Churchie’s GPS excellent performances in chess, basketball and rugby from the first round of Term 3 certainly helped to galvanise our enthusiasm for the challenges and opportunities of the new semester.
I would like to share a few key messages as we get our bearings for the second half of 2024.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) platforms
In the initial flush of excitement around the arrival of ChatGPT last year, I likened the platform to something equivalent to a magician taking a rabbit out of a hat. You had no idea where the content came from, and yet it appeared, as if out of thin air.
As a school, we have responded in various ways to the challenges and opportunities of AI, particularly regarding the merits and ethical aspects of using AI for academic purposes. In year level meetings last week for students in Years 7 to 12, boys were reminded of their responsibilities with regard to some key areas.
Churchie of course recognises some general benefits of AI:
as a learning tool that develops and provokes student knowledge and understanding
to collect ideas efficiently to help in their early planning and research.
to help with effective revision and extend students beyond the retrieval of surface knowledge (i.e. facts, formulas, definitions, terms).
as a complement to other forms of more traditional research (but certainly not a replacement).
However, it is important that students use AI ethically and with a commitment to appropriate referencing systems. It is certainly incumbent on students to understand the significant risks involved. In particular:
Students should always use their own knowledge and expertise to critically evaluate the relevance, accuracy and credibility of anything created by AI (just as with any other source).
Students should prioritise using AI platforms that provide original sources. Some useful examples include Perplexity AI, Semantic Scholar, Copilot and Consensus AI. Students should quote from original sources as a preference over any AI platform itself.
If students do want to quote from or paraphrase an AI platform, they must do so with proper citation. There are clear conventions to follow in this respect.
Students should avoid overusing AI proofreading software. AI can be used to highlight basic issues around punctuation and grammar for students to fix. However, students should never accept AI suggestions that rephrase or replace their own work without appropriate attribution.
Further information will be provided for students as a refresher in all these areas over the coming weeks, adding some nuance and detail to some of these significant areas. Relevant aspects will be shared with parents to enrich discussions at home as well.
In our recent year level meetings, it was especially emphasised that students should save their work in OneDrive to benefit from version history features. This can be helpful to establish a submission’s authenticity.
Concert series
As the cocurricular programme gets underway this term, I draw particular attention to the Music Concert Series:
Churchie’s Best Solos, 18 July at 6 pm, Morris Hall (open to all)
These events promise to showcase some of the incredible musical talent of our students, supported, of course, by some extraordinary staff.
Study Hub
For students in the Senior School, Study Hub had over 1,000 student visits in Semester 1. Whether it be for help to complete class work or receiving guidance for homework or assessments, this complimentary service has already commenced for Semester 2. Taking place before and after school according to our Years 7 to 9 and Years 10 to 12 schedules published on myChurchie, we continue to be indebted to our peer leaders, specialist staff and Old Boys for supporting, cajoling and inspiring our young men in all sorts of wonderful ways.
Year 12 final semester
I wish all students the very best for the term ahead, particularly our Year 12s as they build confidence over this final stretch of their secondary school journey. For our class of 2024, there are some significant rite of passage experiences over the coming months, culminating in their Valedictory service on 14 November. May their final memories as young men of Churchie be rich and fulfilling.
Richard Wheeldon Deputy Headmaster
CPAA General Meeting
All parents, step-parents and guardians of current Churchie students are warmly invited to attend the upcoming CPAA General Meeting at 6 pm on Thursday 1 August 2024 in Nichols Theatre (or Click here to join the meeting if you are unable to attend in person). (Please note this meeting was previously scheduled for Wednesday 31 July.)
Churchie Learning Framework
Now a fixture in the way we understand Churchie’s brand of pedagogy, the image of the Churchie Learning Framework below highlights the pivotal relationships that exist between teachers and staff, students, and their parents and guardians. This is envisaged for the whole school, Reception to Year 12, tailored to suit the needs of each age and stage in appropriate ways.
Of note, explicit instruction involves a series of steps where students have a clear understanding of what and how they should learn. Teachers break big ideas into smaller and more manageable pieces, model approaches and check for understanding as students develop independence. Understanding the science behind learning and memory ensures the full benefit of our educational approach. Explicit instruction is especially effective since it suits how the brain processes, stores and retrieves information.
Reflecting another key aspect of our learning framework, Churchie boys are always encouraged to focus on the process of learning, not just the result. Effective organisation is critical in this area.
Of note, the Years 7 to 12 student diary provides space at the beginning of each term for students to reflect on the previous term, and also map out when all their assessments are due for the term ahead. Information here helps to explain how students are encouraged to use their diaries (also available to parents via the Academic/Senior School/Student Diary – Exemplar and Explanation tiles in myChurchie).
By way of reminder, we ask and encourage all parents to sign student diaries at the end of each week (at least to the end of Year 10).
Withdrawal of enrolment for 2025
Withdrawal of your son from Churchie requires one full term’s notice in writing to Churchie Admissions via email (admissions@churchie.com.au) as outlined in the terms and conditions of your son’s enrolment agreement. Notice of your intention to withdraw your son at the end of Term 4, 2024 (i.e. he will not be returning to Churchie in 2025) must be received by the first day of Term 4, 2024 (Monday 30 September) or one term’s fees will be charged.
Atomic Habits is one of my favourite books. The first chapter is about how habits compound over time and why making small improvements daily can lead to a significant difference in the long run. It is about the philosophy of continuous improvement. I often speak to the boys about doing the one percenters well, attending to the many and varied little things that lead to success. In the book, the author shares the story of the British Cycling team. The team coach had expressions he used to attribute to the team’s success. It was the ‘aggregation of marginal gains’ or doing all the little things well. You don’t need to engage in big gestures or commitments to get big results. Doing the little things well, attending to the details and consistently applying this is what brings results.
The British Cycling team, under the leadership of Sir Dave Brailsford, is a prime example of doing the little things well to achieve the desired result. In 2002, he took charge of the British Cycling team. At this time, they had only won one gold medal in 76 years of cycling competition. In 2008, British Cycling collected 10 gold medals and won three Tour de France titles.
Sir Dave’s philosophy was that the aggregation of marginal gains would lead to the desired result—gold medals. He didn’t make sweeping changes to staffing, training techniques or equipment but rather committed his cyclists and staff to do the little things well. Sir Dave had his team paint the inside of the mobile workshops white so they could see any dirt and grime in the workshop. This enabled them to be able to keep a pristine environment so none of the dirt would get into the bikes. All cyclists took their own pillows and mattresses to international competitions so they could enjoy the same level of sleep comfort they enjoyed at home. He made the cyclists thoroughly wash their hands during competition to avoid any unnecessary illness, and the cyclists, for the same reason, were not allowed to shake competitors’ hands. Sir Dave changed the seat positioning on the bikes, made small changes to the aerodynamics and even had professional cooks prepare and handle the food for the cyclists. As you can imagine, this was the tip of the iceberg in all the small changes he made. Yet these small changes yielded significant results.
The same applies to our students’ academic goals for this semester. Outlining specific times to do homework, reading every night before bed, being organised for class, being on time, having laptops charged, having neat bookwork, asking questions when you are unsure of something … the list goes on. Small changes yield significant outcomes.
Term 3 is the engine room or championship quarter of the academic year. This is the time when academic heavy lifting is required, showing perseverance, grit and determination. During the first half of the year, consolidating the previous year’s work and foundational skills took place along with the exploration of new material and curriculum content. This semester, our boys begin their transition to the following year. It is during this term we look at furthering their academic engagement so that our boys can act more purposefully with their disciplinary knowledge, understanding and skills across the eight learning areas of the curriculum. We are constantly challenging students to broaden their skillset around critical thinking, problem-solving, reasoning and the ability to collaboratively work in teams. The aggregation of marginal gains, and being disciplined and consistent will lead our boys to achieve their personal best. I challenge the boys this term to look for ways, small ways, to implement change and be the best they can be.
Prep value of the week: humility
Being humble is considering others as important as yourself. You are thoughtful of their needs and willing to be of service. You don’t expect others or yourself to be perfect. You learn from your mistakes. When you do great things, humility reminds you to be thankful instead of boastful.
Attribute of the week: principled
When you are principled, you act with integrity and honesty, with a strong sense of fairness, justice and respect for the dignity of the individual, groups and communities. You take responsibility for your actions and the consequences that accompany them.
Year 1 excursion
On Friday, 12 July, the Year 1 classes visited Caboolture Historical Villageas part of their unit of inquiry. Through the central idea, ‘Comparing similarities and differences when exploring the past can help us to understand identity’, the excursion was an effective platform to further inquiry.
Throughout the day, the boys were immersed in educational and entertaining experiences centred around developing an understanding and appreciation of early Australian history. They had the opportunity to experience what life was like as a school student in the early 1900s, participated in a washing demonstration, observed a ‘pumps and power’ workshop, and rode on a small train, which was held up by a bushranger.
The boys thoroughly enjoyed their day out. Thank you so very much to Mrs Guy and Mrs Kiem for joining us on our special outing.
Celebrating NAIDOC Week
Keep the fire burning. Blak, loud and proud.
Students throughout the Prep School engaged with NAIDOC Week in the spirit of celebration and reconciliation. In RE lessons, time was spent finding out about this year’s theme, ‘Keep the Fire Burning’,andthe winning poster. Many students used research skills to gather information about some of the NAIDOC Week award finalists. We wondered about what actions could be taken to keep the fire and passion of culture burning and created flames to display in the chapel and library. Junior Choir, conducted by Melissa Black and accompanied by Ben Hooper, sang the peaceful ‘Ngaree-ka Kaba Lullaby’, in Yuggera language, and we thank Gaja Kerry, Elder and Yuggera language expert, for her encouragement to do so. Jayden Ah Boo (Year 10) spoke at our Prep Assembly sharing history, culture, knowledge and pride with our Prep School community. Isaiah Missen (Year 8) played the didgeridoo, accompanied by a four-piece string quartet. Their involvement and generosity led the Prep School Assembly and created an atmosphere of respect and celebration.
Around the grounds
Prep Support Group meeting
The next Prep Support Group meeting will be held on Thursday 1 August commencing at 8:30 am in the Brenan Pavilion, and all parents are welcome.
The Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) holiday
Wednesday 14 August is a public holiday for the Royal Queensland Show (Ekka). There will be no school on that day.
Messages to boys
If you need to get a message to your son during the school day regarding afternoon arrangements or activities (or anything else), please direct your message to the Prep School Office, either by email at prepschool@churchie.com.au or by phone on 3896 2219. Emails sent to teachers during the day may not be read and conveyed to the boys in time due to the teachers’ timetables and commitments.
Mark Wyer Head of Preparatory School
Senior School
Interhouse Track and Field
The 2024 Interhouse Track and Field carnival was held on the final day of Term 2.
We were blessed with fine weather throughout and are indebted to several key individuals: Martyn Hedley for his preparations of the grounds, Craig Howe for his work on the day, Brian Bowen for overseeing the public address system, all teaching staff who adjudicated or supervised house areas, Michael Simes for masterminding a complex day of competition, and David Grogan for calling the various races and events.
Grenfell and Kingsley recorded attendance of more than 90 per cent, and we especially congratulate Gerald and Hillary, with more than 95 per cent of students in attendance.
With attendance added, the overall results were as follows:
1st Kingsley
2nd Grenfell
Equal 3rd Nansen and Hillary
5th Mansfield
6th Gerald
7th Mawson
8th Biggs
9th Casey
10th Magnus
11th Goodwin
With the Interhouse Singing still to be held, the overall standings for interhouse competition are as follows:
1st Kingsley
2nd Nansen
3rd Hillary
=4th Biggs and Casey
6th Gerald
7th Grenfell
8th Mawson
9th Mansfield
10th Magnus
11th Goodwin
Berian Williams-Jones Deputy Head of Senior School (Years 7 to 9)
By Year 11 students Henry Brown (Magnus) and Josh Crain (Casey)
The Year 11 Sleep Rough programme is an initiative facilitated by the St Vincent de Paul Society aimed at raising awareness of homelessness in Australia. Students from Casey and Magnus Houses participated in this immersive programme near the end of Term 2. The initiative was born of the Churchie Year 11 social justice programme where participants spent the evening learning about the cause, challenges and solutions in regard to homelessness in Brisbane, Queensland and Australia.
The event commenced on campus where the Vinnies staff conducted several workshops. Through case studies and activities, we were given a comprehensive introduction to the issue of homelessness faced by over 105,000 people across Australia. The sessions offered us a deeper understanding of the daily hardships faced by people in this situation. We learned about the causes of homelessness, the exposed and unsafe living conditions and the constant uncertainty. We also explored the social stigma that comes with homelessness and its mental health impacts.
After the workshops, we walked to the CBD where we saw, through a ‘homeless lens’, what we had previously taken for granted. For instance, we encountered many examples of ‘hostile architecture’, which is a feature of urban design that purposefully guides the behaviour of the homeless. Examples of this infrastructure include metal bars on public seating to prevent sleeping and loud music playing in public places after dark.
One activity involved talking to volunteers from the Rosie Foundation, an organisation that works to create a safe interface for people experiencing homelessness through things such as warm meals and clean clothes.
Another of the most impactful activities was the $2 dinner challenge, where each student was tasked with buying their dinner with just a gold coin. This exercise demonstrated the financial constraints many homeless individuals face daily and just how high the current cost of living is. Interestingly, some of us pooled our resources, highlighting the value of support from one’s community, but it brought home the struggles of purchasing dinner with no source of income.
The night spent experiencing the streets was a profound and eye-opening experience, providing us with a deeper understanding and new empathy for those living with this reality every day. Our exposure to the unseen side of homelessness far outweighed what we might have learned if we simply fundraised for a charity. This immersive experience has personally changed us and has informed our understanding of the homeless issue. It has equipped us for the future, where we can influence our communities to support our less fortunate communities in the years to come.
Senior School photos
Senior School photos, which include Years 7 to 12 house photos, portraits, Year 12 Valedictory photos and sibling photos, are scheduled for Thursday 25 July (week three) for all houses except Grenfell and Kingsley. Year 7 form photos are also scheduled for this day.
Thursday 1 August (week four) is the scheduled photo day for Grenfell and Kingsley, including their sibling photos.
Students are to wear Whites, and as per the School Handbook and Student Diary, please note the following extract for personal grooming:
Hair must be such that it can be kept well-groomed and tidy. The expectation is that the hairstyle be conservative and that hair should be above the collar at the back. Ears must be completely visible and must not have hair hanging over them or brushed behind them. The length of sideburns is to be no lower than the middle of the ears.
The following are considered unacceptable:
undercuts or layering
excess length, including long fringes that extend beyond the eyebrows when the hair is pulled downwards towards the nose
dreadlocks
excessive hair product
extremes of fashion
hair colouring beyond the natural colour
shaved heads at blade cut less than 3
tracks through the hair or eyebrows.
Furthermore, students must be clean-shaven at all times and the wearing of visible jewellery, studs or piercings is unacceptable; religious jewellery must be kept under the clothing.
Students not suitably presented will be excluded from the photos.
Ordering photos
To order photos please refer to the Leading Image flyer below or use the following instructions:
Leading Image will communicate directly with you online and post your photos to your home for your convenience. Individual student ordering will stay open after the photo day. Orders placed after the photo day may incur a postage charge per order. Any enquiries should be referred directly to Leading Image via info@leadingimage.com.au
Sibling photos
Sibling photos must be ordered before photo day. For administration purposes, please order your sons’ sibling photos by Monday 22 July at 4 pm via the Leading Image School Photos website.
Year 8 Grandparents and Special Guests Lunch
Please view the invitation to the Year 8 Grandparents and Special Guests Lunch to be held on Monday 12 August from 11:45 am.
Year 8 students are welcome to invite up to two guests to this special event. We ask that only grandparents or special guests attend this sit-down lunch. It is important for parents to RSVP by Monday 5 August on behalf of their son’s guests via the following link: please click here.
Grandparents and special guests will receive a programme before the event.
Dr Alex Krzensk Acting Head of Senior School
Music
NAIDOC Week performance
Music transcends boundaries and gives reverence to special occasions such as NAIDOC week. Please follow the link below to hear the Churchie String Quartet performing with Year 8 student Isaiah Missen (didgeridoo) at Headmaster’s Assembly. The timbres, colours and techniques of the strings blended beautifully with the didgeridoo to create a stirring tribute to the Indigenous land.
Chamber Strings 1 and 2 performance
At Headmaster’s Assembly last week, Chamber Strings 1 and Chamber Strings 2 set the tone for the year with ‘Eleanor Rigby’, made famous by The Beatles. The full and sonorous sound was well received by the audience and a fitting start to the term. Congratulations to all boys who performed.
Please follow this link to a recording of Chamber Strings 1 and 2 performing ‘Eleanor Rigby’ at Headmaster’s Assembly.
Drumline
Forty-five boys put their hands up to perform for the opening round of GPS Basketball last weekend. The students started with some atmospheric songs in the tunnel and then stayed for the duration of the first half, creating a wonderful feeling among the crowd when Churchie scored their points. A big thank you to the Basketball Support Group for feeding the boys. The next game for Drumline is against BBC on 10 August (week five). This will be the last opportunity for many of our Year 12s to play drumline as we hope for our biggest attendance yet.
Soiree
As part of the upcoming Signature Concert Series in Term 3, all students will perform a solo piece as part of the Soiree studio recitals. This is a fantastic opportunity for parents to see their sons perform in a warm and friendly environment as we encourage students to improve their performing skills. Please note the date, time and location of your Soiree below. You should also receive further, more detailed communication from your tutor by the end of the term:
Congratulations to the following students who have successfully gained a place in Churchie’s Best Solos 2024, which takes place in Morris Hall on Thursday 18 July, commencing at 6 pm:
James Aralar (cello)
Lucas Ding (violin)
James Duffy (piano)
Thomas Dwyer (voice)
Charles Hartwright (voice)
Eric Kim (violin)
Junee Kim (violin)
Hunter Luostarinen (trombone)
Luka Roberts (trumpet)
Gabin Won (flute)
With a very high level of musicianship on display, this will be an amazing night to remember. Entry is free and Churchie student audience members are expected to wear whites.
Churchie ensembles in the Queen Street Mall
If you are looking for something to do on Sunday 21 July 2024, look no further. Churchie’s premier ensembles will be performing in the heart of Brisbane City as part of Jazzin’ Up the Mall. Please see the times and details below:
Ensemble
Arrival time
Warm up time
Side stage
Performance
Symphony Orchestra
10 am
10:15 am
10:45 am
11 am
Chamber Strings 1
10:15 am
10:30 am
11 am
11:15 am
Morris Winds
10:30 am
10:45 am
11:15 am
11:30 am
Viking Vocalists 1
10:45 am
11 am
11:30 am
11:45 am
Big Band 1
11 am
11:10 am
11:45 am
12 noon
Jazz Under the Stars – James Morrison
There are only a handful of tickets left for sale, so be quick and don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy great music and food, and support Churchie Music on Main Oval. Tickets are $65 per person for table seating and $50 for general admission. This is great value to see James Morrison and Darren Percival live on Main Oval. Don’t miss out on this amazing event! Please take some time to view the Jazz Under the Stars promotional video below.
Think of your favourite space movie or a theme that relates to time. Chances are you will hear it and see it at the Gala Concert on 15 August 2024. Tickets are now available for this spectacular night of themed music with an audio-visual extravaganza.
We began Term 3 of the GPS competition by hosting round one home games. Chess kicked off the season with an exceptional number of wins on Friday. On Saturday, Brisbane Grammar was a fine opponent, and the clear winter skies were a magnificent backdrop to the scene that would unfold for the blue and grey to be victorious in both our rugby and basketball programmes. This week we look forward to travelling away to verse Gregory Terrace in what will be another competitive GPS round.
2025 Cocurricular Selection Showcase Day
We are excited to welcome all new 2025 Years 5 to 12 students and current Years 4 and 6 students to Churchie’s 2025 Cocurricular Showcase Day on Saturday 27 July.
Information regarding the event will be communicated via Churchie’s Admissions office.
Our amazing cocurricular programmes and their support groups will be available to answer any enquiries from new families and current Years 4 and 6 students.
Please find below a summary timeline for the 2025 cocurricular selection process:
Saturday 27 July (week three): Showcase Day event for new 2025 Years 5 to 12 students and current Years 4 and 6 students only (11 am to 12:30 pm)
Monday 29 July (week 4): Cocurricular Selection Information Evening (6 to 7 pm) with the selection portal live and available from 7:30 pm
Sunday 18 August (week six): Selection portal closed to all families from 6 pm
Basketball
Round one showed the success we have worked so hard to maintain across the programme against Brisbane Grammar. As seen in the results on the Churchie Basketball Scoreboard on the myChurchie Basketball page, Churchie had 35 games against Brisbane Grammar, winning 30 of these games.
The First V game was a sign that the team, when healthy and playing to their strengths, will be a force in the GPS. It was a rocky first quarter, with the ball ending up in our opponent’s hands a little too much. Some missed free throws resulted in a half-time score of 47–46 to Churchie in a much closer game than anticipated. In the second half, some key runs, improved ball security and fast-paced play saw the team add to Captain Oskar Olechnowicz’s points tally. Multiple three-pointers from Kai Summerfield, Noah Kirk and Nash Harding brought the final margin to 108–91. The boys have a lot to put in place to take on Gregory Terrace and Nudgee over the next few rounds.
In the wider programme, some notable performances by teams are below.
From Year 9 down to our Year 5 teams, we only had one narrow two-point loss; all other teams had strong victories.
Our Year 11 teams, once again, had a clean sweep, and this age group has been extremely strong during their four previous years of GPS Basketball.
The 9E team had one of the day’s strongest results, with a 91–16 victory.
The 5C and 6C boys both took out their game 64–6 in two amazing defensive performances.
Thanks to all parents, coaches, boys and volunteers for an amazing start to the GPS season. We look forward to the support continuing to grow around the courts against Gregory Terrace and Nudgee over the next two rounds.
Aaron Harding Director of Basketball
Churchie Basketball v BGS in the Sir John Pigeon Sports Centre, ChurchiePHOTOS: AMY STOREN (CHURCHIE PARENT) AND MICHAEL MARSTON (EPIXEL IMAGES) VIEW ADDITIONAL PHOTOS ON PIXEVETY
Chess
Churchie Chess began its 2024 GPS title defence with a convincing victory over arch-rivals Brisbane Grammar School last Friday. Our first round saw 52 young men play chess for Churchie in The Centenary Library in what is traditionally our most challenging round of the season. Our Premier team won three and a half of their four games. There were some impressive wins showcasing the depth of our programme, notably from the Junior, Open E and Open G teams. This year, we have more than 85 students as part of our GPS squads, far more than any other school.
Round two is this Friday at Gregory Terrace. Students and staff will travel to Spring Hill on a bus, and parents will be able to pick their sons up from the venue after their games. Larissa Guy will contact the Prep School parents when their sons’ games have finished. Further details on travel and playing arrangements will be posted on the myChurchie Chess page this week.
I thank our parent volunteers, who were vital in managing Opening Moves and the food for round one, and our coaching staff.
It has been a great holiday of chess, and we look forward to seeing how our Churchie Chess boys perform this term in GPS competitions.
Round one of the GPS Rugby kicked off spectacularly with Churchie hosting Brisbane Grammar School. With fantastic conditions and large crowds, it was a cracking day of rugby.
The men in blue and grey didn’t disappoint, producing a convincing set of results right across the programme. Overall, 12 games were played between the two schools, with Churchie recording 10 wins and 2 losses. Our U11s participated in the round one Gala Day carnival hosted by Gregory Terrace, with each team playing four 20-minute games against a variety of opposition.
This weekend we are playing Gregory Terrace away, in a full match-up. Further details will be provided later in the week.
The First XV ventured out on Main Oval for round one, where we hosted Brisbane Grammar School in fabulous weather conditions. Our side was full of confidence coming off some pleasing performances in our Term 2 trials. The first five minutes saw BGS apply plenty of pressure to the Churchie defence. This resulted in BGS capitalising on the bounce of the ball after a stray kick in the middle. This led to BGS taking an early seven-point lead.
The Churchie attack slowly started to take shape, spearheaded by Max Blanch. With space opening in behind the Grammer defence, some smart tactical kicking resulted in Churchie getting on the scoreboard, making it 5–7.
It wasn’t long before Churchie scored again. Some quick ball movement out wide set off Will Bloxham on a run where he smartly set up Treyvon Pritchard. This made the score 12–7. A penalty conversion soon after took the score to 15–7. Churchie remained camped inside the Grammar 22 leading up to halftime but failed to convert the pressure into points.
The second half kicked off in windy conditions. The Churchie players picked up where they left off and piled on the pressure in the Grammar half. Thomas Hatzifotis picked out Harry Solofa with a wonderfully timed pass seeing him sprint over for the score making it 22–8. Churchie produced a well-worked try but, unfortunately, it was disallowed for foul play.
Some heavy Grammar pressure saw BGS score a pick and go try through their forwards making it 22–15. Churchie were soon awarded a penalty, which was successfully converted, making it 25–15.
Some fantastic forward play inside the Grammar half led captain Max Blanch crashing over, taking the score line to 32–15. Shortly after this, Max Blanch again made a line break kicking the ball deep into the Grammar half. Hugh Rylance was the fastest to react, kicking it over the try line and smartly touching it down, making it 37–15. A last-minute BGS comeback saw them score with the final play, bringing the final score to 37–20.
We would like to remind you of the great opportunity that is offered by the Churchie Strength and Conditioning and Integrative Physio Centre (IPC).
The primary aim of these sessions is to offer our student athletes additional support through comprehensive physiotherapy assessments. This includes initial assessments, injury assessments, injury observations, referrals, modifications to the Churchie Strength and Conditioning programme (conducted by our expert staff), and adjusted field/court training. The process follows a systematic approach to facilitate a safe return to training and play, with the option for further in-depth assessments during off and on-site clinic times.
This collaborative effort is designed to elevate the standard of care provided by the Churchie Sports department. Our goal is to offer prompt, direct, and specific assessments; recommendations; and rehabilitation exercises; ensuring our student athletes can remain actively engaged in their desired sporting pursuits.
Key details about the Churchie GPS Sport Triage Screening:
Who: Senior School GPS Sports students
Where: Medical room of the Sir John Pigeon Sports Centre (SJPSC) foyer
When: Monday mornings from 6.30 am to 8 am
Arrival: Students seeking assessment must be in the SJPSC by 7 am to ensure sufficient time for screening.
Supervision: Churchie Strength and Conditioning staff and physiotherapists from IPC
We are pleased to announce that the Monday morning assessment is free of charge to the community. However, follow-up appointments will need to be covered by private health insurance, with charges at a reduced rate compared to private clinic fees.
For those interested in learning more about the programme, please feel free to reach out to Jarrad Boswell, Director of Athletic Development, at Jarrad.boswell@churchie.com.au.
We are enthusiastic about the positive impact this service will have on the well-being and performance of our student athletes. Thank you for your support.
Jarrad Boswell Director of Athletic Development
Sporting achievements
Congratulations to the following students for their success in the following sporting pursuits.
Chess
During the Term 2 holiday, some of our chess players performed wonderfully in various competitions. In the last week of school, the Prep School boys competed in the Brisbane Primary School South Interschool Tournament, which attracts the best primary-aged chess players in the South Brisbane region.
In the A grade, the Churchie 1 team, consisting of Zeqi Xing, Owen Shen, Yuwei Wang and Austin Li, achieved an exceptional score of 23.5/28, securing first place. The tournament also saw Churchie 2 and Churchie 3 place second and fourth, respectively, in A grade. Owen Shen delivered the best individual performance in A grade with a perfect score of 7/7, earning first place individually. Matthew Jia and Austin Li tied for second place with scores of 6/7. In the B division, the best-placed Churchie team was Churchie 5, consisting of Roy Luo, Avraj Singh, Quinton Cheung, and Harvey Nguyen, who placed third overall.
Additionally, some boys competed at the Gold Coast Open and Queensland Juniors successfully. At the Gold Coast Open, Sravan Renjith, our board 1, placed third overall with a score of 6.5/9 in the Premier division. During the event, he defeated his first top 100-rated player in the world, a remarkable achievement for a 16-year-old. Well done, Sravan! Premier chess members Zerui Xing and Jayden Ooi also performed admirably, placing 20th and 29th, respectively, in the Premier division.
Finally, we congratulate Matthew Jia, Zeqi Xing, and Ryan Liaw on winning the under 8, under 10, and under 18 Queensland titles, respectively, at the Queensland Junior Chess Championship last week. Congratulations also to Azaan Bansal, who placed second in the under 8 division behind Matthew Jia.
Rugby
Treyvon Pritchard (Year 11) and Jye Crothers (Year 12) were selected for the Queensland U18 Red team.
Duke Thallon (Year 10), Hamish Russell (Year 10), Tamwoy Tuviyah (Year 9) and Angus Hughes (Year 10) were selected for the Metropolitan East U15 team.
Zac Griggs (Year 12) was selected for the Queensland Schoolboys U18 boys touch football team. He will be playing in the national championships in Coffs Harbour in September.
Table tennis
Owen Jin (Year 9) secured the silver medal for the U15 Boys table tennis doubles and bronze for the U15 Boys team at the National Table Tennis Championships in Mandurah, Western Australia.
Hockey
Riley Wondergem (Year 11) represented the Queensland Gold team at the Australian Under 18 Men’s Hockey Championships at the Gold Coast from 3 to 11 July.
The team finished 7th out of 12 teams.
Cross Country
Last weekend, seven Churchie boys represented the Met East region at the Queensland Schools Cross Country Championships at St Pauls School, Bald Hills.
All boys competed very well, with special mention to Lachlan Moore, who won the gold medal in the 16 years state championship. Lachlan added the state championship to his GPS Championship win to conclude a wonderful Queensland cross country season. Lachlan now turns his attention to the National Cross Country Championships on 31 August.
Lachlan Moore, 1st, 16 Years
Winton Rogers, 7th, 11 Years
Andrew McConnel, 8th, 14 Years
Daniel Lane, 17th, 12 Years
Freddie McDonnell, 20th, 15 Years
George Chandler, 42nd, 11 Years
Archie Ellis, 56th, 10 Years
Trent Goodrick Head of Cocurricular
Boarding on the road
Upcoming events
Churchie Boarding is continuing to travel far and wide to meet with current, future and past community members. We are pleased to be supported by members of the OBA Committee, School Executive, School Council and the Churchie Foundation at many of these events. Please spread the word or visit us if you are in the area.
Longreach Churchie and St Margaret’s families function, 17 July
Moree Boarding Schools Pop-up Expo, 25 July
Tamworth Boarding Schools Expo, 26 to 27 July
Toowoomba families function, 3 August
Australian Cotton Conference, 6 to 8 August
See Churchie Boarding on the road for RSVP links and further details:
Recently retired Wallaby skipper, Michael Hooper, will join Wallaby Coach, Joe Schmidt on the panel at the upcoming Churchie Rugby Luncheon.
Limited seats remain
The annual Churchie Rugby Luncheon will be held on Friday 9 August 2024 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre in Brisbane’s South Bank. This event precedes the Wallabies’ match against the current World Champions, the South African Springboks at Suncorp Stadium. As always, there will be top-level entertainment, with Justin Harrison as the main speaker, along with a panel discussion conducted by MC Greg Clark featuring new Wallabies coach Joe Schmidt and other former Wallabies. Additionally, there will be the usual raffles, auctions and the ball-passing competition for both men and women.
With the much talked about British and Irish Lions Tour in 2025, tables purchased for the 2024 luncheon will receive priority for 2025, which will undoubtedly be a sell-out at the new venue, The Star Casino, Brisbane. Save the date for the Churchie British and Irish Lions Test on Friday 18 July 2025.
Pixevety is Churchie’s photo platform, where photos from across the School will be uploaded weekly. The system recognises students so parents can simply click ‘myVIPs’ and see their son’s photos in one easy location.
Families new to the School may not see ‘myVIPs’ yet, as new student ID photos are still to be processed in the system. However, you can still browse the galleries.
Watch the video below to learn how to use Pixevety.
Parent Connect is the school-wide parent community support group focused on nurturing the fun and family-centric side of school life. We provide valuable support services through formal and informal networks across the School. We intentionally communicate, connect, coordinate services and facilitate wellbeing support for our families and the greater community. Click here to view on MyChurchie.
Join Parent Connect
Join here. The Churchie parent community has a long-standing initiative to enable the sharing of contact details for those who opt in and provide consent. Joining the Parent Connect database is easy. Once you have joined, you will receive communication from your parent coordinators, access to your cohort’s parent contact list, and membership to the private Facebook groups.
Parent Connect contacts
Click here to meet the executive team and coordinator community of volunteer parents. Each year, house and service activity has dedicated friendly peer contacts for parents, helping them navigate school life, hosting social connections, and administering private Facebook groups.
Services and volunteer engagement
Any member of the Churchie community (parents, Old Boys, friends, and staff) can participate in these services or make a confidential request for wellbeing support. Click here to volunteer or request support.
Upcoming events
We host several events throughout the year to unite our community, and we would love for you to join us. Our upcoming events include:
Wednesday | Midweek Meditations | The Chapel | 7:45 am
Friday 19 July | Year 7 Parent Coffee | The Arches | from 8 am
Friday 19 July | Biggs and Hillary Houses Mothers Lunch | Alchemy Restaurant | 12 pm | RSVP
Saturday 20 July | Year 10 Parents Event | Birds Nest Restaurant | 4 pm | RSVP
Wednesday 24 July | Parent Connect Coffee and Connect | The Arches | 8:15 am
Wednesday 24 July | Parent Connect Meeting | Brenan Pavilion | 9 am | RSVP
Wednesday 24 July | Grenfell Parent and Student House Breakfast | Venue TBA | 7:30 am
Friday 26 July | Biggs House Fathers Dinner | Story Bridge Hotel | 6:30 pm | RSVP
Wednesday 31 July | Parent BBQ, COB x Wellbeing Speaker Series Event | The Centenary Library lecture theatre | 5:30 pm
Friday 16 August | Mansfield Goat Burger Day | Churchie (venue TBA) | from 12 |
Wednesday 11 September | Spring Lunch | Greek Club | 11:30 am
Thursday 12 September | Year 12 Father and Son Breakfast | Viking Café courtyard | 7:15 am
Meals on Wheels
Churchie Meals on Wheels is a well-established volunteering service initiative by Biggs and Gerald Houses (all parents are welcome to volunteer). This year, eight new parent volunteers joined a roster group of 25. Every Friday, without fail, we drive two or three Biggs/Gerald boys and deliver meals in the Bulimba and Carina areas. Here are some photos and testimonials from our parent volunteers:
After my first volunteer drive for Meals on Wheels, I felt grateful for the opportunity to not only be a part of helping those in need but also to meet and talk with the volunteering Churchie boys. Talking to the boys about where they are from, how exams are going and their opinions on the latest Origin game gave me a chance to connect. Watching the boys take charge of the deliveries and seeing the smiles and gratitude from the recipients warmed my heart. I left feeling a sense of satisfaction and pride watching these young men help those in need and looking forward to my next MOW drive!
Annie B (first-time volunteer in 2024)
I enjoy that small connection with the School while, at the same time, giving back to the community. Hearing the school news via the boys each time I’m rostered and seeing them participate in fantastic community service is great. The boys and I have encountered lots of interesting people covering West End, Holland Park and, in more recent years, the Carina Meals on Wheels routes. Back in my ‘school mum’ days, I had a people mover, which was great, but nowadays I drive a much smaller car, but we seem to manage! I hope to continue with MOW for years to come!
Michelle J (volunteer for 21 years)
Contact Meals on Wheels Coordinator Stacey Lacey (Years 11 and 9 parent) to learn more about volunteering for Meals on Wheels on Fridays. Click here to volunteer or request support.
Zei Balas rugby team supporters
Parent Connect is honoured to have been invited to support this Indigenous student-led initiative. The Zei Balas rugby team was established in 2021 with the help of Churchie staff members Kelly Jackson and Craig Howe. They formed a rugby team to compete in the ABF Queensland Murri Carnival, enabling the opportunity to showcase their talents and proudly represent their diverse backgrounds and rich culture through sports with their mates from remote communities.
Captain Jayden Ah Boo and Vice-Captain Bailen Noy are leading the 2024 team, which includes players from Thursday Island, Badu Island, Horn Island, Mabuiag Island, Mungindi, Brisbane and Sunshine Coast.
Our support involves raising community awareness, fundraising, and engaging supporters. Thanks to the growing community of supporters, the team has developed their logo and uniforms and continues to raise funds to meet their financial needs. You can support the team by attending their games at Churchie Rugby home games, following their story, and contributing via GoFundMe.
Best wishes, Parent Connect Executive Team and Coordinator Community.
Tuckshop news
Viking Café volunteers
We welcome mums and dads to volunteer at our tuckshops. Please contact the Tuckshop Volunteers Coordinator for more details if you can spare some time during the term to help in our busy tuckshops.
