16 May 2025

From the Principal

Never say “I can’t” !

These are the words we never want to hear at school. As we strive for better things everyday I want students to take an ‘I can’ attitude to everything they do in life. Everyone is capable of personal success and when we learn new things it is often hard at first, a bit scary to have a go and get it wrong or fail, but with COURAGE and RESILIENCE we can keep trying, can work hard and experience success.

Last week on assembly I told the students the story of Lauren Parker, a world class professional triathlete who at her very peak had a serious cycling accident when her tyre exploded and she was left paralysed from the waist down.

In her recovery and comeback to triathlon as a para-athlete Lauren said she decided never to say the words ‘I can’t’. That is not just with training but anything in life”.

It is this message I want students to take to their learning and schooling. Never say the words, I can’t. Whether it is running a cross country for the first time, learning algebra or writing an analytical essay, have the courage to have a go, to ask for help and the resilience with support from those around you, to work hard and keep going.

Replace I can’t with I CAN. As students reflect on their Term 1 report cards, stay focussed on the feedback from your teachers and take a Lauren Parker attitude to learning in all classes. I CAN do that and I will be successful! Our staff are always here to help so please reach out if we can help in anyway.

Congratulations to Warrior House on their victory in the Cross Country and congratulations to students on a positive start to Term 2.

Have a wonderful term and I look forward to seeing our parents and community and Tuesdays P& C Meeting.

Best Wishes
Murray

Acknowledgement to Country

Townsville State High School acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land on which we learn, work and play, the Wulgurukaba peoples and the Bindal people.  We recognise the continuing connections to lands, waters and communities.

We pay our respects to the Elders, past, present and emerging for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and the hopes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Coming Events

Message from our Deputy Principals

Throughout this term, we have been speaking constantly to students about keeping their attendance above 95%. There are many reasons for this, but the main one is that there is a clear link between increased attendance and improved achievement. With this in mind, students are being strongly encouraged to attend every day in order to ensure they are giving themselves the best chance to succeed.

We know that reduced attendance has a mammoth impact on the likelihood of QCE attainment, and we are working with all of our seniors to ensure that they graduate with the skills they need for either further study or the workforce.  Senior students who are at risk of not achieving a QCE will be case managed throughout the year with the Deputy and the Year level coordinator. We appreciate the working relationship between the school and parents and guardians and look forward to finding proactive solutions focussed plans for students who may need additional supports and are very happy to help if we can.

A reminder to seniors who are away on the day assessment is due. Students must submit an AARA which replaces the old extension form. To be eligible for an extension, students must qualify under a strict range of conditions. If a student is absent on the day the assessment is due, then they are required to have a medical certificate submitted to the front office on the same day. This ensures that students are not taking a day off to complete assessment and ensures that we are following the strict guidelines set by QCAA. Please contact your DP or YLC if you would like more information on the assessment system.

As we move further into the term, we’d like to remind all students of the many wonderful opportunities available here at school. Whether you’re interested in joining a club, participating in sports, or being part of a performance, there’s something for everyone.

One exciting example is the Dungeons & Dragons Club, where students can dive into storytelling and strategy while making new friends. For those with a passion for physical activity, our sports teams and Tropics sports excellence programs are a fantastic way to stay active, build teamwork skills, and represent our school with pride.

We’re also thrilled about the upcoming production of Legally Blonde Jr.—a showcase of our students’ incredible talent and dedication. Don’t miss the chance to be involved, whether on stage, behind the scenes, or in the audience supporting your peers. These are the kinds of experiences and memories you’ll look back on fondly in years to come.

At the same time, it’s important to stay focused on your academic responsibilities. Success comes from consistent effort, not just during school hours, but outside them as well. We encourage all students to use their diary or planner to keep track of upcoming assessments and important dates.

If you need extra support, don’t forget about the Homework Club in the library after school. It’s a great place to get help from teachers, catch up on work, or simply have a quiet space to study.

By taking up these opportunities and staying organised, you’re not only making the most of your school years, you’re setting yourself up for success.

Let’s make it a great term together!

Qparents Registration

Thank you to those parents/caregivers who have registered for ‘Qparents’, which is a secure online parent portal. The online portal allows you to electronically notify the school of any student absence, check on the attendance and behaviour of your child, view a student’s current timetable and subjects, update contact details and receive any accounts for payment.

THE SYSTEM IS EXCELLENT AND HIGHLY RECOMMENDED TO YOU!

All parents/caregivers should have received a mail package and emails about how to complete registration. Please contact the office if you need any support to register.

From the Rolls Office

Student absences are to be explained by a parent/caregiver to the Administration Staff stating the reason and dates of absence.  This may be done by phoning the school on 4721 8777 or by emailing absencesadmin@townsvilleshs.eq.edu.au

Student absences of three or more days due to illness require a medical certificate.  Medical certificates should be emailed to the above email address or hand delivered to the Administration Office.  Your prompt assistance with explanation of absences will be greatly appreciated.

Bus Travel Code of Conduct and Information Update for Parents and Schools

What’s new in Technologies?

This term, our Year 10 students are embarking on a flavour-packed culinary journey through Asia in our exciting new unit, Taste of Asia. This unit is designed to inspire curiosity and creativity in the kitchen, as students explore the rich diversity of Asian cuisines through hands-on cooking and sensory analysis.

Students will be introduced to a vibrant selection of herbs and spices commonly used across Asian cultures—from the bold warmth of ginger and turmeric to the fresh zing of lemongrass and coriander. As part of the learning experience, students will taste, touch, and smell these ingredients, developing their sensory vocabulary and deepening their understanding of how each element contributes to the overall flavour profile of a dish.

The students are looking forward to having guest speakers in this term and continue their learning through the herb and spice world.

Townsville State High School Presents Legally Blonde Jr!

Get ready to bend and snap your way into an unforgettable night of musical fun! Townsville State High School is proud to present Legally Blonde Jr., a high-energy, feel-good production filled with catchy songs, hilarious moments, and heartwarming messages about confidence, friendship, and staying true to yourself.

Our talented cast and crew have been working tirelessly to bring Elle Woods’ journey from fashionista to Harvard Law student to life on stage. With vibrant costumes, impressive choreography, and loads of charm, this show is perfect for all ages!

Show Dates:
Friday 30th May – 7:00pm
Saturday 31st May – 1:00pm & 7:00pm
Denise Glasgow Performing Arts Centre

Tickets available now via the Townsville State High School website.

Don’t miss your chance to see this fabulous performance—tickets are selling fast! Come along and support our amazing students in what promises to be a seriously fun night at the theatre!

STEM Academy News

US Space Camp!

The Northrop Grumman Foundation is funding Australian students and teachers to attend Space Camp in the US and our school has been successful in obtaining funding for this once in a lifetime learning experience during the July school holidays. During this unique 6-day overnight camp at the US Space and Rocket Centre, Huntsville, Alabama our students will train like astronauts with other students from across the globe. The teams will be putting their engineering and STEM skills to the test with a range of activities, including constructing and testing a heat shield during a thermal design challenge. Teachers funded to attend will be attending special seminars to help support them in teaching STEM and aerospace.

STEM Racing

STEM Racing (formerly F1 in Schools) is one of the largest STEM competitions globally. Students design and construct a model F1 car that is powered to travel 20m at speeds of up to 80km/h. Our year 9 STEM Academy students are developing their F1 designs to meet technical specifications whilst maintaining the lowest weight. They are 3D printing their cars using PLA bioplastic. The Townsville Regional STEM Racing competition will be held in week 10 and we look forward to seeing the year 9s compete for a place at the State Finals.

Solving the Water Crisis

The global freshwater crisis is a major problem characterised by water scarcity, pollution and global increasing demand. Millions lack access to clean water and sanitation, while water systems face stress from overuse, pollution and climate change with two-thirds of the world's population potentially facing water shortages by 2025. Our year 10 STEM Academy students are investigating solutions and will be iterating sustainable designs for collecting freshwater and addressing Sustainability Development Goal 6. We look forward to seeing their ideas and designs.

Lego Robotics

Our year 8 STEM Academy class are learning to construct and code Spike Prime Lego robots to complete a range of tasks. They are building towards completing First Lego League challenges. Students have coded the robots to follow complex paths and are learning to include different sensors.

Student Support Services News

Have you graduated Year 12 in the past 3 years and need help with taking the next step in your career journey? You can get FREE help from our Link and Launch Coordinator.

Contact Cheree on 0448 566 365 to discuss how Link and Launch can help you.

P&C News

Rev your engines and race your mates to volunteer at the TSHS P&C's major annual fundraiser - Supercars parking! From Friday 11th July through till Sunday 13th July 2025 (the last weekend of term 2 holidays). Signup NOW: Visit the signup web page or scan the Volunteer QR code below. Pick a shift, or multiple shifts, whether you prefer to see the sunrise, chill in the midday rays or stay for sunsets. Time will race by once you’re with friends, directing cars with your lightsaber and devouring (free!) food and drinks. Our expert pitstop crew aka canteen staff keepin' our tanks on full throughout the event. …. But wait there’s more! Every shift gains you an entry into our prize draw and the major prize *drumroll* is a big screen TV! So big you’ll think there’s a supercar IN your lounge room PLUS students can earn GOTCHAs or funds towards their own events/senior formal. Did you know? Profits raised from the 2024 Supercar carparking ticket sales went to the school’s new outdoor gym equipment + shade + softfall ground surface! That's a big WIN for the students!

From the P&C, thank you for your support, and we look forward to seeing you trackside! For more information check out the TSHS website Supercars FAQs or email the TSHS P&C: pandc@townsvilleshs.eq.edu.au

An extra way which you can help support the TSHS P&C is by PROMOTING our Supercar parking ticket sales. Tell your mates, share with your community & post on your socials. Every ticket sold helps to support the P&C to support TSHS! 3 day and single day parking available for both cars and motorbikes from the TSHS website: Supercars Parking

We are looking for a secretary for our P&C

This role is perfect for someone who's looking for a small way to make a BIG difference!  This is a great way to help, contribute to and support our school's community.  You'll gain secretarial superpowers whilst you make some fun and fabulous friends who are also keen to make a difference by supporting the school and its students. 

The current P&C Executive: President (Wyatt, parent of gr 8 student), Vice-President (Maria, TSHS Teacher Aide) and Treasurer (Nikita, parent of gr 8 student) all understand the requirements of the secretary's role and are willing to provide support, training and assistance whilst you find your feet. Further info on the role can also be found at P&C QLD: Roles on the P&C Exec

As the secretary you'll help collate the agenda items for each meeting and assist Wyatt to prepare & distribute documents for our monthly P&C meetings - which are held third Tuesday of the month at 6pm. You'd help respond to emails and record correspondence plus assist to maintain the P&C's information and records. You'd also prepare and present minutes whilst simultaneously devouring delish cupcakes!  Yup, we eat cake at meetings - thanks to our fabulous canteen staff and this month we're having doughnuts to celebrate P&C Day & Volunteer week!

If this sounds like something that might be for you or you'd like to find out more info please email: pandc@townsvilleshs.eq.edu.au 

Additionally, we do recommend that you attend a few meetings (in person or online via Teams) to sus it all out first.  The next meeting will be Tuesday 20th May at 6pm - and we promise we won't ever pressure/guilt anyone into this/any role as that's just not how we believe in doing things.

With thanks,
TSHS P&C Executive

Townsville State High School Facebook Page

Our Facebook page has been active since 2015 and it is terrific to see the amount of content about our students and school programs appearing on the site and being updated on a daily basis. To view the page and post a message, please access via this link and once on the page, hit ‘like’

We are following a clear and strict set of guidelines related to Facebook usage by schools and our ‘gatekeepers’ do a fantastic job of monitoring content!

Inclusive Education News

New Approaches to Reading Instruction: What Parents Need to Know

We are committed to ensuring all our students at Town High develop strong reading skills, which are foundational for success across all areas of learning and life. This term, our dedicated teaching staff are actively engaging in important professional learning focused on the latest research and evidence-based best practices in reading instruction happening across the country.

Knowing how reading is taught at school empowers you to support your child's learning at home. We believe that our partnership is key to fostering a love of reading and building essential literacy skills.

You can read about the Queensland Department of Education Reading Commitment in the Parent and Community Brochure below:

So Much Happening in the Intensive English Centre (IEC) – Swimming, Reading Success, Health Awareness and a Shopping trip!

It’s been very busy but rewarding few months in the IEC with lots of activity. Students have participated in a range of fantastic events, and it's wonderful to see the smiles on their faces. Our students are also making great progress with their English, and it is wonderful to observe them practising their vocabulary even in their breaks.

Swimming Program - Ms Passfield, one of our team leaders, took the initiative to lead the swimming program and her report highlights the importance of this experience for our students.

If you were born in Australia, you may not even remember first learning to swim, such is our symbiotic relationship with bodies of water. Knowing at least the basics of swimming is not only a life skill that provides safety, but it also allows everyone to participate in one of life’s greatest pleasures - going for a splash on a hot day.

Over five weeks in term 1, the Intensive English Centre took two groups of students for water awareness, safety and swimming lessons at Tobruk Pool. Five lessons may not sound like many but the students do indeed quickly pick up the basics.

This comes as a relief to the hawk-eyed supervising teachers watching as the initial nervousness of the students is soon surpassed by a confidence that is, well, a little greater than their ability. They may never end up age champion at swimming carnival, but they can enjoy the Strand or Riverway next summer.

Once again, our lessons were led by the wonderful instructor Ashley Scott, who we thank for his skills and expertise.

Milpera Reading Program: Developing Reading Comprehension

Twenty one students have been developing their reading skills online as part of the Milpera Reading Program. Students participate live online sessions three times a week and complete reading, viewing and writing tasks, with the final assessments occurring this week. Students have enjoyed building English language and collaborative ICT skills.

Scholarship Funds Put to Great Use

Our Public Education Foundation scholarship recipients, Khadidja Ali and Fatuma Abdirizak Mohamed used their funds to purchase essential school items. This demonstrates their strong commitment to their education and is a testament to the impact these scholarships can have. We are incredibly proud of their responsible decisions, well done girls!

Senior Students Engaged in Health Literacy Workshop

Senior CALD students participated in a valuable Health Literacy Workshop last week. This session provided them with important knowledge and skills to understand health information and make informed decisions about their well-being. Their participation and insightful questions were truly impressive. According to the girls, ‘It was very interesting and useful, and they want another session’.  A huge thank you to our school- based Youth Health Nurse, Ms Whitmore who spoke to the girls and Mr Dyer, who facilitated these fantastic sessions for the boys.

Refugee Week 9 – We can’t wait!

Last term preparations across the school for Harmony Day were cancelled due to the weather. We were all very disappointed; however, we are thrilled to announce that in Week 9 we will be putting all of that planning to good use when we celebrate Refugee Week. It is going to be amazing, we start the week with a special assembly with guests, speeches, cultural dances, as well as lunchtime activities and a student BBQ. These are just some of the highlights planned. It is going to be a week of celebrating the cultural diversity that makes Town High a truly unique and inspiring place to learn and grow.

HPE & Sport Department News

Inter Reef Cross Country!

WARRIOR  2500 PTS
BREWER  2186 PTS
NEEDLE  1843 PTS
FARADAY  1615 PTS

Congratulations to our Winning Reef Warrior and congratulations to the following Age Champions for Cross Country:

Here are some photos from the cross country and the awards ceremony.

“Worlds Greatest Shave” Leukemia Foundation Fundraising Event – Wednesday 4th June 2025 (Week 7)

On 4th June 2025, we will be participating in the World’s Greatest Shave as part of our Student Council Fundraising Events. The aim of the event is to fundraise for the Leukemia Foundation, by participating in the World’s Greatest Shave, also called Shave for a Cure.

We are seeking and encouraging volunteers for this event. If your child has an interest in shaving their head or cutting their hair (20cm minimum, undyed hair can be donated to make wigs) please have them pick up a consent form from Mr. Aiello in E14. Students participating are required to make a $20.00 donation to the Leukemia Foundation through our school fundraising efforts. All shaves and cuts are performed by professional hairdressers who volunteer their time for this important event.

This will be a Free Dress Day, so students can choose their school appropriate clothing to wear with a gold coin donation. Adding to the fun and excitement of the day, students will also be able to have their hair coloured with washable hairspray during the event for a gold coin donation. We will hold a sausage sizzle and sell soft drinks and lollie bags. Finally, a Pie the Teacher activity, a raffle, and a few other surprises will help round out our fundraising efforts. So be sure to send your student to school that day with a few coins in their pockets!

For those interested in helping our fundraising efforts, you can follow the link here or scan the QR code below. Help us to meet our goal of raising $1000 this year!

Community News

School Uniforms – Georgio Clothing

After 25 years Georgio Clothing have decided to exit the retail of locally made school uniforms.  Georgio continue to have stock in various sizes of uniform items for Townsville State High School which they are now offering at a 50% discount until all are sold.

Get in while stocks last!

Green Parenting Survey

Are You A Parent of a Child Between 0 to 12 Years Old?

Researchers from the University of Southern Queensland and The University of Queensland, are conducting research into parents’ opinions about parenting and climate change.

If you are a parent (18+ years) of a child aged 0 to 12 years and live in Australia, we would love to hear your views. You will need to complete a short online survey. To find out more or to participate, please visit https://surveys.unisq.edu.au/index.php/526111

This research has been approved by the UniSQ Human Research Ethics Committee (ETH2024-0126)