Byron Breeze tERM 1 | wEEK 10 2025

Our school's cross country carnival will take place tomorrow, Friday 4 April, during Periods 3 and 4.

Periods 1, 2 and 5 will run as normal.

All students are expected to take part in this whole school carnival. They can complete the course by running, jogging or walking along the beautiful Tallow Beach with friends.

The format for the Cross Country Carnival this year is to minimise the impact on our Senior students and to encourage all students to participate in this whole school event. It is designed for students to run, jog or walk the 3, 4 or 6 km course along the beach and then celebrate their efforts with a BBQ, a cool drink, some great beats from our bands and a Presentation Assembly.

Students wishing to compete for a place at Zone will be allocated the front row of their age group to give them the best chance of achieving their goal.

Parent/Carer consent

In line with Department of Education protocol, parent/carer online consent is required for your child to leave the school grounds during the Cross Country Carnival. If you have not yet completed the 2025 Whole School Sporting Carnivals online consent form emailed out on multiple times this year, please action your consent ASAP.

This online form covers your child to attend all of the 3 compulsory Carnivals in 2025:

• Swimming Carnival - Wednesday 12 February
• Cross Country Carnival - Friday 4 April, and
• Athletics Carnival - Tuesday 20 May

If you already completed this online form earlier in the year, thank you... there is nothing more you need to do!

If your child is injured or sick

If your child is injured or sick and cannot participate, we will provide for them on the day. There is no need for them to take the whole day off school. Please send them to school with a handwritten note advising us why they are not able to take part.

Cross Country arrangements

On the day, Period 1, 2 and Recess will run as normal to accommodate Year 12 assessments. All students will go to Period 3 for roll marking and then teachers will walk them to the oval and be in position by 12.35 pm.

The Cross Country Carnival this year will run into lunchtime. Period 4 will become Lunch (1:40-2:20 pm). Once students complete the full course they will receive a ticket to a free sausage sizzle. Snow cones will also be available for purchase whilst they enjoy the beats from our Bands in the Quad. After the Presentation Assembly (2:20-2:40 pm), students will move to their normal timetabled Period 5 class.

Starting times and distances

Parents and family members are welcome to come along to support their child. There will an area for parents/family to watch near the finish area on the oval. Below are the approximate starting times for each age group:

• 18, 17 and 16 Years Boys - 12:45 pm (6km)
• 15 and 14 Years Girls - 12:48 pm (4km)
• 12 and 13 Years Girls - 12:51 pm (3km)
• 12 and 13 Years Boys - 12:54 pm (3km)
• 15 and 14 Years Boys - 12:57 (4km)
• 18, 17 and 16 Years Girls - 1:00 pm (4km)

We appreciate your support with this by encouraging your child to take part in the carnival.

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

Heron Island Delivers Again!

Year 12 Marine Studies and Geography excursion

This was the second time that we've been to Heron Island, and WOW, what a trip! After Cyclone Alfred threw us into a whirlwind in February, and some reshuffling efforts, we found ourselves on our way exactly 1 month later than anticipated.

We should have realised from our bus trip to Gladstone, with the interesting antics and storytelling from our bus driver, Greg, that things would be different this year.

After arriving in Gladstone at our ‘rescheduled’ accommodation we took the time to appreciate our lifestyles here in Byron Bay - it opened our eyes to how some of the rest of the world lives. We survived the night, and the following morning we headed out to sea on our way to Heron Island. Tom and Reya hung on bravely despite going quite pale, and Miss Mast and Miss Lowe simply passed out from their sea sickness tablets!

On arrival, we were greeted with not so great news that the weather prediction for the week ahead was not looking good. Some concerns around the timing of planned activities meant that we needed to get our bigger snorkelling activities done sooner rather than later. So, after a quick afternoon snorkel to introduce ourselves to the location, the next thing on the agenda was a night snorkel with underwater torches. As expected almost every student (and teacher) overcame their initial fears and found the experience amazing. While quieter at night, some of us were greeted with some truly huge turtle sightings and enormous fish as we travelled out to the resident shipwreck and back.

Heron Island has something special about it... It unlocks magic when you least expect it and lifts your spirits. Overnight, the weather gods decided we had already been thrown off enough with our 1 month delay, and they changed their plans.

The wind went away, the rain disappeared, and we had 4 fantastic days of exploring, discovering, learning and connecting.

Spectacular mornings, with never ending appearances of turtles, lemons sharks, reef sharks, cow tail sting rays, spotted eagle rays (often jumping from the water) and shovel nose rays were seen. Boat trips to the reef edge to see the wide array of coral types and formations were a highlight and for me personally, the incredible schools of fish were amazing.

But, where were the turtle hatchings we all came to see? It was definitely quieter in that regard, than last year, and there was a slight feeling of disappointment for those that really wanted to see baby turtles. While Seth had scored seeing an eruption of hatchlings, most of us had not. Determined to search harder, we gained access to some infra red torches and went out into the dark.

While again we couldn’t find any, Heron Island slipped us one of its little secrets, to keep us mesmerised. The most magical pathway of bright green lights of bioluminescence, sprinkled along the beach as we walked, for hundreds of metres, appeared in the dark. We played with it, as it stuck to our hands and feet and clothes like a mini party in nature.

After a full lap of the island, and some dodgy direction by Miss Mast who got us lost on the resort side, there still were no hatchlings. But, as we headed back to our accommodation area they suddenly appeared! Baby turtles everywhere! They were lost and had gone in the wrong direction, perhaps confused by the accommodation lights and a lack of moonlight. Instead of heading to the ocean, they came to us, through the bushes, under buildings and were walking down the pathways between our rooms!

We were on a baby turtle rescue mission and there was no containing the excitement (or anybody really for that matter).

While normally touching the wildlife is prohibited, permission was given for our students to pick up the turtles and take them back to the beach, where we created beach tracking pathways (using light to direct them in the correct direction). This would assist them in the future to return to their nesting sites. A good day had turned into a spectacular one!

If that wasn’t enough, we also had some fantastic learning experiences during the week. The passion we carried as a group towards the realisation of where our natural environment is at and what we must do to protect it came through in a rare and special moment. When tears appear in both teachers and students eyes, it’s obvious the lessons and messages being shared are real. Of course, Miss Lowe, on her first trip to Heron Island, was deeply involved in this discussion and the blessing of having her with us shone through. More of the magic of Heron.

We also had a great opportunity to spend time with visiting scientists, who were conducting experiments on thermal stress on corals. They spoke with the students and showed them their experiments. We did our own plankton collection and laboratory observations to deepen students understanding of the amazing nature and importance of plankton in the ocean, with presentations from myself and Miss Mast.

This trip presented so many worthwhile experiences right from the start, from when we were thrown out by a cyclone, to the very end - there was nothing that was going to dampenen the resilience of this group and the positivity we shared.

It was only appropriate when the main transport boat that had brought us to the island would break down during the week, throwing other school groups and tourists helter-skelter with their plans. Fortunately for us this only culminated in a later departure on a different and smaller boat. As we patiently waited for the boat, the rain poured down with an intensity only the tropics can bring. But without a word of complaint, we simply read our books, played some pool and waited it out.

We finally got back to the mainland, survived an unplanned dodgy roadhouse dinner, another leaky bus in torrential rain and Greg’s short lived attempt to tell us stories before arriving back at BBHS at the ungodly hour of 5:15 am.

I would like to thank every single student on this trip for their happiness, resilience, curiosity and general all round legend status in making this a great trip.

An extra special thanks to 2 other legends, Miss Mast and Miss Lowe who made this trip pretty awesome.

Heron '25....Magic!

Mr Nick Hart - Marine Studies teacher

Teacher as Country camp

A transformative excursion

Our recent 'Country as Teacher' excursion held at South Ballina was an unforgettable journey of cultural learning, leadership, and deep connection with Country. First Nations students had the unique opportunity to engage with Bundjalung and other First Nation experts in their fields, immersing themselves in traditional knowledge and practices that have been passed down through generations.

The experience was rich with meaningful activities designed to strengthen cultural identity and leadership skills.

Students took part in large-scale sand art, embodying stories of the land through movement and dance, and attuning their senses by listening to and feeling Country. The art of storytelling for law and lore provided insight into the guiding principles of First Nations culture, while spear-making and weaving workshops allowed participants to engage with traditional craftsmanship. Traditional dances, film and music production, and a bushtucker tour through Bangalow’s Picabeen Park further deepened their appreciation for Country and its teachings. The excursion also featured moments of pure enjoyment, with swimming and waterslides offering a chance to refresh and bond with one another.

A heartfelt thank you to our students for their respectful and honorable participation throughout the experience. Your openness to learning, enthusiasm, and deep respect for culture made this journey even more special. We also extend our sincere gratitude to the dedicated Country as Teacher crew, whose wisdom, guidance, and generosity created a truly enriching experience for all involved.

This excursion was more than just a series of activities—it was a powerful reminder that Country is not just a place, but a teacher, a guide, and a source of wisdom. We look forward to continuing these important journeys of cultural learning and leadership in the future.

SRC Induction Assembly

Inducting our student leaders for 2025

Earlier this term, we held a whole-school assembly to induct our student leaders for 2025. During the event, students were proudly presented with their badges and congratulated by their family and friends, who attended both the morning tea and the assembly.

The Student Representative Council (SRC) plays a vital role in our school community, acting as a bridge between students and staff. The SRC team is responsible for voicing student concerns, organising school events, and fostering a positive school environment.

Their leadership is instrumental in shaping the student experience at Byron Bay High School and is essential in ensuring that all students have a platform to express their views and actively participate in the decisions that affect our school.

The induction of these new SRC members marks the beginning of a year filled with meaningful opportunities for them to make a difference.

Ms Madelyn Sergi - HSIE teacher and SRC Coordinator

Year 12 Donut Day Fundraiser

Raising money for the Year 12 Formal

A HUGE thanks to our students who supported the Year 12 fundraiser on Tuesday by purchasing a delicious donut! Our Year 12s had a great time making and distributing donuts and they certainly seemed well received.

Mrs Kelley Caoyonan - Year 12 Year Advisor

CAPAL news

Save the date - The BBHS Winter Arts Festival is coming!

To celebrate the creative and artistic talents of our students, Byron Bay High School is holding its annual Winter Arts Festical (a.k.a the WAF) Showcase evening on Thursday 26 June (Term 2 | Week 9).

Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the explosion of talent this school has to offer! Featuring the Year 7 massed choir, bands, vocalists, short films, art and theatre.

Save the date!

English news

Year 7 English play with the musicality of words

As part of the ‘My World, Your World, Our World’ unit, our new Year 7 students have been working tirelessly on their poetry portfolios. Their courage, creativity and preparedness to play with the musicality of words - never ceases to warm our hearts.

Enjoy 2 poems written by students in 7M:

Sport news

North Coast Soccer Team to compete at NSW CHS championships

Congratulations to Harry R and Atticus M, Mia H, Polly J, Hayden A (shadow) on their selection for the North Coast team to compete at the NSW CHS Championships! This is a fantastic achievement, with players from across the North Coast—spanning from Port Macquarie to Tweed Heads—trialling for a spot.

Well done to this talented group of students, and best of luck at the championships!

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

Under 14’s Rugby League

On Monday the Under 14s Rugby League team played in a Buckley Shield CHS Knockout match against Ballina Coast High School.

Ballina started the match with 2 early tries which put us on the back foot early, however the boys regained possession and worked hard to hit back with a try by Taj.

Byron Bay were first to score after half time with a solo effort by Noah, which got us back to a score of 16-10.

Possession went back and forth for most of the second half with both teams looking to be the next to score. Once fatigue started to creep in, unfortunately Byron Bay High School couldn't contain some of Ballina’s forwards, which resulted in a few tries to the home team.

The final score was 30-10, with a win to Ballina Coast High School.

Notable mentions to Zave for playing his first game of Rugby League since his major injury and having a blinder in the front row, and to Byron for his work rate in defence.

We will now look ahead at a chance to play again at the NRL 9’s day later on in the year.

Mr Ben Merrick - PDHPE teacher

ANZAC Day March

Byron Bay RSL sub-Branch ANZAC Day March and Commemoration Service - Friday 25 April

The Byron Bay RSL sub-Branch invites all BBHS students and staff to participate in this year’s ANZAC Day March and Commemoration Service on Friday 25 April, from 10:30 am to approximately 11:40 am.

BBHS teachers Mrs Sergi and Mrs Farrar will meet all students who will be participating in the March at Apex Park at 10:10am. Students and staff will march together and arrive at the Byron Bay War Memorial, near the Recreation grounds, where the Commemoration Service will begin.

After the Service, veterans of the Byron Bay RSL Sub-Branch invite all participants to join them at the Byron Bay Services Club for a soft drink.

We look forward to seeing our school community participate in this important event on our nation's calendar. Please join us as we show our respect for the service men and women who have served our country in all conflicts, wars and peacekeeping operations.

• Wear - full Byron Bay High School uniform
• Meeting place - Apex Park (across the road from the Beach Hotel), from 10:10 am, with the March stepping off at 10:30 am sharp.
• Collection point - Students will need to be collected from the Memorial Gates at the completion of the Service (Cnr Marvell and Tennyson Streets)

Please be aware there will be road closures in Byron Bay on the day - Tennyson Street and Marvell Street intersection between 4.30 am and 5.30 am (for the Dawn Service). Then again at approximately 10:45 am, when the parade reaches the gates for the main service.

Madelyn Sergi and Sammi Farrar - Student Representative Council Coordinators

🎵Applications are now open for the North Coast Music Camp!

• Sunday 25 to Wednesday 28 May 2025
• Coffs Coast Adventure Centre, Bonville
• Open to talented vocal and instrumental students from Years 5 to 12 who currently attend NSW public schools
• Applications close on Friday 11 April

Enrolling for Year 7 in 2026

If you are interested in enrolling your child at Byron Bay High School for Year 7 next year, please take note of the 2-step process for enrolment:

1. NOW CLOSED - Submit an Expression of Interest through your child's primary school.
2. BETWEEN JUNE AND SEPTEMBER 2025 - If you chose Byron Bay High School on your child's Expression of Interest online form, and it is successful, the Department of Education will advise you via email. Once you have received this confirmation email, please complete an online enrolment form and provide the necessary documentation within 14 days of receiving the confirmation email (this will take place between June and September).

Library news

Let's help Juliet compete internationally!

Byron Bay High School Year 10 student Juliet P has been selected to represent Australia on the Canadian Athletics Tour in June 2025! This prestigious tour, organised by Australian Sports Travel, will see a select team of Australian athletes compete in international athletics events across British Columbia, Canada, and the USA.

Juliet has worked tirelessly to reach this level, consistently excelling in athletics at the state level. She trains and competes regularly with Byron Bay Runners and Ballina All-Stars Athletics and has shown outstanding dedication across multiple sports, including basketball, swimming, surfing, and tennis. Her recent selection for this tour came after an impressive performance in the 200m hurdles at the NSW CHS Carnival in September 2024 at Sydney Olympic Park.

However, the cost of international competition is significant, and any financial assistance will be greatly appreciated to help cover expenses such as travel, accommodation, competition fees, and training support.

Every donation, no matter the size, brings Juliet one step closer to achieving her dream!

As a community, lets support Juliet to reach new heights in her athletic journey!

How to Protect Our Kids from Extremist and Misogynistic Influences

Important information for parents from Safe on Social

From NSW Fire + Rescue

Lithium-Ion Battery Safety

Lithium-ion batteries are the fastest growing fire risk in New South Wales. Fire and Rescue NSW would like members of the NSW community to understand the risks and be prepared if things go wrong.

Preparation is Key:

• Ensure functioning smoke alarms where batteries are charged or stored.
• Charge batteries on non-flammable surfaces like concrete floors, avoiding beds or sofas.
• Large batteries should only be charged in well-ventilated areas like garages or sheds.

Charging Caution:

• Never charge batteries unattended or when sleeping.
• Disconnect devices once fully charged.
• Avoid using and charging devices on flammable surfaces or if damaged.

Charging Essentials:

• Use only approved chargers with the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark.
• Beware of compatibility issues with chargers.

Safe Disposal:

• Never dispose of damaged batteries in regular waste bins.
• Use designated battery recycling drop-off points.

Warning Signs:

• Dispose of damaged batteries promptly to mitigate fire risks.

For further information go to

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