2025 Term 3 - Newsletter
Principal’s Report
Dear Trinity Bay SHS Community,
As we head into the final stretch of the 2025 school year, it is wonderful to reflect on the continued achievements of our students, staff, and community. Term 3 has been marked by both celebration and progress, as we strengthen our commitment to developing ourselves to ensure every student is connected to their learning, has agency in their education, and enjoys access to amazing opportunities in the very best facilities.
Celebrating the Performing Arts
A major highlight of this term has been the completion of our brand-new Performing Arts Centre. The staff have been moving into the new facility that stands as a symbol of our school’s commitment to cultural excellence. We are immensely proud to provide our students and community with a world-class space for music, drama, and cultural activities. The official opening ceremony will be held later this year and will stand as a testament of the talent and dedication of our staff and students, and we look forward to the countless performances, exhibitions, and gatherings that will bring this centre to life.
Our Term 3 dance night was also another huge success with CPAC full of parents and community members supporting our dancers. Well done to everyone involved, it was also great to see our staff taking the stage to show their moves to our community!
Facilities Improvements Underway
We are also excited to share updates on a number of other important projects that will directly benefit our students and community.
O Block Toilets: Planning and preparation are now well underway for the upgrade of the O Block toilets. This project will deliver dignifying, modern, safe, and more functional facilities for our students. Some pictures of the upgrades are below
Tuckshop: Following strong advocacy from our facilities staff and P&C, work has commenced on expanding and upgrading our tuckshop. The new design will reduce waiting times and provide a more efficient and welcoming space for students at break times. Pictures have been shared in previous newsletters and are not included again.
Resource Centre: Significant upgrades are also planned for our Resource Centre. Improvements to access, roofing, and learning spaces will create an inviting and flexible environment that supports both study and collaboration. Our international student program has funded the construction of an outdoor area at the end of the resource centre, an addition that will benefit all of our students. Pictures have been shared in previous newsletters and are not included again.
These projects demonstrate our continued focus on investing in facilities that make Trinity Bay SHS a place where students feel valued, connected, and supported.
Deepening Student Connection and Agency
This term, our staff have been working with renewed focus on strengthening the ways we connect students to their learning. We know that when students see the relevance of their studies and feel they have agency in how they learn, they are more motivated and more successful. Across classrooms, teachers are trialling new approaches to assessment design, refining teaching practices, and increasing opportunities for students to have voice and choice in their learning.
Our goal remains clear: to ensure that every student feels like the driver of their own learning journey, rather than a passenger. This is a shared partnership between staff and students, and it is exciting to see the positive results emerging.
Internal School Review and Future Planning
This term also saw the completion of our internal school review. Leaders across the school tabled their progress over the past 12 months, celebrating areas of growth and reflecting on challenges. From this process, a number of recommendations were made to guide our future direction. These recommendations are currently being reviewed and will form an important part of our planning for the upcoming school year. This ongoing cycle of reflection and improvement is central to ensuring that Trinity Bay SHS continues to meet the needs of all students and the community we serve.
Student Success
We continue to be inspired by the achievements of our students both inside and outside the classroom. A special congratulations goes to our Rugby League Excellence students, who this year reached their first-ever finals series in the open boys and girls competitions. After months of dedicated training, the teams produced outstanding efforts on the field and should be immensely proud of their achievements. Their success reflects the commitment and teamwork that is such a strong part of our school’s culture.
Looking Ahead
As we prepare for the final term of the year, we are confident that the momentum built across these projects and initiatives will continue to carry us forward. With new facilities opening, upgrades in progress, and our teaching practices evolving, Trinity Bay SHS is well-placed to deliver on our vision of excellence in learning, culture, and community for all.
I wish all members of the T-Bay family a safe and restful break and look forward to welcoming everyone back for Term 4.
Warm regards,
Tony Whybird
Executive Principal, Trinity Bay SHS
Building Fund Donations
At Trinity Bay State High School, we believe every student deserves access to the tools, experiences, and environment they need to thrive.
Your generosity helps us make it possible.
By donating to our Building Fund, no matter the size of the donation, it goes directly toward enhancing our facilities at Trinity Bay State High School, and ensuring that we continue to provide a safe, inspiring place to grow.
This is more than a donation. It’s an investment in the future of our students—and our community.
Join us in making a difference.
Donate today.
Because when we give students our best, they give us theirs.
Thank you for believing in the power of education.
Building Fund account details are:
Acc Name: Trinity Bay State High School Building Fund
BSB: 064-804
Acc: 13031484
HPE Department
Year 7 TAC Students Take on Hockey
Our Year 7 TAC students have been developing their skills and teamwork on the field this term through a hockey program at the Cairns Hockey Fields. With guidance from Caitlin Geraghty, who has proudly competed at both state and national level, students have been learning the fundamental skills of the game.
From dribbling and passing to positioning and teamwork, the students have shown great enthusiasm and improvement each week. We are proud of their efforts and grateful for the opportunity to learn from such an experienced and inspiring coach.
Year 8 TAC Students Shine on the Tennis Court
Our Year 8 TAC students have been serving up success on the courts this term! Under the guidance of a professional tennis instructor from Tennis Cairns, students have been developing their skills, confidence, and teamwork. The program is taking place at the Cairns International Tennis Centre, giving our students the chance to train in a world-class facility.
The enthusiasm and improvement shown by the group has been outstanding, with students embracing each session and demonstrating great sportsmanship. We look forward to seeing their continued progress as the program develops.
Year 9 TAC Students Preparing for Biathlon
Our Year 8 TAC students have been working hard on their skills and fitness in preparation for an upcoming Biathlon. The challenge includes a 400m swim in the pool followed by a 4km run.
To kick off their training block, students refined their freestyle technique with the guidance of swim coach Herbie, improving efficiency and confidence in the water. Since then, they have been committed to building endurance and strength both in the pool and on the track.
With race day just two weeks away, we are incredibly proud of their dedication and determination. We look forward to seeing all their hard work pay off in what promises to be an exciting event.
Trinity Bay Sports Update
It has been a busy and successful period for sport at Trinity Bay! Our students proudly represented the school at the TCC Athletics Carnival, with a number going on to compete at the Peninsula Championships. Their commitment and determination were on full display, and we are very proud of their achievements.
In hockey, our teams showcased great skill and teamwork across all age groups. A special congratulations goes to our Years 7–9 boys, who were crowned overall winners of their carnival after an outstanding series of performances.
Meanwhile, our AFL girls are making history of their own. After an incredible performance in Townsville to win the Far North Queensland Under 19s Championships, they have now qualified to represent Trinity Bay at the State Titles on the Sunshine Coast next term.
Well done to all students who continue to represent Trinity Bay with pride, sportsmanship, and excellence.
Languages Department
Chinese
Year 9 Chinese Students Experience Traditional Hot Pot
Our Year 9 Chinese language students recently enjoyed an exciting and authentic cultural experience at a Chinese restaurant, where they had the opportunity to try traditional Chinese hot pot.
As part of the outing, students practised their language skills in a real-world context, ordering soup bases in Chinese and selecting from a wide range of fresh ingredients, including vegetables, noodles, meats, and seafood. Using language in this setting gave students a taste of what it feels like to apply classroom learning in everyday life, strengthening both their confidence and fluency.
The excursion also supports their restaurant review assessment task, where they will reflect on the experience and write their reviews in Chinese. Opportunities like these allow students to connect language learning to the real world, preparing them for authentic interactions and broadening their cultural understanding.
EAL
Inclusive SET Plan Interviews for CALD Families
At Trinity Bay State High School’s Intensive English Centre, we are committed to making SET Plan interviews accessible and inclusive for our Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) families.
To support this, we draw on the expertise of our bicultural staff, provide telephone interpreting services, and use multilingual materials to ensure clear communication. We also offer flexible scheduling, embed cultural sensitivity practices, and make use of technology to help families engage fully in the process.
These initiatives help create a welcoming and supportive environment, allowing families to feel confident and valued as they take part in planning their child’s future learning pathway.
Japanese
Exploring Japan: Trinity Bay’s Iwasaki Sangyo Prize Recipient
In my final year of high school, I became one of four Year 12 Japanese students statewide to receive the prestigious 2024 Iwasaki Sangyo Prize. This scholarship acknowledges the Japanese achievements of students in Queensland by awarding recipients a fully funded, three-week trip to Japan to gain perspective into businesses, educational institutes, and culturally significant Japanese sites, some of which maintain unique relations in Queensland.
Our group of four were joined with our wonderful teacher chaperone as we travelled to and around Japan during the first three weeks of January 2025, the crisp winter climate allowing us a nice break from Queensland’s high summer temperatures.
On our days off from studying at a full-immersion Japanese school (GenkiJACS) in Shibuya, we would visit numerous cultural landmarks in the surrounding area of Tokyo and Kagoshima, all while eating delicious meals along the way. Towards the end of the trip, we also participated in a two-day internship at Tokyo Global Gateway, a full-immersive English school, which I regard a noteworthy experience regarding my tutorage history at Trinity Bay. With its extensive facilities and supportive faculty, it serves as a truly impressive example of what language learning can look like on a grand scale.
Our itinerary included two university visits, the first attending classes at the Information Law Department of Chuo Gakuin University, and the second at The University of Tokyo’s RCAST (Research Centre for Advanced Science and Technology) to attend a lecture presented by Hideaki Kato, where he discussed his current research topics and kindly showed us his laboratory spaces! This opened the opportunity to explore options for continuing my tertiary studies abroad in Japan. To top the trip off, our small group was welcomed to a business-style lunch meeting with Mr Iwasaki, the head of the company, at their restaurant in Kagoshima
Full immersion in a second language became difficult to maintain, especially when conversing with lecturers and teachers (Keigo was our lifeline), and the background fear of saying the wrong thing was constant. However, with support from each other and our Chaperone, alongside our respective teachers in Japan, we were able to persevere and build on our language skills. Above all, I deeply value the genuine connections and friendships I made throughout this trip as we bonded through incredible food, views and shared experiences overseas together.
This just details a select few of the activities on this marvellous trip, none of which would have been possible without the meticulous planning on behalf of Global Experiences of DEI, and generous funding from the Iwasaki Sangyo Corporation.
Miria Tangaroawhai
Japanese Bon Odori Festival
Our Year 10–12 students had a fantastic time participating in the Japanese Bon Odori Festival at Fogarty Park. This vibrant annual event brought the sights, sounds, and spirit of Japan to Cairns, and our students enthusiastically joined in the celebrations.
They had the opportunity to experience the energy of traditional Japanese dance and music, with many joining the circle to take part in Bon Odori dancing. Surrounded by colourful yukata, lanterns, and the rhythm of taiko drums, students were immersed in a lively cultural atmosphere that truly captured the essence of summer festivals in Japan.
The festival also showcased a wide range of Japanese food, community stalls, and cultural displays, giving students a chance to practise their Japanese language skills in authentic contexts while engaging with members of the local Japanese community.
For our students, this was not only a fun outing but also a wonderful opportunity to connect with community, celebrate diversity, and deepen their understanding of Japanese traditions. Events like these highlight the importance of cultural exchange and give our students real-world experiences that enhance their classroom learning.
Year 12 Japanese Excursion
Our Year 12 Japanese students recently enjoyed an engaging and educational excursion that brought their classroom learning to life.
The first stop was at Four Cinq Japanese Restaurant, where students experienced authentic Japanese cuisine while using their listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in a real-world context. They then visited OK Gift Shop, where they were tasked with creating a souvenir list for a potential host family in Japan, working within a set budget. This activity encouraged them to think carefully about cultural appropriateness and Japanese traditions of gift giving.
The highlight of the day was a visit to the Consular Office of Japan in Cairns, where students were warmly welcomed by Consul Higashimoto. He inspired students with stories from his diplomatic career, shared advice on study pathways, and spoke about the strong and enduring connections between Japan and Australia.
A sincere thank you to Consul Higashimoto for generously sharing his time and knowledge with our students. The experience left them motivated and excited about the possibilities that lie ahead in their study of Japanese.
Performing Arts Department
Performing Arts 2025 – Term 3
By Layla and Indi
Recent Events
Opening of PAC
We are extremely excited to announce the opening of our new Performing Arts Centre (PAC), students have been eagerly awaiting for the past 2 years. This incredible facility will be more than just a building it will inspire creativity, talent and community all come to life. With classrooms for dance, drama, music and instrumental studies for students. The upcoming event of Night of Innovation will be held in the PAC acting as the new buildings grand opening. We can’t wait to see you guys there and see our amazing student’s shine!
Dance X
Our Senior and Junior CAD dancers participated in a Dance X Schools only Competition. They competed in the Junior (year 7-9) and Senior (years 10-12) Jazz and Contemporary sections. The students came back with some outstanding results and we are so proud to announce the following.
1st place: Junior CAD Contemporary and Junior CAD Jazz
2nd place: Senior CAD Contemporary
4th place: Senior CAD Jazz
One of our amazing Junior CAD students Ivy Wilesmith also participated in the Contemporary and Hip-hop audition experience learning choreography in 30 minutes then performing it. She received a 5th place in both styles.
Junior CAD Dance was also awarded highest score in the Junior Secondary division as well as Most Memorable Performance.
Thanks to our amazing dance teachers and their dedication Jayne Comino and Kate Ryan their commitment goes unnoticed and without them our CAD students wouldn’t be where they are.
Dance Night
Dance Night was an absolute hit, with our year 12 class students completing their last ever Dance night performance. This night was especially emotional for some year 12’s being part of each Dance night since year 7. Various duo performances were shown from grade 10 and 11 with the students showing off their amazing talents on stage. We sold an amazing 619 tickets. A huge surprise this year with welcoming 20 teachers onto the stage with a such a fun performance with lots of laughs to complete the show.
Cultural Immersion Trip
All Performing arts Students were given the chance to travel down to Brisbane at the start of Term 3 to engage in a Cultural Immersion trip. Students engaged in a weaving class, and watched an incredible performance of The Vistors with a Q&A allowing students to engage directly with the actors and gain insight into the meaning of the play. Music students were given the chance to talk with a musicican from the QLD Symphony Orchestra and watch the QSO rehearse as well as the Queensland Youth Symphony Orchestra. The students experienced amazing performances of Jesus Christ Superstar and The Royal Organist with the QLD Symphany Orchestra. Students were also spoilt with a tour of backstage at QPAC and were given tours of JMC Academy. The students were split up into Dance, Music and Drama to experience amazing workshops extending their confidence and techniques. Students enjoyed this experience and got to connect with each other throughout this trip. Thank you to Ms Baker and Mrs Gibbins for taking us.
Cairns Show Performances
Our Music ensembles performed throughout the whole day on Wednesday of the Cairns Show. Junior and Senior CAD music students, Concert Band, Stage Band, String Orchestra, and various class performances showed off their amazing talent at the Cairns Show. The Junior and Senior CAD dancers were overjoyed to be given the chance to perform at the Cairns Show on Friday night. It was a great evening when they gave it their all and were fortunate enough to be given further opportunities to develop stage experience and confidence.
Cairns Eisteddfod results
In the last week of Term 2, our students participated in the Cairns Eisteddfod with fabulous results. A big thank you to all of the teachers for getting the groups ready for this performance. Congratulations to everyone involved.
2nd place: Advanced Vocal Ensemble, Junior CAD Dance Jazz
3rd place: Junior CAD Dance Contemporary
Highly Commended: String Orchestra, Junior Percussion ensemble, Senior
Percussion ensemble, Concert Band, Stage Band, Vocal ensemble
Science Department
Science at Trinity Bay SHS has been full of energy, discovery, and hands-on learning this term! 🧪✨
Our students shone in both the 2025 Big Science Quiz and the NSW Brain Break Quiz, showing off teamwork, problem-solving, and quick recall as they tackled questions such as “What is the only metal that is liquid at room temperature?” Their pride and determination highlight the value of curiosity and collaboration. 🌡️🧠
Leadership and voice were also front and centre when our students met with Satara, the Australian Youth Representative to the United Nations. Organised by Jessica (Year 11), this powerful forum gave FNQ youth the chance to identify challenges and opportunities unique to our region, and to make their voices heard on a national platform. 🌏💬
As part of National Science Week, the STARLAB portable planetarium once again amazed students. Year 7s journeyed through the night sky and far-off galaxies, while international students explored coral gardens in full-dome 360° marine footage guided by Mr Guinee — blending our reef with space science in one immersive learning experience. 🌌🐠
Adding to the excitement, Senior Science students Josh, Edward, and Ashton designed and led a series of Junior Science engagement challenges. From the dramatic Magic Egg Genie demonstration showing air pressure in action, to The Moon’s Closer Than You Think scale model, to Lasers vs CDs diffraction experiments, students explored core physics in unforgettable ways. Other highlights included Cloud in a Jar, Raisin Nut Bubbly, Planet Size Challenge, and surface tension experiments with pepper and detergent. These hands-on investigations sparked laughter, awe, and plenty of “aha!” moments — with juniors learning science from their senior peers in a dynamic, supportive environment. 🔬🔥💡
Finally, we welcomed A/Prof Rowan O’Donnell (UQ) as part of the RACI Lecture Series. His talk on turning harmful “forever chemicals” into useful materials inspired both staff and students to think about how cutting-edge research connects with the world’s most pressing environmental issues. 🌍⚛️
Together, these activities showcase Trinity Bay’s commitment to celebrating science — through competition, leadership, immersive exploration, peer-to-peer teaching, and world-class research. What a way to mark National Science Week 2025! 🚀🎉
#NationalScienceWeek #BigScienceQuiz #NSWBrainBreak #STEM #TrinityBay
(Answer: Mercury)
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