Compass No 661 - September 2022

The major news headlines over the past week have been focused on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. As a College, we have reflected on her legacy and what made her a much-loved and well-remembered person across the globe.

In this day and age, it is difficult to be so universally appreciated when you are in the spotlight so frequently. Inevitably, the majority of influential people are involved in some scandal or are cancelled because of a particular point of view or action that others don’t agree with. The Queen, seemingly, is one of the rare ones who has gone through most of her life as beloved by the majority.

One of the key themes that people have reflected on about her legacy is the fact that she ruled not over the people, but for the people. She was indeed a ruler who was in power to serve rather than be served like so many before her. Elizabeth adopted the same mentality as (and was highly influenced by) Jesus Christ. And that, I believe, is what made her so endearing throughout her reign as Queen.

Before she took the throne, Elizabeth made her intentions clear as to the type of leader she would be when she made the public statement: “I declare before you all that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service.” And throughout her tenure, she certainly lived her life in service to her people.

There is something about living a life of service to others. Our natural tendency is to look out for ourselves and make sure that we are looked after first. However, we are called to serve one another just as Christ served us.

Mark 10:45 states that “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

In Galations 5:13 we are told how we can look after each other also: “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” —Galatians 5:13, NIV

The Queen lived a Christ-like life of service and love for all, and in turn, became one of the most beloved rulers in the world – transforming the hearts of people within the Commonwealth for over 70 years.

So, as we reflect on the life of Queen Elizabeth, may we take from it what she stood for – service to others to make the world a better place.

Mr Mark Hauser, College Chaplain

Last week our Year 6 Cohort ventured down to our country’s capital to indulge themselves in the endless opportunities that Canberra has to offer. Students had the privilege of attending Parliament House, The Australian War Memorial, Government House, The Royal Australian Mint, Old Parliament House, CSIRO, The AIS and Questacon. Students were engaged, surprised, inspired, excited, educated, encouraged, and challenged as they threw themselves into the many wonderful experiences provided on this adventure.

A huge thank you to Mr Paul Brace for his organisation to make this trip possible. Thank you also to Mr Stuart Pohlner, Mr Scott Crompton, Ms Michelle Bourne, Mrs Melissa Ousley, Mrs Sharon Middleton, and Mr Mark Hauser for their attendance.

Middle College Chess Competition

The first Middle College Chess Competition ran over 3 lunchtimes last week with over 30 students entering the hotly contested tournament. Students ranged in age from 12 to 15 and played each other in a ‘speed’ type competition with games only lasting 5mins. It was a wonderful event that was supported by Mrs Jasmin Steven and the Academic Pacific Action Group and Year 9 Leaders. Congratulations to Lawson Willett for finishing runner-up and Kai Conrad who is our 2022 Middle College Chess Champion.

Mr Brett Kersnovske, Head of Students Middle College (Acting)

Last Friday evening, Senior Students across Years 10-12 were invited by the College’s 2022 Spirituality and Service Captains to attend a sleepout to raise awareness for the increasing number of young people on the Sunshine Coast who are either at risk or forced into homelessness.  Students donated money upon arrival to Integrated Youth Family Service’s Inclusive Kids. 

Students brought cardboard boxes and bedding for shelter and warmth.  For a Spring evening, the gymnasium was very chilly and simulated what it might be like for a young person on the Coast to experience living without shelter or a roof over their heads. 

The Spirituality and Service Captains led a devotion and reflective activity for students to engage in and then the students bunkered down for the evening.  It was a huge success for the 2022 student leaders and all the students who participated.

Year 12 BBQ Breakfast, Formal Dance and Graduation Song Filming

On Thursday 15^th September, Year 12 students had a very welcomed opportunity to come together to celebrate the completion of their mock examinations and re-engage as a cohort before they commence their final journey of external examinations in Term 4. The BBQ Breakfast, hosted by the 2022 College Captains and Vice Captains was a nice way to come together, share their successes and learnings from their mock examinations, and discuss their excitement for the afternoon’s alternate program of Formal Dance practice and Graduation Song filming. 

Several Year 12 students were also involved in this evening’s Senior Ensemble, making it a day full of connection and celebration. 

Ms Leigh Finter, Acting Director of Students 

Reading is not just something that children should do in school, it needs to be an everyday part of our lives and something we choose to do at all ages! Here’s why reading for pleasure is so important…Dr Seuss once said, “You can find magic wherever you look. Sit back and relax, all you need is a book.” Often children will read a book set at Primary school but are reluctant to pick up a book to read at home for pleasure.

There are plenty of benefits for those who enjoy curling up with a book. Research shows convincing evidence that reading for pleasure can increase empathy, improve relationships with others, reduce the symptoms of depression and improve wellbeing throughout life. Research has also shown that students who choose what and where they read tend to be more motivated, read more and show greater language and literacy development.

Reading for pleasure has also been positively linked with an increase in the following literacy-related benefits for children:

• Reading attainment, phonics and writing ability
• Text comprehension and grammar
• Improved spelling
• Breadth of vocabulary
• Positive reading attitudes
• Greater self-confidence as a reader
• Pleasure reading in later life
• Greater all-round academic success

The main thing to remember when helping your child find a book to read at home is to focus on their interests and passions. When children choose their own reading material, they tend to be more motivated, so it helps if they lead the process!

Enjoy reading at home these holidays.

Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Teaching and Learning K-5

Thinking of Studying Architecture? (Years 10-12)

Saturday 15^th October 9.30am – 12.30pm
Bellevista Meeting Place – 18 Lomond Crescent, Caloundra West

Book your free spot, by visiting The Australian Institute of Architects site here (advance registrations are essential)

Students (aged 14–18 years) thinking about studying architecture and design have an opportunity to learn more about the profession at a special workshop.

The Australian Institute of Architects Queensland Chapter, Sunshine Coast Open House, and the Sunshine Coast City Council would like to extend an invitation to students in Years 10, 11 and 12 considering a career in architecture and design. 

Students will participate in a workshop, and discover what it’s like to study architecture, design, urban design, and associated subjects including town planning, and sustainability.

Students will enjoy:

•          Speaking with current graduates, academics and practitioners about architecture, design, planning and sustainability pathways.

•          Learning through making with dynamic and fun activities including model making and design sketching.

•          Hear from architects who will provide insight into what it is like to be an architect day-to-day.

Aviation Australia - One-Day Cabin Crew Experience (Years 10-12)

Thursday 22^nd September 2022, 9.00am – 2.30pm

Aviation Australia, Brisbane Airport

The One-Day Cabin Crew Experience course is designed for people who have been dreaming of a career in the skies and are yet to decide if it’s the right path for them. You will have a taster of what it’s like to be a flight attendant and, by the end of the day, you will understand what you need to do to earn your wings and see your career take off.

A cabin crew career can be exciting and satisfying. There are opportunities to travel and you will have a different view from your “office” every day. It’s also demanding and challenging, with early starts and overnight shifts. Becoming a flight attendant is a popular career choice – hundreds, if not thousands, of candidates compete for available roles. Attending a Cabin Crew Experience like this will help you learn how to stand out from the crowd.

Find out more here.  

Aviation Australia - Cabin Crew Open Night (Years 10-12)

Thursday 22^nd September 2022, 5.30pm – 7.30pm

Aviation Australia, Brisbane Airport

Aviation Australia’s Cabin Crew Open Night 2022 offers you the chance to learn about our world-class training, see the flight safety training facilities and learn what options are available for you to start your career as a flight attendant.

Learn about how this course will increase your confidence, get you job ready and put you one step ahead when applying for cabin crew roles.

Meet past students and our inspirational instructors with years of experience, having led successful careers in the industry themselves.

Find out more here.  

QLD Police Service Open Day – Brisbane (Years 10-12)

Saturday 5^th November 2022, 9.00am – 1.00pm

Bob Atkinson Operational Capabilities Centre, Wacol

Interested in becoming a Queensland Police officer? Find out more about life as a police recruit, try your hand at the obstacle course or kick start your application at an information seminar.

At the Queensland Police Service (QPS) Open Day, you’ll be able to check out our state-of-the-art training facilities and watch demonstrations from our specialist units, like Dog Squad, Road Policing, Dive Squad and more.

Tour our driving course and scenario village and drop into information sessions throughout the day where you can ask questions about your future career as a police officer.

Think you might be made for a career in policing? You can complete your physical testing and kickstart your application at our recruitment information hub.

Find out more here.  

QLD School of Film and TV - Junior Filmmakers Bootcamp (Years 7-9)

Friday 23^rd September 2022, 9.30am – 3.30pm

Queensland School of Film & Television

QSFT’s Junior School Holiday Filmmaking Bootcamp is designed for students between Years 7 – 9. Within a fun and creative environment, participants will gain an understanding of filming & editing techniques. Bootcampers will collaborate in a short film shoot.

Lead by an industry professional, this one-day workshop is perfect for those who want to explore what it is like to be a part of a film crew.

Find out more here.  

QLD School of Film & TV - School Holiday Filmmakers Bootcamp (Years 10-12)

Wednesday 28^th September 2022, 9.30am - Thursday 29^th September 2022, 4.30pm

Queensland School of Film & Television

QSFT’s School Holiday Filmmakers Bootcamp is designed for students from Years 10 – 12 to learn basic photography, video & editing techniques. Within a fun and challenging environment, participants will gain on-set experience and collaborate within a small group on short film production.

Trained by an industry professional, this two-day workshop is perfect for those who want to explore what it is like to be a part of a film crew.

Find out more here.

UniSQ Festival of Astronomy and Space (Years 10-12)

Thursday 6^th October 2022, 6.00pm - Saturday 8^th October 2022, 9.00pm

University of Southern Queensland (UniSQ), Toowoomba Campus

Join UniSQ at the Festival of Astronomy and Space taking place over three days during World Space Week.

All activities are free to attend and some sessions will be available to join online via Zoom.

Find out more here.  

National Computer Science School 2023 (Years 10 and 11)

Wednesday 4^th January 2023, 12.00pm - Friday 13^th January 2023, 12.00pm

The University of New South Wales, Sydney

The National Computer Science School (NCSS) is a ten-day summer school for students going into Years 11 and 12. NCSS brings together talented young people from around Australia for an intensive course in computer programming and website development at university.

NCSS has been offered in various formats since 1996 (formerly at the University of Sydney). In 2023, we will be running concurrently at the University of Melbourne and our new Sydney home, UNSW.

NCSS is organised by Grok Academy together with our host universities. The school is completely residential, with all students staying with NCSS staff in full-board accommodation provided on campus.

Applications close Friday 30^th September.

Find out more here.  

UQ Queensland Mathematics Summer School (Year 10)

Tuesday 10^th January 2023, 9.00am - Friday 13^th January 2023, 5.00pm

The University of Queensland, Saint Lucia QLD, Australia

UQ’s Queensland Mathematics Summer School (QMSS) introduces students in Year 10 to the beauty of advanced mathematical ideas and new ways of thinking.

Hosted by UQ’s School of Mathematics and Physics each January, this 4-day non-residential program is open to talented students who are going into Year 11 and have chosen to study Maths Methods and Specialist Maths.

You’ll delve into the deep, difficult, fun, mysterious, abstract, interconnected, and useful aspects of this fascinating subject.

Applications close on Tuesday 1^st November 2022. Find out more here.  

Griffith Inclusive Futures Scholarship (Year 12)

Value: $5,000 AUD

Open/Closing Dates: Monday 1^st August, 2022 – Monday 17^th April, 2023

This scholarship will support commencing students with a disability who are experiencing or have experienced financial hardship and/or educational disadvantage.

Find out more here.

UQ The Honourable John Muir QC Scholarship (Year 12)

Value: Varies

Open/Closing Dates: Monday 1^st August, 2022 – Friday 17^th February, 2023

Supports undergraduate students experiencing financial disadvantage to study law at UQ.

Find out more here.

QUT Budding Entrepreneur Scholarship (Year 12)

Value: Up to $24,000 AUD

Open/Closing Dates: Thursday 1^st September, 2022 – Sunday 20^th November, 2022

These scholarships are to support budding student entrepreneurs and engage their passion for entrepreneurial action in the for-profit or for-purpose space.

Find out more here.

Mrs Wanda Hayes, Head of Career Development

By getting to the root of the issues and teaching teens how to control their behaviour, fewer arguments between teens and parents will occur.

According to Open Sky Wilderness Therapy, teenagers who have consistent challenging behaviour have other emotions afoot that they are too scared, embarrassed, or may not even recognize. Some of those emotions, per the publication, include:

•          Feeling hurt

•          Feeling insecure

•          Being scared

•          Feeling powerless

•          Not feeling seen or heard

•          Feelings of anger

•          Feeling lonely

•          Feel like life is out of control

Positive Parenting Tips For Dealing With A Defiant Teen (moms.com)

Mrs Annie Williams, College Counsellor

Friends of Pacific were delighted to support the Speech and Drama department with a drinks and snacks stall on Monday when they performed a full-length play, Buzby of the Buffalo, in the College gym. We thank Mrs Teena Thompson and student helpers for putting together the treats.

Our Junior Swim Carnival was a huge success after its postponement from earlier in the year. We thank Mrs Teena Thompson, Mrs Allyson Sarvari and the College Tuckshop for catering for Pacific staff at the event.

Pacific Lutheran College Soiree – Amongst the Stars

Saturday 29^th October – 5.30pm at Pacific Lutheran College
Get your friends together to celebrate our 21 years at the gala Soiree Amongst the Stars. See the Pacific landscape transformed as never seen before.
Don’t miss our very own superstars, Frank + Louis performing on the night, as well as Luke Dickens and his band, runner-up in the 2009 season of the Voice Australia.
Our fabulous hospitality department will serve up signature canapes all night long and our bar will be humming. 
This is an 18+ event.
Purchase your tickets here.

Click here to follow our Friends of Pacific Facebook page.

Mrs Jenny Lee, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

Year 5 Students Use Technology to Create Kindness Messages

In their library classes this year, Year 5 students read picture books about kindness and used these as inspiration to create their own kindness message. They then used the Keynote app to create a poster with their message, and then filmed themselves in front of a green screen saying their message. Using a green screen app, they imported their poster and video, then created and added an animation of flapping wings. Using the Eyejack app, they made an augmented reality layer and printed out a QR code to allow people to see their posters come to life.

Their posters are on display in the library and can be viewed by downloading the Eyejack app on your phone or borrowing a library iPad with the app installed.

eBooks and Reading over the Holidays

It’s very important to keep up the reading habit over the holidays. If you’re going away these holidays and don’t want to carry books around with you, why not try an eBook? We have an extensive eBook collection for students in Middle and Senior College. Just go to our eBook site https://plcs.wheelers.co/ and log in using your school email and student number. You can download as many eBooks as you like, and they will automatically return after two weeks.

Ms Narelle Keen, Head of Library

All Schools’ Basketball

Well done to all our teams for their games on Friday.

Most teams had good wins (Intermediate C Boys; Junior C Girls; Junior D Boys; Intermediate B Boys; Intermediate A Girls and Intermediate F Boys). Despite losing their matches, it’s been good to see the Intermediate F Boys improving and only narrowly losing their games against GCC, and the Junior B Boys suffered their first loss of the season against a strong Coolum SHS team. The Junior E Boys and Intermediate C Girls also have been consistently improving and I appreciate their commitment each week.

Once again, thank you to those parents who continue to volunteer to score and to the coaches for giving up their time each week. Most teams have games this Friday (last Friday before the holidays) and all teams will be required to have enough players to fill a team. Please make sure you are all able to play. Games for this week are listed below. Games resume in week 1 of Term 4 for the final half of the season.

Finally – we wish the Open Boys team and Mr Burdon all the best for their CBSQ tournament at the end of the week. The boys are travelling to the Gold Coast for the State tournament on Thursday and play games until Sunday. We thank Mr Burdon for his expertise and dedication to getting the most out of the boys in the lead-up to the championships.

SCISSA Touch Football Results

Congratulations to our Junior Boys for winning their Grand Final last night against Sunshine Coast Grammar at Peregian Touch Fields. From the very start, our boys rucked hard and dominated field position. Some great finishing plays on the back of the rucking resulted in a strong 9-2 win. The team should be very proud of their efforts to finish off the season with this result. Thank you to Mr Massie for his fantastic work with the boys this season.

All School’s Water Polo

Our Intermediate Girls played their last game of the season on Monday night and competed well against a strong St John’s side. While the result didn’t go their way, the girls should be proud of their efforts this season, with many students being new to the game. They all seem ready to step up again next year and we look forward to helping them continue to grow their water polo skills. A big thank you to Coach Sam for his work with the team as their development across the season was evident.

Key Sport Dates Term 4

• Wednesday 12^th – Sunday 16th October: Junior Secondary CBSQ
• Wednesday 12^th October: SCISSA Rugby 7’s Fixtures and SCISSA Tennis starts
• Tuesday 25^th October: Netball trials for 2023 season for Year 8-9 students
• Thursday 27^th October: Netball trials for 2023 season for Year 10-11 students
• Thursday 3^rd November: Ballinger Cup Senior Hockey Challenge
• Thursday 17^th November: Sports Awards Assembly

The Brisbane Active Football Program will once again be offered at Pacific Lutheran College.

Please click on the flyer below for more details.

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport

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)

16       Term 3 Concludes

October

4         Term 4 Commences

10       Year 9 Outdoor Education Program Commences (Students returning Friday 21st)

14       Pacific Pulse Surf Contest

31       ELC Photo Day