Compass No 695 - August 2023

From the Principal

Lighting Up Through the Generosity of Heart

As we prepare for the upcoming OCEANfest, look forward to finals within our netball and Pacific FC, head towards mock exams for our seniors, engage in learning within the classroom, engage in sport, music, dance or outdoor education activities, attend youth, are part of student leadership through Pacific Action Groups and Champions for Change, or take time to listen, guide or assist we are conscious that all of these things are made richer and in many cases are only possible through the generosity of heart of our parents, staff and students. Staff having roles as admin, grounds, tuckshop, library, IT, aides and teachers go that extra mile to enrich the lives of our young people and our community. Our parents play a critical role in enhancing and providing opportunities and experiences for our young people. Our students embrace opportunities to serve each other and the broader community.

God encourages us to bring a compassionate and generous heart into our relationships. To serve the needs of others, to put the best construction on the actions and motives of people and to act with love towards each other. God’s love for each of us is the never-ending spark of energy and graciousness that flows into and through us, equipping us to live abundant lives. When we act together there is a tremendous energy of love and light that illuminates hope and endless possibility.

Principal's Log

There is an air of excitement as we prepare for OCEANfest, this Friday 18th August from 3pm. Staff, parents and students have given very generously to bring OCEANfest to life. We look forward to the Welcome to Country at 3.30pm from Kabi Kabi elder, Mr Kerry Neill, which kicks off our celebration of our One World theme. The evening promises to be a lot of fun with rides, entertainment, food, refreshments, products from our stalls, great prizes to be won and finishing at 8.30pm with a light show. Thank you to our OCEANfest organisers capably led by Mrs Sam Barrass, our communications team and the Friends of Pacific, our sponsors and all those who are donating products and time to make the evening a wonderful community celebration. Families are reminded to check communication sent earlier this week particularly in relation changes to pick up and drop off due to the closure of the P-2 car park on Friday 18th August and arrangements for OCEANfest.

We congratulate our 13-19 year old athletes who performed very well at the Independent District Athletics Carnival last week to win the Percentage Trophy and come fourth overall. There were many outstanding performances and the team were complimented by people external to the College for their sportsmanship, courtesy and spirit. We thank Mr Cameron West and the PE team for their development of students’ skills through the specialised training that has occurred and for their leadership of the team.  We wish all those proceeding to regional competition all the best as they move to the next level of competition.

We also wish staff and students who will be leaving for their Year 6 Outdoor Education experience in Canberra on Sunday all the best.  This is an experience which enables students to learn more about our government processes, the nation’s history and visit a number of features within our capital as they grow in their sense of confidence and social emotional capabilities. We thank Ms Leigh Finter, Mr Scott Crompton, Mrs Mel Percival, Mr Stuart Pohlner, Miss Sophia Rule, Mrs Melissa Ousley, Mrs Sigrid Davis, Mrs Kim Kiernan, Mr Robert Belchamber, Miss Georgie Snelling, Mrs Karen Vorster and Mr Brendan Macauley for their leadership of the experience.

Our Pacific Plus students have been working to support the St Mark’s congregation in their support of people affected by domestic violence.  The Year 7 Pacific Plus students will be running a cake stall at St Mark’s this Sunday to raise funds to purchase items to be put together with the children’s clothing they have collected to assist those affected by domestic violence.

We are very grateful for the blessings that God gives each of us individually and as community.  We are particularly grateful for the tremendous generosity of heart that flows through staff, parents, and students. Together with God, we shine an amazing light of possibility and opportunity. Thank you.

Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal

From the College Chaplain

Embracing Childlike Wonder

"People were also bringing babies to Jesus for him to place his hands on them. When the disciples saw this, they rebuked them. But Jesus called the children to him and said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of God belongs to such as these. Truly I tell you, anyone who will not receive the kingdom of God like a little child will never enter it."

(Luke 18:15-17)

In this touching scene, Jesus embraces the youngest of humans (who represented the most overlooked in society at that time) despite the disciples' (and Jesus’s most committed followers') concerns. He shows us that children bring a unique perspective that we, as grown-ups, should treasure as we guide and nurture them. This scene also reveals to us how Jesus views us all as wonderfully made individuals with extreme value. This verse teaches us that we are all loved without condition or exception. Just as Jesus valued each child’s presence, we all have a responsibility to make all around us feel cherished and loved for who we are.

Children also possess an uncanny knack for attacking life’s issues, problems and challenges, with a unique perspective. How many times have we heard a child speak more insightfully than an adult in such a way that we never would have expected? And how often do we hear of children embracing problems and designing solutions to issues in creative ways that adults are seemingly incapable of doing?

Jesus reminds us that children have much more capacity than what we sometimes give them credit for. It is therefore up to us all to nurture their journey and encourage their creativity so that they understand their value and feel appreciated. And as we journey with our children, let us remember that learning goes both ways. Just as we guide them, they teach us about the purity of love, forgiveness, and living in the moment.

As parents and caregivers, we have the incredible honour of nurturing young souls. Let's carry forward the lessons from Luke 18:15-17 and build a space of love, acceptance, and growth for all within our care.

Mr Mark Hauser, College Chaplain

From the Head of Middle College

Clear Collaboration

This week at the Middle College assembly I spoke about the importance of clear, positive collaboration in all areas of our Pacific Lutheran Community. Students and staff heard a strong message about the importance of connecting well with others.

Collaboration inside the classroom involves students coming together, bringing their unique ideas, opinions, perspectives, and abilities. This interaction encourages them to recognize and respect the strengths in each other. Through collaborative tasks and discussions, they learned the profound value of collective insight, empathy, and compromise. This value of collaboration extends far beyond the classroom and permeates all areas of our College. In co-curricular activities, wider community engagements, and Pacific Action Group initiatives, students interact with their peers and teachers on many different levels. These experiences facilitate the development of a deep-seated appreciation for the unique talents and viewpoints that each person possesses.

Collaboration is a vessel through which compassion is cultivated. Inside the classroom, students learn the art of active listening and empathetic communication. They learn to understand differing viewpoints and work towards solutions that accommodate everyone's perspectives. This compassionate approach fosters an environment of trust, where all voices are valued and heard. When we work alongside each other in this way we can truly achieve extraordinary things.

We wish the Year Six students and staff all the very best as they embark on a truly wonderful experience in our Nation’s capital next week. Clear collaboration will most definitely be evident as the students and staff work together to learn from the vast experiences, they will be immersed in.

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

From the Head of Learning K-5

National Science Week - Innovation to Powering Future Industries

National Science Week across the nation is not just a time for our students to conduct exciting experiments and engage in hands-on activities; it is also a powerful platform that lays the foundation for future innovation and drives the growth of industries that will shape our world. The intersection of science education and industry innovation is a dynamic force that propels our society towards progress, and this article explores how National Science Week in primary schools plays a pivotal role in igniting this innovation to power future industries.

At its core, National Science Week serves as an annual celebration of science and its impact on our lives. For our students, it's a time when the classroom transforms into a laboratory of exploration, curiosity, and wonder. Hands-on experiments, interactive workshops, and engaging demonstrations help students develop an early passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. This early exposure sets the stage for a lifelong interest in these fields and paves the way for future innovators.

During National Science Week, our students are encouraged to think critically, solve problems, and approach challenges with creativity. Participating in science activities requires them to ask questions, make predictions, experiment, and analyze results. These skills are the building blocks of innovation – the ability to identify problems, generate novel solutions, and adapt to changing circumstances. Nurturing these skills from a young age lays the groundwork for students to become adaptable and resourceful thinkers, which are essential traits for future industry leaders.

Innovation is a cornerstone of progress, and National Science Week helps cultivate the innovation mindset from a young age. When students are encouraged to explore, question, and experiment, they develop the confidence to challenge the status quo and envision new possibilities. These young minds are not constrained by traditional thinking and are more likely to generate revolutionary ideas that can shape future industries.

The industries of tomorrow will heavily rely on advancements in science and technology. Fields like renewable energy, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, and space exploration are poised to reshape our world. National Science Week acts as a springboard for the development of the future workforce that will drive these industries. By inspiring our students to embrace science and innovation, we are equipping them with the skills and mindset needed to propel these industries forward.

National Science Week at Pacific is more than just a fun-filled week of experiments and activities; it is a crucial catalyst for future innovation and industry growth. By nurturing curiosity, critical thinking, and a passion for science from a young age, we are sowing the seeds for a generation of thinkers and doers who will shape the industries that power our world. As we celebrate National Science Week each year, let us remember its profound impact on our collective future and the role it plays in driving progress through innovation.

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

Career Development News

Careers News

Studying University subjects while you are at school (Year 10 and 11)

If you would like to know more about your options to study university subjects while you are in Year 11 or 12, you might like to attend an upcoming information webinar hosted by QUT. The webinar will provide information on how the START QUT program works for school students, who are eligible, and how to apply. Please note, you will need to have an appointment with the Head of Career Development to discuss how your enrolment in university subjects will impact your program of study here at school.

Click here for information about the START QUT information night.

Expressions of interest now open for 2024 courses at Kawana Health Education Unit (Year 10)

Students in Year 10 who would like to include the Dual Health Certificate course in their Year 11 and 12 study program should submit their expression of interest as soon as possible. This program is offered through the Kawana Health Education Unit, and the attached flyer provides all details about the course options. Please note this program is an external option only: students may need to make their own way to Kawana for classes each week. Classes run for four hours each week: either in the morning or in the afternoon. Students will therefore miss classes here at school while they are at Kawana and will be responsible for keeping up with the work they miss. The Expression of Interest Form is attached. Completed forms should be handed to Mr Learoyd.

Expressions of interest now open for 2024 courses at the Sunshine Coast Technical and Trade Training Centre (Year 10)

The SCTTTC offers pre-vocational Trade courses, as well as courses in Beauty and Aviation. You can view their course offerings here. Students in Year 10 who would like to include one of these courses in their Year 11 study program should submit their expression of interest as soon as possible. Please note all of the courses at the Trade Training Centre require students to attend the Centre for one full school day each week, so students miss a full day of classes here at school on that day every week and will be responsible for keeping up with the work they miss. Please seek a meeting with Mr Learoyd to discuss your options if you are interested in these courses.

UQ Ready (Year 12)

August 22 to October 5, 2023

Join us for an informative event that will provide you with all you need for a smooth transition from high school to university.

What’s involved:

•          Get advice on your ATAR score.

•          Understand QTAC preferencing.

•          Hear about accommodation options.

•          Know how to respond to a university offer.

•          Know how to enrol and plan your timetable.

•          Get tips for successfully transitioning to university.

The information will be valuable to any high school student looking to go to any university.

Where possible, a panel of UQ students will share their experiences and give advice on how to make the most of your time at university.

Online session

6 September, 6.00pm—7.00pm

Sunshine Coast

5 October, 5.00pm—6.30pm

Sunshine Coast Grammar School

Find out more here.

The Hotel School | Industry Insights, Brisbane (Year 10 and 11)

August 26, 2023

Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at life working in a luxurious 5-Star Hotel.

Experience W Brisbane through the eyes of a hospitality professional. Find out what it is like to work in this dynamic environment by immersing yourself in the behind-the-scenes operations of a luxury hotel.

You are invited to this unique, fully interactive experience where you will meet professionals of key hotel departments and have an opportunity to understand their roles. This event is perfect for those wanting a better understanding of the complexities and depth of hospitality careers.

Find out more here.

Mrs Wanda Hayes, (previous) Head of Career Development

Friends of Pacific

OCEANfest 2023 'One World'

Click here to follow our Friends of Pacific Facebook page.

Mrs Carly Lovell, Friends of Pacific Chairperson

College News

Pacific Plus - We Walk Together

Hi there!  We are Asha and Ariel, Year 7 Pacific Plus students who have created a project focused on spreading love and acknowledging the VIPs in our life. Our project's goal is to encourage people to look out for their peers and appreciate their family, friends, and even people they don’t know!

Check out the QR code on our posters around the Junior College to explore some fun activity suggestions to do with your friends or send us an email at wewalktogether2@proton.me if you’d like to find out more.

We’d love for you to get involved!

Asha and Ariel, Year 7 Pacific Plus Students

Containers for Change

Ella and Trixie, Environmental Pacific Action Group Captains along with the students of the Action Group and our Year 5 Kids in Action have worked closely with the OCEANfest Committee to ensure we are all caring for our environment throughout the festival.

Containers for Change bins will be placed in areas where food is purchased and consumed for mindful disposal. The Environmental PAG and Kids in Action will also be running a small competition throughout the festival to encourage responsible waste management. For all those who return a bottle and/or can to the ‘Containers for Change’ stall in the Gym, will receive a ticket to go into the draw to win one of 2 prizes.

Ella and Trixie, Environmental Pacific Action Group Captains

Sport News

Year 7-12 Sport

13-19 Independent District Athletics Carnival

Congratulations to our 13-19 yrs PLC Athletics Team for 2 fantastic days of competition at the Independent District Athletics Carnival last Thursday and Friday. We had some excellent individual results throughout the carnival and a number of students displayed a ‘team first’ attitude to step up to cover events. PLC had the honour of winning the 2023 Percentage Trophy and came 4th overall, a very strong result. We had top 4 finishes in the 13-15yrs Boys Divisions as well as the 14, 15 and Open Girls Divisions.  A special mention goes to Carter Kiernan and Grace Stevens for being awarded Age Champions for their excellent efforts across the carnival. Well done to all athletes and staff involved!

Congratulations also to the following students for their selection into the Independent District Team.

Competitive Sport News

SCISSA Touch Football

Another strong round for our Touch Football teams this week. The Junior Girls Team 1 and Intermediate Girls Team 2 picked up some handy wins which puts them a good spot for the hunt for finals. Our Senior Girls and Junior Girls Team 2 went down in some tight matches at home and will look to bounce back next week as we get close to the final games of the season. Congratulations to our Junior Boys teams who won convincingly in their fixtures, pushing them further up into the top 4.

SSCRU 10 aside Girls Rugby

Congratulations to our U14 Girls who continued to grow and develop their playing ability at Nambour on Wednesday night. The girls played with courage, showing a strong defensive presence on the field and are continuing to grow in their playing confidence. They posted a convincing win against St Johns in their first game but unfortunately lost by a single try in the second half of their second game in what was a tight contest. Well done to all the girls who continue to demonstrate excellent culture and spirit at both training and games each week.

Please find a summary of their results below:

PLC 24 vs St Johns 5

PLC 5 vs Victory College 10

Sport Selection Term 4

Term 4 Competitive Sport Selection will be available for Years 7-12 from Monday 21st August to Friday 25th August. Term 4 Competitive sports available are SCISSA Rugby 7’s (Wednesday afternoons) and SCISSA Tennis (Wednesday Afternoons). Please note that Friday basketball and Monday water polo will be continuing on into Term 4 for some teams. We will also be running Competitive Sport Development for Term 1 sports (soccer and volleyball) on Fridays. Mountain biking will also continue.

Any students who aren’t intending to participate in a competitive sport or a sport development option will not need to sign up for a sport. Students who aren’t signed up for a sport will be allocated to the Non-Competitive Sport Pool and there will be a sign-up for Non-Competitive Friday Sport Options on the first Friday of Term 4.

If you have any questions, please contact me at cwestmcinnes@pacluth.qld.edu.au

Student Acknowledgement

Congratulations to all PLC students who swam at the QLD Short Course Swimming Championships over the weekend. There were some great results achieved by our students.

Emily Lengenberg

3rd - 200m Fly

7th - 200m Back

10th - 100m Back

Alexander Monroe

1st- 50m Breaststroke

2nd 100m Breaststroke

2nd 200m Breaststroke

Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport

Junior Sport

Prep – 2 Inter-House Athletics Carnival

The Prep to Year 2 students will participate in a Foundation College Athletics Carnival on Wednesday 30th August. A parent information letter regarding this event was sent home this week via email to families.

There will be a range of different team and individual events on the day, including a 60m sprint, shuttle relay, long jump, high jump, plastic javelin throw, sack races and ball games.

The aim of this carnival is to provide students with an opportunity to implement skills learnt during Physical Education lessons into practice in a fun, participation-based carnival experience.  All students will receive a participation ribbon and points for their house. First, second and third ribbons will also be awarded for the 60m sprint.

Parents and spectators are welcome to attend the carnival.

Sunshine Coast Marathon

Congratulations to everyone who participated in the Sunshine Coast Marathon last Sunday. Together students, teachers and parents participated in the annual Sunshine Coast Marathon event in perfect warm winter conditions. PLC runners completed in a range of distances from 2km, 5km, 10km and the half marathon (21.1km) with many personal bests recorded during the morning. This was a culminating event and a great way to finish off the PLC Run Club program for 2023. Special thanks to Mrs Kim Kiernan for organising and coordinating the PLC Run Club again this year and to staff, parents and students for your support.

Congratulations to the following students who completed the following distances:

21.1km

Brody, Nick

10km

Cooper, Carter, Byron, Oliver, Harvey

5km

Aiden, Heath, Tilly, Scarlett, Jessica, Jayden, Isabella, Indie, Luke, Ashlea, Will, Curtis, Euan

2km

Leah, Georgia, Eleanor, Harper, Aiden, Liam

We look forward to seeing you all back and running in 2024!

4-6 SCISSA Training – Monday Afternoons

4-6 after-school training restarts this coming Monday with students training from 3.15pm – 4.15pm. Students except for water polo players need to meet out on the main oval for rolls before moving off to their training location.

Due to Year 6 camp, our water polo teachers are away and we will not be able to run training at the pool. Students training for water polo in Years 4 and 5 will remain at PLC and complete some dry land training activities. Parents will be required to pick their child up from PLC at 4.15pm.

If your child is unable to attend training for any reason, please email or call the Junior College Office prior to training on Monday.

Mr Darren Hooper, Head of Junior Sport P-6

Club Sport

PLC Netball Club

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

Only one game before finals with many PLC teams in excellent positions in their respective Divisions to compete in the final series:

•          Div 1 – Fireballs, 1st

•          Div 2 - Fury, 4th

•          Div 4 - Patriots, 4th

•          Div 7 – Mavericks, 3rd

•          U12-1 – Avengers, 2nd

The top 4 teams from each Division compete in the finals so best wishes for all teams this week!

Upcoming game dates:

•          19th August

•          26th August SEMI FINAL

•          2nd September PRELIM FINAL

•          9th September GRAND FINAL

We wish all teams Good Luck in the run to the finals!!

Please remember points will be deducted if the scorecard is not correctly completed, and all points are critical to maintain/progress the teams’ standings in their Divisions:

•          all players must sign the game sheet prior to taking the court

•          all substitute players must be listed below the registered players for the team, with the division and team name they are registered in next to their name and signature.

Please also ensure players arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the start of their games so that they can participate in the team warm-up, fill water bottles, and sign the game sheet.

We wish all teams Good Luck in the run to the finals!!

Save the DATE … PLC Presentation Day will be held on Sunday 3rd September (yes, Father’s Day), at Moffat Beach Brewery Co, Production House, 51 Caloundra Road, Caloundra. Please let your coach or manager know as soon as possible if you will be attending presentation day.


Email: netballpresident@pacluth.qld.edu.au
Facebook: PLC Netball Club
Instagram: PLC Netball Club

Mrs Donna Townsend, PLC Netball Club President

Pacific FC

The players of Pacific FC are able to take the field every week thanks to the unwavering dedication of countless unpaid volunteers who work tirelessly each season.

From the weekly parent-run coaching sessions to team organisation by our managers, to the funding of the goals the players kick the ball into, the flags on the fields, and the Matildas Burgers enjoyed at the end of the game, it is all possible through the generous contributions of unpaid volunteers who donate their time. Pacific FC relies heavily on the canteen as its main revenue stream. By generating funds, Pacific FC is able to procure crucial equipment, such as goals, which are $6000 per set.

In 2021, one of our sponsors, Sunstate Jewellers, created & donated the Jenny Lee Perpetual Trophy, which recognises extraordinary examples of community dedication. The recipients for 2023 are Lucie Bradley and Carice Tadgell - our Canteen coordinators for 2023. You’ll find Lucie, as well as her daughter Amelie and Carice, in the Canteen every Thursday afternoon preparing for the week ahead and in the Canteen on Saturday home games from 6.30am-5pm!

Lucie & Carice join previous extraordinary Pacific volunteers who were recipients of this Perpetual Trophy:

2022 Amanda Dee & Doug McKinnon

2021 Nicole Harrys & Andrew Whatham

2023 EOY Celebrations and Awards

Our EOY presentations were held on Saturday at PLC. Congratulations to our 165 players, 33 Coaches and Managers, ten 5-Year Players, five 10-Year Players and our Perpetual Trophy Winners. Over the next few weeks, we will showcase our 5- and 10-Year players as well as the SCCSA Adermann Award Nominees.

Click here for the 2023 Presentation photos.

Round 18 Competition Results

U11 Pacific Marlins v Stella Scorchers 2 -4

U13 Pacific Razors v Bli Bli Bishops 0-9

U15 Pacific Barracudas v Siena Marlins 5-0

Rooball Carnivals – August 19th 

Pacific will host the U6 and U10 Carnivals. Other age divisions will be held at venues across the coast. Draw: http://www.sccsa.org.au

Semi-Finals - August 19

Congratulations to all three of our competitive teams who will be heading into Championship or Plate semi-finals on August 19. Get along to the games and support the teams!

U12 Pacific Marlins v Buddina Wahoos 1.40 PM Parklakes (field 1)

U13 Pacific Razors v Unity King Browns 1.30 PM Unity College (field 1)

U15 Pacific Barracudas v Buderim Cyclones 12.10 PM Frank McIvor Park (field 1)

2024 SCCSA U9-U18 Representative Trials

Dates 7th, 14th and 21st October. Venue: Chancellor Park Soccer Club. Registrations open shortly. Register your interest via: PacificFC@pacluth.qld.edu.au

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

August

18       OCEANfest 2024 ‘One World’ (3.00pm-8.30pm)

21       Year 6 Canberra Trip (Returning Friday 25th)

21       Book Week

29       Father’s Day Stall

30       P-2 Athletics Carnival

31       Celebrating Dads’ Breakfast (7.00am)