Principal:Craig Whittred

Deputy Principals:Kerry Flynn,Anna D'Ilario

Business Manager:Priscilla Viero

Issue No 6 Newsletter of Ayr State High School Friday 18 September 2020

Ayr State High SchoolPO Box 961

AYR QLD 4807Phone: 07 4790 4333Fax: 07 4790 4300

Email: admin@ayrshs.eq.edu.auWebsite: www.ayrshs.eq.edu.auFacebook: facebook.com/ayrshs

Ayring

Call us now on 4783 2122 or email ayr@helloworld.com.au

“HELLOWORLD AWARDED AUSTRALIA’S BEST TRAVEL AGENCY GROUP 2016” 4783 2122 ayr@helloworld.com.au

Relay for Life 2020by Ms Courtney Carrigan, A/Deputy Principal

Relay for Life brings communities together to celebrate cancer survivorship, remember loved ones lost and

fight back against cancer. It is a fun and moving experience that raises vital funds for Cancer Council's research, prevention and support services. Ayr State High School was very fortunate and proud to run Relay for Life 2020, in lieu of the Burdekin community event, which was cancelled earlier in the year due to Covid-19. This was a student driven event with over 30 students on the committee tasked with planning and preparing the event. On Saturday 12 September, 138 students and staff participated by walking laps of the school oval for six hours (3 pm - 9 pm). The event was run very similar to the community event and included the carers and survivors first lap, candlelight

ceremony and many games and activities. There were many opportunities to fundraise with cupcake sales, lolly jar guesses, free dress day, numbers board and merchandise being sold. We are proud to announce that Ayr SHS raised $2566.75 for the Cancer Council and donated approximately 100 tins of canned food. This was very much an Ayr High community event with all aspects of the school contributing to its success - WELL DONE and THANK YOU! We also could not have run this event without the support of the local Burdekin Relay for Life Committee and the Cancer Council NQ Branch - thank you! Ayr High looks forward to taking part in the 2021 Burdekin Relay for Life.

Ayr SHS would like to thank the following businesses who donated equipment, prizes or items for our Relay for Life:Woolworths Ayr, Burdekin Distributors, D n S Quality Meats Butcher Shop, Watson’s Butchery, Alfies Bakery, Burdekin Hire Service, Coles Ayr, Scott Boxall, Ayr SES, NQHF - NQ Hardfacing, A & B Rural Supplies, Elders Rural Services Ayr, Burdekin Delta CinemasThank you for your support!

Carers and survivors first lap

Mrs Karen Gilmore accepts Ayr SHS's donation from Sarah McDonnell

Issue No 6 - 2020 SUCCESS: Every Student, Every Day. Ayring - keeping you informed

by Mr Craig Whittred, Principal Editorial - Newsletter No. 6 18/09/2020

From the Principal Welcome to Ayr State High SchoolOur school acknowledges the Traditional Owners of this land. Today, they are still the custodians of the cultural heritage of this land. Further to this, our school acknowledges there are other Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and South Sea Island people who have lived, worked and contributed to the cultural heritage of our community.

As we come to the end of the term, I would like to thank the students

and parents/carers for the work they have done during the term. As we continue to ‘soldier on’ during the COVID-19 period, it has been fantastic to see the level of commitment and support that the school has shown. I would also like to thank the staff of Ayr High for the work they have done, not only in the delivery of curriculum, but in their support for the students they teach.Over the last week or so, we have had some great events that have showcased the diversity of educational and social activities that we provide our students.Our Year 10 students have completed their SET planning process with their case managers and parents/carers. This started on a focus of careers and has ended with subject selection and ensuring they are on a pathway to achieve their personal career goals.Last Friday evening, we had our Year 12 Visual Arts students host an exhibition of their final artworks for Year 12. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, guests were reduced to immediate family, but that definitely did not reduce the quality of the artwork on display, the technical skills and artistic thinking put into these pieces of work was at the highest level. I commend Shannon, Jessica and Monica on a fantastic evening.

Saturday night demonstrated what the Ayr High spirit is all about. Even though COVID-19 had shut down Relay for Life events all around the state, Ms Carrigan and a team of students were able to problem-solve and put together an Ayr High only, Relay for Life. With over 120 student participants and a large team of staff, we walked laps for six hours and raised over $2500. Our event included all the hallmarks of a Relay for Life event with our Survivors and Carers lap to create an emotional start to the evening, followed by a candle lighting ceremony that was presided over by Burdekin Relay For Life Chairman, John Furnell. This, along with a range of fun activities, resulted in a fantastic event - an event that COVID-19 could not steal from us.This week we have had two of our major partner groups in the school. Firstly, QMEA and Evolution Mining presented a robotics challenge with students from Ayr High and Home Hill High. This activity provided our students with invaluable experience in working with robotics with personnel from the mining industry discussing the future employment opportunities that automation will bring to the mining industry. Secondly, RACQ and the ARTIE Academy delivered a road accident prevention program to our students. This docudrama by RACQ focuses on encouraging students to be able

to make safe decisions when it comes to road safety. RACQ and ARTIE Academy also unveiled RACQ’s sponsorship of a car to the school for the Braking the Cycle initiative. RACQ has provided us with a car to help support students who may not have access to a car to complete their mandatory 100 hours to transition from a learner driver to a provisional driver licence. This initiative will help support students to get a licence which is essential in transitioning successfully into the workforce.Term 4 will be a very busy term. We are working our way through the COVID-19 restrictions to plan all of our school events including awards evenings and graduations celebrations. We are committed to ensuring our school community can still experience these events whilst ensuring the COVID-19 restrictions.Have a safe and restful break and we will see everyone return for Term 4 on Tuesday 6 October. Yours in education

Craig WhittredPrincipal

RACQ and ARTIE Academy Braking

the Cycle Initiativeby Mr Craig Whittred, Principal

In partnership with the RACQ and the ARTIE Academy, RACQ has sponsored a motor vehicle to Ayr State High

School. The vehicle is part of RACQ’s Braking the Cycle Initiative, which provides students access to a vehicle to complete their mandatory 100 driving hours so they can transition from a Learner's licence to a Provisional Driver licence. RACQ has partnered with the ARTIE Academy who run a Driver Licencing Program for our indigenous students who meet high level attendance targets.The Braking the Cycle Initiative will see volunteer driving supervisors provide an opportunity for all students who meet high level attendance targets, and who do not have regular access to a vehicle at home, to be supported in achieving their 100 mandatory driving hours. Providing students with this opportunity to successfully attain a provisional licence helps support them transitioning from school into the workplace, as many employers prefer employees, especially apprentices, to have a driver's licence.Ayr State High School would like to thank RACQ and the ARTIE Academy for sponsoring our school in this fantastic initiative. Once we have a team of volunteer driving supervisors trained, we will see our vehicle on the road early next term.

SUCCESSEvery Student, Every Day

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Shae Represents NQ in Netball

by Ms Courtney Carrigan, HOD - HPE, Practical Technologies, LOTE &

Sport

Shae Munro (Yr 9) recently travelled to Brisbane as a member of the U15 North Queensland

Schoolgirls team to compete in the State Championships held over four days. The NQ team placed 4th out of 12 teams. Shae was awarded Players Player for NQ. Congratulations Shae!

QCAA Invigilators for External Assessment

QCAA is seeking community members to act as observers on the administration of the external assessment that Year 12 students will be doing in Term 4. This is a similar position to the invigilators for the QCS test in previous years, except it will be over an extended time period.If you are interested in one of these positions or finding out further information - please contact the school or alternatively you can contact the QCAA at the following link:www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/assessment/external-assessment/qcaa-invigilators

Bernice Zaro, Youth Support Co-ordinator

Australian Olympic Change-Maker (AOCM) Awardby Ms Courtney Carrigan, A/Deputy Principal

Ashley Green (Year 12 Sports Captain) and Kahlee Lennox (Year 11 student) were nominated and accepted as Ayr High’s recipients of the AOCM Award for 2020. The award recognises and

rewards students who are demonstrating the Olympic spirit through leadership and driving positive change in their communities. Ashley is our school Sports Captain and Banks House Captain and demonstrates leadership qualities in our school on a regular basis supporting student participation, team spirit and encouraging sportsmanship. She also demonstrates leadership as an Assistant Dance Teacher at Karen Healy Dance (KHD) and at the Burdekin Hockey Association coaching and refereeing since 2014. Kahlee demonstrates leadership qualities on a number of levels both at school and at a club level for touch football. She has been coaching an U10's mixed team at Burdekin Touch for the past two years and also co-coached the U13 boys touch football school team. Kahlee is also a positive role model in our senior fitness class using her experience and knowledge to help other students. Both students are worthy recipients and will be acknowledged at our Sports Awards in Term 4.

AOCM Virtual ForumAshley, Kahlee and JD Wilkins (2019 AOCM Award recipient) joined the

inaugural national Australian Olympic Change-Maker virtual summit on Thursday 17 September, connecting students and schools around Australia, together in one major event. Hosted by Olympic Champion, Brooke Hanson OAM, Gold & Silver medallist, the Summit celebrated nominated recipients and featured many Olympians as they discussed leadership, being a positive force and overcoming challenges in creating change. Students also gained insight on the athletes’ preparation for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. The athletes spoke about the challenges of staying motivated, especially during this COVID-19 period, and the importance of being

focused and driven in order to succeed. It was inspiring to see our students and others from around the country making a difference in their school communities and demonstrating the Olympic spirit in so many ways. #bethechange2020Awards Evenings

Abound in Term 4

Sports AwardsThursday 8 October 2020

Burdekin Theatre6.30 pm - 8.00 pm

Cultural AwardsTuesday 20 October 2020

Burdekin Theatre5.30 pm - 7.00 pm

Academic AwardsThursday 22 October 2020

Burdekin Theatre7.30 pm - 9.30 pm

A wonderful showcase of the depth and breadth of talent in

Ayr State High School.

Ashley Green, JD Wilkins, Kahlee Lennox

Queen's Birthday Holiday

Monday 5 October

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Relay for Life

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Relay for Life

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QMEA Webinars: Just ‘Oresome’

by Mr Rob Scalia, HOD - Mathematics & Science

In week 1, 26 of our Year 9 students and 20 Year 10-12 students participated in the Queensland Minerals and

Energy Academy (QMEA) webinars. The two webinars were designed to support two activities that couldn’t take place last term unfortunately due to Covid-19 restrictions.The ‘Beakers, Bots and Build’ webinar for Year 9 students featured a superintendent of processing and metallurgy from Evolution mining with a focus on chemistry in mining. Students had many questions ranging from the processes involved in mining gold at the Evolution mine to the requirements for tertiary study for metallurgy and mining engineering. Some of the questions asked were of such high standard that the presenter found them difficult to answer. This just reinforced the quality of science education offered at Ayr State High School.

Year 10-12 students acknowledged for their completion of the QMEA online modules.

Year 9 students

engaging with the ‘Oresome’

resources

The Year 10-12 students that recently completed the online modules and aptitude tests were also

given an opportunity to participate in the ‘On The Tools’ webinar. The webinar featured a fixed plant maintenance supervisor and a HR representative from Evolution Mining to discuss with students the trade pathways in the sector. Again, these students found the webinar invaluable as they were able to seek clarification with respect to the various trades available at Evolution and the requirements that HR are looking for in an apprentice. Both webinars impressed our students with many wanting to explore the mining sector further when they complete their schooling whether it be a trade or further study at university.

These are some of the many inspiring pieces of feedback that students made after the webinars. “This webinar really confirmed that I would like a trade in the mining sector.” Jack Shaw"The webinar was extremely interesting and fascinating.” Eddie Jones "The QMEA session taught me a lot about mining and the science behind it." Ryan Burns "The QMEA session was fantastic as we got ‘real’ responses from someone in the job. It also taught us about possibilities for work and the safety measures that go with that job." Jarrod Walton

Year 12 students acknowledged for their completion of the QMEA online modules.

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QAMT Regional Finalby Mr Rob Scalia, HOD - Mathematics and Science

The following students recently competed in the North Queensland Regional final of the QAMT Mathematics

Quiz:Sophie Robertson, Mia Power, Noah, Georgia Tomasetig, Lucas Donovan, Shanay Arroita, Layla Kelly, Jye Olsen, Chloe Hook.These students gave up many of their lunch hours practising for the quiz and were rewarded for their efforts. The group consisting of Mia Power, Sophie Robertson and Noah won third place in the North Queensland Regional Final and may have the chance to compete in the State final next term. A wonderful achievement!

QMEA Beakers, Bots and Buildby Mr Rob Scalia, HOD - Mathematics and Science

On Tuesday, 15 September, students participated in the Queensland Mineral and Energy Academy (QMEA) ‘Beakers, Bots and Build’ event as

part of Ayr High’s ‘gifted and talented’ STEM program. The event saw students highly engaged in hands on activities based around the exploration, extraction and processing of minerals and materials. Students also had the opportunity to engage with professionals from the resources sector. This event gave students the opportunity to meet and challenge their peers from Home Hill SHS.

One of the highlights of the day involved students programming a mining truck (EV3 Robot) to travel autonomously from the mine site to the processing plant/s where it had to unload before travelling back to the mine. Students were required to work together to determine what would be the best routes available to them to collect and deliver the most amount of ore to the processing plants and collect the most amount of points.

Australian Mathematics Competition Resultsby Mr Rob Scalia, HOD - Mathematics and Science

Ayr State High has always had a very good reputation with student achievement in the Australian Mathematics Competition. This

year was no exception with over 30% of the students registering for the competition receiving a Credit or higher. This indicates that the following students were in the top 35% of the Nation. Fantastic work! Credits awarded to:Kelly Meinicke, Jack Shaw, Sarah McDonnell, Shanay Arroita, Lucas Donovan, Thomas Bach, Melody Curro and Dakota ChinfatA Distinction (top 15% of the nation) was awarded to Chloe Hook. A High Distinction (top 1% of the nation) was awarded to Sophie Robertson. Chloe Hook, Sophie Robertson

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Year 8 ECB - Cupcakes, Cookies and Competitionby Ms Irima Vee, Technology Teacher

Throughout Term 3, the Year 8 Economics and Business classes have been learning all things business, in addition to what it means to be an entrepreneur. For their assessment, students worked in groups developing their entrepreneurial

skills by making important decisions for their groups' businesses. Groups had a choice to base their business ideas on selling cupcakes or cookies and spent Week 9 of this term selling their products to fellow Ayr High students and staff. Groups whipped their skills together both in the kitchen and at their stalls selling a variety of different flavoured cupcakes and cookies. Competition was in full swing as the Year 8 cohort embraced their newfound entrepreneurial thoughts and skills, and put these into practice effectively. A job well done to all Year 8 ECB classes for putting in the effort designing their business ideas, posters, setting up wonderful stalls and for making amazing tasty treats for the whole school to enjoy.

8D

8B

8C

8A

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RACQ Docudrama - Road Safety Awareness for

Year 11 Studentsby Ms Courtney Carrigan, A/Deputy Principal

TThe RACQ Docudrama Program is a road safety awareness initiative aimed at educating

senior secondary students; particularly learner and provisional drivers about the potential risks of travelling in a vehicle as both drivers and passengers. The Year 11 cohort participated in the program on Tuesday 15 September. Docudrama takes a community approach to road safety issues by involving emergency service workers and other local professionals to help demonstrate a powerful ‘mock crash’ road safety scenario. Students are equipped with real world strategies for combating the ‘Fatal Five’ road safety issues - Drink and Drug Driving, Fatigue, Not Wearing a Seatbelt, Speeding and Distraction. They participated in an interactive session where they were able to show their knowledge and understanding of their roles as road users. It was both engaging and interactive with the aim of empowering the students to make better and informed choices both as a driver and as passenger.

Queensland Theatre's Scene Projectby Ms Catriona Gillespie, Drama Teacher

On Wednesday 19 August, Year 10 Drama students

went to the Burdekin Theatre to participate in Queensland Theatre’s annual “Scene Project” Outcome day. This brings together schools with each performing their 15-minute version of the newly commissioned script Wisdom by David Burton. The students had spent term three devising their performance and creating their unique spin on the play. They performed in front of two different schools as well as professional actors and directors from Queensland Theatre. We also had the opportunity to watch the full play by Queensland Theatre, which was a highlight for many. The students had a fantastic day and were congratulated on their enjoyment during the performance and for their fantastic acting skills.

Back LtoR: Dylan Meinecke, Taylor Alexander, Dean Post, Makaela Kerruish, Amber Jepsen, Melanie Aruba, Julia Cahill, Max Graham, Paulini Finau

Front LtoR: Zac Woodford, Grace Doyle, Dana Wyllie, Stone Heron, Louisa Ghee

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Year 9 Activity Daysby Mrs Allyce Becke, Year 9 Co-ordinator

On 6 and 7 August, Year 9 students took part in the ‘Year 9 Activity Days'. The days were held in lieu of Year 9 camp which was unfortunately cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions in Term 2. The change of date allowed the Year 9

students to engage in an important event as a cohort, with many of the ‘camp activities’ being conducted within these days. Day one was held at the Burdekin Touch Fields and students completed a range of team building activities within their House groups. House points were awarded throughout the day, going towards the trophy for House Champion of Year 9 camp.On Friday, students were back on the oval at Ayr State High School with Adrenaline Games coming down from Townsville. The rain couldn’t dampen the enthusiasm of the students who were ready to get involved in a range of activities including Gel Blasters, Target Archery and Bubble Soccer. Thank you to the staff who contributed to the day and the students who gave 100% participation. Congratulations to Cook who were the first house to take out the brand new trophy.

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Year 9 Activity Days

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Term 3 Junior School Wrap-Upby Ms Anna D’Ilario, Deputy Principal

Wow! What a busy term it’s been! Throughout Term 3, students across the junior school have demonstrated the learner code of “Safe, Respect and Personal Best” in their endeavours. At lunchtimes, we had Year 8 Economics

and Business students run their cupcake businesses (good to see the Year 8 students putting their cooking skills to good use). We also had over 130 students, including a strong junior school cohort, participate in the Relay for Life and get involved in this worthy cause. It has been heartening to see so many students also participate in the Global Hawks program and the Laurie’s Love fundraiser. On the academic front, students across the junior school have performed at a very high standard, gaining credits, distinctions and high distinctions in the international ICAS competitions. Special mention to our QAMT Maths team who represented the Burdekin and placed third in North Queensland - well done team! Equally impressive, we had students selected for State Honours Ensemble School Conservatorium Program - great work! Currently, we also have students participating in our public speaking competition. I look forward to being part of the panel involved in judging their performances as our students also do an outstanding job in the arena of public speaking.Behind the scenes, staff have been busily involved in organising Awards Ceremonies for Term 4. This year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, we have decided to hold our Sports Awards, Cultural Awards and Academic Awards at the Burdekin Theatre. Although COVID-19 has put the kybosh on lots of events, we are committed to ensuring that our award ceremonies are a highlight of the year. There will be some restrictions that we have to abide by in order to be COVID-safe, but we are hopeful that all students involved will receive the recognition they deserve.On behalf of all staff, I wish all our families a restful, safe and happy break.

Year 8 into Year 9 EveningThe Year 8 into Year 9 Subject Selection Evening went well with many families appreciating the new format of having

it combined with the Year 10 into Year 11 Information Evening. We had many students and their parents/carers ask questions about the elective and core subject offerings for 2021 and it was great to hear that many students had given considerable thought to their educational pathway. Since then, Year 8 students have diligently returned their elective preference forms, and I will be in contact with families next term regarding any potential clashes with their selections.

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Year 6 into 7 Transition Days This term, following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, Ayr High was pleased to host two Year 6 Transition Days for

our feeder primaries. Our friendly staff hosted a range of activities designed to give students a taste of high school. Our Year 6 students participated in Science, Manual Arts, Digital Technology and Drama lessons. The Year 6 students thoroughly enjoyed all sessions and a special thank you goes to the senior students who shared their love of Science by assisting the Year 6 students with their experiments. Many thanks to our wonderful staff who played a huge role in making these days so successful. Special thanks also goes to our Year 7 mentors who accompanied students from their primary schools and who answered the myriad of questions they had about high school. Currently, Year 7 teachers and myself are conducting enrolment interviews for the newest members of the Ayr High Family and we are busily making preparations for their arrival next year. Parents/carers of Year 6 students interested in enrolling for 2021, should contact the school directly for an appointment as soon as possible.

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Ayr High ‘abuzz’ duringLiteracy Week

by Mrs Linda Attard, English Teacher and Support Teacher (Literacy)

Did you hear the buzz of excitement around Ayr State High School last week? All students were invited and encouraged to be involved in Literacy Week activities. The week helps to raise awareness of the importance of literacy at

school and beyond. The week kicked off with its daily literature quote and word of the day hunt. This sent students into a frenzy of excitement, scouring the school and internet with the promise of knowledge and prizes in the form of chocolates, vouchers, bookmarks and pens. Students wrote fairy tales, rapped, sang, spelled, played ‘Boggle’, ‘Taboo’ and ‘Scattergories’ as they thought literally and laterally. The highlight of the week was Ayr High’s first ever Spelling Bee, with Sophie Robertson (Year 7) awarded the title of ‘Spelling Bee’ Champion. Well done Sophie! The week of activities throughout the school cemented that literacy is everywhere. Many thanks to our dedicated staff who gave up their time to organise and run activities and to the students who so enthusiastically joined in.

Jennifer O'Shea - Rap winnerZylon Dallecort - Rap runner-up

Scattergories

Gina McCoy participating in the

game of Taboo

Sophie Robertson - winner of the Spelling Bee Competition

Spelling Bee Competition

Chloe Hook participating in the Spelling Bee Competition

Download the free QSchool App to stay

connected to news andevents.

The recent very traumatic video content posted on multiple

platforms has been an extremely challenging topic to discuss with young people. We advise that you be careful not to draw attention to it or stimulate curiosity for a child to search for it.The content is still online and will take some time to come down. It has been embedded into videos ranging from kittens playing to Mario Cart. These videos are on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and YouTube for Kids.In talks to primary school age students, I always say, "If you ever see anything yucky online that makes you feel scared, upset or even if it makes you feel a bit weird in the tummy, talk to Mum, Dad or another trusted adult."It is important to make sure your child feels comfortable to speak up. If they don't feel comfortable talking to their parents that they can speak with one of the school welfare team, a teacher, another trusted adult, or call Kids Helpline.Tips for Parents/Carers:1. Be as involved in your child's online

life as you are their offline life. To them it is just "life", it is so blurred now there is no definition in the eyes of a young person.

2. Think about the age recommendations; it is not illegal for a child to use social media under the age of 13 years with their parents/carers permission, but think about what they are being exposed to. When we sign up to use apps, there are extensive terms and conditions of use. By ticking that box accepting them, you are signing a document that puts all the onus back on the user. You are signing up to be a data generating commodity, handing over personal information that can be sold and shared at the app's discretion. When you click "I agree" to most terms and conditions on social media platforms - you give it up by legal contract. And you probably didn't even read them. Most adults don't, let alone a child.

Carnegie Mellon researchers estimated that for an average

individual to read all the terms and conditions we should - it would take 76 days. So, you could legitimately argue the impossibility of this. Instagram's Terms and Conditions are over 5000 words long. Facebook sits at around 15,000. TikTok has a couple of pages; Google's terms and conditions are shorter than Facebook.

The practice of tech companies is to either: bombard you with so much detail, it is incredibly unrealistic to expect anyone (especially a child) to read through them all, or to create brief terms and conditions that are deceptively simple, and in effect, sign away all rights to your content, and personal information by using vague legal speak. Some of the things they state are:• "You grant us a non-exclusive,

transferrable, sub-licensable, royalty-free worldwide license to use any IP content that you post on or in connection with the app."

• Pictures, videos, posts, private messages, ANYTHING you have on your page is licensed to the app and can be sold or shared for media and marketing purposes.

It also includes:• All device information, your

connections, what you share and what you delete.

• What groups you are members of and what you follow.

• Your location and your IP address and the length of time you spend online.

• How you bank, your billing details, delivery and home address.

• What your friends post about you.• Wi-Fi nearby and Bluetooth

"handshakes."• Mobile towers nearby, mobile

number, connections speeds• Your ISP and all the cookies that are

stored on your device.3. Use parental controls where

possible to minimise exposure to harmful and distressing content.

4. Engage with them about their favourite social media app and get them to teach you about it so you

can at least know the basics. Get them to show you how to block and report so you can be sure they know how to.

5. Put healthy boundaries in place. Don't ban them from their device if they forget to do a household chore or are naughty for something totally unrelated to their device. Do not take it off them if they speak up about something that has happened online because you are scared. This is the quickest way to drive all the conversations that you want to be having underground. Instead, if you have a healthy boundary like all devices are banned from the bathroom or bedroom. So then if they are caught with their device in either place, you ban them for a week. This way, they will learn that it is safe to speak up about what is going on online without punishment unless they break the rules about device use. Limit use to the family room with younger kids so that you can monitor them.

6. Be a good role model. Keep your screen time in check. There is no use banning the phones from bedrooms if you go to bed with yours each night, for example.

Safe on SocialSome Timely Advice

by Kirra Pendergast, CEO - Safe on Social Media Pty Ltd

Absentee Hotline

4790 4353If your child is away either:• phone the hotline - if unanswered

please leave a message with reason for child’s absence,

• respond to school text message or

• hand in a note, on return, to Mrs Slattery at the office.

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Upcoming Events21 Sept - 2 Oct School Holidays5 Oct Queen's Birthday Holiday6 Oct Yr 11 & 12 Individual Case Management

Meetings (this week)7 Oct Sports Awards Rehearsals (S1, SMC)8 Oct Student Council Meeting (2nd Break, I Block) Sports Awards (6.30-8.00 pm, Burdekin Theatre)9 Oct World Mental Health Day Extended House Family - Reports Issued Choir Rehearsal (1st Break, A13) Instrumental Music Lessons (All day)12 Oct Choir Rehearsal (1st Break, A13) Band Rehearsal (3.15-4.15 pm, A13) Instrumental Music Lessons (All day) Yr 12 "I'm Outta Here" (6.30 pm, Resource Centre)13-16 Oct Yr 11 Camp (Kinchant Dam)15 Oct ARTIE Term 4 Launch (S3)16 Oct ARTIE Fun Day (Townsville)19 Oct Instrumental Music Lessons (All day) Yr 9/10 ECB $20 Boss Launch (S1-3) Choir Rehearsal (1st Break, A13) Band Rehearsal (3.15-4.15 pm, A13)20 Oct Interview Process for 2021 Leaders Cultural Awards (5.30-7.00 pm, Burdekin Theatre) Music Support Group Meeting (5.00 pm, A14)21 Oct Yr 7 & 10 Vaccations Academic Awards Rehearsal (S4) Interschool Sport - 15 Yrs Softball & Cricket22 Oct Academic Awards Rehearsal (S1-S3) Academic Awards (7.30-9.30 pm, Burdekin Theatre)23 Oct Choir Rehearsal (1st Break, A13) Instrumental Music Lessons (All day) LIP Leader Nominations Due Yr 5 Transition - Smaller Schools (2nd visit)

Year 9 Students Learn about World War I

by Mrs Saskia Vollema-Creek, Humanities Teacher

At the end of Term 3, the Year 9 History classes ventured to ANZAC Park to enhance their knowledge about the commemoration of war in Ayr. As part of the World

War unit they are currently studying, the Year 9 students had to examine, analyse and evaluate the war memorials. They learnt that many young men from the Burdekin fought in many conflicts since 1901 including World War I, Korea and Vietnam. They also learnt that women in service were recognised with a small plaque under the flag pole. The memorials clearly reflect the bravery, heroism and sacrifices of these young men and women and the students came to appreciate the symbolism behind their design. Next year, they will go to Townsville to visit the RAAF and Army museums as the final part

of their study of Australians at war.

Academic Scholarshipsby Ms Anna D’Ilario, Deputy Principal

Ayr High has a proud tradition of academic excellence forged through the dedication, experience and care of

highly qualified staff who have worked closely with students to ensure that they have created a successful pathway to tertiary education. This year, we have on offer several scholarships for students who will be in Year 7 and Year 11 in 2021. If you have a demonstrated commitment to excellence in your studies, maintain a high level of attendance, and are committed to extra-curricular and co-curricular activities, then consider applying. Academic scholarships include the cost of school fees (for the year), uniform, and priority access to academic extension activites. Applications close at 4.00 pm, Friday 9 October.Applicants will be advised of their outcome in writing during the week beginning 12 October, 2020.Successful applicants will be presented their scholarship at our Academic Awards on Thursday 22 October 2020.

Position Vacant for School Technical Officer

Expressions of interest are currently being called by Ayr State High School for the above-mentioned position.

The position is temporary (36¼ hr/week).Applications close 4.00 pm - Friday 2 October 2020.Application information can be found on the Ayr State High School website https://ayrshs.eq.edu.au/support-and-resources/forms-and-documents/documents.

Keep a watch on our school these holidays

Report any suspicious activity at our school to School Watch on 13 17 88.

If you see something suspicious, please don’t intervene. Call the School Watch number and let the local police or State Government Protective Security Service deal with the matter.

Issue No 6 - 2020 SUCCESS: Every Student, Every Day. Page 17

Cooking with 8Cby Ms Anna D'Ilario, Teacher

Another term, another cooking class! Each term, I am impressed by the quality of our future chefs! This term, 8C

have consistently demonstrated innovation and industry in the kitchen. They did a wonderful job with their muffin assessment and some of the healthy muffins tasted too good to be true! Great job, 8C!

Hospitality Presentation Eveningby Ms Courtney Carrigan, A/Deputy Principal

Twenty-three Year 12 students have completed and received their Certificate II in

Hospitality. For the first time in our Hospitality class, one student furthered their studies and completed a Certificate III in Hospitality - congratulations to Jacinta Grabbi. The two Year 12 Hospitality classes joined forces to prepare an evening of delicious tapas foods from ‘Around the World’ serving them to their parents and guests. The students were officially presented their certificates by Principal, Mr Whittred, and BluePrint representative, Mr Graeme Tate. Mrs Bromham was extremely proud of the students’ achievements in what has been a very difficult year with COVID-19 restrictions describing them as a very resilient and tight-knit group. Congratulations to all students for a wonderful evening of food and celebration of your achievements.

Issue No 6 - 2020 SUCCESS: Every Student, Every Day. Page 18

Relay for Life

Year 11 - Superheroes'Best Dressed' Team Winners

Year 10 - Birthday Party'Best Baton' Winners (Pass the Parcel)

Relay for Life Committee Members

Layout and Design - Victoria Augostis