16 May 2025

PRINCIPAL’S ADDRESS

Term 1 Recognition Parades

Over the past two weeks, we have held our Junior and Senior Recognition Parades. The parades provide us the opportunity to present certificates to students who have demonstrated excellence through academic success, strong behaviour and effort, and continued attendance.

We speak regularly to our students about being proud of the decisions that they make each day, the effort they put in, the way they behave and the commitment that they make to being at school. In total, 1445 certificates were presented to students aligned to our three standards being Platinum, Gold and Silver.

Platinum – 291  certificates            Gold – 663 certificates                Silver – 491 certificates

This constitutes an almost 10% increase from Term 1 2024 results, with the biggest increase being in the Platinum standard. We are very proud of our students and thank our teaching team for their dedication to our students.

School Rugby League Success

It is wonderful to have rugby league back on our calendar in 2025, with two recent carnivals seeing strong success for both our boys’ and girls’ teams. Fielding five teams; Year 7/8 girls, Year 9/10 girls, Year 7/8 boys, Year 9/10 boys and our Senior boys’ teams, we saw three teams win their respective age groups, with the other two being runners up. We congratulate our students on their success. By far the best elements of these days were the way that our players engaged in the carnivals, playing with pride, playing hard and importantly playing fair. We set high standards for the students that want to represent our school, with our rugby league kids highlighting how important this is. I would like to thank our coaches over these days, with special mention to our Program Coordinator, Mr Jon Donald.

School Musical Countdown – “Midnight. The Cinderella Story”

Less than two weeks to go! May 30 and 31 will see our amazing students deliver performances not to be missed. “Midnight, The Cinderella Story” tickets are on sale from the Gladstone Entertainment and Convention Centre; mine are purchased…are yours? I continue to be blown away by the commitment that our staff make in supporting our students to put on such outstanding school musicals every second year!

World’s Greatest Shave

This event is a mainstay at Gladstone High, with over $20 000 being raised over the past three years alone. With the cause too close to home for many of our extended school community, the opportunity to raise awareness as well as much needed funds are an important part of our school calendar. With only two weeks to go, let’s see what we can raise!

School Emergency Evacuation Drill

Given the amount of construction going on at our school, ensuring that our students and staff know the appropriate routes for an emergency evacuation is crucial. Last week’s practice evacuation was a success, with most required actions in place and only some minor reminders needed given the construction work. Additionally, for the vast majority of our students, their behaviour was spot on. We thank DP Katrina Burdett for ensuring that our students and staff continue to be prepared should we face a genuine issue.

Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL)

Over the course of this week and next, our PBL focus is:

Be in the right class at the right time – “in it for success.”

This message aligns with our discussions with students on parades around following instructions and expectations.

YEAR 11 ANCIENT HISTORY CAMP

Year 11 Ancient History Camp – Carnarvon Gorge Adventure

Our Year 11 Ancient History students recently returned from an unforgettable camp to Carnarvon Gorge — and what an epic adventure it was! Despite camping in the rain, spirits were high as students embraced the wild beauty of the landscape and created lifelong memories.

Highlights of the trip included rare wildlife encounters with gliders and even a platypus sighting up close! Students explored the majestic Gorge and were immersed in Indigenous culture during their visit to the renowned Art Gallery, home to thousand-year-old rock paintings. They also experienced the tranquil beauty of the Moss Gardens and stood in awe at the breathtaking natural Amphitheatre.

This immersive experience brought history, culture, and nature together in a truly powerful way. Students not only deepened their historical understanding but also developed resilience, teamwork, and appreciation for the ancient stories embedded in the land. It’s safe to say they had an incredible time and made some core memories that will last a lifetime.

H2GP NEWS

Happy Rock Racing Teams Tackle Central Queensland World Qualifiers

Happy Rock Racing’s two teams, the Stanwell Sharks and Fast Fins, proudly represented our school at the Central Queensland World Qualifiers for the H2GP series.

Both teams had a strong build-up, with great support from Stanwell Power’s Hayden Cartmill and Peter Masters, and Andrew Lockett from Welcon Technologies. Technical checks went smoothly, and the students impressed the judges with their car designs — particularly the Fast Fins’ low-profile componentry.

Drivers Eunice (Stanwell Sharks) and Tim (Fast Fins) led their teams through the four-hour endurance race with determination. Despite technical challenges, the Stanwell Sharks completed 263 laps to finish 17th, and the Fast Fins completed 158 laps to place 20th out of 21 teams. The winning team completed an impressive 863 laps.

Both teams showed great resilience, teamwork, and problem-solving under pressure. We are proud of all our participants and thank our industry mentors for their incredible support.

Fast Fins Team: William, Izaac, Tim, Rory
Stanwell Sharks Team: Yukti, Anuksha, Addison, Eunice, Chloe
Well done, teams — we can’t wait to see what you achieve next season!

Mark McMullin,
Lead Teacher

2025 SCHOOL MUSICAL

Gladstone High presents MIDNIGHT: A Cinderella Story. 30^th & 31^st May.

“Watching the transformations on and off stage warm our heart.  Confidence grows, characters develop, towns and castles are built. There is no end to the beauty and importance of a show; it is LIFE infused with ART.  We’d love for you to join us on this amazing adventure. Get your tickets, bring your family, celebrate the work and talents of our fantastic Gladstone State High School students. 

Get your tickets at the GECC – on line or at the Box Office – and join us for a family friendly love story for all the ages.

Mrs Peta Pitt – Director

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SPORT NEWS

YOUTH HEALTH NURSE NEWS

Cold And Flu Season 2025

So, it’s that time again where cold and flu season is officially upon us. This time of year can lead to an increase in respiratory illnesses, including influenza and other common viruses. While most cases are mild, they can still disrupt learning, school attendance, and general well-being.

Influenza cases in Australia are surging, with over 63,000 confirmed infections as of early May 2025, marking a significant increase from previous years. In Queensland, 14,015 cases have been reported, including 414 hospitalizations, 52 of which involve children aged 5 to 17. With flu season typically peaking in August in CQ, now is the ideal time to get vaccinated to ensure protection during the height of the outbreak.

Here are a few practical tips to help teens stay healthy this season:

1. Get Vaccinated:
The annual flu vaccine is one of the best ways to protect yourself and those around you. It’s safe, quick, and free. If you haven’t already, consider booking your flu shot with your GP or local pharmacy.

2. Practise Good Hygiene:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching public surfaces.
• Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes.
• Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue (and dispose of tissues properly).

3. Stay Home if You’re Unwell:
If you're experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, or fatigue, it’s best to rest at home and avoid spreading illness to others. Be sure to let your school know and reach out to teachers about any missed work.

4. Support Your Immune System:

• Get enough sleep (aim for 8–10 hours per night).
• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and water.
• Stay active—regular exercise helps boost immunity and reduce stress.
• Don’t forget mental health—stress can impact your body’s ability to fight illness, so take time to relax and recharge.

If you have any concerns about your symptoms, staying healthy, or accessing the free flu vaccination, feel free to reach out to your school-based nurse for a chat. Alternatively, students are welcome to drop by my office in D14 for a conversation.

Susan - Sbuck168@eq.edu.au or phone 49 766 171

QPARENTS

TONKA NEWS

NURSE PRACTITIONER NEWS

HEALTH CHECKUPS ARE INCLUDED FOR ALL GSHS STUDENTS AT OUR ONSITE GP CLINIC ALONG WITH OTHER MEDICAL SERVICES SUCH AS REFERRALS, PATHOLOGY AND SCRIPTS.

FULLY BULK BILLED (NO OUT OF POCKET EXPENSE) – MEDICARE DETAILS REQUIRED ON BOOKING.

CLINIC TIMES: Wednesday 9.00am & 2.30pm. Appointments are available during class times, as well as at break times.

CONTACT:  Clinic Reception at the Technical College, sending an email to GP@gladstonshs.eq.edu.au  or phoning 49766105.

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