AROUND THE COLLEGE & BEYOND

Senior Chemistry Experiment Day

Rachel Tranter, Acting Head of Science

During exam block, our Year 12 Chemistry students traded in their textbooks for beakers and chemicals in a three-hour experimental deep dive into the fascinating world of electrochemistry. The Senior Chemistry Experiment Day provided hands-on experience with galvanic cells and electrolysis, allowing students to explore the science behind batteries, electroplating and electrorefining. 

Students investigated key variables affecting these processes, collecting data for their second internal assessment. More than just an opportunity to apply theory to practice, the session highlighted students' problem-solving skills, perseverance and scientific curiosity. From constructing working galvanic cells to manipulating electroplating techniques, they tackled challenges head-on, showing impressive tenacity to achieve accurate results.

With the classroom transformed into a laboratory of innovation, the day was a resounding success, proving that science isn’t just learned — it’s experienced. Well done to all our senior Chemistry students for their dedication to experimentation and discovery.

Cairns Iconic Bus Stop Competition

Mrs Linda Brunetto 

Cairns Regional Council is running the Cairns Iconic Bus Stop Competition which is open to all schools in the region. Students must submit a hand-drawn 3D representation of their design. The Year 11 Design class will be submitting entries and using the competition as part of their Unit 1 assessment.

On Tuesday 4 March, Kate Lawton and Amber Lingard from the council workshopped with the class. The students gained real insights into how the principles of design are implemented in the real world.

Participating schools will be invited to the presentation evening where the submissions will be displayed. We are very excited to see the students' final designs. 

There's more info on the workshop below.

Chess Club

Ms Ally Fraser

Despite our strong senior team graduating last year, the SAC Chess Team remains in good hands as a new wave of talent steps up. Notably, many eager Year 7s made their debut in the secondary division, showing great promise for the future.

A special mention to Will Parkinson, Kyle Hiranuma and Sami Abdalla, who all secured spots in the top 20 in the region. Our teams narrowly missed the podium, but despite leaving without the win, we left with a fire in our bellies to come back stronger in Term 2.

Upcoming Competitions

📅 Term 2: Thursday 5 June @ Trinity Anglican School, White Rock

📅 Term 3: Thursday 4 September @ Trinity Anglican School, White Rock

Keep an ear out in the SAC Chess Club Teams page for when expressions of interest open next term.

By 2025 Chess Captain, Sami Abdalla, Year 10

The interschool chess tournament, as always, was a great experience for us, competitively and socially, and so I thank Gardiner Chess and Ms Fraser for organising it. I’m very proud of everyone’s dedication and effort in the tournament. I would specifically like to point out our seniors who, despite their busy schedules and study focus, managed to find time to involve themselves with chess and the team. I am also grateful that we have plenty of strong players in the younger grades coming through, all eager to play and compete. Although we didn’t achieve any placements this term, I am confident that we’ll bring a strong fight to the next tournament.