Byron Breeze tERM 2 | wEEK 9 2025

On Tuesday evening, community members, family and friends of our Visual Art and Drama students enjoyed a stunning Art and Photography exhibition, plus the Year 10 devised Drama production 'Can you relate?' The night was also supported by Ms Lowe and our Italy exchange students who served up some delicious food at their fundraising stall.

The vibrant and diverse array of beautiful artworks and photographs in the school office foyer are a testament to not only the incredible talent, focus and hard work of our CAPA students, but also the guidance and support of our expertise teachers, who have facilitated their experimentation with a wide variety of mediums, materials and styles, and allowed our students to express their own personal artistic vision.

Congratulations to Ms Wilson, Ms Cuell and Ms Simpson, and your students on such impressive artworks and high-level achievements.

Following the exhibition, our Performing Arts Centre (PAC) was a bursting full house for the Year 10 Drama production ‘Can You Relate’, where the class performed their last ever show of this original play developed from wide research and community voices as part of our BBHS SPOTT (Supporting Positive Outcomes Through Theatre) Project.

Our Drama students impressed everyone with their focus and talent, and their capacity to create and refine well-crafted, engaging stories and characters that were highly relatable and poignant. Many even stepped in to take on the lines and roles of other cast members who were absent on the night. Well done Year 10!

Come along tonight to support our HSC Music students

This evening, Friday 27 June, our HSC Music students will be performing in the PAC at 5:30 pm. The showcase will feature a selection of performances from each student’s major work for their HSC. With a range of different music styles, including progressive metal, funk, folk and live electronica, this showcase will be a great way to kick off the weekend in style!

All are welcome to come along and support this amazing Year 12 cohort.

All of our CAPA students should be incredibly proud of their efforts, as we are of them! Thank you to all involved.

Ms Simone Museth - Head Teacher CAPAL

HSC Intensive Studio Practice

A wonderful opportunity for our Year 11 students

The NAS HSC Intensive Studio Practice is an exciting program for Year 11 Visual Arts students who are passionate about art and want to grow their skills for the HSC and beyond. Run by professional artists in real art studios, the program helps students develop their abilities, build their portfolios, and connect with other young artists from across NSW.

We are very proud to share that 2 of our talented Year 11 students Eana T and Marcella A have been accepted into this prestigious program! We look forward to seeing the new skills and experiences they will bring back after the winter break.

The dates for the 2025 HSC program are:

• Module 1: Tuesday 15 – Friday 18 July 2025
• Module 2: Monday 29 September – Friday 3 October 2025

The NAS HSC Intensive Studio Practice appears on the student’s HSC certificate as a one-unit course.

Further to these exciting achievements, Eana T and another Year 11 student, were also successful applicants for the Dobell Drawing School — a 4-day intensive drawing workshop held at the National Art School in April.

Both students travelled to Sydney during the April holidays to participate in this prestigious workshop, which complemented their Visual Arts studies at school around the human form.

During the Dobell Drawing School, students explored workshops including:

• Drawing the nude
• Portrait drawing
• The figure in context
• Experimental drawing with the figure
• Observational drawing

Both students returned fresh-faced and full of inspiration and passion. As Eana shared:

“Studying at NAS was an inspiring experience that allowed me to connect with a community of artists and immerse myself in a professional environment. It’s great for anyone looking to expand and challenge their artistic capability.”

Miss Tarryn Wilson - Visual Arts Teacher

HSIE news

A reminder from Year 9

Please avoid sending disposable plastics to school

Sadly this week, in a 45 minute period, our Year 9 class 9Y picked up 6 full buckets of rubbish, made up predominantly of plastics and food waste!

It is estimated that over 1 million marine animals, including seabirds, marine mammals, and sea turtles, die each year due to plastic pollution. This includes deaths from entanglement, ingestion, and starvation caused by plastic debris in the oceans.

We encourage families to avoid buying products in plastic to help protect our local environment.

With our school so close to the ocean and the Arakwal National Park, reducing waste is vital. Try waste-free lunch options like beeswax wraps, reusable containers, cloth napkins, and reusable drink bottles. Please discuss with your children why it is important to dispose of rubbish properly. Every piece that’s sorted or reused helps protect our marine life and native wildlife.

Small daily choices make a big difference if we all work together as a community!

Ms Michelle Lowe - HSIE teacher

Year 11 visit Legal Aid and the Family Court

Legal Studies excursion to Lismore

On Wednesday 25 June, our Year 11 Legal Studies class had the valuable opportunity to visit the Lismore Legal Aid Office, the Federal Circuit and Family Court as part of their Stage 6 Legal Studies course. The excursion offered students first-hand insight into the Australian legal system, particularly in the area of family law.

Throughout the day, students heard from a diverse range of legal professionals, including a Senior Judicial Registrar, Deputy Registrar, family lawyers, an Independent Children’s Lawyer, Family Dispute Resolution Practitioners, a Cultural Liaison Officer, paralegals and a Family Consultant.

Each expert provided a unique perspective on the legal system and the challenges and responsibilities involved in their roles, deepening students’ understanding of how the legal system seeks to achieve justice for families and children.

A highlight of the day was the mock case in which students participated in, taking on roles within a family law scenario. This interactive experience gave them a glimpse into courtroom processes and helped bring legal theory to life.

Students remained engaged throughout the day, asking thoughtful and insightful questions that reflected their growing knowledge of legal principles and procedures. The excursion directly supported key content from the Stage 6 syllabus, particularly in understanding dispute resolution processes and the role of legal and non-legal institutions in the family law system.

The day also sparked interest in future careers in law, with many students expressing a greater awareness of the variety of roles available within the legal profession.

A sincere thank you to our students for their outstanding behaviour and respectful engagement—they made me incredibly proud as their teacher. They represented Byron Bay High School with maturity and enthusiasm. A big thank you also to Mr Stevenson for attending and supporting our students throughout the day.

Mrs Clothier - Year 11 Legal Studies Teacher

Marine Studies news

Year 11 achieve their Open Water Padi Scuba Diving License

This term, 5 Year 11 students, Sunny M, Oliver Z, Miro S-S, Henry A and Rio S, chose to dive in deep with their unit of work on Snorkelling and Scuba Diving by spending 3 days completing their Open Water Padi Scuba Diving License.

We branched out this year to work with the exceptional services offered by Tweed Sea Sports, run by the well known Pirate Pete.

Along with Pirate Pete's exceptional professionalism, he entertained us with stories of working multiple times with David Attenborough and catering to celebrities such as Johnny Depp and Ernie Dingo, while the students progressed with their learning.

The unpredictable weather this year saw us having to cancel our first attempts at the ocean diving due to the swell being too big. When our rescheduled days arrived, we were blessed with blue skies, clear visibility underwater (and some chilly water) at Cook Island off Tweed Heads. Despite a few nerves, everyone progressed extremely well and passed all the underwater skills that were tested. At the same time we saw endless numbers of turtles, wobbegong sharks, colourful nudibranches and a surprising amount of coral.

Throughout the course, Tweed Sea Sports kept everyone happy with hot chocolates on the boat and plenty of hot chips back at the shop! The service offered by Tweed Sea Sports, Pete and the whole team made our experience very enjoyable.

Congratulations to all our students who participated - they are now qualified scuba divers for life!

Dive Deeper!

Mr Nick Hart - Marine Studies Teacher

Science news

Exploring the mind... one brain at a time!

This week, our Year 9 Psychology elective students got hands-on with the human mind – literally!

As part of our Biological Bases of Behaviour unit, students took part in a fascinating sheep brain dissection activity to explore the real structure of the organ that controls everything we think, feel, and do. With gloves on and curiosity piqued, students examined sheep brains to identify key parts such as the cerebrum, cerebellum, brain stem, and lobes – all while making connections to how each region influences behaviour, movement, memory and emotion.

“It was so cool to actually see the different parts instead of just looking at diagrams,” said one student. “It made everything we’ve learned in class click into place!”. Also “Squishy and gross”...

This hands-on experience brought textbook neuroscience to life and sparked plenty of reflections, such as the need to wear a helmet when riding a bike!

Combined with our recent analysis of the neuroscience behind the movie 'Inside Out 2' and 3D brain modelling, it was great to see the students conclude and celebrate the first semester of Byron Bay High School’s Stage 5 Psychology elective. Well done students! You walked away with a deeper appreciation for the complexity and fragility of the brain – and a stronger stomach!

Miss Aisling Hall - Science teacher

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Reconciliation Week at Byron Bay High School

Honouring truth, culture and connection ❤️💛🖤

At BBHS, Reconciliation Week was marked by powerful and reflective moments of learning, discussion and community spirit. Students and staff came together to explore the shared history of Australia and to strengthen our ongoing commitment to reconciliation with First Nations peoples.

A central focus of the day was the viewing of a deeply moving animated video on intergenerational trauma, which sensitively explained how the impacts of colonisation, dispossession and the Stolen Generations continue to affect Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities today. Through storytelling and art, students gained insight into the way trauma is passed through generations, as well as the resilience and strength shown by Indigenous families and communities.

Following this, students explored the history of Reconciliation Day in the ACT and the national Reconciliation Week initiative. We discussed key milestones such as the 1967 Referendum and the 1992 Mabo decision, and the importance of acknowledging both the truths of our past and the pathways forward.

This year’s theme, ‘Bridging now to next’, challenged students to reflect on why reconciliation is not a one-off event, but an ongoing commitment.

Students discussed how Reconciliation Week is a time to build respectful relationships between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal Australians and to take meaningful steps toward justice, equity and healing.

As part of this commitment, students learned about how to be an ally to First Nations people. Through guided activities and real-world examples, students explored the following ally actions:

• Listening to First Nations voices and stories without interruption or judgment.
• Challenging stereotypes and racism when they appear in conversation or media.
• Supporting Indigenous-led initiatives and events such as NAIDOC Week or Aboriginal art exhibitions.
• Amplifying Indigenous perspectives, especially in group settings, classroom discussions, and on social media.

We also explored practical ways to connect with First Nations people and cultures. These included:

• Visiting local Aboriginal cultural centres or engaging with language and country tours run by Traditional Custodians.
• Reading and sharing books, poetry, and films by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander creators.
• Participating in Welcome to Country or Acknowledgement of Country ceremonies with meaning and respect.
• Learning about the Country on which our school stands — its language group, history and stories.

Throughout the day, students demonstrated maturity, curiosity, and care in their engagement. Many reflected on the importance of being active participants in reconciliation, not just during this week, but every day. As one Year 10 student shared,

“I didn’t realise how much healing is still needed, but now I know I can play a part in that.”

Year 11 students offered ways to be an ally, “Wear an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander flag” and,

“If somebody tells a racist joke, ask them why they think it’s funny. This will let them know you don’t find racism funny.”

We thank all staff and students who made the day such a meaningful experience. Together, we continue to learn, grow and walk the path of reconciliation with open hearts and minds.

Mr Eli Pietens - English teacher

English news

Debating season kicks off!

Byron Bay A and Byron Bay B teams face off against each other

The first Stage 4 debate for the year kicked off last week, with a thrilling showdown between our 2 teams Byron Bay A and Byron Bay B. Both teams explored the statement, “that we should have separate schools for boys and girls”, and presented a varied and thoughtful exploration of a number of points including the impact this may have on gender binary students; the advantages of gender specific education; and issues of bullying both online or within schools.

Each side spoke with confidence and clarity, prompting the adjudicator to praise both teams on their debating abilities, and noting how impressed she was with those students who had only begun debating!

It was a close debate this round, however the Byron Bay B team were awarded the win! Well done to both of our teams, as well as our fabulous Time Keeper and Chairperson. You all made our school proud with your professional manner and excellent sportsmanship.

As well, the Debating Society has just received the news that BOTH Stage 5 Byron Bay A and Byron Bay B won their debates against Alstonville High School, which occurred on 5 June. Well done and congratulations to both teams!

Ms Leia Mancini - English teacher

Byron Bay Writer’s Festival 2025

Interested students are encouraged to register for the Secondary Schools Day

There is a unique and exciting opportunity for students from Year 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 to attend the 2025 Byron Bay Writer’s Festival on Thursday 7 August at the Bangalow Showgrounds.

The event will cost $35 which covers both festival entry and bus cost. The line up for the day includes authors such as the queen of fantasy Isobelle Carmody, the king of crime writing Michael Robotham, best selling author Markus Zusak (The Book Thief) and deadly scientist Corey Tutt, alongside celebrated authors Anita Heiss (Dirrayawadha), Sarah Armstrong (Run), Santilla Chingaipe (Black Convicts) and poet Maxine Beneba Clarke (Stuff I’m Not Sorry For).

The Secondary Schools Day is designed to inspire and empower our future generations and your child will enjoy a full day of compelling conversations and entertaining performances across 2 festival stages.

There are only 37 spots available and students need to register their interest with the ENGLISH FACULTY. Once the 37 spots have been filled our school office will send out a consent and payment email for parents/carers to complete. This event, being organised by the English Faculty, is always an enriching and enlightening experience for all who attend - so get in quick!

Ms Sarah McGregor - Head Teacher English

TAS news

It's hammer time for Year 9 Industrial Technology Timber!

This term, Year 9 Industrial Technology Timber students have been in the process of making timber mallets from mixed species hardwood. This has involved turning the handle on the lathe, constructing the mallet head, and combining the components, making sure the wedge has been placed correctly during the gluing process.

The mallet can now be used to assist in the construction of the mortise and tenon joint for their laptop stand project.

Mr Mark Hernage - TAS teacher

Sports news

Helping out our local small primary schools

A big thank you to our amazing student volunteers! This week a group of Byron Bay High School students spent the day helping out at the Small Primary Schools Athletics Carnival at the Cavanbah Centre. They were involved in assisting with timing races, organising the younger students into their events and cheering on the little ones to do their best!

Thanks so much to these students for helping out the small schools in our local area, without them the day is just that little bit harder for these schools to run a carnival for their students.

Mrs Kelley Caoyonan - Sports Coordinator, PDHPE teacher and Year 12 Year Advisor

REMINDER – Year 7 & 8 Touch Football Gala Day

Our Year 7 and 8 Touch Football Gala Day is happening on Tuesday 22 July – the first day back of Term 3! It's important that all students involved are organised and ready for a great day of sport and fun.

Key details:

• Monday 22 July (first day of Term 3 – add it to your calendar!)
• Bus departs at 8 am sharp from Byron Bay High School

What to bring:

• Footy boots or regular trainers
• Sport shorts
• Water bottle, snacks, and lunch
• Optional cash for the canteen
• A team top will be provided on the day

Please be on time, be prepared, and be ready to enjoy a great day out on the field!

Mrs Kelley Caoyonan - Sports Coordinator, PDHPE teacher and Year 12 Year Advisor

Year 12 teen driving

Year 12 defensive driving experience – Norwell Motorplex

This week, our Year 12 students had the valuable opportunity to participate in some Defensive Driving training at the Norwell Motorplex in QLD. The day began with a confronting but important 30-minute session discussing road safety statistics and the high risks faced by young drivers. This was followed by an informative workshop on tyre safety – including how to properly care for and maintain pressure in the tyre related to the number of people in the car, and when to check them (its every 2 weeks by the way!) to ensure safer driving conditions.

After the theory component, it was time to hit the track for some hands-on learning. Our students experienced emergency braking using ABS systems, practiced emergency braking and safely changing lanes to avoid potential collisions, and swerved to dodge unexpected hazards while maintaining vehicle control.

One of the highlights was the skid plate exercise, where cars were deliberately put into a slide, teaching students how to stay calm and regain control.

The day finished with a fun, but challenging timed wet course, where the aim was to stay in control, avoid spin-outs, and steer clear of cones to prevent time penalties. There were certainly a few unexpected spins and surprises along the way – all part of the learning experience!

While the day brought plenty of excitement and laughter, the key takeaway was serious: teaching our students critical, life-saving defensive driving skills. These practical lessons are designed to build confidence and prepare them for the realities of the road, ensuring they are better equipped to handle potentially dangerous driving situations in the future.

A huge thank you to the Norwell Motorplex team for delivering such an engaging and educational day for our Senior students. We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to our wonderful bus driver, Mick, who generously provided the bus free of charge to make this valuable experience possible.

As Mick said himself, “A bus driver sees the worst of drivers on the road, so anything I can do to help improve driver safety, I’m happy to support.”

As a well-deserved thank you for his generosity, Mick was treated to driving an exhilarating 8 hot laps in a V8 Supercar — a fitting reward for helping our students learn these life-saving driving skills!

Checkout a bit of the driving activity here:

Mrs Kelley Caoyonan - Sports Coordinator, PDHPE teacher and Year 12 Year Advisor

Out of school achievement

Bowie is the Qld State Braziliain Jiu Jitsu Champion!

Congratulations to Year 7 student, Bowie who recently retained his Qld State Champion Title on the Gold Coast - winning Gold in both Gi and No-Gi at the Queensland Braziliain Jiu Jitsu Championship!

Bowie competed in the 13 year old Orange Belt division. He is training at The Academy Byron Bay - but had a year away from competition due to a knee injury. :)

This is a wonderful achievement for Bowie and we are all super proud of him.

Thank you to Baron Walton for supplying this great news.

Careers news

Early entry into Griffith University

Griffith’s Year 12 Early Offer Guarantee webinar:

• Wednesday 23 July, 7 pm to 8 pm

If your child is in Year 12, they could receive an Early Offer to study at Griffith before they receive their final results. Find out more by joining this webinar, as experts guide you through how to find out eligibility, how to apply, what to submit and when.

Griffith University Open Day

• Sunday 10 August, 9 am to 2 pm | Gold Coast and Brisbane South (Nathan)

With hundreds of sessions, tours and activities to explore, this is your child's chance to experience uni life, meet lecturers and discover degrees across a wide range of study areas. Whether they are figuring out study options, ready to apply or are just curious about life at Griffith, the Uni’s friendly team will be there at the Open Day to support them every step of the way.

Apprenticeship opportunities

Byron Brick Laying and Superior Metal Roofing are looking for apprentices. If your child is interested in finding out more, please encourage them to see Mrs Sergi in the Careers office on a Thursday or Friday.

Year 12 fundraising raffle

Last days to buy your tickets - raffle drawn on 4 July!

With prizes donated from very generous local businesses from across the Northern Rivers, this raffle is NOT to be missed! All funds raised will go towards the Year 12 formal at the end of 2025, with the aim of creating an unforgettable experience for these young adults before they move off into the world.

Tickets are for sale in NSW and QLD and can be purchased here:

Tickets are priced at $5 each, or

• 3 tickets for $12,
• 5 tickets for $20,
• 10 tickets for $35,
• 20 tickets for $65,
• 50 tickets for $125

The raffle will be drawn next Friday - 4 July 2025. We thank you for supporting Year 12 2025!

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Safer Drivers Course for Learners

At the Byron Youth Activity Centre (The YAC)

• Cost - $140 (free course for Concession Card holders)
• Date - Tuesday 8 July or Saturday 19 July, 10 am - 1 pm
• Where - Byron Youth Activity Centre (The YAC) - 1 Gilmore Crescent Byron Bay

To attend the course learner drivers need to:

• have a valid learner licence
• be under 25 years of age
• have completed at least 50 log book hours of on-road driving (excluding any 3 for 1 bonus hours)
• have included night driving in some of those hours.

​​​​​​​​Register for the Safer Driver course via the YAC website:

Barista Course

• Cost - $100 (free course for Concession Card holders)
• Date -Wednesday 9 July 10 am - 1pm or Tuesday 22 July 4 pm - 7 pm
• Where - Byron Youth Activity Centre (The YAC) - 1 Gilmore Crescent Byron Bay

In the community