Young investigators research a true Australian mystery

An accident or sabotage? Students investigated to find out more...

Teamwork was the key when St Paul’s Catholic College, Greystanes students joined forces with Our Lady Queen of Peace Primary, Greystanes students to research a true Australian mystery.

The investigative task was to examine the disappearance of 70-year-old, Paddy Moriarty, from the Northern Territory town of Larrimah. Paddy and his dog vanished mysteriously in December 2017, instigating an extensive police search.

St Paul’s Literacy Teaching and Learning Co-ordinator Frances Violi said students addressed a key question and gained knowledge through inquiry, allowing them to explore learning in a real-world context.

“This project provided students with opportunities to build confidence, work collaboratively with others, communicate effectively and use technology to consider a real problem,’’ Mrs Violi said.

“The learning intention opened possibilities to problem-solve creatively, plan and develop time management skills.”

Students collaborating on their research

Students were allocated four 50-minute lessons to complete the task.

Our Lady Queen of Peace Primary Year 5 teacher Rita Haddad said students considered audience and purpose when writing scripts, context and setting to reflect authenticity and were careful to justify predictions with aptly chosen references.

“Students were also expected to maintain engagement by collaborating on music, sound effects and cinematic techniques to provoke suspense and mood,’’ Mrs Haddad said.

“Year 8 and Year 5 students were highly engaged during the entire process, delving into the research, asking questions, hypothesizing and applying information.”

Both teachers agreed the project was a success for all the students because they found the task meaningful.

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“The older students acted as mentors to their younger colleagues, strengthening leadership and interpersonal qualities and enhancing their own sense of satisfaction as learners,’’ Mrs Violi said.

“On the other hand, Year 5 students gained insights into secondary education, polished literacy skills and built confidence in communication.’’

As a result of this project, all the student groups were given a choice to either create an iMovie clip to demonstrate what they think happened to Paddy Moriarty on the day of his disappearance, or to appeal to the public to help find Paddy.

The completed iMovie clips will be showcased at school assemblies later in the year.

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02 Nov 2026
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🐥 Look who came to visit Kindergarten! 🐥 Our classrooms have been filled with extra chirps and lots of excitement as our students observed the life cycle of animals up close with these sweet little baby chicks! 💛

30 Oct 2026
From Facebook
World Teachers' Day celebrations today at Our Lady Queen of Peace! 🏫📒📚✏️☕️🍎🍏 A busy and fulfilling day for all as we enjoyed: - a morning gathering for staff - small gifts for each staff member - morning tea organised by the P&F - afternoon assembly and prayer led by Kindy. Perhaps the most surprising and entertaining part of the day though, included staff participation in the 'Have you got an apple?' game. We are sure the children can update you on the game rules as they watched their teachers play. Some tactical, creative and fierce competition was on show to secure the winning prizes! Congratulations to the following staff members who won the game (with or without bribery!) 🍎 Miss Stevens 🍏 Miss Cleur 🍎 Miss Raffoul 🍏 Mr Aboufarah 🍎 Mrs Elias 🍏 Mrs Buhagiar 🍎 Miss Chahin 🍏 Mr McElhone (unable to claim his prize so this was handed over to the most enthusiastic participant of the day, Mr Vicic). Thank you again to our P&F for generously organising the morning tea for staff and acknowledging the great work our staff do each day. It is a privilege to work in partnership with you, guiding, leading and teaching the children of OLQP. And to our teachers- Keep shining bright ☀️ ✨️ 🌟