Killarney SS P-10 Newsletter Term 3 - Week 10 | 2025

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Githabul people as the  Traditional Owners of the sky,  waterways and land on which we learn and play. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present. We acknowledge the knowledge, memories, traditions and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and commit to fostering a culture of learning in the spirit of togetherness.

We thank Githabul artist Nathan Charles for allowing us to publish his artwork. 

Date Claimers

EXPLICIT IMPROVEMENT AGENDA

From the Principal's desk

After 10 wonderful weeks of learning, it is with great excitement and optimism that I write to you today as the Acting Principal of this fabulous school. I have the honour of being the Acting Principal for the remainder of 2025, and I want to take this opportunity to introduce myself and thank the Killarney community for the heartfelt welcome I have received. After arriving on the 25th of August, I have felt right at home here in the town and the school.

Originally from Brisbane, I bring with me 25 years of experience in education, including nearly 9 years in school leadership as a Deputy Principal or Acting Principal. I’m also a proud husband and father – my wife of 16 years works with young people as a physiotherapist at the children's hospital in Brisbane, and together we have three beautiful children – Charlie (10), Cleo (8), and Tom (6) – who inspire us daily.

I’m passionate about creating a fun, safe, and supportive environment where young people can thrive and develop a genuine love of learning. I deeply value my role as Principal not just within the school, but as part of the broader community. Like one of our core values here at Killarney SS P-10, I believe strongly in the importance of community voice and partnerships in shaping the direction of our school. Together, I believe we can build something truly special for our students and their futures.

I have spent most days since I arrived chatting to our young people, asking them what is the best thing about being a student at Killarney SS P-10? The common thread that I hear is that they love the people and that this school feels like an extension to their family. This wonderful response is kudos to the staff at the school and the families in the community. 

Last week I was super impressed by the school musical and the student performances. As Principal, I was incredibly proud to see our students shine on stage with their outstanding singing and dancing performances. The talent on display was truly impressive, and it was wonderful to see such a large audience come out to support them. A heartfelt thank you goes to all the staff and the community who went above and beyond to make the evening a huge success—especially Jenny, Nat, Sally, Tony, and Bob, whose hard work and dedication were instrumental in bringing the entire show together. It was a memorable night for everyone involved!

As we approach the end of term, it’s important for all students to do their best in every assessment and finish strong. Developing good study habits, taking time to draft and carefully edit work, and reaching out for help when needed are essential steps to success. Remember, one of our core school values is valuing learning—so don’t hesitate to ask questions and seek support. Let’s finish the term with focus and determination!

I trust our Year 10 students are thoroughly enjoying their trip to Canberra, and I know that our Year 7 & 8 students had a great time on their trip to the coast—may it be an exciting and enriching experience for all!

To all our families, we hope you have a safe and restful break, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready to learn on Tuesday October 7th.

From the Head of Department

Canberra Trip update

On Tuesday last week Mr Collins, Mrs Bunday, Ms Genner and I met with the Year 10 students attending the Canberra Trip over lunch.  We discussed the activities and expectations associated with this activity.  Thank you to the parents for supporting their sons and daughters to be part of this great opportunity.

We thank the Australian Government for recognising schools who choose to visit the national capital by way of the PACER rebate:

Students from our school are undertaking, an education tour of the national capital. Students will be given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage, and democracy.

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding to our school in the amount of $270 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.

RUOK?

At Killarney P-10 State School we are recognising RUOK? Day on Friday 12/09.

WSHS transition for 2026

This week we welcomed staff from WSHS to speak with the Year 10 students in preparation for their transition to WSHS for Year 11 in 2026.  The students are becoming more aware that their time at Killarney P-10 is almost over.

Swimming

In Week 10 we hope to share the Primary swimming roster for Term 4. Unfortunately, the costs for school swimming has increased significantly and these costs will be passed on to families.  Thank you for your support with this very important activity for our students.

Kind regards,

Traecy Bartz

School News

2025 School Calendar - Queensland State Schools

https://education.qld.gov.au/about/Documents/2025-school-calendar.pdf  

Musical - The Wrong Way Round

After eight months of hard work, the cast of the musical put on a fun and entertaining show. Congratulations to all the cast and crew. A special thank you to all the staff and parents that assisted with the musical.

Sports

P&C News

Tuckshop Convenor

The P&C is looking for a parent or member of our community who would be interested in volunteering to be our Tuckshop Convenor. The opening times/day would be the choice of the new Convenor. The menu would also be the Tuckshop Convenor's choice, in negotiation with the school to comply with  Healthy Choices guidelines. Please contact the P&C for further information or to express your interest by emailing: pandc@killarness.eq.edu.au.

How to order School Uniforms

New stocks of polo shirts have arrived so we now have all sizes available. Parents may now place a uniform order via email and pay by direct deposit!  We hope this will make purchasing uniforms easier. Students can come and see Mrs Diete during break times to try on uniforms if they are unsure of sizes. 

Community News