7 May 2025

From the Principal

Welcome back to a new school term. I hope everyone had a restful and rejuvenating break and are ready for an exciting and productive term ahead.

I am honoured to begin this term in the role of Principal. It is a privilege to lead such a dedicated school community. I look forward to working closely with our exceptional staff, supportive families, and most importantly, our wonderful students.

During this time, we are pleased to welcome Ms Tamara Buddle to our Administration team as Deputy Principal of Middle School. We are thankful to have her on board and look forward to the leadership she brings.

Term 2 began with our school Anzac Day ceremony. It was a meaningful and respectful service, made especially memorable by the presence of Commander Kristen Russo, a former Smithfield State High School student who now serves in the Royal Australian Navy.

I was honoured to represent our Tropical North Learning Academy at the Trinity Beach State School Anzac ceremony, while Mrs Cooper represented us at the Yorkeys Knob State School ceremony. These events provided a wonderful opportunity for our junior school captains to connect with our local primary schools and demonstrate leadership within our community.

Many of our students also participated in the Trinity Beach Dawn Service on Anzac Day. Special acknowledgement goes to school captains, our vocal group, and the marching band. I would like to sincerely thank Ms Fallon and Miss Collins for their dedication in leading and organising the many school and community Anzac Day events throughout the week.

Families should now have received their child’s Term 1 Progress Report. We encourage all students and families to take time to reflect on these reports and consider setting goals for Term 2, whether that be maintaining high standards or striving to improve behaviour, effort, and academic achievement.

It was great to see so many students and families at our Term 2 Student Progress Conferences held recently. These conferences were an excellent opportunity for students, families, and teachers to come together, celebrate success, and discuss goals for the term ahead. If families were unable to attend, please feel free to initiate contact with teachers as needed.

This term has already brought new opportunities for learning, growth, and connection. I look forward to celebrating the great things that are happening in our school and seeing students inspired and supported to achieve their full potential.

Mrs Alison Kaggelis
Principal

Deputy Principal Senior School

Academic Integrity and the use of Artificial Intelligence:

As the educational landscape continues to evolve, so too do the tools available to students. Among the most transformative developments in recent years is the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) tools that can generate essays, solve problems, and simulate human writing. While these tools can support learning when used appropriately, their misuse—particularly when used in academic writing where such assistance is not permitted, raises serious concerns about academic integrity.

At our school, we are committed to fostering a culture of academic integrity. This means not only setting clear expectations about original work but also helping students understand why honesty in their academic efforts matters. Academic integrity is about more than avoiding penalties—it's about building trust, developing real skills, and taking ownership of one’s learning journey.

To support these values, the school has recently adopted Turnitin, a powerful tool that helps identify both plagiarism and the use of AI-generated content. Turnitin analyses submitted assignments and compares them to a vast database of published material, previously submitted student work, and known AI-generated patterns. This allows educators to detect work that may not be the student's own.

Since the implementation of Turnitin, several cases of academic misconduct involving AI-generated writing have been detected. Each of these instances have been carefully reviewed in accordance with our academic integrity policy. In confirmed cases, academic penalties were issued—ranging from resubmission of work to more serious consequences where warranted.

We understand that the use of AI in everyday life is becoming more common, and learning how to use it ethically is part of modern education. However, when a task is clearly intended to assess an individual's own thinking and writing, submitting AI-generated work undermines the purpose of the assignment and violates our academic standards.

We urge students and parents to have open conversations about the appropriate use of technology in schoolwork. Teachers will continue to clarify expectations around assignments, and we encourage students to ask questions when unsure about what is permissible.

Together, we can uphold a learning environment built on trust, responsibility, and genuine achievement. Let’s work together to ensure our school remains a place where academic integrity is not just expected, but celebrated.

Year 12 Formal:

The date has been set (Saturday 14 June 2025) and tickets are now on sale ($125) for the Year 12 Formal to be held this year at the Hilton Hotel, Cairns. The formal committee are refining the menus, table decorations and mock awards as we speak. Please ensure you stay connected, read all email communication carefully as critical information, key dates and milestones are shared. We can’t wait to celebrate this auspicious occasion with you all.

Until next time.

Mr Paul Charles
Deputy Principal – Senior School

Deputy Principal Middle School

With the change in senior leadership this term, I am fulfilling the role of Deputy Principal for the Year 9 and 10 cohort. As a long-standing staff member and leader, I know many students in this group, and I am looking forward to working with them throughout this tenure.

At this time of year, it is important that students are prepared with the appropriate school uniform. With summer now behind us, this is a timely reminder that school jumpers are to be worn at school. Please avoid non-uniform items such as casual jumpers and shorts. We want all students to represent the school with pride by always wearing the correct school uniform.

As Term 2 begins, I encourage all parents and caregivers to reflect on and discuss their child’s Term 1 report. In addition to academic grades, please pay attention to the effort and behaviour indicators, which provide valuable insight into your child’s overall progress.

Finally, I encourage all students to participate in the wide range of activities we offer. These include lunchtime clubs, homework and tutoring sessions both during lunch and after school, various sporting events, excursions, camps, music and arts programs, and both curricular and extracurricular opportunities. Many students benefit from these experiences, and I urge everyone to get involved.

I look forward to a positive and successful Term 2.

Ms Tamara Buddle
Deputy Principal – Middle School

Deputy Principal Junior School

Welcome back, everyone!

Term 2 is underway and it’s the perfect time to hit the reset button and start fresh.

Now that report cards have been handed out, it’s a great opportunity to reflect on Term 1. What went well? What could be improved?

Setting realistic and specific goals for Term 2 can help you stay focused and motivated. Whether its aiming to improve in a subject, being more organised or participating more in class, every step forward counts.

Success starts with good habits. Let’s make sure we are all setting ourselves up for a great day, every day.

• Eat a healthy breakfast to fuel your brain and body.
• Wear the correct uniform and proper footwear so you are ready to learn and represent our school with pride.
• Pack your bag the night before – don’t forget your charged laptop, homework and supplies you need.

A special shout out to our Year 7 students, who are working hard and looking forward to an exciting reward – camp at the end of Term 2. Keep putting in the effort to make the most of this term and earn that awesome experience. Year 7 camp consents have been issued; please check QParents to approve.

Let’s all aim to make Term 2 positive, productive and filled with growth.

Mrs Rowena Cooper
Deputy Principal

Anzac Day

Anzac Day is an opportunity for our school and community to come together to recognise and remember the service and sacrifice of members of the Australian Defence Force.

Our students, staff and community joined to commemorate and pay respect during our school service and Trinity Beach Dawn service supported by Rotary Cairns Northern Beaches.

Special guests to our school service included Bree James Member for Barron River, Councillor Rhonda Coglan, Commander Kristen Russo RAN, Corporal Christopher Miller 31/42 RQR, Cynthia Paterson JCU, Ashley Turner Smithfield State High School P&C, Matthew Chandler FNQ Bands, Tammy Collins Rotary Cairns Northern Beaches, Trinity Beach State School leaders and Mr Dan Hollis and Ms McMillan, Yorkeys Knob leaders and Mr Coverdale.

Smithfield State High school staff and students welcomed the address at our school service from past student Commander Kristen Russo RAN. It was an honour to welcome Commander Russo back to Smithfield State High School and we are grateful for her support. Thank you for your service.

Thank you to Matthew Chandler from FNQ bands for delivering the Last Post and Reveille, we are grateful for your support.

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Previous Smithfield State High School Graduate

CMDR Kristen Russso - RAN

With an RAN career spanning 20 years, Commander Russo’s postings as a Maritime Logistics Officer (MLO) have included a range of operational, capability, materiel and joint logistics roles.

As a graduate of the Australian Defence Force Academy she holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and a Master of Capability Management (with Excellence) through the Capability and Technology Management College (CTMC).

Commander Russo’s seagoing postings include AMLO HMAS Success (2008 - 2009), MLO HS White Crew, rotating between Hydrographic Ships Leeuwin and Melville (2009 – 2011), DMLO HMAS Perth (2012 – 2014) and was privileged to be the commissioning MLO of the DDG HMAS Sydney V (2018 – 2020).

Joint postings include Joint Logistics Unit North (2011 – 2012) in both the J33 ‘Global and Regional’ and J35 ‘Domestic and Response’ roles, and as the Officer in Charge of the National Support Element for Operation ASLAN, as part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (2014 – 2015).

From 2015 – 2016 then Lieutenant Russo was the Staff Officer to Director General Logistics – Navy/Head of the Maritime Logistics Community, which included the co-ordination of community engagement activities and editing of the ML Magazine ‘Provide and Deliver.’

Commander Russo’s career has focused on capability development and materiel roles in recent years, commencing with a posting to ANZAC SPO (2014), as the inaugural Supply Chain Manager at DDGSPO (2017 – 2018), and in an overseas position in the UK as part of the Hunter Class Frigate Resident Project Team, working with the Type 26 Global Combat Ship program (2022 – 2023).

On promotion to Commander, she commenced in the position of Deputy Director Tier 1 Surface Combatants, Aviation and Guided Weapons at Navy Logistics and Infrastructure Branch in January 2024, continuing to provide logistics input to a range of surface capability programs including the Hunter Class Frigate Project, and Destroyer Capability Enhancement Upgrade.

In her personal time Commander Russo enjoys being a member of the Navy Alpine Snowsports Association as a downhill skier, as well as swimming, hiking, travelling and musical theatre.

Gratitude Tree

In anticipation of celebrating 110 years since Gallipoli, our students were invited to acknowledge past and present defence members sharing their name and service on a poppy displayed on our gratitude tree. Poppies were sold throughout the week provided by our Parents and Citizens Association (P&C). Thank you to Zoe and Tiannwyn for selling, with all proceeds being donated to Legacy. 

Dawn Service

It was with great pride that our leaders, jazz vocalists and drum corps were part of the Trinity Beach Dawn service to play a special role in the community commemoration led by Rotary Cairns Northern Beaches.

Throughout the week, our student leaders represented our school community in services at Trinity Beach State School and Yorkeys Knob State School.

Thank you to all staff and students for your commitment and respect to our Anzac services.

We will remember them.  Lest We Forget.

Australian Army Cadets

Smithfield State High School students and Australian Army cadets (134 ACU), William and Carter marched in the Gordonvale Anzac Dawn Service and parade with other army cadets.

Every week for 3 hours at Porton Barracks, Edmonton the cadets do drills, march, learn new skills, as well as team building exercises.

Guidance Officer week

During Weeks 2 and 3, the Department of Education celebrate and highlight the invaluable work of Guidance Officers across our schools and regions. On behalf of our school community, thank you to Mr Wilson and Ms Francis for everything you do to support our students, staff and families. Your work is truly appreciated and valued by all. You make a huge difference every day and we are thankful to have you at Smithfield High.

Photo competition

Last week, Queensland College of Teachers announced the winners of the 2025 Photo competition. Amongst the many entries received from schools across Queensland, Smithfield State High School was awarded first place.

Congratulations to Emme, a current Year 11 student.

Emme’s photo ‘Trust’ was part of a project in 2024 led and inspired by our photography teacher Ms Turner. We are thrilled to celebrate and accept the award which includes prize money which will be used to further engage our photography students.

Photo Title: Trust

Description: This artwork is part of a collection of photographic portraits by Year 10 students, celebrating World Teacher’s Day, 2024. The subject is my Photography teacher, Ms Turner, and the portrait attempts to capture her love of teaching in The Arts and the ‘trust’ involved in letting go and getting outside of your comfort zone to experiment creatively. This portrait stands out because of the way it captures the relationship between learning and creativity in an environment of trust.

Humanities

Humanities and Sustainability

The Humanities and Sustainability Faculty has enjoyed an outstanding start to the term, with a wide range of dynamic and meaningful learning experiences available for students across all year levels. Our curriculum continues to promote critical thinking, local and global awareness, and student engagement through real-world applications of their learning.

Year 7 – Place and Liveability

In Humanities, Year 7 students have commenced their studies on Place and Liveability, examining the characteristics that make our local area desirable and identifying potential improvements. As part of their assessment, students will evaluate the impact of a proposed large-scale shopping centre development in the Trinity Beach area.

Sustainability students are taking a global approach to this unit by investigating internationally recognised liveable cities, such as Singapore. They will apply their understanding to explore potential implications for Cairns’ future liveability and propose sustainable solutions to support long-term urban development.

Year 8 – Catchment Studies and Infrastructure Design

Humanities students in Year 8 are undertaking a detailed study of the Moon River Catchment. This unit focuses on understanding the social, economic, and environmental values of the catchment and identifying current and emerging threats. A highlight of this program will be the release of barramundi fingerlings to assist in managing the spread of invasive fish species.

In Sustainability, students are exploring the theme of resilient infrastructure. They are examining the impacts of natural disasters such as cyclones and floods and will design and construct model houses as part of their assessment, aimed at withstanding extreme weather conditions.

Year 9 – World War I Depth Study and Urban Design

Year 9 students across both Humanities classes are completing a depth study on World War I. This unit focuses on the war’s profound impact on Australian society and how it contributed to shaping national identity.

Year 9 Sustainability students will be focusing on designing sustainable cities and communities through an urban design focus. Students will have the choice of redesigning parts of Cairns or designing a new neighbourhood using libelium city principles.

Year 10 – Humanities Electives

Students in Year 10 have begun their specialised Humanities electives. These include Geography, Ancient History, Modern History, Legal Studies, Economics, Accounting, and Social and Community Studies. These subjects provide students with valuable insight into various strands of the Humanities, supporting informed decision-making when selecting senior subjects in 2025.

Senior Secondary – Academic Achievement and Enrichment Opportunities

Senior students in Year 11 have recently completed their first internal assessments across a range of subjects, including Legal Studies, Ancient History, Modern History, Accounting, and Economics. Students have achieved excellent results and are to be commended for their efforts. Year 12 students have completed their second internal assessments and continue to demonstrate a strong commitment to their academic studies.

Competitions and Enrichment Activities

This term also features a number of prestigious academic competitions and extracurricular opportunities:

• Business Liaison Association Mock Court Competition: Year 11 and 12 Legal Studies students will assume the roles of barristers in a simulated legal case, presented before real judges in the Supreme Courts at the Cairns Courthouse.
• ECOMAN Competition: Year 11 Economics students will act as co-directors of a simulated company, making strategic decisions regarding finance, operations, marketing, environmental sustainability, and workforce management. The competition will be held at the Cairns Corporate Tower.

Should you require further information about the Humanities and Sustainability Faculty, please contact:  Mr Dan Kaggelis Head of Humanities

(07) 4054 4339 or email - dkagg1@eq.edu.au

International Student Program

Are you interested in becoming a homestay host or know someone that may be interested in hosting our International Students.

Please see attached flyers:

School Garden

School garden open for business!

If you’re wanting your child to grow a few fresh vegetables to take home, we have plots available for students to test out their green thumb. Students can bring in their own seeds or we can provide some for them to start their own garden.

Prizes will be given out at the end of Term 3 for best garden plot. The garden will be open to students on Monday and Friday afternoon during second break.

If you are interested, please contact Mr Dienhoff in N Block.

Technologies

Technology Takes Centre Stage in Term 2!

It’s been an exciting start to Term 2 across all our Technology subjects, with students diving into innovative and creative projects that push the boundaries of design, problem-solving, and technical skills.

Our Junior Digital Technologies students have been busy investigating algorithms and game design principles. Through hands-on activities, students are learning how games are structured, what makes them engaging and how simple code can lead to complex outcomes. Their enthusiasm has been fantastic to see, and we are looking forward to some imaginative and challenging games being created as the term progresses.

In Year 9 Digital Technologies, students have stepped into the world of 3D modelling using industry-standard software, 3Ds Max. Their challenge? To design and create collectable objects for a game environment. This project gives students a taste of what it is like to work in gaming, animation, and 3D product design industries. Early designs are already showing impressive creativity and technical skill – keep an eye out for updates on these fantastic projects!

Meanwhile, Year 10 Design and Digital Technologies students are deep into their Product Design Unit, where they are also exploring 3D object creation. Using professional software tools, students are designing duo fragrance bottle sets – a unique and highly creative challenge that asks them to consider both aesthetics and functionality. This project mirrors real-world product design processes, giving students valuable insights into the industry and developing their critical and creative thinking skills.

Over in the Food Studies kitchens, Year 9 students are getting ready to launch into an exciting new unit: creating their own chocolate bars! Using a vacuum forming machine to design custom chocolate moulds, students will take a product from concept to creation, learning about food science, marketing, and packaging design along the way. We cannot wait to see and maybe taste the results of their hard work.

Year 11 Furnishing Students have completed their first project using various machines and hand skills to construct a timber Barstool. The overall results have been outstanding and already we are seeing contenders for the regional DATTA awards. 

Year 12 Graphics students are enthusiastically applying their skills to designing and developing plans for recycled timber patio furniture. Some students will be able to use their own plans across curriculum in Furnishing Skills to actually build their final designs. Can't wait to see their final results. 

Our Senior students in Furnishings and Engineering continue to set high standards with their craftsmanship. The projects underway this term, including bar stools and rocket stoves, are already impressing teachers with their complexity, innovation, and quality. It is fantastic to see students applying their technical knowledge to produce professional-standard pieces.

Finally, Junior Internet of Things students are preparing to embark on an exciting new challenge: a gamification and interactive gaming unit using MicroBits. Students will design interactive experiences that blend coding, electronics, and creativity, turning everyday objects into game controllers and learning about the real-world applications of the Internet of Things.

Term 2 is shaping up to be an incredibly productive and inspiring time across all Technology classes. We are so proud of the way our students continue to embrace challenges, explore new ideas and develop future-ready skills. Watch this space for more updates as the term progresses!

Learning Academy - JCU Studiosity

Learning Academy: Access to JCU's Studiosity Program

Recently students of the Learning Academy in Years 7–12 and their parents, through a partnership with James Cook University (JCU) learned about access to the Studiosity mentoring program — a valuable online resource available anytime, anywhere.

What is Studiosity?

Studiosity provides students with 24/7 academic mentoring, study help, and writing feedback, offering timely support when it is needed most. Students can connect with current JCU students through Student Connect, gaining assistance with course content, assessments, and valuable insights into university life.

Program Features:

• Connect Live: Students can chat live with a Subject Specialist via text or voice, across a range of subjects such as mathematics, chemistry, physics, and business studies.
• Writing Feedback: Students can submit written drafts (including assignments, CVs, and resumes) to receive expert feedback on grammar, spelling, structure, and referencing. Writing Specialists also support students in understanding academic integrity and how to improve the quality of their work.
• Ask a Question: Students can pose study questions and collaborate with a Subject Specialist in a live, interactive classroom setting, building skills and confidence in real time.

How to Join:

Students interested in accessing Studiosity must complete an online registration form, providing basic details and previous school results. They will then be set-up with their own account to use the platform independently.

Important Details:

• JCU is offering a limited number of fully funded places for Learning Academy students across Years 7–12.
• There is no cost to the school or participating families; funding is provided through the Australian Universities Accord.
• Students will be supported online — there are no face-to-face meetings.
• Limits apply to the number of writing submissions and mentoring sessions, but there is no limit to the number of live questions students can ask.
• Student engagement and appropriate usage will be monitored by JCU.
• Students who successfully utilise the service will have the opportunity to renew their access next year.

To gain further information about this program please scan the following QR code:

2024 School Magazine

2024 School Magazine – available for purchase!
$26.50

The Arts

Band Camp

Year 7 Visual Arts

Students in Year 7 Visual Arts finished off Term 1 printing from their lino carving blocks. The theme was inspired by Asian art and artists which students researched and then created unique designs to carve into artists linoleum. Each student then produced a limited print run of four impressive pieces of art, both signed and editioned. Some students printed on a watercolour wash backgrounds and others printed with various colours of block printing ink -a sticky process requiring patience and perseverance. Ms Jones and Ms Hodgson are especially proud of the works both our Year 7 classes produced and we will let them take them home soon.

We are looking forward to the ceramic fantasy creatures that students will be creating this term!

Drama

Term 2 has started, and the drama students are back into their studies and extra-curricular performance. The year levels are delving into the following topics:

• Year 7 – Scripted performance
• Year 8 – Duologues
• Year 9 – Clowning/Comedy
• Year 10 – Theatre for Young People
• Year 11 – Verbatim Theatre
• Year 12 – Theatre of Social Comment

A select group of drama students are rehearsing each week at lunch times preparing for the Cairns District Junior Eisteddfod. This year we have two Year 9 groups competing in the junior section and three Year 10 and 11 groups in the senior section.

Performances will take place at Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) in the main theatre, an excellent opportunity for our students to perform on the largest stage in the region. Groups will compete in week 10 this term.

Lastly, three of our senior drama students have been selected to perform in a professional production at the Cairns Children Festival this month.

The Box Jelly Theatre production, The Scaredy Gardener’s Quest, in immersive play for little people where the audience enter the Botanic Gardens and follow a gardener around the parklands, searching for a key and along the way encountering animals native to our region. Our students will play a curlew, a snake and cassowary. This is a non-ticketed performance and will be on May 18 at the Tanks Arts Centre. We wish them all the best in their first professional production.

Student Absence, Sick Bay, Medication

Absence Notices

If your student is absent or needs to leave school early - please contact the office by 

1. QParents 
2. SMS:  0429 557 947
3. Email:  office@smithfieldshs.eq.edu.au 
4. Phone: 4058 4330
   

When leaving school early students must collect a “leave request” from the office before school or during break time to present to the classroom teacher to confirm they have permission to leave class. Students must then go to office to sign out and be issued with a leave pass to exit the school grounds.

Sick Bay

If your student is sick during the day, they will be sent to the office by teaching staff with a note.

The administration team will call the parent/emergency contact to advise of the illness or injury.  

Medications

If your child requires medication at school:

You will be asked to complete and sign the Consent to Administer Medication form.

1. Medication needs to be in original packaging
2. Written medical authorisation, completed pharmacy label, medical order, or action plan completed and signed by prescribing health practitioner.

Sport Coordinator

A huge congratulations to Miss Brooke Knight on her successful appointment as our new Sport Coordinator! We are thrilled to have her stepping into this role and look forward to the energy and passion she'll bring to our school sport programs. 

We'd also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mr Alastair Yeabsley for his many years of dedication and service to Smithfield State High School sport. Your hard work and commitment have made a lasting impact, and we’re incredibly grateful.

HPE and Sports

Outdoor Education Students Making Waves

Semester 1 has been full of adventure for our Year 11 and Year 12 Outdoor Education students at Smithfield State High School, with a strong focus on aquatic practices. Both classes have been developing confidence and water safety skills through in-class swimming lessons at the Marlin Coast Pool and wakeboarding sessions at the Cairns Wake Park.

Most recently, our REC111A and REC111B students each spent a day canoeing at the beautiful Rocks swimming hole on Freshwater Creek across a two-day period.

During these sessions, students learned essential paddling techniques including forward, backward and sweep strokes, how to enter and exit a canoe safely, and how to right a capsized canoe. They also practised swimming through moving water, executing throw bag rescues, and securing canoes with ratchet straps and ropes.

Meanwhile, our Year 12 Outdoor Ed students recently ventured to the Great Barrier Reef for an immersive snorkelling trip. This experience wasn’t just about exploring the vibrant underwater world—it also included learning from Indigenous perspectives through stories of traditional hunting practices, music, and cultural knowledge. Students further contributed to reef science by conducting fish number surveys and dissecting crown-of-thorns starfish as part of reef health studies.

Outdoor Education challenges students physically, but more importantly, it fosters personal growth. Working in unpredictable natural environments helps develop teamwork, leadership, resilience, empathy, and communication—skills that are vital both in the outdoors and beyond the classroom.

FNQ Volleyball Schools Cup

In Week 1, Year 9 and 10 volleyball students from Smithfield State High School took part in the FNQ Intermediate Volleyball Schools Cup. This is a great experience for our students who train all year round, showing amazing commitment to the sport and enthusiasm to continue to learn and improve. The girls, A team placed 3rd this year in the annual competition. A massive thank you to Miss Sparks (girls' coach) and Mr Ralph (boys' coach) for their time and dedication

Netball Academy

Our Year 5/6 Netball Academy students have enjoyed their ongoing Monday afternoon training sessions and are eagerly looking to test themselves in a game.

Cross Country and Walkathon Results

Thank you to all staff and students who were involved. Thank you also to the Parents & Citizens Association (P&C) for supplying the sausage sizzle and ice blocks! Congratulations to our age champions:

To the incredible students who claimed the top spots in the Cross Country. Your hard work, dedication and determination were truly inspiring as you raced to victory. You all displayed amazing spirit and sportsmanship, and we could not be prouder of your achievements.

Well done to everyone who participated, it was an unforgettable day.

Age Champions as follows:

A huge congratulatoins to Clifton House for claiming victory at the 2025 Cross Country.

Here are the final points by house:

                4^th place: Trinity House – 134                                       3^rd place: Kewarra House – 135
                2^nd place: Ellis House – 154                                           1^st place: Clifton house - 220       

What an incredible effort by all the students who participated and helped earn points for their house. It was a fantastic day filled with determination, teamwork and school spirit.

Well done Clifton House!

A huge congratulations to Trinity House for claiming victory at the 2025 Walkathon.

Here are the final points by house:

                4^th place: Ellis House – 234                                            3^rd place: Kewarra House – 280
                2^nd place: Clifton House – 359                                      1^st place: Trinity house - 370       

What an outstanding effort by all the students who participated and supported their house. It was a fantastic day filled with energy, teamwork and school spirit.

Peninsula Representative

Reminder to send us a photo and an update when you go away for Peninsula events.

Congratulations to our student Tully, who represented the Peninsula region at the Queensland Swimming Championships in Brisbane. Tully had an incredibly busy schedule, showcasing her versatility across multiple strokes. She competed in six individual events and tow relays over three intense days of competition.

We are proud to share that Tully achieved four new personal bests.

Lunch Sport

The houses faced off in the Dodgeball finals after three intense rounds of competition.

In the senior competition, Clifton and Kewarra fought for the top spot, while Trinity and Ellis were vying for 3rd place. Clifton emerged victorious with a 3–0 win, securing 1st place. Kewarra took 2nd, Trinity finished in 3rd, and Ellis came in 4th.

In the junior competition, Ellis and Kewarra competed for 1st place, with Trinity and Clifton battling for 3rd. Ellis triumphed with a 2–1 win, claiming the 1st place title. Kewarra secured 2nd, Clifton took 3rd, and Trinity rounded out the competition in 4th.

Harmony Day Fun Question: In which country did Dodgeball first originate?

Swimming Carnival Age Champions

Congratulations to these students:

School Hats

Reminder - it is an expectation students have a school hat whenever outside. Get one from the tuckshop if you haven’t already!

Weekly Sport Schedule

Reminder to check our Facebook page or student emails to see what is coming up each week.

Windows 11 upgrade

Our school is transitioning all devices to Windows 11 before October 2025 to ensure continued access to the department’s network. Parents and students with BYO devices are encouraged to contact our school’s IT technician to confirm that your device has been upgraded.

Rotary – Cairns Northern Beaches

Rotary Beach Vibe

School Invoices

The annual Student Resource Scheme (SRS) fee is now overdue for payment.

Did you know that you can pay all school invoices using QParents?

Once you are registered for QParents, you will open the app, select the child you’re wishing to make a payment for, click on payments and you will be able to select the invoice you would like to pay. It’s as simple as that!

If you haven't yet registered for QParents and need any assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our Enrolments Officer on 4058 4304 or email enrolments@smithfieldshs.eq.edu.au

If you have any questions regarding the Student Resource Scheme (SRS), or would like to arrange a payment plan, please contact Accounts on 4058 4307 or email Accounts_Receivable@smithfieldshs.eq.edu.au

Payments can also be made by clicking on the BPOINT link at the bottom of your invoice, see below:

Year 7 Academy classes visit

The two Year 7 Academy classes recently enjoyed an exciting day of activities at James Cook University (JCU). Our journey began with a walk to the university, where we were warmly welcomed by the JCU ambassadors. They split us into groups to help us build teamwork skills and introduced us to different areas of the university.

Throughout the day, we took part in a variety of fun activities. One highlight was the challenge to build the tallest tower using only spaghetti and marshmallows, which tested our creativity and cooperation. For morning tea, we enjoyed fruit and muesli bars, and for lunch, we were treated to Subway.

We also had the opportunity to visit a real lecture hall, where we participated in another engaging activity. After an exciting and inspiring day, we returned to school and later headed home.

We are very grateful to JCU for hosting us and giving us such an amazing experience!

Ruby and Relisha – Year 7H

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Q Parents

QPARENTS - Register Now!

Have you signed up for QParents yet? Smithfield State High School is now using digital consents for excursions and events, providing a quick and efficient way to provide consent for your child to attend these activities.

You can also read and download report cards, notify the school of your child's absences, pay invoices and see your child's timetable and school events.

If you aren't yet registered, your unique school invitation code has been emailed to you (please check your junk/spam inbox if you can't find it). If you didn’t receive your invitation code or need assistance at all, please contact enrolments@smithfieldshs.eq.edu.au 

English

Welcome back for Term 2! We are so proud of all our students and the success that they are achieving in the English classroom. We have some very exciting events and competitions coming up this term and we cannot wait to see our student’s shine.

Year 7

“Heroes are made by the path they choose, not the powers they are graced with” – Iron Man

Our Year 7s continue with the theme of Heroes and explore how heroes are constructed in the narrative world. Students will construct their own versions of a superhero to teach others about overcoming fears or self-sacrifice, or to tell a cautionary tale.

Year 8

“You see how powerful language can be, boys? Even a little word like ‘before’ can hurt you if you don’t treat it with respect and listen carefully.” – Don’t Call me Ishmael

Students in Year 8 are exploring the world of Ishmael Leseur – which is definitely NOT a disease – and the way he navigates life as a teenager. Students will engage with the text in class and analyse the key themes such as coming of age, friendship and family, in order to discuss the impact these, have on a young audience.

Year 9

“There is no more beautiful place in the world than Australia.” – Bindi Irwin

Year 9s are exploring the complex social and cultural landscape of our very own country, Australia. Students will engage with multiple representations of what it means to be Australian, the rich cultural heritage of Australia and how we are viewed as a nation across the world. Our students will present a spoken film review of an Australian film they watch in class.

Year 10

“The most important factor in survival is neither intelligence nor strength but adaptability.” – Charles Darwin

Our Year 10 students are embarking on a journey of survival through literature. Students are engaging with fictional texts such as Tomorrow When the War Began, The Road to Winter and Burning Eddy to examine epic stories of survival and the influence these stories have on young people and navigating growing up. Students will be required to write an analytical essay to show their understanding.

Year 11 Essential English

“I learned the value of hard work by working hard.” – Margaret Mead

Students in Year 11 Essential English are learning all about the world of work and how to encourage jobseekers to find employment. Our students will engage with multiple representations of recruitment strategies in order to create their own recruitment video for an industry of their choice.

Year 11 General English

“We’re afraid that we will never escape our past. We’re afraid of what the future will bring. We’re afraid we won’t be loved, we won’t be liked. And we won’t succeed.” – Lady Bird

Year 11 General English students are exploring the concept of “coming of age” across two texts; J.D Salinger’s Catcher in the Rye, and Greta Gerwig’s Lady Bird. Students will explore forming adult identities and personal growth and discuss how these texts invite audiences to overcome these challenges in life.

Year 11 Literature

“She was powerful not because she wasn’t scared but because she went on so strongly, despite the fear.” – unknown

Our Year 11 Literature students are studying the novel The Good People and exploring the roles of women in 19th century Ireland. Students will discuss the cultural concepts of girlhood and womanhood through challenging times such as death, famine and persecution.

Year 12 English as an Additional Language English

“It’s the pointless things that give your life meaning. Friendship, compassion, art, love. All of them pointless. But they’re what keeps life from being meaningless.” – Tim Winton

The Year 12 EAL students have the pleasure of studying work by the classic Australian author, Tim Winton, as well as the prolific Indigenous poet Kirli Saunders. Students are examining Australian literature across the genres, poetry and short stories, and analysing the ways in which these texts interconnect and position audiences to consider themes such as identity, death and grief.

Year 12 Essential English

“How you communicate and influence others often matters more than the idea you’re pitching.” – Aliza Licht

Our Year 12 Essential English students are preparing for their Common Internal Assessment examination. Students are examining how language and text structures influence and position audiences to accept the message they are trying to convey. Students will be required to respond to short-response questions and will sit their exam in week 6.

Year 12 Extension Literature and English

“Literature speaks the language of the imagination, and the study of literature is supposed to train and improve the imagination.” – Northrop Frye

Students studying Extension Literature and English are honing their theoretical and creative skills in response to a complex literary text. Students have chosen texts such as The Metamorphosis, Animal

Farm, and The Yellow Wallpaper to transform using complex literary techniques. They will then defend their creative choices using theoretical understandings.

Year 12 General English

“There must be something in books, things we can’t imagine, to make a woman stay in a burning house.” – Fahrenheit 451

Our General English students are exploring the dystopian worlds presented in Ray Bradbury’s Fahrenheit 451 and Ridley Scott’s 1982 film Bladerunner. Students examine the lessons we can learn as a society from dystopian literature and draw comparisons between the two texts in relation to common themes such as restriction of information, conformity, and technological advancements.

Year 12 Literature

“She has the face of Buddha and the heart of a scorpion.” – Raise The Red Lantern

Students studying Literature are engaging with the Chinese period drama, Raise the Red Lantern, examining Chinese culture in the 1920s and the role of women. Students will utilise their creative skills and perform an imaginative spoken piece, such as a monologue, based on one of the minor characters.

The Dangers of Vaping

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For your continued support of staff at our school.