The start of a new semester and even a day provides a great opportunity to reflect and reset. In our reflection, we can ask ourselves and celebrate what has gone well and then identify one or two things that we want to lift. Having identified what we want to improve, it is important to establish why improving in this area is important to us.
Adopting the position of self-coach rather than critic, we ask ourselves powerful questions that will help us move forward. What are one or two small, specific steps that will help me work towards my goal? What are those things that are going to assist me to reach my goal? What are the potential challenges, blocks and barriers, including self-talk and emotions? Who are the people or what are the strategies or resources that will enable me to move forward? What is one thing I can do to overcome a potential barrier or challenge? How does this connect to something that I have done successfully before? Having chosen a goal that is important and has impact, identified potential strategies, make a commitment to yourself by writing down a statement that captures what small steps you are going to take, by when and why this is important. Choosing a short timeline initially and sharing your goal with someone can help to build commitment and accountability. As a self-coach, we gain momentum and energy by reflecting on and celebrating progress made, no matter how small, and adjusting through the use of powerful questions, maybe even rewriting our goal.
The good news is that we do not need to do this alone. Sharing goals, hopes and dreams with parents, friends, teachers, or colleagues helps to give us energy and purpose. Focusing on and being grateful for what is good and what we have been given each day, alongside those one or two things we want to improve provides a strong basis for growth. We start from a position of strength, confident that a loving gracious God walks with us, embracing the adventure of stretching ourselves as learners and people.
Principal’s Log
Welcome to the start of a new semester and term. I trust that all members of our community have had the opportunity to refresh through the change of rhythm that school holidays provide. We particularly welcome new students and their families and new staff who join us this term. We welcome Mrs Tracey Chellan as a Middle and Senior College English and Humanities teacher, Mr Jarvis Miller as a P-12 music teacher, Mrs Amy Geraghty as Hospitality and Food Tech Aide, Ms Elle Tuan as Admin Assistant in the Wellbeing Centre and Mrs Nicola Parnell as school nurse on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. We also wish Ms Krist-elle Hill and Mr Adam Burton all the best as they respectively take on the roles of Acting Head of Music and Acting Head of Buran House. To provide greater clarity, Mr Brendan Macaulay’s role has been renamed as Head of Student Counselling.
Growing capacity to be effective self-coaches is an important skill for us all. An important part of this process is to grow in our self awareness. The Food for Thought and the Head of Learning K-5 articles written by the Counselling team and Mrs Sue Zweck provide simple strategies of growing self awareness that can be used by parents and students to grow capacity to reflect, plan and enact improvement and growth. The parent student teacher conferences that will be held next week provide a valuable opportunity for students and families to identify one or two actionable steps that can lift learning to the next level. Employing strategies described in the introduction above as well as the two articles mentioned can help to build sustained action and capacity.
Parents of Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students have been emailed copies of their individual NAPLAN reports. The results of the NAPLAN tests are used alongside other information to gain insight into the progress of individual students and cohorts and to plan for improvement. We are pleased to share that our cohorts performed above and, in many instances, well above the state average in all assessed domains—Reading, Writing, Conventions of Language, and Numeracy. These results are a reflection of the consistent effort, focus, and hard work shown by students and the strong partnership between home and College. We encourage you to review the report with your child, celebrate their achievements, and use the information as a springboard for continued growth. Congratulations to all students, staff, and families on this wonderful achievement. Thank you to our Heads of Learning Mrs Jo Belchamber and Mrs Sue Zweck and our IT team for their leadership of the NAPLAN testing process.
As part of the 2025 New Zealand Music Tour staff and students greatly appreciated the opportunity to join with students from New Zealand in the celebration of culture and musical performance. It was a privilege for our students to be able to perform in St Paul’s Cathedral in Dunedin where they appreciated the acoustics of the cathedral. The performance was live streamed for our community and can be appreciated online here. Staff and students also engaged enthusiastically in a range of relaxing and enjoyable activities. We thank our students for representing themselves and the College very well and our staff of Mrs Helen Williams, Ms Krist-elle Hill, Ms Linley Chai, Mr Brett Kersnovske, Ms Noeleen Eden and Mr Lindsay Macdonald-Clow for their leadership of the tour.
Staff and students equally enjoyed and valued the opportunity to connect with the community at our sister school, Seishin Gakuen and to visit different parts of Japan during this year’s Japan Trip. Students were hosted for a week at Seishin Gakuen, where they gained insight into life as a student and as part of a Japanese family. Students enjoyed taking part in classroom activities as well different experiences such as kendo, shodou, kyuudou, and sadou and engaging Japanese students in cricket and netball. Visits to temples and shrines and Hiroshima gave students deeper insights into Japanese culture and the importance of working together for world peace. The visit to Universal Studios provided a day of fun. We thank Mrs Michiko Hauser, Mr Mark Hauser, Ms Nina Devenish and Mr Paul Brace for their leadership of these experiences.
A special thank you to Mrs Helen Williams and Mrs Michiko Hauser for their expertise and considerable time given in the organisation and planning of these life changing experiences.
The energy around OCEANfest is building and we look forward to being able to connect and have fun together as a community on Friday August 15th. Ride passes and OCEANfest currency are available for purchase through this link. Thank you to Ms Samantha Barrass, Mrs Louise Walker, our FoP team, parent connectors and a number of parents, staff and students who are giving generously of themselves to prepare for OCEANfest 2025.
May God give us the insight and presence of mind to reflect, plan and act to enrich our lives and the lives of others.
Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal
From the College Chaplain
Co-creating Better Futures... One Thought at a Time
Philippians 4:8–9 (NIV):
“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”
How were your holidays?
This question was probably the most asked question in the entire school on day one of this term. So - how were your holidays? What did you and your family spend time doing and/or thinking about?
My holidays were busy - helping escort 18 students around Japan for 2 weeks and then returning home for two glorious days before packing and heading back overseas for more work-related business (where I am currently sitting at an airport and writing this message). However, amid the busyness, I caught myself reflecting on this year's theme of "Co-creating Better Futures" and how well I have contributed to this so far.
I ended up reflecting on this verse from Philippians and how it applies to us this semester, as we return from the holidays and begin a new term.
At the beginning of each term, there is always a renewed sense of energy and focus from parents, students and teachers. Report cards have been handed out, and for many students—and parents—this has been a time of reflection. For some, it's been encouraging. For others, it may have raised questions like: “How can I do better next time?” or “What changes do I need to make to improve?”
This week's devotional thread focuses on achievement motivation which looks at our inner drive to set goals, work hard, and improve on where we've been in order to "Co-create Better Futures" for ourselves and others. And while it can be tempting to make achievement all about grades or rankings, the Bible reminds us there’s something even more important to consider what’s going on in our minds and hearts.
Philippians 4:8–9 is such a simple passage, but it also holds deep wisdom. It calls us to think differently—to shape our thoughts around what is true, excellent, and praiseworthy. Why? Because the way we think shapes the way we live. If we focus only on outcomes, we might miss the bigger picture. But if we fill our thoughts with what is good, right, and admirable, our actions will begin to reflect those values—and that’s where real growth happens.
For Christians, this means following the example of Jesus, who didn’t measure success by popularity or power, but by how he loved, served, and lived with integrity. For those exploring faith, this message still holds practical value: living with focus on what is good and excellent brings peace, clarity, and lasting purpose.
Returning from holidays to start a new term presents a fresh opportunity for students, teachers, and families. What better way for us all to continue to live out this year's theme than with minds focused not just on doing well, but on thinking well choosing what is noble, pure, and admirable in ALL circumstances. And as we do this, who knows? We all might discover that real achievement is about becoming people who reflect what is truly excellent.
Mr Mark Hauser, College Chaplain
From the Director of Student Engagement
Plug Into Term 3: Growing Purpose and Belonging
As the term unfolds, the demands of school, sport, work, and social life can sometimes make it easy for young people to slip into autopilot. Days get busy. Weeks blur. And without even realising it, students can find themselves disconnected, not just from school routines, but from something deeper: a sense of meaning, direction, and belonging.
At Pacific, we often speak about growing the whole person, heart, mind, and character. While academic growth is vital, so too is the journey inward, the journey where young people begin to ask big questions: Who am I becoming? What drives me? Where do I feel like I truly belong?
This journey doesn’t begin with a perfect answer. It begins with a choice to plug in.
Plugging In
When we say, “plug in,” we don’t mean plugging into a screen. We’re talking about plugging into life: into purpose, into people, and into the communities that shape us. This means engaging rather than withdrawing, seeking meaning rather than just ticking boxes, and choosing to be present rather than drifting through the motions.
For students, plugging in can look like:
• Participating fully in a co-curricular activity that stretches them
• Taking time to reflect on what they value and what inspires them
• Joining a Pacific Action Group or supporting Safe Harbour
• Choosing kindness, even when it’s hard
• Asking for help or offering it
Purpose and Belonging
A sense of purpose doesn’t come from external success alone. It’s found when students start to explore what really matters to them, the values they want to live by the difference they want to make, and the kind of person they want to become. Belonging, similarly, is not about fitting in or being the same as everyone else. True belonging comes when a young person feels seen and valued for who they are. That feeling is cultivated through relationships, consistent care, and through students taking steps to connect to the school and the people around them.
This term, students were encouraged to reflect on these questions:
• What gives me energy or makes me feel like “myself”?
• Where in our school community do I feel most connected or “plugged in”?
• What’s one small step I can take this term to connect more deeply with myself, others, or my purpose?
Even a simple reflection like this can shift a young person’s mindset from surviving the term to actively shaping it.
The Role of Families
Families play a critical role in this journey. Encouraging open conversations at home, asking meaningful questions, and naming the strengths you see in your young person all contribute to their growth in confidence and identity. Purpose is shaped through many voices, and yours matters deeply.
Some great conversation starters for home might be:
• “What’s something that gave you a spark this week?”
• “What’s one way you felt like you belonged at school this week?”
• “Who do you look up to, and why?”
Walking the Journey Together
As a school, we’re committed to walking alongside our young people, not just as learners, but as whole people finding their way in the world. By encouraging students to plug in, to themselves, their values, their relationships, and their communities, we help lay the groundwork for purpose, belonging, and lifelong growth.
College Uniform Expectations for Term 3
As we begin Term 3, we are reminded that the College uniform is more than just clothing, it reflects a sense of pride, belonging, and respect for our shared values as a community. When worn correctly, it signals a unified identity, encourages positive behaviour, and fosters a respectful learning environment. To help maintain these standards, we kindly ask families to support their young person in following the College’s Uniform Guidelines, especially regarding jewellery, piercings, and dress length.
Jewellery and Piercings
The College’s expectations around jewellery are designed to maintain a neat, safe, and distraction-free environment for all students. We appreciate your support in upholding the following:
• Earrings: Girls may wear one pair of plain studs or sleepers, one in each lower ear lobe only.
• Clear Studs: If students are in the process of healing a piercing, clear plastic studs may be worn in the ear only. Students are not permitted to cover piercings with band-aids.
• Facial Jewellery: No visible body, facial or tongue piercings are permitted. Clear plastic plugs or studs are not to be worn in facial piercings under any circumstances.
• Jewellery Removal: Students wearing items that do not meet the College’s expectations will be asked to remove them immediately.
Students are permitted to wear a Christian cross on a chain and a wristwatch. No other jewellery is to be worn by any student.
Dress Length for Girls
As part of maintaining a tidy and respectful appearance, girls' College dresses should always be worn at an appropriate length. Dresses are to fall approximately at the knee. This is a longstanding expectation that ensures the uniform remains modest and appropriate for school settings. Students will be reminded to adjust or replace items that do not meet this standard.
At Pacific Lutheran College, our Uniform Guidelines contribute to a shared sense of community and purpose. We encourage all families to take a moment to check uniform items and support their child in meeting these expectations each day. As always, we thank you for your partnership in helping us uphold a high standard of presentation, responsibility, and pride in our College.
If you have any questions or need clarification about the uniform policy, please don’t hesitate to contact the College.
Parents and families can order uniform items through our online ordering system, FlexiSchools or call the main office on 5436 7300 to make a Uniform Shop appointment.
Ms Leigh Finter, Director of Student Engagement
From the Head of Learning K-5
What Makes You Say That?
One of the most powerful tools we can use to support children’s thinking is remarkably simple: asking, “What makes you say that?”
When we ask this question with curiosity and without judgment, we gain insight into how a child is thinking—not just what they think, but why. It gently encourages them to make their thinking visible, articulate their reasoning, and consider the evidence or experiences behind their ideas. In this week’s newsletter we are exploring “App 9” of Harvard researcher Ron Ritchhart’s, 9 Apps for Parents which contain simple yet impactful strategies to try at home through focusing on: What makes you say that?
This question is a key part of Visible Thinking, a research-based approach developed by Project Zero at Harvard Graduate School of Education. At Pacific Lutheran College, we use this approach as part of our commitment to creating Cultures of Thinking—classrooms where thinking is valued, visible, and actively promoted every day.
What is Visible Thinking?
Visible Thinking is built around the idea that learning improves when students can see their thinking and the thinking of others. Rather than just giving answers, students are encouraged to reflect, question, explain, and explore. Teachers use specific routines—simple, repeatable structures for learning—to help students engage deeply and thoughtfully.
The question “What makes you say that?” comes from one of these routines. It invites learners to:
• Justify their ideas with reasoning
• Reflect on their thought process
• Consider alternative viewpoints
• Engage in meaningful discussions with peers and adults
For example, if a student says, “I think the character is feeling left out,” a teacher or parent might respond with, “What makes you say that?” The child might then refer to the character’s actions, words, or illustrations. This not only deepens comprehension but strengthens the child’s ability to support opinions with evidence.
How Parents Can Use This at Home
You don’t need to be a teacher to use Visible Thinking routines. At home, asking “What makes you say that?” during everyday conversations can:
• Spark rich discussions at the dinner table
• Build your child’s confidence in expressing their ideas
• Help children think critically about media, books, and experiences
• Create a shared family culture of curiosity and reflection
Here are a few real-world examples:
Child: “I think that’s unfair.”
Parent: “What makes you say that?”
Child: “That cloud looks like a dragon.”
Parent: “Interesting! What makes you say that?”
Child: “Math was hard today.”
Parent: “What makes you say that?”
Each time you ask this question, you show that you value your child’s thinking—and you give them the chance to deepen it.
At Pacific, we believe that learning is not just about getting the right answer but about making the journey of thinking visible. With your partnership, we can nurture a generation of thoughtful, reflective, and articulate young learners.
Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Learning K-5
From the Head of Career Development
Careers News
Shadforth Civil 2026 Apprenticeship opportunities
There are apprenticeship opportunities available for commencement in January 2026 that are now open for expressions of interest.
Shadforth have the below apprenticeship opportunities available at their workshop in Forest Glen working on a fleet of over 600 heavy earth moving machinery and over 400 vehicles.
YEAR 12 – CAREERS PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SESSION WEEK 1 TERM 3
Across Week 1 of Term 3, I will be attending PD Sessions with Year 12 students to provide information on University Application Dates, Early Entry Schemes, Ordering Uni preferences, Work and GAP Year Frequently asked questions. For Year 12 students who are looking to map out their next steps, please book an appointment via Pacific Lutheran Careers Support.
University and Post School Learning Open Days-
Study Work Grow Australia wide Open Days Guide here, Queensland dates below.
Year 12 Students - You are invited to attend the UQ Ready: Sunshine Coast Event
This event is designed to empower Year 11 and 12 students as they embark on their higher education journey.
Information covered will include:
• Comprehensive ATAR advice to equip students with essential strategies to maximise their ATAR potential.
• Expert guidance in responding to university offers to ensure that students have confidence and clarity in responding to university offers.
• Streamlined enrolment and timetable planning to help students navigate the enrolment process and master timetable planning.
• Relocation advice and support services to showcase diverse on-campus and off-campus housing choices, and provide valuable guidance and support for students’ transition to a new living environment.
• Building a strong foundation to empower students with essential tips for a successful transition from high school to university.
Year 6-12 Parent Conferences are coming up on the 22nd to 24th of July. Conferences are a great opportunity for students and parents to connect with teachers about their student’s learning journey. We strongly recommend that students attend. Please check your emails for sign up details that have been sent.
Year 12 Tertiary Information Evening
Year 12 Tertiary Information Evening is on the 29th of July. This is a great opportunity for students and families to build their understandings of post high school tertiary options. Please check your emails for details that have been sent.
Ms Anne Marie Gerlach, Head of Learning Senior College
Food for Thought
Supporting Motivation for Achievement
The start of a new term can bring mixed feelings, some students feel ready to dive in, while others may be dragging their feet a little after the break. As school counsellors, we often hear students say they want to achieve, but they’re not sure where to begin, or they’ve lost a bit of confidence in themselves.
Motivation is a key ingredient in achievement, but it’s not just about pushing harder. Real, lasting motivation comes from feeling safe, supported, and connected to purpose. It comes from knowing that your effort matters, that progress is possible, and that others believe in you. When we focus on wellbeing and relationships, we strengthen a young person’s capacity to achieve.
Here are some practical, wellbeing-informed strategies to support motivation for achievement, whether you’re a teacher, a parent, or a student yourself:
1. Link Learning to Purpose
Achievement means more when students understand why it matters. It can be helpful to talk about how learning connects to goals, interests, or the future. Students can ask themselves, “What am I working toward?” or “What kind of person do I want to become?”
2. Break Goals into Steps
Big goals can feel overwhelming. Students are more likely to stay motivated when they focus on the next right step. Scaffolding tasks helps build momentum, and encouraging children to notice and celebrate progress, rather than just outcomes, strengthens motivation.
3. Use Encouragement That Builds Belief
Achievement is driven by belief, believing that your effort will lead to growth. Praise effort, persistence, and strategy. Instead of “You’re so smart,” try “I saw how hard you worked on that” or “You didn’t give up even when it got tricky.”
4. Structure and Routine Help Motivation
Motivation needs structure to thrive. Predictable routines reduce stress and create space for focus. Clear classroom expectations, supportive home routines like sleep and screen limits, and small daily habits all work together to help students feel organised, focused, and ready to achieve.
5. Acknowledge Emotions That Get in the Way
Sometimes a lack of motivation is actually masking fear, anxiety, or feeling ‘not good enough.’ We can open safe conversations by asking: “Is something making this feel hard right now?” Validating emotions helps clear the path for re-engagement.
6. Support Is a Strength, not a Weakness
If a student is struggling to stay motivated, they’re not alone, and they don’t have to figure it out alone. The Wellbeing team is here to help. PCG Teachers, Heads of House and Counsellors offer a space to unpack what's getting in the way of achievement and build confidence from the inside out.
Motivation for achievement doesn't mean pushing harder, it means believing in the possibility of growth, even when it’s hard.
Let’s work together, to make this term one where effort is noticed, strengths are nurtured, and every student feels supported to achieve their version of success.
PLC Counselling Team
Mr Brendan Macaulay, Head of Student Counselling, Mrs Kelsie Munroe, Middle Years Counsellor and Mrs Sara Taverner, Learning Enrichment P -5 & Counsellor
College News
Japan Trip 2025
At the end of Term Two, eighteen students and four staff members embarked on the biennial two-week trip to Japan for the first time since 2019. Nine hours after boarding the flight at Brisbane International Airport, we arrived at Narita International Airport where we spent the night and prepared for the week to come at our sister school, Seishin Gakuen. During the first week of the trip at Seishin, PLC students experienced what it was like to be a senior high school student in Japan, by participating in classes at Seishin with their host brother/sister and shadow students. Students also experienced special lessons, including shodou (calligraphy), sadou (tea ceremony) and kyuudou (archery). In return, the PLC students taught the Seishin students how to play cricket and netball. The biggest highlight, however, was the lifelong friendships which were forged between the Pacific students and their host families and shadow students.
After farewelling Seishin, we stayed in a ryokan (traditional inn) at Choushi where students got to experience the onsen (hot springs), a traditional banquet and a night of karaoke. We then travelled to Kyoto by bullet train and enjoyed a day of visiting temples and shrines including Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion), Kiyomizu-Dera (Pure Water Temple) and the Fushimi Inari Shrine. This was followed by a day of fun at Universal Studios Japan. On the final two days in Hiroshima, students learned about the tragic past of the now rebuilt city by visiting the Peace Memorial Museum and prayed for world peace at the Flame of Peace.
This trip has no doubt developed our students’ confidence in communication and has strengthened their cultural understanding of Japan and what it means to be an international citizen, highlighting the importance of fostering international connections, particularly with our sister school, Seishin Gakuen. I would like to express my thanks to the Seishin community for their hospitality and to Mr Mark Hauser, Mr Paul Brace and Ms Nina Devenish for their time and support throughout the trip. Finally, a thank you to the eighteen students who embraced the experience by stepping out of their comfort zone and immersing themselves in the adventure.
Mrs Michiko Hauser, Head of 6-12 Japanese
2025 New Zealand Music Tour
Pacific music students hit the ground running on their 2025 New Zealand tour with an incredible trip packed with music, culture and connection.
Following are just a few of highlights experienced:
• Students were welcomed to Christchurch Girls’ High School with a powerful pōwhiri (traditional Māori ceremony), learned a local song and shared in rehearsals before performing together in a combined evening concert. A truly moving and memorable exchange.
• Students visited Cashmere Primary School and performed for their Junior students. This brought so many smiles and created energy amongst the students as they all joined on stage as mini conductors. Cashmere High School hosted an afternoon workshop and the concert in their stunning performance centre. The music, the venue and the hospitality were just amazing. Pacific students and staff felt incredibly lucky for the visit.
• Pacific students played in the amazing Dunedin St Paul’s Cathedral. The performance was streamed live at the time for the PLC community to view across the Pacific. You can see the concert here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OqJN7HT2Z7U
• The final concert day finished with a snowy trip to Cromwell College for rehearsals and a fabulous joint performance ending with a cozy dinner in Queenstown.
It was an unforgettable tour packed with music, sightseeing, memories and friendship.
OCEANfest One World 2025
OCEANfest One World 2025 is just five weeks away and promises to be our most exciting celebration yet!
This signature event brings together our College community to celebrate the rich cultural diversity that makes us One World. Enjoy a vibrant day filled with amusement rides, food trucks, live music, an animal farm, roaming performers, interactive games and a wide range of parent-led stalls. Be sure to visit the Cent Auction and Raffle and immerse yourself in the lively festival atmosphere.
Our Cent Auction baskets for this year’s OCEANfest are filling up fast! Thank you all so much for helping to drive these donations.
The baskets will be collected at the end of the first week of Term 3 (Friday 18th July). Families who have not yet donated please do before this date. Please check with class teacher or Class/Year Parent Connector for your Cent Auction theme.
There will be a prize for the class that best matches their allocated theme with a creative display. The winning class will be announced before the festival and the class will receive a pizza party!
PCG $5 Donation - Middle and Senior College
As a way for our Middle and Senior students to help support OCEANfest, we are seeking a small $5 donation per family, which we ask is handed to your PCG teacher this week. This donation will go toward purchasing raffle prizes for OCEANfest. We kindly ask that donations be handed to your PCG teachers during PCG Photo mornings which will be held as follows -
• Bula House - From 8:15am, Thursday 17th July 2025
• Buran House - From 8:15am, Monday 21st July 2025
• Mumba House - From 8:15am, Thursday 24th July 2025
• Wira House - From 8:15am, Monday 28th July 2025
Your help is much appreciated!
We look forward to working with our Pacific community to ensure OCEANfest ‘One World’ 2025 is a great success!
Louise Walker, OCEANfest Coordinator
Success in the Maths HQ program
Over the past few months, several highly capable Year 7 students have participated in the Maths HQ program. This enrichment course is conducted outside of regular school hours and is non-competitive in nature, with a focus on fostering a love of learning and enhancing mathematical proficiency.
Participants are supported through the provision of learning materials, regular Zoom sessions, and the opportunity to engage with a range of challenging mathematical problems. The program in Term 1 centred on Geometry, while Term 2 focused on Number Theory.
At the conclusion of the course, the following Year 7 students achieved commendable results:
• Scarlett– Distinction -placing within the top 10–20% of participants.
• Om– Participation -demonstrated strong engagement and successfully solved numerous problems provided and was very close to achieving a credit on both courses.
Upcoming External Maths Competitions
The annual AMC – Australian Mathematics Competition is coming up this term, with sitting dates on the 5th 6th and 7th of August, depending on year levels. The AMC is probably the most well-known maths competition in Australia. There are five different divisions, and each division caters for two-year levels (Year 3/4, 5/6, 7/8, 9/10 and 11/12). This means that students from Year 3 - 12 can sit the AMC.
Students learn perseverance and develop confidence through experiencing a wide variety of problems, some of which are really challenging and require application of different strategies. This develops their problem-solving skills and allows students to enjoy the challenge of mathematics in new and meaningful ways.
Eligible students will be invited to participate in the AMC via the parent lounge in the coming weeks.
Mr Andrew Doyle, Head of Department - Mathematics
USA Dance Tour – A Journey of a Lifetime
Over the winter school break, Ava in Year 6 travelled to the United States to participate in a dance tour, an unforgettable experience that has seen her achieve remarkable milestones on the international stage. Over the course of the trip, Ava took part in intensive dance workshops, professional photo shoots, and an array of once-in-a-lifetime opportunities that she has long dreamed of. Ava had the extraordinary honour of performing at two major national championship events: Believe in Fort Lauderdale and Showstopper in Orlando. These prestigious finals brought together the best young dancers from across the U.S., making for an incredibly high standard of talent.
At Believe, Ava was named National Grand Champion in both her Jazz and Lyrical solos, a phenomenal achievement, especially at her first U.S. competition. Both routines received Diamond scores, the highest possible and she was ranked among the Top 20 Highest Scoring Soloists, finishing just 0.2 points behind the top soloist.
At Showstopper, Ava continued to shine, earning the title of National Grand Champion for her contemporary solo, which received a Crystal score, again the highest level. She was also awarded USA Runner-Up Highest Scoring Soloist in her age group, receiving a Crystal trophy, and a cash prize in recognition of her stunning performance. Well done, Ava! These are some incredible results and a result of your passion, commitment and determination towards your dancing. We look forward to celebrating with Ava when she returns next week.
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.
Mr Zack Griffin has been busy over the holidays decorating the library for Book Week. This year’s theme is Book an Adventure and our adventure-themed displays include a vine-strewn bridge, a campsite, quicksand, a waterfall, hot air balloons, maps, globes and much more. Come in and take a look.
Book Week is Week 6 this term when we will have a costume parade and activities every day based around the theme.
Book Club Orders
The latest Book Club catalogues went out this week. Please place your orders online by July 27th.
Ms Nell Keen, Teacher Librarian
Chess Mates
Friends of Pacific
Connecting College and Community
Car Park Raffle for Term 3 – the College’s much sort after car space is available again!
For all our College families and in particular our Prep – Year 2 - it’s that time of term again when we launch our raffle for a reserved car park. Tickets are $20 to secure this valued parking spot for Term 3. Tickets go on sale Thursday 19th June. To be drawn Tuesday 22nd July. Ticket Purchases: here
Reminder to Families about Cent Auction – OCEANfest 2025
ELC to Year 6 classrooms have received a laundry basket that will serve as the collection point for donations towards the Cent Auction at this year’s OCEANfest. Each class has received a different theme to keep the prizes exciting for all different audiences. We ask that families donate by Friday 18th July 2025 (Week 1, Term 3). As part of the tradition, baskets are judged, and the winning class will receive a pizza party in Term 4!
*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.
We hope everyone has had a wonderful holiday and have come back refreshed and ready for a fun Term 3.
Ms Jan Watman, Chairperson
Sports News
PLC Kayaking Term 3 Sprint Season
The 200m and 500m sprint season commences in the first week of Term 3 with the state championships scheduled for Friday October 17th (Week 2 Term 4). The program is almost full with a few spots available for new students wanting to join the sprint team. Students will paddle in a single and doubles boat in either a beginner TK or a more advanced K1.
Training Times- Monday 3:30 – 5:00pm - Year 8 - 12 students
Our first round of Friday Night Basketball begins this week with several teams kicking off their seasons. A big thank you to Mr Brad Burdon who put in a considerable amount of effort in last term to formulate the 14 teams we have playing this season.
Game schedule this week is as follows:
Touch Football
SCISSA Touch Football begins next Wednesday with 9 of our 10 teams beginning their season. Teams have been sent through days to collect their singlets and students are encouraged to make sure they collect their uniforms at these times to avoid hold-ups. All fixtures will be updated on Clipboard each week, so students are encouraged to check their calendars regularly for their weekly game information.
Water Polo
Our Senior Girls will have their first game on Monday next week. Game details will be updated on Clipboard by the end of the week. A quick reminder that students will need PLC togs (swimwear) and a mouthguard to play. There is still an opportunity for Junior and Intermediate players to sign up and interested students should contact Mr Cameron West-McInnes cwestmcinnes@pacluth.qld.edu.au .
Student Acknowledgement:
Emily Year 10 and Gemma Year 8 successfully competed at the State Championships for Surf Life Saving Queensland Pool Rescue over the weekend and were lucky enough to come away with medals. Emily collected a bronze medal at the event. Gemma collected 3 gold and 2 bronze for the weekend. The three gold medals were all QLD records with one result beating the Australian record. Congratulations Emily and Gemma. We are looking forward to hearing how they do at the national titles in August.
Congratulations to Miles in Year 12 who was selected to join the Queensland Representative School Sport team after playing in the Golf State Championships. We wish him all the best in his QRSS sporting endeavours.
Over the holidays as a result of competing in the Queensland Schools Rugby State Championships Danica in Year 12 was invited to play in the Australian Schools Rugby Union U18 National 7's Championships held here on the Sunshine Coast. This competition included NSW, QLD, VIC, ACT, NT, WA and Indigenous teams. She played in the Combined Eastern Team - a combination of girls from NSW and QLD. After meeting for the first time, they had one run through to prepare for the next three days of competition. All State teams involved stayed together camp style making for an amazing experience. The Combined Eastern team made it through to the final and took the win placing them 5th overall. Danica received 'Best Team Player' for Combined Eastern and more importantly had an amazing Rugby experience.
Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport
Junior Sport
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 (Condition Dependent).
If you are interested in your child being part of this program, please email Mr Darren Hooper dhooper@pacluth.qld.edu.au for further details.
Junior Basketball Program
This term we are pleased to once again offer a Junior Basketball Development Program for students in Prep -5. There are limited spaces left for this program in Prep / Year 1 and Year 2 -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 Mrs 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 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 with registrations.
Sunshine Coast Marathon Carnival
If you or your child has a love of running and would like to join us at the Sunshine Coast Marathon Event held on Sunday 3rd August, please feel free to register and come along.
There are a range of distances including 2km, 5km, 10km, 21.1km and the full marathon 42.2km.
PLC will have a tent set up on the day for parents and students to meet at and if you register using PLC Run Club 2025 at the end of the sign-up process to receive a 10% discount off your entry price.
We look forward to seeing a strong representation of PLC runners.
Student Acknowledgement:
Congratulations to Ariella and Jessica from Year 6 who are both part of our PLC Basketball Academy and over the holidays represented Sunshine Coast Phoenix at the U14 Queensland State Basketball Championships in Cairns.
The girls played six games during the tournament and ended up playing off in the Gold Medal match. The girls finished with a silver medal at the end of this game. Congratulations on these results.
Mr Darren Hooper, Head of Junior Sport P-6
Club Sport
Club Sport
Pacific Lutheran College has several sports development programs outside of school hours. These programs encourage participation, giving students the opportunity to be part of a team, and learn basic skills of the game.
The parent-led Pacific FC Soccer and PLC Netball Clubs compete on Saturdays in community competitions throughout the Sunshine Coast.
PLC Netball
PLC Netball are excited to return to competition this Saturday after the holiday break. We also have our club photo day this Saturday!
Over the recent school holiday, we had several PLC students compete at the Netball Queensland Junior State age competition. Congratulations to Maddie, Anita, Rosie, Georgi, Billie, Tash, Fearne, Tahli and Sasha on their selection into Caloundra District Netball Association (CDNA) representative teams and their performance at the competition!
Thanks to Amelia for representing CDNA and PLC as an umpire.
Special congratulations to Billie, Tash and Fearne from U13 Blue who were runners up in their division and earned CDNAs first ever State Age medals!
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U11 Swordfish 0 v Currimundi Whitetip Sharks 4 (Rnd 8)
U12/13 Seahorses 1 v Eumundi Gold 0 (Rnd 8)
U13 Sharks 4 v Siena Coyotes 2 (Rnd 5 catch-up)
U16/17 Barracudas 2 v Buderim Blizzards 1 (Rnd 8)
MATCH REPORTS
U7 ORCAS – Manager Jess
What a game – a 2-2 draw against Burnside! Every Orca player deserves a big shout out for how brilliant they were. The persistence and teamwork they’ve built over the past 18 months is truly shining through. It was a wicked game to watch, with mighty team spirit shown by both the Orca families and our opposition. Goal kicker – River. Player of the Match / Opposition Award – Mila
U8 TREVALLYS and WAHOOS – Manager Kirsty
A fantastic effort by the Trevallys and volunteer Wahoos. They played a very strong and wide Immanuel team with a lot of skill. Without a sub, the boys ran their hearts out. Player of the Match went to Axel and a notable mention of his fantastic goal.
MID-WINTER ROOBALL CARNIVAL
THANK YOU to our players, families and volunteers! We sincerely thank the helpers who set up, prepared food, tendered the BBQ, managed and coached teams, ferried players from one venue to another to help out teams, officiated the grounds, washed up and then packed everything up. A few helpers even missed watching some of the games in order to help on the BBQ and in the canteen. And, a huge thank you to our youth volunteers who came in on their last Saturday of the holidays. We appreciate the Pacific community and are thankful we have a small but mighty bunch.
NICK GREEN Coaching Session
We thank SCCSA’s Football Development and Technical Services Coach, Nick Green, for holding a session with our coaches and managers in our sports hall. Players and coaches learnt several interactive activities to keep the whole group engaged. Thanks to Nick and all who attended!
CHALLENGE CUP
Over the holidays, SCCSA hosted the annual Challenge Cup, a representative tournament. The Challenge Cup is won by the team who demonstrates a positive spirit and attitude, shows respect to all officials and has the best sideline support. We are pleased to announce that the SCCSA Under 13 Girls Team were the 2025 Winners of the Challenge Cup. Pacific had two representatives in the team – Ashlan and Zahlie. Congratulations!
ROUND 14
Games are running across the Sunshine Coast this Saturday. Click here for the draw.
