What a year this is turning out to be! I saw a meme on the weekend that suggested we all put our Christmas trees up and call it a year. As a global community we have faced so much this year and it is only June. Thankfully much of what is going on currently is asking us all to have a good hard look at ourselves and to gather a little perspective about others. I hope that as these issues evolve, we start to see more people actively listening to the concerns being raised and consider how we can be more compassionate to each other. The world could certainly do with a little kindness right now and it starts with each one of us.

St Vincent De Paul

This week we have been advised by Townsville Catholic Education that our regional branch of St Vincent De Paul has received some funding from both the State and federal Government to support people through the COVID 19 crisis. If you are experiencing difficulties or you know someone who is, please contact them as they are able to provide financial support with education, medical, rent and utility expenses. They can also assist with food vouchers, clothing, furniture and household items. Please call 1800VINNIES for assistance. 

Playground update

We have had a delay in opening the new playground due to a couple of safety issues we want to address. These will be rectified over the holidays along with the landscaping for the OSHC building, filling the gap with the front of the building and then we will finally be rid of all that construction fencing. 

We have been able to access the farm area of the new playground and start getting that working the way we want. Our chickens have been relocated to their new coop and are very happy with all their extra space. The Year 3’s and 4’s have started planting the tomatoes, peas and carrots they had potted earlier in the term. We have managed to locate and purchase a windmill with the help of our parent community and we have parent volunteers ready to assist with relocating that to our school grounds too. Hopefully, we will coordinate this by the end of the term. More work in this play area will happen over the holidays with the addition of some more outdoor learning spaces with a rustic looking shed and benches for students to work at preparing food for the chickens or their materials for gardening. We will also have some staff-painted tables created from recycled cable reels. So much is always happening at Benny’s for your children. 

Have a fabulous weekend. We look forward to what the next week brings.

Cheers

Penny Collins

Principal