Byron Breeze tERM 2 | wEEK 2 2025

A Year 12 band was formed by Spencer W, Jasmin A, Tess K, Indigo S and Ryan T for the occasion. They played a song by Lizzy McAlpine called Erase Me.

The Bluesfest High School Showcase was an exceptional celebration of public education and the amazing talents of our students. Here are a few snippets of their performances...

NSWCHS Swimming Championships

BBHS students shine in the pool in Sydney!

Congratulations to our Byron Bay High School Swimming Team, who competed as part of the North Coast Team, in the recent NSW Combined High Schools State Championships.

The results were amazing... well done to everyone who competed!

Held at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre, our athletes competed against the best swimmers from across the state. We congratulate everyone who attended and acknowledge their wonderful representation of our school and region. A special mention must go to Year 9 student Lawson K for making the podium in 2 events, achieving both a silver and bronze medal! Lawson placed in the top 10 swimmers for his age group in 5 events. Outstanding!

Congratulations to the following swimmers:

• Lawson K (15 Years Boys) - 2nd in 50m Freestyle, 3rd in 100m Fly, 4th in 100m Freestyle, 6th in 200m Freestyle and 8th in 100m Backstroke !!!
• Freya B (12 Years Girls) - 20th in 100m Breaststroke, 26th in 100m Backstroke
• 13 Years Girls Relay Team - Eve L, Gracie-Rose C, Eva W and Giorgia B - 20th, with a 6 second PB!
• 15 Years Boys Relay Team - Lawson K, Albie P, Max G and Jax P - 15th

We are the Far North Coast Champions!

Congratulations to BOTH our Opens Boys and Girls soccer teams

Open Boys Soccer Team

Our Open Boys Soccer team had a solid win against a spirited Kingscliff High School team at home on Friday 2 May. After days of rain, the sky decided to clear, allowing for more favourable conditions for the game.

The match started evenly, with both teams playing a fast paced, high intensity style of soccer. Our boys maintained possession for most of the first half, but couldn’t capitalise on the scoreboard, despite repeated attempts.

We managed to change that with a brilliant conversion from Harry R, from a free kick, allowing us the advantage of a 1-0 lead into the half time break.

The 2nd half saw a more fluid and open style of game, with Byron Bay’s passing game being the major difference between both teams. A 2nd goal coming from the boot of Kaiden S, before Ryan T slotted our 3rd with some crafty footwork.

All boys played an equal role in the team victory, and have bonded well, creating a relaxed, honest and competitive culture as a playing group. The boys are now the Open Boys Far North Coast (FNC) Champions and advance to the next round of the CHS knock-out competition.

Mr Damian Bisogni - Learning Support teacher and team coach

Open Girls Soccer Team

Our Open Girls Soccer Team claimed the Far North Coast title with a commanding 3-0 win over Ballina Coast High School on Friday 2 May.

After a week of rain, the skies cleared and the sun broke through just in time for kick-off. Both teams started with high intensity, but it wasn’t long before Byron Bay took control. Mia H showcased her striking ability with 2 excellent goals, while Hayden A sealed the result with a composed finish for the third.

The girls maintained consistent pressure throughout, with every player contributing to a disciplined and cohesive team effort. Strong communication and teamwork proved the key difference on the day.

It was a standout performance from the entire squad, who now progress to the next stage of the CHS knock-out competition as proud Far North Coast Champions. Well done girls!

Ms Kirra Dale - PDHPE teacher and team coach

Far North Coast High School Regional Surfing Titles

Our Junior Girls are FNC Champions!

Our Byron Bay High School Surf Team recently competed at the North Coast High School Regional Surfing Titles held at Lennox Head.

This year, our surfing team consisted of:

• Senior Girls - Tait W and Frankie P
• Senior Boys - Shannon H and Kai P
• Junior Girls - Amelia M and Leihani Z
• Junior Boys - Taj B and Max G

Despite facing very challenging conditions, both Senior teams performed admirably. Unfortunately, due to the large surf and limited time to catch a second wave, they were unable to progress to the next round.

In the Junior Division, Max G and Taj B surfed exceptionally well. Their teamwork and consistent effort earned them a strong 4th place overall.

The Junior Girls team, featuring Leihani Z and Amelia M, managed their time expertly and impressed the judges with some of the highest-scoring waves of the entire event. Their outstanding performance earned them 1st place and the overall victory!

Leihani and Amelia will now go on to represent Byron Bay High School at the NSW State High School Surfing Championships. We wish them the best of luck!

Well done to all our surfers for their enthusiasm, effort and sportsmanship. You've done yourself and our school very proud!

Mr Sunny Russell - Maths teacher

Our budding lawyers step up in court

Our Mock Trial Team performs strongly in the SCU competition

Our Byron Bay Year 11 and 12 Legal Studies students put their skills into practice as budding lawyers, by preparing and putting forward a court case in the 2025 Southern Cross University Mock Trial Competiton.

BBHS was tasked with presenting the Defence Case, arguing that their client - Milo Jones (Matilda A) - was not guilty of assault occasioning actual bodily harm against the complainant Kim Taylor. Our team argued that Milo had the lawful excuse of self defence of his partner Freida Gilbert (Charli R) for his actions in punching and fracturing the jaw of Kim Taylor.

Jordan B and Calum C performed the roles of First Barrister and Second Barrister ably - presenting the Opening and Closing Cases, conducting an examination in chief of the 2 team witnesses - Charli R (Witness 1 - Freida Gilbert) and Matilda A (Witness 2 - Milo Jones) and cross-examining the 2 Prosecution witnesses on the opposing team. Ryder McG competently performed the role of Court Officer, opening and closing the court and swearing in the witnesses.

Our Mock Trial Team performed very strongly and received an honourable mention at the conclusion of the Mock Trial competition, with the judges noting that both Jordan and Calum conducted very strong cross-examinations of the Prosecution witnesses, and that Calum’s closing statement was very strong and effective.

We are very proud of our students and delighted to be able to provide them with an experience of practising law in a court case situation, that will serve our budding lawyers well in their future careers.

Mr Dale Stevenson - HSIE teacher

Year 7 embark on their first high school camp!

With some help from their Year 11 Peer Mentors

The 2025 Years 7 and 11 Camp was an unforgettable experience filled with adventure, personal growth, and camaraderie! The students embraced the great outdoors as they participated in a variety of fun and challenging activities, from kayaking and the high ropes course, to team-building exercises that pushed their limits and encouraged collaboration.

Old and new friendships blossomed, as students navigated these exciting challenges together, led by their tireless Year 11 Peer Mentors. Happy memories were made and bonds were formed that will carry on throughout their high school journey.

A big thank you goes out to all the students, both Year 7 and Year 11, who participated with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. A special mention must also go out to our dedicated staff who organised and led the camp. Their commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging environment made this experience truly special.

We look forward to seeing how these new friendships continue to grow as our Year 7 students settle into high school life!

Ms Ebony Yeadon - Year 7 Year Advisor

Written by Clancy K & Melaleuca A (Year 7)

The 7-11 camp was an incredible experience for everybody who attended! We went to the Gold Coast Recreation Centre, which has lots of fun activities such as high ropes, canoeing, kayaking, bodysurfing, team building challenges and beach walks. I personally loved the high ropes which made me try new things and push myself, although I am terrified of heights.

Camp is always a fantastic way to bond with your friends and peers and even to make new friends, but especially at this camp because we participated in lots of group activities and got to know each other much better.

Because this was a Years 7 and 11 camp it provided us with an opportunity to get to know the older students, as well as our own year.

To sum it up, 2025 7-11 camp was an absolute success!!

Year 9 students take on the Emu Gully 'Adventure'

Shaping great young Australians through adventure

At the end of last term, our Year 9 students embarked on a memorable outdoor education experience at Emu Gully 'The Adventure' Camp — an immersive program designed to build leadership, resilience, teamwork, and a sense of mateship.

Across a series of physical and team-based challenges, the students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, work collaboratively, and reflect on the values that shape strong communities.

From obstacle courses and leadership exercises, to discussions about Australia's history of service and sacrifice, the camp provided powerful opportunities for personal growth.

What stood out most was the way our students rose to the occasion — supporting one another, persevering through difficult moments, and showing genuine enthusiasm for each activity. It was inspiring to see students who may not normally seek the spotlight taking initiative and showing quiet strength when it mattered most.

We are proud of every student who participated and look forward to seeing how this experience continues to shape their confidence and character.

A heartfelt thank you goes to our dedicated BBHS staff - Ms Murray, Ms Oldfield and Mr Browne - who gave their time, energy, and care to support our students throughout the camp. Without their commitment, opportunities like this simply wouldn't be possible. Their presence and encouragement played a vital role in making the experience meaningful and memorable for all.

Mr Drew Minton - Year 9 Year Advisor

Year 10 accept the 'Challenge'!

Emu Gully 'The Challenge' Camp

On the final Monday of Term 1, 62 Year 10 students embarked on a camp to Emu Gully in Queensland. The experience was centred around personal challenge and was outstanding for fostering teamwork, encouraging critical thinking, strengthening communication, and developing leadership skills.

Our students took part in a range of demanding activities, including crawling through tunnels, a Kokoda night walk, trudging through neck-deep mud while carrying a stretcher, paintball, and more.

Each activity was carefully designed to build and reinforce the core values of courage, mateship, sacrifice, and perseverance... and the Year 10 students certainly didn't disappoint, showing that they were definitely up for the challenge!

At the end of the camp, 2 types of awards were presented to the students; the Emu Gully Outstanding Effort Award and the Emu Gully Step Up Award. These awards recognised those students who demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities throughout their time at the Emu Gully Camp. The recipients displayed remarkable resilience, embraced an inclusive attitude, and consistently acted as upstanders who were reliable, supportive, and always ready to lend a hand to their peers.

Recipients of these awards are as follows:

Angus W, Tallulah S, Xavier A, Rowon BVF, Coco L, Sonny D, Benji T, Busta W, Hannah C, Jude B, Kai K, Crispin C, Lily F, Buster H-S.

Mrs Leah Miles and Ms Lara Cranfield - Year 10 Year Advisors

Athletics Carnival

Whole school Carnival - Tuesday 20 May, Cavanbah Centre

We are hoping for sunny weather for our annual whole school Athletics Carnival scheduled for Tuesday 20 May! The Athletics Carnival is one of the major school events on our school calendar and it is expected that students attend.

There will be plenty of events, both competitive and fun non-competitive novelties, to keep everyone engaged.

Transport arrangements

Buses coming into Byron Bay from the north of our Shire (i.e., Brunswick Heads, Mullumbimby, etc) will drop students directly to the Cavanbah Centre on their way past - where students will meet teachers already at the fields.

All other buses will drop students to Byron Bay High School as normal. At 9 am hired buses will transport the students from school to the Cavanbah Centre.

The hired buses will then return ALL students back to school by 3 pm for normal home time arrangements and school buses.

* EARLY LEAVERS: Students will not be permitted to leave early from the Cavanbah Centre unless they are collected in person by their parent/carer. Students cannot leave with another parent/adult, unless the adult is a designated Emergency Contact on file for the student.

Food

On the day, students are advised to bring some food and plenty of water with them. If they wish to purchase food, our Year 12 students will be running their legendary BBQ fundraiser, with sausage sandwiches, snow cones, cakes and epic hot donuts available for purchase. Snow cones will be $3 each and donuts $5 each.

What to wear

Students are encouraged to wear their House colours... the brighter the better! Dress up and have some fun. We also remind students to bring a hat and sunscreen!

Other event details

Students will compete in the age group of the AGE THEY TURN THIS YEAR. Age groups range from 12–17+ years of age. Some events are restricted to certain age groups at Far North Coast level, however we run all events at our school carnival.

Any students wishing to nominate for the events that are not run at school but are run at NSWCHS State Athletics (2km Steeplechase, 200m Hurdles, 400m Hurdles, Pentathlon, 12-14 Years Girls 1500m Walk, 12-15 Years Boys 1500m Walk, 15-19 Years 3000m Walk) will need to nominate on the day and have evidence of qualifying times in these sanctioned events.

Parents are very welcome to attend the carnival. The Program of Events will be emailed to all parents/carers early next week.

We are looking forward to a great carnival!

Mrs Kelley Caoyonan - Sports Organiser

Sport news

Tennis teaches more than technique in Term 1

Wednesday Tennis in Term 1 served up not only exciting matches but also a celebration of the values that make the sport great. From discipline and resilience to respect and focus, our students have shown that tennis builds far more than physical skill. Whether they were learning to serve or battling out a close match, players demonstrated sportsmanship and a strong sense of fair play.

Students learned to think strategically, persevere under pressure, and support one another through wins and losses—qualities that will benefit them well beyond the court. The friendly competition and shared enthusiasm have made the Term 1 2025 season a standout.

A huge congratulations to Benji T, who claimed the overall win for Term 1! Benji’s consistency, dedication, and calm approach under pressure were a masterclass in student excellence. His name will now be added to the BBHS School Sport Tennis Trophy/Shield. An honour that will outlive his time here at BBHS.

Well done to all players for a terrific season. We look forward to building on this momentum in Term 2!

PS. Do you have a tennis racquet that’s no longer used but in good condition? If so, please consider donating it to the school (drop into the front office, or have your child bring it to Mr Pietens in the English Faculty. We are looking to add to our tennis equipment and your donation would be greatly appreciated.

Year 12 news

Exciting opportunity for Year 12 drivers

We have booked a session at the Norwell Defensive Driving Complex (in QLD) for our Year 12 students on Tuesday 24 June.

This program is specifically designed to teach defensive and lifesaving driving skills. Many of our students are currently on their L or P plates and are learning about road safety and road rules. While we hope they never find themselves in dangerous driving situations, the reality is that when such situations do occur, young drivers often react inappropriately due to inexperience.

The Norwell Teen Defensive Driver Training Program is aimed at developing the essential habits of safe and controlled driving — habits that could one day save their lives.

This is a hands-on, 3-hour course that helps shape young drivers' attitudes, build their confidence, and prepare them for real-world challenges on the road. It includes exercises in accident avoidance, skid control, and ABS braking, wet braking and changing lanes.

PLEASE NOTE -this program is different from the driver safety course offered at the YAC or school. It is a practical, skills-based training session held at a specialised course.

Year 12 parents and carers, if you would like your child to participate, please check your emails for the online consent and payment link. The due date is Friday 6 June. After this date, any students not participating will have the invoice for this activity removed from their account.

Mrs Kelley Caoyonan - Year 12 Year Advisor

Year 12 fundraising raffle

Don't forget to buy your tickets and support our Year 12 students!

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 on 4 July 2025. We thank you for supporting Year 12 2025!

Library news

Winter uniforms reminder

With the cooler weather ahead, it's time to start sourcing appropriate uniform items

Please accept our apologies for the misleading information about jumpers published in our Term 1 | Week 11 newsletter. We incorrectly stated that students can wear either navy blue or black jumpers to school. Please be advised that NAVY BLUE is the only colour of jumpers permitted at Byron Bay High School.

BBHS Winter Uniforms summary:

• Long pants - students can wear plain navy or black long pants (Chinos or trackpants)
• Denim jeans, tights and bike pants - are NOT a part of our school uniform
• Jumpers - should be plain navy, without stripes or large logos (any external logos must be no larger than a credit card). Regional or state representative sport jumpers may be worn
• Undershirts - can be white, black, or navy blue
• Shoes - must be totally enclosed footwear, no crocs, ugg boots, sandals or slides

Year 6 Transition Taster Lessons

Year 6 students from our partner primary schools are invited to spend an afternoon at BBHS

Year 6 students are invited to Byron Bay High School to participate in some Taster Lessons as part of our school’s Transition to High School Program. Students from our partner primary schools will enjoy some of the lessons that Byron Bay High School offers, and also meet the teachers who will be with them next year when they start Year 7.

Refer to the flyer below for the dates and times for those primary school's who will be participating:

First Nations Homework Club

Mondays from 3:40–4:40 pm

All First Nations students are invited to join us every Monday from 3:40 to 4:40 pm for the First Nations Homework Club, a supportive space where First Nations students can receive academic assistance, cultural support, and mentoring. Whether they need help with assignments, exam preparation, or just a quiet place to study, our club provides a welcoming environment with knowledgeable tutors and occasional community mentors. It’s a great opportunity to connect, learn, and grow together.

No sign-up is required! Come along, bring homework, and let’s succeed together!

Students must be picked up from school as we are unable to provide transport.

• Location - Byron Bay High School Library
• Contact - eli.pietens@det.nsw.edu.au

​​​​​

Great things happening at the YAC

Safer Driver Course for Learners

• Cost - $140 (free course for Concession Card holders)
• Date - Monday 13 or Monday 27 May, 4 pm to 7 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:

Other great events for young people at the YAC

In the community

Byron Ballet Reimagines a Beloved Classic with 'Sleeping Beauty'

Byron Ballet presents Sleeping Beauty at the Byron Theatre:

• Friday 9 May @ 7:30pm
• Saturday 10 May @ 2pm and 7:30pm
• Sunday 11 May @ 6pm

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit: