May 2025

Dates for the Diary

From the Principal's Pen

This newsletter finds us at the halfway point of Term 2!

Sunshine, smiles, and endless fun defined last Friday's Under 8's Day! From a jumping castle and fire engine to face painting, music, gymnastics, and even some goats, there was something for everyone. 

A massive well done also goes to our 2025 Great Wheelbarrow Team. What an incredible group of young people in completing the 140km race, taking second place in the schools category and fourth overall. A big thank you to the parents and staff who supported, cooked, encouraged and put up with the scent of deep heat for three days. What a time was had!

Sports Hall

As the sun started shining, the machinery arrived on site to commence the earthworks for the new sports hall. We are praying that the construction will all be complete before the next wet season starts.

Assessments

As we move into the busy assessment time, this is just a friendly reminder of the process for the completion of exams and assessments, should your child/ren be absent from school.

1. If your family has a planned time away from school and your child misses an exam, notification to the College must be made, enabling your child to sit the exam at the next available time. Assignments which are due during your planned time away should be submitted early or sent via email before 4:00pm on the due date.
2. If your child has an unplanned absence and misses an exam, we will organise an alternative time to sit the exam.
3. If your child is absent on a day that an assignment is due, your child is required to submit the task to their teacher via email or the Google Classroom before 4:00pm on the due date or request an extension via email from their teacher.

In a situation where a student does not sit an exam, the student will receive a ‘Not Rated’ and the final subject result for the Semester Report will be based on the evidence the teacher has.

Congratulations

We have wonderful news to share with our school community! Our fantastic Grade 3 teacher, Mrs. Naomi Lindsey, and her husband Michael are expecting their first baby! We send them our heartfelt congratulations as they embark on this exciting journey.

Mrs. Lindsey will be on maternity leave for Semester 2. We're delighted to have Mrs. Clare Baertschi join us, who will be teaching Grade 3 in Mrs. Lindsey's place. Please join us in praying for the safe arrival of Mrs. Lindsey's new baby.

Dr Chris Radcliffe

Christian Studies

Like Father, Like Son

You’ve likely heard, “He’s the spitting image of his dad.” This idiom is used to describe a perfect likeness or counterpart in appearance and actions. The phrase is possibly linked to the idea of a child looking or acting so much like a parent that it was as if they were "spit out" of their mouth. 

Have you ever paused to think about the power of saliva, that humble oral fluid we often overlook? Far from just a damp patch on our pillows from drooling while we sleep, it is a sophisticated substance that performs vital roles in our lives. It initiates digestion, enabling us to enjoy and digest our food, while its proteins and enzymes fortify our oral health. While our saliva is mostly used for these purposes, it has also been used in the past for shining footwear, hence the term ‘spitshine’. Before the invention of modern shoe polishes, people would spit on their shoes and rub the saliva into the leather. The proteins would form a glaze to give the shoes a glossy sheen, restoring them to an almost new look, much to the shoe owner’s delight. Interestingly, the secret to an exceptional shine lay not just in the technique but in the spirit of the polisher. A joyful mood elevated the protein levels in the saliva, resulting in a more lustrous finish. Indeed, "the happier you feel, the brighter the heel."

But what does this have to do with the image of God being restored in us? The more we look into God’s perfection, we discover that we are corrupted by sinful nature; more specifically, the curse of death! The curse of which its effects so twist our likeness to God that we are grotesque and reprehensible! Martin Luther described our sinful condition as being “incurvatus in se,” or turned in on itself, completely incapable of untwisting to its previous being. The twisted image which stares back at us closer resembles all that God is not than to what He is! As stated by English archbishop William Temple, “our sin means that we make ourselves, in a thousand different ways, the centre of the universe. But then our soul is bent over, turned in on itself, separates itself from the source of true life and nourishment, and eventually starves itself of spiritual oxygen, shrivels up, becomes hard, and dies.”

Picture the scene at Lazarus' tomb, where Martha's words capture the despair: "Lord, by this time there is a stench, for he has been dead four days." Facing the reality of death and the impossibility of Lazarus raising himself, hope seemed lost to his two sisters. Yet, in this moment of hopelessness, Jesus stepped in, a divine intervention that defied and shattered death's grip. Through this miraculous act, not only was Lazarus brought back to life, but the glory of God was revealed through death’s defeat. In the same way, this intervening work of God in restoring His image in humanity is not about making bad people good; it is about making dead people live!

When Adam and Eve fell, God, not in a punitive measure but in a profound act of mercy, drove them from the Garden to protect the tree of life. This decisive "safety measure" was pivotal in His divine plan. If they had eaten from the tree in their fallen state, they and their progeny would have been trapped in eternal separation from God, living forever without hope. However, through this intervention, physical death was introduced, becoming the very means by which God orchestrated our salvation. By sending His Son to die on the cross, God opened the path to redemption and eternal life. 

In concluding this series on the image of God, we see how He transformed the greatest atrocity brought by sin into the most profound act of redemption. Through His redemptive work alone, we can attain the true image and likeness of God. His breath of life flows through us once more, enabling us to know Him in righteousness and true holiness. 

But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels, for the suffering of death crowned with glory and honor, that He, by the grace of God, might taste death for everyone….Inasmuch then as the children have partaken of flesh and blood, He Himself likewise shared in the same, that through death He might destroy him who had the power of death, that is, the devil, and release those who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. (Hebrews 2:9, 14-15 NKJV)

Jason Kauffman

Head of Spiritual Formation

From our Deputy's Desk

Under 8’s Morning a Joyful Success!
Our recent Under 8’s Morning was a wonderful celebration of early childhood fun, laughter, and learning! The school grounds were buzzing with excitement as children enjoyed a range of engaging activities, including face painting, a jumping castle, beading, crown making, and plenty of music and fun. And to top it off, the sunshine was magnificent and an answer to prayer!

We're incredibly grateful to the local day care centres, firies, VPG, Parent Pathways, Mainly Music, Flick Sports Academy, Momentum Gymnastics and of course Coffee by Hannie for their support. The coffee van was a big hit with parents, many of whom joined in the festivities and helped create a warm and friendly atmosphere. A massive shout-out to our senior students! Their dedication in giving up their time to lead a range of  activities made the day truly special and engaging for all the students and visitors. 

It was great to see so many smiling faces, and we’re proud to have hosted such a positive and memorable event for our youngest learners and their families.

Mrs Sharryn Westbrook

From our SWAN team

Executive functioning skills are those used to manage everyday tasks such as planning, solving problems, following instructions, organising and adapting to new situations. People use these skills everyday and although some may seem to come naturally, they are learnt and can be improved with teaching and practise. See the graphic below for simple ideas to help build your child's executive functioning skills at home, or, if you'd like to know more, click the link to access Harvard University's guides for different age groups.

Primary News

Our Year 3 students had an exciting adventure recently when they visited the Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) hangar and training centre in Mareeba. The excursion gave students a firsthand look at how aviation helps remote communities, with highlights including exploring small aircraft, speaking with real pilots, and learning how planes are used to deliver vital supplies and services. The visit tied in beautifully with the students’ studies on transport and community, and everyone returned buzzing with new knowledge and inspiration!

This week, our Prep to Year 3 students joined thousands of others across the country to celebrate National Simultaneous Storytime by reading The Truck Cat by Deborah Frenkel. Students loved the fun and heartwarming tale of a curious cat who finds adventure on the road. To bring the story to life, our younger classes made their very own cat masks. It was a joyful time of reading, creativity, and shared storytelling.

Mrs Naomi Lindsey

Secondary News

Google Classroom Information Evening
Thank you to all the parents who joined us for our recent Google Classroom information evening! It was a great opportunity to explore the platform together and discuss practical ways to support students in their learning.

If you weren’t able to attend, don’t worry—you can still access the helpful parent guide that was shared on the night via the link below:
👉 Google Classroom Parent Guide

JCU-Newman Interschool Maths Competition

Last Thursday, nine students from Years 7 to 9 were selected to represent our school at the JCU–Newman Interschool Maths Competition, held at the James Cook University Campus. This individual competition was designed by JCU lecturers and tested students' problem-solving abilities, mathematical understanding, and critical thinking skills.

In addition to the competition, students enjoyed a guided tour of the JCU campus and were treated to plenty of food and hospitality throughout the day. With over 140 students in attendance, it was a fantastic opportunity for our students to challenge themselves alongside peers from across the region.

While we didn’t place this time, the experience was both valuable and enjoyable, offering insight into higher-level mathematics and university life. Congratulations to all students involved, and a special thank you to Mr O’Connell for driving the bus and supporting the team throughout the day.

Ms Janice Smorti

Duke of Edinburgh

Our 2025 Bronze Adventurous Journey is underway! This part marks the highlight of our Duke of Edinburgh program at Jubilee Christian College. 

A group of our secondary students recently embraced the challenge of leadership, navigation, and personal growth during a 4-day canoeing expedition on Lake Tinaroo. With perfect weather and stunning surroundings, it was an unforgettable experience. Throughout the journey, students formed new friendships, developed valuable skills, and experienced the deep satisfaction that comes from completing a significant challenge.

In Term 3, a second group of students will take on their own adventure—hiking the iconic Thorsborne Trail on Hinchinbrook Island (stay tuned for more details on the parent information evening later in the term).

As the year continues, participants will keep working toward their Bronze Award by engaging in physical recreation, developing new skills, and contributing through voluntary service.

Mr Ben Fuhrmann

Senior Secondary Coordinator

And just like that, we are halfway through the term.

A thought: The passing of time is a reminder that yesterday's tomorrow is today, and the decisions we made then are what unfold in the present. This applies both in the big scheme of life and the so-called ‘small’ things. Choosing to lay out your uniform the night before can spare you the frustration and rush of searching for it in the morning. Taking the time each evening to review your work helps to deepen your understanding and can strengthen your ability to recall the material during an exam. In this way, every choice, no matter how small it seems at the time, builds the reality we live in and shapes the outcomes we experience.

In the same way, the results we see—whether success or struggle—are often a direct reflection of the thought and effort we put in. It’s not just ‘luck’ or chance; it’s the consistent choices and actions that create the path forward. When we invest time and care into what we do, the outcomes naturally follow, revealing the connection between our efforts and the results they help create—even if those results aren’t always what we expect.

This week our year 10’s have been off at camp! I am really looking forward to hearing of their adventures.

Last week, our Year 11 and 12 students took part in the Driver IQ school incursion, delivered by RACQ. The session was highly engaging and informative, offering a range of interactive activities that allowed students to get hands-on with key road safety concepts. The RACQ facilitators were particularly impressed with the level of respect, enthusiasm, and maturity shown by our senior students. A big thank you and well done to all who participated—you represented our school exceptionally well!

I am here to support parents/guardians and students through the senior years (Years 10 - 12). Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns. 

Mrs Suzannah Allen

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men. 

- Colossians 3:23

Great Wheelbarrow Race

Jubilee Jets Break Records at 2025 Great Wheelbarrow Race

The 22nd Bendigo Bank Great Wheelbarrow Race was the biggest yet, with 50 teams tackling the 140km journey from Mareeba to Chillagoe—and the Jubilee Jets were once again a standout team.

Competing in the highly competitive schools division, the Jets finished 2nd in their category and 4th overall—our best-ever result. Not only that, they broke Jubilee College records on all three days, shaving an impressive 18 minutes off last year’s total time.

With determination, grit, and great team spirit, the Jets averaged over 19km/h across the first two days and held strong through the challenging final leg to finish in a record 7:28:19.

Beyond the race, the team raised $2,470 for MAF (Mareeba base) through a trivia night, BBQs, and a Bunnings sausage sizzle.

This unforgettable experience built resilience, leadership, and unity. A huge thank you to our support crew, parents, and sponsors—and congratulations to our incredible students. (For a full report including times and records, please follow this link.)

Go Jets!

Mr Neal Hillyard

Jubilee Services Team

Fundraising Update!

The Mission Trip student flights are FULLY FUNDED! 

After many fundraising efforts from every corner of the college - the Service Team is VERY EXCITED to announce that the Mission Student flights have been paid for in full - thanks to the generosity of the Jubilee Christian College community.  On behalf ot the Mission Trip Staff and Students - I say THANK YOU for your support! Every single dollar has helped us reach our goal!

The team cannot wait to update you on our trip - students from across the state will head to Weipa on June 21st - just one month to go!

Community Notices

The Non State School Transport Assistance Scheme provides financial assistance for families transporting students to non-state schools in QLD. For more information watch the video below or go to https://www.schooltransport.com.au/