AROUND THE COLLEGE & BEYOND

Year 7s Journey into the World of Dry Ice

Ms Laura Harland

Year 7 students recently delved into chemistry with an exciting dry ice experiment, exploring the states of matter and chemical properties. This hands-on experience not only deepened their understanding of sublimation and extreme cold but also highlighted safety precautions when handling dry ice. The experiment sparked curiosity and critical thinking among students, paving the way for future chemistry exploration. 

Year 12s Explore Biodiversity 

Ms Laura Harland

Year 12 students recently embarked on an immersive ecology camp at Wetherby Station, Mount Molloy, where they conducted hands-on experiments to investigate biodiversity and ecosystem dynamics. Using ecological sampling techniques like quadrats and transects, students explored how environmental factors shape species diversity and abundance in different habitats. 

This practical approach not only deepened their understanding of ecological principles but also honed their skills in teamwork, data collection, analysis and scientific communication, preparing them for future studies and careers in environmental science. 

We commend our students for their dedication and thank the staff for their guidance, ensuring a memorable learning experience at Wetherby Station.

CQU Business Challenge

Rohan Gaul and Alessio Marris

The CQU Business Challenge is designed to test the skills of four students within a team on their business, economic, legal, accounting and general knowledge. The first round was held on 22 May at the CQ University campus, involving two teams from St Augustine's and various other schools from the Cairns district. After four rounds of questions, the two Saints teams tied for first place. 

The second round consisted of a case study, where the state finalists had to create strategies to solve or mitigate an issue that the hypothetical business experienced including the use of a break-even analysis. After weeks of planning, writing, calculating and filming, the teams submitted their final presentation to a panel of judges who assessed the calculations, presentation and the innovation of the recommendations, providing a final score for each, adding up to a total of 150 possible marks. 

After watching the presentations of all competitors on Tuesday 9 July, the final scores were given. St Augustine's Team 2, consisting of Thomas Dummel, Declan Cantamessa and the writers of this article won the competition with 139 points, showcasing the hard work that we put into the presentation that eventually paid off. 

On behalf of the team, we extend our thanks to the other groups involved in the competition and CQUniversity for hosting the event as well as Mrs Bellerby and Mr Sorensen for giving us the opportunity.

Some Tasty Cafe Creations to Kick Off Term 3

                                                           Mrs Kerry McKenzie

On their first day back, our Year 11 Hospitality students impressed staff and students with what they prepared for the College's training cafe which opens during recess. There's always a variety of delicious sweet and savoury delights along with coffee and milkshakes.

Tristan and Lucas did a stellar job making a dozen breakfast brioche burgers layered with prosciutto, avocado, harissa sauce, rocket, lightly scrambled egg and dukkah. Other items on the menu included gourmet hot dogs, individual quiche served with salad, banana cake and berry cheesecake. All these taste sensations are priced well below what you'd pay elsewhere.

Another student who impressed me was Oliver in Year 12 who made six trays of sandwiches in Tolle's kitchen for the Academic Awards Assembly morning tea last Thursday - Great job Oliver.