School Newsletter, Term 3, Week 4, 2025

From the School Principal

Celebrating the accomplishments of our students always makes me incredibly proud. Our recent Academic Assembly was a wonderful showcase of personal growth, outstanding attendance, and academic excellence, and it was inspiring to recognise so many students striving for and achieving their best.  Our current Year 12 students are also kicking goals, with some of the best results ever seen at Holland Park SHS. With just 10 weeks of timetabled classes left for year 12 students, they have many exciting milestones approaching, including Graduation and Formal.

As parents and caregivers will have seen in the recent email, you are invited to participate in this year’s School Opinion Survey (SOS). This is your opportunity to provide feedback about our school. The SOS is completely confidential—no one at the school or in the Department of Education will know how you have responded.  The survey is open until Friday, 22 August 2025 and should take less than five minutes to complete.

In addition to the SOS, we are also inviting you to take part in a separate consultation on two proposals for 2026. We believe these changes have the potential to strengthen student engagement, school culture, and opportunities for leadership, and your feedback will be an important part of the decision-making process.

1. Changes to the School Day Structure
   We are exploring adjustments to the school timetable to better support learning, smooth transitions between classes, and student wellbeing. The proposed changes include:

• Later start time of 9:00 am to allow students to begin the day more refreshed and ready to learn.
• Dedicated travel time between Period 1 & 2 and at the end of lunch, giving students the opportunity to get to class, grab a snack, and use the toilet without cutting into learning time.
• Removal of Care Class on Tuesdays and Thursdays to accommodate travel to sport and ensure buses can depart on time.
• Retention of Care Class on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays to maintain the important connection with Care teachers and provide ongoing pastoral care.

These changes are designed to make the day run more smoothly, maximise learning time, and still keep the strong student–teacher connections that are central to our school culture.

Have your say on the proposed changes to the day structure HERE

1. Restructure of the House System
   We are also considering moving from four houses to three, allowing for a more balanced and competitive system with greater student participation in house events. Students would lead the process of renaming the houses to reflect our community, while the original houses—Gordon, Marshall, Toohey, and Weller—would be permanently acknowledged within the school to honour the history of our original house system.

As part of this restructure, we are also looking to introduce new leadership roles:

• First Nations Leadership Position – open to a student from any year level
• Industry Ambassador Positions – recognising students committed to vocational pathways
• International Student Ambassador Role – recognising our international community and leadership contributions

Have your say on the proposed house restructure HERE

Your voice matters, and together we can ensure that any changes we make are in the best interests of our students and our community.

Bindi Lodge,

School Principal

From the Deputy Principal, Years 7-9

Junior Secondary News

Congratulations to all students who achieved academic success in Semester 1! The hard work, dedication, and perseverance has paid off, and this achievement is a testament to their commitment to learning and personal growth. I encourage all students to keep pushing forward with the same determination, and continue striving for excellence.

Regular school attendance is essential for academic success and personal development. When students attend school consistently, they have more opportunities to engage in lessons, participate in discussions, and build strong relationships with teachers and classmates. Regular attendance helps students stay on track with their learning, develop discipline and responsibility, and build habits that will benefit them in future education and employment giving students the best chance to reach their full potential.

Supporting Your Child’s Future

As your child moves through the junior secondary years, it’s a great time to start thinking together about the future. While your child may not have a clear idea of what they want to do yet, these early high school years are important for developing the skills, interests, and confidence they’ll need as they grow.

Planning for the future in junior secondary is less about locking in a career and more about helping your child explore their strengths, try new things, and begin to set goals. These early steps can make a big difference when it comes time to choose senior subjects, vocational pathways, or future study.

How You Can Support Your Child

1. Talk to your child about their interests, strengths, and the things they enjoy at school and beyond. Ask open-ended questions and encourage curiosity.
2. Visit resources like the My Future website or the Queensland Careers Portal. These tools offer career quizzes, job profiles, and education pathways suited to your child’s interests.
3. Participation in sport, arts, volunteering or casual jobs, can build important life and employability skills—like teamwork, problem solving, and communication.
4. It’s okay if your child’s ideas about their future change. Being flexible and supportive helps them feel safe to explore new possibilities.

Year 9 students will have a ‘taster day’ later in the term to help them make decisions about subject choices for Year 10.  Further information will be provided around these opportunities and subject offerings for Year 10.

Leann Nichol

Deputy Principal – Years 7, 8 and 9

From the Dean- Junior School

Resilience and Perseverance: Year 7 and 8 Students Rising to the Challenge

At Holland Park State High School, we take pride in nurturing qualities that help our students thrive—especially resilience and perseverance. These values have been on full display this term, particularly among our Year 7 and 8 students, who continue to show strength and determination in their learning journeys.

Last week’s Parent/Teacher interviews were a wonderful opportunity to reflect on student progress. We were delighted to welcome many families from both year levels, and the conversations held were a testament to the strong partnership between home and school.

For our Year 7 students, this term has brought new experiences and expectations. Transitioning into high school can be daunting, but many students have shown impressive resilience—adapting to new routines, tackling unfamiliar subjects, and staying committed even when things get tough. Teachers have praised their willingness to keep trying and their growing confidence in the classroom.

Our Year 8 students are beginning to take greater ownership of their learning. This stage calls for perseverance—setting goals, managing time, and pushing through academic challenges. During the interviews, teachers shared inspiring examples of students who have worked steadily to improve their understanding and performance, showing maturity and focus.

The feedback from parents was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed prides in their children’s efforts and appreciated the insights shared by teachers. These interviews play a crucial role in reinforcing the importance of resilience and perseverance, and in helping students feel supported both at school and at home.

As we move forward, we encourage all students to continue embracing challenges, learning from setbacks, and celebrating their progress. Whether it’s through consistent effort, a positive mindset, or the courage to ask for help, these qualities will serve them well now and into the future.

We thank our dedicated staff and engage families for fostering these values. Together, we’re building a school community where resilience and perseverance lead to growth, achievement, and lifelong success.

From the Dean-Middle School

As we move further into Term 3, it’s great to see our students settling into routines and engaging positively in their learning. This week marks the start of some key future planning events for our middle school students.

Year 10 students will be completing their Senior Education and Training (SET) Plans next week. The SET Plan process helps students map out their senior subjects and pathways, drawing on the research and preparation they’ve undertaken through our Careers Curriculum and the recent Year 10 Information Evening. Parents and caregivers will be notified this week on how they can get involved and support their young person through this process.

For our Year 9 families, the upcoming Subject Information Evening is an important step in preparing for Year 10 and beyond. This event will provide insight into the spiralling curriculum and how students can make informed subject choices to support their future goals. Senior schooling teachers will be available to answer questions and provide key information about their subjects. Please use this link to let us know if you are able to attend RSVP for Subject Information Evening.

Across the Middle School, students are in the midst of beginning their assessment tasks for the term. My advice to students: you can’t eat an elephant in one go – start early and chip away at it one bit (or bite!) at a time. Breaking tasks into smaller steps and starting revision well ahead of deadlines not only reduces stress but also leads to stronger results. Small, consistent effort now pays big dividends later.

Year 9- Subject Information Evening

Planning for Your Future!

Year 9 families are invited to our Subject Information Evening to explore options for Year 10 and beyond. Chat with teachers at our subject displays from 5:00-5:30pm and stay for key information about your academic journey. We’ll talk about how our spiralling curriculum helps you build skills each year, and how your subject choices link to future pathways like apprenticeships, university, and careers you might not have considered yet.

When: 5pm – 6:30pm on Wednesday the 27^th of August (week 7)

Where: School Hall, Holland Park State High School

Come along with your parents or caregivers to get clear advice, ask questions, and feel confident about the journey ahead.

https://forms.office.com/r/zRc9Y0YKV6

From the Dean-Senior School

Senior Schooling Update 

It has been exciting in Year 11 over the last couple of weeks.  At the conclusion of last term, the Year 11’s engaged in some Road Safety, Driver Awareness activities.  They attended the RYDA Driver Awareness course at Mt Gravatt TAFE and heard from the RACQ who presented during STRIVE.  Hopefully these programs have given new or learning drivers a greater awareness of their responsibilities when taking to the roads. 

At the end of last term our Year 11’s also began their leadership journey as they participated in the Year 11 Leadership Day.  This day was facilitated by Unleashing Personal Potential which specialises in student Leadership.  All students engaged with the presenters and developed some crucial relationship and communication skills.  Stay tuned for the Leadership Application packs for our soon to be leaders in 2026.

For Year 12 we have also had RACQ out supplying information for learner and provisional drivers.  They outlined the spike in road accidents for new drivers and the responsibilities of passengers in cars.

One of the major events was our Pathways Day.  Students opted in to sessions by industry speakers and universities before attending our Careers Expo.  They followed up with a panel of speakers looking at their stories from high school through to their current career and how sometimes it is not a linear progression.  Many students spoke about past student Nic from Mod1 who spoke about what he looks for in an apprentice and a tradesman.  He mentioned a few times – “turning up and being present”.  Two actions that do not take any skill.  The universities were very popular, and it was very pleasing to hear and see our students at a variety of Open Days across the last few weeks.

The next major occurrence for our Year 12’s is that QTAC has opened.  Students can either complete their QTAC application at home or with the guidance of their Academic Coach in at school.  Please see the attached information regarding QTAC.

QTAC

As we approach the final stages of Senior Schooling, it's time to begin thinking seriously about post-school pathways. If you are hoping to attend university in Queensland after finishing high school, you’ll need to apply through QTAC (Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre).

Note: please be aware that this information is provided for Year 12 students and their families.

1. What is QTAC?

QTAC manages the application process for students applying to university, TAFE and other tertiary courses. Students can list up to six preferences and adjust these throughout the process (fees apply for fourth and subsequent preference changes).

1. When to Apply:

QTAC applications for courses starting 2026 open Tuesday 5th August 2025 and cost $70. We strongly encourage students to submit their applications by 30th September 2025 to avoid late fees ($150 late application fee).

1. How to Apply:

Applications are completed online at www.qtac.edu.au. Students will need their LUI number and personal details to register and begin the process. Students must use a personal email address and NOT their school email.

1. Choosing Preferences:

Students should research courses, prerequisites and entry requirements carefully. Information about courses can be found on the QTAC and tertiary institution websites. You can only get one offer in an offer round, and this will be for your highest eligible preference. Please note that fees apply for fourth and subsequent preference changes).

1 & 2: Dream Big, Place First The first two courses in your preference list should be reserved for your dream courses. Select the courses that fuel your passion and resonate deeply with your academic aspirations. These are the programs you’ve envisioned, so feel free to prioritise them accordingly.

3 & 4: Prepare for Plan B Life is unpredictable and doesn’t always go to plan, so make sure you plan ahead. For courses three and four, consider selecting backup courses that still spark your interest. Opt for less competitive options to ensure you have solid alternatives in case your first choices don’t pan out. Choose to remain within the same field of study, offering the potential to accumulate credits for your desired course at a later stage. Alternatively, consider exploring a completely different field that piques your interest, where you anticipate excelling and securing the grades needed for a successful transfer in the future.

5 & 6: Pave Your Pathway As you move down your preference list, think strategically. Place courses that could serve as pathways to your ultimate academic goal. These could be programs that align with your interests and lead you step by step toward your dream career. It’s all about building a comprehensive plan for success.

1. Important Dates and Offers:

Offer rounds occur at different times, with the main offer round typically in January 2026. Some courses may offer earlier rounds or have different deadlines, so staying informed is essential.

1. Attend Open Days:

We strongly encourage students and their parents/carers to attend university and TAFE open days throughout the year. These events are an excellent opportunity to explore campuses, speak with current students and staff, and gain a better understanding of course options and campus life.  

From the Finance Team

As we are well into Term 3 we kindly remind you to review and settle any outstanding balances on your child’s student account. Keeping accounts up to date allows us to continue providing high-quality educational services and resources for all students.

Outstanding Sport fee's 

As we approach Interschool Sport for Term 4, any outstanding fee's that are not finalised by the end of Term 3 will result in your student being ineligible to participate in interschool sport and only be eligible for intra-school sport options for Term 4.

Important Notice for Year 12 Families

Please be aware that all outstanding fees for Year 12 students must be fully paid prior to attending the Year 12 Formal. This is an important milestone, and we want every eligible student to have the opportunity to celebrate. Your prompt attention to this matter will ensure all students can participate without issue.

Account Statements

Detailed statements are emailed on the 15th of each month, outlining outstanding SRS fees, subject levies, sporting fees, and any additional excursion charges incurred during the term. If you need a copy of your statement, please don't hesitate to contact our Finance Office.

Payment Options

We offer a variety of payment options to suit your needs. Should you require assistance or have any questions regarding payment arrangements, our Finance Department is happy to help. Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

Follow-Up Communication

Any unpaid invoices will be handled in accordance with the department’s Debt Management Procedure.

Our International Visitors

ISP Department – Jiansing Junior High School Study Tour

From July 21st to August 1st, HP welcomed 17 study tour students and 3 teacher chaperones from 建興國中Jiansing Junior High School in Tainan, Taiwan. Students embarked on a memorable two-week cultural and academic exchange at Holland Park.

This immersive experience offered the students a first-hand look at the Australian curriculum, allowing them to explore a variety of engaging subjects and activities alongside their warm and welcoming HP Buddies –who helped guide them through their daily classes, cultural discoveries, and social experiences.

Throughout the visit, the students participated in a rich series of workshops designed to introduce them to new skills and ways of learning. Highlights included:

• Science Workshop with Mr Chang: Hands-on experiment – lava lamp experiment
• STEAM Workshop with Mrs Lloyd: Robotics – learnt robotics programming and created ‘Hopper’ through Lego.
• Volleyball Workshop with Miss Acraman: Teamwork, coordination, and fitness through Volleyball techniques
• Art Workshop with Mrs Lin: First Nation Art Styles through Sgraffito art creation
• Drama Workshop with Mrs Sims: Dramatical techniques boosted students’ confidence
• Hospitality Workshop with Mrs Lin: Cooked up classic Aussie Pavlova with a winter twist
• English Language Workshop with Mr Cooke: Communication skills through interactive language learning and cultural exchange

Beyond the classroom, students had the opportunity to bond with their HP Buddies, experience daily Australian school life, and deepen their understanding of global citizenship. The friendships formed and memories made will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all participants.

This exchange not only enhanced language proficiency and academic interest but also broadened global perspectives and fostered meaningful intercultural connections.

We extend our sincere thanks to the staff, students, and host families of Holland Park State High School for their incredible hospitality and support, and to Jiansing Junior High School for their commitment to international learning.

Here's to more inspiring global exchanges in the future! See you next year Jiansing Junior High School!

Excited to also welcome our next study tour Toudai Fuzoku 東大附属, Tokyo, Japan from Aug 14^th to August 22^nd.

Lucy Lin

International / EALD Coordinator Language Coordinator

From our Language and International Department

2025 Japan Tour | September 14 – 27

Holland Park State High School Heads to Japan for 24^th Anniversary visit to Sister School, Tennoji High School 大阪府立天王寺高等学校

We are thrilled to announce that 21 students and 2 teachers from Holland Park State High School will be heading off on an unforgettable Japan Tour from September 14th to 27th, 2025! This enriching journey includes visits to some of Japan’s most iconic destinations: Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka, and the beautiful island of Miyajima.

A major highlight of the trip will be reconnecting with our longstanding partner schools:
大阪府立天王寺高等学校Tennoji High School, our sister school, and
東大附属Toudai Fuzoku High School, our valued partnership school.

This year marks the 24th anniversary of our sister school relationship with Tennoji High School, a testament to the strong and lasting bonds that have been built over the decades. Our most recent visit to Japan was in 2023, when 19 students embarked on a similar tour. The excitement among this year’s group is undeniable, and we are proud to continue this tradition of international learning and friendship.

During the two-week tour, students will have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, attend school exchange programs with our partner schools, and explore historical and cultural landmarks across the country. It promises to be a life-changing experience full of learning, growth, and global connection.

The relationship is truly mutual: each March, our sister school Tennoji High School sends a group of five selected students and one teacher to visit HP for two weeks. These reciprocal visits help foster deep cultural understanding, meaningful friendships, and ongoing collaboration between our schools.

As we prepare for this year’s tour, we look forward to strengthening our international partnerships and giving our students the chance to broaden their horizons. Here’s to another chapter in our proud history with Tennoji and Toudai Fuzoku — and to many more years of cultural exchange to come!

Lucy Lin

International / EALD Coordinator

Language Coordinator

ISP Departemnt – Jiansing Junior High School Study Tour

From July 21st to August 1st, HP welcomed 17 study tour students and 3 teacher chaperones from 建興國中Jiansing Junior High School in Tainan, Taiwan. Students embarked on a memorable two-week cultural and academic exchange at Holland Park.

This immersive experience offered the students a first-hand look at the Australian curriculum, allowing them to explore a variety of engaging subjects and activities alongside their warm and welcoming HP Buddies –who helped guide them through their daily classes, cultural discoveries, and social experiences.

Throughout the visit, the students participated in a rich series of workshops designed to introduce them to new skills and ways of learning. Highlights included:

• Science Workshop with Mr Chang: Hands-on experiment – lava lamp experiment
• STEAM Workshop with Mrs Lloyd: Robotics – learnt robotics programming and created ‘Hopper’ through Lego.
• Volleyball Workshop with Miss Acraman: Teamwork, coordination, and fitness through Volleyball techniques
• Art Workshop with Mrs Lin: First Nation Art Styles through Sgraffito art creation
• Drama Workshop with Mrs Sims: Dramatical techniques boosted students’ confidence
• Hospitality Workshop with Mrs Lin: Cooked up classic Aussie Pavlova with a winter twist
• English Language Workshop with Mr Cooke: Communication skills through interactive language learning and cultural exchange

Beyond the classroom, students had the opportunity to bond with their HP Buddies, experience daily Australian school life, and deepen their understanding of global citizenship. The friendships formed and memories made will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all participants.

This exchange not only enhanced language proficiency and academic interest but also broadened global perspectives and fostered meaningful intercultural connections.

We extend our sincere thanks to the staff, students, and host families of Holland Park State High School for their incredible hospitality and support, and to Jiansing Junior High School for their commitment to international learning.

Here's to more inspiring global exchanges in the future! See you next year Jiansing Junior High School!

Excited to also welcome our next study tour Toudai Fuzoku 東大附属, Tokyo, Japan from Aug 14^th to August 22^nd.

Lucy Lin

International / EALD Coordinator Language Coordinator

Welcoming New Japanese Teacher Aide - Mr. Fukutaro Ishihara (石原福太朗)

Welcoming Mr. Fukutaro Ishihara – Our New Japanese Teacher Aide!

We are thrilled to welcome Mr Fukutaro Ishihara (石原福太朗) back to Holland Park State High School, this time not as a student — but as a Teacher Aide supporting our vibrant Language Department.

Fukutaro was a study tour student back in 2022 as part of the Toudai Fuzoku High School Study Tour東大附属.  That experience sparked a lasting connection with HP, and we’re delighted to now have him return in a new role, generously contributing his time, passion, and cultural knowledge to enhance the learning of our Japanese language students.

Working alongside our language teachers Mrs Higuchi and Mrs Lin, Fukutaro has been actively involved in classroom activities, offering students real-time conversational practice, cultural insights, and an authentic connection to everyday Japanese life. His presence has brought the language to life, making lessons more engaging, immersive, and fun.

Currently studying to become a teacher himself, Fukutaro is also gaining valuable hands-on experience through this exchange, learning about the Australian education system while sharing his own experiences as a learner and future educator. His natural rapport with students and thoughtful contributions are already making a meaningful impact on our classrooms.

In addition to his classroom support, Fukutaro is assisting with preparations for HP’s annual Bunkasai 文化祭– Japan Festival on August 15th, where he will help bring Japanese culture to the wider school community through traditional games, food, performances, and interactive cultural experiences.

His time with us may be short (until August 29^th), but the value of his contributions will be long lasting. We thank Fukutaro for being such a dedicated and enthusiastic part of our school, and we look forward to celebrating all he brings to our community during his time here.

ようこそ！Welcome back, Fukutaro – and thank you for helping our students grow as global learners!

From the Art Department

Festival of Creativity – Friday 22 August 
6:00pm – 9:00pm at Holland Park SHS

Get ready for an evening that celebrates the incredible talent and creativity of our students at the Holland Park State High School Festival of Creativity!

On Friday 22 August, our school will come alive with a showcase of live music performances, stunning visual, digital, and media artworks, and imaginative fashion and technologies displays. There’ll be something for everyone—including delicious food stalls, a bake sale, a licensed bar, and a children’s corner filled with interactive activities and fun.

A highlight of the night is the CRE8 Art Prize Exhibition, where you can view amazing entries from students, local artists, and community members, all responding to the 2025 theme "Home".

🎟️ Tickets are available now via TryBooking:
https://www.trybooking.com/DELXP

• $5 per individual
• $15 for a group of 4

Don’t miss out on this vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and student excellence. We look forward to seeing you there.

Canteen News- New Ordering System

Online Ordering with School 24

A quick reminder that starting Monday 11/08/2025, the old “brown paper bag” pre-ordering system will be discontinued.

All pre-orders will now need to be made through the School24 app or website.

Using School24 to pre-order your lunch:

• Reduces your wait time in the lunch line
• Helps the Canteen team prepare the right amount of fresh meals
• Makes sure you don’t miss out on your favourite items.

If you haven’t already, we encourage everyone to sign up and start using School24 today to get ready for next week.

Thank you for supporting our move to a more efficient and streamlined system!

Tip: Having your Student ID linked in School24 will result in quicker service—even if you're paying by EFTPOS or cash. Just have your Student ID ready to scan at the counter.

Warm regards,

Holland Park State High School P&C Association

PandC@hollandparkshs.eq.edu.au

From Our Library

The Bridge Award

Recently Viena and Fiona completed the Duke of Edinburgh Bridge Award Level 2.  The Bridge Award Level 1 and Level 2 is open to all students from year 8 to 12 and consists of four elements.

Community Service

Sport

Skill or Hobby

Adventurous Journey

It is a great way for students to get recognition for activities they are already doing and also to make new friends doing new activities.  It also looks good on a Curriculum Vitae when going for that first part time job.  Students can join in at any time. For more information see Mrs Winfield in the library or email awinf1@eq.edu.au

Book Week

Week 5 is Book Week 16 - 23 August. This year's theme is 'Book an Adventure'.  This annual event is organised by The Children's Book Council of Australia and celebrates Australian literature.  Reading is very beneficial to the brain and helps with spelling, empathy and general knowledge.  The more that you read the better you will do at school.  The aim of book week is to celebrate reading and encourage greater participation.  There will be quizzes and activities in the library that earn House Points as well as our prize draw. For every book borrowed during book week you will gain an entry into the prize draw.  Write a book review for 5 house points.  Complete the literature Treasure hunt for another 5 points.  

Interschool Sport

Round 5 and 6 Winter Interschool Sport Highlights

Round 5 saw some excellent performances from our junior and senior teams, particularly on the Volleyball courts. The Year 9 Boys set the tone early in their match against Mount Gravatt, dominating the first set 25–11. While the second set was much closer, ending in a 24–24 draw, the early lead secured them the overall win. The Year 9 Girls also made a strong statement against Whites Hill, winning 2–0 and delivering a huge 25–7 first set. Emma Toyoura played a key role in steering the team to victory with her consistency and leadership. Over in the Year 7 Girls match, a confident first set win of 25–12 helped secure a countback win against Whites Hill. Emi Price impressed with some critical plays that kept Holland Park in front.

Senior Volleyball saw the Year 10 Boys put in a polished performance against Cavendish Road, taking a 2–0 win in straight sets. Their continued energy and connection as a team have made them a real force this season. In Senior Soccer, the Year 10 Boys faced off against a strong Cavendish Roadside and, despite a 4–2 loss, showed grit and effort against players from an Excellence Program. The boys held their own, playing with focus throughout the match.

In Round 6, the Year 8/9 Boys Soccer team held Citipointe to a scoreless 0–0 draw. It was a tough, physical match, and the team’s discipline and teamwork were on full display. In Volleyball, the Year 9 Girls faced Rochedale in a high-energy match. They claimed the first set 25–16, but Rochedale fought back in the second, taking it 14–13. Allita Vari stood out with some big plays and confident court presence. The Year 9 Boys also had a closely contested match against Rochedale. After a 25–19 loss in the opening set, the team responded well to take the second set 10–7, thanks to Oli Bird’s game-changing efforts at key moments.

The Year 8 Boys fought their way to a draw against Rochedale, with Byron Hume stepping up to deliver some powerful hits and strong plays throughout the match. It was a tightly fought contest, and the result was a fair reflection of the intensity both sides brought. In Senior Soccer, the Year 10 Boys secured a solid 1–1 draw against Rochedale. The improvement in their structure and communication was clear, with lunchtime practice clearly paying off!

With just a couple of rounds remaining before finals, all teams are building momentum and continuing to represent Holland Park with pride. We look forward to what the next rounds will bring!

QUT High School Mooting Competition

Over this weekend, our amazing mooting team of Finn, Rabeeha and Juliette have been competing in the QUT High School Mooting Competition against 60 other schools from Queensland and NSW.  The level of competition was outstanding. 

Our students presented both their Prosecution and Defence submissions on Friday and Saturday.  The students were rightly very excited when the results were released Saturday night, and they had finished as leaders of the competition.  We were back at it early Sunday and in the elimination, final presented our Prosecution submission and were again winners.  Our final Moot was against Brisbane Girls Grammar where we presented our Defence submission.  The Judges were relentless in grilling both Senior and Junior counsel for each team.  Holland Park State High School, the first ever state school to be represented in the finals of this annual mooting competition, were awarded the runners up trophy. 

Our three participants were outstanding, and all have a strong interest in pursuing Law at QUT next year.  Finn was further presented awards for both the best speaker throughout the competition and the best speaker in the final's series.  A very significant recognition of his ability to create a strong submission and deliver it in a very compelling manner.  We heard many times over the competition from a variety of judges that 'Finn was a natural born barrister.

Such a great result for HPSHS in our first year of Mooting.  If you see these students around, please congratulate them on such an outstanding achievement.

Kind Regards

Joanne Gatley

Teacher 

From the Guidance Officer

Introducing headspace – Mental Health Support for Young People and Their Families

At Holland Park SHS, we recognise that mental health plays a vital role in every student’s success at school and beyond. That’s why we’d like to highlight headspace — Australia’s national youth mental health foundation.

headspace provides free and confidential support to young people aged 12–25, as well as to their parents and carers.

Whether it’s managing stress, staying motivated, navigating friendships, or dealing with challenges at home or school, headspace offers practical support in a safe and welcoming environment.

What’s available through headspace:

• In-person support at local centres (e.g. headspace Woolloongabba). Some centres accept walk-ins, though phoning ahead is recommended.
• eheadspace – free online and phone counselling, available 7 days a week
• Study and work support – help with job searching, resumes, interviews, and transitions
• Mental health services – early intervention, counselling, and wellbeing strategies
• Parent and carer resources – information, webinars, and peer support

No referral is needed to access support. Services are free or low-cost, and a Medicare card is not required for many options.

We encourage families to explore the website together:
🔗 www.headspace.org.au

If you have concerns about your child’s wellbeing or would like help navigating support options, please contact our student support team.