Compass No. 628 October 2021

From the Principal

Being Part of Community Caught More Than Taught

Lives and community are greatly enriched by people giving of their time to enhance the lives of others.  As young people walk alongside adults who give of their time, to mentor them and support different activities, they not only benefit from those experiences but also learn what it is to be a contributor to community.  Each week the newsletter highlights groups and individuals who give generously of their time to enhance the lives of people within and beyond this community.  In addition to this there are parents and staff who constantly gently guide young people through both words and actions.  This constancy of experience provides a fertile space for young people to grow well.

Throughout all of this, God walks gently beside us, guiding us and providing times of rest and rejuvenation.  Our lives are enriched when we pause and be still in His presence through prayer.  As we come together as community and are still in His presence, it gives us the time to centre and recharge.

Principal's Log

There was a great sense of joy at our Aussie World Family Fun Night on Friday night.  Young people enjoyed being able to connect and have fun as they took full advantage of the different rides and experiences.  Staff and parents also enjoyed the opportunity to relax and just have fun with each other and their children.  Thank you to everyone for their support of the evening.  It was a wonderful way to celebrate our 20th birthday together.  We express our appreciation to the Friends of Pacific team led by Teena Thompson and Jenny Lee for their leadership of the event and to the administration staff for their assistance in the organisation and promotion of the evening. 

On the weekend, staff and students gave up their time to support the Disabled Surfers Association and provide opportunity for members of this association to experience the joy of surfing.  We thank all of the students and staff who attended and Mr Ben Dutton for his leadership of this experience which brings tremendous benefits to all involved.

Students from six schools across the Sunshine Coast enjoyed the opportunity to be part of the Pacific Pulse surfing competition earlier this week.  The team competition provided a great opportunity for students to test and enhance their skills while building connections with each other.  Pacific Pulse is a very well organised event and we thank Mr Darren Hooper for his enthusiastic and capable leadership and organisation.

The Year 12 Information Evening provided a good opportunity to come together with Year 11 students and their families and share information about the opportunities and support that will be part of their Year 12 experience.  Learning for their Year 12 studies is now well under way and they have also begun the important role of leading the community.  We wish the Year 11s all the best as they make the most of these final weeks of Term 4.  We thank Mrs Anne-Marie Gerlach, Ms Leigh Finter and Mrs Wanda Hayes for their leadership of the evening.  A link to the evening will be made available next week.  We thank Mr Steve Rattey for his technical support.

We wish our Annie cast and crew all the best as they complete their final rehearsals under the guidance of Mrs Kristy Astwick, Mr David Simpfendorfer, Mrs Kathryn Eccles, Mrs Melanie Percival, Georgie Snelling, Tracey Hickey and Courtney Callaghan.   We encourage members of our community to take the opportunity to enjoy our student’s performance of this classic musical.

Girls shorts are now available as part of the daily summer uniform.  The College dress or long trousers are required for events that specify a formal uniform.  Thank you to the students and staff who provided feedback in the design process.

We pray for our Year 12s as they complete their external exams over this fortnight and look forward to the return of our Year 9 students.

May God continue to guide, protect and rejuvenate members of this community.

Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal 

From the College Pastor

Jewish Role Models

The thread this week continues the theme of adult role models. The Bible reading for this thread comes from the Old Testament story of Esther. Esther is a unique book in the Bible. It does not mention God at all throughout the text but is a beautiful story that highlights a female role model. The story of Esther is about a beautiful young woman who marries the King of Persia. As well as being beautiful, Esther was smart and courageous. She has the opportunity to save the Jewish people when her King is tricked into an order to kill them throughout his empire. Esther is reminded that perhaps God is using her; Who knows? It’s possible that you became a queen for such a time as this. (Esther 4:14)

In Middle Senior Chapel this week I encouraged students to think for a moment about those times, perhaps here at school, when you have failed to speak up against something that is wrong that is causing harm to someone. It is very easy to do this. To remain silent, or be a bystander, to lack the courage. If you can think of a particular situation, remember this story of the courage of Esther. The resilience and tenacity that she showed her people.

In doing so, perhaps it is Gods assistance, that at the right time you will be in a position to speak out courageously for others. Or to put it in the words of Esther 4:14; Who knows? It’s possible that you became (courageous) for a time just like this.

Pastor Tim Jarick, College Pastor

From the Head of Senior College Students

Year 12 External Examinations Commence

Term 4 is notorious for being a sprint towards the finish line and in the midst of so many wonderful events taking place this term, including the 20 Year Anniversary Chapel Service and Family Fun Night at Aussie World, our Year 12s calmly completed their study block in preparation for final external examinations which commenced Friday 22nd October.  Over the next 3 weeks, we pray for our Year 12s and their successful completion of each examination.  I know that the College community is behind you all and is equally excited to celebrate your 13-year journey of schooling in Week 7.  The Alternate Days program starts on Tuesday 16th November with a full itinerary, followed by Graduation, final chapel service, guard of honour and most importantly, the formal.  All the best, Year 12!

2022 Year 12 Information Evening

With Year 11 students transitioning into Year 12 studies this week, it was appropriate timing for families and students to engage in a presentation on Wednesday evening, held in the College gymnasium. Expectations and support for next year’s Year 12 cohort were shared by Mrs Anne-Marie Gerlach, Head of Learning Senior Students, Mrs Wanda Hayes, Head of Career Development and myself.  For any parent or student who missed this important presentation, containing information on Year 12 studies and pastoral care support for next year’s graduates, a link will be sent to families to access the presentation online. For further information or any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Anne-Marie Gerlach agerlach@pacluth.qld.edu.au or myself at lfinter@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Disabled Surfer’s Association Service Learning Event

On Saturday 24th October, 16 students and 8 staff participated in the Disabled Surfer’s Association event, held at Currimundi Beach.  The students and staff excitedly volunteered their morning to assist young children, teenagers and adults with a range of disabilities to ride waves into the shore, with some surfers even standing up.  Though the sun was not shining, the participant’s smiles, laughs and joy was contagious and brought smiles to all the volunteer’s faces.  I am still smiling now thinking about what a fantastic organisation Disabled Surfers Association is, and how amazing it was to see so many Pacific students and staff serve our community.  A huge thank you to Mr Ben Dutton for his organisation and leadership of the morning.

Ms Leigh Finter, Head of Senior College Students

From the Head of Learning K-5

Reports Term 4 - P-5

Reports are an essential element in the partnership between teachers, schools and parents.  As in any partnership, the responsibility is shared. The education of every child is helped immeasurably when parents take an active interest and I thank you for being so wonderfully involved through many countless activities during this term.

Over the coming weeks all P-5 teachers will be extremely busy gathering assessments and writing reports. You can access your child’s report through the parent lounge in TASS. If you wish, you can request a written report by contacting the college office at the end of the term.

As parents, you are entitled to expect useful information and guidance from your child’s report. At Pacific we acknowledge that the two things parents value most in reporting is interaction with teachers and a grade that gives a fair and accurate assessment of your child’s progress.

Your child’s written report serves a number of purposes:

  • Builds relationships between you and the College and serves as a focus for discussion.
  • Helps you to chart the progress of your child.
  • Provides useful and accurate information that helps your child’s teacher to direct and encourage your child’s educational progress.
  • Helps you and your child’s teacher to make decisions about the needs of your child.

Enjoy celebrating your child’s achievements and discussing with them ways they can improve their learning and continue to grow.

Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Learning K-5

From the Head of Career Development

Dental Assistant Traineeships (Year 12)

Have you considered a career in Dental Assisting? Qualified Dental Assistants are very much in demand, and the career prospects are excellent. The Australian Academy of Dental Assisting is now seeking graduating Year 12 students to take up full time traineeships in 2022. If you are interested in applying, please see Mrs Wanda Hayes or Mr Ian Learoyd for details.

Casual hospitality jobs available now at Novotel Twin Waters (All students)

Students who are looking for a casual job in Hospitality: Novotel Twin Waters currently has vacancies for both Food and Beverage Attendants and Room Attendants. These jobs are currently advertised on seek.com.au, but you can also apply directly to the resort. See the attached vacancy poster for details.

School-based hospitality traineeships at Caloundra RSL (Years 10 and 11)

Caloundra RSL are seeking school-based trainees for both Front of House and Back of House roles. As with all school-based traineeships, these roles are fully paid jobs, and also include a qualification. If you are interested in applying, please contact Mr Ian Learoyd or Mrs Wanda Hayes as soon as possible.

Air Force Cadets Information Evening (All students)

The Caloundra Air Force Cadets are hosting an information evening on 1 November at 6pm. If you are interested in finding out more about the Cadets program, then this event will give you a chance to get your questions answered. The event will be held at the Cadets’ base at 21 Pathfinder Drive, Caloundra West. For further information, go to their website: http://www.aafc.org.au

Mrs Wanda Hayes, Head of Career Development 

Food for Thought

Being a Role Model for your Teenage Daughter

You have an important part to play in your child’s life – even if it doesn’t always feel that way. Setting a good example for your daughter goes beyond teaching good manners and time management skills.

Here's how to be a role model who raises a resilient woman. https://www.parents.com/

Mrs Annie Williams College Counsellor 

Friends of Pacific

Connecting College and Community

What a wonderful evening we had celebrating the College’s 20th Anniversary last Friday at our Aussie World Family Fun Night! 

Thank you to all who came along and joined in the celebrations.  It was such a joy to see so many families relaxed, enjoying each other’s company and to hear all the squeals of joy from young and old enjoying the thrills of Aussie World.  A great way to celebrate our Pacific Community!

We are most grateful to all those silent helpers in our Pacific community who make events such as this possible.  Thank you to our administration team, accounts department, Pacific staff and Friends of Pacific volunteers who all contributed to help make this event such a great success.

To the families who contributed to our Lucky Door Prize draw and especially to the lovely Monica at ARTEA The Tea Merchant and Aussie World for their generous prize donations, we say thank you.  Lucky Door Prizes have been drawn and winners advised

Pacific Together

Pacific Together is a discreet helping-hand offered by Friends of Pacific, in conjunction with Pastor Tim, for College families in times of need. 

If you or someone you know within our College community needs extra support anytime during the year, the Pacific Together care group may be able to help in some small way or offer a care package in times of need.

We invite you to contact Pastor Tim Jarick or Pacific Together via FoP email: fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Click here to follow our Friends of Pacific Facebook page.

Mrs Jenny Lee, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

College News

The Kids in Action and Year 5 Champions

The Year 5 Kids in Action (KIA) and Champions for Change did a Beach Clean up on Tuesday 26th October with the Sunshine Coast Council.

The group managed to collect and sort over 8kg of waste - everything from wire, to clothing, bottles, cans and microplastics.

Upon returning to the College, the students were split into two groups, Champions and KIA and continued their learning journey.  In the Discovery Van, they looked at microplastics through a microscope, used a touch screen to learn about animals in the environment and how to stop erosion.  On the mob mat they looked at a 2m flume that replicated the impact of waves on our shores and discussed some possible solutions.

It was a wonderful experience and we all learnt so much. We can’t wait to share this with the Junior School in the coming weeks.

This Friday, the Champions and Kids in Action will be running a CLEAN UP of our SCHOOL.  They are very excited to organise this and make a difference.

Mrs Luanne Pollard, Year 5 Teacher

ANNIE Jr The Musical

Excitement is building amongst the cast and crew of ANNIE Jr as we move quickly towards our performances next week. A big shout out to all students and staff involved in bringing to life this wonderful musical. The enormous amount of hard work and commitment to this show has been outstanding.

We can’t wait to share ANNIE Jr the musical at the Caloundra Events Centre with the PLC community on Friday 5th and Saturday 6th November!

For information on tickets go to the Caloundra Events Centre.

Uniform Shop

The Uniform Shop is open every morning from now until Friday 26th November.  Please book an appointment with Reception to get your uniform needs for next year. 

Remember if you have a student transitioning from Prep to Grade 1 or Grade 5 to Grade 6 you will need to look at purchasing Formal Uniforms. Students going from Grade 9 to Grade 10 will need Blazers for Rite Journey on 25th November.  Boys will need trousers for Closing service and Girls will require the dual coloured tie for Grade 10.

Girls Shorts have arrived and are available to purchase in store.  These pair with the Formal Blouse and are for wear in the school setting only.

Mrs Peta King, Uniform Shop

Sport News

Competitive Sport Results

SCSS Basketball

There were only a few games held last week due to the Year 9 students at camp. Congratulations to the Int A Girls, Int C Girls Blue, Int D Boys and Jnr E Boys teams who have put themselves in solid positions for semi-finals next week. All the best to the Int D Girls and Jnr D Boys who will battle for a spot in the finals this Friday.

22/10 Results

Team

Opposition

Results

SnrD Girls (12A)

Grammar

28

23

GF Win

 

Int C Blue Girls

Int C Navy Girls

61

23

Win

 

Int C Navy Girls

Int C Blue Girls

23

61

Loss

 

Int D White Boys

Creekers

19

32

    Loss

 

Int D White Boys

MFAC

52

18

Win

 

Jnr D Boys

Siena

30

32

Loss

 

Jnr E Boys                       

STCC

32

26

Win

 

SCISSA Soccer

Intermediate A Boys:   PLC 1 / SAAC 3  MVP: Lachlan Currey

Intermediate B Girls:    No Game

SCISSA Rugby

Our students competed well again in the last round of regular 7’s matches. Finals will be played next week with more information to be provided to students and parents early next week.

Team

Game 1

Game 2

Game 3

13 Boys

PLC 10 SCC 15

PLC 0 SCGS 60

PLC 30 NCC 10

14 Girls

PLC 50 MFAC 5

PLC 10 SCGS 10

PLC 5 NCC 15

Competitive Sports News

Uniforms: As we are coming to the end of many of our sporting fixtures, it is important to remember to return any playing uniforms to the sport office before the end of the year. Students will need to make sure that uniforms are dropped off to someone who can sign their name off. This will mean that we can have complete sets for the following year, and it will prevent a fee being charged out for non-returned items.

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport 

Pacific Pulse Surfing Contest

Great weather and 2-foot contestable surf greeted students on Wednesday for our annual Pacific Pulse Surfing Contest. Running continuously since 2007, this event has now become a highly anticipated annual school surfing contest here on the Sunshine Coast. This year students from six schools including PLC, battled it out in both individual heats and an exciting Tag Team event to be crowned Pacific Pulse champions for 2021.

The five other schools competing on the day were: Buddina State School, Talara Primary College, Good Shepherd Lutheran College, Our Lady of the Rosary and Baringa State Primary School who made their debut this year.

Students surfed two individual heats during the contest earning points for their school as well as recording individual scores which were then used to determine runners up and overall winners.

Our PLC team this year was made up of several younger students from Year 4 and below and included five girls out of a team of eight which was great to see. Well done to the following PLC students who finished in the top two places in their age group.

  • Sienna Fioraso – Runner Up (12 Years Girls)
  • Indie Hooper – Winner (10 Years Girls)

Buddina State School once again proved too strong this year taking out the Tag Team Event and were crowned the Champion School. Overall results were:

1st - Buddina

2nd - Good Shepherd

3rd - Talara

4th – Our Lady of the Rosary

5th – Pacific Lutheran College

6th – Baringa

A big thank you to the generous sponsors who supported the event again this year. Beach Beat Caloundra who donated all the prizes, Soul Thongs who donated a pair of thongs to every surfer as well as Bread and Barrels Accounting and Rob Williams Real Estate who supported the contest shirts this year. 

Thanks also to the following PLC staff who helped make the day the success it was – Damian Davis, Natalie Campbell, Scott Massie, Lucas Bell, and Cameron West McInnes who helped set up during the morning.

Darren Hooper, Head of Junior Sport

Club Sport

Pacific FC

2021 Presentation Day – Saturday 30th October 4-6pm

All Pacific FC families are invited to join us for the 2021 Pacific FC Presentation at PLC. We will celebrate our 20th year with player and team awards, 5, 10 and 15-year awards, SCCSA awards and volunteer awards. RSVP via this link.

Pacific FC AGM – Thursday 4th November 6.30 at PLC

Planning is underway for the 2022 season and we'd love to have your input on reaching future goals within the Sunshine Coast Churches Soccer Association. PacificFC@pacluth.qld.edu.au">Email your input, thoughts and feedback to Pacific FC 

You Can Make a Difference in 2022 as a Volunteer

  • Coach
  • Co-Coach
  • Manager
  • Team Assistant
  • Coaching Director
  • Canteen Coordinator or Assistant
  • Grounds Coordinator or team member
  • Uniform and Sponsorship Team
  • General Committee Member
  • Executive Committee Member - President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary or Registrar

//PacificFC@pacluth.qld.edu.au/">Contact President Rita Williams to join the team. PFC is committed to a place where positivity, patience, and persistence flourish.

Follow our Insta and Facebook pages to see all the action.

Mrs Rita Williams, Pacific FC President

St Mark’s Lutheran Church

Worship @ St Mark's

Sharing a common mission and ministry with Pacific Lutheran College

“Growing in faith and sharing God’s love with others”

Weekly worship services are held at 14 Bombala Terrace Caloundra at 9.00am. We are thankful that we are able to meet together each week for worship. As we do this, there are still physical distancing, signing in, and hygiene requirements we need to follow in order to ensure the health and safety of everyone in our community.

Our worship services are intergenerational with a blend of traditional and contemporary.

You’re welcome to follow us on Facebook and visit our Church webpage.

All are welcome at any of our services.

Pastor Ray Morris, St Mark’s Lutheran Church (0429 856 532 or lutherancaloundra@gmail.com)

Upcoming Dates

November

1          All Saints Day

1          Year 4-6 SCISSA Training (3.15-4.15pm)

3          Prep 2022 Information Evening (5pm)

4          Year 4-6 SCISSA Gala Day 4

5-6       Junior Musical

10        Year 5-6 Multi Instrumental Concert (2-3pm)

            ELC New Families Evening

            STEM and IT Showcase

12-18   Year 10 Exams commence

15        Year 3-4 Strings Concert (2.15-3pm)

16        Year 12 External Assessment Concludes

16-18   Year 12 Alternate Days

18        Year 4-6 Sports Awards (12-1pm)

            Year 7-12 Sports Awards (2.15-3.15pm)

            Year 12 Graduation – Venue 114

19        Year 12 Farewell Chapel (8.30am)

            Year 12 Formal (5pm)

23        Year 10 Leadership Day 2

25        Year 9 Rite Journey Homecoming (5pm)

26        K-5 Carols Evening (5pm)

29        P-5 Closing Service

30        Year 6-11 Closing Service

            Academic Year Concludes