Machans Beach State School, established in 1952, is located 11 km north of Cairns. The Machans Beach area is described as a remote urban isthmus, although near to the heart of the city. It is a separate, distinct and unique community of choice. Our school values a multicultural cohort including around 32% of students of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island descent and approximately 25% of students from international backgrounds. Our community exhibits some mobility and enrolments can fluctuate by as many as 20 students per semester. Our mobile families generally leave the area to pursue other interests outside of the greater Cairns area. In contrast, some of our families choose to travel over 30 minutes per day in order for their children to attend our school. Whilst our school is the smallest in the immediate Cairns area, we have become a popular choice for many families as they seek out a school where their children are able to retain their sense of identity,have their learning needs met in a supportive learning environment, achieve their individual potential, and participate in our strong community. As a result, our school enrolments are steadily increasing which allows us access to additional resources. Our school has an enduring focus on environmental sustainability. In addition to our daily practices, we were recognised as winners of the Green and Healthy, Low Carbon Qld School award for 2009. A large Permaculture garden located within our school grounds enables our wider community to gather together. Our students and staff strive to reduce their carbon footprint in many areas, encouraging others to meet this challenge. The core values of our school are reflected through a Responsible Behaviour Plan which embeds the School Wide Positive Behaviour Support Program. Our five key behaviour rules of Respect, Organisation, Cooperation, Keep focused and Safety, act as an acronym spelling 'R.O.C.K.S.'. Our students take pride in being able to acknowledge their school as a 'Great little school' which ROCKS!. '..