St Ursula's College Newsletter 2025 Term 4, Week 4
From our Principal

There was certainly much to celebrate as we enjoyed our 2025 St Ursula’s Week. Once again, events across the week were organized by our girls, for our girls and about our girls. I extend my thanks to Mrs Gibson, Grace Thomas and all members of the Student Representative Committee who took charge of the five-day program.
Celebrating St Ursula's Week at the College is a cherished tradition that honours the legacy of St Ursula, the patron saint of our school. It’s a time when the entire community comes together to reflect on the impact of her courage, leadership, and compassion. The week was filled with vibrant activities—liturgies, service projects, creative performances, and moments of gratitude. It is more than just a celebration, it’s a reaffirmation of the College’s spirit and mission, reminding everyone of the strength found in unity and the importance of making a positive impact in the world, starting right here at home.
Enjoy the collage of photos that show a small glimpse into the joy across the week. Of course, this all culminated in a wonderful celebration of St Ursula’s Day on Friday.








At the end of the week, the College invited back Past staff to join with our Present staff, to celebrate our Ursuline Connection. What a special time for so many of us, and it reinforces the impact our College has on everyone, students, staff and parents, alike.
Vale Irene Batzloff (Past Staff 1969 to 1995)
As we celebrate all that is means to be part of our community, we join with Mrs Sandra Searston and her family who mourn the passing of her mum, Irene Batzloff. Of course, Irene was a well-loved colleague for those of us who worked at the College in the early 1990’s, giving 26 years of service to the College









As part of St Ursula’s Day, we also acknowledge staff who have given service to the College for a milestone number of years. In particular we acknowledged and thanked the following:
Andrea Bloodstone (5 Years), Annette Hutchison (5 Years), Beth Toleman Glasse (5 Years), Venesa Maiden (10 Years), Siobhan McIvor (10 Years), Daniel Ryan (10 Years), (10 Years ), Patricia Backman (15 Years), Linda Hills (15 Years), Kerri Lange (20 Years), and Sandra Seartson (35 Years).

We are so pleased to announce the safe arrival of two new additions to our St Ursula’s College family.
Mr Mitch Cooling and his wife welcomed baby Alexander Cooling on Monday 13 October.
Mr James Darlington and his wife welcomed baby Posey Maria Darlington on Thursday 16 October.
We welcome baby Alexander and Posey, and wish their families all the best over the coming weeks as they settle in.


We wish our Year 12 students all the best as they tackle their External Exams. It is a busy time over the next three and a half weeks for them and their families, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.
Have a wonderful fortnight ahead.
Together, we strive.
Deidre Young
Principal
Deputy Principal

This week marks the start of external exams and a series of 'lasts' for our Year 12 students. With only two months until Christmas, the challenge for all students is to stay focused and motivated. It also signals the approach of year-end celebrations and the recognition of achievements in academics, sports, music, and culture for all our students.
Last week, our community gathered to celebrate and reflect on the courage and determination of Angela Merici and St Ursula. Their commitment to seeking truth and navigating life’s challenges to create a better world, particularly for women, remains a source of inspiration. We encourage our students, whether in Year 12 or Year 7, to carry these qualities with them as they approach their exams and assessments in the final stages of the year. How we finish is just as important as how we begin—so let’s finish strong. Today I will share one study technique that your daughters may like to try in helping them finish strong. It is called the Promodoro technique. (Developed by Francecso Cirillo, an Italian software engineer)
The Pomodoro technique is a set time for staying on tasks, followed by a quick break. Traditionally, the ratio works like this: 25 minutes on task, followed by a 5-minute break. It is said to improve focus and minimise distractions as long as the 5-minute break is not to engage in social media.
Presentation Assembly: Wednesday 13 November
With office staff working overtime to collate data to finalise awards, I wanted to take this opportunity to explain some of the awards.
- Acknowledgement of Academic Awards are based on student results as at the end of Term 3
- Year 7 - 8
- Principal’s Award: awarded to students who have received all A’s
- Academic Distinction: awarded to those students who receive no more than 4 B’s or lower; or all A’s and no more than 2 B’s and 1 C
- Academic Merit: awarded to those students who receive no more than 5 B’s or all A’s and no more than 4 B’s and 1 C or all A’s and 2 C’s
- Year 9-10
- Principal’s Award: awarded to students who have received all A’s
- Academic Distinction: awarded to those students who receive no more than 3 B’s or lower or all A’s and no more than 2 B’s and 1 C
- Academic Merit: awarded to those students who receive no more than 5 B’s or all A’s and no more than 4 B’s and 1 C or all A’s and 3 C’s
- Year 11
- Based on Unit 1 and 2 results..
- Year 12
- As students have not completed their studies, we acknowledge the highest performance in each subject based on the combined QCAA confirmed results for IA1, IA2 and IA3
- As students have not completed their studies, we acknowledge the highest performance in each subject based on the combined QCAA confirmed results for IA1, IA2 and IA3
- Year 7 to 12
- Exemplary Engagement in the Learning Process: Year 7-12
- This award acknowledges students who have shown persistence and commitment to their studies with regards to using class time productively, completion of set tasks and using feedback to deepen learning.
- Exemplary Engagement in the Learning Process: Year 7-12
- Year 7 - 8
God Bless
Bernadette
Assistant Principal Pastoral Care

Supporting Mental Health
October marks Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to reflect, raise awareness, and strengthen our collective commitment to the emotional wellbeing of our young people. At St Ursula’s College, we believe that mental health education is not just a curriculum item—it’s a cornerstone of holistic development and pastoral care.
Through our Health and Physical Education (HPE) and dedicated Wellbeing classes, we are equipping our students with the knowledge, language, and tools to understand and manage their mental health. These programs are designed to foster resilience, self-awareness, and compassion—qualities that empower our girls to thrive both in and beyond the classroom.
In Wellbeing classes, students explore the topic of anxiety—what it is, how it manifests in the body, and why it’s a normal part of the human experience. Using age-appropriate resources and interactive activities, students learn to identify the physical signs of anxiety such as increased heart rate, muscle tension, and racing thoughts. More importantly, they are taught that these responses are part of the body’s natural stress system—not something to fear, but something to understand.
Strategies for Self-Regulation and Support
Students are guided through practical strategies to manage anxious feelings, including:
- Mindful breathing and grounding techniques
- Positive self-talk and reframing negative thoughts
- Creating personal coping plans
- Knowing when and how to seek help—from peers, teachers, or trusted adults
- Self-care strategies, exercising and being surrounded by nature.
Building a Culture of Care
Mental Health Month is also a time to celebrate the caring culture we nurture at St Ursula’s College. From peer support initiatives to pastoral check-ins, our community is built on the value of respect. We encourage open conversations about mental health and remind our students that asking for help is a sign of strength—not weakness.
As parents and caregivers, your role in this journey is vital. We invite you to continue these conversations at home, ask your daughters what they’re learning, and remind them that they are never alone.
Together, we can raise a generation of young women who are not only academically capable but emotionally courageous.
Mrs Maria Gibson

Assistant Principal Mission and Identity

Celebrating Culture, Achievement and Community: First Nations Year 12 Graduation Mass
Toowoomba Catholic Schools proudly celebrated the graduation of its 2025 Year 12 First Nations students with a heartfelt Mass at St Patrick’s Cathedral on Monday 13 October.
Among the graduates were Paige McKellar and Ella Auld, who joined 30 fellow students representing their schools. The celebration was enriched by the presence of proud parents, grandparents, Elders, and community members, creating a powerful atmosphere of unity, culture, and achievement.
Unfortunately, Jorga Britton and Darcie Gillis were unable to join us for this occasion.
The St Ursula's College Choir sung beautiful during the mass, and Leah Randall offered the final blessing on behalf of the younger students who will follow in the graduates’ footsteps.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of the prestigious First Nations Year 12 Community Award, which recognises:
· Cultural leadership
· Service to the school community
· Commitment to learning
· Consistent attendance
Paige McKellar was one of four recipients to receive this honour. Her dedication, spirit, and leadership were celebrated as an inspiration to others.
Reflecting on the day, Paige shared, “Graduating Year 12 is not just about finishing school; it’s about honouring our culture and the support of our families and community. This achievement is a step towards a brighter future for all of us.”
Congratulations to all our First Nations graduates—your journey is a beacon of hope and pride for our entire community.
Joe Kelly










Date Claimers

Director of Sport

Football Coaching
Former German football defender Petra Hauser, who played in the Frauen-Bundesliga for FCR 2001 Duisburg, has been sharing her expertise with young players at the Inverell Joeys Mini World Cup - held during the last week of the school holidays in early October.
Since retiring, Petra has taken on coaching roles in women’s and youth football, including assistant coach at SV Straelen. She’s now helping inspire the next generation, with standout players and coaches from the carnival selected for a tour of Germany.
Petra also ran a special coaching clinic at Glennie on Monday, and some of our Ursie girls were lucky enough to attend.
The Inverell Joeys Mini World Cup has been running since 2010 and continues to be a launchpad for young football talent! How lucky were our girls to have this exposure and opportunity with such a well-regarded coach!
Sports Awards
The Acknowledgement of Sporting Success awards are presented to students who have demonstrated outstanding sporting accomplishments for their chosen sport through the school community and School Sport Pathway.
- Mia Aylward – Darling Downs Football
- Emma Barram – Darling Downs Swimming
- Claire Brady – Darling Downs Swimming
- Jorja Bubb – Darling Downs Netball Umpiring
- Mackenzie Clarke – Darling Downs Touch Football
- Lucy Dyson – Darling Downs Football and Track and Field
- Kaleesha Hall – Darling Downs Futsal
- Sophie Hick – Darling Downs Football and Futsal
- Erin Irvine – Darling Downs Cricket
- Annalyce Jackwitz – Darling Downs Football
- Harper Kellock – Darling Downs Aquathon
- Amelia Kidd – Darling Downs Cricket, Football, AFL, Touch Football, QLD AFL and QLD Cricket
- Charlotte Kidd – Darling Downs Football, Cricket and AFL
- Lucy Mills – Darling Downs Cricket
- Elliza Moore-Kirkland – Darling Downs Track and Field and Cross Country
- Bethany Moore-Kirkland - Darling Downs Track and Field and Cross Country
- Mikayla O’Neil – Darling Downs Netball and Track and Field
- Amelia O’Toole – Darling Downs Rugby League
- Grace Oughtred – Darling Downs Football
- Jorja Pott – Darling Downs Basketball
- Paige Priebbenow – Darling Downs Swimming
- Holly Purcell – Darling Downs Hockey and Cross Country
- Aroma Rossie – Darling Downs Rugby League
- Lucy Ryan – Darling Downs Football
- Savannah Sanson-Male – Darling Downs Swimming
- Molly Toms – Darling Downs Swimming and Triathlon
- Isabel Van Heerden – Darling Downs Touch Football
- Melia Beckett – Darling Downs Netball
- Chloe Dunmill – Darling Downs AFL
- Addyson Jackson – Darling Downs AFL, Touch Football and QLD AFL
- Ariana Jeffrey – Darling Downs Netball
The Team of the Year award recognises a team within the College that epitomises the qualities of team dynamics and has participated with a high level of distinction. The 2025 Team of the Year is the Junior A Netball Team:
- Meila Beckett
- Chloe Dunmill
- Addyson Jackson
- Ariana Jeffrey
- Maya Cameron
- Charlotte James
- Ayva Emelio
- Bonnie Fairbanks
- Makayla Ireland
- Emma Cavanagh
- Coach – Richelle Jeffrey
The Junior A Netball team has had an extraordinary season, achieving a series of milestones that have earned them the title of 2025 Team of the Year. They won the Laura Geitz Shield for the first time in 13 years. Their dominance continued as they claimed the Intermediate Division B title at the QLD Catholic Carnival and finished as Runners Up in the Wednesday Night Competition. The team also triumphed as Vicki Wilson Darling Downs and South West Regional Winners, finishing their season with a strong campaign at the Vicki Wilson State Finals. Adding to their accolades, they secured victories in both the MC Cup and Newtown Cup Games. Their dedication, teamwork, and resilience have truly set them apart this season.
The Outstanding Contribution to College Sport award recognises the girls who have made a significant contribution to the Sporting Life at the College. This may be through participation in multiple sports, service through coaching, umpiring, or helping at sport specific gala days or a combination of activities. These girls receiving these awards have gone above and beyond to help the College in the sporting arena.
- Heidi Carrigan
- Rose Coren
- Lucy Dyson
- Addie Eyles
- Claire Goddard
- Sophie Hick
- Abbie Hunt
- Erin Irvine
- Abbey James
- Amelia Kidd
- Charlotte Kidd
- Georgia McAuliffe
- Isabelle McKeiver
- Phoebe Neenan
- Grace Oughtred
- Holly Purcell
- Lucy Ryan
- Katelyn Scholl
- Isabel Van Heerden
- Mahaylie Weirbone
- Chloe Dunmill
- Addyson Jackson
- Arianna Jeffrey
- Charlotte James
- Mikayla O’Neill
The Junior Rising Star Award (Years 7-9) and Senior Star of the Future (Years 10-11) Awards are given to the most accomplished junior and senior sportswoman who have reached a high level both at the College and school pathway representative level. It is based on their contributions to college teams on and off the field, their work ethic, performances, and their representative accomplishments throughout the year. Girls are awarded points for their service for participating, umpiring, and coaching at a school level and for making school pathway representative teams.
- The 2025 Junior Rising Star is awarded to Addyson Jackson
Addyson’s dedication, talent and sportsmanship have shone bright this year. She has proudly represented the College as part of the Hockey, Rugby League, Touch Football and Netball teams - demonstrating not only her versatility but also her unwavering commitment to every team she is apart of.
Beyond the field Addyson generously volunteered her time rreferee at the Primary Catholic Touch Carnival and she is always ready to step into the role of College mascot – bringing energy, pride and inspiration to the next generation of Ursie Girls. Her sporting excellence extends beyond the College with selection in the Darling Downs AFL and, Touch Football teams. Remarkably, despite being new to the sport, Addyson’s hard work and natural ability earned her a place as a shadow player for the Queensland AFL team – a testament to her determination and rising talent.
- The 2025 Senior Star of the Future is awarded to Amelia Kidd
Amelia’s dedication, leadership and sporting excellence have truly set her apart.
She has proudly represented the College in Rugby League, Rugby 7s and Touch Football consistently demonstrating patience, teamwork and a calm leadership style that lifts those around her. She is the kind of player who willingly shares her knowledge with others, helping teammates grow in skill and confidence.
Amelia’s has volunteered her time to support the Urise Girl for a Day program, showing commitment to building community spirit.
Her achievements extend well beyond the College, with her selection for the Darling Downs Football, Football, Cricket, AFL and Touch Football teams, and her talent was recognised at the highest level when she represented Queensland in both AFL and Cricket, a remarkable accomplishment.
Amelia your passion, humility and drive make you a role model for us all. Congratulations Amelia, you are our 2025 Senior Rising Star.
The 2025 Ursie All-Stars Team are:
- Mia Aylward
- Lucy Dyson
- Sophie Hick
- Erin Irvine
- Charlotte James
- Georgia McAuliffe
- Grace Oughtred
- Holly Purcell
- Lucy Ryan
- Isabel Van Heerden
- Mahaylie Weirbone
- Addyson Jackson
- Amelia Kidd
To be selected for the Ursie All-Stars Team, students must demonstrate consistent excellence in their chosen sport or sports, showing skill dedication and commitment to team success. They exhibit leadership and sportsmanship, fostering a positive team environment both on and off the field. These athletes actively contribute to the schools sporting culture by acting as a role model both in the school and community contexts. This award recognises those who embody the values of St Ursula’s and are considered the best of the best.









I would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated staff who have generously volunteered their time to help run the sporting program.
- Cameron Williams – Touch Football and Rugby League
- Daniel Ryan – Netball and Rugby 7s
- Meghan Ballon – Rugby League and Touch Football
- Nancy Heritage – Futsal
- Lynne Elphick – Futsal and Football
- Laura Booth – Futsal and Football
- Tara Rossini – Futsal and Football
- Julian Cattonar – Netball
- Jaime Thomas – Netball
- Stephen Broderick – Futsal and Football
- James Darlington – Futsal and Football
- Chloe Tiley – Touch Football
Hike for Homeless
We’re thrilled to announce that our incredible team of staff and students raised $1,310 for Base Services Inc. Toowoomba through this year’s Hike for Homeless! Every step taken helped support those doing it tough in our community—and we couldn’t be prouder.
A huge congratulations to the 38 legends who laced up for the 5km, 10km, and 20km hikes. Whether you strolled, power-walked, or heroically limped across the finish line, your effort made a real difference.
Special shoutout to our 20km trailblazers: Georgia McAuliffe, Holly Purcell, and Grace Oughtred—you tackled that distance like champions!
Thanks to everyone who participated, donated, and cheered us on. Let’s keep walking the walk for those who need it most.















Queensland Secondary Schools Track & Field Championships
Last week, Townsville hosted the Queensland Secondary Schools Track and Field Championships, and our athletes did us proud! Congratulations to Mikayla O'Neill, Lucy Dyson, Elliza Moore-Kirkland, and Bethany Moore-Kirkland for representing with grit and grace. Special mention to the Moore-Kirkland sisters on their achievements:
- Elliza claimed the title of 400m hurdles state champion, earning silver in the 400m, and making the 800m final—a triple threat on the track!
- Bethany became the 3km race walk state champion, placing 4th in the 2km steeplechase, and reaching the finals in both the 800m and 1500m.
We’re incredibly proud of all four competitors—your hard work and determination inspire us all!




Mrs Elyce Ruhle
Careers and VET
Year 12 Students
We wish our Year 12 students the very best as they move into external exams and transition to the next phase of their career journeys.
Key Dates:
ATARs Released: 18 December
Offer Rounds: 23 December 2025 and 15 January 2026
Students applying to university are reminded to check their personal email accounts (including their junk mail) for correspondence from QTAC that may require action.
Many university scholarships are also beginning to open, and I encourage all students considering university to check individual institution websites for information. There are many scholarships for rural, regional, and remote students to help with the costs of university, from tuition fees to relocation costs.
If you would like further information or assistance with anything related to tertiary applications or pathway planning over the coming months, please don’t hesitate to email me at jacqui.mcilroy@twb.catholic.edu.au. I am available Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays until November 4, and will be checking emails sporadically during the holiday period to support any Year 12 students requiring support with their QTAC offers.
Next Step Survey
Our Year 12 students will be invited to participate in the Next Step Survey starting in March 2026. This short survey will ask questions about graduates’ activities since finishing school, like study and work.
Graduates will receive an invitation, by mail or email, to participate in the survey online. Students may also receive a phone call from the Queensland Government Statistician’s Office and/or survey reminders by email or SMS.
Congratulations!
A huge congratulations to the following students:
- Dalzin Ameen for accepting an early offer to study a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
- Chloe Barram for accepting an early offer to study a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
- Lucy Dyson for accepting an early offer to study a Bachelor of Engineering at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
- Abbey Holmes for receiving an early offer to study... at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) next year,
- Eve Reimers for receiving an early offer to study a Bachelor of Education (Secondary) at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) next year
- Phoebe Richert for accepting an early offer to study a Bachelor of Education (Primary) at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ)
- Lilli Southwell for receiving an early offer to study a Bachelor of Business at the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) next year.
- Matilda Wolski for receiving an early offer to study a ... at the University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ) next year
- Penny Cavanough for successfully completing Work Experience and turning this opportunity into a School Based Traineeship. Penny will be completing her Cert III in Dental Assisting with Gentle Dental Drayton.
- Brooke Rashleigh for completing her School Based Traineeship – Cert III Screen and Media at Little Pigs Consulting
- Chloe Beer for completing her School Based Traineeship – Cert III Early Childhood Education and Care at Oak Early Learning
- Hind Krtan for completing her School Based Traineeship – Cert III Health Services Assistant at Infin8 Aged Care
- Molly Ford and Olivia Stone for completing their Cert III Design Fundamentals at Whitehouse Institute of Design
- Our Cert III Fitness students who have recently completed their courses – Emily Betros, Jorja Britton, Lily Cameron, Rose Coren, Lucy Dyson, Lucy Gibson, Darcie Gillis, Georgia Logan, Paige McKellar, Lydia Newton, Amelia O’Toole, Charlotte Rohde, Beth Shepherd
- Our Cert III Hospitality students who recently completed their courses – Dalzin Ameen, Ava Dickfos, Easter Dokshen, Abbey Holmes, Anika Langton, Tahlia Lees, Georgia Logan, Abuk Pager, Tamara Sofia Isla, Lilli Southwell, Izzy Staley
Work Experience: St Andrew’s Hospital
Last week, Dalzin Ameen, Lauren Parker and Banazir Ameen completed their Work Experience at St Andrew’s Hospital - a truly exceptional opportunity given how rare and competitive hospital placements are for high school students.
Throughout the week, the girls rotated through various departments, gaining valuable insights and hands-on exposure to different aspects of hospital life (with theatre emerging as the clear favourite!). Each of them stood out for their energy, enthusiasm, and eagerness to learn. They made a lasting impression on the staff and embraced every moment of the experience.
We’re incredibly proud of how they represented themselves and our school - they truly thrived.



Tour to Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Earlier this term, some of our Year 10 and 11 students visited the Australian Catholic University (ACU) alongside students from St Saviour’s College. The girls learnt about the wide range of courses on offer and the various entry pathways available. The students also rolled up their sleeves for workshops in Occupational Therapy and Nursing – a fantastic opportunity to experience these careers in action!

University and Industry Tours
In Week 10 last term, our Year 11 students had the opportunity to explore pathways beyond school.
Students considering a university pathway attended Brisbane university tours, with morning tea at the University of Queensland’s Emmanuel and Women’s Colleges. We then toured the beautiful UQ campus, and finished the day with lunch and a tour of Queensland University of Technology (QUT)’s Gardens Point campus. It was a valuable day filled with discovery and excitement for the future!
In addition to the Brisbane University Tours, a group of students chose to participate in a local Industry Tour, exploring a range of businesses within the CBD. This experience was designed to provide students with meaningful insights into the inner workings of various organisations and the skills and attributes needed to thrive in each sector.
The tour included visits to Westpac Bank, Bergen, Quest, Toowoomba Regional Council, Aspire Financial Consulting, McNab, Realway, and Right at Home Darling Downs - offering a diverse snapshot of career pathways and workplace environments.


Upcoming Events
Queensland Police Service Careers Evening
Date: 29 October, 2025
Time: 5:30pm
Location: QPS Regional Office, 52 Neil St, Toowoomba
This session will be conducted by experienced, serving Queensland police officers who will explain the requirements for entry. Students who are considering a policing career after school are encouraged to attend.
UCAT, GAMSAT and Pathways into Medicine – Webinar for Students, Teachers & Parents
Organisation: National Institute of Education
Location: Online
Date: 26 November, 2025
This forum is an excellent opportunity for teachers, students and their parents to find out about the UCAT and pathways into medicine. The session is packed with invaluable information:
- What is UCAT?
- Year 10, 11 and 12 - things to consider now
- The undergraduate selection criteria
- Application process into universities for medicine and dentistry
- GAMSAT
- Alternative degrees and career choices
QUT December Campus Tours
Location: QUT Gardens Point & Kelvin Grove Campuses
Date: 2 December to 3 December, 2025
Join us for guided tours of our campuses and community spaces at Gardens Point and Kelvin Grove with a current QUT student.
Registration is essential as places are limited.
Trade Experience Day –
Organisation: Australian Trade Training College
Date: Tuesday 28/10/25
Time: 9 am to 1 pm
Location: 56 Duhig St Toowoomba, QLD 4350
For those students that are considering a trade or even if it is back of mind, this is the event for you! Next Tuesday, 28/10/15, the Australian Trade Training College are hosting an event that provides students with the opportunity to learn more about different trades and have fun exploring difference courses/pathways for 2026. Please read the info below and register for the event if you plan to attend. An email must be sent to Mrs Tawns anita.tawns@twb.catholic.edu.au to confirm that you are registered and attending.
Info:
What to wear/bring: Sports uniform, enclosed shoes, hat, water bottle and morning tea (lunch is provided)
How to apply: register using this link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/trade-experience-day-tickets-1752348965929?aff=oddtdtcreator If you are wanting to attend, you need to register ASAP as there are limited spots and these types of events quickly fill up.
Other: You will need to arrange transportation to and from the event.
Study STEM at the Queensland University of Technology this Summer for Year 11 Students
Location: Queensland University of Technology, Gardens Point Campus
Date: 12 January to 23 January 23, 2026
High-achieving Year 11 students entering Year 12 in 2026 can undertake a first-year STEM unit over the summer holidays. This is an intensive program delivered over two weeks with different units including lectures, discussion, exercises, lab experiments and assessment.
Learnings start with a face-to-face orientation session prior to the program commencing where you will be introduced to your unit and connect with your peers. Pre-class readings and activities before and during the intensive block may also be required for your unit.
The intensive unit will be led by our academics and assisted by current undergraduate students. Depending on your chosen QUT degree, you may be able to receive advanced standing (credit) for successful completion of your unit, putting you ahead of your peers and setting you up for future success.
Limited places are available in each unit. Students are enrolled on a first-come basis, and you will be notified if your preferred unit is not available.
Applications close 31 October 2025. Find out more
Scholarships
Australian Veterans’ Children Assistance Trust Financial Study Support for Uni or TAFE
Value: Up to $6,000 AUD per year
Open Date: 18 August, 2025
Close Date: 31 October, 2025
P&F News
On Tuesday 28 October, the College hosted our Annual General Meeting (AGM) and final General Meeting for the year.
Information will be shared in a later newsletter to welcome in the new members of the P&F for 2026, and to share important topics covered by the P&F.
For today, we thank those who have held a position across 2025 and for their work supporting the College in all we do for their daughters.
Many thanks to -
- Megan Ford, President
- Ben Kidd, Vice President
- Tahnee Coombs, Secretary
- Andrew Ward, Treasurer
- Jaime Thomas, Fundraising
We also thank those who have been Diocesan Representative, including Jaime Fing, Jade Kearney, Michelle Roger and Darlene Shoebridge.
A reminder to parents that we always send an invitation to parents to our meetings, with the option to join via zoom. We hope to see more parents come along in the new year.
If you would like to find out any more information, please reach out via email: stursulaspfa@gmail.com.
Tahnee Coombs, P&F Secretary
On Saturday 18 October, we held our annual Merci Spring Super fundraising afternoon and what a wonderful afternoon it was. We had a very large crowd on the front lawn including reunion years from 20 years ago, 30, 50 and 60 years. The music flowed, the bar was busy and there was a continuous echo of laughter to be heard all afternoon. The raffles were in hot contention on the day with some amazing and very generously donated prizes being won. The reason our afternoon was so successful was down to one element, the people. We are so very fortunate to have such amazing and generous people amongst our community who donated their goods, sponsored, gave their time and their talent. We could not have had such a wonderful or successful afternoon without these people, so I would like to say a massive Thank You to all of those wonderful people. There is one particular person I would like to particularly shine a light on and that is Jaime Thomas, she is our guiding light and chief organiser for this fantastic event and it would not be possible to have such a seamless and memorable afternoon without her amazing effort, so thank you Jaime. We of course are already thinking about next year's event and will have a date locked in very soon for you to add to your calendars.
Megan Ford
P&F President
2026 Book lists
📚 2026 Book Lists Are Live!
All book lists for the 2026 school year are now available on our College website. Start planning ahead and make sure you're ready for the year ahead!
🔗 View them here: st-ursula.qld.edu.au/book-lists

Scholarship Opportunity
🎓 Gallipoli Scholarship Opportunity for Year 12 Students
The Gallipoli Scholarship Fund is offering $8000 scholarships to support first-year University and TAFE students who are direct descendants of Australian or New Zealand Defence Force personnel. Applications open January 1, 2026, and close February 28, 2026 — don’t miss this chance to honour our veterans while investing in your future. Visit the Gallipoli Scholarship Fund website or email applications@gallipolischolarship.com.au for details.
I wanted to share an exciting opportunity that may be of interest to our Year 12 students. The Gallipoli Scholarship Fund is offering $8000 scholarships for first-year University and TAFE students living in Australia. These scholarships not only honour the service of our veterans but also provide substantial support for young Australians as they embark on their higher education journey.
The scholarship is open to the direct descendants of servicemen or women who have served in the Australian or New Zealand Defence Force in a conflict or peacekeeping operation, from the First World War to the present day. The selection process is based 60% on necessitous circumstances and 40% on academic merit.
Applications are open from January 1, 2026, and close on February 28, 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by the end of March 2026. Applications are submitted online and will require supporting documents.
For more information, please visit the Gallipoli Scholarship Fund website or contact them directly at applications@gallipolischolarship.com.au.
Let's ensure our students don't miss out on this wonderful opportunity! Please share with the relevant staff.
Enrol Now for 2027 and beyond
🎓 Enrolments Now Open for 2027!
Secure your place at St Ursula’s College and be part of a vibrant, values-driven community. Final spots for 2026 are filling fast - don’t miss your chance to join us!
📚 Apply today and start your journey with purpose: Enrol - St Ursula's College Toowoomba

Cricket: Term 4

RACQ Driver Ed Program
Dear Families,
RACQ are developing a new education program specifically for adults to equip them with practical and tangible strategies to help support young novice drivers – whether they’re learners, provisional licence holders or even passengers.
To make sure this program is genuinely useful, RACQ’s Education Team would love to hear from you.
If you’ve ever mentored, or are currently supervising a young driver, or spent time in the passenger seat offering guidance (or silently pressing your foot on your imaginary brake), we would encourage you to take a few minutes to complete the short survey and share what you wish you’d known.
Your insights will help build a resource that truly supports supervisors and mentors, and ultimately, safer roads for everyone. At the end of the survey there is also an option to enter the prize draw for the chance to win one of five $100 egift-cards.
Click here to take the survey:
RACQ Education Survey for Parents
