TERM 2 BEGINS

What were the first words you uttered, and to whom, on Tuesday morning? How did that shift the day’s rhythm and, in the interplay of conversation, affect those with whom your living space is shared?

Were you kind to yourself as you appeared in the bathroom mirror?

Tuesday was just one day of the 365 gifted to us this year. And yet, it mattered as we interacted with the matter around us, connecting ourselves to water, toothbrushes, potions, clothing, food, the wind, pets, vehicles, traffic and other people. As the magic of Tuesday unfolded a new adventure beckoned us to the experience of life. We are inextricably bound to one another, and to things, whether we like it or not!

Everyone has their own story to tell; All Saints is no different.

Tuesday was a good day! The school awoke to the excited buzz of a community eagerly reconnecting with the familiar comfort of school life. The laughter and happy greetings of a community overshadowed the angst of a few reluctant or new souls, for whom it was a little more difficult to enter the rhythm once again, or for the first time. To find a sense of belonging through connection is so vital to our humanity, to offer that connection is a gift beyond measure.

FIRST UP

A wonderful interview with Brenda Matthews, author of The Last Daughter. A beautiful story of connection, disconnection and reconnection as she courageously offers her story as a proud Wiradjuri woman, taken from her family as a child, raised by another family, and the bridge she built to facilitate her own healing and reconcile her family, without rancour but rather overwhelming kindness in the telling. Connect this story with a Year 11 audience and an English task to write a narrative short story, and connection becomes even more complex. Our lovely students were enthralled and entirely respectful. They bless us every day! We surely influence others in every single thing we say and do. Life is a huge responsibility, and possibly the most difficult thing we have to do; it's best we do it kindly.

An hour or two connecting with computer devices, fellow travellers, the endless to do list which flippantly shifts the eternal now of Eckhart Tolle to a notable quest to reach the interminable due date! Completely engrossed in the task. Ah, such is life! For it does not remain there for long.

SHIFT HAPPENS

The kindness of staff who step in when 'fails' happen, even with the best intentions in the world. Thank you, Mr Francis Nairn for making that connection and taking the class after all (I said a special prayer of thanks for you today).

Tears! Pain! Someone’s life not unfolding quite as planned. Solace, a heavy heart. My ears need to connect with love and compassion. Trust. Deeply moved. Divine connection. And then…

Off to find a keyboard! Conferences need a Eucharist, Eucharists need songs and songs need a keyboard. Thank you Mr Tim Brown for hearing the frustration and making a plan. Connection - yes! Frustration eased, peace restored, Eucharist music and conference saved. Thank you, Mr Brown.

What’s up with your shoe Tim?

Broken – not sure it will last the day. Need superglue.

 (Thank God I live close to school and have a husband who insists superglue fixes everything.)

SUPERGLUE MAY HAVE SAVED THE DAY!

The ANZAC poppies arrived in response to an email sent to me asking if I could help him get in touch with our Mother Superior (I have nothing to say about that). Nevertheless, a delightful conversation ensued, which will be left to your imagination. Connections in misconnections.

Little Mates, connecting our Year 12s with our Year 3s. Happy hellos on the walk to Junior School. Year 12s playing an odd game of cat and catch with the little people out on our beautiful grounds. Stealing the soccer ball the ultimate goal – I think? Connections being made in the glee of the game.

 WHERE DID THE DAY GO?

Home to work on a costume for Legally Blonde. What fun to connect with Raoul (my sewing machine) at the end of a beautiful day. Family conversation about superglue and passports and whether Mother Superiors still exist. Isn’t love wonderful! Fit dinner in there somewhere and off to the Parents & Friends Association meeting to bond with the beautiful souls who make up this energised and highly productive team.

There was a point in the meeting where I threatened to phone Mr Wallas, who is away at present. The meeting had become completely out of control with fits of laughter, interspersed with hilariously mistaken instructions like:

And, remember, those of you who are modelling; it’s 'nude' for the Mother’s Day Morning Tea!

This should be entirely dis-connected, though was urgently corrected to an instruction regarding the colour of the shoes and make-up to be to be worn. Thank God for that!

The deep ties of loyalty, service and love which connect this incredible group of hard-working parents is one of the greatest blessings of our school. But then, if God created the universe out of chaos, why should the Parents & Friends Association be any different. Truth be told, the reason we have such fun is because it is so well-organised thanks to Sally McMahon and her trusty team.

TUESDAY WAS A VERY GOOD DAY

How was your first day of Term 2?

The connectedness of all things is a concept gaining much popularity in this year of 2023 as it cycles through the centuries in its rhythmic dance, enticing humans to an inquisitive quest for what it might mean for us as we awake to each new day. Perhaps it is the superglue which holds us together, heals our brokenness and makes us strong.

How will you connect tomorrow?

Blessings,

Mother Ann McGuinness
School Chaplain

A reminder the national launch of Aunty Brenda's highly anticipated book, The Last Daughter, will be held here at All Saints Anglican School next Wednesday 26 April.

Following a day of workshops with students from the Middle and Senior School, a community event will be held in the McIntosh Administration Centre at from 1.00pm - 2.30pm. Parents, staff, friends and members of the community are cordially invited to attend.

Date: Wednesday 26 April
Time: 1.00pm - 2.30pm
Location: McIntosh Administration Centre, All Saints Anglican School
RSVP: Register your attendance here

The event will include a reading from the book, a Q&A session with Brenda, an opportunity to purchase the book at a discounted price and have your copy signed by the author herself.

Light refreshments will be served, and there will be plenty of opportunity for a yarn with fellow cultural representatives in our local community. 

We hope you can join us as we seek to help Aunty Brenda share her very important message of reconciliation and understanding with the world.

Did you know the School offers free fitness sessions for parents after school drop off?

After a successful trial in Term 1, sessions will continue this term. Run by dynamic and experienced instructors Hayley and April Bateup, the sessions cater for all fitness levels and are free of charge! 

• When: Wednesdays and Fridays
• Time: 8.30am
• Where: Under the John Fradgley Sports Centre 
• Parking: Please park in the top or Senior School car parks and take a short stroll across the oval to the John Fradgley Centre
• Bring: Water bottle, towel and a smile 

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Due to the Mother's Day Morning Tea being held next Friday 28 April, for next week only the sessions will run on Monday 24 April and Wednesday 26 April.

Proudly sponsored by the P&F, the All Saints Business Directory is available through our school app. The directory allows All Saints families to advertise their goods or services to our community. In turn, members of our community can look up companies they know they can trust and help support fellow families.

Head to the app and tap the 'Businesses' tile on the homepage to view a great range of offers for All Saints families.

This service is completely free to All Saints families. The only criteria for advertising is that you have children currently at the School.

To list or update your business in the directory, please supply the following details via email to Sally Snow at ssnow@asas.qld.edu.au.

• Business name
• Business logo in jpg or png format
• Business contact details (address, phone, mobile, email address)
• Website address
• Social media handles
• Approximately 100 words of text to appear with your listing (This could include a personal introduction your business and/or special offers for All Saints families)

To use the business directory, simply download the All Saints app (if you haven't already)!

END OF TERM 1 CAMPS
Year 5 and 6 students all completed the first term for 2023 with amazing camps. Year 6 students ventured across the bay to Tangalooma while Year 5 travelled south to Tyalgum. Each camp provided endless opportunities for our students to step beyond comfort zones within the scaffolded safety of good friends and trusted teachers. 

EASTER HAT PARADE
Our littlest learners also finished the term in true All Saints style with their annual Easter Hat Parade. This year was another showstopper. Each hat, hand made with care, was unique and spectacular. Our littlies paraded for the admiring audience and then sang and danced for us all. Special guests were challenged to perform the Easter Bunny Dance and, although not quite as energetic as the PP to Year 2 students, did a very good job.

YEAR 1 ANIMAL ADVENTURERS
Our 75 very excited Year 1 students travelled to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary this week and learned about some cuddly (and not so cuddly) creatures. These little learners are becoming experts on Australian wildlife and even spent some time at Currumbin's leading Wildlife Hospital where they learned about how injured and sick animals are helped. Our students raised $393.20 for the Wildlife Hospital. It was a magnificent day of fun, friendship and learning.

It’s not just the sounds of children learning echoing through the Junior School that creates a joyful and exciting buzz. It is also the cacophony of encouragement, guidance and challenge that their adult support teams add to the mix. Our amazing Junior School Teachers seem to have a sixth sense for knowing just when to step in and step out as they nudge each individual towards personal bests, growth and success. Of course, things don’t always go as planned and learning is very much about stretching your thinking, stepping out of comfort zones and persistence.

Parents, and the partnership we develop between home and school, also play a critical role in supporting young learners through setbacks and success. We so look forward to welcoming parents back into our classrooms each week, as their support of our classroom programs is invaluable. 

Every generous parent volunteer has completed our All Saints Volunteer Induction program. We hope that they have found this process helpful in both advice for getting the most out of classroom visits as well as understanding a little about Child Protection Legislation and our commitment to keeping kids safe at All Saints. We are encouraging as many parents, grandparents and friends as we can to take up this valuable opportunity in 2023. Please note, it is compulsory for all school volunteers to undertake an induction before working in the school. 

Mrs Shelley Travers
Head of Junior School

Our annual Messy Church services at Anglican Church Robina are coming up this term. There is a choice of two separate service times for our youngest students and their families, and I encourage you to lock in one of those times. You won’t want to miss this fun!

Choose from two service options:

• Saturday 20 May from 10.00am to 11.00am
• Saturday 27 May from 2.00pm to 3.00pm

Messy Church is a church service with a difference. There is a little talking, a little singing and then a whole lot of fun activities for our little learners and their mums and dads. It will go for just over an hour with a special afternoon tea to finish the fun.

I look forward to spending this special time with our Pre Prep to Year 2 families as they are always wonderful times together.

Shelley Travers
Head of Junior School

Although Term 2 is only just underway, plans are afoot for another exciting Junior School event in our Term 3 calendar. The Junior School Concert is on the horizon.

Auditions will be held in the coming weeks for this not-to-be-missed showcase of Junior School talent and this year’s concert is destined to be bigger, better and brighter than ever. Every audition - whether individual or group, beginner or advanced - takes courage and I commend every dancer, singer and performer who is planning to have a go. The judges certainly have a tough job ahead of them in determining who will represent the Junior School in this year’s extravaganza. Stay tuned and watch this space for continuing updates.

Shelley Travers
Head of Junior School

"You’re never too old, too wacky, too wild, to pick up a book and read to a child." - Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss is one of the most quoted authors of all time. His words have motivated many a reluctant reader, inspired the uninspired and entertained the bored for generations. Theodor Seuss Geisel, AKA Dr. Seuss, devoted his life to creating books that children (and grown-ups) would love reading and his message to adults was equally powerful; reading changes lives.

"The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go."

We often hear from parents wondering how they can best support their young learners as they move through school. How can parents best and most effectively value add to the learning process?

Families are busy, and finding time to add in another thing isn’t always as easy as it sounds. So, in providing advice to families, a significant factor to consider is which parent support factor provides the most effective impact on young children’s learning.

The answer is seussically simple. Reading.

Reading books to, with or in front of our children stimulates their imagination, expands their understanding of the world and their interactions within it and assists them to develop language and listening skills. Those children who ‘catch’ the love of reading tend to read more and this wonderful cycle builds upon itself.

There is a great deal of science behind the benefits of reading to and with your children, particularly during their formative reading years. Consider the number of words children are exposed to in reading a variety of text types every day. More words read leads to strong and ever-evolving vocabulary. A broad vocabulary greatly benefits both formal learning capacities and key life skills such as communication, problem solving and social and emotional interactions. In short, words are powerful enablers of learning. The proof is in the numbers!

And if that's not already convincing enough, I’ve included a link which outlines a couple of key reasons why reading with your children makes such a difference. What is just as important though, is encouraging your maturing readers to continue reading. Regular reading continues to have a hugely significant impact upon students as they move into the middle and upper primary school years and beyond.

Why is Reading with Your Kids so Important? – Reading With Your Kids Podcast

Mrs Shelley Travers
Head of Junior School

A review of Eat, Move, Sleep by Tom Rath.

Eat. Move. Sleep. These are the powerful keys to optimal health and wellbeing and the powerful messages in a book I discovered over the break. These concepts are certainly not new to any of us, but they are articulately and scientifically examined in this great book which I heartily recommend to those of us seeking to live a well and balanced life. I know I struggle with the battle of good intentions and time management. It’s a really cool and easy read, too.

The BIG messages I took away:

1. Eat. Move. Sleep. You have to work on all three simultaneously. Spiral up.

2. A good night’s sleep drives the whole show. Research suggests that peak performers get at least 8 hours and 36 minutes sleep a night. Sleep is really important. This is my big challenge!

3. Sugar is "candy for cancer cells". Cancer cells feed on sugar so be aware of the insidious sugar hidden in foods when fueling your body.

4. Your brain works better following exercise. Need to do something important? Do a little moving first. Works with kids too – hint, hint!

5. Want to improve? Measure your progress (nothing new for we who value learning). If you want to improve something benchmark and measure your progress. Plenty of examples in this little book.

While we’re taking about Optimal Living which means living well for longer, I also discovered a great little talk by Dr Daniel Amen, a Psychiatrist who believes that brain health is central to all health. He is dedicated to helping people have better brain health and live better lives.

His pioneering work using brain SPECT imaging has the medical world asking lots of questions about the treatment of brain injuries, prolonging the onset of dementia and even the intervention of behaviour disorders. Fascinating for our own brain health as well as an interesting insight into disorders such as ADHD and ASD. Worth a listen.

TEDxOrangeCoast - Daniel Amen - Change Your Brain, Change Your Life - YouTube

Shelley Travers
Head of Junior School

On the Friday after school finished for Term 1, four very enthusiastic Kids Lit teams competed in this year’s tough tournament. The competition tests students' knowledge of literature across an incredibly broad field and draws teams from across the region. Category questions are asked across a range of subjects that dig deep into every team's reading experience, including curveballs about books they may not have read. It’s a very tough competition.

We were so excited to have achieved a second and a third place on the day. Mrs Reardon, Junior School librarian and Kids Lit coach, could not have been prouder of every team and we could not be prouder of her. Our Mrs Reardon stretches young readers and provides them with countless opportunities to explore their love of literature. 

Shelley Travers
Head of Junior School

We would like to wish the below students a very happy birthday and thank them for their wonderful Birthday Book donations to the Junior School Library.

• Pre Prep Blue - Whyatt Batchelor 
• Pre Prep Blue - Billie Chan 
• Prep G - Emmersyn Bunting 
• 1H - Charlie Gulin 

Information on how to be part of the Birthday Book Club can be found on FIDO. 

The Junior School Library Team 

WELCOME BACK!
I hope that you had a happy, holy and safe break with your nearest and dearest and managed to soak up as much of the glorious Autumn weather as possible. As always, it was a delight to open the classroom doors on Tuesday and welcome back a sea of smiling faces to kick off the new term.

ANZAC SERVICE & DAY
On Monday 24 April, the Middle School will gather in the All Saints Chapel for an ANZAC service featuring dozens of talented students from across the three sub schools. Furthermore, our Middle School Melba Girls Chorus of more than 60 students in Years 7, 8 and 9 have been invited to sing the Australian and New Zealand national anthems at the Palm Beach-Currumbin Dawn Service at Elephant Rock on ANZAC Day, 25 April. I hope that, whatever your family tradition to commemorate ANZAC Day, you get to sample at least some of the immense freedoms and privileges that our country enjoys thanks to those brave men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice in wars past and present.

Todd Harm
Head of Middle School

Following on from our induction of Year 9 Middle School Leaders last term, this week we appointed the Year 7 and Year 8 Leaders for Term 2. Congratulations to the following students:

7A: Sammy Dawson, Aaron Sharma 
7D: Stella Bracey, Allegra Clarke
7J: Maeve Haddley, Sartaj Singh
7K: Zali Collins, Halle Thomas
7L: Joshua Hunter, Lana Moffatt
7S: Mace Fowler, Jaden Freeman
7W: Evie Clayworth, Jeffrey Zhang

8A: Charlotte Le Duc, Lily Penwarn
8D: Mia Ravening, Hugo Webber
8K: Felipe Pacheco de Madeiros, Jay Topakas
8L: Isabella McSweeney, Daniel Valavi
8P: Sacha Melrose Cripps, Jacques Thomas
8R: James Doblo, Mylo Langridge
8T: Matthew Scannell, Liev Tuckwell

The certificate they received along with their badges of office contained the following Statement of Intent: 

As Middle School Leaders, we will strive to inspire even greater respect and unity within and across all three year levels. We will also endeavour to exemplify the year’s theme of ‘truth’ by modelling the sort of servant leader described in Psalm 15: 2-3: “The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart, whose tongue utters no slander, who does no wrong to a neighbour, and casts no slur on others."

This statement was generated by our Year 9 Middle School Leaders, constituting their vision for Middle School throughout 2023.

A reminder that, by way of providing an opportunity for more students to experience leadership, we will repeat the same selection process at the end of each term and subsequently appoint new Class Leaders. Thus, six students in each Year 7 and Year 8 class will be able to take on this all-important role throughout the year.

Todd Harm
Head of Middle School

Inspired by photographer Matteo Tranchellini, who – along with his photographer partner, Moreno Monti – published a whole book of photos dedicated to chickens, the Year 9 Shutterbug class trekked out to the school's Farm Garden to take candid photos of our very own chickens! The aim? To turn them into catwalk chicks!

Whilst all Tranchellini and Monti needed was a simple light set, the Year 9 Shutterbuggers needed to go the extra mile to highlight the beauty of their catwalk chicks. After all, it's impossible to ask a chicken to strike a pose! However, honing their photographic skills and their newfound knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, the Year 9’s set to work and the end results were terrific.

Photo credits to Juliette Collins, Savannah Elek, Jessica Hewes, Matilda Mitchell, Kiara Powell, Johannah Weekes and Sophia Whittle.

Helen Bennet
Middle School Teacher

This week, Year 8 and 9 Visual Art students received a special visit from guest speaker Lalania Tusa. 

Lalania is a First Nations artist and cultural facilitator who shared her knowledge with Middle School students about the stolen generation, hidden and lost generations, indigenous art and storytelling. Students were engaged in conversations about cultural identity and the importance of art, symbolism and the history of First Nations people.

We were very fortunate to hear Lalania’s story and have learned so much from her. Lalania will be back later in the year to have more sessions with other classes.

Rachel Luhan
Middle School Teacher

This week saw perfect weather and conditions for our Year 10 Camp. 

In the beautiful hinterland setting, the staff and professional instructors provided a range of physical, social and communication challenges for 200 Year 10 students over the three-day camp at Maranatha, Yandina. I enjoyed speaking with students and hearing stories of new friendships made, skills learned and challenges overcome.

It was also pleasing to see for myself just how well behaved and enthusiastic the cohort was while on camp. They did themselves and us proud. It was a fabulous few days, but of course this would not be the case without the expert supervision and instruction of our outdoor education facilitators at Maranatha, our Camp Coordinators Mr Brendan Callaghan and Ms Stacey Ward, and the dedicated staff who put their own home lives on hold to provide this valuable experience for our students.

Bryn Evans
Head of Senior School

The Inter-House Cross Country Carnival that took place at the end of last term was a wonderfully organised event that was rewarded with beautiful weather. I must congratulate the students on their outstanding efforts. 

It is one of those school days that truly recognises and rewards both teamwork and individual effort. My congratulations go to Burchill House who took home the Senior School trophy, ahead of Day and McIntosh Houses. While Hobart finished a close fourth in the Senior School, when their efforts were combined with the triumphant Middle School Hobartians, the yellow house took home the Overall Championship Trophy. 

A big thank you to Mr Fergus Leslie, Mr Michael Mathews, Mr Steve Jones and the grounds staff who again prepared an excellent Carnival.

Full results can be found on FIDO

Mr Bryn Evans
Head of Senior School

A spectacular sunny day, immaculate grounds, energetic students and staff; such was the spectacle of the 2023 Inter-House Middle and Senior School Cross Country Carnival.

Personal bests were smashed, limits were tested and competitors rose admirably to the occasion. Well done to all House Leaders and Cross Country Captains Bali Kohring and Ollie Woodward for modeling this example throughout the day. As we know, tackling feats of endurance can be especially challenging!

Congratulations to our green and gold victors; to Hobart House who triumphed both overall and in Middle School, and to Burling House who won the race in Senior School.

Full carnival results including Age Champion standings can be found on FIDO.

Click here for Senior School Results

Click here for Middle School Results

On Saturday 1 April, Mr Terblanche and Mr Campbell accompanied an excited group of Year 9 Rugby boys to the Ballymore Cup in Brisbane. 

A tough couple of days of rugby lay ahead and the boys appeared up for the challenge. The first game was against a physically big team from Downlands College. Whilst All Saints were in the game at half time, Downlands ran out worthy winners 22-0. Their physicality was not something the boys were used to encountering in the APS competition. It was apparent that the team was going to be tested. For an All Saints team that had lost a couple of games in three years of APS competition, this was a tough pill to swallow and the coaches were interested to see how the group would respond. 

The second game was against a smaller, faster and skillful Iona College team. This was undoubtedly the worst performance at the tournament by the All Saints lads. Their confidence had taken a knock and they had never really mounted any pressure on the Iona College line. Iona eventually ended up winning 38-0. We could not get to grips with the speed of their ruck ball or the angled running. The first day had proved to be a tough one and the bus trip back to the Gold Coast was a lot quieter than the trip up.

A new day and a new start saw the team and coaches back on the bus on Sunday morning. Our first game was against Sunshine Coast Grammar. The lessons learned on day one appeared to pay dividends as the All Saints lads stood up to a much larger Sunshine Coast Grammar team. It quickly became apparent that we had the ability to trouble the opposition with our speed to the breakdown and the ability to keep the ball alive in contact. It was a tight affair, but All Saints showed a lot of courage to hold on for a 19-17 win. The second match of the day was against Rockhampton Grammar School. By this stage, the team was used to being the smaller team in the contest and did not allow this to trouble them. In a fast flowing and entertaining affair, All Saints ran out worthy 20-14 winners against a fast-finishing Rockhampton side. The bus trip back was rowdy and spirits were high.

On Monday we travelled up for our final fixture against St Laurence’s College. This game had shades of the first fixture against Downlands College. They were physically much bigger than All Saints team but the lads had grown in confidence due to their exploits on day two. It was a tight and absorbing affair with both teams playing some really good rugby in the windy conditions. St Laurence’s eventually ended up winning 20-7, however, the game was a lot tighter than the scoreline suggests. A late try put the game beyond All Saints’ grasp and put some daylight between the two teams. Both teams are to be congratulated for the positive, entertaining rugby they played in this fixture.

As a coach, it was fantastic to witness the highs and lows a competition such as the Ballymore Cup offers. This group of lads needed to be tested and to play opposition they would not normally encounter. I was pleased with their response to adversity, they found a way to beat schools with larger playing numbers and who have dedicated rugby-specific programs. This experience should hopefully stand them in good stead for the coming APS season.

Thank you to Mr Tom Campbell who managed and coached, Mrs Krystle Holmes for organising the training shirts and the parents and supporters who made it up for some or all of the games.

And finally, a huge thank you to Mr Fergus Leslie for his administration, organising the buses and entry fees.

David Terblanche
Year 9 Boys Rugby Coach

AFL
Congratulations to Cameron Burgess (Year 8) who was selected in the 13-15yrs Hinterland District team.

Congratulations to Zac Jacobson (Year 10) who was selected in the 13-15yrs Hinterland District team and 13-15yrs South Coast Region team

Congratulations to Oscar King (Year 8) who was Selected in the 13-15yrs Hinterland District team.

Congratulations to Jesse Wenzel (Year 10) who was selected in the 13-15yrs Hinterland District team and selected inthe 13-15yrs South Coast Region team.

Congratulations to Year 6 boys Taz Trail, Kai White, Jasper Campbell, Tahj White and Jake Black who were selected in the Hinterland District for AFL.

Kai, Jasper and Jake have been selected for the South Coast Team.

Tahj has been selected for the South Coast B Team and Taz will be a shadow. 

ATHLETICS
Congratulations to Ellie Eckstein (Year 6) who competed at the Queensland Little Athletics Championships taking home 3 Gold Medals and a state record in the 800m (15 year girl record). Ellie won Gold in the 1500m and 400m and was 0.01 seconds off the 400m record. 

RHYTHMIC GYMNASTICS
Congratulations to Mako Inukai (Year 10) who competed in the Queensland Championships taking home the following;

• Won Gold in the Clubs routine
• Won Gold in the Ribbon routine
• Won Silver in the Hoop routine
• Won Bronze in the Ball routine
• Placed 2^nd Overall

Prahran Invitational Competition, Melbourne (February)

• Won Silver Overall

Queensland Senior Challenge 1 (Mid February)

• Won Silver Overall

Queensland Senior Challenge 2 (March)

• Won Gold Overall

TRACK CYCLING
Congratulations to Alex Hewes (Year 11) who completed at the National Championships taking home the following; 

• Won Gold in the Team Pursuit with the U17 Queensland team, setting a new Queensland Record
• Won Gold in the U17 Points Race
• Won Bronze in the U17 Individual Pursuit
• Placed 4th in the U17 Keirin
• Placed 4th in the Scratch Race

Congratulations to Amelie Sanders (Year 10) who competed in the National and Queensland State Champtionships taking home the following; 

National Championships

• Won Gold in the Team Pursuit, with the U17 Queensland team, setting a new Queensland Record
• Won Silver in the U17 Individual Pursuit

Queensland State Championships

• Won Gold in the U17 Madison
• Won Gold in the U17 Elimination

TRIATHLON 
Congratulations to Zarah Farrington (Year 9) who competed at the National Championships taking home Bronze in the indvidual event and Silver in the relay event with the Queensland Team. 

WATER POLO
Congratratluations to Kealan McKissack (Year 10) who competed at the Queensland State Titles winning Gold playing for the U16 Gold Coast Team and placing 4th playing for the U18 Gold Coast Team. 

Congratratluations to Cade McKissack (Year 9) who competed at the Queensland State Titles winning Gold playing for the U16 Gold Coast Team and winning Gold for the U14 University of Queensland Barracudas.

 

Congratulations to Georgia Tomkinson (Year 10) who competed at the Queensland State Titles winning Bronze playing for the U16 Gold Coast team and finishing 4th playing for the U18 Gold Coast team.

Congratulations to Christopher Tomkinson (Year 11) who competed at the Queensland State Titles and finished 4th playing for the U18 Gold Coast team.

STUDENT ACHIEVEMENTS

All Saints students achieve great things all the time and we’re always keen to acknowledge them in these pages. Please email your relevant sub-school with details and photos.

Junior School - juniorreception@asas.qld.edu.au 

Middle School - middlereception@asas.qld.edu.au 

Senior School - seniorreception@asas.qld.edu.au

With only a handful of rehearsals left before curtains up on Legally Blonde, the cast received a very special visitor this week who pulled no punches when putting everyone through their final paces.

None other than a former Elle Woods herself, musical theatre actress and All Saints Alumni Adele Parkinson (Class of 2005) returned to the school to drop some invaluable performance knowledge for the ensemble.

As a fresh graduate of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA), Adele’s first role was as a Female Swing for Legally Blonde: The Musical’s Australian tour where she understudied and performed seven roles in show, including Elle.

In addition to working with the whole cast, Adele also spent one-on-one time with the principal actors in the Nairn Theatre over the weekend imparting her valuable wisdom when it came to the nuances of each character.

Isabelle Arthur (Elle Woods, Year 12) and Jack Flanagan (Emmett Forrest, Year 10) both agree that Adele’s instruction was priceless.

“Having Adele here today showed me exactly how much I needed to do to make my performance that much better,” says Isabelle.

“Having that extra perspective from a professional such as Adele helps you understand the character more because it’s not just about the acting, singing, or the dancing – it’s also about the narrative,” adds Jack.

During her time as a student at All Saints, Adele thrived in the performing arts.

Perhaps her most memorable performance was as Sandy in Grease, All Saints’ first ever musical created under the tutelage of Chantelle Flint and Chris Cherry.

She says it is wonderful to return and see the calibre of artistry that the school continues to nurture.

“I’m really impressed by the quality of talent, it’s genuinely blowing my mind,” says Adele.

“No other school does this. The budget, the sets, the costumes, the quality of performance and even the choice of musicals themselves; like Legally Blonde for example, I think it’s one of the best musicals that’s been written.”

Newly available tickets!

All Saints’ performances of Legally Blonde: The Musical will run between Thursday 4 and Saturday 13 May.

If you missed out on buying tickets during the initial sales rush, you're in luck!

A small number of tickets have become available for each of the performances, and our Gala night (Thu 4th May) is also open for an audience. 

• Click here to purchase performance tickets between 5-12 May.
• Click here to purchase Gala Night tickets for 4 May. The proceeds of these tickets will go towards funding for the 2023 Performing Arts Tour.

Please also contact the Performing Arts Administration team should you wish to be put on the waitlist for other tickets that may arise during the season (e.g. from other guests who are unable to attend). 

Paris Faint
Publications

At the end of last term, our amazing students in Years 3 and 5 performed for their parents and family members on the musical instruments they have been learning as part of the Year 3 String and Year 5 Band Programs.

Supported by Mrs Ramirez and Mr Bardsley, 75 Year 3 students performed with the family of string instruments at the concert in the Holloway Music Centre, while Years 5 students graced the Nairn Theatre stage, performing within groups on various woodwind, brass and percussion instruments.

These instrumental music programs continue this term and will subsequently evolve to where parents can opt to continue their child’s instrumental music learning and development in the Year 3 String Orchestra and the Year 5 Superband later in the year.

Owen Clarke
Director of Performing Arts

A reminder to parents that closing dates are looming for the Gold Coast Eisteddfod and Theatrefest. Parents and students will have received information regarding both events, but please contact your child's teacher for further enquiries or assistance.

Congratulations to the following students for outstanding achievements in their 2022 Drama and Communication exams:

AMEB SYLLABUS

• D'arcy Taylor (Year 11) - The Barbara Sisley Award for highest mark in Queensland for AMEB Grade 6

ASCA SYLLABUS

• Tilly Hawtree (Year 8) - Achievement Medal
• Bronte Jobson (Year 12) - Outstanding Performance
• Analiese Murphy (Year 10) - Outstanding Performance
• Caeleigh Terblanche (Year 12) - Outstanding Performance
• Jake Stubbs (Year 9) - Outstanding Performance/Musical Theatre
• Zara Sulzberger (Year 6): Achievement Medal
• Hugo Webber (Year 8) - Outstanding Performance
• Daniel Valavi (Year 8) - Outstanding Performance
• Dani Vardenega (Year 6) - Achievement Medal
• Yuki Yu (Year 9) - Achievement Medal

Owen Clarke
Director of Performing Arts

On April 4 and 5, All Saints Camerata performed Pergolesi's beautiful Stabat Mater at two traditional Easter services, one here at our chapel and at the other at St Peter's Anglican Church at Southport. 

We experienced this sublime music for voices and strings in its original intended setting; a reminder that all vocal-orchestral music has origins in sacred praise. Congratulations to the students who sang in Latin, performing a complex large-scale work for 45 minutes in the half-dark candlelight.

It was an incredibly moving experience and will leave an indelible mark on the hearts of those who attended. Thanks to Mr Bardsley and Ms Morgan who were the driving force behind this initiative and led with a high level of knowledge expertise.

Well done to the following students:

• Allison Au (Year 10)
• Crystal Chen (Year 10)
• Maddy Cooke (Year 11)
• William Fell (Year 8)
• Alyssa Fitzgibbon (Year 10)
• Mone Genet (Year 12)
• Hillary Hains (Year 12)
• Solato Hiranuma (Year 12)
• Rebecca Hodgson (Year 9)
• Will Hon (Year 12)
• Hanjun Kim ( Year 10)
• Joy Lin (Year 11)
• Isabella Ngo (Year 10)
• Mariana Ng (Year 9)
• Honor Nicholson (Year 12)
• Georgia Ogge (Year 12) 
• Tara Sabet (Year 12)
• James Shin (Year 11)
• Ashelynn Song (Year 7)
• Rachel Wun (Year 12)

Owen Clarke
Director of Performing Arts

Our Giveathon theme embraces our school's overarching theme for 2023 of Truth, in the hope that we can attend to the reality and aspirational dreams of those who are experiencing challenging circumstances.

Sweet Dreams – Making Dreams come True

Thank you to every person, student, staff member and parent, who took time to send in a proposal for this year’s charities. As always, the SOS team deliberated over the selection, in some cases combining a few similar causes in the hope that we can support them all (for example, the Cancer Council). 

We are so very blessed to spend our daily lives in the beautiful learning space that is All Saints Anglican School, and it is easy to forget that there are so many people who are still holding their school lessons outside under a shady tree, without many supplies or books.

Unless we have been personally affected, it is easy to walk past the family struggling with the senseless loss of a beloved child due to unrestrained violence.

The turtles off New Caledonia may not be that important to our daily lives, but what of the regret and loss if we were to find them on the growing list of extinct creatures.

Heart conditions, cancer, mental health issues (especially among the young) and autism spectrum disorder impact so many families in our community every day. Thank you to those who so courageously and passionately support these causes to make some positive difference.

For those living in the hardship of countries beset by war, devastating natural disasters and political unrest, life is tough. How difficult it is for us to imagine the reality of living in such conditions. Through support to established channels, we aim to help life become a little easier for those people.

This year boxes will be sent out to the Junior school only. Students in Middle and Senior School will be provided with boxes on request. We live in a world where cash is rarely used, so we are providing electronic alternatives to this by placing EFTPOS machines in the Sub-School Administration Buildings. We are also exploring the possibility of a mobile app.

This term we will begin to promote the charities assigned to each of our sub-schools, and we look forward to learning more about them.

Our Giveathon Assembly will be held at the end of Term 3, but if we begin our quest now, we will be better able to make the significant difference that All Saints aspires to make in the lives of others.

Come to me all you who labour and are heavy-burdened, and you will find rest for your souls. Matthew 11:28

Ann McGuinness
School Chaplain

Did you know that we have a thriving farm garden at All Saints? Nestled just beyond the HPE car park, the farm garden provides a hands-on learning environment where students identify plants, provide conditions for plant growth and harvest produce.

The Farm Garden is a terrific learning resource at All Saints that is home to beehives, chickens, banana palms, citrus plants, fruit and coffee bean trees, mulberry trees (which provide nourishment for the silkworms that live in our classrooms), ever-changing seasonal vegetables and herbs, a sensory garden and a growing array of edible native plants. 

This natural haven is operated and maintained by hard-working volunteers Jill Shehab and her handy husband Mostafa. The Farm Garden is accessed regularly by students of various STEM and sustainability subjects at All Saints. Classes are varied but include lessons about how seeds, plants and foods are grown, general sustainable farm practices, the relationship between bees and honey and the lifecycle and care of chickens.  

The Farm Garden is funded through the direct sale of its raw produce, products including jams, chutneys, dehydrated fruit and honey, and the ongoing support of the All Saints Parents & Friends Association.

We are looking for parents, grandparents and friends of the school that are interested in helping maintain and improve this wonderful resource by joining the Friends in Gardening (FIG) community.

Your assistance can be as small or as big as your time allows and could include any of the following activities:

• Generally maintaining the Farm Garden by weeding, planting and harvesting. A dedicated weekly FIG working group time will be identified for people that would like to come help on a regular or irregular basis (most likely early mornings).

• Helping on larger projects such as removal of existing banana plants or redesign of garden beds.

• Germinating seedlings and propagating plants for more sustainable production.

• Assisting in the re-design of garden beds using permaculture principles.

• Assisting in a major redesign of the Farm Garden layout to make the garden more user friendly for both maintenance and student learning.

• Donating excess home-grown stock that can help fundraise for the Farm Garden.

Please register your interest in being involved by emailing Eloise Harrison at friendsingardeningASAS@gmail.com

Finishing touches are underway and the P&F look forward to welcoming All Saints mums to the highly anticipated Mother's Day Morning Tea next Friday 28 April!

A reminder for those attending to pre-purchase your raffle tickets by Wednesday 26 April to go in the special prize draw generously donated by Broadbeach Orthodontics valued at $10,500! Pre-purchased raffle tickets will be waiting for guests at their table. Raffle tickets can be purchased at events.humanitix.com/all-saints-mdmt.

• 8 tickets for $10 (includes 1 x special prize entry)
• 25 tickets for $25  (includes 2 x special prize entries)
• 60 tickets for $50  (includes 3 x special prize entries)
• 130 tickets for $100  (includes 7 x special prize entries)

A couple of important notes:

• Parking: Free parking is included as part of this event. If you are driving to The Star, please collect a parking ticket from the boom gate and bring it with you to receive a validated ticket at the Champagne Bar located inside the Marquee.
• Entrance: To enter the Marquee, please head to the main entrance doors of The Star and (when looking out to the road) walk around to the left passing through the Garden Bar. A lovely P&F host will be waiting to welcome you with your arrival drink ticket.

Event Details Reminder

Wear your best millinery and join us for this wonderful event which will once again be held in the Marquee at The Star.

Event date: Friday 28 April
Time: 8.45am – 12.00pm
Location: Marquee at The Star
Theme: Hats and High Tea – Wear your best fascinator or hat!

The P&F are proud to welcome guest speaker and friend of All Saints Aunty Brenda Matthews to this event. Brenda will share a very personal story that will inspire and motivate the room as she launches her highly anticipated book The Last Daughter.

The morning will also feature a live preview of All Saints’ Legally Blonde production, roaming entertainment and a Lisa Brown fashion parade and pop-up stall. All guests will receive a complimentary beauty gift generously donated by The Lash Spa.

If you have any questions, please email Krystle and Nidhi at asasmdmt@gmail.com.

All Saints P&F Committee

Join us for a night of glamour, music, and cocktails at the All Saints Anglican School P&F Ball! Our biennial event is back, and this year's theme is Cocktails in Rio! Get ready to dance the night away to the rhythm of the samba and indulge in delicious cocktails inspired by the vibrant city of Rio de Janeiro.

The ball will take place on Saturday 3 June from 7pm to 12pm in the Glasshouse at The Island in Surfers Paradise. 

Tickets

Tickets will go on sale at 9am Sunday 30 April at events.humanitix.com/pfball2023. Tickets are $130 (+ $3.75 booking fee) per person, and include a gourmet three-course dinner and live entertainment throughout the night. 

With tables of 10 available, you can gather your friends and loved ones for a night you won't forget. 

Not able to gather a group of 10? No worries! Individual tickets are also available, and we will make sure to sit you with other guests from similar year levels. It's a great opportunity to meet new friends. If you would like to sit with specific friends, please purchase your tickets under one booking.

Dress Code

The dress code for the night is cocktail attire, with a hint of Rio-inspired flair. Think bright colors, bold patterns, and tropical accessories. Let your hair down and embrace the fun and festive spirit of the event!

Still not sure what to wear? Check out this look book kindly prepared by one of our P&F committee members 🕺💃

Tickets are now on sale for the third annual All Saints Anglican School P&F Golf Day. Join us for this fun day out - mums, dads and friends, all welcome!

This year's event will be held on Sunday 22 October at Palmer Colonial Golf Course. Registrations will start at 10.30am for an 11.30am shotgun start.

Tickets are $500 for a team of four or $140 for individual tickets. Includes 18 hole Ambrose game and motorised cart, fantastic prizes and a burger buffet at the presentation!

There will be fantastic prizes to be won including a $15,000 cash prize for a hole-in-one proudly sponsored by Centaur Financial Services.

Book tickets: events.humanitix.com/golfday2023

Sponsorship Opportunities

Looking for an opportunity to promote your business to the All Saints community? There are a couple of ways you might like to get involved:

• Sponsorship packages: Available for purchase via the link above. Our $800 sponsorship package includes a team of 4 players and the opportunity to promote your business in our goody bags and at a sponsored hole - you might like to get creative! One of last year's sponsors held a pie eating competition at one of the holes!

• Prize donations: We are on the lookout for donations for raffles and prizes at the presentation. This is a great way to gain exposure for your business even if not entering a team.

For further event or sponsorship details, please contact P&F Vice President, Mr David Pearson: pearsondavid72@gmail.com

All funds raised on the day go directly to the P&F committee who use the funds for the good of all our children at the school.

All Saints P&F Committee

A reminder of our anaphylaxis awareness guidelines as families start preparing for the return of school lunches.

Anaphylaxis is a severe, rapidly progressive allergic reaction that is potentially life threatening. Common foods causing allergies among students include egg, milk, peanuts, tree nuts, fish, shellfish, soy, sesame and wheat. Peanuts and egg allergies are two of the most common food allergies in school-aged children and we are aware that many students in our school suffer from exposure to these foods. Those students, if they come in contact with a nut product, can suffer life threatening consequences. It can be easily contracted from a simple handshake or touching of a student's table who may have had some nuts in their food.

Given the number of foods to which a student may be allergic, it is not possible to remove all allergens. Instead, the School aims to implement practical, age appropriate strategies to minimise exposure to known allergens:

• In the Junior School we request that no nuts, nut products or eggs (e.g. egg sandwich, boiled eggs etc) are included in school lunches and snacks.
• In the Middle and Senior School, we request that no nuts, peanut butter, Nutella etc are used in school lunches and snacks.
• Similarly, the tuckshop does not offer food containing nuts.
• Items which state they ‘may contain traces’ of nuts are ok.

This is not a complete nut and egg ban but rather a strategy to reduce risk for vulnerable students until they are more able to care for themselves.

We thank you for your cooperation.