the HSC. The aim of the program is to further develop the skills of students when it comes to preparing for the HSC. Ms Lees and Mrs Stenner have been working on the program, getting it ready for implementation.Students will be in winter uniform next term.

Where possible, please encourage your student to wear the school tie. The canteen has unisex long sleeve shirts if you wish to purchase them. They also have school jumpers and jackets available. We have a new batch of winter skirts coming in. The design will have some modifications to allow much more movement. Students have made the decisions about this. The material is exactly the same. We also have some fantastic new basketball uniforms on the way.

Ian Worley - Principal

Celebrating our Captains

This week support students not only discussed their goals for the future, but also gifted some home-made cupcakes to Principal Worley.

Last week QHS hosted a celebratory barbeque for all BRONZE LEVEL recipients at the Trade Training Centre.

“Any student who received a Bronze Certificate at their Year Advisor Meeting on Monday, was invited to attend today’s celebration. Well done to all students who have worked hard to achieve their awards and thank you to the QHS Hospitality students for preparing and serving the food today,” said Teacher, Mr Chambers.Well Done All!

BRONZE AWARD RECIPIENTS

Our School Captains are well known and respected by all members of the school community and play an important role in the many aspects of our school.Because of their outstanding history of performance and contribution, Josie Saunders (Girl’s Vice Captain), Bridget Swain (Girl’s Captain), Angus Nicholls (Boy’s Captain) and Joshua Redgrove (Boy’s Vice Captain) are role models for our whole school. The dedicated four actively promote QHS values at all times by providing leadership to the student body and demonstrating a caring and supportive manner.Josie, Bridget, Angus and Joshua also participate and assist with the organisation of general assemblies, mentor other students, speak on behalf of students and represent the student body at School Council meetings and community events.Thank you to our terrific school leaders, we wish you all the very best for this your HSC year.

CELEBRATING OUR CAPTAINS

Last week, as a nation we celebrated Harmony Day’s twentieth anniversary - the day established to celebrate our cultural diversity, marks a day of cultural respect for everyone who calls Australia home.For us at QHS Harmony Day is all about togetherness and kindness, sharing experience and knowledge. Teacher, Girls Advisor and ARCO Mrs Lawson and Aboriginal Liaison Officer Meg Outerbridge shared their knowledge and collaborated with students - Tamiesha Sampson, Charlize Johnson and Brianna Swan - in using Indigenous Australian ingredients when baking for an upcoming fundraiser.

“One of our best chances for a happy and harmonious future comes with what our students learn together every day as beacons of tolerance and respect,” said Mrs Lawson.This Harmony Day QHS embrace the feeling of belonging and the strength of community that comes from cultural respect and friendship and the celebration of our diversity. “We hope you have a wonderful day, celebrating that ‘everyone belongs’. Harmony Day is about inclusiveness, respect and belonging for all Australians, regardless of cultural or linguistic background, united by a set of core Australian values,” concluded Meg Outerbridge.

EVERYONE BELONGS

Molly Elford (centre) has been selected into the Under 15 Girls North West Touch Football representative team. Molly and the team will be heading to Wollongong in early May for the next round of competition.“I truly love team sport and keeping fit and active and I’m pleased to have made it onto the team again this year. It will be great to catch up with friends and take on the challenge as the level of competition increases,” said the Year 9 student who has represented at a North West level for four consecutive years.Fellow year 9 student, Levi Allan (left) also made selection as a North West representative. Levi, made the Under 15 Boys North West Touch Football team in this, his first High School year

trying out for North West.“It feels good to make the team and I’m excited about the next round. It’s good to play with old friends and I like the focus of the sport,” said Levi, who added he was glad he put in the hard work to make the team.Year 8 student, Jamiah Hunt (right) has been selected as Shadow Reserve for the Under 15 Girls North West Touch Football representative team.“My family plays touch football and I really enjoy the training and fitness of the sport. I would be really pleased to represent at the North West level,” said Jamiah.Congratulations Molly, Levi and Jamiah on giving your all to your sports and your team, we wish you all the best.

NORTHWESTREPRESENTATIVES

QHS Industrial Technology Timber students, undertook an Industry Study as part of their Preliminary HSC last week. Teacher, Mr Watters took the students to Tamworth for a site visit at Austam Homes.“Students undertook a review on how a business in the construction industry operates and is structured. They were shown operations including Work, Health and Safety and Environmental due diligence, as well as operating rules and procedures in regards to any machinery,” said Mr Watters.Austam Homes is a locally owned Tamworth firm employing local people.Over 2500 homes have been manufactured at the Goonan street complex in Tamworth since opening in 1980, even though only operating under the Austam Homes banner since 1994.Manager Austam Homes, Peter Giles met with students and Mr Watters on the site.“We are very appreciative of Austam Homes for the opportunity. From here, students will complete their report in their folio to be marked.”Thank you Austam Homes for hosting QHS and to teacher Mr Watters for coordinating the Field Trip.

Industrial Tech on Tour

Great news: The QHS Band has reformed for 2019 under the guidance of QHS Band Master Mr Garrett - band students include: Ella Worley, Milly Slade, Hanna Challak, Alina Gorst, Lilly Stewart, Ella Trethewey, Jade Wilson, Paige Sevil, Caleb Gallagher, Liam Drury, Hamish Craig, Grace Hutchins, Bella Pollard, Ariya Darnel, Jack McCulloch, Luke Wilson, Tom Parsons, Kyran Shaw and Molly Owen. Bring on the music!

THE QHS BAND IS BACK!

James Redgrove, Joshua Redgrove and Josephine Saunders played round two against Coonabarabran High School in the North West Lawn Bowls Knockout at Coonabarabran on Monday. All competitors played really well. The second round was 21 ends per match and at their 18th end it was anyone’s game.By the end of the match Quirindi High School went down 22-19. All together

it was a fantastic game and they were commended on their wonderful sportsmanship and manners. It was neck and neck the whole game. Conditions are perfect for a great day of bowling!Thank you to teacher, Mrs Lindi Owen for the photos, report and enabling these students such a great opportunity.

NORTH WEST BOWLS NAIL BITER!

Last Thursday 30 QHS students and teachers and staff participated in the highly successful Quirindi Community Touch Football event.The event, is the brainchild of two local Police officers – Steve Sharp and Adam Davis who have dedicated their time, energy and effort to build strong community relationships with local teens. The duo, who also volunteer their time to support students through the Quirindi High School Clontarf Academy’s fitness program found the Clontarf program so positive they decided to expand the concept to a community event today.Under the banner of Pride, Respect and Community, the duo coordinated over 40 players on field for a series of touch football matches.Coined the Quirindi Community Touch Football Carnival, today’s event included two special guests: Timana Tahu, Australian professional rugby league and Rugby Union footballer. Who also played for Denver Stampede in the US PRO Rugby competition. “Think big and follow your dreams, your family, your friends and community will always support you,” Timana told gathered students during the lunch break.And, reality television star Jack Wilson who shot to stardom on Australian Ninja Warrior - famous for the indigenous budgie smugglers he competes in - is now helping a regional New South Wales Indigenous co-operative to arrest soaring rates of obesity.“I started my fitness journey when I was 21, I wish I had started it earlier. I had issues with drugs and alcohol and now I’ve turned my life around. If there is one thing I would tell myself it’s to stop wasting time and do what you want, be an individual and

work hard,” said Jack.The Quirindi Community Touch Football Carnival included assistance from Quirindi High School teachers, Mr Harris, Mr Chambers and Ms Lees and staff, MegO. As well as community members, including Chris Law, Jim Stephenson, Jess Slade, Sally Stockwell.Emily Saul from Liverpool Plains Shire Council, Amanda Nicholas from the New England Outreach Drug and Alcohol Counselling Service, Amie Nean from Walhealth, Representatives from the Winanga-Li Aboriginal Child and Family Centre and more also assisted on the day.“We are pleased with the turn-out. The kids are all fantastic, all engaged, supportive and interacting positively. They are building strong relationships through sport,” said Adam.“We are happy with the success of the day, it’s been run in the spirit we wanted, encompassing Pride, Respect and Community Engagement,” said Steve who confirmed they are seeking to build on a bigger carnival in 2020.Well done to all the students, who conducted themselves with energy and focus and teamwork.

Quirindi Community Touch Football Carnival

This week, QHS students from years 7 to 10 comprised some of the 900 students from 20 schools all over the North West to test their innovation, teamwork and problem solving skills at the Science and Engineering Challenge in Tamworth.The nationwide challenge is a STEM outreach program and initiative of the University of Newcastle, with Tamworth First Light Rotary Club helping.Through the event, students were able to experience aspects of science and engineering they would not usually see in a school environment.On Tuesday, Year 7/8 students took on several challenges including building a bridge out

of straw, tape and paper to carry a dynamic load, creating a Mars Rover with plastic parts and rubber bands, mixing renewable and non-renewable energy to light up a simulated city, and even building a functional human hand.On Wednesday year 9/10 students were involved in an exhilarating day competing against other schools in fun and engaging hands-on activities such as designing an earthquake proof tower, building a hovercraft or bridge, providing electricity to a city or creating an environmentally friendly house.Well done students and thank you teachers, Miss Morrow and Miss Eykamp for taking and assisting students in the Challenge.

Science & Engineering

QHS Support Unit students have previously benefitted from generous donations towards their garden from the Quirindi Canter Fun Run and Community Bike ride event. “The students encourage everyone to grab their runners or bike to participate in this year’s event to be held on Sunday April 7th at Quirindi’s Longfield Oval Henry Street, commencing at 8.00am. We are very grateful for the donations that have assisted us so much,” said QHS Head

Teacher Support, Mrs Radoll.The morning-time community event features 5km and 10km runs, a community walk, senior and junior bike rides, a rock climbing wall and even a ninja warrior course. With barbeque and refreshments available it’s a great way to stay fit and support those in our community with full time care needs.For more information and to register to attend go to: http://www.quirindicanter.org

QUIRINDI CANTER

Last Friday, 10 students competed at the Willow Tree Horse Sports held at the Quirindi Show Grounds.There were 180 competitors from Scone, Merriwa, Narrabri, Armidale and everywhere in-between. With such dry conditions it was fantastic to see so many riders and horses looking fabulous. Always a great day, many students caught up with friends from other areas and had a great day out.QHS students were well represented in the hacking rings in the morning followed by the sporting in the afternoon. A special mention goes to our age Champions Charlie Parsons (16yrs+) and Year 7 student Eric Peatling (13yrs). Charlie also went on to receive Highest point score boys overall. Congratulations Charlie!QHS were also successful in taking out two Reserve Boys Champions; Casey Clarke (16yrs+) and Tom McCulloch (14yrs). Well

Done Boys!All of our students competed well on the day. Showing outstanding horsemanship, grit and determination, three students received encouragement awards: McKenzie Mizzi (14yrs Girls), Nicole Rea (16yrs Girls)and Nick Ashford (13yrs Boys).Highest Point Score High School, Highest Point score overall WELL DONE TO ALL.In 2018 our Equestian team was made up of 18 riders, however, due to drought conditions and unforeseen circumstances we have missed half of our team. We look forward to welcoming these riders back in the future.We were still successful in coming away with the Highest Point score for a High School and Highest Point Score Overall.Thankyou to Willow Tree Public School and Willow Tree Public School P&C for another well organised and run event - We look forward to participating in the 2020 event.

WILLOW TREE HORSE SPORTS

Oorala - New England representatives Lynda Lynch and Toni Widders presented a workshop to QHS indigenous students recently.The event on Youth Leadership Camps and On-campus Experience Days at the Oorala - University of New England was presented to students from years 8 to 12, and encompassed the four major values of - Communication, Leadership, Mindfulness and Respect.“Around 50 QHS students attended the event. The event went well, students were fully engaged and respectful of the opportunity,” said QHS Careers Advisor Ms Saunders.Interested students can also attend the University of New England for a taste of University life through their On-Campus Experience Days on Thursday‘s - May 16, July 25, August 15 and October 17,” said QHS Careers Advisor Ms Saunders.Students can also attend Camp Leadership programs offered for groups of boys and girls, where the focus is on participants desired future career paths.Youth Leadership Camps dates are:

*Kimika Urala – Seniors Girls Years 11 and 12 - May 22nd to 24th closing date for applications - May 1st.*Seniors Boys Years 11 and 12 - June 26th to 28th closing date for applications - May 29th.*Junior Boys – Years 8 to 10 September 18th to 20th closing date for applications – August 21st.*Kimika Urala – Junior Girls Years 8 to 10 - October 31st to November 1st closing for applications - October 1stAll Leadership Camps are held on campus at the University of New England.See Ms Saunders in Careers for an application form and details for both the University Experience Days and the Leadership Camps.“Many thanks to representatives from Oorla and a special thank you to the Quirindi RSL Sub Branch for allowing us to utilise the facilities for the workshop, it proved the perfect location. Thank you also to Megan Outerbridge and Georgie Riley for supporting students and assisting in the workshop,” concluded Ms Saunders.

QHS Primary Industry students, under the tutelage of teacher, Miss Sozou undertook two mock interviews as part of their course recently.The Life Skills interviews were for two ‘created positions’: Junior Farmhand at Trinkey Station and Merchandise Sales at Pursehouse Rural.“Thank you to Andrew McLeod from Trinkey Station and Bruce Nixon from Pursehouse Rural for giving your time and expertise today to undertake the interviews,” said Miss Sozou.11 students undertook the two interviews, with Molly Elford being selected for both roles. “It is a testament to Molly for preparing well for the interviews, by both undertaking research into the businesses and preparing for today’s

process. Well done students for completing your resumes, dressing appropriately for the interviews and handling the process with support for your peers,” continued Miss Sozou.Both Andrew and Bruce said students had participated well in today’s event, and Molly’s ability to answer the interview questions openly, intelligently and with good eye contact put her ahead of the rest today.“I encourage every student to make good eye contact when they are being interviewed and appreciate that often we are just as nervous on the other side of the table as they are,” said Andrew.“It’s okay to be nervous as it means you care and

want to get the job. Remember it isn’t always the most experienced person who gets the job, often it’s about the person with the right attitude. If you have the right ethics and are upfront with your answers employees often like that,” said Bruce.Congratulations on all 11 students for participating so well today and to Molly Elford for taking both roles on the day. Well done to Miss Sozou for prepping the students and coordinating today’s ‘Life Skills’ event and a HUGE thank you to both Andrew and Bruce for taking time away from your businesses today to ensure our students had a truly professional interview experience from industry leaders.

at University Of New England

PRIMARY INDUSTRIES INTERVIEWS

OORALA

Friday 5-7 April 2019MUNA Gunnedah- Gunnedah Sunday 7 April 2019The Quirindi CanterWednesday 10 April 2019Year 7 to 12 Parent Evening 4 to 7pmFriday 12 April 2019North West Golf Trials-Tamworth

QHS Study Centre OPEN - Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 3.20-5pm

HSC WRITTEN EXAMINATIONS 17 Oct to 12 Nov 2019

Wk 6 A = March 4-March 8Wk 7 B = March 11-March 15Wk 8 A = March 18-March 22Wk 9 B = March 25-March 29Wk 10 A = April 1-April 5Wk 11 B = April 8-April 12

Term 1 2019

What’s on...

QHS recently welcomed Teacher, Mrs Sutherland to the English Department.“I grew up at Nundle and after University I was a Journalist for 10 years throughout Queensland and NSW - which gave me great experiences to bring into the classroom.”Later, Mrs Sutherland completed a Diploma of Education, became a teacher and taught in high schools in Maryborough, Victoria and Cairns, Far North Queensland.“I’m now back home in Nundle and love teaching at Quirindi High School,” continued Mrs Sutherland who has been teaching for the last 8 years and has two young daughters, Cordelia, 5 years and AJ who is 3 years. “My family is from Nundle, I was fortunate to grow up on the family farm and I have family who also own and operate the Peel Inn Hotel.”Mrs Sutherland continued, community is important to her.“I am on a number of committees in Nundle including the Go for Gold Chinese Easter Festival, CWA Art Show Committee, Lions Club and most recently the Twilight Christmas Market Committee.”Mrs Sutherland said teaching is important to her as she believes education is powerful. “Education can unlock your potential to be whatever you want to be. You just have to try,” said the teacher who is approachable and a good communicator. Students and parents should feel comfortable in approaching me to discuss their learning. The atmosphere at QHS is energetic, warm and proactive. I have been made to feel very welcome and I feel like I have slotted in well.”Our newest teacher, continued she is looking forward to the remainder of the year. “This is an exciting school to be involved in. The students are remarkably friendly, interested in knowing about their new teacher and are keen to learn. It’s great to be working so close to home.”Welcome Mrs Sutherland to QHS.

WELCOME MRS SUTHERLAND

QHS has been successful in obtaining a significant private grant to construct a $700,000 School and Community Hub to be located in the school grounds. At QHS we always aim to support our community and local businesses, as such we are calling all Tradespeople to preregister their services to be part of the build.If you are a local tradesperson, or know of one, please follow/share the link below and complete your details. You MUST preregister before the Tender process commences! DUE DATE: April 18th 2019.Click on the below link to the NSW Government prequalification scheme for general construction works valued up to $1 million.Click on Information for suppliers/participants.It then tells you how to apply. Apply for any areas deemed relevant to your trade.https://www.procurepoint.nsw.gov.au/scm0256email: sally.alden1@det.nsw.edu.au

CALLING ALL LOCAL TRADIES

Two teams from QHS Year 9/10 headed to the All Schools Touch Football competition recently.Conducted by NSW Touch Football the competition is open to all Secondary Schools, with each of the regional qualifying winners gaining direct entry to the State Final.QHS Boys played 6 matches, winning 5 and drawing the 6th. QHS Girls played 6, winning 4 losing to McCarthy Catholic College twice.The QHS Boys team is now off to Sydney for the State final in Penrith Friday June 14th.“Congratulations to all players for showing true grit and teamwork through the entire day, the boys will now be training hard for the next round,” said Teacher, Mr Harris.Great effort QHS!

Touch Football Boys - Sydney Bound