National Reconciliation Week - 27 May to 3 June

The National Reconciliation Week (NRW) 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present, and future. Bridging Now to Next calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead. For Catholics, the very nature of God is pure love, and in the example of Jesus, who modelled the love of the Father, we are compelled to engage in the journey of justice and reconciliation in support of the Uluru Statement From the Heart towards healing past hurts.

“All relationships include giving and receiving, inviting and responding, and the fruits of our connections together grow and deepen through our response-ability to each other.” (Common Grace)

Living fully, in communion with one another is at the core of who we are as Christians, and National Reconciliation Week provides an excellent opportunity to explore how we can contribute to achieving reconciliation.

National Reconciliation Week - At Holy Cross

As we reflect on the events of Reconciliation Week 2025, it is fair to say that our school community embarked on a meaningful journey of learning, reflection, and connection. The National Reconciliation Week 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present, and future. This week has served as a vital reminder of our shared commitment to fostering respect, understanding, and unity.

Monday Prayer – Led by 4C.

We began the week with a heartfelt prayer session led by our talented Year 4C students. Through thoughtful words and reflections, they set the tone for the week, calling us to embrace reconciliation with open hearts and minds. Their leadership exemplifies the spirit of inclusivity and respect that underpins this important week.

Learning Experience with Lloyd Biehler, a friend of Holy Cross

Year 4 and Year 5 students had a unique opportunity to learn directly from Lloyd Biehler, a friend of Holy Cross. Through storytelling and shared wisdom, they explored the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. These interactive sessions provided an invaluable perspective on history and reconciliation, deepening our students' understanding of their role in building a more united future.

Library Sessions – Our Uniform: Our Place of belonging, Our Story.

Reconciliation is not just a concept—it is woven into the fabric of our school, quite literally. This week the students engaged in library sessions that shared the powerful stories behind the images on our new school uniform. The uniform design reminds us of the land on which our school stands.

Understanding the meaning behind these images helps our students to foster a deeper appreciation for the significance of the connections we all share, reminding us to be stewards of the land. In the coming weeks, classes will continue to investigate these images to ensure students have the opportunity to develop a stronger personal connection with the narrative of the school, focusing on Bridging Now to Next.

‘ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY’ Holy Cross Student Pledge

We promise to be stewards of this land.

We will look after the plants and animals.

We will take care of all the people who learn, play, work and pray here,

and create an environment of understanding, welcoming and belonging for all.

Buddy Activities – Working Together for Change

Collaboration and reflection were the focus of our buddy activities, where students partnered up to explore the importance of reconciliation. Through shared discussions, creative projects, and teamwork, students embraced the message that reconciliation is an ongoing process—one that requires listening, learning, and a commitment to positive change.

As we journey through Reconciliation Week, we recognise that every conversation, every shared experience, and every act of respect brings us one step closer to a future built on understanding and unity. Let’s continue to walk together in reconciliation, ensuring that the lessons learned this week extend far beyond the classroom and into our everyday lives.

Together, we can make a difference.

What a wonderful night!

On Wednesday evening, our Holy Cross community came together for a heartwarming celebration of our cultural and linguistic diversity at our annual ‘Taste of Harmony’ event.

From the moment families arrived, the school was filled with the vibrant sights, sounds, and smells of cultures from around the world. Traditional dress, home-cooked dishes, and joyful conversations created a truly festive atmosphere.

Family was at the heart of the evening — with parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins all joining in the celebration. It was a beautiful reminder of the strength and richness that comes from our diverse backgrounds.

Food was the universal language — with tables overflowing with delicious dishes lovingly prepared by families. Children proudly introduced their cultural foods, sharing stories and traditions with friends and teachers.

Cultural pride was on full display — many students wore traditional clothing and helped prepare meals, deepening their connection to their heritage and building confidence in their identity.

Relive the fun!

Enjoy some photos from the evening.

Thank you to every family who contributed to the success of the evening — whether by cooking, dressing up, or simply being present. Your generosity and spirit made this event a true celebration of unity in diversity.

We are so proud to be part of a school community that values inclusion, connection, and cultural pride. Here's to many more joyful gatherings at Holy Cross!

Jo Neil
Teacher Librarian

Staff are becoming increasingly disillusioned and disappointed regarding the increasing number of students left unsupervised at the front of our school from as early as 7:15am in the morning. This truly is exceptionally unkind to the children.

Section 364A of the Queensland Criminal Code outlines the legal obligation parents or carers have around supervising their children. It states:

• A person who, having the lawful care or charge of a child under 12 years, leaves the child for an unreasonable time without making reasonable provision for the supervision and care of the child during that time commits a misdemeanour. Maximum penalty—3 years imprisonment.
• Whether the time is unreasonable depends on all the relevant circumstances.

The safety and wellbeing of our students is paramount. Please note the following regarding Before School Supervision at Holy Cross School:

• NO SUPERVISION is available prior to 8:10am;
• Students arriving at school before 8:10am MUST be enrolled in Before School Care (Contact OSHC: Mobile: 0410 629 096), email: oshc.trinitypk@ccelc.catholic.org.au; 
• Between the 8:10am bell and the bell to mark the start of the school day, students should first drop their belongings off at their class bag rack, then proceed to a ‘ZONE’ of their choice where they will remain until school begins; and,
• Students are NOT permitted to play tiggy or other games that involve running around during this time.

We thank you for considering the needs of the children ensuring they each experience a safe and happy start to every school day.

The Holy Cross Performing Arts Department have been working super hard rehearsing two routines (Senior Troupe and Junior Troupe) in preparation for the upcoming JCU Cairns Eisteddfod.

Tickets for the school dance section are on sale now.

TICKETLINK

With secondary school sections before and after, and 15 primary schools in between, it is sure to be a treat. Please come along and watch our student’s shine.

Thanks to Smithfield State High School for hosting the Fast 5's Football competition this week. Holy Cross winners in both the Boys and Girls divisions.

There is one super talented Prep student shining brightly in our school community pushing themselves to be ‘the best version of you’ outside of school hours.

• Eric K (0H) in VISUAL ART with his work currently on display at the Courthouse Gallery as part of this year’s Cairns Children’s Festival.

A remarkable achievement for such a young gentleman. We are super proud of him!

Please keep sharing news regarding your children’s achievements outside of school. We love sharing good news stories. Email:  office.trinitypk@cns.catholic.edu.au 

2025

TERM 2

JUN 3 - Confirmation Session 1 - Holy Cross Church - 5:00pm

JUN 5 - FNQ Chess Competition

JUN 10 - Pentecost Mass - Year 3 to Year 6 - 9:00am

JUN 10 - Confirmation Session 2 - Holy Cross Church - 5:00pm

JUN 13 - Holy Cross Connect Movie Night - 6:30pm - "Sonic"

JUN 17 - Holy Cross Athletics Field Day (Year 3 to Year 6)

JUN 17 - Confirmation Session 3 - Holy Cross Church - 5:00pm

JUN 18 - Holy Cross Athletics Track & Fun Day (Prep to Year 6)

JUN 27 - Last Day Term 2

TERM 3

JUL 14 - First Day Term 3

JUL 17 - PUPIL FREE DAY

JUL 18 - PUBLIC HOLIDAY - Cairns Show

Prayer for Reconciliation

God of all creation,

as we journey together in this Great Southern Land,

we pray for healing, forgiveness and unity,

creating a path of good will, with justice and compassion.

Jesus, through the power of your love, you have given us the courage, wisdom and strength to share our gifts and talents in humility.

In peace and understanding we reconcile with each other.

Creator Spirit, we come together in prayer and thanksgiving for the many blessings we have received. Allow your Spirit to wash over us and give us strength to walk together as one.

This Reconciliation Church prayer was written by a small group of Aboriginal Elder women and Reconciliation Church staff members in 2014.

https://www.catholicreligious.org.au/news/2019/7/9/journeying-together-a-prayer-for-reconciliation