Yesterday was the Feast Day of the Ascension of Jesus into Heaven. This is described in the bible in two places – in Acts and Luke. This event brings a lot of meaning to us. One aspect of that really worth focussing on is the independence it brought the disciples.
It is a powerful moment. Jesus, having completed His earthly mission, ascended into heaven—not to leave His followers behind, but to entrust them with the mission of continuing His work. He believed in them. He empowered them. And He promised the Holy Spirit would guide them.
This moment speaks deeply to us all as members of an educational community. It is a call to trust our young people, to prepare them not just to follow, but to lead. In our College, we are seeing students step up in remarkable ways—taking initiative in their learning, supporting one another, and showing leadership in both small and significant moments. One area that I am so proud to see developing is that of service of the vulnerable in our community. Like the disciples, students may sometimes feel unsure or unready. But with encouragement, guidance, and faith, they are more than capable.
The Ascension reminds us that letting go is part of growth. As Jesus stepped back, the disciples stepped forward. In the same way, we are called to gradually hand over responsibility to our young people—encouraging them to own their choices, reflect on their actions, and contribute meaningfully to our community. Let us continue to walk with them, not by doing everything for them, but by believing in their potential and, no matter what their age, nurturing their independence.
May the spirit of the Ascension inspire us all to rise—together—in faith, hope, and responsibility.
Mr Chris Gabbett
College Principal
Deputy Principal's Report
Channelling Kennedy
In his inaugural address, 1961, President John. F. Kennedy famously said, “Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.”
This was a powerful statement suggesting a call for people to engage, to be aware of their civic duty – urging citizens to focus on the personal contribution they can make to the institution(s) that they inhabit. It was also a really strong message about self-responsibility, being proactive and being accountable for one’s own actions.
As Deputy Principal, parent and resident I see both sides of what JFK was talking about.
On the one hand we see young people demonstrating in spades how they can serve others selflessly, contribute passionately and show great determination, reliability and self-sufficiency.
Our College has a proud tradition (ever growing) of serving the local community via our AMMA group, work with Rosies and Healing Hands. I see many students and staff volunteering their time and skills and/or donating to these causes. We have the Kokoda and Forty for Fortey challenges coming up and lots of staff and students are involved. Students in Senior are ‘Mac Mates’ to students in Junior and we have our buddy system successfully embedded in the primary years. Students visit residents in local care homes and volunteer for many other great causes.
We have wonderful representation of our College by students from P-12. The recent Eisteddfod saw students from Year 1 to Year 12 taking risks and proudly donning the MMCC uniform on stages and in auditoriums across Toowoomba. Representation in sports at the College is incredibly impressive, with a large number of talented students committing to Soccer, Touch, Netball, Basketball, Volleyball, Cross Country, Athletics … the list is almost endless…and showing tremendous resilience and collaboration. We had a huge number of students playing chess last week and Round 4 of debating cracks on next week. This is just the tip of the iceberg.
Our College leaders create assemblies, lead on activities, act as organisers, tour guides and often consultants with great humour and dedication.
However, there is also a flip side which does not bring me joy.
I am seeing more and more examples of what I call ‘student entitlement’ that needs to be addressed. In this crunch assessment period, students need to take the lead on their learning. They have had the exposition, explanation and practice to ensure success. Students are given clear and transparent guidelines, exemplars, and deadlines to work towards. Too often I see and hear ‘learned helplessness’ where students expect somebody else to do it or sort it for them. Sorry, the world does not work that way. It’s not that you are ‘on your own’ but students you must ask yourselves – what can you do for yourself first? Parents – messaging from you in the same vain supports policy and procedures at the College, but most importantly, enables your young person to grow and develop as a responsible, reliable, self-sufficient citizen.
I also note many students not volunteering for anything. Not getting involved in any activity. Not representing the College in any capacity. Not leading. Not engaging.
JFK’s words (slightly amended) ring true for me here:
“Ask not what your College can do for you – ask what you can do for your College.’
It’s a cliché of course, but the old adage of ‘ you only get out what you put in’ is something I believe in as the Deputy Principal, as a teacher, as a parent, as a resident. This is a message I give regularly to our young people and thank you all for all that you do to enable our young people to get involved.
Richard Coe
Deputy Principal
Staff Profile - Kaye Broadfoot
Your official role at the College: Teacher, currently teaching Primary & Secondary Drama and some HPE
What does a typical day really look like: It could be a mixture of wearing a Pirate Hat to playing 'Quick Draw', asking students to be Fairies, Elves, Giants or Knives, Forks or Spoons and then throwing a Javelin on the Oval. It is a wonderful mix of so many different activities.
Secondary School attended: A Rural State Primary and High School
What do you like about working at Mary MacKillop? I have really enjoyed being in the Primary Drama space, which has been a wonderful new experience - the students are so full of energy and simply enjoy the possibilities within the Drama classroom. Furthermore, I have found the entire community incredibly welcoming.
What are your hobbies/Interests? I enjoy jogging around the Highfields area with my beautiful dog; I love going to the Theatre and going to live sporting events.
Other interesting facts about yourself or anything else you would like to share with the MMCC community: I have played at a State Level for the sport I used to play and funnily enough, considering my size, I came equal first for High Jump when I was at School!!! And I went to University with Deborah Mailman (not that she would remember me though!)
How is your work related to the 6 Ps? Possibilities - Drama opens students to a world of possibility, allows them to explore so many perspectives and with this develop a sense of curiosity, creativity, confidence and empathy for theirs and others stories.
Get Involved with the Parent Engagement Network!
The Mary MacKillop Catholic College Parent Engagement Network (PEN) is calling for volunteers! If you have even half an hour to spare on Wednesday, 18 June we’d love your help at the canteen during our Junior Athletics Carnival. Your support makes a real difference and helps create a vibrant, connected school community.
At today's Junior Assembly, we celebrated our Cookie Champions in recognition of their outstanding efforts and sweet success as our top fundraisers in our recent Cookie Dough Fundraiser.
We are also gearing up for more exciting events, including our upcoming Pie Drive, a very popular and delicious way to support our College.
Whether you can lend a hand occasionally or more regularly, we’d be grateful for your involvement. To express interest or find out more, please get in touch with the PEN team via email.
Together, we make great things happen!
Mary MacKillop Catholic College PEN
Practical Action - Mini Vinnies Easter Raffle Donation
At this week’s Junior Assembly, we proudly celebrated the incredible success of our annual Year 5 Mini Vinnies Easter Raffle, presenting a cheque for $2,000 to representatives from Rosies, Caritas and our MMCC Healing Hands Service Learning Group.
This generous shared donation will go a long way in helping these charities provide practical support and compassionate care to people who need it most in our school community, our greater local area and globally.
A huge well done to our Year 5 students for your commitment to Practical Action and serving others, and a heartfelt thank you to everyone who bought a ticket for your generous support.
Mel Skewes, Bec Lopez, Susan Jones and Annabelle Cowen
Year 5 Teachers
Mission & Identity
Bridging Now to Next
As we move through the school term, we take time to reflect on three significant observances that shape our understanding of community, identity, and unity: National Sorry Day (May 26), National Reconciliation Week (May 27 – June 3), and Diversity Day (May 21).
This week is National Reconciliation Week, celebrated across our country in schools, workplaces and in the community. The theme "Bridging Now to Next' is a "call on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead and continue to push forward as past lessons guide us.......We all have a role to play when it comes to reconciliation, and in playing our part we collectively build relationships and communities that value Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, histories, cultures, and futures." National Reconciliation Week - Reconciliation Australia
Reconciliation week commemorates two significant milestones in the reconciliation journey - the successful 1967 referendum and the High Court Mabo decision. It is important as a community that all members are treated with the respect and that they are recognised as people who contribute to our community.
Over the past couple of weeks, a small band of teachers have been running activities for students to encourage them to celebrate the significant events on the calendar - Diversity Day and National Sorry Day. Huge thank you to Annabelle Cowen, Tamara Niemeyer and Bec Lopez for all their work to enable students to celebrate these events within the life of our College.
National Sorry Day is a time to remember and acknowledge the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, particularly the Stolen Generations. It is a day of reflection, healing, and commitment to truth-telling. Members of our College community have been encouraged to add their finger print to a mural on calico as a reminder that we are all part of a community that recognises our support for making a better future for all.
Diversity Day celebrated the many cultures, languages, and backgrounds that make up our school community. It’s a joyful reminder that our differences are our strengths. Students have been encouraged to share their heritage through food, dress, music, and stories. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn from one another and celebrate the vibrant tapestry of our school.
Did you know that:
* 41 Mary MacKillop Catholic College students were born in a country other than Australia.
*36 Mary MacKillop Catholic College students speak another language at home other than English.
Together, these events help us nurture a culture that values respect, inclusion, and unity. We invite you and your family to join us in these conversations at home and continue building a future where every voice is heard and valued.
I would like to conclude with a prayer that the Year 3 teachers shared with staff on Monday morning:
God of Love,
You are the creator of this land and of all good things.
We acknowledge the pain and shame of our history and the suffering of our peoples – especially the grief of those who were taken as children from their homes and families, taken from all they knew and loved.
We ask your forgiveness. We thank you for the survival of Indigenous cultures. Give us the courage to acknowledge the realities of our history so that we may build a better future for our nation. Teach us to respect all cultures. Teach us to care for our land and waters. Help us to share justly the resources of this land. Help us to bring about spiritual and social change to improve the quality of life for all groups in our communities, especially the disadvantaged. Help young people to find true dignity and self-esteem in the ways of your Spirit. May the power of your love be the foundation on which we build our families, our communities and our nation. Through Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Paula O'Rourke
Assistant Principal Mission and Identity
Honouring the Legacy of Irene McCormack
Last week, McCormack house came together in a moving liturgy to honour the life and legacy of Irene McCormack. As student leaders, we are proud to help lead a celebration that reflected the values Irene stood for- courage, compassion, and service. Irene McCormack was an inspiring role model to many, and her legacy continues to live on proudly, as she influences and inspires so many people still to this day.
Irene’s story reminds us that one person’s courage can inspire generations. Her unwavering commitment to justice and education continues to shape the identity of our house. Throughout her life Irene used her courage to create change in the world and help those around her who are in need of support. Irene was a woman of many accomplishments; she worked as a sister of St Joseph and was devotedly committed to sharing her knowledge of education and practicing social justice. Her last days were spent serving the poor in Peru, even in the face of danger. These acts of courage highlight the selfless person she was.
We are especially proud of the students who spoke so thoughtfully about Irene’s legacy. These students showed their courage in front of our house in the liturgy along with the choir’s performance of 'Stand by me' adding a powerful emotional layer to the liturgy. Through the use of our sacred space connections to Irene were made; from the lighting of a candle, a connection to the divine was made whilst we honour our saints and remember Irene. As leaders of McCormack House, we left the liturgy feeling inspired to live out Irene’s values in our own lives. Her story challenges us to be people of action, comparison and faith. Irene’s story gives us great inspiration to pursue courageous actions in our everyday life.
John Condon and Brianna Kowitz
McCormack Senior House Leaders
Senior School
Your Pathway
Scholarships
Worried about the cost of studying after school? Wondering if you can still keep up your passions like music or sport?
Good news—scholarships can help make it all possible.
Scholarships are financial awards that support your education, and the best part? You don’t have to pay them back. They’re offered by universities, businesses, governments, and individuals who believe in the power of education and want to help students succeed.
Whether you’re a top student, a talented athlete, a dedicated volunteer, or someone with a unique background or story—there’s likely a scholarship out there for you.
Scholarships can cover a range of costs like tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, travel, or even living expenses. Some are one-time payments, while others support you throughout your studies.
So, if you’re thinking about your future, don’t let money hold you back. Explore your scholarship options—you might be surprised by what’s available. (Study Work Grow, 2025)
Thank you to all parents and students that have attended appointments this week. We appreciate your time and open mindedness with discussions.
One thing that we have identified with most students - is the lack of study habits. We are hoping to work on this in the future but for now here are 11 tips can help you get more out of your study hours. Try these ideas to improve your study habits:
Find a good place to study.
Minimize distractions.
Determine the best amount of study time.
Space out your studying.
Set study goals for each session.
Reward yourself.
Study with a group.
Take practice tests.
Use your own words.
Ask for help.
Take care of yourself.
(coursera, 2025)
Health Hub
On Wednesday, 21 May the Health Hub students attended the UniSQ Ipswich campus to explore the vast opportunities available to them for further study in the health field. Students were given a personalised tour of the Paramedicine, Nursing, Midwifery and Physiotherapy departments. Students reported;
"Visiting UniSQ was a very big opportunity that has made me really think about what I would like to pursue in the health field once I finish school. I found both paramedicine and midwifery interesting, as it seems not every day will be the same. Although it wasn’t my first intention to go to Uni, after our visit it has really made me reconsider as I enjoyed the idea of doing a course in midwifery. I really enjoyed having this opportunity and would love to have more in the future"
Thank you to UniSQ for having us and Tracey Gollan from Mater Health for organising this opportunity. Please see attached photos.
National Simultaneous Storytime (NSS) is an annual event where a chosen picture book, written and illustrated by an Australian author and illustrator, is read simultaneously in libraries, schools, pre-schools, childcare centres, family homes, bookshops and many other places around the country.
Now in its 25th successful year, it is a colourful, vibrant, fun event that aims to promote the value of reading and literacy, using an Australian children's book that explores age-appropriate themes, and addresses key learning areas of the National Curriculum.
Mary MacKillop Early Years students celebrated 2025 NSS by reading The Truck Cat and participating in activities, including a colouring-in competition. Students also had fun trying to match Library Staff with images of their pet cats.
Year 2 were bursting with anticipation on Thursday morning (Week 6) as they entered the MacKillop Centre and saw a giant inflatable dome!
Students have been learning about our solar system, and we invited the Starlab Education team to visit with their Cosmodome Science Theatre & Planetarium to help enhance their understanding of our place in space.
The excitement only elevated as they entered into the Cosmodome and students took in the skyline projected onto the dome roof. Mr Paul shared some amazing facts about the Earth, the patterns of night and day, our moon's phases, and how we orbit in space alongside the other planets. Students were eager to share their knowledge with Mr Paul and enjoyed seeing the earth rotating on its axis, helping us gain a clearer understanding of night and day.
We then watched a short video titled "Secret of the Cardboard Rocket" where we took an exhilarating rocket ride to the planets in our solar system. Video and images projected onto the dome gave students an up-close look at each of the planets with guidance from a wise astronomy book who shared facts about each of our planets.
It was a fabulous addition to our space science learning and students were buzzing with questions after the show. We may have some future astronomers in Year 2!
Vicki Murphy
Year 2 Science Teacher
Catholic Interschool Chess Competition
On Thursday, 22 May, 18 students from Years 2 to 6 proudly represented Mary MacKillop Catholic College in the annual Catholic Interschool Chess Competition, held at the Toowoomba Catholic Education Office. With over 150 students competing both online and in person, the event was a true test of skill and strategy.
Each student played seven challenging rounds against a variety of opponents, demonstrating impressive focus and determination. Their efforts resulted in some outstanding achievements, and every participant displayed excellent sportsmanship and school pride.
A special congratulations to the following students for their exceptional performances:
Myles Kent – 4th overall and the Best Year 6 student Johnny Maloney - Runner Up Best Year 6 student
Liam Kavanagh – Best Year 4 student Henry Little – Best Year 2 student
Well done to all competitors for their dedication and enthusiasm in this prestigious event!
Mary MacKillop shines at Darling Downs Cross Country Trials
On Tuesday, 20 May Mary MacKillop Catholic College was proudly represented by 17 determined runners at the Darling Downs Cross Country Trials held at Kearneys Spring. The event featured a challenging course that tested the endurance and spirit of all competitors.
From each age group, the top six finishers earned the honour of representing the Darling Downs region at the upcoming State Championships. We are thrilled to announce that five of our athletes achieved this remarkable feat — a new record for our College!
Congratulations to:
Lincoln Ruby Dylan Chloe – who delivered an outstanding performance, finishing 3rd in her age group! Max
This achievement is a testament to the dedication, perseverance, and sportsmanship of our students. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all 18 runners who proudly represented Mary MacKillop Catholic College and the Inner Downs region. Your efforts and commitment continue to inspire our school community.
On Friday, 16 May a team of 30 of Mary MacKillop's netballers from Years 6 - 12 competed at the QCIS Netball Carnival. Our 13s, 15s, and 18s girls' teams faced tough competition against TAS, SCOTS, and Our Lady of the Southern Cross College. The girls played exceptionally well, which was reflected in the results: the 13s team came 2nd, the 15s team secured 1st place, and the 18s team finished in 3rd place.
A huge thank you to the students who stepped up to umpire on the day, as well as to our coaches Ms. Kate Carroll, Miss Elise Scrivens, and Miss Abbi Gaddes. We also extend our gratitude to the parents who came along to support the girls. We wish the 7 - 9 Girls, Senior Girls and Senior Boys netball teams the best of luck in the upcoming Vicki Wilson Championship.
Keep an eye out for the results on the Mary MacKillop Catholic College Sports Instagram page.
Troy Brunner
Curriculum Leader: Sports and Student Engagement
Come and join the Combined Concert Band!
Have you ever played a concert band instrument, and want one last chance to have a play? Now’s your moment!
We are thrilled to announce that the Mary MacKillop Catholic College Concert Band will be joining forces with the Highfields Community Concert Band to perform as a mass band in the Open Ensemble section of the Toowoomba Eisteddfod, as well as at the Mary MacKillop Catholic College Co-curricular Day in August. We warmly invite students, families, and staff who play a concert band instrument to be part of this exciting collaboration and represent Highfields together!
Combined Rehearsals:
• Monday, 14 July at 5:00pm
• Monday, 21 July at 5:00pm
We will be selecting accessible and fun repertoire to ensure everyone can join in and enjoy the experience. The Mary MacKillop Catholic College group is sounding fantastic, and we can’t wait to build on that energy with you!
Eisteddfod Week Two: Celebrating Speech, Drama, and Choral Excellence
Following the outstanding results and performances of vocal solos and duets in Week One, this week spotlighted our talented speech and drama students under the direction of Mr Coe, as well as our College choirs with Mrs Kitto and Mrs Burke. Students demonstrated their creativity, confidence, and teamwork on stage, and the excitement and energy were evident.
This year marked a significant milestone, with 67 students competing at the Eisteddfod for the very first time—a remarkable achievement and a testament to the dedication and growth of our Performing Arts Department.
We are incredibly proud of all participants for their courage and commitment. Special congratulations go to the following students who received awards for their outstanding performances:
Speech and Drama Awards
Lyric – Year 1 Verse Solo – 2nd
Mila – Year 3 Verse Solo – 2nd
Audrey – Year 3 Character Poem Solo – Highly Commended
Our Year 7 – 9 Choir delivered a beautiful performance and was awarded Third Place in their division. While our other College choirs narrowly missed out on awards, they represented our school with excellence, professionalism, and pride—demonstrating the high calibre of our Performing Arts program.
Thank you to the Teachers for their time and hard work helping to prepare our students for this event. We look forward to seeing even more students shine in the weeks to come!
At our recent Term 2, Week 5 Thrive Assembly, our Junior School students were awarded the Walking the Josephite Way Award. The focus was on Practical Action.
Congratulations to all students!
Prep - Year 2
Year 3 - 6
Week 6 Walking the Josephite Way Awards
At our recent Term 2, Week 6 Assembly, our Junior School students were awarded the Walking the Josephite Way Award. The focus was on Practical Action.
Congratulations to all students!
Prep - Year 2
Year 3 - 6
Community Noticeboard
Parish News
Mass Times
Every Sunday, St Mary MacKillop Catholic Parish gathers in the MacKillop Centre, 75 Highfields Road entry to celebrate together. You are invited to be part of this celebration. Sunday Mass starts at 8:00am (unless otherwise advised) and is led by Fr Brian Noonan.
For those who can sing
If you love to sing, St Pat’s invites you to join them for the Ordination of BJ Perrett on Thursday, 3 July at 6:30pm. Choir practice begins at 6:30pm on Thursday, 5 June at St Patrick’s Cathedral (enter via Neil Street). Please phone Vicky Cocozza on 0428 781 209 if you would like to join.
Presbyteral Ordination of BJ Perrett
Date: Thursday, 7 July 2025
Time: 6:30pm
Where: St Patrick's Cathedral, Toowoomba Bishop Ken Howell warmly invites the faithful of the Toowoomba Diocese to The Presbyterial Ordination of BJ Perrett. There will be light refreshments after Mass in the Cathedral Centre.
On Friday, 4 July at 11:00am at St Joseph’s Church, Stanthorpe. All are warmly welcome to celebrate with BJ in Stanthorpe. Lunch will be held in the Battersby Centre after Mass.
The Missionary Sisters of St Peter Claver are holding a Cent Sale in St Patrick's Cathedral Centre, 123 Neil St on Saturday, 31 May. The doors open at 1:00pm for a 1:30pm start. A delicious afternoon tea will be served. The cost is $10 which includes 2 free sheets of tickets. Children aged 12 and under are free. There are many excellent prizes and the multi-draw includes a meat tray, fruit and vegetable trays, a flower arrangement and much more. All Proceeds go to the Missions.
MacKillop Catholic Parish
Mary MacKillop - Outside School Hours Care (OSHC)
Toowoomba Catholic Kindergartens and Care (TCKC) is the OSHC service that operates within Mary MacKillop Catholic College. We have been operating within Mary MacKillop Catholic College since April 2021. Our team consists of Garth Rochford as Coordinator, Lella Greenhalgh, Natasha Hess, Jessica Kuhn, Kyah Zeller, Jarrah Sunatwanitkul and Jayden Sunatwanitkul as Educators. Our before school care sessions average 20 children per morning, and our afternoon sessions average 45 children. If you would like to enroll your children, please follow this link: MARY MACKILLOP OSHC HIGHFIELDS - Toowoomba Catholic Kindergartens & Care.
