Doyle Drive (PO Box 246) Banora Point NSW 2486

(07) 5524.9002

(07) 5524.9272

Email: sjcbanora@lism.catholic.edu.au

Website: www.sjctweed.org

MONDAY 23 JULY (DAY 4)

Year 11 Hospitality Work Placement (23-27 July) (selected students)

U/13 Country Cup (23-24 July)

(selected students)

TUESDAY 24 JULY (DAY 5)

Year 9 Student/Parent/Teacher Evening (3:30-8:00pm, Doyle Centre)

WEDNESDAY 25 JULY (WED)

Year 12 IT & DT Showing Day (selected students)

THURSDAY 26 JULY (DAY 1)

Year 12 SCU Presentation (Lunchtime, Careers Room)

Year 9 Community Service: „St James Primary‟ (selected students)

Year 12 HSC Drama Showcase (6:30pm-8:00pm, Drama Space, Doyle Centre)

FRIDAY 27 JULY (DAY 2)

College Athletics Carnival

SUNDAY 29 JULY

St Joseph‟s Parish Youth Mass (Holy Family Chapel, St Joseph‟s College)

Principal‟s Message Dear Parents, Students, Staff and Friends of St Joseph‟s College,

ACCEPTING RESPONSIBILITY One of the great challenges in life is to accept responsibility for our actions. Fr John Powell, a Jesuit scholar, maintains that to achieve personal happiness in our lives “we must accept fully responsibility for our lives”. The following eight points spells out why this is so critical if we are to find fulfilment and happiness in our lives as students, parents, husbands/wives and in our employment.

1. It is a fact of life: Growth begins where blaming ends. To become an owner not a blamer helps us to build a life of better learning, loving and listening.

2. Other persons or situations may stimulate a response but the nature of that response will be determined by something in me and my choices.

3. I decide how I am going to act... (even if the situation or person gives me pain and pressure). I am an actor not a reactor. This way also, I am much more likely to be a cool person in a crisis. I think of the value of Victor Frankl‟s life-living principle:

“The last of the human freedoms is to choose one’s attitude in every set of circumstances.” I must always choose by my attitude to be a positive proactive person. It’s my responsibility to choose.

4. Perception is at the heart of every emotion - my emotions can be my foe or my friend - helpful or hurtful - enjoyable or endurable - my response is my responsibility.

5. I can‟t change the world to suit me but I can change my response to the world. You can‟t change the wind but you can adjust your sails.

6. Before I choose my response, I not only want to find out what happened but more importantly, why?

7. Blamers surrender their happiness to other people, problems, places, products, procedures, etc.

8. Mentors of self-responsibility and discipline will help us get the message, ie. “if it is to be it‟s up to me.”

John Powell draws as his inspiration the example of Jesus and in particular JN10:10 “I have come that you may have life and have it to the full.” Again a note on Student Absences and this is not a personal position. Your child‟s attendance at school is compulsory until they reach the age of 17. Exemption from attendance may be granted in exceptional circumstances. Clearly, illness, misadventure, bereavement come under this category – in that they are acceptable “exceptions”. Government regulations also allow for students who are involved in “elite” sporting, cultural and entertainment programs. In sport, as a general rule, “elite” refers to state or national representation that requires qualification for such representation. The cultural and entertainment definitions are a little murkier but in all cases a student‟s commitment to study and life in the college should be a positive consideration.

FAX

Page 2 St Joseph‟s College Newsletter | 23 July 2012

The School Newsletter and School Calendar are both available online @ www.sjctweed.org. The School Calendar contains year group events, assessment schedules and term dates.

WEEK 3

Monday 30 July Year 12 HSC Trial Examinations (30 Jul-10 Aug)

Tuesday 31 July Year 10 into 11 2013 Parent Information Evening

ICAS English Competition Wednesday 1 August

Year 11 Leadership Camp (1-3 Aug)

Thursday 2 August Australian Mathematics Competition

Cochrane Cup Friday 3 August

Junior Legacy Public Speaking Competition „You Have a Friend‟ Surfing Competition

WEEK 4

Monday 6 August Year 10 Subject Selection Round 1 forms due

Choral Rehearsal Day Tuesday 7 August

Year 8 into 9 2013 Information Night Year 10 Community Service: „St Martha‟s

Rugby League Wednesday 8 August

Feast of St Mary of the Cross Gold Coast Eisteddfod

Friday 10 August Year 11 Community Service: „Meals on Wheels‟

WEEK 5

Tuesday 14 August ICAS Mathematics Competition

Wednesday 15 August

Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Thursday 16 August

School Captains visit to Parliament House

WEEK 6

Monday 20 August Group/Sport Photos Tuesday 21 August

Year 10 Community Service: St Martha‟s SRC Tri-Series

Wednesday 22 August SJC Public Speaking Competition Finals

HSC Music Performance Evening Thursday 23 August

SRC Tri-Series Friday 24 August CSYMA Conference

Gold Coast Dance Eisteddfod Sunday 26 August

Parish Youth Mass (5:30pm, Holy Family Chapel)

WEEK 7

Monday 27 August LITERACY & NUMERACY WEEK

Tuesday 28 August SRC Tri-Series

Wednesday 29 August Year 9 „Night of Notables‟

Thursday 30 August HSC Music Performance Evening

Sunday 2 September Father‟s Day

WEEK 8

Tuesday 4 September Year 10 Community Service: St Martha‟s

Wednesday 5 September SRC DISCO

Thursday 6 September Leadership Mass

Friday 7 September Year 11 Community Service: „Meals on Wheels‟

WEEK 10

Monday 17 September Year 11 End of Prelim Course Exams (17-21 Sept)

Year 10 Marine Studies Excursion (17-21 Sept)

Tuesday 18 September Year 10 Community Service: St Martha‟s

Thursday 20 September Year 12 2012 Graduation Mass and Prize Night

Friday 21 September TERM 3 ENDS - This is a normal school day

Year 12 2012 Farewell Assembly

From the Front Page

Exemption from attendance at school for sporting, cultural or entertainment commitments cannot be granted after the fact. Two weeks advance notice is required to ensure assessment commitments are able to be met. In most cases entry and acceptance into sporting, cultural or entertainment events require more than two weeks‟ notice; application for exemption from attendance should be part of this process. Less than two weeks‟ notice to the College will result in the student‟s absence being recorded as “Unexplained” or “Insufficient Explanation” – except where a late „call up‟ has rendered such application impossible. The message from the Government is very clear: children are expected to be at school. As an educational institution we are charged with the responsibility of ensuring that parents are aware of this expectation and of monitoring that attendance. I thank the many parents who are following what may appear to be a tedious procedure - both at your end and mine. God Bless Mr Eric Littler Principal

The HSC Drama Showcase will be taking place on

Thursday 26 July commencing at 6.30pm

in the Drama Space

The showcase will feature the Drama students’

group and individual performances

as well as a costume design display

and a reading of a script excerpt.

The evening promises to be a wonderful display

of the students’ unique skills and talents.

The showcase will conclude at around 8:00pm.

P

STUDENT/PARENT/TEACHER EVENING

Last Wednesday saw the Year 8 Student/Parent/Teacher evening take place. Year 9 will have their interview night tomorrow night, Tuesday 24 July, commencing at 3:30pm. Last week, booking sheets for appointments were issued to all students in Year 9. It is very important that at least one parent be in attendance on this night.

COLLEGE ATHLETICS CARNIVAL This coming Friday, 27 July, we will be holding our Annual Athletics Carnival.

Attendance at this event is compulsory. Please note that in the event of rain, we will have normal lessons from Day 2 of the timetable. As is normal practice in the event of a student‟s absence, parents/caregivers are to phone the College before 9:30am and to follow up with a signed note within seven days.

Mr Peter Lyon Deputy Principal

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL’S NOTES

Issue 20 2012 | Term 3 Week 2 Page 3

Students Absences: Please telephone the College between 7:45am and 9:30am on the day of the absence. A signed parental note is also required within seven days.

Hosea 14:2-10

I will heal their disloyalty; I will love them freely, for my anger has turned from them. I will be like the dew to Israel; he shall blossom like the lily, he shall strike root like the forests of Lebanon. His shoots shall spread out; his beauty shall be like the olive tree, and his fragrance like that of Lebanon. They shall again live beneath my shadow, they shall flourish as a garden; they shall blossom like the vine, their fragrance shall be like the wine of Lebanon.

As I take this time in the presence of God, I try not to be distracted by memories or regrets. I hear the Word of God that is full of promise and accept that God wants me to flourish, to grow, and to blossom.

The images of the reading are of abundance, colour, and fragrance. I pray that I may enrich the lives of those who live with me by living generously, freely, and fully.

St Joseph’s Parish Tweed Heads

P

TERM 3 EVENTS

Term 3 is a time when we celebrate many important milestones in our Church and at our school. The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary occurs on Wednesday 15 August (Week 5) and St Joseph‟s College will join with Catholics around the world by celebrating Mass as this is a Holy Day of Obligation.

Later this term, St Joseph‟s College will also celebrate the Leadership Mass on Thursday 6 September (Week 8), and finally the Year 12 Graduation Mass on Thursday 20 September (Week 10). Details on both will be provided closer to each date.

THANK YOU My thanks to everyone involved in and assisting with the Reflection Days last week for Years 7-10. I believe they were a great success and I hope that our students will take with them a more positive outlook and connection with their peers. Mr Scott McDermott RE Coordinator-Ministry

What feelings are rising in me as I pray and reflect on God‟s Word? I imagine Jesus himself sitting or standing beside me, and open my heart to him.

ST JOSEPH’S

CATHOLIC PARISH

TWEED HEADS

Catholic Presbytery

Ph: (07) 5536.7522

PARISH YOUTH MASS

The next Youth Mass will be held this Sunday, 29 July

in the Holy Family Chapel, St Joseph‟s College,

Doyle Drive, Banora Point commencing at 5:30pm

Youth Mass Dates for the remainder of 2012 are as follows:

TERM 3: Week 6: Sunday 26 August

Holidays: Sunday 30 September

TERM 4: Week 3: Sunday 28 October

Week 7: Sunday 25 November

Monday 6 to Sunday 12 August 2012 is National Homeless Persons Week

As part of this week of awareness, there will be a public sleep-out at the College . . .

CURRICULUM NEWS

HSC TRIAL EXAMINATIONS

30 JULY TO 10 AUGUST 2012 The Trial HSC Examinations will be held from next Monday, 30 July to Friday 10 August in the Doyle Centre at St Joseph‟s College. Timetables were distributed last week. As is standard practice at the College, if your child is absent during exam or assessment periods due to illness, parents/carers must phone the College to notify of the absence and also secure a doctor‟s certificate.

ATTENTION: YEAR 10 STUDENTS AND FAMILIES ~ YEAR 10 INTO YEAR 11 2013

SUBJECT SELECTION Last week I met with Year 10 students in the lead up to their senior subject selections. Please be reminded of two important dates in this process: next Tuesday, 31 July, is the parent information night; the following Monday, 6 August, is when the first round of selection forms are due. I include the text from the letter sent out last term about this process:

Tuesday 31 July 2012 (Week 3):

Year 10 into Year 11 Parent Information Evening and Subject Market. This evening will be held for students and their parents in the Doyle Centre, commencing at 6:00pm.

- This evening is very important for Year 10 students and will assist families in discussing HSC Patterns of Study. HSC and Preliminary Course information and the subject selection process at the College will be explained. Staff will be available to answer questions about subject choices after this meeting.

- Please ensure, if possible, the attendance at the Information Evening of an adult family member with each Year 10 student.

- Year 10 students should rearrange casual employment so that they are able to attend this evening.

- Families will be asked to sign a Learning Mentor Group (LMG) attendance roll on arrival. Any family who is unable to attend this meeting due to a prior commitment should contact the College in advance.

Monday 6 August 2012 (Week 4):

First Round Year 11 Subjects Selection form due. This form will need to be signed by the student and a parent in preparation for submission during LMG time on this date. The submission of this form will be the first step in constructing a timetable for Year 11 in 2013.

Any further information or requests for interviews with either myself, or the Careers Advisor, Mr Matthew Hall, can be made via the College Office. Mrs Kathy McAlister Curriculum Coordinator

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION NEWS

Join „You Have a Friend‟ for the Tweed’s fourth public sleep-out

to raise awareness of homelessness in our area on Saturday 4 August 2012

St Joseph‟s College Sporting Fields Doyle Drive Banora Point

We are seeking donations and participation to support the homeless in the Tweed and

surrounding areas.

Come along and sleep in a cardboard box, the fun begins at 4.00pm. Bring your own

cardboard box, sleeping bag, fold up chair and warm clothing. A basic ‘homeless' meal

provided followed by a movie. Prizes will be awarded for the 'Best Decorated Box'. Free BBQ breakfast and welcome 'Lexie' as she completes her 40 km rollerblade marathon

For more information: www.youhaveafriend.org.au

or contact John Lee - 0402 808727 or email john@youhaveafriend.org.au

Page 4 St Joseph‟s College Newsletter | 23 July 2012

If your child is ill and cannot attend school to sit an exam or submit an assessment, the parent or caregiver will need to obtain a doctor‟s certificate to cover the child‟s absence.

For the last time, Mister Speaker, the Honourable Sinead Scott, Member for Tweed: For the last six months, I have had the privilege of representing the Tweed electorate at the YMCA Youth Parliament, a program that gives young people a voice and educates them about the parliamentary process.

In the first week of the holidays, I flew down to Sydney with a 20 kg suitcase, my Bill, my speeches, and feelings of excitement and nervousness of the week ahead. In my committee, Family and Community Services, we aimed to create a Bill with the aim of solving a problem that we were passionate about.

Over the course of six months, the Bill we researched, attempted to address and presented to the rest of the NSW Youth Parliament was the Youth Homelessness and Mentoring Bill 2012. This Bill was then debated on the floor of the NSW Legislative Assembly in front of a full Chamber of 90 representatives from across the state. I am pleased to say that our Bill was passed with a resounding majority - 76:14.

The Family and Community Services Committee with Her Excellency the Governor of New South Wales, Professor Marie Bashir

As an education program, Youth Parliament is a realistic simulation of NSW Parliament – Youth Parliamentarians follow the same processes and procedure as their adult counterparts do, and also participate in Question Time, Matters of Public Importance and give Private Members Statements.

Me speaking on the Matter of National Importance - Same Sex Marriage in the “Bear Pit”

As a representative of Tweed, the issue that concerned my area that I wished to highlight to the Parliament was the cross border problem of daylight savings and the impact it has on local businesses and schools. The four days that I spent in the Chamber (also known as the Bear Pit, for a good reason) was the most invigorating, entertaining and thought-provoking time I have ever had. I was fairly apprehensive, getting up to the lectern to address the Chamber and being shouted down by the Opposition with “Shame!” but having the Government give me encouragement with a forceful “Hear Hear!” gave me the courage to continue and give my speech with the passion and eloquence it deserved. I was called on many occasions “a latte sipping elitist” or “a communist” and that my Bill was “as vague as a cat in a windmill” but if you can survive speaking in Parliament, you can survive speaking anywhere. I was very proud to have spoken on an issue that I consider so important in modern Australian society. I spoke on behalf of the Government and the gay community in favour of legislating same sex marriage and I am also pleased to say that most Youth Parliamentarians also agreed with me in this regard with the motion being passed with an overwhelming majority of 79 -11. It wasn‟t all business though. I met Her Excellency, the NSW Governor, Marie Bashir at the Governor‟s House (castle) in the Botanical Gardens, I played laser tag, sang on the long bus trips, gossiped with my cabin mates, attempted an all-nighter and made friendships with some amazing people that I will maintain throughout my life time. The quality of the debate and the ideas that were presented in this Youth Parliament of 2012 gave me a sense of hope and pride in the youth that show an interest in politics and improving the world they live in, bucking the false stereotype that today‟s youth are apathetic and disinterested in the society they live in. At risk of sounding corny, Youth Parliament was truly a life changing experience. It has done wonders for my confidence, my social ability and given me some valuable life experience. I learnt so much about Parliament and people over the course of this week. So I've taken it all back to Tweed to use in my everyday life and within my school community. I came out of this Parliament a lot less disillusioned about politics and the Parliamentary process as it made me realise that Parliaments are still made out real people with life stories and experiences and that the people that run this country so smoothly are doing a truly fantastic job at representing all facets of the community. I cannot recommend this program enough and I encourage anyone who is interested in politics or wishes to learn more about how this country works, to join Youth Parliament next year because I can guarantee that you will not regret it.

I commend this motion to the House....

Issue 20 2012 | Term 3 Week 2 Page 5

Taking Leave? All student leave must be approved by the College Principal in advance of the leave being taken. Our website includes details of legislative requirements and you can also download the leave application form.

L a p t o p I n f o r m a t i o n Please be advised that students who have borrowed equipment from the IT room have till the end of the July to return these items. The borrowed equipment includes: Chargers, Hard drives and Cases. A List will be going to each of the Year Coordinators with the names of students who have outstanding loan equipment. Failure to return the equipment will result in an invoice for the cost of the replacement. Students who are using the white Macbooks are issued with OSX Snow leopard (10.6). Any students using OSX Lion (10.7) or Mountain Lion (10.8) on these computers will have multiple issues with software compatibility which will cause the machine to run slow. The majority of this software is also highly illegal and we do not offer support for it. The machine will be re-imaged and further discipline may apply.

Students are changing their computer names to rude and immature names. This reflects badly on the school and offends other students and staff. The computer name should be the student’s own name so we can easily

identify the computer and the owner. Mr Lyon has given a warning to the students about this and

further action will be taken if they do not fix these names.

Security identification tags are stuck onto the front of the machine. This lets staff quickly identify

the owner of the machine. If a student peels the sticker off the machine there is a $5.00 replacement fee before we can give support to students. We have multiple machines that have returned from repairs. A list will be going out to year coordinators with names of student’s machines that are back. Please ensure that students have performed a backup recently so the handover is quick. Any issues please call or visit the IT room via the Library.

Expression of Interest

Regional Project Managers Australia Pty Ltd on behalf of The Diocese of

Lismore is currently seeking suitably qualified trade contractors to work on

an Iconic Heritage Restoration Project in the Lismore CBD. Initially we will

be developing a database of contractors for the following trades:

Hydraulics Electrical Concreting Mechanical

Lifts Fire Protection Civil Formwork

Building Carpentry Signage Tiling

Carpet Metalwork Glazing Roofing

Block/Bricklaying Plastering Waterproofing Furniture supply

Painting Landscaping Communications Audio Visual

Joinery Structural Steel

If you think your Company is suitably qualified to offer your services and to quote for any of

these trade packages, please submit a written capability statement with your company's

background and relevant experience and referees.

Written expressions are to be sent to tim.bodel@rpma.com.au

Last term we talked about ThinkUKnow, an Internet safety program delivering interactive training to parents, carers and teachers through schools and organisations across Australia using a network of accredited trainers. This week, we have a few ideas to pass on from ThinkUKnow . . .

Have a list of details not to be shared online Some scams operate under the guise of a competition where users are asked to enter in some details in order to claim their prize. Some people, caught up in the excitement of winning something may forget that these details shouldn't be shared online.

It may be worthwhile writing down a list of details that shouldn't be shared online or need a parent's permission before sharing. This list could include items such as address, mother's maiden name, phone number, passwords or credit card numbers. Placing this list in the areas where family members access the internet may serve as a visual reminder of what should and shouldn't be shared online. This simple step could aid family members remembering their cyber security obligations. Time2Talk This section provides some useful conversation starters for talking with young people about their use of technology. - Have you seen any scams on Facebook? - How do you know the difference between a

scam and the real thing? - What are some details which you should never

share online? - When was the last time you changed your

passwords? Talk about scams There can often be a sense of shame in admitting that you've fallen for a scam and people can avoid talking about these embarrassments. New scams are created every day and it can be hard to keep up with the latest threat. It can be worthwhile regularly talking about scams: those you've heard from friends, experienced yourself, seen on the news or strange communications you've received and are unsure about.

This simple step could alert you to scams you may have otherwise fallen for.

Set up two password change days a year The Australian Government advises users to change their passwords at least twice a year. To remind you to change your passwords, designate two password change days a year and mark them in your calendar or set a reminder on your phone.

These password change days are great occasions to reinforce the need for strong passwords: mixture of upper and lower case letters, numbers and keyboard symbols. You can even use pass phrases as an even stronger protective mechanism. Passwords or pass phrases should be different for each account you use.

This simple step could improve the security of your accounts and prevent them being compromised.

Keep an eye out in future newsletters for more information from ThinkUKnow . . .

Page 6 St Joseph‟s College Newsletter | 23 July 2012

Has your child been away from school? Following your child‟s absence from school, we will only accept a personally signed parental note, and this must be provided to the College within seven days.

LEADERSHIP MASS THURSDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2012

to be celebrated in the Holy Family Chapel

commencing 11:00am

G’Day USA Program Monies due tomorrow, Tuesday 24 July 2012

Just a reminder that all monies are due tomorrow for the G’Day USA Trip.

If parents have any concerns in relation to the payment, please contact Ms De Luca at the College.

Mr Peter Serone, Student Coordinator

STUDENT REPRESENTATIVE

COUNCIL (SRC) 2012-2013

Term 3 is the term where students are invited to consider their potential as student leaders. St Joseph‟s College is fortunate to have a very active student council who work to raise funds and provide activities which develop school spirit and improve our community. We are looking for another enthusiastic team of young people to continue this work in 2012-2013. Every student is encouraged to engage in some self-evaluation – to consider their current performance and involvement and identify the gifts they have to offer our community. During Week 3, Year 11 will attend their Leadership Camp, consider their potential as leaders and have the opportunity to nominate themselves or others for the senior leadership roles. Other year groups will be informed of the structure and process at form meetings in the near future. LMG teachers and Year Coordinators will then consider the suitability of those nominated, after which successful nominees will be informed. They will be interviewed for the role and then prepare and deliver a nomination speech for their year group. At the conclusion of the speeches, students will vote for their representatives. Successful students will be notified at the end of Week 6 and inducted at the Leadership Mass on Thursday 6 September (Week 8). Students are encouraged to nominate and to consider who amongst their peers might best represent them on the 2012-2013 Student Representative Council. Ms Frances Stegeman Pastoral Advisor

YEAR 12 NEWS

END OF YEAR PREPARATIONS During this term, Year 12 students will receive a letter outlining their end of year preparations. We ask our students to read the letter with their parent/guardians to be fully aware of College expectations. (Keep an eye out for the „letter box‟ notice in an upcoming newsletter advising that this letter has been distributed to Year 12.)

YEAR 12 GRADUATION

FORMAL The Year 12 Graduation Formal will take place on Thursday 15 November 2012. The venue will be the Twin Towns Services Club.

College policy regarding the distribution of formal tickets is that each student is allocated a maximum of three (3) tickets only. These are for parents and the student. This is a size consideration.

Obviously, there may be some family situations that will necessitate extra tickets and any requests for such should be directed to me in writing.

Ticket prices and further details will be in a future newsletter.

Mr Guy Davoren Year 12 Coordinator

YEAR 11 NEWS

A reminder that Year 11 students will be attending their Leadership Camp from Wednesday 1 to Friday 3 August 2012. Our Year 11 students will be accompanied by a group of our teachers with activities managed by Interaction Experiential Learning at Mebbin. The camp program is intended to get the students thinking about their own leadership abilities and the leadership they would like to establish as a senior group. We all look forward to the experience. Permission notes and outstanding monies should be already paid (due last Friday, 20 July). Please indicate if your child has any special dietary or medical requirements. A reminder that participation in the camp is compulsory.

Venue: Interaction Experiential Learning - Mebbin

Travel: By bus Depart: 9:00am, Wednesday 1 August Return: 3:00pm, Friday 3 August

Mr Carlo Trimboli Year 11 Coordinator

FRENCH NEWS

Le petit déjeuner français YEARS 8, 9, 10, AND 11

It‟s become a tradition - je voudrais un croissant avec - everyone had to practice this along with their selected choices of fillings. Both Mr Quinn and I were very impressed with the motivated application by students to politely ask for their samples from a French breakfast selection. It‟s amazing how the visual connection between food and vocabulary can be overcome when there is an opportunity to eat. We have continued the study of French cuisine looking at Ratatouille and also other food ideas. Let‟s hope that everyone enjoyed it! Bon appétit Mrs Peterson and Mr Quinn French Teachers

WEEKEND MASS TIMES

St Joseph‟s Parish St Anthony‟s Parish

Saturday Vigil: 6:00pm

Saturday Vigil: 6:00pm (Kingscliff)

Sunday: 7:00am & 9:00am

Sunday: 7:00am (Pottsville)

Sunday: 9:00am (Bilambil)

Sunday: 9:00am (Kingscliff)

Fr Michael Brady Fr Jim Griffin Parish Priest Parish Priest

UNIFORM SHOP HOURS Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 12:50pm – 1:30pm AND 3:00pm – 3:30pm

Wednesdays 8:20am – 9:00am AND 10:20am – 11:00am

Do you know the difference between a ‘privilege’ and a ‘right’?

Privilege: (n.) a benefit, granted under certain conditions; to bestow a privilege or privileges upon.

Right: (adj.) any claim, title, etc., that is morally just or legally granted as allowable or due to a person.

Do you understand that with a privilege or a right must come an

equal ‘responsibility.’ – something for which you are responsible . .

Responsible: (adj.) being accountable for one’s actions and decisions; involving decisions or accountability; able to take rational decisions without supervision; accountable for one’s own actions.

“The willingness to accept responsibility for one‟s own life is the source from

which self-respect springs.”

Even Spiderman recognised that “…with

Issue 20 2012 | Term 3 Week 2 Page 7

Planner: The student planner should be signed by parents/caregivers each week. Any concerns? Contact the relevant Learning Mentor Group Teacher or Year Coordinator.

KOKODA SCHOOLS CHALLENGE Over the last weekend of the holidays, the College had a team compete in the „Jim Stillman Cup‟ section of the Kokoda Challenge – trekking 48kms, half the distance of the full 96km Kokoda trail. A team must consist of four students and a team leader/s. This is a test of the students both physically and emotionally through mateship, courage, endurance and sacrifice. What a test it was! The trek took place in the Gold Coast hinterland area and the previous week‟s rain turned the trail into a mud bath, the worst conditions in the seven year history of the event. One in three participants withdrew from the event. The eventual winners were one and a half hours slower than the record breaking time of last year. The conditions gave the students a great insight of what conditions would have been like on the real Kokoda track. Our team did themselves, their families and the College proud in completing the course with their full team intact. (We were also proud of the manner in which they took on the challenging 16 hours. They faced it with humour and tenacity, pushing themselves as the toll on their bodies increased.) Congratulations to our team of Tahlia Breen, Skye O‟Halloran, Harrison Steele (all Year 11), Daniel Swift (Year 10) and team leaders Ms Celia Pennay and Ms Jenna Mepstead. The team was well supported by Sabrina Breci (Year 11) who managed to stay awake all Saturday night until the finish time of 5:00am Sunday morning to cheer our team across the line. Check out the College website for the photo gallery of the event! Mr Peter Serone Support Crew

Jim Stillman was a soldier in the 39th Militia and is now 89 years old. The Jim Stillman Cup was named in honour of this Australian hero who lives locally, on the Gold Coast.

YEAR 9 NEWS

GROWTH EXPERIENCE WORKSHOPS

A number of students are currently involved in workshops with our College Counsellor, Ms Frances Stegeman. At these workshops the students get a fantastic opportunity to talk about issues that concern them. This opportunity is so valuable as we often think that it is only „Me‟ who is having some difficulty dealing with a particular issue. Only then do we realise that others too are just like us and have the same challenges to deal with. These workshops also give students the opportunity to support each other. Mrs Stegeman also gives the students strategies to deal with such challenges. The following workshops that are being run at the College are: # CRUCIAL SKILLS WORKSHOP This workshop deals with helping students to develop a solution based approach to dealing with difficult and challenging situations. It also gives the students strategies on how to better manage these situations. The students investigate the WHY behind how people act. Decision making and problem solving are also examined. # TAKING CONTROL WORKSHOP This workshop takes a focused approach as to how we manage ourselves effectively, taking responsibility for ourselves and the difference between reacting and responding.

# LEARNING TO LEARN WORKSHOP This workshop looks at work environments, being prepared to learn and having the right attitude to help learning. The students in this group recently completed a motivation and engagement scale to investigate strengths and limitations. # FRIENDS WORKSHOP During Term 3 Ms Stegeman will offer a friends workshop that looks at anxiety and helping to improve personal interactions. There are still places available in this workshop so see Ms Stegeman if you are interested.

REPORTS/PARENT TEACHER INTERVIEWS By now you would have received your child‟s Semester report. For the very vast majority our motto of “Do your PB” ie. your Personal Best has been more than succeed. Week 3 of Term 3 is Student/Parent/Teacher night and I would encourage you to make an appointment with your child‟s teacher and to discuss their progress and effort. I believe at Year 9, students need to begin to take OWNERSHIP of their learning and in fact their lives and developing good study habits is essential for success.

TIME Yes the first semester is over to state the obvious and for me it has gone very quickly and as the saying goes TIME WAITS FOR NO ONE I hope all of made the best of our opportunities at school during Semester 1. Every day is another opportunity to make a difference and to do our PB. Mr John Besgrove Year 9 Coordinator

Left to right: Harrison Steele, Ms Jenna Mepstead, Daniel Swift, Skye O‟Halloran, Ms Celia Pennay and Tahlia Breen

Page 8 St Joseph‟s College Newsletter | 23 July 2012

College Procedures: Unsure of College Procedures or Policies? The student planner contains information. If you don‟t find the answer, contact the relevant Learning Mentor Group Teacher or Year Coordinator.

TECHNOLOGICAL & APPLIED

STUDIES (TAS) NEWS

I hope you enjoy these student reports as much as our Year 9 Technology students enjoyed organising, catering and hosting the two „Kindy‟ Parties in Weeks 9 and 10 of last term. Ms Karen Parker TAS Coordinator

Kindergarten Party 2012 By Madeline Maric On Thursday the 21st of June, Ms Parker’s 200-hour Year 9 Food Technology class had the joy of throwing the kindergarteners of St James Primary School a Disney-themed party. A few weeks prior to the party the class was split into six groups and each individual student as part of their Term 2 assignment made invitations and party boxes for the kindergarten students that were assigned to each group, which was about seven kids per group. On the day of the party the first two periods were spent preparing the food and the theme cake, which was decorated by Matilda Campbell and decorating the Food Technology room with balloons. Some of the foods that were made were Sausage Rolls, Fairy Bread, Cake Pops, Mini Pizzas, Brownies, Lolly Skewers. The next two periods were devoted to entertaining the children by playing games such as Musical Chairs, Duck Duck Goose, Pin the Bow on Mickey/Minnie Mouse, Hide'n'Seek, Pass the Parcel ect. At the end of the party the theme cake, which had Winnie the Pooh on it, was cut and the kids took their party boxes and cake and went back to St James. And the final period was used for cleaning all the kitchenware and putting the tables and chairs back to where they were originally. I believe that this day was a great success and the children enjoyed their time at the College and will tell the kindergarteners of next year what to look forward to.

If you have any news of a

student’s achievement,

sporting, academic,

or otherwise, please

let us know, as we’d

love to share it with

the SJC community,

via the weekly College

Newsletter.

Issue 20 2012 | Term 3 Week 2 Page 9

Messages to Students: Office staff cannot disrupt teaching in order to deliver messages that are not of an urgent nature. Student‟s afternoon home travel plans should be made prior to the student leaving home in the morning.

~ A d v a n c e N o t i c e ~

Wednesday 29 August 2012

Year 9 will be presenting their

“Night of Notables”

Kindergarten Party 2012 On Monday 25th of June, Ms

Scott’s Year 9 class held a party for Mrs Barone’s St James kindergarten class. The theme we chose for the party was the Olympics. We split up into groups and chose team names such as Team Mexico, Ireland and Team U.S.A. Each group was allocated several children to look after and play with for just under two hours. We spent the morning busily preparing food and decorating the food tech room. The food we prepared varied from

sausage rolls and hotdogs to cake pops and cupcakes. After the first two periods and a short recess flew by, the anticipated arrival of 19 colourfully-dressed kindergarten students and their teacher Mrs Barone finally arrived. The nervous kindergarteners shyly introduced themselves before creatively icing and decorating biscuits. They happily tucked into all the food we had prepared for them. Next, we all shuffled outside and skipped, hula-hooped and raced around for a while before the Year 9 students organised to do an egg and spoon race followed by a sack race.

By this point, many of us had made at least one new friend. We then went back inside and played musical statues whilst interested faces passed the food technology room as the other classes moved off to period 4. Everyone; including Mr Besgrove, got up and joined in with musical statues. We split off into our teams and played ‘pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey’ and then pass the parcel. Afterwards, we cut the cake, which had been decorated by Team U.S.A. with different coloured lollies and icing to make the Olympic rings. The kindergarten students took their pieces of cake home with them. When the cake had been cut, we said

goodbye to the kindergarten students after they politely thanked us. The next hour was spent cleaning up the mess we had made but afterwards the room was spotless. By Amber Collins

Thank you 9FTE2. Well done in organising such a fantastic party for Mrs Barone's Kindergarteners. Ms Carrianne Scott Food Technology Teacher

St Joseph’s College

Annual Public Speaking Competition

(W I T H C A S H P R I Z E S !!)

Junior Topic:

‘We always want what we haven’t got.’ (3-4 mins)

Senior Topic:

‘Power is in the imagination.’ (4-5 mins)

Preliminary rounds will begin early in Term 3 Finals will be held during Week 6 of Term 3

See Mr Connolly for details

Page 10 St Joseph‟s College Newsletter | 23 July 2012

Before School Supervision: Student supervision is available prior to the commencement of the school day, from 8:20am until 8:45am.

Gracious God,

You have blessed this ancient land with many gifts, especially its people.

We thank you for the Year of Grace, a time to start afresh from Christ.

You invite us to contemplate the face of Jesus your Son, that we may experience a new wave of grace, and that the light of Christ may burn more brightly in our lives.

Attune our hearts and minds to the presence of your Holy Spirit, that our Church may be transformed, our relationships be healed, and our nation grow in compassion and justice.

With the intercession of St Mary MacKillop, who showed us new ways of living the Gospel, we make our prayer through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

The College is collecting for the Coles Sports for Schools voucher collection as well as the Woolworths Earn and Learn sticker collection. There are collection boxes for each in Student Reception where we will happily take your donations - with these competitions ending soon, your donations could make all the difference!

CANTEEN NEWS

THANKS AGAIN

Last term I wrote a „Thank You‟ to those wonderful parents who help out in the Canteen. I need to also say „Thank You‟ to the wonderful students who give up their recess or lunch to help out in the Canteen when I have no parent helpers. I couldn‟t operate without this support, so a very heartfelt thanks to these wonderful youngsters.

MOBILE CANTEEN With the Athletics Carnival taking place this Friday, 27 July, the Canteen is going mobile. We will be stationed on the oval with a select choice of foods for purchase, including the BBQ, drinks, lollies, chips and assorted yummies. See you there! Mrs Dianne Pinkstone Canteen Manager

CREATIVE ARTS NEWS

ART GALLERY VISIT

Last term selected Year 11 students and Miss Mepstead visited the Tweed River Art Gallery. We attended an exclusive opening with the artist himself, Michael Zavros. Students had the opportunity to view the exhibition, hear about Zavro‟s practice and be a part of discussions. It was an enriching evening and all students found it very useful. “I was happy to meet someone that I idolise,” said Sienna Van Rossum. Students will be able to take the knowledge that they have gained and apply it further in their own artistic practices and theoretical studies. Miss Jenna Mepstead Art Teacher

MATHEMATICS NEWS

Mr Frank Malone Mathematics Coordinator

Yesterday was

PI DAY Sunday 22 July

(Hint: 22/7)

Students of St Joseph’s College are cordially invited this week to

celebrate this special mathematical day!

There will be a $20 Canteen

voucher for the student who

can recite pi to the most

number of decimal places.

Whoever said Maths wasn’t fun!?

Issue 20 2012 | Term 3 Week 2 Page 11

Sport: Sport is an important part of the school and students are expected to attend sport each week.

SPORTS NEWS

ANNUAL

COLLEGE ATHLETICS CARNIVAL

THIS FRIDAY, 27 JULY

The College‟s Annual Athletics Carnival will be held this coming Friday, 27 July 2012. Please note that there will be plenty of events for ALL students to take part in on the day. Support your house teams and proudly wear your colours for Dalton (Blue), Hanly

, Hoade (Green) and Reynolds (Red), (Yellow)

but just remember to dress appropriately on the day! Mr Peter McLaughlin Sports Coordinator

COCHRANE CUP Congratulations to the St Joseph's College U/14s Cochrane Cup team who travelled to chilly Tenterfield on Friday 22 June and defeated Holy Trinity Inverell 48-6. The team now progress to the final 8 of the state in this prestigious competition and will play the winners of the Newcastle/North Coast division early in term 3. It was a fantastic performance and was watched by many of the team players‟ parents who we thank very much for making the journey to watch the boys represent the college so well! Quarter finals here we come. Good luck team. Mr Damien Quinn and Mr John Besgrove Coaches

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT &

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

(PDHPE) NEWS

GYM HOURS

A reminder to all students that the school gym is open before school, Tuesday to Thursday, from 7:45-8:25am, and is supervised each morning by a PE staff member. Students are welcome to use the school gym to participate in their own workout regime. If you have any, please see the supervising teacher. Mr Chris Morrison PDHPE Coordinator

Returning next week . . . due to popular demand . . .

will be the‟ Student of the Week

So keep an eye out in the coming newsletters

because the student nominated might just be you!

Term 3 concludes on Friday 21 September

Term 4 commences on Monday 8 October

‘You Have A Friend’

Date Attendees (Accompanying Adult in bold)

23/7/12 T3,W1

Jasmin Hughes, Skye O’Halloran and Mr Peter Serone

23/7/12 T3,W2

Natarsha Madsen-Gullison, Ebony Serone and Mrs Kerrie Connolly

30/7/12 T3,W3

Amy Bacon, Will Yates and Ms Jenna Mepstead

6/8/12 T3,W4

Brooke Mallard, Ben Sullivan and Mr Frank Malone

13/8/12 T3,W5

Harrison Steele, Jessica Mandall and Mrs Vicki Sargent

20/8/12 T3,W6

Jarrod Mathieu, Tahlia Breen and Mr Chris Morrison

27/8/12 T3,W7

Hannah Dickenson, Sinead Flaherty, Sam McWilliam and Mrs Michelle Delaney

WEP Student Exchange – Memories and Skills for a Lifetime!

Give your child the opportunity to gain international experiences and language skills to kick-start a future career. Along with distinct language benefits, exchange students

mature, gain confidence and develop a more worldly approach upon their return to Australia. Experience the wonderful world of WEP! Choose from over 100 programs to over 20 countries around the world to live and study for a summer, semester or year. Applications are closing at the end of August for programs departing in Jan-Feb 2013. WEP is also offering Early Bird Specials for programs departing in July-Sept 2013! Find out more! Visit www.wep.org.au and request a free

information pack Attend one of WEP’s information evenings Call 1300 884 733 (for the cost of a local call) Upcoming Information Evening: Brisbane: 25 July, 8 August, 25 October Metropolitan Motor Inn, 106 Leichhardt Street, Spring Hill

Coming soon . . . 11–19 August 2012

Careers News | Term 3, Week 2 23 July 2012

Caboolture

Please see me in the Careers Room about any of the following or any careers concerns you may have. Mr Matt Hall Careers Advisor

Thank you to local businesses CONNECT Work Placement and the College would like to thank the following businesses for their ongoing support in taking vocational students to assist them in fulfilling the work placement component of their VET course:

Cooly Rocks Radio 97 Tweed Theatre Company Peppers Salt Resort & Spa Auto Leaders Revolution Music Laptops2Go Entertainment Lighting & Sound – ELS South Tweed Sports Ultra Tune Wlford‟s Electrical Teammoto Motorcycles Brisbane Powerhouse Computer Solutions Sales & Service Essential Energy John Flynn Gold Coast Hospital Steve‟s Auto Repairs

“WHAT’S NEW @ ACU?” COME ALONG TO ACU OPEN NIGHT

Australian Catholic University (ACU) Open Night is an excellent opportunity to find out what the University has to offer. With campus tours, information sessions, and a chance to chat to staff and students, Open Night provides the perfect chance to discover what university life is all about!

Brisbane Campus This Wednesday, 25 July 5.30pm – 8.30pm 1100 Nudgee Road, Banyo

For more info visit: www.acu.edu.au/openday

Teach your children to choose the right path, and when they are older they will remain upon it.

Proverbs 22:6

UNIVERSITY OPEN DAYS

Bond University Open Day QUT Open Day – Kelvin Grove Campus Sunday 19 August 2012 Sunday 29 July 2012 10:00am - 3:00pm 9:00am - 3:00pm

Tuesday 31 July: Bond University scholarships close QUT Open Day – Caboolture Campus Sunday 19 August 2012 9:00am – 2:00pm Tallon Street, Caboolture campus Open Day, All Campuses Sunday 12 August 2012 9:00am - 2:00pm UQ Open Days . . .

WORKING WITH ANIMALS CAREERS DAY '12 Back by popular demand, Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary is proud to be hosting its eighth “WWACD” event!

This exciting event, sponsored by the RSPCA Gold Coast and Hinterland Branch, gives individuals and school students an insight into working with animals. Experts will outline the opportunities, explain potential career paths, advice on subject choice and educational courses.

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary staff and volunteers will be available to discuss a variety of careers in animal welfare. Individuals and students will have the opportunity to enrol in Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary courses, work experience and volunteer programs. There will also be workshops and lectures by experts from various organisations including Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, the RSPCA, Guide Dogs Queensland and the Animal Welfare League.

Date: Saturday 4 August 2012

Time: 9:00am - 1:00pm Cost: FREE!

The event will be held in the Lorikeet Arena. Discounted entry into the remainder of the park has been provided for Careers Day attendees only.

For more information, go to the website: www.cws.org.au.

SJC Careers News Term 3, Week 2 23 July 2012

Careers News | Term 3, Week 2 23 July 2012

Australia's national sail training ship Young Endeavour is now accepting applications for youth to join eleven day voyages departing between January and June 2013. Young Australians aged 16 to 23 can apply for the ballot at www.youngendeavour.gov.au until 31 August 2012. No sailing experience is required.

A voyage in Young Endeavour is a challenging adventure at sea, and an exciting opportunity for youth to develop teamwork and leadership skills through a world recognised organisation. The current ballot includes voyages departing from Tasmania, Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland, which will be crewed by youth from around the country.

During each voyage, youth crew learn the skills to successfully sail a square rigged ship. They climb the 30 metre mast, set and furl sails, and maintain a 24 hour watch on the bridge. They also learn to navigate, take the helm, keep lookout and help the chef in the ship’s galley. At the end of the voyage, youth crew will take command of Young Endeavour for 24 hours, sailing the ship along the Australian coast. On their last day at sea they will host a local group of youth with special needs, sharing their new found knowledge and experience.

Since 1988 the Young Endeavour Youth Scheme, in partnership with the Royal Australian Navy, has provided challenging training voyages for over 11,000 young Australians in the tall ship Young Endeavour. The specially designed program delivered aboard the ship increases the youth crew’s self-awareness, develops teamwork and leadership skills, and fosters a strong sense of community spirit.

For more information, including voyage dates and fees, please visit www.youngendeavour.gov.au or contact our office on 1800 020 444.

AUSTRALIAN DEFENCE FORCE ACADEMY

Time is running out for Year 12 students to get their application in for the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA) January 2013 intake. There are still many careers available in the Navy, Army and Air Force through ADFA where students will receive a fully funded UNSW degree in Engineering, Arts, Science, Business or Technology whilst at the same time receiving a salary while they learn. We are now into the second half of 2012 and it is important for students to apply now in order to give them the best opportunity to complete the selection process before applications close later in the year.

On Monday 6 August, Defence Force Recruiting will be conducting an ADFA Information Session at the Currumbin RSL Club, Currumbin Creek Road Currumbin. The Session commences at 6:00 pm so interested Year 11 and 12 students can come along to find out more about the benefits of a career in the Australian Defence Force through ADFA. Simply contact 07 5569 3900 to book your seat.

Applications are also now open for current Year 11 students to apply for the ADFA Education Award and ADFA entry in January 2014. Successful applicants will receive a laptop computer with no obligation to join ADFA after Year 12. The student’s school also receive a framed plaque to recognise their student’s achievement.

Further information on ADFA can be found at http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/

education/adfa. Students can apply on line or by calling 131901. Please note that friends and family are also welcome to attend.

What Degree? Which University? is a website dedicated to students, as they figure out the next stage of their lives. Run by students, for students, WD?WU? explores the many degree options available at different universities, as well as provides info from students in the know on uni life, student accommodation, careers and lifestyle, to help you decide your future. www.whatdegreewhichuniversity.com

JOBS AND SKILLS EXPOS The Jobs and Skills Expo is coming to

Tweed Heads

Come along to the Jobs and Skills Expo and you’ll get information about real jobs now and

into the future. You can also find out about training and gaining new skills to increase

your chances of finding a job. There’s a free sausage sizzle too.

Join us!

TIME: 10.00 am to 3.00 pm

DATE: Wednesday, 8 August 2012

VENUE: Tweed Heads PCYC, Florence Street, Tweed Heads

For more information go online at www.humanservices.gov.au/expos

Aptitude for Engineering Assessment 2012

Griffith University is offering students a pathway into engineering by sitting the Aptitude for Engineering Assessment examination on Saturday 22 September 2012 at either the Nathan or Gold Coast campus. Successful students will receive admission into the Bachelor of Engineering or the Bachelor of Engineering Technology at either the Nathan or Gold Coast campuses.

The Aptitude for Engineering Assessment is a two and a half hour multiple choice test that assesses a candidate’s aptitude to think scientifically, solve quantitative problems, critically analyse information and display interpersonal understanding.

Registrations close on Friday 7 September 2012.

Registrations will only be offered online at http://www.acer.edu.au/tests/aea/registrations and a fee of $115 will be required to sit the exam. Applicants will be informed of their results within four weeks.

Beauty Therapy Training Australia

BTTA is a Nationally Accredited Training Organisation offering the latest technology including Microdermabrasion, Micro current, IPL, LED equipment. BTTA has a commitment to providing the best training from teachers who are currently working in the industry eg. film, tv and fashion. See Mr Hall for more information on times and costing or contact BTTA on 07 5599 5568, or email: contact@beautytherapytraining. com.au

SJC Careers News Term 3, Week 2 23 July 2012

Community Alert: Outbreak of Measles in South West Sydney, July 2012 Members of the St Joseph’s College community are advised that there has been an outbreak of measles in South West Sydney initially affecting mainly high school students but more recently also affecting adults and infants. So far, eight students have been confirmed with measles. As young people have large social networks both within and outside of school, a highly infectious disease like measles has to potential to spread. If you have visited South West Sydney recently and may suspect measles, phone your doctor, clinic or hospital before attending your consultation. Do not attend public places or use public transport. Contact the Lismore Public Health Unit on the numbers provided on this page.

NSW Health offers the following information about Measles: Measles is a serious disease that is easily spread through the air. Immunisation is effective in preventing the disease. All children and adults born during or after 1966 should be vaccinated with two doses of MMR vaccine if not already immune. (Last updated: 18 June

2008)

What is measles? Measles is a viral disease that may have serious complications. In the past, measles infection was very common in childhood. Measles is now rare in NSW because of immunisation.

What are the symptoms? The first symptoms are fever, tiredness, cough, runny nose,

sore red eyes and feeling unwell. A few days later a rash appears. The rash starts on the face, spreads down to the body and lasts for 4-7 days.

Up to a third of people with measles have complications. These include ear infections, diarrhoea and pneumonia, and may require hospitalisation. About one in every 1000 people with measles develops encephalitis (swelling of the brain).

How is it spread? Measles is usually spread when a person breathes in the

measles virus that has been coughed or sneezed into the air by an infectious person. Measles is one of the most easily spread of all human infections. Just being in the same room as someone with measles can result in infection.

People with measles are usually infectious from just before the symptoms begin until four days after the rash appears. The time from exposure to becoming sick is usually about 10 days. The rash usually appears around 14 days after exposure.

Who is at risk? Measles was common before 1966, so most people born before then are immune.

People at risk of measles include: people born during or since 1966 who have never had

measles and who have not had two doses of Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccine from the age of 12 months.

people with a weak immune system (e.g., people who are receiving chemotherapy or radiotherapy for cancer or people who take high-dose steroid medications) even if they have been fully immunised or have had past measles infection.

people who are not immune and who travel overseas.

How is it prevented? The best protection against measles is immunisation with

two doses of MMR vaccine. This vaccine provides protection against infection with measles, as well as against mumps and rubella.

MMR vaccine should be given to children at age 12 months and a second dose is given at 4 years of age.

Anyone born during or after 1966 and who has never had

measles infection or MMR vaccination should make sure that they have had two doses of MMR vaccine at least four weeks apart.

It is safe to have the vaccine more than twice, so people who are unsure should be vaccinated.

People with measles should stay at home until they are no longer infectious (i.e. until 4 days after the rash starts).

For people who are not immune and have come into contact with a person with measles, infection can sometimes still be prevented with MMR vaccine if given within 3 days of exposure or with immunoglobulin within 7 days of exposure.

How is it diagnosed? Measles is suspected when a person feels unwell, has a

cough, runny nose or sore eyes and a fever followed by a rash.

Whenever measles is suspected, a blood test and samples from the nose, throat and urine should be collected to confirm the diagnosis. Confirmation of the diagnosis is important as it allows prompt public health follow-up of other people who are at risk of measles.

How is it treated? People with measles infection are normally advised to rest,

drink plenty of fluids, and take paracetamol to treat the fever. There is no specific treatment.

While a person is infectious with measles it is important that he or she remains at home to reduce the possibility of spreading it to other people.

For more information Contact the North Coast Public Health Unit:

Lismore NC PHU Lismore Office

PO Box 498, Lismore 2480 Ph: (02) 6620.7585 Fax: (02) 6622.2151 / 6620.2552 (s)

Pager Service: 1300 555.555 Communicable Disease: 48073 Environmental Health: 149.377 If no answer phone: Mob (0417) 244.966 or Mob (0407) 904.280