Compass No 650 - June 2022

From the Principal

Time To Be At Home

Being able to go home and relax with nothing special to do is an important part of our lives.  Making sure there is time each week to simply be at home provides time to recharge and connect through the simple routines, fun and stories of family life. 

God invites us to come home to Him, to trust that He is always there as a loving and gracious Father.  As we come home to God, we can let go of burdens and busyness, put up our feet and rest.

Principal's Log

One of the delights of being a teacher and a Principal is to watch people do things well.  I had the privilege of listening to the Year 11 students as they delivered speeches on the theme of “peel back the layers” as part of the Interhouse Public Speaking Competition. The thoughtful presentations were insightful and inspirational.  Well done to all twelve speakers.  Thank you to the Academic Pacific Action Group for their organisation and leadership.

It was exciting to see three of our netball teams compete very well in the grand finals of the Sunshine Coast Secondary Schools Netball competition on Monday night.  All three matches were tightly contested with the girls showing high levels of skill, teamwork and tenacity.  Well done to the PLC Sapphire and Jade teams for high-quality performances that saw them lose narrowly. Congratulations to the Opal team who won by 1 goal to be champions of their division.  Well done to all girls who have played netball this year.  Congratulations to all of our coaches and players on the growth that continues to be evident in our netball teams.  A special thank you to our Head of Netball, Mrs Michelle Dufty for her leadership of the netball program.

Last Friday night, families from across the Sunshine Coast joined our Pacific families at the College to listen to a presentation from a representative of British Columbia University.  Thank you to our Head of Career Development, Mrs Wanda Hayes for organising this unique experience which gave good insights into the processes, opportunities and benefits of undertaking tertiary study in Canada.

The Year 10 Information Evening provided important information for Year 10 students and their families as they engage in the process of planning for their Year 11 and 12 and beyond school pathways.  The presentations provided important information about the QCE, career planning, university and vocational pathways and the procedures for subject selection.  We thank the families and students for their attendance and Mrs Anne-Marie Gerlach and Mrs Wanda Hayes for their presentations.  We thank Mr Steve Rattey for his technical support including the recording of the evening which will be made available for all Year 10 students and their families.

We look forward to the Ensembles Concert on Friday night and wish our Year 12 and Year 7 students all the best for their retreat and Outdoor Education experience next week.

We say a prayer of thanks for our homes and that we can come home to God at any moment.

Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal

From the Director of Students

Senior College Students Update - Year 10 Examinations, Information Evenings, Subject Expo, and more

The College welcomes back all Year 10 students, who in Week 8 completed their first block of examinations and utilised either at-home study or at-school study options. Year 10 students should be proud of their organisation, time management, and use of study time. All Senior College students at Pacific have had the opportunity to experience block examinations in preparation for their external examinations in Year 12, Term 4. These examinations simulate external examinations, where students learn techniques and examination procedures. Congratulations Year 10!

Year 10 students and parents/guardians recently had the opportunity to attend the Year 11, 2023 Information Evening, held on Wednesday 15th June at 6.00pm in the College Gymnasium. The evening covered QCE opportunities, career planning, and strategies for excelling in Year 11 and Year 12.

Later in Term 3, Year 10 students will also have the opportunity to experience Pacific Lutheran College’s 2023 Subject Expo and meet Heads of Department of specialist subject areas as they embark on selecting subjects for Year 11 and 12. For more information on both the Year 11, 2023 Information Evening and Subject Expo, please do not hesitate to contact Mrs Anne-Marie Gerlach, Head of Learning Senior College at agerlach@pacluth.qld.edu.au

In other Senior College news, last week twelve Year 11 students participated in the Academic Action Group’s Year 11 Speaking Competition. The theme this year was ‘Peel Back the Layers’. All twelve speeches had a unique take on the theme and were delivered outstandingly. Congratulations to all finalists and to Mumba for winning this competition which contributes to the College’s Foundation Council Cup.

This weekend, the Year 12 students are Coolum bound for their anticipated overnight Retreat at Luther Heights. Student Leaders have organized a range of physical and connecting activities, as well as downtime and reflection opportunities. Students are excited about coming together as a cohort and discussing ideas for their end-of-year events, including their graduation and formal.

Ms Leigh Finter, Acting Director of Students 

From the Head of Staff and Students P-5

Persistence

At this week’s Prep-2 assembly, Mrs Hogan and Mrs Ridley presented the students with practical ways to turn our thinking around when faced with challenges. The notion of self-talk and the power of remaining positive through adversity has been shown as a powerful narrative to change how young people view and approach situations. As technologies continue to evolve our lives can become easier to navigate. We have the combined world knowledge at our fingertips and are increasingly connected. Although at times, the struggle or practice of failure can be missed. Encouraging our children to persist in adversity encourages confidence and resilience and provides a “working tough” mentality when faced with challenges. Starting small with achievable goals can help to create a positive mindset. Giving effort and promoting an “I can do it” attitude encourages us all to enhance our agency and flourish as learners and individuals.

School TV

An essential element of education at Pacific Lutheran College is the recognition by parents, staff and students that the success of each child’s education relates to a cooperative approach and effective communication.

Today parents face many modern-day challenges in raising happy, well-balanced and resilient young people. Whilst a great deal of information is available, this can often be confusing and overwhelming for parents looking for guidance.

The information on SchoolTV is easily digestible in video and newsletter form and includes insights and input from a leading professional in child and adolescent development, Dr Michael Carr-Gregg. SchoolTV is designed to empower you as parents with credible and sound information with realistic, practical ongoing support strategies. Topics include Anxiety, Diet and Nutrition, Dealing with School Transitions, Online Safety etc.

Parents can access the site at http://pacificlutheran.qld.schooltv.me/ and click on ‘Launch SchoolTV’

Events

Last week we were able to run our K-2 Colour run as part of our Under 8’s Week celebrations. The ovals were awash with colour and excitement as students spent the morning exercising and gradually being covered in all the colours of the rainbow! We thank the team behind the day who were admirably led by Mrs Hogan behind the scenes.

This Friday, we celebrate an important milestone in the spiritual journey of our Prep students, when they are presented with their first bible courtesy of Pacific Lutheran College and the St Mark's congregation at our weekly chapel. We pray that these bibles enable our students to engage with God's word.  Special thanks to the congregation of St Mark's, Pastor Ray Morris and our Chappy Hauser for coordinating this important event.

Sport

Last Friday, our Year 4 and 5 students attended the second Gala Day for the semester under beautiful clear skies across the coast. All coaches reported a successful day of enjoyment and competition. Being a part of the SCISSA network allows these opportunities to take place. We thank all the coaches and staff involved in planning and implementing these unique sporting experiences. Special mention to Mr Sam Irwin, a part of our excellent ground staff who worked tirelessly to prepare fields and playing surfaces at Meridan Field to accommodate the late-minute change of venues and allowed the day to proceed as planned.

We look forward to the P-2 Cross Country Carnival meeting next Wednesday afternoon. The students have been training hard and look forward to testing themselves on the course next week. We thank Mr Darren Hooper for his preparation of this event and all the other sporting opportunities our students are fortunate enough to be involved in.

Take care, and God Bless.

Mr Damian Davis, Head of Staff and Students P-5

From the Head of Career Development

Career News

Griffith University’s Women in STEM on-campus event (Years 8, 9, and 10)

Friday 24th June 9.00am–2:30pm  

Griffith University invites female Years 8, 9, and 10 students to a dynamic workshop at Nathan campus showcasing engineering, aviation, IT, physics, chemical, and environmental science. Aimed at inspiring girls to pursue a career in STEM, the program welcomes students to participate in a range of hands-on workshops and has them, by the end of the day, prepared to deliver a group presentation of their STEM learning.

Please register at:

https://events.griffith.edu.au/Z9QE0O

Griffith University Experience Days (Years 11 and 12)

Registration for Griffith University's Year 11 and 12 Experience Days is now open. Taking place in early July, Griffith University's Experience Days are a chance for Year 11 and 12 students to explore Griffith campuses, tour lecture theatres, and labs, and get hands-on with the ability to choose from a range of interactive sessions dedicated to different study areas.

Dates and Locations

  • Tuesday 5th July 9.00am-2:30pm | Science and Health | Nathan campus
  • Wednesday 6th July 9.00am-2:30pm | Science and Health | Gold Coast campus
  • Thursday 7th July 9.00am-2:30pm | Business and Arts, Education and Law | Nathan campus
  • Friday 8th July 9.00am-2:30pm | Business and Arts, Education and Law | Gold Coast campus

Students are advised to register here as soon as possible to secure a place and to select their desired sessions.

Mrs Wanda Hayes, Head of Career Development

Food for Thought

A psychologist says these 7 skills separate successful kids from ‘the ones who struggle’—and how parents can teach them

Thrivers are made, not born. Children need safe, loving, and structured childhoods, but they also need autonomy, competence, and agency to flourish.

After combing through piles of research on traits most highly correlated to optimising kids’ thriving abilities, seven skills kids need to boost mental toughnessresilience, social competence, self-awareness, and moral strength were identified — and they are what separates successful kids who shine from those who struggle. 

Click on the link below for more information.

These 7 skills separate successful kids from 'those who struggle': Psychologist and parenting expert (cnbc.com)

Mrs Annie Williams, College Counsellor

Friends of Pacific

Connecting College and Community

Upcoming

Junior Car Park Space Auction

Imagine having your very own carpark at Pacific Lutheran when you’re running late to drop the kids off!

The Junior Car Park is once again open for auction, with this priceless space available for use from 12th July until 31st December. To be in the running, place your bid from now until 7.00pm Monday 27th June via this link.

Father’s Day Stall

•          Wednesday 31st August – All gifts $5

Pacific Lutheran College Soiree – An Evening Gala Celebration

•          Saturday 29th October

•          This is a ticketed College event, which will be hosted by Pacific Lutheran College, College Council, and Friends of Pacific

If you can help at any of these events (even for an hour or so) and have completed the PLC Volunteer Induction, please let us know. Email: fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Volunteering at Pacific

Hosting events is only possible thanks to the efforts of those in our College Community who give so generously of their time. If you are interested in volunteering with the College, induction sessions are run once a term and are marked on the College calendar, the next session being Friday 12th August at 9.00am. Please contact Kim Bonello kbonello@pacluth.qld.edu.au to register your interest in attending this course.

Next Meeting

Our next meeting is 6.30pm on Tuesday 21st June in the Pacific Lutheran College Library. All are welcome to attend.

Click here to follow our Friends of Pacific Facebook page.

Mrs Jenny Lee, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

College News

Music Ensemble

The music department has been working incredibly hard to prepare for their upcoming Ensembles Concert this Friday 17th at 6.00pm in the PLC Gymnasium. Booking information has been sent out via email but if you have missed it the details can be found below. Please follow this link to order your tickets for this event: https://events.humanitix.com/ensembles-concert Food and drinks will be available to pre-order or on the night. The students are excited to show you what they have been working on all year.

Mrs Helen Williams, Head of Instrumental Music (P-12)

Uniform Shop

The Uniform Shop opening hours are as follows:

Monday:            8.00am-10.30am

Tuesday:           8.00am-10.30am and 2.00pm-4.00pm

Wednesday:      8.00am-10.30am

Thursday:          8.00am-10.30am

Friday:               Closed

Appointments can be made via the Main Reception on 5436 7300.

Flexischool orders are also available for your convenience. These orders will be completed Monday to Thursday and delivered to the students’ classroom for P-6 students and to the PCG pigeonholes in the Wellbeing Centre for Year 7-12 students.

Flexischool orders can only be issued on the day chosen for your order. They cannot be issued prior to receiving the order. Orders from Flexischools are received in the Uniform Shop on the night prior to the date you have chosen for the order.

BOYS FORMAL HATS, GIRLS FORMAL HATS, SENIOR FORMAL SHIRTS, SPORTS SHORTS, and SPORTS POLOS are now back in stock and can be ordered via Flexischools or make an appointment to come in store for a fitting. 

Please be patient as we are still experiencing delays on stock across all areas and shipping delays from manufacturers. If an item is out of stock on Flexischools it is also out of stock in the Uniform Shop. Stock will be refilled as quickly as possible. I apologise if I cannot provide exact stock arrival times. Thank you for your understanding.

Mrs Peta King, Uniform Shop

School Photos

School photos have been RESCHEDULED TO TUESDAY 21ST JUNE

Year 7 students will have their photos taken on TUESDAY 2ND AUGUST due to being away on the Year 7 Camp.

Extra Curriculum Day photos will be taken on Wednesday 3rd August.

If you haven’t already done so, please complete your orders online at www.advancedlife.com.au

1             Online code: B7H 8V9 RRH

2             Select ORDER PHOTOS from the menu to order this year’s packages.

3             Enter the first student’s details you wish to order for and hit PROCEED.

4             Use the SELECT check box for the package/s you wish to purchase.  List the quantity required and ADD TO CART.

5             CHECKOUT

6             Check that the item is correct and click CHECKOUT to finalise your order or CONTINUE SHOPPING to add an order   

    for another student.

7             Check your order carefully, as refunds will NOT be given for incorrect choices.

8             Enter your payment details and hit PAY.

9             A receipt for your payment and order will be sent to the email address provided.

Ms Carolyn Sainty, Administrative Executive Secretary

Library News

PLC Book Club

Do you want to share what you read?

Have a favourite book to recommend?

Why not join the PLC Book Club for your age group? Held on Thursdays with Mrs. McPherson in the Library. Open to Year 5 – 12 students. Starting in Term 3.

Come to the library to find out more. Just ask Ms. Keen, or Mrs. McPherson to find out how it works.

We will be looking at book favourites, recommendations, different genres, and different text types.

It will be lots of fun and did I mention lots of fun?

Ms Narelle Keen, Head of Library

Sport News

Year 7-12 Sport

Monday Night Netball

Our 3 PLC Netball teams who competed in the Grand Finals did an exceptional job on Monday night. This is the first time Senior PLC teams have made it to the ultimate match of the season, which is a fantastic achievement.

With a big host of supporters watching on, each team competed in tough matches - all results being within 3 points. PLC Jade played valiantly in the first round of matches in the afternoon and were only just edged by Chancellor 19-17. Our Senior teams, Opal and Sapphire played in the next round and both games were highly competitive. PLC Sapphire in the Senior A Reserve went goal for goal until the last quarter, where a strong Matthew Flinders team just snuck away with the win. A big congratulations to our PLC Opal team for taking out the championship in their division, with a hard-fought 1-point win over Siena.

This finished off a fantastic season of Monday Night Netball. Thank you to all the players for their hard work this season and for the way they have represented PLC. Special mention to our coaches, Yasmin Richters, Emma Frohmuller, Jayde Noble, Caity O Keefe, Donna Townsend, Emma Lendrum, Sophia Rule and Melissa Pietrala for committing their time to work with the girls during training and games throughout the season.

A big thank you also to our Netball Coordinator, Michelle Dufty, for her extensive work to continually grow our PLC Netball program.

Grand Final Results:

There is still plenty more Netball to come, with Vicki Wilson and Secondary Indoor Netball next term.

SCISSA Volleyball

There were some tough matches in our final SCISSA Volleyball fixtures for the term. A special mention goes to the Senior Girls Team 1 who took their game to the final set against NCC and taking the last set 20-18. Thank you to all players who have represented PLC this year in Senior Volleyball. A big thank you to our staff members, Paul Brace, Leigh Finter, and Grier Elliot who have given their time to take students to their after-school fixtures across the term.

SCISSA Soccer

It has been an up and down season for our students in soccer with washouts and forfeits playing havoc with consistency of fixtures. Our teams have represented us well in the fixtures they have played, with a special mention to the Junior Boys for only dropping one match throughout the season. The Intermediate Girls had a great game to finish the season yesterday, pushing a strong Suncoast team all the way to the final whistle.  Thank you to Rebekah Horsey and Brad Burdon for their fantastic efforts working with their teams this term.

Running Club

A big thank you to Mrs Kim Kiernan and Mr Stuart Pohlner for their time and energy in running PLC Running Club each week. It is clear to see that we are building a strong base of runners in the College and these weekly sessions are giving students plenty of opportunity to develop their fitness and skills.

Student Accomplishments

Well done to the following students for their recent achievements in sport:

  • Tom Chessel and Kai Pethick for their strong individual performances at the recent State Baseball Championships. Special mention goes to Tom for receiving the Batting award for the tournament and for his selection into the Qld Schoolboys Team to compete at the National Championships in August.
  • Abby Novosel, Sascha Cleland and Logan Pohlner for their recent participation in the Sunshine Coast Regional Cross Country trials.  All runners did well, finishing within or close to the top 10 in their age divisions. Special mention goes Sascha Cleland (2nd place) and Abby Novosel (5th place) for their selection in the Regional Team to compete at State Championships.
  • Jye Flynn for his 1st place at the recent Junior Kart Racing Championships.

Interhouse Athletics Age Champions

Congratulations to the following students who were awarded Runner Up or Age Champion from the 7-12 Athletics Carnival:

Aspire Basketball Winter Holiday Camps

If you are looking for something to do with the kids these school holidays, the Aspire Basketball Academy are offering fun programs for students aged 7-16.

Holiday camp 1: For our 7-11 year old's who want to step up their game with skills and drills and games and fun. Learn more here

Holiday camp 2: For our 12-16 year old's who could play games all day and would really benefit from having their shot analysed and improved. Learn more here. 

Holiday camp 3:  A high performance athletic camp for our 12 – 16 year old's who want to accelerate their athletic ability with speed, agility and strength training. This is for all ability levels. Learn more here.  

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport

Junior Sport

P-2 Interhouse Cross Country Carnival

The P-2 Interhouse Cross Country Carnival will take place next Wednesday 22nd June (Week 10) from 1.40pm – 3.00pm. An information letter was sent home to families last week outlining the course and relevant details about the afternoon.

Please note all students will need to wear their full sports uniform with their House shirt to school on the day of the carnival.

Parents are warmly invited to come along and support their child but are requested to always remain on the outside of the playing field fence whilst spectating.

Regional Cross Country Results

Well done to Scarlet van den Hurk and Aiden Booker who last week ran at the Sunshine Coast Regional Cross Country Championships at Noosa. Up to 40 students competed from each age group from Redcliffe right up to Noosa after qualifying to run through their recent district trials.

Aiden finished in 13th place in the 11 Year boys race and Scarlett finished in 6th place in the 10 girls. Congratulations to Scarlett who has now qualified to run at the State Cross Country Championships early in Term Three down at Runaway Bay.

Mr Darren Hooper, Head of Junior Sport P-6

Club Sport

Club Sport

Pacific Lutheran College has several sports development programs outside of school hours. These programs encourage participation, giving students the opportunity to be part of a team, and learn basic skills of the game.

The parent-led Pacific FC Soccer and PLC Netball Clubs compete on Saturdays in community competitions throughout the Sunshine Coast.

PLC Netball Club

Once again, we had another great round of netball last Saturday. After a cold start for our teams playing the early rounds, PLC Netball saw only 1 loss throughout the day.

There has been great teamwork from all the girls throughout the season and this was shown on the weekend and in the scores.

Our Mavericks decided to switch up their positions for the game with defenders playing in the midcourt or attacking end, midcourt players in the circles and shooters running around in the centre and defensive thirds. It was great to see the girls embracing their different roles, keep it up!

Good luck to all teams this weekend. GO PLC!

Contact: Donna Townsend, PLC Netball Club President
Email: netballpresident@pacluth.qld.edu.au
Facebook: PLC Netball Club
Instagram: PLC Netball Club

Pacific FC

Upcoming Round 11 – Home Game at PLC.

Don’t miss the second All Abilities game at 10.20am on Field 7.

Click here for the draw.

Round 10 Match Reports

U6 Mantarays. It’s been a meteoric rise from the sloshy lows of washed-out games and training to world-class football for the Mantarays. On a field of dreams, the Mantarays caused nightmares for the opposition in what can only be described as ‘Baltic’ conditions. Playing away from home, the Mantarays relished in the opportunity to put on a soccer clinic of Biblical proportions. The Mantarays are to soccer what the Chicago bulls are to basketball – greatness! Player of the Match: Ethan Award winners: Hudson A, Daniel M. - Manager Mike

U7 Snappers. A phenomenal effort by the Snappers despite being down in numbers, and the frigid weather, with a 10-1 win! Excellent teamwork all around. Superb work by Hugo, Liam, Benjamin, and Man of the Match, Hugh. - Manager Sian

U7 Stingrays. The team played Coolum in their Round 10 match putting up a good fight. Oscar fought hard and never gave up. Eddie pulled out his fancy footwork and played a ripper. Well done to all and Oscar and Eddie our award winners. - Manager Kirsty

U9 Sharks. Tough game (for parents in the wind) against Chancellor Cannons in very cold, windy conditions but the boys played so well as a team! Lots of passing, looking for a pass, and plenty of smiles! Good defending and thanks to coach Peter, the team is really learning the different positions and their own strengths while respecting other players’ strengths and challenges! Not a win but great to play and fab team spirit! Player of the match: Jai. Commendations: Jason & Fin! - Manager Katie

U9 Seahorses. Another awesome game for our girls against Caloundra White. We were down several players to begin with, but then the cavalry arrived with wonderful Vivienne, as well as two wonderful little Swordfish (thanks Ned and Seb), who had a good run & helped us out. We tied 1-1 but it was a cracking game with Autumn booting a fantastic goal. Ashlan took away the girl of the match trophy this week. Amazing job you little Seahorse beauties!!! - Manager Jane

U12 Razors. Great game from the Razors! They are all improving each week. The back line was impenetrable and stood up well, with the midfield group rushing back to assist the defence when the ball did get past. Efforts from both goalies were awesome on the final line.  Offensively the number of players running, passing, and backing each other made all look like a well-drilled rep team. Great job Terry - the team is running like a well-oiled machine and the score line reflected this. 5 - 0 was a great result. Thanks to Aaron for helping the team this week. Manager Lara

Contact: The Registrar
Email: PacificFC@pacluth.qld.edu.au
Website: https://www.pacificsoccerfc.com/
Facebook: Pacific Soccer FC 

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 can meet together each week for worship. As we do this, there are still physical distancing, and hygiene requirements we need to follow 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

June

17       Music Ensembles Concert

18       Year 12 Retreat

20       Year 7 Outdoor Education Program

21       School Photo Day

22       Red Frog Incursion

22       P-2 Cross Country – 1.30pm-3.00pm

23       Term 2 Concludes