RUOK?... The Power of Connecting and Checking In

Next week on Thursday, 11 September 2025, Australians will come together to recognise RUOK? Day. This year’s theme, ‘Ask RUOK? Any Day’, is an important reminder that conversations about mental health and wellbeing don’t have to wait for a special occasion. Every day is a good day to check in with those around us, our friends, our colleagues, our neighbours, and most importantly, our children and families.

At its heart the message is simple, a caring question and a listening ear can make a big difference. Building everyday habits of connection helps children and adults alike feel supported and less alone.

The Power of Connection

Building connections with others is like a magic potion for feeling good. Humans have evolved to live in close family groups, with a deep need for social interaction wired into our DNA.

When we spend time with people we care about, it fulfils a need we may not even realise we have, leaving us feeling happier, calmer, and more energised. On a biological level, connecting with others triggers the release of “happy chemicals” in our brains, like oxytocin and serotonin, which help us feel safe and content.

At every stage of life, whether we’re introverted or extroverted, meaningful connection has real benefits for our health and wellbeing. For children, strong family connections are especially powerful, helping them to feel secure, understood, and resilient. For parents, it’s also a source of energy and joy.

Why Asking “Are You OK?” Matters

Research shows that when people are regularly asked “Are you OK?” they often feel a stronger sense of wellbeing. In fact, a third of Australians say they’ve been checking in with others more often over the past year. That’s a wonderful sign that many of us are already making the effort to show up for those we care about.

Of course, starting a deeper conversation can sometimes feel a little daunting. Many people wonder, “What if I say the wrong thing?” or “What if they don’t want to talk?” The good news is that nine out of ten Australians say they feel grateful, supported, and cared about when someone genuinely asks if they’re OK. That’s a powerful reminder that simply showing you care really does make a difference.

You may already be having these conversations without even realising it, perhaps during the school run, while sharing a meal, or even when tucking your child into bed. Small, everyday moments are often the best opportunities to check in.

And if you ever feel unsure, there are plenty of free resources with tips and ideas to help you feel more confident. Remember, you don’t need to have all the answers, you just need to listen and care.

Conversations at Home

As parents and carers, you play a central role in building this culture of connection. Here are some small but meaningful ways to weave “RUOK?” into family life:

• 
  Create space to talk – Ask open-ended questions at dinner, bedtime, or on the way to school. Instead of “Did you have a good day?”, try “What was the best part of your day?” or “Was there anything tricky about today?”
• Listen with patience – Children may not always have the words to explain how they feel. Sometimes, listening quietly and letting them take their time shows more support than offering quick solutions.
• Model openness – Share your own feelings in simple ways. For example: “I felt a bit worried at work today, but talking about it helped.” This teaches children that it’s okay to talk about emotions.
• Notice changes – If your child seems quieter than usual, more irritable, or withdrawn, gently check in. A calm “You seem a bit upset; do you want to talk about it?” can open a door.
• Normalise checking in – Show that it’s okay to ask, “Are you OK?” within your family at any time, not just when something looks wrong.

Building a Supportive Community

By making small, regular efforts to connect, we help children understand the value of empathy and support. This doesn’t just strengthen family relationships; it also teaches lifelong skills for kindness and compassion.

Let’s remember that every day offers an opportunity to connect. A simple check-in, whether with our children, our partners, or a friend, can make a lasting difference.

Jo Cordwell
Holy Cross School Counsellor

We were delighted to host our annual Dad’s Day breakfast - a morning filled with delicious food, warm smiles, and just a touch of competitive spirit. It was heartening to see so many fathers and significant male figures enjoying quality time with their children, even if the handball and cricket games occasionally featured some creative interpretations of the rules (we won’t name names!). The laughter and connection shared throughout the morning reminded us that the most precious gift we can give is simply our time. We wish all our dads a very happy Father’s Day and hope they are thoroughly spoilt.

DAD'S IN THE LIBRARY

FATHER'S DAY FRAPPES

The Great Book Swap

Reading helps you learn. Reading is literally everywhere. Reading is a part of life. We want to help children in our local area get a good education. We are grateful for all of the books and money donations, which will go towards helping "Reading Out Of Poverty" run pop-up libraries in Yarrabah. The Community Crew raised $115 with your help. This will help children in the community get access to books. Thank you!

From Larna R. and Skye B. on behalf of the Community Crew

Gigi E. - Literary Award Recipient for QLD & NT

Year 5 student, Gigi E., has won a Highly Commended prize in the 66th annual Independent Education Union – Queensland and Northern Territory (IEU-QNT) and English Teachers’ Association of Queensland’s (ETAQ) Literary Competition.  

Gigi’s poem, The Great Toilet Quest, is a humorous poem that explores the trials and tribulations of trying to make it to the toilet in the dark.

The IEU Literary Competition is an extension activity that students in the English Enrichment Program at Holy Cross School enter each year, in addition to the Cairns Eisteddfod Literary Competition. 

ETAQ President said over 1300 submissions of poetry, short stories and non-fiction prose were entered into this year’s competition, with all schools providing a high quality of entries for judging. 

Congratulations Gigi on your well-deserved award!

The Great Toilet Quest

by Gigi E. - 5S

Oh young adventurer just ten years old
With a tale of courage bold and gold
It started one evening in the afternoon glow
When nature called she had to go

Through the hall she tiptoed quiet as a mouse
Past the couch where mum was lounging about
“Where are you going, love?” Mum asked with a grin
“To the throne room I must get in!”

The journey was long oh daunting and steep
With toys in the hall she let out a squeak
A Lego block here, a doll over there
She dodged them as graceful as a hare

Her mom called out, "Don’t take all day!
The toilet’s not Mars, it’s just down the way!"
But the hero knew, this was no simple challenge
For the bathroom was far and her need was acute

At last she sat down with relief, as she turns to the side
She screams in horror with no roll in sight
Then mum calls out, “Sorry my bad love!”
As she chucks one in like a knight in shining armour

“How was your quest?” Mum asked with a smile
“Fulfilled! Although the hall is messy
I’ll start a petition - no toys near here!” Mum chuckles
Say with a smile “I’d like to see you even get past a trial!”

With a duty filled and more journeys to come
Of a story of a girl and her mum
Of the mess they made of toys and crumbs
The little girls story has just begun

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

• Eric K (0H) is shining brightly in ‘MARTIAL ARTS’. Despite only commencing his Martial Arts journey at the start of 2025, he has already been awarded his fourth belt, AND, last month Eric received a medal for being ‘Member of the Month’. A phenomenal achievement: 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:  principal.trinitypk@cns.catholic.edu.au

We have a few temporary staffing updates to share, as we support colleagues taking well-deserved leave:

• Gemma Ryan has been appointed as Acting Leader of Wellbeing from Friday 5th September to Tuesday 16th September, covering for Bernice Gubby during her Long Service Leave.
• Brad Henry will step into the role of Acting Principal from Wednesday 17th September to Friday 17th October, while Sarah Hamilton takes leave to provide respite care for her father in support of her mother in the UK.
• Deb Scarborough has been appointed as Acting Assistant Principal: Teaching & Learning from Wednesday 17th September to Friday 17th October, backfilling Brad Henry during his time as Acting Principal.

We are grateful to Gemma, Brad, and Deb for stepping into these roles and supporting our school community during this time. Please join us in offering them your encouragement and support as they take on these responsibilities.

It’s with a heavy heart - but also immense pride - that I share some bittersweet news about two of our wonderful School Officers: Wellbeing:

• Vanda M has officially obtained her AHPRA Provisional Psychologist registration and will be resigning from her role as School Officer (Wellbeing) effective Friday, 12th September. She’s now beginning her journey toward full registration as a Psychologist. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and wish her every joy and success in this exciting new chapter. Vanda will be very missed.
• Sam C has received his teaching registration and will be stepping away from his role as School Officer (Wellbeing) to begin work as a Relief Teacher. While his presence on our Wellbeing Team will be deeply missed, we’re thrilled that he’ll continue to be part of our Holy Cross family in this new capacity.

Please join me in congratulating both Vanda and Sam on these significant milestones. Their contributions have made a lasting impact, and we’re so grateful for the time we’ve shared with them.

In addition, Lydia S (School Officer: Learning) will be relocating to Sydney with her family at the end of Term 3. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Lydia for the gift of her time, energy, and care during her time at Holy Cross. She has made a meaningful contribution to our community, and we wish her safe travels and every happiness as she begins this next chapter of her life’s journey.

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2025

TERM 3

SEP 8-11 - Year 3 to Year 6 Swimming

SEP 12 - Holy Cross Day Mass - 9.00am

SEP 15-18 - Year 3 to Year 6 Swimming

SEP 18 - Year 1 Historical Fair

SEP 18 - Jim Graham Cup

SEP 19 - Mary Mills Cup Netball Carnival

SEP 19 - Last Day Term 3

TERM 4

OCT 6 - PUBLIC HOLIDAY - King's Birthday

OCT 7 - First Day Term 4

Position vacant
Casual School Crossing Supervisor

A position exists for a Casual School Crossing Supervisor at Holy Cross School.

• A School Crossing Supervisor must be able to work in all-weather conditions.
• Morning and afternoon shifts (on a rostered basis).
• Relief opportunities on your rostered days off.
• Pay Rate $37.10 per hour.

Commencement of employment for the successful applicant is dependent on:

• The favourable outcome of a health assessment.
• A Positive Notice Blue Card (you do not need to have a blue card to apply for the position).

Please call Kim at Transport and Main Roads for an application package on 0428 964 745.

A Father’s Day Prayer

Dear Father in heaven ...

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 1:3)

How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! (1 John 3)

Heavenly Father, We thank You for the gift of fathers— those who guide, protect, and love us. 

Bless all dads, grandfathers, and father figures with strength, patience, and joy. 

May they reflect Your love in their words and actions, And continue to lead their families with faith and kindness.

Watch over them always, and fill their hearts with peace.

Amen.