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Greetings,
I trust that you are well and that hopefully your family can make the most of the upcoming school term break. All terms are busy, but this Term 3 has been extremely full of successful events and activities pertaining to the core aspects of school life.
All students in all year groups have been focusing on assessment completion as the term has drawn to an end. The consistent focus of both, staff and students, has been impressive throughout the whole of the term. At this stage the statistical academic targets set for all students and staff via our 2025 Annual Implementation Plan (AIP) are on target and highly achievable. I will give you a specific summary of these in our next newsletter, after all the Term 3 grades have been completed and entered into our system.
I encourage you to visit our social media presence on Facebook or Instagram regarding the recent positive media coverage of student achievements at BSHS. Highlights of this term have included the following;
- In Week 2 our annual ‘Athletics Carnival’ ran very successfully which was followed by ‘State High Day’ on Saturday, August 2nd, which was bigger and better than ever!
- On Wednesday 30 July, the school celebrated ‘Foundation Day’, the original 1921 date, when the school was officially established. The theme of Past, Present and Future was reflected by speeches from a current Year 11 student Jocelyn Cosentino, alumna Dr. Ann Bennett, and myself.
- ’Support Staff’ week was well acknowledged in Week 4 and BSHS hosted the ‘Curriculum Showcase’ evening which attracted a significant turnout of parents and students.
- BSHS is keen to continue to develop its reputation as a leading light in state school education and midterm we hosted an AI forum, which was attended by Senior Leaders representing the largest schools in the greater Brisbane area.
- With regards to the recent consultation that occurred for the preferred timetable model for 2026, I am pleased to advise that this was overall very positive and the model has been approved by the Department of Education for approval to implement from the start of the 2026 school year. You will be kept fully updated regarding this process and the related improved changes.
- ATAR tracking is remaining on course to produce academic results of a very high standard, which are consistent with recent years. NAPLAN results significantly exceed state averages in all categories.
- In the latter half of this term, the Queensland Minister for Sport and Racing and Minister for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, Mr Tim Mander, together with other Olympic and Paralympic dignitaries and Paralympians launched a media event at BSHS, highlighting the fact that the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are now exactly 7 years away.
- The best GPS result in Term 3 was the 3rd placing in Chess, while in QGSSSA, once again our premier Hockey team emerged victorious. Across all codes, activities, the depth is increasing, and the next few years will be very exciting.
- In accordance with the 2025 AIP, the core targets are being realised. Job descriptions are being finalised for all staff and the reviews of ‘Extra-Curricular’ and the ‘Enrolment Office’ are being completed.
- The International Food and Music Festival on Saturday 13 September was outstanding and very enjoyable! On 9 October, BSHS will host an inaugural Extra-Curricular Awards evening.
We are very proud of our accomplishments and the community’s collective ongoing contribution to the myriad of programmes on offer at this very unique school, Brisbane State High School, roll on Term 4!
Warm regards
Mr Greg Pierce | Executive Principal
Term 4, 2025 |
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Week 1 |
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Monday 6 October |
KINGS BIRTHDAY PUBLIC HOLIDAY |
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Tuesday 7 October |
Parent Teacher Interviews - no student attendance |
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Wednesday 8 October |
Student return to campus QLD All School Touch Competition |
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Thursday 9 October |
QLD All School Touch Competition Extra-Curricular Awards Ceremony |
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Friday 10 October |
QLD All School Touch Competition GPS Track & Field - Meet 5 |
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Saturday 11 October |
QGSSSA Senior Badminton Championship |
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Week 2 |
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Monday 13 October |
Athletics Track & Field Campionships (Age 10-12 Years) |
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Tuesday 14 October |
Athletics Track & Field Campionships (Age 10-12 Years) Year 10 Immunisations |
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Wednesday 15 October |
Athletics Track & Field Campionships (Age 10-12 Years) |
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Thursday 16 October |
Athletics Track & Field Campionships (Age 13-19 Years) Vocal Soiree (Vocal Ensembles) |
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Friday 17 October |
Athletics Track & Field Campionships (Age 13-19 Years) Dance Showcase GPS Track & Field - Meet 6 |
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Saturday 18 October |
Athletics Track & Field Campionships (Age 13-19 Years) QGSSSA Junior Badminton Championships |
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Sunday 19 October |
Athletics Track & Field Campionships (Age 13-19 Years) |
QGSSSA Sports & Girls' Activities
We have an impressive range of activities available for our girls to participate in sport and I thank everyone involved for making these programs such a success. I would like to personally thank the Extra-Curricular staff in D Block who work collaboratively to support each other in these busy programs, particularly to Ms Ellie Slinger, Mrs Sasha Bartlett, and Mrs Narelle Edwards who I am fortunate to work with in the girl’s programs.
I wish everyone a safe and relaxing holiday and hope you can enjoy a well-earned rest!
– Mr David Miles | Director of QGSSSA Sports and Girls' Activities
QGSSSA Athletics Championships
A huge congratulations to our 2025 Athletics team who won the QGSSSA Championship yesterday and brought home the Stephens Cup trophy for the first time since 2015. This win broke a 9-year winning streak for Moreton Bay and was one of the most dominant Athletics wins in QGSSSA history. The gap to second was 144 points and it was most points scored by a team in at least the last 10 years! Congratulations to our 12 Years, 13 Years, 14 Years and 15 Years on winning their age group championships!!
We will celebrate more results in next terms newsletter but for the moment please see the overall results below:
BRISBANE STATE HIGH SCHOOL 1083
St. Peter’s Lutheran College 939
Moreton Bay College 930.5
St. Margarets Anglican College 802.5
Brisbane Girls Grammar School 762.5
St. Aidan’s Anglican College 695
Ipswich Girls Grammar School 522.5
Somerville House 516
St. Hilda’s School 399.5
Clayfield College 344.5
– Mr David Miles | QGSSSA Athletics MIC
QGSSSA Sport MIC's
Saturday 13 September marked the end of our 2025 QGSSSA Winter season. At State High, we are truly fortunate to have a dedicated team of teaching staff and external coaching professionals who provide invaluable support to our students. I extend my sincere thanks to the Masters in Charge (MICs) of each sport listed below and congratulate them on a fantastic season:
- AFL – Ms Monica Tracy
- Badminton MIC – Mrs Ye Zhang
- Hockey MIC – Mrs Natasha Adams
- Netball MIC – Ms Ava Brieschke
- Rhythmic Gymnastics MIC – Mrs Rachael Slorach
- Rowing MIC – Mr Tom Herborn
- Tennis MIC – Mr Sam White
- Volleyball MIC – Mr Glen Kranen
Thank you also to staff who continue with their programs outside of their normal QGSSSA seasons and offer further opportunities for our girls to play sport:
- Basketball MIC – Mr Cameron Conlon (CBSQ competition)
- Football MIC – Mr Jesse Rigsby-Jones (UHL Sport Cup competition)
- Netball MIC – Ms Ava Brieschke (Vicki Wilson Cup)
- Touch Football – Mr Stuart Sprott (All School’s competition)
– Mr David Miles | QGSSSA Athletics MIC
Rowing
For the 100th season of State High Rowing, spirits were high, ribbons were tightened and competitiveness was amplified. We saw vast improvements from athletes in all age groups with every girl brand new or 5 years into the program, putting their all into every stroke.
We had the honour of naming the First VIII boat after John Hanson, a State High and BSRA legend, where this top boat put out State High’s best performance in 26 years and produced the fastest time ever in a BSHS girls VIII. Additionally, we had 3 crews on the podium showcasing their hard work from the season and a majority of our crews having their best races on Head of the River, seeing major improvements from Regatta 1.
Not only did this season build excellence in results, but it also fostered the overall growth of every athlete. The incredibly supportive community helped us build problem-solving skills and resilience, all while inspiring us to aim high. These attributes prove valuable outside the program both in school and life.
The incredibly supportive community teaches you problem solving skills and a massive amount of resilience while still motivating you to shoot for the stars. These attributes are important within school and for years after the program. With this, we had a significant Senior / Junior network where girls taught and supported each other, embracing the community within this program.
This was a very successful season for State High Rowing and we are beyond excited to see how the girls continue this incredible momentum in 2026.
2025 Rowing Captains - Madeline Howard, Sarah Brittain (Vice), Bridgette Trembath (Vice)
A huge thank you to all our alumni, parents, staff, and volunteers who support our programs.
Your efforts behind the scenes—whether in coaching, managing teams, officiating, or supporting at events—are truly appreciated.
– Mr Ben McKenzie | Director of GPS and Boys Activities
GPS Chess
The GPS Chess team had an amazing season this year which was exemplified with our Senior A Chess team finishing in third place on the table.
All other teams finished either second or third which is an incredible achievement and shows the strength of the program.
– Ms Victoria Bond | MIC GPS Chess
GPS Rugby
The GPS Rugby has season has come to an end for 2025.
A massive congratulations to the 13A and 13B who finished second overall.
I would also like to thank the departing Seniors for their contribution to State High Rugby and our amazing subcommittee who without them Rugby simply wouldn’t be possible.
– Mr Ben McKenzie | MIC GPS Rugby
GPS Basketball
BSHS Basketball has come to the end for the 2025 season and it has been extremtly successful with five premiership teams including three A teams.
As we look forward we are excited for the upcoming CBSQ and National Basketball Tournaments to test ourselves against the best in the State and the Nation.
Firsts |
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– Mr Brett Sue See and Mr Matt Cochrane | MIC GPS Basketball
GPS Rowing
Student Culture and Engagement
R U OK?
eSafety
E-Scooter and E-Bikes
Does your child ride an e-scooter or e-bike? Did you know that only children 16 and over are allowed to ride e-scooters unsupervised? Is their e-bike legal? If your child’s device has any of the features below, it is illegal to ride in public, and they (or you) may be subject to significant penalties.
Click this link to get information on e-bikes and e-scooters
https://streetsmarts.initiatives.qld.gov.au/e-bikes-e-scooters
- Ms Rachel Hobson | Deputy Principal Student Culture and Engagement
Due to the huge amount of exposure and popularity of The Arts over the last few weeks, we will share these successes with you in the following Newsletter in Week 2 of Term 4.
WATCH THIS SPACE!
Congratuations to all the students in the Instrumental Music Program for a wonderful set of results at Music Fest 2025 during August.
Thank you also to their teachers and conductors, Dr Aitken, Mr Foster, Mr Jarrott, Mrs Neal, Ms Robson, and Mr Sharp, for all their efforts preparing their ensembles.
This preparation was also supported by the Instrumental Music Sub-Committee who assisted at, and provided resources, for the Intermediate Music camp in early August.
Platinum Awards:
Symphonic Band
Merivale String Orchestra
Concert Band
Gold Awards:
Wind Orchestra
Big Band
Cordelia String Orchestra
Concert Winds
Symphony Orchestra
Highgate Strings
Silver Awards:
Stage Band
Wind Ensemble
South Bank Strings
– Mr Bradley Ruben | MIC Instrumental Music
The BSHS Dance Troupes recently competed at both the Quota Beenleigh and Gold Coast Eisteddfods and achieved impressive results in a variety of highly competitive sections. We are incredibly proud of all the dancer’s achievements as well as our captains who were recognised for their exceptional choreography. All troupes results are below:
Quota Beenleigh Eisteddfod Results:
- Junior Troupe - Musical Theatre - 1st place – choreography by professional dancer Grace Bartlett
- Junior Troupe - Jazz – Highly Commended – choreography by students Lydia Du and Mary Mac Geraghty
- Senior Troupe - Musical Theatre - 2nd place – choreography by BSHS alumni Julia Tetteris
- State High Crew - 2nd place – choreography by captain Ella Greenwood
- State High Crew - 3rd place – choreography by professional dancer Leah Geddes
- Bollywood - 1st place – choreography by captain Nandini Anand
- Bollywood - 3rd place - choreography by captain Nandini Anand
Gold Coast Eisteddfod Results:
- Junior Troupe - Musical Theatre – 1st place - choreography by professional dancer Grace Bartlett
- Junior Troupe - Contemporary - 2nd place – choreography by Erin Riley
- Junior Troupe - Jazz – 3rd place - choreography by students Lydia Du and Mary Mac Geraghty
- Senior Troupe - Musical Theatre – 1st place - choreography by BSHS alumni Julia Tetteris
- Senior Troupe – Jazz – 3rd place - choreography by captains Bella Parbery and Poppie Renshaw
- Senior Troupe – Contemporary – Highly Commended – choreography by Erin Riley
- Tap Troupe – 1st place - choreography by captain Matilda Smith
- Tap Troupe – 2nd place - choreography by BSHS alumni Rhonda Binnie
- State High Crew – 2nd place - choreography by captain Ella Greenwood
- State High Crew – Highly Commended – choreography by professional dancer Leah Geddes.
All of these routines can be experienced at the annual Dance Showcase on Friday 17October from 6pm. Tickets available on QKR soon!
- Ms April Williams | MIC Dance Troupes
Business, Innovation and Design
Griffith University Law School High School Essay Competition
- Ms Christie Butler | 2IC Business, Innovation and Design and Legal Studies Teacher
Pets' Reading Competition
The WINNERS of our “Pets’ Reading” competition (and $10 tuckshop vouchers) are…..
Year 7 – Hena Park and Amelia Stephensen
Year 8 – Casper Dixit
Year 9 – Juno Telfer
Year 10 – Jennifer Che
Year 11 – Cavan Lau
Year 12 – Julia Pung
Staff – Justin Virly
Congratulations and thanks for entering!
Sophia Davis, Ella Howard, Hisha Thyadaraj and Celine Li - Year 7
Picking new Manga for the Library
Alistair, from Brisbane Manga store, Zombster dropped by to interact with students on Wednesday 10 September. Students were keen to contribute to what books needed to be included in our already huge, Manga collection!
Author Visit with Sophie Beer
We were fortunate to welcome past State High student, author and illustrator, Sophie Beer to the school last Tuesday 9 September.
Sophie’s book for middle school students, “Thunderhead” was nominated this year as a notable book in the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s Book Week awards this year. It has also been named as a finalist in the Queensland Literary Awards!
She spoke to some of our Year 7 and 8 students about disability, inclusion and equality and all were enthusiastic and interested in her story.
Student Book Clubs
We had a great turnout for Book Club this week with students in Years 7 to 11. Robust discussions were held about our favourite genres; why we love reading and the titles of books we’ve read and enjoyed. Students also volunteered the titles of books they would like the library to purchase.
In the last week of this term students will vote for the book they would like to read during the holidays and discuss next term. As usual, we enjoyed some snacks and drinks! It was an enjoyable meeting for everyone.
Book Kahoots in the Library
Everyone loves a kahoot and chocolate, so when both were on offer last Monday, many students came up to the library. Childhood memories of favourite books helped add to the fun.
– Ms Nicole Slinger | Librarian Teacher
2025 Cassandra June Carter Bursary ($1000)
APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN
This is the 11th year of the perpetual Cassandra June Carter Bursary award which is presented to students who demonstrate academic potential.
The Bursary is funded from the proceeds of a bequest made to the school by the Carter family, in honour of Cassandra who graduated from State High in 1962. Cassandra completed a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts, was a Fulbright scholar, and a UQ Poetry Prize winner.
A bursary, unlike a scholarship, intends to assist a student whose family may be experiencing financial limitations which preclude students from being able to participate fully in all aspects of school life (eg: extra-curricular activities etc.).
This year we will award 5 x $1,000 bursaries. Students currently in Years 7 to 11 can apply. Application forms and further information is available through the following links:
Cassandra June Carter Bursary - Brochure
Cassandra June Carter Bursary - Application Form
Applications close on Sunday 9 November 2025. Recipients will be announced at the Leadership and Learning Ceremony in Term 1, 2026.

Join the P&C Association
The P&C is a volunteer, membership-based organisation that is open to all who support
the State High community and the students at State High.
To find out how to join the P&C, or to inquire about what we are all about, please visit the P&C website. We hope that you will find information on this website useful to support you and your child’s journey through secondary school and to maximise your family’s experience.
If you would like to become a P&C member, please complete the P&C Membership Form (download via the button below) and return it via email to admin.officer@bshspandc.org.
Consider joining the P&C Executive Committee in 2025:
P&C General Meetings
MIFF Raffle
State High Day
Gold Sponsor ($5000)
Ray White WEST END
Bronze Sponsor ($500)
Gladstone Road Garage
Donors
We’re grateful for all the generous donations contributing towards the success of State High Day!
- Barbara O’Shea (State Member for South Brisbane) ($1000)
- Trina Massey (Councilor for the Gabba Ward) ($500)
- Deep Grey Photoshoot
- Avid Reader Books Store
- Gray Nicholls
- SF Brands
- Swiss Gourmet Delicatessen
Employment Opportunity
The P&C Association is seeking a community member to join the Canteen team on a casual term time basis as required.
The P&C operates 3 canteen outlets. This includes I Block/E Block and PAC canteen along with additional catering services.
Key requirements include, but are not limited to:
- Blue card
- Food Service and preparation experience (or willingness to learn)
- Customer Service and Point of Sale experience
- Lifting, restocking and transporting food between canteens
- Reliable and punctual
- Ability to meet the high the demands of student peak service times.
Please submit your resume and cover letter to mgr@bshspandc.org
Position description is available upon request.
Rowing Celebrating 100 Years
Brisbane State High School warmly invites you to a landmark evening celebrating 100 Years of Rowing.
This centenary event is more than a dinner - it’s a powerful moment for our entire rowing community to come together, honour the legacy of those who came before us, and help shape the future for generations to come.
Join Brisbane State High School's, current families, coaches, rowers and supporters for a night of connection and celebration.
Enjoy canapés, 2-course meal and 4 hour premium beverage package at the historic Tattersalls Club.
Whether you rowed, cheered from the bank, or simply believe in the power of this sport to shape young lives, we invite you to stand with us for this once-in-a-century celebration. Help us celebrate what it means to be a part of the warm and embracing community.
Tickets are strictly limited. Early bird pricing is now available.
Bring your crew, rally your old squad, and be part of this historic night.
https://statehighconnect.com.au/#action=showEvent&EID=E161
The social tile for the 100 Club is attached below as well.
Brochure: BSHS ROWING 100 CLUB BROCHURE
Direct ASF Link: BSHS – ROWING 100 CLUB
Thanks again for all your help and support, this event means a lot to our Rowing community.
Canteen Fundraiser
Link https://events.humanitix.com/save-our-canteen-fundraiser
Event Description
We know times are tough for many right now, which is why we’re so grateful for every bit of support we receive. Our canteen is more than just a place to eat – it’s a gathering spot, a place of connection and comfort. Unfortunately, our screens have seen better days, and we’re raising funds to replace them so we can continue serving our community in the best way possible.
Why are we fundraising?
Come October, Microsoft changes mean all our canteen screens will stop working - and replacing them isn't cheap. We need your help to keep the canteen running smoothly for our students and staff.
Here's how you can help
Every dollar goes directly to support our P&C, $5 or $8 or any amount you can spare. Buy a ticket today. We appreciate your support!
Brisbane State High School P&C Association
PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE
The Department of Education does not have personal accident insurance cover for children/students. If a child/student is injured as a result of an accident or incident while participating in an excursion or activity at school, all costs associated with the injury, including medical costs are the responsibility of the parent/carer. Some incidental medical costs may be covered by Medicare. If the parent/carer has private health insurance, some costs may also be covered by that provider. Any other costs must be covered by the parent/carer. It is up to parent/carer to decide the type/s and level of private insurance they wish to arrange to cover their child. Please take this into consideration in deciding whether or not to allow the child/student to participate in excursions or activities whilst at school.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES INSURANCE
Brisbane State High School has made the decision to provide personal accident insurance to students who are participating in the school’s extra-curricular activities. The cost of this insurance will be included in the activity levy. Levies must be paid to be eligible to make a claim in the event of an injury.
Please contact our EC office in the first instance to initiate the claim process.