I wonder what books have provided deeper insights into the lives of other people and life itself for you? Long Walk To Freedom is one book that often springs into my mind when asked this question. The book traces the story of Nelson Mandela’s life from childhood in a rural setting, to studying law in Johannesburg, to leading the resistance to apartheid as the leader of the African National Congress, to spending 27 years in prison and then finally his leadership of negotiations to dismantle apartheid and role as South Africa’s President. The story highlights Mandela’s focus on values, including justice, equality and service, his resilience in being able to endure many years of hardship without losing hope and then when attaining power, his emphasis on forgiveness and reconciliation that enabled him to encourage people to move towards a united South Africa. This book like many others, enables us to grow vicariously as we walk the journey with fellow humans and see different worlds and ways of being.
The Bible is a timeless book that promotes deep and rich growth. Importantly the Bible speaks to us differently at different times of life and in different circumstances. Through story, God invites us to grow in our relationship with him and our understanding of our role and place in the world. It is a book of hope and reconciliation where God’s love comes to us to restore and empower.
Principal’s Log
As part of Child Safety Week at the Year 6-12 assembly we reminded staff and students of the important ways we keep each other safe through acting proactively to protect ourselves and others from harm. Supporting, including and standing up for those who may be experiencing challenging times, actively seeking support when needed and reporting instances of harm all add to the safety of individuals and community. We were also reminded of the important role we can play through asking the question of R U OK? and being fully present to the needs of those around us. As a community of staff, students and parents we play a critical role in keeping each other safe through playing our part to care for those around us.
It was a delight to watch our two Pacific FC teams compete in grand finals of the Sunshine Coast Churches Soccer Association on Saturday. With strong support from parents, family members, friends and staff, both teams gave of their best. Congratulations to the U12/13 Seahorses who played with tremendous determination and skill to win their grand final. Well done to the U13 Sharks who were equally determined and showed skill, teamwork and tenacity to fight right to the end. Both teams can be very proud of their efforts on the day. We thank all of the coaches and managers of our Pacific FC teams, and parents for their very strong support throughout the season. A particular thank you to Mrs Rita Williams and Mrs Jenny Lee and their committee for their very generous and capable leadership over the season. Well done to all players, coaches, managers and committee members on a great season.
We look forward to the grand finals of the Caloundra District Netball Association this weekend, where the PLC Fireballs will compete in the Division One final at 12.30 pm. We congratulate all of our netball players, coaches and managers on a great season with three of the 6 divisional teams progressing to the finals. We wish the Fireballs all the best and thank Head of Netball Ms Michelle Dufty, all coaches, managers and executive team very capably led by Mr Doug McKinnon for a great season.
We wish our Year 6 students and staff all the best for their upcoming week in Canberra.
We pray that God would equip us to be people who care and enhance the safety of others. We give a prayer of thanks for the richness that reading and books bring into our lives.
Dr Bronwyn Dolling, Principal
From the College Chaplain
The Most Remarkable Book
Whether you are a Christian or not, the Bible has to be one of the most remarkable books in the world. As part of my conviction in the Christian faith, I find the evidence for the reliability of the Bible so compelling that I can’t help but take it seriously. The connections woven throughout the Old and New Testaments (written thousands of years apart yet telling one consistent story) are extraordinary. Even more astonishing is that the Bible is not one single book but a collection of 66 individual books, written by more than 40 different authors over a span of 1,500 years.
The Bible is also remarkable for its global influence. It has been translated into over 3,500 languages, making it the most accessible book in history. Around 5 billion copies have been printed and distributed, far surpassing any other publication. For perspective, the most popular Harry Potter volume has sold around 120 million copies. An impressive achievement, but still a fraction of the Bible’s reach. And despite repeated attempts over centuries to suppress or discredit it, the Bible continues to shape cultures, laws, art, music, and most importantly, people’s lives. It is one thing for a book to enjoy a few decades of popularity, but it is quite another for it to thrive and transform lives across thousands of years.
In 2009, researchers studied the impact of Bible reading on more than 40,000 people, from ages 8 to 80. Their findings were striking. Reading the Bible once or twice a week made little measurable difference. But when people engaged with it four or more times a week, significant changes were observed: feelings of loneliness dropped by 30 percent, anger fell by 32 percent, bitterness decreased by 43 percent, and anxiety reduced by more than 40 percent.
I find it incredible that modern research tells us what countless people have already experienced for centuries - that the Bible has the power to change lives.
How can a book thousands of years old still have such an impact? Perhaps it is because, unlike any other collection of stories, poetry, or history, the Bible ultimately points to hope. From beginning to end, it tells a single story: that despite the brokenness of humanity, God’s love is greater — and it is offered freely to all people, regardless of who they are or what they’ve done.
Nothing else comes close to the message of the Bible. It is not just an old religious text. It is a living word that continues to speak, inspire, and transform.
More and more, we seem to be living in a world where five-second reels are preferred over actual reading. Young people today also seem to want to wait to watch the movies of books, rather than reading them upon release. However, there is something special about reading a book that a movie just doesn’t seem to capture. Reading can deepen imagination, strengthen critical thinking, and allow us to engage with ideas in a way that goes beyond surface-level entertainment. It slows us down in a fast-paced world, giving space for reflection, growth, and perspective.
And when it comes to the Bible, this is even more profound. Reading it is not simply an intellectual exercise, but an encounter with the living God who speaks through its pages. But be careful when you read and engage with the Bible – it is no ordinary book. It’s a chance to change not only the way we see the world, but the way we live in it.
Happy reading these holidays!
Mr Mark Hauser, College Chaplain
From the Head of Learning K-5
What We Mean by Differentiated Instruction at Pacific
At Pacific, we know that every child learns in their own way and at their own pace. Differentiated instruction is the way we make sure that each student is challenged, supported, and engaged in their learning.
Clearing up the misconceptions
Sometimes people wonder what differentiation actually means. Some think it only applies at the extremes of the ability range ― for example, providing enrichment, acceleration and extension activities for gifted students, or designing an Individual Education Plan (IEP) for students with disabilities or sensory impairments. Others wonder if it means teachers must design a completely separate program for every student or never use whole-class teaching again.
The answer to these questions is a very firm no. Differentiation does not mean that every lesson is personalised to the point of being entirely different for each student. It also doesn’t mean that students work on completely different curriculum topics.
Instead, differentiation is about ensuring all students are included in the same curriculum and classroom, with the right support to be successful.
What differentiation looks like in action
Teachers at Pacific use a range of strategies to make this happen, such as:
• Multiple entry points into a lesson, so every learner can connect with the big ideas.
• Flexible grouping, where students might work individually, in pairs, or in small groups depending on the task and their needs.
• Choice and variety, giving students different ways to explore concepts and demonstrate understanding.
• Targeted support, such as extra scaffolding, guided practice, or extension challenges.
• Adjustments in pace or complexity, ensuring learning is neither too easy nor too overwhelming.
For example, in a Maths lesson, some students may use hands-on materials to grasp a concept, while others are challenged with multi-step problems or real-world applications. In English, a shared text may lead to different writing tasks — with some students focusing on developing key sentence structures and others experimenting with extended creative responses.
Why it matters
Differentiation helps us live out our belief that every child has unique strengths and areas for growth. It makes learning more engaging, builds confidence, and supports students to become independent, resilient learners. Importantly, genuine inclusion means that students learn with and alongside each other while working towards common curriculum goals.
Differentiation also prepares children for life beyond school. In real-world settings, people approach problems and projects differently, drawing on their individual skills and experiences. By learning in classrooms where diversity of thinking is valued, students develop respect for others and confidence in their own abilities.
How parents can support
Parents play an important role in supporting differentiated learning. You can:
• Encourage your child to talk about what they are learning, not just what they are “doing” at school.
• Celebrate effort and persistence, not only results.
• Recognise that tasks may sometimes look different for different children — and that this is a strength, not a weakness.
• Foster curiosity at home by encouraging questions, problem-solving, and creative thinking.
At Pacific, differentiation is not about lowering expectations or making learning easier. It’s about giving every child the right level of support and challenge to help them grow. In doing so, we nurture not only academic achievement but also creativity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning.
Mrs Sue Zweck, Head of Learning K-5
From the Head of Career Development
Careers News
Reading for Success: Building Pathways for Year 10–12
At Pacific, we are committed to helping every Senior student prepare for life beyond graduation. For Year 10, 11, and 12, this means more than just subject choices, it’s about developing the lifelong skills that create career success. One of the most powerful tools students can use is daily reading.
Strong reading habits support academic success and help students manage the demands of Senior College. Reading builds focus, strengthens comprehension, and connects ideas from the classroom to real-world contexts. To support this, we are encouraging all students to adopt a Shyam Barr Educate to Self-Regulate strategy: setting small, achievable reading goals, monitoring progress, and reflecting on how reading improves their learning and motivation.
A great place to start is with Atomic Habits by James Clear, a book that helps students understand how tiny daily actions, like consistent reading can build into major success over time. Students can reflect on their progress in a journal or discuss their insights with peers to strengthen accountability.
For Year 12 students, now is the time to check in with the Careers Team about applying for an Early Offer Guarantee for University as either your Plan A or Plan B. Don’t miss this opportunity to secure your pathway early. Please check-in on your QTAC application preferences and scholarships to avoid disappointment.
For Year 11 students, now is the time to check on availablecareer expos, workplace visits, and read industry-related texts as they are excellent ways to connect your studies to future goals.
How to book a Careers Appointment
Students can access the Careers Bookings Calendar and manage their own careers appointment, including inviting parents to join a meeting, either in person or via zoom. Simply select the type of career related appointment you would like and as a courtesy please check with your teacher before you make a booking.
Reading for pleasure isn’t about assignments, assessments, or deadlines. It’s about choosing a story, a topic, or a voice that speaks to you, and letting yourself be immersed. It’s one of the few activities that invites us to slow down in a world that constantly asks us to speed up.
When we read for enjoyment, we’re not just absorbing words, we’re giving our minds a break from the noise. Research shows that even six minutes of reading can significantly reduce stress levels, lower heart rate, and ease muscle tension. It’s a simple, accessible way to support mental wellbeing; no screens, no subscriptions, no performance required.
Reading also nurtures emotional growth. Stories help us explore complex feelings, build empathy, and understand perspectives different from our own. For children and teens, this emotional literacy is foundational; it helps them navigate friendships, family dynamics, and the ups and downs of growing up.
For students, especially those navigating the pressures of adolescence and academic expectations, reading can be a powerful tool for wellbeing. Whether it’s escaping into a fantasy world, laughing through a comic, or finding comfort in relatable characters, reading can offer a safe space to decompress and feel understood. It’s a way to step outside of their own worries and into a world where imagination and curiosity take the lead.
Importantly, reading for pleasure reminds young people that not everything has to be measured or marked. There is value in joy, in curiosity, in getting lost in a story simply because it feels good. In that way, reading becomes more than a hobby, it becomes a quiet act of self-care and a lifelong companion for wellbeing.
As counsellors, we often encourage students to build routines that support their mental health. Adding reading for pleasure to that toolkit, even just 10 minutes a day, can be a gentle, accessible way to foster resilience and joy.
So this week, we invite you to pick up a book not because you have to, but because you want to. Let it be a moment of nourishment for your mind and heart.
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
From the College Registrar
Prep and Year 7 Enrolments for 2027
Families with students looking to start at the College for Prep or Year 7 in 2027 are encouraged to get their applications in as soon as possible. We will begin interviewing siblings of current students who are applying for Year 7 2027 next term.
If you have any questions about the enrolment process, please contact our College Registrar, Mrs Carly Lovell at registrar@pacluth.qld.edu.au or on 5436 7338.
Mrs Carly Lovell, Registrar
College News
Year 2 Outdoor Education
Recently, our Year 2 students enjoyed an inspiring outdoor adventure at Chambers Island, centered around the theme "Sustainability and the Local Area." Throughout the day, they discovered the island’s unique flora and fauna, constructed shelters, and learned about local marine life thanks to Ocean Life Education. The experience helped build their confidence as they immersed themselves in nature, fostering a deeper appreciation for conservation and environmental responsibility.
With curiosity and enthusiasm, students explored, created, climbed, and connected with the natural world, deepening their understanding of sustainability in hands-on, memorable ways. Thank you to our dedicated staff for bringing this valuable learning experience to life.
20- and 10-Year Reunion
It’s not too late to join us to celebrate our 20- and 10-Year Reunion for 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.
School photos have arrived and were handed out to students who ordered them. If your child was away, they can collect their photo from the main office. If you did not order photos and would like to, you can still order on-line at www.advancedlife.com.au with code B7H 8V9 RRH. Parents who requested to collect from the office when ordering the photos, have their orders now available to collect from the main office.
Junior Concert Band
This week our talented Junior Concert Band performed at the Junior assembly. Made up of dedicated students from Year 5 and up, the band has been rehearsing tirelessly and their hard work truly paid off. They delivered an incredible performance in front of their peers, showcasing not only their musical growth but also their confidence and teamwork. Well done to all our young musicians, you made us proud.
Blake Prize
Week 10 - Students are encouraged to capture Light and Reflection scripture theme photographs over the holidays and submit a print before the closing date - 16th October.
Week 2 Term 4 - Final week to submit photographs for the P-12 Photography Blake Prize!
Get points for your House!
Submit your prints to the Art Department staffroom by Thursday, 16th October.
Project Paws
Local wildlife is often injured by cars, domestic pets, or habitat loss. Animals like koalas, birds, and possums are especially affected. How you can help: Keep pets indoors at night, drive carefully, and support wildlife rescue groups.
Things the Sunshine Coast Animal Refuge (SCARS) needs
Thanks to the Sunshine Coast community for your continued generosity. At the moment SCARS really needs good quality dry cat/kitten food. Their dogs and puppies are generously fed by donations from SavourLife. Donations towards their veterinary costs really do help out as well, so if you can spare $$ or donate health related products like worming or Heartgard products that would be great. Things SCARS Needs --old towels, old sheets, old blankets, quilts and dog food. Bring donations to the College gym on Tuesday the 16th of September before school or to the Middle/Senior assembly on that day.
Four of our students recently completed the Premier’s Reading Challenge, where they committed to reading a minimum of 25 books across the three months of the challenge. Receiving certificates from the Premier were:
• Quinn Year 3
• Indi Year 2
• Olivia Year 2
• Mabel Year 2
Congratulations, girls.
Overdue and Holiday Borrowing
This week, overdue notices will be emailed home. Please remind your children to return any overdue books before the end of term. Students who have returned all of their books may borrow as many books as they like over the holidays.
Ms Nell Keen, Teacher Librarian
Year 6 Prepare for Canberra
A big thank you to Andrew Wallace - LNP Federal Member for Fisher for visiting our Year 6 students this Wednesday. He gave an insightful crash course on the House of Representatives and the Senate, answering questions to help prepare them for next week’s exciting capital tour of Canberra. Year 6 reports that they feel ready to explore Parliament.
Friends of Pacific
Connecting College and Community
Thank you to our amazing volunteers at the Gala Day, the Pacific community really appreciates your time and support. Volunteers were up early with everything set up by 8am ready for the Touch and AFL teams.
Our amazing volunteers make supporting our community fun, come join the team and be part of the excitement at our next Gala Day on Thursday 6th November.
Fun, friends, and making a difference – volunteer with us!
Please join us at our monthly meeting:
Tuesday 16th September in the College Library – meeting starts 6:30pm
Everyone is welcome – join us for a general chat and cheese and wine from 6pm
Ms Jan Watman, Chairperson
Sports News
Year 7 – 12 Sport
Competitive Sport News:
Touch Football
In a nail-biting Touch Grand Final last night, our Intermediate A Boys’ team delivered a gutsy performance, clawing back from a 5-3 halftime deficit to a narrow fall 8-7 in the dying moments of the match. Despite the heartbreaking finish, this marks the third consecutive year the boys have reached the grand final – a testament to their consistency, teamwork, and dedication. Congratulations to coaches and players on another great season.
Basketball
Good luck to Mrs Emma Burdon and our Junior B Girls Basketball team who take on Siena College this Friday night in their grand final. In the regular season encounter the girls suffered a narrow loss to the fast-starting Siena side. Hopefully, a better start will see the girls gain some revenge and take out the title.
Week 10 will see our Senior Boys and Girls teams travel to the Gold Coast to participate in the Champion Basketball School of Queensland tournament. Both teams have been working hard all year and are looking forward to testing themselves against the rest of the state. The CBSQ starts with over 200 schools entered throughout Queensland and after numerous qualifying tournaments, the remaining schools travel to the Gold Coast for the CBSQ State Finals. This year games will start on Thursday the 18th of September, run into the holidays and finish on Sunday 21st of September. A big thank you to Mrs Emma Burdon, Mrs Kim Kiernan and Miss Georgina Snelling for their hard work with the CBSQ this year.
Student Acknowledgement
On the weekend, Jye in Year 10 competed in the 5th and final round of the Australian Kart Championship at Coffs Harbour. Racing in KA2 – the elite junior category – Jye delivered his best performance to date, taking out the round win. This incredible result capped off a strong season, with Jye finishing 4th overall in the championship standings. He missed 2nd place by just 5 points and 3rd place by only 4 points, showing just how close the fight was at the top. Congratulations to Jye on this achievement.
Mr Cameron West-McInnes, Head of Sport
Junior Sport
NAB AFL Auskick & Superkick are coming to Pacific Lutheran College!
Get ready for heaps of fun, new skills, and plenty of footy action! Whether you're kicking for the first time or looking to sharpen your game, this is the perfect chance to get involved.
When: Thursday afternoons, 3:15pm-4:15pm starting Thursday 16th October
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.
Congratulations to our U12/13 Seahorses and U13 Sharks on their Grand Final performances last Saturday at Buderim United Soccer Club. Our U12/13 Seahorses took out the champions title after a 2-0 win, while our U13 Sharks finished as runners-ups after their wind-affected match. Thank you to the Pacific FC supporters on the sidelines and the referees and officials who oversaw the games.
Results of Grand Finals
U12/13 Seahorses 2 v Coolum 0
U13 Sharks 1 v Chancellor 5
MATCH REPORTS
U12/13 SEAHORSES– Manager Jane
Grand Final Winners!!! Wooo hoo! We did it.
After a super successful season, winning 14 of our 17 games and drawing 1, we came out Premiers, and now Grand Final Champions! The girls have put in so much effort this season. They had a goal to win, and they worked hard to get there and make it happen. They all turned up with their game faces on, ready to have some fun and play some very entertaining soccer.
The Coolum Falcons played hard and really well and did not make it easy for the girls. But two stunning, unstoppable goals from Mieka sealed our win 2-0. Every girl played their part and had memorable moments throughout the game.
Our supporters were amazing and there was a sea of blue streamers as they shook the pom poms at every Seahorse win on the field. Thanks to Coach Greg for putting his heart and soul into this team, for all the extra training, for the after-hours support for the girls, for guiding them through to be the best players they can be and to have the most fun they can have. What a game and what a season it has been for the girls. It was just a pleasure to watch and to be involved. We can’t wait until next year!
U13 SHARKS – Manager Mel and Coach Brock
Our grand final was a fantastic contest, and to be honest, the score doesn’t truly reflect how close the game was. The boys gave a determined performance for the full 60 minutes, showing great skill and teamwork throughout. In the second half the wind picked up, giving Chancellor the advantage and helping them to a few quick goals. Even so, our team fought hard right until the final whistle. Final Score: 1–5. Goal Scorer: Harley -1.
The boys should be incredibly proud of their season. They have grown so much as a team, with their skills, effort and collaboration flourishing week by week. Brock and I couldn’t be prouder, to us they are champions. A huge thank you to all the parents, families and supporters who have cheered us on and helped make this season such a success, your encouragement has meant the world to the boys and to us.
ADERMANN AWARD NIGHT – 12th September
The SCCSA Adermann Night is the end of season gala presentation where the following awards are presented:
Adermann Nominees (Fair Play Award)
Mieka, Phoebe, Harley, Nicholas
Chaplain’s Award Nominees (Service to the Community)
Tyron, Rod and Sheldon
10 Year Members – Charlie and Rod
2026 SCCSA Rep Trials
Dates - 11th, 18th & 25th October 2025
Age groups/zones – U9-U16 (see SCCSA website for exact age groups). Players will need to register their attendance when registrations open at the end of August.
