I have been really amazed after reading recent media discussion about "lookmaxxing". If you have not heard of this, the looksmaxxing scale is a structured, 1 to 10 rating system used by the online looksmaxxing community to objectively score human facial attractiveness. It attempts to move past subjective opinions by evaluating specific, measurable biometric markers. Instead of general impressions, the scale measures facial landmarks, structural symmetry, horizontal and vertical proportions, and specific aesthetic features like the canthal tilt, jawline definition, midface ratio, and gonial angle. I could not find a mention of colour, calibre and quality of beard so I assume I'd not rate very highly.

These appearance-focused social media trends raises an important question for young people: Would you rather be beautiful, or would you rather be good?

At first glance, the answer seems obvious. Surely - we'd rather be good. We are hard-wired from very young to aspire to positive, community-oriented and worthwhile behaviours. As parents, how often do we say, almost without thinking, 'good girl' or 'good boy'?

Yet we live in a culture that far too often measures worth by appearance, popularity, or online approval. All of us are constantly exposed to messages suggesting that happiness, success, and acceptance come from looking a certain way. While there is nothing wrong with taking pride in one's appearance, problems are very hard to avoid when external image becomes the primary source of identity.

Philosophers have asked a different question. They wondered what qualities truly make a flourishing human life. Courage, wisdom, kindness, integrity, justice, and compassion were seen as lasting virtues, far more important than physical attractiveness. Beauty may attract attention, but goodness earns trust. Beauty fades with time, but character enhances, grows and deepens throughout a lifetime.

As a Catholic school community, we are called to see ourselves and others as more than appearances. The Gospel reminds us that every person possesses an inherent dignity that cannot be enhanced by beauty or diminished by the lack of it. The challenge for all of us is not simply to look better, but to become better: more generous, more compassionate, and more committed to the good of others; wholly committed to the Common Good.

Perhaps the better question is: If you could choose only one, what kind of person would you want to be?

Mr Chris Gabbett
College Principal

The College is committed to strengthening our connection with families. We are pleased to advise that from Tuesday, 1 September, the College will transition from our current communication platform to our Sentral Parent App.

To ensure you continue to receive important College communications, we kindly ask all families to:

• Download the Sentral Parent App to your mobile device.
• Enable push notifications in the Sentral Parent App by clicking on the settings button, so you can receive alerts about College activities, camps, events, and important notices.
• Review the Parent Guide for additional information and instructions that was emailed on 26 August.

If you have not yet downloaded the Sentral Parent App, please visit:

Parents Portal and App - Sentral

We encourage all families to complete this process as soon as possible to ensure you remain connected and informed.

If you have any additional questions, please email highfields@twb.catholic.edu.au

Mr Chris Gabbett
College Principal

Partnership has always been at the heart of Catholic education. When Saint Mary MacKillop and Father Julian Tenison Woods founded the Josephite Order, they shared a vision of working together to bring education, faith and hope to communities in need. Their partnership was built on trust, shared purpose and a commitment to placing the needs of children and families at the centre of all they did. This became and was their mission. Their story reminds us that great things can be achieved when people work together. Through their shared vision, schools were established around Australia, New Zealand, Peru, Timor Leste and parts of Europe, while their mission continues today through the work of the Sisters of St Joseph and many associated ministries. Their legacy challenges us to see partnership not simply as collaboration, but a shared mission.

In our College this term, the focus of the 6 P's (Partnership, Passion, Perseverance, Possibilities, Practical Action and Prayer) will be Partnership. Through partnership, we are encouraging staff and students to seek opportunities that create success, improvement and growth not only for themselves but for those around them. We are reminded that we can achieve more when we work together, drawing on each other's strengths, gifts and experiences.

As parents, you are the first and most influential teachers in your child's life. Your child's success is strengthened through the partnership between you and the College. During this week's Prep orientation information session, Chris Gabbett reinforced the importance of this relationship with the newest families joining our community. When Parents and educators work together with a shared commitment to learning, wellbeing and faith, students flourish. This collaboration nurtures not only academic success but also development of character, faith and a sense of belonging within our community.

Partnership is strengthened through authentic communication, mutual trust and shared goals. We value the conversations we have with parents at interviews, information evenings, College events and through our day-to-day interactions. These moments help us to better understand and support each young person entrusted to our care. As we journey together this term, we encourage families to continue engaging in their child's learning, celebrating their successes and supporting them through challenges. By working together, we provide a consistent message that learning, faith and wellbeing are valued and that every student is capable of growth and success.

Mary MacKillop often spoke of trusting in God's providence and walking alongside others with courage and compassion. As a Josephite community, we are called to do the same. We thank our families for the partnership they bring to our College and for the many ways they contribute to our shared mission. Together, we can continue to create a community where every student is known, valued and encouraged to become the person God is calling them to be.

We look forward to celebrating your child's successes over the coming weeks with the Arts Awards, Sports Awards and Academic Awards occurring this term.

Mrs Paula O'Rourke
Assistant Principal Mission and Identity

Welcome back to Term 4.

All families will have received their Term 4 fee invoice and statement at the end of Term 3. We kindly ask that you review your invoice and ensure it is paid by the due date of 23 October, or that your regular direct debit or chosen payment arrangement will have your account finalised by the end of the term.

Throughout Term 4, the Accounts Team will be contacting families whose accounts are not currently on track to be paid in full by the end of the year. If you have any questions regarding your account, please contact us at accounts@highfields.catholic.edu.au.

We understand that families manage a wide range of financial commitments and that this can often require careful budgeting and planning. We ask that you continue to place a high priority on our shared commitment to providing your children with the best possible education. The timely payment of school fees is an important contribution towards the costs of delivering that education.

If you are experiencing difficulties or there are circumstances that may prevent your fees from being paid by the due date, please contact us as soon as possible. We are committed to working with families to explore suitable options and establish a plan for meeting fee obligations.

As a reminder, the 2027 Schedule of Fees has now been released and is available on our website here: Fees & Payments | Mary MacKillop Catholic College. To assist families with planning and budgeting for the year ahead, the link also has a fee calculator to help you estimate your 2027 school fee commitments and begin preparing your finances for next year. Thank you for taking the time to review this information and plan ahead.

Thank you for your continued support, and we wish all families a successful and enjoyable conclusion to the school year.

Adam Paroz
Business Manager

This year, the College will once again take part in the annual Hike for the Homeless; to help raise funds towards Base Services and the support they provide to homeless and disadvantaged peoples in the Toowoomba region. MMCC has taken part in this event since its inception, and we would love to continue what is fast becoming a tradition with our strongest team to date! A team page has been created, and all parents and students are invited to join the College effort via the link found here, either by registering to be a part of the team and walk on the day, or by donating towards the team or your chosen team member.

Key details for this event are:

Location: Jubilee Park, Bridge Street (opposite Dudley Street), Toowoomba

Date: Saturday, 31 October; staggered starts between 5:45am – 6:45am (depending on the length you are choosing to walk)

Distances: 5, 10 and 20 km

Registration Fees:

• 5 km $25.00 for adults, $10.00 for children under 17
• 10 km $35.00 for adults, $20.00 for children under 17
• 20 km $60.00 for adults, $30.00 for children under 17

For more information, you can visit the event page here or their Facebook page here, or contact Ms Manners at the school via email.

This event is not only an important fundraiser, it is also a great way to walk alongside your child and share the joy of powerful positive and practical action. Together, we can support this vital service while demonstrating to our children the profound impact of positive community action.

Ms Rebecca Manners
Senior Teacher

On Friday, 23 October (Friday Week 3), all students from P-12 are invited to wear crazy or bright socks with their sports uniform in support of Catholic Mission. Socktober is Catholic Mission’s annual World Mission Month initiative that raises funds and awareness for children globally who experience poverty and vulnerability. Your donations will contribute to food, education and safety following hardships such as flooding and displacement.

An order form has been sent to all families; through this form, families can make a donation for wearing colourful or crazy socks and also pre-order a sausage sizzle for First Break. Please note, that the form will close at 9:00am on Wednesday, 21 October to leave time for organisation of sausages. All donations will go towards Catholic Missions and the AMMA group.

At lunch breaks in the Junior College, there will be some soccer mini games, shoot outs and skills activities facilitated by the Year 5 teachers and Mini Vinnies students. Senior School will host a Year 11 vs Year 12 soccer match in the afternoon as well as a Year 12 vs Staff "Walking Soccer" game after second break on Fitzroy Oval.

We look forward to a great day of colourful socks, delicious sausages and lots of soccer, all of which supports the mission of our College community.

Anaiah Arthy
Year 8 AMMA Group Member

St Vincent de Paul Christmas Gift Appeal: Junior School

Christmas is a season that inspires us to come together in hope, generosity, and service to others. This year, our Junior School will continue the tradition of contributing to the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Gift Appeal. This initiative is led by our dedicated Year 5 Mini Vinnies students. As a Catholic College, part of our mission is to support the vulnerable in our community. Each year, every contribution our College makes helps individuals and families experiencing hardship to receive the support they need during the Christmas season.

From Weeks 4 to 7, students in P-6 classes are encouraged to bring a gift of choice, or a gift card for children their own age, or for a teenager. There are some wonderful ideas for gifts provided here. Students are asked to bring their gifts or gift cards to their own classrooms, where they will be stored in classroom baskets until Week 8.

Thank you in anticipation of your support for the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal this year.

It's in the Bag: Senior School

We are also excited to announce that our AMMA group is leading the Share the Dignity "It's in the Bag" Drive this year. It’s in the Bag is one of Australia’s most cherished Christmas appeals which aims to support women and children experiencing the impacts of domestic violence.

The Appeal works by filling a bag with essential items for an adult or teenage female or a mum and baby. Complementing the donations, we aim to pop in a simple handwritten ‘Dear Her’ note and donate their bags at a local Bunnings. Each donation is personally collected, sorted, tagged and logged before they are transported to charity partner organisations who gift the donations to women and girls waking up in domestic violence shelters or homelessness refuges on Christmas Day.

How it will work at MMCC:

• PC groups will choose either a female adult, female teenager or a mum and baby to support.
• Each PC group will be given a tote bag or large handbag to fill with essential items.
• Members of the PC group, from Year 6 to 11 are asked to contribute to filling their PC's bag by choosing items from the list provided. 
• At the end of Week 6, the AMMA group will collect the bags from each PC and deliver these to Bunnings.

The It's in the Bag Appeal will run from Week 4 to the end of Week 6. This is a quick turnaround, but it aligns with the donation dates required by Share the Dignity and Bunnings.

Handbag/Nappy Bag/Tote Bag Donations:

Do you have any new or very good condition tote bags, large handbags or nappy bags that you can donate to the cause? If you do and would be happy to donate these items, please bring them to the Junior or College offices by Friday, 23 October (Week 3).

Thank you so much in anticipation of your support of these two Christmas Appeals which are so important to our Catholic mission.

Mrs Leisa Radley
Director of Formation and College Culture

This term in The Cafe we are offering Slushie's for purchase over the counter at second break. They are $1.50 and flavours will vary daily.

We are also now able to offer Lactose Free Cheese and Nuttelex Dairy Free Spread as an option when ordering through Flexi Schools. Please select this option if required when placing your order.

If you have any other dietary requirements that we currently do not cater for and would like to see on our menu as an option, please reach out to me in The Cafe.

Mrs Janeen Fotia
Cafe Manager

In Week 10 of last term, I was lucky enough to attend a conference during which the engaging Dr. Justin Coulson was a keynote speaker. Dr. Coulson presented on the topic of ‘Building Strong Young Men from the Inside Out’ and whilst the primary messaging was around supporting boys with their mental health and building positive culture within peer groups, there were certainly takeaways for raising and teaching teenagers as a whole.

Culture and currency. These were key focus points from Dr. Coulson in understanding and working with young people to promote both positive wellbeing and their connection with each other. What does he mean by this? Let’s unpack:

For most young people moving through their adolescent years, status becomes everything. Parents often feel the shift when it becomes less about what they think, and more about what their peers think and do. The peer group decides on the “currency”; that is, how a member of the cohort increases in, or loses, status. Dr. Coulson focused then on the young men and how so often, boys gain status through risk taking behaviour – whether that be doing the biggest and most daring stunts at the skate park or through calling out in class and getting behaviour-based consequences. This then connects into his definition of culture, and how it is formed by the lowest socially acceptable behaviour from the group.

Why do I share this? I found so much value in this learning because culture within our College and the broader communities that our students, families and staff members are a part of contributes to our sense of self, our feelings of contentedness (or lack thereof), and our ability to live with purpose. The culture we are in, and contribute to, day in and day out; therefore, directly impacts our core psychological needs (according to self-determination theory; Deci & Ryan, 2008) of autonomy (feeling a sense of control over one’s life), relatedness (feeling a sense of belonging) and competence (feeling confident to manage one’s environment). At the heart of it, positive culture contributes towards positive wellbeing.

So again, culture is described as the lowest socially acceptable behaviour. If culture feels unsafe or isn’t supportive of bringing out a person’s best self – how do we change it? It is through explicit teaching to our young people which then positively impacts the group mindset and thus, changes the currency through which status is built. If status is consistently given to those who show up and add value to the lives of those around them, those that make other’s feel safe, seen and heard and/or those who persevere through a challenge and ask for help when needed – what a positive and uplifting culture that would foster! This isn’t an easy task though and it certainly isn’t a one-man job. It comes back to the age-old adage of “it takes a village to raise a child” where the collective is sharing the same message, living similar values and gently challenging the thinking, and subsequent choices, of young people as they grow and develop.

Dr. Coulson finishes his book Boys (2026, p.305) with a beautiful and thought-provoking statement that I believe brings these messages to back to what is at the heart of raising children who are strong, caring and positive role-models to those around them:

“… comes down to one thing: love. Not the soft, permissive love that avoids difficult conversations and boundaries and allows kids to abrogate ownership, accountability, and responsibility. But the fierce, protective love that says, ‘I see you. I accept you. And I believe in you enough to help you become the best person you can be.’”

Mrs Leah Moffett
School Guidance Counsellor

Year 4 student Jaxx enjoyed an action-packed school holiday break, continuing his success on the BMX racing circuit while competing against Queensland’s best riders at the 2026 AusCycling BMX Racing Queensland State Championships in Gladstone.

The State Championships showcased the highest level of BMX racing in Queensland, with riders competing for the coveted State Championship plates. Jaxx delivered an outstanding performance, finishing 4th in a field of 36 riders. His result sees him ranked 17th in the world, 6th in Australia and 4th in Queensland in his age group.

Congratulations to Jaxx on this remarkable result and another significant achievement in his BMX racing journey.

Mary Mac soccer talent was on full display at the recent Football Queensland Pacific Championships on the Sunshine Coast, with eight of our students making up the Highfields Football Club Academy U9s team.

The team enjoyed an outstanding tournament, winning all eight of their matches on the way to the Grand Final. They capped off their unbeaten campaign with a 6-3 victory in the gold medal match to be crowned Pacific Champions.

Click this link view photos of the HFC U9s team.

Congratulations to our HFC and Mary Mac soccer superstars on this fantastic achievement: Jaxx M, Carter R, Brendan V, Ethan V, Matthew D, Louie K, Ed E and Cooper S.

We are thrilled to announce that our school achieved 3rd place in the Grand Bunny Competition held at Grand Central Shopping Centre!

This wonderful achievement was the result of a true whole-school effort, with students from both Junior and Senior year levels contributing their creativity, enthusiasm, and time. Our Junior School students carefully handcrafted beautiful flowers, while a dedicated group of Year 8 boys known as the "Origami Army" spent countless lunch breaks folding and creating an impressive collection of flowers to add to the display.

The project quickly became a labour of love, with students eagerly gathering during lunch times to work together on bringing our vision to life. Their commitment, teamwork, and creativity were evident every step of the way.

Under the watchful eyes and guidance of Mrs Puhakka and Mr Tracey, our bunny slowly evolved into the beautiful Josie the Josephite Bunny. Inspired by the colours and joy of spring, Josie captured the spirit of growth, kindness, and community. Her vibrant floral design and cheerful appearance reflected the creativity and care that our students poured into the project.

As a result of the outstanding efforts of our students, the College was also awarded prize money, making this achievement even more rewarding. The prize will contribute to supporting future opportunities and activities for our students.

We are incredibly proud of all the students who contributed to this achievement. Their dedication, teamwork, and artistic talents helped create a display that represented our College with pride and earned recognition amongst many outstanding entries.

Congratulations to everyone involved in the creation of Josie the Josephite Bunny. What a fantastic result and a wonderful example of our College community working together to achieve something special!

Mr Benn Tracy
Middle Leader - Arts and Student Engagement

Our recent educational tour to Sydney and Canberra provided students with a rich and memorable learning experience, combining history, culture, leadership, and discovery. More than simply a trip away, it was a valuable opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of Australia’s heritage while creating lasting memories with their peers.

Our journey began in Sydney with a visit to the Mary MacKillop Place Museum in North Sydney, where students learned about the remarkable life and legacy of Australia’s first saint, Saint Mary MacKillop. Following lunch, we travelled by ferry from Manly to Circular Quay, enjoying spectacular views of Sydney Harbour. Students were captivated by a guided walking tour that showcased two of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Sydney Opera House, providing a deeper appreciation of their historical and cultural significance.

In Canberra, students immersed themselves in experiences that brought Australia’s national story to life. A visit to Parliament House, combined with an engaging program at the Electoral Education Centre, offered valuable insights into Australia’s democratic system and the responsibilities of active citizenship. Students also explored the National Gallery of Australia and Questacon, where interactive exhibits encouraged creativity, critical thinking, and curiosity. A visit to the Australian War Memorial provided a moving opportunity to reflect on the service and sacrifice of those who have contributed to our nation’s history, while Government House offered inspiring insights into leadership, service, and civic responsibility.

Each day presented new opportunities for learning, reflection, and personal growth. The carefully planned itinerary ensured students experienced the unique character of both cities, connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences. This educational tour was not only highly enriching but also an unforgettable journey that strengthened students’ appreciation of Australia’s history, culture, and national identity.

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. The Australian Government will contribute funding to our school in the amount of $90.00 per student. This contribution comes from the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate Program. The rebate is paid directly to the college upon completion of the excursion.

Please click this link to view the full gallery of the Year 6 camp to Sydney and Canberra. A wonderful trip that created lifelong memories.

Ms Kate Carroll, Mrs Kirsten Moore, Mr Craig Hubbard, Mr Craig Faessler and Mrs Mel Skewes
Year 6 Teachers

Junior Library will host a Scholastic Book Fair from Wednesday, 21 to Tuesday, 27 October.

This is a wonderful opportunity to purchase books for your home library or possibly Christmas gifts for children.

Scholastic Book Fair will be open during the following times:

Sales will be cash only for students; however, card facilities will be available for adults.

A percentage of all sales provides new books for Junior Library.

Mrs Angela Irvine
Teacher Librarian

2027 Next Step Year 12 Completers Survey

Year 12 students, please check your contact details are correct in your learning account with the QCAA student portal, https://myqce.qcaa.qld.edu.au. In March 2027, you will receive a letter from the Minister for Education and the Arts inviting you to participate in the Next Step Year 12 Completers survey, following up on your activities after graduating. You may also receive an email or phone call from the Queensland Government Statistician’s Office. Your feedback helps our school improve services for future students, and you can win a laptop for participating. For more information visit www.qld.gov.au/nextstep.

CSIRO Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy

Supporting the Next Generation of Indigenous Women in STEM

The STEM Academy is a national program supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young women in Years 11 and 12 who are interested in pursuing STEM studies and careers. Through one-on-one support, industry mentoring, workshops, scholarship opportunities, and a national network of peers, the program empowers participants to thrive academically, personally, and professionally. Schools are encouraged to share this opportunity with eligible students and help strengthen pathways for the next generation of Indigenous women leaders in STEM. Register your interest today via the QR code in the picture.

Work Experience - Year 10 2027

Students in Year 10 2027 will be attending Work Experience Week 1 of Term 2: 12 April to 16 April.

Work experience is an important part of career education, giving students the opportunity to gain first-hand insight into the world of work. By spending time in a real workplace, students can explore career interests, develop confidence, and better understand the skills and expectations required in different industries.

These experiences help students build self-awareness, strengthen the connection between school and future careers, and inspire them to pursue further study, training, apprenticeships or employment opportunities with greater confidence.

Students should currently be looking for placements. All forms students need to complete their Work Experience can be found on the students OneNote page or on the MMCC Career Tools website - Mary MacKillop Catholic College.

It is the expectation that students initiate contact with the employers - NOT parents. If students need help with contacting employers, we encourage them to come to the pathways office and we can help facilitate contact.

Mrs Andrea Goddard and Mrs Christie Richardson
Your Pathway Team

In supporting parents in navigating children's push for independence, Wellio is hosting a free webinar for parents which focuses on the following:

• Understand what’s changing for your child: Why wanting more freedom, privacy, and independence is a normal part of growing up.
• Adjust boundaries as kids grow: How to shift rules and expectations while still keeping children safe and supported.
• And stay connected as your role changes: Ways to remain involved and influential, even when your child wants more space.
  The webinar will be held on Thursday, 5 November at 6:30pm AEST.

To register, please click this link.

Mr Sean Albion
Assistant Principal Wellbeing P-12

For every person who walks through the doors of St Patrick's Cathedral, the answer is different. For some, it is a moment of celebration. For others, a moment of comfort. For many, it is a place woven into the most important chapters of their lives.

For Luke &Katrina Stephenson, it was where their daughter Delilah's faith journey began.

"As we carried Delilah into St Patrick's Cathedral for her Baptism, we felt surrounded by generations of faith. It was a moment our family will never forget."

For Dave & Matilda Pugsley, it was the place where they exchanged their wedding vows.

"St Patrick's Cathedral will forever hold a special place in our hearts. Nearly ten years on, it still brings back wonderful memories of our wedding day."

For Theresa French, the Cathedral has been part of her family's story across generations.

"From our parents' wedding in 1962, to our own wedding in 1985, and a special blessing on our 40th anniversary, St Patrick's Cathedral has been part of some of our family's most cherished moments."

These stories remind us that St Patrick's Cathedral is much more than a building.

It is where faith begins.

Where families gather.

Where love is celebrated.

Where memories are made.

Today, we have a rare opportunity to preserve this sacred place for future generations.

Through the St Patrick's Cathedral Windows Appeal, we are restoring and renewing the Cathedral's historic leadlight windows, ensuring they continue to inspire faith, hope and beauty for generations to come.

As we journey towards the Diocese's Centenary in 2029, your support will help ensure that many more St Patrick's Cathedral stories are written in the years ahead.

Help Shape the Next Chapter with a Tax-Deduction Donation

Every gift, large or small, will help preserve St Patrick's Cathedral for future generations.

Thank you for your continued support and prayers.

Catholic Diocese of Toowoomba

Our Spring Vacation Care program was packed with fun, laughter, and exciting opportunities for children to build their problem-solving, teamwork, and creativity skills. 🌞✨

One of the biggest highlights was our Silent Disco 🎧🕺💃, where children and educators danced together and showed off their best moves. The room was filled with energy, smiles, and lots of laughter!

Children also put their creativity to the test by designing and creating their own carnival games 🎡🎨. They showed fantastic determination, imagination, and teamwork as they worked to bring their ideas to life and share them with friends.

The fun continued outdoors with a range of ball games, including touch football and soccer ⚽🏉. Children enthusiastically demonstrated their skills while enjoying friendly competition and teamwork.

A special shout-out goes to our Year 4 and 5 boys 🌟, who led an exciting Football Bootcamp. They showed outstanding leadership, encouragement, and sportsmanship as they supported younger children through the challenges.

Throughout the holidays, OSHC was buzzing with excitement, laughter, and friendship 😊🌈. It was wonderful to see children creating new friendships, building confidence, and making lasting memories together.

We can't wait for our next Vacation Care adventure! 🌻✨💛

Ready for more fun, friendships, and exciting experiences? Join us for our Term Time and Vacation Care programs! For enrolment enquiries, please email HIGCare@tckc.qld.edu.au

We can't wait to welcome you! 😊✨

Mr Garth Rochford
Coordinator