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32nd Founders’ Day Ceremony
This week we had the privilege of celebrating the College’s 32nd Founders’ Day — a milestone that commemorates the laying and blessing of the Foundation Stone on 18 July 1993.
Founders’ Day is a special occasion in the life of our College. It offers us a moment to pause and reflect on the vision and commitment of those who laid the foundations for West Moreton Anglican College. It is also a time to acknowledge how far we have come as a community, and to recommit ourselves to the values that continue to guide us today.
We were honoured to welcome Bishop Cameron Venables, Bishop for the Western Region, who presided at this year’s ceremony, apart from his usual, engaging address, Bishop Cameron also commissioned two new College Council members - AIRCDRE Robert Graham and Mr Jon Neale.
A much-loved part of Founders’ Day is the recognition of long-serving staff who have made significant contributions to College life over many years. This year, we congratulated the following staff members:
25 Year Service Stars
- Ian Hayne
- Jenny Lostroh
- Sharon Loeffel
- Janet Kennedy
- Ken Harvie
- Michelle Madden
20 Year Service Medal
- Tricia Steele
10 Year Service Badges
- Rob Hillier
- Ben O’Connell
- David Teakle
- Kandy Shih
- Carol Goodwin
- Jon Gillinder
- Don Brosnan
- Lateticia Strohben
- Renae Alexander
As this was my first Founders’ Day at WestMAC, it was a deeply meaningful opportunity to witness the spirit and history of the College in action. I feel proud to be part of this community — and excited for the journey ahead as we continue to build on this strong and inspiring legacy.
Wulkuraka Connection Road Flashing School Zone Lights - Now Operational
You may have noticed that the new flashing school zone lights on Wulkuraka Connection Road are now installed and fully operational.
This milestone is the result of years of dedicated advocacy by our Parents and Friends Committee. I extend my sincere thanks to the many members — past and present — who have campaigned tirelessly for this important safety measure.
Archbishop’s Welcome Back to Term Prayer
Finally, please find a link to the Archbishop’s Welcome Back to Term Prayer, intended for students, staff, and the entire school community to listen and reflect upon for the start of Term 3.
Andrew Peach
Principal
A New Partnership with Purpose: WestMAC and Hope Given
At West Moreton Anglican College, we are deeply committed to nurturing the hearts as well as the minds of our students. As part of this mission, we are proud to announce a new partnership with Hope Given, an organisation that exists to bring hope, dignity, and practical support to vulnerable women and children in our local community.
Founded on Christian values and a strong belief in the power of community, Hope Given works to restore and empower lives affected by domestic violence (DV), homelessness, and hardship. Their hands-on work includes providing essential items through DV Support care packs, and support services to women in crisis situations. They offer not just help, but hope.
DV Support Packs are designed to help support anyone who may find themselves fleeing an unsafe situation. Research shows that one of the main factors resulting in victims returning to an unsafe environment is out of necessity in not having the items they need to get themselves through the first few days until they can find their next step to safety - DV Support Packs aim to fill the gap. Packs are available for
all people of any age.
This partnership presents meaningful opportunities for our students and staff to engage in purposeful service-learning, connect faith to action, and grow in compassion and awareness of the challenges faced by others. Whether through chaplaincy-led initiatives, student-driven donation drives, or collaborative projects across the College, our community will be invited to actively contribute to the work of Hope Given.
Supporting Hope Given is simple. When you do your grocery shopping, consider picking up a few extra personal hygiene or self-care items to donate. Donations can be dropped off at Middle School Reception, Senior School Reception, or the Chapel of the Good Shepherd. Each term, Hope Given representatives will join our students to sort and pack these items for distribution by local police, hospital staff, and mission agencies to those in need.
In aligning with this organisation, we are reminded of the words from Micah 6:8: “What does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” Our partnership with Hope Given is one way we seek to live this out; not only in words, but in practical, community-focused action.
We look forward to sharing updates with you as this partnership grows and as our students take the lead in making a real and lasting impact. Together, we can be a source of hope and light to those who need it most.
Reverend Jane Markotsis
College Chaplain
Read LessSchool Attendance Procedures
At WestMAC we consider that effectively managing school attendance is not only a legislated responsibility but also an important child safety and student wellbeing concern. Included below are reminders about important processes in this regard.
Arrival on time for school
Students are required to be at school to attend Pastoral Care Time, which starts at 8.25am each day. It is important for student wellbeing that children arrive at school in time to feel prepared for the school day. Pastoral Care Time includes important messages, prompting students about schedule for the day and student wellbeing check-ins which promote confidence and independence.
Late arrivals
Any student who arrives late during the school day is required to report to Junior School reception with a parent/carer to sign in on the late arrivals register. Students will be issued with a late pass in their Student Diary for their class teacher.
Early departures
Any student who needs to leave the College early during the school day is to report to the relative sub-school reception with a note of permission written by a parent in the Student Diary or communicate the same to the sub-school reception via phone or email. The parent must sign the student out via the Early Departure Register. Any student leaving during the College day for an appointment and then returning to school will need to be signed-out and signed-in at the relevant sub-school reception.
If a student becomes ill during the school day, they will be directed to the Health Centre where a College Nurse will contact a parent or guardian to collect them if necessary. In such a case the student will be signed out in the Early Departure Register in the Health Centre.
Reporting Student Absence
If your child will be absent from school, parents are expected to phone the Absentee Line prior to 8.15am on the day of absence. Please provide your child’s name, class, and a reason for the absence.
Parents of students not in attendance at school and where a reason has not been provided for the absence, will receive an SMS from the College. Please contact Junior School reception as soon as practical to confirm your child’s absence from school and provide the reason. If you don’t respond to our SMS, the sub-school Receptionist will contact you with a follow up phone call.
Absence for holidays during school term
Attendance at school is compulsory. Families wishing to take holidays during the school term are required to seek permission in writing from the Head of Junior School. In the case of an extended absence from school, an exemption from attendance form may need to be completed and approved.
Your assistance in following these simple steps will provide our students with the highest level of care and safety.
Uniform Focus
Families are reminded about correct winter uniform items in addition to the formal College uniform. This includes:
- WestMAC jumper, vest and or jacket
- Flesh coloured tights for girls
- WestMAC navy scarf only
Non-WestMAC uniform scarves, gloves or jackets are not to be worn.
Please ensure that jumpers, vest, jackets and scarves are correctly named. This allows us to return mis-placed items to the correct students.
A word from Michele Juratowich - Carpe Diem
Not many students now learn Latin but a few Latin words and phrases have entered common usage. “Carpe diem”, translated as “seize the day”, is one Latin phrase that is widely understood and still used in modern times. Although originally taken from a poem written in the Odes by the Latin poet Horace, the phrase was made popular when used in the movie The Dead Poet’s Society.
“Carpe diem” has become a call for action and an impetus for each of us to make the most of each day. The phrase is used to suggest one should not put off doing things indefinitely but rather act here and now in order to live life to the fullest. In other words, we should grab opportunities that present and decide to do things today. The implication is that if we don’t take opportunities now, the opportunity may not present itself again and it may be too late to do things at another time.
This concept applies to students who can take immediate action in many ways: taking notes in class; asking questions about a topic; getting started on assignments immediately; undertaking research projects; doing revision and making early preparation for exams. There are lots of ways that students can take immediate action and seize an opportunity; using time efficiently and taking advantage of whatever time is available. There are many opportunities outside of school, including within extracurricular activities, when an unexpected opportunity arises and students must make a decision as to whether or not to act upon this. Of course, students who are already well prepared and have developed critical skills are in a much stronger position to utilize such opportunities.
“Carpe diem” refers to using time well and taking opportunities now in order to create a better future and enjoying life to the full. This approach does not promote dangerous, risk taking behaviour or impulsively making decisions without sufficient information or caution. A thoughtful, considered approach that encourages effective use of time and preparedness to take up opportunities as they present is embodied by the phrase.
Mindfulness, which has been practiced in Eastern philosophies for thousands of years, is based upon a similar premise: paying attention to the here and now; focusing one’s attention upon and utilizing the present. This doesn’t mean that the past or the future is ignored; learning from the past can inform current decisions and allows individuals to focus on the present in ways that will create a better future. Seizing the day is similar to mindfulness in suggesting a focus on the present and both imply maintaining openness to possibilities. None of us knows what the future holds but we can prepare for the future by acting today and remaining open to utilizing opportunities that may arise in the future.
© Michele Juratowitch
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On Saturday 19 July, it was the 109th Commemoration of the Battle of Fromelles. Caela Segon of Year 12 was the guest speaker. Caela's speech was precise, emotive and extremely well written. Many veterans and serving members approached us and thanked Caela for her speech. Congratulations and well done Caela!
Please see the latest edition of e-news, and information on Solider On Mentoring Programs.
Soldier On Mentoring Program
Soldier On invites veterans, current ADF service members, and their adult family members (18+) to apply for the Soldier On Mentoring Program—an award-winning initiative that supports you in achieving employment, education, and personal goals. This structured 18-week program facilitates meaningful mentorship connections between experienced professionals from Soldier On Pledge Partners, and other subject matter experts. Through this initiative, participants are provided an opportunity to engage in a purposeful and enriching mentor-mentee relationship, fostering personal and professional growth.
Applications are closing soon. For more information and to apply, please visit: https://soldieron.org.au/supporting-you/learning-and-education/pathways-mentoring or email education@soldieron.org.au.
We would love to hear from you if you are seeking support in:
- Career progression, planning, change or networking
- Education or study direction
- Professional or personal skill development
- Smooth transition support from the ADF
Program dates: 4 August 2025 - 4 December 2025
Exercise Talisman Sabre - July to August 2025
Australia will host the largest ever Exercise Talisman Sabre from 13 July to 4 August 2025. Over 30,000 military personnel from 19 nations are set to participate in activities across Australia, and for the first time, in Papua New Guinea.
Now in its eleventh iteration, Talisman Sabre is the largest bilateral combined training activity between the Australian Defence Force and the United States military, reflecting the closeness of our Alliance.
Participating partner nations in Talisman Sabre 2025 also include:
- Canada, Fiji, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Tonga, and the United Kingdom.
- Brunei, Malaysia and Vietnam will also attend as observers.
Talisman Sabre 2025 will focus on multi-domain warfighting. Key activities will include amphibious and airborne lodgements, firepower demonstrations, and combat across land, air, sea, space and cyber domains.
The logistics for preparing, staging, integrating and moving forces to and around Australia are the most complex ever undertaken for a Talisman Sabre.
The activities are scheduled to take place right across the nation, including Queensland, Western Australia, the Northern Territory, New South Wales and on Christmas Island.
For the first time ever, Papua New Guinea will also host an activity, highlighting the growing capabilities and interoperability with Pacific partners as Papua New Guinea marks its 50th Anniversary of Independence.
Quotes attributable to the Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones:
- “Talisman Sabre demonstrates our enduring Alliance with the United States, through deepening cooperation in training and force integration.
- “It is a key opportunity to work with our partners from across the region and around the globe, demonstrating our combined capability to achieve large-scale operational outcomes together.
- “As well as welcoming the largest ever contingent of partner nations, Australia is also excited to be holding part of this year’s exercise in Papua New Guinea. This is an important demonstration of the deepening integration between Australia and Papua New Guinea’s Defence Forces.”
Quotes attributable to the Talisman Sabre Exercise Director, Brigadier Damian Hill:
- “This year’s exercise will demonstrate our ability to receive large volumes of personnel and equipment into Australia from across the Indo-Pacific, to stage, integrate and move them forward into the large exercise area.
- “Considerable planning has gone into a safe and productive exercise for all participants.
- “Talisman Sabre 2025 will be held across a range of Defence and non-Defence training areas throughout northern Australia. I thank the traditional owners, landowners, state authorities, and key community stakeholders who have helped us develop a safe and productive exercise for all participating nations.”
If you require any assistance in regard to absences due to deployments, exercises or Married Unaccompanied, please reach out. My details are as follows: jsheehan@wmac.com.au or (07) 3813 4508.
See you all out and about.
Jenny Sheehan
Defence School Mentor
Read LessThe Addams Family – One week to go!
At the time of publication, The Addams Family has only one week to go until our incredible students take to the stage at the Ipswich Civic Centre! It has been six months of blocking, choreographing, singing, costuming, designing sets, learning lines, building props, rehearsing harmonies, fine-tuning comic timing, adjusting lighting cues, and most importantly, creating unforgettable memories together.
It is still not too late to purchase tickets to support our dedicated and talented students!
Meet the Cast
Name: Sophie Mullens
Year: 12
Character: Wednesday Addams
Musical experience:
- Wicked (2021)
- Beauty and the Beast Jnr, Ipswich Music Theatre Company Jnr (2021)
- Chitty Chitty Bang Bang Jnr, IMTC Jnr (2022)
- West Side Story (2023)
- Aladdin Jnr, IMTC Jnr (2023)
Q: What have you enjoyed about The Addams Family so far?
A: Being a part of the cast and getting to know Wednesday. I’m playing something that isn’t my usual character.
Q: What has been a highlight?
A: The first photo shoot we did at the start of the Term 1 holidays! It was so cool seeing all our characters come to life with costumes and makeup.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your character, Wednesday.
A: She is very moody and emotional. A lot of people see her as very black and white but she has a lot of passion and she knows what she wants. She is very strong and very stubborn – something I can relate to!
Q: What are you looking forward to in playing Wednesday?
A: I’m really looking forward to singing my big Pulled number, it is such a big sing and a fun piece to perform! I’m also looking forward to the full-cast numbers, it is so enjoyable working with everyone.
Q: What are some things you have done to prepare for the role of Wednesday?
A: I have started taking singing lessons to ensure my voice is the best it can be. I spend my nights practising and I spend my afternoons looking at lots of videos of other Addams Family productions to take inspiration from other Wednesday’s. And obviously, being at rehearsal every Saturday!
Q: What is your favourite line that Wednesday says?
A: “Pugsley, could you just go away and die!”
Meet the Cast
Name: Max Rossow
Year: 12
Character: Gomez Addams
Musical experience:
- Baby John in The Jets, West Side Story (2023)
Q: What have you enjoyed about The Addams Family so far?
A: I have enjoyed working with the cast, they’re a really great bunch of people. I have enjoyed singing many of the songs, particularly Trapped, which is about Gomez’s conundrum that he is facing about not being able to tell the truth, because he has never kept a secret from Morticia.
Q: What has been a highlight?
A: A highlight so far has been working with my peers, some of whom I’ve known since Year 8. Another highlight has been choreographing and blocking the Tango de Amor scene. Learning how to do a tango was challenging, but we had Miss Strohben leading the way.
Q: Tell us a little bit about your character, Gomez.
A: Gomez is a sophisticated gentlemen who adores his family, but especially adores his wife, Morticia. He is passionate and loving, and would NEVER keep a secret from his wife. Or would he? He changes as the musical progresses, from someone who was very set in his ways to changing his life perspective. Because he just wants his daughter to be happy.
Q: What are you looking forward to in playing Gomez?
A: Wearing a pin stripe suit! And doing a Spanish/American accent.
Q: What are some things you have done to prepare for the role of Gomez?
A: I’ve learnt how to do the Spanish/American accent by watching lots of videos on YouTube. I’ve also watched videos on Tangos to see the technique. I listened to the whole show on repeat while I was doing laps on my Bathurst Simulator to help me learn the lines and the songs. Because cars are number one.
Q: What is your favourite line that Gomez says?
A: “It’s the last thing I try before the chloroform!” Or “What I lack in depth, I make up for in shallowness.”
Meet the Staff
Name: Tina Paliadelis
Role: Producer, Reed II (Orchestra)
Years at the College: 7 years
Musical experience: This is the fifth musical in my teaching career. I have previously been a part of Production Teams for Oliver (2015), The Addams Family (2017), Anything Goes (2019) and Wicked (2021). I’ve been singing since I was 5 and have been playing saxophone since I was 10. My entire life has revolved around music, being in concert bands, chamber ensembles, orchestras, jazz ensembles and choirs throughout school, university and now as a teacher! I’ve also had the opportunity to perform alongside Queensland Symphony Orchestra, Queensland Pops Orchestra and many other local ensembles as part of the choir I’m currently in.
Q: What are you looking forward to in your role as Producer?
A: I am so excited to be a part of this incredible team of passionate, talented and dedicated staff who are so generous with the time and expertise that they are giving to our students. With my Producer hat on, I get to use my organisation skills behind the scenes – creating and ordering shirts, liaising with stakeholders, creating the program, helping with marketing, developing the risk assessments, booking buses, putting in maintenance requests, creating Microsoft forms for various things… the list goes on!
Q: What have you enjoyed about the musical so far?
A: Every rehearsal brings so much joy to staff and students alike! There is constant laughter and happy chatter, it is wonderful being able to work with like-minded people on something so beautiful and creative. I have also loved watching friendships formed across cohorts, with younger students coming out of their shells and positive relationships formed that will last a lifetime.
Q: What are you looking forward to in playing the Reed II part in the Orchestra?
A: Once all the administration and organisation is (kind of) done, I get to play my instruments! I am a musician through and through, but don’t play much anymore, so it is wonderful that I can be part of the orchestra with my colleagues and students. I also love that I get to play so many instruments in the one show – flute, clarinet, bass clarinet, soprano saxophone and tenor saxophone!
Q: Why do you think it is important for schools to have musicals?
A: Musicals are a wonderful opportunity for all Arts disciplines to collaborate. The community that is built through the rehearsal process is so special and fosters a sense of belonging, self-worth and safety with all students. Seeing students outside of the classroom is incredibly rewarding. They can push themselves out of their comfort zone and take risks that they may not have the opportunity to take anywhere else. The memories and friendships that are made through musicals will last students (and staff) a lifetime!
Q: What is your favourite line?
A: Gomez: “I’ve still got the fox box problem!”
Q: Why should everyone come and watch The Addams Family?
A: To support our incredible students and staff who have put in countless hours, blood, sweat and tears to bring this creepy show to life! Plus, it’s absolutely hilarious and family friendly. A perfect night out for all ages!
Meet the Staff
Name: Cassie Hoiberg
Role: Director, Choreographer
Years at the College: 3 years
Musical experience: This is my fifth musical as Director, however my own stage debut began when I was 8 years old and performed in my primary school pantomime 'The Pied Piper' as a new character 'Ratty' the rat who was left behind.
Q: What are you looking forward to in your role as Director?
A: As Director, I get to see each part of the production come to life - the blocking, the choreography, the sets, the music, the costumes, etc. I love the moment each of these individual parts come together to make musical magic! I am so privileged to work with a range of talented staff and students across many different departments and roles. It is one of the best opportunities for collaboration across the College.
Q: What do you need to do to prepare for the role of Director?
A: Everything! Preparation for this musical began in Term 3 last year and has not stopped since. Most nights you will find me blocking a scene, choreographing a dance number, or singing in my living room, getting ready for our weekend rehearsals.
Q: What have you enjoyed about the musical so far?
A: The energy and enthusiasm from this cast is outstanding! Just when you think they've given everything they have, they rise to a new level. I am so excited to share the talent of our students with the wider community.
Q: What are you looking forward to in your role as Choreographer?
A: Getting spooky! This show, with its 45 dead ancestors, really encourages a unique approach to movement. Being able to incorporate comedy into our choreography has been so fun too. I am lucky to work alongside the amazing Rhiannon Strohben and Tobey Ogilvie to create the choreography for this show.
Q: How different is it choreographing a musical as opposed to a ‘standard’ dance number?
A: There is so much more to think about! Characters, roles, costumes, props, set pieces. Musical choreography is about all telling a story. The storytelling aspect is just as important as the movement - both have to work together seamlessly to create a great number.
Q: Why do you think it is important for schools to have musicals?
A: Nothing builds community, respect and kindness like school musicals do. Although the finished product is always rewarding to share with the wider community, it is the friendships and support networks the students develop as a result of participating in the musical that really proves why these type of extracurricular opportunities are so important. When students graduate, it is these type of experiences they will remember most fondly.
Q: What is your favourite line?
A: "Because living or dead, family is still family."
Q: Why should everyone come and watch The Addams Family?
A: Where else can you watch teenagers pretend to be dead, creepy, and romantically cursed? Plus, it's the only place where a love story, a tango, and a disembodied hand all make perfect sense! Come along for a fantastically spooky experience!
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