New Year 10 Defence Peer Mentor

This week, the college held its annual Student Investiture Assembly to name our school leaders for 2025.  Among them, was our new Year 10 Defence Peer Mentor (DPM), Lucy Day, who will join our current senior years DPM’s, Jayla Cameron and Ben Coop.

Lucy hails from a RAAF family, and has seen her fair share of postings around Australia and parent absences due to military service.  Lucy brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding from a student peer perspective, and along with the current Peer Mentors, will provide an invaluable extra tier of support to our Defence students. Congratulations Lucy!

ANZAC Day: ADF Cadet support

With preparations currently underway for our ANZAC Days commemoration assembly, we are current seeking ADF Cadets who would like to participate in flag orderly duties.  Any interested students can contact the DSM via email: tcoop203@eq.edu.au

Defence Student Welcome Afternoon Tea

In week two, a welcome afternoon tea was held for new Defence students at the Defence hub. Students who have come from other schools and other states were welcomed to RVSSC and were able to meet the DSM and other Defence students at the school.  These events are orchestrated to facilitate new friendships and connections to help Defence students feel included and supported during their time at the college, which for some, can be very short.

The Defence Hub is open to all Defence students every Wednesday in J2.07 at second break.

The Poppy Project – Honouring our ANZAC’s

Our Poppy collection now numbers over 300, and the poppy waterfall is starting to take shape.  With a goal of 500 poppies to complete the project, I am still looking for donations.  Donations will cease in week 10 of this term to allow for the completion of the waterfall in time for ANZAC Day display in week two of term two.

My heartfelt thanks go out to those who have already given some of their time to crochet poppies.  This will be is a beautiful way to honour our ANZAC’s for all they sacrificed for the people of Australia and New Zealand.

DSM at the RVSSC Open Day

For those Defence families who would like more information about the Defence School Mentor Program or the Defence Member and Family Support Branch, I will be holding a stall at the upcoming College Open Day on the 8^th March.  Just look for the DMFS Banner. 

Defence Member and Family Support

The Defence Member and Family Helpline is the first point of call for Defence families seeking support, information or connection with their community.

The Helpline can provide assessment, assistance, advice or referral depending on the family's needs.

Call 1800 624 608

The Helpline call centre is available 24-7 and is staffed by qualified human services professionals including social workers and psychologists. 

Reporting Defence Related Absences

If you are a Defence member who will be posting away or deploying for a significant time, could you please let me know.  This helps me and the college staff provide appropriate support for your child. 

Ripley Valley SSC Defence School Mentor: Tracey Cooper

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 0800 - 1430hrs

Email: tcoop203@eq.edu.au

Phone : 3819 5333