Mrs Kylie Cochran

Head of School Secondary

As we head into the end of term, I  would like to take this opportunity to wish Head of School Secondary Stuart Edwards all the best as he heads of for a well deserved break on Friday. Stuart will be taking long service leave for all of Term 3 and will get to enjoy some precious time with his family.

I would also like to welcome Rebekah Bidois to Bentley Park College, who will be joining us from Tully State High School in the role of Acting Head of School Secondary for the term.

Reading through the Australian Curriculum

On Wednesday of Week 8, we had the privilege of hosting the Queensland Department of Education's Principal in Residence - Reading, Clayton Carnes, School Improvement Coach, Danielle Priday, and leaders from Woree State High School. The purpose of their visit was to view the College's highly successful approach to implementing Reading framework.

The day centred on 'Reading through the Australian Curriculum', moving through Prep, Year 1, Year 5 and Junior Secondary classes to see instructional routines and talk with students. 

Extensive positive feedback was provided, acknowledging the College's long-term commitment and unified purpose of improving reading; and the planning and professional development and experience for all staff - from leaders and teachers, to teacher aides, and to our students.

Feedback included:

• Staff are highly engaged across the College, with student engagement in reading being a major success.
• 'P-12ness', pride and ownership exist across the College in an authentic way, improving outcomes for students.
• Classrooms are calm, with explicit instruction and an appropriate learning pace.
• Practices are being fed back to students.
• There's a positive school environment, and our classrooms and libraries are symbolic of our reading journey.

We are very proud of the incredible work of College staff! Thank you also to the teachers who volunteered their classes for the visits, which was greatly appreciated by all.

In Queensland state schools, reading is taught across all learning areas of the Australian Curriculum using evidence-informed teaching practices. he Department of Education Reading Position Statement, linked below, provides more information on our commitment to reading. 

Parent/Carer communication and events

In Term 3 there will be several important events where parents and carers will have the opportunity to connect with staff:

• Secondary Parent Teacher Interviews: Tuesday 22 July, 3.20 pm to 6.00 pm
• Year 7 2026 Enrolment Information Session: Tuesday 29 July, 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm
• Year 11 2026 Enrolment Information Session: Tuesday 29 July, 5.00 pm to 6.30 pm
• Prep Enrolment Information Sessions and Tours: Tuesdays from 29 July, 9.00 am to 10.00 am
• Primary Parent Teacher Interviews: Tuesday 5 August, 3.15 pm to 5.00 pm
• Year 11 Enrolment Interviews: Monday 18 August to Friday 5 September

It is very important for parents and carers to have a clear understanding of their child's academic progress and pathway options, and support their child through the crucial school junctions in Primary, Junior Secondary and Senior Secondary.

More information on these events has been or will be distributed soon. We strongly encourage you to attend all relevant sessions and look forward to seeing you!

Emergency Evacuation Drill

We held a whole-College Emergency Evacuation Drill on Wednesday 11 June. Staff and students demonstrated a good knowledge of the procedure and evacuated the buildings to the oval in almost record time.

Safe school drop-offs and pick-ups

Stop-Drop-Go Zones

There are three Stop-Drop-Go Zones at the College, which have been chosen to provide the safest entry and exit for students during peak periods of traffic movement:

• Primary: McLaughlin Road, near Gate 9
• Secondary: Borrowdale Close, near Gate 23
• Special Education Program (SEP): F Block cul-de-sac off McLaughlin Road, near Gate 6

You can see the Zones on the College Map. Parents/carers must ensure they use the Stop-Drop-Go Zones rather than dropping students off at the footpath along McLaughlin Road. 

Also, they must ensure they do not leave their vehicle while in these Zones. They are designed to enable fast and safe drop-offs and pick-ups and are not car parks. 

Car parking

An important reminder that parents and carers are to please use designated car parks only at the College, and are not to park in:

• Stop-Drop-Go Zones
• designated disability zones without appropriate permission
• designated loading zones
• the five minute zones on McLaughlin Road
• the cul-de-sac in front of F Block
• the Cairns Early Years carpark
• driveways to buildings and sheds
• garden or lawn areas
• staff carparking areas. 

For more information, please see the Safe Secure Environment Policy on our website.

No excuse for school abuse

Schools are workplaces and, just like any workplace, abuse or aggression of any kind is unacceptable. While most interactions are positive, there's no excuse for aggressive or harassing behaviour either in person or online. Everyone has the right to be safe at work.

We thank you in advance for treating our school staff, as well as students and other parents and carers and school visitors, with respect. 

Tropical Fridays for our Cleaners

Don't Jackie, Sharon, Julie and Maddie look great?! They're members of our wonderful cleaning team, who all have gorgeous new 'Tropical Friday' shirts!!

Our cleaners work hard every morning and afternoon to keep our learning, work and play spaces fresh and clean. Thanks team for all you do for us!

Our cleaners will work hard during the first week of the holidays, but will enjoy the second week off to recharge before Semester 2! Have a great time, team!!

Winter school holiday break

On behalf of Bentley Park College staff, I wish you a safe and happy winter school holiday break. School holidays begin this Saturday 28 June, and Semester 2 commences for all students from Prep to Year 12 on Monday 14 July.

Term 3: A reminder that Friday 18 July (Week 1) is the Cairns Show public holiday; and Friday 5 September (Week 8) is a Queensland-wide state school student free day. 

Mr Jamie Finger

Primary Parent Teacher Interviews

Information on our Semester 2 Primary Parent Teacher Interviews went home with reports on Wednesday. They will be held on Tuesday 5 August from 3.15 pm to 5.00 pm.

Interviews are strictly 10 minutes long and spaces are limited. If you require more time with a particular teacher, please arrange a separate meeting by telephoning the school on 4040 8104.

To make a booking, go to www.schoolinterviews.com.au and enter the code 26d8h or click on the QR code and follow the prompts.

For more information, please see our website:

Parent teacher communication https://bentleyparkcollege.eq.edu.au/our-college/parent-teacher-communication

Premier's Reading Challenge 

Primary students are throwing themselves in the Premier’s Reading Challenge, with dozens of students already making time to read the target of 20 books for P-4, and15 books for Years 5-6, with many exceeding it!

The Challenge continues until Friday 22 August. Every student who completes the challenge and returns the completed record reader form will receive a Certificate of Achievement from the Premier.

Prep 2025 at Bentley Park College

Prep enrolments are now open for children who will turn five by 30 June 2026. Prep tours will be held each Tuesday from 9.00 am to 10.00 am from 29 July (Term 3, Week 3).

Our future Preppies visited the College for a story in the library, Under Eights Day and Athletics Carnival this semester, and they will also attend our Prep classrooms for Art, and the upcoming Book Week Parade next term. These events are a great way for the Kindy kids to meet our teachers and familiarise themselves with 'big school'.

Please contact us if you have any questions about Prep.

Year 6 into 7 Transition

Year 6 into 7 Transition Program

We are excited to announce the implementation of our Year 6 into 7 Transition Program for Term 3, 2025. This program is designed to provide our Year 6 students at Bentley Park College with valuable exposure to a variety of secondary school subjects, easing the transition process as they move into Year 7 in 2026.

The program will run from Weeks 2 to 9 in Term 3, on Wednesdays. A letter will be distributed with more information in Week 1 of next term.

Year 7 2026 Enrolment Information Session

On Tuesday 29 July (Term 3, Week 3) from 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm, Bentley Park College will be hosting its annual Year 7 Enrolment Information Session for current Year 6 students entering Year 7 in 2025.

The event will begin the College Theatre at 4.00 pm for an information session. From 4.30 pm, it will move to the Student Centre (Senior Stadium), which is the large building at the front of the school attached to the outdoor court, for a Q&A session until 5.00 pm.

This event is a great opportunity for students and parents/carers to gain valuable information and familiarise themselves with the numerous programs offered by the College in preparation for next year.

The afternoon will be expo-style, showcasing the various curriculum opportunities available as well as the extensive academic, cultural, technological, citizenship and sporting activities on offer.

Expression of interest for enrolment forms will be available on the night, as well as application for Bentley Park College’s Junior Secondary Aspire classes.

If you are interested in attending the event, please email the student enrolment email address (enrolments@bentleyparkcollege.com.au) and include the following information: 

• names of people attending
• current school
• date of birth
• address
• best contact number
• email address.

Primary Upcoming Events:

• Cairns and District Junior Eisteddfod: 19 June – 4 July
• Cairns Show public holiday: Friday 18 July
• P-2 Academic Awards: Monday 21 July
• Year 3-6 Academic Awards: Friday 25 July
• Primary Parent Teacher Interviews: Tuesday 5 August
• K-2 Book Week Parade: Thursday 21 August
• Year 3-6 Book Week events: Friday 22 August
• P&C Father’s Day Gift Stall: 2-4 September
• Year 5 & 6 Reef Trip: Thursday 18 September

Parent Teacher Interviews

Secondary Parent Teacher Interviews will be held on Tuesday 22 July from 3.20 pm to 6.00 pm in G Block, which is easily accessed via the Borrowdale Close entrance.

To make a booking, go to www.schoolinterviews.com.au and enter the code sgz28 or click on the QR code and follow the prompts.

For more information, please see our website:

Year 12 Formal

Preparations for the 2025 Bentley Park College Golden Hour Year 12 Formal are well underway, with invitations set to be distributed to REP-eligible students in Week 1 of next term. This highly-anticipated event to be held on Friday 5September (Week 8 of Term 3) at the Hilton Cairns. 

Mr Richard Elstone has recently taken over from Mr Leon Wilcox as Year 12 Coordinator. We thank Leon for his work with this cohort since 2024, and thank Richard in advance for leading the group through to their Graduation in November. 

Tickets will be $145 and will go on sale to those students on REP from Tuesday of Week 2. Approved partner tickets will also go on sale - completed media consent forms are essential to purchase a ticket. Consent is voluntary, but a completed form is required. Parent/carer tickets will also be on sale to parents/carers of REP eligible students. 

The key contact people during this time are: 

• Mr Richard Elstone, Year 12 Coordinator
  • Email: rwels30@eq.edu.au  Phone :  4040 8111
• Mr Stuart Hepburn, Head of Department Senior Secondary
  • Email: shepb6@eq.edu.au Phone :  4040 8111

Flexible Wednesdays

Next semester, students in Years 11 and 12 will begin a flexi afternoon on Wednesdays, to give them an opportunity to participate in extra study or work.  

Students will be able to engage in one of the following options during this time:

Option 1: Leave school at 11.30 am and go home to study or work on assessments (signing out is not required). 11.30 am constitutes the end of the school day for Year 11 and 12 students on Wednesdays. Once students leave school grounds at this time they are no longer under our duty of care.

Option 2: Leave school at 11.30 am and engage in mandatory work placement for school-based traineeships or vocational qualifications being completed through the school (e.g. Certificate II in Health).

Option 3: Stay at school and access specialist facilities (such as manual arts workshops, art rooms) to complete assessment work as negotiated with the Senior Secondary team (students will need to sign in).

Option 4: Stay at school and study in the library with teacher/teacher aide support provided (students will need to sign in).

Year 10 into Year 11 Transition

In Week 3 of next term, our Year 10s will attend pathways sessions and subject orientation sessions. This will be followed by our Year 11 Enrolment Information Session on Tuesday 29 July, which they attend with parents/carers.  In August and September, Year 11 enrolment interviews will occur for all Year 10 students.

The session will begin in the Senior Stadium for the Pathways Expo from 5.00 pm to 5.45 pm. It will then be followed by an information session in the College Theatre from 5.45 pm to 6.30 pm.

B'Coin News

Exciting Updates from the B’Coin Shop!

This term, our Year Coordinators have been working hard to revamp the B’Coin Shop, making it more engaging and rewarding for students. One of the highlights was the B’Coin Blitz Raffle, where students in Years 7, 8, and 9 had the chance to exchange their B’Coins for raffle tickets to win some fantastic prizes.

Congratulations to our lucky winners:
Jack F (7A), Frank L (9E), Sienna M (7D) – who won two prizes! – Taylor L (7A), Elise B (9J), Jazlin A (9J), Mylanee H (7D), and Oliver M (7I).

Prizes included:
5 x $10 Tuckshop Vouchers
$30 Rebel Sport Voucher
$30 Movie Voucher
$50 JB Hi-Fi Voucher
$50 Visa Gift Card

To wrap up the term, the B’Coin Shop held a Fire Sale, with selected items offered at 50% off.

Looking ahead to next term, we’re excited to announce a freshly restocked B’Coin Shop featuring a wide range of new and exciting items for students to purchase with their B’Coins. Some of the upcoming items include an NRL Football, LEGO sets, portable speakers, and even Formal Uniform pieces.

Encourage your child to keep earning and saving their B’Coins — they won’t want to miss what’s coming next! 

Junior Secondary (Years 7-9)

Sara Janke
Deputy Principal Junior Secondary Teaching and Learning
sjank11@eq.edu.au

As Term 2 ends, we’d like to extend a warm thank you to our feeder schools, Isabella State School, White Rock State School and Hambledon State School, for their enthusiastic participation in our recent Year 6 into Year 7 Transition Days. Students enjoyed a variety of engaging activities including art, cooking, science experiments and computer lab visits, giving them a taste of life at Bentley Park College. More transition events are planned for the coming months, so please keep an eye on our social media channels for updates and opportunities to get involved. Our next big event is our Year 7 2026 Enrolment Information Session in Term 3, Week 3.

We have been proud to showcase our reading improvement work this term to visitors from Central Office in Brisbane, Regional Office in Cairns and Woree State School. Our collaboration with Woree continues as we work together to ensure reading success for all students. This week, key staff participated in DIBELS training, strengthening our multi-tiered systems of support for reading. Feedback from educational alliances and visitors has been very positive, and implementation is progressing well.

As we prepare for Semester 2, minor class changes may occur based on our Semester 1 data review. This includes considerations around devices, attendance, behaviour composition and room allocations to best support student learning. In addition, we are working to strengthen teacher-student continuity where possible, while also making adjustments that align with staffing and timetable requirements.

Wishing all our students, families and staff a safe and restful mid-year break. We look forward to an exciting and productive Term 3.

Year 7

Sam Keane
Year 7 Coordinator
skean4@eq.edu.au

This term has been a busy and exciting one for our Year 7 students! They've participated in a wide range of activities, and it was fantastic to see their hard work and talents on display during our end-of-term 'Show and Shine' event. Students highlighted the skills they’ve developed in their elective classes, with impressive performances in ukulele, dance, drama, and video production. The event was made even more vibrant by the incredible student artwork decorating the walls.

Another major highlight was the Junior Secondary Cup in Week 9. Year 7 had a competitive week, starting with strong second-place finishes in both the volleyball and art challenges. On Wednesday, they bounced back with an exciting win in the scavenger hunt, managing to find an amazing 32 out of 50 hidden ducks! After a narrow loss to Year 9 in Thursday’s Minute to Win It challenge, Year 7 rallied once more to win Friday’s trivia competition. This led to a tie for first place with Year 9—but thanks to a victorious tiebreaker, Year 7 emerged as the overall JS Cup Champions for Term 2! Congratulations to all involved!

Looking Ahead to Term 3

Next term promises even more fun and opportunities for growth. Our Year 7 Leadership Team will be organising two exciting events: a trivia competition and a table tennis tournament. We’re also preparing for our very first formal parade, where students will be recognised for their achievements in academics, attendance, and citizenship. The leadership team is looking forward to hosting this special celebration.

Well done on a fantastic term, Year 7 - we can't wait to see what you accomplish next!

Secondary Upcoming Events:

• Cairns and District Junior Eisteddfod: 19 June – 4 July
• Cairns Show public holiday: Friday 18 July
• Secondary Parent Teacher Interviews: Tuesday 22 July
• Junior Secondary Interschool Sport begins: Wednesday 23 July
• JCU Open Day for Schools: Friday 25 July
• Year 7 2026 Enrolment Information Session: Tuesday 29 July
• Year 11 2026 Enrolment Information Session: Tuesday 29 July
• National Science Week: 9-17 August
• Bullying No Way: National week of action: 11-15 August
• College Band Tour to Melbourne: 29 August to 2 September
• Student Free Day: Friday 5 September
• Year 12 Formal: Friday 5 September

2025 Captains' Profiles

Our 2025 College, Junior Secondary and Primary Captains are doing a great job leading and representing their cohorts, and inspiring their peers and younger students. Here's a little about why they love school and their advice for aspiring leaders. 

Year 1 Fire and Rescue visits

Year 1 had two visits from our friendly Fire and Rescue department this term. On the first visit, they learnt about good and bad fires, the dangers of smoke, dialling Triple Zero (000) in an emergency, the role of the emergency services in helping in a fire emergency, safety around fires and having a school and home escape plan.

On the second visit,  the Fire and Rescue team brought along their fire truck! They showed students the jaws of life and the instrument they use to turn off electricity. To finish, they allowed students to have a go of the fire hose and tested their sirens. Year 1s really enjoyed the experience!

Cairns Youth Council

The Story of how the Cairns Youth Council came about

by Vince, Year 10 student and Cairns Youth Council member

A new pilot program launched in Cairns on March 27 2023, aiming to empower local youth by establishing a Youth Council to involve them in local government decision-making. This initiative is a collaboration between the Cairns Regional Council and the Foundation for Young Australians (FYA), designed to encourage young people to take an active role in shaping their community.

The Young Mayors program specifically targets individuals aged 17 and under, allowing them to run for election to the Youth Council. This council  serves as a platform for these young leaders to address issues that directly affect their lives and futures.

Elected through a democratic process by their peers in the Cairns region, the Youth Council  identifies key priority areas and collaborates with the local council to implement various projects and events that resonate with the youth.

In 2023, then Cairns Mayor Bob Manning emphasised the significant contributions that young people can make to the community, highlighting the value they bring to the region. The Young Mayors program, inspired by successful models from the UK, invites any resident aged 17 and under in the Cairns Local Government Area to nominate themselves for a position on the Youth Council.

Cairns joins other Australian cities like Mackay, Horsham and Wollongong in piloting this innovative program, with plans to expand it to councils nationwide. During the election process, 24 nominated candidates  campaign for 39 days, engaging with their peers and participating in a 'Meet the Candidates' event focused on public speaking, and allows the community to get to know them better. This initiative not only fosters leadership skills among young people, but also ensures their voices are heard in local governance.

Then comes election week, the biggest, most stressful and exciting week for the candidates. In 2023, September and October, 24 young people campaigned for the 12 youth council seats. More than 3,500, young people aged 12 to 17 cast votes at 17 polling locations across the region. Then came counting day, when the FYA team counted all the votes from the week. They then call the successful candidates to ask if they would like to continue their journey to the youth council.

The Cairns Youth Council is the country’s fourth democratically elected council and the second to be sworn in for Queensland. A swearing in ceremony was held at Cairns Regional Council chambers in 2024 to mark the official start of the region’s inaugural Youth Council’s term in office. The Cairns Youth Council will serve an 18-month term in office from February 2024 to July 2025; and have a $10,000 budget to deliver their priority agenda.

Vince with then Cairns Mayor, Terry James

Yarns from Yaburu Bulmba 

Term 2 has been an exciting time in Yaburu Bulmba! Miss Nicola has joined YB as the new Year 10 Mentor, bringing with her a wealth of experience that will support and enrich the Year 10 YB girls.

Yaburu Bulmba is ending the term on a positive note. Our Week 10 TRP lesson was a class party for the 7s, 8s and 9s - full of good food, good music and fun games! The YB Mentors are wishing the girls a safe and relaxing holidays so that they return to school well-rested and ready for Term 3.

Just a reminder that the Kitchen is open Lunch 1 every day for breads and spreads, cold water and fruit. We also have a microwave available for girls to come and heat up their lunches from home.

Positive Star Girls

Yaburu Bulmba is celebrating our girls who have positive behaviour and make good choices! We have a brand-new board in the room that allows the girls to see when they have been nominated by their teachers or by a YB Mentor for positive behaviour.

On Wednesday of Week 10, YB hosted the Reward Lunch, and there were plenty of smiling faces as we celebrated positive behaviour and good choices. It was fantastic to see how many Yaburu Bulmba girls make the right choices and uphold the values of Bentley Park College and YB.

TRP Lessons

TRP Lessons this term have focused on reconciliation and teambuilding. The girls have engaged in a wide variety of lessons that strengthen their bond with their YB sisters and helped form new friendships. We’re looking forward to the exciting TRP lessons that have been planned for next term.

Term 3 Camps

There will be two Yaburu Bulmba camps next term.  The Junior Camp for Years 7,8 and 9 will be in Week 3, and the Senior Camp for Years 10, 11 and 12 will be in Week 5. Camp forms have now been handed out - please ensure that they are signed and returned. The $50 payment can be made at the College Administration office or online.

Camp will be at Quinola Lakes in Malanda so make sure to pack some warm clothes! Itineraries will be handed out the week before camp to all students who have returned forms and paid.

Young Indigenous Women in Leadership Event

Yaburu Bulmba attended the inaugural Young Indigenous Women in Leadership Event with Trinity Bay State High School and Yarrabah State School. It was an incredible day and our girls proudly represented the  College and Yaburu Bulmba.

There were 13 guest speakers who came and yarned with us, and they were all proud Indigenous women. The gathering was held in Reconciliation Week, and the theme of ‘Bridging Now to the Next’ was prevalent throughout the day.

CIAF

This year Bentley Park College’s very own Yaburu Bulmba students were selected to design Garments for the Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (CIAF) Fashion Performance, ‘Look & Listen’.

'Look and Listen', is a celebration of First Nations culture, showcasing breathtaking and visually arresting wearable art that culminates in a seamless fusion of groundbreaking fashion, modelling, design, and performance. 

Our girls will take centre stage following their Collection at the CIAF Fashion shows called 'LOOK' on Thursday 10  July 10.30 am, and Friday 11 July 5.30 pm. Tickets are available via the CIAF website, so come along and support our very talented girls – Elysia, Yoshikita, Shirley-Anne, Uneke, Savannah, Tahlia and Annabell.

The Yaburu Bulmba team:

Year 7: Ms Waisie: mailto:wnewm18@eq.edu.au

Year 8: Ms Siobhan: mailto:sderm0@eq.edu.au

Year 9: Ms Yasmin: mailto:ywill36@eq.edu.au

Year 10: Ms Nicola: ngaga0@eq.edu.au

Year 11, 12: Ms Kristen: mailto:kware57@eq.edu.au

Upcoming Citizenship Events:

• RACQ visit Years 3-6: 22-23 July
• Yaburu Bulmba Junior Camp at Quinola Lakes: 29-31 July
• School Support Staff Recognition Week: 4-8 August
• Bullying No Way: National week of action: 11-15 August
• Yaburu Bulmba Senior Camp at Quinola Lakes: 12-14 August
• Australian Teacher Aide Appreciation Week: 1-5 September
• P&C Father’s Day Gift Stall: 2-4 September
• Year 12 Formal: Friday 5 September
• BPC P&C Meeting: Tuesday 14 October
• World Teachers’ Day Qld: Friday 24 October

Peries IGA

Proud sponsor of our Citizenship Pillar of Excellence

Big Night Out

This term's ‘Big Night Out’ in the College Theatre showcased Bentley’s Arts program, providing a great night of entertainment for family, friends, students and staff!

Hosted by College Captains and talented Arts students Able and Jemma, the event brought together Secondary Music, Drama and Dance students and delivered an array of entertaining performances across two acts.

Well done to all the creatives who performed at this special evening:

• Musicians and vocalists: Lily, Heidi, Khloe, Oscar, Samantha, Gwendolyn, Sophia, Akamoe, Creana’Lee, Jeremy, Miley, Billy, Jason, Felicia, Rhys, Giaan, Jemma and Able, and the BPC Jazz Combo and Senior Choir.
• Actors: Nye, Kassie, Uneke, Taylor, Johnathon, Jake, Lily and Heidi
• Dancers: Bella, Genevieve, Aria, Savanna, Tiana, Nelia, Nelly and 7A Dance

The performances were beautifully complimented by the Art Gallery in the Theatre Foyer, with a magnificent display of painting, drawing, sculpture and ceramics created by our visual arts students. Congratulations to the winners of the inaugural ‘People’s Choice Art Awards’  -  Year 12 student Brooke for her painting 'Tainted Mind', and Year 9 student Elise for her turtle sculpture!

A massive thank you to our dedicated Arts staff for their work behind the scenes in the lead up to and on show night - Fiona Johnson (Music), Ivana Nicolaou (Music), Georgia Henson (Dance), Rachael Fullston (Arts), Adam Nash (Drama), Adam McCormick (Film), Karen Howser (Art) and Manuela Moro (Art)!

Big Night Out: Performances

Big Night Out: Visual Arts

People's Choice sculpture by Elise

Cairns Eisteddfod

The 2025 Cairns and District Junior Eisteddfod runs from 19 June to 4 July, with many BPC students performing on the stages of CPAC and the CDJE Hall over the 16 days.

School competitions were held this week – congratulations to all our performers! A huge thank you to teachers involved – Mrs Johnson, Mr Nash, Miss Henson, Mrs Nicolaou, Mr Barbagallo, Ms Bowen and Ms Hosking. Thank you also to our parents and carers for supporting these events!

Music:

• Percussion Ensemble: 2^nd place
• Stage Band: 3^rd place
• Secondary Choir - Vocal Ensemble: 3^rd place
• Concert Band: Highly Commended
• Junior Band: Highly Commended
• Secondary Choir – Modern Chorus: Highly Commended

 Drama:

• Shakespeare Monologue - Johnathon: 1st place
• Myth Legend Original Poem/Yarn - Taylor: 1st place
• Senior Set Poem - Johnathon: 1st place
• Year 7-9 Drama troupe: Highly Commended
• Poetry recitals - Nye and Taylor: Highly Commended
• Shakespeare Monologue - Taylor: Highly Commended

 Dance:

• Secondary Contemporary and Jazz Dance performances

Cairns Show Billboard Competition

Congratulations to Year 12 Visual Art student Chase for winning 1st prize in the digital art section of the 2025 BLA Cairns Show Billboard Competition with this work, Peace Out ! 

Chase's work will be displayed on a 12 meter-long billboard at Scott Street during the Cairns Show, and he will attend the BLA Awards ceremony at the Pullman Cairns International Hotel in November.

Receive>Respond

Year 12 Visual Art student, Wendy, was selected to participate in the 2025 Receive > Respond arts challenge, with the culminating exhibition launching at Tanks Arts Centre recently.

Artists aged 15 to 25 in the Cairns region are paired with another artist, with each artist responding in some way to that image to create a new artwork.

The resulting exhibition places the paired works together and gives the artists the chance to meet each other and discuss their responses.  Wendy is pictured here with her artwork on the left, ‘Metamorphosis’, and the paired work ‘The Glow Within’.

The exhibition runs at Tanks Arts Centre until Thursday 26 June, from 9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 2pm on the weekends.

Thank you to Cairns Regional Council, Peninsula Art Educators Association, Cairns Art Gallery and The Tanks for giving young artists this enriching artistic opportunity.

Upcoming Arts Events:

• Cairns and District Junior Eisteddfod: 19 June – 4 July
• Year 12 Drama: School holiday rehearsal 11-12 July
• Cairns Show Band and Dance performances: Thursday 17 July
• Year 9 Dance excursion to see Dance North: Thursday 24 July
• ‘It’s a Mad World’ School Performance Tour: Wednesday 20 August
• College Band Tour to Melbourne: 29 August to 2 September

STEMpreneurs

Bentley Park College students just wrapped up an epic three-day adventure at Woree State High School for the STEMpreneurs program – where STEM met entrepreneurship and BIG ideas came to life!  

Our students teamed up, got creative, and used their tech and business smarts to design products and services tackling real-world challenges facing Cairns and the globe in 2025. From brainstorming solutions to pitching their ideas to a panel of judges, these changemakers turned problems into possibilities!  

We’re SO proud of our #BPC legends for showcasing their STEM-powered business solutions, ready to make a difference in our community and beyond. The future is bright!

Esports

Minecraft

Check out what our BPC Year 9 Esports students have been building!

Using Minecraft Education, our talented team has recreated a huge section of our school—block by block, in perfect scale. But this time, there’s a twist: the model is set at night, and Creepers are lurking in the shadows! 

This project isn’t just about gaming—it’s about teamwork, creativity, and bringing digital skills to life. From mapping out classrooms to collaborating on every detail, our students have turned learning into an adventure. Minecraft Education is the perfect platform for building collaboration, critical thinking, and digital citizenship—all while having a blast.

Watch the video to see if you can spot the school's CE Block… and maybe a Creeper or two! 

Valor Esports Inclusion Grant

We are excited to announce that Bentley Park College has been awarded the Valor Esports Grant, launching a brand-new structured esports training program for our students.

This initiative is about more than just games. It’s about helping students build essential life and career skills through an activity they love. Through weekly sessions powered by the Valor platform, our students will grow in areas such as:

• Communication and teamwork: Students practice clear communication and cooperation under pressure — vital for both school and future work.
• Inclusion and belonging: Over 60% of student esports participants nationwide were previously uninvolved in school life. Esports offer a welcoming space for everyone.
• Attendance and motivation: Some schools report up to 10% increases in attendance, as students become excited to engage.
• Digital and critical thinking skills: from game strategy to hardware use, esports enhance digital literacy, strategic thinking, and even interest in STEM fields.

We’ve already kicked off our first sessions and are thrilled by the enthusiasm and engagement from our learners. The esports program helps students develop:

• problem-solving under pressure
• resilience and leadership
• focus and memory
• a sense of school pride and connection.

We’re proud to be at the forefront of this exciting educational movement. Stay tuned as we share our students’ progress and success stories throughout the year!

Robotics

RoboCup

Bentley Park College Robotics Club students won the FNQ QSITE Cordiner Trophy for the third year in a row at the recent Robotics RoboCup.

Approximately 70 robotics enthusiasts from Year 1 to 12 from four local schools - St Augustine's College, Redlynch State College and Out Lady Help of Christians - converged on the Bentley Park College Senior Stadium for the event.

Sponsored by QSITE, RoboCup was the culmination of over a year of building and programming robots to compete in three events – Rescue (line following and obstacle navigation), OnStage (dance) and Sumo.  Each competition required different engineering, design and programming.

BPC entered one robot in the Senior Secondary Rescue Competition, four robots in the Junior Secondary Rescue Competition, and one robot in Junior Secondary  Sumo – winning all three! Congratulations students!!

Consistency was the winning formula for team ‘Bob’, made up of Kayden (Year 12) and Dillon (Year 7). They won the Senior Secondary Rescue Competition in the play off -  Kayden won the competition back when he was in Year 7, and is handing the robot’s name of ‘Bob’ on to Dillon.

BPC took the top four places with their four teams in the Junior Secondary  Rescue Competition.  Adam and Koby’s team ‘Banana’, with their good building and clever coding, took first place

Armelle, who has been in Robotics Club for four years, and Aria, who in in her second year, showed their prowess at coding and engineering by winning the Junior Secondary  Sumo competition with one draw, four wins and no losses. 

Well done also to the other BPC participants – Benjamin, Maximus, Caleb, Jake, Coby, Lily, Chase, Lachlan, Cooper, Oliver, Madison, Braxton, Alex and Andrew, and also Robotics teachers Mr O’Grady and Mr Ryan.

Thank you and congratulations also to the other schools who participated in RoboCup, especially the winner of the Junior School Competitions and winner of the Holland Trophy and Cordiner Trophy, Redlynch State College.

Robotics Club

The Bentley Park College after-school Robotics Club was established to allow time for students in Years 5 to 12 to develop robots to compete in competitions. These competitions are run by QSITE each year at Cairns’ schools, including Bentley Park College.

Robotics Club is run by Secondary ICT Teacher Mr John O'Grady after school on Fridays from 3.15 pm to 4.45 pm in TA Block. In Term 1, the Club will run in Weeks 4 to 9; in Terms 2, 3 and 4 in Weeks 1-9. Interested students can collect an Excursion Consent Form from Mr O'Grady.

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) is a term used to describe a digital device ownership model where students or staff use their personally-owned devices to access the Department of Education and Training's (DET) information and communication technology (ICT) network. 

At Bentley Park College, we aim for as many students as possible to have access to their own device in response to the significant role technology plays in education.  Students are strongly encouraged to bring a personally-owned or hired device to school as a learning tool to provide a seamless movement between school and home. 

For more information on our BYOD Program, please see our website. 

H2O Student Laptop Program 

Our first H2O laptops have reached students' hands! Brothers Braxton and Jake received their devices from IT Support Officer Josh, one of the coordinators the program, and couldn't wait to login!!

The Bentley Park College Student Hire to Own (H2O) Laptop Program provides eligible students with exclusive use of their own laptop through a flexible payment plan that leads to full ownership. 

More information is available in the H2O Charter on our website, including the Charter Agreement form and Financial Application.

Upcoming Technology Events:

• Robotics Club: Friday afternoons, 3.15 pm to 3.45 pm
• ESport Fuse Cup Rocket League: Wednesday 30 June

Athletics Carnivals

The weather turned it on for the Secondary and Primary Athletics Carnivals in Weeks 5 and 9. It began with a competitors-only day for Secondary on Wednesday 21 May followed by the full day of Athletics on Friday 23 May. The K-2 Carnival was then held on Thursday 19 June and the 3-6 Carnival Friday 20 June. 

The results across the College mirrored 2024, with the blue Arlington Marlins again victorious in Primary, with the red Onyx Octopuses again taking Secondary. Well done to all competitors across all events, as well as all the staff and student volunteers who made the days such a great success! 

Special congratulations and thank you to our Primary HPE teachers, Ms Anna Verrios and Mr Alex Riches, and Secondary Sports Coordinator Mr Guy Millar, for coordinating the carnivals; and also to our Primary and Secondary House Captains, who did a sensational job helping with events and also dressing up in our new house mascot costumes for the march pasts and war cries!

Age Champions & new recordholders

Well done to all the first, second and third Age Champions - it was very close and there were multiple ties this year. Any student who has not yet received their Age Champion medallion or ribbon will receive one next term.

With all our Interhouse Sports Carnivals now completed for the year, as special congratulations goes out to those students who won multiple Age Champion medallions.

Special congrats to Hannah, Kalinda, Ta'Aliya, Allirah and Angel who were also Athletics and Cross Country Age Champions, with Hannah breaking the Open school record; and Mialy, who was also Athletics and Swimming Age Champion.

Well done to school Athletics record breakers Hannah (800m, 1500m), Beryl (100m, 200m, long jump), Breea (1500m), Allirah (200m, 1500m, triple jump), Aiden (400m, triple jump), Harlen (400m, long jump), Edmund (200m), Tevanaa, Tashanti and Faith (shot put), Eden (discus) and Tahsiana (javelin).

P-2 Athletics Carnival

3-6 Athletics Carnival

Primary Arlington House Captains Miles & Alivia

2025 Champions - Arlington

Secondary Onyx Leader Harrison and House Captain Kyan

Secondary Athletics Carnival

Congratulations to our Boys and Girls Volleyball teams on their incredible victories in the First Division CISSA Sport Grand Finals this term!

Our Boys team triumphed in a thrilling match against a strong Redlynch side, winning 2 sets to 1. A special shoutout to Nicholas, who was named Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.

The Girls team delivered a dominant performance, securing a straight-sets victory (2–0) in their Grand Final. Mariah was deservedly recognised as Player of the Match for her exceptional play.

It’s been a fantastic season for Bentley Park College, with six teams reaching the First Division Grand Finals and two teams advancing to the Premier Division Semi-Finals.

Well done to all our athletes and coaches for your hard work and dedication!

Boys and Girls Volleyball Champions

Reconciliation Week Volleyball

Yaburu Bulmba played Clontarf in the second annual Reconciliation Week Volleyball Competition, and won! It was a best of three, and YB took out every game!!

Congratulations to all the players on both sides. It was an exciting competition and YB are looking forward to bringing home the trophy again next year!

Sports Academy

Cowboys Challenge Champions!

Congratulations to our Rugby League Year 10 and Opens teams for both finishing first in the Cowboys Challenge and securing spots in the Grand Final! Both teams showed outstanding discipline, determination, and effort throughout the term.

Year 10 went on to win the Cowboys Challenge for the third year in a row, defeating Woree State High School 16-10 in an epic grand final rematch. In the Opens, BPC lost to Woree 14-10 in a golden point after being tied at full-time.

All teams played great games - well done to all the students and coaches involved from both schools!

QAS visit

Queensland Academy of Sport (QAS) staff visited the College this week to work with our Sports Academy students, conducting a series of elite-level physical tests designed to help identify emerging athletic talent as a part of their ongoing talent identification program for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.

The visit was a fantastic opportunity for students to gain valuable insights into the training, dedication and mindset required to become a professional athlete. It was an inspiring and educational experience that left a lasting impression on all involved.

Peninsula Football

Redlynch Central Sports Stadium was the place to be in May for the Peninsula Regional School Futsal Championships! Our girls and boys Football Academy students enjoyed taking the game indoors, requiring a similar but different skillset to outdoor football/soccer.

Well done to Cairns High for winning all three girls and one of the boys age groups, and St Augustine’s College for winning the other two boys age groups.

Thank you to Redlynch Central Sports for hosting the Championships and providing the pics

Karyn Murphy Gala Day

Congratulations to our Rugby League girls, who had an outstanding day on the field at the Karyn Murphy Cup today at the Mann Street grounds! The Year 7/8 girls Year 7/8 girls went undefeated all day, and the Year 9/10 girls won all but one game.

A special pat on the back for Zanndra and Kalinda for their Leadership Award wins, and Amy and Natalie for winning Encouragement Awards.

Upcoming Sports Events:

• FNQ Schools Cup Volleyball: 15-16 July
• FNQ Northern 9s Rugby League: 15 & 17, 28, 30 July
• TCS Track and Field Trials: 23-24 July
• Junior Secondary Interschool Sport begins: Wednesday 23 July
• Year 8 Rugby League competition begins: Wednesday 23 July
• Fowler’s Cup Netball Carnival: Thursday 31 July
• FNQ School Futsal Titles: 4 and 8 August

Northern Wheel Aligners: Proud Gold Sponsor of the Sports Academy

Safety at school crossings

Alumni

Calling Bentley Park College alumni (a graduate or former student of an educational institution) - we want to hear your story! Send us a short update and photo via email or Messenger to the Bentley Park College Facebook page if you're happy for us to share with the school and Cairns community!

To read bios of former students please click on the link below to take you to the Alumni page of our website.

Contact Details

Please ensure your contact details are up to date. If you have moved house or changed your phone number – please contact the Administration on 4040 8111 or email info@bentleyparkcollege.eq.edu.au to ensure that we can contact you. It is in your child’s best interests to have a valid contact number for a parent/carer.

The Department works actively to support students’ health and wellbeing in schools. If you are concerned about your child’s wellbeing, you can contact the College to ask what additional support might be available. Support is also available through a number of Queensland Government agencies and community organisations.

Parents and carers can call 13Health (13 43 25 84) at any time for practical medical advice and assistance.

You are also able to contact Lifeline Australia’s telephone counselling service on 13 11 14 for information and advice or obtain help and information from a local General Practitioner or Community Health Centre.

Queensland Health

A reminder that all the latest health information is available on the Queensland Health website. As always, the health and wellbeing of your children, and our staff, remain our focus.

Your Mental Wellbeing

The Queensland Government's website has a page with services and organisations to support you if you are struggling with your mental health. 

School Immunisation Program

Starting in 2024, the School Immunisation Program will include vaccination against the meningococcal B (menB) strain, the most common cause of illness and death from meningococcal disease in Queensland.

This is in addition to the protection already offered to Year 10 students against meningococcal strains A, C, W and Y. Parents/carers will receive an information package along with a consent form. It is important to read the information and discuss it with your child.  

More information for schools and parents/carers about this additional vaccination can be found on the Queensland Health services in state schools webpage.

Parentline

Parentline service supporting parents and carers

Parentline is a free, confidential counselling service available for all Queensland parents and carers.

If you need support navigating challenging situations, Parentline offers qualified counsellors who can help with expert advice, emotional support and referrals when needed.

Parentline’s services include:

• practical parenting resources on their website
• live webchat with professional counsellors
• phone support for immediate assistance (1300 30 1300)
• the option to pre-book ongoing sessions with the same counsellor
• online counsellor-facilitated parenting forums for shared support
• referrals to other family support services when additional help is needed. 

Visit their website (parentline.com.au) for more information today, or give them a call on 1300 30 1300.

Triple P

The Teen Triple P- Positive Parenting Program provides families with children aged between 10 to 16 years, free, expert parenting advice. Learn how to raise confident, capable teens by managing and encouraging behaviour, supporting wellbeing and helping to improve social skills.  

Support Information for Families

There are a number of different organisations in the Cairns area that are able to provide support to families. Please see one of our guidance officers for more information:

Primary: Mr Scott Gilmour sgilm26@eq.edu.au

Years 7-9: Ms Christina Wight cwigh12@eq.edu.au

Years 10-12: Ms Sheri Mills sxmil6@eq.edu.au

Cairns_and_Hinterland_Supports_for_Families_Flyer_Last_updated_18122023.pdf

Cairns_and_Hinterland_Supports_for_Families_Flyer_Last_updated_18122023 _pdf 325.08 KB

Cairns and Hinterland Oral Health Services

Is it time for your children to have a dental check-up? Come and visit us at one of our dental facilities. Simply call 1300 300 850 to book an appointment for a FREE dental check-up. Appointments available at Clinics and Dental Vans across the Mossman and Cairns Districts.

Eligibility includes:
Children aged between 0-17
Current Medicare Card is required

For more information on Cairns and Hinterland Oral Health Services
Visit – https://www.health.qld.gov.au/cairns_hinterland/html/cairns_north_oral
Call today to find out how your friendly School Dental team can help

P&C Meetings

There will be one BPC P&C meeting in Term 3, on Tuesday 19 August, with the final two meetings of the year in Term 4 on Tuesday 14 October and Tuesday 25 November. Meetings begin at 7.00 pm and go for approximately one hour, and are held in the Primary Library 'Fishbowl' conference room. 

We encourage new and returning parents and carers to attend our meetings and find out how the P&C supports the College and students.

There are many ways you can be involved:

• Providing input on routine and budgets.
• Contributing to policies on behaviour, uniforms, and sun safety.
• Assisting with fundraising, events or volunteering in the Tuckshop/Canteen and Uniform Shop.

Everybody has a role to play and new ideas will be heard. The more people involved in our P&C the more exciting and successful it will be. If you would like more information or to speak to current members, please contact Andrea Barnard, P&C Operations Officer, on 4045 4971, 04313 286 123 or bpcpnc@bigpond.net.au.

Uniform Shop

The Uniform Shop is open from 8.00 am to 10.30 am, Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Come and see us first for all your schooling needs including uniforms for Preps right through to Year 12s, stationery, book packs for Prep -12 students, House colour sports shirts, hats, school socks, hair ties, school badges, winter jackets, rain ponchos, Music group black pants, BPC backpacks and more.

If you need the Uniform Shop outside normal opening hours these hours, please make an appointment online via bentleyparkcollege@setmore.com.au

Online Uniform Shop:

BPC Uniform and Dress Code Policy:

Tuckshop and Canteen

The Secondary Canteen opens daily for both lunches, and the Primary Tuckshop opens at first lunch each day and second lunch Wednesday to Friday. Prep students can use the Tuckshop from Term 2.

Primary Tuckshop Menu:

Secondary Canteen Menu:

Tuckshop/Canteen online ordering:

Find the Bentley Park College P&C Association on Facebook!

Bentley Park Outside School Hours Care 

The Bentley Park Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) and Vacation Care program is run by the Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) for Primary students. The OSHC facility is located on Bentley Park College grounds to the south, in the Primary Sector. 

PCYC Queensland is one of the state's largest providers of OSHC, with over 100 service locations. They provide care to more than 25,000 children at their 83 school-based and 20 club-based services, through their before school and after school and vacation care programs.

About Bentley Park OSHC

The facility boasts a large air conditioned centre, fully covered veranda, media room and a continuous supply of toys and activities to keep young minds active.

Fully qualified staff offer a variety of educational and stimulating activities for the children and have access to the College’s grounds, undercover areas, basketball courts, tennis courts and outdoor playgrounds.

The centre also provides daily healthy afternoon snacks for the children.

How to Enrol

• Register on Kidsoft Parent Portal, login and create a waitlist. 
• Once you have submitted your enrolment, you can make a permanent booking.
• The next time you are at Bentley Park OSHC, please sign the hard copy the service holds.

Please be aware that if your child has a medical condition management plan from their doctor, they may not be able to start until you have had a meeting with our Service Manager. At this meeting, we may need you to provide us with additional information so we can safely care for your child.

Eligible parents and carers may receive the Australian Government's Child Care Subsidy (CCS) to assist with fees.  

Opening hours:
Morning care: 6.30 am - 9.00 am
After school care: 3.00 pm - 6.00 pm
Vacation and 'Student Free Day' care: 6.30 am - 6.00 pm

School Student Broadband Initiative (SSBI)

The Australian Government has established the School Student Broadband Initiative External link (SSBI) to provide free home internet until 31 December 2025 for up to 30,000 unconnected families across Australia with school aged students. The National Referral Centre (NRC) has been established to allow families to self-nominate for the SSBI and can also provide families assistance with nomination details and contacting and arranging a service provider if required.

To be eligible for the SSBI, a family must:

• have a child living at home that is enrolled in a Queensland school (Prep to Year 12)
• have no active broadband service over the NBN network. Having a mobile internet service does not affect eligibility
• live in a premises that can access a standard NBN service
• not have had an active NBN connection during the previous 14 days
• have their suitability determined via an assessment conducted by the NRC.

To apply, families can directly contact the NRC or be referred by a participating nominating organisation - The Smith Family or the NRC .

Saver Plus

Could you use an extra $500 towards school costs in 2025? The Saver Plus Program is about boosting financial skills, to develop (and keep) good savings habits. 

You can put money towards education expenses including:

• Computers, laptops, and tablets
• Books, uniforms & shoes
• Sports & music, camps, excursions, and more…

If you save up to $50 a month for 10 months, Saver Plus will double it. $500 saved + $500 matched = $1000 (in 10 months).

Visit www.saverplus.org.au for more details.

Acknowledgement of Country

Bentley Park College acknowledges the Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji Bama, meaning people, the Traditional Owners of the Bulmba, meaning place, where the College is built. 

The College is located between two significant waterways – Bana Gindaja, meaning water and cassowary, and Bana Jubugaraa, meaning water and big boomerang. 

We extend our respects to their Elders, their Ancestors and Future Generations as they hold the memories and the traditions and maintain the culture of the Gimuy Walubara Yidinji Bama. We continue to offer sincere respect to all First Nations People. 

The College recognises the Gimuy Walubarra Yidinji connection to Country through caring for and maintaining Country over thousands of years. May their strength and wisdom be with us today and encourage us to carry our respect into the future.

Bentley Park College is proud to present our valued sponsors and thank them for their generous support.

Our sponsorship opportunities are specifically designed to deliver on our sponsors commercial, brand and/or community engagement objectives. 

Please contact Kylea Rowan, Marketing Officer, via phone 4040 8246 or email  to discuss our sponsorship proposal, which include gold, silver and bronze tiers. 

More details on our sponsorship packages is also available on our website on our Become a sponsor page. 

Pacific Toyota

Pacific Toyota is a Bentley Park College Gold Sponsor, and we thank them for their support of our Automotive Program.

Pacific Toyota https://www.pacifictoyota.com.au/

Osborne Construction Solutions

Thank you to Osborne Construction Solutions, Bentley Park College Gold Sponsor and supporter of our Construction Program.

Osborne Construction Solutions website https://www.osborneconstructions.com/

Northern Wheel Aligners

Thank you to Gold Sponsor Northern Wheel Aligners and their support of our Sports Academy.

Northern Wheel Aligners website https://www.nwasuspension.com.au/

Peries IGA

Thank you to Peries IGA for their Gold Sponsorship of the Citizenship Pillar of Excellence.

Peries IGA website https://www.iga.com.au/stores/peries-iga-edmonton/