Snapshots from the week
Principal Timothy Barraud returns to Balmoral State High School
We’re delighted to share that Mr Timothy Barraud has officially returned to Balmoral State High School as our permanent Principal. A familiar and respected leader in our community, Mr Barraud is excited to reconnect with staff, students, and families — and is already looking forward to Open Day!
“I’m thrilled to return to Balmoral State High School — a community I know and value deeply. It’s an honour to lead once again and continue building on the incredible work already underway.”
We would also like to thank Mr Andrew Noble, who has been acting principal at Balmoral State High School for the start of 2025 and wish him well in his next move.
Farewell to Ms Vanessa Cash
After 40 years in education, Ms Vanessa Cash is concluding her career this Friday with the same passion and integrity that have defined her journey since she first entered the classroom in 1986. She has served as a Deputy Principal for an incredible 28 years, with the last 15 of those dedicated to Balmoral State High School.
Her leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to students and staff have left a lasting legacy. Ms Cash has shaped countless lives and will be deeply missed by all who have had the privilege to work and learn alongside her.
Year 11 Ancient History
Our Year 11 Ancient History class recently experienced the Ancient Egypt exhibit at the Queensland Museum last week.
Some of the artefacts we saw are over 4000 years old, as well as a few mummies. The students then ended the day with a masterclass in research skills from the librarians at the State Library of Queensland.
Bunnings Community Sausage Sizzle
What a sizzling success! Thanks to your incredible support at our Bunnings sausage sizzle on Saturday, we sold:
- 1,115 sausages (78kg)
- 65 loaves of bread
- 231 drinks
- 20kg of onions
- 10L of sauce
Your generosity also helped raise valuable funds for our upcoming STEM trip — we couldn’t do it without you!
A special shoutout to Australian Country Choice Morningside for their amazing donation of sausages. Your support made this event possible!
Student Leaders hit Parliarment House
Our Student Leaders joined the Hon Di Farmer, Principal Timothy Barraud, Year 12 Coordinator Zane Sloan, and Deputy Principal Mick Baker for a memorable lunch at Parliament House—it was an inspiring opportunity to engage with leadership and gain insight into state government in action.
Integrated Pathology Learning Centre at UQ
Last week, Year 11 Psychology students visited the Integrated Pathology Learning Centre at UQ. They investigated real specimens to learn about how the brain can be affected by neurodegenerative diseases, but also how other areas of the body can be affected by mental illness.
Year 9 History Excursion
During our recent Year 9 History excursion, students explored Australia’s involvement in WWI through personal stories and memorials. A highlight of the day was learning about Patrick Bugden VC, with one of our very own students, Noah, proudly sharing his family connection as Patrick’s great-great nephew. It was a powerful reminder of the personal legacies behind the history we study.
Year 7 Debating
Our Year 7 Debating team put in an outstanding effort on Thursday night against Somerville House, arguing that students should not have to limit the amount of extra - curricular activities they do. Unfortunately, while our debaters lost in a very close battle, they continue to gain more experience and valuable skills which will assist them for future debates.