4 April 2025

Executive Principal's Address

Dear Parents and friends,

I would like to thank everyone in the Corinda community for their support and commitment to our students.  We’ve had a phenomenal start to the year, and I thank our entire community for their contributions.

The last few weeks have been incredibly busy on campus, with a range of assessments, events, activities and celebrations. Several key events were postponed during the two weeks either side of ex-TC Alfred which added some additional complexity to the final weeks of Term. I know that this is a difficult balance to get right, so I thank our community for their contributions and support to keep our school running so smoothly.

I am incredibly appreciative to the many families who attended our recent International Women’s Day breakfast. The highlight of the event was our panel discussion with Stephanie Huestis, partner at Carter Newell, Jess Pugh MP, member for Mount Ommaney and Ruby Svarc, AFLW player for the Brisbane Lions. The panellists talked passionately about their experiences and participated in a Q&A session with our students. 

Last week, we inducted our Student Council members and presented them with their badges. The Student Council serve an important function within our school, providing feedback and advocacy for student initiatives, running events and raising funds for school projects and charitable organisations. The Corinda Student Council is very active, meeting weekly to discuss issues and plan for events and student activities. Congratulations to all our Student Council representatives. I know that the team will do a fabulous job of representing student voice on important issues throughout the year.

We also had the privilege of inducting the members of our first ever Corinda Cultural Council. The students received their badges, representing their commitment to the student culture and diversity at Corinda. Thank you to Mr Batty and his team for the organisation and coordination of this important celebration for our students.

Starting high school can be a nervous time for students. This Term, we also celebrated our newest Corinda cohort on the beginning of their high school journey. Our Year 7 students had a chance to reflect on their first term, and were presented with their Corinda Badges and House Badges, symbolising the joining of both their individual house and Corinda family.  The Year 7 House Leaders were announced and celebrated as part of the morning event. You could tell that this meant a great deal to so many of our Year 7 students.

Thank you also to the parents and students who joined us for the Senior Schooling Information Evening and Year 11 Blazer Ceremony. Unfortunately, I was unwell and unable to attend, so I would also like to acknowledge Mr Crausaz and the Year 11 team for the last minute change to the agenda. From someone seeing many of these events for the first time, I love the way that student milestones are celebrated and ritualised within Corinda. 

It was lovely to see so many of our students join the Harmony Week activities and celebrate the incredible diversity at Corinda. I would like to offer my congratulations and thanks to the team behind a great Harmony Week at Corinda and for the students and staff who joined activities throughout the week.

Finally, we finished Week 9 with the Aussie Anthems event that was rescheduled from earlier in the Term. Thank you to the many members of the Corinda team in attendance on what was a great celebration of the work of our music students.  I loved the song selection and seeing the fun that students have clearly had with their music learning - well done to the entire team!

I’m looking forward to everything that awaits after the holidays. In the first week, we’ll have presentations from the Stymie team around the prevention and reporting of student concerns, our ANZAC Day service, and the continuation of the Year 7 Debating season. 

I hope you and your family enjoy a restful and relaxing break.

Warm regards,

Ross Bailey

Executive Principal

Key dates

Some of our best

Student Council spreads cheer on final day of Term

As Term 1 wraps up, we want to take a moment to thank our incredible Corinda SHS Student Leaders for spreading some well-deserved cheer! Donning bunny ears and armed with baskets full of Easter eggs, they greeted students on the gate and then made their way around the school to celebrate the end of the term with a sweet surprise today. It was a wonderful way to bring smiles and mark the end of a big effort from everyone. Wishing all our students, staff, and families a safe and relaxing break – you’ve earned it!

Harry's journey to success at Corinda

A year ago, Year 12 student Harry felt lost. Today, he’s thriving as Motorama Mitsubishi Moorooka's newest apprentice, following in the footsteps of two other Corinda students who have launched their careers with Motorama Group.

After struggling to find his place at his previous school, Harry (pictured below with his best friend Khiem) took a leap of faith and enrolled at Corinda - where he found the support, encouragement, and opportunities he needed to chase his passion for mechanics. Now, as a school-based apprentice, he’s gaining hands-on experience, learning from industry professionals, and working towards a career in automotive mechanics.

Harry’s journey is a testament to resilience, friendship, and the power of finding the right environment to grow. Read more about his inspiring story here.

A big thank you to our generous Alumni Tevita

Tevita Kuridrani, a proud graduate of Corinda SHS (Class of 2008), has left an unforgettable mark on the world of rugby, earning an incredible 61 Test caps for Australia. Tevita has generously donated his signed Wallabies jersey from the epic match against Argentina on Saturday 4 October 2014, in Mendoza where he scored a try!

Photo credits picture 1: ARU Media/Stuart Walmsley, picture 2: AP Photo/Tertius Pickard, and picture 3: AP Photo

Before it takes its rightful place on display in Admin, some of our aspiring rugby stars had the chance to get up close and personal with this iconic piece of memorabilia. Meet the up-and-coming athletes who were lucky enough to pose with the jersey below.

Front row: William (Year 9, Half-back at Souths Rugby Union Club Incorporated), Morris (Year 9, Prop at UQ Junior Heavies Rugby Union Club), and Beau (Year 8 Full-back at Souths Rugby Union Club Incorporated)

Back row: Bryson (Year 10, Half-back at Souths Rugby Union Club Incorporated), Isaac (Year 10, Wing at Souths Rugby Union Club Incorporated), and Oliver (Year 10, Second Row at Souths Rugby Union Club Incorporated)

A massive thank you to Tevita for this incredible donation! We’re beyond proud to call you an Alumni of Corinda!

Year 7s officially begin their Corinda journeys

In Week 9, our newest Corindians officially began their high school journey at the Year 7 Badging Ceremony! Led by members of the Junior and Senior Student Council, the event was a proud moment of tradition, unity, and school spirit, marking the beginning of an exciting chapter for our Year 7 students.

To cap off the celebration, students came together for a rousing rendition of the official school war cry, a tradition dating back to Corinda’s founding in 1960. It was a powerful reminder of our rich history and strong school culture - welcoming our Year 7s into the Corinda family with pride!

Highlights from the Year 11 Blazer Ceremony

It was an exciting evening last week at the Year 11 Blazer Ceremony and Parent Information Session. The evening began with the Parent Information Session, where families received valuable insights into the QCE, ATAR, subject pathways, assessments, and the incredible support available at Corinda SHS. Following this, the Blazer Ceremony took place, with students proudly receiving their Silver Corinda Pin – a significant milestone marking the next chapter in their Senior Schooling journey.

A big thank you to Harcourts Marketplace and our Corinda SHS P&C Association for providing delicious refreshments, and to all the families who joined us to make the evening truly memorable.

Student and Cultural Council Badging Ceremony celebration

Last Friday morning, we hosted a special badging ceremony to honour our Junior and Senior Student Councils, as well as our newly established Cultural Council. This year marks the debut of our Cultural Council, a diverse group made up of students from all year-levels and backgrounds, reflecting the rich tapestry of our school community.

The event was a beautiful celebration, where students proudly received their badges, enjoyed delicious refreshments and shared a moment of solidarity. It was an inspiring occasion, with leaders across each year-level being uplifted and supported by their peers. A heartfelt thank you to all our students for their dedication and hard work so far this year. We eagerly anticipate all that you will achieve as you continue your school journeys here at Corinda!

Celebrating Harmony Day 

On Friday 28 March, our students embraced the spirit of Harmony Day, celebrating inclusivity, respect, and the message that "Everyone Belongs". It was all about good vibes, meaningful conversations, and appreciating the diverse backgrounds that make our school community so special. A big thank you to Moori House for hosting the lunchtime sausage sizzle and to our school community for making today a positive and welcoming space for all!

Student invited to prestigious Women in Construction Lunch

Recently, Year 12 student Kate Ledez was invited to the annual Awesome Women in Construction International Women’s Day Lunch via an application process. Kate has aspirations of a career in the Construction industry post school, and at this stage is looking at studying Construction/Project Management at university.

Kate has been proactive in finding opportunities to network and engage with people in the Construction industry from the connections she made during Future Agent Day at school last year. The lunch was an inspiring experience with amazing speakers and opportunities to network… And did we mention the great ‘Construction-inspired Lolly Bar!’ A special thank you to our Head of Department Industry Liaison Ms Fairbanks for facilitating these inspiring opportunities for students.

Year 12s show off their new Senior jerseys around campus!

Last week saw an exciting milestone as our Year 12s proudly showcased their brand-new Senior jerseys! Each student played a role in voting on the design, making these jerseys a true reflection of their collective vision. From now on, every Wednesday and Friday, they’ll wear these jerseys as a symbol of their Senior status and dedication.

Introducing Mr Jennings

We are excited to introduce Mr Jennings our new Construction teacher in the INTAD department! Not only is he passionate about teaching the next generation of builders and innovators, but he also has a keen eye for photography. The stunning photos of our students on our Smart Farm, captured by him, showcase his unique and fun perspective. Get to know him better by checking out the behind-the-scenes questionnaire below! 

FEX Student makes her debut in Women's NPL

We are incredibly proud of Year 12 student Ruby Suitor, a dedicated member of our Football Excellence program since 2019, and now captain of our Senior Girls football team for making her National Premier League (NPL) Women's team debut for Lions FC last weekend.

Slotting in at centre-back, Ruby displayed outstanding defensive awareness, aerial strength, and composure, helping her team secure a well-earned clean sheet. As a Lions Academy Junior and U23s player, she continues to be a shining example of talent and dedication. Well done, Ruby – we can’t wait to see what’s next for you!

Angelina designs new logo as we celebrate 65 Years

A huge shoutout to our talented Year 12 student, Angelina B, for designing our stunning 65-year anniversary logo! Since Year 10, Angelina has honed her craft under the expert guidance of Media Arts teacher Ms Le Sueur, who mentored her through this special project. Angelina is also a proud member of the Media Team - "a covert squad of skilled Media students, always ready to tackle your next Media dilemma". Keep an eye out for their creative genius at work!

Year 12 students raise over $800 towards breast cancer

We are proud to announce that four of our amazing Year 12 students Anna, Cara, Maggie (absent) and Susannah raised an incredible $802 for breast cancer through the International Women's Day Fun Run! Although the Fun Run event was cancelled due to Ex-TC Alfred, we are so inspired by the determination these students had to make a difference as they fundraised for Queensland X-Ray. Thank you to all who supported and donated to the cause.

Year 7 learning about Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics

Here’s a glimpse of Year 7K in action last week, as they explored Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics which will be a focus topic for Year 7 History next term! The students had a blast writing their names in a funny sentence that describes their personalities. A special thank you to their teacher, Ms Winters, for encouraging their curiosity and making learning so fun!

Kicking off the QLD Super Series Pedal Prix

The Corinda Racing Team recently competed at the Nerang Cycle Centre in the QLD Super Series Pedal Prix. The event pushed student riders to their limits in a test of endurance, speed, and strategy amongst the rainy conditions. A massive thank you to Mr Newberry for his dedication and support during race days and countless training sessions. A huge shout-out to all the parents who assisted – we couldn't have done it without you!

Special thanks to our fantastic Corinda Racing team sponsor Motorama Mitsubishi Moorooka and apparel sponsor Bailey Print Group without you both this event wouldn't have been possible!

School news

Homestay families needed!

We’re excited to offer a wonderful opportunity for our Corinda families! We are looking for families to host Homestay students arriving in the second week of the June/July holidays, ready to start at Corinda in Semester 2, 2025. We’ll need homestay hosts for both males and females.

Homestay families need to supply a private room for the student, a desk for study, internet access, three healthy meals a day plus snacks, and a warm and welcoming family environment to share experiences.

In return for your generosity, hosting families will receive $369 per week (tax-free). If you're interested or know someone who might be, please reach out to our Homestay Coordinator Cathy Pearson in the International faculty at (07) 3379 0216 or via email at cpear337@eq.edu.au. Let’s make this a memorable experience for both our students and families!

Join our Corinda Alumni Committee

We're launching our exciting "Once Together, Always Together" campaign and we'd love your help! Whether you have five minutes or a few ideas to share, your voice matters. We're looking for enthusiastic alumni to help us reconnect with past students, especially from your year level. It's casual - think tea, coffee or even a drink while we brainstorm ways to bring our alumni community to life. You can be as involved as you like and connect in whatever way suits your lifestyle – from home, online, or in person. To register your interest, scan the QR code or visit https://corindaconnect.com.au/AlumniCommittee

ANZAC Day

All students and families are invited to attend the Sherwood-Indooroopilly RSL Sub-Branch ANZAC Day Services on Friday 25 April. Our Executive Principal and members of our Student Council will be attending the Dawn service at Corinda followed by a Gunfire style Breakfast at Westside HQ before participating in the Graceville March and Service. Students, please wear full formal uniform if attending the events.

Mother's Day High Tea

We warmly invite all our wonderful mums, grandmothers, mother figures and their students to join us for a special Mother's Day High Tea in celebration of the incredible mothers in our Corinda community. This heartfelt event is our way of saying thank you for all the love, support, and strength you give to our students.

Join us and enjoy delicious treats, warm conversations, and a few surprises along the way - because you deserve to be celebrated! For more information, please see the poster below and to register click here or scan the QR code below.

Do it for Dolly Day

Our Student Council are launching a new event called Do it for Dolly Day on Friday 9 May! This day is all about honouring the memory of Dolly, a fellow Aussie and school kid, who tragically lost her life to bullying in 2018. Her parents established the Dolly's Dream foundation to raise awareness around bullying and suicide prevention, helping kids who face similar struggles.

Students are encouraged to wear blue accessories over their school uniform and bring a gold coin donation. There will also be a bake sale, sausage sizzle, and a glitter station during both breaks between C and F block, with all proceeds going to the foundation. On Friday 9 May, let’s join with people from all over Australia by wearing blue to show support for Dolly’s Dream and raise awareness about the importance of kindness and mental health.

Free Fruit Friday

Starting in Term 2, all students can enjoy a free piece of fruit every Friday! The fruit basket will be placed at the Backstage Brew Café, so swing by and grab a healthy snack to fuel your day!

School Watch

During the school holidays, we can all help to keep our schools safe. If you see or hear anything suspicious, call School Watch on 13 17 88 to report the incident, even if it appears to be minor. In an emergency or if you see a crime in progress dial Triple Zero (000).

Public Holidays Week 1 Term 2

A reminder that our school will be closed on Monday 21 April and Friday 25 April in Week 1 of Term 2 due to public holidays. 

Parent resources

SchoolTV Report 

Young people today are growing up in a highly connected world where technology is integral to learning, socialising, and entertainment. While it offers many benefits, it also presents risks such as cyberbullying, online predators, and excessive screen time.

Protecting a child's well-being today also means safeguarding their online life. This edition of SchoolTV will help you understand the digital world your child navigates and provide strategies to help them stay safe and confident online. Click here for this month's edition.

Community news

Oxley Creek Clean Up

Recent rains have helped plants grow but also brought debris into the creeks. Oxley Creek Catchment Association and Ocean Crusaders are organising a clean-up on Saturday 12 April and Sunday 13 April.

Anyone with their own canoe or kayak is encouraged to join them on Sunday 13th April at 9 AM at Oxley Creek Common to help clean up the creek. It’s a great opportunity to make a difference!

Australian Air League

The Australian Air League welcomes boys and girls from the age of eight, encouraging their interest in aviation while fostering leadership, discipline, confidence, and teamwork. They are a family-oriented organisation that values diversity and inclusivity and encourages parents and community members to volunteer and contribute to their local Squadron.

Their structured yet enjoyable program includes aviation theory, navigation, meteorology, weekend camps, ceremonial drill, leadership training, and even flying opportunities. Volunteers are provided with training to help mentor and support our cadets.

As a youth organisation, child safety is their priority. They maintain strict policies to protect all members, and all adult volunteers are required to hold a valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) and complete child safety training.

To learn more about Australian Air League please visit www.airleague.com.au or contact them directly through 1800 502 175 or development.qld@airleague.com.au