The True Meaning of Cricket

One of the joys of having children is watching the shows and movies that are primarily designed for young people but are just as watchable and loved by adults alike. As my children are older, unfortunately, I missed out on the phenomenon that is “Bluey” but I have been introduced to it through younger connections in my family.

Recently, a Bluey episode was released that surrounded the topic of cricket. Timely with the Ashes currently underway, but it isn’t about the intricacies of the rules of the game of cricket but more the collective narrative of family, tenacity and love. In this episode, Rusty, a true cricket tragic and a friend of Bluey’s, is struggling with an older faster bowler amongst a range of different batting conditions. Rusty’s dad, who is serving overseas in the military, provides some advice via a letter for young Rusty;

“As you grow, you’ll face harder things than a cricket ball, and you’ll have two choices. Back away and get out or step in front and play a pull shot … keep your eye on the ball and look after your little sister.”

As a result, Rusty practised. Hard. And took risks. He overcame the many challenges he was faced with as well as remembering to value and love after his sibling.

This sentiment captures our wellbeing theme of resilience as well as our thread for this week and next surrounding family connections.

This notion of family is a common place where young people learn about personal identity. Where families support, experience love, encouragement, kindness, and nurture, they have a strong foundation for healthy development as a person. As our young people grow, family support becomes the centre for the adventures out of home, discovering the world and new relationships. All families are different, and each has different ways of helping each other, but young people need consistency and certainty in family support.

Our You Can Do It theme this term focuses on the notion of wellbeing and resilience. But it would be remiss to expect anyone to be in a state of bliss all the time! Life requires persistence and tenacity. Our students require discomfort and resilience for them to comprehend and construct a sense of wellness.  Like Rusty, every day we are faced with situations that present uncertainty. Resilience has been proven to be a skill we can develop and combine. The skills and attributes that we arm ourselves with as we navigate challenging times are the systems that allow us to rebuild and manage our sense of self.

This journey is impossible without the support of the wider community, and we are thankful for the continuing support of your children on their journey here at the College. We look forward to supporting your child during the remainder of this term and beyond. And if you haven’t yet watched “Cricket”, it is well worth a watch. 

NAIDOC Week

The theme for this year’s NAIDOC week is “For our Elders” which fits neatly with our theme of family and family connection for the next two weeks. Elders in all cultures are cultural knowledge holders, trailblazers, nurturers, advocates, teachers and leaders, but they play a crucial role in the stories, traditions and beliefs of First Nations Peoples.

Last term, on our staff retreat, we were fortunate to have Mr Kerry Neill, a Kabi Kabi Leader, speak at length about First Nation’s perspectives and educate us on our path to reconciliation. Along with Pastor Tim Jarick, the message of love and community shone through.

Next Thursday, we are fortunate to have Mr Sean Choolburra, Gu-Gu-Yalanji, Kalkadoon, Kandju and Bwgcolman man from around Townsville and Palm Island visit the College and perform and inform the Prep-Five students about dance, knowledge, and story. We look forward to his visit and continuing our recognition of Elders and their traditions.

Grandparents Day and Special Friends Day

This year Grandparents and Special Friends Day has moved from its traditional date in Term 4 to the 4^th of August, which is the end of Week 4. Specific communication regarding the day will come from the College shortly. We look forward to sharing our campus with you on this day, which is always one of the highlights of the College Calendar.

Take care and God Bless.

Mr Damian Davis, Head of Staff and Students P-5