The story of the prodigal son being welcomed by his father on his return home is a powerful reminder of the importance of providing a safe place for growth when mistakes are made. The son still faced the consequence of his choices, having lost his inheritance but the father’s love for his younger son was obvious. Our families usually provide this safe place where we can grow through mistake making. The son took responsibility for his mistake, understood and accepted the consequences and asked for and received forgiveness. In doing so he was restored as a person and in his relationship with his father. There was learning and the promise of a new beginning.
The story reminds us of God’s unconditional love for us. There are times when we wander off or even deliberately turn away from who and what God would have us be. We are reminded in the Bible that nothing can separate us from God’s love, not our own actions or the actions of others or the circumstances we find ourselves in. We are not removed from the consequences of our choices, but we can learn and grow through them, knowing that a loving God walks with us. We can find that safe place of rest, restoration and growth in prayer at any time and anywhere.
Principal’s Log
Being a community that provides a safe place for everyone involves staff, students and parents taking responsibility and acting in partnership together. As a community, we are challenged to embrace three underpinning values of love for people and the planet, respect for the human dignity of all and kindness. As a College, we focus on growing these values through engagement in a range of formal and informal experiences including Chapel, Christian Studies, Personal Development, Pastoral Care, Assembly, Outdoor Education, our fortnightly thread and through the interactions we have.
On the P-5 assembly this week, we spoke about valuing difference, and in the 6-12 assembly, about being mindful of how our spoken and online communication reflects these inner values. There are many opposing voices that we all see and hear, particularly through the media and our screens. We all, including very young people, can absorb words, images and ways of thinking even as we scroll. Attacks on people can feature strongly in the communication we consume. We can thoughtlessly speak about someone. It can become “normal” to write or create something in the online space that attacks another person in a way that would not be done in face to face conversation. AI opens up amazing opportunities but also the possibility of easily creating humiliating, offensive and illegal imagery.
Across the College, we educate young people about respectful communication including being respectful and safe in their use of digital tools. We encourage them to report any verbal or online communication that is harmful or hurtful. Parents as partners with the College, play a critical role in growing inner values of love, respect for all people and kindness through what they do, say and encourage. Parents are encouraged to be aware of and responsible for the social media young people are encountering even at very young ages, to remind young people that no online communication is private, and to not allow technology into bedrooms. Families are invited to take the opportunity to discuss the extent to which all personal communication reflects the core values of love, respect and kindness. As a College, we embrace the learning moments when we hear or see commentary that reflects a lack of respect for people who have different opinions, different backgrounds or ways of living. This is a stance we can all take as staff, students and parents when we encounter communication that is not reflecting the values of love, respect and kindness. Acting by speaking up or reporting can lead to powerful learning and growth as well as preserving the safety of all. In doing so, together in partnership we provide a safe space for people to grow and learn.
Each week we see our young people being kind, supportive and achieving amazing things. This week we congratulate our Kayaking team who won the 2025 School Marathon Kayaking Championships on Tuesday this week. Points were only awarded to paddlers who placed 1st, 2nd and 3rd. The team of 43 paddlers won 25 medals in both doubles and singles events. This is an outstanding performance for the team who have trained hard since the start of the year. We thank Mr Gary Graves for his outstanding leadership of this program over many years, as well as the many staff, and coaches for their support of the program this year. Well done to all of the students and thank you to the large contingent of parents who have given their support.
Congratulations to our Pacific netball teams who competed in the Grand Finals of the Sunshine Coast Secondary School Netball Competition on Monday night. Each team played with incredible determination, skill and teamwork. A special congratulations to PLC Garnet (Junior B) and PLC Emerald (Intermediate B), who were champions in their divisions. Thank you to our wonderful Pacific supporters and well done to all players and coaches on a fantastic season.
We congratulate all of our students and coaches who were part of SCISSA Volleyball and Soccer this term. Well done to the Junior B Girls and Intermediate B Boys who made the SCISSA Volleyball Grand Finals and the PLC B1 and B2 Boys teams who played against each other in the SCISSA Soccer Grand Final. Thank you to all parents and coaches for their support this season.
Our Year 9 and 10 students and families took advantage of the opportunity to learn more about the subjects within their future pathways at the Subjects Expos this week. We thank our Heads of Department and teachers for their inspiring leadership of this important learning opportunity.
We look forward to the Ensembles Concert this evening.
May God fill our hearts with love so that we bring a spirit of respect and kindness into all we do.
Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal
From the College Chaplain
Come Home
One of the highlights of my school year is always the Year 4 camp. I think I’ve mentioned this every year in my devotionals and chapels with Prep to Year 5… so why stop the trend this year!
This camp is one of a mix of excitement, nervousness, surprisingly (or maybe not so surprisingly) little sleep. Oh yeah – and MUD! The mud challenge is always one of the most memorable moments of the year for students (and me).
This camp is almost like one of those rite-of-passage moments in the Junior College—two nights away from home; challenges to overcome; sleepless nights and the unknown. And that’s just what the teachers are worried about. It is a full-on experience for young students too with seemingly long days, homesickness, late-nights, and NO television!
But one of the most beautiful things about Year 4 camp isn’t what happens at camp—it’s what happens when the children return to school at the end of their trip. That moment when the bus pulls back into the school grounds and you see kids run into their parents’ arms, bursting into tears or excited chatter. I also love to talk to the students the next week about what they enjoyed most about their return home. Inevitably, they talk about things like their own beds and home cooked food. They realise what they missed, and suddenly, at least for a while, home means more than it did just a few days earlier.
Time away reminds us that home isn’t just walls and a bed. It’s comfort, relationship, and love. And sometimes we don’t fully understand that until we’re away from it.
In Luke 15, Jesus tells us of the parable of the lost son. A younger son demands his inheritance, leaves home, and wastes it all on wild living. He ends up broke and feeding pigs—starving, humiliated, and alone. It’s only in that moment of deep need that he realises what he left behind. He begins to remember what home really meant; not just food and security, but a relationship with a father who loved him.
So, he decides to go back, not expecting grace, just hoping for survival. And for me, the most remarkable part of this story is that, while he’s still a long way off, the father runs to him and wraps him in a robe, then throws a party!
Jesus tells this story to show us something important: God doesn’t just want us to follow rules or stay in the house. He wants a relationship. He wants us to come home. And He knows that sometimes, it takes wandering to realise what really matters.
I wonder if you've ever had one of those moments where your child has returned from camp (or even just a long day out), and in that tired yet honest state, they cling to you a little more tightly. It’s here that you might see a small glimpse of what it means to be “home” in their eyes. And not just in the physical space, but the emotional safety.
We have been talking about the value of spending time at home in our devotions and chapels this week at the College. The story of the lost son is an important one for us all, as it is a reminder to us that even when things drift or feel distant, the door is always open. And when someone comes home (physically, emotionally, or spiritually), grace meets them when they are ready.
As we come to the end of another term, I pray that your homes can be a place of rest, welcome, and grace.
Mr Mark Hauser, College Chaplain
From the Head of Student Engagement Senior College
Time and Time again at Home
The thread for Weeks 9 and 10 is "Time at Home". This may be a timely reminder as we move quickly towards the term holidays. For many of our students, this time will be filled with exciting opportunities to flourish in new environments, from the Duke of Edinburgh, Year 12 Retreat, the New Zealand Trip, and our Japan Trip – opportunities abound for the PLC community.
Suppose you are one of those families involved in these fantastic opportunities. In that case, I hope you take stock of these moments and appreciate the fullness these opportunities bring to the lives of our young people. The thread for Weeks 9 and 10, ‘Time at Home’, is interwoven with the wellbeing theme of relationships. When I ponder this, I am brought back to the adage ‘home is where the heart is’. Yes, that classic Elvis song… am I showing my age… maybe…just a little. My parents were Elvis fans, and I am, to a degree, a product of the environment in which I grew up. Arguably, I had an excellent environment to learn and grow, a safe and nurturing space, a place to wonder and ponder the richness of life – a place I called home.
When I ponder the modern expressions of ‘family’ and ‘home’, I am met with many wonderings. Modern life, it would seem, is full of boundless energy and the pursuit of something… a little bit of this and a little bit of that… a little bit of something more. But the relentless quest for more, whatever that looks like, is fraught with complications. But we strive anyway, often against our better judgment or gut feeling. Then we asked ourselves, was it all worth it? A worthy question, perhaps. A question that causes us to stop, pause, and consider the whys of our actions, thoughts, feelings, and emotions. When we stop and consider our 'Why', we ask ourselves an essential question at the heart of our behaviours, actions, intentions and reasoning.
When we spend time at home, what happens to our intentions? Do we change? Do we slow down? Do we take stock of the things most dear to our hearts? Do we spend time pondering the richness that comes from open conversations and intentional interaction? Interactions are filled with active listening and a seeking-to-understand mindset. This thinking takes me back to Elvis…
Verse one:
Home is where the heart is
And my heart is anywhere you are
Anywhere you are
is home
And in the Pre-chorus:
Maybe I'm a rolling stone
Who won't amount to much
But everything that I hold dear
Is close enough to touch
The intentionality of our actions gives us a lens through which to consider and ponder the fullness of life. It is a life full of wonder and opportunities, a life nuanced with connection, a life full of family in all their complexities, and a life where everything I hold dear is close enough to touch.
Kia kaha, Kia maia, Kia manawanui – (Be strong, brave, steadfast- in Maori). 強く勇敢に (Tsuyoku yuukan ni -Strongly and bravely). If you are travelling near or far, may God bless you in your endeavours and may you find time to spend in your 'home' with your loved ones and families.
Mr Nigel Farley, Head of Student Engagement Senior College
From the Head of Learning K-5
Parent App 8: Make Your Own Thinking Visible
In this week’s newsletter we are exploring “App 8” of Harvard researcher Ron Ritchhart’s, 9 Apps for Parents which contain simple yet impactful strategies to try at home: Make Your Own Thinking Visible. You are a model for your child of what it means to be a thinker and a learner. Model your own interests, passions, curiosity, reflection, learning, and thinking for your child. As parents, we are powerful role models for our children, not just in how we act, but in how we think and learn. One of the most effective ways to support your child’s development as a learner is to make your own thinking visible. This simply means letting your child hear and see how you make decisions, solve problems, reflect, and learn new things. It’s about narrating your thought process aloud and involving your child in moments of curiosity and discovery.
Why is this important?
Children learn to think by watching and listening to how adults around them think. When you wonder aloud, share questions, talk through mistakes, or show excitement about learning something new, you are showing your child that thinking is not something hidden—it's an everyday, lifelong process.
You help your child understand that:
• It’s okay not to know everything
• Making mistakes is part of learning
• Learning is active, curious, and ongoing
• Thoughtful decisions often take time and reflection
What might it sound like?
Here are some everyday examples of how to make your thinking visible:
• "Hmm… I can’t find the quickest way to get to the shops. Let’s look at the map together and work it out."
• "I wonder why that bread didn’t rise. Maybe I missed a step in the recipe. What do you think I should try differently next time?"
• "I really enjoyed that book. I liked how the author described the characters. Did you notice that too?"
• "I’m feeling a bit frustrated right now, so I’m going to take some deep breaths and think about what I can do next."
Each of these moments gives your child a window into how thinking happens.
Home Activity Ideas
Try these simple activities at home to make your thinking visible and invite your child to be a thinker alongside you:
Think-Aloud Reading- Choose a picture book or short chapter and read it aloud. Pause to wonder, predict, or question. Say things like, “I wonder what’s going to happen next,” or “Why do you think the character did that?” Encourage your child to share their thinking too.
Cooking Together- Talk through each step of a recipe as you cook: “I’m adding a little extra cinnamon because I like the flavour,” or “Let’s see what happens if we bake it for five more minutes—do you think it will change the texture?” Ask your child to explain their thinking too.
Problem-Solving Challenge- Tackle a puzzle, LEGO build, or DIY project. When you get stuck, say, “This is tricky. Let me think it through. I could try this way… or maybe another way?” Talk through what works and what doesn’t.
Daily Reflection Ritual- At dinner or bedtime, reflect aloud: “Today I learned something new about...”, or “Something that made me think today was…” Encourage your child to reflect too. This builds habits of metacognition (thinking about thinking).
Creative Exploration- When drawing or crafting, talk about your choices: “I’m using blue here because I want it to feel calm,” or “I’m not sure how to draw this part—what do you think I should try?”
Decision-Making Together- When faced with a family decision (like planning a weekend activity), think aloud about the pros and cons. Model how to weigh options thoughtfully.
By intentionally making your thinking visible, you send a powerful message: that learning is not about always being right, but about being open, reflective, and curious. You help your child grow into a confident, self-directed learner—and that’s something to be proud of.
Together, let’s nurture a culture of visible thinking—where children grow not just in what they know, but in how they think.
Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Learning K-5
From the Head of Career Development
Careers News
5 Questions to ask while you are on work experience
As we head into the holiday period we have a number of PLC students who have proactively sourced work experience opportunities. Work experience is one of the best ways to test drive a career and see what working life is really like. To get the most out of it, you need to do more than just show up and follow instructions. The people around you have years of experience and knowledge that could be incredibly valuable for your future - so here are 5 key questions to ask that will help you make the most of your work experience placement.
1.What does a typical day actually look like in this role?
Job descriptions can sound pretty formal and boring, but the reality of a job is often quite different. By asking about daily tasks and responsibilities, you'll get a real picture of what working in this field is like. You might discover that a marketing job involves way more spreadsheets than you expected, or that being a vet means a lot of paperwork between treating animals. Understanding the day-to-day reality helps you figure out if this career would actually suit your personality and interests.
2. How does what I'm learning at school connect to this job?
This is a great question to ask because it helps you see the bigger picture of your education. Maybe you're wondering why you need to study chemistry if you want to work in business, or whether your art classes will actually be useful in a law career. When you understand these connections, it can help motivate you in subjects that might seem irrelevant right now. Plus, you might discover you need to focus more on certain subjects or pick up new skills to reach your career goals.
3. What's the most challenging part of this job, and how do you handle it?
Every job has its tough moments, and it's better to know about them upfront rather than being surprised later. Maybe it's dealing with difficult customers, working to tight deadlines, or staying up-to-date with constantly changing technology. Learning how other people cope with these challenges can give you valuable strategies for handling stress and problems - skills that will be useful in any career path you choose.
4. How is this industry changing, and what should I be prepared for?
Industries evolve rapidly these days, especially with new technology constantly emerging. The job market your parents entered will look completely different by the time you're ready to start working. By understanding where an industry is heading, you can make smarter choices about what to study and which skills to develop. You might learn that certain roles are becoming automated, while new opportunities are opening up in other areas.
5. What resources or connections would you recommend for someone starting out?
This question can unlock a treasure trove of information. Professionals often know about industry publications, useful websites, professional associations, networking events, or even specific people who could help you learn more. Building these connections early can give you a huge advantage when you're ready to apply for jobs or further study. Plus, it shows you're serious about the field and thinking ahead.
Make the most of your opportunity
Don't worry about asking ‘dumb’ questions - the people supervising you expect you to be curious and want to learn. Take notes during conversations, ask for contact details if appropriate, and always follow up with a thank you message after your placement ends - you never know when these connections might be helpful in the future.
Students at PLC wanting to undertake work experience at PLC are encouraged to book a careers appointment.
Mrs Veronica Sanmarco, Head of Career Development
Food for Thought
Making the Most of the Holidays – A Screen-Smart Reminder
As we approach the upcoming school holidays, it’s important to take time to rest, recharge, and enjoy a well-earned break. Downtime plays a crucial role in supporting our wellbeing, especially after a busy term of learning, working, and supporting others.
While holidays are a great opportunity to relax, it’s worth being mindful of how we spend our time – particularly when it comes to screens and social media.
Research shows that excessive screen time, particularly unstructured scrolling on social media, can negatively impact our brain, mood, and wellbeing. Some of the key effects include:
• Mood and Mental Health: Prolonged exposure to social media can contribute to increased feelings of anxiety, low mood, and loneliness. The constant stream of images and updates can lead to unhealthy comparisons and pressure to present a “perfect” life, especially among young people.
• Sleep Disruption: Screen use, particularly at night, affects the body’s natural sleep rhythm. The blue light emitted by devices can suppress melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep – which in turn impacts concentration, memory, and mood.
• Attention and Focus: Constant switching between apps and notifications can reduce our attention span and make it harder to stay focused, even when we’re offline.
• Reduced Face-to-Face Connection: When a lot of time is spent online, opportunities for real-life connection may decrease. Quality time with friends and family in person is essential for social and emotional development.
This doesn’t mean screens are all bad – technology has its place and can be used positively. But the key is balance and intentional use.
These holidays, consider planning some screen-free time to help you truly unwind and feel refreshed. Here are a few ideas:
• Spend time outdoors – even a walk in nature can lift your mood.
• Read a book you've been meaning to start (or finish!).
• Try a new hobby or revisit an old one – like painting, cooking, journaling, or sport.
• Catch up with friends or family in person.
• Make time for rest, creativity, and activities that nourish your mind and body.
Being mindful of our screen habits is one way to take care of our mental health. A screen-smart break can help us return to school feeling more present, grounded, and recharged.
Wishing all our students, families, and staff a restful, healthy, and balanced holiday.
PLC Counselling Team
Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Support, Mrs Kelsie Munroe, Middle Years Counsellor and Mrs Sara Taverner, Learning Enrichment P -5 & Counsellor
College News
Year 8 Enterprise Market Day
Get ready for one of the most exciting events of the term! The amazing Year 8 students will be showcasing their creativity, teamwork, and business skills at the Market Day stalls on Monday of Week 10, during lunch.
As part of their Enterprise unit, Year 8 students have been busy planning and developing their own mini businesses. From fun games, to handmade crafts and accessories, there’ll be something for everyone!
When: Monday 23rd of June, Week 10
Time: 1:00-1:40 (Lunch!)
Where: In front of the library
Students and staff are encouraged to come along, support the young entrepreneurs, and grab a bargain or two. Most items will be priced to suit pocket money budgets, think gold coins and small notes! All profits will go towards a good cause or reinvested in future learning opportunities. We will see you there!
This is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate student initiative, build community spirit, and have a whole lot of fun!
Please note that there will be no food sold at this event.
Celebrating PLC Alumni
Tegan Graves
After graduating from PLC in 2021, I planned a working gap year and enrolled in a short floristry course at TAFE — something I’d always been curious about. While studying, I started working at a wedding venue in Maleny, which led to a full-time role in their floral department. That experience gave me the confidence to launch my own florist business, Olive Collective.
Looking back on my time at PLC, I’m incredibly grateful for the leadership opportunities I was able to be part of. One of the biggest takeaways from my time there was the importance of community - something I’ve carried with me into my career. I’m especially thankful for the teachers who encouraged me and helped instil the confidence and independence to back myself, even when the path wasn’t traditional.
My biggest piece of advice to PLC students is to follow what excites and inspires you. Don’t be afraid to follow an unconventional path if it feels true to you. I never anticipated running my own floristry business, but now I truly couldn’t imagine doing anything else.
Prep-Year 2 Science Fun and Crazy Socks
This week, our Prep to Year 2 students unleashed scientific thinking through play in the most exciting way possible – with a science morning packed full of jaw-dropping experiments and hands-on fun. Giant smoke vortex rings, levitating beach balls, flying toilet paper and flour fireballs were all happening in the gym. From Bernoulli’s principle in action to hair-raising static electricity with the Van de Graaff generator, our young scientists explored the invisible powers of air and electricity like never before. Students discovered how flour can catch fire, what the fire triangle really means and how air can be used as a weapon.
Our students and teachers enjoyed wearing their brightest socks as part of the fun.
Fire Safety Talk
Earlier this week our Prep students welcomed a special visit from the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services team. The students enjoyed a fun and educational fire safety session, learned how to stay safe in an emergency, including an up-close look at a real fire truck, as well as a turn using the fire hose.
A big thank you to the QFES staff for helping our young learners understand the importance of fire safety in such an engaging way.
“By the pricking of my thumbs, something wicked this way comes”
In our Year 12 English classrooms this week, we began our study of Shakespeare’s Macbeth in preparation for the External Exam. Macbeth is a tragedy that plots the course of once well-regarded soldier, Macbeth, as he falls victim to his own “wicked” ambition.
As part of a PLC tradition, students received their own copy of the text, a bookmark, a highlighter and a pen to allow personal annotations as they complete their final unit of English study.
We encourage our Year 12s to be curious as they embark on this final unit of work and wish them the energy to keep working hard as they approach the end of the course.
The English Team
20- and 10-Year Reunion
This year we are excited to celebrate our 20- and 10-Year Reunion - Graduating Classes of 2005 and 2015. Please pass this information onto your 2005 and 2015 Graduate to help us celebrate and share memories with old friends at the 20 and 10-year reunion for Pacific Lutheran College graduating classes. We would also love to feature graduates in an upcoming newsletter if they are happy to share a photo and a paragraph about their life's journey and how the College shaped them.
Past students, parents, families, and staff are invited to attend Saturday 18th October 12:00pm- 3pm at Pacific Lutheran College.
Nibbles and drinks provided and join us for a tour the College.
The countdown is over, tickets for OCEANfest 2025 are officially LIVE! Grab yours here: Payment Forms
Don’t miss out on:
• $40 Unlimited Ride Passes
• OCEANfest Currency Bundles
• VIP Parking
• VIP Bar Tickets
Bonus Offer: The first 100 Unlimited Ride Passes sold will include a FREE Laserzone Mission Pass (Warana location)!
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONOSRS
A huge thank you to our amazing OCEANfest Sponsors!
We are gearing up for our biggest OCEANfest yet on Friday 15th August. This year’s event wouldn’t be possible without the generous support from our sponsors –
• Festival Partner – Educlean
• Highflyers Bar – Lakeside Orthopaedics
• Gold Sponsor – Blue Anchor Financial Services
• Silver Sponsor – Sharpline Interiors
• Bronze Sponsor – Jarrod Bleijie MP
• Stall Sponsors – Ashbern Farms, Sprinkle Blvd, Gourmet Fudge Company, G Buxton Construction, Family Friendly Pest Control, Casement Family
With this truly wonderful support we are set for an afternoon and night of community connection, celebration, delicious foods, rides, live music and entertainment and more!
We are looking for exciting prizes for our Galactic Raffle! If you own a business or know of one that can donate, please reach out to Louise Walker at fop@pacluth.qld.edu.au or Jodi Nielsen at jnielsen@pacluth.qld.edu.au Any contribution, big or small, is greatly appreciated!
We also invite all families within our College community to help make OCEANfest ‘One World’ 2025 truly special by sharing a piece of your unique culture! Whether it's through food, dance, song or art, this is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the traditions, stories and talents that make our community so vibrant and connected. If you’d like to contribute, we’d love to hear from you and explore how you can get involved! If you're interested in supporting and participating in this exciting event, we would love to hear from you!
CENT AUCTION*
Help Fill the Baskets – Donations Due Soon!
There’s still time to contribute to the excitement of this year’s OCEANfest Cent Auction! A few weeks ago, ELC to Year 6 classrooms received laundry baskets to collect themed donations, and we need your help to fill them. Each class has a unique theme to keep the prizes fresh and fun for everyone attending the festival. We kindly ask families to bring in their donations by Friday 18th July 2025 (Week 1, Term 3). The pressure is on – not only are your contributions vital to the success of the event, but the class with the best basket will also win a pizza party in Term 4! Don’t miss out on the fun – [VIEW CENT AUCTION CLASS THEMES HERE] and get donating today! Connect with you class parent connector to learn more!
*Cent Auction – A collection of exciting prizes will be displayed for bidding. Participants purchase sheets of tickets and place as many as they wish into the sealed containers next to the prizes they’d like to win. The more tickets entered, the higher the chances of winning! The prizes typically follow a theme, such as BBQ, Pamper Mum, or Games. A ticket is drawn from the container—similar to a raffle—to determine the winner. The Cent Auction usually takes place throughout the event, with the prize draws happening toward the end. Winners do not need to be present at the time of the draw.
On Monday night, several of our netball teams took to the courts for the Grand Finals of the Sunshine Coast Secondary School Netball Competition. Each team displayed outstanding determination, skill and team spirit, making the College proud with their performances. A huge thank you to the Pacific supporters who came along to cheer on the girls. We are thrilled to share that PLC Garnet and PLC Emerald were crowned champions in their respective divisions. Well done to all players and coaches for a fantastic season.
Finals Results:
PLC Garnet – Junior B Final – WINNERS
PLC Topaz – Junior D Final – Runners Up
PLC Emerald – Intermediate B Final – WINNERS
PLC Jade – Intermediate C Reserve Final – Runners Up
PLC Pearl – Senior B Final – Runners Up
SCISSA Volleyball
Well done to our Junior B Girls and Intermediate B Boys who made the SCISSA Volleyball Grand Finals on Wednesday night. The standard of volleyball is growing across the SCISSA competition so to have teams make it to the ultimate game is an excellent result. Both teams pushed their games all the way to a tie breaker set but ultimately couldn’t clinch it at the end. Both teams and coaches, Mr Liam Jacka and Ms Rebekah Horsey, should be proud of their efforts.
Thank you to all our players and coaches for a wonderful season of volleyball.
SCISSA Soccer
On a night that was already scheduled to be ‘mate verse mate’ in the Origin, we were lucky enough to witness a preliminary performance of our 2 PLC B Division Boys Soccer teams battle it out in their Grand Final. There was plenty of chatter around the game in the lead up and there were big bragging rights on offer. The game was delicately poised at 1-0 to the B2 team going into half time before the B1 boys came through like a wet sail to clinch the game 2-1. Well done to both teams for a great finish to the season.
Thank you to all players and coaches who have contributed to SCISSA Soccer this season and we look forward to another great semester of Soccer in 2026.
Student Acknowledgement
Congratulations to Jye on an outstanding performance at Round 3 of the 2025 SP Tools Australian Kart Championship held in Newcastle. Jye showed great consistency and determination across all races, finishing on the podium in the final and collecting valuable championship points. His impressive efforts have moved him up to 4th place overall out of 36 drivers in the KA2 National Championship standings, with two rounds still to go.
Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport
PLC Marathon Kayaking State School Champions 2025
Congratulations to the 43 PLC students who performed magnificently to win the 2025 School Marathon Kayaking Championships. The students won a collective 25 medals in both doubles and singles over the marathon distance. A great team effort and reward for the many hours of training the students have done since Term 1.
A special congratulations to Layla Year 8 and Abby Year 10 for winning the 14 and 16 years K1 races. Congratulations also to Layla Year 8 and Gemma Year 8 for winning the K2 doubles event. These 3 girls are the fastest marathon paddlers in Queensland. Well done to Abby Year 10 and Emily Year 10 for receiving the silver medal in the 16 years K2 and to Gemma Year 8 for winning the silver medal in the 14 years K1.
Congratulations also to the following medal winners in TK1 and TK2 races:
Year 4 Amini, Emily, Henri, Archie, Nixon
Year 5 Harvey, Catalina, James
Year 6 Indie, Layla, Evie, Jayden, Cooper,
Year 7 Alani, Elena,
Year 8 Jessica, Madeline, Cruz, Harry,
Year 9 Phoebe, Tanika,
Year 10 Flynn
Year 11 Lawson
A special mention to Kya and Tristan for representing our College wonderfully well in Year 12 and for Tristan for fulfilling the role of team captain.
I would also like to thank the following staff and parents for a great team effort this semester:
Mr Darren Hooper – coach and team manager
Mrs Leah Croke – bank supervisor and team manager
Conor Weule – team manager and volunteer helper
Cooper Schwab – Water Safety
Braedan Shears – Maintenance and transport
Mr Paul Brace – Transport and team manager
Brendan Casement – volunteer coach
Paul Rogers – high performance coach
Michael Eggleton – coach
Brooke Elsum – WPHS
Mr Cameron West-McInnes – Head of Sport
Mrs Lisa Muir – Sports Administrator
It takes a large group of people to win a state championship and it also can’t be possible without the support of the numerous parents who attended the day, taking time off work and driving all the way to the Gold Coast for a 7am start.
The sprint season over 200m and 500m is about to commence first week of Term 3 with the state championships scheduled for Friday October 17th. The program is almost full but a few spots might become available. Please email Mr Gray Graves ggraves@pacluth.qld.edu.au if interested.
Mr Gary Graves, TIC Kayaking
Junior Sport
SCISSA Gala Day
Last Thursday, Pacific Lutheran College students travelled to various venues to participate in their Term Two Gala Day Carnival.
PLC hosted the Year 4-6 SCISSA Touch Football Gala Day down at the adjacent Meridan Soccer Fields. It was a chilly start, but by mid-morning students had warmed up with good competition in Basketball, Soccer, Touch Football, Netball, Handball, Rugby 7’s and Cricket across different locations on the Sunshine Coast.
Pacific teams won a number of divisions at the end of competition including:
• Touch Football Division B Pool 1
• Touch Football Division B, Pool 2
• T20 Cricket Mixed
Pennants will be presented next Monday at assembly to students in these teams.
Well done to all Pacific teams who represented the College and a big thank you to our Friends of Pacific volunteers who did another wonderful job hosting a BBQ for students to enjoy between games at Touch Football.
P – 2 Cross Country Carnival
The Prep – Year 2 Cross Country carnival was held at the end of Term Two. Students had been practicing during Physical Education lessons throughout the term and were eagerly looking forward to testing their fitness levels and running skills learnt during these lessons into practice.
Congratulations to the following students who were our top three placegetters for their year level.
At the end of the carnival, points were tallied and the champion House for 2025 was Bula House being crowned the Prep – 2 Cross Country Champion House for 2025.
Kawana Touch Football Competition
Next term PLC will be entering Touch Football teams into Season Two of the Kawana Touch Football Competition. Details of the competition are as follows:
Date: Competition starts on Monday 4th August 2025. (10-week competition with a two week break for September holidays)
Time: 4 – 6pm each Monday afternoon, to be confirmed.
Transport: Parents transport students to and from games each week.
Location: Kawana Touch Football Fields – 1 Mileu Place Birtinya (Kawana Sports, Western Precinct).
Age Divisions: Under 9 Mixed, Under 11 Boys, Under 11 Girls, Under 13 Boys & Under 13 Girls. All teams require a minimum of 9 players with 10 maximum students per team.
Cost: $52 per student - which covers the Touch Football Australia Membership – The normal registration fee for this competition is $127 per player.
If you are interested in your child participating and are able to fully commit to this weekly competition, please email Mr Darren Hooper dhooper@pacluth.qld.edu.au . Please be aware, trials may need to take place for some age groups if we get a high number of students interested.
Pacific Board Riders Club
Pacific Lutheran College will again offer the opportunity for students to be part of the Pacific Board Riders (PBR). The aim of the program is to provide an opportunity to develop individual surfing skills and grow the culture of surfing within the College. Due to stringent supervision and safety requirements, participation in the program will be capped at 24 students per session and will be dependent on individual competencies, including an ocean swim and board paddle, assessed by the teachers in charge. Students will also need to take part in a brief surf etiquette course run by PLC teachers which focuses on surfing in large groups.
Please note that these Friday morning sessions are not a “learn to surf” program and parents will need to transport their child to and from these sessions.
Sessions start next Friday 25th July (Conditions Dependent).
If you are interested in your child being part of this program, please email dhooper@pacluth.qld.edu.au for further details.
Junior Basketball Program
Next term we are pleased to once again offer a Junior Basketball Development Program for students in Prep -5. The program will be run after school on Thursday afternoons from 3:15 – 4:15pm in the school gymnasium and under J Block.
The basketball program will be run by Mr Brad Burdon who has previous experience in coaching both here on the Sunshine Coast and in Cairns with school, representative and senior teams including the Cairns Taipans. Mr Brad Burdon will be assisted by Emma Burdon, Mr Joe Doran and other PLC coaches.
The program will commence on Thursday 31st July and will run for five weeks, finishing on Thursday 28th August. During these sessions, students will focus on fundamental basketball skills through drills before moving into gameplay.
The cost of this 5-week program is $30 which provides each student with a basketball that they can keep at the completion of the program.
If you are interested in registering your child for this program, please send an expression of interest email to Mrs Lisa Muir lmuir@pacluth.qld.edu.au by Friday 25th July. An information letter and payment details will be forwarded prior to the commencement of the program.
Due to court space availability, the program will be limited to 50 students and will be on a first come, first served basis.
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.
Pacific FC
ROUND 13 – THIS SATURDAY
We have home games again this Saturday at Pacific, with the U13 Sharks having a bye. Team photos are scheduled throughout the day, so it will be another busy round. Click here for the draw.
ROUND 12 – THANK YOU
A huge thank you to the volunteers who set up and packed up the fields for the round. The canteen was busy with the cold weather, and we appreciate the volunteers who took the time to help out. Winners of the $50 RSL volunteer gift cards are:
Rachel V, Henry B, Crawford family and Colleen B. Special mention to Coach Aaron (U8 Makos) who coached and volunteered for a shift in the canteen.
ROUND 12 COMPETITIVE RESULTS
U11 Swordfish 4 v Buderim Hurricanes 1
U12/13 Seahorses 3 v Caloundra Tillys 0
U13 Sharks 3 v Chancellor Cubs 1
U16/17 Barracudas 3 v Palmwoods Commandos 0
MATCH REPORTS
U7 Piranhas vs Palmwoods Highlanders - Manager Kath
Enthusiasm was high for another game on a very cold but sunny day. It was so great to see the energy of all the players attacking and defending. The highlight of the game was the first goal of the season by Timmy. Player of the Match – Tim. Opposition Player Choice - Charlie E, Best All Rounder - Arlo (who also turned 7).
U13 Sharks vs Chancellor Cubs – Manager Mel
Final Score: PFC Sharks 3 – 1 Chancellor Cubs. Coming off a tough 10-1 loss in our last encounter with the Cubs, the Sharks hit the field with fire in their bellies and something to prove. Despite being four players down, the team showed incredible resilience and heart. A big thank you to U11 player Ryder for stepping up once again and proving himself more than capable. From the first whistle, the Sharks dominated. The boys showed confidence, grit and determination, taking the game to the Cubs and executing brilliantly in both attack and defence. By half-time, we had raced to a 3-0 lead with sharp finishes and clever play. The second half saw continued pressure from our boys. While the Cubs managed to sneak one past in the final 10 minutes, the Sharks held strong and saw the game out with composure. Goal Scorers: Harley E – 2, Ollie C – 1. An all-round brilliant team performance – every Shark should be proud.
U16/17 Barracudas – Coach Sheldon
The team hosted Palmwoods in a 3rd vs 4th showdown within a congested table. The Barracudas were given the job to do by the coach and they delivered; dominant throughout and playing great football. 3-0 to PFC! PFC’s best = Ned B, Ned P and Josh. Special mention = Talys, a great goal and a superb header. Congratulations to Charlie W on his 10-year milestone.
10 Years with Pacific FC
We celebrated Charlie W’s 10 years last Saturday with the presentation of his 10-year commemorative jacket. Charlie started out with Pacific FC in 2014 with the U6 Pacific Seahawks, moved to the Vipers in U7 and U8 and then progressed to the Barracudas from U9, only taking a brief break from the game in U14. He is a valued member of the U16/17 Barracudas, and we congratulate Charlie, parents Narelle and Andrew and one of the club’s most loyal supporters, his 'Non', Barbara, on being part of Pacific FC for the last 10 years.
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.
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.
“A Time for Everything”
Saturday Sunset Service – “Endings and Beginnings”
Saturday, 21st June
5:30pm Family-friendly worship time
6:15pm Food and friendship
St Mark’s Church, 14 Bombala Tce Caloundra
As the sun sets on another school term and the church financial year, we gather as a community to give thanks for all that has been — a season of generosity, growth, friendship, and deepening faith.
Join us for a special Thanksgiving Sunset Service as we reflect on the truth that “there is a time for everything” (Ecclesiastes 3) — a time to celebrate what’s past, and a time to look forward with hope and faith to what lies ahead.
Together we’ll share stories of blessing and service and hear exciting updates about our future vision — including upgraded facilities, expanded spaces for connection and hospitality, and the continued growth of our church family.
All ages welcome – the first 30 minutes will be a family-friendly worship time, followed by a shared supper and time for fellowship.
Let’s thank God for the seasons behind us — and trust Him with the seasons still to come.
