Following the advice of the Queensland Government and Queensland Catholic Education Commission, Carmel College will be closed on Thursday and Friday the 6th and 7th of March.

To ensure our community is kept updated, information regarding the closure and reopening of the school will be shared with parents via email, BCE Connect, and social media platforms. Please read the information below about the BCE Connect app.

There are also many excellent resources on the Queensland Government Get Ready Queensland website that serves as a checklist for our homes, travel arrangements and our personal safety.

Our thoughts are with our community during this time. Your safety and the safety of your loved ones is our priority. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Mr Stephen Adair

Principal 

Watching sport is a favourite Australian past time and for many, a great distraction to the daily routine of life.  For weeks now, I have eagerly awaited the start of the NRL season and the opportunity to see my beloved Eels play.  However, as I sat in Mass this morning for Ash Wednesday, I prayed not for an outcome of a sporting team but for the safety of my family, friends and the Carmel community as cyclone Alfred approached.  Like cyclone Alfred, the season of lent calls us to be focused on what is important in our lives.

As we face the imminent threat of a cyclone, the Lenten message to prioritise life's important aspects stands out. The potential emergency urges us to focus on our safety, loved ones' well-being, and community strength. In uncertain times, we reflect on our values and what we hold dear.

As we journey through the sacred season of Lent, we are reminded of the profound significance this time holds in our lives. Lent is a period of reflection, repentance, and renewal. It is a time to pause and consider what truly matters in our lives, to focus on our spiritual growth, and to deepen our relationship with God.

Lent encourages us to strip away the distractions and noise of everyday life and to concentrate on our faith, our relationships, and our purpose. It is a time to practice self-discipline, to engage in acts of charity, and to seek forgiveness and reconciliation. As we prepare for the celebration of Easter, let us use this time to grow closer to God and to one another.

In the face of the cyclone, let us also remember the importance of preparedness and resilience and support each other through this challenging time. Our faith teaches us to trust in God's providence and to find strength in our community.

May this Lenten season be a time of profound spiritual growth and renewal for all of us. Let us embrace the opportunity to focus on what truly matters and to support one another with compassion and love.

God Bless,

Mr Reuben Chalmers

Deputy Principal

Lent: A Time to Reflect, Act, and Give Hope

Lent isn’t just about giving something up—it’s about giving back, reflecting on what really matters, and finding ways to live out our faith in everyday life. It’s a time to pause, think about those who are struggling, and take action to help. One of the ways we can do this is by supporting Caritas Australia, which is working to make a real difference in people’s lives. This year, we’re sharing three stories with the story of Toefuata’iga, a young student in Samoa whose life changed thanks to something many of us take for granted—clean water.

Toefuata’iga’s Story – Samoa

Imagine going to school every day without reliable access to clean water. That was the reality for 13-year-old Toefuata’iga and her classmates. In Samoa, water shortages meant students often went without drinking water and proper hygiene, which led to illness and missed school days. It’s hard to focus on learning when you’re thirsty or unwell.

But thanks to Caritas Australia and its local partner, Caritas Samoa, a 10,000-litre water tank was installed at Toefuata’iga’s school. The difference was incredible. With a steady supply of clean water, students could stay healthy, attend school regularly, and focus on their education. Something as simple as water completely transformed their daily lives.

How You Can Help

Toefuata’iga’s story is a reminder that small actions can have a huge impact. This Lent, as we reflect on what we have, we’re also invited to think about how we can help others. By supporting Caritas Australia, we can provide essentials like clean water, education, and other life-changing resources to people in need.

Every little bit counts—whether it’s a donation, a prayer, or simply spreading the word. Together, we can make a difference and bring hope to communities around the world.

Rosies: Our First Night Out

Our students headed out for their first experience with Rosies – Friends on the Street, and it was nothing short of eye-opening. They didn’t just serve food and drinks—they had real conversations, listened to powerful stories, and got a glimpse of the daily struggles people on the streets face. A big shoutout to our Carmel students for stepping up with kindness and respect—we can’t wait for the next one!

Marist Game Changers Retreat

Our students had the incredible opportunity to come together with other Marist Game Changers from different schools, connecting with like-minded students who share a passion for leadership, service, and making a difference. It was a day filled with great conversations, new friendships, and inspiring discussions about what it means to live out the Marist values in our everyday lives. From team activities to shared reflections, the energy and enthusiasm were contagious. This experience reminded us that we are part of something bigger—a movement of young people who are really committed to make positive change in our world.

Project Compassion Launch

Six of our Year 12 leaders had the privilege of attending the Project Compassion Launch, a special event marked by a beautiful liturgy led by Archbishop Mark Coleridge—his final Project Compassion launch. The day was a powerful reminder of the importance of compassion in action, as our students joined in discussions about Project Compassion’s mission and gathered a wealth of ideas for future social justice initiatives from the Secondary Formation session. It was an inspiring experience, and our leaders are excited to bring these ideas back to our school community!

Shrove Tuesday

We kicked off Shrove Tuesday in the best way—flipping pancakes for all our students and staff! It was a great way to come together before the start of Lent. Our Year 12 Leaders & hospitality students & staff stepped up and cooked Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning to make sure no one missed out. 

Ash Wednesday

We began Ash Wednesday with a peaceful morning Mass in the chapel for our Student Leaders at 8:15, setting the tone for the day. From there, they processed with the celebrant, Monsignor John Butler, down to Civitas, where the whole school gathered for a powerful liturgy. It was a special moment as students and staff received the ashes on their foreheads, reminding us all of the meaning of Lent. The beautiful music from Carmel Chorum and Tyler Rogers made the experience even more moving, creating a reflective and heartfelt atmosphere. A truly meaningful way to start this important season!

Mrs Erin Hardy

Assistant Principal-Religious Education

Guidance Counsellor

Carmel College offers morning training for students and staff. Morning training is all inclusive and open to participation of all ages and fitness levels. Our training schedule is as follows:

Monday – Walk/Jog/Run

Tuesday – Gym (strength programming)

Wednesday – Walk/Jog/Run

Thursday - Gym (Conditioning – HIIT style workout)

Morning training begins Monday 16 February. Starts at 7am to 7.40am. Students need to bring a towel and water bottle.

Any questions or queries, please email dion.king@carmelcollege.qld.edu.au.

Mr Dion King

Athlete Development Program Leader

Our Year 9-12 Visual Art students recently had an incredible experience visiting the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and the Queensland Art Gallery (QAG). Their behavior was truly exemplary, not only did they conduct themselves with great respect and enthusiasm, but they also diligently completed their workbooks and question sheets.

The experience was inspiring to the students, and it was wonderful to see everyone engaged in art and conversations about the artists, the techniques used, and the meaning behind it all. It was indeed a happy and productive day for everyone involved.

Miss Hailee Speck

Learning and Teaching Leader – The Arts

The Arts Co Program is off to a great start for 2025. Our students have showcased their creativity and talents in many events this term, including the Opening College Mass, National Apology Day, and Ash Wednesday. Participation in the Arts Co groups is a fantastic way for Carmel College students to feel a sense of belonging, develop friendships, engage in teamwork, and have fun. 

I would also like to take this opportunity to introduce our Arts Co Staff team. You may have already received a welcome email from some of them already.

Dance:

Hailee Speck – Sr Dance Troupe

Ellie Kershaw – Sr Dance Troupe

Emily Lord – Arts Co Dance

Zena Pereira – Hip Hop

Alyssa Beutel – Arts Co Dance

Drama:

Ellie Kershaw

Alison Swaby

Laura Steel

Music:

Erin Hardy

Laura Hopper

Tyla Rodrigues – Guitar and Rock Bands

Anita Taylor – Vocals, Strings, Piano, Chorum Choir

Shaun Kohlman – Vocals, CCM Choir and Adamah Choir

Morgan Cox – Drums, Percussion ensemble

Ken Chow – Woodwind, Brass, Flute ensemble, Jazz and Concert Bands

Visual Art:

Julia Spargo – Art Club

Desiree Anderson

Production: Jayden Hayward

Arts Co Aide: Debra Harris

What we offer – With most groups/ensembles coming at NO cost to our families

All Private Instrumental, Vocal, Dance, and Visual Art lessons are underway, and we are already seeing some real success stories. This year, we have the most Arts opportunities for Carmel College students that we have ever had, and our numbers are very high in all programs we offer. The Art staff are very excited for what 2025 holds for the Arts. If your student is enrolled in the Arts extra-curricular program, you will receive emails from their teacher regarding times and days of lessons and all other communication regularly. Please keep an eye on your emails for this. Please refer to the Arts Co weekly timetable below for more information.

Arts Co-Curricular Program Leader

The Year 10 Economics and Business students recently had an incredible opportunity to visit the University of Queensland, where they engaged with the amazing UQ Ventures. During their visit, our students were inspired by the stories of entrepreneurs who are currently studying a diverse range of programs. These entrepreneurs shared their unique experiences from around the globe, including places like Singapore and San Francisco. It was truly eye-opening for our students to hear about these international perspectives.

The Ventures Discovery Team didn't stop there. They facilitated a highly engaging workshop where our students employed innovative design thinking techniques. Working in groups, they tackled the challenge of creating solutions to youth unemployment in the Redlands. It was amazing to see their creativity and problem-solving skills in action.

To top it all off, our students had the chance to pitch their designs to the larger group. This experience took them out of their comfort zones and provided them with valuable mentoring and coaching from experienced entrepreneurs. It was an enriching and memorable day for everyone involved.

Mrs Diana Platt

Learning and Teaching Leader – Humanities & Business

Dear Carmel Community

We are looking for parents who can volunteer at our Tuckshop for 2-3 hours either fortnightly or monthly. If you're interested in lending a hand, please reach out to our Tuckshop Convenor, Mrs Belinda Greaves, by emailing sthotuckshop@carmelcollege.qld.edu.au.

Your support is greatly appreciated.

The 2025 Volunteer Tuckshop Roster for Term 1 is outlined below:

Mrs Belinda Greaves

Tuckshop Convenor

All Year 12 completers from last year will soon receive an invitation to participate in the Next Step survey. This is their chance to help our school to understand the different pathways of the 2024 Year 12 students and to improve our senior programs and supports for future students. The survey only takes five minutes and asks graduates about their study and work activities since finishing school.

As a thank you for participating, Year 12 completers who complete the survey will be entered into a draw to win a MacBook Air.

We ask parents, siblings and friends to encourage our graduates to complete the survey. If their contact details have changed, please assist survey interviewers by providing their updated details or forward the survey to their new address so they can participate. Graduates may receive an invitation by mail, email or phone. The survey can be completed online or by phone.

For more information about Next Step, including previous results, visit http://www.qld.gov.au/nextstep.

Term 1 Parent Forum has been rescheduled to Tuesday, 18 March, at 6pm. The presentation is on Cyber Safety and Security by ThinkUKnow. We welcome all parents/carers from our Carmel Community and extend and invitation to parents/carers from local schools to attend.

For information about ThinkUKnow, please visit ThinkUKnow

The Logan City Council provides the School Immunisation Program each year.

Please refer to the attached Click Consent Protect Flyer to register your child by using the online platform which has streamlined the process, making it quicker and easier for you to consent or decline participation for your child in the School Immunisation Program. 

If you have any questions or require assistance to complete the online consent form, please contact Logan City Council’s Immunisation team on 3412 4039 or email immunisation@logan.qld.gov.au

Discover the unique learning environment at Carmel College by joining us for a personal tour of our Catholic Co-educational Secondary College in Thornlands. We are committed to fostering learning through determination, creativity, and enthusiasm within the Catholic tradition, providing the perfect setting for your child to let their light shine!

• Thursday, 27 March 2025
• 9am- 11am
• Carmel College- 20 Ziegenfusz Road, Thornlands 4164

To secure your spot for the Open Day, please register online by visiting https://www.trybooking.com/CYLFP

What to Expect:

• Explore our state-of-the-art facilities
• Meet dedicated educators who are passionate about student success
• Learn about our diverse academic and extracurricular offerings
• Experience the warm and inclusive atmosphere of Carmel College

We can't wait to welcome you and look forward to showcasing the difference that Carmel College can make in your child's educational journey.

For more information:

• visit www.carmelcollege.qld.edu.au
• call us on 07 3488 7777
• email enrolments@carmelcollege.qld.edu.au

During the school year, Carmel College may take photos of your child as part of their schooling journey. We intend to publish an array of images in our annual yearbook, which will be published in hardcopy only and available to Carmel College families.

As noted in the 2025 BCE Annual School Photo Parent Slip, PC class photos and extra-curricular groups (arts, sport, library, debating, etc) will be included in the publication.

If you do not wish for your child to be published in the 2025 yearbook, please advise us by emailing carmelcollegeevents@bne.catholic.edu.au.

Copyright in some materials appearing in the Carmel College Newsletter is owned by third parties and should not be used or reproduced without the authority of the third party. The links to websites or web pages are for information purposes only.

To the extent that such third-party materials are not owned by BCE, we accept no responsibility for such content.