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As I reflect back on Term 1 the last ten weeks have held many memorable moments.
It has been wonderful to have been so warmly welcomed into the West Moreton Anglican College community. The opportunities for our students to be challenged and extended have been great to see, whilst we also had to deal with unexpected weather impacting the term.
Two great outcomes that are very visible updates for our campus are the resurfacing of the tennis courts and the Keswick Covered Courts that are now looking fantastic and are ready for use. These improvements reflect our ongoing commitment to providing outstanding facilities for our students and staff.




With Easter just around the corner, I’d like to extend my warmest wishes to you all. I hope this break provides the opportunity to rest, recharge, and spend quality time with loved ones.
Thank you to our wonderful students, dedicated staff, and supportive families for such a positive start to the year. I look forward to seeing you back after the break, refreshed and ready for an exciting Term 2.
Andrew Peach
Principal
ANZAC Services
This year the College will commemorate the spirit of the ANZAC through two separate events.
Thursday 24 April – Whole School ANZAC Service
I extend to all members of the College community, our parents and friends, a very warm invitation to join us for this special whole College commemoration service which will commence at 12pm in the Lostroh Centre. Light refreshments will be served at the back of the Lostroh Centre following the Service’s conclusion at 1.15pm. For seating and catering purposes, parents wishing to join us are asked to RSVP by contacting Susan Baills either via email sbaills@wmac.com.au or telephone 3813 4548. Defence families will receive information from Defence School Mentor, Jenny Sheehan, and are asked to RSVP to her via email jsheehan@wmac.com.au or telephone 3813 4508.
Friday 25 April – WestMAC participation in the annual RSL and Ipswich City Council ANZAC Day March.
Full details and online link to register your child/ren to march were emailed to all College families last week. We would love to see WestMAC students marching with us as well as families supporting this significant event by lining the route and cheering on the passing parade. The march, which commences at 10.45am, will travel the following route: Brisbane Street, left into Nicholas Street, and finishing at Tulmur Place in the Nicholas Street Precinct. The march will conclude at approximately 11.30am.
I look forward to commemorating this significant annual event with our usual strong WestMAC presence.
Janelle Lecinski
Deputy Principal
Woah! Where have the last 10 weeks gone? As we reach the end of another busy and rewarding term, we take a moment to pause and reflect on the journey we have shared. It has been a time of learning, growth, and deepening connections within our college community.
This term, the archbishop’s 2025 theme of flourishing together for hope has inspired many of our chapel services and small group discussions. Having hope is essential because it gives us the strength to keep moving forward, even in difficult times. Hope is like a light in the darkness, reminding us that challenges are temporary and that better days are ahead.
Hope is not just wishful thinking, it’s the assurance that God is with us, guiding us through uncertainty and giving us the courage to face whatever comes our way. It helps us to be resilient, encourage others, see possibilities, and live with purpose.
As College Chaplain my role is to encourage students and staff to find hope through faith, community, and gratitude. Even small acts of kindness and support can reignite hope in someone’s heart.
Paul writes "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." Romans 15:13
As we prepare for the holiday break, may it be a time of renewal and joy. May you find moments of peace, laughter with loved ones, and a chance to reflect on the term’s blessings. May God’s love guide and sustain you until we meet again next term.
Chapel Captain’s Excursion
On Wednesday 26 March, Rev’d Jane and Mr Alcorn took the Chapel Captains and Faith and Service Captains from our 3 sub-schools on an inaugural ‘Chapel Captain Excursion’ to St John’s Cathedral and St Francis Theological College.
While at the Cathedral, the students met personally with The Most Reverend Jeremy Greaves (Archbishop of SE Qld), The Very Reverend Dr Peter Catt (Dean of the Cathedral), and Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Janette Young (Governor of Qld). The students also received a guided tour up the (very high) Cathedral bell tower.
After leaving the Cathedral we took a short train trip to St Francis Theological College in Milton. While we were there, we explored the heritage listed Old Bishopsbourne and Chapel of the Holy Spirit. We also spent some time looking through the Roscoe Theological Library before returning to WestMAC.
The excursion was a great way for the students to connect and to learn more about WestMAC’s identity as an Anglican College.
World’s Greatest Shave
On Thursday March 27, WestMAC students and staff took part in the 2025 Leukaemia Foundation’s, World’s Greatest Shave. This is the 20th year that WestMAC has participated in this important event to raise funds to help provide families with the support they need, while powering critical research projects that bring us closer to a blood cancer free future.
This year, 10 students went under the chop to donate their long locks, and 8 students shaved their heads while many others had their hair coloured.












More than $20,000 has been raised during this year’s event thanks to our generous donors and our wonderful fundraisers.
A big thank you goes to Mr Paul Alcorn for organising the event, and to the P & F, the college facilities team, staff and students for helping to make this event another success.
Many blessings,
Reverend Jane Markotsis
College Chaplain
From the Director of Business Services
Traffic and Safety Update – Keswick Road, Wulkuraka Connection Road & Butterfield Road
Works at the intersection of Keswick Road, Wulkuraka Connection Road, and Butterfield Road remain ongoing as part of Ipswich City Council’s traffic signal and lighting upgrade.
The traffic lights and street lighting have been installed, with final connection by Energex still to occur. This has been delayed due to broader network impacts following ex-Cyclone Alfred. The revised completion date is now 23 April 2025, subject to availability.
Until then, the intersection will continue to operate without traffic lights. We encourage families to take extra care when travelling through this area, particularly during peak drop-off and pick-up times.
For more information, please refer to the below update from Ipswich City Council.
Term 2 Fees
Term 2 fee statements were emailed to families last week and are also available via Parent Lounge. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your account, please don’t hesitate to contact Tricia Steele (Accounts Receivable) -accounts@wmac.com.au or on 3813 4523.
Jim Barry
Director of Business Services
From the Director of Curriculum
Middle/Senior School Parent Teacher Interviews
Tuesday 22 April and Monday 28 April 2025
Access to interview bookings are currently open to parents through Parent Lounge, until 6.00am on Friday 18 April 2025.
Should any teacher’s interview schedule become fully booked, please email the teacher directly to arrange a suitable time to meet.
If you would like to make a booking by phone or if you have any questions regarding the booking process, please contact Amy Lawrence on 3813 4601 or alawrence@wmac.com.au.
Workplace Health and Safety Requirements
- Please stay home if unwell.
- You may be asked to sign in to allow for effective checking of persons on campus.
- A reminder that all children should be appropriately supervised
Sue Stewart
Director of Curriculum
Congratulations to both parents and students on completing term 1 for 2025!
We hope everyone is looking forward to the upcoming break.
The counselling team wanted to share with our WestMAC community that the calendar for Ipswich Community Youth Week has been released. With an array of activities these events can be a valuable opportunity for connection, growth, and learning for young people that are seeking something to do over their holiday break.
Please find the image attached for details on how to participate in the various events across Youth Week.
If you have any questions, or would like to discuss the content further, please contact the counselling team (details listed below).
College Counsellors:
Allison Flanagan
aflanagan@wmac.com.au
Tia Reardon
treardon@wmac.com.au
As we come to the end of Term 1, on behalf of the Student Experiences team a big thank you to all the wonderful students, staff and volunteers for your contributions and commitment to our program.
The Student Experiences Program is an important component in the holistic education offered at WestMAC. The wide range of offerings provide students with the opportunity to discover new interests, develop skills, and pursue their passions.
I have heard from some of our community members that the scope of the Student Experiences program is not well-known. In other schools (and previously at WestMAC), the Students Experiences Program may be referenced with different names, and often these names reference ‘extra-curricular’. The Student Experiences Program encompasses the range of activities that extend beyond the classroom.
As such, Student Experiences is your one-stop-shop for:
- Sport (including Eaglets, Junior TAS, TAS, Representative Sport, Interhouse Sport and Sport Partners),
- Creative Arts (including Music, Dance and Musical),
- Activities and Clubs (including Debating, STEM, Photography, AAFC, Esports and other clubs),
- Outdoor Education (Prep to Year 11 Camps), and
- College-supported Tours (in 2025 these include tours to Singapore, Japan and New Zealand).
I encourage all student, parents and guardians to explore the information found on the Student Experiences NEST page.
Please look out for correspondence titled ‘Student Experiences’ as this may reference sport, music, dance, agricultural teams, musical, debating, and other activities. Please carefully read over this important information and action as required.
Have a blessed and safe Easter break.
Heath Del Favero
Director of Student Experiences
TAS Sport
As we conclude another exciting Trimester 1 of TAS Sport, it is fantastic to reflect on the season's achievements. Participation across the program has continued to grow, showcasing the strength and enthusiasm of WestMAC's sporting community. Despite a disrupted term with washouts, cancellations, and limited access to courts due to construction, our teams showed resilience and adaptability throughout the season.
A huge congratulations to all teams for their commitment and efforts. WestMAC came agonisingly close to being crowned Champion Cricket School for the 7th time in 8 years, just edged out by Ormiston College. The unfortunate washout of our crucial fixture against them meant our chances were dampened, but it was still a highly successful season. All five cricket teams finished in the Top 4, with special congratulations to the Intermediate Firsts and Intermediate Seconds for securing their respective premierships.
Girls Football had another strong campaign, finishing third overall. The Year 7, Year 8, and Firsts teams all placed in the Top 3 on their respective ladders. A special mention to the Year 7 team for sharing the TAS Premiership with CHAC after last week’s washout. Unfortunately, our Firsts Girls Football team, who were chasing a third consecutive title, were unable to play their final game due to weather disruptions. As CHAC had won the regular round fixture against WestMAC, they were awarded the outright premiership.
Girls Tennis continued their upward trajectory, finishing 6th overall. With the recent engagement of a full-time coach at the College, we are optimistic about continued improvements in future seasons. Girls Basketball finished 7th, with promising signs for the future, particularly from our Year 7 team, who placed 3rd. The depth of the basketball program continues to grow, evidenced by four additional Shield teams competing this year. Boys Volleyball, despite finishing 8th overall, demonstrated incredible commitment and growth, with Year 8 securing a 4th-place finish.
WestMAC concluded the overall Trimester 1 TAS season in 5th place, with a summary of results below:
- Boys Cricket – 2nd Overall
- Intermediate Firsts Premiers, Intermediate Seconds Premiers
- Girls Football – 3rd Overall
- Year 7 Premiers, Firsts Runners-Up, Year 8 3rd
- Girls Tennis – 6th Overall
- Boys Volleyball – 7th Overall
- Year 8 4th
- Girls Basketball – 8th Overall
- Year 7 3rd
A huge thank you to all players, coaches, and staff for their dedication and commitment throughout the season. We also extend our gratitude to the parents and supporters who continue to play an integral role in WestMAC Sport.
A special acknowledgment goes to the following staff members for their coordination and leadership:
- Mr Sam Reid – Volleyball
- Mr Brad George – Basketball
- Mr Seb Hart – Football
- Mr Rob Noble – Tennis
- Mr Mitch Thompson - Cricket
We look forward to building on this success and seeing continued growth in our programs in the upcoming seasons. Well done to all involved!






Term 1 Junior TAS Cricket and Hockey Review
As the term comes to a close, it gives us an opportunity to take a step back and reflect on the wonderful sporting opportunities available at WestMAC.
This term, WestMAC was well represented with seven Junior TAS Hockey teams and five Junior TAS Cricket teams participating in the Junior TAS Competition.
Our hockey players, under the guidance of Coaching Director Mr Neil ‘Astro’ Shearer, wasted no time in developing their skills to a very high standard. Across the short six-week competition, WestMAC teams were consistently competitive, displaying passion, perseverance, and fantastic sportsmanship both on and off the field. This resulted in an outstanding season, with WestMAC securing 25 wins and 5 draws from just 42 games. A special congratulations to the Division 1 team, who finished the season undefeated.
The Junior TAS Cricket season was equally successful, with all teams showing significant improvement each game. A huge well done to the Year 5/6 Division 1 Cricket team, who went undefeated in their season despite weather disruptions. All players and coaches should be incredibly proud of their efforts this season.
A big thank you to our wonderful coaches for their dedication and hard work. Our students have greatly benefited from your expertise and passion, and we sincerely appreciate your efforts. Thank you also to all parents for your ongoing support and to the volunteers who assisted with scoring and umpiring.
A special mention must go to Mr Neil Shearer (Coaching Director), Mrs Megan Peter (Hockey Coordinator), and Mr Matt Hogan (Cricket Coordinator) for their tireless work and fantastic organisation. Thank you all for a great season—we look forward to seeing our students continue with their cricket and hockey next year!






TAS and Junior TAS Swimming Carnival Results
Congratulations to all students who competed at the recent TAS and Junior TAS Swimming Carnivals at Sleeman Chandler.
All WestMAC Swimmers performed incredibly well with many swimmers recording season best or personal best times. In TAS, WestMAC finished 4th overall with the Boys finishing 3rd and the Girls finishing in 2nd place. Our Boys and Girls also finished 2nd on percentage, highlighting our consistency across the day. A summary of each age group is attached and below:
Age Group |
Boys |
Girls |
12 Years |
5th |
2nd |
13 Years |
4th |
2nd |
14 Years |
2nd |
3rd |
15 Years |
2nd |
4th |
16 Years |
4th |
3rd |
17 Years |
4th |
2nd |
In addition to this, Milla Barling (3rd), Paige Pitura (3rd), Matthew McGuinness (2nd), Annika Kolomeitz (3rd), Bronte Wright (2nd) and Emily Cox (3rd) also finished in top three placings in age championship rankings and are to be congratulated.
In the Junior TAS Competition, WestMAC finished in 6th place overall with the Boys finishing 4th and the Girls on 6th place. A special mention must go to Charles Hyland for being placed 3rd in Age Championship rankings! Congratulations also to our 2025 Junior Swim Captains, Jonina Onaga and Lincoln Bayley, and College Swim Captain, Bronte Wright, who led the team with pride and enthusiasm in and out of the pool.
Well done and a big thank you must go to our College Swim Coach, Mr Heath Ramsay and manager Mrs Janine Richardson for all their hard work over the past two terms.
A summary of results are below:
WestMAC Team Rankings by Year Group/Gender
9 Year Girls |
5th |
9 Year Boys |
7th |
10 Year Girls |
7th |
10 Year Boys |
7th |
11 Year Girls |
7th |
11 Year Boys |
3rd |
12 Year Girls |
2nd |
12 Year Boys |
3rd |
Combined Girls Placing |
6th |
Combined Boys Placing |
4th |
School Combined Points Placing |
West Moreton Anglican College 6th |
Congratulations to the entire Swimming Squad for a great season and we look forward to next year!
Trimester 2 TAS Sport: Boys Rugby and Tennis, Girls Netball and Hockey
Round 1 of Trimester 2 Sport begins on Saturday 3 May. WestMAC will host CHAC in tennis, rugby, netball and hockey. Information regarding training will be available on the College App and NEST. All students are to ensure they attend training on their return to school. For further information regarding these sports, please contact:
Sport |
Coordinator |
Contact |
Boys Tennis |
Mr Rob Noble |
|
Boys Rugby Union |
Mr Ben O’Connell |
|
Girls Netball |
Ms Katrina Cavanagh |
|
Girls Hockey |
Mrs Liz Cordingley-D’Castro |
Term 2 Junior TAS Sport – Rugby and Netball
Nominations have now closed for the Term 2 season which kicks off on Saturday 3 May. WestMAC will nominate six netball teams and two rugby teams in what shapes up to be an exciting term of sport. Information regarding training times and draws will be available on the College App and NEST as soon as they have been finalised. For further information regarding these sports, please contact:
Sport |
Coordinator |
Contact |
Rugby Union |
Mr Chris Leeson |
cleeson@wmac.com.au |
Netball |
Mrs Angela Lowndes |
Interhouse Cross Country Carnivals
Congratulations to all Prep to Year 6 students who participated in their Interhouse Cross Country Carnival on Tuesday. Students showed great skill in adapting to a new course given the course they had practiced on in HPE lessons was too wet. Results and photos from the Carnival will be published in the next edition of the newsletter.
The Secondary Cross Country Carnival has been rescheduled to Tuesday 29 April. Further information regarding this carnival will be sent home to families once finalised.
TAS and Junior TAS Training Shirt – Purchase now!
We’re excited to announce the arrival of the new WestMAC Sport Training Shirt. This optional Training Shirt is available to all students in Year 3-12 participating WestMAC Sport. The training shirts are available exclusively through the West Moreton Anglican College - Dynasty Team Store AU for $33. A sizing chart is available on the website to assist with ordering.
Orders will be open from Wednesday 2 April to 4:00pm Wednesday 9 April. Orders must be placed within this window and late orders will not be accepted.
Rob Hillier
Head of Sport
In trying conditions (wind, rain, mud, and a feels like temperature of 12 degrees), 36 students, three staff, five cattle and four sheep participated with great success in the Toowoomba Royal Show.
Results:
Sheep
Champion Shropshire Ram – Foundation Victorian ram BlueHills ‘Bartholomeusz’
Reserve Champion Shropshire Ram – WestMAC (lamb yet to be named)
Champion Shropshire Ewe – Foundation West Australian ewe Kekire ‘Aurora’
Reserve Champion Shropshire Ewe – WestMAC ‘Katie’ (lamb)
First Place Meat Sheep Junior class of the Junior Judging – Jack Vernon (Year 2)
In the interbreed finals the Judge made special mention of the Shropshires, “…with such limited Shropshire numbers in Australia (endangered breed), the Shropshires presented by West Moreton Anglican College are an outstanding representation of the breed and a strong foundation for the flock moving forward into the future”.
Cattle
First Place BULL 18 months and under 21 months – WestMAC Uppercut
Second Place FEMALE 12 months and under 15 months – Charnelle Dreamgirl
Second Place FEMALE 18 months and under 21 months – WestMAC Unconditional
Reserve Calf Champion Female Charolais - Charnelle Dreamgirl
Reserve Junior Champion Female Charolais - WestMAC Unconditional
Third Place Highland Cattle Handlers Competition – Sophie Johnson (Year 11)
Sixth Place ‘All ages’ Young Judges Competition – Kyeema Besgrove (Year 12)










A big thank you to Mrs Vernon, Ms Fiedler and Mr Stewart and the eight senior Cattle and Sheep Team students for camping at the show and looking after our animals. Your good humour and hard work in very challenging conditions is recognised and appreciated.
Heath Del Favero
Director of Student Experiences
The Addams Family – Term 1 Wrap Up
As Term 1 draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on The Addams Family rehearsals and the exciting progress of our 2025 musical production. The 55 dedicated students involved have already achieved so much, demonstrating their commitment and passion for the stage. So far, they have:
- Attended seven Friday afternoon rehearsals, totaling 10.5 hours
- Attended three Saturday rehearsals, adding up to 15 hours
- Completed a full read-through of the script
- Learned 10 vocal pieces
- Blocked five scenes from Act 1
- Choreographed When You’re an Addams with the entire cast!
- Been fitted for costumes, which are mostly being made by our fabulous Costume Coordinator and doting grandmother at the College, Mrs Rhonda Jackson.








With such an incredible start, the production is shaping up to be a spectacular show. We can’t wait to see it all come together!
Students and parents are encouraged to regularly check emails and the 2025 Musical NEST page for updates about the Holiday Rehearsal Day Camp on Monday 07 April.
Meet the Cast

Name: Ruby Wilson
Year: 10
Character: Alice Beineke
Musical experience: First musical and first lead role
Q: What have you enjoyed about The Addams Family so far?
A: I really like the, it’s just a fun community, I feel like everyone really enjoys it and it’s this really nice place of different people who have a lot of talent and it’s really nice to just see these people, some you know, some you don’t know, burst into song and do so well and it’s just really nice.
Q: What has been a highlight?
A: The full script read through. IT was really nice to see how everything wet together and not everyone knows the story and just going through and having everyone have a bit of a look and a trial run.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your character, Alice Beineke.
A: She is the mother of Lucas, who is Wednesday’s boyfriend. She is basically a bored housewife and her husband doesn’t have the best relationship or the best family life, as becomes evident. I think she is very sheltered but she definitely gets her big moment to put all her feelings out and actually say ‘no, this is how I’m feeling, I’m not going to be this little housewife anymore’. It’s a very powerful moment.
Q: What are you looking forward to in playing Alice?
A: I’m looking forward to going as unhinged as possible. At the start, she is more reserved, like a housewife and mum, but when she has her moment it’s from zero to one hundred. It’s crazy and I’m excited for that.
Q: What is your favourite line that Alice says?
A: It’s when Alice is talking to Mal after her blow up and she says “If you want to act like a tool, go sleep in the shed!”
Meet The Orchestra

Name: Caitlyn North
Year: 12
Instrument: Violin
Years playing instrument: 10 years
Musical experience: Violin in West Side Story (2023).
Q: What have you enjoyed about the musical orchestra so far?
A: Being a part of the family and getting to play my instrument, which I love.
Q: How does playing in a musical differ from other orchestral performances you’ve been part of?
A: There are a lot more key signature changes! It requires more brain power and stamina because you are playing for the whole production.
Q: How do you prepare for a musical, and what is the rehearsal process like for the orchestra?
A: Practising and consulting with my private teacher on any difficult packages. Using Show Ready is really helpful because it helps me figure out the timing of the complex rhythms.
Q: Why have you chosen to be a part of the orchestra as opposed to being on stage in the cast?
A: I have chosen to be a part of the orchestra because being in West Side Story’s orchestra family was rewarding and has pushed me in my violin abilities. I also love that I get to be a part of this with my best friend.
Q: Why should everyone come and see The Addams Family?
A: Because the orchestra is spectacular!
Meet the Staff
- Joseph and the Technicolour Dreamcoat (9 years old, chorus member)
- Only An Orphan Girl (Year 12, Villain)
- Has played keyboard/piano in almost every musical since beginning at the College.
- Regularly plays keyboard/piano in many musicals in the Ipswich Community.
Q: What are you looking forward to as a musician in the orchestra?
A: Definitely the free lollies! And, of course, the meals provided by the wonderful people at FOTA. Oh, and the music is fun.
Q: Why do you think it is important for schools to have musicals?
A: It offers students an opportunity that they wouldn’t get elsewhere, to be involved in a very professionally prepared production. It also gives students an experience with memories that will last a lifetime.
Q: Q: How does playing in a musical differ from other performances you’ve been part of?
A: There is a lot more camaraderie. However, I never get to see the show!
Q: How do you prepare for a musical, and what is the rehearsal process like for the orchestra?
A: I work on the page turns and patch shifts. There are nearly 300 pages to turn and almost as many patch shifts. I also practise lots, particularly late at night when all staff and students have gone home!
Q: For those who don’t know, what is a patch shift?
A: It is where you have the keyboard create different synthesised sounds to match the action in the script. I hit a pre-programmed note on the piano, which shifts the sound. The piano is connected to a laptop which has all the patch shifts pre-loaded in order.
Q: Why should everyone come and see The Addams Family?
A: I have played the show before and it’s fun!
Chapel Music
This term, we have had the wonderful opportunity to be serenaded by some of our Middle and Senior Elective Music students at Chapel. Chapel Band officially launched at Middle School Chapel in Week 9, featuring Callum Brady (Year 11) on electric guitar, Sarah Kuppens (Year 11) on piano, Sophia Markotsis (Year 11) on bass guitar, Paige Hyland (Year 8) on drums and Olivia Weston (Year 11) on vocals. These students, under the direction of Miss Westwood, rehearse during their lunch time so they can spread the gift of music to their peers. As their rendition of Let It Be by The Beatles resonated through the Chapel, students had the opportunity to reflect on the important of letting it be and knowing that, in God’s grace, things will always as they are meant to be.








“I wake up to the sound of music, Mother Mary comes to me
Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.”
During the Easter Eucharist Chapel in Week 10, three dedicated Year 9 Music students displayed remarkable courage as they performed while students and staff received communion. A heartfelt thank you to Macy Hews, Oliver Prickett, and Emma Williams for their beautiful and moving performance. The standard of musical talent at the College continues to rise, and we are truly grateful for our students’ willingness to share their gifts, enriching our community with the power of music.








Year 9, 10 and 11 Music Recital
On Wednesday, 19 March, 52 talented Elective Music students took the stage for the Year 9, 10 and 11 Term 1 Recitals, delivering captivating performances that showcased their dedication and skill. With remarkable courage, each student stepped up to the music stand, performing for an appreciative audience of family, peers, and Music staff.
Spanning a variety of instruments and voices, the recital featured an impressive array of musical styles and genres, demonstrating the students’ versatility and passion for their craft. Their professionalism and commitment were evident, with weeks of diligent preparation culminating in a truly memorable evening.
As always, the students were expertly accompanied by Mr Bruce Ramm, whose unwavering support continues to inspire and elevate their musical journeys. A heartfelt thank you to all performers for their outstanding efforts, and to their dedicated Music teachers, Miss Ebony Westwood and Mr Heath Del Favero, for guiding them towards musical excellence. Bravo!













In Term 1, the Chinese Club was a fantastic opportunity for students to explore Chinese culture outside of the classroom. Held every Tuesday lunchtime, the club welcomed enthusiastic participants from Year 1, Year 2, Year 3 and some new Year 6 students.
Throughout the term, students participated in a variety of fun and meaningful activities. They explored Chinese calligraphy, practicing on both water ink paper and traditional rice paper with real ink, which helped them appreciate the art of Chinese writing.
To celebrate the Chinese New Year, students received red envelopes and solved Chinese riddles, adding to the festive atmosphere. They also made colourful lanterns, worked on tangram puzzles, and learned a Chinese poem, developing both language skills and cultural awareness. The Chinese Club has provided a space for students to experience Chinese traditions in a fun and engaging way.
With over 30 students enrolled and an impressive attendance rate of over 80% each session, we have had a fantastic start to the Year of the Snake.
Amanda Li
Junior School Chinese Teacher
What a term we have had! Currently we have 23 students learning and playing chess on Wednesday afternoons in MAG 1. While the majority of students come from Junior School, there are several students from Middle School joining us which is fantastic! It has been so exciting to see everyone improve so much, and yes, the students want to play me, as they know I am someone they can win against! Too good for Ms Sheehan!
Mr Ash and his helper Ms Megan have separated the group into two, with the older students learning and playing with Mr Ash and Ms Megan instructing the younger students. They are learning so much from their Chess Mate lessons and are looking forward to a few tournaments that are coming in Terms 2 and 3, with the tournament in Term 3 to be held at WestMAC!
Exciting times ahead!
I hope everyone has a very safe and relaxing Easter.
See you next term.
Jenny Sheehan
Chess Mates Co-ordinator
Currently we have 15 eager and game professional students playing Rocket League on a Thursday afternoon in the Claridge Centre. We have a few students from the previous years winning team still with us and they are doing a wonderful job in assisting to coach, the new and upcoming players within the League.
There are many talented players within the group and I can see that we will definitely be ready to have another try at winning back to back champion schools, in the future.
Thank you boys for a wonderful, fun term of Rocket League and I wish you all a very happy and safe Easter break!
See you in Term 2.
Jenny Sheehan
Rocket League Coach
As we prepare for ANZAC Day, just a quick reminder to please RSVP to me via email at jsheehan@wmac.com.au if you’re planning to attend our College service on Wednesday 24 April. The doors to the Lostroh Centre will open at 11:30am, with the service beginning at 12:15pm and concluding around 1:15pm, followed by light refreshments at the back of the hall. We’re looking forward to welcoming you and sharing this special time of remembrance together.
For full details about our ANZAC Day services, including information on the Ipswich ANZAC March, please refer to the article from our Deputy Principal in this newsletter.
I’ve also included the latest DMFS eNEWS and a fact sheet on the Partner Employment Assistance Program (PEAP) – two helpful resources you may wish to explore.
Wishing you and your families a safe and relaxing Easter – see you in Term 2!
Jenny Sheehan
Defence School Mentor
Uniform Shop Opening Times – School Days only
Day |
Terms 1 & 4 |
Terms 2 & 3 |
Monday |
7.30am to 3.30pm |
7.30am to 3.30pm |
Wednesday |
7.30am to 3.30pm |
7.30am to 11am |
Friday |
7.30am to 3.30pm |
7.30am to 3.30pm |
Please note that the Uniform Shop will:
- The uniform shop will close for Term 1 trading on Friday 4 April 2025 at 3.30pm
- The uniform shop will be open on Wednesday 16 April 2025 (during school holidays) between 7.30am and 3.30pm
- The uniform shop will be re-open for Term 2 on Tuesday 22 April 2025 (first day of Term)
- The uniform will be open on Wednesday 23 April 2025 between 7.30am and 3.30pm
- The uniform shop will be closed on Friday 25 April 2025 – ANZAC Day
Blazers
Unfortunately, the blazer delivery is running behind schedule and will be late and is expected to arrive during the school holidays. Blazers can be tried-on and purchased at the Uniform Shop on any day that it is open. There is no need to make an appointment. If the required size is not available, it can be placed on backorder.
Blazer Pocket Embroidery
Any pockets or hats left for embroidery after 10 March will be available at the start of next term.
Winter Uniform
The College does not have a separate winter and summer uniform. Students can wear the same formal uniform throughout the year with the following additional requirements:
All Middle and Senior School students (i.e., Years 7 to 12) must wear their College blazer to and from the College in Terms 2 and 3 and at public engagements. Middle and Senior School boys must wear the appropriate College tie in Terms 2 and 3. Year 12 have a senior tie.
Please refer to the following table for the items that students can wear with their formal uniform anytime during the year if they are cold.
|
Prep |
Years 1 to 6 |
Years 7 to 12 |
College Blazer |
No |
No |
Yes |
Fleshed coloured tights or stockings for the girls (worn with white socks) |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
College Jumper |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
College Junior School Tracksuit Jacket |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
College Junior School Tracksuit Pants |
Yes |
No |
No |
College Middle/Senior School Tracksuit |
No |
No |
No |
College Trousers/Pants |
No |
Yes |
Yes |
College Vest |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Lay- by
Uniforms can be placed on lay-by with a minimum 10% deposit. Items are at the prices current when placed on lay-by. Items can be exchanged or refunded after the lay-by has been collected if required.
Orders
If you are unable to visit the Uniform Shop during trading hours, we accept orders by Flexischool, phone, and email. Paid orders can be:
- collected from the Uniform Shop
- collected from sub-school receptions
- delivered to students in Prep to Year 6
Glenda Boike
Uniform Shop Convenor
Phone: 07 3813 4533
Email: uniforms@wmac.com.au