We are excited to offer an opportunity for parents and carers in our community to engage in a valuable presentation by Paul Dillon from DARTA (Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia). Paul has been working in the area of drug education for almost 30 years and is regularly contracted by agencies and organisations across the country to provide updates on current drug trends. He continues to work with many school communities to ensure they have access to quality information and best practice drug education. The details of Paul’s parent/carer presentation is as follows:  

Date: Thursday 11th September 2025

Location: St John the Evangelist Catholic High School Hall

Time: 6pm to 7pm 

Cost: Free

Presentation Topic: ‘Risk taking’ – why do teens do the things they do? What can parents do to keep them as safe as possible?

Adolescence is a risky time. As a teen matures and becomes more independent, they experience dramatic hormonal changes, increasing social and peer pressure and have greater access to alcohol and other drugs. This presentation will briefly examine the history of ‘teenagers’, rebellion and the different ‘temptations’ that have existed over time. Using the latest research on the developing brain, it will also discuss why young people make the decisions they do during this time. Sleepovers, parties and gatherings provide teens with valuable opportunities to develop important socialising skills but are not ‘risk-free’. Some practical strategies and tips for parents considering allowing their teen to attend such events to help ensure they are as safe as possible.

We invite all parents and carers to attend this valuable presentation.

Ms Sonia Diaz