27 August 2025

Principal’s Pride

Dear Parents, Caregivers and Community Members,

Welcome to Week 7 – How did we get to the final 20 school days of Term 3 so quickly?  Book Week activities and assemblies are a much-awaited highlight for this week…. I can’t wait to see everyone’s costumes this year!  Refer to detailed information later in this newsletter.

Book Week School Celebration – Week 7 – THIS FRIDAY

Don’t forget that our School Book Week Celebration is coming up soon! This year’s theme is ‘Book an Adventure.’ Our school Book Week assemblies and AMAZING staff/student performances will be held in TCBC on the morning of Friday, 29 August (Prep to Year 2 from 9:30am and Year 3 to 6 from 11:45am). All family and community members are warmly invited to attend – it is an event NOT to miss! Following the staff/student performances there will be a march for all students to parade their costumes for their peers.

Our school library is also getting into the spirit! We will host an author visit on Friday at first break. Interested students are able to come to the library and listen to Sarah Hodges (author of Wally the Wombat) speak about the writing process.

P&C Father’s Day Stall – Monday, September 1 to Thursday, September 4

Our wonderful P&C are once again running a Father’s Day Stall for our students to be able to purchase gifts for the special male caregivers in their lives. Gift prices are very competitive, and all profits go towards school fundraising projects which include playgrounds, shade structures and resources. The P&C have now distributed flyers to all students regarding purchasing options.

The P&C are also seeking additional parent volunteers to help make the stall a success.  Please email the P&C at hello@twsspandc.org.au OR sign up online at: https://signup.zone/8Pk9DD78nDFXbr3ux  if you can assist in any way.  Many hands make light work.

2026 Instrumental Music Recruitment Evening for current Year 2-5 Students and their Parents/Caregivers

We have places available in our Strings, Brass, Woodwind and Percussion Instrumental Music Programs for 2026. Parents/Caregivers of current Year 2 to 5 students who may be interested in pursuing learning an instrument in 2026, are cordially invited to attend an Information Session to be held in TCBC on Wednesday, 3 September from 5.00pm (Week 8). Come along and learn all about the program and take the opportunity to ask questions.

3 Way Conversations – Parent-Teacher-Student Meetings (Tuesday and Wednesday WEEK 9)

Letters regarding 3 Way Conversations have been distributed to families THIS WEEK. Online bookings opened on Wednesday, 27 August and close at 3.00pm on Thursday, 4 September. Please contact the school office if you experience difficulties with this.

These meetings are held twice per year – once each semester – and are an important component of developing home-school partnerships focussed on student learning, progress and achievement. On Tuesday afternoon, 9 September, our Prep to Year 2 staff will engage with their parents/caregivers and students who book a meeting time, whilst Wednesday afternoon, 10 September will be for booked Year 3 to 6 meetings. All meetings will be held in TCBC. 

Please note there are some modifications to this timetable around individual teacher availability. Mrs Tropea (1D) will be conducting her 3 Way Conversation meetings early in Term 4 – further information will be communicated around arrangements for this.

If you are unable to attend on this occasion, please make contact with your child’s class teacher or the school office to coordinate an alternative meeting time if required.

Safe School Travel for All

Travelling to and from school can be a very busy time. Parents are respectfully asked to assist our staff in keeping their children safe by reminding students:

• Roads and footpaths are not a place to play – look out for traffic at all times and only cross the road at the designated SAFE school crossing points supervised by a ‘lollipop’ person.  Parents are requested to not encourage children to cross the road in the middle of the STOP, DROP and GO zone.
• When riding scooters and bicycles wear protective equipment correctly
• When travelling in a car, remember to put on your seat-belt in an age-appropriate seat
• When travelling by bus, remain seated at all times and show respect to the driver    

Extra-Curricular Activities – Eisteddfod – Week 9 and 10

Over Week 9 and 10 a large number of our students will be participating in Eisteddfod performances. I wish all of our participating musicians and singers the very best and look forward to sharing news of their achievements in future newsletters. I know they will represent our school with pride. Thanks to our Music Specialist Teacher, Mrs Fiona Coleman, and our Instrumental Music Teachers, for their passion, energy and commitment to helping develop our young musicians and singers to be the very best they can be. Please ensure all school communication regarding rehearsals and permissions for these events are noted to avoid disappointment for your child.

The schedule of our students’ performances will be published within our school newsletter once finalised.

Parentline: Support and advice for all Queensland parents and carers

Being a parent can be rewarding—but it can also be challenging. Whether you’re trying to support your child with school issues, friendship challenges, behaviour, or tough moments at home, it’s completely normal to feel unsure about what to do next.

Parentline is a free and confidential service available to all Queensland parents and carers. No problem is too big or too small—and reaching out early can make a real difference.

Parentline offers advice and support on a wide range of parenting topics, including:

• bullying and friendship issues
• parent–child relationships
• parenting strategies and behaviour management
• mental and emotional wellbeing—for both children and parents

You can speak with a trained professional by phone or webchat (6am-midnight), seven days a week.

An online bullying support forum is also available. This is a safe, moderated space to connect with others, ask questions, and share experiences.

📞 Call 1300 30 1300
💬 Visit parentline.com.au

Because parenting doesn’t come with a manual—but help is here when you need it.

2026 ENROLMENTS – NOW OPEN FOR ALL YEAR LEVELS 

Our school is now taking enrolments for the 2026 school year, please get your enrolment forms in as soon as possible, to inform school planning. Should you know of friends or family looking to join our great school, please inform them that they are also most welcome to contact the school for further information and to obtain an enrolment package.

Is your Prep-Year 5 student transferring to another school in 2026?

We would appreciate early notice if your child, or children, will be transferring to another school in 2026. Please inform the office by phone on 47 991 333 OR email admin@thewillowsss.eq.edu.au at your earliest convenience.

ADVANCE NOTIFICATION: State-wide Student Free Day (Friday, 5 September)

The Term 3 Student Free Day (SFD) has been scheduled by the Department of Education for Friday, 5 September. Please note this date in your calendars – there will be no school for students on this day.

Have a wonderful ‘almost end to Winter’ week – stay healthy and happy. 

Thank you for your ongoing strong positive partnership with us in your child’s education.

Our next newsletter for Term 3 will be issued on Wednesday, 3 September.

Warm regards,
Michelle Donn
Principal

Upcoming Events

Year Level Parade Times

Positive Behaviour Learning (Safe, Respectful, Responsible)

Fortnightly Focus

The new fortnightly focus is ‘I know my feelings and take control "I feel it, I name it, I own it".

This focus encourages students to observe their feelings, acknowledge and name them and then explore how to control their response. It’s this response stage that is important and helps them take charge of what happens next. This helps us understand ourselves better and figure out how to handle our feelings in a healthy way. 

• "I feel it”: noticing how your body feels and recognizing that you're having a feeling. It's like when you feel butterflies in your tummy when you're excited, or a knot in your stomach when you're worried.
• "I name it": means figuring out what kind of feeling it is. Is it happy, sad, angry, scared, or something else? It's like learning the names of different colours.
• "I own it": means accepting that you're feeling that way, without trying to hide it or pretend it's not happening. It's like saying, "Okay, I'm feeling a little bit scared right now, and that's okay".

When you can do this, it helps you understand yourself better and makes it easier to deal with your feelings. Please talk with your children about the importance of knowing your feelings and taking control.

Writer’s Workshop

This Thursday, Year 5 students will be involved in the Writer’s Workshop with Mrs Winter, Mrs Nosworthy and Mrs Barra. Students will engage in a series of activities around leadership and how they write the application process.

Date:               Thursday 28^th August
Time:              11:40-1:10pm
Location:        TCBC Conference Room

Icy Cups

Icy cups are sold on Wednesday at 2:55pm from the TCBC kitchen for the Year 3 to 6 students and Junior CPA for the Prep to Year 2 students.

We appreciate the support the community gives to our student council fundraising!

QLD Road Safety Week

QLD Road Safety Week occurred between 18^th to 22^nd August, and it was great opportunity to focus the school community’s attention on the compliance and safety issues of E-Scooters. Matthew Slatcher from the Department of Main Roads and our School Based Police Officer Senior Constable Marcus Muller presented to the Year 5 and 6 students on Friday afternoon. The students learned:

Safety Gear and Device Requirements

• Helmet: Wear an approved bicycle or motorbike helmet at all times. 
• Warning Device: A bell, horn, or similar warning device is required for devices with handlebars. 
• Lights and Reflectors: You must use lights and reflectors when riding at night. 
• No Passengers: You are not allowed to carry passengers. 

Riding Rules and Speed Limits

• Speed Limits:
• 12 km/h on footpaths and shared paths. 
• 25 km/h on bike lanes and other roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h or less. 
• Give Way: You must give way to pedestrians. 
• Mobile Phones: It is illegal to use a mobile phone while riding. 
• Drunk/Drugged Riding: Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal. 

Age and Supervision

• Riding Age: You must be at least 12 years old. 
• Supervision: Riders aged 12 to 15 must have adult supervision. 

Road Use

• Road Rules: E-scooters are considered personal mobility devices (PMDs) and are subject to the same road rules as other vehicles. 
• Lights and Reflectors: You must use lights and reflectors if riding at night. 

General News

Book Week – Friday, 29 August

As part of our Book Week celebrations, we are excited to welcome a local author to speak with our students. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to hear firsthand about the writing process and the inspiration behind their books.

If you would like to pre-order a book for your child, the authors will be happy to sign it. Pre-orders can be made online, and Sarah will bring all pre-ordered books to school on Friday 29 August.

Order online at sarahandemilyauthors.com. Please simply select local pickup, so you aren’t charged for shipping. 

We’re looking forward to an inspiring session and a chance for students to connect with a real-life author!

P and C News

Upcoming Events

Here are some key dates and events happening in Term 3:

• P&C Meeting: We will have one more P&C meeting this term in Week 10 - Wednesday 17 September at 6pm in D Pod. All parents and carers are welcome to attend.
• Father’s Day Stall: Our annual Father’s Day Stall will be held from Monday, 1 September to Thursday, 4 September. Children will have the opportunity to visit the stall with their class groups and purchase a special gift for their dad or grandad. Gifts will be available for a small fee, and all proceeds will go towards P&C initiatives. Volunteers are needed every day. 
• Colour Fun Run: Our annual Colour Fun Run will be held on Friday, September 12. This is a fantastic opportunity for children to raise money and earn exciting prizes. Fundraising has now started. Children who participate can receive up to 5 prizes based on their fundraising efforts.

Father's Day Stall

Our Father’s Day Stall is just around the corner (1 to 4 September), and we’re looking for friendly volunteers to help make it a success!

Tasks include:

• Helping students choose the perfect gift
• Guiding them to stay within their budget
• Keeping gift tables stocked and tidy

Whether you can spare an hour, a morning, or even a full day, we’d love to have you on board. It’s a fun, feel-good way to support our school and meet other parents!

To volunteer:

• Return the volunteer form
• Email us: hello@twsspandc.org.au
• Or sign up online: https://signup.zone/8Pk9DD78nDFXbr3ux

Thank you for supporting our school community!

Colour Fun Run

Our Monty’s Colour Fun Run fundraiser has officially kicked off! Students have received their sponsorship booklets and are ready to start fundraising! You can now set up your child’s profile at www.myprofilepage.com.au

There are awesome prizes up for grabs. Just raise $10 to unlock your first incentive prize! Or, if you prefer, you can choose to donate your rewards to a great cause instead. The choice is yours!

Let’s work together to make this our most colourful and successful fundraiser yet!

To volunteer:

We’re looking for enthusiastic volunteers to help make the event on Friday, September 12 a fantastic success.

If you’d like to lend a hand and have a blast while doing it, please reach out to Belinda Barattucci at hello@twsspandc.org.au or call 0476 384 952 to express your interest.

We can’t wait to see you there!

P&C Contact Information
For any enquiries or suggestions, please feel free to contact us:

• Email: hello@twsspandc.org.au
• Phone: Amanda Gordon, Operations Manager, 0476 384 952

Stay tuned for more updates throughout the term!

Defence News

Hello and welcome to all Defence families/caregivers and students,

WOW, what a busy week we’ve had in the Defence Room. My days are filled with checking in with students who have a parent/s away to see how they are coping and offer supports to use at school and home. I’ve also been touching base with at home parents to talk to them about life as a single parent, coping strategies and just an ear to vent. My door in P2 is open from 8.00am to 3.30pm Monday to Wednesday so come in and say hi. I am available to make a time to have a private discussion if required.

If you know you are being POSTED and your family will be leaving the school for another location/school, please let me know via phone, email or call into my room for a chat. You can also access this link to see a list of schools who have a Defence School Mentor. You are welcome to contact the DSM at your new school for Defence family support and to discuss your impending relocation.

The attached flyer provides information that can support you and your family with the transition into a new school. Details include how to contact the Education Liaison Officer at DMFS which are an advisory service designed to inform Defence families on relocation and schools.

Education Assistance Scheme is available to access for tutoring within 18months of posting to a new school. This is available for all primary and high school aged children who may require support in Maths and English. Contact the DMFS Helpline on 1800 624 608 for all details on how to apply. With approval your child can have access to 14 hrs of tutoring for both Maths and English through a private tutor. Contact me with any questions. Flyer below with details.

The Partner Employment Assistance Program (PEAP) is again available to partners to claim reimbursement up to $1500 per financial year for a variety of employment services. More details and how to register are on the Defence Website or you can ask me for a flyer. 

Kookaburra Kids is in Townsville, this organisation supports defence kids living in families that are affected by mental illness.  For more details on activities contact Hannah Galliner on 0484 544 451 or check out the website www.kookaburrakids.org.au

Families with Special Needs you can access support through the Defence Special Needs Support Group (DSNSG) or call 1800 037 674.  For more information on assistance measures go to the website or email specialneeds.families@defence.gov.au

For what’s coming up in Townsville for Defence Families see attached flyer or register to receive their newsletter and updates dmfs.townsville@defence.gov.au or follow on Facebook.

Geckos Family Centre-North Queensland is at Lavarack Barracks and is open for parents and families to drop in. Organised daily activities on offer. Follow them on Facebook or phone them on 07 4411 7031 for more details.

TO BE UP TO DATE WITH “WHATS ON IN TOWNSVILLE” CHECK     whatson.townsville.qld.gov.au

UPCOMING EVENTS/DATES TO REMEMBER

Child of the ADF Medallion Ceremony

Come join us for a special medallion ceremony to honour the children of our ADF members. This in-person event will take place at the Wirraway Club at RAAF Base Townsville. This event is a small but important way of recognising the children who go through the emotional, and at times, difficult experience of having a loved one serve in the ADF. Participation in the Child of the ADF Medallion program is open to all recognised dependents of full time ADF members aged up to 18 years of age. Children are only eligible to obtain the medallion once, so if they have already received a Child of the ADF Medallion here in Townsville, or any other location, please do not register them again.

When:             Friday, 19 September
Time:               5.30pm – 7.00pm
Where:            Wirraway Club, RAAF Base Townsville
Tickets:           Eventbrite – Child of the ADF Medallion Ceremony

***This event fills quickly so register now***

Book Week Picnic in the Park

Calling all wizards, wild things, curious monkeys, and caped crusaders!

You're invited to a magical Book Week Picnic hosted by DMFS.

Join us for a whimsical morning of games, giggles, and literary adventures at the playground at Norman Park, which is in the Jezzine Barracks precinct.

Dress-up is highly encouraged – come as your favourite storybook character and BYO picnic as we enjoy the last weekend of winter, and each other’s company.

When:             Saturday, 30 August
Time:               10.00am – 12.00pm
Where:            Norman Park – playground area at base of the Jezzine precinct
Register:         Eventbrite – Book Week Picnic in the Park

IMPORTANT CONTACT DETAILS

Defence Family Helpline 24/7 - 1800 624 608 - Need Help give them a call    

DMFS Office at Nathan Business Centre on Ross River Rd, call 07 4430 3879 or walk in  

Open Arms support former and current serving ADF personnel and their family members can use the service – office is at the Nathan Business Centre or call 1800 011 046 www.openarms.gov.au

Mates4Mates – Townsville FRC 4771 9600 townsville@mates4mates.org

Dirty Boots Café now Open from 9am-12.30pm every day, you are welcome to attend for a chat and to have a look around.

The Oasis Townsville for Ex-ADF Community in Townsville  hello@theoasistownsville.org.au

DFA (Defence Families of Australia) NQ Delegate Eden Santos 0418 796 561 nth.qld@dfa.org.au

DSNG Defence Special Needs Group - 1800 037 674  www.dsng.org.au

Beyondblue.org.au www.australia.gov.au

Geckos Family Centre Nth Qld Lavarack Barracks - Contact for enquiries on 07 4446 1238 or follow on Facebook

Kookaburra Kids Charity Organisation Mental Health Service - 1300 566 525   www.kookaburrakids.org.au or contact Hannah Galliner 0484 544 451/1300 566 525

Defence Holidays NQ at Lavarack Barracks (opp the Gym) - 07 4725 3842 admin@defenceholidaysnq.com.au

My office is open for a private conversation and cuppa anytime or alternatively phone me any time on 4799 1333 ext 323, Monday to Wednesday or email me cwhee36@eq.edu.au

Have an awesome week!

Correna Wheeler
Defence School Mentor

ONE KIND WORD CAN CHANGE SOMEONES ENTIRE DAY!!

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