Term 2 Week 4 7 May 2013

Dear Parents and Caregivers On Saturday, driving down Buderim-Mooloolaba

Road, I looked across to the north where the blue sky and the expansive green canopy made a truly

spectacular site. It wasn't hard to feel so incredibly grateful for life and for the opportunity to live in such a

beautiful part of the world.

Of course, beauty and gratitude can be found in all sorts of settings, can't they, even in unexpected places and events. I remember being at my Mum's bedside as cancer took its toll and, although experiencing overwhelming feelings of grief and loss, there was also a sense that it was a privilege to be with Mum to see her out of this life, as she had seen me into it. To me, Mum had never looked more beautiful or more at peace and I felt thankful that I was able to be there with her.

Then there's the unexpected beauty of the desert. Have you ever been driving and had your breath taken away by the vast nothingness and the realization of your own smallness in the great scheme of things? Then to have the experience, years ago now, of driving between Cloncurry and Mount Isa after a little rain and to see that apparent wasteland alive with colour as wildflowers miraculously popped up between the rocks . And to think, 'It only appeared lifeless to my eyes, but all this potential for life lay unseen, waiting for a little attention to be paid to its needs.' It is easy to be tricked into believing that the truth lies only in what the eye can see. Sometimes, we need these small reminders in order to put aside the belief that we see life as it really is and that is all there is to it.

Having a school located in a bushland setting also affords us the daily opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature and not only in the forms that are more readily admired by most. The many colourful birds and ‘cute’ creatures are easily accepted and appreciated but it is much more difficult to find the beauty in those creatures that regularly receive a ‘bad rap’ so to speak. There is something to be said for the fact that our students are learning to co-exist (wherever possible) with many of God’s creatures. For instance, after assembly last Thursday, many of the classes stopped to marvel at the rather large and beautifully-patterned python that was sunning itself at the back of the chapel. To be able to appreciate its beauty, while both the snake and the students kept their safe distance, is to take advantage of a rare opportunity. Likewise, the flying foxes are much maligned and yet, they are simply being themselves. With accurate information and a little understanding, thoughtful decisions can be made that take account of the safety and wellbeing of people while respecting the things of nature. (Please see notice elsewhere in this newsletter for update.)

And then, we have all encountered beauty in people who would not be considered to meet the criteria of the typically beautiful person; people whose inner beauty uplifts our spirits through their sheer courage, wisdom, humanity or simple goodness and kindness. Joseph Merrick, was one such person. Joseph (sometimes mistakenly called John) was better known as the Elephant Man due to the deformities that severely disfigured his face, head and body. The 1980 movie of his life left a deep and lasting impression on me.

Joseph lived in the latter half of the nineteenth century in the era of ‘freak shows’ to which the public paid an entry fee to be horrified and frightened by ‘human curiosities’ who were ridiculed and shunned as ‘perversions of nature’. After the death of his mother and his father’s remarriage, Joseph was turned out of home as a teenager to live on the streets. Without going into the whole incredibly sad story of his life, a life marked by abandonment and lack of affection and kindness, Joseph was taken in by the London Hospital where he lived out his days until his death at the age of 27. The famous rebuke to a crowd of people who chased and cornered him, ‘I am not an animal. I am a man,’ still cuts deeply, as does his frequent movement to tears when shown the most basic of kindnesses which we take so much for granted. What beauty there is in someone who has every reason to turn to bitterness and yet becomes more deeply human instead!

And then there are the small things, such as last Friday, when I was showing a potential new family around the school. As we walked along the path outside the Year One rooms, I picked up one of those pesky, plastic straw covers and kept walking, not thinking any more of it. Further up the path, Max met me outside his classroom, came over and asked, ‘Would you like me to put that in the bin for you, Ms Morgan?’ Well I was quite taken aback, as were the visitors. Not only had Max noticed that I had picked up the litter, but also had waited for me in order to be helpful. It was a simple and beautiful moment. Thank you Max; you made my day! A little more beauty enters the world with every thoughtful action.

Again, last Thursday night, we saw another example of the true beauty of the Stella Maris staff when they assisted, sang, danced, played and performed at the SOS Concert in support of the flood-affected St Joseph’s School, Gayndah. Yes, the men and women looked good in their various ensembles (go the men in their suits and the ladies in their belly-dancing outfits), but the real beauty of the event lay in the spirit in which SOS was conceived, planned, rehearsed and brought to life. From the moment Peta Neill shared the idea, the staff and P&F stepped up in support and many stepped well outside their comfort zones in doing so. To Peta, Todd, Inez, all performers, behind the scenes’ helpers and to all who supported through attendance, thank you for great entertainment but more than that, thank you for your generosity and selflessness. It’s time like these when the real beauty of the community is on show and one can only be grateful for that.

Thank you also to the P&F for the wonderful support in donating the first prize in the multi-draw raffle, to all staff and parents who donated the remainder of the prizes, to Kellie Loe and her helpers for taking care of the catering so well and to Office staff for ticketing and promotional materials. Simon Kirch at the Alex Beach Resort must also be thanked for donating the night’s accommodation for Liam Dougherty, Principal at St Joseph’s, Gayndah. Liam thoroughly enjoyed the evening and was thrilled not having to drive the 3-4 hours back to Gayndah afterwards. Thank you very much Simon for your generous and unsolicited support. Total raised is $6075.65. Well done everyone.

Yes, beauty comes in all forms and in unexpected places, events and people. I do believe true beauty has more to do with a spirit that outshines the beauty of face or body or other traditional beauties.

Thank you for adding your very own beauty to the community at Stella Maris. Have a great week everyone and Happy Mother’s Day to all Mums out there I hope you are thoroughly spoiled as you deserve!

Glenda

Dear Parents/Caregivers, This Sunday coming we celebrate Mothers’ Day. Many Australians celebrate Mother’s Day by showing their appreciation for the achievements and efforts of mothers and mother figures. It is annually observed in Australia on the second Sunday of May. The Mother’s Day date in Australia is the same as the date observed in the United States, which is the second Sunday of May each year. However, it is an Australian who is credited with having started the tradition of giving gifts on Mother's Day: Janet Heyden, a resident of Leichhardt Sydney, started a campaign in 1924 to collect gifts for lonely aged mothers. This tradition has spread so that all mothers are honoured on this day.

Who will you show appreciation for this Sunday? Many people appreciate their mothers or mother figures, which include stepmothers, relatives, guardians (eg. foster mothers), and close family friends. Some organizations have Mother’s Day patrons who work together with the media and general community to raise awareness of Mother’s Day events that aim to raise funds for charitable or non-profit causes. Mother's Day is about more than just giving a gift. It's about showing the significant women in our lives that we love and appreciate them. It’s a time to thank them for who they are and what they do. It's hard to think of a better way to show your appreciation than by spending time with this special person and creating a new memory. That can be so much more meaningful than any other type of gift.

What do people do to celebrate Mother’s Day? Mother’s Day events and activities may include:

Organized walks or runs to raise money for causes such as breast cancer research.

Visits to the zoo, movies, or botanical gardens, or other places of interest.

Breakfasts, brunches, lunches, afternoon teas or dinners at restaurants, cafes, or at home.

Handmade gifts or cards being presented to mothers or mother figures.

Flowers, chocolates, clothing, gift vouchers and other gifts that are given to mothers or mother figures.

Mother’s Day poems being printed, broadcast, or presented to mothers and mother figures.

Mother’s Day stories being publicized in magazines, newspapers, radio, television or the internet.

Many families may also spend the day having a picnic in the park or the beach on Mother’s Day, if the weather permits.

So how will you say ‘thank-you’ to that special mother figure in your life on this Mother’s Day? Are there people in your life who are mother figures for you? If so, why not acknowledge their special place in your life this coming Sunday. Even a phone call or a card might just make someone’s day!

God bless! Judith.

9 May 2013

Whyatt Faux, Madeline Nicholl, Max Thompson, Ruth Corcoran, Emily Quaill, Mackenzie O’Keeffe, Tahli Halson, Tristan Mitchell, Jack Guy, Lindsay Roberts, Mackenzie Gigney, Oscar Nielsen, Michelle Pearson, Jacob Andrews, Emilie Fox, Alexi Champion, Savannah Bougoure,

Lauren Lucas, Blake Thompson, Noah Talbot, Alina Robins, Jessica Griffin, Ashton Bougoure, John Saxon, Lucy Holzer, Rehym Glover, Gabrielle Brown, Luke Walsh, Max McDonald, Emily Wills.

Latest on the Flying Foxes - Last Wednesday, Father Joe and I met with Council Conservation Officers who updated us on the Regional Flying-Fox Management Plan recently presented to Council. This plan has been developed ‘to guide the balance between the social and economic needs of the community, and environmental due-diligence, protection of the flying foxes and the essential ecosystem services provided by the flying foxes. Once endorsed by Councillors, the plan then goes to the State Government – Department of Environment and Heritage protection for approval. Once the plan is approved, it will be implemented and guide Council decision- making processes for actions required at roost locations,’ including the roost at Stella Maris.

Basically then, the various stages or options in the plan have the same aim, namely, to disperse the flying fox colony and move them on from their present location. Option/Stage One involves widening of the buffer zone between neighbouring houses and the flying fox colony to a distance of 10m. This would involve clearing of the under-story and removal of branches and some trees. Option/Stage Two provides for further extension of the zone to a distance of 20m. Both these options also involve the use of non-lethal methods to disperse the roost, i.e. the use of smoke, lighting and noise as the flying foxes return to the roost in the pre-dawn period. The third, and obviously least desirable, option is the removal of all trees. I do not think anyone would want this option to become necessary.

Father Joe and I have, at this stage, verbally agreed to the first two options, preferably as staged interventions. I will keep you informed as I learn more.

StellaVegas When: May 25th

Where: Maroochydore Surf Club Tickets on sale Monday 13 May at front of school Thank you to our sponsors so far:- • Thompson Builders - Sunshine Coast • Raw Energy - Noosaville • GLAIR Insulation/air conditioning • The Naturalvet Company • Land Surveying Dynamics

• Sunshine Coast Building and Pest Control

We are still looking for donations for a silent auction—are you able to donate manicure/pedicure, wine or spirits, a massage . . .

Monday 6 May–Friday 10 May 2013 8.00am-8.40am each morning

Outside the Uniform Shop

L.O.T.E. Congratulations to all the students who entered the MLTAQ 2013 Italian Poster Competition. We are so proud to report the out-standing results from our Stella Maris entrants. All entries were amazing and reflected how talented the students are.

The following students gained recognition:- Year 5/6 D - 1st Zoe Hunter 2nd Sarah Baillie, Highly Commended— Bella Smith-Leishman Year 6 - 1st Shelby Mills, 2nd Neve Hulsman-Benson, 3rd Bella Blunt Year 7 - 1st Lauren Bellamy, 3rd Jackson Woodforth, Highly Commended, Kyra Bellamy

Students had to take themselves on a Language Safari and discover the Foods of Italy. They designed a poster using Italian language with the title in Italian; researched the foods of Italy; illustrated the poster with colourful and relevant images and added words in Italian which reflected the theme. Ben fatto a tutti - Well done everyone

Signora Carmel Barbagallo

STARTS MAY 22

Information letters were sent home last week. If you wish to enrol your child in the Rainbows program forms are

available from the office. Please complete the form and return it to the school office ASAP.

MUSIC NOTES QUOTE OF THE WEEK “You know what music is? God's little reminder that there's something else besides us in this

universe; harmonic connection between all living beings, everywhere, even the stars.” ~Wizard – “August Rush”

TIP OF THE WEEK - Encourage and support your child to listen to artists who play their instrument. This can include good recordings and better still, go to a live concert!!

SOS CONCERT - Many thanks to the Stella Maris community for their support of our SOS concert this past Thursday. It was a wonderful opportunity to put our talents to the test for a most worthwhile cause. Perhaps we will see and hear more from the many talented Stella Maris staff members. A point of interest – the school population of St. Joseph’s School, Gayndah is the same as the current enrolment in our Piccolo Choir!

CHOIR - An email was sent on Saturday 4 May to parents of choir members who have already returned their choir participation form. If you did not receive an email please let me know so that I can add your email to our database. In some cases, my email was returned due to an incorrect address. I will endeavor to correct these addresses in the coming week.

GUITARS - We have just 6 full-size guitars left to sell. The cost is $50 per guitar. Please contact Mrs Durrer or Mr Wynyard if you are interested.

MUSICA VIVA - This Thursday afternoon, we welcome music teachers from the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane to Stella Maris for a Musica Viva inservice. The PD is designed to prepare us for the musical group Entourage who will be presenting three concerts to the Stella Maris staff and students in October. I look forward to sharing my new tidbits of information with the students during Term 3 and 4.

TEN FACTS ABOUT SCHOOL MUSIC - Continuing from last week, the following is the ninth fact about music education. 9. Learning music is good for Australia’s social and economic growth The Australian business community wants kids to learn music at school. The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) last year delivered its ‘Skills for a Nation: A Blueprint for Improving Training and Education Policy 2007 – 2017’. Among its fifteen recommendations for improving children’s education in the primary years was: ‘There should be an opportunity for all students to learn a musical instrument in primary school.’

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC NEWS - DATE CLAIMERS STELLA SOIREE WEEK will be held in week 7 this term on Monday 27, Tuesday 28 and Thursday 30 May in the Hall. All enrolled students will have an opportunity to perform and each day will have two performance sessions – 5pm to 6pm and 6.30pm to 7.30pm. Tutors will advise students of their performance day and time in coming weeks. Other dates for this term are: Friday 17 May – Sunshine Coast Honours Music Program at Stella Maris (selected Concert Band students) Thursday 23 May – Assembly Performance by Concert Band and Stella Fellas Sunday 2 June - MUSICFEST Sunshine Plaza (Concert Band and SM Singers)

Remember, if you need to contact your child's tutor, details are shown on the top left corner of the lesson timetable. If you have queries regarding anything musical – please feel free to catch up with us before or after school, by contacting us in writing or via email.

Musically Yours, Inez Durrer Todd Wynyard Classroom Music Specialist Instrumental Music Coordinator idurrer@bne.catholic.edu.au twynyard@bne.catholic.edu.au

MUSIC IN THE COMMUNITY Sunshine Coast Youth Orchestra Mother’s Day Concert – SCYO presents its annual Mother’s Day Concert on Saturday May 11th at 6:30pm featuring all the ensembles - from your String Groups to our full Symphony Orchestra and Concert Band. (Our youngest String Ensembles have four members from Stella Maris. Featuring Stella Maris Students - Tajah Godfrey, Gabriel Low, Roxene Larkin-Young and Chloe Edwards. A very family friendly concert and a great way for your budding musicians to hear and see what they can achieve in the future. Tickets available online www.trybooking.com/CQLN

May 14 P & F Meeting 6.30p.m. in the staffroom May 25 Stella Vegas (Casino Night) May 31 Caritas Walkathon June 10-21 Student, Teacher, Parent Conferences June 10 Queen’s Birthday Holiday June 14 Nambour Show Holiday June 11 P & F Meeting 6.30p.m. in the staffroom June 17 Yrs 4 - 7 DanceFever Interschool Challenge June 18 Year 6's to visit Siena June 21 Last Day Term 2

Stella Maris District Cross Country Team 2013 Congratulation to the 30 students who represented Stella Maris at the District Cross Country on Monday the 6th May 2013.

It was rewarding to witness the improvement in athletic performance as a result of regular training through attending Stella Runners.

The school was well represented and one student in particular has progressed to the regional level in this sport. Congratulations to Harrison Kidd and good luck in preparation your next round of racing.

Mr Hughes and Mr. Jones

2013 AFL YOUTH CUP Max McDonald, Zac Medwin, Alister Reginato, Bailey Johnston, Josh Fuller, Michael Baillie, Carter Michael, Bailey Ratcliff, Jess Johnston, Noah Jeffs, Alex Duncan, Dominic Carmody, Jake Young, Lachlan McDonald, Jake Edgar, Tristan Eva, Bayley Eva, Willem Johnstone, and Zeb Mackey.

Apologies to Willem and Zeb who were not mentioned last week.

NEEDED PICKELET MIXES AND MUFFIN MIXES Week Ending 10 May L Wallace, L Wiseman, M Austin, M Champron, M Hunter, M MacDonald, M Murray, M White, N Burrows,N Edwards, N McMinn, N Michael, N Pace, N Parkinson-Hubbard, O Robbins, P Siddans,

Wed 08/05 Thurs 09/05 Fri 10/05 Mon 13/05 Tues 14/05

A Fais S O’Donnell S Dangerfield

J Carrolan K Teljega J Modric

H Cruise R Larkin

P Mitchell T Gorring

STUDENT TRAVEL REBATES

Semester 1, 2013

Visit website to see if you qualify for financial assistance to help with the cost of transport and apply at www.schooltransport.com.au by

31 May 2013. Late applications cannot be accepted.

MEDIA VIOLENCE The recent violence at the Boston Marathon followed by the pursuit of the perpetrators was covered repeatedly and with intensity by the

national press. Television reporting was especially graphic, with both verbal descriptions and images of violent encounters. As adults, we

express outrage and attempt to understand the forces that motivated such aggression and brutality. But what do we tell our children who view

the carnage on television news programs? Here is some advice you can share:

1. Limit the amount of news violence children watch on TV.

2. Sit with children when they are watching the news and talk about what you are seeing.

3. For young children, a helpful statement might be: "Many people are working hard to make sure this doesn't happen again. We will always

make our home a safe place."

4. For older children, encourage them to talk about what they experience when they watch violence on the news. Talking about fears in a

safe environment when a trusted person is listening is often therapeutic. Do not attempt to provide definitive answers to all their questions.

Practise active listening to allow for anxieties, fears, and rage to be expressed in the safety of your home.

5. Give all children the space to express themselves with words and emotions. Clinicians know the value of silence during a challenging clinical

interview. Use it with your children. A quiet moment allows them to consolidate their feelings and respond (verbally and nonverbally) with

greater clarity.

6. The relationship of trust you as parents have with your children can promote a dialogue and a sense of safety when it is needed

the most.

— Martin T. Stein, MD

Published in Journal Watch Pediatrics and Adolescent MedicineApril 24, 2013

Christine Craig (Guidance Counsellor) email:ccraig@bne.catholic.edu.au