Byron Breeze tERM 3 | wEEK 1 2024

Starting at Killen Falls students were introduced to the relationships between the river, the geology and the vegetation, as well as the farmland surrounding the area. At the base of the falls, students conducted water quality tests in order to measure human influence. These tests would be used throughout the following day as well and provided students with skills that could be used in a wide range of professions, beyond their geographical investigations in Term 3.

In the afternoon we visited Rocky Creek Dam where students actively discussed the region's water supply and the increasing pressures exerted upon it by a growing and seasonal population. Students were creative in suggesting solutions to the issues of water management and scarcity, as well as recognising the flaws in a proposed Dunoon dam. Heading back to the Dorroughby Environmental Education Centre we stopped at a small dam and were very fortunate to see platypus playing in the wild as the sun set.

The following day students spent time on the bank of the Brunswick River at Mullumbimby learning about the geomorphology of the region, the surrounding land uses and their influence on the river ecosystems. As the tide changed, we got into kayaks and started to measure the river channel variables at various stages towards the Mullumbimby Showgrounds. Investigating river width, depth and calculating flow rate, as well as dissolved oxygen, nitrates and changes in pH and salinity provided students with a holistic view of a river system.

The data collection was not without its challenges, managing to hold position in the channel in kayaks, to make measurements proved tricky as the tide rushed out. Students acted quickly and collaboratively to achieve their shared goal of data collection. The kayaking afforded students the chance to analyse the changes in channel shape and water quality, as well as seeing the erosion and vegetation along the river banks as they approached the estuary.

In the afternoon on the 2nd day we visited McCauleys Macadamia Farm and observed their regenerative farming practices that improve soil health and biodiversity whilst yielding a steady income.

Staff from DECC commended the students for their engagement and questions throughout the excursion. Thank you to the staff at DECC, Ms Mast and the students involved for engaging so wholeheartedly with the experience as active citizens and geographers.

Year 9 Geography - taking Byron Bay into the future

Further to studying Changing Places in Year 9 Geography, a group of students recently visited a local, dynamic, chaotic and enterprising part of Byron Bay on the Arts & Industrial Estate. Led by visionary creator of NOW (New Old Ways), Fraser Williams-Martin, students were presented with some valuable insights into possible futures that may exist in Byron Bay.

Meeting at Habitat, north Byron Bay, the group heard how Byron Shire is at a crossroads when it comes to its future. No longer can the town hark back to a bygone era. But, where does it head now that stops it from becoming a caricature, far from meeting the needs of the local community.

Fraser has invited the students to reconsider a part of the Industrial Estate through the NOW mission statement “To look after Country, build stronger communities, design better development and keep the Byron shire wonderfully weird.” Over the coming weeks they will explore options that might challenge what we have come to accept, so they begin to create the ‘new normal’.

Making these connections between the classroom and our local area strengthens students' sense of place and offers learning that extends their thinking. Thank you to Fraser for generously sharing his time and expertise with us and the students for approaching the morning with an inquisitive mindset.

Ocean World Day

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. Children must be taught how to think, not what to think.” M. Mead

World Oceans Day 2024 was celebrated in Byron Bay with a unique event hosted by Ocean Voices - an ocean minded agency, led by a passionate Year 11 advocate from Mullumbimby High School. The emphasis was on youth involvement in addressing issues facing our ocean environments.

The inaugural Ocean Voices conference offered students the opportunity to hear from a range of local businesses and organisations who work across a range of sectors to promote sustainability and support action on ocean issues. Katapult design, Zero Co and the Seabin Foundation showed students how their passions and ideas can lead to fulfilling careers that combine Geography and STEM. Jharvis Loveday presented a trailer for his new film highlighting the challenges facing a young indigenous leader practising their traditional lifestyle in contemporary Australia. An inspiring activist with a strong message that young and old can appreciate.

Byron Shire Council also presented some of their recent work to reduce single use plastics within the shire, hoping to lead by example. This is an issue that our school recognises daily and solutions can begin at home. Thank you to the students, organisers and Ocean Voices for inspiring us at the beginning of the venture.

Mr Stuart Galletly-Salisbury - Head Teacher HSIE

Sport news

NSW CHS Cross Country Championships

Congratulations to Year 12 student Wyana P-S for achieving a podium finish at the State NSW CHS Cross Country Championships held this week in Sydney. Throughout her entire secondary school journey, Wyana has dedicated herself to competing, culminating in a remarkable achievement in her final year at these school championships. She has earned a Bronze medal in the 18 Years Girls division. A real credit to her dedication to training and perseverance this year!

Well done Wyana on this outstanding achievement!

Mrs Kelley Coayonan - Sports Coordinator

School Sport Tennis Championship – Term 2 update

Term 2 saw the inaugural School Sport Tennis Championship run with a great deal of enthusiasm and sportsmanship. The competition group were placed in divisions A through to D based on player performance in an initial grading and the games were played in a mixed doubles format. Movement within divisions occured each week, allowing for players to shift into a higher or lower division according to their skills and weekly points tally.

After a nail-biting final week of competition, the overall winner for the first School Sport Tennis Championship was Year 9 student Beau B whose consistent performance, effort and attendance pushed him into 1st place.

Thanks to Ms Ebb whose enthusiasm matched the players and her contribution of award medallions given to the place getters in each division. Thanks also to Mr Hernage for creating a fantastic perpetual trophy that will retain the Champion’s name into the future.

I look forward to another wonderful Term 3 of tennis and expect the competition to heat up as skills develop and friendly rivalries grow.

Mr Eli Pietens - English teacher

2025 School Captains

Year 11 applications now open

We are excited to announce that the applications for the 2025 School Captains and Senior Executive SRC are now open. Being a School Captain is a role that comes with great responsibility, leadership opportunities, and the chance to make a significant impact on our school community.

What Does it Mean to Be a School Captain?

A School Captain is more than just a title. It is a role that embodies the values and spirit of our school. School Captains are the face of the student body, representing the school at various events and functions. They are leaders, role models, and ambassadors, both within the school and in the wider community.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Representation: Gain valuable skills in leadership, public speaking, and teamwork.

• Represent the school at official events, both internally and externally.
• Lead assemblies, school events, and special functions.
• Student voice and advocacy:
• Act as a liaison between students and the school administration.
• Advocate for student concerns and work to implement positive changes.
• Event planning and coordination:
• Organise and participate in school events, such as fundraisers, cultural events, and sports days.
• Collaborate with teachers and other student leaders to ensure the success of these events.

Role Model and Mentor: Have a direct impact on the school environment and student experience.

• Set a positive example for all students in behaviour, attitude, and academic performance.
• Provide guidance and support to fellow students, encouraging inclusivity and respect.

Community Involvement: Grow in confidence, responsibility, and understanding of community service.

• Promote and participate in community service projects and initiatives.
• Foster a sense of pride and school spirit within the student body.

The application process

Students interested in applying for the position of School Captain must submit an application form by Friday 26 July. These forms have been emailed to all Year 11 students and their parents. The forms are also available at Mr Lee's office. Students will be interviewed and successful candidates will create a 2 minute video that will be played at assembly. Our student body will then vote.

We encourage all eligible students to consider applying for this significant and rewarding role and look forward to welcoming our new School Captains who will lead our school into 2025.

Mrs Kelley Caoyonan - Year 11 Year Advisor

From the Careers Advisor

University Open Days

During a university open day, a higher education institution will open its campus to the public. This allows prospective students to explore everything the university has to offer. Every university in Australia will hold an open day, so families can attend more than one and compare different courses and facilities.

Everyone is welcome to attend, including high school students, parents and mature-age professionals who are thinking about studying.

What can you expect at a university open day?

At an on-campus open day, you’ll have the chance to:

• Attend undergraduate and postgraduate course information sessions
• Tour practical course facilities like medical clinics and science labs
• Tour campus facilities like the library, student support centres, gyms and cafes
• Tour on-campus accommodation
• Meet academic staff and other students and ask questions about study life
• Check out student social clubs
• Chat to staff about anything to do with the application process, including fees, scholarships and admission pathways
• Get some free uni paraphernalia.

Check out the list of upcoming open days here:

Southern Cross University Open Days

Open Day at Southern Cross University is a perfect opportunity to discover which courses sparks your child's interest, check out the campus or find out which study mode will work best for them.

On-campus events include informative panel sessions with experienced academics and hands-on interactive sessions where you can get a deeper insight into each study area. Chat to their student ambassadors or to academics and researchers about their work.

Remember to check-in on the day for your chance to win a Macbook Pro.

Applications for the SCU 2025 Early Offer Program are now open!

This is your Year 12 student’s opportunity to skip the stress and apply for a spot in their chosen degree before their results are released. Applications for Early Offer closes at the end of this term. More information about this program can be found on the SCU website:

Griffith University Open Days

Get a glimpse into university life at Griffith in a fun and festive atmosphere at their Nathan and Gold Coast Open Day.

Whether you’re interested in languages or law, biomedicine or business, education or engineering, you’ll discover why they are one of the universities in the top 2 % world wide. With more than 150+ activities, workshops, information sessions and tours, across two campuses, there’s plenty to inspire you.

English news

Byron Writers Festival - John West Youth Poetry Cup

Calling all poets and spoken word performers! As part of the Byron Writers Festival, the John West Youth Poetry Cup is being held at at Bangalow Bowling Club on Sunday 11 August. It is open to 10-18 year olds and there is no entry fee.

Details:

• Read or recite a single original poem (max 2 minutes) on any topic.
• No need to provide written entries, just turn up with your piece of poetry to read or recite.
• Registration for the competition opens from midday - contest starts 12.30pm.
• Prizemoney: 1st prize $400; runner up $100!

Students who enter should PRACTISE reading their work aloud - aiming for a slow pace with clarity and volume. English teachers are happy to be a ‘mock audience’ before the competition.

If you would like more details or information phone David Hallett on 0487 384 993

Library news

Country to Canberra student leadership competition