Term 4 - Week 4 - October 2024

From The Principal

Dear Parent and Carers,

Congratulations to Chase Frumento in Year 7 who was invited to attend Parramatta State School today to meet Olympian discus thrower Matt Denny. As Chase has just competed in the Track & Field State Championships and was a finalist in Discus, this is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and share with our community.

Happy International Teacher’s Day

Today we acknowledge and thank all the staff at Tully State High School for always working towards providing the best possible learning opportunities and experiences for our students. Our teachers and support staff work extremely hard to make Tully High the amazing community that it is. We will celebrate after school with an afternoon tea provided by our wonderful tuckshop and P & C Association. Thank you, Tully SHS staff - we are so privileged to work and live in a wonderful, caring, beautiful community. 

The expectations of our entire school community ensure we are always striving to achieve outstanding student results every day!

Year 12 External Exams

Our Year 12 students are now well into their exams.  The feedback from the students who have completed exams to date is that they were well prepared by their teachers! Great work, staff!

Students must arrive at school prior to the start of the exams.  Please ensure your student is well hydrated, rested and fully understands what equipment is required and permitted in the exam.

Student Messages to the School

With the changes in the Department’s mobile phone policy in schools, the office staff are being contacted regularly by parents to provide messages to students.  We understand that the messages are required to be passed on; however, we have noticed a constant interruption to teaching and learning time.  Therefore we are proposing that messages will be communicated to students 10 minutes before each lunch time.  If the message is urgent, we will share immediately.

We encourage our families to communicate transport messages prior to the school day if possible.

Furthermore, we will be trialling a self-administering process through the office for students who are late or need to leave early with parental permission.  All students must continue to sign in and out of the office. 

Sports Awards and Academic Awards Evening

Lock in Week 7 for these whole school events: Monday, Sports Awards Evening 6 pm; Tuesday evening Academic Awards and Wednesday morning Year 12 Graduation.

We hope to see our school community come along to celebrate our students’ achievements. 

Finally, as the weather heats up, please ensure our students have good quality water bottles to remain hydrated.  Water is essential for brain function. 

Don’t hesitate to contact the school if you have any concerns or issues or to share positive news stories.

Yours in learning,
Ms Helen Carne
Principal

Country to Canberra Leadership Competition Finalist 2024:

Emily Pietrobon

This is the sort of headline that makes us proud here at Tully High. Yes, Emily Pietrobon, a Year 10 student, rose to the challenge and entered the annual Country to Canberra Leadership competition, submitting a winning essay in response to the question below. Her thoughtful, perceptive piece is reprinted here.           

You can’t be what you can’t see. How do women and non-binary leaders in your community inspire you to make change?

True success and leadership emerge from the transformative impact we create within our rural community, transcending societal symbols of power and material wealth. It is the largely unseen and unacknowledged contributions of women and non-binary leaders addressing deep-seated issues that truly inspire and energise us to drive change. 

The spirit of genuine leadership radiates from the profound contributions of the women whose inspiration drives us to confront hidden issues and ignite lasting change in our rural community.

When I look at the faces of our leaders, policymakers, and influencers, I often see a uniform image: affluent men in suits, exuding such solidified status that it blinds me to alternative visions of success. Their power dominates the media, overshadowing the dreams and ambitions of women and young girls, rendering their aspirations invisible and their achievements insignificant. Loud, conspicuous, and invincible, they have consolidated a vision of success that feels both distant and exclusive. Everyone is told to emulate these men, but their example leaves no room for the diverse strengths and voices of women and non-binary individuals.

They negate the essence of femininity, erasing its power and potential from the narrative entirely. 

When I look at the women in my community, I see a strength that transcends symbols of wealth and power, a resilience that does not need headlines to validate it. Their impact is immense, forged in the quiet but powerful acts of courage, compassion, and unwavering dedication. 

Teresa Millwood, the Cassowary Coast’s current Mayor, exemplifies the profound impact women can have in the political field, particularly in a rural community. As a trailblazer, she has shattered traditional barriers, proving that leadership extends beyond affluent men in suits. Her journey from a hairdresser to a nurse – roles traditionally assigned to women, to mayor, has redefined what I believe is possible for women.

Teresa’s achievements resonate deeply with me on a personal level. Her path reminds me that true leadership isn’t about where you start, but the courage to break free from societal expectations and carve out my own destiny. Teresa’s words, “a good leader can listen and understand, but a successful leader needs the support of their team and constituents who are willing to listen, and willing to accept change” are the very words that ignite my passion for making a difference, encapsulating the essence of true leadership. 

In a world where male sports often dominate the headlines, Romy Teitzel, a former Tully State High School Student, has emerged as a powerful figure in women’s athletics. Joining the Brisbane Broncos in 2020 for the NRL Women’s premiership and representing Queensland in the Women’s State of Origin, Romy stands as a beacon of inspiration to my community. 

But for me, Romy’s journey is more than just a series of impressive accolades. Seeing someone from my own town, someone who walked the same school halls as I do, rising to such heights in a patriarchal field ignites my belief that my aspirations are more than just achievable. 

It is because of these women that I find myself empowered in this position today, inspired and determined to pursue my own journey of leadership and change. Their relentless pursuit of excellence serves as a powerful catalyst for my own aspirations, driving me to envision and strive for greatness, demonstrating that every woman and non-binary individual has the power to achieve extraordinary success.

Witnessing their dedication encourages me to overcome obstacles and forge my own path to success. It inspires me to embrace my own journey with purpose, to drive transformation and to create lasting impact, to see beyond limitations and redefine what is possible.

Emily Pietrobon

Sports News

Congratulations to Shaun Riley on being selected in the Queensland 10-12 Track & Field team for Discus. 

Sports Awards Night

The annual Cassowary Coast District Sport, Southern Zone Sports Awards Night will be held on Monday 11November.  Invitations have been emailed to students and parents.  Students attending must wear full formal school uniform.  These are available to hire from the school.

Our guest speaker this year is Tully SHS graduate (2018), Brayden Marzona.  Brayden is a current pro boxer, MMA & Muay Thai fighter.  He recently won the WKBF Queensland Middleweight Championships.  We look forward to hearing about Brayden’s journey to success.     

The Queensland Academy of Sport wants #YouFor2032.

Know a young Queenslander with the potential to be future champion?

The Queensland Academy of Sport’s (QAS) YouFor2032 Talent Search is scouring the state to find future champions.

The YouFor2032 team will hit the road in October and November for its Olympic sport talent search looking for untapped talent from Brisbane to Cairns and everywhere in between.

We’re partnering with 15 Olympic sports including athletics, boxing, sailing, triathlon, rowing and more and looking for Queenslanders aged 13-23 who love sport and have the drive to succeed

If you have dreams of representing Australia at the highest level, YouFor2032 wants you!

Spaces are limited so apply today and register for a testing session near you: https://surveys.dtis.qld.gov.au/n/MNgunmL

Who are we looking for?

If you have raw athletic talent and elite aspirations, you could represent your country and be part of the next generation of sporting champions. No matter your sporting background, YouFor2032 can help you reach your full potential.

Want to find out more?

Visit the YouFor2032 website for dates and location of testing sessions. https://www.qasport.qld.gov.au/youfor2032 

Toxic Achievement in High School:

 When Success Becomes Harmful

High school is often considered a crucial time for setting the foundation for future success. It’s a period filled with opportunities, challenges, and expectations—from excelling academically to participating in extracurriculars and preparing for tertiary studies, or employment. However, for many students, the pressure to achieve can become overwhelming, leading to what is known as “toxic achievement.”

What Is Toxic Achievement?

Toxic achievement happens when the pursuit of success becomes all-consuming and harmful. For high school students, this might look like feeling a constant need to get perfect grades, join every club, or stack up achievements for university applications. Rather than focusing on personal growth, learning, and enjoyment, students feel pressured to chase external validation—whether it’s from parents, teachers, peers, or social media. This mindset leads to burnout, stress, and anxiety, making success feel more like a burden than an accomplishment. Toxic achievement isn’t about doing your best; it’s about feeling like nothing is ever good enough.

Signs of Toxic Achievement in High School Students

Toxic achievement can sneak up on students, especially in competitive environments. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Perfectionism: Many students set impossibly high standards for themselves, believing that only straight A’s or top performance will make them worthy.
• Fear of Failure: Students may develop an intense fear of failure, causing them to avoid challenges that might lead to mistakes. They may hesitate to ask for help or take risks in fear of not appearing “perfect.”
• Overloading on Activities: To build a competitive resume, some students join too many extracurricular activities—clubs, sports, volunteer work. This overload can lead to exhaustion and burnout.
• Constant Stress: The pressure to always be achieving can lead to chronic stress and anxiety. Many students experience sleepless nights, irritability, and an inability to enjoy social or downtime.
• Inability to Enjoy Achievements: Even after reaching their goals—getting a top grade, winning an award—students might quickly move on to the next challenge without taking time to feel proud of their accomplishments.

Causes of Toxic Achievement in High School

Several factors contribute to the rise of toxic achievement among high school students:

• Academic Pressure: The high-stakes environment of college admissions creates a culture where success is measured by grades, test scores, and extracurricular achievements. The emphasis on GPA and test scores can make students feel that their worth is tied to their academic performance.
• Parental Expectations: Parents often want the best for their children, but in some cases, their expectations may add to the pressure. Students may feel that they must live up to their parents’ high standards or follow a particular path to make them proud, which can lead to stress.
• • Peer Competition: In many schools, students feel the need to compare themselves to their classmates. Seeing others succeed can create feelings of inadequacy, even if they are performing well. Social comparison often pushes students to work harder, not for personal growth but to keep up with others.
  • Social Media: On platforms like Instagram or TikTok, students are constantly exposed to images of success—whether it's someone getting into a prestigious college or excelling in a sport. These curated versions of life make it easy to feel like everyone else is more accomplished, leading to toxic comparisons.

  Consequences of Toxic Achievement for High Schoolers

  The effects of toxic achievement can be damaging, especially for young students still developing emotionally and mentally. Some of the consequences include:

  • Mental Health Issues: The pressure to always be achieving can lead to high levels of anxiety and depression. Fear of failure and perfectionism can cause students to experience frequent stress, self-doubt, and feelings of inadequacy.
  • Physical Health Problems: Lack of sleep, poor eating habits, and neglecting physical health can arise from pushing oneself too hard. Burnout is common among high-achieving students who feel they must always be working or studying.
  • Social Isolation: Students may prioritize achievements over friendships or family time, leading to feelings of loneliness and social isolation. They might sacrifice important relationships to focus on their pursuit of success.
  • Loss of Passion for Learning: When students focus too much on achieving specific outcomes, like getting into a top college, they may lose their natural curiosity and love for learning. School becomes more about grades and less about personal growth or enjoying the subjects they study.

  How High School Students Can Avoid Toxic Achievement

  Breaking the cycle of toxic achievement is possible with a more balanced approach. Here are some ways high school students can maintain a healthier perspective on success:

  • Redefine Success: Students should take the time to think about what success means to them, personally. It doesn’t have to be about straight A’s or getting into an Ivy League college. True success is about learning, personal growth, and building skills that will serve them throughout life.
  • Set Realistic Goals: Rather than trying to do it all, students should focus on setting achievable goals that reflect their interests and passions. Quality matters more than quantity, whether it’s in academics or extracurricular activities.
  • Balance Work and Life: Taking time for self-care, relaxation, and socializing is important for mental and physical well-being. High school students need to find a balance between studying and enjoying their teenage years.
  • Celebrate Small Wins: Instead of focusing only on major achievements like getting into college, students should take time to celebrate their progress along the way. Each quiz passed, project completed, or personal milestone is a step in the right direction.

What is it Like to Work on a Farm?

Farms are places where workers cultivate and produce various agricultural products to meet the needs of a community or society at large. They play a crucial role in providing food, fibre, and other essential resources necessary for human sustenance and economic development. They serve as the backbone of the agricultural industry, where crops are grown, livestock is raised, and natural resources are utilised to generate a wide range of products. All farms are different of course, but they do tend to have some things in common:

1. A love of the outdoors – no matter your role, you will probably be doing a lot of work outside.
2. Safety is key – you’ll be working with machinery, chemicals, and animals, so being safe is very important.
3. You’ll need to be tough – some of the work can be hard, but you’ll also reap great rewards.

    Key Tasks

• Plant and harvest crops
• Feed and care for livestock
• Irrigate fields and manage water resources
• Repair and maintain farm equipment
• Monitor and control pests and diseases
• Manage soil fertility and crop rotation
• Market and sell agricultural products
• Operate and maintain farm infrastructure and buildings
• Conduct regular inspections and record-keeping
• Implement and practice farm safety protocols

Industry

Farms are generally found in the agriculture, forestry, and fishing industry. Different types of farms include crop farms, livestock farms, dairy farms, orchards, horticultural farms, and organic farms, just to name a few.

Work Environment -You can expect regular hours and on-site work

Regular hours | Work on-site | Jobs more common in regional and rural areas | Strong job growth

Much of the work on a farm starts early in the morning, and can carry on throughout the day and even into the night. How long you work will depend on your exact role and the type of farm you work on. Most farm work needs to be done hands-on, so there is limited opportunity for remote work. Farms are typically more common in rural areas rather than metropolitan areas. Rural areas provide larger land areas and a more favourable environment for agricultural activities due to the availability of open space, fertile soil, and proximity to natural resources like water. But some smaller-scale farming operations or urban agriculture initiatives might exist in metro areas.

Have Your Say

Break-up with Vaping

‘Pathways to Cessation’

Tully State High School is participating in a pilot program to support adolescent tobacco and vaping cessation. The ‘Pathways to Cessation’ program is run by Queensland Health and will commence in Term 4, 2024.

Parents and carers of all secondary students are invited to attend a free online webinar about vaping in schools and learn more about the Pathways to Cessation pilot program.

The webinar will include a panel of four speakers:

• Dr John Gerrard, Queensland’s Chief Health Officer
• Mr Mark West, Executive Director, Prevention Strategy Branch, Queensland Health
• Mr Scott Zadravec, Acting Director, Curriculum, Teaching and Learning, Department of Education
• Joanne Isbel, Manager, Preventive Health, Health Contact Centre, Queensland Health

The panel will present information on:

• ​ What is currently known about tobacco and vaping use in Queensland adolescents
• ​The impact of nicotine on adolescent health 
• ​The Australian Government and Queensland Government approach to addressing tobacco smoking and vaping  
• ​An overview of the Pathways to Cessation pilot program
• Understanding how parents and carers can support their adolescent to quit smoking or vaping

The webinar will also include an opportunity to ask the panel questions. 

If you are interested in attending, please register on Humanitix via the link below.

Pathways to Cessation Pilot Program – Introduction Webinar

9 or 16 October 2024, 6:30pm – 7:30pm AEST

A link to join the webinar will be provided after you register.

How To Talk So Kids Will Listen

Mission Beach SLSC

From the P & C.

This year, the Tully State High School P&C and local primary schools have the opportunity to cater for the 2024 Tully Bull and Bike Ride on Saturday the 23November.  If you are available to help in the kitchen for any length of time between 3 and 9 pm, please contact me on 0427769181. 

Please note that the next and final meeting for 2024 will be held at the Mt Tyson Hotel in Butler Street on 20 November at 5.30 pm. All parents are welcome.

Katie McLaughlin

2024 Tully State High School
Parents & Citizens President

School Age Community Disco

2025 Scholarships

Mobile Women's Health Service

Uniforms Wanted!