Pimlico SHS Newsletter Term 3 #1
- From the Executive Principal's Desk
- P&C Association
- Upcoming Events
- Pimlico SHS Alumni
- Senior Schooling
- Junior Schooling
- Around the Grounds
- Pimlico Music
- Pimlico Sport
- #PIMLICOPROUD
- Canteen
- Library Information
- Finance News
- Defence School Mentor (DSM)
- Community Education Counsellor (CEC)
- EQI & International Students
- STARS
- Health Services
- Student Services
- Events and Notices
From the Executive Principal's Desk
Dear parents and caregivers,
Across Term 3, staff and students have been working hard on the wide variety of learning and extra-curricular activities that characterise Pimlico State High School. Our Year 12 students are beginning their final preparations for graduation. While the finish line is near, there is still important work ahead, and it is vital they stay focused right through to the end. Parents and caregivers will have received an email about our Year 10–12 Awards Evening, an important celebration of student achievements and the dedicated staff who support them. Please take time to review the information provided. Tickets will be available once award details are finalised.
Our remaining students in Years 11 and 12 have a little longer left this year, and are now in the midst of assessment preparation. Strong learning outcomes for students are supported by the partnership that exists between school and parents, so please don’t hesitate to reach out to the school if you have any concerns that need addressing.
Importance of Drafting
Not all assessment allows drafts to be submitted, but when they are allowed they are a critical way for students to receive feedback and develop the skills and knowledge being assessed in the task. Draft feedback can only be as good as the draft that is submitted. In other words, students who submit incomplete drafts are robbing themselves of the opportunity to improve their learning and their learning outcomes. Checking your child’s assessment calendar, reviewing their drafts with them and ensuring the draft is submitted on time, is complete and reflects the requirements of the task on the task sheet is a great way to support your child’s learning and success.
Students can also seek support from Homework Club (every Thursday afternoon until 4:30pm in V Block- Weeks 2 to 8), from the resources available on their Q Learn and by reaching out to their teachers.
Staffing Update
We were excited to have a number of staff joining us and returning at the start of Term 3. Welcome (or welcome back) to:
New Staff......
- Hannah Norford (MAT)
- Sharna Carmody (ENG)
- Deirdre Ritchie (MAT)
Returning Staff......
- Michelle Chappell
- Julia Haig
- Shelly McConochie
- Tracy Jenkins
Sydney Music Tour
I was privileged to be able to join Ashley Baxter, Julie Coutts, Richard Newell, Carla Mulligan, Ian Brunskill, Sue Darrigan and Richard Shaw in Sydney for a few days of the Sydney Music Tour. Our entire community should be very proud of the staff and students on this tour and the incredible standard of music performed across famous Sydney venues, including the Opera House. Our ensembles achieved outstanding results as part of the Australian International Music Festival, and held their own alongside some of the finest youth orchestras in the world.
- Orpheus: Gold Award
- Blue Brass: Gold Award
- Symphony: Silver Award, Sydney Opera House Performance and also opened the festival at the opening concert.
Thank you to the teachers who worked so hard to organise and supervise the tour.
Upcoming Events
I would like to take this opportunity to mention the Pimlico State High School Community Concert, which will occur on Tuesday 26 August from 5:30pm. This is the second such concert, and this year includes a ‘Pimlico’s Got Talent’ competition and an authentic community concert, featuring students, staff and other members of our school community. I encourage you to attend, enjoy a night of wonderful entertainment while also supporting the Year 12 Legacy Item. Further details are available in the Pimlico Music section of this newsletter.
I would also like to draw attention to our annual Charity Benefit Concert, on Friday 17 October. We will soon be announcing the charity we are supporting this year, selected by our Year 12 music students, and commencing the sale of tickets. This is an incredible night of music- of the highest standard! I am hoping that in 2025 we can sell out this concert and give our amazing students and teachers the audience they deserve. Please promote this important evening with friends and family as an opportunity to see some of the most talented school ensembles in Australia, including our ensembles that performed in Sydney and at the Opera House, while supporting a worthwhile cause.
Best wishes
Stephen Baskerville
Executive Principal
P&C Association
General Information
The remaining meetings for 2025 will be held in the library from 7pm on the following dates:
Term 3: September 9
Term 4: October 14 & November 11
Our canteen continues to do great business, ably run by our convenor Jeena Philips Koshy and our other employees. Volunteers are always welcome! Please email Jeena on 2049_canteen@eq.edu.au with any time you have.
Second Hand Uniform Store
The P&C operated second hand uniform store will open on Friday 5 September between 8am and 8:45am.
Please send any matters for P&C discussion to pimlicopandcsecretary@outlook.com
Kind regards
Owen Petersen
P&C President
Upcoming Events
TERM 3 | |||
WEEK 7 | |||
Mon | 25 | Aug | · Whole School Assembly P1 |
Tue | 26 | Aug | · Pimlico Community Concert from 4:30pm |
Thu | 28 | Aug | · XDance Seniors Luncheon – 2nd lunch |
Fri | 29 | Aug | · Year 10 Immunisations · Mundingburra SS NAIDOC Day Selected Students All Day · XDance Seniors Luncheon – 2nd lunch |
WEEK 8 | |||
Mon | 1 | Sept | · Teacher Aide Appreciation Week · Final Week for Assessment Yr 11&12 Applied · Last Week Assessment Yr 11 |
Tue | 2 | Sept | · Pre- Eisteddfod Concert Evening DGPAC |
Wed | 3 | Sept | · Year 11 Maths Exams (half day) · Year 9 Mock Job Interviews |
Thu | 4 | Sept | · Pimlico Mixed Open Hockey v Bowen SHS - 3:30PM · Readers Cup Brisbane- Selected students · Stars Turns 10 |
Fri | 5 | Sept | · Pimlico SHS Closed |
WEEK 9 | |||
Mon | 8 | Sept | · 11AQP Water Safety Assessment Kokoda Pool (half day) |
Tue | 9 | Sept | · Townsville Eisteddfod - all week |
Wed | 10 | Sept | · AFL Gala Day 3-5pm Selected Students |
Thu | 11 | Sept | · STEM Defence Force Workshop |
Fri | 12 | Sept | · EQI Magnetic Island Excursion |
WEEK 10 | |||
Mon | 15 | Sept | · Year 11 Exams & Assessment Catch-Up – all week · Townsville Eisteddfod · STARS Top Attenders Day Out- Yr 7-9 Selected Students |
Thu | 18 | Sept | · 12AQP Fishing Assessment (half day per class) |
Fri | 19 | Sept | · End of Term 3 |
TERM 4 | |||
WEEK 1 | |||
Mon | 6 | Oct | · King’s Birthday Public Holiday |
Tue | 7 | Oct | · Term 4 Starts |
Wed | 8 | Oct | · Year 11 Leadership Camp (Wed – Fri) |
WEEK 2 | |||
Mon | 12 | Oct | · Year 9 Camp (Mon – Wed) |
Wed | 14 | Oct | · 8GEG Pallarenda Excursion |
Thu | 15 | Oct | · 8GEG Pallarenda Excursion |
Fri | 16 | Oct | · 8GEG Pallarenda Excursion · Charity Benefit Concert |
Dates and activities are subject to change
Pimlico SHS Alumni
Calling Pimlico SHS Alumni...
We would love to hear from you!
We are in the process of building the ultimate who's who of Pimlico! What our past students have been doing, celebrating your successes and we would love to hear from you.
So if you could please take a few moments to complete this survey, we would appreciate it!
https://survey.qed.qld.gov.au/n/dGZh8Jz
Please feel free to share this information to your alumni networks.
For more information, email alumni@pimlichshs.eq.edu.au
Senior Schooling
Queensland Training Awards
We proudly celebrate two outstanding achievements: Year 12 student Destiny, who is undertaking a Certificate III in Business at Sportsgirl, and HOD Senior Schooling, Ms Austin, for being named as Regional Finalists for VET School Based Trainee of the Year and VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year in the Queensland Training Awards!
The Pimlico community is incredibly proud of Destiny and Ms Austin for their hard work and dedication in the vocational education field. They truly exemplify the importance of role models in our community.
This event highlighted the significant impact of Vocational Education and Training (VET) in our lives. At Pimlico, we are committed to offering courses and opportunities that empower our students to pursue their career pathways, including through school-based traineeships and apprenticeships.
Congratulations again to both Destiny and Ms Austin for this well-deserved recognition!
Townsville Careers Expo
Year 10, 11 and 12 students had a thought provoking afternoon at the @ Townsville Careers Expo, exploring career and tertiary education opportunities for their future. It was interesting to hear about the diverse entry options into University, recommended pre-requisite subjects for certain professions, apprenticeship and traineeship pathways, and how to set yourself apart in the application process for the next job application.
QBuild Apprenticeships
We are thrilled to announce that QBuild is now accepting applications for our 2026 apprenticeship program, offering an incredible opportunity for students and community members to kickstart their careers in trades.
Available Apprenticeships in Townsville
We are currently offering apprenticeships in the following trades:
- Electrician
- Plumber
- Carpenter
- Painter
- Refrigeration Mechanic
Visit qld.gov.au/qbuildcareers to learn more and apply today!
$5 Formal
This week, our Senior Student Council hosted the highly anticipated Year 12 $5 Formal, bringing together 130 students for a fantastic evening of celebration. The event was a huge success, with students dressing to impress, enjoying a variety of games, dancing the night away, and making the most of live music. It was a wonderful opportunity for the cohort to come together, create memories, and share in the excitement of their final year at Pimlico.
Junior Schooling
Year 10 Mock Job Interviews
Our Year 10 Mock Job Interviews took place this week where students participated in interviews, giving them invaluable experience with members of our community who generously gave up their time.
A massive thank you to our interviewers for giving up their time to give our students a snapshot of what an interview can be like.
A further thank you to all Pimlico staff and the team at Cafe Coco involved in making this day possible.
Year 9 Mock Job Interviews
Out Year 9 mock job interviews is coming up on Wednesday 3 Sept, this event plays a key role in helping our students develop essential employability and communication skills, as they begin to consider their future pathways.
Junior School Disco!
We’re excited to announce that the Junior School Disco will be held on Wednesday 27 August from 5:30 PM to 9:00 PM at the DGPAC.
The event will follow a Hollywood Masquerade theme and is split into two sessions:
- Years 7 & 8: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
- Years 9 & 10: 7:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Entry is $2 per student (payable to Mrs Andersen in the Office; students must be up to date with fees or have a payment plan in place). There is no entry fee for JSC members, Bacon Bits, or Readers Cup volunteers.
- Tickets need to be purchased by 4pm Monday 25 August
- There will be prizes for best dressed.
- Food and Drinks will be available for purchase on the night
- Please come dressed in your Hollywood best – no stiletto shoes please (they damage the floor)
Around the Grounds
LANGUAGES
Visit by the French Ambassador to Australia
Yesterday, Pimlico language students were fortunate to experience a very special honour for Bastille Day, a visit from the French Ambassador to Australia, his Excellency Mr Pierre Andre Imbert who was visiting Townsville for the launch of Operation Talisman Sabre, as well as a Bastille Day function last night.
Ambassador Imbert was welcomed with a performance of Handel's Ombra mai fu by our string quartet before interacting with students from not only Pimlico SHS, but also Hermit Park State School, Kirwan State School, Townsville Grammar School & Kirwan State School.
Whist his visit was brief, the Ambassador was impressed with the quality of Townsville school communities French speaking students, their commitment to global education and the fostering future growth between Australia and France.
Year 10 Senpai Japanese students
Year 10 Japanese students were invited to Heatley Secondary College at the end of last term to act as “senpai” (peer tutors) to years 7-10 art students. The lesson was designed around “shodo” (calligraphy) and Japanese values such as empathy and cooperation. Jemma, Maharliah, Emily, Keith and Chamena were brilliant as they rose to the task.
Young Language Ambassador’s conference
On Friday 08th of August, selected students from Year 09 and 10 French and Japanese participated in the Young Language Ambassador’s conference, hosted at JCU.
Students enjoyed presentations that highlighted the diverse and profound ways that learning and speaking multiple languages can enhance many areas in their lives. Students heard from: Ms. Hilary Smith, a marine biologist; Miss Louise Whittaker, an aspiring classical singer; Miss Lily Anzai, a marine biologist and extremely talented Ori Tahiti (Tahitian dance) performer; as well as Colonel Arume from the PNGDF and current Deputy Commander at 3rd Brigade.
The conference was a wonderful experience for students to put their language and cultural learnings to practice.
THE ARTS
Happy Feet
Xdance had the absolute pleasure of attending Happy Feat Inc - Townsville, an incredible organisation that provides a caring, supportive, and fun environment for people with special needs and differing abilities.
At Happy Feat, these amazing individuals truly shine, showcasing their extraordinary talents. It’s a place where disability is forgotten, and ability takes centre stage!
Our team had the best time joining in, sharing smiles, and performing for this inspiring dance group. Thank you, Happy Feat, for welcoming us with so much joy and energy. We can’t wait to dance with you again!
PAL Milestones
Some of our amazing PALS crew celebrated some significant milestones recently.
- Jared - 50 volunteer hours
- Oscar - 100 volunteer hours
- Elijah - 100 volunteer hours
Who are our PALS? They are the extraordinary students who volunteer their time to the school to assist with audio visual equipment with productions in the DGPAC and throughout the school.
If you are interested in becoming a PAL, please see Ms Coutts in the Arts staff room for more information
Townsville Interschool Theatre Sports Competition
Many of our Junior Drama Club students recently took the stage at the Townsville Interschool Theatre Sports Competition. Both teams delivered fantastic performances across three rounds of improvisation, judged by actors from the local theatre company, TheatreiNQ. One of our teams earned an impressive second place, proudly representing Pimlico with creativity and teamwork. We’re excited to keep building our theatre sports culture at Pimlico and can’t wait to return next term!
ITD
Cert II in Engineering
Year 11 Certificate II in Engineering students learn to operate and use various workshop equipment. Students are currently learning to operate the schools metal lathe's shaping a metal rod into the handle for their meat tenderiser project.
ENGLISH
Interschool Public Speaking Competition
On Thursday 14th August Jaiden Justin (Year 7), Abigail Craner (Year 7), Aoife Bock (Year 10), Felix Baraka Year (Year 11), and Ben Sarnyai (Year 12) performed at the Denise Glasgow Interschool Public Speaking Competition.
The impromptu oral topic was: What is the most urgent global issue right now?
All speakers had well-articulated thoughts and entertained the audience while continuing to hone their communication skills.
Special thanks to the patron of the competition, Heather Fraser, for coaching our speakers.
Pimlico Music
Pimlico SHS Community Concert
Come join us at the Denise Glasgow Performing Arts Centre - Pimlico State High School for a night filled with amazing performances on August 26, 2025 at 5:30 pm.
Get ready to be entertained by talented individuals showcasing their skills in the many areas of the performing arts including singing, dancing and more!
It is a fundraising concert supporting our Year 12s for their legacy item of an undercover area for the courtyard of the Denise Glasgow Performing Arts Centre!
- Act 1 features our first ever "Pimlico’s Got Talent" commencing at 5:30 pm.
- Act 2 sees the continuation of our Community Concert featuring alumni, community members, Pimlico staff, students and friends, from 8:00pm ending at 9:00pm. With the announcement of our innaugural Pimlico's Got Talent winners at the end of the concert.
Whether you're a performer or just love watching live performing arts events, this event is perfect for everyone. So mark your calendars and don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to witness the next big stars!
Pimlico Voices Shine at AFCM Opening Night
What an honour! Pimlico Voices delivered a beautiful performance at the Opening Concert of the Australian Festival of Chamber Music!
Luke Kennedy Masterclass
Our Year 7/8 Music Excellence students were treated to an inspiring workshop with none other than Luke Kennedy — Pimlico graduate, The Voice finalist, and now Senior Producer with Brisbane’s Little Red Company.
Luke wowed us with a live performance and shared stories of his incredible journey — from singing 3AM by Matchbox 20 on the Pimlico Presents stage to performing on global tours with Ricky Martin.
The session was full of energy, laughs, and even a fun game or two — all accompanied by the amazing local musician Ben Bennett on keys and guitar!
Primary School Roadshow
Over 100 of our talented Pimlico students took the show on the road for our Primary School Arts Roadshow — bringing the magic of music and dance to three of our local primary schools: Currajong SS, Hermit Park SS, and Mundingburra SS.
Our Symphony Orchestra, Pimlico Voices, and X Dance performers lit up the stages with energy, talent, and joy — sharing the arts with our Primary School friends.
Challenge Games Opening Ceremony
Blue Brass and Drumline were once again proud to perform at the Challenge Games Opening Ceremony at the Townsville Sports Precinct!
They provided the soundtrack for the March Past and teamed up with the Townsville Community Learning Centre Signing Choir to accompany the National Anthem. What an honour to help kick off two exciting days of sport, spirit, and celebration.
2025 CQU Jazz Festival
Pimlico once again brought their A game to the 2025 CQU Jazz Festival, held recently in Mackay.
Now in its 12th year, the festival provided more than 150 students from 10 schools in regional and rural communities with the opportunity to experience high-quality jazz education through rehearsals, workshops and live performances with professional musicians.
In 2025, we proudly won the following awards:
- Most Outstanding Performance
- Gold Award
- Most Outstanding Saxophone Section
- Most Outstanding Trombone Section
- Outstanding Saxophone Solo – Hans Lobis
- Outstanding Trombone Solo – Elann Malot
- Outstanding Rhythm Section Solo – Stuart Bamber
And here is a snapshot of us in action!
Australian International Music Festival
64 Pimlico State High School students, making up 3 of the school’s elite musical ensembles- Symphony Orchestra, Blue Brass & Orpheus Chamber Strings, performed at the Australian International Music Festival, held in Sydney July 5 – 12 and returned with a swag of awards.
The tour commenced with a truly special honour bestowed upon Pimlico State High School’s Symphony Orchestra, to be the opening performance, and the only Australian ensemble playing, on the opening night of the festival.
The memorable moments continued as Pimlico’s students performed on some of Australia’s most iconic stages such as The University of NSW, The Australian National Maritime Museum, The Chatswood Concourse, Sydney Conservatorium of Music and finally, The Sydney Opera House.
Whilst at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music, the school’s Symphony Orchestra collaborated with the Ying Wa College Orchestra from Hong Kong in a powerful moment as the two orchestras combined into one ensemble of over 150 musicians performing together in the Verbrugghen Hall.
Orpheus Chamber Strings and Blue Brass performed a full 75-minute concert at the Australian National Maritime Museum in Darling Harbour. With the harbour sparkling behind them and a crowd of museum visitors gathering, both ensembles delivered polished, powerful performances that showcased their versatility and musicianship.
Students in Pimlico’s Symphony Orchestra were able to experience the thrill of preparing backstage for their performance at the Sydney Opera House. Performing an outstanding set on one of the world’s most iconic stages—where countless legends have played—was an emotional and unforgettable experience.
On the final day, all students gathered at Sydney Town Hall for the Festival closing concert and celebration.
The Pimlico community are incredibly proud to share the results from the festival adjudications:
- Blue Brass – Gold Award
- Orpheus Chamber Strings – Gold Award
- Symphony Orchestra – Silver Award
Pimlico Sport
2025 Interhouse Athletics Carnival
Congratulations to Pandanus for taking out the 2025 Athletics Carnival, Phoenix for the Spirit house and everyone who participated! Awesome effort!
NQ All Schools Touch Carnival
Our Open Mixed Touch team recently took on the NQ All Schools Touch Carnival.
The team was up against some tough teams in the pool but managed to get 4th in the pool. The team worked really well together and pulled off some pretty impressive plays.
A massive shoutout and thank you to Mrs Shae Prince who stepped in as our coach for the weekend. Without her guidance and support, we would be lost. Another big thank you goes to year 12 students Kasey Goodman and Patience Millar for being our referees for the games. They gave up their weekend to come out and ref. Very much appreciated!
Thank you again! A big congratulations to our team again, you did a great job.
2025 Challenge Games
Our students recently participated in the Challenge Games, a two-day carnival celebrating inclusion and sporting fun for students with a disability.
The event was filled with smiles, teamwork, and excitement, with wheelchair rugby once again proving to be a crowd favourite!
We are so proud of our students for giving their best effort, embracing the spirit of the games, and showing such enthusiasm throughout the event.
Volleyball QLD Schools Cup
The Pimlico Boys Volleyball Team recently travelled to the Gold Coast to compete in the Queensland Seniors Schools Cup, taking on more than 200 teams from across the state.
In the elite 12 Boys Honours Division, our boys faced off against 14 teams over three intense days of competition—playing close to 30 sets of high-level volleyball.
After a series of strong performances, Pimlico advanced to the Quarter Finals, where they went head-to-head with volleyball powerhouse and eventual champions, Craigslea State High School. Despite already enduring two gruelling 5-set matches earlier that day, the team fought bravely in a tightly contested 3:1 battle.
We’re proud to announce that Pimlico finished in 5th place overall—an outstanding result that officially ranks them among the top five boys volleyball teams in Queensland!
Congratulations to our talented athletes for their incredible resilience, teamwork, and determination on court. A huge thank you to Coach Mr. Reupena and Team Manager Mr. Weis, as well as to parent Nish Sheehy for her support.
#PIMLICOPROUD
Paluma Push
Year 10 Student Laz Taylor took part in the Mike Carney Toyota Paluma Push in Hidden Valley by smashing out 30kms up a gruelling track.
Townsville Show Success
Congratulations and well done to our Year 9 Visual Arts Foundation and Year 10 Visual Arts Extension artists whose artworks were recently on display at the Townsville Show. We are delighted to share that a number of our students received awards for their exceptional drawings.
In the Secondary - Grade 7, 8 & 9 Emotional Expression section:
- 1st Prize - Willow
- 2nd Prize - Zyla
- 3rd Prize - Maysen
- Highly Commended - Eden
In the Secondary - Grade 10, 11 & 12 Open - Any Theme section:
- 1st Prize - Bernadette
- 2nd Prize - Kirra
- Highly Commended - Miriam
These award winning artworks and many more will be on display as part of this year's Artscape Exhibition from the 24th to 26th October.
Rugby 7’s
Congratulations to Layne Prince and Annalise Ridgill (both in year 10) for representing u16G Northern and QLD Maroons for Rugby 7s. In recent months they played at the State Championships in Toowoomba for Northern and the Australian Schools Championships in Sunshine Coast for QLD. The QLD Maroon girls won a gold medal at these championships with a win over NSW.
Emerging Matilda
Such an amazing effort by Year 9 student Lucy Ballinger at the recent Emerging Matildas Championship held in Sydney from July 15-20. Lucy was honoured to be named Vice Captain of the Qld White team, a role she embraced with enthusiasm. The team competed fiercely, representing Queensland with pride and determination with the end result placing them 7th out of 15 teams.
Basketball without Borders
Congratulations to Issac Weldon who was invited by the NBA and FIBA to attend the Basketball without Borders camp in Singapore. Basketball without borders Asia is an elite basketball camp for top young players from across the region. With NBA Coaches and players leading the camp participants in basketball skills, strength and conditioning, like skills and games and competition. Issac was 1 of 8 players selected in the All Stars boys team.
18 & Under Qld Football
Congratulations to Year 11 student Nate West who is playing in the 18&U Queensland Football Team at the Australian school sports games.
Lachlan Evennett Racing
Our very own racing super star, Lachlan Evennett has achieved another racing career highlight... the main story on the back page of the Townsville Bulletin! The Townsville talent held off the Toyota guest driver to reach the chequered flag first and claim his first race win in the series managing to hold his position from the like of Kiwi Supercars veteran Fabian Coulthard!
AIDA Queensland Irish Dancing Championships
Congratulations to Eamon O'Farrell competed at the AIDA Queensland Irish Dancing Championships. Eamon placed 2nd in the Junior Boys 11 Years Championship winning the Charmaine Paddick Perpetual Trophy and qualifying for worlds for the 2nd year in a row.
Canteen
Tuckshop Roster
SEPTEMBER | |||
MON | 25 | Aug | Cheryl Harrison, Jenny Goh (morning only) |
TUE | 26 | Aug | Yuka Vickerson |
WED | 27 | Aug | Yuka Vickerson |
THU | 28 | Aug | Marilyn Crannaford (morning only), HELP NEEDED PLEASE |
FRI | 29 | Aug | Wanda Austin |
MON | 1 | Sept | HELP NEEDED PLEASE |
TUE | 2 | Sept | Georgina Soto (morning only), Yuka Vickerson |
WED | 3 | Sept | HELP NEEDED PLEASE |
THU | 4 | Sept | Marilyn Crannaford (morning only), HELP NEEDED PLEASE |
FRI | 5 | Sept | PUPIL FREE DAY |
MON | 8 | Sept | Cheryl Harrison |
TUE | 9 | Sept | Yuka Vickerson |
WED | 10 | Sept | Yuka Vickerson |
THU | 11 | Sept | Marilyn Crannaford (morning only), HELP NEEDED PLEASE |
FRI | 12 | Sept | Sue Carruthers |
MON | 15 | Sept | HELP NEEDED PLEASE |
TUE | 16 | Sept | Yuka Vickerson |
WED | 17 | Sept | Leanne Roth |
THU | 18 | Sept | Marilyn Crannaford (morning only), HELP NEEDED PLEASE |
FRI | 19 | Sept | Sue Carruthers |
Volunteers
Our canteen is always in desperate need of some more lovely volunteers. We like to keep our prices at a reasonable price for the students, and also like to contribute our profit to the school for any needs that are required. We are a fun lot at Canteen and would love to have you join us. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Jeena on Ph. 47593432 or email 2049_canteen@eq.edu.au
Canteen Operating Hours
- Breakfasts & Pre-orders: 8.15am – 8.40am
- Break 1: 11:20 – 12.00
- Break 2: 1:10 – 1:50
Regards
Jeena Philips-Koshy
Library Information
Readers’ Cup State Finals
We are very excited for our Year 7/8 team who are participating in the State Finals of the Readers’ Cup competition in Brisbane on Thursday 4th September.
Readers’ Cup is an initiative of the Children’s Book Council of Australia in which teams of students read a set of prescribed books and then compete against other teams, answering questions about the books.
Our Year 7/8 team blitzed the field in the regional competition held in Term 2 and have been working extremely hard in preparation for the finals. We wish Oliver, Penny, Lilly A, Lilly M and Sienna all the very best for the competition. A big thank you to the P&C for your support!
Book Week Parade
With this years theme being "Book and adventure", our students (and staff) drew inspiration and came up with some highly creative outfits. Keep on reading!
Book Week@JCU
Miss Manning and a group of students will be attended Book Week@JCU on Friday 22nd August. Students will embark on an unforgettable adventure at the Townsville Bebegu Yumba Campus involving thought-provoking mini lectures, and workshops with renowned young adult and fantasy author Isobelle Carmody. They explored the campus and state-of-the-art library, and join in on Book Week dress-up fun and games. It was an opportunity to connect with fellow creative minds and see where a passion for storytelling, reading, and learning can take students.
Premier’s Reading Challenge
Friday 22nd August is also the final date of reading for the Premier’s Reading Challenge. All students in Years 7, 8 and 9 should submit their reading logs to the library (or their English teacher) to ensure they receive their certificate signed by the Premier. Many students have been conscientiously reading and we congratulate all who have been involved.
Library opening hours
Monday and Friday: 8:15am – 3:15pm including both breaks
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 8:15am – 3:30pm including both breaks
Best wishes
Alice Manning
Librarian
Finance News
Student Resource Scheme
Thank you to families who have either paid the annual SRS fee in full or are paying via term instalments or a customised payment plan. The Term 3 instalment due date for the final $75 was: 01/08/25.
If you have not yet made an SRS payment or arranged a payment plan, we ask that you contact our Student Accounts team as a matter of priority to arrange this. Our contact details are: accounts@pimlicoshs.eq.edu.au or 4759 3444.
Please also note that students can only attend camps, excursions, extra-curricular sport and other non-curriculum activities if the students' SRS fees are up to date.
If you have any questions or require assistance with a payment or a payment plan, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Year 9 & 11 camp
Invoices for these upcoming camps have now been sent, please check your emails or QParents app for details. Final abseiling activity invoices for the additional cost will be sent to those who chose this later in week.
Cashless
Reminder that Pimlico SHS is now cashless. The easiest way to pay any invoiced activities is through the BPoint link on the invoice or through the QParents app. You can however pay at the school via EFT or complete a transfer to our school bank account.
QParents
Make sure that you’ve signed up to QParents! You will have been sent a link to the email address registered with the school, however, please don’t hesitate to contact the office to ask for this to be resent. QParents is an online portal and mobile app used for the following…
The school is moving to use QParents to manage consent for excursions and other school activities. This is an efficient way for you to provide consent, see history of consent provided as well as be able to access information about the activity doing away with the need for paper-based forms.
Defence School Mentor (DSM)
We have a Defence School Mentor!
Proudly Supporting Defence Families
A Defence School Mentor (DSM) is a school employee dedicated to supporting Defence students, funded by Defence Member and Family Support, who can:
- Provide families with information about the school environment and the support available to assist with your child's schooling needs.
- Support students to access school based social and emotional support.
- Offer opportunities for students to build relationships and connections through events and other initiatives.
- Raise awareness in the school community about the impacts of the Defence lifestyle on students and families.
Contact your Defence School Mentor today!
Students: Your DSM is a friendly face who can support you at school.
Families: Your DSM can help with changing schools, community resources and more.
Staff: Collaborate with the DSM to enhance understanding and support for Defence students in the classroom.
For more information on Defence support available to ADF Members and Families, scan the QR code:
Community Education Counsellor (CEC)
Homework Club
Just a reminder, I run schools Homework Club it’s open to all students, no booking required, sign in and out system, and BYOD. Teachers and Teacher Aids are there to help with individual or group study. Held each Thursday from 3.05pm – 4.30pm in V1 and V2. Please check the bus timetable if necessary and snacks are provided at the end of the session.
2025 NAIDOC Celebrations
2025’s NAIDOC Week marked a powerful milestone: 50 years of honouring and elevating Indigenous voices, culture, and resilience. The 2025 theme, “The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy,” celebrates not only the achievements of the past but the bright future ahead, empowered by the strength of our young leaders, the vision of our communities, and the legacy of our ancestors.
We thank some very special people who helped in our school wide celebration:
- The Smoking Ceremony was performed by the Wulgurukaba Walkabouts, with 2 Pimlico Alumni.
- Dr Josephine Bourne, Former Pimlico CEC, was invited to give a powerful speech
- Tabreesha (Year 12) & Preston (Year 9) for performing during the Super Choirs rendition of our National Anthem
Together, we walk forward, honouring where we’ve come from and looking boldly to the next generation who will carry NAIDOC and their communities into the future.
EQI & International Students
International Student Welcome
This term we have been fortunate to have a huge contingent of international students from Brazil, Germany, Italy & Denmark, ready to begin their Aussie adventure and studies at Pimlico.
When our new internationals arrived, the Townsville airport was full of excitement as host families and our school coordinators waited - some well past midnight- with flowers, welcome signs and big smiles, eager to meet their students for the first time. For many of these students, this wasn't just their first time in Australia - it was also their very first time flying and leaving their home countries.
Some of our students are here for just one term, whilst other will stay for six months or up to a full year. No matter how long they are with us, we are excited to have them as part of our school community.
On the first week of term, students took part in a fun and informative orientation program that included school and homestay presentations, a guided tour of the school grounds, meeting key staff at our school, subject selections, assistance with technology plus an introduction to Australian snacks with very mixed reactions to Vegemite.
The orientation program also included a visit to the School Locker to purchase uniforms and a local tour to the Strand and Jezzine Barracks, soaking up the sunshine and experiencing beautiful Townsville - a perfect welcome to their new home away from home. The final part of the Orientation was an EQI water skills assessment at the Kokoda Memorial Pool. Thank you to Ms Sheppard for supporting our students with the assessment.
There was plenty of excitement when our international group wore their school uniform for the first time which was a new experience for many who don't wear uniforms in their home countries.
A big thank you to our school community for helping our international students feel welcome from day one and the team from The School Locker for assisting our students with their school uniform purchases and a huge thank you to our amazing host families for opening your home and hearts to these students. Your warmth and hospitality have made their first moments in Australia truly special.
Become a Homestay Family
If you would like the experience of hosting an international student at your place, or even just curious as what it involves, please get in contact with our International Home Stay Coordinator on sdemo0@eq.edu.au
Taste of Australia
Last week our international students teamed up with our hospitality class for a hands-on Aussie cooking workshop.
Together, they learned how to make some classic favourites - sausage rolls, Vegemite scrolls, lamingtons, damper and Anzac biscuits.
A huge thank you to Ms Burgess for making this workshop possible and sharing your time and expertise. The students had a fantastic time and loved the experience.
STARS
STARS teaming up with Grab&Go!
To support the community, culture, and leadership in Pimlico State High School students, the Year 7 Stars girls prepared fruit platters for all students this last Friday at the Grab&Go lunches.
Involving the students with the school and student community is a very important part of celebrating and recognising the different supports, students, and friendships that might be made along the way.
Health Services
Immunisations
Are your young person’s vaccinations up to date? The School Immunisation Program will be returning to Pimlico on Friday 29th August. If your year 7 or year 10 student has missed their vaccinations earlier this year, they can be caught up at this time. Please ask your young person to collect a consent card from the Front Office. Alternatively, you can download and print a consent card from the Queensland Health website, the link is provided below.
Simply complete, sign, and return the consent card to the Front Office by Monday 25th August. Remember, vaccination is the most effective way to protect your adolescent from diseases that can cause serious harm.
Student Services
Attendance Matters at Our School!
It is extremely important that your child is attending school regularly and research shows that students who do attend school regularly, achieve better academically and experience more positive outcomes. We're rolling out a refreshed attendance framework to support every student’s success. Here's what to expect:
- Students will receive regular updates on their attendance, with rewards each term for those with high attendance!
- Students who are absent from CARE should bring in a note or have a guardian respond to the absence text message. Unexplained CARE absences will result in detentions. Please reach out if you notice any problems.
- If we notice inconsistencies in your child’s attendance during the day, teachers may be in touch.
- Students with low attendance will be supported by our Year Level Deputies and Coordinators, working closely with families to re-engage them in learning.
You may notice more communication from staff — we’re committed to working with you to keep every student present, safe, and thriving!
Road Safety
As part of Road Safety week, on Monday all year 7, 8, 9 and 11 students attend a talk delivered by Transport Main Roads and the Queensland Police Service Traffic Branch about escooter and ebike safety.
The talk covered basic road rules and laws relating to escooters and ebikes. Below is a summary of these rules specifically for escooters:
E-scooters rules
To ensure you and your child know the rules to stay as safe as possible when using e-scooters or e-skateboards, visit StreetSmarts Qld (click the pic!) for a quick and easy to understand listing of the rules and fines. Most importantly, remember:
- Only those aged 16+ can ride e-scooters and e-skateboards unsupervised.
- Helmets must be worn with the straps properly fastened (bicycle or motorcycle helmets) and bells fitted for devices with handlebars.
- No passengers/doubling – only one person riding an e-scooter.
- Speed limit of 12km/h on footpaths and shared paths.
- Serious fines may apply to riders, and parents, if caught breaking the rules.
For more information, head to: https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/pmd/get-the-facts/
Grab n Go & Breakfast Club
Events and Notices
Win a Rav 4 with Cowboys House
Support the students of NRL Cowboys House and the Cowboys Community Foundation’s life-changing programs with a ticket in the Cowboys For the North Raffle!
This is a major fundraiser for the Cowboys Community Foundation, the charity arm of the North Queensland Toyota Cowboys, and every ticket makes a difference.
India Fest
India Fest Townsville – Festivals of India – will be held this Saturday, 23rd August at Riverway, from 10 AM. This free, family-friendly event features cultural performances, workshops, and authentic Indian food.
Parentline
Parentline is funded by the Queensland Department of Education to offer free and confidential, one-off or ongoing telephone counselling for parents and others who care for young people.
We know that families are complex and that anything can affect the functioning of a family. We are available from 6am to midnight, 7 days per week. Every day of the year. Parents and carers have the option to call or use our web chat. Regardless, they are always speaking with a degree qualified counsellor who is able to offer support, guidance, and therapeutic care.
Whether their concerns feel big or small, we are here to support Qld families. Phone 1300 30 1300 or visit www.parentline.com.au
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