18 June 2025

From the Principal

As we approach the end of another school term, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on what has been another fantastic term at Smithfield State High School. Over the past weeks, our students have continued to demonstrate their commitment to academic, sporting, and cultural pursuits. Whether in the classroom, on stage, on the field, or through service to the community, they have made us all incredibly proud.

We are especially proud of the individual athletes and sporting teams who have represented our school with pride. There have been many wins, but more importantly, countless displays of good sportsmanship and team spirit.

Our students have also shone in the arts, with numerous music performances and art showcase awards at both local and state levels. These and other events reflect the dedication, creativity, and passion our students bring when representing Smithfield State High School.

Student leadership continues to grow within our school and extend into the wider community. The number of fundraising initiatives this term is a testament to our students' commitment to active citizenship and making a positive difference. Leadership is essential for personal development and for building strong, supportive school communities. This has been evident in our student leaders and we look forward to their continued contributions.

Several key events have taken place recently. One notable highlight was our annual Year 10 into Year 11 Expo and Information Night. This well-attended event gave students and their families the chance to connect with school staff and explore the wide range of senior subjects on offer next year. We also welcomed external providers and community organisations who provided valuable guidance to students as they begin planning their senior pathways.

Last Saturday night marked a long-awaited event for our Year 12 students - their Senior Formal. It was a wonderful evening with students looking amazing in their formal attire and celebrating with music and dancing, creating memories with their cohort of friends.

As we head into the final weeks of the term, I want to stress the importance of maintaining strong attendance until the final day on Friday, 27 June. These last weeks are crucial not only for wrapping up academic content, but also for receiving assessment feedback and preparing for Term 3. Every day counts. Staying present ensures students remain connected and engaged in valuable end-of-term learning.

Looking ahead, we’re excited to celebrate student academic achievements once the Semester 1 Report Cards are released early next term. Families will also be invited to attend our Student Progress Conferences to be held on 22 July 2025 as an important opportunity to meet with subject teachers, discuss progress and set goals. We encourage all families and students to take part and celebrate efforts and achievements.

Finally, I would like to share a school leadership update as we prepare for Term 3. Our Principal, Mr Frank Brunetto, will continue in his role as relieving Executive Principal at Cairns State High School until the end of Week 2, Term 4. During this time, we welcome Mr Dan Hollis, Principal of Trinity Beach State School, as the relieving Principal at Smithfield State High School. Mr Hollis has been Principal for many years and has worked closely with us through our Tropical North Learning Academy partnership. We look forward to welcoming him into our school community.

Also, I have been appointed to a temporary position with the Far North Queensland Regional Office, beginning in Term 3, with a possible extension until the end of the year. A replacement for my Deputy Principal role will be announced shortly.

I’d like to take this opportunity to express my sincere thanks to everyone for the support, trust, and collaboration you’ve shown during my time relieving as Principal. It has been a genuine privilege to lead our school community over the past term. I have been continually inspired by the dedication of our staff, the enthusiasm of our students, and the support of our families.

Wishing you all a positive end to the term and a safe, restful holiday break.

Mrs Alison Kaggelis
Principal

Deputy Principal Senior School

Thank You for Attending the Year 10 into 11 Information Expo and Evening!

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the parents and carers who attended the Year 10 into 11 Information Expo and Information Evening. Your presence and active participation made the event a resounding success. The evening was packed with highly important information designed to equip our Year 10 students as they prepare to embark on their senior schooling journey.

The Importance of Being Informed:

As your children begin to choose their senior subjects, it is crucial that they make informed decisions. The subjects they select now will have a lasting impact on their post-schooling pathways, including tertiary admission choices, career options, and vocational training opportunities. Understanding the nature of these pathways through Years 11 and 12, exploring potential career paths, and aligning their choices with future goals are essential steps in this process.

Support Available to Students and Parents:

Our school is dedicated to providing the necessary support to help students and parents navigate this important phase. Our senior schooling team are available to assist with:

• Tertiary Admission Choices: Clarifying entry requirements and recommended subjects for various university courses.
• Prerequisites: Identifying necessary subjects for specific career paths and higher education programs.
• Work Experience: Offering opportunities that provide practical insights and inform pathway and subject choices.
• School-Based Traineeships and Apprenticeships: Exploring pathways that combine earning and learning, leading to qualifications and work experience simultaneously.

We encourage you to reach out to our support staff with any questions or concerns you may have. They are here to ensure you and your child have all the information needed to make informed decisions.

The following people are key points of contact:

Rhiannon Millett (rmill344@eq.eedu.au) – VET coordinator (Work experience, School-Based Traineeships and Apprenticeship queries)

Leah Francis (lfran28@eq.edu.au) – Year 10 Guidance Officer (Tertiary pathway, pre-requisite and admission process queries)

Upcoming SET Plan Interviews

We would also like to remind parents that the Senior Education and Training (SET) Plan interviews will be conducted on Thursday 31 July 2025. These interviews are a crucial part of the subject selection process, providing an opportunity to discuss and finalise subject choices with the guidance of our experienced staff.

Stay Tuned for Important Information:

If you’ve not already received the following, we will be sending out an email containing:

• Senior Course Guide: Detailed information on the subjects offered, including content, assessment methods, and career pathways.
• Subject Selection Lines: An overview of how subjects are grouped and timetabled.
• TAFE in School: An overview of TAFE in school options for 2026.
• School Online Booking System (SOBS) Information: Instructions on how to book your SET Plan interview slots.

Please keep an eye on your inbox for this important email. It will provide all the necessary details to prepare for the SET Plan interviews and ensure a smooth and informed subject selection process.

In Conclusion:

Thank you once again for your participation and support. By staying informed and utilising the resources available, we can work together to ensure students make the best possible choices for their future. We look forward to continuing this journey with you and your children as they transition into their senior years.

Mr Paul Charles
Deputy Principal – Senior School

Deputy Principal Middle School

As we approach the end of Term 2, I would like to take this opportunity to reflect on the progress and achievements of our Year 9 and 10 students. These years are pivotal in shaping the academic and personal development of our students. I promote the engagement in curriculum and extra-curricular involvement by all to foster growth and commitment of all students.

Academic Engagement and Progress

Our Year 9 students have embraced the opportunity to engage in three elective subjects alongside their core curriculum. This diverse learning experience allows them to explore areas of interest and develop a well-rounded skill set. As assessments approach, it is crucial for students to maintain consistent attendance and focus on their studies to achieve their best outcomes.

Year 10 students are navigating a significant transition as they prepare for the senior phase of their education. The subject selections made this year will lay the foundation for their future academic and career pathways. It is important for students to engage in open discussions with teachers and career advisors to ensure they are making informed decisions that align with their aspirations.

The recent Year 10 to 11 transition evening was well attended by many students and parents. This was an excellent opportunity to gather information from faculties and outside organisations about future pathways for our students. Introductory information about senior schooling was delivered and information about key SET planning dates were highlighted. Thank you to HoD Senior Schooling Mr Brenton Morehead for leading the team in organising this event.

Extracurricular Involvement

Beyond the classroom, our students continue to demonstrate enthusiasm and dedication in various extracurricular activities. Participation in events such as the Instrumental Music Camp, Girls AFL Gala Days and Cowboys Challenge showcases their teamwork, leadership, and school spirit. These experiences contribute to the holistic development of our students, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Looking Ahead

As we move into the final weeks of term, I encourage all Year 9 and 10 students to maintain their focus, set personal goals, and continue striving for excellence. The support of families is invaluable during this time, and I urge parents and carers to stay engaged with their child's learning journey.

Should you have any concerns or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact the school. Together, we can ensure that our students continue to thrive and succeed.

Ms Tamara Buddle
Deputy Principal – Middle School

Deputy Principal Junior School

To the Year 7 and 8 students, thank you for your hard work and enthusiasm throughout this busy term. As we approach the end of the semester, it's a great time to reflect on your achievements and prepare for the upcoming assessments.

With exams and assessments on the horizon, now is the perfect moment to get organised by reviewing your notes, creating a study timetable, and seeking help from your teachers if needed. Being prepared ahead of time will help reduce stress and set you up for success.

Year 7 students are gearing up for their exciting three-day camp at Mungalli Falls. This adventure offers a range of land and water-based team-building activities, including raft-building, abseiling, glow worm tours, and mixed team building games. It's a fantastic opportunity to forge lasting friendships and create unforgettable memories. A big thank you to all the teachers accompanying the students and to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

As the cooler weather sets in, please remember that only the jumper approved to wear to school is the school fleece jacket, or school. These items are available for purchase at the school canteen. Please refrain from wearing non-approved jackets to ensure uniform compliance.

Wishing you all a restful break and a successful end to the term. Stay safe, stay warm, and keep up the great work!

Mrs Rowena Cooper
Deputy Principal

Deputy Principal Inclusion Education

As we draw to the end of another busy and rewarding term, the Inclusion team would like to take a moment to celebrate the many successes our students have achieved. We continue to be inspired by the dedication, resilience, and growth shown by all, and we are proud to support students with additional needs in demonstrating their learning through assessments and everyday classroom experiences.

NCCD – National Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability

Smithfield State High School is currently engaged in the annual NCCD process. This national initiative ensures that students with disability are appropriately supported through consistent data collection and review. Our Inclusion team is working closely with staff to document each student’s learning needs and the adjustments in place. This helps ensure that all students receive consistent, individualised support across the school. We sincerely thank our teaching staff for their commitment to inclusive education and for continuing to prioritise the needs of every learner.

QCIA – Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement

A number of our senior students are currently working towards achieving their Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement (QCIA). This certificate recognises the accomplishments of students undertaking highly individualised learning programs. These students—and their dedicated teachers—have been working incredibly hard, and we applaud their persistence and focus. If your child is in Year 10 and has been accessing the Australian Curriculum via an Individual Curriculum Plan (ICP), and you’d like to know more about the QCIA pathway, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Inclusion team.

SET Planning – Looking Ahead to Senior Years

Our Inclusion staff have also been supporting Year 10 students as they begin their journey towards creating their Senior Education and Training (SET) Plans. These plans help guide subject choices and future pathways in Years 11 and 12. We encourage families to continue having conversations at home about your child’s goals and aspirations, as this will help in making informed decisions that align with their strengths and interests.

Year 7 Camp – Mungalli Falls Adventure

We’re excited that two of our Inclusion staff members will be attending the upcoming Year 7 camp at Mungalli Falls, supporting students with additional needs during this exciting experience. Camps offer wonderful opportunities for students to step outside the classroom, build friendships, and showcase their strengths in new environments. We wish all students and staff a safe, fun, and memorable trip!

As the term winds down, we thank our school community for their continued partnership. We wish all families a relaxing and enjoyable break, and we look forward to welcoming students back refreshed and ready for Semester 2.

Ms Michelle Messina
Deputy Principal Inclusion

The Great Wheelbarrow Race

For those who don’t know, some of our Year 12 students competed in the Great Wheelbarrow race recently.

The mighty Smithfield Salties were the 17th team to cross the finish line of the Wheelbarrow Race (total 48 teams competing), completing the gruelling 145 km from Mareeba to Chillagoe in an incredible 9 hours, 15 minutes and 5 seconds!

A huge thank you to everyone who has donated to the team's chosen charity, Beyond Blue. Your support means the world and every little bit counts.  If you haven’t donated yet but would still like to support mental health, there’s still time:  https://www.gofundme.com/f/smithfield-state-high-wheelbarrow-race-for-beyond-blue

Miss Knight, Mr Woodhouse and I are so proud of how the students conducted themselves and represented our school over the weekend.  They showed great teamwork, sportsmanship and enjoyed positive interactions with members of the communities we visited.

I would like to thank the Smithfield State High School P&C; without their help this opportunity would not have been possible. Thank you!

Brenton Morehead

Technologies

Food and Nutrition

This term, our talented Food and Nutrition students have been whisking up something both delicious and sustainable! As part of their focus on reducing food waste, students have been investigating the often-overlooked issue of egg white wastage in commercial and home kitchens.

Instead of letting this valuable ingredient go to waste, they’ve been challenged to turn excess egg whites into mouth-watering desserts. Not only is this project helping students refine their culinary skills, but it also encourages critical thinking around sustainability, food ethics, and creative problem-solving in the kitchen.

Food Studies

This term in Year 9 Food Studies, students have been diving into the world of food preservation exploring how different techniques can enhance flavour, reduce waste, and extend shelf life. From drying and fermenting to pickling and preserving, the class have been learning how traditional methods are still relevant (and delicious!) today.

Dessert Practice

This term Year 10 students are investigating menu types, and the purpose and intent of menu design as a strategic tool for influencing customer choice, investment, and positive dining experiences.  Students are designing and producing a 3 course Table d’hote menu for a formal wedding event for their identified consumer group considering health solutions (eg: gluten free).

Students have prepared and presented a dessert menu item demonstrating culinary skill, and formal contemporary presentation of their dishes.

Young, Black & Proud

Humanities

Term 2 has been a rewarding and productive period for our Humanities and Sustainability students, marked by significant achievements, engaging projects, and outstanding participation in local and statewide initiatives.

Year 7

Our Year 7 Humanities students have been exploring the concept of liveability, with a particular focus on the city of Cairns. They have examined various factors that impact liveability and identified key challenges that affect quality of life in our region. In Sustainability, students have collaborated with the Cairns Regional Council to investigate pressing urban issues. Through critical thinking and creativity, students have developed innovative solutions aimed at enhancing liveability in our city.

Year 8

Year 8 Humanities students have engaged in a localised inquiry into the Moon River Catchment. As part of this unit, students examined the catchment's path during the monsoon season and assessed the potential threats it poses to residential areas. Using a simulated case study, they evaluated the sustainability of the catchment and the environmental risks it faces.

In Sustainability, Year 8 students have concentrated on natural hazard resilience in Cairns, with a particular focus on cyclones and flooding. Students explored the features that make homes more resilient to natural disasters and applied their knowledge to design and construct models—either physically or using digital platforms such as Minecraft. This unit has been submitted to the Get Ready Queensland Resilient Australia Awards, which recognise outstanding efforts in building community resilience. Smithfield State High School was proud to be both the State and National winner of this award in 2023.

Year 9

Year 9 students have been studying Australia’s involvement in World War I. This unit is regarded as essential to understanding the nation's history and the sacrifices made to secure the freedoms we enjoy today. Sustainability students in Year 9 have taken on the topic of urban design. They are investigating how Urban Design Principles can be applied to improve travel infrastructure in Cairns, addressing the growing issue of traffic congestion as our population increases.

Year 10

Year 10 students have commenced their Senior Humanities Electives, choosing from Legal Studies, Modern and Ancient History, Economics, and Accounting. These courses are designed to give students a preview of the Senior curriculum and help them make informed subject selections for Years 11 and 12.

Senior School

In the Senior School, our Year 11 students have successfully completed Unit 1 of their respective Humanities subjects. Year 12 students have recently finalised their first round of Unit 3 studies. We are pleased to report that students have achieved commendable results, with several attaining a perfect score of 25/25. These achievements are a testament to the hard work and dedication of both students and teachers, and we extend our sincere thanks to all involved.

Celebrations and Competitions

This term has seen our Humanities and Sustainability students excel in a number of prestigious competitions:

Cairns Iconic Bus Stop Design Competition

Two of our Year 8 Sustainability students Zach and Jaali participated in the Cairns Regional Council's Iconic Bus Stop Design Competition, which encouraged young people to reflect on public transport and placemaking in Cairns. Their submission received a Highly Commended award—an outstanding accomplishment, particularly given they were competing against senior students from both state and private schools across the region.

BLA ECOMAN Competition

Our Year 11 Economics students participated in the BLA ECOMAN Competition, a two-day program where students were tasked with turning around a failing company in a simulated corporate environment. Participants took on executive roles, made strategic decisions, and applied economic principles in a competitive, real-world context. This experience was invaluable for developing teamwork, leadership, and decision-making skills.

JCU Legal Conference

Students in Years 9, 10, and 11 also attended the James Cook University Legal Conference at the Cairns Institute. The event covered a wide array of contemporary legal topics, including Youth Justice, Intellectual Property and AI, Human Rights, and Alternative Dispute Resolution. It also provided students with insights into university-level study, including the JCU Now Program, which allows eligible students to commence university law studies during Years 11 and 12. This program offers free, obligation-free access to university subjects—an excellent opportunity for those considering a career in law.

Should you have any questions regarding the Humanities and Sustainability program, please feel free to contact Mr Dan Kaggelis, Head of Department, at 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:

Inclusion

NCCD and supporting students with disability

The National Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD) is a national data collection reported by schools annually which Smithfield State High School is currently undergoing.

The NCCD is an annual collection of information about Australian school students with disability. As the NCCD is required by law, parent/carer consent is not required for a school to record a student in the data collection. The NCCD enables schools, education authorities and governments to better understand the needs of students and how they can be best supported at school.

All students have the right to a quality learning experience at school. Students with disability must be able to take part in education without discrimination and on the same basis as other students. Students and parents/carers must be consulted about reasonable adjustments before they are made. In some cases, an individual education plan (IEP) or personal learning plan (PLP) may be developed to document specific educational goals and to review your child’s progress over time.

For more information about the NCCD please refer to the Parent, Guardian and Carer Factsheet by the NCCD.

Inclusion Hub - Athletics Carnival Recap – Heroes, Villains & Victories!

Our whole school Athletics Carnival was a day to remember in the Inclusion Hub! Full of high energy, big smiles and the spirit of sportsmanship. With the theme Heroes and Villains, excitement filled the air – from Cade’s full costume as Darth Vader, The Force was definitely with us!

The track was on fire with fast legs from Lovaye, Isaiah, Isaac, Jackson, and Josh. In the field events, Tristan sent the discus flying, and Brandon brought the power in shot put! Huge thanks to Miss Maddie and Miss Marion for their help on the field, along with all our teachers, teacher aides and students cheering from the sidelines – your energy was amazing.

Thanks to everyone who helped make it such an awesome day – we can’t wait to do it all again next year!

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Champion of the Duke of Edinburgh Awards

We are proud to recognise the outstanding contributions of our staff member, Mr Keith Seaton, who continues to make an incredible impact through his leadership in the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award program.

Keith currently serves as the Award Leader for the Cairns Region, a role he has held with dedication for nearly 12 years. In addition, he is now in his fifth year as the Award Leader for the entire state of Queensland, representing the program exclusively through PCYC.

This year, Keith has once again been recognised for his exceptional service to the program. He holds the joint second-highest number of Gold Award recipients across the two Award Centres he leads—a remarkable achievement that speaks to his unwavering support and dedication.

The prestigious Gold Award Ceremony will be held at Brisbane City Hall on 18 July 2025, where recipients will be presented their awards by Queensland’s State Governor, Dr Jeanette Young. PCYC Cairns will proudly celebrate three Gold Award recipients.

Across the region, Keith is held in the highest regard by award participants. He is known for maintaining regular, supportive contact and for his consistent encouragement and guidance throughout the Award journey. His passion and enthusiasm are contagious, providing students with the motivation they need to complete this challenging and rewarding program.

The Smithfield State High School community is incredibly proud of Keith and his achievements. His commitment, energy, and care reflect the very best of what we strive for in our staff.

Congratulations, Keith! Your work continues to inspire students across Queensland.

Science

Marine Science

Our Year 11 Marine Science students recently embarked on two exciting and educational field trips that brought their studies to life in the stunning natural laboratories of the Great Barrier Reef.

The first excursion took students aboard the Dreamtime Dive and Snorkel tour to the Outer Reef. Guided by indigenous sea rangers and marine biologists, students explored the diverse reef ecosystems firsthand, observing vibrant coral communities and a variety of reef species in their natural habitats.

The second excursion took students to Fitzroy Island.

This immersive experience allowed students to deepen their understanding of coral morphology, biodiversity and data collection for their FAI2 Student Experiment. Using fieldwork methods discussed in class, students gathered primary data to investigate real-world marine science questions

Both trips provided invaluable opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in a real-world context and connect with the marine environments they study. We are incredibly proud of the students’ enthusiasm, professionalism, and scientific curiosity throughout these adventures.

Reef Cooperative and Dawul Wuru Rangers

Recently our students had the privilege of hearing from the Reef Cooperative and Dawul Wuru Rangers, who shared their deep knowledge of Traditional Owner management and the TUMRA (Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreement). Students explored how Traditional Owners care for Sea Country through cultural practices and sustainable management, playing a vital role in reef conservation. They also participated in a hands-on citizen science project through the Great Reef Census, which uses AI technology to analyse reef types and monitor reef health. This experience helped students understand the power of combining Indigenous knowledge with modern science to protect the Great Barrier Reef. A big thank you to our guest speakers for inspiring students and showing how partnerships between Traditional Owners, scientists, and communities are key to a healthier reef. 

Year 12 Formal

Year 12 Formal Celebrations - A Night to Remember

On Saturday night, our graduating Year 12 students gathered at the Hilton Cairns for a spectacular evening of celebration. The 2025 Formal was a night filled with elegance, laughter, and unforgettable memories. From glamorous arrivals to heartfelt speeches and plenty of time on the dance floor, the evening marked a proud milestone for our students as they near the end of their high school journey.

Our students looked absolutely stunning and represented Smithfield State High School with grace and maturity. A big thank you to the staff, families, and students who helped make the night such a success.

Visit our website to view the full gallery of formal photos: https://smithfieldshs.eq.edu.au/calendar-and-news/photo-gallery

2024 School Magazine

2024 School Magazine – available for purchase!

$26.50

The Arts

Upcoming performances

Smithfield State High School Concert Band are performing at: 
Cairns Eisteddfod:- Monday 23 June 7.00 pm  - Cairns Performing Arts Centre 

Smithfield State High School Concert Band, Stage Band and Jazz Academy are performing at: Cairns Show Community Stage, Thursday 17 July – 11.00 am to 11.45 am

Twilight Session

Join us for Twilight Session, a live music event presented by the Year 11 and 12 Music in Practice class on Thursday, June 19th from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm in Centre for Athlete Development and Performing Arts (CADPA), Smithfield State High School. 

Enjoy an evening of performance pieces and original music showcasing the talent and creativity of students from our junior and senior music classes. 

Entry is a gold coin donation.

Queensland Regional Ensemble Program (Qrep)

On the first weekend in June, Callum, Alley, Zach, Shadayah and Emily spent the weekend immersed in music as part of the Queensland Regional Ensemble Program – a jazz and big band intensive hosted by CQ University.

Our students had the incredible opportunity to collaborate with members of 1RAR Army band Townsville, CQ University lecturers and students from other schools. The weekend workshop wrapped up with a concert for family and friends.

Well done to our aspiring musicians! A great time was had by all.

Instrumental music

The Centre for Athlete Development and Performing Arts (CADPA) came alive with the sound of music as students of all ages gathered for two days of band camp. Our Brass, woodwind, percussion and string students were joined by young musicians from Caravonica State School, Yorkeys Knob State School and Trinity Beach State School. Combined ensembles led by Mr O’Grady and Mr Wilkins gave students the opportunity to work together and improve their skills and musicianship.

We are very grateful for the support of our regional co-ordinators Ms Emma Baker and Ms Ruth Pols, who joined us to work with students and teachers, with Ms Fengler and Ms Trezise also joining us to give their support. Their time and expertise was greatly appreciated.

On Saturday, our BBQ lunched was prepared, cooked and served by Ms Collins and Mrs Johnston. We are sincerely grateful for their support.

Each year band camp brings our students together for a memorable and musical experience.

This year, part of the time was dedicated to rehearsals in preparation for the Cairns and District Junior Eisteddfod.

Sincere thanks to our Instrumental music teachers and Ms Fallon for their work and dedication for band camp. It is a wonderful collaborative of music across our Northern beaches.

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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.

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.

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.  

A message from Mayor Amy Eden

2025/2026 Cairns Youth Council Nominations

A Message from Mayor Amy Eden – 2025/2026 Cairns Youth Council Nominations

Not sure if leadership is for you? Neither was I.

Here’s something most people don’t know — I never planned to go into politics.

I was a social worker, working in the community, for the community. That’s what made me tick. Politics? Not even on the radar. But after being asked (a lot!) to run for Council, I eventually said yes. I was elected in 2020, found out I was pretty good at it, and more importantly—I loved it.

Fast forward to 2024, I stepped up to run for Mayor because I wanted to drive real change. And now here I am, the youngest Mayor Cairns has ever had.

I’m sharing this with you because you don’t need to have it all figured out to step up and lead. If you’re aged 13 to 17 and live in the Cairns region, you can nominate to be part of the 2025–2026 Cairns Youth Council—and I reckon you should.

You’ll meet other young people who care about our community, get involved in real decision-making, and build connections that could shape your future. One of my favourite sayings is: your network is your net worth. This is your chance to build that network early—with people who are just as passionate and switched-on as you.

Even if leadership isn’t on your dream board—just give it a go. You might surprise yourself. I know I did.

Nominations are open until 21 July 2025.

https://www.fya.org.au/young-mayors-cairns/

Aviation Industry Career

HPE and Sports Update

Outdoor Education – Fitzroy Island Camp

Recently, 44 of our Outdoor Ed students headed over to beautiful Fitzroy Island for three days of hands-on learning, adventure, and personal growth.

The trip was packed with memorable experiences. Students had a go at stand-up paddle boarding, snorkelled over the reef, and even landed a few fish during morning and afternoon fishing sessions. We were lucky enough to visit the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, where a marine biologist gave us a brilliant talk on the impact of marine debris and how they care for injured turtles. The summit walk was a real test of grit, with steep climbs and warm weather, but the views at the top made it all worthwhile.

Teamwork was a standout across the whole camp. From the moment we arrived, students worked together to unload gear, set up camp, and support one another through every activity. Whether it was buddying up for snorkelling, helping each other haul gear up to the accommodation, or weaving matching friendship bracelets during downtime, the group showed maturity, patience, and a great sense of humour. Even the pack-up at the end—done in the pouring rain—was tackled with positivity and teamwork, with not a single complaint.

Nights were just as fun, with the crew enjoying State of Origin at Foxy’s Bar and a hilarious trivia night run by Mrs Timms. The bracelet-making continued into the evenings, creating a fun, relaxed space where students bonded and reflected on the day.

More than just learning new skills, students also learnt a lot about themselves. Many stepped outside their comfort zones, discovering their own resilience, leadership, and ability to adapt. They came back with a stronger sense of independence, deeper connections with their classmates, and some great memories—plus a colourful reminder of their time together in the form of their handmade bracelets.

New uniforms, thanks to the Parents and Citizens Association (P&C)

A huge thank you to our amazing P&C for their generous support in funding our new netball dresses and rugby league jerseys!
Alexia and Cody look fantastic in the fresh new kits and are more than ready to represent Smithfield State High School with pride.

Thanks to the ongoing commitment of our P&C, our students are proudly wearing their school colours – and are looking great.

Year 10 into Year 11 Info Night

Thank you to the wonderful students who represented our senior HPE subjects. We have six subjects on offer in Year 11.

See Mr Garske or contact him on bgars4@eq.edu.au if you would like to know more.

Football Academy Cup

Game On!

Our Football Academy students are fired up and full of energy as they battle it out for the ultimate title!

At the end of Week 10, four players will have their names engraved on the Football Academy Cup and be crowned Football Academy Masters.

Who will take home the glory?

AFL Champions

AFLQ Schools Cup – Year 11/12 Boys Competition

Our Year 11/12 boys team recently competed in the AFLQ Schools Cup.

The team finished 4th overall, with particularly strong performances from Lachy, Joel, Bailey, and Indy. Congratulations to all the boys for their efforts and for representing the school with pride and sportsmanship.

AFL 13-15 Year Girls Championships

Over the weekend, Charley, Lacey and Savannah proudly represented Peninsula in the 13-15 Years Girls AFL championships.

The team performed exceptionally well, with Lacey leading the way as team captain. At the end of the tournament, both Lacey and Savannah were selected for the Queensland team – an outstanding achievement.

Congratulations to all three girls on their effort, skill and sportsmanship.

Athletics Results

At the 2025 Athletics Carnival, Dylan smashed the 18&U Boys 400m record with an impressive time of 57.12, edging out the previous record of 57.20 set by Joshua back in 2000.

Malvin, our 2024 Patty Ram Award recipient for the fastest 400m runner—was granted an exemption to run his race after representing Peninsula in Rugby Union on athletics carnival day.

Malvin ran an incredible 54.22, breaking Dylan’s short-lived record! Even better, Dylan was right there cheering him on—true sportsmanship in action.

Both boys will go on to represent Smithfield State High School at the TCN Track and Field carnival in Term 3.

Congratulations to Dylan and Malvin on their outstanding achievements!

More Results

Football Academy Update

Our Football Academy students have had a fantastic start to the year, showing great commitment and improvement each week at training!

We’re looking forward to hosting several Gala Days in the coming weeks, giving students the chance to put their skills to the test and enjoy some extra competition on the field.

Football Academy in the kitchen

Instead of dribbling, passing and shooting, our Football Academy players exchanged their football boots for aprons and whipped up a storm in the Kitchen.

The purpose of getting our Academy players in the kitchen is to expose them to good nutritious options for post-training, after-school, and/or post-game snacks. The athletes could choose from two options Tuna or Chicken Rice Bowl and an Easy Egg Burrito.

Thankyou Tara from Health Management Dietitians who ran an informative age-appropriate cooking session in our Smithfield State High School kitchen.

Ms Thornton
Football Academy Coordinator

Peninsula Representatives

A massive shoutout to these two talented young athletes who did Peninsula proud at the State Championships, finishing 2nd in the 13-15 Boys Hockey division!

Special kudos to Chase, who was named Player of the Championship and has been selected for the Queensland team – what an incredible achievement!

Well done, boys! Your hard work and dedication have paid off – we can’t wait to see what’s next for you both!

Congratulations to our Year 12 student, Bailey, for proudly representing the Peninsula Region at the recent 16–18 Years Boys Football Championships in Cairns.

An excellent achievement and a great example of dedication and sportsmanship — we're proud of you.

We are proud of Year 10 student Kayla, who recently competed at the 13–15 Years Girls Volleyball Championships, representing the Peninsula Region at Smithfield State High School.

Kayla’s dedication and performance on the court are a credit to her hard work and passion for the sport. Well done, Kayla!

Sport outside of school

Have you done something we need to celebrate? Eg. a state team? Please let us know we would love to give our talented students a public shout out.

Please email a photo and quick blurb to our Sports Coordinator Brooke Knight bekni0@eq.edu.au

Congratulations to our talented Year 8 student, Ethan, who recently represented Cairns at the first of three basketball carnivals in Townsville! Ethan played as part of the U14 Div 1 Marlins team, who went undefeated across four games – claiming victories over Townsville, Mackay, and Rockhampton (twice).

Even more exciting, Ethan has now been selected for Basketball Queensland’s Future Development Program – a fantastic opportunity where he’ll receive specialised coaching and development as he works toward representing Queensland in junior competitions.

Well done, Ethan – we’re proud of you and can’t wait to see what’s next on your basketball journey!

School Hats

Reminder it is an expectation students wear 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.

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:

QParents

QPARENTS - Register Now!

Have you signed up for QParents yet? Smithfield State High School has now commenced 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 

Cane Train Safety

The Dangers of Vaping

Thank you

For your continued support of staff at our school.