It’s been an absolute pleasure to lead this school community this year and now it's time to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared over the past year. It’s hard to believe how quickly time has passed! Each of you has played a vital role in making this year special, and I want to take a moment to celebrate our collective achievements and growth. This year has brought its fair share of challenges. We faced obstacles that tested our resilience and determination. But together, we navigated through those challenges, supporting one another every step of the way. Each hurdle we encountered has helped us learn valuable lessons and develop skills that will serve us well in the future.Let’s also take a moment to acknowledge our victories, both big and small. From successful projects and inspiring performances to acts of kindness and teamwork, we’ve seen the power of collaboration and creativity in action. It’s those moments that remind us of the strength of our community and the potential within each of us. As we look towards the next year, let us carry the lessons we’ve learned with us. Let’s continue to embrace new opportunities, challenge ourselves, and strive for excellence. Remember that every end is a new beginning, and this is our chance to set fresh goals and chase new dreams. I want to thank all the teachers, staff, and families for their unwavering support and dedication. Your guidance and encouragement have made a tremendous difference in creating an environment where we can all thrive. As we close this chapter and prepare for the next, let’s celebrate our progress and keep the spirit of curiosity and exploration alive. Wishing each and every one of you a well-deserved break filled with joy and relaxation. I can’t wait to see what we will accomplish together in the coming year!

It has been quite a productive year in Art.

Our most recent artworks include the techniques of lino printing (9/10 Art), rubber stamping (Senior Art) and ceramic boxes (Grade 8 Art).

A major focus in English and HaSS this year has been to deliver highly engaging, differentiated lessons that cater for each and every student. Teachers have been involved in weekly collaborative planning sessions to review student work, analyse data and create highly engaging teaching programs.

Clear learning intentions, success criteria and access to lessons on Canvas have ensured all students understand the purpose of their lessons, what is expected of them and have access to planning and resources if they are away.

Australian English and History competitions, live performances, Book Week and excursions have made for a fantastic year in English and HaSS across all the grades.

A massive thankyou to the teaching team and teacher assistants for their dedication and hard work throughout the year.

“In English we studied a Dystopian unit. We read the beginning of Divergent and studied the Hunger Games. We compared the dystopian features of each text.”

 Poppi (Grade 10)

“I enjoyed completing an assignment on a significant individual in Ancient Egypt. I chose Cleopatra. The grade also watched a performance about Ask Hatshepsut.”

 Maya (Grade 7)

“We learnt about the Titanic and I enjoyed writing a diary entry from the perspective of someone on the ship.”

Charlie (Grade 8)

“In HaSS we learnt about WW1 and watched the film 1917. It made me realise how horrific war was.”

 Hector (Grade 9)

Grade 8 Foods have finished off the year in spectacular style with the creation of their own gingerbread houses. Each student had to mix and knead their own dough; cut and bake the biscuits; and then construct and decorate their own little houses.

Gingerbread houses have a delightful connection to both history and folklore. Their origins date back to the 16th century in Europe, where gingerbread itself was a popular treat, often spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. In Germany, the tradition of crafting elaborate, edible houses from gingerbread took root, particularly around Christmas time. The custom is famously tied to the fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel by the Brothers Grimm. In the story, the two children, lost in the woods, stumble upon a house made entirely of candy and gingerbread—an irresistible and magical dwelling. This image of a sweet, enchanted house captured the imagination, blending the cosiness of the holiday season with a dash of whimsy and a touch of danger. Over time, the idea of creating gingerbread houses became a holiday tradition, especially in Germany, where families would bake and decorate their own gingerbread homes. Today, this charming practice is enjoyed around the world, where it serves as both a festive craft and a delicious treat.

We can see that students have embraced the history and intrigue of these little edible houses through their piping decoration and use of lollies. The care and attention to detail these students gave to the task is a testament to how hard they have worked all year.

This year, students across Grades 7–10 explored a wide range of scientific concepts, engaging in hands-on activities, experiments, and excursions that brought the curriculum to life. Below is a summary of the topics studied and key highlights for each year level. 

Grade 7: Foundations of Science and Ecosystems 

Students began their high school science journey by building foundational skills in scientific inquiry and understanding the natural world. Key topics included: 

• Working Scientifically: Developing skills in observation, hypothesis formation, experimentation, and analysis. 

• Forces and Simple Machines: Exploring types of forces, motion, and the role of simple machines in everyday life. 

• Mixtures and Separation Techniques: Investigating methods like filtration, distillation, and chromatography to separate substances. 

• Ecosystems: Understanding food chains, food webs, and the importance of biodiversity. 

Highlight: The Wetlands Exhibition at QVMAG allowed students to observe wetland ecosystems and their role in supporting life, enhancing their understanding of environmental conservation. 

Grade 8: Energy, Matter, and the Natural World 

Grade 8 students built on their knowledge with a focus on energy and the properties of matter. Key topics included: 

• Energy and its Transformations: Studying energy types, energy transfer, and the Law of Conservation of Energy. 

• The Particle Model: Understanding the behaviour of solids, liquids, and gases and the processes of physical change. 

• Earth’s Resources: Examining renewable and non-renewable resources, sustainability, and human impact on the planet. 

• Cells and Organisms: Exploring cell structure, function, and the basics of microscopic life.

Grade 9: Dynamic Systems in Nature 

Grade 9 explored dynamic processes in biological, physical, and Earth systems. Topics included: 

• Ecosystems and Human Impact: Analysing the balance within ecosystems and the consequences of human actions. 

• Chemical Reactions: Investigating different types of chemical reactions, balancing equations, and practical applications like acid-base reactions. 

• Plate Tectonics: Understanding the structure of Earth, plate movements, and their role in earthquakes and volcanoes. 

• Body Systems: Examining human body systems, including circulatory, respiratory, and nervous systems, and their interdependence.

Grade 10: Big Ideas in Science 

Grade 10 students engaged with some of the most exciting and challenging scientific concepts, preparing them for advanced study. Topics included: 

• The Universe: Exploring the Big Bang Theory, stellar evolution, and the vastness of space. 

• Genetics and Biotechnology: Learning about DNA, inheritance, and cutting-edge developments in genetics. 

• Climate and Global Systems: Investigating climate change, the greenhouse effect, and strategies for sustainable living. 

• Chemical Reactions and Rates: Delving into reaction rates, catalysts, and their industrial and environmental relevance.

Looking Back and Moving Forward 

This year has been full of discovery, curiosity, and growth. Students have developed critical thinking skills and a deeper understanding of the natural and physical world, setting a strong foundation for future scientific learning. 

As we farewell our Grade 10 scientists, we look forward to another year of inquiry based learning, helping our students to be critical thinkers and understand the world around them. 

Students planned, cooked and decorated a layered cake. These photos display their skills and techniques.

What an incredible year 2024 has been for Maths at Queechy!

Our students have embraced fantastic opportunities, both in the classroom and beyond. From tackling hands-on problem-solving and construction tasks to participating in extracurricular challenges like the Australian Maths Competition, their enthusiasm has been inspiring.

A special congratulations to Ed (Grade 9), Shane (Grade 7), and Vikram (Grade 7) for achieving Distinctions in the Australian Maths Competition. An extra round of applause goes to Dot (Grade 7), who not only earned a High Distinction but was also named Best in School. Dot’s remarkable achievements were celebrated at the Tasmanian State Awards for the competition—a well-deserved recognition of her hard work and talent.

Behind the scenes, our teachers have been equally impressive. This year, we’ve begun implementing “Thinking Classroom” strategies, fostering an environment where students are encouraged to push their boundaries and reach their full potential. We’ve also strengthened our connections with primary school teachers through cross-school moderation, creating valuable pathways for collaboration and shared learning.

On a personal note, I will be moving to Newstead College next year to teach Maths and Science. It has been an absolute privilege to lead the Mathematics Department at Queechy for the past six years. I am deeply grateful for the dedication of our wonderful teachers and the enthusiasm of our students. Queechy is a truly remarkable place to teach and learn in, and I leave with countless fond memories.

Wishing everyone a successful and rewarding 2025!

Sam Ayre – Curriculum AST.

This term, wulya wulya students and friends worked on a mural with art mentor Judith-Rose Thomas. One of the most pleasing results was that some students found talent they did not know they had. Everyone gained from working with our industrious mentor who not only advised on art techniques but also found many opportunities to impart valuable lessons from her life experience.

Recently Chef Greg and Chef Will visited from Drysdale. Some of our Grade 9/10 Foods students were treated to a cooking demonstration and then invited to cook alongside these professional Chefs. Greg and Will talked to students about their own experiences as Chefs and told stories about working all around the world. From cooking private dinners on luxury boats to feeding 1000's at the MCG. A highlight of the visit was talking about just how many jobs there are available right now in hospitality throughout the world.

Reconciliation Tasmania annually holds Youth Speakout, in which students get to present work based on a reconciliation theme. This year Archie and Suvangi proudly represented Queechy by sharing their work at Government and Parliament Houses.

Suvangi presented the following speech at Government House:

Reconciliation begins with speech, with respect, grows with understanding and thrives through action.

Good morning to everyone present here, I Suvangi from Queechy High School am here to share how we commemorated NAIDOC WEEK this year.

In 2024, we proudly embraced the NAIDOC theme: Keep the fire burning – BLAK, LOUD AND PROUD. This theme inspired us to honour the resilience and contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders communities, particularly the Palawa people on whose land we stand on today,

As a part of our celebrations, we held a heartfelt ceremony where we planted a tree dedicated to the Palawa people. This tree is more than just a symbol – it’s a gift of gratitude, respect, and remembrance. It represents our commitment to honouring the struggles of Aboriginal people who fought and continue to fight for their land and culture.

A plaque accompanies the tree, reading:

My history and culture are rich like the soil I am embedded in. My roots guide my growth, I stand here tall and proud.

In addition, we expressed our creativity through art and poetry and a beautiful painting of this tree. A standout moment was sharing the poem “song of hope” by Oodgero Noonucal with peers and staff. The poem’s message resonates deeply with the spirit of reconciliation and hope for a united future.

Just as we honour European struggles on Anzac Day, it is vital to honour Aboriginal struggles with the same respect. By doing so, we take one more step towards understanding, unity and reconciliation.

Now before I finish I would like to leave everyone with a question “What will you do to keep the fire burning?”

Archie presented his speech at Parliament House:

"Now more than ever, we need to make sure we engage with our local Aboriginal community and learn of the experiences of the broader Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. In our projects at Queechy, we try to create connections to help us gain an understanding of Aboriginal and Islander perspectives. Some ways we have already done this are, through filming interviews with community members, and using primary sources created by Aboriginal people, as writing prompts. For example, we created diary entries, as much as possible, as if we were the Aboriginal or Islander author. For our collation of creative diary entries, we viewed multiple films, including the “Final Quarter” about Adam Goodes’ experiences with racism, and the “Day of Mourning” about Jack Patton and his struggle for Aboriginal rights and also read texts, such as the Stolen Generations Testimonies. We would now like to show you a short film, about being Blak, Loud and Proud."

Our thanks go to Archie’s Mother Savanna and Suvangi’s Sister Yeshashree who accompanied them to Hobart. They reported back that these young ones had made them proud. As well, we would like to congratulate Caitlyn and Jack on their work on the film which was shown at Parliament House, with positive responses from Members of Parliament who viewed it.

Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! See you in 2025! 

Do you know a young person aged 12-24, living in Tasmania and passionate about Tasmania’s future? If so, you can encourage them to express interest in becoming a member of the Premier’s Youth Advisory Council (PYAC) in 2024. There are 12 positions available.

The PYAC is an opportunity for young people to meet with the Premier, Minister for Education, Children and Youth and Government to discuss their ideas on how we can make Tasmania a better place.

All young Tasmanians are encouraged to apply regardless of their background or participation record.

The PYAC has a diverse and inclusive membership where all members feel welcomed, safe, and supported. PYAC members come from different backgrounds, and we encourage applications from diverse young people so that the Council has a mix of beliefs, skills and life experiences,

The PYAC values the unique experiences, knowledge, and skills that its members bring to the group. If this sounds like you, we want to hear from you!

Recruitment is now open and closes on 11:59pm on Monday 27 January 2025.

For more information and to apply,

visit www.dpac.tas.gov.au/pyac

email youthadvisorycouncil@dpac.tas.gov.au

or call 6232 7676.