Term 2, Week 9

School Vision Statement: To change the world through our faith in Jesus who is our light.
Phone: 6882 2677 or 6882 2653
Email: stjohnsprimarydubbo@bth.catholic.edu.au                    
Principal: Mr. Anthony O’Leary
Parish Priest: Father Greg Kennedy           
P&F Meetings: 2nd & 7th Tuesday each term

Parents/guardians-Please note that photographs of students may be used in publication. Please advise the School Office if you do not approve of your child’s photo being used.

Term 2 Dates
Week 9
Wednesday 25th June - Mass at St Brigid's Church with Father Greg, (12:30pm for Grades 3/4)
Week 10
Tuesday 1st July - SJP Athletics Carnival
Wednesday 2nd July - Semester 1 Student Reports - Live on Compass
Friday 4th July - Final Day of Term 2

Change of Details, have any of your details changed??
Please inform the school office if you have changed address, have a new email or phone contact number, changed jobs, or have different emergency contacts for your child/children.

Compass Announcements - Upcoming Events
Permission notes for the events below have been sent out via Compass. Please ensure you confirm your child's attendance to avoid missing out. 

• Tuesday, 1st July - K-6, Athletics Carnival

Welcome to Week 9 at St John’s! 
As we move into the final fortnight of Term 2, it’s clear that this term has been fast-paced, joyful, and filled with moments where our students have truly shone – from sporting success to stunning stage performances. Well done, SJP – your energy, talent, and school spirit continue to inspire!

Looking Ahead: Staff Professional Learning & Term 3 Start
While we work hard to complete Semester 1 assessments and reports, we are already preparing for an exciting and purposeful start to Semester 2. Monday 21 July will be a pupil-free day, dedicated to staff professional learning. Our teachers will be working alongside Toni-Maree Charlton, Education Officer: Learning and Teaching (CEDB), as we focus on strengthening quality teaching and learning programs across the school.
Students from Kindergarten to Year 6 will return to school on Tuesday 22 July for the start of Term 3. We look forward to welcoming them back refreshed and ready to learn!

St John’s Presents: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – The Musical!
Rehearsals are in full swing and ticket sales are booming for our major school production! With vibrant costumes, unforgettable songs, and the magic of Willy Wonka brought to life, this production promises to be a highlight of the year.

Eisteddfod Success – Our Cast Shines Bright!
A huge congratulations to our cast members who recently competed in the Dubbo Eisteddfod Showtime section. Their hard work, charisma, and teamwork earned glowing feedback from the adjudicators and some amazing results:

🥇 Zahlia and Luxi – 1st Place for their sensational performance of “The Queen of Pop!”, backed by the fabulous Gum Chomping Divas.
🥈 Bella and Adelaide – 2nd Place with their dazzling and dramatic “When Veruca Says.”
🥉 Lily (Mrs. Bucket) – 3rd Place for her touching performance of “If Your Father Were Here,” beautifully supported by Rihaana, Ruby, Angus, and Manaia.
🏅 Highly Commended Awards went to: 
Henoch – “I’ve Got a Golden Ticket”
Maddie and Charlie – “More of Him to Love” (Augustus Gloop’s big moment!)

Every performer represented our school with pride and passion. Their success is a taste of the musical magic still to come!

Show Dates & Tickets
Join us as students from St John’s Primary and College bring this story to life on stage. Featuring dazzling costumes, energetic ensemble numbers, and all your favourite characters – from Charlie and Willy Wonka to the iconic Oompa Loompas – this is a show bursting with pure imagination.

🗓️ Performance Dates:
Monday 28 July – Gold Class Focus Night
Tuesday 29 July – Blue Class Focus Night

🎫Tickets are selling fast! Don’t miss your Golden Ticket – book now: https://www.123tix.com.au/events/48146/charlie-and-the-chocolate-factory-the-musical-presented-by-st-johns 

Let the countdown begin! 🌟

Attendance Update: Week 8
A big shout-out to our school community! In Week 8, our attendance rate was 91.60%, once again above the Diocesan average and target.

While this is a great result, our school-wide goal remains at 95% attendance each and every day. Every day counts – and every student matters!

Our Term 2 attendance trends continue to look positive. Let’s keep building on that momentum as we finish the term strong!

Lockdown Safety Practice – Thursday
This Thursday, we will conduct our next lockdown safety practice, focusing on a scenario where students need to move swiftly and safely from the playground to classrooms during break time (e.g., Second Break).

Examples might include:

• A nearby car accident on Sheraton Road
• An animal entering school grounds

Staff will be preparing students with clear instructions and maps. Our goal is to ensure a calm, safe, and smooth transition in any real emergency situation.

Kindergarten 2026 – Enrolments Update
We have now completed our first round of interviews for Kindergarten 2026. It has been a joy to meet so many wonderful children and families.

A small number of vacancies remain, so if you or someone you know is yet to apply, we encourage you to contact the school office as soon as possible.

Gospel and Reflection Luke 9:11-17
11 but the crowds learned about it and followed him. He welcomed them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who needed healing.
12 Late in the afternoon the Twelve came to him and said, “Send the crowd away so they can go to the surrounding villages and countryside and find food and lodging, because we are in a remote place here.” 13 He replied, “You give them something to eat.” They answered, “We have only five loaves of bread and two fish—unless we go and buy food for all this crowd.” 14 (About five thousand men were there.) But he said to his disciples, “Have them sit down in groups of about fifty each.” 15 The disciples did so, and everyone sat down. 16 Taking the five loaves and the two fish and looking up to heaven, he gave thanks and broke them. Then he gave them to the disciples to distribute to the people. 17 They all ate and were satisfied, and the disciples picked up twelve basketfuls of broken pieces that were left over.

Family Connection
In our age of fast food and eating on the go, families often find that they are not eating meals together at a dinner table. As a family, look back over the past week and recall how many meals were eaten together and how many meals were eaten alone or on the run.

In the Bible, meals are seen as much more than a means to satisfy a physical need. The Hebrew people viewed eating a meal as a way of expressing and strengthening their relationship to one another under God's covenant. It is no coincidence that meals are often the setting of Jesus' teaching and miracles in the Gospels. In this Sunday's Gospel, we hear the story of Jesus feeding the crowd of 5,000 people.

Read this Sunday's Gospel, Luke 9:11b-17. Talk about the kinds of hungers that people have in addition to physical hunger. Describe the hungers that a family nourishes (love, compassion, forgiveness, laughter, and so on). Together give thanks for the food that Jesus gives us that we celebrate on this Sunday's feast of the Body and Blood of Jesus.

Thank you for your ongoing support and enthusiasm. We are proud of everything our students, staff, and families achieve together.

Have a wonderful Week 9!

Warm regards,
Anthony O’Leary

Year 3/4 Mass at St. Brigid’s
This coming Wednesday at 12:30 our Year 3 and 4 students will attend Mass at St. Brigid’s with Fr Greg. The Mass will be focussed Pope Francis’ theme for this Jubilee year: Pilgrims of Hope. All family members are invited to attend the Mass.

Sacrament of First Holy Communion/Eucharist
Over the weekend, enrolment Masses got underway for parents of Catholic students in Year 3 wishing to receive this sacrament. Enrolment Masses will also be held at all Masses this coming weekend 28th/29th June. 

It is also important to note that this sacrament is also available to Catholic children who are in grades 4, 5 or 6 and missed the opportunity to receive this sacrament in Year 3. Parents if this is relevant to your child, please contact Rosie Hosking on the email below.

Students must be enrolled to receive the sacrament. This is a different step to registering your child’s name which was done at the beginning of the year at the Parent Information Session. 

Masses will be held: Saturday - 5:00 pm, Sunday - 9:00 am and Sunday - 5:00 pm.

Parents, if you have not yet received communication from St Brigid’s Sacramental Coordinator Rosie Hosking regarding this sacrament, please contact her asasp on: sacraments.dubbo@cdob.org.au

Masonic Village Visit
This Wednesday our 5G class will visit the Masonic Village to engage with residents. We look forward to hearing from our Year 5 students about their interactions and mingling with the residents.

Confirmation Preparations Sessions
This week is the last week of preparation sessions for this sacrament. 

Session 3: Tuesday 24th June, Wednesday 25th June, Sunday 29th June

Tuesday sessions are held at 6:15pm, Wednesday 4:30 pm and Sunday 10am 

Please contact Sacramental Coordinator Rosie Hosking if you have any questions regarding this sacrament: sacraments.dubbo@cdob.org.au

Parents, please ensure you have saved the following important dates regarding the next steps in making this sacrament:

Confirmation Practise Evening: Tuesday 22nd July @ 6:15 at St. Brigid’s Church
Sacrament of Confirmation Celebration: Weekends of the 26th/27th July and 2nd/3rd August.

Vinnies Winter Appeal

Thank you to the families who have made donations already to our Vinnies Winter Appeal. Vinnies are always very appreciative of the support we give, particularly when we can donate warm blankets, oodies, jumpers, tracksuits, beanies and all of the other necessary winter items that help us to stay warm throughout Dubbo’s winter. Donations will continue to be collected here at school and will be donated to Vinnies on the last day of term. Children can bring their donations to the 6 Blue classroom until Wednesday 2nd July (Week 10).

Please see the next page for more details on our Vinnies Winter Appeal and our Vinnies Appeal Day, called Snug as a Bug in a Rug Day!

The Dubbo Saint Vincent De Paul store is especially in need of good blankets/doonas and are also looking for good furniture. 

If you are able to assist with the furniture, please take a photo of saleable items and forward to Lisa on mobile 0474 382 430. 

MASS TIMES
St. Brigid’s Church: Saturday - 5:00pm, Sunday - 9:00am and Sunday- 5:00pm.
St. Laurence’s Church: Sunday -7:30am and Wednesday 9.30am

Enjoy your week.

Paula Clifford
Religious Education Coordinator 

Dubbo Eisteddfod 
Last week, St John’s Primary proudly hosted two days of Dubbo City Eisteddfod events onsite, with every student from Kindergarten to Year 6 taking part across a variety of speech and drama disciplines. From charming nursery rhymes to expressive verse speaking, polished solo readings and musical performances, every child had the opportunity to perform and shine.

Adjudicator, Tracey Lee McKinney, provided thoughtful and encouraging feedback throughout, commending not only the standard of performances, but also the important skills developed during preparation. She reinforced that clear communication, confidence, and creative expression are essential life skills, our students demonstrated these in abundance.

Thank you to our students for your enthusiasm, commitment, and trust throughout the process. To our school community, thank you for your continued support. And to the staff who assisted in making these two big days run smoothly, your help was appreciated.

It was a true celebration of courage and creativity and we are incredibly proud of every student who took part.

St John’s Primary Eisteddfod Results 2025

3-6 Primary Choir
1874 - School Choral Groups - Primary School Choir Years 3 to 6 
2nd Place

Year 4 Reading Solos
4202A - Speech and Drama Solos - Beginner reader - Own Choice Solo Year 4 (A passage from any school reader or poem) approximately 125 words or 1.5 minutes.
1st = Marshall E
2nd = Hannah C
3rd = Bella M
HC = Jobie K, Charlie M, Evie O, Paislee W

4202B - Speech and Drama Solos - Beginner reader - Own Choice Solo Year 4 (A passage from any school reader or poem) approximately 125 words or 1.5 minutes.
1st = Ranumi S
2nd = Zac E
3rd = Franklin E
HC = Clancy R, Sarah Mc, Wayde B, Siddhi H

4202C - Speech and Drama Solos - Beginner reader - Own Choice Solo Year 4 125  (A passage from any school reader or poem) approximately 125 words or 1.5 minutes.
1st = Lucas M 
2nd =Zafeerah C
3rd = Harriet S
HC = Harrison B, Hadley H, Mathew H, Jacob E

Year 1 Reading Solos
4016A - Speech & Drama Solos - Prose Reading Solos - Own choice Primary (50 words)
1st = Ahmad D
2nd = Alexander C
3rd = Aayan G
HC = Koa M, Charlie S, Amelia S, Dennis D

4016B - Speech & Drama Solos - Prose Reading Solos - Own choice Primary (50 words)
1st = Amari M
2nd = Noah K
3rd = Harlee R, Steve S
HC = Luca T, Sophie K, Cullen P, Mia P, Bonnie O.

4016C - Speech & Drama Solos - Prose Reading Solos - Own choice Primary (50 words)
1st = Oscar M
2nd = Claire M
3rd = Cody - Parker M
HC = Ruby B, Jackson B

Musical Main Cast
5000A - Speech & Drama Groups - Scenes from Plays, Musicals and Shakespeare (time limit 4 minutes)
1st = Group 5: Queen of Pop ( Zahlia F, Mia U, Georgia B, Ava S, Lucy R)
2nd = Group 4: When Veruca Says (Bella B & Adelaide M 
3rd = Group 7: If Your Father Were Here (Lily H, Angus C, Kobie S, Manaia P, Rihaana J, Ruby L)
HC = Group 11: More of Him to Love (Maddie B, Charlie Mc)

Kindergarten Nursery Rhymes 
1000H - Vocal Solo 6 years and under Nursery Rhyme in costume (microphone to be used.
1st = Allie E
2nd = Stellah K
3rd = Austin T

1000J - Vocal Solo 6 years and under Nursery Rhyme in costume (microphone to be used.
1st = Jake G
2nd = Heidi B
3rd = Zadie 

1000K - Vocal Solo 6 years and under Nursery Rhyme in costume (microphone to be used.
1st = Gavin S
2nd = Aleira O
3rd = Noah L

1000L - Vocal Solo 6 years and under Nursery Rhyme in costume (microphone to be used.
1st = Zia M
2nd = Advika S
3rd = Lucy W

Year 6 Reading Solos
4016D Speech & Drama Solos - Prose Reading Solo - Own Choice Primary (100 words)
1st = Vassic H
2nd = Jaydah E
3rd = Manaia P
HC = Chad S, Jackoby H, James G

4016E Speech & Drama Solos - Prose Reading Solo - Own Choice Primary (100 words)
1st = Charlie Mc
2nd =Ellisyn S
3rd = Lara C
HC = Aarav Pl, Francis I

4016F Speech & Drama Solos - Prose Reading Solo - Own Choice Primary (100 words)
1st = Harvey E
2nd = Charlie S
3rd = Sean P
HC = Filipa E, Hannah H, Ryder E, Oliver W, Isabella B

SPB4L Focus Reminder: Safe and Respectful Behaviour in the Bus Bay and Pick-Up Zone
As part of our ongoing SPB4L (School-wide Positive Behaviour for Learning) program, we are reminding students of the importance of safe and respectful behaviour in both the bus bay and pick-up zone.

Students are expected to follow these behaviours:

Bus Bay

• Follow teacher instructions
• Remain seated while waiting
• Sit in the allocated bus line for the bus they catch
• Watch carefully for their bus
• Place all rubbish in bins
• Walk with the teacher safely to the bus

Pick-Up Zone

• Follow teacher instructions
• Sit on the pavers or silver seats under the shelter
• Watch for their car
• Listen attentively for their name to be called
• Place all rubbish in bins

Reinforcing these simple behaviours helps keep everyone safe and ensures a calm and orderly environment during busy transition times. Thank you for your continued support at home in promoting these expectations.

School Netball Clinics 
Over the past few weeks, students from Kindergarten to Year 4 have had the exciting opportunity to take part in Netball Clinics as part of the Sporting Schools Grant program. We were fortunate to welcome a qualified coach from Dubbo Netball, who worked with each class to develop key fundamental movement skills.

Through fun and engaging activities, students practised throwing, catching, footwork, and teamwork, all while building their confidence and coordination. It was fantastic to see so many smiling faces and enthusiastic participation.

Sports Events Dates
Term 2 

• Wednesday 1st of July - St John’s Primay Athletics Carnival and K-2 Athletics Carnival

Term 3

• Tuesday 22nd of July - Jump Rope For Heart Jump Launch Day
• Wednesday 23rd of July - NSW Touch Gala Day 
• Wednesday 30th July  - Northern Region Athletics Carnival
• Wednesday 30th July - AFL Paul Kelly Cup - Sydney
• Friday 8th of August - St Laurences Soccer Gala Day 

Primary Athletics Carnival 2025 – Important Information
Our annual Primary Athletics Carnival is fast approaching, and we are looking forward to an exciting day of sportsmanship, competition, and fun for all students in Years 3–6.

Event Details

• Date: Tuesday, 1st July 2025 (Week 10)
• Venue: Barden Park on Fitzroy Street

As the carnival is part of the PDHPE program, attendance is compulsory for all students in Years 3–6.
Please note that buses will not be running for this event.

• Drop-off: Students are to arrive at Barden Park between 8:20 am and 8:45 am
• Pick-up: Students can be collected from the venue at 2:30pm

Events & Participation
All students will participate in their age group’s 100m race. 
The other running events that students can enter include the 200m, 800m, and 1500m races. These will be grouped as follows:

• Juniors: 8, 9 & 10 years

• 11 Years

• Seniors: 12 & 13 years

Field event eliminations for Shot Put, Discus, Long Jump, and High Jump will be held at school prior to the carnival. The top 7 competitors in each event will go on to compete in the finals on carnival day.

The 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishers in both track and field events will qualify to represent St John’s Primary at the Northern Region Athletics Carnival, also at Barden Park, on Wednesday, 30th July.

Parent Helpers Needed
To ensure the day runs smoothly, we are seeking parent helpers to assist with timekeeping and field events. Lunch and refreshments will be provided for all volunteers.Please email Mrs Emma Mills if you can assist throughout the day e.mills1@bth.catholic.edu.au

K-2 Athletics Carnival
We are excited to announce that the K–2 Athletics Carnival will be held on Tuesday, 1st July 2025 at Barden Park. This fun-filled day will give our youngest students the chance to enjoy a variety of physical activities and showcase their energy and enthusiasm!

Students will travel to Barden Park by bus, departing school at 11:00 am and returning by 2:00pm. 

A special note for Year 2 students turning 8 this year: These students will be participating in their age races and are eligible to try out for field events at school. A Compass post with more information was sent out last Friday. 

 Any year 2’s who have qualified for the field events from the school trials  will need to make their own way to Barden Park and be there after 8:30am. 

We are seeking parent helpers to assist on the day. If you're available and willing to lend a hand, please contact the school office or email Mrs Mills e.mills1@bth.catholic.edu.au.

Beanie for Brain and NRL Jersey Cancer Day

This year, our school is proudly raising funds and awareness for the Mark Hughes Foundation Beanie for Brain Cancer campaign. The date for our Beanie for Brain Cancer Day will be Friday 27th of June - this coincides with the NRL Beanie For Brain Cancer Round.

On this day students can wear a beanie and/or their favourite NRL Jersey to School. Students wearing a beanie or NRL Jersey are asked to make a gold coin donation. This money will then go onto the SJP Dubbo Fundraising page on the Mark Hughes Foundation Website. 

Our school’s goal is to raise $1000 for the Mark Hughes Foundation. This foundation raises money to support critical research through the Mark Hughes Foundation, which is working tirelessly to improve treatment options, fund research, and ultimately, find a cure for brain cancer.

We have set up a ‘SJP Dubbo’  fundraising page where donations can be made. 

https://mark-hughes-foundation.grassrootz.com/beanieforbraincancer2025/sjp-dubbo

The 2025 Mark Hughes Foundation beanies are here! Check them out at the retailers below if you would like to support the cause or simply grab a cozy new beanie!

• IGA South Dubbo has them available to purchase for $29
• Mark Hughes Foundation site to purchase beanies and other items (caps, scarves, socks, hoodies etc) https://shop.markhughesfoundation.com.au/collections/all-products

*note - you do not need to purchase a specific Mark Hughes Foundation beanie to participate in the fundraising day.