By Mr Stuart Ralph, Principal

On Tuesday 12 August, Mrs Debra Bonde and our College Captains, Lucah Conkie and Lachlan Nield, accompanied me to Hobart to attend the installation of The Most Reverend Anthony Ireland. Close to 600 people attended, including bishops, clergy, and lay people from around the country.

Archbishop Ireland said the Spirit was “already at work in Tasmania”, where the Church has “treasures” of “spiritual, historical, and human” nature. He urged the faithful of Tasmania to look to the future with hope and a sense of unity.

“So let us walk together – bishop, clergy, religious, and lay faithful. Let us be a Church of the Upper Room: Spirit-filled, alive with joy, and bearing peace.

“As we turn the page and write a new chapter in Tasmania’s Catholic story, may we walk as pilgrims of hope – and with our lives, sing the praise of God from whom all blessings flow.”

During his address, Archbishop Ireland spoke of his ancestor, a convict from England who was transported to Tasmania.

“On 9 November 1824, a youth named John Carey Ireland stepped off the Princess Charlotte and onto the shores of Van Diemen’s Land,” Archbishop Ireland said.

“He was born in 1811 and was just thirteen when convicted of petty larceny – pickpocketing in Bristol – and sentenced to 14 years’ transportation. John was my sister Pat’s, my cousin Pauline’s, and my great-great-grandfather.

“Two hundred and one years after John’s arrival, I stand before you, thankfully not in shackles, but in hope – as a shepherd of the Church and an ambassador for Jesus Christ in this place,” Archbishop Ireland said.

As he concluded his speech, Archbishop Ireland thanked him for his new role.

“But the greatest gift I received today is the shepherd’s care of you—the priests, deacons, religious, and people of the Archdiocese: for this I thank the Lord and I thank you.

“A new chapter begins today; I do not walk it alone. Pope Francis has called this a Jubilee of Hope. Let us walk together as pilgrims of hope – bearing light, binding wounds, and lifting each other in mercy.”

In his address, the Archbishop spoke about the importance of service, developing a sense of awe and wonder in our young people, and coming together as communities in acceptance of each other. It was a beautiful service that left all who attended hopeful for the future and looking forward to this new chapter.

NCEC Australian Catholic Education Conference

I will attend the NCEC Australian Catholic Education Conference in Cairns next week. In my absence, Mrs Debra Bonde will assume acting Principal duties.

Subject Selection

Students received an email last week, and subject selection for Years 8-12 2026 will close at 5:00 pm on Friday 22 August. Any questions about the subject selection process can be directed to Mrs Di Saltmarsh.

Legally Blonde

Legally Blonde has officially kicked off today! I have the pleasure of hosting Principals, our Board and other dignitaries from across the region at tonight's show.

Legally Blonde: The Musical officially opens to the public tonight, Thursday 14 August,​​ and runs through to Saturday 16 August. Tickets are available online via the paranaple arts centre website.

Football Gala Day

Congratulations to our Year 9/10 girls football team, who won the Gala Day and will now take on the winners of the Western Gala Day. Thank you to our coaches Mrs Debra Bonde, Mrs Shania Brown for their incredible work, and to Year 12 students Mia Aylett and Lucah Conkie for their assistance.

NSATIS Swimming

The NSATIS Swimming Carnival will be held in Launceston next Thursday 21 August. We wish our swimmers every success.

Science Olympiad and ICAS

Congratulations to all our students who have taken part in the ICAS and Science Olympiad Exams. ICAS recognises academic performance in a way similar to sports or the arts, with engaging, fun questions designed by psychometricians, education measurement experts and experienced teachers to test students’ higher-order thinking skills.

ICAS also provides rich insights into students’ strengths and weaknesses, helping teachers to accelerate learning outcomes and unlock student potential.

The Junior Science Olympiad is a staged science enrichment program for highly motivated students in Australian high schools, Years 7 to 10.

The program is designed to inspire and challenge young science enthusiasts. It supports thousands of talented students through national exams, digital training squads, talent development programs, intensive residential camps and international competitions. The JSO program aims to enhance student achievement in our Australian Science Olympiad Program.

This week, our students started preparing for the Tournament of Minds. Students have six weeks to come up with a creative solution presented to them in either the Social Sciences, The Arts, English Literature or STEM.

I would like to thank Mrs Bridget Leary, for providing these enriching experiences for our students.

2025 What Matters? Competition

I would like to congratulate Year 9 student Imogen Charlesworth, who won the 9/10 category of the 2025 What Matters? writing competition with her piece Two pairs of shoes. Inspired by Gough Whitlam's commitment to involving young people in shaping Australia's future, the writing competition is open to Australian students in Years 5 to 12. Responding to the simple question “what matters?”, entrants are free to express their views on any matter they care about.

The What Matters? competition empowers students to raise their voices on issues that are important to them and know that their perspectives are valuable, no matter their age, background, or viewpoint. Entries can be fiction, nonfiction, poetry, or prose of up to 600 words and are submitted online.

Triple J Unearthed High Competition

Congratulations to Charlie Wicks and Nate Starkey, and their band Copperhead, and to Year 9 solo artist Max Wilson, who all entered the triple j Unearthed High competition.

All three boys are regular performers at St Brendan-Shaw College events, and we wish them all the best in the years ahead.

Once again, I thank all families for your ongoing support.

Yours sincerely,

Mr Stuart Ralph
Principal

"Equipped with his five senses, man explores the universe around him and calls the adventure Science." 
- Edwin Powell Hubble

Edwin Hubble’s discoveries opened up whole new fields of astronomy and cosmology. His name lives on through the Hubble Space Telescope, which continues to expand our knowledge of the universe.

Next week, the focus turns to stories as we celebrate Book Week – Book an Adventure! Books, whether fiction or non-fiction, allow us to journey through new worlds and deepen our understanding of our own. Our amazing Gavin O'Dea Library has many traditional, audio and e-books to help you explore, discover and imagine.

To join in the fun next week, come along to our ‘Book Face’ Photo Booth in the library at lunchtime on Wednesday 20 August.

By Mr Marty Ogle, Keeping it Real

What a pleasure it was to talk to the Year 8s from St Brendan-Shaw College over two days using the theme 'Hope – Giving & Getting Hope'. 

Along with plenty of fun, magic and conversations, it was enlightening to see and hear the students' DREAMS & HOPES for the future – not just for themselves, but for their friends, family and the planet. We discussed their worries, plus concentrated on finding 'words that help hope'. We even made large signs of hope using our bodies to shape the letters. 

A whole day is a long time to focus on one topic, but the students (and staff) made many contributions. Hopefully they bring home and to the classroom ideas, suggestions and actions that help give hope.

One student said he was going to go home and discuss ways to stop his backchatting after hearing from teachers how backchatting makes them feel. This came during our discussion on the word EMPATHY – walking in someone else’s shoes.

Again, it was an absolute pleasure to work with the students and staff and to hear their concerns. Getting them to share their hopes was enlightening.

Live Jesus in your Heart & Actions,

Marty

The Australian Catholic Youth Festival will be held in Melbourne at the end of November and is open to students in Year 9 and above. If you are interested, there will be an information session at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church this Sunday, 17 August, after Mass.

This Friday, 15 August, we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary – one of two Holy Days of Obligation each year, when Catholics are called to attend Mass.

We warmly invite all of our community to join us for this special occasion at Friday morning Mass in the College Chapel.

Time: 8:20 am start (concludes before homeroom)

Where: College Chapel

By Mrs Debra Bonde, Deputy Principal Wellbeing & Administration

Uniform Reminders

A reminder that the Academic Winter uniform is required to be worn during Term 3.

• Blazers must be worn to and from school, including on the bus, on arrival until homeroom, and whenever students are in public
• Skirts should be no more than 10cm above the knee
• Long hair must be tied back
• Nose piercings should not be noticeable (clear retainers are acceptable)
• Earrings must be plain gold or silver, small, and subtle
• Jewellery should be minimal and discreet
• The sports uniform is to be worn only for HPE lessons or co-curricular activities, as directed by staff

In warmer months (Term 1 & 4) blazers are still to be worn to and from school, unless a member of the Leadership Team advises otherwise. If the temperature exceeds 22°C, a member of leadership will communicate whether blazers may be carried over the arm while travelling.

Student Absences

We have recently seen an increase in absences for reasons not approved by the College. Please note that working during school hours is not permitted, as it breaches both the Education Act and school policies.

If your family is planning a holiday during school term, you are required to email the Principal in advance. This allows staff to plan and provide the necessary support for your child upon their return.

Tonight our talented cast and crew step into the spotlight for the opening performance of Legally Blonde: The Musical at the Town Hall Theatre, paranaple arts centre. After months of rehearsals, countless hours of stagecraft, music, and behind-the-scenes coordination, the energy and anticipation are at their peak.

This production is more than a burst of colour and catchy songs – it’s a story about challenging stereotypes, finding your voice, and standing by your friends when it matters most. Our students have brought every bit of their skill, dedication, and heart to the process, supported by an equally committed team backstage and in the orchestra.

In the band, on the stage, and behind the scenes, we have wonderful students and staff ushering, doing hair and makeup, and selling programs – a beautiful keepsake of the show for just $5.

Friday night is now sold out, but there are still tickets available for Saturday’s matinee and evening performances. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this celebration of student talent and community spirit. Chookas! to the entire company for a spectacular season ahead.

Show details:

• Thursday 14 August – 7:30 pm
• Friday 15 August – 7:30 pm (Sold Out)
• Saturday 16 August – 1:00 pm and 7:30 pm

Town Hall Theatre, paranaple arts centre

Tickets: https://sbsc.me/4k7wNjd

Our students constantly produce work of a high calibre, impressing us with their creativity. 

This week Year 8 student Hanna Hoffler created this beautiful crest in Religious Education class. At first glance, it looks like some impressive colouring in, but zoom in and you’ll notice the intricate line work she drew herself. Semper Fidelis means “always faithful,” and every element in the design was carefully chosen for its symbolism, resulting in an appealing and thoughtful final piece.

Nice work Hanna!

Applications for 2026 AVCAT Scholarships open 18 August 2025.

AVCAT scholarships are tertiary scholarships for the children and grandchildren of Australian ex-serving veterans. Scholarships are $4,000–$6,000 per year, for up to three years.

Apply online at avcat.org.au

Applications close at midnight AEDT on 31 October 2025.

UTAS is offering a free webinar for parents/carers.

Going to university is a huge but exciting step for a young person. Having someone to talk to and support them can make all the difference. This webinar is the second in a series of three and will cover accommodation, scholarships, learning abroad, subject selection, HAP, UCP & TCE.

When: September @ 6:00 pm

Register here!

Splash Devonport Aquatic and Leisure Centre are recruiting responsible and enthusiastic students aged 17 and over (Or turning 17 between August and December 2025) to join their lifeguard team.

This is a great opportunity for students to gain valuable work experience, build leadership skills, and contribute to community safety in a fun and active environment.

Become a Qualified Lifeguard

Students can complete their Pool Lifeguard certification through Royal Life Saving Tasmania.
View Course Details 

Apply to Work at Splash

Once certified, students can apply directly via the Splash Devonport website.

By Mr Sam O'Keeffe, Sports Coordinator

7/8 Football

The 7/8 football team has continued their strong form with two great wins over the past fortnight.

Round 7 – The Saints face their toughest challenge of the season against St Pat’s White. Trailing for most of the game, the Saints struggled to find their rhythm as St Pat’s applied pressure on both sides of the ball. Heading into the final quarter down by two goals, the Saints needed a strong finish. In a tense back-and-forth battle, the Saints hit the front with just five minutes to go, holding a one-point lead. Some outstanding defensive efforts kept St Pat’s at bay, setting up a late goal to seal a hard-fought victory.
SBSC Saints 54 def. St Pat’s White 47

Round 8 – The Saints host Launceston Church Grammar after their first scheduled meeting was washed out. Keen to take the field, the Saints started slowly in the first quarter but quickly took control. Their defence again proved to be the foundation, allowing for flowing football and giving the forwards plenty of opportunities. The Saints dominated the remainder of the game to record a convincing win.
SBSC Saints 82 def. LCGS 3

The 7/8s now face two weeks on the road, taking on Scotch Oakburn in Launceston next week, followed by St Pat’s Gold the week after.

NSATIS Netball

The Lady Saints netball teams hosted Scotch Oakburn at the Nazareth Centre this week.

1st Team – The girls started strongly, challenging SOC early and taking a small lead into the second quarter. With no substitutes available, the team displayed great spirit and determination, forcing SOC into errors. However, despite their efforts, SOC proved too strong, with the Lady Saints going down 35–11.

2nd Team – The girls produced their best performance of the season, going goal-for-goal with SOC for much of the game. Trailing by eight at halftime, the Lady Saints closed the gap to five early in the third quarter. Playing without substitutes, they continued to pressure SOC, but despite creating plenty of scoring opportunities in the final term, they were unable to convert, going down 43–25. The team can take great confidence from this performance as they look to improve each round.

Next week, the Lady Saints hit the road to face St Pat’s Green.

NSATIS Soccer

Round 1 – The Lady Saints began their season away against Launceston Church Grammar. Starting strongly, they created several chances, but LCGS struck first. The Saints responded quickly, equalising before halftime. In a tight second half, a lapse in concentration proved costly as LCGS scored again to take the win 2–1.

Round 2 – Bouncing back from their opening loss, the Lady Saints produced a strong display against Scotch Oakburn College. After a goalless first half, the Saints took control, with Layla Huett applying constant pressure up front and Felicity Downward controlling the midfield alongside Lulu and Emily. Felicity broke the deadlock with a well-worked team goal before adding a second with a stunning long-range strike. The Saints held firm to secure a 2–0 win.

The Lady Saints have a bye next week.

Men’s Soccer 

In tough, windy conditions at Fawkner Park, the Saints men started brightly against LCGS, with Joss Littler scoring from a superb free kick. LCGS hit back with two quick goals to lead at halftime, and added a third early in the second half. The Saints created several chances but couldn’t convert until Joss struck again to close the gap. Pushing for an equaliser late, the Saints were caught on the counter, with LCGS sealing the match 4–2.

Looking to bounce back against SOC, the Saints again struck first through another long-range effort from Joss. SOC responded quickly with two goals of their own and controlled much of the second half. Joss added a second late, but time ran out, with SOC winning 7–2.

The Saints men now turn their attention to a NW showdown against Marist Regional College at Valley Road next Wednesday.

Girls Football

Last Friday, our Year 7/8 and Year 9/10 teams participated in the AFL Gala Day at Byard Park – a female AFL competition involving high school teams from across the North West Coast.

It was a fantastic experience for the girls, with both teams featuring a mix of skill levels. Our coaches, Mrs Debra Bonde (Year 7/8) and Mrs Shania Brown (Year 9/10), are both experienced AFL players who brought great knowledge and energy to the day. The Year 7/8 side had the broadest range of experience, with some players taking to the sport for the first time and quickly developing their skills, supported by the expertise of seasoned club players.

Heartfelt thanks go to our coaches, along with senior students Mia and Luca – both Devils players in the Coates Talent League – whose efforts ensured the day ran like clockwork.

The Year 9/10s finished the day as Gala Day champions and will now face the winners of the Western Gala Day.

Basketball Tasmania High School Champs

Students who are interested in playing in the Basketball Tasmania High School Championships later this year need to complete this form. Parents, please check with your child if they are interested to ensure they have completed the form. Sign-ups will close on Monday 18th of August – BTAS Champs EOI

Devon Netball Spring roster 

Students interested in playing in the Devon Netball Spring roster on Wednesday nights please complete this form. Parents, please check with your child if they are interested to ensure they have completed the form. Sign-ups will close on Monday 18th of August – Devon Netball EOI

Nominations are now open for the annual YFCC Inspiring Youth Awards event.

This event highlights those in North West Tasmania who make a difference but often go unrecognised.

The 2025 Devonport Basketball Spring high school roster commences on Wednesday 3 September.

Information regarding the upcoming roster is included in the document below. 

Registrations are now open and close on Thursday 14 August 2025. Please note that no late registrations will be accepted.

Register here.

For further information or if you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact the DBC Office on 64242440.