Moreton Bay College Archives

Parents and Students Voice Frustration Over Parking Changes at Manly West School

Parents and students at Moreton Bay College in Manly West are expressing frustration over new parking restrictions that prevent P-plate drivers from parking on campus, citing concerns about convenience and limited transport alternatives.

Moreton Bay College, a Uniting Church girls’ school in Manly West, recently implemented parking restrictions for student drivers due to construction works that began over the holiday period.

The school initially informed students of the changes in June last year, advising that parking would no longer be available on campus and discouraging students from driving to school. The decision has sparked discontent among students and parents who had planned their transport arrangements around the availability of on-site parking.

Safety vs. Convenience

In an email to parents, the school cited limited parking availability and safety concerns as the primary reasons for the changes. The directive also extends to the adjacent Uniting Church car park, which is now off-limits to students.

Additionally, students have been advised against parking in nearby streets or commercial areas, including the local Bunnings car park. Parents argue that the lack of parking options will create significant inconvenience, particularly for students with after-school commitments such as work and extracurricular activities.

Exploring Other Options

Despite lobbying from parents, the school has yet to provide alternative parking solutions or suggestions. Some parents have called for temporary parking arrangements or shuttle services to mitigate the impact.

Others suggest that the school should have considered staggered schedules or designated off-site parking areas to accommodate students affected by the restrictions.

Voices from the School Community

Many parents and students have expressed dissatisfaction on social media, calling the move “unreasonable” and “inconvenient.” Concerns have been expressed concerning increased travel time and dependency on public transportation, which some claim is unsustainable owing to long commuting hours and insufficient services.

However, some community members support the school’s stance, citing the need for safety and logistical considerations during construction.

What Lies Ahead for Students and Parents?

Moreton Bay College students — *Photo Credit: Moreton Bay College*

The parking restrictions at Moreton Bay College in Manly West remain a contentious issue, with parents and students continuing to advocate for revised solutions. While the school maintains that the measures are necessary for safety and construction purposes, the long-term impact on students’ daily routines remains a concern.

Further discussions between school administrators and families may be required to address ongoing grievances.

Published 27-Jan-2025

Moreton Bay College’s Amelia Sherrard Shines on the National Stage

Moreton Bay College’s Amelia Sherrard is quickly becoming a household name in the world of youth track and field. Her recent performances have been nothing short of extraordinary, with a string of victories that have solidified her position as one of the nation’s most promising young athletes.

Read: Moreton Bay College Alumna Dr Bronwyn Herbert, 90, Named Queensland Senior Australian of the Year

From Netball Court to Running Track

What makes her achievements even more impressive is that Sherrard’s athletic journey began just three years ago when she transitioned from netball to running. Her natural athleticism and commitment to training have allowed her to excel in her new sport, particularly in middle-distance events.

Sherrard’s path to success started at Lourdes Hill College, where she discovered her love for running after participating in school cross-country events. Having played netball throughout her childhood provided her with a strong foundation of fitness to build upon. She began her running journey three years ago, dedicating herself to training twice a week, and quickly found a passion for the sport.

Her dedication paid off, and she quickly progressed to competing at state-level championships. Seeking to further enhance her performance, Sherrard began training with renowned middle-distance coach Brian Norton at the On Track Club. Norton’s expertise in developing speed and endurance proved invaluable, contributing significantly to her improved performance.

The move to Moreton Bay College in Manly West played a massive role in her development. The school’s comprehensive athletic program and state-of-the-art facilities provided Sherrard with the resources and support she needed to thrive. The recent announcement that elite coaches Andrew Iselin and Eric Brown will be joining Moreton Bay College in 2025 is another testament to the school’s commitment to athletic excellence.

A Golden Run of Success for Amelia Sherrard

Sherrard’s string of accomplishments speak for themselves. She secured gold medals in both the 800m and 1500m events at the Queensland Representative School Sport championships and replicated this success at the All Schools Queensland competition.

Her most impressive performances, however, were at the All Schools Australia championships. Sherrard demonstrated exceptional courage and determination to win silver in the 800m, achieving a season-best time of 2:13.21—a result that puts her within reach of the national record. She continued her winning streak with a bronze medal in the 1500m, cementing her status as a force to be reckoned with in Australian athletics just three years after focusing on the sport.

Read: Premium Gumdale Estate Features Five-Pavilion Design

With her sights set on national and Olympic glory, Sherrard’ journey is just beginning. Keep an eye on this rising star—she is destined for greatness.

Published 14-January-2025

Moreton Bay College Alumna Dr Bronwyn Herbert, 90, Named Queensland Senior Australian of the Year

Dr Bronwyn Herbert from Moreton Bay College in Manly West, who became a social worker at 40 and earned her PhD at 90, has been named the 2025 Queensland Senior Australian of the Year.

She received the prestigious award for her tireless work combatting homelessness and dedication to lifelong learning.

Dr Herbert’s journey into social work began after a personal tragedy and witnessing the struggles of others. As a young widow, she was moved by the lack of support for a couple who lost their baby and inspired by her parents’ generosity towards those in need. This led her to pursue a career in social work that lasted 60 years.

During her extensive career, she noticed a troubling pattern: many children who experienced homelessness ended up homeless again as adults. Determined to understand this cycle, Dr Herbert retired as Community Program Manager at Silky Oak Children’s Haven at 81 to focus on her research.

Her PhD thesis, completed at the University of Queensland, explored the factors contributing to intergenerational homelessness. Dr Herbert examined how early experiences of homelessness affected young people’s relationships, education, and job prospects. She wanted to find ways to break this cycle and offer better support to vulnerable families.

Throughout her career, Dr Herbert has been recognised for her outstanding contributions. She received awards for her work at the Royal Children’s Hospital, where she developed programs to support struggling families. Moreton Bay College, where she graduated, also awarded her the MBC Medal in 2009 for her exceptional community service.

Dr Herbert’s dedication to helping others and her passion for learning have inspired many. Even at 91, she makes a difference by sharing the stories of people who have overcome adversity. Her remarkable achievements serve as a reminder that it’s never too late to learn and make a positive impact on the world.

Dr Herbert’s work has significantly improved the lives of countless individuals and families affected by homelessness. Her research has provided valuable insights into the complex causes of intergenerational homelessness and has informed the development of more effective support programs.

Her path to success was not without its challenges. She faced personal tragedies, including the loss of her son, and overcame health issues such as a heart operation and a fall requiring hospitalisation. However, with her family’s and university advisors’ support, she persevered and achieved her goals.

Published Date 08-Jan-2024

Moreton Bay College Dominates at 2024 National Schools Challenge

Students from Moreton Bay College in Manly West have made their mark on the national stage, excelling at the prestigious 2024 Chemist Warehouse National Schools Challenge Final.

Read: Manly West School to Expand with New Creativity and Arts Centre

The event, held on Monday, December 9, at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre, brought together Australia’s top school athletics programs for a day of intense competition.

Photo credit: Moreton Bay College/Facebook

Moreton Bay College’s Intermediate Girls team emerged victorious, securing the top spot in their category with an impressive score of 175.5 points. While the Junior Girls’ team didn’t claim first place, they achieved a commendable third-place finish, amassing 184 points and demonstrating the depth of talent across the school’s programs.

The school celebrated the students’ achievements with a heartfelt post on social media, highlighting their determination and resilience. “Their grit, perseverance, and passion were evident throughout the competition, showcasing their determination,” Moreton Bay College wrote. “Congratulations to our outstanding students on their remarkable achievements!”

About the National Schools Challenge

Organised by Athletics Australia, the National Schools Challenge is a team-based competition designed to foster teamwork and showcase young talent in track and field events. The event features three divisions for each gender: Junior (U15), Intermediate (U17), and Senior (U19). Teams from across the country competed fiercely, with each point hard-fought and every event carrying significant weight in the final standings.

The Intermediate Girls’ victory is a milestone for Moreton Bay College, underscoring the school’s commitment to cultivating a culture of excellence in sports. The students’ achievements not only bring pride to their school community but also inspire young athletes to aim high and embrace the values of perseverance and teamwork.

Read: Manly State School Students Roar to Life in ‘The Lion King’ Musical

As the dust settles on this year’s competition, Moreton Bay College can reflect on a job well done, with their athletes’ hard work and determination paying off on a national stage. Their success at the 2024 Chemist Warehouse National Schools Challenge Final is sure to leave a lasting legacy, both within the school and the broader athletics community.

Published 13-December-2024

Manly West School to Expand with New Creativity and Arts Centre

Moreton Bay College in Manly West has submitted a development application for a new Creativity and Arts Centre, signalling the school’s major expansion.

This planned addition to their Wondall Road campus will support the growing educational needs of students from Pre-Prep through Year 12.

After demolishing a section of the existing car park and an internal driveway, Novum Architects will design the multi-storey building. This contemporary learning space will house various new facilities, including dedicated learning areas, specialist rooms for creative activities, and additional staff areas.

The ground floor will feature five new learning areas, four store rooms, two covered outdoor learning areas, three specialist spaces, a change room, and three viewing/meeting booths. Staff will access a dedicated staffroom with two offices and a kitchen/servery.

Students will benefit from new amenities and an external ground floor lobby with an atrium stair. The first floor will include five additional learning areas, three store rooms, and eight breakout rooms. Amenities, a laundry, and an atrium stair leading to the first-floor lobby will also be incorporated, along with internal circulation, stair, and lift access.

To accommodate the expansion, 40 additional parking spaces will be created, with vehicle and pedestrian access continuing from both Hargreaves and Wondall Roads.

Gaskell Planning Consultants, which is managing the application, believes that the new centre will improve educational opportunities for Moreton Bay College students and positively impact the learning environment of the surrounding area.

Published Date 09-October-2024

Police Investigate Suspicious Car, Moreton Bay College Lockdown Lifted

Moreton Bay College in Manly West was swiftly placed into lockdown in response to a reported suspicious vehicle, with Queensland Police promptly summoned to the scene.

Early on Tuesday morning, 16 April 2024, Moreton Bay College experienced a situation when a suspicious car was reported on its Wondall Rd campus. Queensland Police were alerted and arrived at the school by 9:15 a.m.

The school administration, taking no chances, initiated a lockdown as a team of officers conducted a comprehensive sweep of the area.

Multiple units responded to the potential threat during the police operation. Officers methodically searched the premises but found no suspect vehicle on the school grounds. After ensuring the area was secure, the lockdown was lifted at approximately 9:55 a.m. and students were informed that it was safe to resume their activities.

Richard Henry, the executive principal of Moreton Bay College, reassured the public and school community following the incident.

“Earlier today, Moreton Bay College initiated our lockdown procedures as a precautionary measure in regard to a suspect vehicle at our Wondall Rd campus at Manly West,” Mr. Henry stated. He highlighted the efficiency of the lockdown procedures and the rapid response of the police.

“Everyone is safe and support is being provided to students and members of the college community in regard to this matter,” he added.

The quick resolution of the incident minimised disruption to the school day, and educational activities were promptly resumed. The school has pledged ongoing support to all students and staff affected by the morning’s events, ensuring a continued focus on safety and well-being.

Published 21-April-2024

Events to Watch Out for in Manly This Week

September is almost over! This week will be full of exciting events, from family fun days to concerts and festivals. Here are some of the events you should watch for this week.

Tuesday, 26 September

Lah-Lah Having Fun

Tickets:

$25.50 – Adult and Children
FREE – Children 12 months and under

Time: 10:00 a.m.

Venue: Moreton Bay College

Lah-Lah and her Big Live Band will be celebrating the release of their 2017 SONY Music album, Having Fun, with a concert tour across Australia. More than just a concert, this will be an interactive and educational music tour featuring live music, singing, and dancing.

The event is general admission and the venue will be a flat-floor room with a large space for the kids and parents to sit together. This setup will provide an interactive environment for the children to stand up and participate during the show.

Due to the organiser’s occupational health and safety policy, prams and pushers are not allowed inside the auditorium. There will be a designated “pram parking area” in the foyer of the auditorium.

Wednesday, 27 September

Travel Information Evening

Tickets: FREE

Time: 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.

Venue: Trendell & Turner Travel Associates – Manly

Photo credit: Travel Associates/Facebook

Trendell & Turner Travel Associates will host a free travel information evening with drinks and nibbles throughout the event. Guest speaker Camille Moore of APT & Travelmarvel will talk about the personalised cruise trips that will explore the diverse regions of South America and Antarctica.

Attendees will also get a chance to win a lucky door prize. Bookings are essential as slots are limited.

Friday, 29 September

Oktoberfest

Time: 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Venue: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron

Photo credit: Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron – Social/Facebook

Oktoberfest hits Manly this Friday! It will be an “all-German” fest with German beer on tap such as Lowenbrau and Carlsberg, German meal specials, and live German music. Watch out and listen closely for the Chicken Dance music. When played, you need to stop whatever you’re doing and do the Chicken Dance. Patrons who will never fail to dance the Chicken Dance will get an exciting prize.

Dress to impress! Don’t forget to wear your Lederhosen and Dirndls.

Sunday, 1 October

Sunday Sounds at the Tide

Tickets: FREE ADMISSION

Time: 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Venue: Tide Wine Bar

Every Sunday, the Tide is celebrating tapa specials; great selection of wines, beers and ciders; and live music. This is a kid-friendly event, so bring them along and have an afternoon of chilled out music, while enjoying the best view in Manly.